Freebie
Build a Strong Thesis Statement Worksheet (Print & Digital)
A free, classroom-ready worksheet that helps students build clear, specific, analytical thesis statements for any text. Includes a printable PDF and a Google Docs digital version.
The Babadook
The Babadook — Complete Film Analysis Unit
Introduce film analysis with this complete film unit and pacing guide.
Frankenweenie
Frankenweenie: Full ELA Film Unit & Pacing Guide
3 week pacing guide for teaching and analyzing Frankenweenie, includes links to all lessons (essentially a unit bundle).
ELA
Why the Analytical Paragraph Still Matters in a World of Scrolls and Soundbites
When I first started teaching high school English in a wealthy, high-achieving public school district, I was surprised by how often students would argue over a single point on an assignment. At first, I chalked it up to academic perfectionism or entitlement. But one day, a colleague explained that students
Writing
How to Write a Strong Analytical Thesis Statement in High School and IB English
Learn how to write a clear, compelling analytical thesis statement for high school or IB English class. This guide breaks down sentence frames, provides real examples, and shows how to level up your thinking.
9th Grade ELA
Why So Many Students Struggle with Literary Analysis—And How The House on Mango Street Can Help
“Why can’t I get above a B on my English essays?” I hear this question all the time from students—and I understand their frustration. They want to do well. They’re smart. They read the book. But when it comes time to write about literature, something’s not
Analytical Writing
How to Use ChatGPT to Turn a Film Analysis Model into Scaffolded Writing Instruction (with Into the Spider-Verse)
Help students analyze theme and character growth in Into the Spider-Verse with this scaffolded film analysis activity. Includes thesis + outline worksheets.
UnlockingLiteraryAnalysis-series
08: Quotation Integration
Essay Writing
How to Write Your College Essay
When I was a senior in high school, I hated the college essay. I was angered by the very idea of it -- how was I supposed to describe myself in 500 words or less? How was someone going to get to know me in 500 words? It wasn'