Taking Center Stage – Act II (TCSII)

A Portal for Middle Grades Educators

Professional Learning Activities

Zadina 1—Brain Matters:
Research on Learning

Learn how to apply new research on adolescent brain development from Dr. Janet Zadina, an experienced high school and community college instructor and reading specialist now engaged in neuroscience research. In this professional learning presentation, you and your school team members will find ways to apply new findings on how the brain functions as young adolescents think and learn. Dr. Zadina's suggestions for improving instruction for young adolescents connect to the California Department of Education's (CDE) 12 Recommendations for Middle Grades Success.

This professional learning activity is made up of four components and is designed to be completed sequentially as follows:

1. Take Stock: pre-video reflection exercise
2. Take Time: watch the video
3. Take Action: initial activities designed to help educators implement the practices suggested
4. Take it Away: answer questions designed to help educators identify support and resources needed to implement the suggested practices

Dr. Zadina's Professional Learning Activities Index

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