Shows
Middle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersHow To Build Reading Stamina: Practical Strategies For ELA Teachers [Ep. 57]In this episode, we’re tackling a challenge many ELA teachers face—students struggling with reading stamina. With canned curriculum, short excerpts, and fast-paced instruction, students often lack the focus and endurance to finish full-length texts. We’ll dig into why reading stamina matters for critical thinking and long-term academic success, and I’ll share practical, classroom-tested strategies to help students stay engaged. From building curiosity and creating a reading-friendly classroom culture to using focus tools like sticky note thinking and self-assessment, you’ll walk away with actionable ideas to help your students become stronger, more confident readers.Read mor...2025-07-2913 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersWhere Reading Feels Like Belonging - Building a Reading Culture [Ep. 56]We’re kicking off a brand-new series on reading strategies for back to school—and this first episode is all about helping students see themselves as readers. I’m sharing my own story (spoiler: I didn’t always love reading), and how that experience shapes the way I build reading culture in my classroom. You’ll hear how I start the year with intentional conversations, low-stress activities like reader one-pagers, and time for students to explore books without pressure. Whether your students are confident readers or come in saying they hate books, this episode will give you practical ideas to help th...2025-07-1510 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersDon’t Skip Genre Review: Why It Matters in Middle School ELA [Ep. 55]Think genre review is just for younger grades? Think again. In this episode, I’m breaking down why a simple genre review at the start of the year is one of the best ways to build reading confidence, spark student choice, and set the tone for meaningful reading conversations. You’ll get practical, low-prep ideas—including one of my favorite mystery-based review games—that help students reconnect with what they already know and start the year with a win. Whether you're prepping for back-to-school or refreshing your reading routines, this episode will help you create a classroom full of curious...2025-07-0313 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersUsing Reading Challenges to Engage and Stretch Student Readers [Ep. 54] Think independent reading has to disappear with a canned curriculum? Not so fast. In this episode, I’m sharing how flexible, low-pressure reading challenges can help you keep independent reading alive—even when you're tied to a scripted program. You’ll get ideas for tying challenges to curriculum themes, recognizing effort without rewards, and giving students meaningful roles that promote ownership. Whether you already use independent reading or want a manageable way to bring it back, this episode will help you re-engage mid to high-level readers and make reading feel relevant again. Read more in the Show Not...2025-06-2514 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersTeacher Reflection: What Worked This Year—And What I’m Leaving Behind [Ep. 53]As the school year wraps up, it’s not just our students who benefit from reflection—we do, too. In this episode, I’m taking a step back to do my own end of year reflection. I’m sharing what worked in my classroom this year and what I’ve decided to leave behind. From managing tech use to reconnecting with parents through positive communication, I’ll walk you through the shifts I’m making for next year—and why.Whether you’re still finishing grades or already sipping iced coffee in full summer mode, I hope this teacher refle...2025-06-0311 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersStudent Reflection Strategies That Build Better Comprehension [Ep. 52]Want to help your students move beyond surface-level thinking during independent reading? In this episode, I’m sharing practical ways to build deeper comprehension through structured student reflection. From weekly check-ins and book talks to one-on-one conferences and end-of-unit reflections, you’ll get flexible strategies that fit into your existing routine. These simple but powerful tools help students track their growth, talk about books with confidence, and become more intentional readers. Whether you’re looking to level up your current reflection practices or start fresh, this episode will help you create stronger, more self-aware readers.Read more in the...2025-05-2013 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersMake Reflection Part of Your Reading Routine [Ep. 51]Student reflection is one of the most overlooked tools for building reading comprehension. This episode shares easy ways to make reflection part of your regular reading routine using strategies like Stop and Jot, Sketch Notes, and partner discussions.Whether you're working on reading comprehension, critical thinking, or just trying to keep students more engaged during independent reading, these practical ideas will help students make deeper connections with the text.Read more in the show notes.Resources you may find helpful:Academic Conversation StemsReading Response SheetRelated...2025-05-0612 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersBurnout Is Real: An Honest Conversation for Teachers [Bonus]In this special bonus episode, I’m hitting pause on my usual content to have an honest and much-needed conversation about teacher burnout. While I typically focus on teaching strategies, classroom routines, student engagement, and building a love of reading, today I’m shifting the spotlight to the emotional toll this profession can take—because supporting our students starts with supporting ourselves.I’ll walk you through what burnout looks like—beyond just a tough day—and how it can show up physically, emotionally, and professionally. I’ll discuss common causes like overwhelming workloads, emotional exhaustion, and the constant p...2025-04-2916 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersKeeping Students Engaged with Simple Choice Strategies [Ep. 50]Let’s be honest — keeping students engaged during the final weeks of school is tough. In this episode, I’m continuing our conversation about re-engaging students by sharing practical, low-stress ways to bring more student choice into your classroom.We’ll talk about how to give students a voice without creating chaos, why even small shifts in how we structure tasks can lead to more buy-in, and how letting students make some of the decisions actually leads to more focus — not less. Bonus? It can lighten your load, too.Whether you're working within a tight curriculum...2025-04-2412 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersStudent-Led Book Talks: A Meaningful Way to Keep Students Reading [Ep. 49]Looking for a meaningful way to keep students engaged in reading—at the end of the year or really any time? In this episode, I’m sharing how student-led book talks can build confidence, spark authentic reading conversations, and create a classroom culture