DiscoverAnti-Burnout For English Teachers, a podcast for inspired teaching
Anti-Burnout For English Teachers, a podcast for inspired teaching
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Anti-Burnout For English Teachers, a podcast for inspired teaching

Author: Danielle Hicks, English Classroom Architect

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85% of teachers say their job is "unsustainable." 55% plan to leave education sooner than planned. For experienced English teachers, these stats are our daily reality

Each week on the podcast, we explore the strategies and mindsets to turn these stats around, looking at our own classrooms. We'll mine ideas to help you build strong, motivated readers while protecting your energy in the process, and break down strategies and tools that make this work sustainable.

Reignite your passion. Rebuild a teaching life that sustains you. Inspire the next generation - without sacrificing yourself.
79 Episodes
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"Back in the day, (before COVID) students could actually focus..." Every teacher has heard it. Many of us have said it. But what if our fears about "kids these days" are hiding something deeper - something the we as teachers haven't been ready to talk about that speaks to something real and urgent in education? Let's talk about what's really at stake. Flash sale - https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/ducks-in-a-row-bundle/
In 1996, Michael Johnson won two Olympic golds by training less intensely than his competitors. Weird, right? Explore how the counterintuitive concept of 'sub-maximal' training—focusing on sustainability over constant maximum effort—might be the key to teaching excellence without burnout. This episode challenges everything you think you know about peak performance in the classroom. Resources Mentioned: Energy Aligned Guide: https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/energy-aligned-teaching-guide/
Why do we design our teaching as if we'll never need coverage when (almost) every teacher needs it multiple times a year? Stop coming to school sick. Stop creating emergency plans at 5AM. Stop pretending the need for coverage won't happen. Let's rethink how we plan for reality and build something sustainable. Get 10 FREE Emergency Sub Plans: https://buildingbooklove.com/ela-emergency-sub-plans-for-middle-school-and-high-school-english/ Literary Springboard Resource: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Say-Mean-Matter-Chart-and-Variation-Springboard-Analysis-for-any-text-9482514
How did Spotify turn "you listened to Taylor Swift for 10,483 minutes" into a story you couldn't wait to share? Meanwhile, we're still sharing student growth through numbers and charts. Something's not adding up. There's something here that could enhance how we celebrate student growth - and no, I'm not suggestion you try to turn your students' analytical progression into a viral moment. But what if progress felt less like a data dump ad more like a story worth sharing? Here's what teachers can learn from Spotify's storytelling magic - and how to use it without exhausting ourselves in the process.
"I agree with what they said." It's possibly the most dreaded phrase in literary discussions. The polite nodding. The surface sharing. The performance of analysis without any real meaning building. But what if the problem isn't our students or even the text? What if it's how we structure the discussion itself? Drawing from years of teaching Macbeth, this episode breaks down the engineering behind discussions that actually work. We'll explore scene mapping strategies, pattern analysis frameworks, and the specific structures that transform student contributions from random observations into genuine literary analysis. It's time to make the simple "I agree" obsolete. Resources Transform Macbeth Literary Analysis with Systematic Jigsaw Discussions (Product) Moving Beyond "Good Point": Building Powerful Literary Analysis Discussions (Blog Post) Discussion Toolkit (Freebie)
In this episode, we go beyond the witches to explore how Macbeth offers insights into ambition, performance, and mental health—both in the play and in the classroom. Tune in for: Ambition and Inner Conflict: How Macbeth’s public persona hides his private fears—and how this mirrors the experience of teachers. Music Connections: Explore thematic connections with Janelle Monáe’s “Tightrope.” Fact-Checking the Witches: A classroom activity where students analyze equivocation in the witches' prophecies and fact-check modern political speeches. Teacher Reflection: Insights on walking the tightrope of teaching, balancing external performance with internal well-being. Practical Ideas: Strategies and activities you can use right away to engage students with Macbeth. Whether you’re looking to explore Gothic themes, mental health, or fresh ways to teach Macbeth, this episode offers both inspiration and practical tools. Get the Spooky Bundle, Volume 2! https://shop.mudandinkteaching.org/spookyelabundle2/dazlp (my affiliate link)
As October rolls in, join us for a haunting exploration of Gothic literature in the classroom. In this episode, we'll uncover new ways to approach Gothic Literature. Discover how to: Transform literary analysis into a spooky architectural adventure Layer Gothic elements across classic and contemporary works Apply critical approaches that slice into texts like judges on a baking show Use modern twists like The Sixth Sense to illuminate timeless themes Lets reflect on the challenges of October teaching and how Gothic literature can be a bridge to deeper engagement. From Macbeth to Mexican Gothic, from yellow wallpaper to silver screens, I'll share how I'm creating rigorous, engaging lessons that resonate with today's students.
