PreK-12 Archives - The Edvocate https://www.theedadvocate.org/category/prek-12/ Fighting for Education Equity, Reform and Innovation Thu, 15 Jun 2023 15:15:23 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 https://www.theedadvocate.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cropped-The-Edvocate-220x90b-Without-Subscript-32x32.jpg PreK-12 Archives - The Edvocate https://www.theedadvocate.org/category/prek-12/ 32 32 For over 15 years, veteran educator Matthew Lynch has written about and researched the field of education. On “The Edvocate Podcast,” he discusses education trends, issues, and futures. To join him on this journey, click the subscribe button. <br /> Dr. Matthew Lynch false episodic Dr. Matthew Lynch Copyright © 2018 Matthew Lynch. All rights reserved. Copyright © 2018 Matthew Lynch. All rights reserved. podcast Discussions of Education's Past, Present, and Future PreK-12 Archives - The Edvocate https://www.theedadvocate.org/wp-content/uploads/powerpress/The_Edvocate-231.jpg https://www.theedadvocate.org/category/prek-12/ TV-G Richmond, Virginia Richmond, Virginia 1 c9c7bad3-4712-514e-9ebd-d1e208fa1b76 17 Tricks to Motivate Kids Not to Make Inappropriate Statements or Sounds https://www.theedadvocate.org/17-tricks-to-motivate-kids-not-to-make-inappropriate-statements-or-sounds/ Thu, 24 Aug 2023 20:23:00 +0000 https://www.theedadvocate.org/?p=42055 Are you looking tricks to motivate students not to make inappropriate statements or sounds? If so, keep reading. 1. Explain to the learner, after telling them to stop talking, the reason why they should not be talking. 2. Create classroom rules: • Complete every assignment. • Complete assignments quietly. • Remain in your seat. • Finish tasks. • Meet task expectations. Examine rules often. Praise students for following the rules. 3. Teach the learner acceptable ways to express displeasure, anger, frustration, etc. 4. Make the learner aware of the number of times they make unnecessary remarks and noises. 5. Provide […]

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Are you looking tricks to motivate students not to make inappropriate statements or sounds? If so, keep reading.

1. Explain to the learner, after telling them to stop talking, the reason why they should not be talking.

2. Create classroom rules: • Complete every assignment. • Complete assignments quietly. • Remain in your seat. • Finish tasks. • Meet task expectations. Examine rules often. Praise students for following the rules.

3. Teach the learner acceptable ways to express displeasure, anger, frustration, etc.

4. Make the learner aware of the number of times they make unnecessary remarks and noises.

5. Provide visibility to and from the learner to keep their attention when oral questions/ instructions are being delivered. The teacher and the learner should be able to see each other at all times. Make eye contact possible at all times.

6. Attempt to give equal attention to all students in the classroom.

7. Minimize learning activities that might threaten the learner.

8. Make the appropriate adjustments in their surroundings to prevent the learner from experiencing stress, frustration, or anger (e.g., lessen peer pressure, academic failure, teasing, etc.) that may result in unnecessary remarks or noises.

9. Teach the learner to use techniques such as crossing their arms and legs, clinching their fists, and webbing their hands when making noise is unacceptable.

10. Talk regularly with the learner to lessen the need for them to make unacceptable remarks or unnecessary noises.

11. Make sure the learner knows the relationship between their behavior and the consequences that may follow (e.g., failing to listen to instructions and making distracting noises will cause the learner to not understand what to do).

12. Minimize the occurrence of learning activities that you know will encourage the learner to make unnecessary remarks.

13. Teach active listening skills. Listen to what the other person is saying and respond based on information received.

14. Consider using a classroom management app. Click here to view a list of apps that we recommend.

15. Consider using an adaptive behavior management app. Click here to view a list of apps that we recommend.

16. Consider using Alexa to help the student learn to behave appropriately. Click here to read an article that we wrote on the subject.

17. Click here to learn about six bonus strategies for challenging problem behaviors and mastering classroom management.

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10 Problems With Education That Must Be Fixed Now! https://www.theedadvocate.org/10-problems-with-education-that-must-be-fixed-now/ Thu, 15 Jun 2023 15:15:23 +0000 https://www.theedadvocate.org/?p=99833 Education is the backbone of our society and the key to a brighter future. But, unfortunately, the current state of education is far from perfect. There are numerous problems plaguing our education systems worldwide that desperately need attention and resolution. Here are ten such issues that must be addressed immediately, to create an effective and inclusive system for future generations. 1. Inadequate Funding: Many schools struggle with insufficient funds for infrastructure improvements, teacher salaries, and providing learning materials. The lack of proper funding hinders overall academic progress and restricts access to quality education for all. 2. Overcrowded Classrooms: Many schools […]

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Education is the backbone of our society and the key to a brighter future. But, unfortunately, the current state of education is far from perfect. There are numerous problems plaguing our education systems worldwide that desperately need attention and resolution. Here are ten such issues that must be addressed immediately, to create an effective and inclusive system for future generations.

