Middle School Unit Plans

Studying the Romans? This resources includes the following products to assist in the teaching of Ancient Rome and the Romans.

1. Ancient Romans-Unit of Study with activities and links

2. Ancient Roman- Secret Message Review Activity

3. Italy and Ancient Rome-A Webquest with activities and links

4. Diocles: Famous Charioteer (Reading Passage with activities)

5. Spartacus: Roman Gladiator(Reading Passage with activities)

6. Julius Caesar: ( Reading Passage with activities)

All resources are also available to be purchased individually.

Mrs. Bie Ografee Talk Show Reading Theater Scripts:

Vikings

Ferdinand Magellan

Marco Polo

Christopher Columbus

Leonardo da Vinci

Michelangelo

Visit with a Crusader

Visit with a Victim of the Black Death

Martin Luther King Jr.

Rosa Parks

Harriet Tubman

George Washington Carver

Katherine Johnson

Tuskegee Airmen

Marian Anderson

Marie Curie

Galileo Galilei

Sir Isaac Newton

Albert Einstein

Jane Goodall

Moon Landing: Interview with first astronauts to walk on the moon

Rachel Carson

Jacques Cousteau

Thomas Edison

Elizabeth Blackwell

Visit with a Pilgrim

Revolutionary War Female Spies

Revolutionary War Tory

Thomas Jefferson

James Madison, Father of the Constitution

Pioneer Woman, Narcissa Whitman

Civil War Women Soldiers

Sacagaewa

Sequoyah

Lewis and Clark

Abraham Lincoln

California Gold Rush: Visit with a ‘49er

Wright Brothers

A Road trip Across the USA for Women’s Suffrage

WW 2: Women Pilots

Susan B. Anthony

Sonia Sotomayor

Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Louisa May Alcott

Edgar Allen Poe

William Shakespeare

Charles Dickens

Johnny Appleseed

Visit with a Leprechaun

Visit with a Groundhog

To Tell the Truth Plays:

Hans Christian Andersen

Amelia Earhart

First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt

First Lady Edith Wilson

First Lady Florence Harding

King Tut

First Lady Hillary Clinton

First Lady Michelle Obama

First Lady Abigail Adams

First Lady Martha Washington

First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln

First Lady Dolly Madison

First Lady Lady Bird Johnson

My website for teachers/kids has lots of geography activities, short reads, factoids on different topics, news, career surveys, bell ringers and more.

This Bundle Includes the following resources:

1. History of the Famous Games from Ancient Greece: A Webquest/Extension Activities

2. It's Greek to Me!(Country in Focus): A Webquest/Extension Activities

3. Unit of Study on Ancient Greece with notes, activities, links.

4. Socrates: A Reading Activity(Philosopher)

5. Greek Puzzler (Secret Message Review Activity)

6. Aesop: Reading Passage Activity(Fable Writer)

7. Aglaonike: Reading Passage Activity(Female Greek Astronomer)

See samples:

The Olympic games started in the country of Greece. Use this nine question web quest to learn about the country of Greece. Learn about Greece, a Webquest

History of the Famous Games of Ancient Greece:

Learn about the history of the games which began in ancient Greece, both past and present with this informative webquest. There are 10 questions as well a number of fun facts. Extension activities are also included(and the key).The webquest can be completed in one class period and is geared for upper elementary and middle school students.Can be used before a vacation, for a Friday activity,during the upcoming games or if you are studying the ancient Greeks. Learn about the History of the Famous Games from Ancient Greece

Phoenician Bundle includes:

1. Mini Unit on the Phoenicians

2. Review Secret Message Activity

3. Reading on Hannibal, Carthage General during Punic Wars

4. Reading on Hanno, Phoenician Sea Explorer

5. Purple Game

**(NOT in the bundle)**If you are studying the Phoenicians, this webquest will be a positive addition as an introduction/review to the first sea traders of the ancient world. The Phoenicians developed an alphabet which they shared to other cultures in their travels around the Mediterranean Sea. They developed the color purple and were skilled in glassmaking. Their sea traders may have traveled as far as Britain and down the coast of Africa, in a time when there were no navigational tools. https://www.TeachShare.com/Product/Phoenicians-A-Webquest-7251150

This resource includes the following:

1. Unit of Study on the Middle Ages(notes, suggested activities and resources).

2. Secret Message Review Game on the Middle Ages

3. Bayeux Tapestry Reading

4. Black Death: A Reader's Theater Script

5. The Crusades: A Reader's Theater Script

6. The Vikings: A Reader's Theater Script

7. Hildegard of Bingen(Reading Passage)

You can go to each of the resources to see a preview...

All resources are also available individually.

Gail

WANT a STUDENT VERSION? Just send me an email and I will be happy to send it along.

Let’s Learn about the Romans!

