We like to follow the Boy Scouts’ motto “Be prepared” when it comes to absent students. This means that during the first week of school somewhere between going over our bathroom policy and playing some back to school activities, we address…
Between the two of us, we have switched grade levels and schools seven times in our teaching careers! With each transition there is obviously a new curriculum to learn and new expectations for ourselves and our students. We’ve learned that…
Something that’s proven invaluable for us in our ELA classrooms time and time again has been the emergency sub binder we have sitting on our desks. Even though emergencies are highly unlikely, and we’re generally able to get some sort…
This post contains affiliate links. There’s nothing better than a classroom library that is welcoming, inviting, and helps promote student interest in reading. I was lucky enough that this library I put together for my 5th graders cost me next…
As much as I would love to take credit for this brilliant idea, it was first introduced to me by the 4th grade teacher at our school. And I have to say, it is one of my favorite behavior management…
One of my biggest pet peeves is when our class is in the midst is a brilliant class discussion, and a student raises their hand … I call on them thinking more brilliance is about to be shared, and they ask,…
The first day of school. It’s a whirlwind few hours that leave us ready for bed by 7PM and longing for the carefree days of July when all your “worries” revolved around finding a beach towel and some sunscreen. But,…
I am thrilled to finally be sharing my classroom set-up with you after weeks and weeks of getting everything ready! This is my very first year teaching 5th grade (7th year teaching), and not only that, but I’m also at a…
When I was first given my weekly schedule, I quickly realized I was going to have to sit down for a while and figure out when/where each subject I was going to teach would end up. As a first-time 5th…
Back to School Night can sometimes be stressful, especially if you’re a newer teacher wanting to make that awesome first impression for your parents. We’ve compiled a quick list of tips to help get you through your first or twentieth…
Hi there! We're two middle school ELA teachers with a mission to share ideas, tips, and tricks for effectively teaching reading and writing in the secondary classroom. We're so happy you stopped by!
Caitlin + Jessica
