Category Archives: Fun Projects

Stories about Science Gone Wrong

Posted on August 22, 2016 by msdickson

As with any theme, it can unify stories that might otherwise not be grouped together.  By pairing less obvious stories, teachers can guide students in examining deeper meaning and comparing texts beyond superficial traits.  This can be a good basis … Continue reading →

Posted in Fun Projects, Short Stories, Teaching, Teaching Ideas, Uncategorized | 2 Comments

5 Back to School Activities– with an ELA Twist

Posted on July 14, 2016 by msdickson

I enjoy getting to know my students.  But I also feel pressure to make sure all activities are learning something.  My time is limited– and in the alternative classroom, there was little or no homework: assigning it was pointless because … Continue reading →

Posted in Fun Projects, Secondary Education, Teaching, Teaching Ideas, Uncategorized | 2 Comments

Winter Reading for the Secondary Classroom

Posted on January 16, 2016 by msdickson

Even secondary students can enjoy themed assignments.  Not the snow-flake or pumpkin adorned worksheets of primary grades, but themed content done age-appropriately.  It’s much easier to read and imagine winter stories when there is snow on the ground, in my … Continue reading →

Posted in Fun Projects, Secondary Education, Teaching, Teaching Ideas, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

I’m Thankful for the Thanksgiving Rap or Rhyme

Posted on November 15, 2015 by msdickson

We always have a short week before Thanksgiving break.  At least two school days, sometimes three.  The students are incredibly difficult to focus.  I’ve found that even if I can engage them in our  current task (unit, story, etc.), they … Continue reading →

Posted in Fun Projects, Holidays, Secondary Education, Secondary Writing, Teaching, Uncategorized | Tagged | Leave a comment

5 Activities for LSSU’s Annual Banished Words List

Posted on October 21, 2015 by msdickson

Each year, Lake State Superior University gathers and releases their Banished Words list.  Selecting overused and worn out words from the lexicon to be done away with and spare our ears/ eyes.  Of course, it’s just good fun.  Here are … Continue reading →

Posted in Fun Projects, Secondary Education, Secondary Writing, Teaching, Teaching Ideas, Uncategorized | Tagged , | 1 Comment