Notes from the Inkpot
Writing, teaching, creating - one ink-stained idea at a time.
How to Use Picture Prompts to Inspire Powerful Creative Writing
If you’ve ever felt like “describe the picture” prompts were falling flat, this is for you. In this post, I break down how I use picture prompts in the classroom to move beyond surface-level writing, and into rich, imaginative storytelling that students actually want to create.
10 Big Themes to Teach in Literature (That Students Actually Care About)
Tired of trying to make students care about literature? Start with themes that actually mean something to them. These ten big ideas - from identity and injustice to grief and resilience - are the ones students really connect with. Plus, I’ve included text suggestions and creative ways to teach each one.
The Power of Daily Writing Prompts in the Classroom
What if your students didn’t freeze every time they had to write? Here’s how daily writing prompts helped mine go from “I don’t know what to write” to confident, creative thinkers - and how you can do the same.