Starting from Scratch

In this episode, I speak with Steven Levy, the author of Starting from Scratch: One Classroom Builds Its Own Curriculum (Heinemann, 1996). His book shares his reflections on the complexities of teaching by drawing upon his years spent implementing project-based learning in the elementary grades. We discuss his beginnings and influences, the roles of expertise and curiosity in teaching, and the qualities that make a good teacher. He recommends the following books for listeners interested in his work and our conversation: Leaders of Their Own Learning: Transforming Schools Through Student-Engaged Assessment by Ron Berger, Leah Rugen, and Libby Woodfin How to Differentiate Instruction in Mixed-Ability Classrooms by Carol Ann Tomlinson Levy joins New Books in Education for the interview. You can watch a video of students reflecting on their experiences in his classroom on YouTube. To share your thoughts on the podcast, you can connect with him via email at slevy@elschools.org.

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Trevor Mattea is an educational consultant and speaker. His areas of expertise include deeper learning, parent involvement, project-based learning, and technology integration. He can be reached by email at info@trevormattea.com or on Twitter at @tsmattea.