Derivations

Making Online Classes More Interactive with H5P

I’ve started using H5P to make my online classes more engaging and interactive. The platform allows me to create activities like drag-and-drop, interactive videos, quizzes, and clickable texts that feel familiar to students who already use edtech apps and online testing platforms.

H5P lets me break away from static lessons and offer multiple ways for students to interact with content. It supports different learning styles and keeps students active in the process. Whether I’m embedding a comprehension check inside a video or building quick review games, H5P has added variety and energy to my digital lessons.

Using Perusall to Make Reading Collaborative in the Classroom

For the past three years, I’ve used Perusall in several of my high school and dual enrollment courses to shift how students interact with reading assignments. Instead of reading a textbook or article in isolation, Perusall turns reading into a collaborative and engaging activity. Students can annotate texts, ask questions, and respond to each other in real time or asynchronously.

This changes the rhythm of reading. What was once passive becomes active. Students highlight key ideas, tag comments, and clarify confusion together. It helps build reading comprehension and annotation habits they can apply in other courses. More importantly, it turns reading into a shared learning experience.

While onboarding new students can sometimes be a small hurdle, especially at the start of the term, once they’re in, the tool works smoothly. I’ve seen students answer each other’s questions faster than I could in person, and I’ve watched class discussions improve because students show up better prepared.

I recommend Perusall for anyone teaching secondary or post-secondary courses where you want students to dig into texts, connect ideas, and learn from each other—not just the teacher.

Groovelit for Writing Practice and Feedback Without the Extra Grading

Groovelit is one of the newer tools I’m exploring to make writing more consistent in my classroom without adding more to my grading queue. I’ve used other AI writing tools like Brisk and Grammarly, but what stands out about Groovelit is how it’s built specifically for teachers and students.

I’m planning to use Groovelit as a quick writing station for low-stakes practice, short responses, warm-ups, and review activities. It gives students immediate feedback on clarity, organization, grammar, and tone. For me, that means more chances for students to revise their work and see writing as a process—not just a grade.

What You Can Do for Free

With a free Groovelit teacher account, you can:

Create unlimited writing assignments Track student scores and feedback View student submissions in a teacher dashboard Assign prompts with word counts, tone, audience, or skill focus Encourage student revision with built-in feedback

Students get instant feedback after each submission and can revise right away. I like that this supports the kind of self-monitoring and reflection I already try to build into my instruction.

What’s Limited on the Free Version

There are a few limitations to keep in mind:

Students don’t get a saved portfolio of their writing unless you upgrade You don’t get access to all writing traits or rubrics Some advanced analytics and customization options are locked behind the paid plan Peer review and deeper revision tools are only available with a Pro account

That said, the free version is still solid. It works well for building writing habits and helping students improve in short bursts without the pressure of full essays.

How I Plan to Use It

I’ll be testing Groovelit in the following ways:

Warm-ups and bellringers: 3–5 minute responses to daily prompts with instant feedback Exit tickets: Short reflections or content-based summaries Response practice: Copy editing, news writing, and journalism skill-building Revision stations: Students revise older work using the feedback from Groovelit Independent practice: Especially helpful for students who need extra grammar or organization support

Because it gives scores and growth tracking over time, I can also use Groovelit to set writing goals and show progress during conferences or parent meetings.

Final Thoughts

Groovelit is a free, no-frills way to add more writing to your classroom. If you’re looking to build writing stamina, reduce your grading load, and make writing practice more student-centered, it’s worth exploring. You can sign up at groovelit.com and start building your prompts in just a few clicks.

Let me know if you’re trying it out or want to compare notes. I’m always looking for ways to bring more writing into the week without burning out.

Enhancing Your Course with AI, SAMR, and ISTE Standards

Over the past few semesters, I’ve started using AI as a planning partner. One of the most helpful things I’ve done is upload my course syllabi, lesson plans, and scope and sequence into tools like ChatGPT to help me look for ways to improve instruction through the SAMR model and align more closely with ISTE standards.

The SAMR model helps categorize how we integrate technology. Substitution is the most basic level, like switching a printed worksheet for a Google Doc. At the top of the model is Redefinition, where students are doing things that weren’t possible before, like designing interactive media projects or collaborating in real time with others outside the classroom.

Pairing SAMR with the ISTE Standards gave me more clarity on how to build student skills beyond just completing assignments. The ISTE Standards focus on things like creativity, problem-solving, digital collaboration, and responsible use of technology. They also encourage students to take more ownership of their learning and become active digital citizens.

When I reviewed my Intro to Speech Communication course, I saw that a lot of my assignments were already using tech at the Substitution and Augmentation levels. But when I used AI to suggest shifts into Modification and Redefinition, it gave me practical ways to do it. For example, I turned a traditional group presentation into a multimedia project where students created digital storyboards, embedded audio, and linked peer feedback using collaborative tools.

I also found that while my students were using tech tools, we hadn’t spent enough time talking about responsible digital behavior or media bias. That’s when I brought in ISTE-aligned reflection prompts and small-group analysis of online communication platforms to fill in those gaps.

AI didn’t do the work for me, but it did help me see my planning through a different lens. It flagged areas for growth and helped me make instructional decisions that aligned with student needs and the tech we already had available.

Try this in your planning:

Pick one unit or lesson you already teach. Ask ChatGPT or another tool, “How can I improve this lesson to better align with the SAMR model and ISTE standards?” Look for a small shift you can make to increase student creativity, collaboration, or critical thinking. A few small changes can go a long way in helping students connect with content and build real-world digital skills.

