Jul 28
Need a quick way to teach writer’s voice that actually sticks? Between quirky mentor texts, engaging examples, and one hilariously earnest Ed Sheeran commercial, this post gives students real insight—and it’s ready for Monday. Plus, grab the free handout to make lesson planning easy. It includes the printables you need to complete the activities mentioned …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=272
Jul 21
We all know teaching author’s purpose is more than just PIE (persuade, inform, entertain)—though pie does sound delicious. In this post, you’ll find four student-approved activities that go beyond the basics, including a hands-on foldable, a PowerPoint with matching cards, a free Boom Learning practice, and an awesome doughnut-themed writing project. Because nothing motivates writing …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=325
Jul 14
Let’s face it—getting students to connect deeply with a text can sometimes feel like trying to get them to connect with their math homework on a Friday afternoon. But when they do make those connections? That’s when reading becomes real, personal, and powerful. In this post, I’m sharing three free lessons that help students make …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=4443
Jul 07
Tracking student fluency rates can feel like one of those elusive skills that’s everywhere and nowhere in the curriculum. You know it matters—you want your students to read with expression, speed, and accuracy—but finding an effective way to track fluency without turning your classroom into a stopwatch lab? That’s another story. Good news: it’s totally …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=3687
Jun 10
Books are powerful tools for helping students step into another person’s shoes, understand different experiences, and embrace compassion. Whether you’re tackling topics like disability, learning differences, or prejudice, stories can create meaningful conversations that stay with students for life. Below is a collection of impactful books grouped by theme, along with classroom discussion ideas and …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=5981
Jun 07
Looking for a short film that sparks big discussions? One Small Step by Taiko Studios is a heartfelt animated short that tells the story of Luna, a young Chinese American girl chasing her dream of becoming an astronaut. With almost no dialogue, the film unfolds through expressive animation, emotional music, and carefully crafted scenes that draw …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=1954
May 19
Discover the magic of words with our exciting prefix activities! Whether you’re aiming to boost your students’ vocabulary or readying them for advanced language skills, teaching prefixes is essential. With these interactive activities, digital tools, and free organizers, you’ll help your 4th, 5th, and 6th graders master prefixes in a fun and unforgettable way. Why …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=5999
