Productive Struggle in the K-5 Classroom: Increasing Student Learning and Motivation Across the Content Areas

By Barbara R. Blackburn

In today's world of being able to find answers at the click of a button, students need to learn how to grapple with complex concepts. But when is that struggle actually productive, and when is it just frustrating or discouraging? In this important book, bestselling author Barbara R. Blackburn shows how to help elementary students tackle hard topics in ways that will truly aid their learning.

You'll learn how productive struggle is connected to intrinsic motivation, and how to scaffold instruction so you're not just throwing students into the deep end. You'll also find out how to pick the appropriate level of struggle, and how to scaffold learning for students. Throughout, there are tons of practical charts, rubrics, and examples across subject areas, along with reflection questions to help you apply what you've learned. Bonus: Each chapter has a QR code that takes you to related videos and additional tools.

With this highly-practical guide, you'll be able to help students enjoy the fulfillment, confidence, and growth that comes with working through a challenging learning process.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1041154550
• ISBN13: 9781041154556
• Release Date: April 2026
• Publisher: Routledge
• Length: 184 Pages