Story Time

Whether you’re introducing the elements of a short story for the first time, or you need to review plot structure to analyze a novel, it’s nice to have a graphic organizer and ready-made analysis sheets to distribute to your students. I’ve added an item to both Teacher’s Notebook and Teachers Pay Teachers that can make this process more fun for you and your students.

If you have English Language Learners or Special Education students, having a mental model for them to organize their thoughts, makes things easier for them.

Check it out!

On T.N.: ' target=_blank>Character, Setting, & Plot

On T-p-T: Character, Setting, & Plot

Happy Teaching! :)

Happy New Year!!!

 

2012 was a great year. I learned a lot about things that work and things that don’t. I decided to make things easier on myself (and consequently more fun for the kids), by implementing more technology in my teaching! It was scary at first, but I realized it really saves time and it’s more engaging for them.

First of all, rather than paper journals, the kids are using “Kid Blog” to record their thoughts and feelings. Let’s face it. Blogging is the new journaling anyway.

Next, I’ve been using www.spellingcity.com for my students to practice and take their spelling tests. There are lots of activities they can do on “Spelling City” to learn the words – meaning, pronunciation AND spelling. It’s fun for them and a quick and easy grade for me!

Last (but not least), I have been allowing my students time to practice their typing skills on “Type to Learn”. They need practice typing. Too many of them STILL hunt and peck on the keyboard! AHHHH!!!!

I hope 2013 brings lots of excitement and wonder into your classrooms and your hearts. We’re starting our research projects. So be looking for some research lessons soon. In the meantime, check out a figurative language lesson, get your students’ papers organized into a ELAR notebook, or get ideas on how to use literacy stations by going to:

Teacher’s-Pay-Teacher’s Store:

http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/I-Heart-Middle

-and-

Teacher’s Notebook Shop:

http://www.teachersnotebook.com/shop/IHEARTMIDDLE

I have New Year’s Sales going on NOW!!!!