Using Urban Legends to Engage Struggling Readers
After teaching high school reading intervention courses for many years, I know that starting with a novel is a mistake—it’s too long. Instead, I use urban legends.
Language Arts
Why Students Hate Writing (From Someone Who Teaches It)
Every year, almost every student says, “I suck at writing. I hate it.” I hear this phrase far more than “Hello,” “Thank you,” or even “Can I use the restroom?”
“But I’m just not a good writer”
As soon as I utter the words “writing assignment,” a look of panic appears on my students’ faces. Their hands shoot up like rockets and the questions immediately start.
Teaching like a Fool: Shakespearean Wisdom in the Classroom
I have gleaned three wise teachings from King Lear's fool and each one informs my practice in the classroom more and more each day.
Murder and Mayhem: Shakespeare in the Classroom
Teachers are tasked with introducing youth to the foundational, cultural icon that is Shakespeare. Even those who’ve studied his work find this challenging.
Let’s Do Haiku!
Sure, haiku can be an exercise in syllable counting, but if this were the only benefit, why teach it? Here are several other positive returns from composing haiku.