Reimagining the “After-the-Test” Slump
Whether it’s a few days or several weeks, many teachers dread the remaining calendar pages after standardized testing is over. There is often a
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From the blog
Make More Awesome Connections to American Literature with These TED Talks
Students need teachers to make learning relevant and engaging, and one excellent tool for this is the use of TED Talks. I’ve been teaching American
How to Engage Reluctant Writers with Authentic Writing for Human Connection
Every October, the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) sponsors the National Day on Writing, encouraging educators and students nationwide to share their answers
Make Writing Magical With Poetry
Sometimes students are afraid to write. They may have had negative experiences with writing in previous classes. Maybe they’ve only been required to write for
How to Help High School Students Have Deeper Book Discussions
As English teachers, stepping away from the front of the classroom and releasing control of discussions can be intimidating. We worry that without our direct
Getting Teens to Read
Did you know that humans have a need to read? Some of my students don’t always agree with this sentiment, so every semester I begin
Teaching Civil Discourse
What happened to our ability to talk civilly to one another? When did we stop “agreeing to disagree”? A look on social media or network
How to Modernize Your ELA Curriculum: 9 TED Talks to Pair with American Literature
Do you want to revitalize your American Literature units while helping students practice crucial listening and critical-thinking skills? Bringing TED Talks into the ELA classroom is
Journal Writing for Women’s History Month
Every Monday, I start the school week with journal writing in my American Literature courses. Sometimes the journals are about the American Dream and other