Teaching Middle School ELA
Education Podcasts
Welcome to the Teaching Middle School ELA podcast, where we are dedicated to helping English Language Arts teachers create dynamic and engaging lessons for their students, while also managing the day-to-day responsibilities that come with being a Middle School ELA teacher.
As educators ourselves, we understand the challenges of finding a work-life balance that allows us to pursue our passion for teaching while also enjoying our personal lives. That's why each Tuesday, hosts Caitlin Mitchell and Jessica Cannata share practical and innovative solutions for managing your workload and staying inspired in your teaching practice.
Whether you are looking for fresh ideas to inspire your students, strategies for improving your writing instruction, or tips for managing your time more effectively, this podcast is designed to provide you with the tools you need to thrive as a Middle School ELA teacher.
Join us each week for curriculum and lesson ideas, classroom stories, and interviews with fellow educators who are experts in the field. We believe that with the right support and resources, you can create a classroom environment that encourages students to become strong and passionate learners.
If you teach reading and writing to middle schoolers and want to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in ELA education, then this is the podcast for you! Tune in every week and let us help you make a difference in the lives of your students and in your own teaching career.
Location:
United States
Genres:
Education Podcasts
Description:
Welcome to the Teaching Middle School ELA podcast, where we are dedicated to helping English Language Arts teachers create dynamic and engaging lessons for their students, while also managing the day-to-day responsibilities that come with being a Middle School ELA teacher. As educators ourselves, we understand the challenges of finding a work-life balance that allows us to pursue our passion for teaching while also enjoying our personal lives. That's why each Tuesday, hosts Caitlin Mitchell and Jessica Cannata share practical and innovative solutions for managing your workload and staying inspired in your teaching practice. Whether you are looking for fresh ideas to inspire your students, strategies for improving your writing instruction, or tips for managing your time more effectively, this podcast is designed to provide you with the tools you need to thrive as a Middle School ELA teacher. Join us each week for curriculum and lesson ideas, classroom stories, and interviews with fellow educators who are experts in the field. We believe that with the right support and resources, you can create a classroom environment that encourages students to become strong and passionate learners. If you teach reading and writing to middle schoolers and want to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in ELA education, then this is the podcast for you! Tune in every week and let us help you make a difference in the lives of your students and in your own teaching career.
Language:
English
Contact:
415-269-0404
Website:
https://ebacademics.com/
Episodes
An Important Update for the Podcast
1/1/2025
As the New Year dawns, we're embracing a transformative journey at EB Academics. After over 300 episodes of enriching the lives of ELA teachers, we're hitting pause on the Teaching Middle School ELA podcast to focus on something monumental. Our curriculum is under review by Ed Reports, and we're laser-focused on ensuring it meets and exceeds expectations, transforming it into an even more powerful resource for you. This hiatus isn't an end but a chance to enhance and elevate what we offer, aligning with our mission to empower educators inside and outside the classroom.
Join me, Caitlin, as I share this pivotal moment in our journey. While we'll miss our weekly rendezvous, we're channeling all our energy into this exciting phase. It's a time for both growth and introspection, and I invite you to set your own intentions for 2025. Embrace the possibilities, welcome change, and trust in the process. Until we're back in your earbuds, here's to a New Year filled with ease, joy, and transformation. Your positive thoughts and good vibes are welcome as we embark on this critical chapter. See you soon, and happy 2025!
Duration:00:04:00
Mindset Favorite: Protecting Your Energy
12/30/2024
Let’s take a moment to revisit one of our favorite Monday Mindset episodes!
Your energy has the power to transform every interaction—are you elevating those around you?
Learn practical strategies to protect and project positivity, reflect on your energy levels, and align your actions with your best self. Surround yourself with uplifting individuals and discover the profound impact of intentional energy on your journey to fulfillment.
Here’s to another day of living intentionally.
Caitlin
Duration:00:05:24
Re-Air Transform Your Planning Process and Take Back Your Time
12/24/2024
Let's listen once again to one of our Podcast Favorites. This episode empowers middle school ELA teachers to plan an entire month or semester of lessons in advance, transforming the weekly grind into a streamlined, stress-free process. Learn to map out units, align with standards, and categorize lessons into 'into,' 'through,' and 'beyond' for maximum impact. Say goodbye to late-night planning and hello to high-quality lessons and personal time!
Duration:00:14:31
Mindset Favorite: Accepting Honesty
12/23/2024
What if embracing honesty and vulnerability could transform your life? Let's listen one more time to one of our Monday Favorite episodes, I explore how truthfulness fosters self-love and personal growth. Learn how honest feedback—whether from yourself or others—can spark meaningful change and help you align with your true aspirations.
Dive into practical exercises and inspiring reflections to confront what holds you back and nurture what moves you forward.
Listen now and take the first step toward unlocking your full potential!
Here’s to another day of living intentionally.
