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 »
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 »
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 Websites with Free Reading Passages and Question Sets

High-quality reading passages and question sets can serve as vital tools to improve reading comprehension, expose students to various topics and text types, and help

Read More »
How to Help Your Students Succeed with Independent Reading

Independent reading involves skills that our intermediate and middle-level students may or may not have when they come to us. As language arts teachers, it is our

Read More »
How to Increase Engagement While Analyzing a Text

For some students, analyzing a text can be as exciting as watching paint dry. So why not get them actively engaged with what they’re reading and spice it up a bit?

Read More »
Reading Response: Authentic Activities for Summary and Reflection

Authentic reading response activities motivate students to read, summarize, and reflect on a text. These elements are vital to building strong readers and

Read More »
Free Tools to Implement Open-Ended Projects in Your Classroom

Open-ended projects offer creative ways for students to practice skills and show understanding of a topic while having choice and independence in the language

Read More »
How to Structure Small Group Discussions in the ELA Classroom

To foster effective small group discussions about literature, set your students up for success with clear guidelines, high-quality prompts, and discussion mats for

Read More »