Scott Nishimoto

Alternate Grades

Consider assigning grades based on absolute standards, and not on a youth’s achievement as defined by the teacher or compared to other youth. Students and educators critically examine grading systems and identify the reasons for and value of grading. Students brainstorm ways to assess their work and think about how to make grading consistent, fair, …

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All about Activists

Youth brainstorm a list of activists, leaders, philosophers, philanthropists, and others who have made a difference in their communities and/or the world. They identify the accomplishments, list favorite quotes, and create images and videos they feel represent each individual in a wall or digital display. Youth discuss how things would be different if the individuals …

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Active Listening

This is more than just hearing what someone else is saying.  Active listening builds trust and ensures that the other person in a conversation knows they are being heard. It allows the listener to learn about the world and to understand the lives, experiences, and beliefs that differ from their own.  Active listening also teaches …

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Active Learning

Vary instructional strategies to develop the whole brain. Provide youth multiple sources of input including books, videos, lectures, discussions, visuals, stories and songs. Allow youth multiple avenues of output and ways to present knowledge, including essays, presentations, plays, dances, and songs. Change instructional strategies frequently.