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

Second Edition


March 2014 | 224 pages | Corwin
Brain-Compatible Learning for the Block 2e, provides middle school and high school educators with practical ideas and strategies for teaching effectively within block schedules. The authors explore how to use block scheduling to support brain-based learning and show teachers how to structure lesson planning, instruction, and assessment to take advantage of extended class periods. The revised edition offers updated research related to brain-based learning and block scheduling, includes expanded guidelines for developing extended lesson plans, and provides additional strategies 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


R. Bruce Williams

Bruce Williams has more than thirty five years of international consulting experience, and is noted for his expertise in group facilitation and in planning and team building methodologies. Williams' specialty is facilitating participative, interactive group workshops whether they are focused on strategic planning and consensus building or instructional methodologies for the classroom. He has conducted successful workshops on brain compatible learning and school change facilitation, and he frequently presents in the areas of cooperative learning, higher order thinking skills, and authentic assessment. With seven years' experience in... More About Author

Steven E. Dunn

Steven E. Dunn, Ed.D., currently resides in Wichita, Kansas with his twin sons. His two daughters live and work in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Dunn joined the School of Education faculty at Newman University in the fall of 2002. Before joining the Newman faculty, Dr. Dunn worked as an independent consultant beginning in 1992. His mission as a consultant was to provide professional development in effective instructional strategies, learning theories, service learning, curriculum development, classroom management, and related educational topics. During the decade he was a full-time consultant, Dr. Dunn was an author, trainer and consultant for... More About Author

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ISBN: 9781412951845
$39.95