Fostering Collaborative Reading in High School with Perusall

For the past three years, I’ve used Perusall on and off in my high school classes. It’s a tool I keep coming back to, especially when I want students to engage more deeply with reading and each other. When I focus and help students get going, Perusall can be a strong tool for building collaborative reading habits.

Perusall is a social annotation platform. It turns a reading assignment into a space for students to highlight, comment, ask questions, and respond to each other in real time. It works well in classes like Professional Communication, Audio/Video Production, and Dual Enrollment Speech because it encourages students to interact with the content and each other.

Getting students set up can take time. Some terms I’ve seen full buy-in and strong participation. Other times, the onboarding is frustrating. Account creation, tech access, and introducing another platform can be a barrier. That’s why I don’t use it every semester. But when I take the time to onboard students properly and model how to use it, the payoff is worth it.

Here’s what I’ve found helps:

I start with a short piece of text. That might be an article, a short chapter, or even a classroom policy. I join the thread. I post comments and respond like a participant to model the kind of engagement I want to see. I use it as formative assessment. It helps me track who’s reading, what they’re asking, and where they need more support. I grade for thoughtful engagement, not right answers. The goal is conversation, not completion.

When Perusall works, students read more carefully. Quieter students have more chances to contribute. The class enters discussion already warmed up. And students begin to ask better questions because they’ve already heard each other’s thoughts.

Perusall isn’t something I rely on all the time. But it’s a solid tool when I want to slow down and have students really sit with a piece of text. If you teach high school and want students to engage more with reading, I suggest trying it with one unit or one assignment. It can make reading more social, more visible, and more meaningful.

Perusall

Why I Use ElevenLabs for Text-to-Speech in My Classroom

In my classroom, I rely heavily on digital tools, especially digital products like Google Docs and PDFs, when we’re working with articles, textbook excerpts, or full novels. But as many educators know, reading comprehension can be a struggle for a variety of reasons. Some students have difficulty focusing, while others benefit more from auditory or visual modes of engagement than from reading alone.

One solution I’ve found especially helpful is using audio narration tools to support student reading. I’ve tried a few over the years, but ElevenLabs has become my go-to, and here’s why.

Natural Voices That Don’t Sound Robotic

ElevenLabs has invested in research and development to produce AI-generated voices that sound natural and human, not robotic. This makes a difference. Students are more likely to engage with an audio narration when it sounds conversational and clear.

This is especially helpful for learners who:

Struggle to stay on task when reading silently Benefit from dual input (reading and hearing) Are learning English or are emerging bilinguals Prefer listening as a way to process content

How I Use It in Class

I use ElevenLabs on iPads and iPhones. It lets me either:

Import PDFs directly and turn them into narrated readings Copy and paste text into the app and have it read aloud

This works well with most content: textbook chapters, novel excerpts, articles, or student writing.

Why It Works

Students have different preferences for how they engage with text. Using tools like ElevenLabs allows me to differentiate instruction and provide students with another way to access and understand material. This benefits all learners, not just those who struggle with reading.

Try It Out

There are two iOS apps available from ElevenLabs:

ElevenReader: Text to Speech (best for reading PDFs and longer documents) Use my referral link to get the app

If you’re looking to support reading in a way that meets diverse learning needs, this tool is worth exploring.

📝 Reflecting on Learning to Teach: How a Journal Assignment Helps Future Educators Connect Theory, Practice, and Growth

In my Education and Training and Education Practicum courses, one of the most impactful assignments I’ve implemented is the Reflection Journal: Understanding Your Learning Journey. This 1–2 page assignment encourages students—many of whom are preparing for careers in teaching or educational support—to explore their own learning habits, preferences, and experiences through the lens of educational psychology and learning theory.

While it may look like a simple writing task, the learning that comes from it is powerful. Through structured reflection, students develop a stronger awareness of themselves as learners, gain insight into pedagogy, and begin forming the foundational thinking necessary for becoming reflective practitioners.


🎯 Purpose and Pedagogical Intent

At its core, this assignment is designed to meet multiple learning goals:

• Build metacognitive awareness by helping students analyze their own learning habits

• Deepen understanding of learning theories like Behaviorism, Constructivism, Cognitivism, and Social Learning Theory

• Strengthen critical thinking and academic writing skills

• Encourage students to form actionable learning goals and personalized strategies for growth

• Promote the application of theory to practice—a critical skill for any future educator

These outcomes are especially aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for Education and Training courses.


📚 TEKS Connections

This assignment directly supports the following TEKS objectives for Education and Training and Practicum in Education and Training:

§130.142(c)(3)(A): The student analyzes the historical, theoretical, and philosophical foundations of education.

§130.142(c)(3)(C): The student applies learning theories to instructional practices.

§130.144(c)(1)(F): The student demonstrates the use of self-assessment and reflection to improve performance.

§130.144(c)(2)(B): The student applies strategies to address individual learning needs and preferences.

By integrating these objectives into a single, student-centered assignment, learners are not just memorizing definitions—they’re applying complex theories to real-world learning experiences, which enhances both retention and relevance.


✍️ Assignment Breakdown: Promoting Deeper Understanding

The Reflection Journal guides students through four major areas of inquiry:

1. Self-Analysis as a Learner

Students begin by identifying their learning preferences (visual, auditory, kinesthetic) and evaluating how their current study habits either align or conflict with research-based learning theories. This helps them understand that learning is not one-size-fits-all, and that effective instruction starts with understanding yourself.

