Teaching Books

This book helped me set up a brain-friendly morning for my fifth grade students. Each morning there is a greeting, sharing, and activity and a message. I adopted the middle school term CPR, Circle of Power and Respect. My students look forward to CPR each day! I highly recommend this book for any teacher of grades K-8!

This is a helpful informative book, especially helpful for new teachers.
However, I would also recommend it for experienced teachers for some new ideas.

This book is simple and clear in focus and structure. It has great strategies and suggestions for implementation in classrooms of various grade levels. This is a great resource if you are looking to improve your classroom community and overall communication skills of your students.

Wonderful, applicable strategies to build community in every classroom! In every school building! Great resource full of ideas.

I am a 6th grade teacher moving to 2nd grade this year. This book was a HUGE help in preparing me to organize my morning meeting. It is an easy read and has lots of helpful tips. I can't wait to start school this year and start my morning meetings!
If you are an elementary teacher, buy this book! You won't regret it!The Morning Meeting Book (Strategies for Teachers, 1)

This is one of the best, most intelligent and broad introductions to buddhism and buddhist philosophy available. An important addition to your library.

This book did a great job to introduce Buddhism ideas in a clear and plain way, which makes Buddhism easy to be understood and easy to be accepted. Moreover, I'm also glad that he wouldn't simply follow whatever in the Buddhism texture without reflection, like most Buddhist scholars did. He reflected the ideas, explaining them reasonably and even asked readers to think, reflect and then see if they could accept or not...The author himself is a peaceful and great figure in modern Buddhism society. The experience of reading his book always brings me a peaceful mind. If you're interested in Buddhism but hesitate for its complicated terminology, this book is highly recommended.

This is a very well written introduction to Buddhism and Buddhism's primary concepts and teachings. As always, Thich Nhat Hanh is very easy and enjoyable to read.

I enjoyed this book, I found it to be very informative, and I liked the writing style of the author.
I just started delving into the realms of Buddhism. Any input from anyone who is an actual Buddhist and not a Professor or Doctor who only studied Buddhism and claims to be an expert is appreciated.

"The Heart of Buddha's Teaching" is one of the best books I've read. It's a great introduction to the basic principals and ideas of Buddhism. Thich Nhat Hanh really explained things in such a way that I feel I'm walking away with ideas and resources to help deal with everyday problems.

I'm tempted to call this a self-help book with how every chapter seemed to address things that I as a person am confronted with and am trying to understand. How Hanh applies Buddha's teaching to suffering, anger and how to achieve peace and zen is something I believe everyone needs and will benefit from reading. I've read other books that felt as if they were speaking of things beyond my grasp and ability to make sense of; this was not that book. Everything flowed nicely, the concepts were presented in terms that weren't too complicated, the examples given were ones that did not distract from the ideas and points.

Definitely a must read and worth your time and attention.

This is an incredible resource for people really serious about learning the dynamics of color. You will get the most out of it by actually doing the exercises - it won't help nearly as much if you just read it and look at the examples. I highly recommend it!

Key book (with color-aid colored papers) for learning the nuances of color for the artist.

This book came in perfect condition and without delay. Thanks for the great service.

A chance to read and learn about the early theories in Modern Art. An
insight into Op art and Albers theories

A must have for the serious colorist by one of the great masters of abstraction.

The reviewed subjects are only somewhat helpful -- but what is best is a numerous number of practice tests.

The problems are challenging and thought-provoking. Definitely a good study tool! I'm not sure how they compare to the actual AP questions, though.

This book isn't all that great. I bought it in hopes of refreshing my memory, and since AP Statistics has some intricate details to it, this book doesn't really go into them. The chapters contain A LOT of examples which helps the student see the different types of problems he/she can encounter, but there is little explanation of general ideas. The author relies a lot on defining terms through examples and through few words. The chapter questions in the end are also flawed because the answers turn out to be those that AREN'T covered by the author in the chapter reviews. In addition, the way the chapters are broken up are incoherent and inconsistent to follow, and you end up running to (again) examples of ideas than the actual definition. I thought that this was fine because in the end, I could grasp the concept, but it turns out I'll just be memorizing the different questions the AP test could ask than actually understand the concept.

