Shop the latest in my store

How to Teach the Concept of Theme in Literature

The concept of theme in literature can be confusing to intermediate students. Let’s look at some steps we can take to help them grasp it. If you’ve ever asked your

Read More »
Thank You, M’am by Langston Hughes: Spotlight on Character, Plot, and Theme

“Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes is a classroom favorite for teaching students about character, plot, and theme. In just a few pages, Hughes creates a

Read More »
Helpful Strategies for Teaching Inferencing in the ELA Classroom

Learn strategies for teaching inferencing that demystify the process and make it accessible and memorable for all learners. When I first ask my students

Read More »
10 Easy Activities for Downtime in the ELA Classroom

It’s important to have engaging and purposeful activities for downtime to keep intermediate and middle school students productive and focused.

Read More »
5 Helpful Websites for Teaching Vocabulary

Learn about five websites for teaching vocabulary and engage your intermediate and middle school students as they build their word knowledge.

Read More »
How to Conduct Short Yet Meaningful Reading Conferences

Make the most of your independent reading time and set your students up for success with short yet meaningful reading conferences.

Read More »
Start the School Year with 5 Powerful Minilessons for Silent Reading Time

Incorporate these essential minilessons for silent reading time and make this part of the day more effective, engaging, and meaningful for your students.

Read More »
How to Motivate Students to Read without Using Rewards

Let’s explore ways we can create a culture of reading in our intermediate and middle school classrooms that naturally motivates students to read.

Read More »
5 Easy Steps to an Organized Classroom Library

Whether starting from scratch or looking to improve your current setup, these steps will help you create an organized classroom library that works for you and

Read More »
10 Easy End-of-School-Year Activities for the Middle School ELA Classroom

These end-of-the-school-year activities for the ELA classroom will make your life much easier while providing closure and fun for students.

Read More »
How to Teach Students to Analyze and Explain Text Evidence

Learn strategies to help your intermediate and middle school students analyze and explain text evidence with RACES, TIQAC, or any other acronym you use.

Read More »
5 Websites with Free Online Writing Practice for Students

Online writing practice can provide varied writing experiences that improve skills and motivation for intermediate and middle school students.

Read More »