2. Connecting Theory to Practice

Next, students select two learning theories (e.g., Social Learning Theory and Constructivism) and apply them to personal experiences—like how they studied for a test or worked on a group project. This application shows students how theories function outside the textbook and provides a strong foundation for lesson planning and learner differentiation in the future.

3. Growth and Improvement

Students identify two areas they’d like to improve as learners and craft an action plan using learning theory to support behavior change. This not only builds accountability, but also helps them experience firsthand how intentional planning leads to improved performance.

4. Broader Implications

Finally, students explore how this knowledge can apply to their academic, professional, and social development. They consider how theory informs collaboration, communication, and classroom culture—essential insights for anyone pursuing a future in education.


💡 Why This Matters in a CTE Setting

As educators preparing educators, our goal isn’t just to teach skills—it’s to help future teachers think like teachers. That means encouraging reflection, analysis, and an ability to connect pedagogy to practice. This assignment helps students do exactly that.

Additionally, reflective writing develops TELPAS-aligned skills in English learners and supports cross-curricular goals by:

• Encouraging structured writing with academic vocabulary

• Promoting complex thinking and explanation

• Reinforcing connections between CTE content and core subjects like ELAR and psychology


📌 Final Thoughts

Students often finish this assignment with eye-opening realizations—about how they learn, why they struggle, and how they can succeed. More importantly, they begin to recognize how those same realizations can shape their approach to working with others in the classroom.

This is what makes the Reflection Journal so powerful: It’s more than an assignment—it’s a moment of transformation.

Whether students pursue education, human services, psychology, or any career where understanding people matters, this kind of reflective practice lays the groundwork for lifelong learning and professional growth.


Want to try this in your own classroom? Reach out and I’ll share the assignment template, rubric, and a student reflection sample!

#EducationAndTraining #PracticumInEducation #CTE #LearningTheories #ReflectiveTeaching #Metacognition #TEKSAligned #FutureEducators #CareerReady #CriticalThinking #StudentVoice

🎯 Smart Grading with Brisk—How I Give Better Feedback Without Burning Out

As a teacher juggling six different preps—ranging from Professional Communication and DE Speech to UIL Journalism coaching—I know what it feels like to be buried under stacks of outlines, reflections, and drafts. Grading isn’t just time-consuming—it’s mentally exhausting. And for years, I thought that was just part of the job.

Then I started using Brisk Teaching, and everything changed.

Brisk has become my go-to tool for delivering meaningful, standards-based feedback in a fraction of the time it used to take. If you’ve ever wished grading felt more like teaching and less like punishment, this is for you.


🛠️ How I Use Brisk’s Targeted Feedback Tool

Here’s how I use Brisk in my classroom (and coaching spaces) to provide feedback that’s clear, aligned, and actually helpful:

✅ Standards-Based, In-Doc Comments

Brisk integrates directly into Google Docs, which means I can leave personalized, aligned comments inside student work. Whether it’s a speech outline, a UIL News Writing draft, or a journal reflection, Brisk allows me to assess with purpose—tying each comment back to specific learning targets or rubric criteria.

🧠 Actionable Insights for Every Student

Gone are the days of “Great job!” and “Needs work.” Brisk helps me deliver specific suggestions that tell students what to improve and why. That kind of clarity empowers revision, builds student confidence, and fosters a true feedback loop.

💡 Data-Driven Instruction from Real-Time Trends

Brisk doesn’t just improve my grading—it improves my teaching.

For example, after grading 25 persuasive outlines in DE Speech, I realized that more than half the class was struggling with transitions between main points. I used that insight to craft a targeted mini-lesson using Brisk’s Presentation Builder. Instead of reteaching blindly, I taught exactly what students needed.


💬 Real Talk: Brisk Saved My Weekend

“This is BRILLIANT. I was able to grade in 1 hour what would have taken me ALL DAY to do!! Brisk has given me back my weekend with my family.”

This is an actual testimonial, but honestly—it could’ve been written by me.

Brisk helps me work smarter, not longer. The quality of my feedback has improved, and I’m no longer sacrificing hours of personal time to get there.


📚 TEKS Tie-In: Why It Matters Instructionally

Using Brisk also ensures my feedback aligns with Texas TEKS. For example, in Professional Communication, one of our key standards is:

130.113(c)(9): Evaluate messages for clarity, organization, and logic.

Brisk allows me to assess these elements with precision, leaving students with clear steps toward mastery.


🚀 Final Thoughts: Make Every Comment Count

If you’re ready to stop drowning in grading and start giving your students feedback that truly supports growth, Brisk is the tool for you. You’ll get your time back, and your students will benefit from feedback that’s timely, personalized, and aligned.

Try it for yourself at 👉 BriskTeaching.com

💻 My Favorite Brisk Features for Lesson Planning Across CTE and Core Classes

Lesson planning across multiple preps—especially when you’re switching between Education Practicum, DE Speech, and AV Production—requires serious flexibility and fast adaptation. As a teacher balancing both CTE and core communication courses, I needed a tool that could keep up.

That’s where Brisk Teaching comes in.

Brisk has become my go-to lesson co-planner. Whether I’m scaffolding a pedagogy lesson or breaking down a digital media unit, Brisk helps me adapt, differentiate, and design—all in one easy-to-use platform.


