Project Based Instruction
Project-based instruction has always been, in my view, one of the most impactful ways to engage students in meaningful learning. By presenting them with challenges that resonate with their skills and interests, it becomes easier to spark their motivation and enthusiasm for learning. From my very first teaching position at Leavelle McCampbell Middle School, I made it a priority to integrate projects into my lessons. However, it was during my time at A. Maceo Smith New Tech High School in Dallas that I truly mastered the art of crafting projects that were both student-centered and academically rigorous. At New Tech, projects weren’t just an occasional addition—they were as integral to instruction as lectures, bookwork, and multiple-choice tests. Everything was tied back to the project we were tackling at the time, creating a cohesive and engaging learning environment.
During my three years there, my students completed 18 different projects. Not all were grand in scale; for example, one smaller project saw students creating a game inspired by Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego, where parents became the contestants. Another memorable project had students designing ofrendas for historically significant individuals from various countries as part of Día de los Muertos. Sadly, some files from these smaller projects were lost when a hard drive was damaged during my move from Dallas. Nevertheless, the memories and the learning experiences remain invaluable. Here, I’ve highlighted some of the more substantial projects we undertook, which showcase the power of project-based learning in action.
Please note that any audio or video recording of students are used with the consent of the students and parents.
Student Centered Lessons
Every student is unique, which is why it’s essential to design lessons that incorporate differentiation, multiple forms of instruction, and thoughtful scaffolding. I enjoy using strategies like gallery walks, where students research a topic, teach it to their peers, and then pass on their knowledge group by group. I also love assignments that spark creativity, such as crafting a brain out of playdough or answering a question through a song or poem. Encouraging students to tap into their creative sides not only makes learning more engaging but also enhances retention and understanding. Of course, traditional methods like direct instruction and practice have their place, but they shouldn’t be the only forms of teaching. Below is a video showcasing some of the various student-centered activities I’ve implemented to foster engagement and active learning.
Whenever possible I try to give students activities that are like mini projects that can be done in one or two class periods. Here is a launch video for an activity where students explain the push/pull factors of early colonists by creating an advertising campaign. The students were also given a rubric and additional resources to clarify the project expectations.
Soft Skills
Soft skills are essential for students to master in order to reach their full potential. Skills like note-taking, time management, study strategies, communication, and teamwork are the foundation for academic success and personal growth. These abilities empower students to tackle challenges, work collaboratively, and approach their education with confidence. As an educator, I hold the firm belief that teaching soft skills is just as vital as teaching academic content. When students learn how to manage their time effectively and study strategically, they develop the self-assurance and habits that enable them to thrive both in school and beyond.
Note-Taking
The three types of note-taking that I teach are Cornell, Mind Maps, and Outlines. While I will allow students to take notes anyway they want, I do require that they have:
Heading with name, date, topic and/or essential question, and simple citation of readings or handouts when applicable.
Left or right side cues. Keywords and or questions that will help them review the content of the notes.
Bottom Summary. Two to four sentences summarizing the notes. “What did you learn in class today?”
Collaboration
Group work is a powerful way for students to learn from one another and explore topics on a deeper level. However, many students haven’t had the opportunity to develop the skills needed to collaborate effectively in teams. To set them up for success, I like to start the year, or the lead-up to larger group projects, with a few short activities designed to establish clear expectations for working together. These exercises help students build their teamwork skills and lay the groundwork for meaningful, productive group experiences, as demonstrated in this video.
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AVID
Soft skills are a cornerstone of my teaching philosophy, and much of my approach is rooted in the training I received while working with the AVID School Development Team at A. Maceo Smith New Tech High School. AVID, which stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination, is all about equipping students with the skills they need to excel not only academically but also in life beyond the classroom. I try to teach students soft skills that I learned from AVID whenever I have the chance. On top of the skills mentioned about I also try to teach study habits, scheduling, goal setting, reading strategies and more.
The picture captures a proud moment: the AVID School Development Team being recognized as a national demonstration site. That’s me on the right, holding the banner.
Other Highlights
Raider Town Radio
Raider Town Radio was a transformative project that brought English and technology to life for students at Richard Carroll Elementary School. I started it back in 2013. My office at the time was located on that school’s campus and I noticed that parents started lining up over an hour before school let out. I collaborated with the principal to introduce a student-run radio station. He said I could do it if I could keep costs under $250. Armed with a legal transmitter and a new microphone, I launched this initiative alongside the 5th and 6th grade English teachers. Initially, select students met weekly after school to produce stories, commercials, and radio spots. As the project grew, it became an open platform where any student could draft and refine their work under teacher guidance before recording for broadcast.
This station was more than just a fun activity; it was a unique way to excite students about writing and technology, allowing them to create and share their work in a meaningful way. Had I stayed, Raider Town Radio was set to become an integral part of writing instruction for 5th and 6th graders. However, the station was discontinued a year after I moved to Dallas, but its impact lingered. One former student, now a high school graduate, told me it was “one of the coolest things I ever did in school.” Here is just one episode to give you some idea of what it was like. (Sometimes it take a while to load).
Coffey in the Classroom
Coffey in the Classroom is my creative outlet on YouTube. It’s a space where I share how-to videos and explore topics in education that spark my interest. While I’ve never aspired to be a full-time “YouTuber,” this channel has always been a passion project, evolving organically over the years. There are stretches when I don’t publish, like this past year when my contributions were primarily countdown videos created for Instructional Designers I collaborated with. Yet, if you explore the channel, you’ll uncover not only practical insights but also a snapshot of how educational technology has transformed over the last 14 years. It’s a reflection of my journey as an educator and my enduring love for innovation in teaching.