From Zero to 2,036: My Slow Burn Journey as a TpT Seller

I'm eager to share more about my side endeavor where I craft and vend educational digital content. My process involves considering what educators might need—be it customizable digital worksheets, interactive games featuring mythological characters, or innovative lesson plans that incorporate philosophy into the classroom. I'm dedicated to creating these resources with a special focus on enriching the teaching experience for middle and high school English and humanities instructors.

The chart shows visually how my store has grown bit by bit.

    Hello, fellow educators and creators! I want to share my personal journey as a TpT (Teachers Pay Teachers) seller to offer encouragement to those just starting out and connect with my fellow middle and high school humanities and English content creators.

My Timeline on TpT

• 2017: Took the plunge and opened my TpT store. However, I didn't manage to sell any units.
• 2018: Still dipping my toes in, I sold a meager 4 units.
• 2019: Finally began to take things a bit more seriously midway through the year, resulting in 107 units sold.
• 2020 & 2021: This was when I really decided to commit, and it paid off. I sold 188 units in 2020 and a whopping 541 units in 2021.
• 2022: Continued my upward trajectory with 603 units sold.
• 2023 (as of November 1st): Already close to last year's total with 588 units sold.
• All-Time Units Sold: 2,036 and counting!

A Closer Look

As I posted (see figure above), my TpT journey is visually a slow burn (maybe burning a wild campfire, who knows?!). The quick snapshot of my journey is from the online tool TpT has created for sellers to see stats and stuff. 

My Style

I'd be the first to admit I'm not what you'd call a "serious" seller. My store doesn't follow traditional marketing techniques, and my cover designs are beautiful pieces of chaos. But the numbers speak for themselves — buyers, especially those in the middle and high school humanities and English sectors, appreciate what I bring to the table.

So, whether you're a newbie struggling to make your first sale or a veteran looking for some inspiration, remember that there's room for everyone in this marketplace. Just find your niche and stick with it!

Cheers to more learning and sharing ahead!

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Unlock Your Learning Potential: 16 Essential Resources at Just $2 Each! 🌟

As the school year gets into full swing—or if you're like me, gearing up to start teaching right after Labor Day—the need for effective educational tools for our middle and high school students couldn't be more crucial. 

In reviewing some of my most valued resources, I was thrilled to discover that 16 of them are available for just $2 each! Now that's a deal worth exploring!

Key Features:

• Easy-to-use — with printable PDFs and student-facing digital materials for each resource.

• Resources were all modified this Summer, ensuring up-to-date content.

Sharpen Your Analytical Skills

• Introduce resources aimed at analytical skills like:
• "Thinking & Writing: Graphic Organizer for Analyzing Quotes & Textual Evidence"
• "Opposing Viewpoints Debate: On Judging Appearances"

Master The Writing Process

• Focus on resources that target writing skills:
• "Detail Observation Guide: Enhance Narrative & Expository Writing"
• "Prewriting-Drafting-Revising: ELA Writing Cycle Guide"

Tools for Organized Learning

• Resources that help students stay organized:
• "Student Writing Presentation Toolbox for Middle & High School"
• "Student Writer's Portfolio Tracker: Organize & Showcase Work"

Multi-dimensional Writing

• Resources that help students explore different modes and purposes of writing:
• "Writing Modes: ELA Exercise for Improving Writing Skills"
• "Purpose & Mode in Writing: Comprehensive Chart for Student Success"

Boost Creative and Factual Writing

• Resources that offer brainstorming and research techniques:
• "Using Print & Non-Print Sources | Classroom Success for Writing"
• "Clustering Guide: Brainstorming Activity for ELA/Writing Students"

Reading for Success

• Encourage independent reading:
• "Teen Book List: Promoting Independent Reading for Grades 7-12"

Conclusion

I made each of these resources myself based on years of working in middle and high school English Language Arts and Humanities classrooms. You can't go wrong! And, listen, they're all each only $2. #winning