🎯 What Brisk Does for My Planning Workflow

Here’s how I use Brisk to streamline and supercharge my lesson prep:

📚 Turn Any Content Into a Lesson

Brisk makes it incredibly simple to turn content—like a YouTube video, article, or transcript—into full lesson materials. In just a few clicks, I can generate:

Editable slide decks that are ready to teach or customize

Auto-generated quizzes in Google Forms with answer keys

Depth of Knowledge (DOK) comprehension questions that challenge students at various cognitive levels


🧑‍🏫 Tailoring for TEKS and Content Areas

In Education & Training

I use Brisk to help my students analyze and apply learning theories like Constructivism and Behaviorism. With a few prompts, I get questions and tasks that directly support TEKS 130.142(c)(3)(C)—which focuses on applying educational psychology to instructional practices.

In AV Production

I upload transcripts from film theory videos or video tutorials, and Brisk instantly generates:

Summary activities

Key vocab terms

Reflection questions

This makes academic content more digestible for visual learners while maintaining rigor.


🧪 Real Lesson Planning Example

Just last week, I built a full lesson around an article on Behaviorism. I dropped the article into Brisk, selected the grade level, and in under five minutes, I had:

• Key vocabulary terms

• 3 DOK-aligned comprehension questions

• A short formative quiz for quick assessment

All I had to do was tweak the instructions, and the lesson was ready to go.

TEKS Tie-In:

130.142(c)(3)(A): Analyze historical and theoretical foundations of education

Brisk doesn’t just save time—it supports instructional alignment.


☕ Fast, Flexible, and Teacher-Friendly

Whether you’re teaching pedagogy or production, Brisk gives you plug-and-play resources without sacrificing quality. It supports my instructional goals while freeing up time to do what matters most: connecting with students and refining the experience.

Want to try it out?

👉 Drop in your next article or video and see the magic.

Your lesson will be ready before your coffee cools. ☕

📝 Coaching Writers and Future Educators with Brisk

Whether I’m guiding a UIL editor through copy edits or helping a future teacher reflect on their learning style, one thing stays consistent: students need clear, purposeful feedback—and teachers need time to deliver it.

That’s why I use Brisk Teaching.

Brisk isn’t just a shortcut; it’s a coaching companion. It helps me support student growth in two very different but equally important roles: as a UIL Journalism coach and as a teacher of aspiring educators.


📰 In UIL Journalism: Precision Meets Practicality

UIL writing is fast, high-pressure, and technical—and Brisk helps my students level up their skills with:

• ✏️ Practice articles adjusted to different reading levels, so every student can engage with authentic journalism.

• 📋 Custom rubrics tailored to UIL genres like News, Editorial, and Feature Writing.

• 💬 Genre-specific feedback that supports revision and clarity—without vague generalizations.

Whether they’re tackling lede development or transitions in features, students know what’s working and what needs improvement.


🎓 In Education Practicum: Supporting Reflective Teaching

On the education side, I use Brisk to scaffold reflective writing for my future teachers.

Here’s how:

• I use Brisk to support the Reflection Journal assignment, where students evaluate their own learning process and apply theory to practice.

• Brisk helps generate prompts, feedback, and revision ideas that align with TEKS 130.144(c)(1)(F), encouraging students to grow as learners and educators.

• The writing isn’t just academic—it’s meaningful. Students reflect on pedagogy, identify areas for growth, and create action plans for improvement.


🎯 What Students Say (and How They Grow)

What stands out most is how students respond to the clarity and personalization Brisk offers. They know exactly why they’re revising and how it connects to real-world application—whether that means teaching 2nd grade one day or writing for a college paper.

“Brisk doesn’t just help me save time—it helps my students think like teachers and write like communicators. Whether it’s a future educator or a UIL feature writer, they get better with Brisk.”


🚀 Why This Matters

As educators, we want to develop more than just technical skills—we want our students to be:

• ✨ Reflective

• 🎯 Audience-aware

• 🧠 Critical thinkers

Brisk makes that possible without taking away your planning period (or your Sunday afternoon).


👇 Ready to Try It?

Coaching students to be reflective, analytical, and confident writers doesn’t have to be time-consuming. With Brisk, it’s built in.

💡 Get started here.

Watch your students grow—and get your time back.

Brisk’s “Change Levels” Feature: A Game Changer for Differentiated Learning

In today’s diverse classrooms, teachers face the challenge of meeting the needs of students with varying reading levels and language proficiencies. This is where Brisk’s “Change Levels” feature proves invaluable. It instantly converts any online text into a Google Doc that is adjusted for different reading levels, translated into another language, or both. This feature helps teachers create more accessible and inclusive learning environments.

Supporting Differentiated Instruction

Differentiating instruction is critical to student success, as research shows that providing material at appropriate reading levels increases comprehension and engagement (Tomlinson, 2001). The “Change Levels” feature enables teachers to adjust the complexity of any text, making it easier for students at different levels to access the same content in a challenging but not overwhelming way. This approach aligns with Vygotsky’s (1978) Zone of Proximal Development theory, which suggests that students learn best when tasks are set slightly above their current ability with appropriate support.

Language Translation for English Language Learners

This feature offers a critical support tool for students learning English as a second language (ESL). Research indicates that providing translated materials alongside English texts can significantly improve language acquisition and comprehension (Cummins, 2000). By offering immediate translation options, Brisk helps ESL students stay engaged with classroom materials while developing their language skills. This also enables teachers to cater to bilingual classrooms or individual students, enhancing overall inclusivity.

Research-Backed Benefits

Research supports using digital tools like Brisk to improve accessibility and support diverse learners. A meta-analysis by Means, Bakia, and Murphy (2014) found that using adaptive learning technologies enhances learning outcomes, particularly in reading comprehension and language learning. Brisk allows teachers to scaffold instruction and tailor materials to students’ unique learning profiles by offering text-level adjustments and language translations, fostering better engagement and retention.