Did you know that the idea of “sealed with a kiss” comes from Romans who signed every contract with a kiss? Did you know that a good luck symbol to ancient Romans were snakes? Or, that being pale was a sign of wealth to ancient Romans because it showed you didn't need to work outside(some women actually applied white chalk to their faces to get the look of being pale). I taught a unit on the ancient Romans to my 6th graders and thought you might find my notes, activities and resources of interest. I have a short 7 map question activity, lots of links and lots of activities to use with a chapter study on the ancient Romans. I also included a webquest activity.

You may also find these resources of interest.

1. Want a fun activity to review vocabulary terms for a unit on ancient ancient Mesopotamia? Looking for an enrichment activity in history? Try my Ancient Roman Puzzler:Secret Message Review Activity. The activity involves students working individually or in groups to review vocabulary terms for a unit on ancient Rome. Then,a following direction activity is next where students place letters from the different terms into boxes found at the end of the activity page. Once all the boxes are filled, a "secret message" about the ancient Romans is revealed! The teacher page includes additional information to share about the "secret message". A great way to review vocabulary terms! If you prefer to offer a vocabulary box, I have included this as well.... Ancient Roman Puzzler, A Secret Message Review Activity

2. Studying the Ancient Romans? Looking for a Friday Activity to introduce students to countries of the world? Part of my Country in Focus Series, this web quest covers the country of Italy and the ancient Romans. Students will learn about the contributions of the people from Italy, famous people, places to visit and more. There are 11 web questions, a map skill activity on Italy, a Did You Know? fun fact section, comprehension questions and a Teacher Page with Looking for an internet activity that includes 10 extension activities, additional links and the keys. https://www.TeachShare.com/Product/Italy-and-Ancient-RomeCountry-in-Focus-A-Webquest-3762286

3.
This resource is part of my series, "Let's Meet..." famous people in ancient history.

With this biographical reading passage, students will learn about Julius Caesar, Famous Leader of Ancient Rome and One of the Greatest Military Leaders in History.

There is a Did You Know? section, comprehension questions and a teacher page with extensions and links.https://www.TeachShare.com/Product/Julius-Caesar-Reading-Passage-Activity-5496471</a>

My Let's Meet... series is growing. Currently, I also have the following in the series:

Hatshepsut, Ramses, Socrates, Hammurabi, Aesop and Hannibal, Aristotle, Alexander the Great, Archimedes and more

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Covering Japan? I taught a unit of study on the country of Japan for 32 years and would love to share some my notes, activities and resources I used with my students.

This resource is for teachers to use to introduce the country/culture of Japan to their students. There is also an activity page with 10 web quest, a map skill activity and some fun facts about Japan.

If you'd like a student version, contact me and I would be happy to send it along.

Other resources that go along with my unit on Japan:

1. If you'd like to have a reading in the content area for social studies, Travel to Japan, may be just the thing for a classroom lesson! The reading takes students(grades 4-8) on a trip to Japan to learn about its geography, customs and places to see. There are also extension activities,a map skill activity and comprehension questions to use with your students as well as a list of resources. Japan, Travel to Japan Reading Activity

2. Want a fun activity to review vocabulary terms for a unit on Japan? Looking for an enrichment activity in history? Try my Japanese Puzzler: Secret Message Activity. The activity involves students working individually or in groups to review vocabulary terms on Japan. Then,a following direction activity is next where students place letters from the different terms into boxes found at the end of the activity page. Once all the boxes are filled, a "secret message" about Japan is revealed! The teacher page includes additional information to share about the "secret message". It's a fun way to reinforce important vocabulary for a unit of study on the Japan! If you prefer to offer a vocabulary box, I have included this as well.Japan Puzzler, A Secret Message Review Activity

Using PRIMARY Sources in the Classroom. A DBQ activity uses primary sources. Sources can include diaries,posters, music, news articles from the time, anything written by those who participated in or witnessed an event in history. Students review the given documents and use many cognitive skills in processing what they see and read. After gathering information using the documents, students develop an essay answering a question.The topic of this Primary Source(DBQ )is Life of a Japanese-American Child Living in an Internment Camp during World War 2.

A teacher page includes the Key,additional links and suggestions for a rubric to grade the DBQ. This resource could also be used as a web quest.Life of an American Child Living in an Internment Camp during WW2

I taught a short unit on Economics at the end of the school year and wanted to share with you my materials. The unit includes notes, activities, fun facts and links as well as two short quizzes. Grades 4 and up.

Key Words: Economic Resource,Economics, Consumers, Money

Covering the Ancient Greeks? I taught a unit on Ancient Greece for 32 years and would love to share my notes, activities and resources I used with my students with those who are looking for materials on this period of history.

