Teaching Middle School ELA
Caitlin Mitchell
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 10, 2024 • 39min
Episode 314:Interview with Deonna Smith: culturally relevant learning environments
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!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
Dec 9, 2024 • 5min
Mindset Favorite: Moving Forward Despite Fear
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!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
Dec 3, 2024 • 20min
Episode 313: Say Goodbye to Popcorn Reading: 4 Engaging Read Aloud Strategies (You’ll Love the Last One!)
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!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!
Dec 2, 2024 • 5min
Mindset Favorite: Receiving vs. Going After It
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!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
Nov 26, 2024 • 19min
Episode 312: Grab a Soccer Ball and Try this Discussion Activity Immediately
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!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!
Nov 25, 2024 • 5min
Mindset Favorite: Overcoming Self-doubt
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!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
Nov 19, 2024 • 22min
Episode 311: Drop the Boring Writing Assignment, Engage Your Students, and Give Collaborative Writing a Try
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!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!
Nov 18, 2024 • 6min
Mindset Favorite: Seasons
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!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
Nov 12, 2024 • 21min
Episode 310: How to Write a Lesson with ELL Students in Mind
Discover practical strategies for designing lessons that support English Language Learners. Explore effective approaches that enhance engagement for all students, including using multimedia resources and personal connections. Learn how to weave cultural backgrounds into lessons, making classes more relatable and effective. Get tips on structuring lessons with the 'into, through, and beyond' format, plus insights on collaboration and smart use of translation tools to improve comprehension and participation.
Nov 11, 2024 • 4min
Mindset Favorite: Stop Hitting the Snooze Button
I’d love to hear from you! Send me a text!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
