by Sandra Cole

Created on: December 09, 2009

The internet has brought the whole world into the classroom and teachers depend on it every day for communication and research.  But not all teachers are aware that they can use the internet to increase their classroom management skills, supplement their teaching with worksheets and other print materials, and find sources for mutual support and problem-solving.

Classroom Management Skills Sites

My top site for helping teachers improve classroom management skills is Proteacher (www.proteacher.com/030000.shtml).  This is a very comprehensive ite in which teachers offer advice to other teachers on many classroom management techniques such as walking quietly in the hall, taking care of classroom pets, using quiet signals and attention signals, having indoor recess, and handling bathroom breaks, pencil sharpening and birthday celebrations in the classroom.   It includes a section for new teachers including helpful tips on surviving the first year, handling observations by the principal and even has a section when new teachers can just vent and write out their frustrations.  Even student teachers have a space here in which to address their concerns and get advice from experienced teachers.  The layout is attractive and easy to navigate around.  A wealth of ideas and suggestions are included here to help every teacher explore new and different ways of managing their classrooms.

Also helpful for teaching information is newteachersupport.suite101.com.  As well as help in classroom organization, this site gives lesson plan help, advice on teacher mentoring, and even information about the National Teaching Exam.

Teacher Worksheets and Downloadable Information

My favorite site for concrete teaching tools is superteacherworksheets.com.  The site offers a wealth of downloadable free worksheets on a whole realm of math and grammar topics as well as reading, handwriting, creative writing, spelling, science, and social studies.  They even offer puzzles and brain teasers, holiday worksheets, and teacher helpers such as star reward charts, award certificates and craft projects.

Also full of information is www.teachers.cambridgeesol.org, a British resource.  You must register to use the wealth of materials available, and it is geared to the British educational examination system, but has information valuable to any English-speaking teacher.

 Sites such as edHelper also offer such resources but on a yearly subscription basis.

Teacher Support Sites

The final category of internet sites of interest to teachers is for those who look to the social side of teaching, offering online discussion and problem solving between teachers.  Social networking sites such as Facebook and Linkedin offer the opportunity for their members to discuss problems and develop friendships with fellow professionals.

The internet is an invaluable tool for helping teachers in countless ways.  Trying out some of these sites will help you to grow in your profession and enjoy your classroom experiences more.  The whole world of teaching possibilities is open to you.  Just turn on your computer and type in an address!

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