You may find these resources of interest as well:

1. Want a fun activity to review vocabulary terms for a unit on ancient Greece? Looking for an enrichment activity in history? Try my Ancient Greek Secret Message activity. The activity involves students working individually or in groups to review vocabulary terms on the Ancient Greeks. Then,a following direction activity is next where students place letters from the different terms into boxes found at the end of the activity page. Once all the boxes are filled, a "secret message" about the ancient Greeks is revealed! The teacher page includes additional information to share about the "secret message". It's a fun way to reinforce important vocabulary for a unit of study on the Greeks! If you prefer to offer a vocabulary box, I have included this as well.... Greeks, A Secret Message Review Activity

2. Part of my Country in Focus Webquest series(includes comprehension questions): Greece,Country in Focus, A Webquest and Extension Activities

3. Travel to Greece(Reading activity in the Content Area): Comprehension questions included: Greece, Travel To Greece Reading in the Content Area

4. History of the Olympics:

Learn about the history of the games which began in ancient Greece, both past and present with this informative webquest. There are 10 questions as well a number of fun facts. Extension activities are also included(and the key).The webquest can be completed in one class period and is geared for upper elementary and middle school students.Can be used before a vacation, for a Friday activity,during the upcoming games or if you are studying the ancient Greeks. History of the Olympics: A Webquest/Extension Activities

5. Socrates: With this biographical reading passage, students will learn about the Socrates, the famous Philosopher of Ancient Greece. Nicknamed the "Great Questioner", this reading introduces students to Socrates. There is also a Did You Know? section, comprehension questions and a teacher page with extensions and links.

This resource is part of my new series, "Let's Meet..." famous people in ancient history. More titles are being added later in the week.Socrates

6. Aesop: https://www.TeachShare.com/Product/Aesop-Fable-Writer-from-Ancient-GreeceReading-Passage-3976379

7. Woman Astronomer: Aglaonike: https://www.TeachShare.com/Product/Womens-History-Famous-Women-in-Ancient-History-AglaonikeGreek-astronomer-4016319?st=5d7be61d42a835c60fd282f95388badb

8. Artemisia, Female Naval Commander during the Battle of Salamis. https://www.TeachShare.com/Product/Womens-History-Famous-Women-in-Ancient-History-AglaonikeGreek-astronomer-4016319?st=5d7be61d42a835c60fd282f95388badb

9. First Female Doctor of Ancient Greece(Agnodice): https://www.TeachShare.com/Product/Womens-History-First-Female-Doctor-of-Ancient-GreeceAgnodiceReading-Passage-4021604

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Did you know that enough dirt was used to create the Great Wall of China to circle the earth with an 8 ft. high wall? Did you know that ice cream was probably first invented by the Chinese(frozen milk/rice)? Did you know that the yo-yo was invented by the Chinese or that the number 9 and the color red are considered good luck in China? I taught a unit on China for 32 years and would love to share some my notes, activities and resources I used with my students.

Other resources you may find of interest:

1. Part of my Country in Focus series: A great resource that helps develop skills such as reading for information and using research and computer skills. This web quest gives students an overview to the country: map skills, info on panda bears, Great Wall, Terra Cotta Solders-more. Extension activities/key (12 page resource with 10 informational web questions).China, A Country in Focus: A Webquest

2.Want a fun activity to review vocabulary terms for a unit of study on China? Looking for an enrichment activity in history? Try my Chinese Puzzler: Secret Message Review Activity. The activity involves students working individually or in groups to review vocabulary terms connected with China. Then,a following direction activity is next where students place letters from the different terms into boxes found at the end of the activity page. Once all the boxes are filled, a "secret message" about China is revealed! The teacher page includes additional information to share about the "secret message"! If you prefer to offer a vocabulary box, I have included this as well.Chinese Secret Message Review Activity

3. Learn about the Great Wall of China with this informative reading. Also included are 10 Did You Know? facts about the Great Wall, ten comprehension questions, a teacher page with extension activities, additional links and the key.Great Wall of China Reading/Activities

Check out others in the Exploring World Landmarks Reading Passage Series: Eiffel Tower, Uluru Rock/Ayers Rock and the Taj Mahal.

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I loved teaching about the Middle Ages and would like to offer teachers my notes, activities and resources that I found of value when I taught the subject.

Perhaps, these additional resources might be of interest:

1. Want a fun activity to review vocabulary terms for a unit of study on the Middle Ages?Looking for an enrichment activity in history? Try my Medieval Puzzler: Secret Message Review Activity. The activity involves students working individually or in groups to review vocabulary terms connected with Medieval Times. Then,a following direction activity is next where students place letters from the different terms into boxes found at the end of the activity page. Once all the boxes are filled, a "secret message" about the Middle Ages is revealed! The teacher page includes additional information to share about the "secret message". It's a fun way to reinforce important vocabulary for a unit of study on the Middle Ages! If you prefer to offer a vocabulary box, I have included this as well.... Medieval Secret Message Review Activity

2. One of the oldest lasting examples of graphic communication is the Bayeux Tapestry.It dates back to 1083. Bayeux Tapestry Reading

3. Students have always ask me..."Why do we have to learn this stuff about ancient Greeks or Middle Ages?" My answer-much of what we have today was because of things developed by people that lived long ago.

