The Reading and Writing Nook
Hands-On Reading & Writing Resources
recent posts
- Transform Your Standardized Test Review with Four Corners Games
- Meaningful Black History Month Activities for High School Classrooms
- 5 Picture Books That Work for Middle School Goal Setting (Plus Ready-to-Use Activities)
- How to Teach Main Idea and Supporting Details in a Hands-On Way
- Why I Always Make Time for Poetry (Even When It Feels Impossible)
About Us
Welcome! I’m Sonam, a passionate middle grades educator who believes learning sticks best when students are up, moving, and engaged. Over the years, I’ve taught middle school English Language Arts in both the U.S. and abroad, primarily in independent schools, and I’ve seen firsthand how hands-on, movement-based instruction can transform a classroom.
As a former board member of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), I’ve been fortunate to help shape the broader conversation around literacy education. With a B.S. in Education from The University of Texas at Austin and an M.Ed. from Johns Hopkins University, I now use my background and expertise to design creative, standards-aligned resources that bring energy, clarity, and joy into ELA classrooms everywhere.
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The Best Back-to-School Icebreaker for Middle School (That Actually Works)
CLICK HERE for FREE Google Slides for this activity. If you’re searching for an easy, zero-prep back-to-school icebreaker for middle school, skip the awkward “fun fact” prompt. Instead, try this twist that always gets laughs and builds connection fast. The Boring Fact Icebreaker Here’s how it works:Ask each student to share the most boring fact…