Conclusion

Brisk’s “Change Levels” feature offers a powerful solution for teachers striving to meet the needs of all students. By adjusting reading levels and providing translations, this tool not only improves accessibility but also aligns with research-backed strategies that enhance student learning outcomes. For educators looking to simplify the process of differentiation and language support, Brisk is an invaluable resource.

Streamline your teaching and engage your students with Brisk—sign up using my referral link here and discover how Brisk can transform your classroom!


References:

  • Cummins, J. (2000). Language, power, and pedagogy: Bilingual children in the crossfire. Multilingual Matters.
  • Means, B., Bakia, M., & Murphy, R. (2014). Learning online: What research tells us about whether, when, and how. Routledge.
  • Tomlinson, C. A. (2001). How to differentiate instruction in mixed-ability classrooms. ASCD.
  • Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes. Harvard University Press.

Vocabulary Activities in Dual Enrollment Speech Communication with Diffit

Vocabulary plays a critical role in understanding course material in my Introduction to Speech Communication and Interpersonal Communication courses. Using Diffit, I can generate vocabulary activities that help students learn essential communication terms while reinforcing their practical applications.

Vocabulary acquisition is crucial for academic success, and research has shown that differentiated vocabulary activities enhance student retention and understanding (Graves, 2006). With Diffit, I can quickly create activities that are tailored to the varying proficiency levels in my dual enrollment classes. These activities help students engage with the material more effectively, whether they are learning about rhetorical strategies or interpersonal dynamics. Students can complete the activities digitally or use printed copies, depending on their preferences and learning needs.

Diffit’s versatility in creating differentiated materials has allowed me to better support my students’ vocabulary development. Enhance your lesson planning with Diffit—automatically create differentiated learning materials in seconds! Sign up using my referral link here and experience the ease of personalized instruction.


References:

  • Graves, M. F. (2006). The vocabulary book: Learning and instruction. Teachers College Press.

Creating a Kid-Friendly Story Using ChatGPT and ElevenLabs: A Step-by-Step Guide

In today’s digital classroom, educators have a wealth of tools at their fingertips that can help transform simple ideas into engaging learning materials. One exciting approach is using AI tools like ChatGPT and ElevenLabs to create stories from personal experiences and events, complete with visual and audio elements. In this post, I’ll walk you through how I used these AI tools to develop a kid-friendly story, complete with visuals and narration, and how easy it is to integrate these into platforms like Canva to create an animated video.

This process not only demonstrates the power of AI in education, but also highlights how simple it is to use these AI storytelling tools to create engaging content for students. Let’s dive into the steps:

1. Story Concept and Outline

Goal: Develop a whimsical, kid-friendly story based on quirky neighborhood characters.

My Input: I provided ChatGPT with a list of personal memories and unique neighborhood events like “The Pig House,” “Flamethrower Incident,” and “The Dancing Man.”

Action: ChatGPT, one of the best AI-generated storytelling tools, transformed my list into a cohesive story by creating chapter titles and summaries based on these quirky events. Each chapter highlighted a fun character or event from my neighborhood, setting the tone for a whimsical tale that would capture the imagination of young readers.


2. Story Adaptation for Kids

Goal: Turn the outline into a cohesive story suitable for a children’s book or animated show.

My Input: I requested that ChatGPT adapt these events into a short story written in the playful, simple style of a children’s cartoon.

Action: ChatGPT crafted a narrative that introduced each character and event in a kid-friendly way, making it perfect for students. The story was not only entertaining but also illustrated the power of AI-generated stories for kids. It kept the language light, with fun themes like community and uniqueness, making it engaging and educational for young readers.


3. Image Creation for Visuals

Goal: Create AI-generated cartoon-style images to illustrate key scenes in the story.

My Input: I used Leonardo.ai (another fantastic AI tool for visuals) to generate images based on prompts crafted with the help of ChatGPT. I described specific scenes like “The Dancing Man twirling in the park” and “The Pig House with colorful flowers.”

Action: ChatGPT helped me generate detailed prompts for Leonardo.ai, ensuring the visuals matched the story’s whimsical style. These AI-generated visuals were essential for illustrating the key moments, helping bring the story to life in a vibrant, animated style. Such AI visuals can be a game-changer when creating multimedia storytelling in education.


4. Script for Audio Narration

Goal: Convert the written story into a script that could be used for audio narration.

My Input: I wanted to create an engaging audio version of the story using ElevenLabs’ text-to-speech feature, so I asked ChatGPT to break the story into a script with clear narration cues.

Action: ChatGPT simplified the narrative into a series of scenes that were easy to follow in an audio format, making it perfect for storytelling. The script was designed to keep listeners engaged, with clear directions for tone and pacing. This use of text-to-speech for kids’ stories not only made the narrative more engaging but also demonstrated the flexibility of AI-generated audio narration.


5. Final Adjustments and Revisions

Goal: Finalize the script, ensuring it flows smoothly and matches the desired style.

My Input: After reviewing the script and visuals, I requested minor adjustments to ensure the tone stayed cheerful and engaging.

Action: Based on my feedback, ChatGPT revised the script to ensure it aligned with the visuals and created a cohesive flow for narration. By incorporating the visuals and narration, the story was now ready for multimedia production, which is key for creating engaging stories with AI.


6. Ready for Audio Production

Goal: The script is now ready for audio production using ElevenLabs.io.

I used ElevenLabs’ AI-generated voiceovers to bring the narration to life. The platform’s customizable text-to-speech feature allowed me to match the narrator’s voice to the playful tone of the story, creating an engaging experience for young listeners.


