audience · choice · feedback · goals · Mary Ehrenworth · middle school · response · time for kids

Taking Stock: Moving Forward

As teachers, how might we reflect on our own practice in a way that could make a difference for our students next year? Here are a few lenses for setting some goals...

birthday · celebration

The Most Beloved Books in our Library: A Birthday Tradition

The most-read books of the year were ones authored by my students on their birthdays. Today, I share how my school made a change to a more beliefs-centered way of celebrating.

Slice of Life Story Challenge

It’s Tuesday! Join Us for the Slice of Life Story Challenge

Join us for the weekly Slice of Life Story Challenge!

writers · writing · writing workshop

But How do I Teach Writing?

Even with all we know. Even with resources, colleagues, and advice all around. The question still looms in our minds--But How Do I Teach Writing?

low-stakes · quick write · writing workshop

Spark! Quick Writes to Kindle Hearts and Minds in Elementary Classrooms- Review & Giveaway

Be sure to leave a comment today for a chance to win Paula Bourque's must-read book, Spark! Quick Writes to Kindle Hearts and Minds in Elementary Classrooms. You are going to want this book!

summer vacation · writing workshop

A To Be Written List

What will be on your To Be Written List this summer?

early childhood · illustrations · illustrators

Let Them Color, Because…

How often do your students get to color? How often do your students get to illustrate their books in color? Do your students color with meaning and purpose? This post shares research and tips for making writing workshop more colorful (in any grade!).

slice of life · writing workshop

It’s Tuesday! Join us for our weekly Slice of Life Story Challenge

It's Tuesday! Welcome to the Slice of Life Story Challenge!

goals · self-assessment · writing workshop

Empowering Writers

As we approach the end of the year, it could be a great time to challenge students to think about who they are as learners, what helps them hold on to new concepts, and how they do their best work. That being said, this knowledge could empower students at any point in the year.

Craft Moves · mentor texts · picture book

Six New Narrative Picture Books for Your Mentor Text Basket

Just as we reflect our teaching practices in the summertime, we can rethink some of the mentor texts we use and find new ones to share with students in minilessons, writing conferences, and strategy lessons.

collaborative planning · middle school · observations

Nurturing a Sense of Optimism Through Vertical Visits

Although this time of year predictably proves to be extremely busy, creatively scheduling a little bit of time to visit at least some of your next-year's writers can pay valuable dividends.