327 episodes

Welcome to the Teaching Middle School ELA podcast, where we are dedicated to helping English Language Arts teachers create dynamic and engaging lessons for their students, while also managing the day-to-day responsibilities that come with being a Middle School ELA teacher.As educators ourselves, we understand the challenges of finding a work-life balance that allows us to pursue our passion for teaching while also enjoying our personal lives. That's why each Tuesday, hosts Caitlin Mitchell and Jessica Cannata share practical and innovative solutions for managing your workload and staying inspired in your teaching practice.Whether you are looking for fresh ideas to inspire your students, strategies for improving your writing instruction, or tips for managing your time more effectively, this podcast is designed to provide you with the tools you need to thrive as a Middle School ELA teacher.Join us each week for curriculum and lesson ideas, classroom stories, and interviews with fellow educators who are experts in the field. We believe that with the right support and resources, you can create a classroom environment that encourages students to become strong and passionate learners.If you teach reading and writing to middle schoolers and want to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in ELA education, then this is the podcast for you! Tune in every week and let us help you make a difference in the lives of your students and in your own teaching career.

Teaching Middle School ELA Caitlin Mitchell

    • Education
    • 4.7 • 247 Ratings

Welcome to the Teaching Middle School ELA podcast, where we are dedicated to helping English Language Arts teachers create dynamic and engaging lessons for their students, while also managing the day-to-day responsibilities that come with being a Middle School ELA teacher.As educators ourselves, we understand the challenges of finding a work-life balance that allows us to pursue our passion for teaching while also enjoying our personal lives. That's why each Tuesday, hosts Caitlin Mitchell and Jessica Cannata share practical and innovative solutions for managing your workload and staying inspired in your teaching practice.Whether you are looking for fresh ideas to inspire your students, strategies for improving your writing instruction, or tips for managing your time more effectively, this podcast is designed to provide you with the tools you need to thrive as a Middle School ELA teacher.Join us each week for curriculum and lesson ideas, classroom stories, and interviews with fellow educators who are experts in the field. We believe that with the right support and resources, you can create a classroom environment that encourages students to become strong and passionate learners.If you teach reading and writing to middle schoolers and want to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in ELA education, then this is the podcast for you! Tune in every week and let us help you make a difference in the lives of your students and in your own teaching career.

    Episode 248: Stop Writing Sample Essays with Your Students; Do THIS Instead

    Episode 248: Stop Writing Sample Essays with Your Students; Do THIS Instead

    In today's episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, we delve into a thought-provoking topic that may ruffle some feathers. We discuss the unintended consequences of writing model essays in front of students and explore whether this practice aligns with our goals of demonstrating proper writing techniques and fostering creativity. Join us as we break down the side effects of this approach, such as creating unrealistic expectations and stifling students' creativity. But don't worry, we also provide an alternative that can foster active learning and allow students to thrive in their writing journey. Get ready for an engaging discussion that may challenge your current practices in the classroom!




    Are you enjoying the podcast?


    Tag us on Instagram @ebacademics and let us know which episode you're listening to!
    Make sure to subscribe to our channel and leave us a review!


    Your review helps us reach even more middle school ELA teachers just like you! It would mean so much to us. To leave a review in iTunes, click HERE by scrolling down our show page, selecting a star rating, and tapping “Write a review.” Let us know how this podcast is helping you in your ELA classroom!

    • 24 min
    Monday Mindset: Rest is Not a Reward

    Monday Mindset: Rest is Not a Reward

    In today's episode, I discuss a topic that affects us all: the concept that rest is not a reward. In a society that glorifies productivity and hard work, it's crucial to challenge the traditional narrative and recognize that rest is not something we earn, but rather, a fundamental right. Shift your mindset and prioritize rest as a proactive choice rather than a reactive necessity or a reward. Discover the wisdom and benefits of incorporating rest into your daily life to live a happier, more fulfilled existence. 

