Sensitivity to Holidays

Writing About the Holidays The holiday season, for many, extends from November through February.  Families will be celebrating Diwali, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and the New Year at various times during these months. Writing about holidays is a wonderful way to share cultures in words, pictures, and music.  Yes, holidays also…

COLORS, ARRANGEMENT AND STORIES

Critical Thinking in Colors and Shapes Colors and arrangements can be used evoke different moods, different personalities, and different feelings.  Spend at least five minutes looking closely at this painting, Nine Colors by Ellsworth Kelly.  1.  What do you notice about the colors and arrangement of these circles on a…

Books for Boys

Perhaps, because so many elementary and middle school teachers are female, the books on our standard reading lists tend to appeal more to students of that same gender.  Not sure if that's the case, but admittedly teachers of young men in all grades recognize that our male students often are…

Engaging Starts

Introducing New Units of Study We know that getting off to a good start makes all the difference in the world.  Why not consider some of these ideas for kicking off your next unit of study or the next book you plan to teach.  With careful planning, gathering resources, and…

Exploring Genres of Fiction #2

#2 - Historical Fiction Teaching or assigning historical fiction can be a rewarding experience for teacher and students.  I’ve found it a great way to collaborate with colleagues on cross-content or interdisciplinary assignments.  Students have found it a wonderful way to learn about specific historical periods, people and events within the comfort…

PROFESSIONAL ENRICHMENT

A Thrilling and Chilling Ride Anna J. Small Roseboro, National Board Certified Teacher Past President of the California Association of Teachers of English*   Education policy is on a roller coaster ride that is both thrilling and chilling. Those of us who teach the English/language arts were excited about the research…
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