In this episode of the Teacher Fellows Podcast, hosts Ryan Rarick and Lauren Merkley discuss the current state of teaching English with their guests Amanda Muffler and Kaitlyn Van Wagoner, both experienced secondary English teachers. The conversation touches on the evolving needs of students, the impact of technology, and the pros and cons of shifting focus to shorter texts. The discussion also delves into the implications of AI on student writing and offers concrete strategies for incorporating it into the classroom in a beneficial way. Key takeaways include the importance of process-oriented learning and the potential for shorter texts to provide more inclusive and engaging literary experiences.

00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome

00:51 Meet Our Esteemed Guests

01:51 Overview of Today's Topic: The Crisis in English Education

03:07 Changes in Teaching English Over the Years

07:59 Adapting Instructional Strategies for Modern Students

15:07 Navigating AI in the Classroom

21:27 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

25:19 Closing Remarks and Farewell

GUESTS ON EPISODE:

• Amanda Mufflern - ELA Teacher, Uintah School District
• Kaitlyn Van Wagoner - ELA Teacher, Davis School District

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

• Connect with Amanda Mufflern
• Email: amandalamuffler@gmail.com

SOCIAL MEDIA CONNECTIONS:

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Teacher Fellows Website: teacherfellows.org

Linkedin: Utah Teacher Fellows

Twitter: @TeachFellowsPod or @HSG_UT

Instagram: @TeacherFellowsPodcast or @hsg_ut

Facebook: @utahteacherfellowsprogram

Email us: socialmedia@hopestreetgroup.org

PART OF THE SHOW

Hosts:

• Lauren Merkley (@lmerkles) -- Taught AP English Language and Composition, Creative Writing in Granite School District, 2020 Utah Teacher of the Year
• Ryan Rarick (@Coach_Rarick) -- Education Pathway Teacher for Washington Country School District

Production Team:

• Kayla Towner (@mrstowner9) -- Technology Specialist and Product Manager for Utah Education Network (UEN)

Info Drop Spokesperson:

• John Arthur (@9thEvermore) -- Co-Director of the Teacher Fellows, 6th Grade Teacher in Salt Lake School District, 2021 Utah Teacher of the Year, 2021 National Teacher of the Year Finalist.