This is just for you, middle school teachers! Summer reading, character analysis, and writing are made easy with this summer-themed activity kit! Everything you need to get started (or enhance your current activities) is included in this activity pack. INCLUDED IN PDF ZIP FILE: *Reading & Summary Log *Punch Card Book Marks (3 designs, printable in full-color and B&W) *16 Summer-Themed Writing Task Cards *Task Card Writing Response Page To use with a summer reading book: *I Spy Figurative Language! *Direct & Indirect Characterization *Internal & External Conflict *Plot Diagram Although activities are meant to be used for students to analyze their summer reading books, they can also be used with short stories (especially if the summer school term is short). The writing task cards and response page are great for warm-ups, early finishers, sub work, time-fillers, write-pair-share, or however you see fit! * Written in American English.* Feel free to ask questions before purchasing. As always, your feedback is greatly appreciated. Enjoy!

What’s better than a FREEBIE that can be used for any subject? This reading log not only requires students to record the date, time, and page numbers, but also provides space for them to write a short summary of the reading. Writing a few sentences to summarize the passages/pages require students to think through and process what they read and holds them accountable for the reading assignment. Use for ANY reading assignment-- chapter books & novels, textbooks, assigned passages, articles, etc. The file includes two pages for front/back printing (in black and white).

This 3-part project for upper elementary and middle school students is a great teaching and learning tool for students to research and share information about cultures, holidays, and traditions around the world! Students may research a holiday listed on the provided topic list or choose a holiday that is celebrated in a country of their choice. The holidays on the topic list (28 listed) are not limited to winter months, but are a variety of celebrations throughout the year. This file contains an outline to guide student research, directions and printable information boxes for students to create a lapbook visual aid, speech presentation outline, and grading rubric. Modify the project to meet the needs and learning levels of your students! Supplies: • Manila folders (one per student) • Glue and scissors • Map pencils, crayons, or markers • Access to printer (for students to print pictures) • Optional: colored paper to print information boxes Table of Contents: Student information sheet Page 2 Topic list Page 3 Research outline Page 4-5 Lapbook visual aid directions Page 6 Information boxes (for lapbook visual aid) Pages 7-9 Speech presentation outline Page 10-11 3-Part grading rubric Page 12 **Written in American English.

This environmental issues informative speech and presentation is perfect for any ELA, science, or public speaking secondary class! Students will learn the basics of informative speaking, speech writing, research/citing sources, and creating a technology-based visual aid. They will also learn a LOT about issues affecting our planet. Not only will they present, but they will fill out a peer critique chart as they listen to their classmates. An easy-to-grade rubric is included and tips to help students become more confident, less anxious speakers! Included in this 11-page PDF file: Table of Contents Informative Speech Guidelines Visual Aid & Note Card Guidelines Tips for Using Technology-Based Visual Aids Topic List Sample Informative Speech Outline Informative Speech Research Outline Speech Grading Rubric Peer Critique Charts **American English

Regardless of the subject-area, if a student is giving a presentation or speech, they should know and understand vocabulary associated with public speaking. Good habits start early, so encourage vocal variety and polished performances in your classroom! Included in this PDF are 20 public speaking vocabulary words and definitions (one per page) that can be printed as posters, word walls, flash cards, etc! Print in full color or opt for grayscale. Words include: volume, rate, articulation, enunciation, pitch, inflection, tone, gesture, visual aid, projection, pronunciation, monotone, diction, resonance, optimum pitch, fluency, timbre, dialect, intonation & pause. *(Written in American English)

This list of 50 debate topics will keep your students engaged and allow them to practice their thinking, research, writing, speaking, and argumentation skills! All topics are school appropriate and the wording can be modified by the teacher. The topics are divided into the following categories: School and education Government, judicial system & military Science & environment Technology, ethics & society SAMPLE TOPICS: -Should students be required to wear school uniforms? -Should schools block access to all social media sites (while on campus)? -Should the United States help third world countries? -Should the United States have a draft for military service? -Should the United States end its use of the penny? -Is human activity a substantial cause of global climate change? -Are there more disadvantages to recycling than advantages? -Are professional athletes overpaid? **Written in American English.