where students want to read. You’ll learn how I structure book talks to keep things low-stress and flexible, how they differ from traditional book reports and book clubs, and how to handle common challenges like unfinished books or off-track readers. Whether you're wrapping up the year or starting fresh, this episode will help you make book t...2025-04-0113 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersStrategies for Teaching Vocabulary with Purpose - Part 2 [Ep. 48]If you’ve ever wondered how to make vocabulary instruction more engaging and effective without adding to your packed schedule, this episode is for you! In part two of our vocabulary mini-series, we explore low-prep strategies that help students truly learn, use, and remember new words—making vocabulary a consistent and meaningful part of their learning.Read more in the show notes. Let me help you with these FREE Vocabulary ideas!Don't forget to listen to Part 1: Teaching Vocabulary with PurposeHelpful Resources:Vocabulary Activ...2025-03-1812 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersTeaching Vocabulary with Purpose Part 1 [Ep. 47]Is vocabulary instruction getting enough attention in your classroom? We’ve moved away from traditional word lists—but have we gone too far? Vocabulary is key to reading, writing, and confidence, yet many students struggle simply because they don’t know the words they need to understand or express ideas.In this episode, we’ll cover why vocabulary matters and how to make it a natural part of your lessons—without adding to your workload. Hit play to learn simple ways to bring vocabulary back in a way that benefits your students.Read more in the sho...2025-03-0411 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersHolding Students Accountable While Fostering A Love For Reading [Ep. 46]How do we hold students accountable for independent reading without turning it into a chore? In this episode, I’m sharing creative, low-pressure strategies that promote reading engagement while still helping you track progress. You’ll hear practical ideas like peer-to-peer book recs, simple reflection tools, and interactive activities that make accountability feel fun and meaningful—even for reluctant readers. Whether you’re building a reading culture from scratch or just want fresh ideas to spark motivation, this episode will help you strike the balance between joy and responsibility in your ELA classroom.Read more in the show n...2025-02-1811 min
ARD PresseclubKlimaschutz in Krisenzeiten: Wie geht's wieder voran?2024 war das heißeste Jahr seit Beginn der Aufzeichnungen. Die globale Durchschnittstemperatur lag zum ersten Mal 1,6 Grad über dem vorindustriellen Niveau. Und die Folgen erleben wir jetzt schon: In Kalifornien vernichteten Brände ganze Straßenzüge und in Spanien führten sintflutartige Regenfälle zu Überschwemmungen mit zig Toten. Trotzdem geht das Thema Klimaschutz im aktuellen Wahlkampf zur Bundestagswahl eher unter. Das war bei der letzten Wahl 2021 noch ganz anders. Wie kommt das? Das Klimathema wird von anderen großen Krisen unserer Zeit überschattet, da ist sich die Runde in der dritten Folge unseres Presseclub...2025-02-091h 30Middle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersThe Power of Independent Reading in a Canned Curriculum Classroom [Ep. 45]Welcome to the first full episode of our relaunched podcast! In this episode, we’re exploring the importance of independent reading and its place in the classroom, even when a canned curriculum is in play. With a focus on flexibility and consistency, we’ll discuss how to create space for student choice and foster a love of reading in a structured environment.If you’ve ever wondered whether independent reading can coexist with curriculum demands, this episode offers inspiration and actionable ideas to help you balance both. Tune in to discover how even small changes can make a big...2025-02-0411 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersBack in Action: A Fresh Chapter for the Middle School Café Podcast! [BONUS]After an extended hiatus, the Middle School Café Podcast is back! In this special relaunch episode, I’m sharing why I took a step away, the lessons learned during this time, and what’s ahead for the podcast in 2025. Tune in to hear about the new format, a renewed focus on actionable strategies for middle and high school ELA teachers, and my mission to help all students grow as readers. Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or new to the classroom, this episode will set the stage for an exciting new chapter. Subscribe now and join me on this journey...2025-01-2105 min
The Catholic BookwormEpisode 100: Antony Kolenc on his book Shadows: Visible and Invisible (October 21, 2024)In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Antony Kolenc on his book Shadows: Visible and Invisible. (October 21, 2024)Shadows: Visible and Invisible is a collection of Hallowtide-themed short stories by seven Catholic Teen Books authors. Grace and the Grave Robber: Grace doesn't know what it means to go "souling," but she certainly wasn't expecting it to be like this! Bogey in the Belfry: A storm drives William and his friends inside the dark church for shelter. Are animals making noises in the loft or is it something more sinister? A Very Jurassic Hallowtide: Trapped in the...2024-10-2139 min
Catholic MomcastCatholic Momcast #307: Shadows Visible and InvisibleMaria Morera Johnson interviews authors Leslea Wahl and Antony Kolenc about their newly released anthology, Shadows: Visible and Invisible. Shadows: Visible & Invisible is a collection of short stories by 7 different authors, Leslea Wahl, Carolyn Astfalk, Corinna Turner, Antony B. Kolenc, Theresa Linden, Marie Keiser, T. M. Gaouette. and is centered around the All Hallowtide Triduum of All Hallows’ Eve, All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. These fictional stories are meant to help teens learn more about the history of these important days on the Church calendar through engaging tales. Links in Show: Shadow...2024-09-1829 min
Discover The Full Audiobook Everyone Is Talking About — So Binge-Worthy![German] - Die ehrenhafte Mrs Hale by Carolyn MillerPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/764469to listen full audiobooks.
Title: [German] - Die ehrenhafte Mrs Hale
Series: #6 of [German Edition] Regency Romantik
Author: Carolyn Miller
Narrator: Yvonne Esins
Format: Unabridged Audiobook
Length: 10 hours 17 minutes
Release date: March 15, 2024
Genres: Historical
Publisher's Summary:
Anfang 19. Jahrhundert in Gretna Green, Südschottland. Julia und Thomas sind bis über beide Ohren verliebt, reißen Hals über Kopf aus und heiraten heimlich gegen den Willen ihrer Familien. Nur kurze Zeit später ist Julia allein - und hat keine Ahnung, wo ihr frischangetrauter Ehemann inzwischen steckt und ob er jemals zu ihr zurückkommen wird. Als all...2024-03-1510h 17Start The Game-Changing Full Audiobook Now, Story Seekers![German] - Die ehrenhafte Mrs Hale by Carolyn MillerPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/764469to listen full audiobooks.
