Reflection

The two main points I took away from Classroom Chef are: don't be afraid to take risks in the classroom - you'll feel ridiculous at first, but your students (and your sanity) will love you even more because of it); and ask anyone and everyone for feedback and advice - Twitter, peers, your students, etc. 

This book had such a great way to explain how to construct a good lesson. I love the connection to cooking a meal, it truly is an awesome way to describe how you create and deliver a lesson or series of lessons. I am not a math teacher but that didn't matter, the skills the book discusses cover all subject matter and all grade levels. My favorite part is the constant reiteration of changing your lessons even if others think it's crazy or when it bucks the status quo. The common theme of doing what's best for your students is HUGE!! I love that the authors focused on that more than anything. We're in this for the kids and that should be at the forefront of everything we do.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading the Classroom Chef. Many of the "appetizers" I had already started trying with my class, and I definitely plan to use them with my classes next year. I think the largest takeaway from this book for me was the chapter on rethinking assessment. I love the idea of having students choose their own assessment, perhaps per standard or a small group of standards. I'd love to combine those cyo assessments with badges for those who showed evidence of mastery.

Since I know both Matt and John personally, I felt like I was hanging out with them chatting about teaching and listening to their humorous stories as I read their book. Their true voice came shining through. And both of them are so dedicated to strong pedagogy, interactions with their audiences, and plain good time in the classroom. It's so inspiring. 

Oh... and I also learned some math tricks. Thanks guys!!