“My First Research Paper” will help guide your students through the often frustrating and overwhelming process of writing a research paper! Designed for secondary students, these activities may be modified to meet the needs of your learners. For example, if your students are not ready to incorporate MLA citations into their papers (or if you prefer APA), you can teach the citations and works cited format in a different way. 7th grade teachers may want to keep things more simplified, as 10th grade teachers will want to ensure students fully understand citation/MLA format and guidelines. If you already have activities to teach research paper writing, you may pair these activities with your current materials. These pages are meant to enhance your lesson, not necessarily replace what you are already doing! You are free to use only what you need. You may also use the “Peer Revising & Editing” page for other writing assignments, not just research papers. I hope you find these tools helpful, for both you and your students. Examples are shown on every page to help the students along the way! Included in File (14 pages): -Research Paper Notes & Topic Ideas -Make a Plan! (Brainstorming Activity Page) -Research Outline -Rough Draft Pages (with tips) -Citation Station (Guide for MLA in-text citations & works cited) -Peer Revising & Editing -Final Draft Guidelines & Fill-In Information for Students -Final Paper Rubric **Written in American English.

Time to celebrate the winter holidays! It is important for students to learn that a TRADITION is a custom, activity, or belief carried on from generation to generation, or repeated over a long period of time. Traditions are important because they represent our culture, allow us to celebrate diversity, and enable us to create lasting memories with our friends, family, and community! In these activities (best suited for grades 4-8), students will reflect and write about a special holiday tradition in their own family, create a new tradition, and research how people celebrate in other parts of the world! Students will use their thinking, reading, writing, and research skills. If time permits, they can also use their public speaking/presentation skills! Activities included in this 9-page PDF file: -“Holiday Traditions: How do YOU Celebrate?” Brainstorm Activity -Holiday Tradition Essay -Create-a-Tradition Activity -Winter Holiday Traditions Around the World Research Activity *24 topics provided (traditions from around the world) *Research outline with space for simple citations *Picture collage page **Written in American English.

“Writing & Public Speaking Activities for Little Kids” allow students to work on their writing and interpersonal communication skills. These activities will also build students’ confidence when speaking in front of a group. Teachers may want to take this opportunity to discuss public speaking vocabulary, such as volume, rate, eye contact, articulation, and clarity. These activities are perfect to use as ice-breakers, warm-ups, group work, centers, or time fillers! **Activities are labeled LEVEL 1 or LEVEL 2 on the top right of each page. Level 1 activities are most suitable for 1st & 2nd grade and require shorter, less detailed answers and explanations. Teachers may prompt students to elaborate on their answers by asking “Why?” or “How?” Level 2 activities are most suitable for 3rd -5th grade and require more detailed explanations. **Activities that are only provided for Level 2 (see list below) can be simplified for younger students (teacher’s discretion). Feel free to modify activities for your little speakers! Activities: • 2 Roll-N-Speak pages (Level 1) • 2 Roll-N-Speak pages (Level 2) • My Happy Place (Level 1) • My Happy Place (Level 2) • Our Island (partner/group activity, Level 2) • Book Talk (Level 2) • Name Acrostic (Levels 1 & 2) • Picture This! (Level 1) • Picture This! (Level 2) • Classmate Chit-Chat (Level 2) • My Invention (Level 1) • My Invention (Level 2) **Written in American English.

Students love a project when they get to CHOOSE a topic based on their personal interests! The purpose of this 3-part project for grades 4-8 is for students to explore and learn about an occupation that is of interest to them. Often, students say, “I want to be a (insert job) when I grow up,” but they don’t know what that entails. This project requires students to research an occupation of their choice, take notes on a research outline, write an informative essay, and create an eye-catching visual aid. **Please feel free to modify this project to meet the needs of your learners! –Lined pages are provided for the essay. However, some teachers may require students to type the paper or write on notebook paper. –Although an oral presentation is only required for one of the choice board activities, students should be encouraged to share details about their occupation with the class. An idea would be to have a mini job fair in your classroom where students can display and discuss their visual aids. PDF Zip File Includes (10 pages): -Project Guideline Page for Students -Topic List -Visual Aid Choice Board -Research Outline -Informative Essay Writing Pages -Rubric **Written in American English.

