ELA

Affordable (and FREE) Decodable Texts That Actually Work

As a former 2nd-grade teacher, current reading intervention specialist, and mom of two growing readers, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful decodable texts can be. In the classroom, they help build confidence and fluency. At home? They’ve become a regular part of our bedtime routine—right alongside Oliver Jeffers and Jory John.

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How to Set Up Magnetic Letter Boards for Phonics Instruction

How to Set Up Magnetic Letter Boards for Phonics Instruction Letter boards are a simple, effective tool to support explicit, hands-on phonics instruction. Whether you’re working one-on-one, in a small group, or during independent centers, having a ready-to-go board can make word building seamless and engaging. Let’s walk through exactly

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Long E Made Easy: Fun Activities for Vowel Teams

It’s time to teach vowel teams! And, it’s not always a breeze. There are just so many to remember; some have clear rules, and some don’t. But, with the right information and resources, teaching long e vowel teams can be fun and easy! Rules for Long E Vowel Teams Alright,

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5 Tips for How to Teach Silent Consonant Letters

Silent letters can be one of the trickiest parts of spelling for young learners. They sneak into words without making a sound, leaving students wondering why they’re even there! But with the right strategies, teaching silent letters doesn’t have to be confusing or frustrating. In this post, I’ll share 5

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Teach Suffix -ly with Simple Rules, Examples, and Activities

Understanding suffixes is a crucial aspect of developing strong language skills. One of the most common and versatile suffixes is -ly. Teaching students how to add suffix -ly to words can enhance their writing, allowing them to express ideas more precisely. In this post, we will explore simple rules, provide

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Teach Nonfiction Text Features (Free Graphic Organizer)

Teaching young minds to navigate the pages of informational texts is a crucial skill that will empower them to become independent readers. In this blog post, we’ll explore effective strategies to introduce nonfiction text features, conduct engaging mini-lessons, and provide free graphic organizers to support your students’ learning journey. What

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Free Creative Writing Prompts for 1st and 2nd grade Students

Writing daily is the key to building students’ confidence and growing their writing skills. Yet, many students struggle to generate ideas or lack enthusiasm for writing. Utilizing writing prompts can help support reluctant writers and ignite their creativity. With built-in support and teacher feedback, these free writing prompts will help

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How to Effectively Teach the 6 Syllable Types with Examples

Teaching syllables can be a tricky task. It requires planning, creativity, and an understanding of the various syllable types to engage students in learning what can often be considered a tedious topic. Whether your student is just starting out or further along in their reading journey, it’s important for all

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