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Tag: Writing

  • PROOF POINTS: Writing researcher finds AI feedback ‘better than I thought’

    PROOF POINTS: Writing researcher finds AI feedback ‘better than I thought’

    Researchers from the University of California, Irvine, and Arizona State University found that human feedback was generally a bit better than AI feedback, but AI was surprisingly good. Credit: Getty Images

    This week I challenged my editor to face off against a machine. Barbara Kantrowitz gamely accepted, under one condition: “You have to file early.”  Ever since ChatGPT arrived in 2022, many journalists have made a public stunt out of asking the new generation of artificial intelligence to write their stories. Those AI stories were often bland and sprinkled with errors. I wanted to understand how well ChatGPT handled a different aspect of writing: giving feedback.

    My curiosity was piqued by a new study, published in the June 2024 issue of the peer-reviewed journal Learning and Instruction, that evaluated the quality of ChatGPT’s feedback on students’ writing. A team of researchers compared AI with human feedback on 200 history essays written by students in grades 6 through 12 and they determined that human feedback was generally a bit better. Humans had a particular advantage in advising students on something to work on that would be appropriate for where they are in their development as a writer. 

    But ChatGPT came close. On a five-point scale that the researchers used to rate feedback quality, with a 5 being the highest quality feedback, ChatGPT averaged a 3.6 compared with a 4.0 average from a team of 16 expert human evaluators. It was a tough challenge. Most of these humans had taught writing for more than 15 years or they had considerable experience in writing instruction. All received three hours of training for this exercise plus extra pay for providing the feedback.

    ChatGPT even beat these experts in one aspect; it was slightly better at giving feedback on students’ reasoning, argumentation and use of evidence from source materials – the features that the researchers had wanted the writing evaluators to focus on.

    “It was better than I thought it was going to be because I didn’t have a lot of hope that it was going to be that good,” said Steve Graham, a well-regarded expert on writing instruction at Arizona State University, and a member of the study’s research team. “It wasn’t always accurate. But sometimes it was right on the money. And I think we’ll learn how to make it better.”

    Average ratings for the quality of ChatGPT and human feedback on 200 student essays

    Researchers rated the quality of the feedback on a five-point scale across five different categories. Criteria-based refers to whether the feedback addressed the main goals of the writing assignment, in this case, to produce a well-reasoned argument about history using evidence from the reading source materials that the students were given. Clear directions mean whether the feedback included specific examples of something the student did well and clear directions for improvement. Accuracy means whether the feedback advice was correct without errors. Essential Features refer to whether the suggestion on what the student should work on next is appropriate for where the student is in his writing development and is an important element of this genre of writing. Supportive Tone refers to whether the feedback is delivered with language that is affirming, respectful and supportive, as opposed to condescending, impolite or authoritarian. (Source: Fig. 1 of Steiss et al, “Comparing the quality of human and ChatGPT feedback of students’ writing,” Learning and Instruction, June 2024.)

    Exactly how ChatGPT is able to give good feedback is something of a black box even to the writing researchers who conducted this study. Artificial intelligence doesn’t comprehend things in the same way that humans do. But somehow, through the neural networks that ChatGPT’s programmers built, it is picking up on patterns from all the writing it has previously digested, and it is able to apply those patterns to a new text. 

    The surprising “relatively high quality” of ChatGPT’s feedback is important because it means that the new artificial intelligence of large language models, also known as generative AI, could potentially help students improve their writing. One of the biggest problems in writing instruction in U.S. schools is that teachers assign too little writing, Graham said, often because teachers feel that they don’t have the time to give personalized feedback to each student. That leaves students without sufficient practice to become good writers. In theory, teachers might be willing to assign more writing or insist on revisions for each paper if students (or teachers) could use ChatGPT to provide feedback between drafts. 

