The Power of Friendship in Freak the Mighty
Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick was first published in 1993. The tale is timeless. Max is an outcast. He feels stupid, too large, hated for the crimes of his father, basically unloved and all alone in the world. Kevin is smart and adventurous, but has a disease...
Would You Like to Be a Perfect Person in Just Three Days?
Be a Perfect Person in Just Three Days by Stephen Manes captivates young minds through the power of literature. It is a great novel for teachers seeking to infuse creativity, critical thinking, and moral lessons into their classrooms. [lasso rel="amazon-93"...
Celebrate Nebraska’s Birthday with a State Study!
March 1st is Statehood Day in the state of Nebraska. We will be celebrating 159 years since officially becoming the 37th state on March 1, 1867! I moved to Omaha, NE, for my first teaching job back in 1995. My assignment was 4th grade. The largest part of the...
Teaching Empathy and Resilience through Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes
Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes by Eleanor Coerr is a book that has been widely used in classrooms around the world. It is a story that teaches children about the horrors of war and the importance of peace. There are also...
Out of My Heart Pushes Through Fear to Follow a Passion
In 2010, Sharon Draper brought Melody to life in Out of My Mind. Melody is a young girl whose mind is full of curiosity and vast amounts of information but Cerebral Palsy makes it difficult for her to participate and communicate with her classmates and peers. Out of...
Exploring Creativity, Humor, and Critical Thinking Skills with Wayside School is Falling Down
Are you looking for a funny, engaging, and thought-provoking novel to enhance your students' literacy skills and foster their love for reading? If so, consider using "Wayside School is Falling Down" by Louis Sachar in your classroom. This beloved children's book,...
Can a Wild Robot Survive in the Wilderness?
Students will explore and discuss in-depth the concepts of “smart robots”, friendship, sacrifice, Global Warming, the cycle of life, survival, and so much more in The Wild Robot.
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.