Would you like your classroom to be a busy, student-centered place?

I think I can help with that!

Hi everyone! I’m so happy to welcome you to Engaging Biology!

Let me introduce myself. My name is Debra Thivierge McFadden and I’ve been a Biology (or Living Environment as we call it here in New York) teacher for 31 years. Gulp! I can hardly believe it.

Along with Biology, I’ve also taught Environmental Science, AP Biology and Earth Science, while mentoring 14 student teachers. It’s gone by very quickly and I’ve learned so much about teaching, my students, and myself in that time.

I’m excited to share my experiences and some of the successes and pitfalls that I’ve had along the way.

How Can This Blog Help?

This blog is a result of my love for creating engaging science lessons that get kids moving, interacting and thinking. I decided early on in my career that I didn’t want to be one of those teachers who just drone on and on while my students sit at their desks with their eyes glazed over!

Having been a teacher for so long, I know how hard it can be to find the time that it takes to create lessons that are meaningful and engaging. Sometimes it’s just easier to drone! And that’s my main reason for this blog … I’m passionate about sharing ideas with my colleagues!

You’ll find tips and strategies for managing active learning (which can sometimes feel a bit TOO active!) as well as engaging lessons and lab activities.

In the last few years, I’ve started incorporating technology into many lessons which has renewed my passion for teaching! When used the right way, technology can add so much to your lessons.

When I’m not teaching or creating, I love to spend time with my husband Steve, our son Andrew and our 3 furbabies Dax, Cloud and Jojo. We love to hike, work on our hobby farm and spend time in the beautiful Adirondack Mountains.

I’d love to connect with you! Contact me by email, or connect on Facebook or Pinterest. I welcome your comments and questions!