The Teaching Toolbox - A Podcast for Middle School Teachers

Way back in Episode 6 , we chatted about celebrating holidays in the classroom, in general. Today we’re talking specifically about ways to celebrate Halloween in the middle school classroom. We’ve got 10 quick ideas for you. Based on your subject, time, and resources, some may seem more doable than others. So let’s jump right in with some different academic types of activities for Halloween. Resou...

How do we get the content we're teaching to stick in the minds of students for years to come? This episode is packed with strategies that work in the middle school classroom. Topics Discussed Understanding memory and the brain Types of memory How can we help students remember content? Resources --> Take a look at this research study about the effect of sleep on learning and memory Related Episo...

Puzzles. They’re all around us, everyday. We watch them. We play them. We build them. Yet when it comes to the classroom, we often don’t find puzzles in play. Tune into today's episode to learn how easy it is to bring the benefits of puzzles into your middle school classroom. Topics Discussed How puzzles can help us in the classroom What kinds of puzzles are a match for each subject Instructional...

Teaching has good days and bad days. Breathe deep, give yourself grace, celebrate your wins, love on your students and teach them the best you can. And remember to do things you love as well. Teaching is a long game, it involves lots of learning, growing, failing, and succeeding along the way.  In today's episode we are joined by 3 guests. We hope by hearing these stories you have realized yo...

The Teaching Toolbox Podcast turns 1! It has been an amazing ride for this first year, and we are so excited to start year two that we can’t wait to share some memories with you, look ahead a bit, and then announce all our wonderful winners who helped us make our one-year celebration more wonderful. Topics Discussed Reflecting on the Past Year Looking Ahead to Year Two Announcing Giveaway Winners...

Today we're unpacking our thoughts on 3 hot button topics in the world of education. Topics Discussed Homework Uniforms Color Coding ***ANNIVERSARY GIVEAWAY*** https://forms.gle/B356umfSumtaQ2sx5  Resources --> Learn more about homework on Ellie's blog HERE and HERE https://cognitivecardiomath.com/cognitive-cardio-blog/math-homework-assignments/ https://cognitivecardiomath.com/cognitive-cardio...

Today we’re talking about those teacher chores you don’t really enjoy but just have to do - duties. Topics Discussed Duties teachers regularly encounter Duties we prefer, and why How to make the best of duties you don't prefer Tips for managing the many responsibilities on your plate ***ANNIVERSARY GIVEAWAY*** https://forms.gle/B356umfSumtaQ2sx5  Related Episodes Episode 18 Clubs and Their Benefi...

In today's episode, we're discussing a crucial but often challenging topic: navigating relationships with school administrators. Whether you’re lucky enough to have supportive leaders or are dealing with more difficult administrators, understanding how to communicate and collaborate effectively with your administrators can make a big difference in your teaching experience. Topics Discussed Traits...

Systems help your classroom run smoothly. In this episode we'll be discussing some classroom systems you should have in place and how middle school teachers can set up effective systems that streamline classroom management, create more responsible students, enhance student learning, and build a positive classroom environment. Topics Discussed What are systems? How are systems setup? Some pros and...

Today we're diving into three key areas that can significantly enhance the learning environment and set your students up for success: student neatness, class expectations, and classroom rules. We'll discuss the benefits of each and share some practical ideas on how to implement them effectively. Topics Discussed Student neatness Class expectations Classroom rules ***ANNIVERSARY GIVEAWAY*** https:/...

If you aren’t a math teacher and think this episode won’t be for you, hold on! Pentominoes are great for non-math classes, too, so tune in as we explore all the benefits of using Pentominoes, especially at the start of the school year. Topics Discussed What are pentominoes? What are the benefits for teachers? What are the benefits for students? ***ANNIVERSARY GIVEAWAY*** https://forms.gle/B356umfS...

As you think about next school year, do you wonder what the best way to divide and level your classes for math and reading is?  Join us in this episode as we dive into the art and science of creating leveled small groups. Topics Discussed The benefits of small group instruction at the middle school level Tips for setting up groupings Tips for managing group work time ***ANNIVERSARY GIVEAWAY**...

