Marcia L. Tate - Worksheets Don′t Grow Dendrites: 20 Instructional Strategies That Engage the Brain

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It is my belief that every student comes to school with an inherent gift, a package, so to speak. It is the educators job to unwrap this gift by finding the most viable means through which each student can excel. As society has changed, so has the packaging, necessitating the need for a variety of ways of unwrapping these packages.

My gratitude goes to those educational consultants who are giving us additional ways to unwrap these gifts by translating the findings of the neuroscientists into educational practice and to those teachers who use interactive strategies daily to engage the brains of their students.

Speaking of gifts, I am deeply grateful for family members and professional educators who have supported me through and assisted me with the writing of my seven bestsellers. To my husband of over 35 years and best friend, Tyrone, whose steadfast belief and constant encouragement enable me to unwrap each day with enthusiasm and a belief that all things are possible.

To my dearest childrenJennifer, Jessica, and Christopher, I write this book for them as much as anyone since their learning styles are as different as their personalities. Teachers could unwrap Jennys gifts by involving her in hands-on activities. Jessie could always adapt her gifts to the instruction provided. Chris, on the other hand, needed to be bodily engaged in the task at hand. He had to draw, build, and move to be successful. Unless his teachers used these strategies, school was a struggle for my son and many times, his gifts were not unwrapped. I dedicate this book to them, to my five beautiful grandchildren, and to the numerous parents in my workshops who have told me that their children learn similarly to mine.

To the associates who present for our company, Developing Minds Inc., thank you for using your gifts to help us spread the word. To our administrative assistants, Carol Purviance and Fran Rodrigues, your gifts of organization and technical expertise enable us to enhance our gifts. Working with all of you to improve instruction daily for every student is truly a present.