ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Mrs. Elwood is a high school and college English instructor in Torrance, CA. She has taught the following classes at West High School: Reading, English I, English II, English II Honors, and several senior level classes: Science Fiction/Fantasy, Semantics, English IV, and AP Literature and Composition. At El Camino College, she has taught English 1A (Freshman Composition), English 1B (Literary Analysis) and English 1C (Critical Thinking).
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EDUCATION:
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PROFESSIONAL INTERESTS:
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PERSONAL MESSAGE:
Education must be rigorous, multi-faceted, and engaging. But sometimes students also need to develop the patience to struggle. I teach deep reading and analysis in order to move students from the literal to the figurative. Critical thinking is a skill that can be developed with hearty practice. I also believe strongly in extensive vocabulary work as language provides the foundation for accessing literature, absorbing learning, and joining the adult community.
Writing instruction must include grammar. Students cannot learn how to integrate quotes seamlessly if they do not first understand the structure of their own sentences. Editing strategies will be extensively taught, so students will eventually know how to identify and assuage areas of concern. Grammar instruction also helps students understand punctuation. As they learn to recognize units of language, common problems disappear.
Knowing is so much better than guessing.
But effective writing involves so much more than avoiding errors. Students will also work on reading their own writing deeply, so they can establish solid organization strategies, develop their writer's voice, and experiment with style and purposeful diction (word choice).
"The right word is to the nearly right word as lightning is to the lightning bug" (Mark Twain).
Education must be rigorous, multi-faceted, and engaging. But sometimes students also need to develop the patience to struggle. I teach deep reading and analysis in order to move students from the literal to the figurative. Critical thinking is a skill that can be developed with hearty practice. I also believe strongly in extensive vocabulary work as language provides the foundation for accessing literature, absorbing learning, and joining the adult community.
Writing instruction must include grammar. Students cannot learn how to integrate quotes seamlessly if they do not first understand the structure of their own sentences. Editing strategies will be extensively taught, so students will eventually know how to identify and assuage areas of concern. Grammar instruction also helps students understand punctuation. As they learn to recognize units of language, common problems disappear.
Knowing is so much better than guessing.
But effective writing involves so much more than avoiding errors. Students will also work on reading their own writing deeply, so they can establish solid organization strategies, develop their writer's voice, and experiment with style and purposeful diction (word choice).
"The right word is to the nearly right word as lightning is to the lightning bug" (Mark Twain).
As for my writing life, I have presented for the California Association of Teachers of English (CATE) several times.
My presentation on quote integration was so well received by educators that I also presented that topic at the Southern California Teachers of English (SCTE) conference. Click on any link below to read more!
I received an honorable mention via the National Grammar Teacher of the Year contest, by the Assembly for the Teaching of English Grammar (ATEG). My article in the April 2018 See Beyond Magazine provides my rationale for grammar instruction and a mention of ATEG. I have since become a reviewer for ATEG article submissions.
I am the editor-in-chief and a contributing writer for See Beyond Magazine, an inspirational publication designed for young people. We publish writers from around the world and often include our own WHS students. We welcome submissions. Click here for guidelines.
California English Journal has published my work several times:
My presentation on quote integration was so well received by educators that I also presented that topic at the Southern California Teachers of English (SCTE) conference. Click on any link below to read more!
I received an honorable mention via the National Grammar Teacher of the Year contest, by the Assembly for the Teaching of English Grammar (ATEG). My article in the April 2018 See Beyond Magazine provides my rationale for grammar instruction and a mention of ATEG. I have since become a reviewer for ATEG article submissions.
I am the editor-in-chief and a contributing writer for See Beyond Magazine, an inspirational publication designed for young people. We publish writers from around the world and often include our own WHS students. We welcome submissions. Click here for guidelines.
California English Journal has published my work several times:
I absolutely love teaching and hope my students come to enjoy my methods.
Respect, courtesy, and open discourse, the cornerstones of a civilized society, are practiced in my classroom.
Respect, courtesy, and open discourse, the cornerstones of a civilized society, are practiced in my classroom.
