Two Middle School ELA Teachers: Recent Episodes
Shannon Temple and Tammy Davis
Welcome to our show! We're Shannon and Tammy, two middle school ELA teacher besties with over twenty years of teaching experience. If you're a middle school ELA teacher and could use some fresh inspiration, listen to see if this podcast is for you! We will share lessons, activities, tips, and strategies that have made our own ELA classrooms successful!
Spring fever is real — and if your middle school students are suddenly acting like they have forgotten how to sit, listen, think, or care, you are not alone.
In this episode, I'm sharing a fun poetry lesson I tried today when my students were restless, distracted, and not exactly eager to do "regular school." I used the poem "Autobiography in Five Short Chapters," but this same idea could work with almost any poem you are already teaching.
The best part? The lesson actually worked. Students were engaged, they were thinking, they were talking, and it even gave me a fresh idea for what to do next.
If you are a middle school ELA teacher trying to survive the last stretch of the school year, this episode will give you a simple, low-prep poetry activity you can use right away.
What makes a teacher truly effective?
Is it the lessons they design? The strategies they use? The test scores their students achieve?
In this episode of Two Middle School ELA Teachers by ELA Core Plans, we explore 12 characteristics of effective teachers that students consistently remember years later.
If you're a teacher who wants to make a lasting impact—not just academically, but personally—this episode will encourage you and remind you why the work you do matters.
We'll also share a fun St. Patrick's Day writing activity you can use with your students that practices important ELA skills while keeping students engaged. You can find the link below.
Click here for two FREE engaging writing activities to use this March in your middle school ELA classroom! These are perfect for St. Patrick's Day!
In this episode for Middle School ELA teachers, we tackle the nonstop "roast climate" that can hijack your class—yo mama jokes, put-downs, and the back-and-forth that feeds off the audience. You'll learn how to tell the difference between joking and harmful comments using the Roast Scale, what to say in the moment, and how to use clear, consistent consequences to shut it down and reset your classroom culture.
This link will take you to the Google Form for signing-up to be our very first teacher that we get to help launch 5 TPT Products with a personalized blueprint! ! We can't wait to help you! Sign up today! We will select one teacher later in January!
In this episode, Shannon shares two quick, high-engagement writing activities you can use right away—even if winter weather has your schedule totally off track. You'll hear how "The Day the Rules Disappeared" works as a persuasive writing lesson and a classroom reset, plus a fun Valentine's option, "Break Up With Winter," that gets even reluctant writers to buy in.
Both resources are FREE and include print-and-teach materials, with an optional interactive extension linked inside. Grab both freebies here!
The Day the Rules Disappeared
Break Up With Winter
January can feel like the first day of school all over again—except your middle schoolers are louder, bolder, and ready to test every boundary. In this episode, we're sharing practical, real-life strategies for middle school ELA teachers who need a true classroom reset after winter break. You'll learn how to choose the most important behaviors to reset, tighten routines without long lectures, prevent problems before they start, and respond calmly and consistently when students push back—so you can get your class back on track fast.
This link will take you to the Google Form for signing-up to be our very first teacher that we get to help launch 5 TPT Products with a personalized blueprint! ! We can't wait to help you! Sign up today! We will select one teacher later in January!
If your students stare blankly at rubrics or ignore them altogether, this episode is for you.
In this episode of Two Middle School ELA Teachers, Shannon shares a fun, low-stakes, and unforgettable way to introduce students to what a rubric really is—by blowing bubbles. You'll hear how she uses a bubble-blowing challenge to teach the two essential parts of a rubric (criteria and levels) and how that experience gives students the confidence to understand and use the SC READY argumentative writing rubric.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- How to set up the bubblegum rubric activity
- How to transition into the real writing rubric using student-friendly language
- How to run a fishbowl scoring activity that helps students internalize rubric expectations
- Why rubrics give students power—and how to make that message stick
Grab our free bubble gum rubric here!
Get ready for a frightfully fun October in your ELA classroom! In this episode, Shannon shares how to host a One-Sentence Spooky Story Week to teach sentence structure, punctuation, and style in a way that feels creative and seasonal. Learn how to help students start sentences in new ways, weave in clauses and phrases, and build suspense in just one chilling line. Then, discover how a Dead Word Funeral sets the perfect stage for stronger word choice all month long. Packed with mentor examples, teaching tips, and Halloween classroom magic — this one's a must-listen for ELA teachers who love a good scare and great writing.
Check out our Weak Words Dead and Gone Activity Pack in our TPT store!
Every teacher has those days—when behaviors feel overwhelming, the lesson doesn’t land, or you leave school wondering if you’re really making a difference. In this episode, I open up about the reality of defeated days in the classroom and share five practical ways to reset. You’ll also hear encouragement to remind you that one hard day doesn’t define your calling. Tomorrow is a brand-new chance, and your presence matters more than you know.
Are you accidentally making behavior problems worse in your middle school classroom? In this episode, Shannon and Tammy break down five common teacher defense mechanisms—from lagging on lessons to fisheye syndrome—that feel easier in the moment but slowly wreck classroom climate. You’ll hear real examples from our classrooms, practical strategies to use instead, and encouragement to step into behavior management with confidence.