Caitlin
Duration:00:05:56
Episode 315: Ideas for Teaching Grammar in the Context of Reading
12/17/2024
Grammar lessons don’t have to be dull or disconnected from what students are reading! In this episode, we share three engaging strategies to teach grammar concepts through the sentences in your class's stories and books. You’ll hear all about using mentor sentences, setting up scavenger hunts for grammar elements, and exploring nonstandard dialects to enrich students’ understanding of language. With step-by-step ideas and examples, we'll make it easy to incorporate these strategies into any story or text.
Tune in for creative ways to bring grammar to life in your classroom!
Duration:00:17:48
Mindset Favorite: Whether You Think You Can... You're Probably Right
12/16/2024
This is a flashback from one of our favorite Monday Mindset episodes!
Imagine facing a challenge you once thought impossible—then conquering it with encouragement and the right mindset. This week, we explore how our beliefs shape our capabilities and the power of support in pushing past limits.
Discover how shifting self-talk and embracing accountability can open doors to growth in all areas of life.
Here’s to another day of living intentionally.
Caitlin
Duration:00:04:48
Episode 314:Interview with Deonna Smith: culturally relevant learning environments
12/10/2024
Join host Megan in this insightful episode as she welcomes back Dr. Deonna Smith, an inspiring advocate for educational equity. With experience as both a teacher and an administrator, Dr. Smith now collaborates with educators and school leaders to build vibrant, inclusive learning environments that support students from all backgrounds, especially those who are often marginalized. In today’s conversation, she shares practical tips on bringing culturally responsive teaching into your classroom and teaching in ways that are joyful, inclusive, and impactful. Don’t miss this chance to learn how to elevate your teaching and student engagement!
Click here for a special JOY Freebie: https://purple-tiger-24284.myflodesk.com/kvrdy0ou0g
Duration:00:39:06
Mindset Favorite: Moving Forward Despite Fear
12/9/2024
Let’s take a moment to revisit one of our favorite Monday Mindset episodes!
Facing fear can lead to unexpected joys and personal growth. Caitlin recounts a spontaneous UTV ride through the Arizona desert that challenged her preference for predictability and taught her the power of embracing the unknown. This adventure mirrors the daily challenges we all face, from tackling daunting tasks to having tough conversations, and how courage can transform our lives. Caitlin invites educators and listeners to reflect on applying these lessons in classrooms and personal lives, fostering meaningful discussions about confidence and resilience. Join her as we explore how small acts of courage can unlock deeper joy and inspire growth.
Here’s to another day of living intentionally.
Caitlin
Duration:00:04:59
Episode 313: Say Goodbye to Popcorn Reading: 4 Engaging Read Aloud Strategies (You’ll Love the Last One!)
12/3/2024
In this episode, Jessica and Megan tackle the challenge of helping middle school students strengthen their reading fluency. Although students begin building these skills in elementary school, the complexity of middle school texts often requires extra support. Tune in as they share three powerful methods—choral reading, echo reading, and paired reading—plus a creative twist for making individual read-alouds engaging and low-pressure. It’s a must-listen for any teacher eager to enhance fluency, deepen comprehension, and boost student confidence in reading!
After listening, you'll have some simple, practical fluency practice strategies that you can start implementing today, with any classroom text your students are reading!
Duration:00:20:05
Mindset Favorite: Receiving vs. Going After It
12/2/2024
Ever feel like you're always chasing the next goal? Let's have a recap on our Monday Mindset favorite episode, Caitlin shared a revelation from a mastermind interview that changed her perspective on success. For years, she thrived on drive and determination, but this year, she embraced the word "receive." This shift opened her eyes to the beauty of balancing hustle with acceptance, allowing life's abundance to flow naturally. Discover how this mindset can transform your personal journey and relationships.
Here’s to another day of living intentionally.
Caitlin
Duration:00:04:35
Episode 312: Grab a Soccer Ball and Try this Discussion Activity Immediately
11/26/2024
Ready to have a ball during story and book discussions? In this episode, learn how to use a soccer or beach ball to create dynamic, engaging discussion experience with your students. We’ll walk you through all the steps, from creating prompts to guiding student conversations with discussion stems. Plus, hear about the researched benefits of adding movement to your lessons, like improving focus and classroom management.
Tune in for a fun, practical idea that you can "kick off" right away in your classroom!
Duration:00:18:37
Mindset Favorite: Overcoming Self-doubt
11/25/2024
Let’s take a moment to revisit one of our favorite Monday Mindset episodes! In this episode, we tackle self-doubt and the path to intentional living. If you've ever felt held back by insecurities despite the success around you, you're not alone. I'll share strategies and stories to turn small wins into big breakthroughs, building a "bank of evidence" that you’re more capable than you think.
I invite teachers to not only shift their own mindsets but also inspire their students to do the same. From handling batch planning to personal growth, we’ll guide you toward a life filled with confidence and purpose.
Tune in and Here’s to another day of living intentionally.
