Author Archives: Dan Adler

About Dan Adler

I'm a second-year TFAer, proud member of the Massachusetts Corps, chef, biker, Jets fan, avid pun-maker, and of course, the geekiest damn Science teacher you've ever met. For the day-to-day scoop on my life and times as a 6th grade science teacher, check out my Teach For Us blog at http://sortofscientific.teachforus.org.
May 13, 2013

Taking A Chance to Ease Tension With A Student

Relationships are the key to teaching. No matter how spot-on your set of incentives and consequences might be, if you can’t connect with your students – particularly those who struggle in school – you’re in for a bumpy ride. And ...

Posted in Corps Stories | Tagged
April 22, 2013

Back to Boston: One Corps Member’s Return to the Classroom

Saturday I went to a bar mitzvah reception for one of my kids.  I spoke politely to parents for 15 minutes, then spent two full hours talking to my kids from last year. As I was trying to leave, the ...

Posted in Corps Stories |
January 4, 2013

Six (Slightly Conflicting) Tips for Returning From Winter Break Strong

Coming back from any vacation and starting work again is challenging, but returning to school after winter break is by far the toughest feat. You trade in your holiday gluttony, shiny new presents and plodding around your house in warm ...

Posted in Teaching Tips |
November 28, 2012

The Four Square: Kids Work Together, You Save Time

Picture This: It’s time to practice, and you’ve given your kids worksheets to do with partners. You rejoice at the sight of all (or at least most) of your kids on task, until you realize there is pretty much zero ...

Posted in Teaching Tips |
October 24, 2012

When Doing the Right Thing Feels Wrong, Be Strong

Sometimes, as a teacher, doing the right thing can feel pretty miserable. And even when every part of your brain knows you’re doing the right thing, your heart still stings. Last year, I was NOT a good classroom manager. My classroom ...

Posted in Corps Stories | Tagged
October 10, 2012

Three Steps to Put Your Personality to Work in the Classroom

I am the corniest person you will ever meet. I walk around unapologetically singing, or even (badly) beatboxing. I make puns like it’s my job. (Ever heard of the student who refused to sharpen his pencil? He said it was ...

Posted in Teaching Tips |