Teaching Middle School ELA

What if embracing honesty and vulnerability could transform your life? Let's listen one more time to one of our Monday Favorite episodes, I explore how truthfulness fosters self-love and personal growth. Learn how honest feedback—whether from yourself or others—can spark meaningful change and help you align with your true aspirations.

Dive into practical exercises and inspiring reflections to confront what holds you back and nurture what moves you forward.

Listen now and take the first step toward unlocking your full potential!

Here’s to another day of living intentionally.

Caitlin

Grammar lessons don’t have to be dull or disconnected from what students are reading! In this episode, we share three engaging strategies to teach grammar concepts through the sentences in your class's stories and books. You’ll hear all about using mentor sentences, setting up scavenger hunts for grammar elements, and exploring nonstandard dialects to enrich students’ understanding of language. With step-by-step ideas and examples, we'll make it easy to incorporate these strategies into any story or text.

Tune in for creative ways to bring grammar to life in your classroom!

This is a flashback from one of our favorite Monday Mindset episodes!

Imagine facing a challenge you once thought impossible—then conquering it with encouragement and the right mindset. This week, we explore how our beliefs shape our capabilities and the power of support in pushing past limits.

Discover how shifting self-talk and embracing accountability can open doors to growth in all areas of life.

Here’s to another day of living intentionally.

Caitlin

Join host Megan in this insightful episode as she welcomes back Dr. Deonna Smith, an inspiring advocate for educational equity. With experience as both a teacher and an administrator, Dr. Smith now collaborates with educators and school leaders to build vibrant, inclusive learning environments that support students from all backgrounds, especially those who are often marginalized. In today’s conversation, she shares practical tips on bringing culturally responsive teaching into your classroom and teaching in ways that are joyful, inclusive, and impactful. Don’t miss this chance to learn how to elevate your teaching and student engagement!

Click here for a special JOY Freebie:  https://purple-tiger-24284.myflodesk.com/kvrdy0ou0g

Let’s take a moment to revisit one of our favorite Monday Mindset episodes!

Facing fear can lead to unexpected joys and personal growth. Caitlin recounts a spontaneous UTV ride through the Arizona desert that challenged her preference for predictability and taught her the power of embracing the unknown. This adventure mirrors the daily challenges we all face, from tackling daunting tasks to having tough conversations, and how courage can transform our lives. Caitlin invites educators and listeners to reflect on applying these lessons in classrooms and personal lives, fostering meaningful discussions about confidence and resilience. Join her as we explore how small acts of courage can unlock deeper joy and inspire growth.

Here’s to another day of living intentionally.

Caitlin

In this episode, Jessica and Megan tackle the challenge of helping middle school students strengthen their reading fluency. Although students begin building these skills in elementary school, the complexity of middle school texts often requires extra support. Tune in as they share three powerful methods—choral reading, echo reading, and paired reading—plus a creative twist for making individual read-alouds engaging and low-pressure. It’s a must-listen for any teacher eager to enhance fluency, deepen comprehension, and boost student confidence in reading!

After listening, you'll have some simple, practical fluency practice strategies that you can start implementing today, with any classroom text your students are reading!

Ever feel like you're always chasing the next goal? Let's have a recap on our Monday Mindset favorite episode, Caitlin shared a revelation from a mastermind interview that changed her perspective on success. For years, she thrived on drive and determination, but this year, she embraced the word "receive." This shift opened her eyes to the beauty of balancing hustle with acceptance, allowing life's abundance to flow naturally. Discover how this mindset can transform your personal journey and relationships.

Here’s to another day of living intentionally.

Caitlin

Ready to have a ball during story and book discussions? In this episode, learn how to use a soccer or beach ball to create dynamic, engaging discussion experience with your students. We’ll walk you through all the steps, from creating prompts to guiding student conversations with discussion stems. Plus, hear about the researched benefits of adding movement to your lessons, like improving focus and classroom management.

Tune in for a fun, practical idea that you can "kick off" right away in your classroom!

Let’s take a moment to revisit one of our favorite Monday Mindset episodes! In this episode, we tackle self-doubt and the path to intentional living. If you've ever felt held back by insecurities despite the success around you, you're not alone. I'll share strategies and stories to turn small wins into big breakthroughs, building a "bank of evidence" that you’re more capable than you think.

I invite teachers to not only shift their own mindsets but also inspire their students to do the same. From handling batch planning to personal growth, we’ll guide you toward a life filled with confidence and purpose. 

Tune in and Here’s to another day of living intentionally.

Caitlin

In Episode 311, Jessica and Megan explore the benefits of using collaborative writing in the classroom. They will also tackle common concerns teachers have when assigning group projects. You'll learn how collaborative writing boosts communication skills, builds confidence, and encourages peer learning. Plus, you'll pick up practical tips on setting up group writing tasks, managing group dynamics, and assessing individual contributions and skills. Whether you're new to collaborative writing or looking to improve your approach, this episode is packed with ideas to help you succeed!