If you’ve ever had students stare at their notes like they’re written in another language, you’re not alone. I used to spend so much time creating guided notes, only to watch students flip past them, lose them, or never look at them again. That’s why I created my Step-by-Step Math Notes — a classroom-tested tool designed to break down math concepts clearly and make learning feel manageable for middle schoolers. Why Step-by-Step Math Notes Work 1. They Reduce OverwhelmEach page focuses on one…
1. Greet Students at the Door (With Purpose) Set the tone from the start.A quick smile, fist bump, or check-in creates connection and gives you a feel for students’ moods before they even sit down. Bonus: It reduces hallway drama from following them inside. 2. Start Class With Something For Them To Do Use a 2–5 minute routine at the beginning of class (bell ringer, journal prompt, math warm-up, Would You Rather). This gets students focused, gives you time to…
When I first started teaching middle school, I thought my lesson plans were going to carry me. I was ready with engaging activities and objectives on the board. And yet… I went home every day exhausted, discouraged, and wondering: “Why isn’t any of this working?” It took time (and some trial-and-error tears) before I realized that managing a classroom and connecting with middle schoolers is an entirely different skill set. Here are 3 things I WISH I had known back then: 1. Relationships >…
This resource is a fantastic addition to any ELA center that focuses on phonics. Pocket charts are my go to! That’s how I like to set up my matching cards. They are amazing in the classroom and can easily make it interactive for your students. I know my students really enjoyed working together and seeing which picture card goes with the correct word. I also have them show me their work by filling out their sheet. That way my students…
This color by number activity is none like any other. It will get your students up, active, and engaged. I love any activity that gets my students around the room. The excitement and the joy that I see from their faces brings me true happiness. How to Set Up Well, how do you do this activity? Multiple Versions When I did this activity with my kindergartners, I had so many students at different levels. That’s why I decided that I…