Understanding character traits
By MARISSA DESPINS Updated Feb 9, 2024 analyzing character traits in upper elementary Ever wonder what makes YA characters like Percy Jackson or Katniss Everdeen so compelling to our students? It all…
Novel Studies
Blog · Bookshelf · Elementary · English · Novel Studies · Novel Studies
Halloween Read Alouds
By MARISSA DESPINS Updated Oct 3, 2023 Halloween Read Alouds for Upper Elementary Halloween is right around the corner. This makes it the perfect time to pull out some favorite Halloween read…
Blog · Bookshelf · Elementary · English · Novel Studies · Novel Studies
Because of Winn Dixie Novel Study Ideas
By MARISSA DESPINS Updated Sept 19, 2023 Kate DiCamillo’s novel, “Because of Winn-Dixie,” is a heartwarming story about the power of friendship and seeing beyond appearances. This beautiful tale explores themes of…
Blog · Elementary · English · Middle School · Novel Studies · Novel Studies
7 Strategies for teaching paired passages
By MARISSA DESPINS Updated Sept 19, 2023 Teaching with paired passages Paired passages are a newer addition to my teacher toolbox, and I have absolutely loved using them with my learners. These…
Blog · Elementary · English · Middle School · Novel Studies · Novel Studies
How to find paired passages
By MARISSA DESPINS Updated Sept 19, 2023 When it comes to non-fiction paired passages, it is essential to dedicate some time to discover subjects or themes that genuinely captivate your students’ attention….
Blog · Elementary · English · Middle School · Novel Studies · Novel Studies
Using Non-Fiction Paired Passages to Enhance Novel Studies
By MARISSA DESPINS Updated Sept 21, 2023 Using non-Fiction Paired Passages Non-fiction paired passages, also known as paired texts, connect two texts in a meaningful way. With the introduction of the Common…