What I'm Reading Wednesday: Teach Like a PIRATE + Freebies & Giveaway!

There have been so many wonderful book study groups happening this summer, but we were gone for many of them and it just seems like I am now starting to get caught up on all of these fabulous books! I'm starting a little series over the next few weeks to review my favorite take-aways from all of them and calling it What I'm Reading Wednesday!

This Week's Book: 
Teach Like a PIRATE by Dave Burgess


When it comes to books for teaching, I *love* reading books about practical, hands-on ways to implement new strategies in my classroom. When it comes to books I read for fun, I *love* reading books that inspire, motivate, and challenge me to do more and be more. This book does all of the above and then some!!

I love that this book is divided up into two sections: the first is Burgess' "manifesto" and the second half is full of practical ways that you can start implementing PIRATE strategies in your classroom.

In the first half of the book, Burgess explains what it means to "Teach like a PIRATE" and uses the word as an acronym for what it looks like on a daily basis in your classroom. PIRATE teachers show:

Click the image to get your free copy of this poster.
Each of these sections are defined in a way that not only makes it easy for you to see using in your classroom, but also includes a call to action! This call is what spoke to me the most in these early chapters. I think it is often so easy to get bogged down in the negatives of our profession: tests, data, paperwork, unfair treatment from the media, etc. These chapters challenged me to remember my passion, always seek new challenges, look for new ways to engage and energize my students and my teaching, and more. This half is the perfect back-to-school read to get you "in the zone" to have your best, most positive year yet!!

The second half of the book is focused on how you can incorporate PIRATE-ness in your class. Burgess is a high school teacher, but his techniques are easy to implement in elementary school, too! In fact, maybe even easier since our kiddos are younger :) What I love is that he stresses these aren't "one size fits all" approaches, but something you can pick and choose to start transforming the way you deliver instruction. In fact, I bet that if you're reading and/or writing teaching blogs, a lot of what he suggests are things you may do in your classroom anyway, but his lists are far more extensive and out-of-the-box than I could generate as I make lesson plans!

One highlight in this second half are the "Hooks" teachers can use to draw the class' attention to the lesson and keep them highly engaged. He goes through tons and offers specific suggestions from his own class to show how these can be done in a variety of ways. Here's a quick list I made that I plan on keeping near my desk so that I can remember to include a hook or two (maybe more!) throughout my day:


Click the image to get your free copy of these sheets.
The bottom has some empty lines to add new ones that may pop up as you endeavor on this journey :)

I also found a wonderful blog post from the 2 Smart Wenches and they have put together and even more handy-dandy list of hooks (on a binder ring, so you know I'm sold!):

Click the image above to be taken to their post and grab these for free!
As you can see, they participated in a *fabulous* book study put on by Third Grade Tidbits and Rowdy in First Grade that I highly recommend you check out, since they go into each of the chapters in detail.


Another fabulous resource is a video that Elizabeth from Fun in Room 4B posted on her Facebook page that really shows you the dynamic personality of Dave Burgess and how his passion and enthusiasm are contagious!


I love this conversation put on by Edu All-Stars and I definitely plan on attending one of the #TLAP Twitter chats. Continuing the conversation with educators who are also "PIRATE"s and who desire to motivate, innovate, and inspire is so powerful!

If you're interested in Dave Burgess' book, it's available on Amazon:



For those of you who have read Teach Like a PIRATE, what was your biggest takeaway? I'd love for you to share in the comments below! Aaaarrrgh!! ;)

93 comments

  1. i have never heard of this book
    thanks for the discovery
    ivett

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  2. Taking out the Captain Hook pirate costume for inspiration!

    Deb

    debinderry@gmail.com

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  3. I have heard so much about this book. I definitely want to read it before returning to school in August!

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  4. This book has been on my wish list since I first heard about it. I'm looking forward to reading it!

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  5. Love, love, love the practinality(is this a word) of this book. I always worry about what the adults would say if I did crazy fun stuff like this, but Dave Burgess basically says not to worry about the adults. The kids will love it!!!!

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  6. This book seems like the type of professional development book that is actually fun to read! Thanks for the chance to win a copy! :)

    maryh.lester@hotmail.com

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  7. I was just about to go buy this on amazon when I continued to scroll and saw it was your giveaway! Glad I didn't get too excited and skip off to Amazon too soon. Thank you for sharing! I love knowing that I am diving into a book to is beyond worth it.


    Hope
    teachingwhope.blogspot.com

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  8. I've heard the name of this book floating around, but hadn't heard specifics. You hooked me when you said "These chapters challenged me to remember my passion..." I've learned how important it is for me to read something that reminds me of that passion every once in awhile. I'm a much better teacher for it!! Looking forward to picking up this book!

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  9. I have heard of the title of the book, however, am very interested in reading it now.

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  10. This was a great post! I have heard a lot about this book this summer and would love to win a copy. Thank you so much for the freebies! I am looking forward to implementing more of the types of hooks mentioned in my classroom in the fall. I am especially excited about the types of kinesthetic hooks since almost half of my students are ADD/ADHD. Thanks again!!!

