NEW YEAR AT BNT: New Books For Teachers [Ep 239] Brave New Teaching: A Podcast For High School And Middle School Teachers podcast

26:45

Did you catch last week’s episode? If not, listen here! In that conversation, we gave our initial reaction to the Atlantic article, The Elite College Students Who Can’t Read Books . Need the TL;DR? The article claims Gen Z is reading the fewest amount of books in recent history and some of the adverse effects of shifting to skill-focused learning. Today, we’re continuing the discussion, with a focus on college readiness. The article shares the perspective of college professors who are finding their students unable to keep up with the reading. So what does that say about our high schoolers? Well, it’s not just about students struggling with books! It’s about an education system that’s set them up to prioritize achievement over learning. In this episode, we talk about the race to college, the stress that students are under, and why so many of them feel disconnected from reading. Instead of pointing fingers, let’s figure out how educators can meet students where they are, spark their curiosity, and make reading feel less like a chore and more like an experience. We think through some practical strategies to bring reading back to life in the classroom (and have lots of episodes linked in the show notes on how to help achieve this). We’re definitely at a turning point in the history of education - and it’s not all doom and gloom! We truly feel that we’re all going to come out better on the other side of it all. To continue this conversation, join us in Happy Hour , where we’re working together to plan and put things into practice! Resources: Download your discussion guide The Elite College Students Who Can’t Read Books Educator Atlantic Subscription Flipster X Your Local Library "Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!" Purchase your copy of Role Call here and then be sure to claim your free bonus here ! Support the show 📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect with us on Instagram @bravenewteaching Subscribe to our YouTube Channel…

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TEACHERS REACT: The Elite College Students Who Can't Read Books, Part 1 [Ep 250] 34:41

13 days ago34:41

34:41

Are students reading less than ever before? In this episode, we dive into The Atlantic article The Elite College Students Who Can’t Read Books and unpack its bold claims about reading full books, attention spans, technology, and the shift toward skill-focused education. We’re asking the tough questions and sharing our real reactions! One thing is for sure. If we want students to read, we need to be intentional about how we build our curriculum! Grab our discussion guide to reflect on this conversation, and join Curriculum Rehab for the tools to create engaging, student-centered lessons. Plus, stay tuned for part two next week, where we’ll tackle college readiness and what comes next! SHOW NOTES: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/episode250 "Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!" Purchase your copy of Role Call here and then be sure to claim your free bonus here ! Support the show 📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect with us on Instagram @bravenewteaching Subscribe to our YouTube Channel…

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TRENDING BOOKS: SPRING TITLES [Ep 249] 29:32

20 days ago29:32

29:32

Today we’re fully embracing the energy of spring - because what better time to refresh our bookshelves and reignite our love for reading?! We’re buzzing with excitement over all the amazing new releases coming out, from Emily Henry’s Great Big Beautiful Life to John Green’s Everything is Tuberculosis . If you’re anything like us, your TBR list is about to explode, and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way! We’re sharing our top books that we cannot wait to read this spring, and hopefully this episode is coming your way just in time for spring break. We don’t know about you, but we’re shooting for no less than three books a day over here 😉. And we’re hoping that maybe there’s one or two we can use in the classroom as well! Send us a DM on Instagram @bravenewteaching and let us know what’s on your spring reading list. PS: We’re not just here to talk about what we’re reading! We’ve got some homework for you, too! We’ll be diving into a two-part discussion on The Atlantic’s article The Elite College Students Who Can’t Read Books in our next couple of episodes. If you want to be part of that conversation (and trust me, you do), give the article a read and get ready to unpack it with us! All the titles we talk about in the episode are listed in the show notes and you can shop all of the spring titles on Bookshop.org ( Amanda’s List | Marie’s List ) or Amazon . SHOW NOTES: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode249 "Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!" Purchase your copy of Role Call here and then be sure to claim your free bonus here ! Support the show 📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect with us on Instagram @bravenewteaching Subscribe to our YouTube Channel…

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DAY IN THE LIFE WITH MARIE [Ep 248] 19:47

27 days ago19:47

19:47

Marie here! Did you know that I teach high school English AND theatre? From early mornings with (multiple cups of) coffee in hand to juggling English lessons and theatre rehearsals, my days as a high school teacher are anything but boring. In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of a typical day in my life - showing you how I bring creativity into my classroom and balance all the moving parts of being a teacher. This day was extra special because I am transforming my English classroom into a giant cozy reading fort. I’m bringing you along as I do it and you’ll hear how my students responded to it as we kick off a Fantasy unit centered around the question “Why do we pursue escape?”. Plus I’ll share what book snaps are. Your students will love it! Then, you’ll hear me jump into full-on theatre production mode as I wrap up the school day. It’s a 16-hour day condensed into 15 minutes of audio! If you like this type of episode and want more vlog-style episodes, send us a DM on Instagram . We would love to bring you more! SHOW NOTES: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode248 "Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!" Purchase your copy of Role Call here and then be sure to claim your free bonus here ! Support the show 📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect with us on Instagram @bravenewteaching Subscribe to our YouTube Channel…

