Experienced adult writers are intimidated by the NaNoWriMo project, which entails writing a 50,000 word novel during the month of November. Who thought up such an event when writing is usually a much longer labor of love? Now imagine the faces of 8th graders when presented with this project? A teaching veteran of 30 years, […]
reThink ELA #010: Fostering Student-Led Discussions with the TQE Method
So much scrutiny is placed upon teachers and the classroom these days, especially when it comes to how students are learning critical thinking skills – or IF they’re learning critical thinking skills. Sometimes the “old school” ways of teaching simply don’t work and new techniques need to be tested. TQE is one such technique that […]
reThink ELA #009: Teaching Grammar In Context
Have you ever thought back to when you were in school and how you learned the rules of grammar and how to write? What techniques did your teachers use? Do you find that you’re implementing those exact same rules in your own classroom today? Some things bear updating and the ways in which we teach […]
reThink ELA #008: Interview with Shari Gateley
When I talk to other teacher friends, a common concern seems to be how to get our students engaged in the classroom lessons. So many students seem apathetic about their education, and it’s up to us to be creative in piquing their interest. One such way to engage kids and to teach them a multitude […]
reThink ELA #007: Interview with Jennifer Dean
Every single person on this earth has a voice. They have a unique story to be told. But how many of us actually use our voices and make our stories, thoughts, and opinions known to others? So many adults grow up thinking their voices don’t matter or that their opinions are unimportant. Some even believe […]