Barry Westling

Hi Clifton: When I use pretesting (and I don't use it all the the time), it helps me clarify or modify the planned lessons so I can emphasize areas that are in more need and not put as much weight on information students seem to already know pretty well. Regards, Barry

Hi David: I like to share grade information and also take the time to offer support and encouragement. Giving students hope and making them feel like the teacher cares is important. Regards, Barry

Hi Kathleen: You've made a good point. Maybe one has to look at their students like their own kids, whose needs are different and therefore treated differently. But invariably some students will feel or express that student got special treatment, or the dreaded "favoritisism". It may not be the intent, but that's how they feel. So, unless I can give assignments available for all, I just don't do extra credit. Regards, Barry

Hi Kathleen: Good! Stories will always help break the dolldrums, and getting students to talk is a much better approach than the teacher giving information. Regards, Barry

Hi Robin: Concisely stated. Variety is always good. But focused variety hits the mark. Regards, Barry

Hi Robin: Field trips inspire and motivate in a way few other activities can. A view into a possible future can translate to a margibal student getting their act together and really trying hard to succeed, based on what they observed. Regards, Barry

Hi Kent: The out of class or field trip is a wonderful method to break up the dullness, and helps bring the focus back to task when class resumes. Regards, Barry

Hi Nancy: Over time, a journal can reveal our growth as teachers, and give unique insight into understanding ourselves. Regards, Barry

Hi Charles: I like to do frequent "chats" and offer encouragement and support along with the grading status. Regards, Barry

Hi Belinda: For me, student centered channels the focus onto the student, perhaps a little more so than my planned (and canned) curriculum plans. As each student is an individual, so can their classroom experience be. Student-centered attempts to achieve learning at the highest level for each student. Regards, Barry