Testimonies / Reviews
Classrooms That Spark!
Winner in 2006 Teacher's Choice Awards
What are people saying about "Classrooms That Spark!"?
I found this to be an excellent resource for teachers. It is well organized and provides resources that include forms, additional resources, and specific skills in addressing mainstream and special populations. I especially liked the teacher talk which provides actual classroom vignettes that simulate a conversation you might have with a colleague. More importantly, the reflection questions offers an opportunity for a teacher to reconsider the daily decisions he/she faces in delivering a lesson or dealing with a student's behavior. This is sure to be a "bible" for many!
- S. Fukumoto, Hawaii
I have just finished going through
Classrooms That Spark! and I am so impressed. It is a wonderful collection of practical and easy to do ideas for teachers of all age levels. You have addressed how different ideas can be implemented (and gave examples) for different age levels. Information was provided on some topics that are usually glossed over - classroom leadership style, understanding boys, how the brain learns and technology. A comprehensive list of resources is included and many samples/templates to copy. This is a book that both new and experienced teachers will benefit from. Thank you for putting together so much good information in an easy to read resource.
- B. O'Brien, Wisconsin
I could not put
Classrooms that Spark! away until I had read it to its end! It truly ignited the flame of enthusiasm.
I found your book extremely beneficial in that it addressed K through 12 issues and had excellent data regarding special ed and ESL instruction. I would recommend this book to new and experienced teachers alike.
Motivation is a major problem in our classrooms today. Our students and our faculty are often unmotivated resulting in little if any learning taking place.
Classrooms that Spark! provides motivational ideas and ignites a desire to achieve more.
Thank you for a book that has made a difference and will continue to make a difference as more educators read it!
- T. Cochrane, Texas
What a pleasure it was to review your book,
Classrooms that Spark! The title of your book is perfect, both concise and appealing! It tugs at your shirt sleeve to be opened and read. The fire metaphor used consistently throughout the book is additionally powerful! The use of quotes at the beginning of each chapter heading was not only contagious but highly affective. Strong parallelism was evident to each of the chapter topics. The checklists (like that on page 28) are both teacher-friendly and a "must have" for the novice or veteran teacher. Furthermore, the Notes/Reflection page at the conclusion of each chapter is an added bonus. I love the space for self-reflection. Teachers tend to do a great deal of self-reflection and with this opportunity to record their own thoughts, questions, ideas, they can strive to be a master teacher.
- P. Hanlon, Arizona
Emma and Dyan have compiled one of the most comprehensive collections of tips and strategies from planning to implementation to follow-up and assessment that help teachers create student-centered classrooms. Their easy to read and reference format allows the busy teacher to glean quick and easy strategies for the classroom. From setting up for the first day of school to ready to use reproducible, this book takes a teacher through the critical areas of preparation for and delivery of content rich and innovative activities for students in all grade levels. This book will definitely 'light fires' for all teachers. I highly recommend this book.
- D. Meadows, California
Whether you're a college student in an education program, first year teacher, or seasoned veteran,
Classrooms that Spark! has something for everyone! As a member of the latter group, part of my duties include staff development, and I will be sure to use this book as required reading! It is the most comprehensive resource of its kind.
- A. Schnepf, Arizona
All I can say is finally. Finally, a book is written that is practical and easy to understand about setting up a classroom and the importance of organization and pre-planning. Many teachers, particularly new teachers, think that knowledge of their subject area(s) is all that is required to be a good teacher. Organization and planning are the backbone of a good classroom. In the past, I have had student teachers and I tell them that teaching is both an art and a skill. This book helps teachers with the day-to-day grind needed to perfect the skill of teaching.
- S. Ryals, Florida
After teaching in the classroom for over 30 years, I have a pretty good idea of what teachers need and what they will use.
Classrooms that Spark! will not only inspire the new teacher, but will provide the seasoned teacher with chapters of new ideas. The format is organized well and presents little tidbits of information throughout. My daughter, who is teaching in London, would also enjoy this publication, even thought she has been teaching only for a short time.
- M. Davis, Iowa
Wow! What a valuable resource! Your book covers such a wide variety of topics that are all so helpful. The very first section on organization has so many useful ideas. The "Before School Checklist" includes everything that should be done during pre-planning (I wish I would have had it during my first year!). The section titled "Creating a Balanced Classroom Environment" made an important point about specific daily procedures. The format and checklists are both easy to read and use. Also, I'd like to say a very big THANK YOU for including the discussion of life skills and teaching polite behaviors and for including a section on special needs students. We "special" teachers really appreciate feedback from our students' regular teachers, and again you have provided very useful information on how to get help when needed. Your book has just the right amount of spark!
- D. Lee
How refreshing! These are things I do! I am still "rushing" all the time but I love my job. I love my students. I love to learn new things... thanks so much for a great book. I will highly recommend it. Can I get a copy for our LMC? I am headed to Austin for the No Child Left Behind Conference this weekend. I will spread the work about
Sparks.
- V. Thompson, Texas
I have just finished reading the book,
Classrooms that Spark! and I must tell you that I am very impressed. This book is a necessity for all teachers, in every grade level and all disciplines. You were very thorough in your treatment of strategies, activities, and research. You have made me reevaluate my classroom and its organization.
- M. Fischer, Texas
I absolutely loved your book! I can't wait to have a copy in my hands! This is the book I needed when I was a first year teacher without a mentor. It is the book I need now as a mentor to other teachers. It is rejuvenating to remember many things I had forgotten. It is a fantastic way to get organized in your classroom. This book presents all of the aspects of teaching in a structured and logical way. I will use this book for years and years to come!
- A. Hall, Utah
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