Today, we're diving into a fun and practical topic — the top favorite teacher supplies for middle school teachers! We asked members of our Facebook groups about their favorites, too, so we’ve got our ideas and some great favorites from many classroom teachers. Let’s see what rules the school! Topics Discussed Favorites for the teacher's desk Math supplies Social studies supplies Resources Learn mo...

What can teachers do to make the first few days of school not only smooth but memorable? Let’s jump into twelve ideas that could transform those initial school days into an exciting gateway for the rest of the year. Resources -> 10 Team Building Games: https://thecoloradoclassroom.com/10-team-building-games -> Pentominoes Blog Post: https://cognitivecardiomath.com/cognitive-cardio-blog/first...

Whether you clean house in May or June when you get out of school, or you run home and off to vacation and wait until July or August, classroom prep still needs to be done, some years more than others. So join Brittany and Ellie as we take the Teaching Toolbox into the realm of preparing your classroom for the fall. Topics Discussed Clean, Organize, Donate, and Toss The Walls Materials Layout ***A...

Today, we are delving into meal prepping as busy teachers. Let’s see what we have cooked up for you today! Topics Discussed Busy teacher friendly meal ideas Tips for meal planning as a busy teacher Resources Mentioned Phomemo Printer: https://amzn.to/3UP3BDI ***ANNIVERSARY GIVEAWAY*** https://forms.gle/B356umfSumtaQ2sx5 Please subscribe on your favorite platform so you don’t miss an episode . Whet...

If you've heard of Reader's Theater you'll love today's discussion about Radio Theater. Author Deb Baldwin is joining the podcast today to share wisdom from 38 years of teaching theater to help you add some new skills to your teacher toolbox. The book, We're Live! Radio Theater #101 describes her experiences in using radio theater in her own classroom and the successes she has had boosting student...

In today's episode, we're diving into the trenches of middle school, but not just any trenches—those of a grade level leader. Imagine being the bridge between the admin and the other teachers in your grade level.  It's a role that's part superhero, part diplomat, and all heart. Join us as we explore the responsibilities and pros and cons, along with tips for being a great grade-leader! Topics...

Summer is coming - do you have big plans to take a break from your teaching-related activities? Or are you planning all the teaching things you’ll get done in the summer so you don’t have to worry about them in the fall? Or do you have plans for both? Whatever your plans, we’ve got some tips for how to make sure that at least SOME of your summer is yours so you can get some rejuvenation time! Topi...

It's that time of the year when we reflect on all the growth and memories made throughout the school year. But before we get too sentimental, let's talk about some fantastic ways to wrap up the year with our students. Topics Discussed Reflecting on Achievements & Growth Fun & Meaningful Farewell Activities Setting the Stage for Summer and Beyond Check out these end of year activity ideas:...

Today, we will discuss the dreaded summer slide learning loss and how we, as teachers, can help prevent it. Let’s slide right in. Topics Discussed What is summer slide? Why does it happen? How can we help prevent it? Resources Check out this Cognitive Cardio Blog Post - https://cognitivecardiomath.com/cognitive-cardio-blog/tips-for-preventing-summer-slide/ Check out this Colorado Classroom Blog Po...

Today, we're tackling a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of education, especially in middle school: Skills for Executive Functioning. It's about helping our students not just academically but also in managing their time, energy, emotions, and actions more effectively. Topics Discussed What is executive functioning? Why are these skills so important for students to develop? How can we tell stude...

Cheating in the middle school classroom is a multifaceted issue that demands attention from educators, parents, and students alike. By understanding the underlying pressures, promoting ethical education, and addressing technological challenges, we can create an environment where academic integrity thrives.  In today's episodes we're unpacking this complex topic from many angles and sharing ou...

Do you ever think about what truly drives us to achieve our goals and dreams? Join us as we explore the age-old debate between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and uncover the secrets behind what really fuels our actions. Get ready to gain valuable insights that might just change the way you approach your students and possibly your own motivations.  Topics Discussed The difference between t...

Classroom seating charts are an art form. Balancing IEP inclusions, student personalities, and the unique group dynamics from one class to the next can present some tricky puzzles. Let's chat about some fresh ideas for middle school seating arrangements in today's episode. Topics Discussed Survey results about what's working in other middle school classrooms right now How to measure if a seating a...