Call to Action:

Grab these essential resources as a bundle, save even more, and take your teaching (and your kids' learning) to the next level! 🚀

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Tracking & Analyzing Myth Variations: A Comprehensive Guide to Using Graphic Organizers and Visual Aids in the Classroom

What is a trope tracker? Tropes are repeating narrative bits that show up in works of literature. For example, I love the "gods behaving badly" trope, which often appears in Greek and Roman mythology. Zeus, the king of the gods, is also a philanderer. This trope shows up in contemporary television shows, like Homelander, a kind of gussied-up "gods behaving badly" superhero who is far from a homely, humble hero. 

Who would win in an epic battle? Zeus or Homelander?
Image Credit: (l) Zeus with eagle and lightning, Athenian red-figure amphora ca. 5th Century B.C.E., Musée du Louvre
(2) "Homelander," from The Boys, Amazon Prime Entertainment © 2019

When teaching mythology, there are not only dozens of variations within one myth, but tropes in myths are scattered across art and literature. One of the pleasures of reading myth is tracking and analyzing these tropes. Explore tools for tracking myth variations with graphic organizers, anchor charts, and visual aids. Enhance student engagement in mythology.

Myths have always fascinated creative types, students, writers, and even television show writers, but tracking variations in different versions can be a challenge. 

That's where using a comprehensive teaching resource comes into play! Designed to help middle and high school students explore the rich world of mythology, the toolkit includes graphic organizers, anchor charts, entrance and exit tickets, and even a BINGO-style Trope Tracker. 

The Homelander/Zeus Connection: A Case Study in Mythological Tropes

It sounds far-fetched that Homelander, the main antagonist of a TV series on Amazon Prime, could be tracked and traced back to Zeus, a god who represents supreme authority on Mount Olympus. But that is where the fun starts. Both characters are powerful, charismatic, secretly sadistic, narcissistic, and sociopathic. Homelander is the leader of the Seven, a team of superheroes who are sponsored by Vought International; whereas, Zeus is a leader of twelve on Mount Olympus, and he runs things down on Earth. That checks a lot of boxes. As the god of the sky, thunder, and justice, Zeus's actions and decisions profoundly impact both gods and mortals; and so does a superhero — but unchecked power can become corrupted quickly. 

Using Graphic Organizers to Understand Myths

Of course — that is just one example, and I purposely used popular culture as a way to make a dramatic point. But tropes can crop up anywhere, and it is important as a reader to employ an organizational strategy. That's why the resource includes an anchor chart that can be printed, hung in the classroom, or projected on a smartboard for a mini-lesson. It's a versatile tool that aids in reading myths and completing the "Variations on Myths" graphic organizer. The entrance and exit tickets, in addition, offer a creative way to check for understanding and build background knowledge.

Trope Trackers: A Fun Way to Engage Students with Myths

Our graphic organizer is a valuable tool for tracking students' thoughts on myths, whether reading Edith Hamilton’s version of “Cupid and Psyche” or “Prometheus,” and comparing it with the well-researched and academic version from Robert Graves. It encourages students to compare and contrast different versions, including multimedia adaptations from popular distributors like Amazon Prime, Netflix, Disney or Warner Brothers.

Notes to the Teacher

This digital download doesn't include the text of any myth, but it provides a structured way to engage students with the variations they find in myths. Whether you're teaching classic texts or exploring modern interpretations, these tools foster a deeper understanding of mythology.

Note: This content is protected under U.S. copyright law. Please respect the commercial non-distribution license and support teacher-authors by sharing our store with others who may be interested. Thank you for enhancing the study of myths in your classroom!

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Engaging ELA Lessons: Exploring the Greek Myth of Orpheus and Eurydice with Middle and High School Students

Dive into the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice with a comprehensive, interactive, and distance-learning-optimized ELA resource.

