Balanced Literacy in the ELA Classroom

Using Balanced Literacy in the ELA Classroom

What I Teach…I teach using the Balanced Literacy approach, which makes it easy to incorporate the Daily 5 into instruction. This model includes 5 components that I focus upon to strengthen my 6th grade readers. Balanced literacy is a framework for reading instruction. It involves …

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teacher tips for changing grade levels

5 Ideas to Consider When Changing Grade Levels

2025 UPDATE: I originally published this post on changing grade levels a few years ago, but the tips and lessons are still applicable today. This post discusses my transition to teaching 7th grade ELA at a new school district. My first 7 years here have …

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February ELA Activities

February ELA Favorites for Middle School

The month of February brings several opportunities to integrate seasonal activities into your language arts lesson plans. Valentine’s Day is of course the most popular event, but February also features Black History Month, Groundhog Day, President’s Day, and one of my favorites, Random Acts of …

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writing celebrations for language arts

Writing Celebrations Made Easy

Completing a writing unit is a HUGE accomplishment, no matter what grade level you teach. Whether you teach Lucy Calkins’ Writer’s Workshop, district-mandated writing units, or some other writing curriculum, it is something to celebrate when your students come full circle from the brainstorming to …

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How to Implement Reader's Theater

How to Implement Reader’s Theater

As classroom teachers, reading specialists, and tutors, it is essential to recognize the importance of making the most of instructional time with students. Whether you follow a set curriculum in your district or are just looking for new ways to enhance instructional reading time, I …

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Student engagement strategies

Student Engagement for BIG KIDS!

When it comes to student engagement, the biggest challenge for teachers is being able to consistently motivate and inspire students through different lesson topics and learning formats. We also have to navigate the different seasons and holiday breaks, both of which can detract from the …

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Emergency ELA Sub Plans
ELA Sub Plans Bundle $17.00
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ELA Sub Plans Bundle $17.00
Reader's Theater
Readers Theater Bundle $21.00
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Readers Theater Bundle $21.00
Word Wall!
Editable ELA Word Wall $5.00
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Editable ELA Word Wall $5.00
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