TDZ Retrospective: Teachers That Made a Difference

Originally posted February 10, 2011. This is a follow-up to yesterday's post. Today I want to write about some of the exceptional teachers I have encountered either as a student or educator. My third grade teacher, Mrs. J was one of those teachers who made learning fun.  She had the ability to keep students on … Continue reading TDZ Retrospective: Teachers That Made a Difference

Top 10: Student Excuses

#10: "It is too hard."  I've been surprised by the growing number of very bright and otherwise successful students that are afraid of failure. When a task is too hard they want to quit or get out of the class. Often the reason stated is that a low grade will have a negative impact on … Continue reading Top 10: Student Excuses

The Importance of Reading

  At the wise old age of 6 I decided that I had no need to learn to read. I was determined not to waste my time learning to read. My mom was equally determined that I was going to learn to read. Reading, writing and basic computational skills are considered essential components of a … Continue reading The Importance of Reading

Teachers That Made a Difference

This is a follow-up to yesterday's post. Today I want to write about some of the exceptional teachers I have encountered either as a student or educator. My third grade teacher, Mrs. J was one of those teachers who made learning fun.  She had the ability to keep students on a wide range of levels … Continue reading Teachers That Made a Difference

Worst Teacher Ever

Monday's topic of the day from the Daily Post is a particularly loaded one. "What is the worst teacher you have ever had?"  Rather than focusing on teacher from the many candidates, I will focus one some common traits. Note if you know me please do not identify any teacher mentioned by name. One trait … Continue reading Worst Teacher Ever

The Best Method for Teaching Reading

Editor's Note: This is a piece I originally wrote for HomeschoolBenefits.org. As a teacher, I have used many different approaches for teaching reading: phonics, whole language, literature based, etc. Many workshop instructors attempted me to convince me their program was the best. I have also encountered many people who believe that phonics and sight words … Continue reading The Best Method for Teaching Reading

How is College Different from High School?

College and high school both have classes, students and teachers. College is a completely different world than high school. The focus in high school is educating and equipping teens with the skills needed for adulthood and life. College prepares adults for careers and or to reach personal goals. One of the greatest differences between high … Continue reading How is College Different from High School?