I love sharing book recommendations with students. I get so excited when I find a new book and I think about which particular would connect best with it. Sometimes they’re not excited as I am, but I do think they appreciate the idea that I thought of them specifically for it. I’ve started putting togetherContinue reading “If you like….”
Author Archives: Liz Janusz
Science of Reading Book List
My Science of Reading post continues to be my most popular post since I’ve started Windy City Literacy almost a year ago. I’ve really enjoyed researching and learning as much as I can about the Science of Reading, and I absolutely love when I get to share that with others! Recently, I’ve had a fewContinue reading “Science of Reading Book List”
Representing your Students’ Identities
As most of you know, I’ve started a new job….in a middle school. I was one of those teachers that always had the idea that I would hate teaching middle school. All those hormones, changes, attitudes…no thanks. Well, here I am…2 months in…and loving it. These 7th and 8th graders are amazing. Yes, middle schoolContinue reading “Representing your Students’ Identities”
Close Reading Resources
The idea of a close read isn’t new. It’s been around for a while, but yet there are so many different interpretations of what it actually entails. CCSS came out about 10 years ago, and the idea of close reads blew up! At the end of my post I have a FREE downloadable bundle ofContinue reading “Close Reading Resources”
Is guided reading working??
Alright friends, you may want to sit down for this one… Ready?? I think we need to take a break from guided reading…. I know, I know…huge, unpopular opinion. And now if you’ve worked with me in the past, you know what a huge believer I’ve been in guided reading. However, over the past fewContinue reading “Is guided reading working??”
The Magic of Game Play
You’re all in for a treat today!! My next guest blogger is someone who I’ve followed on Twitter for a couple years now and continue to be inspired by: Tisha Richmond! Tisha is the author of the best-selling book, Make Learning Magical, which unlocks seven keys to transform teaching and create unforgettable experiences in theContinue reading “The Magic of Game Play”
Martin Luther King Jr.
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.“ -Martin Luther King Jr. In the past, I always took this day for granted; I never resonated with the importance and sanctity of it. As a kid, I ignorantly appreciated it because it was aContinue reading “Martin Luther King Jr.”
Reading Resolutions
I’m so excited for today’s post! When I first started thinking about guest bloggers, this person was at the top of my list! I’ve been following her work since graduate school, and still constantly reference her many books when I need new inspiration. Over the past couple of years, we’ve built a friendship as weContinue reading “Reading Resolutions”
Life Lately
For those of that have just been on the edge of your seat as just dying for a life update…here ya go! We made it to New Mexico! We packed ourselves into our car with fully charged ipads and lots of snacks. It was a long 3 days in the car as we drove throughContinue reading “Life Lately”
A little peek into my crazy…
I love paper planners. Obsessed with them. I have an embarrassing amount of “planning supplies” that just make me so happy. On Sundays, I get my markers and stickers out with a cup of coffee and sit down to plan out the week! It’s my zen moment. I feel ready to take on another weekContinue reading “A little peek into my crazy…”
Windy City Literacy 