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.

People rallied ahead of the Newberg, Ore., School Board vote on whether to ban Black Lives Matter and Pride flags at the school on Sept. 28, 2021. The school board that recently banned teachers from displaying gay pride and Black Lives Matter symbols has abruptly fired the school superintendent, deeply upsetting board members who opposed the move.
People rallied ahead of the Newberg, Ore., School Board vote on whether to ban Black Lives Matter and Pride flags at the school on Sept. 28, 2021. The school board that recently banned teachers from displaying gay pride and Black Lives Matter symbols has abruptly fired the school superintendent, deeply upsetting board members who opposed the move.
Beth Nakamura/The Oregonian via AP
Equity & Diversity Opinion How to Best Address Race and Racism in the Classroom
Despite the challenges, teaching about the politically sensitive topic is important.
Larry Ferlazzo, June 21, 2022
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6 min read
Kindergarten teacher Karen Drolet works with a masked student at Raices Dual Language Academy, a public school in Central Falls, R.I., Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022.
Kindergarten teacher Karen Drolet works with a masked student at Raices Dual Language Academy, a public school in Central Falls, R.I., Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022.
David Goldman/AP
Teaching & Learning Opinion It Was Another Busy School Year. What Resonated for You?
See the most popular posts in Classroom Q&A over the past school year.
Larry Ferlazzo, June 20, 2022
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1 min read
Images shows colorful speech bubbles that say "Q," "&," and "A."
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Teaching Opinion 'Arts & Crafts': Busywork or Enhanced Learning?
With planning, teachers can use creative projects to add value to the curriculum.
Larry Ferlazzo, June 14, 2022
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14 min read
Images shows colorful speech bubbles that say "Q," "&," and "A."
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Teaching Opinion In 6 Words, More Teaching Advice
Ponder this gem: "Want respect? Respect your students first."
Larry Ferlazzo, June 13, 2022
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2 min read
Image of a teacher in a classroom.
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Teaching Opinion Advice From Teachers in 7 Words or Less
Common sense and simplicity are at the heart of the best advice.
Larry Ferlazzo, June 7, 2022
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2 min read
Images shows colorful speech bubbles that say "Q," "&," and "A."
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Professional Development Opinion How to Build Your Own Professional Development
The authors of a self-directed learning guide for educators of multilingual learners talk about how teachers can hone their craft.
Larry Ferlazzo, June 2, 2022
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9 min read
Images shows colorful speech bubbles that say "Q," "&," and "A."
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School & District Management Opinion Advice for Principals: Empower Your Teachers
When principals develop partnerships with teachers, it helps them both.
Larry Ferlazzo, May 31, 2022
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9 min read
Images shows colorful speech bubbles that say "Q," "&," and "A."
iStock/Getty
School & District Management Opinion Principals: Supporting Your Teachers Doesn't Have to Be Such Hard Work
Principals can show teachers they care by something as simple as a visit to their classrooms or a pat on the back.
Larry Ferlazzo, May 24, 2022
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12 min read
Images shows colorful speech bubbles that say "Q," "&," and "A."
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School & District Management Opinion 7 Ways Principals Can Support Teachers
Listening more than talking is one vital piece of advice for school leaders to help teachers.
Larry Ferlazzo, May 23, 2022
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13 min read
Images shows colorful speech bubbles that say "Q," "&," and "A."
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English Learners Opinion Crystal Ball Predictions: What Will Education for ELL Students Look Like in 10 Years?
In the next decade, schools just might appreciate English-learners for whom they are and the language skills they possess.
Larry Ferlazzo, May 17, 2022
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12 min read
Images shows colorful speech bubbles that say "Q," "&," and "A."
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Teacher Preparation Opinion Make Teacher Prep Practical, Not Theoretical
Ready teachers for the rigors of the classroom—how to plan lessons, differentiate instruction, and all the elements of educating students.
Larry Ferlazzo, May 16, 2022
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18 min read
Images shows colorful speech bubbles that say "Q," "&," and "A."
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Teacher Preparation Opinion Teacher Prep Should Include Classroom-Culture Training
Great teachers foster environments where students want to be.
Larry Ferlazzo, May 10, 2022
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12 min read
Images shows colorful speech bubbles that say "Q," "&," and "A."
iStock/Getty
Teacher Preparation Opinion Are Teacher-Prep Programs Out of Touch?
Teacher-prep courses are frequently taught by instructors who have been away from the K-12 classroom a long time.
Larry Ferlazzo, May 9, 2022
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15 min read
Images shows colorful speech bubbles that say "Q," "&," and "A."
iStock/Getty
Teaching Opinion Boost the Power of the Teaching Team by Enlisting Other School Staff
Show respect to classified staff members. Asking them to mentor students goes a long way toward that.
Larry Ferlazzo, May 3, 2022
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12 min read
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