I struggled to find realistic ballots to help my students learn about the voting process during election season. After finding resource after resource that was cute, but not age-appropriate for my middle schoolers, who wanted to know what ballots really look like, I finally gave up and just made some for myself! And today, I'm sharing them with you.

“Guys, just follow the directions.” “The directions are right there.” “Just read the directions!” How many times per day do you repeat one (or all) of those phrases? It’s frustrating to repeat yourself over and over while feeling like your words are going in one ear and out the other. But instead of becoming more exasperated and repeating myself louder, I made a change that shifted the way I approach classroom directions. Now, I’m sharing that change with you.

Tired of the same old “All About Me” worksheets? Discover 3 reasons I ditched them—and the meaningful first day of school activity I use instead to get to know my middle school students.

You've planned a fun game for your students, but time is being wasted as your students try to choose team names. Sound familiar? I can help!

Reading The Westing Game with your students? Check out these teacher tips and resources, and help your students get the most out the novel!