A 15-minute center rotation focused on using context clues (synonyms, antonyms, examples, and definitions) to infer the meaning of unfamiliar words through a 'Word Detective' theme.

A week of daily bell ringers designed to reinforce core figurative language concepts (similes, metaphors, personification, hyperbole, alliteration, and idioms) through a scientific lab-themed analysis and application.

Students will explore the historical context of the 1900 Galveston Hurricane, practice identifying central ideas and supporting details, and complete a STAAR-formatted assessment.

Consolidates skills through independent practice and a formal assessment to gauge student mastery.

Focuses on drawing conclusions from informational texts by synthesizing facts and background knowledge.

Focuses on applying inference skills to literary texts, identifying character traits, emotions, and setting clues.

Introduces the core concept of inferencing as an equation: Text Evidence + Schema = Inference. Includes a teacher manual and instructional slides.

A fast-paced creative writing lesson exploring extended metaphors through Carol Ann Duffy's 'Valentine'. Students deconstruct unconventional imagery and draft their own anti-cliché love poems.

A comprehensive lesson guiding students from the history and purpose of slam poetry through writing original verses to performing with impact and giving constructive peer feedback.

A comprehensive lesson covering Chapter 1 of 'Jane Goodall and the Chimpanzees of Gombe,' focusing on reading comprehension across three distinct ability levels and specialized vocabulary development using picture-matching activities.

Students explore the foundational elements of narrative writing through close reading and analysis of a mentor text, focusing on character motivation and sensory descriptions.