This reading activity shares with kids how the pencil they are using, the writing system they are using, the eyeglasses they are wearing are just some of the many things we have today thanks to previous cultures of the past. I've included several comprehension questions and two extension activities. The Past Shapes our Present Reading Activity

4. Great addition to a unit of study on the Middle Ages: Use this informative Reader's Theater Script to learn about the Black Death, a disease that killed almost 1/2 the population of Europe(1347-1351). The fun/informative play uses the format of Simon, a victim of the Black Death being a guest on Ms. Bie Ografee's talk show. A studio audience asks questions about his experiences during the time(the medical beliefs,cause, the effects the Black Death had on Europe, etc.Great for study on the Middle Ages or science unit on bacteria/contagious diseases. A Visit with Simon, a Viction of the Black Death: Reader's Theater Script

5.Learn about the Crusades with this fun and informative play. Students will have fun acting out the different parts, especially those of Sir Bartholomew. There are 10 audience questioners. Part of my Ms. Bie Ografee Talk Show Series, the format is that of a talk show host with a studio audience that ask Ms. Bie Ografee's guest questions about the time period. Included: cause, different crusades(ie: People's Crusade, Children's Crusade and the Third Crusade) and the important results of this period in history. There is a DiD You Know? fun facts,comprehension questions, a teacher section with extension activities and links I thought might be of interest to the teacher. There is also a key to the comprehension questions. A Visit with a Crusader, A Reader's Theater Script

6. History of Pretzels: https://www.TeachShare.com/Product/PRETZELSReading-Passage-2484346?st=54ece3996759f455af224558d4b1904b

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Key words: Middle Ages, Dark Ages, Medieval Times, Medieval Ages, castles, unit on Middle Ages, knights, feudalism, rise of towns

Covering ancient people of the world?

This product covers an introduction to the Phoenicians and their contributions to the world. Did you know that the Phoenicians were the first known sea traders or that they invented an alphabet that was passed along to the cultures they met? Did you know that they invented a purple dye that became very desired by rulers and the very wealthy? It is said that the Emperor Nero passed a law that only HE could wear the unique color.The resource includes notes as well as extension activities and links to help you teach your students about the first known sea traders in history. I also have included several comprehension questions, too. Depending on how many activities you'd like to do, the mini unit could take 2-3 days.

NOTE: I also have a bundle of resources on the Phoenicians: https://www.TeachShare.com/Product/Phoenicians-A-Bundle-of-Resources-4028719?st=370b58a922e3c950c9bd27e09c764726

NOT in the Bundle: If you are studying the Phoenicians, this webquest will be a positive addition as an introduction/review to the first sea traders of the ancient world. The Phoenicians developed an alphabet which they shared to other cultures in their travels around the Mediterranean Sea. They developed the color purple and were skilled in glassmaking. Their sea traders may have traveled as far as Britain and down the coast of Africa, in a time when there were no navigational tools. https://www.TeachShare.com/Product/Phoenicians-A-Webquest-7251150

You may find this resource of interest to use as well:

Want a fun activity to review vocabulary terms for a unit on ancient Phoenicians? Looking for an enrichment activity in history? Try my Ancient Phoenician Secret Message activity. The activity involves students working individually or in groups to review vocabulary terms on the Phoenicians. Then,a following direction activity is next where students place letters from the different terms into boxes found at the end of the activity page. Once all the boxes are filled, a "secret message" about the Phoenicians is revealed! The teacher page includes additional information to share about the "secret message". If you prefer to offer a vocabulary box, I have included this as well.Phoenicians, A Secret Message Review Activity

The color purple comes from the Phoenicians. Need a fun activity that involves kids finding answers that have PURPLE in it or are the color PURPLE? THERE are 17 statements in the complete PURPLE Game Activity. You can do this activity in one class, over a couple of days if being used as a end of the period activity or over a couple of days, if you wish to do the extension activities: Purple Game

With this biographical reading passage, students will learn about Hanno, the famous Phoenician sea explorer. There is a Did You Know? section, comprehension questions, map activity and a teacher page with extensions and links and the key: Hanno, Phoenician Sea Explorer

With this biographical reading passage, students will learn about **Hannibal,**the famous general of ancient times. Studying the Phoenicians? Studying Ancient Rome and the Punic Wars? This resource would be a great addition! There is a Did You Know? section, comprehension questions, map activity and a teacher page with extensions and links and the key: Hannibal, a Reading Activity

This product is a 10 day project based learning experience focused on addition, subtraction, real-world problem solving, and word problems. This is a great way to help your students get to know each other better by working in small groups and give them the opportunity to practice using their skills with real world applications.