PUBLICATIONS
All of the See Beyond Magazine issues: www.seebeyondmag.com/seebeyond-magazines/
ARTICLES WITH RED LETTERING PROVIDE WRITING INSTRUCTION AND ACADEMIC ANALYSIS/ADVISE.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Cheaters SOMETIMES Prosper" -- Click here. Sept./Oct. 2021
How pervasive is cheating in the high school and college levels? What attitudes drive this and what can be done?
SeeBeyondMag.com "Fulfill Your FRIEND Destiny" -- Click here. July/Aug. 2021
Going off to college or even attending near home can be quite stressful. Get a little pep talk about putting yourself out there. Get tips on how to engage with people to make new friends.
SeeBeyondMag.com "STAND Your Ground" Click here. May/June 2021
Would you like to say "no" more often? Learn why and how to extricate yourself from disastrous confrontations or even just uncomfortable discussions. It is not rude to walk away if you follow these easy steps.
SeeBeyondMag.com -- Click here. March/April 2021
Enjoy our cover author this month: Raphael F. L. Rebucas. Only a sophomore, Raphi shares how he has developed his leadership skills.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Monkey See, Monkey Do--Not Good Teaching" -- Click here. Jan./Feb. 2021
Have you ever wondered about the dummying-down of education? I have. This article explores how reading instruction has shifted to the detriment of our students. I have a theory about how to bring it back.
SeeBeyondMag.com "The Gift You Give Yourself" -- Click here. Nov./Dec. 2020
What are your word burps? You know, those silly little utterances of sound that don't mean anything. What words, perhaps, childish ones, overwhelm your spoken expression? Learn strategies to improve your speaking. It's time to grow up your verbal expression. Give yourself this gift.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Ouch!"-- Click here. Sept./Oct. 2020
I can't believe I sustained four broken bones across three fingers! They say "pride goes before the fall." This is so true. Let me share my humiliating and hilarious adventure.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Dear Class of 2020" -- Click here. July/Aug. 2020
This is my farewell address to students who should have had a much better high school experience. I offer advice for managing college classes, getting to know professors and starting high education with greater confidence. This also gave me a chance to tell students how much I appreciate their effort throughout the COVID lockdown and how much I will miss them.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Let's Open Our Eyes to Better Options" -- Click here. May/June 2020
Are you tired of social media getting piled on when you post on a topic some people object to? Have you noticed how hostile most of us have become? I watched a so-called great dad post a rant about a cashier at a drug store, followed by so many compliments to this great dad. But was he? And did everyone miss some important nuance?
SeeBeyondMag.com "Bring Back Vocab Lists" -- Click here.
Students no longer get vocabulary work in English classes. Teachers tend to go over a few words prior to reading an article or a chapter of a novel and think that suffices. The detriment to this limited exposure to vocabulary is profound. Read as I make a case for re-investing in vocabulary work at every level of education.
SeeBeyondMag.com "LIFE SAVERS for New and Student Teachers!" (Part 3) -- Click here. Jan/Feb 2020
Topics of discussion include preparing for finals, dealing with IEP and 504 plans, interviewing, and getting hired.
SeeBeyondMag.com "LIFE SAVERS for New and Student Teachers!" (Part 2) -- Click here. Nov./Dec. 2019
Topics of discussion include handling the information void (what they don't tell you), classroom management you can live with, and a little pep talk with some encouragement to stand your ground and hold your tongue.
SeeBeyondMag.com "LIFE SAVERS for New and Student Teachers!" (Part 1) -- Click here. SEPT./OCT. 2019
Please enjoy a brief series of articles that support the newest members of the teaching profession. My first article offers basic tips for organization. Since there is nothing more disheartening than silence when a teacher tosses out a question, Part 2 will offer suggestions on running class discussion.
