Struggling to close the writing gaps left behind by the pandemic? In this episode, I’m joined by Lisa from Mrs. Spangler in the Middle to talk about how her Leveled Writing Labs program is helping middle school students rebuild foundational writing skills through personalized, skill-based instruction. Designed specifically for middle schoolers, this intervention supports students at every level with lessons focused on thesis statements, topic sentences, supporting evidence, and more.

Lisa shares how diagnostic assessments place students at the right level, how the program uses Google Forms for easy self-assessment and teacher tracking, and why progress—not perfection—is the key to student success. Whether you’re working with struggling writers or looking for a more structured way to differentiate, this episode offers practical insight into closing learning gaps with confidence.

Read more in the show notes. 

Get to Know Lisa from Mrs. Spangler in the Middle:
Lisa is a 29 year middle school teaching veteran that is still teaching!  She creates Middle School ELA lessons & activities that provide solutions for struggling learners and empowers teachers to reach all learners in their classrooms.

Connect with Lisa

• Free Sample of The Leveled Writing Lab
• Shop Middle School ELA Solutions To Reach Every Learner
• Join the Journey on Instagram

Be sure to listen to all the episodes in the Summer Series. 

Be sure to join the Secondary ELA Facebook group. If you’re loving this podcast, please rate, review and follow!

Website: https://middleschoolcafe.com/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/secondaryela
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/middleschoolcafe/
TPT Shop: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Middle-School-Cafe