Stones of Erasmus offers an Educational Download designed to teach the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice

In the realm of English Language Arts (ELA), the ancient, tragic tale of the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice offers a rich tapestry of themes and lessons for middle and high school students. Stones of Erasmus has created a comprehensive educational resource that provides an engaging, interactive, and distance-learning optimized approach to this timeless tale.

Orpheus enters the underworld.
Image Credit: NYPL Digital Collections

Orpheus stands at the precipice of the underworld, known as Orcus in Roman mythology — and, as Hades in Greek mythology. This signifies the moment in the enduring myth of Orpheus when the gifted musician, driven by desperate love and profound grief, dares to venture into the realm of the dead. His aim, to retrieve his beloved Eurydice, would become one of the most poignant tales of love, loss, and the power of art in ancient myth.

The story of Orpheus, the divine musician who loses his wife Eurydice twice, is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the creative power of music and art. Our resource brings this myth to life in the classroom, whether virtual or physical, through a variety of activities and discussion prompts.

Over a three-day lesson plan, students will delve into the myth, analyze its characters and themes, and engage in critical thinking. The resource includes:

• 1. Art + Literature Connections: Students compare the myth with artwork by renowned artists like Auguste Rodin, fostering a deeper understanding of the story.

• 2. Reading Cards: This lesson is most effective when supplemented with diverse texts from Edith Hamilton's Mythology, Bulfinch's Mythology, and Ovid's Metamorphoses. However, the resource also includes an introductory dictionary entry on classic Greek and Roman mythology for a comprehensive start.

• 3. Reading Comprehension and Critical Thinking Questions: These questions encourage students to delve deeper into the text, promoting comprehension and critical thinking.

• 4. Frayer Model Vocabulary Cards: This visual approach to vocabulary helps students understand terms, geography, and challenging words in the context of the story.

• 5. Exit Tickets: These provide immediate feedback on students' understanding of the lesson, helping teachers adjust future instruction as needed.

• 6. Essay Writing Activity: This activity caps off the lesson, allowing students to express their understanding of the myth in a creative way.

Our resource aligns well with the Common Core Standards, particularly the reading literature standard that encourages the analysis of a subject or key scene in two different artistic mediums.

Whether used as a stand-alone lesson or paired with a larger unit on Myth, Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief, Robert Graves’s Greek Myths, or Edith Hamilton’s Mythology, or Parallel Myths by J.F. Bierlein, this resource offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the tragic love story of Orpheus and Eurydice.

For more resources like this, visit the Stones of Erasmus TpT store, and join us on our journey to make ELA education more engaging and interactive.

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Teaching the Mythological Marvel: Perseus and Medusa - A Tale of Heroism, Divine Intervention, and Greek Mythology for the Middle and High School Classroom

Embark on a journey through Greek mythology as you delve into the captivating tale of Perseus and his winged steed, Pegasus. The story breaks through the page — and it is the stuff of art and culture. For example, the Metropolitan Museum of Art provides a mesmerizing glimpse into this ancient myth with its iconic sculpture, Perseus with the Head of Medusa. Join us as we explore the narrative intricacies of this masterpiece and unlock the secrets of Perseus's triumph over the formidable Medusa.

The Argive hero Perseus pervades myth, art, and literature.

The Narrative Enigma: Perseus and Medusa Sculpture at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Immerse yourself in the splendor of the European Sculpture Court at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Amidst the masterpieces, one statue stands out with its compelling storytelling ability—the Perseus with the Head of Medusa. Discover the striking connection between this sculpture and Canova's replica of Perseus in the Vatican museums, which elegantly borrows from the grace of Apollo Belvedere.

A Captivating Contrast: Canova vs. Caravaggio - Beauty and Horror in Sculpture

Dive into the enthralling juxtaposition between Canova's Perseus and Caravaggio's Medusa's Head. While Caravaggio's interpretation leans towards horrific grandeur, Canova's sculpture opts for subtle beauty and triumphant serenity. Explore the intricate details that distinguish the two artistic approaches, including Canova's subtle depiction of snakes on Medusa's brow.

