The Teaching Toolbox - A Podcast for Middle School Teachers

Today we have a guest sharing tools and strategies to support students with emotional behavioral challenges at the secondary level. We'll explore how to set students up for success in both general education and self-contained settings. Laila Modzelewski is a special education teacher currently working in a grades 3-5 LLD self-contained class in New Jersey. Before moving to N.J. in 2020, she spent...

Today, we’re exploring a topic that can truly transform your teaching— differentiation! And we’re not just talking about big, time-consuming strategies. We’re breaking down simple, efficient ways to differentiate assignments and lessons without doubling your workload. Topics Discussed Differentiation in note-taking Differentiation in lesson activities Differentiation in homework Resources Math Dif...

If you’re a teacher looking for ways to better prepare your students for test-taking, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re looking into test prep strategies to help your students feel more confident and prepared for any exam. Topics Discussed TEACHING STUDENTS TO READ & UNDERSTAND QUESTIONS YEAR-ROUND TEST PREP THROUGH QUESTIONING TEACHING STUDENTS EFFECTIVE TEST-TAKING STRATEGIES HELPING S...

Today, we are here with a special guest, Ashley Mikkelsen of Señorita Spanish fame, to discuss the importance of teaching languages in middle school. Ashley is a secondary Spanish teacher from North Dakota. She’s currently on a break from classroom life to be home with her littles, but is looking forward to going back when all the munchkins are older! She started out teaching what she calls a “sam...

Ancient Greece has so much to offer, not just in terms of history but also in helping students develop critical skills and an appreciation for the past. Topics Discussed Why Ancient Greece is so important for middle schoolers Tools and Resources for Teaching Ancient Greece Tips for Engaging Students in Ancient Greece Resources Ancient Greece Activities - https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product...

Today we’re investigating the role maps can play in the classroom, and not just in the geography classroom. Please subscribe on your favorite platform so you don’t miss an episode . Whether it’s  Spotify ,  Apple Podcasts ,  Google Podcasts , or some other listening app, we encourage you to take a moment to subscribe to The Teaching Toolbox. And if you feel so inclined, we woul...

Timelines are a simple yet powerful tool. Whether you teach history, science, literature, or even math, timelines can be a game-changer in your classroom. But we’re going even further today—what if timelines weren’t just in your classroom? What if they stretched through the entire school, showing students connections across all subjects, all spaces, all moments in time? Topics Discussed How are ti...

Fraction operations can be one of the most challenging topics to teach. In today's episode Ellie shares about her journey in supporting teachers in the area of fractions. Resources Ellie’s Fraction Course -  https://cognitive-cardio-math.thinkific.com/courses/teaching-fraction-operations Blog Post -  https://cognitivecardiomath.com/cognitive-cardio-blog/why-not-the-butterfly-method-when-...

When it comes to test corrections there is value in allowing students to learn from their mistakes, but it should be done thoughtfully. Today's episode will explore the pros and cons and give tips for and how to work test corrections into the mix for your schedule and your gradebook. Topics Discussed PROS of test corrections CONS of test corrections Test correction tips Please subscribe on your fa...

If teaching fraction operations feels daunting, then this episode full of fresh tips and strategies might be just what your teaching toolbox needs. Topics Discussed Why many teachers don't enjoy teaching fraction operations Why it's important to teach this skill conceptually at the start rather than algorithmically Strategies, strategies, strategies Resources Math Dates Blog Post:  https://co...

Unlock the power of nature in your middle school classroom. Today's guest, Victoria Zablocki, has ideas for every subject so this episode has something for every teacher's toolbox. Topics Discussed Benefits beyond the science classroom Ideas for incorporating nature Thinking about your campus in a new way Field trip resources Connect with today's guest Website: https://www.naturallyteaching.com/ N...

Having students tell you they’re not good at math can be heartbreaking. You can tell they believe it because they’ve struggled for years, lost faith in the system, and lost belief in themselves. It’s hard to reach them and let them know that what they’ve been led to believe is not true, but today we are going to share how to build confidence in these kids, and let them know that they can succeed!...