Want more help with classroom management? We have a Classroom Management Playbook that you can check out in our TPT store. This resource is also included in our ELA Core Club!
Ready to purchase all of the systems in the ELA Core Club and have coaching calls with us? Click here!
If you prefer to purchase on TPT, we offer a bundle for each grade level that’s very similar to the ELA Core Club. The only difference is that it doesn’t include the coaching piece (two calls and unlimited email support). You can grab the Yearlong ELA Curriculum: Everything You Need for 6th, 7th, or 8th grade by clicking the links below.
6th Grade Yearlong ELA Curriculum
7th grade Yearlong ELA Curriculum
8th grade Yearlong ELA Curriculum
In this episode, I’m sharing a quick, engaging vocabulary activity you can try tomorrow in your middle school ELA class and an update that will make your planning life easier.
Be sure and download our FREE sample of the ELA Core Club! Just click the link below.
https://bit.ly/elaclubfreebie
Ready to purchase all of the systems in the ELA Core Club and have coaching calls with us? Click here!
If you prefer to purchase on TPT, we offer a bundle for each grade level that’s very similar to the ELA Core Club. The only difference is that it doesn’t include the coaching piece (two calls and unlimited email support). You can grab the Yearlong ELA Curriculum: Everything You Need for 6th, 7th, or 8th grade by clicking the links below.
6th Grade Yearlong ELA Curriculum
7th grade Yearlong ELA Curriculum
8th grade Yearlong ELA Curriculum
In today’s episode of Two Middle School ELA Teachers by ELA Core Plans, Shannon shares one of her all-time favorite middle school ELA classroom activities! This isn’t just fun and games—it’s powerful ELA instruction wrapped in courtroom drama. If you want the complete mock trial resource for Rikki-tikki-tavi that is discussed in this episode, you can download it on TPT by clicking this link!
Also.. we’ve got a free gift just for YOU, our listeners. You can now download a free sample of the ELA Core Club for 6th, 7th, or 8th grade. It’s packed with ready-to-use resources:
✔️ Two weeks of Core Chomp and Standard Start bell ringers ✔️ Unit 1 of grammar ✔️ Unit 1 of vocabulary ✔️ Free handouts from our Best Practices and Mini Lesson folders
Grab yours here: https://bit.ly/elaclubfreebie
This isn’t just a sneak peek—it’s a full-on jumpstart to running your middle school ELA classroom with confidence and consistency. If you love the sample, the full ELA Core Club is a one-time purchase you can use for years. Plus, it comes with unlimited email support for a year and two personal coaching calls with us!
Also, if you haven't had a chance to grab your free first week lessons, you can visit this link to grab those: bit.ly/ELAFreeWeek
If you love the freebie, and you're ready to start using all of the resources in the ELA Core Club, click here to purchase and use the code ELAInsiders for a discount (good through Sept. 8, 2025)!
Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned pro looking for a streamlined system, this episode—and the freebie—are for you.
Classroom management doesn’t have to be a trial-by-fire experience. In this episode of Two Middle School ELA Teachers, Shannon and Tammy get real about the rookie behavior mistakes they made—and still see others making—in middle school classrooms.
Whether you're a brand new teacher or a veteran who’s feeling the midweek burnout, this heart-to-heart will leave you with practical behavior tips you can use tomorrow.
Bonus Resources Mentioned:
- Grab your FREE back-to-school printables for 6th, 7th, and 8th grade: bit.ly/elafreeweek
- Want the full Classroom Behavior Playbook? It’s inside the ELA Core Club—a one-time purchase packed with systems that help you manage your classroom and fit everything in. Use the code ELAINSIDER for a discount until September 8th!
Let’s reflect together:
- What rookie behavior mistake are you still making?
- What’s one small habit you can shift this week?
- Who’s in your corner when you need support?
In this episode of Two Middle School ELA Teachers, we’re announcing the three amazing winners of our ELA Core Club Giveaway. We're thrilled for these teachers to experience the full power of the ELA Core Club Year-long curriculum!
But that’s not all... we’ve got a free gift just for YOU, our listeners. You can now download a free sample of the ELA Core Club for 6th, 7th, or 8th grade. It’s packed with ready-to-use resources:
✔️ Two weeks of Core Chomp and Standard Start bell ringers ✔️ Unit 1 of grammar ✔️ Unit 1 of vocabulary ✔️ Free handouts from our Best Practices and Mini Lesson folders
🎁 Grab yours here: https://bit.ly/elaclubfreebie
This isn’t just a sneak peek—it’s a full-on jumpstart to running your middle school ELA classroom with confidence and consistency. If you love the sample, the full ELA Core Club is a one-time purchase you can use for years. Plus, it comes with unlimited email support for a year and two personal coaching calls with us!
Also, if you haven't had a chance to grab your free first week lessons, you can visit this link to grab those: bit.ly/ELAFreeWeek
If you love the freebie, and you're ready to start using all of the resources in the ELA Core Club, click here to purchase and use the code ELAInsiders for a discount (good through Sept. 8, 2025)!
Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned pro looking for a streamlined system, this episode—and the freebie—are for you.