7. Combining Visuals and Audio in Canva

Once the visuals and audio were ready, I used Canva to create a video of the story. Canva’s intuitive interface made it easy to upload the AI-generated visuals and sync them with the audio narration from ElevenLabs. With simple drag-and-drop features, I could add animations, transitions, and text, bringing the story to life in a dynamic way.

This combination of AI storytelling tools—ChatGPT for the narrative, ElevenLabs for audio, and Canva for visuals—resulted in a highly engaging, kid-friendly story that could be used as a learning tool in classrooms. Canva’s multimedia features made the whole process smooth, allowing me to easily create a video that students would enjoy and learn from.


Why Use AI Tools in the Classroom?

Using AI in education can transform how teachers create and deliver content. Tools like ChatGPT, ElevenLabs, and Canva offer educators a way to personalize learning materials, making them more engaging and interactive. By combining AI-generated stories, visuals, and audio, educators can create lessons that captivate students while also meeting educational goals. Whether it’s for storytelling, lesson planning, or developing interactive resources, AI tools like these provide endless possibilities.


This step-by-step process highlights just how easy it is to create personalized, multimedia stories using AI tools. With just a few platforms, teachers can transform simple ideas into captivating learning experiences for their students.

So, how is UIL news writing judged?

Mastering the Essentials of UIL News Writing

In UIL news writing, success hinges on mastering a few essential principles that set your stories apart. Whether you’re just starting or looking to fine-tune your skills, these tips will help ensure your writing is concise, clear, and compelling.

1. Lead with Timely Information

The lead is the most critical part of your story. Always start with the most timely and important information—something that grabs your reader’s attention immediately. Outdated or irrelevant details should never lead your story. Your goal is to make your audience care from the first sentence.

2. Present Information in Descending Order of Importance

Once you’ve hooked your reader, continue with details that descend in importance. This structure, known as the inverted pyramid, ensures that the most crucial facts are front-loaded, making your story easy to follow and ensuring that nothing critical gets buried.

3. Ensure Smooth Transitions

Transitions are the glue that holds your story together. When shifting between quotes and facts, use the transition/quote formula—introduce your quote with a transition that provides context, ensuring the flow between paragraphs is logical and seamless.

4. Accurately Identify People

Accuracy is key in news writing. Always fully and accurately identify individuals by their full name and title, and make sure all names are spelled correctly. This builds credibility and ensures your audience understands who is involved.

5. Use Active Voice

Using active voice makes your writing more concise and engaging. Active sentences are clearer and easier to read. Avoid the passive voice whenever possible—it adds unnecessary words and weakens your message.

6. Be Concise

Keep your sentences and paragraphs short and to the point. Don’t overload your story with unnecessary details. Every word should serve a purpose and contribute to the story.

7. Omit Unnecessary Information

Only include information that is relevant and important to the story. Readers should leave your article feeling informed, not bogged down by extraneous details.

8. Answer All News Questions

Your story should address the who, what, when, where, why, and how. Readers should have no unanswered questions after reading your article.

9. Write in Third Person, Past Tense

UIL news writing is strictly objective. Write in third person and past tense since the events you’re reporting have already occurred. Avoid using first or second person to maintain professionalism and objectivity.

10. Follow AP Style

Using Associated Press (AP) style is essential for correct grammar, punctuation, and formatting. Adhering to AP style will give your writing a polished, professional edge.

11. Maintain Objectivity

News writing is about facts, not opinions. Keep your writing objective, and ensure that all opinions or judgments are attributed to sources—not yourself.

Mastering these elements will elevate your news writing, helping you excel in UIL competitions and produce stories that resonate with your readers.

Grammar, spelling, and neatness are also considered, but they are secondary to the criteria listed above.

Common Mistakes in UIL News Writing and How to Avoid Them

In UIL news writing, even small mistakes can cost you valuable points or, worse, disqualification. To help you stay on track and write compelling, competition-ready stories, here are some common pitfalls to watch out for—and how to avoid them.

1. Misusing Question Leads

While question leads can sometimes grab attention, they are often overused or misused. A question lead only works when it’s pertinent to the majority of readers. If the question is too niche or irrelevant, it risks alienating your audience. Stick to leads that provide clear, immediate information instead.

2. Using Second Person

One of the most serious mistakes you can make in UIL news writing is using second person (“you”). This makes your writing subjective, pulling readers directly into the narrative and making the piece feel informal. Remember, UIL news writing should always be objective and written in third person. Using second person can even lead to disqualification in competitions.

3. Missing the News Peg

The news peg is the most timely and important information in your story. Failing to identify and prioritize it means you’ll miss the opportunity to hook your readers from the start. Make sure the lead includes the most relevant and newsworthy information right away.

4. Stacking Quotes

Stacking quotes—placing multiple direct quotes back-to-back without transitions—can disrupt the flow of your story and confuse readers. Transitions are crucial to maintaining the flow and keeping readers engaged. Use the transition/quote formula: introduce a quote with a transition that provides context.

5. Not Using Student Quotes

Student newspapers are for students, so make sure you’re including student quotes in your stories—especially when covering topics that directly affect them. Student voices make the content more relatable and engaging for your audience.

6. Failing to Use the Transition/Quote Formula

UIL guidelines emphasize the importance of smooth transitions between quotes. Without proper transitions, your story can feel choppy and unorganized. Always use the transition/quote formula to connect ideas and drive the story forward.

