Linda 10/28/25 Linda 10/28/25

Building Knowledge with Topical Text Sets

Topical text sets are powerful tools for boosting comprehension and vocabulary in nonfiction reading and writing. By curating related texts around one topic, teachers can build background knowledge, increase engagement, and help students tackle complex informational texts with confidence. This post explores what topical text sets are, why they work, and how to use them effectively in your classroom.

Linda 10/26/25 Linda 10/26/25

Stir Up Some Magic With Powerful Words

Discover creative ways to celebrate words with a Halloween twist! “Magic Words” go beyond manners — they help students of all ages express empathy, describe characters, and connect with deeper themes. Try these classroom activities to turn your vocabulary lessons into something truly magical.

Amanda 10/16/25 Amanda 10/16/25

Falling for Words: 8 Interactive Lesson Plans for Autumn

Linda 10/8/25 Linda 10/8/25

Growing Home: Sparking Word JOY Through Vocabulary and Story

Bring vocabulary to life with Growing Home by Beth Ferry — a magical, humorous read-aloud that models word consciousness and the power of belonging. This Grades 3–5 lesson plan offers ready-to-use vocabulary lists, pacing guides, and discussion prompts to help students fall in love with language while exploring what it means to call a place “home.” Download the full lesson plan and discover how to turn every word into an opportunity for JOYful learning.

Linda 10/6/25 Linda 10/6/25

Banned Books Week 2025

Linda 9/21/25 Linda 9/21/25

Book Pairing: Bringing Home’s Love to School

Welcome the new school year with a focus on home and love. This post highlights three thought-provoking picture books—Home and Love by Matt de la Peña and When Love is More Than Words by Jocelyn Chung—that remind educators and families how comfort, safety, and empathy help children transition back to school. Discover ways to weave care and belonging into classroom routines and spark meaningful conversations about resilience, community, and the many forms of love.

Linda 9/15/25 Linda 9/15/25

Vocabulary Word Walls

Turn static word walls into powerful tools for vocabulary and writing with these easy, interactive classroom ideas.

Amanda 9/11/25 Amanda 9/11/25

Sibling Stories for Back to School

Amanda 8/25/25 Amanda 8/25/25

8 Interactive Lesson Plans to Launch Back to School with JOY

Linda 7/7/25 Linda 7/7/25

Vocabulary Connections

Linda 6/30/25 Linda 6/30/25

Introducing Word JOY! Part 2: Using Animated Shorts

Linda 6/23/25 Linda 6/23/25

Book Pairing: BERRIES

Linda 6/5/25 Linda 6/5/25

Grow a Garden of Words

Amanda 5/30/25 Amanda 5/30/25

Book Pairing: SPIDERS

Amanda 5/14/25 Amanda 5/14/25

Cast Your Vote for the 2025 Charlotte Award!

Amanda 4/29/25 Amanda 4/29/25

7 Steps to Planning a Literacy Fair

Bring families and classrooms together to celebrate the joy of reading with a school-wide Literacy Fair! In this month’s caregiver tip, Amanda shares 7 easy steps for planning a Family Literacy Night that strengthens home-school connections and builds lifelong reading habits. From choosing a theme and recruiting volunteers to organizing book giveaways and ending with a memorable finale, this guide walks educators and parent groups through every stage of hosting a successful event. Whether you’re part of a PTA, literacy committee, or teaching team, you’ll find practical, ready-to-use ideas to make your next Literacy Fair inspiring, inclusive, and fun for all ages.