Start your school year with laughter, connection, and classroom community! In this episode of Two Middle School ELA Teachers by ELA Core Plans, we’re sharing engaging icebreakers that are perfect for Day 1 in your ELA classroom. From team-building challenges to creative communication games, you’ll find activities that help students bond—and make your first day fun and memorable. Plus, don’t miss our giveaway! Go take a look at our newest product - ELA Core Club and use the discount code to save today!
Mentioned in this episode:
- Freebie + Giveaway: bit.ly/ELAFreeWeek
- Discount Code: ELAInsiders (good through Sept 8)
Want to start the school year strong with a classroom full of motivated, respectful, and engaged middle schoolers? In this episode of Two Middle School ELA Teachers, we dive into one of the most important (yet often overlooked) ingredients for classroom success: classroom climate.
You’ll walk away with ideas you can use right away to create a space your students will love walking into—and that you’ll love teaching in.
Don’t forget to grab your free week of ELA lessons to kick off the year with confidence! Get entered into the ELA Core Club giveaway when you download. Link below.
💬 Mentioned in this episode:
- TikTok Teacher: Misty Brock, and us ~ ELA Core Plans!
- Freebie + Giveaway: bit.ly/ELAFreeWeek
- Discount Code: ELAInsiders (good through Sept 8)
Prime Day is here, and we’re sharing some of our favorite classroom tools, organizational must-haves, and a few fun teacher splurges that make the school year smoother. In this episode, we’re walking you through our top Amazon picks—things we use (and love!) in our middle school ELA classrooms to stay calm, collected, and ready to teach.
From color-coded folders and dry erase boards to our dream ice maker and a pencil dispenser that actually works, we’re talking practical meets fun—and we’ve got a full wish list you can browse!
PLUS: Don’t forget—every teacher who downloads a free week of plans from the ELA Core Club is automatically entered to win a complete Core Club for their grade level (6th, 7th, or 8th). One-time purchase, lifetime calm.
Links from the Episode:
- Our Amazon Prime Day Wish List
- Free Week + Giveaway Entry: bit.ly/elafreeweek
- Use code ELAINSIDERS for 25% off the Core Club through Sept 8!
Take what helps, skip what doesn’t, and treat yourself to something that makes teaching a little easier. You deserve it!
In this episode, we’re talking about the three systems every middle school ELA teacher should have in place before school starts — systems that save time, reduce stress, and actually work all year long!
Plus, we’ll show you how to grab everything we mention (and then some!) inside the ELA Core Club — and how to get started with our free First Week ELA Launch Kit!
Grab your free week of lesson plans here!
When you download, you’ll automatically be entered to win the full ELA Core Club for your grade level!
Let’s make this your smoothest school year yet — systems first, stress-free planning second.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing how I’m spending my summer—and it’s not just about relaxing! From reading a powerful book to exploring creative outlets, I’m discovering some exciting ways to bring new ideas into my world, and I want to share how you can do this too! Plus, I’ve got a special offer for those of you looking to make a move this summer. Tune in to hear how you can start building something incredible and why now is the perfect time to take action.
Links mentioned in the show: ChatGPT Quick Course
Ready to secure your 25% discount on our upcoming resource for new middle school ELA teachers? Fill out the form below to be one of the first 25 teachers to get this exclusive offer. Don’t miss out!
Click here to sign up for your discount!
2 End-of-Year ELA Activities Your Students Will Actually Enjoy
It’s May, the end of the school year, and we all know what that means – restless students, tired teachers, and a countdown to summer break. But before you toss your gradebook in the air and head for the beach, I’ve got two creative, low-prep ELA activities that will keep your students engaged and laughing through the final days of school.
In this episode, I’ll share: ✅ The Year in Review Skit Challenge – a high-energy, creative way to wrap up the year and review characters, themes, and conflicts. ✅ Plotline Pictionary – a fast-paced, student-generated game that’s perfect for reinforcing key scenes and literary elements.
Plus, I’ll give you a sneak peek at how I’m using ChatGPT to survive these last days of school – and how you can too.
So if you’re ready to keep your students learning (and keep your sanity intact) through the last days of the year, this episode is for you.
Links Mentioned in the Show: 🎯 Freebie – Your First 10 Minutes with ChatGPT (Teacher Edition) 🎯 AI for Teachers Course – Learn to use ChatGPT to save hours every week
Happy teaching, and thanks for listening!
Are you unknowingly teaching to just a few students while the rest fade into the background? In this solo episode of Two Middle School ELA Teachers, Shannon dives into two hidden classroom challenges—fisheye syndrome and the classic case of hogs and logs.
In this episode of Two Middle School ELA Teachers by ELA Core Plans, Shannon shares effective strategies for keeping middle school students engaged and motivated during the end-of-year slump, especially in April and May. With state testing approaching, it can be challenging to maintain focus, but Shannon offers practical tips to help. Listen for fresh ideas on how to keep your students energized, on task, and ready to finish the school year strong.
