Teaching Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper: A Complete, Zero-Prep Classroom Novel Study
"We all have disabilities. What's yours?" If there is one novel that consistently transforms how upper-elementary and middle-school students see the world, it’s Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper. The story introduces readers to Melody, a brilliant fifth-grader with a...
How to Implement Read Aloud Time in an Upper Elementary Classroom
As an upper elementary school teacher, you are always looking for ways to improve your students' reading skills and foster a love of reading. One way to do this is to implement a read-aloud time in your classroom. Read-aloud time is an opportunity for students to...
Financial Literacy for Teens: Essential Money Skills Every High School Student Should Learn
Are your high school students prepared to manage money when they leave school? Many teenagers know how to use a debit card, order something online, or receive a paycheck—but do they understand how checking and savings accounts work, what taxes are taken from a...
The Surprising Benefits of Reading Aloud to Upper Elementary and Middle School Students
As children grow older, their reading skills progress, and they may become more independent in their reading habits. However, research shows that reading aloud to older elementary and middle school students has numerous benefits that can positively impact their...
Unleashing Imagination and Adventure with Dinosaurs Before Dark
Introducing novels to young readers requires selecting a book that not only captures students' imagination but also sparks their interest in reading. One such captivating novel is Dinosaurs Before Dark, the first book in the beloved Magic Tree House series by Mary...
The Magic Finger Novel Study: Fun & Engaging ELA Activities for Grades 3–5
Looking for an engaging The Magic Finger novel study to use with your 3rd, 4th, or 5th grade students? The Magic Finger by Roald Dahl is a fun, unusual, and thought-provoking book that gives elementary readers plenty to discuss while providing excellent opportunities...
How to Teach Grammar, Spelling, & Punctuation in the Language of Teens
For years, I employed the Daily Oral Language sentences to reinforce grammar, punctuation, and spelling skills in my classroom as part of our bellwork routine. Witnessing noticeable progress in my students' everyday writing validated the effectiveness of these short...
I’m Shelley from The Teaching Bank. I have taught 3rd, 4th, and 6th grades.
My goal is to provide lessons and units for K-12 that are practical and ready to teach with minimal prep needed.