Confident Voices

John Spencer is an assistant professor of instructional technology at George Fox University, where he is focusing on the integration of creative and connective technology with quality pedagogy. He has over a decade's experience teaching middle school, including a year where he co-led the Twenty-First Century Classrooms, an innovative, STEM-centered, one-to-one initiative with twelve ELL classrooms. He is a frequent keynote speaker and workshop presenter. This last year he delivered a speech at the White House Future Ready Conference. He blogs regularly at SpencerIdeas.org and his work has been featured in Kappan Magazine, Education Week, The Answer Sheet, Edutopia, and Think Inclusive.

Preface by Peter DeWitt and Ariel Price Introduction 1. Grammar 2. Vocabulary 3. Oral Language 4. Writing 5. Reading Conclusion

"John Spencer is the kind of teacher that I wish my own kids had and that all students deserve. This book shows clearly and practically how technology can be used to give all students greater choice and a more powerful voice. This book inspired me to rethink my own approach and what I'm planning to do in my classroom tomorrow." -- Philip Cummings, 6th Grade Teacher "John Spencer shares a roadmap to powerful learning in any classroom. The strategies and stories help frame technology as a resource, tool, and bridge to language acquisition and true understanding. Pulling from his experience as a classroom teacher and Professor of Educational Technolgy, Spencer gives step-by-step advice on what can transform every day teaching and learning and lead to success of every learner in your classroom!" -- AJ Juliani, Education and Technology Innovation Specialist "Spencer provides a clear framework for teachers to help students improve their language skills. A teacher can pick this book up and be provided with specific ideas and techniques which can be implemented in a classroom immediately." -- Josh Stumpenhorst, Teacher "John Spencer tackles issues that every teacher faces with working with students who are struggling with language. His practical and powerful tips empower teachers and students with the skills and tools necessary to engage students where they're at without sacrificing content, standards, or interest. As a technology director and former math teacher, I would struggle at where to begin when facing these issues. John's expert advice, built on research on experience, gives me the tools I need to grow as an educator. I absolutely loved this book. It deepened my understanding of language acquisition and the tools that are needed to help both struggling learners and teachers. John's understanding of what an engaging and enriching classroom looks like is inspiring." -- Brett Clark, Director of Technology "As of now there are about 20 books in the Corwin Connected Educator Series, a seemingly ever-growing set of titles masterminded by Peter DeWitt and Corwin Press. Each book is short enough to be read in one sitting, which makes the collection ideal for book studies and professional development, both during the summer and throughout the school year. Also, each paperback is authored by one or two educators who speak (and blog, tweet, etc.) with a credible voice in the world of connected education. Some of the topics include: Flipped leadership Tools for connecting educators, parents, and communities Blogging for educators Best practices for establishing a makerspace Tools to connect and empower teachers Finally, all of the authors are active on social media, and they regularly present at local conferences, which helps in bringing to life the contents of these books." -- Ross Cooper, Supervisor of Instructional Practice K-12