In this episode of Two Middle School ELA Teachers by ELA Core Plans, Shannon shares a fun and competitive review game called "Sink or Swim" that’s perfect for engaging middle school students in ELA practice. Learn how to use this game to review important concepts like comma rules, test prep, and more. Shannon also shares a helpful hack for finding released test questions to help your students prepare for state assessments, and how you can incorporate them into your classroom with a competitive twist. Tune in for a quick, easy-to-implement game that your students will love! If you'd like to use our comma rules task cards plus games, check them out by clicking here!
Test prep season is here, and middle school ELA teachers know the struggle—students zoning out while reading passage after passage. In this episode, we’re sharing high-impact comprehension strategies that actually work! We’ll talk about five strategies that that work for fiction and nonfiction to help students stay engaged, monitor their understanding, and tackle test passages with confidence.
Grading essays can be overwhelming, especially with a large class. In this episode, I share how I used ChatGPT to provide detailed, consistent, and unbiased feedback on my middle school students' writing. I’ll walk you through the exact process I used, how it saved me hours of grading time, and why my students actually found the feedback more helpful than traditional comments.
In this episode of Two Middle School ELA Teachers, Shannon takes you through an engaging, hands-on activity called "The Great Nonfiction Scavenger Hunt"—perfect for introducing nonfiction to your middle school students. Say goodbye to zoning out during note-taking and hello to interactive stations that keep students moving, thinking, and learning. Shannon shares how she sets up six stations focused on key nonfiction concepts like text features, text structures, author’s purpose, and more. Plus, she introduces the 3 Big Questions that will help students approach nonfiction texts with deeper thinking for the rest of the year.
Episode Description: Get your students up and moving with this fun and engaging ELA activity! In this episode, we’re diving into the Context Clue Walk About, where students work in pairs to decipher word meanings using context clues in a hands-on, interactive way. Learn how to set it up, teach context clue strategies with the LEAD acronym, and choose the perfect words for your middle schoolers. Plus, we’ll share tips for keeping students on task and ideas for adapting this activity to teach other ELA standards. Don’t miss this classroom-tested idea that your students will love!
What makes a teacher truly unforgettable? In this episode of Two Middle School ELA Teachers by ELA Core Plans, we explore the elusive “It Factor” that sets exceptional teachers apart. These are the educators who connect effortlessly with students, make learning engaging, and leave a lasting impact on young lives.
Join us as we break down the key qualities that define the “It Factor". We’ll share stories, insights, and practical tips for fostering these traits in your own classroom. Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or just starting out, this episode is a must-listen for anyone aiming to inspire, connect, and teach with impact.
In this episode of Two Middle School ELA Teachers by ELA Core Plans, we’re diving into the art of argumentative writing with “A Clever Lesson for Argumentative Writing.” We’ll explore an engaging lesson plan that helps middle schoolers master the essentials of crafting strong arguments.
From brainstorming and prewriting to gathering evidence and structuring a well-organized essay, we cover strategies to make argumentative writing clear and compelling. We’ll share insights on using the Four Square prewriting method, tips for avoiding common pitfalls, and a brainstorming session focused on aspects like author’s style, realistic characters, pacing, and figurative language.
Perfect for preparing students to tackle end-of-year state tests, this episode is packed with practical ideas to inspire your next writing lesson!
link for the prompt
link for the tool to teach how to write grabbers/leads
Welcome to the Two Middle School ELA Teachers podcast by ELA Core Plans! In this episode, we’re diving into a simple yet transformative strategy that could revolutionize your classroom—retesting with a twist. As middle school ELA teachers, we know how disheartening it can be when students close their Chromebooks after a test without a second thought. But what if there was a way to turn that test into a powerful learning experience?
Discover a dynamic and engaging way to manage your ELA classroom with our latest episode! We dive into the innovative concept of classroom economies, where students become savvy financial managers, earning and spending classroom currency. Learn how this system can transform behavior management and foster real-world skills in responsibility, financial literacy, and teamwork. Tune in for practical tips, job ideas, and ready-to-use handouts to kickstart your own classroom economy. Perfect for middle school educators looking to motivate and inspire their students!
Welcome to Two Middle School ELA Teachers, the podcast where we unravel the complexities of English Language Arts. Join us as we explore innovative strategies, like incorporating writing prompts before reading assignments, to help students master new standards and excel in state assessments. This season, discover how our UQO method—Underline, Question, and Original Thinking—empowers students to think critically and connect reading and writing in meaningful ways. Tune in for practical tips, engaging discussions, and a fresh perspective on ELA education!
7th Grade 1st nine weeks Pacing Guide
Join us in this episode as we delve into Notice & Note: Strategies for Close Reading by Kylene Beers, Robert E. Probst, and G. Kylene Beers.
Discover the six essential reading signposts introduced in the book, designed to engage students deeply with any fictional text. These signposts guide students to identify significant literary moments, prompting critical thinking and discussions. We'll explore each signpost—Contrasts and Contradictions, Aha Moment, Tough Questions, Words of the Wiser, Again and Again, and Memory Moment—explaining their purpose and how to implement them in the classroom.
We'll share practical tips on introducing and modeling the signposts, guided practice, and encouraging independent practice. Hear how these strategies are boosting students' reading and analytical skills in our own classrooms through short stories and book clubs.
Don't miss our free first nine weeks pacing guides for grades 6-8, available for download.
