An Integrated Approach to Language Arts Instruction
A Note from Jan Zeiger:

I obtained my bachelor's and master's degrees in education from the University of
Florida. I am certified in Elementary Education as well as Middle Grades English. I served
as an elementary teacher with Seminole County Schools before taking a break from
teaching to be a full-time parent. I'm delighted to return to teaching this year as the
language arts teacher for 5th-8th grades at a private school in Central Florida.

I absolutely love books! I was an avid reader as a child and continue to cherish literature
as an adult. I enjoy writing as well and have had a few pieces published in local and
national publications. I hope to inspire my students to read and write about topics that
interest them this year. Students choose their own novels throughout the year and will
present “Book Talks” on their favorites in class. I use a research-based approach to
teaching language arts that provides students with authentic opportunities for reading
and writing.

My approach to teaching middle school is based on the work of Nancie Atwell, author of
the groundbreaking book, In the Middle. I've seen significant progress in my students'
reading and writing skills this year, and I attribute this progress to an authentic,
integrated approach to reading and writing instruction.  I've designed this website to
share my favorite resources to help other teachers who are interested in moving away
from traditional methods but aren't sure where to start.  Please let me know if you find
this website helpful. I am by no means an expert, but I do feel that I'm headed in the right
direction!