The Hero's Quest: Perseus's Epic Adventure

Unravel the captivating tale of Perseus, the valiant son of Zeus, and his heroic quest to slay the mortal Gorgon, Medusa. Discover the harrowing circumstances that led Perseus to undertake this perilous mission, from being locked in a chest as a child to seeking revenge against Polydectes, his mother's treacherous husband. Journey alongside Perseus as he ventures to the edge of the world in pursuit of his formidable foe.

Divine Assistance: Gods, Goddesses, and Nymph Sisters

Explore the intricate web of divine intervention that guided Perseus on his quest. Uncover the gods and goddesses who lent their aid, including Athena, who bestowed him with a shield, and Hermes, who granted him a scimitar. Delve into the critical role played by the Graeae, the nymph sisters who provided invaluable assistance on his treacherous path.

Triumph over the Gorgon: Perseus's Confrontation with Medusa

Witness the climactic battle as Perseus faces Medusa, armed with his shield, scimitar, cape of invisibility, and winged sandals. Learn Perseus's crucial tactic to avoid Medusa's deadly gaze and transform her into stone. Discover the astonishing outcome of their encounter, as Pegasus, the legendary winged horse, emerges from Medusa's severed head.

Discover Mythology Resources from Stones of Erasmus

Engage Your Classroom with Three-Day English Language Arts Lesson

Ignite your students' imagination and passion for Greek mythology with a meticulously designed three-day English Language Arts Lesson. Dive deep with a unit on the hero's journey, divine intervention, heroism, conflict, and the mythical creatures that populate the ancient Greek world. This resource is specifically tailored for distance learning, providing Google Apps, PDF, and Easel Activities and Assessments (exclusive to Teachers Pay Teachers) compatible with Google Classroom and other learning management platforms.

Unlock the Power of Greek Mythology with Our Resource

Our comprehensive resource package is aligned with Common Core Standards, making it a valuable addition to your curriculum. Featuring teacher's notes, a three-day lesson calendar, engaging activities, and assessment tools, this resource ensures an immersive and educational experience for your students. Foster critical thinking and literary analysis as you explore the representation of Perseus and Medusa in different artistic mediums.

Unleash the Potential of Greek Mythology in Your Classroom

Introduce your students to the fascinating world of Greek mythology through our engaging and thought-provoking educational resource. Perfect for middle and high school students, this resource can be seamlessly integrated into an English Language Arts Mythology unit or as a standalone lesson. Combine it with other myth-related materials to create a comprehensive exploration of ancient Greek culture and storytelling.

Unearth the Mysteries of Greek Mythology Today!

Take advantage of this unique opportunity to bring the mesmerizing tales of Perseus, Medusa, and other mythological figures to life in your classroom. Equip your students with the knowledge and analytical skills to appreciate these captivating stories' timeless beauty and significance. Dive into the realm of Greek mythology and watch your students' imaginations soar!

For more information and to access our educational resources, please visit Stones of Erasmus on Teachers Pay Teachers, and other educational content sites.

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Writing a Movie Review: Writer's Workshop for Middle and High School Grades 8-10

Incorporating Movies into English Language Arts and Writing Instruction

Unlock English mastery! Transform your classroom with
engaging movie reviews that boost language skills, critical thinking,
and student participation.

Movies are more than just an engaging way to pass the time. They are an amalgamation of storytelling, characterization, themes, and visual representation, which offer a vibrant medium to teach English language arts and writing instruction. Imagine this — your class of young, energetic middle or high schoolers analyzing, discussing, and reviewing movies while learning and honing their English skills. Not only is it fun and engaging, but it also provides an interactive way to understand complex language structures, themes, and concepts.

What's Included?

1. Teacher's Note for Using this Resource in the English and Writing Classroom: A helpful guide to ensure you get the most out of the resources provided.

