Connecting classic pieces of literature with high-interest modern texts is a great strategy to engage students in the classics while maintaining their interest. Not only that, but intertextuality (making connections between texts) allows students to extend their analysis into a compare/ contrast format that enables them to analyze literary elements and techniques on a deeper level.
How to get Started with Mentor Sentences
Mentor sentences are an excellent tool to use in the secondary ELA classroom to model essential skills from grammar to literary devices. They reinforce quality writing skills from published in authors in a positive way rather than the traditional sentence correction method that modeled negative traits.
Commentary for Literary Analysis: Four Square Strategy for Success
Playing Devil’s Advocate: A Game for Practicing Argument Skills in Secondary ELA
5 Pixar Short Films to Use in Secondary ELA
Poetry for Writing Workshop in Grades 6-12: 10+ Devices & Poems to Model Them ALL!
You may find yourself in agreement with Frost's famous quote when it comes to teaching poetry in the secondary classroom. However, love it or hate it, poetry can play a helpful role in teaching students how to write! Famous poems can serve as mentor texts for students and showcase key literary and rhetorical devices in action.
20 Great Quotes to use as Mentor Sentences in Secondary ELA
The Writer's Notebook in Secondary ELA: Introduction & FREE Guide
Setting up & Assessing Book Club in Secondary ELA: FOUR FREE GUIDES FOR SUCCESS!
Book club is now considered to be one of the “best practices” in English Language Arts. Book clubs differ from traditional literary circles in that they are less teacher-directed. The students take on the responsibility of selecting their roles, making their assignments, keeping track of their reading, and much more.