Reviews of Teaching Out of the Box

Making History Fun

In Stan Cody's friendly, conversational land often humorous approach, mnemonics, acronyms, poems, songs and song parodies, rhymes and other memory tools (including Stan's own "memorics") add an element of pure joy to the challenge of learning complicated history timelines, names of all the United States presidents (in order), parts of speech, major events, names and more. - Sharing Ideas magazine, December 2006

Innovative and Creative Lesson Planning

Stan Cody’s “Teaching Out of the Box” is filled with sample lesson plans, unique artwork, and delightful photos that transform the stereotyped classroom into a stage for “Historical Extravaganzas.” Cody challenges teachers to step out of their comfort zone and teach by doing the unexpected. His examples of “Teaching Out of the Box” include: using new methods, varying your teaching approach, and using student participation. He includes association songs, illustrations, creative ideas, and diverse approaches to motivate your students.

As I read Stan’s book my mind went back to my high school history classes. I was reminded of the dull lectures, and the class time spent in reading the text. I found I was envying Stan’s students. In fact I was motivated to review and memorize his history time line, and to relearn the order of the Presidents of the United States.

Cody’s book is a valuable tool. I wish it had been available when I was facilitating classrooms and training teachers. He gives suggestions and instructions for “food preservation the early American way.”

This book is a tremendous resource for implementing new ideas in today’s classroom. Stan provides the basis you as a classroom teacher will need to develop your own creative imagination to implement a student centered learning environment. Stan closes the book with a comprehensive and valuable bibliography of suggested printed and on-line resources.

The current emphasis on “exit exams”, for high school students makes this a particularly timely and important work.

- Richard R. Blake, Educator

Teachers desiring to improve always look for books to hone their skills. TEACHING OUT OF THE BOX is veteran teacher Stan Cody’s contribution to his colleagues. More than just offering useful tips, the book encourages teachers to bring learning alive. Mr. Cody’s philosophy of education, use of humor and enthusiasm and love for teaching is clearly communicated throughout his easy-to-read book. Many suggestions deal with American History, but tips for teaching Science, English and Math are also included. TEACHING also has many ideas to help students make learning connections through mnemonics, timelines and active participation. TEACHING OUT OF THE BOX is a down-to-earth book that helped me question how I could improve my own teaching. - Gary Ciesla

I thoroughly enjoyed Teaching Out of the Box. Lots of good ideas. I think it will be a winner for teachers looking for creative ideas. –– Jerry Ray, Ed.D., Principal

A clever, witty and intelligent piece of work. Amusing and passionate and a MUST for educators. –– Joseph Kawaja, MS, Marriage and Family Therapist/#MFC 9335, Specializing in the Treatment of Individuals and Adolescents

The reader will both enjoy and benefit from this book. Author Stan Cody, a veteran teacher, reveals his formula for success – how to make teaching and learning fun while achieving lasting results. Stan brings life to lessons as he connects students with history. Through divergent approaches he motivates students to learn through demonstration and then by doing. Teaching Out of the Box is a worthwhile read for the insight and ideas it provides into teaching American history. Thanks to Stan Cody for sharing his exciting methods. –– Don Brann, Ed.D., Superintendent, Wiseburn School District

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