On each set of “Prove It!” worksheets, students are provided with five statements to research online (website list provided). The statements may be true or false. It is the students’ job to make that determination based on textual evidence. Using the “suggested websites” at the top of the page, the students should search key words in the question to locate the specific information. If the statement is false, students should write a sentence (evidence) from a source that includes the correct information. If the statement is true, they should write a sentence (evidence) from a source to verify the statement. Finally, the student should provide any information they can in the right column about the source where they found the textual evidence. Tell students that there may or may not be an author and/or date provided on the website. They should at least write the web address and title of the webpage or article. It is at your discretion whether students search additional websites from those provided on each assignment. However, all answers may be found on the websites listed. Older students should be able to find the textual evidence on their own, as they may have more experience navigating new websites. However, younger students may be more successful working in pairs. Included in File: *Prove It! #1 (Topic: Whales) *Prove It! #2 (Topic: Weather) *Prove It! #3 (Topic: Reptiles) *Prove It! #4 (Topic: Solar System) *Prove It! #5 (Topic: The Human Heart) *Answer Keys Written in American English.

As we all know, students are obsessed with their technology-- phones, laptops, tablets! This 3-part expository writing activity for secondary students is a FUN way to get students thinking outside the box while writing about something they love! After reflecting on the apps they use every day, students are given the opportunity to create their own unique, never-before-seen app that their classmates will review. Part 1: Design the app cover and fill out an “App Store” page with brief overview. Part 2: Write an expository essay (review of key terms and essay format included). Part 3: Conduct a peer rotation session where each student reviews three of their classmate’s apps. There is a five-star review section and space for comments. This activity may take 2-3 class periods, depending on how much time they are given to create, write, and review. To add an additional activity, allow students to orally present their apps for the class. It never hurts to throw some public speaking in the mix! *Written in American English.

This biographical informative speech activity is the perfect combination of research, writing, implementation of technology, and public speaking for ANY secondary subject area! Students will choose a historic or modern-day figure who made (or has made) a positive impact on society. They will brush up on their research skills, learn the correct way to cite sources, learn how to organize a 5-part speech, and create an eye-catching and engaging visual aid. Everything you need is in this 11-page, step-by-step file. Included are guidelines for the teacher, a clear format for students to follow (time format, use of note cards, etc.), topic ideas, outline, technology guidelines, grading rubric, and a peer critique chart. All guidelines can be modified for any size class, grade, or learning level! **Written in American English.

Stressed about your students’ scores on the writing portion of upcoming standardized tests? Teaching students to write organized, cohesive essays can be a challenge! “Building the 5-Paragraph Essay” mini-unit breaks down the essay-writing process paragraph-by-paragraph so upper-elementary and middle school students will more easily understand the purpose and requirements of each part of the essay. Everything you will need, including student handouts, writing prompts, outline, writing pages, activities, and a grading rubric is included! PDF ZIP FILE INCLUDES: “Building the 5-Paragraph Essay” Student Handout “When should I use this format?” Student Handout “Toolbox of Transitions” Student Handout “Can You Unscramble a 5-Paragraph Essay?” Activity Informative, Expository & Persuasive Writing Prompts (24 total) Essay Outline Essay Writing Lined Pages “Peer Editing Checklist” Activity Grading Rubric Answer Key *Full-color, printable 18X24 inch (or scaled larger) classroom poster **Written in American English.

You’ll pique your students’ interest when you ask, “Have you ever wondered what it would be like to go back in time? Are you curious how life was different 60, 70, or even 80 years ago?” Now is their chance to find out! This 3-part research project gives students the opportunity to step back in time and explore the 1.) Lifestyle and entertainment, 2.) Political, social, and economic issues, and 3.) Inventions and innovations of a previous decade (period of 10 years). Students are provided with the project guidelines, notes on MLA format, and a research outline to get them started. There’s even a peer editing activity and rubric for easy grading! Students are assessed on the following: Research Outline Research Paper Slideshow Presentation File Includes (9 printable pages): Teacher’s Notes 3-Part Project Guidelines Research Outline MLA Works Cited Guidelines MLA In-Text Citations Guidelines Peer Editing Activity Project Grading Rubric **Written in American English.

