It’s National Poetry Month! So it’s the perfect time to incorporate some poetry word play into your classroom. Maybe you’re like me and finding time is of the essence as the end of the year approaches. If so, these ideas can be done as part of a class rather than requiring a full or multiple …
Summaries are something every teacher does year after year to introduce and then to reinforce the skill. After all, it is a backbone writing skill that applies to all subjects, not just ELA. But summary writing is difficult for students… and teachers too! My way around these difficulties is to use a mixture of activities …
Do you teach literary theory in your ELA classes? Do you find it a challenge for you or for students? Have you thought about using a core text for different theories? One core text to rule them all… if I was a big Lord of the Rings fan this would be an even more poignant …
Getting ready to return for the new school year? Or maybe you’ve already settled into a few days or weeks? Whatever the case may be some of our ELA MATTERS contributors have some tried-and-true advice to share to help you. Take a read through for some simple helpful advice whether you are a new or …
I (Lesa from SmithTeaches9to12) always joke that teachers are lucky to have at least two new year ‘celebrations’ in which they can make a fresh start – a regular new year for the change in calendar year and back to school! And to make a fresh start there is nothing better to me than making …
By Missy Davis from ABetterWaytoTeach The beginning of the year can be overwhelming as a teacher. You want to build routines and norms while establishing clear expectations for your students. You want them to get to know you and each other. You want to establish a safe space for risk-taking. And if you’re anything like …
We made it! Hooray! With most schools done or wrapping up in the next week or so, it’s time to rest, to relax, and to recharge. After such a year we know it may be more important than ever to make time for this. Here you’ll find suggestions from some of our contributors about apps, …
I’m just under 10 days away from the end of this school year and we all know this was a tough one. We thought last year was but then… but then… However, the emails that I scheduled last year for anticipated tough times this year were a saving grace for me this year. Letters to …
Isabel from @creationssigneisabel thinks Newsela is an AMAZING resource for ELA teachers. It gives teachers access to tons of non-fiction texts you could use for English, Science, or Social Studies. Also, for each text, you have the option of changing the text level, making it easily accessible to even the most struggling reader in your …
For Sale: Baby shoes. Never worn. 6 words but a full story, right? It has all of the parts of a story: character, plot (with a climax & implied resolution), and conflict. It also evokes a strong image and emotions. I find such stories are a great way to get students working more closely with …
