Aug 18
Let’s face it—terms like retell, recount, and summarize are tossed around in ELA standards like confetti, but their meanings can blur. If you’re an upper elementary teacher, you’ve likely scratched your head wondering, “Aren’t these all basically the same thing?” Short answer: not quite. Let’s unpack each term, explore the skills students need at different …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=2688
Aug 15
If you’re looking for vocabulary activities that actually work in the classroom without adding to your grading pile, digital vocabulary games might be your new best friend. These interactive, self-checking games give students instant feedback, making vocabulary practice more meaningful (and way less time-consuming for you). Whether you’re managing centers, supporting small groups, or keeping …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=27277
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 …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=272
Jul 21
Teaching author’s purpose is more than just PIE (persuade, inform, entertain), though pie does sound delicious. In this lesson, 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 irresistible doughnut‑themed writing project. Because nothing motivates writing like sugar. …
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
