What teachers would truly like to convey to their learners.
Ever been scrolling on social media, and you see something that sticks with you for a few days? Same! Here’s the exact stitch that had me thinking about it while driving in the car, while walking my dog, and random other times. Watch the TikTok Here! Yes, I know that the literal interpretation refers to parenting and the rearing of one’s child, but my teacher’s brain kept thinking about how I foster Roots and Wings in all of my students as well.
Roots. Teachers start the year by setting academic and behavioral expectations, outlining the curriculum, and establishing routines to create a structured learning environment. This foundation ensures that students understand the objectives, feel supported, and can actively engage in their learning, setting the stage for a successful and productive school year.
Wings. Teachers foster independence and creativity by gradually releasing responsibility to students, starting with structured tasks and then gradually moving to more open-ended activities. By providing opportunities for students to explore and apply their learning in diverse ways, teachers empower them to develop critical thinking skills and express their ideas creatively.
In my 7th-grade social studies classes, EduProtocols templates have been instrumental in fostering both roots and wings, particularly in developing critical thinking skills. Templates such as “Four Corners” or “Give One, Get One” provide structured formats for students to analyze information, form opinions, and defend their perspectives. This encourages them to think deeply about historical events, cultural practices, and societal norms, fostering a habit of questioning and evaluating information rather than passively accepting it. By consistently using these templates, my students learn to approach new information with a critical eye, a skill that is invaluable in their academic and personal lives.In addition to AI and gamification platforms, EduProtocols templates have been effective tools for enhancing communication skills in my students. Activities like “Iron Chef” or “Timed Round Robin” require students to articulate their thoughts clearly and concisely, whether in written or verbal form. Through these exercises, students practice expressing complex ideas, listening actively to their peers, and engaging in respectful dialogue. This not only improves their ability to communicate effectively but also teaches them the importance of listening and understanding different perspectives. These skills are essential for success in any field, as they enable students to convey their ideas persuasively and collaborate with others in a meaningful way. Personally, I read the Social Studies Edition: 14 Student Center Lesson Frames cover to cover: Another option is joining the Facebook Community full of teachers that share free resources with fellow educators.
Below are a few of my favorite Templates and topics I did for lessons inspired by the EduProtocol.
Fast & Curious: Medieval Japan and Imperial China
8*Parts: Magna Carta Differentiated Primary Source & Secondary Source Comic Strip
Sketch & Tell: Climate Change Cause & Effect
Thick Slide: Black Death & Feudalism
Parafly: Preamble