1. Inadequate Funding: Many schools struggle with insufficient funds for infrastructure improvements, teacher salaries, and providing learning materials. The lack of proper funding hinders overall academic progress and restricts access to quality education for all.

2. Overcrowded Classrooms: Many schools around the world face overcrowding issues. It leads to a less favorable learning environment and hampers the ability of teachers to give individual attention to their students.

3. Inequality in Education: Factors like socio-economic status, race, and geographical location continue to dictate the quality of education available to students. This glaring inequality perpetuates the cycle of poverty and limits opportunities for disadvantaged sections of society.

4. Lack Standardized Curriculum: There is a clear disparity in educational standards across different regions or countries. The absence of a standardized curriculum results in inconsistencies in knowledge levels among graduates.

5. Poor Teacher Training: Inadequate teacher training programs often lead to educators with insufficient knowledge or skills required for their roles, compromising overall teaching effectiveness.

6. Outdated Teaching Methods: Traditional teaching methods often prioritize rote memorization over creative thinking and problem-solving skills setup students need dominating today’s world.

7. Insufficient Attention on Mental Health: The emotional well-being of students often takes a back seat due to an intense focus on academic success. The absence of dedicated counselors exacerbates issues related to stress, anxiety, or depression among students.

8. Unaddressed Special Needs: Students with special needs or disabilities often struggle in mainstream classrooms due to lack resources devoted towards providing proper support, including specialized faculty and assistive technology.

9. High Drop-out Rates: Many students drop out of school, citing factors like financial constraints, poor academic performance or lack of interest. This disrupts their prospects for future success and contributes to a less-educated population.

10. Reliance on Standardized Tests: The overemphasis on standardized tests to evaluate students can result in excessive stress and a narrow understanding of learning progress. Alternative assessment methods need to be utilized as more holistic measures of student achievement.

In conclusion, overcoming these challenges in the education system is a crucial step towards building an inclusive and productive society. By addressing inadequate funding, fostering equitable opportunities, implementing progressive teaching methods, and focusing on the holistic development of students, we can pave the way for positive change in education worldwide.

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Writing Activities for Your Pre-K Child https://www.theedadvocate.org/writing-activities-for-your-pre-k-child/ Sun, 04 Jun 2023 05:14:53 +0000 https://www.theedadvocate.org/?p=64729 Writing activities for your pre-K child can be a great way to help your child develop their early literacy skills. This can be done at home or even in a classroom setting to help your child learn how to write and develop their fine motor skills. Writing activities are also a great way to help your child practice their problem-solving skills and build their creativity. Here are some writing activities that you can do with your pre-K child: 1. Alphabet tracing– Have your child trace the alphabet on a piece of paper. You can use a pencil or a crayon […]

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Writing activities for your pre-K child can be a great way to help your child develop their early literacy skills. This can be done at home or even in a classroom setting to help your child learn how to write and develop their fine motor skills. Writing activities are also a great way to help your child practice their problem-solving skills and build their creativity. Here are some writing activities that you can do with your pre-K child:

1. Alphabet tracing– Have your child trace the alphabet on a piece of paper. You can use a pencil or a crayon for tracing. As your child gets better at tracing, you can use a smaller writing utensil. This will help your child learn how to write each letter of the alphabet.

2. Word tracing– Give your child a list of words they need to trace. It can be a list of simple words such as cat, dog, and house. As they become more proficient, you can give them more complex words. This is a great way to help them learn how to form words and recognize them.

3. Name tracing– Have your child trace their name. This will help them practice writing their name. It will also help them become more comfortable with writing.

4. Story telling– Have your child tell you a story and then have them write it down. This is a great way to help your child practice their writing skills and also help them become comfortable with expressing themselves.

5. Journaling– Have your child start a journal. Each day have them write down something they did or something they are looking forward to. This is a great way to help your child practice their writing skills and also help them remember what they did or what is coming up.

These writing activities are a great way to help your pre-K child develop their literacy skills. Writing activities can be done in a classroom setting or at home to help your child become comfortable with writing and to help them practice their problem-solving skills and creativity.

