Have you ever been so excited to learn, that you showed up early to school or stayed late?   When I first began using the Iditarod in my classroom, I noticed a change in my students.  They paid more attention and looked forward to coming to school.  That is the same reaction we had this morning with an entire room of teachers!  We were eager to learn new techniques for using the race in our classrooms.

The Iditarod allows students to form a connection between learning and an emotional experience.  Students become excited when they begin learning about the mushers, the dogs and the adventures of the Iditarod race.  As a teacher, I know that when a student is excited they learn more and when they can relate learning to something real…the outcome is amazing!

The Iditarod has become an essential teaching tool in my classroom.  We begin discussing the race on the first day of school and continue utilizing the race as a resource through the last day of school. The Iditarod can be used for students in every grade level for every subject. I have used the Iditarod to teach everything from applied geometry to basic math facts.  Lessons can easily be tied to the Common Core Standards and you can find an assortment of lessons plans by clicking here.

Incorporating 21st Century Skills is easy when you use the race.  Students can become connected to their mushers by researching and learning all about their musher’s lives.  With the use of technology they cannot only learn about their mushers, but they can learn about the individual athletes that make up each dog team.

During this mornings presentation Sid Lucas said, “My idea of teaching is doing!”  Students who use the Iditarod are actively participating in learning. The Iditarod can challenge bright students to achieve more and help struggling learners find new ways to master complex concepts.   The Iditarod is a powerful teaching tool that will provide you with a sled full of ideas!