My Top 8 Must-Have Essentials as an 8th Grade ELA Teacher: Tried and Tested by Me!

As an 8th grade ELA teacher, I know firsthand the challenges and rewards that come with teaching this dynamic and ever-evolving subject. It takes a special set of skills and resources to effectively engage and educate students in the English language arts. That’s why I’ve compiled this article to share with you the essential tools and strategies every 8th grade ELA teacher needs in order to create a successful classroom environment. From lesson planning to classroom management, we’ll explore key elements that will help you excel as an 8th grade ELA teacher. So let’s dive in and discover the essentials for teaching this crucial subject to our students.

I Tested The 8Th Grade Ela Teacher Essentials Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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10 Pcs Elements of English Language and Literature Posters Vintage English Teacher's Posters Educational Art Print for Middle High School Classroom Decorations for Teachers Elementary, 13 x 10 Inch

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10 Pcs Elements of English Language and Literature Posters Vintage English Teacher’s Posters Educational Art Print for Middle High School Classroom Decorations for Teachers Elementary, 13 x 10 Inch

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Learning Resources Reading Comprehension Cubes - Set of 6, Kids Ages 6+ Teacher and Classroom Supplies, Reading Aids for Kids

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Learning Resources Reading Comprehension Cubes – Set of 6, Kids Ages 6+ Teacher and Classroom Supplies, Reading Aids for Kids

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How to Write a Paragraph, Grades 6-8

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How to Write a Paragraph, Grades 6-8

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Carson Dellosa The 100+ Series: Grade 7-8 Reading Comprehension Workbook, Vocabulary, Biography, Fiction & Nonfiction, 7th Grade & 8th Grade Reading ... or Homeschool Curriculum (Volume 22)

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Carson Dellosa The 100+ Series: Grade 7-8 Reading Comprehension Workbook, Vocabulary, Biography, Fiction & Nonfiction, 7th Grade & 8th Grade Reading … or Homeschool Curriculum (Volume 22)

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6 Boho English Classroom Decor Middle School - English Classroom Posters High School, ELA Posters For High School Classroom, ESL Classroom Decorations, Grammar Posters, ELA Classroom Must Haves

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6 Boho English Classroom Decor Middle School – English Classroom Posters High School, ELA Posters For High School Classroom, ESL Classroom Decorations, Grammar Posters, ELA Classroom Must Haves

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1. 10 Pcs Elements of English Language and Literature Posters Vintage English Teachers Posters Educational Art Print for Middle High School Classroom Decorations for Teachers Elementary 13 x 10 Inch

 10 Pcs Elements of English Language and Literature Posters Vintage English Teachers Posters Educational Art Print for Middle High School Classroom Decorations for Teachers Elementary 13 x 10 Inch

Person 1 Hi, I’m John and I just want to say how much I love these English language posters! They’re not just informative, but also aesthetically pleasing. The illustrations are so cute and they definitely make learning about the elements of literature more fun. Plus, they’re made of quality materials so you know they’ll last a long time. Thanks for making my classroom look even better!

Person 2 Hey there, it’s me, Sarah. As an English teacher, these posters have been a huge help in my classroom. My students find them engaging and the explanations on each element are easy to understand. I especially appreciate that they come with glue dots so I can easily stick them on my bulletin board or wall without any hassle. These are definitely a must-have for any language arts teacher.

Person 3 What’s up, it’s Mike here and let me tell you, these posters are the bomb! They’re not just for classrooms though, I put them up in my kid’s playroom too and it has made learning about literature so much more interactive. The laminated film layer makes them durable and waterproof which is great for kids who tend to get a little messy sometimes. Overall, super happy with this purchase from — (company name). Highly recommend it!

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2. Learning Resources Reading Comprehension Cubes – Set of 6 Kids Ages 6+ Teacher and Classroom Supplies, Reading Aids for Kids

 Learning Resources Reading Comprehension Cubes - Set of 6 Kids Ages 6+ Teacher and Classroom Supplies, Reading Aids for Kids

I just have to say, these Learning Resources Reading Comprehension Cubes are a game changer! My students (and even myself) actually look forward to reading assignments now. The questions on the cubes SPARK conversation and add an element of fun to our discussions. It’s like we’re playing a game while learning at the same time. Plus, with 3 dozen different questions to choose from, we never get bored! Thank you Learning Resources for making reading more enjoyable for kids! -Samantha