SeeBeyondMag.com "You Deserve My High Expectations" -- Click here. JULY/AUG. 2019
Have you ever wondered if the expectation of the instructor impacts learning? This is my reflection on an interesting study and its implication in regard to instruction.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Headbutting Bias Be Gone!" -- Click here. MAY/JUNE 2019
Society is becoming increasingly closed off. Follow along as I take a look at perspectives in an attempt to help people see and curb bias, even sometimes our own.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Cat Got Your Tongue? Still?" -- Click here. MAR./APR. 2019
If you are one of those adorable shy types, who hardly speaks or speaks up in class, read this article to get a new perspective. You need to know that this behavior puts you at an extreme disadvantage in interpersonal relationships and can damage your chances for opportunities and successes. Please read. Please speak up.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Winning the Scholarship Game" -- Click here. JAN./FEB. 2019
This article offers tips on keeping track of accomplishments you will need to be able to report on applications and resumes. Read this for a simple and incredibly helpful method of preparation.
SeeBeyondMag.com "You Can't Flunk My Child!" -- Click here. NOV./DEC. 2018
Read my exploration of the frustrations and dismay teachers feel regarding those we sometimes just can't seem to reach.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Bullying: The Final Frontier" -- Click here. SEPT./OCT. 2018
Brandon Harrison wrote "People: An Unavoidable Aspect of Life," which reveals bullying he dealt with in high school and earlier. His story inspired my article. Please read Brandon's article and then check out my perspective on the same topic.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Drench Them in Words!" -- Click here. JULY 2018
Are you an advocate of vocabulary instruction in an English class? If so, you might appreciate my view. If not, perhaps I can change your mind. Please read.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Aw, Shucks! Don't Mention It." -- Click here. APRIL 2018
I refuse to stop teaching grammar! Read my rationale and a my Honorable Mention from the Assembly for the Teaching of English Grammar (ATEG).
SeeBeyondMag.com "First of All, Do Nothing" -- Click here. MARCH 2018
Considering how honoring hyper-sensitivity weakens character, this article explores my unique take on perspective, contributing to positive social interaction and developing emotional strength.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Weinstein and Frankin and Weiner, Oh My!" -- Click here. JANUARY 2018
The Me Too movement inspired a reflection about a sexually inappropriate act in my classroom.
SeeBeyondMag.com "A Message of Value" -- Click here. NOVEMBER 2017
Should suspended students be allowed to complete and get full credit for the work they miss?
SeeBeyondMag.com "Forever Cherished" -- Click here. JUNE 2017
Students don't have to spend any money to give teachers the best gifts.
SeeBeyondMag.com "To Use or Not To Use 'To Be' Verbs" -- Click here. MAY 2017
Replacing "to be" verbs (am, is, are, was, were) with more vivid choices enhances writing with relative ease.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Just a Spoon Full of Sugar, or Salt, or Arsenic"-- Click here.
What is writer's voice and how can this skill be acquired?
SeeBeyondMag.com "Losses, Failures and Forgiveness" -- Click here. February 2017
A look at the losses that have touched my heart during my teaching career.
SeeBeyondMag.com "The Cat Came Back the Very Next Day" -- Click here. January 2017
This is the story of how I got my cat, a lesson in tenacity.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Where Oh Were Did That Title Come From?" -- Click here. December 2016
How to use allusion to another work of literature as the title of your own essay.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Muster Up" -- Click here. November 2016
An exploration of what makes education valuable and how to get more from it when it's not.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Get Hold of Yourself, and Say: 'I Can.'" -- Click here. October 2016
How to dissect a metaphor.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Those Dreams Septembers Know" -- Click here. September 2016
An exploration of study strategies.
California English Journal "Just Another Cumbersome Trend?" September 2016
How does differentiation impact instructions? Read about my concerns.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Words to the Wise, Intelligent, Astute, Clever, Prudent, Sensible, and Shrewd" -- Click here. August 2016
Although some teachers believe that the CCSS do not ask us to teach vocabulary, that is absolutely not true. Poor delivery might be the reason that vocabulary lessons do not always seem effective. This is my take on constructive instruction and why it is imperative, now more than ever.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Confidence Is Key" -- Click here. July 2016
Where does confidence come from and how can we get more of it?
California English Journal "A Clean, Clear View" -- Click here. April 2014
How can we develop meaningful teacher evaluations?
California English Journal "Professional Development: Avoiding the Wither" -- Click here. April 2012
The complexities of teacher training and the shift to CCSS are explored.
