• Reading Workshop -  Motivate kids to be joyful independent readers by using the Reading Workshop approach. In this model, students spend large amounts of time reading independently or with a partner. Instruction is delivered through mini-lessons and individual conferences.  
• Beyond Reading Aloud - Make every precious read-aloud moment count with these engaging strategies!
• Whole Class Novel Studies - Everyone reads the same novel at the same place, but instruction is anything but dull! Periodically students break out into small discussion groups or other response activities.
• Text 2 Brain Questioning - This method was developed by Fayetteville NC educator Sue Moody and is a simple yet powerful variation of the (Question-Answer Relationship) QAR strategy. Your students will become more proficient test-takers by learning to identify where the answers to questions can be found.
• Balanced Literacy - Few educators debate the value of phonics versus whole language; most now agree that children learn to read best through a balanced approach to literacy instruction. This session will provide practical strategies for implementing a balanced literacy program organized around 3 components: whole group instruction, small group instruction, and literacy centers. Participants will leave the workshop with the confidence and know-how to set up and manage this 3-part literacy framework.  

The Dynamic Duo: Putting the Punch in Math Instruction  - August 12, 2009
More info . . . 

We teach, but are students learning? This workshop takes a fresh look at Mastery Learning and Cooperative Problem Solving, two powerful strategies designed to ensure math success. 

• Mastery learning - This method is a simple, yet tried-and-true, approach that enables all learners to master basic skills before tackling complex math tasks. Teachers provide multiple opportunities for students to build the foundation upon which higher order thinking and reasoning skills can be developed.
• Cooperative Problem-Solving - Providing students with daily doses of problem-solving instruction is critical for success in life and on standardized tests. Encouraging students to work with others as they solve problems improves social skills and provides opportunities to deepen mathematical understanding. 

Implemented together, these methods all but guarantee that your students will soar through their state math exams! In this workshop, participants will actively explore practical, easy-to-use strategies to close achievement gaps and enable ALL students to excel.  

Making Math Easy - August 13, 2009  More Info . . . .

Why is it that some kids hate math, while others look forward to each math class? Maybe the difference is not in the students, but in the teaching methods! This workshop is designed as a follow-up to the 1-Day Dynamic Duo Workshop, but it can be taken independently. You'll learn:

• Math Content Strategies - Discover specific strategies for making each math content strand fun and easy! Content areas include fractions, decimals, geometry, measurement, and more!
• Classroom Management Ideas - When students are actively engaged during instruction, there's always the potential for chaos! Learn how to manage cooperative learning and hands-on tasks effectively so that your classroom is a productive learning zone and not a disaster area!

My Qualifications

• 28 years of classroom experience (grades 4 - 6)
• Master's Degree in Elementary Education
• National Board Certification (Middle Childhood Generalist)
• Milken Family Foundation Education Award 2000
• Author of 5 books on cooperative learning (www.kaganonline.com)
• Author of 8 digital Power Packs for teachers
• Extensive presentation experience - references available upon request

Scheduling a Workshop

• Because I'm a classroom teacher, I prefer to teach on a Friday, Saturday, or Monday 
  so that I can travel on the weekends. I'm also available in the summer and on teacher workdays.
• For more information, email me at lauracandler@att.net