The Social Studies Teacher Podcast

Teaching your students about biographies or autobiographies soon? You don't want to miss out on this jam-packed episode! In this episode, we are going to talk about what literary nonfiction is some characteristics of this genre, some examples of literary nonfiction, some recommendations, why it's important, and also some activity ideas that you can implement in your classroom. Episode Highlights W...

What if there was an easy way to incorporate social studies skills every day of the week, for just five to 10 minutes a day ---there is! I'll share my method in today's episode. Episode Highlights Why does social studies even matter? How can we find the time to teach social studies? Resources and Links Free Daily Passage Curriculum Guide Membership Blog Post - Episode 31 Let's Connect! Listen/watc...

Are you the teacher with the peaceful and orderly classroom as soon as the day begins? Or do your students noisily enter the room and ask endless questions about what to do next? Starting off right each day is not only beneficial for the students, but the teachers as well. It never feels good to be rushed and frazzled as students come in each day roaming around the classroom or unsure of what to d...

Parents are an important piece of the puzzle to a positive classroom community. Today I'm sharing 5 seasoned teacher tips to help you achieve a smoothly run classroom community made up of happy students and grownups! Episode Highlights practicing patience and reassurance being firm but kind clear boundaries how to handle FAQs when to pick up the phone Resources and Links The Essential Classroom Co...

Burnout is real. But there are strategies to help alleviate or lessen those feelings. There may not be a one-size-fits-all solution, and we may not be sure when the feelings will go away. But it's still worth the fight. Episode Highlights What teacher burnout is and how to recognize the signs of burnout How focusing on your true hobbies and passions are important Why prioritizing yourself is a mus...

Sometimes there just doesn't seem like there's enough time in the day. If you find yourself constantly cutting activities short to move to the next event on the agenda, hopefully this episode will have some supportive ideas to help. Episode Highlights digital slides daily agendas timers expectations Resources and Links No time to create your own slides? Try my editable slides ! Refresh your classr...

Counting down the days until break? Trust me, I have been there. This podcast episode will give you five really great strategies on how to get students redirected and make it through to the break. Episode Highlights Class rewards Expectations Structured discussions Timing projects strategically Getting outside Resources and Links Grab your FREE Smart and Simple Ways to Engage guide Check out a fav...

You know you need to differentiate, but do you need fresh ideas for HOW to differentiate? This episode is packed full of practical tips that truly make a difference for learners. Episode Highlights What is differentiation? Hands on activities Tips for giving directions effectively Grouping students Resources and Links Ready for even more FREE differentiation ideas? You'll love this 10 minute train...

We want ALL students to feel a sense of belonging and see their important holidays and traditions represented in our classrooms. If you aren't sure how to accomplish this goal, this episode is for you. Episode Highlights What culturally responsive teaching is Why it is important to be culturally responsive How we can be culturally responsive during the holiday season Resources and Links Blog Post...

In the world of social studies, primary sources are considered very important for teaching and learning. But don't forget about secondary sources – they're crucial too! Episode Highlights What Are Secondary Sources in Social Studies? Why Do Secondary Sources Matter in Teaching Social Studies? How to Find Good Secondary Sources for Social Studies Lessons Including Secondary Sources in Lesson Plans...

When teachers use primary sources in class, it makes learning history feel real and exciting. You learn more about the past and why it matters today. What does this look like within the four walls of our classroom? Let's talk about it today! Episode Highlights What are primary sources? Why are primary sources important in teaching social studies? Where can you find primary sources? How can primary...

Can you find 20-30 minutes of instructional time to celebrate our Veterans? Let's talk about some practical ways to teach about this important holiday. Episode Highlights Nearpod Letter Writing Webquests Compare and contrast patriotic holidays Resources and Links Nearpod A Million Thanks.org Veterans Day Webquest Blog Post - Episode 21 Let's Connect! Listen/watch on YouTube Shop TPT Resources Inst...

