From Lesson Plans to Power Struggles, Grades 6–12

Book excerpt: "As a novice teacher craving more and more knowledge about the elaborate and multifaceted world of teaching, I couldn′t wait to delve into the stories and techniques Zuckerman highlighted from other novice teachers. I found comfort in the fact that many of my teaching experiences were the same as other novice teachers. Zuckerman′s ability to provide exceptional techniques from lesson planning to discipline issues and overall effective classroom management strategies is by far the most useful information any novice teacher could ask for." —Lecia Zulak, Science Teacher Franklin Roosevelt High School, Hyde Park, NY "An excellent resource for beginning and veteran secondary teachers, offering strategies that work to meet the challenges they encounter daily. I am recommending this book to my staff for reflection on how they address difficult situations and implement positive change." —Joseph J. Mazzetti, Assistant Principal Poughkeepsie High School, NY Straight talk about classroom management from new teachers who have developed solutions! Nearly half of beginning secondary school teachers leave teaching within three years and many cite frustration over classroom management problems as the major issue. This practical book illustrates how new teachers can benefit from the experiences of their peers to successfully resolve common classroom challenges. Filling the gap between what is taught in teacher preparation programs and what actually happens in the classroom, the author presents authentic stories from novice secondary school teachers in urban, suburban, and rural districts with diverse students. Each chapter contains instructional and disciplinary cases, plus the author′s expert analysis of each teacher′s successful strategies. This reference guide includes: A table of contents with specific instructional/discipline topics Ways to identify when problems are related to lesson delivery or discipline A glossary of terms and a resource list for detailed information Like a personal mentor, this invaluable resource gives new teachers the critical support for creating positive learning environments and developing thriving careers.