Every Child Is Creative (They Just Need a Little Help)

How many times have you heard the criticism, “He doesn’t have a creative bone in his body”? Have you ever wondered how it is that these supposed experts are able to make such a bold claim? Creativity, by its very nature, is difficult to define, categorize, or quantify because it is totally subjective. And yet, almost anyone can tell the difference between an idea that is inventive and one that has been done a million times. So while you may at first be stumped when it comes time to expand the young minds of your students and inspire them to innovate, you can start by taking a closer look at what motivates them (and you).

Every child is different. Their interests vary and it takes time to figure out what might motivate one or another. And while any curriculum requires that children learn certain things, the way you teach your lessons, and how you choose to engage your students in the subject matter, could have a huge effect on how much they learn and retain. If your goal is to get them thinking outside the box, the simplest way to start is by using some common sense. What are you really trying to teach students? What is at the heart of every lesson, from math and science to reading and writing? You want to prepare your students not only for their exams and for the next grade level, but also for life. All learning, at its core, is designed to help kids develop the knowledge and skills they will need to function beyond their schooling. So begin with practical applications.

Are you teaching them about the Civil War? Have them take on the persona ....

Source : http://successfulteaching.blogspot.com