    Despite the potential, Graham isn’t an enthusiastic cheerleader for AI. “My biggest fear is that it becomes the writer,” he said. He worries that students will not limit their use of ChatGPT to helpful feedback, but ask it to do their thinking, analyzing and writing for them. That’s not good for learning. The research team also worries that writing instruction will suffer if teachers delegate too much feedback to ChatGPT. Seeing students’ incremental progress and common mistakes remain important for deciding what to teach next, the researchers said. For example, seeing loads of run-on sentences in your students’ papers might prompt a lesson on how to break them up. But if you don’t see them, you might not think to teach it. Another common concern among writing instructors is that AI feedback will steer everyone to write in the same homogenized way. A young writer’s unique voice could be flattened out before it even has the chance to develop.

    There’s also the risk that students may not be interested in heeding AI feedback. Students often ignore the painstaking feedback that their teachers already give on their essays. Why should we think students will pay attention to feedback if they start getting more of it from a machine? 

    Still, Graham and his research colleagues at the University of California, Irvine, are continuing to study how AI could be used effectively and whether it ultimately improves students’ writing. “You can’t ignore it,” said Graham. “We either learn to live with it in useful ways, or we’re going to be very unhappy with it.”

    Right now, the researchers are studying how students might converse back-and-forth with ChatGPT like a writing coach in order to understand the feedback and decide which suggestions to use.

    Example of feedback from a human and ChatGPT on the same essay

    Source: Steiss et al, “Comparing the quality of human and ChatGPT feedback of students’ writing,” Learning and Instruction, June 2024.

    In the current study, the researchers didn’t track whether students understood or employed the feedback, but only sought to measure its quality. Judging the quality of feedback is a rather subjective exercise, just as feedback itself is a bundle of subjective judgment calls. Smart people can disagree on what good writing looks like and how to revise bad writing. 

    In this case, the research team came up with its own criteria for what constitutes good feedback on a history essay. They instructed the humans to focus on the student’s reasoning and argumentation, rather than, say, grammar and punctuation.  They also told the human raters to adopt a “glow and grow strategy” for delivering the feedback by first finding something to praise, then identifying a particular area for improvement. 

    The human raters provided this kind of feedback on hundreds of history essays from 2021 to 2023, as part of an unrelated study of an initiative to boost writing at school. The researchers randomly grabbed 200 of these essays and fed the raw student writing – without the human feedback – to version 3.5 of ChatGPT and asked it to give feedback, too. 

    At first, the AI feedback was terrible, but as the researchers tinkered with the instructions, or the “prompt,” they typed into ChatGPT, the feedback improved. The researchers eventually settled upon this wording: “Pretend you are a secondary school teacher. Provide 2-3 pieces of specific, actionable feedback on each of the following essays…. Use a friendly and encouraging tone.” The researchers also fed the assignment that the students were given, for example, “Why did the Montgomery Bus Boycott succeed?” along with the reading source material that the students were provided. (More details about how the researchers prompted ChatGPT are explained in Appendix C of the study.)

    The humans took about 20 to 25 minutes per essay. ChatGPT’s feedback came back instantly. The humans sometimes marked up sentences by, for example, showing a place where the student could have cited a source to buttress an argument. ChatGPT didn’t write any in-line comments and only wrote a note to the student. 

    Researchers then read through both sets of feedback – human and machine – for each essay, comparing and rating them. (It was supposed to be a blind comparison test and the feedback raters were not told who authored each one. However, the language and tone of ChatGPT were distinct giveaways, and the in-line comments were a tell of human feedback.)

    Humans appeared to have a clear edge with the very strongest and the very weakest writers, the researchers found. They were better at pushing a strong writer a little bit further, for example, by suggesting that the student consider and address a counterargument. ChatGPT struggled to come up with ideas for a student who was already meeting the objectives of a well-argued essay with evidence from the reading source materials. ChatGPT also struggled with the weakest writers. The researchers had to drop two of the essays from the study because they were so short that ChatGPT didn’t have any feedback for the student. The human rater was able to parse out some meaning from a brief, incomplete sentence and offer a suggestion. 

    In one student essay about the Montgomery Bus Boycott, reprinted above, the human feedback seemed too generic to me: “Next time, I would love to see some evidence from the sources to help back up your claim.” ChatGPT, by contrast, specifically suggested that the student could have mentioned how much revenue the bus company lost during the boycott – an idea that was mentioned in the student’s essay. ChatGPT also suggested that the student could have mentioned specific actions that the NAACP and other organizations took. But the student had actually mentioned a few of these specific actions in his essay. That part of ChatGPT’s feedback was plainly inaccurate. 

