As English teachers, one of our greatest goals is to turn our students into lifelong learners and readers. But between grading essays, planning engaging lessons, and prepping for your first day, it can feel impossible to carve out time for your own growth. When you do manage to set aside a moment for professional development, you want to make it count. That’s exactly why I’ve gone straight to the ... Read More about Best Professional Development Books for English Teachers

As English teachers, we know that books build knowledge, vocabulary, empathy, and so much more. Hosting an end of year party provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate your students and the books they’ve read this school year! From edible projects to literary superlatives, here are five fun ELA class party ideas to end the year on a high note. These activities will not only entertain but also ... Read More about 5 End of Year Party Ideas for ELA Students

The first time I ever experienced A Midsummer Night’s Dream was in an outdoor theatre on a misty, summer evening in New York City. That morning, like I did every day of our trip, I entered a lottery to win tickets to Shakespeare in the Park. This time I won, and sitting in the enchanted forest of Central Park’s Delacorte Theater, I felt like the luckiest English teacher in the world! Ever since ... Read More about Teaching A Midsummer Night’s Dream: Shakespeare Activities and Lesson Plans

As I was scrolling through FB on March 15th, I noticed that one of my high school classmates posted, “Beware of the Ides of March” on our former English teacher’s feed. Several of my old friends chimed in with Julius Caesar memes in the comment section, and I couldn’t help but smile. 20+(!!!) years later, we might not remember every detail of the play, but we remember how passionate Ms. Pallotta ... Read More about Teaching Julius Caesar Activities: Play Lesson Plans and Ideas

As an English teacher, you’re probably juggling a packed curriculum, limited budgets, and a passion for bringing literature to life for your students. One trick I’ve found invaluable? Using free book passages. Dollar for dollar (free .99), they are the most budget-friendly way to add creativity and depth to your ELA lessons. Whether you’re sparking interest in independent reading or navigating ... Read More about 5 Creative Ways to Use Free Book Passages in English Class 

In 2019 a climate activist group interrupted a town hall meeting and made waves across the country by suggesting that we “eat babies” to stop climate change. As the media ate this up (sorry), I was screaming into the void: HAS NO ONE READ A MODEST PROPOSAL!? Sadly, I think the answer is no, but that’s about to change because YOUR students will be more educated about Swift’s satire and how it ... Read More about Satire Examples: Teaching A Modest Proposal