    :) Nicole
    Tadpole Tidbits
    www.mrscorbitt.blogspot.com

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  11. I ~just~ put this in my cart on Amazon! Hoping I can hold off for a week for the drawing! LOL!!
    Melanie
    smjstarnes@yahoo.com

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  12. Last year I read Teach Like Your Hair's on Fire and it was really inspiring. This sounds like another inspiring book that I'll have to check out. Thanks for sharing!

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  13. I am looking forward to reading this book! Thanks for giving away a copy of the book and the great freebies. :) (Hopefully my comment shows up and stays this time!)

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  14. This looks like an interesting book with good ideas!

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  15. Looks like a great book for invigorating your teaching.

    Thanks for the giveaway.

    Jane
    Learning in the Little Apple

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  16. I am new to 3rd grade this year. Making a big leap from 1st to 3rd and want to learn as many things as I can to help make this year the best one yet. Thank you for always sharing such great information and strategies.

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  17. Just go the book and am into chapter 2...but already I like that is is an "easy" read that makes me laugh out loud. Getting funny looks from the hubby! :)

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  18. I would love to read this book. I've read some about it this summer and it sounds good. Thanks for the opportunity.

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  19. I adore this book! It's made me feel supported for the creative decisions I have made in my classroom, inspires me to continue to grow into a GREAT teacher, (Dave says it's important to admit you want to be great!!!) and it energized me to get back into my classroom!
    Erin
    Short and Sassy Teacher

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  20. I have had this book on my list for some time now. A friend and I have discussed getting this one for several summers, but have never followed through. Thanks for offering this giveaway.

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  21. I would love to win! Thanks for doing the giveaway :)
    coolteach@att.net

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  22. This book sounds awesome.
    evitafjord at gmail

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  23. This has been on my list to get to!

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  24. I would love to win this! I have it in my Amazon shopping cart.
    Michelle
    Mjaquillard@oregoncs.org

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  25. I have been curious about this book for some time. Thanks for sharing =)
    Lisa
    TGIF- Third Grade Is Fun

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  27. I have been wanting to read this book.

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  28. I would totally love to win! I've heard nothing but FANTASTIC things about this book... as well as how it's transforming ways teachers teach! Thank you for the chance.

    Sara
    Miss V's Busy Bees
    ventrellasara@gmail.com

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  29. What other books are a must have?!

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  30. This this post! I've been seeing everyone write how much they're loving it but your spin on it sealed the deal! I must get this book! Thanks for sharing!!

    A Tall Drink of Water

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  31. I've never heard of this book, but I'll be adding it to my wish list! :)

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  32. I ordered this book about a week ago and am still waiting for it to come in! I can't wait to start it! :)

    -Allison
    Adventures in Room 204

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  33. I have been wanting to read this book - forever! Thank you for the contest!

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  34. Thanks for the opportunity to win. Love your blog!

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  35. Thank you for the opportunity to win this book, ARGGGHHH!

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  36. Can't wait to read this book!

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  37. I've heard such great things about this book- I hope I win! :)

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  38. I love your teaching style!!! I am so motivated by what you blog about. Very excited about learning more about this pirate!!!
    Irene
    Planet Zajac

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  39. The book sounds great. I will read it before summer ends. Thanks for this great blog.

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  40. This is a fantastic book. Can't wait to read others ideas on how they have incorporated it into their classroom. Hmmm I feel a pirate theme coming on in my classroom :-)

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  41. I have not read this book, but I have been DYING to read it! I haven't been able to find it locally. I sure hope I win so I can finally read it!

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  42. I so want to read this book. I have went so far as to download the sample, but have yet to purchase the book.

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  43. I would LOVE to read this!! It sounds amazing:)

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  44. This is on my Amazon Wish List, but I would love to get a free copy. I have been itching to read it all summer (among all my other teacher wish reads).

    Natalie
    Sunny In Kindergarten.

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  45. Sounds like a great book! Love anything pirate related!!!!

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  46. I've heard a lot about the book and would love to win!

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  47. This is on my wish list, too! I just found out that the author works in my district...small world!

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  48. This is definitely on my list. Thanks for the great ideas.
    Heather

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  49. I just got a new third grade position after teaching k/1 for years, I am so happy to have found your blog!

    Thanks!

    Deanna

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  50. This book has been on my reading list for a few months now. I wanted to do it with my school buddies over the summer but was outvoted. I guess I need to become a pirate on my own-argh!

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  51. Going back to the classroom after almost 12 years mommy'ing and home schooling! Picked a pirate theme for the classroom - and SO excited about Burgess' new book!

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  52. Sounds like a great read! And a great place to start with P-passion!

    Jessica
    Teach on a Limb

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  53. Yet one more thing of yours that I absolutely LOVE! You are such an inspiration to me! I am going in to my 20th year of teaching and I have never been more excited to implement so many new things in all of my years! You are a true blessing to your students and to all of us teachers who follow you! THANK YOU!!!

