How Long Does It Take to Set up a Classroom?
After working in many different kinds of classrooms over the years, I have spent anywhere from a few hours to a couple of weeks setting up my classroom. Sometimes it…
Encouragement for Those Who Will be Homeschooling Through Covid-19
The thought of homeschooling through Covid-19 can be so daunting for many parents. This is especially true if they have had no experience with homeschooling. But in so many ways,…
Does Chewing Gum Help Students Focus?
Several studies have emerged that propose the idea that chewing gum helps students focus. And while there are certainly tons of benefits to chewing gum, there can also be some…
Step by Step: How to Teach Imagery in Literature
The ability to teach imagery in literature is incredibly important. It could be the difference between the reader being riveted to your writing or being bored and turning away. But…
My 10 Golden Rules for Teaching Tone in Literature
Understanding tone in literature is critical to fully understanding and enjoying what you are reading. But because it is not a "tangible" aspect of literature, it is a very hard…
How Many Questions Should be on a Test?
Creating tests for students is a frequent aspect of teacher life. And studies have shown that more teachers create their own tests as compared to using tests that have been…
Unique Classroom Ideas: Virtual Treasure Hunt
Having a virtual treasure hunt is a great idea for your classroom literally anytime. Right now, in the light of Covid-19 it is a great idea for a fun project…
What is Inquiry-based Learning and Why Will Your Students Love It?
School systems have come a long way from "reading, writing, and 'rithmetic" over the years. The days of teachers standing in front of the classroom writing facts on the board…
What is Digital Literacy and Why Your Students Absolutely Need It
[cs_content_seo]I found it incredibly interesting that when I started researching digital literacy I found many different definitions of it from many different reputable sources. It seems we all know what…
Unique Classroom Ideas: Get Your Students Published!
Nothing will get your students more excited than getting their own books published. This is one of the best ways to make all of those ELA classes come to life…