As English teachers know, a lot of stories are the same story. Breaking down that successful narrative pattern with students…
writing
Advice for a 6th Grade Writing Teacher
Today’s post is a question I received via email yesterday from a first-year teacher about to take on a summer…
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…
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…
Dose Spelling Madder? Yes and No
This week, I’m focusing on English teacher Kim and her middle school struggle:
Life Lessons from Literature Freebie
I’m hard on my books. Argue if you want, but a spine is meant to be cracked. Oh, yes, I…
High School English on YouTube
My year-long project to post mini-lessons three times a week on YouTube is now complete! To keep things tidy and…