May 18
Have you ever explained something so clearly that you were sure your students “got it”… only to realize the next day that it vanished from their brains overnight? We’ve all been there. That’s where reflection activities come in. One of the simplest and most flexible options is the learning log — a journal‑style tool that …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=5794
May 11
Book series have a special place in students’ hearts and in literacy instruction. From Harry Potter to Percy Jackson, series spark engagement, build reading stamina, and create lasting connections with characters. This post explores classroom activities for book series, including Newbery winners and the Doctor Dolittle books, that help students practice critical thinking, inference, and …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=8048
May 04
Let’s be honest, teaching students how to read graphic organizers can sometimes feel like explaining how to fold a fitted sheet. You start strong. You believe in yourself. And then somewhere around the concept map, you lose them and maybe yourself too. But over the years (and after more than a few flops), I’ve found …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=1903
Apr 27
Ever had a student ask, “When am I ever going to use this in real life?” (Of course you have; we all have!) That’s exactly why authentic learning activities for the ELA classroom matter. Instead of worksheets that feel like busywork, authentic learning invites students to apply their skills in real-world situations that actually matter. …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=5801
Apr 20
The two silent short films for the classroom, Miyako (by Jessica Do) and The Monster Under My Bed (by Karlijn Scholten), both feature young girls, silent storytelling, and nighttime monsters—but their moods, animation styles, and resolutions couldn’t be more different. These silent short films for the classroom make a perfect pairing for teaching narrative technique, …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=7754
Apr 13
The animated short film The Catch (by Ringling College of Art and Design) tells a fable‑like story of generosity, perseverance, and unseen rewards. A young boy sent to gather food for his village finds his fortune changing after helping an unlikely companion: a hungry fox in trouble. With powerful visual storytelling and a strong moral …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=1568
Apr 06
If you’re teaching figurative language and want something your students will leap for, this post is packed with Frog Jumping Day figurative language activities! From a silly science story to a modern “FrogTok” competition, these frog-themed lessons blend humor, creativity, and critical thinking. Whether you’re exploring idioms, tone, or tall tales, your class will have …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=29978
