1. Amy Igel Teacher of 7 th Grade English Woodcliff Middle School Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, USA

2. Education and Accomplishments Boston University (2001) Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education; concentration in Psychology Adelphi University (2004) Master of Arts in Literacy Japan Fulbright Memorial Teacher Fund Program (2007) Recipient Teachers College, Columbia University (2009) Writing Institute

3. Responsibilities Plan and teach thoughtful and engaging reading and writing lessons for 7 th grade students; Collaborate with 7 th grade team to make authentic connections among the subject areas; Confer with English department to continuously improve and evolve the curriculum; Plan with media specialist to create related projects that incorporate lessons in technology and research skills.

4. Educational Philosophy Encourage students to: Develop a life-long love and appreciation for both reading and writing; Have choice in what they read and write; Learn how to work cooperatively with their peers in a classroom setting; Be global learners and open to new experiences; Get excited about books!

5. Questions Which novels are middle school students reading in the classroom? Which novels are middle school students most enjoying currently? What type of program do you use to teach reading and writing skills? For reading, do you use an anthology, class novels, or another form of instruction? Are reading and writing taught separately, or together?