Scientists have captured a new, mysterious creature and are keeping it safe in the lab. Each student will create this “mystery creature” in their mind, then brainstorm ideas on an outline, design a visual aid, write a report (rough and final draft), and give a presentation detailing its physical characteristics, ideal habitat, how it communicates, and other important information. Their imaginations will run wild! The best part? They will have FUN while you are assessing their writing and presentation skills! It’s a WIN-WIN! 3-Part Project (*RUBRIC Included!): 1.) Essay (Rough draft, peer editing activity & final draft) 2.) Visual Aid (2 options: poster diagram or 3-D model) 3.) Presentation File includes PDF printables of the following: -Student Project Guidelines -Brainstorming Outline -Rough Draft Pages -Peer Editing Activity -Final Draft Pages -Grading Rubric **Written in American English.

These 10 short writing assignments for teens and tweens are a great way to assess student writing, leave with sub, or use as “filler” activities as needed. I keep a few copied and tucked away so I’m always covered if an extra assignment is needed! Each 2-page writing activity includes a review of key literary terms, important information needed for the assignment (format, guidelines, etc.) and a writing activity. These writing assignments can take anywhere from 20 minutes to a full class period. Feel free to time students or give them as long as they need. To stretch an activity, have students read aloud for the class or in small groups. The poetry activity is especially fun to read aloud! Writing assignments included: 1.) Descriptive writing: picture prompt 2.) Persuasive writing: letter to school board 3.) Narrative writing: overcoming challenge essay 4.) Editorial writing: school hot topic editorial 5.) Expository writing: bullying essay 6.) Poetry writing: free verse and haiku 7.) Compare and contrast writing: topic choices provided 8.) Opinion writing: social media essay 9.) Creative writing: sentence starter prompt 10.) Journal writing: two writing prompts Written in American English.

Ring in the New Year with these writing and activity pages for your mid to upper elementary students (3-6th grade). Use as warm-ups, additions to your lesson plans, time-fillers, sub assignments, or just for fun! If you have time, encourage students to share their essays and New Year’s resolutions with a partner or the class. Activities Include: New Year Celebration Word Search (with key) Reflections Writing Prompt A Look into the Future Writing Prompt New Year’s Resolutions Google Your Way into the New Year! (with key) Tic-Tac-Toe! New Year’s Writing Choice Board Blank Lined Paper (for choice board writing) Sample essay question: Imagine ringing in the New Year 20 years from now! How old will you be? What do you hope to have accomplished in life? Write a prediction of where you see yourself in 20 years. Written in American English.

“My Utopian Bedroom Descriptive Writing & Design Project” is an engaging, creative, and FUN project for upper-elementary and junior high students! Students are given the freedom to think outside the box, use their imaginations, and create a unique space that represents their interests and unique style. The best part is, while they are having fun, YOU get to evaluate their outlining, descriptive writing, and public speaking skills! Feel free to modify this project to meet the needs of your students. You can give the students a packet with all of the pages and allow them to work on the project at their own pace, or you can work on a different part of the project as a class each day. For the oral presentation, you may project the student’s bedroom floor plan on a screen for all to view, or you can require students to make a poster-sized floor plan to use as a visual aid during their presentation. File Includes: *Student Project Guidelines *Descriptive Essay Outline *Descriptive Essay Lined Pages *Bedroom Floor Plan *Presentation & Note Card Tips *Project Grading Rubric Simply print and begin! No additional supplies necessary. Written in American English.

Task Cards for junior high students are perfect for early finishers, warm-ups, time fillers, journal entries, write-pair-shares, sub assignments & extra credit! The PDF file includes 11 pages of black and white printables (total of 43 task cards–4 per page). The task cards include a variety of activities, including writing prompts and graphic organizers (both short and long activities). All topics are relevant and grade-appropriate for 6th-9th grade students. Teachers can cut and laminate individual cards or make copies and use in a variety of ways! Ideas for use: Laminate each card, hole-punch the top corner of each card, and put on a ring clip. Early finishers may then look through the cards and choose which activity they’d like to complete. You can also project one of the cards on a screen as a warm-up each day or leave one of the lengthier activities for a sub. It’s also convenient to have task cards on hand for days when the lesson ends early and you need a quick time filler! Written in American English.