Today’s post is a question I received via email yesterday from a first-year teacher about to take on a summer…
curriculum plan
Teaching Theme with Rock, Paper, Scissors
In order to grow more comfortable and confident when discussing theme, students need lots of practice. Early in the year,…
How to Read a Painting
Literary analysis is tough. • “Explain how the author uses setting to establish the mood of this short story.”• “Determine…
Five Classroom Essentials
I know, I know, it’s only the beginning of August, but it really is time to start thinking about the…
Free Writing Prompts & Inspiration
You want to add more current event materials to your classes, but you definitely don’t have the time to dig…
Weird lesson idea for English teachers
Learn what my messed up teeth (and a great podcast episode) taught me about why I judge other people and…
MLA 9th Edition vs. 8th Edition
The research citation experts over at the M.L.A. just released their 2021 edition of the handbook. Do you know the…
Coming Soon!
S-U-M-M-E-R is finally here. Yes, I’ve scheduled a few fun things with the family and I plan to spend plenty…
11 Awesome End-of-the-Year Lesson Ideas
Note: This is an updated repost. You’ve wrapped your last major unit and final exams are still a week or…
You Don’t Always Have to be the Expert
A few years back, I noticed something weird – kids sometimes, maybe even often, learned more when I did less. One…