Universal Design for Learning (UDL) has come a long way since CAST first introduced the framework in the late 1990s. With the release of UDL Guidelines 3.0, the core message is clearer than ever: it’s the design—not the learner—that creates barriers. By proactively planning for variability, we give every student an equitable shot at success […]
UDL Lesson Plan Template: A Practical Guide for Inclusive Teaching Read More »
If there’s one thing I adore more than fresh stationery, it’s watching students light up when classwork finally feels “real.” Scenario-based learning does exactly that—it drops learners into authentic situations where their decisions matter. In this lesson I’ll show you how to turn job scenario problem solving into a dynamic activity that sharpens critical thinking,
Job Scenario Problem Solving: Sparking Critical Thinking Read More »
Artificial intelligence can draft lesson plans in seconds, summarise dense research papers, and even coach shy writers toward clearer prose. When used ethically, these capabilities make AI a fantastic co-teacher. Yet the same power lets students off-load thinking onto a chatbot and turn in polished assignments they barely read. That shortcut—AI plagiarism—cuts straight across the
AI Plagiarism: A Teacher’s Guide to Detection, Prevention, and Authentic Learning Read More »
If you’ve ever tried teaching poetry to middle or high school students and been met with groans, sighs, or blank stares, you’re not alone. Poetry can feel intimidating, abstract, or—dare I say it?—boring to students who haven’t found their poetic groove. But what if I told you there’s a way to make poetry lessons thrilling,
Poetry Jenga: A Fun, Interactive Way to Teach Poetry in the Classroom Read More »
Middle school is a crucial time for developing strong writing skills—and let’s face it, keeping 8th graders interested in writing can sometimes feel like trying to teach a cat to fetch. That’s why it’s essential to mix things up with writing assignments that are fresh, relevant, and varied in style. Whether you’re a teacher planning
21 Engaging 8th Grade Writing Assignments to Inspire Young Writers Read More »
If you’ve ever fielded the classic “When will we ever use this?” question, a professional timeline lesson delivers the answer in bold, neon letters. By asking students to research and plot the schooling, trainings, and real-world experiences required for a chosen career, you help them connect classroom learning to tangible futures. More than a one-off
Professional Timeline Lesson Plan: Guiding Students From Classroom to Career Read More »
Ever stared at a sea of blank faces during whole-class instruction and wondered if anyone was actually on the same page—let alone the same paragraph? I’ve been there. That’s why I started experimenting with flexible grouping: reorganizing students into temporary, purpose-driven groups that shift as needs change. It felt a bit like classroom Tetris at
Flexible Grouping: A Practical Guide for Teachers Read More »
I’ve always loved watching students experience that lightning-bolt moment when a text suddenly feels alive in their hands. The Story to Poem activity delivers those moments in bunches. By asking learners to remodel a piece of prose into verse, we press all the right buttons at once: close reading, inference, figurative language, creative risk-taking, and
Story to Poem: Turning Tales into Poetry Read More »
If your classroom sometimes feels like the control tower of an international airport—planes circling, radios crackling, and somebody always “needing to go right now”—you’re not alone. Students are juggling academics, friendships, family dynamics, and that level in their favorite video game. A coping skills toolbox gives them (and us) a way to land those metaphorical
Coping Skills Toolbox: A Practical Guide for Teachers Read More »
I’m always on the hunt for low-prep, high-impact activities that make teens forget they’re learning. My latest classroom crush? The career exploration mind map. Hand students a giant sheet of chart paper (or access to a slick digital mind-mapping tool) and watch the brainstorming fireworks begin. In one class period, they’ll go from vague notions
Career Exploration Mind Map Lesson Plan Read More »