This unit includes:

• 10 day Unit Plan for instructor
• Instructors manual outlining the activities for each day
• Student Workbook
• PowerPoint Presentation to accompany daily lessons
• PowerPoint Game to review learning at end of unit

This project is a great way to give students the opportunity to work together and practice skills students will use in the real world, such as creating a list, using simple mental math, and creating a budget!

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• 10 Winter Holiday Narrative Essay Picture Prompts & Planner: Engage students in narrative writing with holiday-themed picture prompts and a structured planner to develop plot, character, and setting in alignment with creative writing standards.
• Christmas Hip Hop Lyrics Analysis: Teach figurative language, rhyme schemes, and tone through an engaging analysis of hip hop lyrics, blending music and ELA standards for Grades 6-8.
• St. Nick: Informational Text Structures: Explore main ideas, text structures, and author’s purpose with this winter-themed set of informational texts designed to strengthen critical reading skills.
• Unraveling Krampus: Text Structures and Critical Analysis: Develop students’ ability to identify text structures and analyze information critically with this high-interest resource focused on the Krampus folklore.
• Informational Text Structure Coloring Sort: Combine creativity and learning as students sort and color-code winter-themed informational texts to practice identifying text structures.
• Winter Wonders: Exploring Text Features Through Snow-Themed Articles: Strengthen comprehension and analysis skills by examining text features in engaging snow-themed articles, perfect for enhancing nonfiction literacy.
• Christmas Winter Holiday Characters from Around the World Research PBL: Dive into global holiday traditions with this project-based learning activity that encourages research, critical thinking, and presentation skills.
• Holiday Figurative Language & Movie Clip Standard-Based Learning Activities: Analyze figurative language through fun, holiday-themed movie clips that align with ELA figurative language standards for middle schoolers.
• Virtual Winter Sports Exploration: Engage students in a digital exploration of winter sports, focusing on informational text comprehension and analysis for Grades 4-6.
• Analyzing Narrative Point of View Winter-Themed: Develop higher-order thinking with winter-themed narrative texts that challenge students to analyze and compare points of view using Bloom’s Taxonomy.
• Winter Vacation PBL: Inspire creativity and practical application with this low-prep, project-based learning activity where stude

1. 18-Day Disabilities & Equity Unit Grades 6+ | Project, Essay, Assessments, Seminar

Description:
Explore the theme of equity and disabilities in schools and society with this 18-day unit designed for grades 6+. Students will engage with informational texts, videos, and case studies, leading to a STAAR-aligned extended essay and research project. This resource includes Socratic seminars, assessments, and creative projects to promote critical thinking and empathy. Perfect for SEL, humanities, and cross-curricular classrooms.

2. 18-Day Human Migration & Immigration Unit Grades 7+ | Project, Poetry, Assessments

Description:
Dive into the global topic of migration and immigration with this 18-day thematic unit for grades 7+. Through poetry, short stories, and informational texts, students will explore the historical and contemporary experiences of immigrants. Includes project-based assessments, writing tasks, and creative multimedia projects to foster understanding and empathy. A great resource for ELA, social studies, and SEL instruction.

3. 18-Day Multimedia Anti-Bullying Thematic Unit for Grades 5-8 | SEL Humanities

Description:
This 18-day multimedia unit on anti-bullying for grades 5-8 engages students with a range of media—films, political cartoons, short stories, and songs—to understand the impact of bullying in schools and society. Includes two Socratic seminars, a STAAR-aligned extended essay, and a creative capstone project. Ideal for SEL-focused classrooms and humanities teachers.

4. 19-Day Social Identity Unit | Low Prep | Grades 6-8 | Texts, Videos, and Project

Description:
Help students explore their own social identity and the factors that shape it in this 19-day unit for grades 6-8. The unit includes videos, readings, and group projects focused on themes like identity, community, and belonging. A low-prep, high-impact resource that encourages self-reflection and empathy through engaging multimedia activities and a culminating project.

5. 20-Day Social Media Mental Health Unit Grades 7+ | Project, Essay, Assessments

Description:
Explore the intersection of social media and mental health in this 20-day unit for grades 7+. Students will examine the effects of social media on well-being through informational texts, videos, and podcasts. Includes a STAAR-aligned essay, Socratic seminar, and multimedia project, making it an essential resource for teaching critical thinking and digital literacy.

6. 7-Day World Religions Research & Presentation Unit: Interdisciplinary Grades 6-8

Description:
This 7-day research and presentation unit allows students to explore major world religions through research-based learning. Perfect for grades 6-8, students will develop presentations on various religions, fostering understanding and global awareness. Includes guided research templates, presentation rubrics, and cross-curricular connections.