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THE NOVELS IN VERSE COLLECTION: Assessments [Ep 247] 21:18

5 weeks ago21:18

21:18

Assessments don’t have to be boring, stressful, or one-size-fits-all - and in this episode, we’re proving why! As we wrap up our Novels in Verse series, we’re diving into fresh, creative ways to assess student learning that go beyond the standard essay. Whether you love assessments or dread them, this conversation will challenge the way you think about measuring student growth. We’re breaking down the balance between formative and summative assessments and sharing how small, intentional check-ins (like Sesame Street quizzes!) can build toward deeper, more meaningful final projects. You’ll hear how centering an essential question, like Which is more important, knowing your story or telling it? , can guide students through analysis, creativity, and self-expression. Plus, we’ll walk you through summative assessment options that allow students to showcase their understanding in a way that works best for them. And if you’re looking for a quick, skills-focused assessment that doesn’t take hours to prep or grade, we’ve got you covered with a strategy that simplifies everything. we’re even sharing ways to mix and match different assessment types so you can create the perfect approach for your classroom. Trust us, if assessments have ever felt like a headache, this episode will leave you feeling ready to try something new! Resources: Down With the Reading Quiz: Free Masterclass on Formative Assessments Episode 246, THE NOVELS IN VERSE COLLECTION: Supplemental and Alternative Text Ideas Episode 245, THE NOVELS IN VERSE COLLECTION: Gateway Activity Ideas Episode 244, THE NOVELS IN VERSE COLLECTION: Essential Question Possibilities for The Poet X Episode 243, THE NOVELS IN VERSE COLLECTION: Unit Possibilities "Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!" Purchase your copy of Role Call here and then be sure to claim your free bonus here ! Support the show 📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect with us on Instagram @bravenewteaching Subscribe to our YouTube Channel…

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THE NOVELS IN VERSE COLLECTION: Supplemental and Alternative Text Ideas [Ep 246] 21:57

6 weeks ago21:57

21:57

We’re in the middle of our novels in verse series and so far we’ve talked about the possibilities that come with a novels in verse unit , essential questions , and gateway activities .Now it’s time to get into our favorite part…supplemental ideas! Get ready to hear creative ways to supplement The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo. We focus on the essential question: Which is more important, knowing your story or telling it? And we discuss key themes that can help students connect more deeply with the novel and their own experiences. You’ll hear a mix of literary and pop culture resources that can bring these themes to life in fresh and exciting ways. From classic texts to modern music and even moments from film and theatre, these ideas will encourage your students to think critically about storytelling, identity, and self-expression. We also talk about different approaches to integrating these supplementals into a unit without overwhelming students - or teachers! If you have more ideas for making a novels in verse unit more dynamic and engaging, we would love to hear from you! Send us a message on Instagram @bravenewteaching and join us in Happy Hour , where we share done-for-you resources, new strategies, and a supportive community of teachers like you! SHOW NOTES: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode246 "Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!" Purchase your copy of Role Call here and then be sure to claim your free bonus here ! Support the show 📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect with us on Instagram @bravenewteaching Subscribe to our YouTube Channel…

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THE NOVELS IN VERSE COLLECTION: Gateway Activity Ideas [Ep 245] 20:05

7 weeks ago20:05

20:05

Ever struggled to get students excited about novels in verse? In this episode, we’re sharing creative, low-pressure ways to ease them into poetry analysis without the overwhelm. With engaging, hands-on activities, you’ll learn how to make storytelling through verse feel accessible and fun from day one. As we always say, a good gateway can make or break a unit! 💥 One of the biggest game-changers is meeting students where they are. By tapping into things they already love, like music and interactive learning, you can help them see the connections between poetry and storytelling in a way that just CLICKS! These strategies not only build confidence, but also set the stage for deeper analysis as the unit unfolds. We’re also talking about fresh ways to approach perspective and text analysis - ones that get students thinking critically without feeling like another tedious assignment. Whether you’re looking to revamp your novel in verse units or just need a few easy wins, this episode is packed with ideas you can start using right away. Resources: Amanda’s Romeo and Juliet Prologue Stations Activity [Close Reading Analysis] Freebie: Theme Snapshot Notetaking Guide The Poet X, by Elizabeth Acevedo Amanda’s Novels in Verse Book Recs List Related Episodes: Episode 244, The Novels in Verse Collection: Essential Question Possibilities for The Poet X Episode 243, The Novels in Verse Collection: Unit Possibilities Episode 186, Teacher Planning 101: Our Six Best Planning Tips Episode 123, The Best Thing I Ever Taught Episode 62, Picture Book Lesson Walk-Through SHOW NOTES: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode245 "Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!" Purchase your copy of Role Call here and then be sure to claim your free bonus here ! Support the show 📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect with us on Instagram @bravenewteaching Subscribe to our YouTube Channel…

