The New Teacher's Companion: Practical Wisdom for Succeeding in the Classroom, Nov/2009

Like the title says, every new teacher will want to have this guide by their sides constantly as they prepare to teach, organize their classrooms, plan lessons, and focus on their daily instruction. Combining the wisdom of a sage mentor with the collegial comfort of someone who’s “been there,” Gini Cunningham dispenses hundreds of tips and ideas across the entire spectrum of good teaching practice—from developing a personal vision and beliefs, to implementing school policies and procedures, to engaging students and sequencing learning. What really separates this book from other references for beginner teacher are the more in-depth advice on challenges aspects of the teacher’s role in

• Assessing student learning and adjusting future lessons to their needs.
• Writing and asking deep-thinking questions to promote understanding.
• Extending students’ knowledge and creating independent learners.
• Developing students who can self-assess and determine the next steps of their learning.