Title: [German] - Die ehrenhafte Mrs Hale
Series: #6 of [German Edition] Regency Romantik
Author: Carolyn Miller
Narrator: Yvonne Esins
Format: Unabridged Audiobook
Length: 10 hours 17 minutes
Release date: March 15, 2024
Genres: Religious Fiction
Publisher's Summary:
Anfang 19. Jahrhundert in Gretna Green, Südschottland. Julia und Thomas sind bis über beide Ohren verliebt, reißen Hals über Kopf aus und heiraten heimlich gegen den Willen ihrer Familien. Nur kurze Zeit später ist Julia allein - und hat keine Ahnung, wo ihr frischangetrauter Ehemann inzwischen steckt und ob er jemals zu ihr zurückkommen wird. A...2024-03-1510h 17
Get Your Favorite Full Audiobooks in Romance, Historical[German] - Die ehrenhafte Mrs Hale by Carolyn MillerPlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/764469 to listen full audiobooks. Title: [German] - Die ehrenhafte Mrs Hale Series: #6 of [German Edition] Regency Romantik Author: Carolyn Miller Narrator: Yvonne Esins Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 10 hours 17 minutes Release date: March 15, 2024 Genres: Historical Publisher's Summary: Anfang 19. Jahrhundert in Gretna Green, Südschottland. Julia und Thomas sind bis über beide Ohren verliebt, reißen Hals über Kopf aus und heiraten heimlich gegen den Willen ihrer Familien. Nur kurze Zeit später ist Julia allein - und hat keine Ahnung, wo ihr frischangetrauter Ehemann inzwischen steckt und ob er jemals zu ihr zurückkommen wird. A...2024-03-1503 minGet Your Favorite Full Audiobooks in Romance, Historical[German] - Die ehrenhafte Mrs Hale by Carolyn MillerPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/764469to listen full audiobooks.
Title: [German] - Die ehrenhafte Mrs Hale
Series: #6 of [German Edition] Regency Romantik
Author: Carolyn Miller
Narrator: Yvonne Esins
Format: Unabridged Audiobook
Length: 10 hours 17 minutes
Release date: March 15, 2024
Genres: Historical
Publisher's Summary:
Anfang 19. Jahrhundert in Gretna Green, Südschottland. Julia und Thomas sind bis über beide Ohren verliebt, reißen Hals über Kopf aus und heiraten heimlich gegen den Willen ihrer Familien. Nur kurze Zeit später ist Julia allein - und hat keine Ahnung, wo ihr frischangetrauter Ehemann inzwischen steckt und ob er jemals zu ihr zurückkommen wird. Als all...2024-03-1510h 17
Embrace the Ultimate Storytelling Experience With Full AudiobookDie ehrenhafte Mrs Hale Hörbuch von Carolyn MillerHören Sie sich dieses volle Hörbuch kostenlos beihttps://hotaudiobook.com/freeID: 764469
Titel: Die ehrenhafte Mrs Hale
Autor: Carolyn Miller
Erzähler: Yvonne Esins
Format: Unabridged
Spieldauer: 10:17:39
Sprache: Deutsch
Veröffentlichungsdatum: 03-15-24
Herausgeber: Bookwire
Kategorien: Religion & Spirituality, Historical Romance, Religious Fiction
Zusammenfassung:
Anfang 19. Jahrhundert in Gretna Green, Südschottland. Julia und Thomas sind bis über beide Ohren verliebt, reißen Hals über Kopf aus und heiraten heimlich gegen den Willen ihrer Familien. Nur kurze Zeit später ist Julia allein - und hat keine Ahnung, wo ihr frischangetrauter Ehemann inzwischen steckt und ob er jemals zu ihr zurückkommen w...2024-03-1510h 17Explore the Latest Full Audiobooks in Religion & Spirituality, Religious Fiction[German] - Die ehrenhafte Mrs Hale by Carolyn MillerPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/764469to listen full audiobooks.
Title: [German] - Die ehrenhafte Mrs Hale
Series: #6 of [German Edition] Regency Romantik
Author: Carolyn Miller
Narrator: Yvonne Esins
Format: Unabridged Audiobook
Length: 10 hours 17 minutes
Release date: March 15, 2024
Genres: Religious Fiction
Publisher's Summary:
Anfang 19. Jahrhundert in Gretna Green, Südschottland. Julia und Thomas sind bis über beide Ohren verliebt, reißen Hals über Kopf aus und heiraten heimlich gegen den Willen ihrer Familien. Nur kurze Zeit später ist Julia allein - und hat keine Ahnung, wo ihr frischangetrauter Ehemann inzwischen steckt und ob er jemals zu ihr zurückkommen wird. A...2024-03-1510h 17
Reading With Your Kids PodcastGift Of The Angel TreeChristmas is here, and we are blessed once again to be able to share with you an original short story, written and read by members of CatholicTeenBooks.com. This heartwarming story reminds us how wonderful it is to be able to share our blessings with others. The story was written and read by Antony Kolenc, Leslea Wahl, Carolyn Astfalk, Corinna Turner and Marie Keiser. Sit back with a cup of coco and enjoy this heart warming story.2023-12-2447 min
Beziehungsstark - der Podcast für Selbstbestimmung, erfüllende Beziehungen und starke Grenzen.#139 - Deine Beziehung ist langweilig? Monotonie durchbrechenIn dieser Podcastfolge spreche ich mit dir über ein Thema, das in vielen Beziehungen auftreten kann und oft unterschätzt wird: die Monotonie.
Wenn du die Wahl hättest: Stress oder Monotone – was würdest du wählen?
Gar nicht mal so einfach, nicht wahr?
Tatsächlich ist Monotonie als Zustand der Langeweile und Vorhersehbarkeit ein möglicher Beziehungskiller.
