Chanie Monoker

Engaging Materials

Engaging Materials

So now that you know “what” you are doing and “why”, we need to think about “how”.  You did some preliminary work in your Research.  The next step is to think about sequence of presentation, semantics, how you are going to illustrate your point, etc.  The answers to these questions will tell you what Materials you will need.  If you plan to write new words on a blackboard you will need chalk.  White or colored?  Or do you need markers for a whiteboard instead?  Or have you prepared the words on a PowerPoint and need to make sure your computer …

Continue Reading
Lesson Planning – How Relevant Is It?

Lesson Planning – How Relevant Is It?

While last time we talked about the importance of action, for a plan without action is merely a dream, it is equally important to appreciate that action without a plan can also be disastrous (and something we would diagnose as impulsive).  That is why nearly half my lesson plan is focused on the pre-planning part.  The following items of the paradigm make it a well-thought-out plan. Goal rationale Objective rationale Research Relevance If you have been following us until now, you know that having a curriculum is not a good enough rationale for what you teach (see What to Teach).  Your …

Continue Reading
Are you a Dreamer or a Visionary?

Are you a Dreamer or a Visionary?

What differentiates the dreamer from the visionary.  You may have heard “a goal”.  One of the most popular new professions is coaching.  People are hiring coaches to help them achieve their goals in many areas, be it business, health or relationships.  What is the job of these coaches?  To help the person create a viable plan of action.  However, a plan is merely a detailed dream.  One of the jobs of the coach is for the person to feel compelled to follow through on their plan with action.    An idea, goal or plan without execution is just a dream. …

Continue Reading
Teaching vs. Education

Teaching vs. Education

Teaching is about accomplishment, particularly academic accomplishment.  Education is about process and an understanding that we may be planting seeds for a process that may not sprout for years.  I have a fairly nice garden that I enjoy puttering around in very much.  For those of you who do not garden it might surprise you to learn that flower bulbs are planted in the fall for flowers such as hyacinths and tulips or even gladiolas which will only bloom the following year.  Fruit trees generally do not fruit for a few years (as fruit does not grow off the trunk …

Continue Reading