Ever had a student crumple up their graded paper right in front of you? In this Curriculum Lab episode I share my own struggles with feedback frustration and explore methods (including some old-school Google add-ons) to hopefully ensure students not only see but use your comments to improve their writing. If feedback has felt like a losing battle, I made this episode for you.
Let's look at the world of education's hidden curriculum to explore how common school policies can unintentionally manipulate student emotions. From high-stakes assessments to rigid homework penalties, we'll uncover the parallels between reality TV tactics and classroom practices. Learn practical strategies to mitigate these effects and create a more supportive learning environment. Discover actionable tips for navigating these challenges, supporting student well-being, and avoiding teacher burnout.
Why are your students wearing Nirvana tees without knowing the band? Explore the world of the 'time-neutral teen' and learn how to use their nostalgic interests to deepen historical understanding...which can all lead to our students better understanding literature and the world they live in. In this episode, we'll cover: • The concept of the 'time-neutral teen' and how it affects learning • A multi-week TV era research project to engage students with historical periods • Strategies for building 'time anchors' to improve student comprehension • Flexible homework assignments for media analysis and historical context • Practical tips for integrating pop culture into your English curriculum • Addressing challenges like time constraints and access to media
Ever feel like teaching is an impossible mission? You're not alone! Join us as we explore how Star Trek's iconic 'no-win scenario' mirrors the challenges of modern education - and learn how to beat the system like Captain Kirk. From redefining success to creative compliance, we'll discuss how to "take the chair" and command your classroom with confidence. Prepare to energize your teaching and outmaneuver the Kobayashi Maru of education!
In this Curriculum Lab, we're diving into the post-Labor Day chaos that every teacher knows all too well. From binge-watching 'UnReal' to suddenly remembering all those ungraded assignments, I'm sharing my own juggling act of honors classes, volleyball coaching, and parenting both a toddler and a teenager (and an adult). Join me as I talk through through adapting lesson plans and debate pushing back deadlines (again). Whether you're nodding along in solidarity or laughing at the all-too-familiar struggle, this episode is a candid peek into surviving the back-to-school whirlwind!
Like Grogu learning to harness the Force, it's time for your students to master the power of reading. Discover how to forge a curriculum as strong as the finest armor, weaving together the science of reading with compelling storytelling techniques. From building background knowledge to mastering vocabulary, we'll equip you with strategies that work like a well-aimed blaster. Structure your lessons like episodes of an epic saga, keeping students engaged and learning. In the quest for literacy, "This is the way." Edutopia Article: https://www.edutopia.org/article/10-studies-every-teacher-should-know-about 40. Plot Twist Summit Series: Talking Science of Reading with Allison McManus: https://pod.link/1692157320/episode/839e3d91f1ea8eb93250aea9003c0356
Ever feel like your lessons are dragging, while your students’ attention spans are sprinting? You’re not alone! In this episode, we’re getting into the nitty-gritty of micro-content—those short, sharp, and super-effective strategies that make your lessons click. We’ll show you how to turn long lectures into quick, engaging bursts that your students will actually remember. Think of it as the secret sauce for today’s fast-paced classroom. Whether you’re looking to refresh your approach or just want to meet your students where they are, this episode has the tips and tricks you need to keep your lessons snappy, relevant, and totally unforgettable. Tune in and let’s get sharp! Pop Culture Pedagogy Freebie: https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/pop-culture-pedagogy-toolkit-tpt-copy-2/
In this episode I'm sharing about week two of the school year. In this behind-the-scenes look, I navigate the ripple effects of a newly enforced cell phone ban, channel Marvel's 'What If?' series for lesson inspiration, and grapple with gender swaps in classic literature. From Stephen King-inspired stations to last-minute PB&J lunches, join me to pull back the curtain on the real-life challenges and triumphs of adapting curriculum on the fly. It's an unfiltered, honest look at the day-to-day realities of teaching – exhaustion, epiphanies, and all.
Feeling overwhelmed by endless to-do lists and competing priorities? In this episode, discover the game-changing concept of "Classroom Triage" - a powerful technique borrowed from emergency medicine to manage your time and energy. Learn how to: Identify your most critical tasks and tackle them first Streamline your workflow for maximum impact Reduce stress and avoid burnout without sacrificing quality Apply practical strategies for immediate classroom use If you're drowning in responsibilities, this episode offers the life preserver you've been searching for!