In dieser Folge geht es um
Auswirkungen von Monotonie auf Beziehung
Ein Blickwinkel auf Monotonie, den du vermutlich häufig vergisst
Quick-Tipps, um Monotonie und langeweilige Routine zu durchbrechen
Wenn du ei...2023-10-0221 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersFinding 'Just Right' Books: Cultivating Lifelong Readers [Ep. 44]Helping students find their “just right” book is one of the most powerful ways we can nurture lifelong readers. In this episode, I’m sharing practical strategies to match students with books that fit both their reading level and personal interests—so reading feels enjoyable, not like a task. You’ll learn how to use book talks to build anticipation, how to make the most of your classroom and school library, and why access and choice matter more than levels alone. Whether you're launching independent reading or supporting students who haven’t found their “thing” yet, this episode will help you create...2023-09-1922 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersThe Power of Teacher Book Talks: Igniting a Passion for Reading [Ep. 43] In a world full of distractions—social media, video games, and viral content—getting students excited about reading can feel tough. But teacher book talks might be the secret weapon you didn’t know you needed. In this episode, I’m sharing how teacher-led book talks act like movie trailers for books, sparking curiosity, building anticipation, and showing students that reading can be just as exciting as their favorite screen time. You’ll learn practical tips for choosing the right books to talk about, how to deliver engaging teasers, and ways to weave book talks into your weekly routine. Whether you...2023-09-1224 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersUsing Routines and Procedures in the Classroom to Build Classroom Community [Ep. 42]Today, we are exploring the importance of establishing consistent routines and procedures in the classroom and how they will help us in building a classroom community. While focusing on middle school students, the ideas provided are relevant to all grade levels. Discover how well-defined routines and procedures create a thriving learning environment. We explore the impact these practices have on student comfort, engagement, and community building. By intentionally teaching procedures, we ensure a focused and efficient classroom, promoting active participation. From managing materials to handling emergencies, we emphasize the essential routines that lay the foundation for an academic year...2023-09-0520 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersBuilding Strong Teacher-Student Relationships Beyond Getting to Know you Activities [Ep. 41]This episode explores the importance of building strong teacher-student relationships that extend beyond getting to know you activities. I discuss the misconception that teachers need to be friends with their students, emphasizing instead the value of creating a professional and caring connection. These relationships foster a sense of belonging, individualized learning, trust, and motivation. I also provide practical strategies for maintaining these connections throughout the school year, from sharing interests to involving students in the learning process. Discover how cultivating relationships contributes to a positive classroom atmosphere and sets the foundation for academic success and personal growth....2023-08-2920 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersUnique Reading Engagement Ideas with Katie from Mochas and Markbooks [Ep. 40]Imagine turning your classroom into a hip coffee shop or observing your students actively browsing through your classroom bookshelves to create poetry. This is exactly what we are talking about in this episode! Katie Saj from Mochas and Markbooks stops by for a fun interview about creative ideas she uses to engage her students in reading!Katie shared her amazing classroom transformation inspired by the cozy vibes of Tim Horton's, the beloved Canadian coffee shop. She creatively turned her classroom into a unique coffee shop experience that entices students to immerse themselves in the world of books. By...2023-08-2241 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersDigital Escape Rooms with Lyndsey from Lit with Lyns [Ep. 39]Looking for a way to boost engagement, collaboration, and critical thinking in your ELA classroom? In this episode, I’m joined by Lyndsey from Lit with Lyns to explore the power of digital escape rooms. These interactive games combine puzzles, problem-solving, and content review in a way that motivates students of all ability levels—whether you’re introducing new material or prepping for a big test.Lyndsey shares how she uses escape rooms in her secondary ELA classroom, including how her very first test prep escape room led to measurable growth on state testing. We’ll also cover ti...2023-08-1522 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersMotivating Students through Book Talks with Mary Pat from Just Add Students [Ep. 38]Want to build a classroom where students are excited to share what they read—and inspire others to do the same? In this episode, I’m joined by Mary Pat from Just Add Students to explore how student-led book talks can transform your reading culture. You’ll hear how she implemented book talks as a monthly activity, helping students practice persuasive speaking, explore genres, and generate peer-to-peer excitement around books.Mary Pat shares strategies for coaching students to create strong hooks, give concise summaries, and explain why their book is worth reading. We also talk about using rubric...2023-08-0829 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersLeveled Writing Labs with Lisa from Mrs. Spangler in the Middle [Ep. 37]Struggling to close the writing gaps left behind by the pandemic? In this episode, I’m joined by Lisa from Mrs. Spangler in the Middle to talk about how her Leveled Writing Labs program is helping middle school students rebuild foundational writing skills through personalized, skill-based instruction. Designed specifically for middle schoolers, this intervention supports students at every level with lessons focused on thesis statements, topic sentences, supporting evidence, and more.Lisa shares how diagnostic assessments place students at the right level, how the program uses Google Forms for easy self-assessment and teacher tracking, and why progress—not...2023-08-0131 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersStudent Accountability with Jennifer from Books, Babbles & Bows [Ep. 36]Reading is a fundamental skill that forms the foundation for all other academic subjects and is an important life skill! In this episode, I’m joined by Jennifer from Books, Babbles & Bows. We explore several strategies to promote reading and discuss practical methods for holding students accountable. Strategies such as assigning regular reading time, using book trailers and first-chapter Fridays to generate interest, allowing students to have choice in reading material when possible, and using accountability measures like tracking student progress using a quick Status of the Class activity. We also address challenges such as balancing different book...2023-07-2531 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersThe Power of Student Choice with Kristy from 2 Peas and a Dog [Ep. 35]When students are given real choices in the