The Bill of Rights is an important concept that needs to be taught in most U.S. history classes. But rather than it being a dull event, it can actually be engaging (and low prep) for your upper elementary learners! Episode Highlights what the Bill of Rights is why is it important to teach about the Bill of Rights a brief description of each of the 10 Amendments some Bill of Rights fun facts 3 acti...

Chapter book read-alouds are my favorite part of the day! Even during a year where I only taught math and science, I still found ways to weave in chapter books during my day. Today I'm sharing with you my favorite read-alouds that are enjoyed by teachers and students alike! Episode Highlights My Top 10 Chapter Book Recommendations for Grades 3-5 A brief synopsis of each one (don't worry, there are...

Kids these days have it pretty easy - all they have to do to look for the answers to a question is to go to Google, look it up on TikTok, or type it into ChatGPT! BUT do they know that what they're seeing as the "answers" may not always be accurate or reliable? That's where research skills come in! In this digital age, it's important for students to be able use their research and inquiry skills to...

Are you a month or two into the school year and already feeling burnt out? The grading, the demands, the protocols - it's enough to make you wish you could fast-forward to winter break!  The pressure of the school year is an all too familiar feeling for many teachers. If it seems like you're working overtime and leaving little room for things you actually enjoy doing outside of work, thi...

Grading can be a b - sometimes... ya feel me? It feels like a constant cycle that will pile up if you don't take some time to knock it out. Even worse? Trying to track down multiple classes full of students who are missing assignments or need retakes. Are you feeling this way? I’ve found just a few grading tips for upper elementary teachers that I plan on sharing with you in today's episode that h...

Did you miss the live PD training last week? No worries! I wanted to give my listeners a peek into what we talked about. Social studies is usually a must to teach, but the WHY of what students are learning in social studies is not always discussed. That's exactly what we will be talking about in this week's episode! In this episode, you will learn: what each of the 5 social studies domains are why...

We are expected to integrate social studies with other subjects to make it work - but HOW can we do it? Writing in itself is very important to teach. Combining with social studies is actually a really great way to teach what you need to for both subjects. It can be easy - if you let it! In this episode, you will learn: why writing is important the benefits of integrating writing with social studie...

Incorporating technology is more important than ever. Looking for ways to make social studies fun and engaging? In this episode, I chat all about how to do that with 3 technology tools that are perfect to use with your classes throughout the year! In this episode, you will learn: 3 technology tools that are fun to use with upper elementary students what each tool is ways you can use each tool for...

Teaching 9/11 in upper elementary classrooms is a sensitive yet important topic to approach. As educators, it is important to create a safe space for students to discuss and understand the events of September 11th, 2001. By age-appropriate materials and open dialogue, you can navigate this subject with sensitivity and effectiveness. In this episode, you will learn: why it's important to share abou...

Are you tired of the traditional classroom setup? Do you want to create a positive and engaging learning environment for your students? Flexible seating is a growing trend in education that focuses on providing students with a variety of seating options to enhance their comfort, focus, and collaboration. Join me as we delve into the seven best ways to incorporate flexible seating into your classro...

Are you a social studies teacher looking for a fun and engaging way to enhance your students' learning? Look no further than interactive notebooks! Interactive notebooks have taken the education world by storm, providing an innovative way for students to take ownership of their learning while promoting critical thinking skills. Get ready to transform your social studies lessons into a dynamic and...

Are you a teacher looking to enhance your teacher supplies game? You'll love this episode! In this episode, I have curated a list of must-have teacher supplies that will elevate your classroom and make your teaching journey even more rewarding. From essential tools to innovative ideas, I have got you covered. Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned pro, this episode will provide you with some t...

Ever heard of the popular Enneagram test? It's a great way for people to discover their main personality type. Did you know that you can utilize the Enneagram in the elementary classroom too?  Conducting an Enneagram test is a great way for students to assess their personality type and be more self-aware of their basic wants, worries, and best ways to learn. In the episode, you will learn: Th...