7. Adding Unverified Facts

Avoid the temptation to add facts that aren’t provided in the source materials. Everything you include must be verified and accurate. Adding extra information can lead to inaccuracies that weaken your story.

8. Putting Attribution Before the Quote

The correct structure is quote first, attribution second. For example: “The event was a success,” John Smith said.Avoid putting the attribution at the beginning of the sentence, as it can make your writing feel awkward.

9. Using All Provided Information

Just because information is available doesn’t mean it needs to be included. Be selective—only use the details that are relevant and important to the story. This ensures your writing remains concise and focused.

10. Writing in Inverted-Pyramid Style

UIL news writing follows a straightforward, third-person, inverted-pyramid style. This means you should place the most important information at the top and then arrange details in descending order of importance. Master this structure before experimenting with other styles.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll produce stronger, more polished stories that adhere to UIL standards and resonate with your readers. Practice makes perfect, so keep refining your skills and stay mindful of these guidelines.

UIL News Writing FAQ

  • What is the most important thing to remember about UIL news writing? The most important thing to remember is to lead with the most timely information. This means focusing on the newest, most important information in the prompt, even if it’s not the most sensational or attention-grabbing.
  • How important is finding the news peg? It is crucial to identify the news peg, which is the most current and relevant aspect of the story. The news peg is the hook that will grab the reader’s attention and keep them engaged. For example, in a story about a proposed policy change, the news peg would be the upcoming vote on the proposal, not the initial announcement of the proposal.
  • What format should I use for UIL news writing? Use the inverted pyramid format, which presents information in descending order of importance.
  • How should I structure my story? Use the transition/quote formula, where transitions introduce direct quotes and provide context for the information presented in the quotes. Transitions should be clear, concise, and powerful, driving the story forward. Do not simply stack quotes one after another.
  • What kind of lead should I use? Generally, avoid question leads unless the question is relevant to a large majority of the readers. Most of the time, a summary lead that answers the most important news questions (who, what, when, where, why, and how) is the best choice.
  • How should I use quotes? Use direct and indirect quotes effectively. Direct quotes should add credibility and color to the story. They should be placed high in the story, after the lead. Always attribute direct quotes to their source. When introducing a direct quote, lead with the first sentence of the quote, then identify the source, then provide the verb, and then finish the quote. Use the verb “said” and avoid synonyms that imply intent, unless you attribute that intent. For example, if you want to use “believes,” write “Guinn said he believes Stevenson should not be fired.”
  • How should I handle information that is not directly related to the news peg? Omit all unnecessary information and use only the information that is essential to the story. For example, background information about the school or the individuals involved should be kept to a minimum, unless it is directly relevant to the news peg.
  • What are some common mistakes to avoid? Avoid editorializing or inserting personal opinions into the story. Stick to factual reporting and attribute all opinions and judgments to sources. Make sure to fully identify all sources, including their first and last names and titles. Avoid using “Leaguetown” unless absolutely necessary for clarity. Use third-person, past tense, and follow Associated Press style. Proofread carefully for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. Make sure your paragraphs are short, averaging 25-35 words, and that the first word of each paragraph is different.
  • How can I make my writing flow smoothly? Use transitional words and phrases to connect ideas and guide the reader through the story. Consider repeating key words, using synonyms, and referencing facts or ideas from preceding paragraphs.
  • What other advice do you have for UIL news writing? The sources contain a lot of good advice. You should carefully review the sample stories and contest tips provided in the sources to get a better understanding of what judges are looking for.
  • Can I use second person in my story? Avoid using second-person pronouns like “you” and “your” in news stories, as this includes the reporter in the story and breaks the objectivity required for UIL news writing.
  • How important is it to use student quotes? It is very important to include quotes from students in your stories, especially if the story deals with a topic that directly affects students. Remember, you are writing for a student newspaper, so the student perspective is essential.

What is a kicker quote? End your story with a strong quote that summarizes the key takeaway or leaves a lasting impression. This is called a kicker quote and it can help create a sense of closure and emphasize the significance of the story.

Class Companion for Speech Communication – Streamlining Lesson Planning

Balancing lecture content, class discussions, and assessments can be time-consuming in my Introduction to Speech Communication course. With Class Companion, I’ve streamlined my lesson planning, using its ready-made resources and automated assessments to ensure my students consistently engage with the material.

One of the standout features of Class Companion is its ability to organize lesson plans and materials in an intuitive, easy-to-use format. Research shows that well-structured lesson plans improve student performance and better time management for teachers (Marzano, 2007). I can focus more on student interaction with Class Companion, knowing that my course materials are organized and easily accessible.

Incorporating Class Companion into your course planning process ensures you have more time to dedicate to the students and their learning needs. 

Try Class Companion using my referral code here and experience the ease of streamlining your course materials.


References:

  • Marzano, R. J. (2007). The art and science of teaching: A comprehensive framework for effective instruction. ASCD.