7. Human Rights 5-Day Research and Writing Unit | Middle School Social Essay Project

Description:
Introduce your middle school students to the concept of human rights in this 5-day research and writing unit. Students will engage with informational texts to explore human rights issues globally and locally, culminating in a social justice essay project. This unit is ideal for quick yet impactful lessons that combine research, writing, and advocacy.

How to Use a Novel as a Tool for Standards-Based Teaching in ELA is an indispensable guide crafted by an acclaimed 5th to 8th-grade Special Education Teacher and 2023 Master Teacher in their district. This comprehensive resource is tailored for educators striving to create impactful and standards-aligned novel study units.

Key Features:

1. Standards Breakdown: Utilizing the innovative Know/Show strategy, this guide simplifies the complex ELA standards for grades 6-8, aligning with both TEKS and CCSS. It ensures a robust literary experience, preparing students for state standardized testing.
2. Structured Lesson Planning: The guide offers insightful notes on structuring fast-paced, standard-aligned lessons, including three adaptable 50-minute class structures to cater to diverse learning environments.
3. Pacing Plan Templates: With detailed pacing plan considerations, the guide presents pros and cons for various approaches, ensuring educators can tailor their teaching pace effectively.
4. Differentiation Strategies: Catering to advanced learners, the guide provides innovative content, process, and product differentiation ideas, making it a versatile tool for diverse classroom settings.
5. Accommodation Integration: Essential for inclusive education, this resource offers practical strategies for incorporating accommodations into novel studies, addressing the needs of students with IEPs.
6. Assessment Techniques: From quizzes to creative projects, the guide covers a spectrum of assessment methods to evaluate student learning comprehensively.
7. Writing Integration: Discover formative and summative writing activities that enrich the novel study experience, enhancing students' analytical and creative skills.
8. Practical Examples: The guide includes sample pacing plans, Google Slides from novel studies, and daily student-facing one-pagers, providing real-world applications of the strategies discussed.
9. Templates: Pacing plan template, one-pager template, know/show standard breakdown template.

Effectiveness and Clarity:

This guide stands out for its clarity and practicality. It demystifies the process of aligning novel studies with ELA standards, making it an invaluable resource for middle school teachers. The step-by-step approach ensures educators can effectively implement the strategies, enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes.

Transferability:

This resource is not just a guide but a toolkit. With customizable templates and adaptable strategies, it seamlessly fits into various teaching styles and curriculum needs. Whether you're a novice or an experienced educator, this guide will elevate your teaching approach, making novel studies a more impactful part of your ELA curriculum.

Conclusion:

For teachers looking to harness the power of novels in their ELA curriculum, "How to Use a Novel as a Tool for Standards-Based Teaching in ELA" is a must-have. Its blend of practicality, innovation, and adaptability makes it a standout resource in literature education.

Engage the leaders in your classroom by empowering them to make change! Elevate your students' leadership skills with this comprehensive 8-day unit designed for grades 7, 8, and 9. Each 75-minute lesson is meticulously crafted to engage and inspire, providing a robust framework for developing essential leadership qualities. Perfect for middle and early high school students, this unit integrates a variety of interactive and thought-provoking activities.

What’s Included:

✔️ 8-Day Unit of 75-Minute Lessons: Structured and detailed, covering all essential aspects of leadership including communication and team building.

✔️ Comprehensive Lesson Plans: Step-by-step instructions for each day, ensuring smooth and effective delivery.

✔️ Engaging Slides: Visually appealing and informative slides for each lesson to enhance learning and retention using Canva.

Engaging Strategies:

✔️ Discourse: Foster meaningful conversations and critical thinking through structured discussions.

✔️ Writing: Develop students’ reflective and analytical writing skills with targeted prompts and activities.

✔️ Reading & Annotating: Enhance comprehension and critical thinking with guided reading and annotation exercises.

✔️ Research: Teach students how to gather, analyze, and interpret data effectively. ✔️ Data Collection & Analysis: Practical exercises to help students understand and apply data-driven decision-making.

✔️ Presentation Building: Step-by-step guidance on creating impactful presentations using Google Slides or Canva.

✔️ Peer Feedback: Encourage constructive criticism and collaborative improvement with structured feedback sessions.

Perfect For:

• Grades 7, 8, and 9: Tailored to meet the developmental and educational needs of middle and early high school students.
• Project-Based Learning: Integrates seamlessly into PBL frameworks, promoting hands-on and experiential learning.
• Leadership Development: Ideal for leadership courses, advisory periods, or any class focused on personal growth and community involvement.

Bring leadership to life in your classroom with this dynamic and interactive unit. Prepare your students to guide, influence, and inspire others with confidence and integrity. Purchase now and transform your students into the leaders of tomorrow!

