Inside: Find middle school novel descriptions that help students build perspective by seeing themselves and others in the texts. As students read literature that normalizes their own experiences, they will also build compassion and respect for one another. Students find validation in their own experiences while seeing that life is different for everyone. Full Disclosure: Outgoing links are TPT, and… View Post
Inside: Find middle school poems that will build confidence, strengthen perseverance, and remind your middle schoolers that they can do hard things. We all need that reminder, so choose texts in your ELAR classroom that teach content, but also support the social emotional learning needs of your students. Full Disclosure: Some of the outgoing links are from my TPT store… View Post
Inside: Think about those sacred, precious, and chaotic weeks before Winter Break! They can give even an experienced educator a run for their money. However, the more engaging your lessons, the less likely you’ll spend time redirecting. Keep reading for holiday activities to jazz up your classroom. Amazon Associate links have been added at no cost to you, for your… View Post
Inside: We’ve all been through it – that much talked about first year of teaching. What did we learn from that experience? How can we encourage those who walk the path after us? This collaborative post shares ideas to encourage every first year teacher… and there might just be something us veterans need to hear too. Hey First Year Teacher,… View Post
Inside: Do you see that gifted student in the corner of your class? They either are so engrossed in a book that they have no idea what the heck is going on, or they’re creating something unique out of the paper clip you left on the floor. That’s the one. Actually, we’re even talking about the autonomous learner who is… View Post
Inside: Paired passages can be a challenge for even the most diligent reader. Balancing one question across two texts requires mental organization. This article describes a process in which teachers can plan for and create a powerful paired passage unit to increase student success. After all, that is what we all desire. Full disclosure: I linked my relevant TPT products for your convenience. What… View Post
Inside you’ll find literacy quotes to strengthen your teaching resolve. Sometimes an encouraging word from a fellow educator is what we need to remember our why. Literacy matters, and teachers have the privilege of building life-long learners. Don’t forget your why! Amazon links are added for your convenience and at no cost to you. Should you choose to purchase a… View Post
Inside: Writing is often a pain point for both teachers and students. This article explores strategies to encourage enthusiasm and ideas in writing literary nonfiction. The hope is that you can start and end your literary nonfiction unit with a smile. If you like my take on the writing process, check out my personal narrative took kit. It contains graphic… View Post
Inside: We all need mentors to model how to do things well. It’s an effective mode of learning. When it comes to writing, what better models than authors who pour their hearts into published works? Whether it’s a novel, short story, or picture book, teachers should look for mentor texts for writing and reading connections. Keep reading for expert advice… View Post
Inside: You’ll find expert advice on middle and high school short stories to bring fresh light to your classroom. One of the best ways to build innovative ideas is to collaborate with other teachers. This post highlights secondary teachers, their favorite middle and high school short stories, and how to use them. Full disclosure: I have provided Amazon Affiliate links… View Post
Inside: 4th and 5th grade are the last pivotal years before secondary education. Teachers who take on this role have the amazing opportunity to encourage a deep love of poetry… if they choose the right 4th and 5th grade poems. Below you’ll find a helpful assortment of poems, resources, and strategies to help your readers fall in love with poetry…. View Post
Inside: Lesson plan ideas – we all need them! Discover details on how to use the gradual release model to structure class time and meet the needs of ELL students. Bonus – meeting their needs will also meet the needs of other learners in your class. A Note from Mrs. Price: You’re standing in front of a classroom of 30… View Post
