Literacy

Introduction

Introducing biographies to teenagers can have a profound impact on their outlook towards life. Reading real-life stories of resilience, determination, and success can inspire young minds and shape their future. As a teacher, you play a crucial role in shaping a young reader’s experience. Here are the 20 best biographies teachers recommend for teens.

1. I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban – Malala Yousafzai

2. Steve Jobs – Walter Isaacson

3. The Diary of a Young Girl – Anne Frank

4. The Wright Brothers – David McCullough

5. Marie Curie: A Life – Susan Quinn

6. Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg – Irin Carmon, Shana Knizhnik

7. Nikola Tesla: Imagination and the Man That Invented the 20th Century – Sean Patrick

8. Mandela: The Authorized Biography – Anthony Sampson

9. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks – Rebecca Skloot

10. Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption – Laura Hillenbrand

11. Lab Girl – Hope Jahren

12. Into the Wild – Jon Krakauer

13. Persepolis: A Story of Childhood – Marjane Satrapi

14. The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin – Benjamin Franklin

15. My Life with the Chimpanzees – Jane Goodall

16. Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood – Trevor Noah

17. Alexander Hamilton – Ron Chernow

18. Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race – Margot Lee Shetterly

19. Becoming – Michelle Obama

20. The Glass Universe: How the Ladies of the Harvard Observatory Took the Measure of the Stars – Dava Sobel

Conclusion

These 20 biographies are perfect for teenagers as they showcase an array of diverse individuals who have faced adversity, overcome obstacles, and left their mark on the world. Introduce these titles to your students, and you may spark a newfound passion for reading and learning as they explore personal narratives filled with valuable life lessons.

As the holiday season approaches, it’s the perfect time to dive into some festive books that will fill your heart with warmth and cheer. If you’re a teen or young adult looking for some great Christmas reads, this list of 28 fantastic novels is sure to spark your holiday spirit.

1. Let It Snow: Three Holiday Romances by John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle

2. Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan

3. The Afterlife of Holly Chase by Cynthia Hand

4. The Twelve Days of Dash & Lily by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan

5. What Light by Jay Asher

6. My True Love Gave to Me: Twelve Holiday Stories edited by Stephanie Perkins

7. A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig

8. The Girl Who Saved Christmas by Matt Haig

9. Snow in Love by Melissa de la Cruz, Nic Stone, Aimee Friedman, and Kasie West

10. Ex-mas by Kate Brian

11. Winterspell by Claire Legrand

12. Decked with Holly by Marni Bates

13. Santa’s Daughter by Sabrina James

14. Kissing Santa Claus by Donna Kauffman, Jill Shalvis, and HelenKay Dimon

15.Twelve Dates of Christmas by Catherine Hapka

16.I’ll Be Home for Christmas: Your Guide to a Welcome Warming Winter Dating Game edited by Benjamin Zephaniah and Gemma Cairney

17.Mistletoe & Margaritas by Shannon Stacey

18.The Puppy Who Wanted a Boy for Christmas by Jane Thayer

19.The Nutcracker Retold in Modern Day New York City by E.T.A Hoffmann and adaptations

20.One Way Ticket to the North Pole: A Christmas Adventure by Wes Anderson

21.The Yule Ball: A Wizarding World Christmas Story by J.K Rowling

22.Snow-Kissed Love: A Collection of Festive Young Adult Short Stories edited by Siobhan Curham, Jenny McLachlan, and Holly Bourne

23.Season of Love: Four Christmas Novellas by Susane Colasanti, Han Nolan, Aimee Friedman, and Melissa de la Cruz

24.Bah, Humbug!: A Romantic Comedy Christmas Novella by Heather Horrocks

25.Christmas Presents and Past by Julie L. Cannon

26.Holiday Mania at the House of Jade: A Novel of Family Loyalties and Riveting Intrigue by Kiki Archer

27.Christmas With a Bite: Supernaturally Yours Series by Eve Langlais

28.A Very Hogwarts Christmas: A Magical Collection of Short Stories for Harry Potter Fans edited by Kelly Link and Holly Black

From heartwarming romances to magical adventures, this list offers a wide variety of holiday stories that cater to all tastes. So grab your favorite blanket, cuddle up with a cup of hot cocoa, and dive into these captivating holiday-themed novels.

Summer is the perfect time to dive into a new book series, and this year boasts a fantastic selection of must-reads across multiple genres. Whether you’re lounging by the beach or relaxing in your backyard, there’s no better way to pass the time than with an engrossing story. Here are 15 book series you won’t want to miss this summer.

