“Flipping” the Read Aloud
“I have come to believe that the person who is asking the questions is the person who has done the thinking.” In a fascinating article
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Literacy
Literacy is my jam! Find strategies, tips, and resources to help support your foundational reading, comprehension, and writing instruction.
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4 Easy Ways to Simplify Your Close Reading Lessons
After a few years of using close readings with my students, I’ve finally gotten to what I believe to be the optimal way to use this teaching strategy. I’m excited to share what’s worked for me and my students!
A Collaborative List of Great Read Aloud Titles
I see this question pop up all the time; “What are some suggested read alouds for xx grade?” I decided to create a LIVE Google Slides document where we can all go in and add our suggestions for good read alouds. You can also use the list to get suggestions. As with all things collaborative, remember to give more than you take so that the list can grow into a valuable resource for everyone!
Boost Accountability During Independent Reading
Try this simple strategy (and free template) to boost student accountability during independent reading time.
Brainstorm + Organize Writing Using an Author’s Talk
Often times when I’m teaching my students how to write a multi-paragraph essay, I find that they can get repetitive when adding their details to
Different Ways to Use Mentor Texts in the Classroom
The goal of using mentor texts in the classroom is quite simple: students learn by example, so in order to learn awesome writing skills, kids need to read awesome examples of writing!
Effective Strategies for Supporting Struggling Readers
When it comes to supporting struggling readers in upper elementary school, it’s essential to employ targeted strategies that address their specific needs. In this blog post, we will explore three effective techniques.
Five Ways To Teach R-Controlled Vowels
In this post, we will discuss the different r-controlled vowels and share strategies to help teach r-controlled vowels to our students!
Four Ways to Motivate Students During the Writing Process
Try these four easy ways to help motivate and empower even your most reluctant writers during the writing process!
Growth Mindset Mentor Texts + Writing Prompts
Growth mindset is one of the most important values we can instill in our students. Growth mindset teaches that no matter what, we are capable of succeeding with the right amount of perseverance, dedication, and hard work. What teacher wouldn’t want to base lessons on this concept? Inspirational mentor texts are one of the best methods to teach growth mindset, in my experience.
High-Frequency Words: Mapping Instead of Memorizing
Ways to teach high-frequency words, including heart words, that are aligned with the Science of Reading principals.
How to Integrate SEL Into Your Literacy Block
Incorporating Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is important, but can be challenging. Here’s an easy way to bring it into your literacy block!