Category: Professional Development

Close reading: Developing deep understanding of texts

Close reading is thoughtful, critical analysis of a text that focuses on significant details or patterns in order to develop a deep, precise understanding of the text’s form, craft, meanings, etc. It is a key element of Maine’s English language arts and literacy standards and directs the reader’s attention to the text itself. Developing habits of close reading support a student’s growth as a reader, writer, speaker, and consumer of information.

Continue reading “Close reading: Developing deep understanding of texts” →

Effective teaching and learning in mathematics

An effective teacher of mathematics supports student learning by integrating teaching practices into their daily lessons. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) recently released current research supporting effective teaching practices in Principles to Actions: Ensuring Mathematical Success for All. This book is broken into 3 sections: Effective Teaching and Learning, Essential Elements, and Taking Action. The primary focus of this series of articles will be on supporting teachers in implementing the 8 Effective Teaching Practices outlined in the book.

Continue reading “Effective teaching and learning in mathematics” →

Inquiry Based Learning applied to health and physical education

The Inquiry Based Learning (IBL) process provides a model for educators to help make deeper connections to health education or physical education curriculum in the classroom. It is a strategic instructional process meant to produce and ignite questioning. Through this process, students gain deeper knowledge about the topic at hand and become more proficient with the skills involved.

Continue reading “Inquiry Based Learning applied to health and physical education” →

Science professional development opportunity

The Maine DOE is offering science professional development for teachers of grades 6 -12 throughout the spring of the 2015-16 academic year.  This professional development is intended to build a science teacher leader community that has a solid understanding of effective teaching practices including three-dimensional instruction as discussed in A Framework for K-12 Science Education.  Two regional cohorts will be formed. Cohort members will be selected from across the state with a priority given to district teams which include one 9-12 science teacher and one 6-8 science teacher.

Continue reading “Science professional development opportunity” →

Maine DOE to release “Content Corner” resources

Student proficiency is enhanced by educator use of high impact instruction strategies. To support educator understanding of effective practices in the content areas, the Maine DOE is pleased to announce the upcoming release of its inaugural collection of articles focused on instructional strategies.

Continue reading “Maine DOE to release “Content Corner” resources” →

Maine DOE partners with the UMF Office of Graduate Studies

Title I Schools identified as Focus within Maine, and demonstrating within school achievement gaps in mathematics performance, have the opportunity to utilize program improvement funds to support participation in the Maine Mathematics Coaching Project (MMCP) sponsored by the University of Maine at Farmington’s Office of Graduate Studies.

Continue reading “Maine DOE partners with the UMF Office of Graduate Studies” →

PK-12 and higher education summit

Maine DOE staff joined approximately 100 faculty, admissions staff and leadership from the University of Maine System and the Community College System for the Summit on Informing and Aligning ME Public Higher Institutions with ME Public K-12: Proficiency & Assessment Activities on Nov. 6. 

Continue reading “PK-12 and higher education summit” →