EP 72: Effective & Efficient Student Learning During Assemblies In Mainstream Schools

Traditional, mainstream and progressive schools all approach school assemblies differently. In this episode, we explore how mainstream schools are efficient, effective, motivating, merit-based and a chance for the community to work on curriculum objectives together. For fun, we also discuss the chaotic end of the school year tradition of the “abi-gag” in Germany.

Speaking of chaos, we ramble at the beginning of this episode, and if you have any interest in following up on the wide variety of inside topics we mention, here are some introductory links. 

Frank Sidebottom - unique northern England entertainer 

Chris Sievey - underappreciated pop musician who created a 45 single that had its own computer loaded video on the bside. 

Uncle Bob Pollard - the lead singer of the band Guided By Voices and general prolific song writer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XqecxYBKtOY

Kayfabe - a pro wrestling term that has now worked its way into mainstream political commentary. 

Tragically Hip - a band who were successful in Canada, but failed to make a splash internationally. Kind of like REM but with a lot of added Canadiana: 

Kincardine - Rob’s hometown. 

Bruce County - the county that Rob originates from. Some HD footage 

Lucy Calkins Readers & Writers Workshop - A model that Brendan and I have used in our teaching.  

Stewart Lee’s Clowns Documentary. 

Maudecast- Brendan’s other podcast about Maude Flanders of (semi) Simpsons fame.