Middle Level Experience

There is so much happening in the middle level at NCTE.

From Section-specific events to a thoughtfully chosen program, you’ll notice an energized focus on crafting sessions that speak to the complexities of teaching students in the middle grades and bringing leading authors and educators to the podium. Discover new ideas, new tools, and new friends!

What kinds of sessions can I attend?

Throughout the Convention there are nearly 250 sessions designated of interest to middle level educators, but you’ll find plenty of interest at other levels as well. Among the topics are the following:

• Culturally Relevant Storytelling in the ELA Classroom
• Creating a Community of Writers: Using Empathy and Memoirs to Engage Middle Level Learners
• Rethinking the Spoken Word: Infusing Hip Hop and Multiculturalism through Poetry in the ELA Classroom
• Supporting Girls of Color in the ELA Classroom through Culturally Sustaining Practices
• Powerful Protagonists and Compelling Characters: Emotional Narrative Involvement of Readers
• Teaching with Graphic Novels: Engaging Students with Innovative Formats
• Literature, Art, and Action as Vehicles for Social Justice and Antiracism
• Picture Books for All Ages: Connecting through Text and Illustration
• Expanding Perspectives: Using Literature Circles to Expand Perspectives beyond a Small, Rural School District
• That’s Funny! YA Authors and Educators Teach Humor Writing and Analysis to Understand Deeper Conexiones

Don’t miss these middle level favorites:

Middle Level Meet-Up: Kick off your Convention experience with this gathering of middle level attendees that features speakers and the chance to hear from Section leaders.
Thursday, Nov. 16, 5:30–7:00 p.m.

ALAN at NCTE: Hear from a popular author during this much-loved ALAN Breakfast event on Saturday, Nov. 18, 7:00–9:15 a.m. If you’re looking for even deeper immersion in YA lit, you might enjoy the ALAN Workshop, Monday–Tuesday, Nov. 20–21. Every registrant will get a box of books! Both of these events can be added when you register for the Convention.

Middle Level Luncheon: This event will feature a keynote speaker, award presentations, and announcements from leaders of the Middle Level Section.
Friday, Nov. 17, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

#MakersInTheMiddle is a series of incredible learning experiences on the program. This year’s sessions include:

• Making Connections with Middle Grade Literature: The Middle Level Mosaic
• Making Games: Play-Based Strategies for Middle Grades Classrooms
• Making Family Engagement Matter: Cultivating Family Engagement as Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy in the Middle Grades Curriculum
• Critical Literacy Book Clubs: Teaching Literature through a Critical Lens