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.

Illustration of a young person walking into the bright horizon
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Teaching Opinion The School Year Has Ended. What Are Some Lessons to Close Out Next Year?
Before teachers know it, the 2022-23 school year will be over. Plan early on the best ways to accomplish that.
Larry Ferlazzo, June 30, 2022
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1 min read
Image of a teacher in a classroom full of kids.
Getty
Teaching Opinion Classroom Management Starts With Student Engagement
Teachers in the know offer reams of advice about tackling one of the toughest tasks facing educators.
Larry Ferlazzo, June 29, 2022
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3 min read
Photo illustration of colorful school supplies
Vanessa Solis/Education Week and iStock/Getty Images
Teaching Opinion Schools Just Let Out, But What Are the Best Ways to Begin the Coming Year?
The No. 1 piece of advice from teachers: Get to know your students.
Larry Ferlazzo, June 24, 2022
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2 min read
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."
iStock/Getty
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."
iStock/Getty
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."
iStock/Getty
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."
iStock/Getty
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."
iStock/Getty
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."
iStock/Getty
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
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