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"... when we are around people that we have a genuine interest in, our language subtly shifts." "When two people are paying close attention, they use language in the same way." They aren't aware of it, but if you look closely at their language, count up their use of "I," and "the," and "and", you can see it. It's right there. Also talks about power dynamics and the use of "I." This part of the article might helps students understand why first person is not always appropriate in their writing.

Polite language has its roots in the democratization of society--who knew?

A tool for determining appropriateness of text choices. For example, The Great Gatsby is written at the 7th grade reading level (in regard to language complexity), with an interest level appropriate for "upper grades" (grades 9-12).

8 "lessons" in which an Irish professor examines the significance of particular techniques in poetry by examining examples. He talks through examinations of poetry titles, sound devices, figurative language, and cliches. Good models for teachers and students.

This binder is an example of what's possible in the creation of a live knowledge forum for English Language Arts. I've based this binder on the College & Career Readiness Anchor Standards from the new Common Core. In creating your binder, be sure to add

From the NY Times...lots of ideas on teaching visually.

Providing educators and students access to the highest quality practices and resources in reading and language arts instruction.

This blog is both a forum for collaboration and a resource for language arts teachers to use. Please use the sentences you find here as models for exploration and imitation in your classrooms, and add to them as you find strong examples through your personal and class readings.

Whether it be uptalk (pronouncing statements as if they were questions? Like this?), creating slang words like "bitchin' " and "ridic," or the incessant use of "like" as a conversation filler, vocal trends associated with young women are often seen as markers of immaturity or even stupidity.