How can we help students truly understand Maycomb before reading To Kill a Mockingbird? This article explores a pre-reading approach centered on identity, stereotypes, and community rules—key concepts that reveal how Maycomb is not just the setting of the novel, but a system that shapes characters, conflict, and meaning.
A Pre-Reading Roadmap for To Kill a Mockingbird Read Post »
The creation of Narnia in The Magician’s Nephew is a magical moment where Aslan sings the world into being. In my classroom, this scene has sparked deep reflections on language, imagination, and understanding — and I want to share them with you.
The Creation of Narnia in The Magician’s Nephew (and in the Classroom) Read Post »
Here I share my experience teaching The Magician’s Nephew in middle school. Discover tips on structuring lessons, fostering curiosity, and helping students engage deeply with Lewis’s world.
Teaching The Magician’s Nephew in Middle School: A Practical Guide for the Classroom Read Post »
The White Witch in Narnia exemplifies tyranny and power: what about some dynamic, interdisciplinary classroom activities to help students reflect on justice, ethics, and moral decision-making through Lewis’s fantasy novels?
The White Witch and the Concept of Tyranny: Teaching Power and Justice Through Fantasy Read Post »
“It is a sin to kill a mockingbird,” says Atticus in chapter 10. If you’ve ever had a student exclaim, “Oh, wait, that’s the title! But… what does it mean?”, this article will help you dive deeper into the metaphor, exploring the stories of Boo Radley and Tom Robinson and offering insights for your classroom discussions.
To Kill Two Mockingbirds: Stories of Boo Radley and Tom Robinson Read Post »
What if you could turn films into hands-on learning experiences with mystery writing activities? Using Vertigo and Knives Out, middle school students explore plot twists, hidden clues, and suspense, then create their own thrilling short stories.
Mystery Writing Activities Through Film: From Vertigo to Knives Out Read Post »
Reading the Circe novel with my students opened a new window onto the Odyssey. Miller’s retelling captivated us all, offering rich opportunities to explore character, power, and the human side of the gods.
Circe Novel by Madeleine Miller: A New Voice from Myth for High School Students Read Post »
David Grossman’s Someone to Run With is more than a novel—it’s a powerful journey through friendship, courage, and self-discovery. Follow Assaf and Tamar with your students across Jerusalem as they face impossible challenges, discover the true meaning of love and loyalty, and learn what it means to grow up.
Why Every High School Student Should Read D. Grossman’s “Someone to Run With” Read Post »
What does it mean to be a true friend? In The Hobbit, Tolkien shows that true friendship often grows where we least expect it. Through Bilbo’s journey with the dwarves — full of quarrels, dangers, and discoveries — we see how it shapes us and why it matters so deeply for young readers.
Walking Beside Bilbo: Insights on Friendship In The Hobbit for Middle School Readers Read Post »
Timeless and inspiring, Atticus Finch shows students and teachers alike the power of empathy, justice, and moral courage.
Teaching with Atticus Finch: Lessons in Empathy, Justice, and Critical Thinking Read Post »
What if your next mythology lesson felt more like a movie night? Discover Percy Jackson activities that bring ancient gods, heroic quests, and Greek myths to life through The Lightning Thief film—complete with ready-to-go prompts and classroom ideas your students will love.
Ignite your middle schoolers’ curiosity by turning their biggest questions into gateways for exploring Greek mythology. Transform myths into powerful tools for curiosity and critical thinking in your classroom!
