Teaching for Change: Eight Keys for Transformational Bible Study with Teens

by Ken Coley

Teaching for Change guides teachers to unravel the mystery of how students absorb and process information. This insight leads to better prepared lessons that will engage the hearts and minds of students. Coley offers many easily implemented ideas for sharing the truth of God's Word that will connect with teens on a deeper level. Along with providing eight key concepts of effective teaching essential to real transformation in the lives of students, Coley also includes practical illustrations of how the key concepts look in a typical lesson. Each chapter ends with questions for deeper reflection or group discussion. This book is a vital source for anyone who instructs teens.

114 pages, Paperback

Published April 18, 2017

Reviews

[Rex Stewart · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5

I had to read this for my Teaching the Scriptures class. There are some things in here worth considering. However, I feel like where this book falls flat is practical application (where it needs to be strongest).

Perhaps it’s just the culture of our students, but the practical things suggested more often than not seemed out of touch or immature. For example, he suggested reenacting the march around Jericho to drive the point home harder. I don’t know about you but convincing 15 year olds to do that seems more trouble than it’s worth.

The most helpful section was on evaluating and assessing learning.

[Keegan Addison · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5
An informative book on how to lead bible study with teens and how to connect with them on a deeper level. Really good read. I would recommend it to anyone who is or is interested in leading youth.

[Brayden Davis · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good book for lifting the veil that lies in front of the complex dynamic between teachers and students in Bible studies. Two major aspects of the book were insightful and enjoyable. I appreciated Coley’s emphasis on seeing teaching as an opportunity not just for communicating knowledge and skills, but more importantly for personal transformation. I also enjoyed how each principle of teaching was tied to Jesus’ own ministry and life, demonstrating how these transformational keys were practiced by Christ himself. As insightful as the book is, it is rather short and abrupt. His discussion on mind, brain, and education research is appreciated, but superficial nonetheless. Overall, this was an enjoyable read and serves as a good vehicle into leading Bible studies with teens!

[Brad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Teaching for Change by Ken Coley is just what maybe Sunday school teachers need. But it is also well-suited for k-12 teachers as well.

It is a must-read for all new and old teachers. Each chapter is concise and well-researched. Moreover, all the material is actionable.

Take. Read. Apply.

B. Grizenko

[Adam Cain · Rating 3 out of 5]

It has a lot of good information but it is real dry reading

[Douglas Reis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book. Very simple. I enjoyed it. I would recommend it.

[Liz Bell · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good book for those working in youth ministry or leading a bible study for teens. Gives great game ideas, bible study focuses etc.

[Lydia Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book that was incredibly thought provoking for learning about how to engage in a Bible teaching setting with teenagers.

[Courtney Torres · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some helpful tips and research, but a bit unrealistic for real life and extremely dry to read.

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Paul · Rating 3 out of 5]

While far from a riveting read, Coley offers some rich insights into teaching. Coley is a little too fond of the language of educational theorists, making the text curiously difficult to digest for novice teachers. He targets adolescent education, though his suggestions are seldom so well fit to youths that they would not be equally valuable for teaching adults. I found his chapter on assessment to be most helpful.