Many of us have needed emergency substitute lesson plans in the past for whatever reason, but it seems like we’ve needed them more and more lately. I thought I’d compile a list of my favorite resources and return to update this as I can. My hope is that this list brings a little peace of mind to anyone who might need a quick sub plan for their ELA classes. Many of these are free or cost less than a cup of coffee and are great resources to keep in your back pocket for whenever you might need them.
Resources from Outside Websites:
CommonLit: CommonLit has a treasure trove of reading comprehension and writing activities that can be used digitally or printed out. Create an account and you’ll have a ton of options right at your fingertips. (FREE)
Newsela: Similar to CommonLit, Newsela has a library of resources that would be meaningful for secondary English Language Arts students. You can create assignments, adjust the grade level, and plenty of other helpful features. (FREE)
NoRedInk: NoRedInk is a very powerful tool for grammar instruction. It’s individualized and the exercises are highly accessible. (FREE + Premium Options)
Khan Academy: This website has ELA lessons up to grade 9, but higher level students can use the SAT Review or Grammar sections. (FREE)
Storyboard That: Review stories or create new ones in comic-style format. Highly engaging and powerful for classroom use. (Subscription Required)
ReadTheory: Adaptable reading comprehension activities. Tons of free lesson plans. Easy to assign and go. (FREE)
Resources from Samantha in Secondary:
Informational Text Close Reading Passages: Using my standard close reading process, these resources can be print-and-go or posted to any learning management system as a digital assignment. Passages include plenty of high-interest options such as popular sports figures and haunted places. I keep a set of these already copied on my bookshelf for emergencies. That way I know if I can’t be there, my students are still getting valuable reading and writing activities that will help to increase their literacy skills.
Short Story Units: Need to stretch your lessons a few extra days? Use one of my short story units. Each one includes before, during, and after reading activities you can extend as you need. Again, all of these resources are both printable and digital.
If you have more ideas to share, please feel free to comment below or contact me on IG or Facebook. I’ll be adding to this list in the future.
Happy teaching!
Looking for more fresh ideas for your secondary English Language Arts classroom? Join me for the tips, strategies, and resources you need to take your teaching to the next level right here.