Gift Guide 2016

November 12, 2017 blog No Comments
In no particular order, stripped of images because I moved blogs.) Constellation wood coasters. These great and little bear prints. (So freaking cute!) For the lucky few who get to keep their butter on the counter. A brass and glass lantern or terrarium to fill with candles or sparkly things. This…

Calendars and Planning for Rebels

September 3, 2017 blog
I pour over the calendar aisle in every store soaking in colors and bindings and smooth papers. How does one choose something so important and personal? When stressed, I obsess at planner porn and wonder how other people make them so pretty. How do they make their handwriting so neat? How do they know what pens and…

Retrieval Effect and Testing for Learning

September 3, 2017 blog No Comments
The retrieval effect is a powerful tool to enhance student learning. Why Not Testing? As a student I loved taking tests, largely because I was good at them. As a writing teacher, my attitudes about tests have been mostly negative. For one, grading handwritten essay exams sucks a whole lotta…

24 Stages of Grading

September 2, 2017 blog No Comments
Grading Essays in 24 Easy Steps is a true crime story as old as teachers, writing, and procrastination. Collect digital copies of essays. Email all the students who submitted their essays incorrectly. Hope you’re a new person this semester who can start grading essays immediately upon submission, instead of procrastinating.…