Moving Students Beyond Surface-Level Reading [Ep 66] Artwork

Middle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA Teachers

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Middle School Café – Strategies & Support for Middle School ELA Teachers

Moving Students Beyond Surface-Level Reading [Ep 66]

December 02, 2025 • Carolyn Wahl - Middle School ELA • Episode 66

In this episode I’m talking about those familiar one-line reading responses like “I liked it” or “I don’t know” and how we can help students move beyond them. Students are capable of deeper thinking, and sometimes they just need a few simple routines to help them slow down, notice more, and explain what they’re seeing in a text.

We’ll explore practical, low-pressure ways to strengthen student conversations around reading and create a classroom environment where students feel comfortable sharing what they’re thinking. If you’re looking for small shifts that lead to more meaningful discussions, this episode will give you a few easy places to start.