My best bet is that this book is good for taking the 6 practice tests, but for general review, one should get the CliffsAP Statistics or even The Princeton Review.

The Barron's book initially got good reviews on the previous editions, but this one doesn't live up to that. I'm ending up buying another book and dropped this book for studying for the AP Exam that's in 3 weeks.

~Hope my review helped (:~

I have bought into the idea of communicating through 3 - 5 points, but totally agree with Andy Stanley that hitting a one point message and giving the congregation one main focal point to take home is critical. I wish I read this 5 years ago!

Whether you're a veterna preacher, new to the ministry, or you just want to communicate to groups more effectively, Andy Stanley's book will be very helpful. Eschewing the normal three-point-sermon mentality we see in much of evangelical Christian churches, he makes a persuasive case for the 'one point sermon.' Using a specific sequence of themes to draw the congregation in to the sermon (Me-We-God-You-We), he makes a simple case for a powerful style of communication.
While the introductory 'parable' that sets up the actual meat of the book is longer than necessary, the description of the method is compelling and easy to understand.
What some pastors might struggle with is the challenge of changing old habits. If they're successful and adopt this outline, they will truly be communicating for a change.

On my top 5 favorite books! Easy to read and understand...so practical!!! Part one is written in story form instructing through a story. I'll likely use it as a reference for many years to come. I've recommended it to all my speaker friends... I loved it! If you are a teacher/pastor/speaker....just buy it!

Many thanks to Andy Stanley for sharing his process and insights with the rest of us. So many communicators could benefit from this book. I speak mostly to MOPS groups and this book is spot on for communicating in that venue. It's great for anyone who wants to see people remember what they've said so the principles can lead to life change.

After finishing this book, I was reminded of the following verse in 2 Timothy 2:15 - Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. Not everyone is called to preach or to give Bible studies but this book, at the very minimum, allows us to see how much work and thought is involved when a pastor gives a sermon/Bible study. Because of that, I very appreciate my pastor who must have worked really hard to preach God's word. Here are the takeaway lessons that are transcribed verbatim from the book for each of the relevant chapters. In order to see how these points were derived, you'll need to read the book which I highly recommend:

1. Determine your goal
1a. Our approach to communicating should be shaped by our goal in communicating.
1b. Our goal should be life change. Specifically, to teach people how to live a life that reflects the values, principles, and truths of the Bible.
1c. When you commit to preach for life change, your preparation is not complete until you have answered two very important questions: So what? and Now what?

2. Pick a point
2a. In a one point message it is essential for the communicator to know the answer to two questions: What is the one thing I want my audience to know? What do I want them to do about it?
2b. For most communicators, the biggest challenge will not be finding the one idea, but eliminating the other three.
2c. The process for developing a one point message is as follows: 1) Dig until you find it. 2) Build everything around it. 3) Make it stick.

3. Create a map.
3a. An outline built around your relationship with the audience, rather than the content, best matches the way they naturally process information.
3b. ME-WE-GOD-YOU-WE
3c. Begin writing these five words in the margin where they apply in your current way of outlining. Add the sections you are missing.

4. Internalize the message
4a. Before you stand to deliver a message you must own it.
4b. Reduce your entire message down to five or six pieces. Not points, pieces or sections of information.
4c. If something doesn't support, illustrate, or clarify the point, cut it.

5. Engage your audience.
5a. Engage your audience.
5b. Engage your audience.
5c. Engage your audience.

6. Find your voice.
6a. Being yourself is not an excuse for poor communication habits.
6b. Be yourself. But become the best communicator yourself can be.
6c. Continually ask yourself, what works? What works for me?

7. Start all over.
7a. Don't allow the pressure to get the sermon finished override your passion to bring something fresh to your audience.
7b. When you get stuck, pray!!!
7c. When you get stuck, go back to basics: What do they need to know? Why do they need to know it? What do they need to do? Why do they need to do it? How can I help them remember?

Like these points? There's a lot of great insights that pastor Stanley gives in his book, which is why you should go out and buy this book. I hope that this helps.

This book was suggested by fellow teachers. It's a great book for teachers that already have a handle on reading strategies. It gives great and easy to duplicate ideas.