Transform your middle school classroom routine with this comprehensive 12-week collection of Do Now warm-ups designed specifically for grades 5-8. These daily activities are perfect for building essential skills, fostering creativity, and promoting mindfulness at the start of each day. This resource offers a variety of activities from Mindful Monday reflections to Fun Fact Friday discussions, keeping your students engaged and ready to learn.

Available in both a Canva link and PDF format, this resource is easy to use and adaptable to fit your classroom needs. It's perfect for one trimester of morning work, bell ringers, or quick warm-ups!

What's Included:

• Mindful Monday: Start the week with intention and focus. Prompts include gratitude exercises, goal setting, and mindfulness practices.
• Teamwork Tuesday: Foster collaboration and communication with activities that encourage students to work together on puzzles, scenarios, and creative challenges.
• Wordplay Wednesday: Enhance language skills with fun and engaging word activities such as homophones, acronyms, and metaphor creation.
• Thoughtful Thursday: Encourage reflection and critical thinking with prompts that challenge students to think deeply about their experiences, goals, and leadership potential.
• Fun Fact Friday: End the week with interesting trivia related to pop culture, history, and middle school life, sparking engaging classroom discussions.

Ideas for Use:

• Use these warm-ups to kickstart each day, helping students transition smoothly into learning mode.
• Incorporate them as bell ringers to promote on-time attendance and focused class beginnings.
• Adapt the prompts for journaling exercises or as a springboard for class discussions.
• Perfect for homeroom, advisory periods, or as a consistent start to your ELA, social studies, or science classes.

Benefits:

• ✅ Promotes mindfulness and positive thinking at the beginning of the week.
• ✅ Encourages teamwork and collaboration through engaging group activities.
• ✅ Develops language and literacy skills with creative wordplay.
• ✅ Fosters self-reflection and personal growth with thoughtful prompts.
• ✅ Sparks curiosity and learning with fun, educational trivia.
• ✅ Ready-to-use in multiple formats (Canva link and PDF) for easy classroom integration.

Why This Resource?

• Created with middle school students in mind, these prompts are designed to be relatable, thought-provoking, and engaging. They are perfect for building a classroom culture of respect, curiosity, and critical thinking while seamlessly fitting into your daily routine.

Get ready to inspire and engage your students with these 12 weeks of carefully curated Do Now warm-ups!

Engage your students with this fun and educational Dog Breed Research Project, perfect for ELA, research, and presentation skills. Designed for grades 4-6, this 4-day project ties into the National Dog Show, making it an ideal activity for Thanksgiving week, injury-based projects, or even independent practice. Whether you’re planning lessons for a substitute teacher, prepping for Thanksgiving break, or looking for an engaging way to boost student creativity, this resource has you covered!

What’s Included Slide Deck

• Objectives and instructions for each day to keep students on task and organized.
• Clear visuals and examples to guide students through each step of the project.

Informational Text and Questions

• “The National Dog Show: A Paw-sitively Amazing Event” (500 words, 4th-grade level)
• 5 text-dependent questions aligned to CCSS for grades 4-6, focusing on main idea, text structure, and author’s craft.

Dog Breed Research Guide

• Easy-to-use, scaffolded guide for students to research a dog breed of their choice.
• Covers key topics like breed basics, history, personality traits, care, and fun facts.

Project Ideas

• Options for every learner, including posters, Google Slides, one-pagers, or creative skits.
• Encourages differentiation and hands-on learning.

How It WorksDay 1: Build Background Knowledge

• Students read a fun, Thanksgiving-themed informational text about the National Dog Show.
• Answer text-dependent questions to develop comprehension and critical thinking.

Day 2: Research

• Students choose a dog breed and use books, websites, or articles to gather information using the provided Research Guide.

Day 3: Create the Project

• Students bring their research to life by creating posters, digital slideshows, one-pagers, or other creative formats.

Day 4: Presentations

• Students practice public speaking as they present their projects to the class.
• Celebrate learning with fun reflections or breed-themed superlatives!

Why You’ll Love It✔ Versatile and Low-Prep: Ideal for independent work, sub plans, or busy weeks like Thanksgiving!
✔ Student-Led Learning: Encourages creativity and ownership of learning while building critical research and presentation skills.
✔ Cross-Curricular: Combines ELA, research skills, and public speaking with real-world connections to the National Dog Show.
✔ Differentiation Options: Students can choose their own breed and project format, making it accessible and engaging for all learners.

Perfect For:

• Thanksgiving Week Activities
• ELA Research Units
• Independent Practice or Homework Assignments
• Sub Plans
• Injury-Based or Long-Term Projects

Standards Alignment

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.4.1–4.5 (Reading Informational Texts)
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.7–4.8 (Research and Writing)
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.4.4 (Presentation Skills)

Bring learning to life and let your students explore the wonderful world of dog breeds! This 4-day project is not only a fun way to integrate ELA skills, but it’s also a great way to celebrate the unique bond between humans and dogs during the Thanksgiving season.

