It’s that time of the year again – the start of a new semester. And if you’re anything like me, you’re probably thinking, “How the fuck am I going to make Shakespeare and grammar drills exciting this time around?” I’m pulling at straws at this point. But here’s what I’m trying. Let’s compare notes later.
1. Ditch the Desk, Embrace the Chaos
First things first, let’s rearrange that furniture. Who said learning only happens in neat rows? Create a circle, a U-shape, or heck, no shape at all. The goal? Foster a space that screams collaboration and open discussion. It’s like a silent invitation to your students to share their thoughts, especially the ones who think Chaucer is as exciting as watching paint dry. (lol who am I kidding… Chaucer?)
2. Pop Culture + Classics = Match Made in ELA Heaven
Think ‘Romeo and Juliet’ meets TikTok. Why not? Let’s bridge the gap between the classics and what our students actually talk about. Have them create TikToks, memes, or even Snap stories that retell a classic in modern lingo. It’s about making Beowulf their BFF and not just some old, dusty dude from a bygone era. They might groan… they might roll their eyes… they might accuse you of trying to be the “cool teacher,” but damn it if they don’t do the work (they will), or understand more than they would otherwise (they will), or even, maybe, possibly, have a little bit of fun (they will).
3. Debate Club: ELA Edition
Bring in some controversy (the good kind). Set up debates on themes or characters from the books you’re reading. Team Gatsby vs. Team Buchanan? Let’s stir the pot and see what we come up with. It’s like a verbal boxing match but with words as jabs – intellectual and safe!
4. The Great ELA Escape Room
Escape rooms are all the rage, so why not an ELA-themed one? Create puzzles and clues based on your reading material. The prize? Bragging rights, or maybe a sneak peek at the next reading assignment (because we all know that’s a hot commodity).
5. Blog It Out
Instead of traditional essays, have students blog their responses to literature. Yes, blogs – like what you’re reading now. It’s less intimidating than formal essays and a great way to get them to express their thoughts in a more relaxed, conversational style. Plus, it prepares them for the real world, where let’s face it, concise, engaging writing is gold. Use it as a running note taker, where students can collect their thoughts and engage in discourse with each other.
6. Literature Speed Dating (Yes, You Read That Right)
Each student gets a book (or a character) and has a few minutes to ‘sell’ it to their peers in speed-dating style. It’s a fun way to get them to dive into their reading material and make a persuasive pitch. Plus, who doesn’t love a little speed dating with Hemingway or Plath? You can do it with short stories and poetry too. Character speed dating is a great way to review a novel.
So, there you have it. Six slightly off-the-wall, but totally effective strategies to jumpstart your semester. Remember, teaching ELA doesn’t have to be a snooze fest. It’s all about mixing things up, throwing in a little bit of your own personality, and remembering that if it gets the students talking, thinking, and actually enjoying literature, you’re doing something right.
Happy Teaching!