    In another student writing example, also reprinted below, the human straightforwardly pointed out that the student had gotten an historical fact wrong. ChatGPT appeared to affirm that the student’s mistaken version of events was correct.

    Another example of feedback from a human and ChatGPT on the same essay

    Source: Steiss et al, “Comparing the quality of human and ChatGPT feedback of students’ writing,” Learning and Instruction, June 2024.

    So how did ChatGPT’s review of my first draft stack up against my editor’s? One of the researchers on the study team suggested a prompt that I could paste into ChatGPT. After a few back and forth questions with the chatbot about my grade level and intended audience, it initially spit out some generic advice that had little connection to the ideas and words of my story. It seemed more interested in format and presentation, suggesting a summary at the top and subheads to organize the body. One suggestion would have made my piece too long-winded. Its advice to add examples of how AI feedback might be beneficial was something that I had already done. I then asked for specific things to change in my draft, and ChatGPT came back with some great subhead ideas. I plan to use them in my newsletter, which you can see if you sign up for it here. (And if you want to see my prompt and dialogue with ChatGPT, here is the link.) 

    My human editor, Barbara, was the clear winner in this round. She tightened up my writing, fixed style errors and helped me brainstorm this ending. Barbara’s job is safe – for now. 

    This story about AI feedback was written by Jill Barshay and produced by The Hechinger Report, a nonprofit, independent news organization focused on inequality and innovation in education. Sign up for Proof Points and other Hechinger newsletters.

    The Hechinger Report provides in-depth, fact-based, unbiased reporting on education that is free to all readers. But that doesn’t mean it’s free to produce. Our work keeps educators and the public informed about pressing issues at schools and on campuses throughout the country. We tell the whole story, even when the details are inconvenient. Help us keep doing that.

    Join us today.

    Jill Barshay

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  • PROOF POINTS: AI essay grading is already as ‘good as an overburdened’ teacher, but researchers say it needs more work

    PROOF POINTS: AI essay grading is already as ‘good as an overburdened’ teacher, but researchers say it needs more work

    Grading papers is hard work. “I hate it,” a teacher friend confessed to me. And that’s a major reason why middle and high school teachers don’t assign more writing to their students. Even an efficient high school English teacher who can read and evaluate an essay in 20 minutes would spend 3,000 minutes, or 50 hours, grading if she’s teaching six classes of 25 students each. There aren’t enough hours in the day. 

    Could ChatGPT relieve teachers of some of the burden of grading papers? Early research is finding that the new artificial intelligence of large language models, also known as generative AI, is approaching the accuracy of a human in scoring essays and is likely to become even better soon. But we still don’t know whether offloading essay grading to ChatGPT will ultimately improve or harm student writing.

    Tamara Tate, a researcher at University California, Irvine, and an associate director of her university’s Digital Learning Lab, is studying how teachers might use ChatGPT to improve writing instruction. Most recently, Tate and her seven-member research team, which includes writing expert Steve Graham at Arizona State University, compared how ChatGPT stacked up against humans in scoring 1,800 history and English essays written by middle and high school students. 

    Tate said ChatGPT was “roughly speaking, probably as good as an average busy teacher” and “certainly as good as an overburdened below-average teacher.” But, she said, ChatGPT isn’t yet accurate enough to be used on a high-stakes test or on an essay that would affect a final grade in a class.

    Tate presented her study on ChatGPT essay scoring at the 2024 annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association in Philadelphia in April. (The paper is under peer review for publication and is still undergoing revision.) 

    Most remarkably, the researchers obtained these fairly decent essay scores from ChatGPT without training it first with sample essays. That means it is possible for any teacher to use it to grade any essay instantly with minimal expense and effort. “Teachers might have more bandwidth to assign more writing,” said Tate. “You have to be careful how you say that because you never want to take teachers out of the loop.” 