6th Grade 1st nine weeks Pacing Guide
7th Grade 1st nine weeks Pacing Guide
8th Grade 1st nine weeks Pacing Guide
Join us for engaging discussions on middle school book clubs and First Chapter Fridays. Explore captivating reads, share insights, and inspire a love for reading among young students. Discover practical tips for making First Chapter Fridays a success. Tune in to learn how to create lifelong readers in your classroom!
Our Book Club Resource
6th Grade 1st nine weeks Pacing Guide
7th Grade 1st nine weeks Pacing Guide
8th Grade 1st nine weeks Pacing Guide
In this episode, we dive into the essentials of classroom management, focusing on four key areas: relationships, engagement, bell-to-bell instruction, and transitions and procedures. Discover how to create a positive, productive, and engaging learning environment where students thrive.
What You’ll Learn:
- Building Relationships: Tips for establishing trust and respect, understanding your students, and maintaining open communication.
- Enhancing Engagement: Strategies to keep students actively involved in their learning through varied instructional methods and the use of technology.
- Bell-to-Bell Instruction: How to maximize instructional time with clear objectives, prepared materials, and seamless transitions.
- Effective Transitions and Procedures: Setting clear expectations, using visual aids, and reinforcing positive behaviors to ensure a smooth and orderly classroom.
Join us as we share practical advice and real-life examples to help you manage your classroom effectively. Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned educator, these insights will help you keep the main things the main things when it comes to classroom management.
Back to School Bell Work
6th Grade 1st nine weeks Pacing Guide
7th Grade 1st nine weeks Pacing Guide
8th Grade 1st nine weeks Pacing Guide
In this episode, we are sharing our top picks for Amazon Prime Day deals that every middle school ELA teacher should know about! These hand-picked items will not only save you money but also enhance your teaching experience. Tune in to hear about these deals and how we use them or plan to use them. Don't miss out on these must-have Amazon Prime Day bargains designed to make your ELA classroom a success.
Amazon List One
Amazon List Two
Join us in this episode as we share the secrets to starting a successful Teachers Pay Teachers (TpT) store. Ranked in the 99th percentile, we’ll guide you through the initial steps of becoming a TpT seller, from creating unique products to choosing the right membership. Discover how you and a friend can collaborate, generate extra income, and reignite your creativity as educators. Perfect for ELA teachers looking to make a meaningful impact and boost their earnings. Subscribe now and start your TpT journey with confidence!
Our store ~ ELA Core Plans
Before you open a store, you probably want to make sure you have some products or at least can make some products, so this episode will help you take some inventory of what you have and how you can create quality products.
Please complete this quick Google Form if you would like to hear more content like what is included in this episode!
We would love to look at your ideas and give you feedback! Feel free to email us!
stemple@elacoreplans.com
tdavis@elacoreplans.com
Today, Tammy and I will share the first episode in this summer series, where we’ll outline four compelling reasons why you should join forces with your best teacher friend and start selling on Teachers Pay Teachers (TpT).
We began our journey back in 2006 with S&T Publications and transitioned to TpT as ELA Core Plans in 2013. Since then, we've achieved incredible success, ranking in the top 1% of TpT sellers. We’re eager to share our experiences and insights with you, and maybe even inspire you to start your own TpT business with a friend.
If you would like to see more content like this, please fill out this Google Form
In this episode of "Two Middle School ELA Teachers" by ELA Core Plans we are sharing an exciting end-of-year activity to keep middle school students engaged and motivated as the school year comes to a close. We'll tell you about a fun and low-maintenance activity that brings literature to life. Additionally, I will also share an alternative idea of updating fairy tales to modern settings for a fresh spin on storytelling. You can find our modern day fairy tale resource by clicking here. Don't miss out on this creative and enjoyable activity for wrapping up the school year!
Join us as we share some fun games for test prep season. In this episode, we will share two games that you can play immediately in your classroom as you tackle the end of the year review in your ELA classrooms.
In this episode of "Two Middle School ELA Teachers by ELA Core Plans," join Shannon as she shares secrets for bringing poetry to life in your middle school ELA classroom. Building upon previous discussions about introducing poetry in the classroom, Shannon dives into the realm of narrative poetry with a focus on Alfred Noyes' timeless classic, "The Highwayman." Discover Shannon's engaging teaching methods, from interactive historical discussions about highwaymen to dynamic sound effect readings of the poem that will captivate your students! Be sure to download this FREE resource discussed in the episode, and if you missed it, you can also grab the free poetry resource for writing cicada haiku here. If you need a resource for the upcoming solar eclipse, click here, and as mentioned, the resource for Slam Poetry can be accessed by clicking here.
Introduce poetry to your students with these fresh and fun ideas for your middle school ELA classroom! In this episode, explore an inquiry-based activity where students roam the room, absorbing diverse poems and creating their unique 'found poems.' This activity is followed by another fun introduction involving music! We will talk about how we used Tracy Chapman's 'Fast Car' to teach students to annotate and explore poems like 'Oranges' by Gary Soto and 'Autobiography in Five Short Chapters' by Portia Nelson. Tune in for engaging activities that spark creativity and understanding in your poetry unit! Oh, and grab the free resource mentioned in this episode here!