This book provides teachers with a way to introduce the comprehension strategies. It has very orginal ways to get the kids thinking about thinking as they read. My third graders responded well to the langauge and activities provided in the book. It was a quick read, but described strategies I can use throuhgout the year in my classroom. I would recommend it to anyone teaching Harvey's and Keene's comprehension strategies.

I am an elementary teacher currently using Tanny's book to inform my small group reading instruction. It didn't take me long to realize what a goldmine of information she provides; and it all makes sense. Reading this book is what I'd imagine sitting down with the author at Starbucks to be like. She will begin your own inner conversation about the myriad ways to strengthen your students' comprehension skills, using concrete items for object lessons, wordless texts, art, music lyrics, and quotes. The examples of anchor charts Tanny shares are first-rate. If you don't own this book; get it :). You'll have it finished in less time than it took to arrive at your doorstep!

Great resource for all primary elementary teachers. Great ideas to develop schema for various comprehension strategies!

This book meets the big areas of comprehension with concrete and engaging activities that will introduce strategies to your students and provide a gradual release of responsibility!

As a teacher of autistic children, this book is invaluable. It is written in language that is easy for my students to understand and follow the directions..... I would be lost with it.

I received this book for Christmas to add to my autism library and what a wonderful treat. I wish I had this books several years ago when I started working in a class with children who have severe autism. It's so basic and has such great sample charts. It breaks down so many behavior challenges and creates simple charts to help you help your students better understand how to self modulate...from Aspergers to severe, these tools work. They seem so basic, yet I have seen them work great over and over. This basic and easy to quickly read resource should be given to every teacher, parent, administrator, speech and occupational therapist who works with kids on the spectrum. It's a great starting point for managing behavior problems...big and small. Check out Ms. Buron's other related books also at www.asperger.net. Joanna Keating-Velasco, Author...
A Is for Autism F Is for Friend: A Kid's Book for Making Friends with a Child Who Has Autism

This book has been very helpful with my Asperger son and my non-Asperger son. As a teachers aide, I have used it the the kids at school and some teachers have borrowed my book and are using it themselves. It has pages to copy so that you can make your own 5-point scale. Just wonderful!!!

You can make this work for just about any problem. I now just hold up a finger and my child knows what I am trying to say even my younger child is getting it.

Finally, a basic book listing basic skills for people who do not understand "thinking outside the box." I'm so happy to see something that can help educators and families find hands-on techniques for those who are clueless, hopeless, and helpless.

Mentor Texts: Teaching Writing Through Children's Literature, K-6

This book has lots of ideas to create great lessons. Definitely a better way to learn about grammar and writing than just teaching rules through worksheets. Teachers can choose books their students pick to incorporate into the lesssons, but one of my favorite features of the book is the huge list of books that are put into categories of what they can be used to teach.

This is a very teacher friendly text. You can pick the lessons you want to teach and go from there.

This is one of the best resources for teaching writing that I have ever purchased. It's very "user friendly" with the "Your Turn" lessons and it's packed with great strategies and plenty of quality picture book titles to use for classroom "read like a writer" lessons on author's craft. As a literacy facilitator for my school, I have recommended that my principal purchase more copies for our third grade teachers to use this year for process writing minilessons and strategies that link reading to writing. Congratulations to the authors for an outstanding resource! Katie Wood Ray would approve, I'm sure!

This book is an excellent resource for anyone teaching writing to children (K-6). It has easy-to-read formatting and has lots of examples woven throughout. It has lists of mentor texts that can be used to share the craft of writing and show children how authors use writing for many different purposes. The books and strategies in the book lend themselves to helping students take risks in their writing. Great book!

Shelley Harwayne's recommendation for this outstanding resource says it all in her first line. Harwayne states that Mentor Texts is "a trustworthy book". It truly is. Lynne Dorfman and Rose Cappelli have crafted a remarkable resource for teachers, parents and writers. Every school district should order multiple copies for their staff development departments and hand it out to veteran and beginning teachers.

One of the primary reasons this book works so well is that Dorfman and Cappelli are in classrooms living what they write about - this is a real difference-maker in a teacher resource book.