1. The Bridgerton Series by Julia Quinn

With the massive success of the Netflix adaptation, now is the ideal time to immerse yourself in the world of Regency romance with Julia Quinn’s beloved Bridgerton series.

2. The Throne of Glass Series by Sarah J. Maas

This bestselling young adult fantasy series follows a skilled assassin as she navigates political intrigue and uncovers hidden secrets.

3. The Cormoran Strike Series by Robert Galbraith

Penned by J.K. Rowling under a pseudonym, this contemporary crime thriller series stars private investigator Cormoran Strike and his resourceful assistant Robin Ellacott as they solve cases in London.

4. The Broken Empire Trilogy by Mark Lawrence

Discover this dark and original fantasy trilogy featuring a ruthless protagonist determined to conquer his post-apocalyptic world.

5. Outlander Series by Diana Gabaldon

This historical romance series combines time-travel, adventure, and love as protagonist Claire Randall is transported from 1945 to 18th-century Scotland.

6. The Gentleman Bastard Series by Scott Lynch

Follow Locke Lamora and his band of thieves as they navigate the underworld of Venice-like city Camorr in this epic fantasy series filled with humor, heists, and complex characters.

7. The Wayward Pines Trilogy by Blake Crouch

Experience small-town mystery with a twist in this sci-fi thriller trilogy where everything is not what it seems.

8. The Broken Earth Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin

This superbly written series transports readers to a post-apocalyptic world where natural disasters are caused by dangerous planetary magic.

9. The Red Rising Saga by Pierce Brown

This sci-fi series set on Mars explores a world of rebellion and class struggle, all while delving into brutal aspects of humanity.

10. The Shades of Magic Trilogy by V.E. Schwab

A fantastic adventure awaits in this imaginative world with multiple Londons, where magic, danger, and excitement abound.

11. The Expanse Series by James S.A. Corey

Experience epic space opera with this futuristic series that interweaves politics, science, and adventure across the cosmos.

12. The Six of Crows Duology by Leigh Bardugo

Set in the Grishaverse world, this intriguing duology follows a heist crew with diverse skill sets as they embark on the job of a lifetime.

13. The Darker Shade Trilogy by A.N. Willis

Dive into an atmospheric gothic mystery that weaves together secrets, suspense, and romance.

14. The Stormlight Archive Series by Brandon Sanderson

Enter the captivating world of Roshar in this epic fantasy series that explores morality, power, and humanity amidst incredible magical elements.

15. The Raven Cycle Series by Maggie Stiefvater

Experience friendship, romance, and supernatural mysteries with four teenagers searching for a long-lost Welsh king in rural Virginia.

These 15 book series are guaranteed to entertain, captivate, and transport you to new worlds during your summer months. Don’t hesitate to pick up the first installment in each series so you can fully enjoy these rich stories and fascinating characters all season long.

Introduction:

In today’s interconnected world, diversity and inclusion have taken center stage in education. As educators, it is crucial to nurture open-minded discussions and challange preconceived notions among students. To help achieve this, we are pleased to introduce the “Win a Classroom Library of Diverse Books” contest. This contest will enrich your classroom library with books that celebrate diverse perspectives, cultures, and experiences.

Why Diverse Books are Important:

Diverse books are crucial in fostering respect and empathy for people from various backgrounds. They provide a window into the lives of others, allowing students to broaden their horizons and develop an appreciation for different cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles. Additionally, diverse books play a central role in facilitating inclusive learning environments, making students feel seen and understood.

The Impact on Students:

When students have access to diverse literature that represents their own experiences or those of others in their communities, it can create a sense of belonging and instil pride in their identities. Moreover, these books can inspire rich discussions about social issues such as tolerance, acceptance, discrimination, privilege, and bias. Exposure to diverse stories also fosters a student’s emotional intelligence and critical thinking skills.

How to Enter the Contest:

Entering the “Win a Classroom Library of Diverse Books” contest is simple:

1. Register your school or educational institution online by providing your name, email address, details about your school or institution (name and location), grade level you teach and class size.

2. Submit a one-page essay describing how your classroom would benefit from winning these diverse books. In your essay, explain the impact these books would have on your students’ overall development.

3. Share your entry on social media using the hashtag #WinDiverseBooksContest to spread awareness about the importance of diversity in education.

Contest Rules and Dates:

1. The contest begins on [starting date] and submission deadline is [ending date].

2. Winners will be selected by a panel of diverse educators, authors, and literacy experts.

3. Prizes include a curated set of diverse books suitable for your grade level, handpicked by renowned educators and authors.