Join us as we reveal surprising events in 2024 that promise to infuse excitement into your classrooms. This year in 2024, there are two natural phenomena that can become captivating learning experiences for middle school ELA students. This episode is filled with creative ideas and resources. Listen in to uncover the surprise elements that will add a unique touch to your teaching toolkit. Be sure to grab the FREEBIE mentioned in this episode here! Also, check out the TpT resource mentioned about the total eclipse of 2024 here. Don't miss out – let the adventure begin!
In this episode of "Two Middle School ELA Teachers," Shannon takes you on a journey through a day in her 7th-grade ELA classroom. Recorded solo in the quiet aftermath of a Wednesday evening, Shannon shares the intricacies of her classroom routine, and shares exactly what she did in that day. Join her as she guides her students through engaging activities, imparts essential ELA concepts, and gives you a glimpse into the dynamic life of an ELA teacher. Tune in for insights, anecdotes, and a snapshot of the middle school ELA experience!
With a keen focus on moving students from merely "renting" knowledge to truly owning it, Shannon shares practical strategies and experiences that have proven effective in her own middle school ELA classroom.
Discover how the philosophy of repetition can revolutionize the learning experience, especially in areas like grammar, vocabulary, and writing. Shannon discusses the importance of consistent review and practice to solidify concepts, challenging the common trend where students seem to forget what they've learned over short breaks.
In this episode titled "Let's Be Honest," we will tackle topics like teacher burnout, challenging students, and navigating difficult relationships with colleagues. Through candid conversations and practical insights, we shed light on the rewarding, yet sometimes tough, journey of educators, emphasizing the importance of self-care and the long-lasting impact of teaching.
In this episode, we delve into how you can use Twilight Zone episodes in your middle school ELA classroom. Discover how these thought-provoking stories provide an excellent platform for teaching ELA, including character development analysis, exploring moral dilemmas, and dissecting literary elements such as symbolism and foreshadowing.
We'll discuss how "The Twilight Zone" seamlessly aligns with Common Core State Standards by integrating multimedia sources into the curriculum, enriching students' comprehension, and promoting critical thinking skills. Plus, we have some exciting news! If you want some resources with read to teach activities using some of our favorite "Twilight Zone" episodes, you can check out our Twilight Zone bundle by clicking this link!
Join us, two middle school ELA teachers from ELA Core Plans, as we discuss our favorite time of the year in the middle school ELA classroom – October! In this episode, we share our excitement for spooky stories and how we plan to engage our students during this season. We highlight the classic tales that we have lined up for the month of October. You can check out our newest resource for the spooky short story "Click Clack the Rattlebag" by clicking here!
Transitions are a natural part of any lesson, and if handled correctly, they can save time and minimize disruptions. Discover tips on organization, efficient paper handling, clear instructions, and tech-savvy solutions to keep your students engaged and your lessons flowing smoothly. Whether you're a seasoned teacher or just starting your journey in education, these strategies will help you create an environment where transitions are not a source of chaos but an opportunity for learning. Tune in and transform your classroom transitions today!
Ever faced the challenge of having middle school students who struggle to construct even a single sentence? We have been there too. We will unravel practical strategies to turn sentence struggles into writing successes from day one. Discover how to teach the foundational skills often overlooked, whether your students are beginners or seasoned writers.
Starting the year with sentence-writing activities is key! Worried about engagement? Rest assured, these strategies are tailored to middle schoolers' needs, fostering growth for every student.
Need some mentor sentences to use for modeling? Check this resource out in our TpT store!
Mentor Sentences for Middle School
In our podcast "All Systems a Go,", you will discover proven strategies to run a successful ELA classroom in the first nine weeks of school. From grammar to vocabulary and writing, we've got you covered. Don't miss out on free pacing guides and engaging resources. Get ready to inspire young minds and elevate your teaching! Happy listening!
First Nine Weeks Free Pacing Guide Middle School ELA 6th Grade
Frist Nine Weeks Pacing Guide - 7th Grade
First Nine Weeks Pacing Guide - 8th grade
Welcome to "Two Middle School ELA Teachers!" In the first nine weeks, we lay the groundwork for essential skills like grammar, analysis, objective summaries, word choice, gist statements, and themes in stories. Through strategic bell ringers and proven methods, we empower students for academic success. Be sure to download our free first nine weeks pacing guide for 7th grade and the second nine weeks too!
Join us on "Two Middle School ELA Teachers" as we share our top Amazon wishlist items for this upcoming school year! In this episode, we're not promoting specific brands or seeking any kickbacks. Instead, we focus on the items themselves and their potential to create a positive and engaging classroom environment. Tune in to discover practical and inspiring ideas that can make a difference in your own teaching journey.
In this episode of "Two Middle School ELA Teachers," we delve into the essential strategies for effective classroom management. We explore three key pillars that lay the foundation for a positive and productive learning environment: establishing expectations and routines, communication and preventing problems, and efficient classroom management.
Whether you're a new or experienced educator, this episode will provide valuable insights and practical tips to help you enhance your classroom management skills. Join us as we empower you to create a positive, engaged, and harmonious learning environment for your students. Tune in and master the three pillars of classroom management!