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Reading Tips for Parents of Preschoolers  https://www.theedadvocate.org/reading-tips-for-parents-of-preschoolers/ Sun, 04 Jun 2023 05:14:53 +0000 https://www.theedadvocate.org/?p=64750 As a parent of a preschooler, you want to help your child become a successful reader. Reading to your child is an important part of developing a lifelong love of reading and learning. Here are some tips to help you get started. 1. Start Early: The best time to start reading to your preschooler is as soon as you can. Even if your child isn’t verbal yet, introducing them to books can help them become familiar with the written word and develop an early love of books. 2. Be Interactive: When reading to your preschooler, engage them in the story […]

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As a parent of a preschooler, you want to help your child become a successful reader. Reading to your child is an important part of developing a lifelong love of reading and learning. Here are some tips to help you get started.

1. Start Early: The best time to start reading to your preschooler is as soon as you can. Even if your child isn’t verbal yet, introducing them to books can help them become familiar with the written word and develop an early love of books.

2. Be Interactive: When reading to your preschooler, engage them in the story by asking questions or having them point out pictures they recognize. This helps your child become more involved in the story and helps them understand the material better.

3. Make It Fun: Choosing books with topics your child is interested in can help make reading fun and engaging. Books about animals, trucks, and princesses are often favorites. Don’t be afraid to act out stories or use funny voices to bring the characters to life.

4. Talk About It: Discussing books after you read them helps your child retain the information and increases comprehension. Talk about the characters, the plot, and what they thought of the story.

5. Read Often: Reading to your preschooler should be a part of their daily routine. Set aside time each day to read and make it a special part of your day.

By following these tips, you can help your preschooler become a successful reader. Reading to your child is an important part of developing a lifelong love of reading and learning.

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The Pre-K Years: Getting Ready to Read and Write https://www.theedadvocate.org/the-pre-k-years-getting-ready-to-read-and-write/ Sat, 03 Jun 2023 05:15:02 +0000 https://www.theedadvocate.org/?p=64548 In the pre-k years, children are working on their reading and writing abilities. This is an important time for children to develop these skills, as they will use them throughout their education. Reading fluency and word knowledge is necessary for all students but are particularly important for children who will be reading for pleasure. Writing fluency is also important, as it allows children to express themselves clearly and effectively. Reading and writing skills are developed in pre-k through activities such as story reading, writing stories, and writing simple sentences. These activities help children to understand the basic structure of a […]

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In the pre-k years, children are working on their reading and writing abilities. This is an important time for children to develop these skills, as they will use them throughout their education. Reading fluency and word knowledge is necessary for all students but are particularly important for children who will be reading for pleasure. Writing fluency is also important, as it allows children to express themselves clearly and effectively.

Reading and writing skills are developed in pre-k through activities such as story reading, writing stories, and writing simple sentences. These activities help children to understand the basic structure of a story and how to write in a linear fashion. They also help children to become better readers and writers. In addition, pre-k children learn to use phonics to decode words, and they learn to recognize common letters and sounds. This helps them to read quickly and understand what they are reading.

As pre-k children progress through school, they will continue to build their reading and writing skills. They will learn how to read complex text, how to use vocabulary, and how to write well-organized essays. By the time they reach high school, children will be able to read and write with fluency and comprehension.

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Tutoring Strategies for Preschool and Kindergarten https://www.theedadvocate.org/tutoring-strategies-for-preschool-and-kindergarten/ Sat, 03 Jun 2023 05:15:01 +0000 https://www.theedadvocate.org/?p=64465 Tutoring for toddlers and preschoolers can be a great help in boosting their academic performance. While there are no single tutoring strategies that work for all children, there are some general tips that can be helpful. One of the best ways to start tutoring a young child is to have a discussion about their current level of comprehension. This can help you to identify which topics the child is struggling with and help you to provide targeted instruction. Another important reminder is to be patient. Young children are often very eager to learn and can take a long time to […]

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Tutoring for toddlers and preschoolers can be a great help in boosting their academic performance. While there are no single tutoring strategies that work for all children, there are some general tips that can be helpful.

One of the best ways to start tutoring a young child is to have a discussion about their current level of comprehension. This can help you to identify which topics the child is struggling with and help you to provide targeted instruction.

Another important reminder is to be patient. Young children are often very eager to learn and can take a long time to understand concepts. Do not be discouraged if a child does not seem to be grasping a new concept right away. It may take some time for their brain to catch up, but with patience and consistent instruction, the child will eventually understand the information.