What if two simple words could transform your English classroom? Discover how this approach can bring new energy to both literary analysis and the writing process, making classics come alive and turning student writing into an adventure. Learn practical strategies to implement 'What If' thinking, explore its cognitive benefits, and unlock new levels of creativity and critical thinking in your students. From Marvel to Masterpieces, we'll explore how 'What If' can be your secret weapon for engaging reluctant readers and aspiring writers alike.
I've got one week of school under my belt... Join me for an inside look at implementing my curriculum revamp n real time. I'll give honest insights about adapting to different class dynamics, engaging students, and balancing planning time. I'll catch you up on what's working, what's being adjusted, and how I'm navigating the challenges of bringing new ideas into the classroom.
Ever faced a sea of blank stares during class discussions? You're not alone. In this episode I explore my practices and habits that practices that were hindering class discussion and how I rethought assessment and scaffolding so my ideas and strategies have evolved to encourage all voices are heard. Let's turn those crickets into conversations and make your class the one students can't stop talking about - literally. Mentioned in this episode: 15. Elevating Socratic Seminars with Team-Based Approaches: Unleashing Collaboration and Competition: https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/3yuhsM6nfMb Show Notes: https://englishclassroomarchitect.com/podcast/54-classroom-discussion-code/
Ready to murder the monotony in your English classroom? Join us as we dive into the audacious world of Liquid Death's marketing strategies and discover how they can revolutionize your teaching. In this episode, you'll learn: 5 punk-rock strategies to breathe new life into classic literature The art of subverting expectations in your lesson plans Why embracing the absurd might be your ticket to student participation How to create a classroom brand that rivals the coolest companies From unexpected juxtapositions to irreverent humor, we're breaking all the rules to help you create an unforgettable learning experience. So grab your tallboy of water, crank up the volume, and get ready to think way outside the script.
Join me as we explore how to transform your Learning Management System from a mundane storage space into an engaging, year-long literary adventure. In this episode, we'll cover: • The evolution of LMS use in high schools • Why traditional module structures fall short for English classes • Strategies for organizing a spiral curriculum in a digital space • Incorporating year-long interactive elements that keep students engaged • Tips for creating visually appealing and easy-to-navigate course designs • Exciting LMS features that foster long-term student engagement • How to use 'Easter Eggs' and AI-generated content to spark curiosity Let's turn that digital file cabinet into a dynamic, student-centered learning environment that lasts all year long.
From index cards to AI fact-checking, research in the classroom has undergone a seismic shift. Join us as we explore how teaching research has evolved and why it matters more than ever. In this episode, you'll discover: How a rap battle research project revolutionized my teaching approach The unexpected return of "old school" research methods Strategies for teaching fact-checking in the age of misinformation The surprising connection between hip-hop analysis and ethics in innovation Let's rethink our approach to research instruction.
Dare to Beast-ify your English class? This episode is your million-dollar challenge." Dive into the world of YouTube's content king and discover how to: Create high-concept hooks inspired by MrBeast's challenges Design collaborative projects that turn your classroom into a content creation powerhouse Use data-driven strategies to continuously level up your teaching game Plus, learn how to balance these high-intensity tactics with practical, everyday teaching. From "The World's Most Valuable Poem Challenge" to "The Frankenstein Vocabulary Quest," we're rewriting the playbook on engaging English lessons. Ready to transform your classroom from "required reading" to "can't-miss content"? Hit play now!
Are you, like me, tired of first-day snooze-fests? This year, I'm shaking things up in my 10th grade English class, and I can't wait to share my plans with you. In this Curriculum Lab episode, I'm diving into some ideas I have to get our students engaged from minute one. My goal? To make our students the stars of their own learning journey right from day one. I'll walk you through my thought process, share some activities I'm excited to try, and talk about how I'm hoping to connect these first-day activities to our year-long curriculum. From literary personality quizzes to "applying" for classroom roles, you'll learn how I'm flipping the script on traditional first-day activities. Whether you're a seasoned educator or new to teaching, this episode offers practical, adaptable ideas to make your first day unforgettable. Resources mentioned in this episode: This or That Resource: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-Literature-Would-You-Rather-Discussion-Pack-9780361 "Apply" to My Class Resource: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/First-Week-of-School-Kit-Fun-Twist-on-Classroom-Community-and-Procedures-9775728
Join me on a journey through the evolution of multimodal assignments in the English classroom. In this episode, I'll share: The 'love manual' assignment I thought was genius (and why I was wrong) How educational theories like UDL are reshaping our approach to teaching Why creating character Instagram profiles just doesn't cut it anymore The 'Songland' method: Turning your classroom into a creative studio 5 key aspects every effective multimodal assignment should have Plus, discover how an anime about post-war androids fit in my plans. Get ready to kill your darlings and level up your teaching game!
