Opinion Blog

Classroom Q&A

With Larry Ferlazzo

In this EdWeek blog, an experiment in knowledge-gathering, Ferlazzo will address readers’ questions on classroom management, ELL instruction, lesson planning, and other issues facing teachers. Send your questions to lferlazzo@epe.org. Read more from this blog.

An award-winning English and Social Studies teacher at Luther Burbank High School in Sacramento, Calif., Larry Ferlazzo is the author of Helping Students Motivate Themselves: Practical Answers To Classroom Challenges, The ESL/ELL Teacher’s Survival Guide, and Building Parent Engagement In Schools.

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Professional Development Opinion What Do Educators Want From Professional Development?
Traditional PD often overlooks the authenticity and relevancy that teachers need for ongoing professional growth.
Larry Ferlazzo, October 4, 2023
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7 min read
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Reading & Literacy Opinion Reading Research Is Getting Lost in Translation. What You Need to Know
There's a yawning gap between what experts know will work and how that's implemented in the classroom.
Larry Ferlazzo, October 1, 2023
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8 min read
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Teaching Opinion Making Culturally Responsive Teaching Work: Zaretta Hammond Corrects 3 Big Misconceptions
The author and coach explains how to avoid several common mistakes in culturally responsive teaching.
Larry Ferlazzo, September 26, 2023
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10 min read
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Special Education Opinion 'I Dread Being at This Table.' How to Improve the IEP Process
IEP meetings take an emotional toll on families. But they can be turned into a forum where hope for the possibilities of schooling prevail.
Larry Ferlazzo, September 21, 2023
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8 min read
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Reading & Literacy Opinion Tired of the Reading Wars? Become a Conscientious Objector
Teachers' obligation is to their students. The research combined with the knowledge of individual students should be the guide.
Larry Ferlazzo, September 19, 2023
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14 min read
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Mathematics Opinion 11 Ways to Make Math Instruction More Accessible to English-Learners
Breaking down math steps into clear language is one way teachers can help English-learners grasp both the content and academic language.
Larry Ferlazzo, September 15, 2023
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12 min read
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Reading & Literacy Opinion Teachers, You Don't Need to Choose Sides in the Reading Wars
Instead of arguing over who's right, let's focus attention on expanding knowledge about unresolved instructional issues.
Larry Ferlazzo, September 12, 2023
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12 min read
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Mathematics Opinion Math Might Be a Universal Language. But Don't Teach It That Way
Encouraging students to use their first language helps them make math connections, increasing their understanding and engagement.
Larry Ferlazzo, September 8, 2023
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13 min read
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School Climate & Safety Opinion How to Reduce Gun Violence? Teachers Share Their Ideas
Schools alone can't banish gun violence, but they can invest in ways to strengthen the community and resist discrimination, which can help.
Larry Ferlazzo, September 6, 2023
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15 min read
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Mathematics Opinion Math Is Also a Foreign Language to English-Learners. How to Reach Them
As tough as math mastery can be for any student, learning it along with English calls for additional strategies. Try these nine.
Larry Ferlazzo, August 31, 2023
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13 min read
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Teaching Opinion Want to Engage Students? Model Real-World Experiences
Students like a challenge. Give them an opportunity to imagine how they would solve a problem.
Larry Ferlazzo, August 29, 2023
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14 min read
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Teaching Opinion Teachers, Don't Take Your Work Home and Other Reminders
Some teaching strategies are tried-and-true, but fresh ideas may add more zest to your classroom and your regimen.
Larry Ferlazzo, August 25, 2023
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2 min read
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Teaching Opinion What's Been Your Best Classroom Experience? Students Answer
Quiz preps, art exhibits, potlucks, making connections—the unexpected ways students say they enjoy learning.
Larry Ferlazzo, August 22, 2023
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8 min read
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Reading & Literacy Opinion The Essentials of Reading: What Teachers Must Know
Reading is complex. Here’s guidance from teachers for teachers to help get the focus right.
Larry Ferlazzo, August 18, 2023
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1 min read
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