M. Towle is a veteran Language Arts and Social Studies teacher with fourteen years of classroom experience in urban schools in Los Angeles and Philadelphia. M. Towle holds an M.A. in Holocaust and Genocide Studies and is the founder of TeachNovels.com.
Starting a novel unit on the right foot is essential to overall success. Students often make snap judgments about whether the book will engage them or whether they can succeed in the learning goals. These To Kill a Mockingbird pre-reading activities pique interest and instill confidence as students take on… Read More »TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD Pre-reading Activities (Harper Lee, novel)
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley runs approximately 80,000 to 85,000 words across 24 chapters. At an average adult reading speed of 250 words per minute, most readers finish the novel in 5 to 6 hours of reading time. Word Count and Reading Time Edition Word Count Avg. Reading Speed Estimated Time… Read More »How long does it take to read FRANKENSTEIN?
With the continual debate over the value and impact of To Kill a Mockingbird, it is critical that teachers ask, “Should I teach To Kill a Mockingbird?” This post will examine both sides of the controversy in order to help you reach the decision that is best for you and your… Read More »Should I teach TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD?
Teaching symbolism in To Kill a Mockingbird is one of the key reasons to include the novel in your course of study. Lee’s use of symbolism is simple, emphatic, and clear. Almost all of the symbolism in To Kill a Mockingbird relates to one theme: It is a sin to… Read More »Teaching Symbolism in TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD
A Raisin in the Sun reading comprehension questions available in two formats for grades 9-12: three act quizzes (10 questions each) and a full reading test (42 multiple choice questions plus short answer and an essay prompt). Cut and paste individual questions below or purchase the formatted PDF versions with… Read More »A Raisin in the Sun Reading Quizzes (Acts I-III) and Reading Test
These 10 A Raisin in the Sun activities are designed for high school ELA classrooms. Each one moves beyond reading comprehension into analysis, creative thinking, and discussion, covering symbolism, characterization, the American Dream, heritage, and dramatic performance. Contents: 10 A Raisin in the Sun Activities A Raisin in the Sun… Read More »10 “A Raisin in the Sun” Activities for High School ELA
A Raisin in the Sun is a strong choice for grades 9-12 ELA. The reading level is accessible (ATOS 5.5, Lexile NP), but the themes — racism, identity, the American Dream, and dignity — reward high school-level analysis. This post covers grade level considerations, sensitive content, reading schedules, lesson ideas,… Read More »Teaching A Raisin in the Sun: Tips, Lessons, and Resources
These A Raisin in the Sun discussion questions are organized by act and designed for high school ELA classrooms. You’ll find 3 sets of open-ended questions for cooperative groups or Socratic seminar, plus 4 essential questions on race, the American Dream, and identity. Cut and paste the items from the… Read More »A RAISIN IN THE SUN Discussion Questions
Teaching Anthem by Ayn Rand rewards both teacher and student. Despite its brevity — most editions run under 100 pages — the novella delivers philosophical depth, rich literary craft, and classroom discussions that teachers remember for years. This page makes the case for including Anthem in your high school ELA… Read More »Teaching “Anthem” by Ayn Rand — Why It Belongs in Your ELA Classroom