Discover how a billion-dollar fitness empire's success story can transform your English classroom into a vibrant literary community. In this episode, we unpack Gymshark's innovative approach to community-building and translate it into powerful teaching strategies. You'll learn: How to use author backstories to make literature more relatable A unique "Literary Athlete" recognition system to boost engagement Creative ways to design class "merch" that fosters literary identity Techniques for tracking "Personal Bests" in writing and analysis Strategies to nurture and challenge your most enthusiastic readers Ready to turn reluctant readers into passionate literary athletes? Tune in for a gym-to-classroom makeover that will energize your teaching and inspire your students.
Step into my classroom, where we're building a year-long scaffolding masterpiece! Join me to discuss how I'm ditching the one-size-fits-all approach and embracing a flexible support system that would make even the craftiest Lego builder jealous. You'll discover: Crafting a year-long scaffolding strategy that spans multiple skills and units Parallels between Lego building techniques and adaptable learning supports Reframing our role as 'matchmakers' in literary analysis education Practical ways to gamify scaffolding using reality TV show concepts Let's break the mold and create a scaffolding system that's as dynamic as your students! Check out the Back to School Freebies: ⁠https://www.mudandinkteaching.org/backtoschool24
In a world where AI can churn out essays faster than you can say "thesis statement," we're flipping the script. Join me to explore where creativity and critical thinking collide, producing essays that are part art project, part deep analysis, and entirely engaging. Curious? Here's a sneak peek at what we're cooking up: Essay prompts that'll make AI scratch its virtual head The secret sauce for blending analytical muscle with creative flair The art of making students think about their thinking Warning: This episode may cause spontaneous lesson plan redesigns and uncontrollable excitement about essay grading. Listen at your own risk – your students might actually start looking forward to writing assignments! Check out the Back to School Freebies: https://www.mudandinkteaching.org/backtoschool24 Perfect Match Argument Essay Activities: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Perfect-Match-A-Reality-TV-Inspired-Literary-Analysis-Essay-Workshop-11956460 Show Notes: https://englishclassroomarchitect.com/podcast/45-then-and-now-how-ai-turned-essay-writing-from-chore-to-creative-challenge/
Imagine a classroom where students are as captivated by your lessons as they are by their favorite Netflix series. In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on Netflix's $260 billion success story and revealing how its strategies can transform your teaching. We'll explore how the magic of binge-worthy content can be harnessed to create an immersive, interconnected learning experience that keeps students coming back for more. Tune in for strategies for: • Applying binge-worthy storytelling techniques in the classroom • Parallels between content creation and curriculum development • Reframing our role as 'experience designers' in education • Practical ways to implement these insights in your teaching Rethink everything you know about curriculum design, student engagement, and your role as an educator. We'll dive into the art of crafting narrative arcs across your units, creating irresistible hooks that spark curiosity, and building a diverse content ecosystem that caters to every learner. It's time to press play...are you ready? Show Notes: https://englishclassroomarchitect.com/podcast/44-netflix-inspired-strategy/ Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/that-vibe License code: EVOD7KKELNI36GAU
I’m back to curriculum planning, and this time, I’m blowing it all up! After a brief hiatus, I'm relaunching the podcast with an inside look at my ambitious 10th grade honors curriculum revamp. Three weeks in, and it's a beautiful mess of sticky notes, midnight inspirations, and a few stubborn units. But amidst the chaos, a surprising solution emerges.  You'll discover: • Applying project management tools like Notion to curriculum planning • Parallels between transmedia storytelling and unit design • Reframing our role as 'lifestyle designers' in literature education • Practical ways to use AI for curriculum evaluation and improvement Whether you're considering a curriculum overhaul or simply curious about innovative planning strategies, this episode offers food for thought for educators at all levels. Get ready to think outside the script and reimagine your curriculum design process! Show notes: https://englishclassroomarchitect.com/podcast/how-to-start-revamping-english-curriculum/
How can a 400-year-old play compete with TikTok for your students' attention? In this episode, we're exploring unexpected connections between Shakespeare's timeless works and modern digital culture. We'll discuss how thinking outside the script can transform both student engagement and your approach to teaching classic literature. You'll discover: * Applying social media strategies to bring Shakespeare to life * Parallels between historical context and contemporary relevance * Reframing our role as 'digital storytellers' in literature education * Practical ways to implement these insights in your Shakespeare units Whether you're looking to refresh your approach to teaching Shakespeare or simply curious about blending classical literature with modern tech, this episode offers food for thought for English educators at all levels. Get ready to think outside the script and revolutionize your Shakespeare lessons! Show Notes: https://englishclassroomarchitect.com/podcast/42-reimagining-shakespeare/
