Archdiocese of Miami Catechetical Conference 2014

Christ the Master-Teacher Workshop
12 Ways to Become a Better Religious Educator

We think that becoming a better religious educator requires more specialized knowledge of teaching strategies and management techniques, but according to Christ (the Master-Teacher) all we need to do is become better disciples and servants. So if we just focus on growing as disciples and servants, we will become better teachers and leaders.

1. Recall Your Calling as a Religious Educator (Day 1) (Disciple)
2. Recognize Your Relationship with Christ (Day 2)
3. Spend Time Reading the Scriptures (Day 4)
4. Improve One Prayer Habit (Day 7)
5. Learn Something from Your Students (Day 6)
6. Write a Note of Praise to a Student Who Struggles (Day 11) (Servant)
7. Compliment a Parent about a Child (Day 12)
8. Pray for Your Students (Day 13)
9. Articulate a Vision for Your Classroom (Day 17) (Leader)
10. Simplify Your Lesson (Day 23) (Teacher)
11. Tell a Story in Class (Day 24)
12. Become a Witness (Day 31)

*Day numbers correspond to the days in 31 Days to Becoming a Better Religious Educator.

Catechetical Activities Workshop

Find additional ideas for each of the ten activities suggested in the workshop:

1. Bell Work: Bell Work Activities–They Save Time and Keep Students Engaged
2. Scripture & Witness: Are You a Witness? A New Focus on Teaching AND Testimony
3. Prayer: Classroom Prayer Resources
4. Hook: “The Hook” from Teach Like A Champion by Doug Lemov 
5. Getting Attention: Classroom Engagement Course 3.2: 6 Ways to Get Students’ Attention (Members)
6. Graphic Organizers: Downloadable Graphic Organizers
7. Centers: The Religion Teacher Products and eBooks
8. Games: Games at The Religion Teacher
9. Projects: Classroom Engagement Course 4.2: Creativity & Engagement
10. Candid Classroom Experiences: I’ve never written about this before!