Click here to see our bell ringers we mention in this podcast!
Welcome to the first episode of "What it Takes to Manage a Middle School ELA Classroom," a two-part series. In this episode, we dive into the ever-evolving challenges of today's classroom environment and provide insights based on 24 years of experience teaching middle school. In this episode, we offer practical tips, such as storytelling and intentional communication, to help teachers connect with their students on a deeper level. From writing personalized letters to offering individual and class-wide praise, these strategies foster a positive classroom climate and promote engagement. Join us as we explore the essential ingredients for managing a middle school ELA classroom and empowering both teachers and students to thrive. Tune in to gain valuable insights and inspiration for your own teaching journey.
In this episode, we share practical tips and strategies for teachers as they wrap up the school year and prepare for the next one. Join us as we discuss practical tips for things you can do right now to equip you to have a smooth transition and start the upcoming academic year on a strong note.
In this episode, join us as we discuss a favorite assignment for both teachers and students. They're called one-pagers, and students love them because they get to have creative freedom. Teachers love them because they're easier to grade than essays! We will provide insights on what one-pagers are, practical tips on incorporating them into your curriculum, and strategies for making them effective. Unleash your students' creativity and empower them to showcase their understanding of literature in visually captivating ways. From exploring different approaches to offering guidance on best practices, this episode will equip you with the tools to implement one-pagers in your ELA classroom immediately!
Looking for a fun and engaging end-of-the-year project for your middle school ELA students? As middle school teachers, we know what it's like at the end of the year: kids are tired, teachers are tired, and testing is over. That's why we're sharing a project that's high interest and high engagement for students but low prep for teachers.
In this episode, we'll talk about an inquiry-based project that's perfect for the end of the year: having your students write and illustrate a children's book!
Tune in to hear us walk you through the steps of how you can foster this project in your classroom. We will tell you how to do it all yourself, but if you want to save some time, don't forget to check out our Writing a Children's Book resource in our TpT store where you can find everything already done you to make this project work!
In this episode, we discuss two fun and creative activities that are perfect for the end of the school year. The first activity is called "Welcome to my Fairytale," where students work in groups to update classic fairytales and perform skits for the class. The second activity is slam poetry, where students learn about poetic elements and write their own poems to perform. We provide examples and ideas for each activity, and even offer links to resources you can use in your classroom. These engaging activities will keep your students motivated and excited about learning until the very end of the school year! Show notes can be found on our blow at www.elacoreplans.com
It's test taking season, and that means we should prepare our students to do their best! In this podcast, we bring you fun and engaging strategies and activities that will help your students develop critical thinking skills and choose the best answer in a multiple choice question.
We will share practical and creative tips and activities to help your kids master the art of choosing the BEST answer. We'll also explore the top wrong answer choices that test makers use in multiple choice questions.
In this episode, we explore the world of artificial intelligence and its potential to revolutionize the way we teach. Specifically, we discuss ChatGPT, an AI writing assistant created by OpenAI. While some may find the idea of using AI in the classroom daunting, we know that Chat GPT can be an incredibly valuable tool for middle school teachers. It can help with a variety of tasks, including standards alignment, mentor sentences, drafting parent emails, creating writing prompts, and even writing lesson plans. We also discuss the future of how Chat GPT could be used by students- to get feedback on their work, debate issues, and improve their writing. If you're curious about how ChatGPT can enhance your teaching experience, this episode is a must-listen.
In this episode, we explore the concept of mentor sentences and how they can be used effectively in the ELA classroom. Mentor sentences are examples of great writing that students can learn from and model their own writing after. We discuss the benefits of using mentor sentences, such as improving students' writing skills, increasing their knowledge of grammar and syntax, and helping them develop their own writing voice.
We also provide practical tips and strategies for incorporating mentor sentences into your class.
Whether you're a seasoned ELA teacher or new to the profession, this episode will provide valuable insights and resources for using mentor sentences in your classroom to help your students become better writers.
As a bonus, click here to download 5 free mentor sentences to try out in your own classroom!
In this episode, we share four engaging and interactive activities that can help middle school students understand and practice the key concepts of argumentative writing without having to write a formal essay. We cover the claim vs. opinion game, the debate roundtable, role-playing scenarios, and the expert opinion research. Each activity is designed to be both educational and fun, making it easier for students to stay engaged and retain the information. We have a special offer for those who listen this week to say thank you for listening and to celebrate the accomplishment of making over 20 episodes. Be sure to follow us on Instagram at ELA Core Plans and visit our blot at www.elacoreplans.com
Need some ideas on how to teach poetry? The acronym TWIST UP is a game changer when it comes to teaching poetry! Listen to learn how this simple strategy will have your students analyzing poems on a deeper level in no time. The acronym will help create wonderful discussions in your classroom, and everything you need to teach poetry can be included within the letters of the acronym.
Join us in this second episodes about implementing book clubs in your middle school ELA classroom. This episode will be all about adding accountability and fun!
If you've been wanting to start book clubs in your middle school classroom, but you're not sure how to do it, this episode is for you. This first episode of the series will explain how to form book club groups in your classroom and how to choose the right novels for your middle school students.
