Thematic Book Club Ideas for Kids: Engaging and Educational Planning Tips

Being the amazing educator you are, you can fully appreciate the power of working with students in small groups. They provide time for targeted instruction, provide an opportunity for you to get to build strong relationships with students, all while fostering a love/appreciation for reading. But, all this only happens if you are strategic about how you plan your book clubs. Using a thematic approach to book clubs helps students connect with content on a deeper level. When exploring book club ideas for kids, selecting texts that offer diverse perspectives on the topics they’re learning about can boost engagement and strengthen comprehension skills. And yes—this works even for our youngest learners!

Molly WheatleyFebruary 15, 2025Reading Stations, Guided reading, Classroom management, TeachingComment

Transform Your Fifth Grade Classroom with the Daily 5 Framework

Did you know the Daily 5 isn’t just for younger students? When I introduced the Daily 5 in fifth grade, my students loved the balance of independence and choice it gave them, which is exactly what upper elementary classrooms need. The Daily 5 in upper elementary classrooms helps cover all literacy goals while keeping students engaged, organized, and allowing me to run small groups without constant interruptions. Curious about how it works? Check out the full blog!

Molly WheatleyNovember 2, 2024Daily 5, Literacy stations, Elementary teacher, Reading Stations, Guided readingComment

How To Teach Guided Reading Virtually

Teaching guided reading virtually has become the norm for many teachers. Today we are talking about five tips to make guided reading fun and engaging while instructing in a virtual environment.

Molly WheatleyJuly 5, 2022Guided reading, Online teaching, Virtual teaching, Guided reading on ZoomComment

7 Reasons Why Elementary Teachers Should Use the Daily 5

The secret for running a successful literacy block is simple- use the daily five! Today we are exploring why you should use the daily 5 in your classroom and the benefits this teaching strategy can bring!

Molly WheatleyMay 30, 2022Daily 5, Literacy stations, Reading Stations, Guided reading, Elementary teacherComment

5 Tips For Helping Your Struggling Reader

Whether you’re a teacher trying to help a struggling reader at school or a parent helping a struggling reader at home, teaching reading is a big process! There’s a few things that can help the process and keep your student from feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. Keep on reading to find out 5 tips to help your struggling reader.

Molly WheatleyApril 6, 2022Reading Stations, Guided reading, Sight words, Literacy stationsComment

Valentine’s Day Classroom Activities That Actually Engage Students During Reading Stations

I’m here to tell you Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be your least favorite holiday as a teacher. If you teach at a school where you’re in charge of planning the party (like I do) then keep on reading because I’m going to give you some zero prep ideas that will keep your students engaged during reading stations. You’ll actually be able to get your reading groups done while your students get to have fun and still sprinkle the holiday of love in.

Molly WheatleyFebruary 2, 2022Teaching, Holidays, Reading Stations, Guided readingComment

Why You Should Review Guided Reading Expectations Every Day

As a first grade teacher, I know the importance of practicing the behaviors we want to see every day. Guided reading is no exception and in this blog post, I’m going to share with you why you should review guided reading expectations every day.

Molly WheatleyJanuary 31, 2022Guided reading, Daily 5, Classroom expectationsComment

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