    Writing instruction could ultimately suffer, Tate warned, if teachers delegate too much grading to ChatGPT. Seeing students’ incremental progress and common mistakes remain important for deciding what to teach next, she said. For example, seeing loads of run-on sentences in your students’ papers might prompt a lesson on how to break them up. But if you don’t see them, you might not think to teach it. 

    In the study, Tate and her research team calculated that ChatGPT’s essay scores were in “fair” to “moderate” agreement with those of well-trained human evaluators. In one batch of 943 essays, ChatGPT was within a point of the human grader 89 percent of the time. On a six-point grading scale that researchers used in the study, ChatGPT often gave an essay a 2 when an expert human evaluator thought it was really a 1. But this level of agreement – within one point – dropped to 83 percent of the time in another batch of 344 English papers and slid even farther to 76 percent of the time in a third batch of 493 history essays.  That means there were more instances where ChatGPT gave an essay a 4, for example, when a teacher marked it a 6. And that’s why Tate says these ChatGPT grades should only be used for low-stakes purposes in a classroom, such as a preliminary grade on a first draft.

    ChatGPT scored an essay within one point of a human grader 89 percent of the time in one batch of essays

    Corpus 3 refers to one batch of 943 essays, which represents more than half of the 1,800 essays that were scored in this study. Numbers highlighted in green show exact score matches between ChatGPT and a human. Yellow highlights scores in which ChatGPT was within one point of the human score. Source: Tamara Tate, University of California, Irvine (2024).

    Still, this level of accuracy was impressive because even teachers disagree on how to score an essay and one-point discrepancies are common. Exact agreement, which only happens half the time between human raters, was worse for AI, which matched the human score exactly only about 40 percent of the time. Humans were far more likely to give a top grade of a 6 or a bottom grade of a 1. ChatGPT tended to cluster grades more in the middle, between 2 and 5. 

    Tate set up ChatGPT for a tough challenge, competing against teachers and experts with PhDs who had received three hours of training in how to properly evaluate essays. “Teachers generally receive very little training in secondary school writing and they’re not going to be this accurate,” said Tate. “This is a gold-standard human evaluator we have here.”

    The raters had been paid to score these 1,800 essays as part of three earlier studies on student writing. Researchers fed these same student essays – ungraded –  into ChatGPT and asked ChatGPT to score them cold. ChatGPT hadn’t been given any graded examples to calibrate its scores. All the researchers did was copy and paste an excerpt of the same scoring guidelines that the humans used, called a grading rubric, into ChatGPT and told it to “pretend” it was a teacher and score the essays on a scale of 1 to 6. 

    Older robo graders

    Earlier versions of automated essay graders have had higher rates of accuracy. But they were expensive and time-consuming to create because scientists had to train the computer with hundreds of human-graded essays for each essay question. That’s economically feasible only in limited situations, such as for a standardized test, where thousands of students answer the same essay question. 

    Earlier robo graders could also be gamed, once a student understood the features that the computer system was grading for. In some cases, nonsense essays received high marks if fancy vocabulary words were sprinkled in them. ChatGPT isn’t grading for particular hallmarks, but is analyzing patterns in massive datasets of language. Tate says she hasn’t yet seen ChatGPT give a high score to a nonsense essay. 

    Tate expects ChatGPT’s grading accuracy to improve rapidly as new versions are released. Already, the research team has detected that the newer 4.0 version, which requires a paid subscription, is scoring more accurately than the free 3.5 version. Tate suspects that small tweaks to the grading instructions, or prompts, given to ChatGPT could improve existing versions. She is interested in testing whether ChatGPT’s scoring could become more reliable if a teacher trained it with just a few, perhaps five, sample essays that she has already graded. “Your average teacher might be willing to do that,” said Tate.

    Many ed tech startups, and even well-known vendors of educational materials, are now marketing new AI essay robo graders to schools. Many of them are powered under the hood by ChatGPT or another large language model and I learned from this study that accuracy rates can be reported in ways that can make the new AI graders seem more accurate than they are. Tate’s team calculated that, on a population level, there was no difference between human and AI scores. ChatGPT can already reliably tell you the average essay score in a school or, say, in the state of California. 

