These readings and activities will guide you in decluttering your writing, helping you express your ideas with precision, clarity, and ease. Google Doc Version Here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Nx8FH6hIJglbecaljF_uKO0vSc9DziT21eivDTkUmtk/edit?usp=sharing Reading #1: On Writing Well by William Zinsser (Chapter 2: Simplicity) Read the chapter and/or watch the video. Then answer the comprehension questions. Link Here: Video Reading Here: Comprehension Questions: Reading #2  On Writing Well by William Zinsser (Chapter 3: Clutter) Read the chapter and/or watch the video. Then […]

Providing examples of well-written summaries works well for my advanced students. However, my reluctant readers and writers often remain confused, even after seeing these models. For these students, I’ve found that writing 20-word summaries on topics connected to their prior knowledge is most effective. Here’s why: Students summarize things in their everyday lives. If I ask how their day or year has been, they naturally give a brief summary. Likewise, when asked about a movie […]

Students need to see themselves as readers and writers. They need to connect how literacy will help them achieve their dreams and aspirations. Here are a few “seed planting” activities for students to build their identity as readers and writers. Build Your Reading Mindset Create Your Personalize Reading Plan: Create a Plan to Build a Consistent Reading Habit! Worksheet: What Kind of Writer Are You? Worksheet: Sustained Silent Reading: Worksheet: Worksheet: Here is the downloadable […]

“I hate reading.”That’s what many of my students say. But I don’t buy it. What they really hate is the frustration that comes from not understanding what they read.They don’t hate reading—they just haven’t built the focus or confidence to enjoy it yet. Here’s what I’ve noticed:Most students today don’t read enough to build stamina.They lose focus quickly because they haven’t had the chance to develop it. And when they hit a word or sentence they don’t understand?They panic. They […]