Ways to Inspire Better Writing

We all know that practical application of skills engages students best. When they are putting skills into practice in everyday activities, they will remember them better and excel. Sean Hackney offers two great ways to help your students improve their writing skills by practicing, yet without feeling like it's more work. Hackney doesn't believe more writing is the answer. Instead, through the use of technology (blogging) and collaborating with peers, students can practice and hone their writing skills.

Take just a few minutes to read his latest article, "Field Notes: Writing as Conversation" at ASCD Express.

Learning is Social - Engage with Peers and Coaches in Pepper

One of the many helpful features on our Pepper website is the ability to search for other educators, view their profiles, and connect with them to get a new perspective. There is a wide range of search criteria to choose from, so you can locate people with precision. You can message each other and share portfolios and ideas all with a few clicks!

In addition, you can browse our extensive Resource Library and course offerings to grow as an educator while impacting your students in the process.

Check out all of the rich features Pepper has to offer at http://www.pepperpd.com/

Pulse Check on Pepper

We surveyed some of our Pepper users to see how our online courses impact their teaching. We asked these two questions:

1) Do you feel that Pepper is helping you succeed as an educator? If so, in what ways? and
2) In your opinion, what is the most useful part of Pepper?

One 5th grade educator from Colorado shared the following feedback:

1) "Yes, I do feel like the Pepper courses are helping me succeed as an educator. The most helpful part has the organization of the classes and the numerous resources provided."
2) "The most useful part of Pepper for me has been the use of the student activities and the videos to extend my understanding."

Pepper can meet the needs of all teachers through our portfolios, discussion boards, online courses, and more! Check us out at:
www.pepperpd.com!