History Teaching Mistakes

As New History Teachers, no one hands us a manual about how to get our students to think critically about Historical events. No one teaches us how to help our students evaluate resources for their validity. No one shows us how to get students to understand the thought process behind creating valid arguments---yet that is exactly what we're required to do. 

While its not easy to sit in the hot seat, in my newest video, I share mistakes  that kept my students from being engaged, mastering the content, and creating Historical Connections. But more importantly, I share how I was able to learn from those mistakes and turn my classroom around!

My first mistake as a History Teacher mistake was Lecturing. And I mean, seems rational---we all grew up watching the stereotypical History Teachers in movies and T.V. shows, and once you factor in EVERYTHING a teacher is expected to do, it seemed like a feasible way to "cover content" quickly. 

Another mistake worth mentioning was not chunking content. Can you imagine learning something you're not naturally adept for and having to learn it all in one go? Our brains don't work that way! When it comes to Historical information especially since there is so much going on at once, it is imperative that we give our students time to process what we're teaching. 

Want to know what other teaching practices were blocking my students' success? 

Click the link below to watch my newest video!