After several years of tweaking the protocols for a student- led poetry project, the call for this issue prompted the author to share what she and her students have learned and are still learning about reading poetry. This includes a now- eighth- grade student, Grace. Grace considers herself a "good" student, eager to learn, but she also…

In this article, the author uses lesson reflection as a way to consider ethical issues that accompany teaching with texts that include death. More specifically, the article examines the relationship between moral education and analytic or skills-based education.

In this article, the authors discuss how teachers can help students to grieve through the power of writing. Six years ago, a student named Miranda, experienced a great loss. To make sense of the tragedy, Miranda did what came naturally to her; she picked up her pen to write in her journal. Now a college sophomore, Miranda has grown through the…

A few weeks into the marking period, the author's eighth-grade students took an all-essay literature test. While grading the tests, she noticed that students made many grammatical errors. It seemed clear that a new approach to grammar instruction was necessary. Staring at this stack of essay tests draws the author in to the concept of…

How can teachers merge research and daily practice? Where can they find the time, information, and resources? In exploring this issue, it is important to clarify the definition of "research". "Research" might mean (1) using best practices that are already research-based or (2) doing research on one's own students. For purposes of discussion in…

When students take a stance on authentic social issues in their English classrooms, they have the opportunity to imagine their world as otherwise. Along with attention to other intellectual skills and civic skills, educators should prioritize the development of imagination, as it is "crucial" if students are to "project and embrace a vision for…

In this article, the author discusses how she developed an innovative, interdisciplinary unit in eighth-grade English that links with the history teacher's Civil War studies. When constructing lesson plans, the author needed to rely on her sympathetic connection with students. To determine the best way to help students learn, the author had to ask…

Describes a poetry unit for grade 8 aimed toward (1) showing that contemporary music can be termed poetry; (2) involving students in expressing themselves dramatically; and (3) exposing the students to various types of poetry to illustrate how words can be used to enhance their own lives. (MM)

A letter from an eighth grade teacher describing the problems students face. (DD)

Argues that the prevalence of print literacy has diminished the interest in and teaching of oral culture. Describes a storytelling experiences and illustrates the importance of considering oral narrative in the English classroom. Discusses the healing truth of stories, the mental health of adolescents, and the oral tradition and relational values.…

Considers how the successful teaching of Shakespeare represents the ultimate challenge for many English teachers, one that measures their ability to enlighten and inspire. Discusses how her colleague approaches teaching Shakespeare to eight graders. Describes how she approaches teaching Henry V to her ninth grade students. (SG)

It is very important and fun for the English teacher to take time simply to read to the students. (JH)

Assesses the results of a study of spelling development on the junior high level. Concludes that spelling instruction in the upper grades is worthy of serious consideration. (NKA)

Describes the development of a teacher's renewed interest in teaching after transferring from a K-12 school to teaching the eighth grade. Discusses six points concerning the characteristics of eighth grade students. (RS)

Suggestions for teaching writing to students in grades seven and eight range from student journals to spelling bingo and other writing games. (DD)