5 Top Tips for ELA Elementary Teachers for a Successful Year

Summer's over, and if your brain feels like it's spinning as you try to come up with fresh ideas and the RIGHT  lessons, I get it. As a 5th-grade ELA teacher, I know that having the right tools can be a game-changer.

So, I thought I'd share some of the tools and activities that have helped me - things that save time, keep my kids focused, and make teaching feel a little more manageable all year long.

1. ELA Standards-Aligned Resources

Having solid, ELA standards-based tools makes planning smoother and learning more consistent. Some of my favorites include:

• Reading comprehension passages with questions: Perfect for diving deep into texts without hours of prep.

• Writing prompts and graphic organizers: These kickstart creativity and structure student thinking.

• Vocabulary and word work activities: Weekly engaging ways to build essential language skills. Print and place in centers or send them home as homework to reinforce weekly spelling and vocabulary skills.

  
  

2. Classroom Management Systems

We all know how much smoother the day goes when things stay consistent. These tools help keep things running smoothly (and save your sanity):

• Behavior clip charts or point systems: Visual ways to track and encourage positive choices.

• Class jobs and routines posters: Empower students with responsibility and keep the classroom running like a well-oiled machine.

• Positive reinforcement tools ( The Diamond Trail): Simple systems that celebrate effort and achievement.

3. Editable Templates & Planning Tools

No more reinventing the wheel. These ready-to-go templates are serious time-savers:

• Weekly or monthly lesson plan templates: Structure your ideas quickly and efficiently.

• Newsletter templates for families: Stay informed without the need for endless typing.

• Substitute teacher lesson plans: Be prepared for those unexpected days off, knowing your class is in good hands.

4. Seasonal & Holiday Activities

Bring the seasonal joy throughout the year with themed fun ELA Standard-Aligned activities:

• Back-to-school activities: Begin the year on the right foot.

• Halloween Literacy Activities: Spooky Fun That Builds Reading and Writing Skills.

• Thanksgiving writing prompts: Encourage reflection and creative expression.

• Seasonal activities: Keep engagement high with the right resources and bring seasonal joy to the classroom. Teaching is an adventure, not a struggle.

5. Time-Saving Assessment Tools

I believe in informal assessments on the spot, quick and easy checks that tell you what your kids know and what they need help with:

• Exit tickets and quick checks: Instant feedback on understanding.

• Rubrics and scoring guides: Clear expectations for both you and your students.

• Digital quizzes or Google Forms: Efficient ways to gather data.

• Standards checklists: Keep track of progress throughout the year.

Having the right tools at your fingertips isn't just about being organized; it's about feeling more in control and confident in your classroom. Whether you're building your teaching toolkit from scratch or need a few fresh ideas to recharge, these resources are here to help you work smarter, not harder.

What's one go-to resource that makes your teaching life easier? Share your game-changer in the comments!

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