➡️ Add this resource to your lesson plans today and make your classroom a tail-wagging success!

Transform your classroom into a winter adventure with this Winter Wonderland Vacation PBL! This engaging, print-and-go project-based learning unit is perfect for the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas or any time during the winter months. Students will plan their dream winter vacation while developing critical skills in research, budgeting, creativity, and presentation. With minimal prep for teachers and maximum excitement for students, this resource is a must-have for your seasonal curriculum!

What’s Included:

✅ 8 Comprehensive Lesson Plans – Covering daily tasks with clear pacing and objectives.
✅ Task Rubrics – Detailed rubrics for all 8 tasks, ensuring easy grading and clear student expectations.
✅ Printable PDFs – Research guides, worksheets, and templates to guide every step of the project.
✅ Editable Slideshow Template – Students create a final presentation showcasing their vacation plans.
✅ Total Budget Sheet Template – A fun and practical way for students to manage costs within a $5,000 limit.
✅ Pacing Plan – Simplified day-by-day instructions for a stress-free implementation.

Skills Covered:

This interdisciplinary project incorporates:
Research Skills: Students investigate destinations, transportation, lodging, activities, and meals.
Math and Budgeting: From calculating costs to managing a $5,000 budget.
Creativity and Design: Crafting a visually appealing slideshow and planning unique trips.
Critical Thinking: Balancing priorities to stay within budget and justifying decisions.
Presentation Skills: Sharing their vacation plans with confidence and clarity.

Why Teachers Love It:

Low Prep: Simply print and go! All materials are ready to use or easily editable.
Flexible Use: Perfect for grades 5+, with extensions for higher or lower ability levels.
Seasonal Fun: Keeps students engaged during the weeks leading up to winter break.
Real-World Learning: Combines academic rigor with practical life skills in a fun, meaningful way.
Time-Saving: Includes ready-to-use rubrics and templates for smooth implementation.

Perfect for:

❄️ The weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
❄️ A winter-themed project in January or February.
❄️ Enrichment activities for early finishers or gifted students.
❄️ Cross-curricular lessons with ELA, math, and social studies connections.

Engage your middle and high school students with this 21-Day Multimedia Thematic Unit focused on Social Media and Mental Health! Designed for Grades 7 and up, this comprehensive unit weaves together ELA, social studies, and digital literacy through interactive lessons, activities, and assessments that explore the influence of social media on identity, mental health, and society.

This unit features a variety of multimedia resources, including TED Talks, informational articles, political cartoons, and the documentary The Social Dilemma. Students will develop critical thinking skills as they engage with different forms of media, reflect on their personal social media habits, and create meaningful projects like a political cartoon capstone.

What’s Included:

• Daily Lesson Plans for 21 days of engaging, standards-aligned instruction
• A range of activities including debates, Socratic seminars, and reflective writing
• Viewing guides and discussion prompts for multimedia content
• Informational text analysis with evidence-gathering strategies
• Step-by-step directions for creating a capstone political cartoon on social media’s impact
• Assessment rubrics and graphic organizers to support student learning

Aligned Standards:
This interdisciplinary unit is aligned with Common Core ELA Standards (including reading, writing, speaking, and listening), as well as ISTE Digital Literacy Standards. Perfect for cross-curricular learning, it encourages students to develop literacy skills, media analysis, and digital responsibility.

Why You'll Love This Unit:

• Interactive and Student-Centered: Students engage with real-world issues like social media usage, body image, and mental health in meaningful ways.
• Multimedia Integration: Incorporates TED Talks, articles, documentaries, and more to create a rich, dynamic learning experience.
• Project-Based Learning: Culminates with a creative capstone project where students design their own political cartoons, showcasing their understanding of the unit’s themes.
• Critical Thinking and Reflection: Encourages self-awareness as students reflect on their own social media habits and the impact on their mental health.

Who It’s For:

• Middle and high school teachers (Grades 7-12) looking for an engaging, interdisciplinary unit that addresses current issues.
• Educators seeking a Common Core-aligned and ISTE-aligned unit that integrates social media, mental health, and literacy skills.

Perfect for:

• ELA, social studies, and digital literacy classrooms
• Teachers looking for 21st-century skill-building units
• Classrooms wanting to address the impacts of social media on student well-being

This 21-Day Multimedia Unit will help students understand the impact of social media on their lives while improving essential academic skills. Get ready for insightful discussions, creative projects, and meaningful reflections that resonate with your students’ real-world experiences. Download now and bring relevant, standards-aligned learning to your classroom!