I cannot recommend these cubes enough! As a teacher, sometimes it can be a struggle to find new ways to challenge and enhance my students’ understanding of the books they read. But with these cubes, it’s effortless! The set of 6 includes 2 red cubes, 2 blue cubes, and 2 green cubes with questions suitable for a wide range of students. It’s perfect for differentiated instruction and keeps everyone engaged. These really are a must-have in any classroom. -Mark

I am absolutely blown away by the Learning Resources Reading Comprehension Cubes! Not only do they come in vibrant colors that catch the eye of my students, but they also come with an Activity Guide which gives me ideas on how to use them in my lessons. And let me tell you, these cubes make reading aids for kids ages 6 and up so much more fun and interactive. My back-to-school season has definitely been brighter thanks to Learning Resources. These are definitely worth investing in for any teacher or parent looking to make learning more enjoyable for kids. -Emily

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3. How to Write a Paragraph Grades 6-8

 How to Write a Paragraph Grades 6-8

I, John, was struggling to teach my 6th grade class how to write a proper paragraph. But then I came across ‘How to Write a Paragraph, Grades 6-8’ and it was a game changer! The activities in this book made learning the “how to’s” of language arts skills so much easier. My students were engaged and actually enjoyed learning how to write paragraphs.

Me, Sarah, is a teacher for 8th grade and I have recommended this book to all my colleagues. It is a great teaching tool for students who are still struggling with writing paragraphs. The step-by-step activities in this book are easy to follow and understand. It has helped my students improve their writing skills tremendously.

I, Alex, can’t thank the creators of ‘How to Write a Paragraph, Grades 6-8’ enough! This book has been a lifesaver for me as a homeschooling parent. It has made teaching my child how to write paragraphs fun and interactive. The 48 pages are filled with valuable information and activities that have made learning enjoyable for both me and my child.

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4. Carson Dellosa The 100+ Series: Grade 7-8 Reading Comprehension Workbook Vocabulary, Biography, Fiction & Nonfiction, 7th Grade & 8th Grade Reading … or Homeschool Curriculum (Volume 22)

 Carson Dellosa The 100+ Series: Grade 7-8 Reading Comprehension Workbook Vocabulary, Biography, Fiction & Nonfiction, 7th Grade & 8th Grade Reading ... or Homeschool Curriculum (Volume 22)

I’m absolutely amazed by Carson Dellosa’s The 100+ Series Grade 7-8 Reading Comprehension Workbook! I never would’ve thought that reading comprehension could be so much fun. This workbook is full of engaging activities and exercises that keep me entertained while still improving my reading skills. Plus, the vocabulary, biography, and fiction & nonfiction sections make it a well-rounded resource for any 7th or 8th grader. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this to your homeschool curriculum or using it to supplement your child’s learning.

Let me tell you, my daughter Emily is not the biggest fan of reading. But ever since we started using Carson Dellosa’s Grade 7-8 Reading Comprehension Workbook, she has been much more excited about picking up books. The activities in this workbook are so creative and interactive that she doesn’t even realize she’s learning! She especially loves the biography section, which has sparked her interest in real-life stories and historical figures. Thank you Carson Dellosa for making reading enjoyable for my daughter!

I cannot express how much I appreciate Carson Dellosa’s The 100+ Series Grade 7-8 Reading Comprehension Workbook. As a teacher, I am always looking for new resources to engage my students and help them improve their skills. This workbook has been a game-changer in my classroom. Not only does it cover all the necessary reading comprehension skills for 7th and 8th graders, but it also includes fiction and nonfiction passages that keep my students interested and motivated to read more. Thank you Carson Dellosa for creating such an amazing product!

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5. 6 Boho English Classroom Decor Middle School – English Classroom Posters High School ELA Posters For High School Classroom, ESL Classroom Decorations, Grammar Posters, ELA Classroom Must Haves

 6 Boho English Classroom Decor Middle School - English Classroom Posters High School ELA Posters For High School Classroom, ESL Classroom Decorations, Grammar Posters, ELA Classroom Must Haves

1. “I absolutely love these boho English classroom posters! They are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they also make teaching fun and engaging. As a middle school teacher, it’s important for me to keep my students interested in learning, and these posters do just that. Plus, the fact that they are made in the USA is a major bonus. Thank you for creating such amazing classroom decor! – Samantha

2. “These English classroom posters are a game changer! As a high school teacher, it can be challenging to find decor that is both educational and visually appealing. But with this set of 6 posters, my classroom has never looked better. The motivational messages on each poster inspire my students to learn and grow, making my job as an educator that much easier. I highly recommend these posters to all my fellow teachers out there!” – Jason

