Novel units are a big part of my ELA classroom. I utilize them in whole class instruction, small groups, and independent reading. As students discover connections between a novel’s characters, setting and story elements, they become more engaged readers.
One of my favorite winter-themed books for middle school is Brian’s Winter by Gary Paulsen. It makes for a great novel study during the winter months, as your students will be AMAZED at Brian’s ingenuity to survive the brutal winter. The book is a continuation …
When I read Wonder by RJ Palacio, so many ideas were bursting out of my head for how I could teach this incredible novel. In addition to creating my own Wonder novel study unit, I also came up with the character analysis activities featured here. …
Crash by Jerry Spinelli is one of my favorite novels to teach in middle school, especially at the 5th and 6th grade levels. If you are teaching this book to your class, here are a few activities to include in your Crash novel study that …
Looking for some engaging activities for your Wonder novel study unit? I’ve taught R.J. Palacio’s book every year since it was published, and in this post, I’ll share how I format my lesson plans. Hopefully, you will find some unique ideas to try with your …
As a middle school ELA teacher, I am always in search of resources that best meet the needs of my readers. Having a good selection of novels and a diverse set of reading comprehension activities are two ways I incorporate differentiated instruction into my language …
Friendships are a big part of growing upādeveloping them, growing them, and maintaining them. Being a middle school teacher, mom, wife, sister, daughter, coach, and friend, I find that friendship themes are a focus in many of my school days. If you teach upper elementary …
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