Professional Learning Activities
Zadina 2—Adolescent Characteristics (Part I):
The Survival Instinct
and the Development of the Brain
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 that middle grades is an ideal time to develop critical thinking because of rapid brain growth that is occurring in young adolescents. This assists the development of the frontal lobe which is essential to student success. 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:
- Take Stock: pre-video reflection exercise
- Take Time: watch the video
- Take Action: initial activities designed to help educators implement the practices suggested
- Take it Away: answer questions designed to help educators identify support and resources needed to implement the suggested practices
These professional learning activities are among several in the TCSII Get Into the Act! Professional Learning Series.
Dr. Zadina's Professional Learning Activities Index
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