If you are wondering how to keep your middle school ELA students interested and engaged while reading, this episode is for you! We will talk about what to do other than a simple whole-class read to assess your studetns comprehension, provide them with higher order questions, and keep them all awake and active in the lesson. This episode will provide you with ideas that you can take immediately back to your own classroom.
We have a solution for preparing your middle school ELA students for high stakes standardized testing in an effective and fun way. We call it Test Prep Tuesdays. Listen to find out how this method of ours avoids burn-out and encourages a growth mindset with the practice needed to prepare students for the end of the year test!
Looking for fun and creative Christmas themed lessons for your middle school ELA class? We've got you covered with several of our favorite Christmas themed activities! Teach the standards while having some engaging and original Christmas fun! Be sure to check out our blog for all of the mentioned links and free printables! https://elacoreplans.com/middle-school-ela-christmas-activities/
A greatful heart truly does bring joy. This Thanksgiving season, we wanted to provide a list of all of the things that we are thankful for as teachers.
If you need an engaging lesson for the days before Thanksgiving break, this episode has you covered! Listen to hear a creative writing assignment that your kids will remember forever! Plus, we will share some other fun Thanksgiving worthy lesson ideas. Be sure to visit our blog https://elacoreplans.com/middle-school-ela-thanksgiving-lessons/for the links mentioned and the free printables!
Today's episode is all about games you can play in your middle school ELA classroom. We'll tell you all about six super fun games that you can take back to your classroom immediately! Be sure to visit our blog for all show notes and printables! https://elacoreplans.com/review-games-for-the-ela-classroom/
Listen up to hear a great idea to motivate middle school students when it comes to reading independently or learning new vocabulary words. With an easy printable BINGO card, ELA class can become much more fun! Be sure to check out all of our shownotes, including links to free printables on our blog at https://elacoreplans.com/bingo-cards-in-middle-school-ela/
Listen to hear our favorite middle school ELA Halloween stories and activities that we've tried over the years. You'll walk away with so many ideas, it will be hard for you to choose which one to try in your own ELA classroom this Halloween! All printables mentoned in today's show can be found on our blog at https://elacoreplans.com/middle-school-ela-halloween-lesson-our-collection/
This episode will provide you with a quick and super fun narrative writing lesson that can be completed in one class period! The lesson focuses on creating suspense. It would be perfect for a spooky October day, but can be used any time of year. Be sure and find all of our shownotes and free printables and links on our blog at https://elacoreplans.com/how-to-create-suspense-writing-lesson/
This is the first episode in a series on using short narrative writing exercises in your middle school ELA classroom. We will be telling you all about strong verb paragraphs - how to write them, why they work, and how you can impliment them immediately. Check out all of the mentioned freebies in our show notes at https://elacoreplans.com/strong-verb-paragraphs-effective-narrative-writing-exercise-for-middle-school-ela/
We will share two of our favorite tips that help keep us sane throughout the school year! You can implement these simple and effective ideas into your classroom today! Read our shownotes at www.elacoreplans.com.
We would love for you to follow us on Instagram and on our TpT store.
Using bell ringers in the middle school ELA classroom can help you keep your sanity when it comes to trying to fit everything in! This episode will help you learn the advantages of using bell ringers or warm ups at the beginning of class, and we will talk about the ones that we rely on in our own classrooms! Be sure and check out our show notes at https://elacoreplans.com/three-reasons-using-bell-ringers-in-the-middle-school-ela-classroom-makes-sense/
We will put a link there to ten FREE bell ringers that we believe work for sixth, seventh, and eighth grade!
Learn four ways that you can make grading easy in your ELA classroom. There is so much to teach in ELA, and this often means too much to grade. As ELA teachers, we simply cannot grade everything. We must work smarter, not harder when it comes to grading!
Visit our blog https://elacoreplans.com/
Listen and learn what NOT to do when creating a positive and welcoming middle school classroom climate. We will discuss five ways that your classroom climate can be ruined and discuss strategies and ideas to implement in order to have a safe, happy, and positive climate for your classroom!
Check out our blog post on this podcast by clicking the following link:
https://elacoreplans.com/5-ways-to-ruin-your-middle-school-classroom-climate/
Follow us on TpT at
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Ela-Core-Plans
Listen to four activities to make your first day back to school in the middle school ELA classroom a success! We will cover everything that you need, including what to do when students first enter your room, which rules and procedures work for us, two fun and creative icebreakers, and a first day writing activity that your students will love! Be sure to view our shownotes after listening to print free resources mentioned!
Head to the Show Notes:
https://elacoreplans.com/four-first-day-activities-for-middle-school-ela/
Happy Teaching! Shannon and Tammy
Are you wondering how to make your middle school back-to-school open house run smoothly? Walk away with three tips to create a successful back to school open house for students and parents. We'll share with you fun and unique ways to make you and your classroom unforgettable!
Head to the show notes: https://elacoreplans.com/three-tips-for-middle-school-back-to-school-open-house/
Welcome! We're teacher besties who have been teaching for over twenty years, and we'd love to share some of what we've learned on our teaching journeys! If you're looking for ways to fit all the pieces together in your own ELA class while engaing your studnets and clocking out on time, listen to this trailer to see if our podcast is for you!