9th Grade ELA
Into the Spider-Verse Film Analysis: Visual Literacy & Foreshadowing (pt. 3)
Explore the visual storytelling and character dynamics in 'Into the Spider-Verse' through our detailed film analysis series
9th Grade ELA
Make it to Summer Break with the Into the Spiderverse ELA Survival Pack
I’ve taught both freshmen and seniors, and when May hits, their energy couldn’t be more different. Seniors? Erratic but energized. They're leaning into the unstructured chaos of their final filmmaking projects, juggling AP tests, spring sports, and soaking in every last moment of high school. Freshmen?
9th Grade ELA
How I Craft Film Viewing Questions for High School English Class (Using Into the Spider-Verse as a Case Study)
When I introduce film into the ELA classroom, my goal is always the same: get students thinking deeply without pulling their eyes away from the screen. Thoughtfully crafted viewing questions help strike that balance: they anchor attention, spark discussion, and lay the groundwork for analysis that extends beyond the surface.
Moonlight
Moonlight Film Sequence Analysis Practice 2: Little & Kevin
COMING SOON: Shot by Shot film sequence analysis practice activity for the sequence of Little & Kevin and the boys playing in the field, in Moonlight.
Analysis
Opening Sequence Film Analysis Practice Activity with It Follows
Conduct a shot by shot breakdown of the first 4 minutes of It Follows to explore suspense, POV, and more.
Coraline
Coraline Opening Credit Sequence Analysis Practice
COMING SOON: Shot by Shot film sequence analysis practice with the opening credit sequence of Henry Selick's, Coraline.
Honors ELA
Re-Integration & Reparation: Final Reflections on When the Emperor Was Divine
Final guided analysis for When the Emperor Was Divine. Reflect on Chapters 4 & 5, explore themes of reparation, identity, and the novel’s haunting ending.
Honors ELA
Chapter 4: What Does It Mean to Be American? in When the Emperor Was Divine
Explore identity and assimilation in Chapter 4 of When the Emperor Was Divine with a freewrite and close reading activity on what it means to be “American.”
Honors ELA
Divining Deeper Meaning: Themes & Motifs in Chapter 3 of When the Emperor Was Divine
Literary analysis toolkit for Chapter 3 of When the Emperor Was Divine: explore symbols, motifs, and themes through guided close reading and reflection.
When the Emperor Was Divine
Close Reading and Symbolism Practice for Chapter 1 of When the Emperor Was Divine
Lit & Lens Society practice for When the Emperor Was Divine Chapter 1: analyze character, mood, and symbolism through close reading and guided questions.
When the Emperor Was Divine
When the Emperor Was Divine Chapter 1 Close Reading Questions
Chapter 1 reading questions for When the Emperor Was Divine by Julie Otsuka—perfect for IB English, literary analysis, and close reading.
Books
Comparing Opening Scenes of Bridgerton and The Duke and I
Compare/contrast the opening chapter of The Duke & I with the opening scene of Bridgerton Season 1. Explore character, relationships, theme, and style.