classroom, their motivation, engagement, and learning outcomes all improve. In this episode, I’m joined by Kristy from 2 Peas and a Dog to talk about the power of student choice—and how you can incorporate it into your middle school ELA classroom without doubling your workload. We explore strategies like choice reading, essay topic options, and scaffolded choice boards that allow students to work at their own level and in their preferred style.Kristy shares practical tips for starting small, offering flexible assignment formats, and using choice to support diff...2023-07-1822 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersUsing Centers in the Classroom with Rachel from Uniquely Upper [Ep. 34]Think centers are just for elementary classrooms? Think again. In this episode, I’m joined by Rachel from Uniquely Upper to explore how learning stations—or centers—can be a game-changer in middle and high school ELA. We discuss how centers promote differentiation, increase student engagement, and help teachers target skill gaps in a manageable, meaningful way.Rachel shares tips for getting started, ideas for designing centers that support various learning styles and ability levels, and how to make stations feel age-appropriate for older students. Whether you’re new to centers or looking to make them work at the s...2023-07-1129 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersMoving Forward from Pandemic Challenges in Education + it’s Launch Day! [Ep. 33]Today is launch day for the book, Motivating Readers: Teaching in the Post-Pandemic Era! In today’s episode, I share why I wrote the book and what I hope you will gain by reading the book. Motivating Readers: Teaching in the Post Pandemic Era, is written for secondary ELA teachers. It acknowledges the challenges faced during the pandemic and emphasizes the need to address the learning gaps in student knowledge and adjust teaching strategies to meet the unique needs of today’s students. The book offers practical strategies, personal stories, and insights to engage students and bridge learni...2023-06-2717 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersReflecting on the School Year: An Honest End-of-Year Teacher Reflection [Ep. 32]Before diving into summer break, it’s important to pause and reflect on what worked—and what didn’t—during the school year. In this episode, I’m sharing my honest reflections on the past year in my middle school ELA classroom. From classroom management to instruction, I walk through the changes I plan to make and the strategies I’ll definitely be keeping.You’ll hear why I’m focusing on tightening expectations, implementing more small group instruction, and using centers and choice boards to better meet student needs. I also talk about two things that really helped—sp...2023-06-2018 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersIndependent Reading in Class: A Q&A Session for Student Success [Ep. 31]How do you make independent reading work in a busy secondary ELA classroom? In this special Q&A episode, I’m answering five thoughtful questions submitted by listeners—all focused on helping students build stronger reading habits and making independent reading time more effective and enjoyable for everyone.You’ll hear practical strategies for setting expectations, supporting reluctant readers, and encouraging student choice through book variety and reading challenges. Whether you're just starting to build independent reading time or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers actionable ideas you can use right away to create a more p...2023-06-1323 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA Teachers4 Professional Development Books to Read this Summer [Ep. 30]Summer break is just around the corner, and it's the perfect time to rest, recharge, reflect, and invest in some relevant professional development. In today’s episode, I’m sharing books that have changed and inspired my own professional practices.If you're looking to enhance your teaching skills and bring fresh energy to your middle school ELA classroom, these professional development books will help you rethink your reading instruction, reignite your passion for teaching, and give you practical strategies to take into the fall. Whether you read one or all four, you'll walk away with ideas that supp...2023-06-0615 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersEmbracing Productive Struggle in the ELA Classroom [Ep 29}Do you jump in too quickly when students struggle? In this episode, we’re talking about why stepping back might actually help your students grow. I’m diving into the concept of productive struggle and why it’s a key ingredient in developing confident, independent thinkers in the ELA classroom.I’ll explore how allowing students to wrestle with challenging tasks—without rushing to provide answers—can strengthen their problem-solving skills, build resilience, and spark deeper learning. I share strategies for giving just enough support, offering specific feedback, and creating a classroom culture where mistakes are seen as part of th...2023-05-3017 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersStudent Reflection Strategies to Promote Ownership and Growth [Ep. 28]What if your students saw themselves as active participants in their learning—rather than passive recipients of information? In this episode, we’re exploring the power of student reflection and how it can transform your classroom. Teaching students to reflect helps them take ownership of their learning, recognize their strengths and challenges, and set meaningful goals.I share practical strategies for weaving reflection into your daily routine—from modeling reflective thinking to gradually building it into everyday classroom conversations. You’ll also hear how reflection supports better retention, promotes self-awareness, and fosters a growth mindset. If you’re looking...2023-05-2311 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersClassroom Library Cleanup: How to Curate a Collection Students Love [Ep. 27]A strong classroom library can be a game-changer when it comes to building literacy and encouraging a love of reading. In this episode, I’m sharing why classroom libraries are essential for middle school ELA—and how to keep yours fresh, diverse, and engaging year after year.You’ll learn practical strategies for evaluating your library, tips for updating your book collection on a budget, and ideas for involving students in the process. I’ll also share how to make your library more inclusive by ensuring it represents a range of voices, cultures, and experiences. Whether you’re buildin...2023-05-1617 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA Teachers6 End of the Year Tasks To Do Before Summer Break [Ep. 26]Before you close your classroom door for the summer, take a few intentional steps that will make your back-to-school season much smoother. In this episode, I’m sharing a list of simple but impactful end-of-year tasks to help you wrap up the school year with less stress—and more purpose.We’ll talk about how to declutter and reset your classroom, review and update your classroom library, prep copies for the first week of school, and take time to reflect on what worked well. It’s easy to focus on what didn’t go right, but now is the tim...2023-05-0912 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersMotivating Readers: Teaching in the Post Pandemic Era [Ep. 25}Teaching has significantly changed in the past few years! Students returned to the classroom with large learning gaps and teachers are left to pick up the pieces. The traditional methods of teaching are no longer as effective as they once were, and teachers are struggling to find ways to motivate students to engage. To help address these issues, I’ve written a book titled Motivating Readers: Teaching in the Post Pandemic Era.In this episode, I share insights into the origin of the book and what teachers will find inside. The book offers practical strategies and techniques for...2023-05-0213 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersHow to Teach Poetry Throughout the Year with Poetry Queen Lesa Smith [Ep. 24]Do you have a subject you struggle to teach? For me, it’s always been poetry—but that didn’t stop me from learning from someone who truly makes it shine. In this episode, I’m joined by Lesa from SmithTeachers9to12—aka the Poetry Queen—who shares how she turned her own challenges with poetry into a true classroom strength.Lesa talks about the power of starting small, like using poetry-inspired attendance questions or having students write poems about themselves. You’ll also hear how analyzing student-written poetry can build confidence before tackling published works, and how to weave p...2023-04-2537 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersEnd of year ELA activities to finish the year strong [Ep. 23]As the school year winds down, it’s easy to fall into a routine or just try to make it to the finish line—but this time of year is actually the perfect opportunity to try something new. In this episode, I’m sharing a variety of engaging ELA activities that incorporate technology, collaboration, and student choice to keep learning meaningful through the final weeks of school.From literary field trips and student-led book talks to silent debates and creative podcast projects, these strategies aren’t just fun—they also give you a head start on ideas to carry i...2023-04-1813 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersTesting Season: Managing Stress and Setting Up Students for Success [Ep. 22]It’s that time of year again—state testing season. But just because testing is on the calendar doesn’t mean the next few weeks have to be filled with stress and pressure. In this episode, I’m sharing how I approach state testing in my classroom, with simple strategies that keep students calm, focused, and ready to do their best—without burning them out.From building a positive classroom environment to shifting your mindset around test prep, these are the small but meaningful changes that help students feel supported, not stressed. If you're looking for ways to approac...2023-04-1112 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersModeling the Writing Process: A Powerful Tool for Teaching Writing [Ep. 21]One of the most powerful shifts I’ve made in teaching writing came after a professional development session with Kelly Gallagher—writing in front of my students. In this episode, I’m sharing how modeling the full writing process in real time helps students see that writing isn’t about perfection—it’s about thinking, revising, and trying again.Instead of showing a polished final draft, I let students watch me struggle, rethink, revise, and push through the messy middle. This approach shows them that writing is a process, not a product—and it gives them the confidence to...2023-04-0413 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersEngaging Students in Writing - Strategies to Increase Student Engagement [Ep. 20]Teaching writing has always had its challenges—but helping students rebuild writing skills after the pandemic adds a whole new layer. In this episode, I reflect on how online learning impacted students' ability to write at grade level and why simply “returning to normal” isn’t enough. We need to meet students where they are, rebuild confidence, and provide meaningful support along the way.I also share how I adapted one of my favorite writing activities, Dinner Party, into a whole-class project that feels manageable for today’s learners. You’ll hear how breaking writing into smaller, scaffolded p...2023-03-2819 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersHow to Use Choice Reading to Boost Engagement in Secondary ELA with Samantha in Secondary [Ep. 19]If you’ve been around the podcast for a while, you know how much I value choice reading—and in this episode, I’m joined by Samantha from Samantha in Secondary, who shares that same passion. Samantha walks us through how she incorporates choice reading units alongside her required curriculum and offers a treasure trove of engaging, real-world activities that bring books to life for students.From book tastings and speed dating to literary field trips and one-pagers, Samantha shows how creative reading projects can boost engagement, deepen comprehension, and help students develop independent reading habits...2023-03-2140 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersStudent Led Book Talks: How to Boost Engagement and Thinking [Ep. 18]Looking for a meaningful way to get students talking about books—and really thinking about what they’ve read? In this episode, I’m diving into how student-led book talks can promote deeper engagement, build speaking confidence, and create space for authentic peer-to-peer conversations in your secondary ELA classroom.Book talks give students ownership over their reading and discussion process, helping them move beyond surface-level Q&A. I walk you through how to implement these discussions—from building reading into your routine to prepping students for discussion day and stepping back as the teacher so students can take the...2023-03-1411 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersFrom Planning to Reflection: Running Successful Book Clubs [Ep. 17]Planning book clubs in the secondary ELA classroom takes more than just handing out books—it requires intentional planning, variety, and a focus on student ownership. In this episode, I’m walking you through how to launch book clubs with success, from selecting a range of engaging titles to teaching the mini-lessons students need to hold meaningful, student-led discussions.I’ll also share how to prepare students to take the lead on discussion days, what to do when that feels a little awkward, and why building in time for reflection—for both students and teachers—is key to...2023-03-0714 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersThe Value of Book Clubs in Secondary ELA [Ep. 16]Are you the kind of teacher who lights up when students have real, meaningful conversations about books and life? In this episode, I’m diving into how book clubs can shift reading instruction from worksheet-based to student-centered by promoting authentic, peer-led discussions that make reading feel relevant and social.Unlike traditional literature circles, book clubs give students more choice and ownership. I share how grouping students by interest—not just reading level—can lead to deeper engagement and richer conversations. With the teacher acting as a facilitator, students take responsibility for their reading and hold one another accoun...2023-02-2811 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersEngaging Vocabulary Activities to Make Review Fun and Effective [Ep. 15]We know that strong vocabulary instruction is key to helping