On the Blog

Children are naturally curious. Engaging nonfiction books are a practical and fun way to celebrate curiosity with children. Nonfiction and informational books are no longer like an encyclopedia entry. Today’s nonfiction engages children with beautiful words, insightful information, and engaging images. Kids need—and love—nonfiction.

When we ground decisions in our understanding of what our students know and control, and apply this knowledge to effective instructional practices, decisions become intentional and productive. Dr. C.C. Bates visits the Benchmark Blog to explore how interactive writing enables educators to target key foundational skills, differentiate instruction, and make in-the-moment decisions that best support learners.

Wherever you fall on the love-hate continuum of grammar, we can all probably find common ground in at least one belief: Writing loses power without the strong, intentional use of grammar. Patty McGee explores 5 simple yet powerful instructional shifts that will have a huge impact on how students use grammar as their artistic tool to mold, construct, and shape their writing.

When children play, they are learning. Although the lesson plans may look a little different, the lessons learned through play are imperative and long lasting. Explore strategies that encourage play, improve social skills, and ignite creativity while addressing the critical areas of reading instruction.  

What is fluency? In the first post in our Best Practices series, we'll examine the definition of fluency, study its components, and consider its instructional implications.

You could say these are hard times or you could say these are heart times — times that unmistakably, undeniably involve our hearts in showing up, in accepting and managing challenging emotions, and in growing and sustaining our nourishing relationships. Here are some specific ideas for using heart language as a way to build authentic partnerships with families/caregivers.

How do you honor the long history of contributions that Hispanic communities have made to the United States during Hispanic Heritage Month? This year, let's focus on helping our students understand the long-standing impact that Hispanic communities have had on our nation. Dr. Aradhana Mudambi outlines 4 ideas to explore Hispanic American history and culture with your students.

When students drive the learning, it becomes an extension of themselves. Authors and educators Jennifer Hayhurst and Jill DeRosa introduce practical but powerful ways to shift from engagement to agency in your classroom this school year.

In the face of great adversity, agency showed up. Authors Jenn Hayhurst and Jill DeRosa reflect on how meaningful learning overcomes the steepest obstacles when we learn with a sense of agency.

Lasting and meaningful changes occur when a school community works as a team to identify needs and investigate alternatives. There may not be one single tool that will help you determine your school’s reading temperature, but experts Laura and Evan Robb provide helpful tips for creating a process to evaluate your school’s culture of reading.