Author Archives: Erik Palmer

Read “Speaking Out” from Educational Leadership May 2022 issue

[This was originally published at the HMH Shaped Blog. I am reposting it in response to the NCTE’s recent position statement which includes these lines: My wife recently rediscovered her grandmother’s copy of The Scarlet Letter. The edition was published … Continue reading →

I want all students to become better speakers. Every time I say that I get a response like “Oh yes, public speaking is so important!” I hate that response. Let me explain. The words have a terrible connotation. “Public speaking” … Continue reading →

The annual convention of the largest association of English teachers in America. The president of the organization addresses the thousands in attendance. A keynote address? Not exactly. More like reading an essay at the audience. Listen to a piece of … Continue reading →

“F9. Action” That was Mason’s response to the prompt “What’s your favorite movie? Why is it your favorite?” It was part of a Getting to Know You assignment at the start of the 6th grade year. I had to look … Continue reading →

You want students to speak to the class. Maybe they are sharing What I Did This Summer or About Me presentations to start the new year. Later, students will be reciting poetry or participating in a mock trial or presenting … Continue reading →