Writing might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about math class or solving problems. But, this powerful practice can enhance understanding, communication skills, and metacognitive awareness. Resources Ellie’s Blog Post on Improving Problem-Solving Skills -   https://cognitivecardiomath.com/cognitive-cardio-blog/help-middle-school-math-students-improve-problem-solving-s...

Small changes to your lesson structure can incorporate a lot of fun. Let's dive into 13 ideas you'll want to try with your learners. Resources Ellie’s Blog Post -  https://cognitivecardiomath.com/cognitive-cardio-blog/math-task-cards-with-a-twist-print-and-digital-truth-or-dare/ Math Truth or Dare: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/cognitive-cardio-math/category-math-truth-or-dare-gam...

Today we've got ten simple yet transformative strategies that can help you recharge, refocus, and thrive in and out of the classroom. Squeezing self care into your school day isn't easy but it can make a big difference. Resources Ellie has a blog post with more information on this topic: https://cognitivecardiomath.com/cognitive-cardio-blog/5-benefits-of-exercise-for-teachers/ Please subscribe on...

Today we're joined by guest expert Carol Miller of the Counselor Chat Podcast to get the inside scoop about school counselors. Topics Discussed What you might want to ask your counselor before a problem pops up What counselors which you understood about their role Ways to invite counselors into the mix How to work together with your counselor in a teamwork approach Connect with today's guest, Caro...

When you’re gearing up for a new semester, you have an exciting opportunity to refresh your classroom and strategies to better support student learning and engagement. Today we’ve got ten things you can do to get geared up for the new semester, and we’re breaking these into physical environment, emotional environment and academic environment. Resources Brittany’s Blog Post https://thecoloradoclass...

Building a positive classroom culture midway through the year can be worthwhile when you know the old system just isn’t working anymore. Let's make a game plan to get classroom culture back on track mid-year. Topics Discussed Why and how to reset and build a positive classroom culture in the middle of the year? Ideas to implement Resources Building Positive Classroom Culture Blog Post: https://the...

Today on The Teaching Toolbox, we’re here to talk about picture books and their place in the middle school classroom. Because picture books aren’t just for K, 1, and 2, picture books are great for any classroom.  Topics Discussed How picture books are applicable in the middle school classroom Ways in which we can use picture books in middle school Some great picture books and their messages R...

Teachers can find the holiday season challenging. They must manage fluctuating student attendance, lousy weather shutdowns, classroom interruptions for performances, and the general hustle and bustle of the season. So today we'll be sharing a bunch of strategies and ideas you can use to manage this holiday season effectively. Resources: Ellie’s Blog Post https://cognitivecardiomath.com/cognitive-c...

We have a guest expert on the show today! Ashleigh Smith from Rainbow Sky Creations is sharing wisdom and tips for new teachers that you won't want to miss. Topics Discussed What new teachers need Work life balance Navigating parent relationships Time saving tips Advice and encouragement Resources from Ashleigh How to setup a Good Morning Tab -  https://www.instagram.com/tv/CSa4dNWBjs1/ A blo...

Helping students improve their communication skills is essential for not just their academic success, but also for their personal development. Topics Discussed Different types of communication Primary communication methods in 2024 8 ways students can improve communication skills Please subscribe on your favorite platform so you don’t miss an episode . Whether it’s  Spotify ,  Apple Podca...

Teaching test-taking and following directions is an important part of our role as educators. Not teaching to the test, but teaching how to take a test, how to follow directions, how to read prompts, and how to analyze questions.  Topics Discussed Why bother teaching these skills? Specific situations to consider How does this targeted practice help students? Please subscribe on your favorite p...

I think we all feel stress, in different ways, at different times. While there CAN be positive stress, when we talk about stress, we typically think about how to handle negative stress. So today's episode is packed with tips for stress management. Topics Discussed Why is it important to talk about managing stress? Teacher stress management Student stress management Resources --> Learn more abou...

A master is someone who has or shows great skill or proficiency. A master teacher would thus acquire complete knowledge or skill in teaching, classroom management, behavior and discipline, and so much more. And today, on The Teaching Toolbox Podcast we are joining with a special guest, Jill Ciolli to talk about being a master teacher. Please subscribe on your favorite platform so you don’t miss an...