All of the See Beyond Magazine issues: www.seebeyondmag.com/seebeyond-magazines/
ARTICLES WITH RED LETTERING PROVIDE WRITING INSTRUCTION AND ACADEMIC ANALYSIS/ADVISE.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Cheaters SOMETIMES Prosper" -- Click here. Sept./Oct. 2021
How pervasive is cheating in the high school and college levels? What attitudes drive this and what can be done?
SeeBeyondMag.com "Fulfill Your FRIEND Destiny" -- Click here. July/Aug. 2021
Going off to college or even attending near home can be quite stressful. Get a little pep talk about putting yourself out there. Get tips on how to engage with people to make new friends.
SeeBeyondMag.com "STAND Your Ground" Click here. May/June 2021
Would you like to say "no" more often? Learn why and how to extricate yourself from disastrous confrontations or even just uncomfortable discussions. It is not rude to walk away if you follow these easy steps.
SeeBeyondMag.com -- Click here. March/April 2021
Enjoy our cover author this month: Raphael F. L. Rebucas. Only a sophomore, Raphi shares how he has developed his leadership skills.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Monkey See, Monkey Do--Not Good Teaching" -- Click here. Jan./Feb. 2021
Have you ever wondered about the dummying-down of education? I have. This article explores how reading instruction has shifted to the detriment of our students. I have a theory about how to bring it back.
SeeBeyondMag.com "The Gift You Give Yourself" -- Click here. Nov./Dec. 2020
What are your word burps? You know, those silly little utterances of sound that don't mean anything. What words, perhaps, childish ones, overwhelm your spoken expression? Learn strategies to improve your speaking. It's time to grow up your verbal expression. Give yourself this gift.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Ouch!"-- Click here. Sept./Oct. 2020
I can't believe I sustained four broken bones across three fingers! They say "pride goes before the fall." This is so true. Let me share my humiliating and hilarious adventure.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Dear Class of 2020" -- Click here. July/Aug. 2020
This is my farewell address to students who should have had a much better high school experience. I offer advice for managing college classes, getting to know professors and starting high education with greater confidence. This also gave me a chance to tell students how much I appreciate their effort throughout the COVID lockdown and how much I will miss them.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Let's Open Our Eyes to Better Options" -- Click here. May/June 2020
Are you tired of social media getting piled on when you post on a topic some people object to? Have you noticed how hostile most of us have become? I watched a so-called great dad post a rant about a cashier at a drug store, followed by so many compliments to this great dad. But was he? And did everyone miss some important nuance?
SeeBeyondMag.com "Bring Back Vocab Lists" -- Click here.
Students no longer get vocabulary work in English classes. Teachers tend to go over a few words prior to reading an article or a chapter of a novel and think that suffices. The detriment to this limited exposure to vocabulary is profound. Read as I make a case for re-investing in vocabulary work at every level of education.
SeeBeyondMag.com "LIFE SAVERS for New and Student Teachers!" (Part 3) -- Click here. Jan/Feb 2020
Topics of discussion include preparing for finals, dealing with IEP and 504 plans, interviewing, and getting hired.
SeeBeyondMag.com "LIFE SAVERS for New and Student Teachers!" (Part 2) -- Click here. Nov./Dec. 2019
Topics of discussion include handling the information void (what they don't tell you), classroom management you can live with, and a little pep talk with some encouragement to stand your ground and hold your tongue.
SeeBeyondMag.com "LIFE SAVERS for New and Student Teachers!" (Part 1) -- Click here. SEPT./OCT. 2019
Please enjoy a brief series of articles that support the newest members of the teaching profession. My first article offers basic tips for organization. Since there is nothing more disheartening than silence when a teacher tosses out a question, Part 2 will offer suggestions on running class discussion.