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  54. Hi Stephanie, I'm moving to 3rd grade from second grade, and have found so many useful resources through your blog and TPT shop in the past. I know I'll be r-reading your posts through the eyes of a third grade teacher now, too! Thanks for all you share. I'd love to read Teach Like a Pirate!

    Patti

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  55. I have never heard of this book! Sounds so fun!! I want to teach like a Pirate!

    Bobbi
    Bitty Bilinguals

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  56. I would love to win this book! This will be my first year of teaching. I am so desperate to soak up any knowledge about being a great teacher. Thank you for your wonderful and informative blog and this giveaway!!

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  57. Sounds like an awesome read! And I hadn't heard of it yet! Can't wait to check it out!! =)

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  58. After your book review, I am very interested in this book. I will wait till Wednesday, crossing my fingers...if I don't win, I will be going onto Amazon right away.

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  59. This book has been on my list for a while now -- whether I win or not, I clearly need to go ahead and make reading it happen!

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  60. You've encouraged me to check out this book! Thanks!

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  61. Link sounds like a great read! Thanks for sharing

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  62. This book is on my list....I would love the chance to win it so I can read it!

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  63. I have heard so many great things about Teach Like a Pirate this summer, I definitely plan on reading it soon!

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  64. Dave's daughter was on my daughter's softball team. I had no idea he wrote a book! I would love to win a copy of this and be able to discuss it with him personally. Fingers crossed!

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  65. What a great giveaway! I've heard great things about this resource and hope to check it out for myself by winning :)

    Rae
    Mindful Rambles

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  66. I've seen this book on many different blogs this summer! I've downloaded the sample and need to actually find the time to read it! Isn't it crazy that summer may actually be busier than the school year for me this year?!?

    :)Samantha

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  67. I'm starting my second year of teaching this fall, and I just discovered your blog through Owl-Ways Be Inspired. I've already decided I'll need to incorporate the Daily 5 into my second grade classroom, and I'm thrilled about discovering this book as well! Thanks for the inspiration!

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  68. Just reading this post and the information given about this book is getting me very excited. All teachers need to have a copy of this amazing, intriguing and breath-taking book.

    I want to teach like PIRATE!!!!!
    Aaaaaargh!!!

    foxysexyroxy10@gmail.com

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  69. Thank you for sharing your thoughts about this book....this is definitely a must read for me!

    Stephanie Ann
    Sparkling in Kindergarten

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  70. This sounds like a great book! I need to get it. Aaaarrrgh!

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  71. Thanks for giving your perspective on this book. I have heard positive things about it from a few colleagues but have not yet read it myself. A book that provides some inspiration doesn't sound like a bad thing!

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  72. This looks like a great book! I've seen so many bloggers reviewing it I would love to win an ecopy!
    Thanks!
    Nancy

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  73. I would love to read it!

    Crystal Shepherd
    lucytumnus@gmail.com
    Lamppost in a STEM classroom

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  74. I have heard so much about this book and the author looks like a super cool guy :)
    tania
    My Second Sense

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  75. I love the acronym and try to work toward these things each day. I would love the book to learn more!

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  76. Love the ideas!! I am moving from the middle school to the upper elementary and looking forward to getting back to more of my art therapy co-teaching model and you have such wonderful ideas!

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  77. I definitely plan to get this book and read it. It is just what I need to remind me of what's most important before beginning a new year!

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  78. I am always looking for books with practical ideas to implement in the classroom. I would love to get my hands on this book!

    I love your blog!

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  79. I've heard so much about this book, but have not been able to purchase it. Thanks for the opportunity to win a copy. I truly appreciate it.
    ugamler@boyertownasd.org

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  80. I have been eyeing this book for a while! It's looks fantastic!

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  81. I have never heard of this book before, but it looks like a great read! Thanks for posting it!

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  82. I'll be teaching third grade for the first time this year and love following your blog and ideas! This book is super intriguing and it has now been added to my list of books to read! Thank you for the suggestion!

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  83. I've been thinking about reading the book...it was great to see the podcast becasue I got a better sense of the book and what it can help me to do! Love the X card trick!

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  84. Thanks for the giveaway! That is so generous. My teaching is not as "pirate-like" as I want it to be. I could definitely use a fresh perspective. :)

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  85. Love your blog...hope to win!! :)

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  86. Arrrrrrrrgh, Matey! I am a teacher who has been teaching for 5 years (mostly Title 1, intervention, etc.) and I FINALLY have my own classroom! I am so excited to find your blog. I have learned so much from you already. Thank you so much for sharing your ideas here and for offering this ebook to inspire us to be more "pirate-y" in our teaching:)

    xoxoxo,
    Kate

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  87. I would love to read this! It sounds like a great resource!

    Brittany Good

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  88. I've been wanting to read this book for awhile; thanks for reminding me about it!

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