2. Do's and Don'ts Anchor Chart: A visual guide to direct students on what to include and what to avoid in their movie review.

3. Fillable Movie Information Sheet for Before, During, and After Viewing: This allows students to track key information and impressions throughout the viewing experience, which helps build their review later.

4. Extended Written Response, Movie Quotes Double Entry Journal, Parts of a Movie Review Graphic Organizer: These tools support and scaffold students' writing, thinking, and reflection processes.

5. 3 Exit Ticket Strategies for Formative Assessment: These will help you gauge student understanding and progress at the end of each lesson.

6. Movie Review Skills Assessment, 4-Point Grading Rubric, Student-Facing Checklist, and Grading Sheet: These tools help students self-assess their work and aid teachers in providing clear, fair, and consistent grading.

7. 5-Star Rating and Rough Draft Starter: This provides students a starting point for their review and a simple, familiar way to give their overall rating.

Incorporating movie analysis into your curriculum can be a dynamic way to inspire student engagement and improve their English language and writing skills. By combining entertainment and education, you're teaching them language and skills like critical thinking, analysis, and self-expression.

Related Products

To further extend your resources, consider other products from Stones of Erasmus:

✰ Growing Humanities Bundle for Middle and High School 

✰ Myth Unit for Middle and High School (40+ Days of Content!) 

✰ "A Good Man is Hard to Find" by Flannery O'Connor: Short Story Discussion 

✰ Diagnostic English Language Learner Exams and Essay for Middle and High School

✰ Making Timelines and Recalling Events for Writing in English Language Arts

✰ Integrating Quotations: Writing Activity for the English Language Arts Classroom

Join me on this educational journey. Your feedback, comments, and insights are always welcome. Visit my website at stonesoferasmus.com for more resources and ideas.

© 2022-2023 Stones of Erasmus.

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Athena Resources are Abundant on Stones of Erasmus: Plus, A Free Coloring Book (Just Click the Link!)

Greetings, dear readers!

Download a free PDF of an Athena-Inspired coloring book.

As part of our ongoing journey to make learning both engaging and fun, Stones of Erasmus is thrilled to announce a unique offering – a free, Athena-inspired coloring book! This isn't your ordinary coloring book; it's a piece of art, designed with dedication and love, intended to bring the mesmerizing world of Greek mythology closer to you and your students.

Meet Athena: The Goddess of Wisdom

For those who are new to Greek mythology, Athena, also known as Minerva in Roman mythology, is the goddess of wisdom. She is often depicted as a perpetual virgin and is symbolized by the owl. This powerful and wise goddess is the star of our coloring book. Each coloring book page displays Athena in myriad ways, ranging from serious to whimsical interpretations. We've applied our creative license, delivering unique depictions of the goddess to inspire your imagination. To deepen the learning experience, we've also included a "Further Reading Guide" with links to mythology-related books and websites where you can discover more about Athena and her fascinating stories.

Use the Coloring Book in the Classroom

This Athena-inspired coloring book is an excellent resource to supplement a mythology unit for middle or high school students. Each student could be assigned a different 'Athena' and invited to develop their creative writing skills by crafting a backstory, detailing the goddess's character traits, or elaborating on a specific myth.

And of course, the book can also serve its traditional purpose: providing hours of coloring fun!

Let's Respect Copyright

We feel it's important to mention that this coloring book is protected by U.S. copyright law. It is intended for educational purposes in a classroom setting and not for wider distribution. If you know a fellow teacher or educator who might benefit from this resource, we encourage you to share the link to this post. Let's respect creativity and the hard work of creating these resources.

Get Your Free Coloring Book Today

Our Athena coloring book is more than just a book; it's an invitation to explore, learn, and have fun. So why wait? Click the link, download your free Athena-inspired coloring book, and embark on a fascinating journey into the world of Greek mythology!

(Note: This blog post is subject to copyright. Please ensure you adhere to the terms mentioned above. For the premium version of the coloring book, click here!)

Happy coloring!

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