Epic Rap Battles in the Classroom

Epic Rap Battles in the Classroom

The learning objective on Chalimar Chieza's Early American History classroom reads as follows: "The student will create sick rhymes that showcase their knowledge of the roots of government in the United States." Epic Rap Battles of History is one of my favorite YouTube channels. I knew that giving students opportunities to write songs about content was a good assessment, but I never thought of utilizing raps / slam poetry specifically. So much opportunity for students to show what they know in this creative assessment. Chalimar Chieza has been doing rap battles in her history classes for years. In this episode…
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5 INNOVATIVE Ways to Create POSITIVE Classroom Culture

5 INNOVATIVE Ways to Create POSITIVE Classroom Culture

A few years ago I wrote THIS blog and it did well on Edutopia.  I decided to make a video version of it. I share 5 innovative ways that I've found to help create and foster a positive classroom culture both when I taught elementary school as well as now in middle school. 1. Ask different questions 2. Do mindful breathing exercises 3. High-5 Friday! 4. Start a class Instagram 5. Weekly check-in Mindfulness apps: Headspace - https://www.headspace.com/ Calm - https://www.calm.com/ My class Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/headwatersstem https://youtu.be/2h5kHU1qd1o
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