The Teacher's Almanac

This week we are focusing on grammar in my 8th grade English class. Nothing gets 8th graders more excited than grammar right?! Wrong. One of the things we're spotlighting this week is how to use commas correctly. In an attempt to make this topic more interesting, I came across this funny meme and decided to show it to the students. One of the Essential Questions for this section of the course is: Why does it matter how we communicate with others? The meme above answers this so well, but in a fun, creative way that will get their attention (hopefully). I started thinking of ways I could biblically integrate this lesson and the above meme got me thinking... Commas DO matter!  Especially if you're the sinner on the cross and Jesus is telling you something pretty important. Luke 23:43 43 And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” What would this verse look like if one of the commas were shifted to the righ...

Biblical Integration is not just prayer.  Over the past few years, this concept has been reinforced at many of our training sessions. And it's so true! But, while saying a prayer at the beginning of class isn't Biblical Integration, I do feel like it serves an important purpose Last year, I began trying something different when it comes to class prayer. On the first day of class, I have all my students write their name on an index card (are you beginning to get how much I love index cards !). Each day, when class begins, I draw a name at random and ask them what I can pray for. A few students say "nothing", but most of them will fill you in on something going on in their life. I also noticed that last year, as the year went on, students who were initially hesitant became more open. I do this for a few reasons.  1. It helps you get to know the students. Early in the year, I'm still trying to master names and this is a big help! Additionally, I w...