I've got a $7 billion question for you: What does a yoga pants company have to do with revolutionizing your English classroom? In this episode, we're exploring unexpected connections between Lululemon's business strategies and innovative teaching practices. We'll discuss how thinking outside the script can transform both student engagement and teacher fulfillment. You'll discover: Applying community-building strategies in the classroom Parallels between product design and curriculum development Reframing our role as 'experience designers' in education Practical ways to implement these insights in your teaching Whether you're looking to refresh your teaching approach or simply curious about cross-industry insights, this episode offers food for thought for educators at all levels. Get ready to think outside the script and revolutionize your teaching practice. Show Notes: https://englishclassroomarchitect.com/podcast/41-beyond-the-yoga-mat-innovative-teaching-practices/ Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/filofihi/jacky License code: MMICWBX3E7CYJ4DY
In this episode of the podcast I talk with Allison McManus. She shared her approach and tips for bringing Science of Reading into the secondary classroom. Come hang out with us! Join us at Plot Twist! a summit on reading choice: https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/plot-twist-choice-reading/ Get to know Allison: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrsmcmanusela/ Grab her freebie: https://mrsmcmanusela.ck.page/sortoolkit
In this episode the podcast I welcomed Amanda Cardenas to discuss essential questions. Amanda shares why crafting inquiry units with essential questions is so important to her, tips for creating essential questions, and how she went about creating her most recent unit offering for Othello. Join us at Plot Twist! a summit on reading choice: https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/plot-twist-choice-reading/ Get to Know Amanda! Instagram @mudandinkteaching: https://www.instagram.com/mudandinkteaching/?hl=en Her website: www.mudandinkteaching.com Brave New Teaching Podcast: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/
Does SEL feel like one more thing? In this episode of the podcast we discuss how English teachers can incorporate SEL in ways that naturally feed curriculum and feel authentic. Join us at Plot Twist: a summit on reading choice - https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/plot-twist-choice-reading/ Get to know Kathryn! Instagram: @welcome_to_hs_ela - https://www.instagram.com/welcome_to_hs_ela/ Check out her Substack! https://substack.com/@welcometohsela
In this episode of the podcast I'm talking with Lauralee Moss! We're chatting about teaching memoirs and how her own experience as a writer has influenced her teaching. Join us at Plot Twist: a summit for reading choice, April 17-20! https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/plot-twist-choice-reading/ Connect with Lauralee: On Instagram @lauralee_moss: https://www.instagram.com/lauralee_moss/ On her website - The Language Arts Classroom: https://languageartsclassroom.com/
In this episode I'm taking you through the plan for the rest of the year. I have big plans! My students will be completing a research essay and reading in literature circles. I've shared many of the resources I'm using this quarter to the Bringing in the Spring bundle, hosted by Mud and Ink Teaching. Get the bundle at my affiliate link here: https://shop.mudandinkteaching.org/bringinthespring/dazlp
Happy Sunday! In this episode we're looking at how to use historical context to bring more diversity into our conversation by looking at The Cotton Club and The Great Gatsby as a use case. Resources from this episode: Prohibition-Era Gangster Project: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Great-Gatsby-Prohibition-Era-Research-Presentation-Project-9441986 Join the free membership where I give you notes and additional teaching ideas for the Sunday Inspiration topics: ⁠⁠⁠https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/sunday-inspiration/
Looking to start having student-centered class discussions or interested in tools and strategies to help them run even better? In this episode I share the tools that form the foundation for my class discussions. For these 3 tools (and SEVERAL more resources) grab my new Discussion Toolkit freebie: https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/discussion-toolkit/ Referenced in the episode: Episode 15. Elevating Socratic Seminars with Team-Based Approaches: Unleashing Collaboration and Competition: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/englishclassroomarchitect/episodes/15--Elevating-Socratic-Seminars-with-Team-Based-Approaches-Unleashing-Collaboration-and-Competition-e290uqj Let's Connect! Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/englishclassroomarchitect/