The thrust of this book is using real literature as mentor texts for writers. Dorfman and Cappelli write that mentor texts are books that are filled with possibilities for writers to learn from and that they can become "as comfortable as a worn pair of jeans". This book will, no doubt, become as tattered and worn and comfortable as a worn pair of jeans for me as I teach writers of all ages. However, just like I buy multiple pairs of jeans that I know fit well, I plan to buy multiple copies and keep them on my bookshelf.

Buy this book if you write, teach teachers, teach writers or even if you are an editor.

I can't wait for their next book, Non-fiction Mentor texts!

Bravo!
The Legend of the Teddy Bear

I found this book very interesting. I wish I had a button to press and help kids actually become passionate readers. Society must help and encourage more reading as entertainment. Too often there are ads for physical activities and they do not show value for reading and academic activities.

Finally, an author who validates my own tried and true method for developing strong readers. Reading an interesting book can teach our students more about reading that we ever will. It's time we again dedicated a part of our reading time for reading, not just reading instruction, but we need to help them by offering the best books to select from. "Build it and they will come." A class library full of rich literature that interests middle school students is a huge challenge, and Ms. Atwell provides tons of titles to get you started. She also offers plenty of ideas for record keeping, and student conferences. The book is very inspiring and full of good ideas and advice.You rock Nanci Atwell!

As a teacher of students who are struggling readers at the high school level, I was somewhat disappointed by Nancie Atwell's latest book. Her approach assumes many things that simply not always possible in the public school class room, especially at the high school level. I applaud her devotion to providing students with time and space to read, but she doesn't understand the time and MONEY constraints that most of us have. For example, I have to spend my own money to provide my students with a classroom library and my department can only afford to provide us with $25 per teacher for classroom supplies like chalk and staples. The $250 that the IRS allows for is usually what I spend just to have art supplies, extra pens and pencils available for my students. I have to reach deep into my own pocket to purchase books.

Over all this book left me disappointed, because Nancie Atwell needs to see what it's like for people like me who are just as devoted, but left with little money to supply my students. How are we supposed to do all the great things she reccommends if we can't have the same resources that she is lucky enough to have?

This is an excellent book that shows how students can become great readers when they are given the chance to have independent reading time and be in control of their reading choices. This is a must read for all teachers!

How does a kid learn to read...by reading. Get your students into the Reading Zone. I was sucked into the guided reading, small groups, centers, rotations, strategies method of teaching too. However, my students just were not progressing or developing that "love of reading" that I wanted for them. Within a month of reading this book and changing my approach, almost all my students have jumped into the ZONE. This book will change how you teach. It's the next step in your evolution as a reading teacher. Happy reading!

Thank you very much for having this wonderful book that my studens and I have enjoied so much.
Proud to be your customer any time,
Danelys.

This is an amazing book. I am a children's yoga teacher. This book has changed how I teach. The children love the stories. Their attention is totally on the story. Then when you add yoga to it, it gives the children a chance to embrace and act out the story. I would highly recommend this and Sydney's other book to everyone. You don't have to be a yoga teacher to enjoy this. The art of telling stories has been lost and I'm glad Sydney is bringing it. it is a great way to connect with others.
Sandy

Written for teachers, librarians and yoga instructors, author/yoga instructor Sydney Solis details how yoga is beneficial for young children and how incorporating this ancient spiritual practice into storytelling can help to achieve a deeper level of understanding. The book gives excellent concrete examples of how to deal with real situations that might arise with children including how to maintain control of the class and how to set rules. A class curriculum is outlined including folk tales, their theme, country of origin along with corresponding yoga poses for each character or action. A chapter with black and white photographs and detailed explanations of how to do the various poses is also included.

This is one of the few good yoga books to help teach yoga to children of all ages. It has information on what should happen during the yoga class for different ages of children. It includes stories, songs, games, and ideas to get kids motivated. All my yoga students who are children love the stories and games that come from this book. It has encouraged me to be more free during a children's yoga class.

If you teach children's yoga or want to begin yoga with your children at home then this book is the one to buy. I have structured my class using the recommendations that Sydney Solis gives in the book with warmups and centerings, etc... I have also used all the stories in the book and have went on to use other stories and folk tales I personally enjoy incorporating yoga as I tell the story. My yoga students and my own children thoroughly enjoy each class I teach and I appreciate Storytime Yoga in helping me get started.