Teach Like Your Hair's on Fire

Teach Like Your Hair's on Fire

The Methods and Madness Inside Room 56

• Rafe Esquith
• Penguin Books

Rafe Esquith is an extraordinary teacher whose devotion to his students, most of whom live in an impoverished neighbourhood in Los Angeles, goes way beyond what most people can do. He has tremendous respect for his students and instills in them a strong work ethic. I believe few people can duplicate what he does with his them without burning out. However, despite this, I would recommend reading this book. Rafe Esquith is an inspiration to all teachers.

Every year many of his fifth grade students along with other students from the school present a Shakespearean play in its entirety along with musical selections that the students learn to perform. Rafe also has a music program going in his "spare" time. You can learn more about this venture here.

He truly gets his students involved in learning and in understanding why education is important. A must read is his section on field trips and how he prepares his students. He teaches not just content but life skills.

For any of you who may go to the Reading for the Love of it conference in Toronto in February 2010, you will have an opportunity to see Rafe Esquith.

While you may not agree with all his teaching techniques, there is plenty of food for thought. I would love to hear from anyone who reads this book. Let's share our impressions.