Student Responses to Shirley Jackson’s “Charles”

Introduction: In last week's blog, we wrote about how to utilize the free resource, Padlet, in your classroom. This past week, I used it in my classroom as a way to review parts of an essay. After instruction, students wrote their versions of introductions, body paragraphs, and conclusions. Once they completed each part of the essay, they reviewed other classmates' submissions on Padlet and "liked" the posts that best accomplished the purpose of that part of the essay. Below I have posted my second and third-block eighth grader's "Charles" final essays. Writing Task: You have read Shirley Jackson’s short story…

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Enhance Your Teaching with Padlet: A Comprehensive Guide for Educators

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Introduction: As an educator, you are always on the lookout for engaging, do I dare say "exciting," tools to motivate your students and make learning a memorable experience. One such versatile and user-friendly tool that can revolutionize your teaching is Padlet. Hello, classy educators. This week, I used Padlet in class for the second year in a row. It has been great to break the monotony that writing can be. I have used it to break down each element of writing and then have students respond to the story we have read that week. After writing, the students can then…

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Exciting Back-to-School Activities for High School Teachers: A Top 15 List

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Hello, classy educators! 🎉 Are you gearing up for the return to school with a mix of excitement and butterflies? We totally get it! The first days back are a chance to set the tone for the rest of the year and create a classroom environment that's engaging, inclusive, and fun. Luckily, we've got your back with some fantastic back-to-school ideas to kick off the school year with a bang! Let's dive in! 1. Name Bingo Icebreaker Say hello to an icebreaker that's as unique as your students! Create back-to-school bingo cards with fun facts instead of numbers in the…

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Navigating Back-to-School Anxiety: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents and Kids

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Introduction Last week's post about teachers overcoming back-to-school anxiety only touched on one side of the coin. Just like for teachers, it's natural for parents and children to experience a mix of excitement and nervousness. Embracing this emotional rollercoaster, we embark on a journey to help you sail through this transitional period with clarity and authenticity. Building Trust through Open Communication Let's begin by nurturing a safe space for open communication between you and your child. Be genuine in expressing your willingness to listen and understand their worries, fears, or even their wildest expectations about the upcoming school year. Embrace…

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