Conclusion:

The “Win a Classroom Library of Diverse Books” contest is a unique opportunity for educators to enrich their curriculum and showcase the importance of diversity in schools. By participating, you not only advocate for inclusivity but also encourage continued growth in young minds. Nations will prosper if our future generations are equipped with an open mindset that values human dignity and respects differences.

Introduction

Reading is an essential skill for personal and professional development. It allows us to acquire knowledge, stay informed about the world, and improve our critical thinking abilities. However, sometimes we encounter texts on unfamiliar subjects that can be quite challenging to read. This article explores why it becomes more difficult to read when we have no idea what we are reading about and offers suggestions to overcome this obstacle.

Challenges associated with reading on unfamiliar topics

1. Lack of context: Reading about a subject we’re unfamiliar with can be confusing because we lack the necessary context to fully understand the topic. Without previous knowledge, it can be hard to grasp the significance of specific terms, concepts, and arguments.

2. Complex terminology: Articles on specialized subjects often use technical jargon that might be new or obscure to readers who are not well-versed in the topic. This not only complicates comprehension but may also discourage readers from exploring further.

3. Difficult sentence structures: When a text covers a complex topic, it often requires intricate sentence structures and abstract ideas that can make comprehension even more challenging.

4. Limited motivation: If we have little or no interest in the topic at hand, it’s harder to stay engaged and motivated while reading, which ultimately hampers our understanding.

Strategies for overcoming difficulties when reading unfamiliar material

1. Pre-read: Before diving into an unfamiliar text, spend time briefly scanning the headlines, subheadings, and summaries if available. This will provide a general idea of the topic and help build context before reading in detail.

2. Research basic information: Perform quick background research on the topic before starting to read. Understanding key terms and foundational concepts can significantly improve your comprehension of the material.

3. Take notes and summarize: Jot down notes while reading as this forces you to process and engage with the material actively. Periodically, pause and try to summarize what you have read in your own words to solidify your understanding.

4. Read slowly and patiently: When struggling with a difficult text, it’s helpful to take your time to process the material thoroughly. Rereading sentences or paragraphs may be necessary to grasp complex concepts and ideas fully.

5. Seek additional resources: If a particular piece of content proves too challenging, look for alternative sources on the same topic that may be more accessible or utilize different learning formats such as videos or infographics.

Conclusion

Encountering unfamiliar topics while reading can be a daunting experience, but it can also be an opportunity to broaden our horizons and expand our knowledge base. By employing strategies like pre-reading, researching background information, and remaining patient, we can gradually overcome the challenges associated with reading about new subjects and ultimately strengthen our reading comprehension skills in the process.

Introduction:

Efficient and engaging staff meetings are crucial for fostering collaboration and promoting literacy in educational institutions. One of the best ways to achieve this is by using ready-made resources that can be easily printed and distributed. In this article, we will explore Print & Go! Staff Meeting Resources to enhance literacy-focused discussions among educators, helping them gain new insights and develop practical strategies.

Why Use Print & Go! Resources in Staff Meetings?

1. Time-saving: Preparing materials for staff meetings can be time-consuming. Print & Go! resources help you save valuable time by providing relevant discussion topics and activities, allowing you to focus more on the meeting itself.

2. Encourages Collaboration: These resources not only provide content but also serve as a catalyst for educators to share their thoughts, ideas, and experiences related to literacy. This collaborative approach promotes problem-solving, cross-department communication, and innovation.

3. Ensures Consistency: By using standardized Print & Go! resources, you ensure consistency in your approach towards discussing and implementing literacy strategies across different departments within your institution.

Types of Print & Go! Resources for Literacy-Focused Staff Meetings

1. Discussion Guides: These guides provide targeted questions related to specific literacy topics and promote meaningful conversations among educators. For example, guides may contain questions focusing on comprehension strategies, assessment methods, or digital literacy.

2. Activity Sheets: Hands-on activities enable educators to experience classroom-tested strategies first-hand, which they can then adapt for their own classrooms. For instance, activity sheets may include games or tasks reinforcing phonics skills, critical thinking exercises or scaffolded writing prompts.

3. Professional Development Articles: Reading timely articles related to recent research or best practices in literacy instruction helps educators stay informed while sparking conversations about how such ideas can be applied in their own environments.

4. Lesson Plans or Curriculum Maps: Sharing sample lesson plans or curriculum maps that incorporate effective literacy strategies can give staff members practical examples to draw from when planning their instructions.

How to Effectively Utilize Print & Go! Resources

1. Set Clear Goals: Determine the goals and objectives for the meeting prior to selecting the most suitable Print & Go! resources. This helps ensure that the focus remains on literacy topics relevant to your institution’s needs.

