Figurative language is one of the hardest parts of the English language to understand. It is especially difficult for those ESOL students who are still learning the language. It is hard to not take the words people say literally. It's raining cats and dogs? Her smile is the ... read more
Classroom Management: 5 Tips for Managing Writer’s Workshop
Writer’s workshop time is a little like herding cats. Each child has a different story to tell, a different need for how to write, and different supports needed from you. So how can you manage it all and have students productively writing? Managing Writer's Workshop Tip 1: ... read more
3 Ways to Get the Most Out of Author’s Share
Author's Share is my favorite part of the writing lesson. It is the part where students show bravery, where they show kindness, and where I see the most growth. It is the perfect wrap-up and chance to have whole group conversations about topics or mistakes I see in my one-on-one conferences with ... read more
5 Poetry Types to Engage Readers and Writers
8 Types of Poetry Poetry is one of the easiest ways to bring out the creativity in all of your writers. There are many types of poetry for students to write. From the freedom of free verse to the counting of syllables in haikus, students are sure to find one that they enjoy ... read more
4 Strategies for A Calm and Successful Writer’s Workshop
Starting and running a writer's workshop can sometimes feel like you are herding cats. Students are working on 30 different things, you are bombarded with questions, and no one seems to know what they are expected to do. Here are a few tips to help you organize and run a smooth and successful ... read more