November 08, 2018

How to Write a Comparison-Contrast Essay

November 08, 2018/ Kim Shurley

When was the last time you had your students write a Comparison-Contrast Essay? Personally, it is one of my favorite forms of writing. With this type of essay, you must use factual details to analyze the similarities and differences between two or more subjects. I think the wanna-be researcher in me LOVES this! I get to scour sources for facts and data. I get to learn new information. That’s my jam, and you may be surprised by how many of your students will love this type of writing too!

October 02, 2018

Language Arts Jingles: Add FUN to your ELA day

October 02, 2018/ Kim Shurley

If you’re ready to learn English definitions in a fun and easy way, Shurley English Jingles are for you! Using domain-specific language, our definitions for the parts of speech and many other important language arts concepts incorporate rhythm, rhyme, and movement. Jingles provide the tools for critical thinking during sentence analysis and writing.

December 01, 2017

A Grammar Necklace: The Perfect Accessory

December 01, 2017/ Kim Shurley

It's always a great idea to have an activity on hand for days when reinforcement is needed. Here's a great activity to add to your toolbox: The Grammar Necklace.

Supplies Needed:

November 26, 2017

Writing Extension: Let's address the envelope!

November 26, 2017/ Kim Shurley

‘Tis the season for trimming the tree, caroling, and holiday cards! I am one of those people who love to send and receive mail. I think I am a dying breed, but it gives me joy to create a holiday card and send it to my friends and family. Of course, this can be a prime teaching and learning opportunity.

Do your children know how to properly address an envelope?

November 19, 2017

Writing Extension: The acrostic poem delivers insight!

November 19, 2017/ Kim Shurley

Are there times when you wonder, “what is my child thinking?” Well, let me clarify...

Are there times when you wonder, “what are my child’s thoughts on a particular topic.” (Yes, that’s better phrasing.)

I find that this question usually hits me around the holidays. While the pageantry, hustle, and bustle of the holiday season surrounds us, I have a desire to know, "what are you thinking?!?" I have found a great way to “tune-in” with acrostic poems.

November 15, 2017

Shared Knowledge: The tale of my (our) village...

November 15, 2017/ Kim Shurley

Thankful does not even begin to describe what I feel today. Many years ago, when my children were young, I began to contemplate what their educational journey would look like. There were many options, which included public schools, private schools, and home education. I knew, regardless of what path we traveled down, I wanted to be included. I wanted to have my hands in the mix to help encourage and stimulate their minds. Over the years, the path has gone many different directions, but one thing remains the same, I am there—in the thick of it.

November 06, 2017

Kim Shurley

November 06, 2017/ Kim Shurley

Kim Shurley

Marketing Manager and Contributing Blogger

Kim Shurley is a wife, mother, educator, and outdoor enthusiast. She graduated with honors from the University of Arkansas-Little Rock with a degree in Marketing in 1999. Upon her graduation, Kim joined the Shurley Team, where she collaborates on product development and promotion with her mother-in-law, Brenda Shurley.

Kim believes wholeheartedly in the