Grammar & Writing Blog

In this series, we are exploring the concept of voice in writing. Voice is a complex art that many writers develop over time. However, teachers in middle school can start teaching voice by focusing on the five elements: diction, syntax, tone, imagery and detail. In this third installment of the voice series, … Read more

In our recent series for middle school ELA teachers, we have been exploring the concept of voice in writing. We’ve discussed diction, syntax, and tone – foundational components for young writers to understand as they develop their own author voice. In our last two installments of this series, we’ll dive … Read more

We began on this journey to dive into the art of voice, a complex but necessary skill for young writers to develop. Through many examples and practice activities, teachers who have followed this article series should be more equipped to teach and develop strong writers in their classrooms. In our … Read more

Words like “that,” “which,” and “who” are commonly used to connect different parts of our sentences. These words are called relative pronouns, and while they may seem similar, they have different uses and meanings, and it’s important to know when to use each one correctly.  Let’s take a look at … Read more

As a middle school English/Language Arts teacher, you understand the importance of teaching grammar to enhance your students’ writing and communication skills. While grammar lessons may seem daunting to some students, integrating them within the context of literature can make the learning experience more enjoyable and meaningful. Let’s review some … Read more

Contrary to popular belief, grammar doesn’t have to be a dull and monotonous learning experience.  With great English/Language Arts teachers like you, you can engage your middle school students by incorporating fun and interactive activities into your lessons and make learning grammar enjoyable. Let’s explore some effective strategies to transform … Read more

As the summer break approaches, students eagerly anticipate the freedom from schoolwork and exams. That being said, a lengthy hiatus can lead to a significant loss of academic progress. To ensure that students retain their understanding of grammar concepts during the summer and continue to build upon their language skills, … Read more

As dedicated middle school English/Language Arts teachers, you understand the importance of grammar instruction in fostering strong communication skills among your students. However, you also recognize that each student has unique learning needs and abilities. To create an inclusive and effective learning environment, it’s crucial to implement differentiated grammar instruction … Read more

As English/Language Arts teachers, you play a pivotal role in nurturing your students’ writing abilities. Among the essential skills they must master is crafting a strong thesis statement. A thesis serves as the backbone of an essay, providing a clear and concise roadmap for the reader. In this blog article, … Read more

Teaching grammar can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be boring!  One of the trickiest challenges in English grammar for both teachers and students alike is understanding the difference between “who” and “whom.” Fear not, Language Arts teachers, as we embark on a journey to make this … Read more

Effective writing skills are essential for students to excel in both their academic and professional lives. As middle school English/Language Arts teachers, you play a crucial role in shaping your students’ writing abilities. Understanding common writing mistakes and how to address them can greatly enhance their overall writing proficiency, so … Read more

Spelling Mistakes: Problem: Poor spelling can detract from the overall quality of a student’s writing. Solution: Encourage students to develop good spelling habits by using dictionaries and word lists. Teach them mnemonic devices and spelling strategies, such as breaking words into syllables or visualizing word patterns. Regular spelling quizzes and … Read more