An English teacher who is passionate about PBL and diverse world literature.
Looking to move beyond the traditional essay without sacrificing rigor? This post explores creative, standards-aligned ELA assignments—like Bloom Balls, short-form videos, PBL projects, and creative informational writing—that increase engagement while still requiring deep analysis, evidence, and purposeful communication. Continue reading Engaging ELA Assignments That Aren’t Essays (But Still Rigorous)
Test prep season doesn’t have to mean endless packets and disengaged students. Discover engaging ELA test prep ideas that build reading, writing, grammar, and analysis skills without burnout. Learn how to use escape rooms, quick writes, and structured writing strategies to prepare students for standardized tests. 👉 Read the blog to see how easy test prep can be. Continue reading Engaging ELA Test Prep Ideas for Middle and High School Teachers
January can feel like the longest month of the school year. Students are coming back from break unfocused, routines need to be reestablished, and teachers are expected to jump right back into rigorous instruction—often with very little energy left in the tank. That’s exactly why I created my Time-Saver January Winter Inquiry Bundle: a flexible, … Continue reading January ELA Made Simple: A Winter-Themed Inquiry Unit Students Love
If you’ve ever taught Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “Young Goodman Brown,” you know it’s one of those stories that instantly sparks deep discussion. Students are quick to pick up on the eerie tone and unsettling atmosphere. BUT, it’s easy for them to get lost in the symbolism and miss the bigger picture. That’s where this resource comes … Continue reading How to Teach Young Goodman Brown: A Thematic Approach to Fear, Doubt, and Reality
The days leading up to Winter Break can feel like pure chaos. Between holiday excitement, special events, and the countdown to break, keeping students focused on learning feels nearly impossible. If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “How do I keep my students reading and working when their minds are already on vacation?”—you’re in the right … Continue reading How to Keep Students Engaged Before Winter Break with a Magical ELA Escape Room
Creative writing for upper elementary and middle school grades doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated! In this blog post, discover why creative writing is one of the most important skills your students can build and get ideas for easy, low-prep activities your students will love. Learn how mystery stories, seasonal prompts, and potion-making can transform your writing block. Click to read the full post and get inspired. Continue reading The Power of Creative Writing in Grades 4–6: Why It Matters and How to Make It Easy
Struggling to get students engaged with classic texts? Inquiry-based learning might be the game-changer your classroom needs. In my latest blog post, I walk through how to build a powerful ELA unit around essential questions that spark curiosity, deepen thinking, and drive real-world connections. From selecting texts to designing scaffolded activities and assessments, this post offers practical steps—and ready-to-use resources—for making inquiry work in any high school English classroom. Read the full post here 👇 Continue reading Building Inquiry-Based Units in High School English: A Step-by-Step Teacher’s Guide
As ELA teachers, we often prioritize academic writing at the expense of creative expression—but what if creativity isn’t a “break” from the standards, but rather a bridge to deeper learning?
In my latest blog post, I’m making the case for reintegrating creative writing into the middle and high school classroom. I share practical, low-prep strategies that still hit the standards, encourage critical thinking, and build writing confidence. Continue reading Blending Creativity and Academic Rigor in the Secondary ELA Classroom
Literacy in the 21st century isn’t just about reading and writing—it’s also about listening. That’s why I created a free guide filled with 17 podcasts that are perfect for the high school English classroom, along with tips and teaching ideas to help you make the most of them. Continue reading 17 Podcasts That Are Perfect for Your High School English Classroom (PLUS Free Guide!)
The end of the school year can be a strange mix of exhaustion and anticipation—for both teachers and students. You’re trying to maintain structure while also celebrating all the growth that’s happened. If you’re looking for meaningful and memorable activities to wrap up your English class, here are three favorites that combine reflection, creativity, and … Continue reading 3 Engaging Activities for the End of the Year in High School English
Around the World With Mrs. C 