This is hardly the first time I've written about this. For years, I've been trying to nail down a format to cover what could essentially be two (maybe even three!) subjects in one class ... READ the POST
Middle School Classroom Library Book List
I am often asked about the titles in my classroom library. Specifically, if I have a list to share. And for the longest time, I had to say that I didn't have a list to share... until now! I ... READ the POST
Mentor Texts for ELA Lessons
Hey friends!! So... what do you think of the new digs?!? Can you even believe how incredibly gorgeous this site is now?!? It takes my breath away! Huge shout-out to my girl, Christi over at ... READ the POST
Reading Aloud in Middle School
We read aloud in my classroom. A lot. Like, A LOT a lot. Picture books mostly. But also the first chapter of a novel every Friday (#FirstChapterFriday), poems, interesting articles... even ... READ the POST
Show, Don’t Tell: Getting Students to Add Details to Their Writing
No doubt you've advised your students to "show, don't tell" when helping them revise their writing. In my 16-year career, I've said it hundreds of times. It wasn't until recently, though, ... READ the POST
Teaching Students to Revise Their Writing: Description or Story?
There is nothing easy about teaching writing to middle schoolers. The editing is hard enough: They are just grasping basic mechanics and conventions despite years of instruction. Their spelling is ... READ the POST
