After some initial skepticism, brain-weary ELA teacher Allison Paludi turned to ChatGPT for fresh ideas about teaching The Giver to her 6th graders. The AI tool was a big help for lesson brainstorming and differentiation and as a go-to thought partner after her PLC disbanded.
Poetry βpausesβ can become the heart and soul of English class AND address almost any reading and writing standard. Teacher-author Brett Vogelsinger shares three examples β poems that can help students extend their understanding of structure, character and personal narrative.
To infuse classrooms with meaning, relevance and lots of fun, Stephanie Farley suggests ways to keep teaching student-centered: develop essential questions, make connections, and assess for learning not just grading. A super summer read, writes consultant Cathy Gassenheimer
Writing poems for two voices lets student researchers delve deep into multiple sources and unearth differing perspectives. Jenn Bogard and Lisa Donovan offer a sample poem based on Dorothea Langeβs Migrant Mother image, merging the stories of the photographer and the subject.
Hispanic Heritage Month / Resources
by Susan Curtis · Published 07/08/2023 · Last modified 09/05/2023
For over 50 years the United States has commemorated the achievements of Hispanic and Latinx Americans as well as learned about the discrimination they have faced over centuries. MiddleWeb’s resource collection can help students learn more about this rich and complex heritage.
Ever since Gilgamesh ran into challenges, humans have recorded stories that thrill us and help us gain social emotional skills. Stephanie Farley shares ELA activities that help students understand characters and learn the elements of SEL through projects they do together.
Integrating the Arts in Language Arts is a treasure trove of instructional ideas with thorough explanations for each activity, key vocabulary, recommended resources, and additional support exclusive to each art form. Research based, too, writes consultant Anne Anderson.
Writing from her background in working with students who were born outside of the U.S and are new to the country, the language, the culture, and the school system, Dr. Stephanie Dewing shares five tips to engage these newcomers. Included: assets-based language development.
What might students learn about the βinvisible processβ of reading prose fiction by a comparative study of a novel and its graphic novel counterpart? Jason DeHart promises high interest and aha moments as readers see the story not only with their minds but with their eyes.
Beginning your first year as a middle level teacher? Our resource collection points to plenty of how-to advice β from our very own bloggers and guest writers as well as other outstanding sources β that will guide you through the first weeks of school and the semesters ahead.
