rap · SEL · vocabulary

Turn It Up: Using Rap in the Classroom

The co-authors of Rap It Up! Discuss how rap can span the curricula to support standard skills in English/language arts, social studies, music, and SEL (social-emotional learning). Rap’s rhythm, rhyme, and wordplay develop literacy, expand vocabulary, strengthen reading fluency, and build confidence in oral expression. At the same time, rap’s cultural relevance fosters student engagement and inclusivity.

choice · routines · SEL · Unboxing Fresh Routines Blog Series · Unboxing Fresh Routines Blog Series · writer identity

Getting to Know Writers: Unboxing Fresh Routines Blog Series

Strong relationships are the foundation of effective writing instruction. This post shares concrete routines and research-based strategies to help teachers get to know their students as people and writers from day one.

authentic writing · community · SEL

Ups and Downs: Writing Our Way Through

How might our first moments back from break welcome back students and staff and all that they may have experienced since we were last together? Tell us how you make space for the ups and the downs and everything in between!

Maximizing Writing Time Blog Series · SEL · writing workshop

Writing as Social-Emotional Development: Maximizing Writing Time

Let’s turn our attention to the classroom, to the kids in our care. Like many of us, they need a space to release burdens, to feel the same connection and validation that has kept us afloat. This, my friends, is where we begin. THIS is where we claim our power as writers, as teachers of writing. No matter the age of our students, no matter their readiness level, no matter the constrictions of a mandated writing system, there are ways to create and protect a nurturing, supportive community of young writers.