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THE NOVELS IN VERSE COLLECTION: Essential Question Possibilities for The Poet X [Ep 244] 26:31

8 weeks ago26:31

26:31

Last week, we talked about the possibilities for novels in verse and broke down two approaches to teaching these texts. Today, we’re continuing the conversation using Elizabeth Acevedo’s The Poet X as our guide. We’re exploring two distinct essential questions that can shape a thoughtful unit - one that focuses on the craft of language and another that taps into the journey of self-discovery. No matter which approach you take, this conversation will help you build a unit that sparks engaging discussions and critical thinking in your students. The Poet X would be perfect as a read aloud or an opportunity for students to listen to the audiobook! We’ve even created some sketch notes for you as a free resource that students can use while listening. These notes hone in on the essential question that students are focusing on in your unit and can be used with any text. Don’t forget to join us in Happy Hour where we’ll provide you with a unit makeover slide deck resource specific to The Poet X ! Resources: Freebie: Theme Snapshot Notetaking Guide The Poet X, by Elizabeth Acevedo Show Notes: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode244 "Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!" Purchase your copy of Role Call here and then be sure to claim your free bonus here ! Support the show 📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect with us on Instagram @bravenewteaching Subscribe to our YouTube Channel…

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THE NOVELS IN VERSE COLLECTION: Unit Possibilities [243] 24:11

9 weeks ago24:11

24:11

Have you ever considered how novels in verse can transform the way you teach poetry and literature? In this episode, we dive into the world of narrative verse and explore how these texts, like The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo, can bring poetry to life in your classroom! With their accessible format and rich themes, novels in verse offer endless possibilities for fostering student engagement while covering essential literary skills and perspectives. We’re breaking down two powerful approaches to teaching these texts: a skill-based focus and a theme-based focus. Whether you’re filling gaps in poetry instruction or bringing underrepresented voices into your curriculum, both avenues are highly adaptable! As always, we’re here to support your planning with our best tips and resources for making these units work in your classroom. Be sure to download our free theme notes shee t AND join us in Happy Hour , because that’s where we’ll be dropping our novels in verse unit for you. We’ll be continuing this conversation in our next episode where we’ll dig into essential questions! Resources: Freebie: bravenewteaching.com/themenotes The Poet X, by Elizabeth Acevedo Amanda’s Novels in Verse Book Recs List SHOW NOTES: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode243 "Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!" Purchase your copy of Role Call here and then be sure to claim your free bonus here ! Support the show 📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect with us on Instagram @bravenewteaching Subscribe to our YouTube Channel…

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NEW YEAR AT BNT: New Perspectives on Teaching and Education [Ep 242] 25:45

10 weeks ago25:45

25:45

Starting a new year in education means facing fresh challenges (and opportunities) with a renewed mindset. In this episode, we’re diving into how ELA teachers can thrive amid changing expectations and pressures. From prioritizing self-care to balancing the demands of teaching, we’re sharing practical strategies to help you navigate today’s complex classroom dynamics. We’re also unpacking how setting boundaries and fostering strong professional relationships are KEY for self-preservation in the teaching profession. We’ve got tips for you on making timeless texts more accessible and relevant, like focusing on universal themes and providing modern supplements! Plus, we’re discussing the importance of proactive parent communication - because keeping families in the loop can prevent misunderstandings and build strong partnerships! Want to dig deeper into how to implement these new perspectives? Join us in our Happy Hour community! Show Notes: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode239 Related Episodes: Episode 128, Unit Makeover: The Great Gatsby Episode 115, Unit Makeover: Transforming Frankenstein with a Novel in Verse Episode 107, Teaching Short Stories: Unit Makeover Episode 158, Modern Folktales: A Debrief & Unit Overview "Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!" Purchase your copy of Role Call here and then be sure to claim your free bonus here ! Support the show 📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect with us on Instagram @bravenewteaching Subscribe to our YouTube Channel…

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NEW YEAR AT BNT: New Strategies for Teachers [Ep 241] 22:45

