Teaching Middle School ELA

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...

In this episode, I delve into the concept of forgetting what you think you need. Life happens for us, not to us, and releasing the desire for unnecessary wants can bring about peace and happiness in the present moment. By questioning our perceived needs and taking responsibility for our own happiness, we can embrace a sense of inevitability in our success. I encourage you to let go of expectations...

Caitlin and Jessica discuss their EBW approach to literary analysis writing in this episode of Teaching Middle School ELA. This proven framework was developed by Caitlin and Jessica when they were middle school ELA classroom teachers. This writing approach provides a basis for other writing genres, offering students a clear structure that helps them become confident writers. Are you enjoying the p...

Today I delve into the power of staying brave. Inspired by Brene Brown's advice, I reflect on a recent batch planning event and the concept of staying brave in moments of uncertainty and vulnerability. Despite the acknowledgement that certain parts of the teaching process can be difficult and challenging, I encourage you to embrace the discomfort. So, when faced with challenging situations, w...

On this episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, Caitlin and Jessica focus on teaching writing and share a proven approach to teaching literary analysis. They discuss the positive impact of this approach on student growth and test score results. The episode emphasizes the importance of consistency and using text-dependent writing prompts to create a framework for students to build upon and respond t...

Today I’m delving into our expectations of others. Whether it's our partners, kids, or friends, we all have certain expectations. But what happens when these people let us down and fail to meet those expectations? Ultimately, people's behavior reveals their true selves, and it's important to let them be who they are. Remember, others' actions should not impact our own happiness...

On this episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, we explore expert hacks for saving time and streamlining planning while maintaining quality instruction. We introduce Chat GPT, a tool that can save time on the front end of planning, and share hacks for finding a go-to place for lessons and creating a distraction-free environment. We also discuss the benefits of using timers and setting reasonable ti...

On this episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, Caitlin and Jessica discuss the benefits of batch planning–a practice that involves lesson planning for a certain period of time to create lessons for an extended period. Successful batch planning can allow teachers to leave school on time and prevents teachers bringing work home. It also allows for more intentional planning to ensure high-quality, en...

Today I’m exploring the topic of embracing discomfort as a means of personal growth and change. Stepping out of your comfort zone and taking risks often leads to a more fulfilling life. Even in the classroom, teachers can bring in new ideas and methods that challenge them and bring positive results for students. By owning your discomfort and using it as a tool for growth, you can improve yourself...

On this episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, Caitlin and Jessica discuss the EB Teachers’ Club and their mission to support, inspire, and empower teachers in their roles. This episode dives deep into the importance of creating a personal vision and the power of visualization. Caitlin and Jessica share unconventional approaches to achieving teaching goals and offer personal stories of how their v...

On this episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, we explore the importance of having a classroom routine and planning framework to save time and aid classroom management. Caitlin and Jessica share practical tips and insights based on their experience, including the importance of using the standards as a guide for strategic lesson planning. They also stress the importance of starting class with a bel...

Today I’m exploring why it's important to take action towards your goals rather than just dreaming about them. The difference between those who succeed and those who do not are taking the leap and trying. Waiting to be "ready" will only hold you back, and failure is a valuable learning experience. Stop waiting and start doing whatever it is you desire, whether it's trying out a...

On this episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, Caitlin and Jessica explore how to maintain rigor in the classroom while engaging learners. Caitlin and Jessica share their structured approach to teaching ELA, which is offered to members of the EB Teachers’ Club. Listeners will hear about a fun and rigorous activity for teaching narrative writing using the game of MASH. These types of lessons and ac...

On this episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, Caitlin and Jessica share with listeners the importance of developing a systematic curriculum. They dive into the EB Lesson Planning Framework: "Into, Through, and Beyond" lesson planning. Spiraling activities throughout the year is key to building students' skills and proficiency through repetition. Teachers are invited to attend a fre...

Today, I’m discussing how to live intentionally and make choices that serve us in our lives. The importance of having a supportive community around you is crucial for achieving your vision and dreams. Life is short, and it's imperative to make the most of it because there are no second chances. Take a moment to reflect on whether or not the people you spend your time with are helping you grow...

On this episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, Caitlin and Jessica discuss intentional lesson planning and the benefits of an organized and systematic curriculum. Batch planning is a highly-effective way to organize teaching curriculum and maximize student learning. Caitlin and Jessica provide tips and strategies for effective batch planning and welcome teachers to join them for Batch Planning Liv...

On this episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, Caitlin and Jessica discuss the challenges that teachers face in fitting everything into their class periods. They share four strategies that can help teachers become more confident and in control of their lessons. They also offer tips for prioritizing responsibilities and time management to avoid burn-out. This episode is part of a series focused on...

Today, we’re diving into a discussion about becoming an unstoppable force in pursuing your dreams. I’m sharing my personal experience with how fitness has significantly changed my life and mindset, and how it is possible to harness the power of one's intangible qualities to pursue their vision for life. I’d like to encourage you to reflect on your own strengths and what makes them uniquely un...