    Here’s to another day of living intentionally.
    Caitlin

    • 5 min
    Episode 247: Your Burning ELA Questions Answered

    Episode 247: Your Burning ELA Questions Answered

    Today’s episode of Teaching Middle School ELA is unique–Caitlin and Jessica answer teachers’ most burning ELA questions on the podcast! Listeners will hear everything from advice on how to organize materials for learning units, strategies for teaching grammar, as well as tips to help students justify evidence in writing. They will also explore the importance of combining reading and writing, as well as effective classroom management techniques. 


    Watch now: YouTube


    Are you enjoying the podcast?


    Tag us on Instagram @ebacademics and let us know which episode you're listening to!
    Make sure to subscribe to our channel and leave us a review!


    Your review helps us reach even more middle school ELA teachers just like you! It would mean so much to us. To leave a review in iTunes, click HERE by scrolling down our show page, selecting a star rating, and tapping “Write a review.” Let us know how this podcast is helping you in your ELA classroom!

    • 30 min
    Monday Mindset: Seasons

    Monday Mindset: Seasons

    Today I dive into the concept of seasons - not just the ones we experience in nature, but the seasons of our lives as well. Seasons remind us that it's okay to experience the dark and barren winters, just as much as it is to revel in the bright and sunny summers. In a world where we often only see people's growth and expansion, I encourage you to embrace vulnerability and share your journey with others. It’s important to explore the seasons of life and discover how they shape us as human beings. 

    Here’s to another day of living intentionally.
    Caitlin

    • 5 min
    Episode 246: Get Your Students to Rock their Text-Dependent Paragraphs with this Strategy

    Episode 246: Get Your Students to Rock their Text-Dependent Paragraphs with this Strategy

    In today's episode, we dive into a topic that many teachers have been asking about getting your students to rock their text-dependent paragraphs. Whether it's for a quiz, an in-class assignment, or their homework, we have a mini framework that will help your students excel in their short-response writing. Even if you don't follow our specific framework for writing (the EBW approach), the steps we share are essential for any writing classroom. 

    Watch now: YouTube


    Are you enjoying the podcast?


    Tag us on Instagram @ebacademics and let us know which episode you're listening to!
    Make sure to subscribe to our channel and leave us a review!


    Your review helps us reach even more middle school ELA teachers just like you! It would mean so much to us. To leave a review in iTunes, click HERE by scrolling down our show page, selecting a star rating, and tapping “Write a review.” Let us know how this podcast is helping you in your ELA classroom!

    • 25 min
    Monday Mindset: You're Not Good at Everything

    Monday Mindset: You're Not Good at Everything

    In today's episode, I delve into a powerful way of reframing our thoughts that challenges the notion of perfection in both our personal and professional lives. We don't have to excel in every aspect of our lives, rather we can embrace our strengths and allow others to shine in the areas in which they are most strong. I examine the importance of releasing the pressure to be perfect and focusing on what truly matters: family, friends, love, community, and connection.

     Here’s to another day of living intentionally.
    Caitlin

    • 4 min

Customer Reviews

4.7 out of 5
247 Ratings

247 Ratings

drichards44 ,

Their last podcast Argument and Evidence

Defending and providing justification for which characters would have to stay on the island is something my students would love! My favorite part of the podcast was when they talked about how to set this up and also how excited they were. I'm not sure I would use this at the beginning of the year with 6th graders but definitely mid year when we start out argumentative unit. Please let us know when this will be added to your TPT account for purchase. What a great lesson!

csinglet81 ,

Fabulous and empowering!

Caitlin and Jessica are breathing life back into teachers with practical strategies and meaningful mindset shifts!

excitededu ,

Best ela podcast

Eb teacher is hands down the best podcast out there for teachers. I have learned and improved as an educator just by listening to their weekly episodes.

Top Podcasts In Education

Mel Robbins
Three Percent Chance
Dr. Jordan B. Peterson
The Atlantic
TED
Jonathan Fields / Acast

You Might Also Like

Teaching on the Double
Teach Me, Teacher LLC
Jennifer Gonzalez
Sara Marye, Literacy Teacher, Elementary Teacher
Angela Watson
Vicki Davis