Caitlin
Duration:00:04:34
Episode 311: Drop the Boring Writing Assignment, Engage Your Students, and Give Collaborative Writing a Try
11/19/2024
In Episode 311, Jessica and Megan explore the benefits of using collaborative writing in the classroom. They will also tackle common concerns teachers have when assigning group projects. You'll learn how collaborative writing boosts communication skills, builds confidence, and encourages peer learning. Plus, you'll pick up practical tips on setting up group writing tasks, managing group dynamics, and assessing individual contributions and skills. Whether you're new to collaborative writing or looking to improve your approach, this episode is packed with ideas to help you succeed!
Duration:00:21:56
Mindset Favorite: Seasons
11/18/2024
Life's seasons mirror our own cycles of growth and stillness. In this another past Monday Mindset episode, I share a personal story of navigating through busyness and loss, highlighting the value in both vibrant summers and quiet winters. As I reflect on my journey, I uncover the power of mourning, connecting, and finding purpose in every phase.
Join me as we explore how embracing vulnerability and sharing our stories can lead to healing and deeper connections. Whether you're in a season of growth or introspection, there's beauty in every moment. Tune in to find strength in each season of your life.
Here’s to another day of living intentionally.
Caitlin
Duration:00:05:42
Episode 310: How to Write a Lesson with ELL Students in Mind
11/12/2024
In this episode of The Teaching Middle School ELA Podcast, Caitlin, Jessica, and Megan explore how to plan lessons with English language learners in mind. You'll take away practical strategies for the beginning, middle, and end of your lessons, with tips that can benefit every student in your classroom. Whether you have one ELL student or many, these strategies will help you create lessons that are accessible and effective.
Tune in to discover easy ways to adapt your lesson planning for the benefit of all your students!
Duration:00:21:18
Mindset Favorite: Stop Hitting the Snooze Button
11/11/2024
Transform your mornings and reclaim over four weeks of your year! Let's have a recap on our Monday Mindset favorite episode, inspired by Mel Robbins, which reveals the hidden costs of hitting the snooze button. Discover how just 26 extra minutes in bed can rob you of precious time for growth and calm. I challenge you to reshape those minutes into a powerful start to your day with the mantra: "Get up, dress up, show up."
I explore how waking up with purpose can turn rushed mornings into moments of intention. Join me on this journey to harness those 158 hours a year and step closer to your best self!
Here’s to another day of living intentionally.
Caitlin
Duration:00:03:53
Episode 309: What Does Taylor Swift Have to Do with Student Projects (Interview with Trevor Aleo)
11/5/2024
In this special episode of The Teaching Middle School ELA Podcast, Megan interviews Trevor Aleo, a high school language arts teacher and co-author of Learning That Transfers: Designing Curriculum for a Changing World. Trevor talks about the strategies he used to help his 8th graders engage in multimodal composing projects, as you can read about in his English Journal article “‘What Would Other Swifties Think?’: Multimodal Composing with Communities in Mind.” Tune in to learn how you can help your students tap into their communities and write for a real-world audience.
Check out the #HackYourStack Database that Trevor shares on the show: https://reminiscent-attention-b9e.notion.site/HackYourStack-Database-e00377a9816045ed8dfbbe026b9ff9e8
Visit his website: https://www.trevoraleo.com/
And if you'd like to read the article after listening, you can find it here! “What Would Other Swifties Think?”: Multimodal Composing with Communities in Mind | ncte.org (publicationsncte.org)
Duration:00:36:09
Mindset Favorite: You'll Regret What You Didn't Do
11/4/2024
Let’s take a moment to revisit one of our favorite Monday Mindset episodes!
Ever faced a life-changing choice and wondered whether to take the leap? Join us on Monday Mindset as we dive into my brother's bold move to France—a story of courage, curiosity, and embracing the unknown. I explore the power of risk-taking and how saying "yes" to the unfamiliar can lead to lasting fulfillment. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that might just spark your own journey to transform fear into opportunity!
Here’s to another day of living intentionally.
Caitlin
Duration:00:03:51
Episode 308: Literary Shuffle Activity
10/29/2024
In this episode, we're shaking things up with the Literary Shuffle Activity—a fun and interactive way to get students diving deeper into any story. Whether they’re on their feet or staying put, this game makes story review a blast.
You'll walk away from this episode with all the information you'll need to implement this game using any novel or short story that your students are reading. Take a listen and try it out!
Duration:00:17:05
Mindset Favorite: Be About It
10/28/2024
What if small changes could align your life with your deepest values? Today’s Monday Mindset is one of our listeners’ favorite past episodes all about moving from dreaming to purposeful action, inspired by a lesson from the CEO of a basketball camps company. I discuss breaking the cycle of endless ideas and taking real steps toward your goals—especially in teaching. Tune in for actionable strategies to create space for your passions and live in alignment with your values.
Here’s to another day of living intentionally.
Caitlin
Duration:00:03:13