So we’re in the thick of it, folks. Teaching Grade 7 in December is a feat of patience, humour, and energy. Lots and lots of energy. In my area of the world, Term 1 is going straight to December 22. I understand that this likely to be because of the fact that Christmas falls on…
While this sounds like a lofty goal, and doubtless it is, there are a few reasons for this post. First of all, let me direct this post to two audiences. First, teachers of middle school, this is for you. The goal with this lesson is to provide a way to reach all students in their…
Who am I? First, I’m no tech expert. I am comfortable in using it but definitely no expert. So let me preface this blog with that before I start talking about ways I will be using AI Chat as a teacher. I’m really excited to use Chat GPT, at least the free version, as a…
Blurb: “Everybody is smart in different ways. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its life believing it is stupid.” Ally has been smart enough to fool a lot of smart people. Every time she lands in a new school, she is able to hide her…
I gasp in horror at the prospect. I shake my fist in protest! I declare that I shall find the book that will do the trick. We just haven’t found the right book yet. I think I’m looking at this wrong. Every year, I extol passionately the virtues of reading. I love it myself and…
I asked the students to brainstorm the books that we read at during readaloud time. I read to the class for about 25 minutes per day, and it’s not often skipped. Below you will find their honest reviews about our Grade 7 Read Alouds. Since there is no point in asking for feedback unless I…
Have you ever had a good book that you felt so emotionally connected to that you felt you lived the lives of the characters? Have you ever been reading and your hands are shaking, your heart is pounding, and you are out of breath, but you haven’t left the couch? If your answer is yes,…
This is the time of year when I need to start thinking about my third term report cards. I teach Grade 7, and I feel like the report cards that come in the third term, before those students graduate, are the most scrutinized by parents. So, I have some tips on how I do report…
I have been a teacher for 16 years and graduated with my degree in Education in 2006. I have to say that, everyday I’ve been in the classroom since, I’ve learned something new, tried something new, or had a new experience. Every. Day. This job is wild that way. So, if you want to become…