Articles by Brian Tolentino

Are We Preparing Students for College?

My pedagogy is rife with “buzzwords.” For example, I aim to “meet students where they are.”  I do this by providing “culturally relevant content”  that I often “chunk” into smaller parts. This “enhances understanding.”  I also love giving students “choice” over what they do. This helps turn students into “self-directed learners.” And when I grade students, I have a “no-zero policy.” Giving a zero on an assignment is not part of “equitable grading.” I prioritize […]

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Build Your Identity as a Reader and Writer

Students need to see themselves as readers and writers. And they need to connect how literacy will help them achieve their dreams and aspirations. Here are a few “seed planting” activities to help students forge an identity as readers and writers.  First, students must build a “growth mindset” when it comes to reading. Reading is hard. It takes focus and patience. With time, however, reading transforms the mind. Secondly, students need to create their own […]

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Vocabulary Mini-Unit (Alter-)

Hello Teachers, I had a change of heart. The following vocabulary mini-unit (alter-) is now FREE. All the worksheets are FREE. If you purchased this product, please email me. I will send you any three items you want from my TPT store for FREE. I will soon be uploading another mini-unit (mono-) for FREE.  The mini-unit (alter-) worked AMAZINGLY with my students. I now have seventh graders telling me that they saw an “altercation” yesterday, […]

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