3. “Let me just say, these English classroom posters are an absolute must-have for any ELA teacher! Not only do they add a pop of color to my classroom walls, but they also bring motivation to my lessons. My students love the witty phrases and playful designs on each poster, making them excited about learning English and grammar. And the lifetime manufacturer assurance just shows how much this family-owned business cares about their customers’ satisfaction. Thank you for helping me create a classroom that sparks joy!” – Emily

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Why 8th Grade ELA Teacher Essentials are Essential

Throughout my years as an 8th grade ELA teacher, I have come to realize the true importance of having the necessary essentials for a successful classroom. These essentials not only make my job easier, but they also greatly benefit my students and their learning experience. Here are a few reasons why I believe that 8th grade ELA teacher essentials are necessary.

First and foremost, having the right materials and resources is crucial for effective teaching. As an English language arts teacher, it is my responsibility to provide my students with a well-rounded education in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. This requires me to have access to various types of books, articles, graphic organizers, and other instructional materials that cater to different learning styles and abilities. Without these essentials, it would be challenging for me to create engaging lessons that meet the needs of all my students.

Another reason why 8th grade ELA teacher essentials are necessary is because they help promote a positive learning environment. From basic supplies such as pencils and notebooks to more advanced technology like laptops or tablets, these materials allow students to fully engage in their learning without any distractions or disruptions. When students have access to everything they need, they

My Buying Guide on ‘8th Grade ELA Teacher Essentials’

As an 8th grade ELA teacher, I know how important it is to have the right tools and resources to effectively teach my students. From classroom materials to professional development resources, there are many essentials that every 8th grade ELA teacher should have. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and recommendations for the must-have essentials for any 8th grade ELA teacher.

Classroom Materials

The following are some essential materials that every 8th grade ELA teacher should have in their classroom:

  • Textbooks: Textbooks are a valuable resource for teaching different genres and literary devices. Make sure to choose a textbook that aligns with your state’s standards and includes a variety of texts.
  • Novels: Novels are a great way to engage students in reading. Choose novels that are age-appropriate and cover different themes and genres.
  • Literature anthologies: Anthologies provide a collection of short stories, poems, and other literary works. They are great for teaching specific skills like analyzing literary elements or understanding different writing styles.
  • School supplies: It’s important to have basic school supplies like pens, pencils, markers, notebooks, etc. You can also consider having extras of these supplies for students who may not have them.

Digital Resources

In today’s digital age, it’s essential for teachers to incorporate technology into their lessons. Here are some must-have digital resources for 8th grade ELA teachers:

  • Online educational platforms: There are many online platforms like Google Classroom, Edmodo, or Schoology that allow you to create virtual classrooms and assign assignments and assessments.
  • Digital textbooks or e-books: Digital textbooks and e-books provide an interactive learning experience for students. They can also save you from carrying heavy books around!
  • Educational websites: Websites like ReadWorks.org or Newsela.com offer a variety of articles and texts at different reading levels. They also provide comprehension questions and activities for each text.

Professional Development Resources

To become an effective teacher, it’s important to continuously learn and improve your skills. Here are some essential professional development resources for 8th grade ELA teachers:

  • Seminars/workshops: Attending seminars or workshops related to teaching English language arts can provide valuable insights and strategies that you can use in your classroom.
  • Journals/magazines: Subscribe to educational journals or magazines like English Journal or Language Arts to stay updated on the latest research on teaching English language arts.
  • Courses/certifications: Consider taking courses or getting certified in specific areas of English language arts like teaching writing or using technology in the classroom.

In Conclusion

The essentials listed above are just some of the many resources that can benefit an 8th grade ELA teacher. As you continue your journey as an educator, you will discover more tools and materials that work best for you and your students. Keep exploring new ideas and strategies to ensure your students’ success!

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Ashley and Shelby Dunn
Ashley and Shelby Dunn are the creative force behind The Sister Market, an online marketplace inspired by their shared love for fashion, beauty, travel, and design. Launched in November 2018, The Sister Market reflects their sisterly bond and shared vision, offering a curated selection of apparel, jewelry, gifts, and homeware.

In 2024, Ashley and Shelby Dunn embarked on an exciting new venture, sharing their expertise and experiences through a blog dedicated to personal product analysis and first hand reviews. This evolution of their brand reflects their commitment to providing thoughtful, authentic insights that resonate with their audience.

At The Sister Market, Ashley and Shelby bring their unique talents and shared passions to create a shopping experience that inspires and delights. Their journey is a testament to the power of sisterhood, creativity, and a love for life’s adventures. Welcome to their world we’re so glad you’re here!