Teaching Middle School ELA

In today's episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, we delve into a thought-provoking topic that may ruffle some feathers. We discuss the unintended consequences of writing model essays in front of students and explore whether this practice aligns with our goals of demonstrating proper writing techniques and fostering creativity. Join us as we break down the side effects of this approach, such...

In today's episode, I discuss a topic that affects us all: the concept that rest is not a reward. In a society that glorifies productivity and hard work, it's crucial to challenge the traditional narrative and recognize that rest is not something we earn, but rather, a fundamental right. Shift your mindset and prioritize rest as a proactive choice rather than a reactive necessity or a re...

Today’s episode of Teaching Middle School ELA is unique–Caitlin and Jessica answer teachers’ most burning ELA questions on the podcast! Listeners will hear everything from advice on how to organize materials for learning units, strategies for teaching grammar, as well as tips to help students justify evidence in writing. They will also explore the importance of combining reading and writing, as we...

Today I dive into the concept of seasons - not just the ones we experience in nature, but the seasons of our lives as well. Seasons remind us that it's okay to experience the dark and barren winters, just as much as it is to revel in the bright and sunny summers. In a world where we often only see people's growth and expansion, I encourage you to embrace vulnerability and share your jour...

In today's episode, we dive into a topic that many teachers have been asking about getting your students to rock their text-dependent paragraphs. Whether it's for a quiz, an in-class assignment, or their homework, we have a mini framework that will help your students excel in their short-response writing. Even if you don't follow our specific framework for writing (the EBW approach)...

In today's episode, I delve into a powerful way of reframing our thoughts that challenges the notion of perfection in both our personal and professional lives. We don't have to excel in every aspect of our lives, rather we can embrace our strengths and allow others to shine in the areas in which they are most strong. I examine the importance of releasing the pressure to be perfect and fo...

Welcome back to another episode of Teaching Middle School ELA where we're diving into the topic of using graphic novels in the classroom. We understand the uncertainty that comes with introducing a new teaching method or resource, especially when it comes to finding graphic novels that align with academic standards and engage students. But fear not, because today we are unpacking all things g...

Today I discuss an important topic: hitting the snooze button. Can you believe that the average snooze button hitter wastes a staggering 26 minutes in bed every day? That's 158 hours a year! Today I explore the impact of this habit on our daily lives and share how we can use that time more productively. Join me as I examine the secrets to starting our days right and making the most out of our...

In today's episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, we're talking about a no-prep grammar activity that your students are going to love. We'll be discussing common grammar mistakes like illogical verb shifts and pronoun errors, and how to teach students to avoid them. While teaching grammar can be difficult and a bit dry for our students, this fun and engaging activity will capture yo...

In today's episode, I explore the power of taking risks and making big decisions in life and dive into the idea that sometimes it's better to go for it than to wonder "What if?" We'll discuss how taking a step back and considering the bigger picture can help us overcome the fear of making irreversible choices. Here’s to another day of living intentionally. Caitlin

Welcome back to another episode of the Teaching Middle School ELA podcast! In today's episode, we have the privilege of delving into the world of school leadership with our special guest, Dr. Frederick Buskey. With over 17 years of experience in K-12 teaching, Dr. Buskey brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation. Caitlin and Dr. Buskey explore the importance of support and leadership s...

In today's episode, I explore a powerful concept that many of us struggle with: expectations. It's all too easy to get caught up in what we think should happen, but what if we let go of those expectations? Join me as I explore how setting visions and goals for ourselves, rather than rigid expectations, can lead to personal growth and fulfillment. Here’s to another day of living intention...

In this episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, we share a must-try classroom management activity for group work. We know that classroom minutes are precious, especially when there is so much content to cover. Our featured activity is a learning station exercise that will not only save time but also teach your students valuable skills like teamwork and efficient task completion. Join us as we dive...

On today’s Monday Mindset episode, I discuss the benefits of focusing on “the good stuff.” Our brains have a natural tendency to remember negative events more easily than positive ones. However, most of our day is actually neutral, without extreme emotions. But often, if there are a couple of negative events, we tend to label the entire day as "bad." That's where consciously focusin...

In today's episode, Caitlin and Jessica dive into an engaging activity that will have your students strategizing and debating on an uninhabited island. But don't worry, there's no plane crash involved! We'll be discussing the details of this exciting back-to-school activity and how it fosters skills like justification, evidence-based thinking, and critical analysis. Are you enj...

In today's Monday Mindset episode, I delve into the powerful concept that transforming our lives begins with a shift in our own perspectives. There is no better time than now to start making changes from within. We'll explore the idea of taking radical responsibility for our own lives, shaping our experiences, and the world around us. Here’s to another day of living intentionally. Caitli...

This episode of Teaching Middle School ELA is part two of a miniseries on breakthroughs in grammar instruction. We explore the three pillars of effective grammar instruction, which include effective direct instruction, engaging games, and application to writing. Approaching grammar instruction with a framework allows students to master the grammar standards and also apply these skills to their wri...

In this Monday Mindset episode, I explore the importance of recognizing your own worth as a teacher. It's no secret that teachers often forget their own value, consumed by the demands of their profession. But today, I want to remind you that you are valuable, and it's essential to prioritize yourself and your well-being. By taking care of yourself, you can offer better support and care t...

On this episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, we are excited to kick off the month of August with our listeners as we delve into the world of grammar and back-to-school topics. In this first episode of our two-part series, we will explore breakthroughs in grammar instruction and provide practical tips for implementation that will bring both rigor and engagement to your classroom. Are you enjoying...

Today I discuss the power of movement versus allowing our moods to dictate our life. Instead of allowing your mood to dictate your actions, try operating like someone who isn't feeling that way. Taking action, even when we don't feel like it, can lead to the creation of a positive mood. Don't let your emotions dictate your reality - take the first step towards a better future. Here’...

Confession time: Do you dread teaching writing? Do you struggle to teach writing and do your students struggle to produce anything passable that doesn’t take you hours to grade? If so, consider what might be your biggest struggle with writing. Whatever the struggle, has writing become your least favorite part of teaching English because it’s just SO. MUCH. WORK? We want to change that. At EB, we a...

Caitlin and Jessica dive into the frustration of students not meeting writing standards in this episode of Teaching Middle School ELA. Strategies to improve writing, including using a proven writing framework called the EBW approach is discussed. Tune in for practical ways to incorporate the EBW approach into your classroom and elevate your students' writing scores in just 30 minutes or less....

Today I discuss how we often get distracted by the world around us. We live in a “noisy” world, making it hard for us to just sit and be. Oftentimes that noise distracts us from being present to our purpose in this world–what we were put on this earth to do. I encourage you to go to that dark room, take the time to remove yourself from all the noise, and just sit with your thoughts to consider wha...

The RACE writing formula simply stands for “restate, answer, cite, and explain”. This is widely used by middle school ELA teachers teaching writing as it makes a great tool to help learners construct their answers in a clear, logical format. However, this formula proves to be challenging when students need to move into essay writing. If you’re one of the middle school ELA teachers who’s seeking he...

On this episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, Caitlin and Jessica discuss a fun and engaging lesson called "The Case of the Stolen Pearls" that can help middle school students enjoy writing. The activity involves solving a mystery to figure out which teacher stole a pearl necklace using an evidence-based writing approach. They discuss the importance of teaching literary analysis as the...