2. Create a Comfortable Atmosphere: Encourage open communication and active participation by setting up an informal and comfortable meeting space to foster in-depth discussion among staff members.

3. Use a Facilitator: Designate a meeting facilitator – preferably someone who is not involved in administrative duties – to guide conversations, encourage participation, and keep the discussion on track.

4. Scaffold the Discussion: Use Print & Go! resources as a starting point, building upon them through discussion and collaborative problem-solving. This ensures that ideas are grounded in evidence-based practices while also being tailored to your institution’s specific needs.

Conclusion:

Print & Go! Staff Meeting Resources are an effective way to promote and support literacy in any educational setting. By saving time, encouraging collaboration, and ensuring consistency, these resources enable educators to engage in critical thinking and problem-solving related to literacy instruction. By actively employing these resources in your staff meetings, you help set the stage for an empowered learning environment where students can thrive.

Introduction

Managing personal finances is an essential skill for anyone, especially for teachers who often work with tight budgets. How financially savvy are you when it comes to managing your own money? Take our quiz to find out your financial IQ!

Question 1: What is the recommended percentage of your monthly income that should go towards savings?

1. A) 5%

2. B) 10%

3. C) 15%

3. D) 20%

Question 2: What is the difference between a checking account and a savings account?

1. A) Different banking institutions

2. B) Interest rates

3. C) Withdrawal limits

4. D) All of the above

Question 3: What is the primary purpose of having an emergency fund?

1. A) To save for vacation

2. B) To cover unexpected expenses

3. C) To save for retirement

4. D) To invest in stocks

Question 4: Which of these best describes compound interest?

1. A) Earning interest on the principal amount

2. B) Earning interest on the principal amount and previously earned interest

3. C) Earning interest only on previously earned interest

4. D) None of the above

Question 5: What is a credit score typically used for?

1. A) Determining eligibility for loans and credit cards

2. B) Calculating net worth

3. C) Comparing salary with peers

4. D) Keeping track of account balances

Answers:

1. B)

2. D)

3. B)

4. B)

5. A)

Conclusion

How did you do? If you scored high, congratulations on being money-savvy! Continue honing your financial skills to ensure a secure future. If you didn’t meet your expectations, don’t worry – it’s never too late to learn and improve your financial knowledge. Remember, as teachers, we not only manage our own finances but also educate students about important life lessons, and financial literacy is surely one of them.

Introduction:

The traditional image of a princess waiting for her prince to come and rescue her is quickly becoming a tale of the past. Today, we are surrounded by strong, independent, and intelligent role models for young children which emphasize the importance of embracing individuality and empowering women. The princesses in these 22 books shatter the mold by demonstrating resilience, bravery, compassion, humor, and intelligence while still celebrating the magic of a good fairy tale.

1.The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch

2.Princess Smartypants by Babette Cole

3.Zog and the Flying Doctors by Julia Donaldson

4.The Princess Knight by Cornelia Funke

5.Princess Pigsty by Cornelia Funke

6.Dangerously Ever After by Dashka Slater

7.Interstellar Cinderella by Deborah Underwood

8.The Ordinary Princess by M.M. Kaye

9.Not All Princesses Dress in Pink by Jane Yolen

10.Princess in Black Series by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale

11.Do Princesses Wear Hiking Boots? By Carmela LaVigna Coyle

12.The Worst Princess by Anna Kemp

13.Part-time Princess by Deborah Underwood

14.Olivia and the Fairy Princesses by Ian Falconer

15.The Tough Princess by Martin Waddell

16.Sleeping Cinderella and Other Princess Mix-ups by Stephanie Clarkson

17.Dealing with Dragons Series (The Enchanted Forest Chronicles) by Patricia C. Wrede

18.Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine

19: The Two Princesses of Bamarre by Gail Carson Levine

20: Amelia Bedelia’s First Vote (Amelia Bedelia Series)  by Herman Parish

21: Cinders: A Chicken Cinderella By Jan Brett

22: The Tea Party in the Woods by Akiko Miyakoshi

Conclusion:

These 22 princess books offer children a modern take on classic fairy tales and the much-loved concept of princesses. By presenting fresh perspectives and unconventional storylines, these books break the conventional mold and empower young readers to believe in their dreams and envision themselves as independent, strong, and capable individuals in a magical world. So, whether you’re picking up a book for your child or yourself, open the pages of these incredible stories and let the new age of princess-inspired adventures begin!

Are you ready to embark on a whimsical word adventure? Introducing the Dr. Seuss Word Challenge! This exciting event invites participants of all ages to test their word game skills by connecting with the imaginative and delightful world of Dr. Seuss.

