A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future
By Daniel H. Pink
Riverhead Trade, 2006.
The era of “left brain” dominance, and the Information Age that it engendered, are giving way to a new world in which “right brain” qualities-inventiveness, empathy, meaning-predominate. That’s the argument at the center of this provocative and original book, which uses the two sides of our brains as a metaphor for understanding the contours of our times.
Teaching Music with Passion: Conducting, Rehearsing, and Inspiring
By Peter Loel Boonshaft
Meredith Music Publications, 2002.
This book highlights the challenges all music educators face throughout the various teaching environments. It is full of valuable lessons to relate to and learn from. It inspires to keep on going and helps a teacher realize that they are not alone in what they are going through. The many true stories that are shared are thought provoking and serve as a guide for those instances that have yet to happen.
Teach Like Your Hair’s on Fire
By Rafe Esquith
Penguin Group, 2007.
This is a true story of one of the most challenging fifth grade classrooms in a public school setting. The teacher shares stories of how students that come from very meager backgrounds become inspired to learn about all areas of life. He creates learners that desire to spend time at school and learn as much as they can about whatever they can. The author shares stories of what has worked for him in creating magnificent learners from some very challenging clientele.
How to Differentiate Instruction in Mixed-Ability Classrooms
By Carol Ann Tomlinson
ASCD, Alexandria, West Virginia, 2001.
This is an excellent guide that outlines the basic approach to teaching to a mixed-ability classroom. This book gives fantastic steps and suggestions to even the most novice teacher in dealing with this common challenge. Examples are provided and suggestions are very clear and concise.The material is easily transferred to any subject area. It is a must-have for teachers with any variance in learners in one classroom.
