Tag: writing

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The Power of Creative Writing in Grades 4–6: Why It Matters and How to Make It Easy

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

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Blending Creativity and Academic Rigor in the Secondary ELA Classroom

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

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3 Engaging Activities for the End of the Year in High School English

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

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A Creative Twist on Found Poetry for National Poetry Month

In celebration of National Poetry Month, the author shares a refreshing take on Found Poetry inspired by Paul Damien Elegy’s captivating video. Found Poetry allows students to creatively blend existing poetic lines into new works, enhancing critical reading and writing skills. The author offers a free lesson plan to engage students, making poetry accessible and enjoyable for all levels. Continue reading A Creative Twist on Found Poetry for National Poetry Month

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Bringing The Moth Podcast into the ELA Classroom: 3 Must-Listen Stories Your Students Will Love

I have found a new podcast that I am bursting to share with other English teachers! If you are not yet aware of The Moth Radio Hour and The Moth Podcast, now is the time. In a way, it reminds of Humans of New York. But, in this case, it’s people sharing a particular story … Continue reading Bringing The Moth Podcast into the ELA Classroom: 3 Must-Listen Stories Your Students Will Love

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Engaging ELA Test Prep That Actually Works (Without the Eye Rolls!)

March is affectionately (or facetiously) known as test prep month around here. That’s because we start taking all the state mandated tests in April. Let’s be real—test prep season is exhausting. Your students are already stressed, distracted, and over it before they even sit down for the SAT, ACT, state tests, or final exams. And … Continue reading Engaging ELA Test Prep That Actually Works (Without the Eye Rolls!)

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How to Teach “1,000-Year-Old Ghosts” by Laura Chow Reeve: A High School ELA Lesson Plan Guide

What makes us who we are? Is it our memories, our experiences, or something deeper? These are the questions at the heart of “1,000-Year-Old Ghosts” by Laura Chow Reeve — a short story that blends magical realism with deeply human themes of identity, memory, and family across three generations. A winner of the PEN America … Continue reading How to Teach “1,000-Year-Old Ghosts” by Laura Chow Reeve: A High School ELA Lesson Plan Guide

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Exploring the Shadows: Teaching Dark Romanticism Through Thematic Inquiry

Are you looking for a way to captivate your high school English students while diving deep into the complexities of American literature? Dark Romanticism offers a thrilling opportunity to engage students in a thematic exploration of fear, anxiety, and perception. By centering the inquiry question “How do our fears and anxieties influence the way we perceive … Continue reading Exploring the Shadows: Teaching Dark Romanticism Through Thematic Inquiry

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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