SeeBeyondMag.com "You Deserve My High Expectations" -- Click here. JULY/AUG. 2019
Have you ever wondered if the expectation of the instructor impacts learning? This is my reflection on an interesting study and its implication in regard to instruction.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Headbutting Bias Be Gone!" -- Click here. MAY/JUNE 2019
Society is becoming increasingly closed off. Follow along as I take a look at perspectives in an attempt to help people see and curb bias, even sometimes our own.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Cat Got Your Tongue? Still?" -- Click here. MAR./APR. 2019
If you are one of those adorable shy types, who hardly speaks or speaks up in class, read this article to get a new perspective. You need to know that this behavior puts you at an extreme disadvantage in interpersonal relationships and can damage your chances for opportunities and successes. Please read. Please speak up.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Winning the Scholarship Game" -- Click here. JAN./FEB. 2019
This article offers tips on keeping track of accomplishments you will need to be able to report on applications and resumes. Read this for a simple and incredibly helpful method of preparation.
SeeBeyondMag.com "You Can't Flunk My Child!" -- Click here. NOV./DEC. 2018
Read my exploration of the frustrations and dismay teachers feel regarding those we sometimes just can't seem to reach.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Bullying: The Final Frontier" -- Click here. SEPT./OCT. 2018
Brandon Harrison wrote "People: An Unavoidable Aspect of Life," which reveals bullying he dealt with in high school and earlier. His story inspired my article. Please read Brandon's article and then check out my perspective on the same topic.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Drench Them in Words!" -- Click here. JULY 2018
Are you an advocate of vocabulary instruction in an English class? If so, you might appreciate my view. If not, perhaps I can change your mind. Please read.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Aw, Shucks! Don't Mention It." -- Click here. APRIL 2018
I refuse to stop teaching grammar! Read my rationale and a my Honorable Mention from the Assembly for the Teaching of English Grammar (ATEG).
SeeBeyondMag.com "First of All, Do Nothing" -- Click here. MARCH 2018
Considering how honoring hyper-sensitivity weakens character, this article explores my unique take on perspective, contributing to positive social interaction and developing emotional strength.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Weinstein and Frankin and Weiner, Oh My!" -- Click here. JANUARY 2018
The Me Too movement inspired a reflection about a sexually inappropriate act in my classroom.
SeeBeyondMag.com "A Message of Value" -- Click here. NOVEMBER 2017
Should suspended students be allowed to complete and get full credit for the work they miss?
SeeBeyondMag.com "Forever Cherished" -- Click here. JUNE 2017
Students don't have to spend any money to give teachers the best gifts.
SeeBeyondMag.com "To Use or Not To Use 'To Be' Verbs" -- Click here. MAY 2017
Replacing "to be" verbs (am, is, are, was, were) with more vivid choices enhances writing with relative ease.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Just a Spoon Full of Sugar, or Salt, or Arsenic"-- Click here.
What is writer's voice and how can this skill be acquired?
SeeBeyondMag.com "Losses, Failures and Forgiveness" -- Click here. February 2017
A look at the losses that have touched my heart during my teaching career.
SeeBeyondMag.com "The Cat Came Back the Very Next Day" -- Click here. January 2017
This is the story of how I got my cat, a lesson in tenacity.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Where Oh Were Did That Title Come From?" -- Click here. December 2016
How to use allusion to another work of literature as the title of your own essay.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Muster Up" -- Click here. November 2016
An exploration of what makes education valuable and how to get more from it when it's not.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Get Hold of Yourself, and Say: 'I Can.'" -- Click here. October 2016
How to dissect a metaphor.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Those Dreams Septembers Know" -- Click here. September 2016
An exploration of study strategies.
California English Journal "Just Another Cumbersome Trend?" September 2016
How does differentiation impact instructions? Read about my concerns.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Words to the Wise, Intelligent, Astute, Clever, Prudent, Sensible, and Shrewd" -- Click here. August 2016
Although some teachers believe that the CCSS do not ask us to teach vocabulary, that is absolutely not true. Poor delivery might be the reason that vocabulary lessons do not always seem effective. This is my take on constructive instruction and why it is imperative, now more than ever.
SeeBeyondMag.com "Confidence Is Key" -- Click here. July 2016
Where does confidence come from and how can we get more of it?
California English Journal "A Clean, Clear View" -- Click here. April 2014
How can we develop meaningful teacher evaluations?
California English Journal "Professional Development: Avoiding the Wither" -- Click here. April 2012
The complexities of teacher training and the shift to CCSS are explored.
"The whole purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows."
Sydney J. Harris
Sydney J. Harris