students access complex texts—but it doesn’t have to be dull or repetitive. In this episode, I’m sharing creative ways to make vocabulary instruction more engaging in the middle school ELA classroom. From games and student-created skits to letting students help choose which words to study, these strategies bring movement, voice, and fun into your lessons.By combining purposeful instruction with playful activities, vocabulary becomes more than memorization—it becomes something students enjoy. These ideas are low-prep, high-impact, and easy to adapt for any unit. If you’r...2023-02-2116 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersPractical Vocabulary Strategies For Middle School ELA [Ep. 14]Struggling to find time to teach vocabulary in your ELA classroom? In this episode, I’m continuing the conversation on vocabulary instruction by sharing three low-prep strategies you can start using right away—without needing to overhaul your entire curriculum.I’ll dive into how Word Walls create visual clarity, how the Frayer Model helps students connect beyond the definition, and how Word of the Week can sneak in consistent exposure to high-utility words. These practical vocabulary strategies will help your students build word knowledge and deepen their reading comprehension—without overwhelming your lesson plans.Read mor...2023-02-1414 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersVocabulary Instruction: Is it still relevant? [Ep. 13]Does vocabulary instruction sometimes take a backseat to other ELA standards? In this episode, I explore why vocabulary needs to be a consistent part of your instruction—not something squeezed in when there’s time. Vocabulary is essential for reading comprehension, and when we teach it with intention, we help students become more confident and capable readers.I’ll share practical ways to include vocabulary instruction in every unit, strategies students can use to figure out unfamiliar words, and ideas for making vocabulary learning more engaging and relevant to your students.Read more in the show...2023-02-0715 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersReading Accountability Made Easy with These Student Tasks [Ep. 12]Choice reading empowers students—but how do we make sure they’re actually reading and thinking deeply about their books? In this final episode of our four-part reading mini-series, I’m sharing four meaningful activities that hold students accountable without taking away the joy of reading.These strategies—one-pagers, task cards, letters of advice, and reading response journals—encourage reflection, creativity, and critical thinking. They’re flexible, easy to implement, and work with any novel or nonfiction title your students choose.Whether you’re looking to strengthen your independent reading routines or just need a few fresh idea...2023-01-3123 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersPersonalized Reading Goals for Better Engagement and Accountability [Ep. 11]This week on the podcast, I’m talking about setting realistic reading goals with your students based on the number of pages they can actually read. Instead of assigning a one-size-fits-all goal, I’ll share how to personalize goals for each student using a simple formula I learned from Penny Kittle.By focusing on reading pace and time, students set goals that feel doable—and they’re more likely to stick with them. I’ll walk you through the steps and explain how these reading goals can help build motivation, accountability, and stronger reading habits over time.Read...2023-01-2414 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersReading Reflections: A Better Alternative to Traditional Logs [Ep. 10]Do you use reading logs to hold students accountable, but feel like they’re not really helping students grow as readers? In this episode, I’m sharing why I ditched the traditional reading log in favor of reading reflections—and how it’s made a difference in my classroom.Reading reflections go beyond recording page numbers. They invite students to think critically, connect personally with the text, and express their understanding. I’ll walk you through how I structure my reflections and the three components I include to make them both engaging and meaningful for students.Read mor...2023-01-1719 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersTeacher Self-Care Starts Now: How to Recharge Over Winter Break [Ep. 9]Winter break is more than just a pause in the school year—it’s a much-needed opportunity to rest, recharge, and regroup. In this episode, I reflect on how we can truly make the most of this time away from the classroom, both personally and professionally. I share how I’m approaching this break to avoid burnout and enter the new year feeling refreshed, and I offer a few ideas to help you do the same.Whether you're planning to unplug completely or want to sneak in some low-stress prep, this episode will help you find balance and re...2022-12-2716 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersPeer Conversations About Reading: Easy Strategies for Student Engagement [Ep. 8]Want your students to stay engaged during independent reading? In this episode, I’m sharing four practical ways to get students talking about what they’re reading—without the pressure of a formal presentation. These strategies fit perfectly within a Reader’s Workshop model and encourage authentic, peer-to-peer conversations.You’ll hear ideas like using purposeful partner talk, reader response questions, and even mini-blogging to build confidence in reading, speaking, and listening skills. I also share how I use Google Forms to check in with students and guide future reading conferences.By adding simple and structured...2022-12-2014 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersHow to Start Reading Conferences in Your ELA Classroom [Ep. 7]Reading conferences are one of the most powerful tools we have to move the needle for student growth—but they can feel overwhelming at first. In this episode, I’m breaking down how to get started with reading conferences in a way that feels manageable and impactful.I’ll walk you through how to structure these one-on-one conversations, what kinds of questions to ask, and how to provide on-the-spot support based on student needs. I’ll also share how I simplified my record-keeping process so I could actually focus on the conversation instead of scrambling to write everythi...2022-12-1323 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersMaximize Your ELA Class Time: 4 Non-Negotiables for Reading Workshop [Ep. 6]If you’ve ever felt like there’s never enough time to fit everything into your ELA block, you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing how you can maximize the time you do have by focusing on four non-negotiables in your reading workshop structure: time to read, short mini lessons, student conferences, and meaningful share-outs.I’ll also walk you through sample class schedules—both for 90-minute blocks and shorter 55-minute periods—to help you visualize how these elements can fit into your day. Teaching time is limited, but with the right structure, you can make every...2022-12-0620 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersHow to Increase Student Motivation Through Choice and Voice [Ep. 5]In this episode, I’m digging into a topic every teacher wrestles with at some point—student motivation. If you’ve found yourself