In addition to providing individualized instruction, it is also beneficial to have a variety of tutoring resources at your disposal. This includes books, worksheets, and interactive games. By providing children with a variety of resources, you can help them to build a strong foundation for learning.

Finally, it is important to stress the importance of good sleep. Poor sleep can have a negative impact on a child’s academic performance, so it is important to ensure that they are getting enough sleep. A good way to do this is to establish a bed-time routine and stick to it. This will help to regulate the child’s body clock and help them to get a good night’s sleep. 

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Learning to Read and Write: What Research Reveals https://www.theedadvocate.org/learning-to-read-and-write-what-research-reveals/ Sat, 03 Jun 2023 05:15:00 +0000 https://www.theedadvocate.org/?p=64378 Reading and writing are essential life skills that everyone needs to be able to do well. However, there is still much unknown about how best to learn these skills. In this article, we will look at what research reveals about how best to learn to read and write. One of the most important things to know when it comes to learning to read and write is that children need to be given plenty of opportunities to do so. Reading and writing are cognitive skills, which means that they need to be exercised regularly in order for them to become strong […]

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Reading and writing are essential life skills that everyone needs to be able to do well. However, there is still much unknown about how best to learn these skills. In this article, we will look at what research reveals about how best to learn to read and write.

One of the most important things to know when it comes to learning to read and write is that children need to be given plenty of opportunities to do so. Reading and writing are cognitive skills, which means that they need to be exercised regularly in order for them to become strong and well-developed.

One way to ensure that your child is getting the reading and writing opportunities that they need is to make reading and writing a part of your child’s daily routine. Reading with your child every day can help them to develop a love for reading, and writing can be a fun way for them to share their thoughts and feelings with you.

Another important factor to consider when it comes to learning to read and write is the type of reading and writing materials that your child is exposed to. Reading materials that are rich in content will help your child to develop their vocabulary, while writing materials that are interactive will help your child to learn how to form sentences.

Finally, it is important to encourage your child when they make mistakes while reading and writing. Mistakes are a part of learning, and your child will eventually become better at reading and writing if they are willing to make mistakes and keep trying.

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What Does a PTA Do? https://www.theedadvocate.org/what-does-a-pta-do/ Fri, 02 Jun 2023 19:57:26 +0000 https://www.theedadvocate.org/?p=84972 PTA, or Parent-Teacher Association, is an organization formed to support and enhance the education and welfare of children at school. PTAs are primarily made up of parents, teachers, guardians and community members who are committed to working together in order to improve the lives and educational experiences of children. Here is a closer look at what a PTA does and its importance in the educational system. Fundraising One of the primary functions of a PTA is to raise funds to support school programs, activities and projects. PTAs organize and promote events such as bake sales, car washes and auctions, and […]

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PTA, or Parent-Teacher Association, is an organization formed to support and enhance the education and welfare of children at school. PTAs are primarily made up of parents, teachers, guardians and community members who are committed to working together in order to improve the lives and educational experiences of children. Here is a closer look at what a PTA does and its importance in the educational system.

Fundraising

One of the primary functions of a PTA is to raise funds to support school programs, activities and projects. PTAs organize and promote events such as bake sales, car washes and auctions, and the proceeds are used to provide school supplies, equipment, field trips and other resources that are not covered by the school budget.

Advocacy

PTAs are powerful advocates for children. They monitor legislative issues affecting education and lobby government officials to provide more resources for children. PTA members also serve on school advisory boards, helping to ensure that school policies and procedures affect student success.

Volunteerism

PTAs encourage parents to volunteer their time and expertise in a variety of ways to benefit the children at school. Volunteers give their time in classrooms, participate in school committees, and are actively involved in extracurricular events such as sports, music and drama productions.

Communication

PTAs facilitate communication between parents and the school, ensuring that parents are informed about school policies, programs and activities. They often publish newsletters, host social events and sponsor family nights to encourage a strong partnership between parents and schools that enhances the education and well-being of children.

Improving Student Learning

PTAs work to increase student achievement and improve the quality of education for all children. They provide literacy programs, homework assistance, special programs and activities that enrich student learning and allow children to enjoy and appreciate the learning experience.

In conclusion, PTAs play an important role in the education system. They provide essential funding, support and advocacy for schools, while ensuring that parents and community members are actively involved in the education of their children. By working together, parents, teachers and community members can build a stronger educational community, and create a brighter future for children.  

