
Teaching Middle School ELA
Welcome to the Teaching Middle School ELA Podcast, where we help English Language Arts teachers create dynamic, engaging lessons while balancing the everyday responsibilities of teaching middle school.I’m Caitlin Mitchell, a longtime ELA educator and curriculum creator, and I know firsthand how challenging it can be to manage grading, planning, and student needs—while still trying to have a life outside the classroom. That’s why every Tuesday and Thursday, I bring you practical strategies, curriculum inspiration, and innovative teaching ideas to help you feel confident, prepared, and energized.Whether you're looking to revamp your writing instruction, streamline your planning process, or engage even the most reluctant readers and writers, you’ll find actionable support here. You'll also hear real classroom stories, fresh lesson ideas, and occasional interviews with other passionate educators.If you teach reading and writing to middle schoolers and want to stay inspired and up-to-date with best practices in ELA education, you’re in the right place. Tune in every week and let’s transform your teaching—together.
Latest episodes

Oct 9, 2023 • 5min
Monday Mindset: Let's Romanticize the Mundane Things in Our Lives
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!In this episode, I encourage listeners to slow down and appreciate the simple, nearly cost-free pleasures in life. By embracing small moments, we can shift our perspective and find happiness in everyday activities, such as enjoying a cup of tea, going for a walk, or reading a book. Ultimately, our life is a collection of these moments, and by cherishing them, we can become more content and grateful everyday. Here’s to another day of living intentionally.Caitlin

Oct 3, 2023 • 24min
Episode 248: Stop Writing Sample Essays with Your Students; Do THIS Instead
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!In today's episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, we delve into a thought-provoking topic that may ruffle some feathers. We discuss the unintended consequences of writing model essays in front of students and explore whether this practice aligns with our goals of demonstrating proper writing techniques and fostering creativity. Join us as we break down the side effects of this approach, such as creating unrealistic expectations and stifling students' creativity. But don't worry, we also provide an alternative that can foster active learning and allow students to thrive in their writing journey. Get ready for an engaging discussion that may challenge your current practices in the classroom!Are you enjoying the podcast?Tag us on Instagram @ebacademics and let us know which episode you're listening to!Make sure to subscribe to our channel and leave us a review!Your review helps us reach even more middle school ELA teachers just like you! It would mean so much to us. To leave a review in iTunes, click HERE by scrolling down our show page, selecting a star rating, and tapping “Write a review.” Let us know how this podcast is helping you in your ELA classroom!

Oct 2, 2023 • 6min
Monday Mindset: Rest is Not a Reward
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!In today's episode, I discuss a topic that affects us all: the concept that rest is not a reward. In a society that glorifies productivity and hard work, it's crucial to challenge the traditional narrative and recognize that rest is not something we earn, but rather, a fundamental right. Shift your mindset and prioritize rest as a proactive choice rather than a reactive necessity or a reward. Discover the wisdom and benefits of incorporating rest into your daily life to live a happier, more fulfilled existence. Here’s to another day of living intentionally.Caitlin

Sep 26, 2023 • 30min
Episode 247: Your Burning ELA Questions Answered
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!Today’s episode of Teaching Middle School ELA is unique–Caitlin and Jessica answer teachers’ most burning ELA questions on the podcast! Listeners will hear everything from advice on how to organize materials for learning units, strategies for teaching grammar, as well as tips to help students justify evidence in writing. They will also explore the importance of combining reading and writing, as well as effective classroom management techniques. Watch now: YouTubeAre you enjoying the podcast?Tag us on Instagram @ebacademics and let us know which episode you're listening to!Make sure to subscribe to our channel and leave us a review!Your review helps us reach even more middle school ELA teachers just like you! It would mean so much to us. To leave a review in iTunes, click HERE by scrolling down our show page, selecting a star rating, and tapping “Write a review.” Let us know how this podcast is helping you in your ELA classroom!

Sep 25, 2023 • 6min
Monday Mindset: Seasons
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!Today I dive into the concept of seasons - not just the ones we experience in nature, but the seasons of our lives as well. Seasons remind us that it's okay to experience the dark and barren winters, just as much as it is to revel in the bright and sunny summers. In a world where we often only see people's growth and expansion, I encourage you to embrace vulnerability and share your journey with others. It’s important to explore the seasons of life and discover how they shape us as human beings. Here’s to another day of living intentionally.Caitlin

Sep 19, 2023 • 25min
Episode 246: Get Your Students to Rock their Text-Dependent Paragraphs with this Strategy
In this episode, the hosts discuss a framework for teaching students to write well-organized text-dependent paragraphs. They introduce the EBW approach, which improves reading comprehension and writing skills. They also explore strategies for integrating reading and writing, and improving paragraphs through key scenes and essential questions.

Sep 18, 2023 • 4min
Monday Mindset: You're Not Good at Everything
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!In today's episode, I delve into a powerful way of reframing our thoughts that challenges the notion of perfection in both our personal and professional lives. We don't have to excel in every aspect of our lives, rather we can embrace our strengths and allow others to shine in the areas in which they are most strong. I examine the importance of releasing the pressure to be perfect and focusing on what truly matters: family, friends, love, community, and connection. Here’s to another day of living intentionally.Caitlin

Sep 12, 2023 • 17min
Episode 245: The Argument for Using Graphic Novels in the Classroom
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!Welcome back to another episode of Teaching Middle School ELA where we're diving into the topic of using graphic novels in the classroom. We understand the uncertainty that comes with introducing a new teaching method or resource, especially when it comes to finding graphic novels that align with academic standards and engage students. But fear not, because today we are unpacking all things graphic novels and making the case for why this is the year to try them out with your students. We'll be sharing tips and insights on how to choose the right graphic novels, effectively teach them, and analyze the visual elements they offer. Get ready to embrace this exciting and engaging new addition to your middle school ELA classroom.Watch now on YouTubeAre you enjoying the podcast?Tag us on Instagram @ebacademics and let us know which episode you're listening to!Make sure to subscribe to our channel and leave us a review!Your review helps us reach even more middle school ELA teachers just like you! It would mean so much to us. To leave a review in iTunes, click HERE by scrolling down our show page, selecting a star rating, and tapping “Write a review.” Let us know how this podcast is helping you in your ELA classroom!

Sep 11, 2023 • 4min
Monday Mindset: Stop Hitting the Snooze Button
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!Today I discuss an important topic: hitting the snooze button. Can you believe that the average snooze button hitter wastes a staggering 26 minutes in bed every day? That's 158 hours a year! Today I explore the impact of this habit on our daily lives and share how we can use that time more productively. Join me as I examine the secrets to starting our days right and making the most out of our precious time. Here’s to another day of living intentionally.Caitlin

Sep 5, 2023 • 14min
Episode 244: A No-Prep Grammar Activity Your Students Will Love
Discover a no-prep grammar activity that engages students and helps them avoid common grammar mistakes. The Golden Grammar Hunt is a fun and competitive game that teaches various grammar topics while capturing students' attention. Learn how to combine direct instruction, engaging games, and application to improve grammar skills and writing proficiency.