Articles by Brian Tolentino

Creative Writing Challenges (Updated)

Write a Story About an Alien Video: Worksheet: Write a Creative Story About Fear Write a Story About a Monster The Time Traveler Tale Creative Writing Challenge Creative Writing Challenge #2 Creative Writing Challenge #3 Creative Writing Challenge #4 Creative Writing Challenge #5 Creative Writing Challenge #6 Adjective Adventure Creative Writing Challenge (Animal Edition) Creative Writing Challenge (Literary Devices Edition) 10-Sentence Story Challenge (Beginner) 10-Sentence Story Challenge (Beginner #2) Creative Writing Challenge (Sports Edition) 20-Sentence […]

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Write a Story About an ALIEN!

I love setting the stage for writing prompts with a touch of drama. First, I dim the lights and play a video, immersing students in a cinematic experience. Then, as the mood settles, I hand out the worksheet and let their creativity take over. Try it out! Video: Worksheet More writing challenges here: Donate Here:

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Classroom Management: Unlock the IDEAL Mindset for Learning!

Video: Relaxed Alertness By Brian Tolentino One of the greatest joys of teaching is witnessing the “aha” moment—that sudden flash of insight when a student’s eyes light up, and they exclaim, “Oh, I get it!” Research suggests that the ideal mental state for fostering these cognitive breakthroughs is relaxed alertness. This is the sweet spot of thinking, where the effortless flow of deep engagement meets the creative tension of grappling with something new. It’s that […]

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Write About a Random Act of Kindness!

The Power of Kindness Did you know that being kind can actually improve your health? A recent CNN article highlights how altruism—putting others’ well-being ahead of your own—can give you a “helper’s high.” In fact, volunteering has been shown to reduce stress and ease depression. Even small, spontaneous acts of kindness can have big benefits. Studies suggest that committing random acts of kindness—simple, thoughtful gestures to brighten someone’s day—can lead to lower blood pressure, pain reduction, and increased happiness. Here are some […]

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