11 weeks ago22:45

22:45

A new year brings new opportunities to refresh and refocus in the classroom! In this episode, we’re sharing strategies to help you simplify your teaching and make a big impact, from encouraging critical thinking to refining routines that work. Let’s start with critical thinking—it’s the foundation for preparing students to navigate today’s fast-paced, information-packed world. We’re talking about moving beyond content delivery and creating spaces where students ask questions, explore ideas, and think for themselves. We also dig into the power of reliable routines and consistency. These simple but essential practices keep your classroom running smoothly and stress-free. Plus, sticking with what works saves you time and helps your students feel secure and supported. If you’re ready to approach 2025 with clarity and purpose, this episode has everything you need to get started! 🥳 Catch up on the NEW YEAR AT BNT series in the show notes: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode239 Related Episodes: Episode 238, Looking Back/Looking Forward Episode 227, Code Breaking and Critical Thinking: An Interview with Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin Episode 29, To Streamline Classroom Management "Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!" Purchase your copy of Role Call here and then be sure to claim your free bonus here ! Support the show 📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect with us on Instagram @bravenewteaching Subscribe to our YouTube Channel…

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NEW YEAR AT BNT: New Tech for Teachers [Ep 240] 28:24

12 weeks ago28:24

28:24

We're two weeks into 2025, and as part of our New Year's series, we're diving into the world of tech. But before we get started, if you missed last week’s episode on new books, be sure to check it out—we left you with a bit of a cliffhanger that we’ll resolve at the beginning of this episode! Technology is constantly evolving and is everywhere around us, so if it feels overwhelming to keep up, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Remember, tech should make your life easier, not harder. That’s why we recommend sticking with the platforms you already know and love (hello, Google Docs!). Many of these tools have received helpful updates and are more powerful than ever. In this episode, we’ll discuss how to make the most of familiar tools, approach AI intentionally, and streamline your tech organization for better planning. Plus, we’ll share some new tech tools you should check out this year! If you’d like more support, this month in Happy Hour, we’re going deep into teacher digital planning and organization (and sharing Trello templates!). Join us here! Tools Mentioned: Google Docs Google Slides Padlet Edpuzzle CommonLit Pictory Milanote Google Tasks Trello SHOW NOTES: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode239 "Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!" Purchase your copy of Role Call here and then be sure to claim your free bonus here ! Support the show 📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect with us on Instagram @bravenewteaching Subscribe to our YouTube Channel…

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NEW YEAR AT BNT: New Books for Teachers [Ep 239] 25:06

13 weeks ago25:06

25:06

Happy New Year, Brave New Teachers! 🎉 In this episode of the "Brave New Teaching" podcast, hosts Marie and Amanda chat about their reading goals for 2025, highlighting how literature can really boost both personal and professional growth. They toss around some great book recommendations like "The Poppy War" by R.F. Kuang, and they’re super excited about discovering new authors and upcoming book releases. They also explore the fun idea of starting family book clubs and the joy of sharing reading adventures with kids. Marie's Books: Financial Feminist This is So Awkward: Modern Puberty Explained Onyx Storm Amanda's Books: The Goddess of Warsaw Sandwich The Poppy War Check Amanda's reading lists on Amazon or Bookshop.org Check Marie's reading lists on Amazon or Bookshop.org "Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!" Purchase your copy of Role Call here and then be sure to claim your free bonus here ! Support the show 📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect with us on Instagram @bravenewteaching Subscribe to our YouTube Channel…

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238. LOOKING BACK/LOOKING FORWARD 34:37

15 weeks ago34:37

34:37

Teachers, it’s the home stretch to winter break and we hope you’re hanging in there! It’s hard to believe, but this is the LAST Brave New Teaching episode of 2024. It’s been quite a year, and we want to take a moment to reflect on the challenges and triumphs from the year. You’ll hear about our favorite podcast highlights and personal highlights from 2024, including interviewing incredible authors, featuring our kids on the podcast, and traveling to schools to offer PD to teachers. Plus, we’re sharing three big changes regarding this podcast and Happy Hour that will start in 2025. We can’t wait to support you in the best ways possible in the upcoming months by giving you more of what you need to make your jobs easier and less “stuff” that feels overwhelming. We would love you to join us in Happy Hour, our teacher work club. Cheers to all the good things coming your way in the new year! 🥂 Related Episodes: Episode 236, The BNT Books of 2024 Episode 227, Code Breaking and Critical Thinking: An Interview with Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin Episode 223, The Sherlock Society: An Interview with Author James Ponti Episode 208, Living with ADHD: Amanda’s Journey to Diagnosis SHOW NOTES: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode238 "Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!" Purchase your copy of Role Call here and then be sure to claim your free bonus here ! Support the show 📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect with us on Instagram @bravenewteaching Subscribe to our YouTube Channel…

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237. CHILL! WE HAVE YOUR SUB PLANS COVERED! 39:34

16 weeks ago39:34