Teaching The Legend of Sleepy Hollow: Dark Romanticism and Creative Projects

“The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” follows the story of Ichabod Crane, a lanky and superstitious schoolteacher, who arrives in the quaint village of Sleepy Hollow. He becomes enamored with the beautiful Katrina Van Tassel and vies for her hand against the brawny Brom Bones. One spooky night, as Ichabod is riding home, he encounters the … Continue reading Teaching The Legend of Sleepy Hollow: Dark Romanticism and Creative Projects

The Fall of the House of Usher: 6 Engaging Activities for High School Students

“The Fall of the House of Usher” by Edgar Allan Poe is a haunting tale that high school students LOVE! It follows the narrator as he visits his childhood friend, Roderick Usher. He finds Roderick in his decaying family home. The story unfolds with an ever-growing sense of gloom and dread. It reflects the deteriorating … Continue reading The Fall of the House of Usher: 6 Engaging Activities for High School Students

Gothic Literature and Writing Activities for High School English

Gothic literature is always a win with high school students. We are often drawn to the strange and macabre things in life. The eerie settings, mysterious characters, and dark themes captivate our imaginations, pulling us into worlds where the line between reality and the supernatural blurs. These stories not only entertain. They also provide rich … Continue reading Gothic Literature and Writing Activities for High School English

8 Back to School Activities Middle and High School English Teachers LOVE

The first two weeks of the schoolyear is critical for establishing relationships with our students and setting up expectations for the year. This time sets the tone for a positive and productive classroom environment. Engaging activities and clear communication during these initial days can foster a sense of community and excitement for the year ahead. … Continue reading 8 Back to School Activities Middle and High School English Teachers LOVE

Using Close Reads to Improve Vocabulary Skills in Middle and High School

High school English teachers face a vocabulary crisis affecting text comprehension. Strategies like close readings, Greek and Latin roots, and Science of Reading help bridge the gap. Incorporating these into daily practices ensures students receive consistent exposure to conquer vocabulary struggles. Continue reading Using Close Reads to Improve Vocabulary Skills in Middle and High School

Engaging Back to School Activities for High School English: Build Relationships, Spark Reading, and Foster SEL

Whether you have weeks or days until it’s back to school season for you, I am sure that you are already considering ways to make the first weeks of class the best yet. Even in high school, we know that the first 10 days of school are crucial to setting up expectations, making connections, and setting the tone for our classroom. These are my top tips for setting my year up for success! Continue reading Engaging Back to School Activities for High School English: Build Relationships, Spark Reading, and Foster SEL

Teaching About Greek Fatalism through Mythical Heroes

Greek fatalism stemmed from the belief in the omnipotence of the Fates, who determined the destinies of mortals. This idea of predestined fate influenced various aspects of Greek life, including religion, philosophy, and literature. The Fates, also known as the Moirai, are three sister goddesses responsible for assigning destinies to mortals and cutting their life’s … Continue reading Teaching About Greek Fatalism through Mythical Heroes