Teacher Idea Exchange

Friday is the favorite day of the week for my students, and not for the reason you would assume. They love it because it’s our day dedicated to discussing the news.

Social Studies is responsible for telling the story of everything that humans have ever done. It also is responsible for preparing our future citizens. In sixth grade, we can create connections to what we’re studying and what’s happening in the news every week – I see this as our chance to lead students to care about what’s happening in the world. And with the inclusion of regular current events, students make rich and meaningful connections into other content areas, a very positive extension of learning. I want students to continue to read the news long after they exit sixth grade and to have the skills to decide what to base their opinions on so they’re informed and active as members of their communities — as well as global citizens.

After earning her degree in elementary education and art, Shannon Miller stayed home with her three children for thirteen years. When a district teacher librarian position opened up, she applied, got the job, and went back to school to get a master’s in library science. As a teacher librarian, she worked with students in kindergarten through 12th grade, as well as teachers, parents, and the school community. After several years on the job, Shannon began speaking and consulting about librarianship, technology, education and connecting classrooms online with social media. Today, she’s regarded as a thought leader on these topics. On…