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Brain-Compatible Learning for the Block
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Brain-Compatible Learning for the Block

Second Edition

December 2007 | 224 pages | Corwin

"Provides a clear understanding of the instructor's responsibilities when teaching in the block, explains what a brain-compatible class looks like, and gives sample lesson plans."
—Randy Thompson, Educational Consultant

"Educators who teach in a school system that utilizes block scheduling will find this text very useful."
—Melissa Awenowicz, Coordinator of Field Placement
University of Pittsburgh

Use brain-friendly teaching strategies to maximize the benefits of extended time formats!

Believing that block scheduling is one of the best environments for applying brain-compatible instructional methods, the authors have compiled a rich resource to show both novice and veteran teachers how to use brain-friendly strategies in extended time periods to deliver highly effective instruction and enhance learning for all students.

A practical toolbox for teaching in block schedule formats, Brain-Compatible Learning for the Block, Second Edition focuses on a four-phase lesson model of inquiring, gathering, processing, and applying. This approach helps learners identify what they already know about the concepts or skills to be covered in the lesson, collect new information related to the lesson topic, engage in activities that will help the brain store new information, and transfer what they've learned to real-life settings.

Written for middle school and high school educators, this second edition:

  • Provides detailed sample lesson plans
  • Examines how extended time formats impact student achievement
  • Illustrates how to focus the learning experience for students
  • Explores various alternative scheduling formats
  • Offers updated research related to brain-based learning and block scheduling

This book provides educators with concrete and accessible ideas for combining brain-based strategies with extended time formats and is an essential resource for making the most of block scheduling.


 
List of Tables and Figures
 
Preface
 
Acknowledgments
 
About the Authors
 
Introduction: Tools of the Trade
 
1. Physiology and Philosophy
The Brain's Structure and Function

 
Brain-Compatibility and Multifaceted Learning

 
Brain-Compatible Learning Climate

 
Sample Four-Phase Lesson--What's On Your Mind?

 
Reflective Questions

 
 
2. Four-Phase Lesson and Unit Design
Inquiring-Gathering-Processing-Applying

 
Four Phases Assist in Schema Development

 
Essential Questions

 
Attend--Experience--Reflect

 
Internal Structure

 
Integrated Assessment

 
Compare/Contrast Four-Phase Lesson With Traditional Lessons

 
Benefits of Four-Phase Lesson Design

 
Planning a Unit and a Lesson

 
Reflective Questions

 
 
3. Extended Time Formats Including Block Scheduling
Time for Brain-Compatible Learning

 
Alternative Scheduling Formats

 
Sample Four-Phase Lesson: Can Prejudice Kill a Mockingbird?

 
Reflective Questions

 
 
4. Content and Curriculum
To Cover or to Catalyze Learning?

 
Prioritizing Curriculum in Extended Time Formats

 
Brain-Compatible Curriculum

 
Sample Four-Phase Lesson: Circles That Cycle

 
Reflective Questions

 
 
5. The Art and Science of Teaching in Extended Time Formats
Opportunity for Growth and Change

 
Energizing Educational Principles

 
Brain-Compatible Instructional Strategies

 
Professional Learning Communities: Pathway to a New Paradigm

 
Reflective Questions

 
 
6. Assessment: Measuring Achievement and Growth in Extended Time Formats
The Right Stuff

 
Caught in the Act of Learning: Authentic Assessment

 
Assessment for Learning

 
No Child Left Behind (NCLB)

 
Testing Matters

 
Assessment in Four-Phase Lesson and Unit Design

 
Sample Four Phase Lesson: Science Schmience or Who Framed Sir Isaac

 
Reflective Questions

 
 
Bibliography
 
Index

"Educators who teach in a school system that utilizes block scheduling will find this text interesting and useful."

Melissa Awenowicz, Coordinator of Field Placement
University of Pittsburgh

"Provides a clear understanding of the responsibilities of the teacher when teaching in the block, explains what a brain-compatible class looks like, and gives sample lesson plans. Useful for all middle school and high school teachers who are teaching in some form of block schedule."

Randy Thompson, Educational Consultant

Sample Materials & Chapters

Preface

Introduction


For instructors

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ISBN: 9781452293752

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ISBN: 9781412951845
$39.95