The Dr. Seuss Word Challenge is a fantastic opportunity to have fun while improving your vocabulary, challenging your mind, and celebrating the creative legacy of Dr. Seuss. By participating in this unique competition, you not only showcase your linguistic talents but also stand a chance to win some amazing prizes!

## How Does It Work?

The challenge revolves around identifying and using words from various Dr. Seuss books. Participants are given a set of words, phrases, or quotes from celebrated works such as “The Cat in the Hat,” “Green Eggs and Ham,” or “How The Grinch Stole Christmas.” Contestants must then demonstrate their understanding of these terms by crafting creative content using them.

## Who Can Participate?

Everyone is welcome to join in the fun of this light-hearted competition. Whether you’re a seasoned linguist or a lover of everything Dr. Seuss-related, this event provides an enjoyable platform to showcase your talents.

## How Can You Prepare?

Prepare by revisiting your favorite Dr. Seuss books, familiarizing yourself with his inventive language, and practicing creating content using his distinctive words and phrases. You might also want to engage with fellow Dr. Seuss fans in friendly scrimmages before the actual competition.

## Prizes Up for Grabs

To sweeten the deal, participants have the chance to win some incredible prizes! These rewards typically include themed merchandise such as limited-edition Dr. Seuss books, posters, or exclusive collectibles you can proudly display in your home.

Official rules will spell out eligibility criteria and detailed information about how winners are selected, so be sure to study them carefully.

So, what are you waiting for? Participate in the Dr. Seuss Word Challenge now and showcase your love for this legendary author’s work. You just might end up winning some amazing prizes while spinning captivating tales with words straight from the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss!

Introduction:

Allusions are a subtle and thought-provoking way to convey complex ideas by drawing on shared cultural or historical references. These 20 allusion activities will provide students with an engaging and enlightening way to explore and appreciate this timeless literary device.

1. Allusion Bingo

Create a bingo card with common allusions, calling out the reference as students find them in a provided text.

2. Allusion Detectives

Form groups of ‘detectives’ and assign a text packed with allusions for each team to identify and analyze.

3. Allusion Collage

Craft a visual representation using magazines and printed images representing various allusions found in literature.

4. Allusion Charades

Act out famous characters or stories from mythology, literature, or history containing well-known allusions.

5. Allusive Haiku

Write haikus incorporating multiple allusions, challenging classmates to identify each reference.

6. Pop Culture Allusions

Research current movies, TV shows, commercials, or music lyrics for modern-day allusions and discuss their significance.

7. Classical Mythology Match-Up

Match classical myths with their corresponding modern-day allusions in literature or pop culture.

8. History’s Hidden Allusions

Dive into historical events to uncover hidden allusions that shape our contemporary understanding of similar occurrences.

9. Bible-based Allusions

Explore literary and cultural references derived from biblical stories in texts and various forms of art.

10. Map the Allusion’s Journey

Trace how authors throughout history have used specific allusions, connecting the origins and variations across time periods.

11. Allusive Dialogue

Write a dialogue between two characters discussing shared themes rooted in well-known literary allusions.

12. Allusion Pictionary

Draw famous scenes from literature containing prominent allusions for classmates to identify the original source.

13. Found Allusions

Capture everyday objects or scenes that resemble famous allusions from literature, creating a photo journal of your findings.

14. Lightning Round Allusion Quiz

Race against the clock to identify and explain the meaning of rapid-fire allusions in this exciting quiz format.

15. Creating New Allusions

Develop new, unique allusions by incorporating existing historical, cultural, or literary elements into your own narrative.

16. Wacky Allusion Mad Libs

Fill in blanks of provided templates with allusions for a hilarious game of literary mad libs.

17. Music and Allusion Connections

Analyze popular songs for allusion-worthy content and discuss how these references contribute to the overarching themes.

18. Shifting-Inspiration Allusions

Rewrite a famous scene from literature featuring an allusion by changing the supposed inspiration to something comically unrelated.

19. Allusion Trading Cards

Craft individual trading cards with information about famous allusions, engaging in thorough research before trading with classmates as an interactive learning activity.

20. Allusive Visual Poetry

Blend poetry and visual art by creating an illustrated poem featuring multiple allusions throughout the stanzas.

Conclusion:

These 20 awe-inspiring allusion activities are designed to pique students’ interest while enhancing their understanding of this literary device. In addition to promoting analytical skills, these activities foster creative expression and collaboration – helping learners appreciate the depth and richness that allusions bring to both classic and modern texts.