More than you might expect! In this episode I share some thoughts about how to spruce up Transcendentalism by connecting to the Minecraft end poem. I'm keeping the notes for these Sunday inspiration sessions in a new free membership. You can access additional teaching ideas, as well as previous and future Sunday inspiration episodes here. Join the free membership where I give you notes and additional teaching ideas for the Sunday Inspiration topics: ⁠⁠https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/sunday-inspiration/ Additional Resources: Beyond Blocks: 3 Memorable Strategies for Teaching Transcendentalism (Blog Post): https://englishclassroomarchitect.com/unitplanning/teachingtranscendentalism/
In this episode we're drawing on the written of Dr. Stuart Brown, the founder of the National Institute of Play. Is play just for children? Let's explore in today's episode. Take the quiz to find out your play style: https://lindsaybraman.com/adult-play-styles/#quiz Freebies mentioned in this episode: Student CEO Toolkit: https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/ceo-toolkit/ Discussion Toolkit: https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/discussion-toolkit/ 2023-24 Planner/Organizer: https://englishclassroomarchitect.com/planner/
Did anyone else really dislike the circus? In this Sunday Inspiration session I'm looking into P.T. Barnum and the film The Greatest Showman. How can educators use representations of P.T. Barnum in popular culture as a lens for teaching critical media literacy skills, including analyzing bias, evaluating sources, and understanding historical context? Join the free membership where I give you notes and additional teaching ideas for the Sunday Inspiration topics: https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/sunday-inspiration/ Check out the American Dream Research Project: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/American-Dream-Research-Project-for-teaching-the-research-process-9420919 Let's Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/englishclassroomarchitect/
We know that understanding allusions in a text, but what happens when we don't recognize allusions because the cultural references are unfamiliar? Let's talk about it in today's episode.
In this episode, we're talking about Beyonce's newest single "Texas Hold 'Em" and how it can connect to our teaching of allusions, our students' understanding of intellectual property, and multi-media storytelling. I'm keeping the notes for these Sunday inspiration sessions in a new free membership. You can access additional teaching ideas, as well as previous and future Sunday inspiration episodes here. Join the free membership where I give you notes and additional teaching ideas for the Sunday Inspiration topics: ⁠https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/sunday-inspiration/ Resources: Using Pop Culture in the Classroom: Engaging Minds, Empowering Voices (blog post): https://englishclassroomarchitect.com/unitplanning/popculture/
I'm teaching American Born Chinese and it hits me. While there are certainly themes in this book that everyone can connect to, it's missing the point a little if we don't recognize what might not apply to us and what's not a "universal theme." I look at the history of universality and what we might consider in this episode.
In this Sunday Inspiration episode we're looking into Langston Hughes and discussing a couple different ways we can bring his poetry into the classroom. Sign up for the FREE Sunday Inspiration Membership: https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/sunday-inspiration/ Each week I'll add curated resources and more detailed lesson ideas to give you a jumpstart on your planning.
This week, we're talking about superheroes as a reflection of our values and culture and the gaps in current superhero stories and movies. Resources: Exploring Cultural Crossroads: The Harlem Renaissance Unit Meets Superhero Comics (Blog Post) - https://englishclassroomarchitect.com/uncategorized/harlem-renaissance-superheroes/
Are you familiar with Phillis Wheatley, the first African American woman to have a published book of poetry, a celebrity of her day and in the literary circles of George Washington, Ben Franklin, and other Revolutionary Era juggernauts? Did you know this was made remarkable because she was enslaved when she gained this distinction? If not, it's not surprising...recent scholarship has completely changed what we understand about Phillis Wheatley. In this episode I look at the grandmother of African American, Phillis Wheatley. With this new series I've also put together a new resource to share additional information with you - some curated links and strategies for easy information into what you're already teaching. Grab the free Phillis Wheatley resources for Sunday Inspiration series here: https://english-classroom-architect.thrivecart.com/sunday-inspiration/
I took off a somewhat unexpected break from posting and I'm this episode I explain why. Thanks for tuning in!
In this episode, we discuss using character resolutions from literature as a fun assignment to start the new year and help students reflect on goals. I also provides strategies for teachers to focus resolutions on their strengths rather than weaknesses to improve motivation and success. Practical tips are shared for setting resolutions around timely feedback, flexibility, and mentoring others to enhance teaching skills and build classroom community. Download the freebie Small Action Steps to Take to Make Your New Year's Resolutions a Reality (and I'll give you early access to the New Year reset bundle!)
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