Getting Started With UIL News Writing

  • Understand the Inverted Pyramid Format. The inverted pyramid format is the standard for UIL news writing. It involves presenting information in descending order of importance, starting with the most timely and important information in the lead. This allows readers to quickly grasp the essential details of the story and then decide if they want to continue reading for more information.
  • Identify the News Peg. Before you begin writing, take the time to carefully read the prompt and identify the news peg. The news peg is the most newsworthy aspect of the story, the hook that will draw the reader in. It often involves a future event or decision that will be made soon after the paper is published. The news peg should be the focus of your lead, not background information or older events.
  • Write a Strong Lead. Your lead is the first impression you make on the reader, so it should be clear, concise, and compelling. It should summarize the most important information from the prompt, including the who, what, when, where, why, and how. Avoid using question leads unless the question is highly relevant to a large majority of your readers.
  • Use the Transition/Quote Formula. The transition/quote formula is a key structural element in UIL news writing. It involves using transitions to introduce direct quotes and provide context for the information presented in the quotes.
    • Transitions should be strong and clear, guiding the reader through the story and highlighting the connections between different pieces of information. They should not simply repeat information from the quote.
    • Direct quotes should add credibility and color to the story. When introducing a direct quote, lead with the first sentence of the quote, then identify the source, then provide the verb, and then finish the quote. For example: ” ‘The answer to school violence is not more guns,’ he said. ‘Bringing guns on campus is going to create an atmosphere of fear, not learning'”.
  • Attribute Information Carefully. Make sure to properly attribute all information to its source, whether you are using direct or indirect quotes. Use the verb “said” and avoid synonyms that imply intent, unless you are specifically attributing that intent to the source.
  • Prioritize Student Voices. Include quotes from students in your stories, especially when the story deals with topics that directly affect students. Remember, you are writing for a student newspaper, so the student perspective is crucial.
  • Use AP Style. Follow Associated Press (AP) style guidelines for grammar, punctuation, and capitalization. You can find AP style resources online and in most journalism textbooks.
  • Proofread Carefully. Before you submit your story, take the time to proofread carefully for any errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, and factual accuracy. You can use the editing marks provided in [Source 86] to help you with this process.
  • Practice, Practice, Practice. The best way to improve your UIL news writing skills is to practice writing stories using the prompts provided in the sources and from past UIL contests. You can also ask your journalism teacher or a peer to review your work and provide feedback.

By following these tips and studying the sample stories provided in the sources, you’ll be well on your way to writing strong and successful UIL news stories.

Brisk + Google = Seamless Tech Integration for Today’s Classrooms


If you live in Google Docs like I do, then you know the drill—multiple tabs open, copy-pasting feedback, digging through folders for rubrics or past lessons. It works… but it’s far from efficient.

That’s why I started using Brisk Teaching—and let me tell you, the integration is seamless. No new logins. No complicated onboarding. Just powerful tools that enhance what you’re already doing in Google Workspace.


里 Brisk Works Where You Already Work

Brisk is designed to live inside the platforms you already use:

Google Docs

Google Slides

Google Classroom

No switching tabs, no exporting/importing, no third-party portals. If you’re already managing your classroom with Google tools, Brisk just plugs in and powers up.


六‍ How I Use Brisk Across My Preps

As a teacher with multiple preps—ranging from Professional Communication and DE Interpersonal Communication to UIL Journalism—Brisk helps me get more done with less stress.

Here’s what that looks like:

UIL News & Editorial Writing: I give targeted feedback right inside student Docs with Brisk’s feedback tool. It saves me hours each week while helping students revise with purpose.

Professional Communication: Brisk helps me generate rubrics for student speeches that are aligned, clear, and student-friendly.

DE Interpersonal Communication: I use Brisk’s presentation generator to create quick, editable slide decks from articles or videos.


 Make Any Resource Interactive with Brisk Boost

One of my favorite features is Brisk Boost—which allows me to turn a static article or video into an interactive lesson. Students move from passive reading or viewing to engaging with content in real time.

 Real Example:

In Interpersonal Communication, I brought in a video on empathy. Brisk instantly:

• Summarized the key points

• Generated class discussion questions

• Suggested 2 exit ticket prompts

It turned a 5-minute video into a full 30-minute discussion-based lesson—without extra prep on my part.


易 Why It Matters

When students interact with content—whether it’s through exit tickets, structured discussions, or digital annotations—they learn better. Brisk makes that interaction easy to plan and manage.

And as a teacher? I get to spend less time reinventing the wheel and more time guiding meaningful conversations and growth.


 Ready to Try It?

If you’re already in Google Workspace, Brisk will feel like an extension of your brain. It’s simple, effective, and saves time without sacrificing depth.

 Want to see how it fits into your next assignment?

Try Brisk here and watch your prep time shrink.


UIL News Writing: A Concise Overview

UIL news writing is a specific style of news writing used in the University Interscholastic League (UIL) journalism competitions in Texas. This style emphasizes conciseness, clarity, accuracy, and objectivity. Here’s a breakdown of the key characteristics:

  • Focus on Timely Information: The most critical aspect of UIL news writing is to prioritize the most timely information, often a future event or a decision to be made shortly after the publication date. Past events and background information should be minimized unless directly relevant to the news peg.
  • Inverted Pyramid Format: The inverted pyramid structure is paramount. It presents information in descending order of importance, starting with a strong lead that summarizes the most crucial details.
  • Transition/Quote Formula: The transition/quote formula is used to weave direct quotes seamlessly into the narrative. Transitions introduce and provide context for the quotes, ensuring a smooth and logical flow of information. Avoid simply stacking quotes.
  • Objectivity and Attribution: Maintaining objectivity is crucial. All information, opinions, and judgments must be attributed to specific sources. Use “said” to attribute quotes and avoid synonyms that imply intent unless specifically attributed.
  • Concise and Precise Language: Use clear, concise language and avoid unnecessary words or phrases. Sentences and paragraphs should be short and to the point.
  • Student Focus: Since the target audience is a student newspaper readership, it’s essential to include quotes from students, particularly on topics that directly affect them.

Successfully navigating UIL news writing involves understanding these key elements and honing the ability to extract and prioritize relevant information from the provided prompt. Practice and careful study of sample stories and contest tips are essential for success.

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