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9 Tips To Keep Kids Organized During Distance Learning https://www.theedadvocate.org/9-tips-to-keep-kids-organized-during-distance-learning/ Tue, 30 May 2023 14:51:00 +0000 https://www.theedadvocate.org/?p=41432 Are you looking for ways to keep your students organized during distance learning? If so, keep reading. Give sufficient transition time between learning activities for the learner to organize their learning materials. Teach the learner time management skills. Get the learner to make a daily plan and follow it. Urge the learner to avoid becoming distracted by activities, impulses, and moods. Give the learner oral reminders of appropriate learning materials required for each learning experience. Teach the learner to prioritize tasks according to importance, length, etc. Praise the learner for having appropriate learning materials for specific learning activities : (a) […]

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Are you looking for ways to keep your students organized during distance learning? If so, keep reading.

  1. Give sufficient transition time between learning activities for the learner to organize their learning materials.
  2. Teach the learner time management skills. Get the learner to make a daily plan and follow it. Urge the learner to avoid becoming distracted by activities, impulses, and moods.
  3. Give the learner oral reminders of appropriate learning materials required for each learning experience.
  4. Teach the learner to prioritize tasks according to importance, length, etc.
  5. Praise the learner for having appropriate learning materials for specific learning activities : (a) give the learner a tangible reward (e.g., privileges such as leading the line, handing out learning materials, 10 minutes of free time, etc.), or (b) give the learner an intangible reward (e.g., praise, handshake, smile, etc.).
  6. Teach the learner how to safeguard rather than waste learning materials (e.g., amount of glue, paper, tape, etc., to use; putting lids, caps, tops on such learning materials as markers, pens, bottles, jars, cans, etc.).
  7. Draft an agreement with the learner stipulating what behavior is required (e.g., having appropriate learning materials for specific learning activities ) and which reinforcement will be implemented when the agreement has been met.
  8. Get the learner to create and keep one list of things to do to organize and focus on what needs to be accomplished for a specific task, day, etc.
  9. Consider using an education app to help the student sharpen their organizational skills. Click here to view a list of apps that we recommend.

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Pre-K Teachers: Everything You Need to Know https://www.theedadvocate.org/pre-k-teachers-everything-you-need-to-know/ Tue, 23 May 2023 09:03:00 +0000 https://www.theedadvocate.org/?p=46555 Pre-K school is where students are taught the basic skills they need to learn to start their journey as students. They teach students how to behave around their peers and in a classroom setting. They teach students how to receive instruction and help develop their vocabulary, speaking skills, counting skills, etc. According to the NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children), the age range for students included in pre-K education is from birth to age eight. Pre-K teachers directly influence the development of children. Students’ pre-K experience has the potential to influence the rest of their educational journey […]

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Pre-K school is where students are taught the basic skills they need to learn to start their journey as students. They teach students how to behave around their peers and in a classroom setting. They teach students how to receive instruction and help develop their vocabulary, speaking skills, counting skills, etc.

According to the NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children), the age range for students included in pre-K education is from birth to age eight. Pre-K teachers directly influence the development of children. Students’ pre-K experience has the potential to influence the rest of their educational journey and determine their progress rate.

The main focus at the pre-K level is to get students ready for kindergarten. Some typical activities handled by pre-K teachers are:

·         Planning the curriculum: This involves preparing daily lessons and exercises and following age-appropriate curriculum principles for preschoolers, like identifying colors, counting single-digit numbers, memorizing the alphabet, etc.

·         Teaching personal hygiene: This includes helping students understand the advantages of personal health habits, such as washing hands, eating nutritional snacks, dressing, and grooming.

·         Serving meals: The teachers serve snacks and/or lunches to students in line with district and school nutritional policies and help students clean up after mealtime.

·         Organizing fun activities: This refers to hosting arts and crafts activities, games, etc., designed to help students learn, expend their energy, and work in groups.

·         Handling lead procedures: This involves deciding the students’ seating plans, keeping attendance records, and executing school procedures.

·         Handling supplies: Pre-K teachers choose supplies, such as storybooks, arts and crafts, and other learning tools, keep them organized in the store, and help students take and return these supplies before and after activities.

·         Storytelling: This involves reading stories from age-appropriate books and pushing students to interact through innovative group discussions.

·         Social development: Whether students are completing tasks, working on a specific part of the curriculum, or engaged in play activities, their teachers help them integrate with one another and network in groups.

·         Dealing with behavior issues: Pre-K teachers spot emotional problems and handle them together with the student’s parents or guardians during parent-teacher meetings.

·         Staff meetings: This includes attending staff meetings and working with colleagues to design the curriculum and talk about student progress.

·         Offer professional support: Pre-K teachers also work with school staff, such as nurses, counselors, and psychologists, specializing in early childhood behavior management and development issues.

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