For this upcoming school year I will be teaching in an IB international school (PYP program). Although I'd love to implement WBT, I'm concerned about how well it would mesh with the PYP curriculum and philosophy (inquiry based, student driven lessons). Has anyone used WBT while working in an IB program?

I'm not very familiar with IB and I hope someone can reply who is, but I just wanted to say that it seems to me that WBT can be incorporated in to any type of program.

The classroom management side could be used regardless of anything else you do. (Check the Levels tab for more info). The common procedures are also very helpful for anyone.

I assume you are referring mostly to the teach-ok, mirror, switch type of techniques. While I use these frequently in my classroom, it is not the only thing I do. I still have independent work, centers, small groups, etc. throughout the day. These WBT strategies become a wonderful way to enhance the direct instruction portion of my day. I often use it while teaching vocabulary (in any subject) and reviewing material too. Student could easily use many of the brain toy strategies while discussing the results of their inquiry based learning.

I'd suggest starting out with a couple of ideas that you want to try and add more as you become comfortable with it.

Have you had a chance to read the ebook Whole Brain Teaching for Challenging Kids? That is a great place to get started.

Good luck!

Hi,

Yes, my thinking was that I could use (at minimum) the class management side. I did read the e-book but must have missed the part about 'brain toys'. Or is this available separately on the website somewhere?

I'm glad you asked!

Brain toys are relatively new as of this spring, so there is not a book quiet yet. Deb Weigel was kind enough to post a list here for more info. Scroll down to see the list.

Also check out the old webcasts here. There are 3 or 4 videos- it is pretty informal but you'll get the picture!