wondering how to get your students more engaged, more curious, and more willing to take risks with their learning, you’re not alone.I’ll walk you through some of the biggest barriers to student motivation and share practical ways I’ve helped reignite excitement and effort in my own ELA classroom. From offering meaningful choices to shifting our classroom language, sometimes it’s the small changes that make the biggest difference.Read more in t...2022-11-2918 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersWinter Break Countdown: Easy, Inclusive Activities for Middle School ELA [Ep. 4]The countdown to winter break is on—but these final weeks can feel like the longest of the year. In this episode, I’m sharing easy, low-prep activities that help keep students engaged and bring just the right amount of festive fun to your classroom.We’ll talk about how to approach holiday celebrations in a way that’s inclusive, respectful, and representative of the students and community you serve. You’ll hear tips for inviting students into the planning process, thinking seasonally when holiday celebrations aren’t an option, and keeping classroom routines fresh without adding to your stre...2022-11-2215 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersBuilding Independent Readers: Tips for Launching Reader’s Workshop [Ep. 3]If you're ready to bring Reader’s Workshop into your classroom but aren't sure where to begin, this episode is your launchpad. Following up on Episodes 1 and 2 where I covered the what and why, today’s episode is all about the how.I’ll walk you through the first steps you can take to build an independent reading culture—starting with simple, actionable strategies you can try right away. From polling students on genre preferences to modeling reading behavior, we’ll talk about small shifts that lead to big results.Read more in the show notes...2022-11-1525 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersHow to Create a Culture of Reading in the Middle School Classroom that Will Excite Your StudentsAre your students rolling their eyes at independent reading time? In this episode, I’m sharing how I created a culture of reading in my middle school classroom that shifted reading from a chore to something students genuinely enjoy.From rethinking how I organized my classroom library to finding new ways to approach book talks and First Chapter Fridays, I’ll walk you through simple but powerful strategies that helped foster reading excitement. You’ll also hear why student choice is key—and the one reading practice I use that always sparks discussion (and a little controversy!).If...2022-11-1514 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersThe Power of Reader’s Workshop in the Middle School ClassroomWhat would your classroom look like if students walked in asking to read? If families told you their kids were voluntarily reading at home? That’s exactly what started happening when I began using Reader’s Workshop—and I’ll be honest, I didn’t believe it would work at first.In this episode, I’m sharing my journey from skepticism to fully embracing the Reader’s Workshop model. I’ll walk you through what Reader’s Workshop is (and what it’s not), the five key components that make it effective, and the real magic that happens when student...2022-11-1513 minMiddle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA TeachersWelcome to the Middle School Café Podcast [Trailer]Welcome to The Middle School Café Podcast—a show designed specifically for middle school ELA teachers who want to help their students become confident, independent readers. I'm Carolyn Wahl, a veteran teacher with over 20 years of experience, and I’ve made it my mission to support students who struggle with reading by bridging the gap between where they are and where they need to be.In this podcast, I share real-world strategies, practical tips, and research-backed methods to help middle school teachers foster a love of reading in their classrooms. Whether you're navigating how to support below-grade-level reade...2022-11-0303 min
Pia liestPia liest Hörergeschichten - 38 - ,,Die Nacht im Rohr"Eine Hörerinnengeschichte von Sonja und Stefan
Begrüßung und was im letzten Monat so los war: 00:01 - 12:33 Min.
Geschichte ab 12:38 Min.
Hallöchen liebe Hörerherzchen,
heute gibt's wieder eine Hörerinnengeschichte für euch - und zwar von Sonja.
Die Geschichte hat mir Sonjas Mann Stefan eingeschickt und ich hatte hier besonderen Grund zur Freude, da die Story in meiner Heimat, dem Ruhrgebiet, genauer gesagt im Bernepark in Bottrop spielt, im sogenannten ,,Röhrenhotel", in dem man in Betonröhren übernachten kann. Eine schaurig-schöne (Kriminal-)Geschichte gibt's also heute für euch, dank Stefan...2022-09-2427 min
Stories from the Ashes Podcast006 Ambre reads aloud and Amanda recommends adult fiction and other books...Find a free literary database containing the books we’ve discussed here:Books reviewed in this episode:Links on the website are affiliate links- they don’t cost you any extra to use but they greatly help support the cost of running this site. Thank you! * Dear Genius: The Letters of Ursula Nordstrom by Ursula Nordstrom,Leonard S. Marcus (Editor), Maurice Sendak (Illustrator)* Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White illustrated by Garth Williams* Jo’s Boys by Louisa May Alcott* The Romance of the Forest b...2022-06-201h 07
Reading With Your Kids PodcastA Fowl ChristmasCarolyn Astfalk, AJ Capitan, Antony Kolenc, Stephanie Engleman, Leslea Wahl, Marie Kieser, Andrea Jo Rodgers & Corinna Turner from CatholicTeenBooks.com join us to recite A Fowl Christmas. This is an original short story created especially for the #ReadingWithYourKids #Podcast. Click here to visit www.CatholicTeenBooks.com Click here to visit our website - www.readingwithyourkids.com2021-12-2548 min
Girlfriends (A Podcast for Catholic Women)Why We Need Catholic Fiction for TeensMy guests this week are Catholic fiction authors Carolyn Astfalk and Leslea Wahl who can’t wait to share about some fantastic literature options for Catholic teens. We discuss why it’s important to have a genre of fiction devoted to Catholic teens, what that means, and what some of the best resources are for teens and young adults who love to read. CatholicTeenBooks.com is a great place to learn more about the variety of works available for teens and find out more about the new anthology of books on the subject of St. Patrick. Do yourself and your teen...2021-02-1638 min
Listen to Top 100 Audiobooks in Teens, Sci-Fi & FantasyDie Legende von Pendragons Hammer (Gortimer Gibbon: Mein Leben in der Normal Street 6) Hörbuch von Uticha Marmon, Jennifer CubelaHören Sie sich dieses volle Hörbuch kostenlos bei https://hotaudiobook.com
Titel: Die Legende von Pendragons Hammer (Gortimer Gibbon: Mein Leben in der Normal Street 6)
Autor:: Uticha Marmon, Jennifer Cubela
Erzähler: Niklas Münnighoff, Paulina Rümmelein, Julian Putzke, Christine Stichler, Laurin Lechenmayr, Remy Ciletti
Format: Unabridged
Spieldauer: 30 mins
Sprache: Deutsch
Veröffentlichungsdatum: 09-23-16
Herausgeber: Amazon Media EU Sàrl
Kategorien: Teens, Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Zusammenfassung des Herausgebers:
Bei der Wahl zum Präsidenten des Schülerkomitees der Normal Mittelschule sorgt ein geheimnisvoller Hammer für Aufregung. Wer ihn aus einem Kaugummiklumpen löst, wird der nächste Präsid...2016-09-2330 min