    Questions for AI vendors

    At this point, it is not as accurate in scoring an individual student. And a teacher wants to know exactly how each student is doing. Tate advises teachers and school leaders who are considering using an AI essay grader to ask specific questions about accuracy rates on the student level:  What is the rate of exact agreement between the AI grader and a human rater on each essay? How often are they within one-point of each other?

    The next step in Tate’s research is to study whether student writing improves after having an essay graded by ChatGPT. She’d like teachers to try using ChatGPT to score a first draft and then see if it encourages revisions, which are critical for improving writing. Tate thinks teachers could make it “almost like a game: how do I get my score up?” 

    Of course, it’s unclear if grades alone, without concrete feedback or suggestions for improvement, will motivate students to make revisions. Students may be discouraged by a low score from ChatGPT and give up. Many students might ignore a machine grade and only want to deal with a human they know. Still, Tate says some students are too scared to show their writing to a teacher until it’s in decent shape, and seeing their score improve on ChatGPT might be just the kind of positive feedback they need. 

    “We know that a lot of students aren’t doing any revision,” said Tate. “If we can get them to look at their paper again, that is already a win.”

    That does give me hope, but I’m also worried that kids will just ask ChatGPT to write the whole essay for them in the first place.

    This story about AI essay scoring was written by Jill Barshay and produced by The Hechinger Report, a nonprofit, independent news organization focused on inequality and innovation in education. Sign up for Proof Points and other Hechinger newsletters.

    The Hechinger Report provides in-depth, fact-based, unbiased reporting on education that is free to all readers. But that doesn’t mean it’s free to produce. Our work keeps educators and the public informed about pressing issues at schools and on campuses throughout the country. We tell the whole story, even when the details are inconvenient. Help us keep doing that.

    Join us today.

    Jill Barshay

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  • Positive vs. Negative Self: A Dialogue (PDF)

    Positive vs. Negative Self: A Dialogue (PDF)

    Our minds can sometimes feel like a battleground of different thoughts competing with one another. In this exercise, you’ll be asked to write a fictional dialogue between your “positive self” and “negative self.”


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    Steven Handel

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  • Positive Psychology Tools Are Most Effective For Those Who Practice Long-Term

    Positive Psychology Tools Are Most Effective For Those Who Practice Long-Term


    A new study finds that a “Science of Happiness” university course, designed to teach students a variety of happiness hacks, provides the most long-term benefits when participants stick with the tools and exercises after completion.

    There have been many experiments showing the short-term benefits of positive psychological interventions like gratitude, meditation, kindness, and journaling, but not many studies have looked into these effects on a longer timeline.

    At the University of Bristol, there’s a popular course known as “The Science of Happiness” that aims to teach students how to use various happiness hacks to improve their mental health and well-being. This course has been running since 2019 and has been offered both online and in-person.

    The program balances practical advice with important information on topics such as: the nature of happiness, the role of biology and environment, cognitive biases, brain mechanisms, problem-solving, and the importance of social connection. At the end of each week, students are instructed to try evidence-based activities or “happiness hacks,” as a way of fostering positive mental well-being.

    In previous years, individuals who took the course reported significantly increased mental well-being from the first week to the final week, as shown by a 10-15% increase in their scores on the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale. Participants also reported reduced loneliness and anxiety. A follow-up after six weeks continued to show sustained benefits, but it was unclear how long these positive effects lasted.

    In a new study published in the journal Higher Education, researchers analyzed 228 undergraduate students from various disciplines who had completed the positive psychology course either 1 or 2 years ago. Interestingly, while most students reported short-term benefits, later group analysis revealed that these benefits did not persist uniformly across all participants during the long term follow-up period.

    A deeper look at the data revealed a crucial factor behind the program’s success: continued engagement. Approximately 51% of the students who actively practiced the recommended activities taught during the course maintained their increased mental well-being over the follow-up period. These students consistently applied positive psychology principles in their daily lives at least a year after they completed the class.

    Here’s a chart from the study illustrating the findings:

    As you can see, those who continued to follow the “happiness hacks” maintained their gains in subjective well-being during the long term follow-up.

    The most commonly reported technique that students continued to use was gratitude (37.17%), including writing letters of gratitude to others and making lists of things that they were grateful for (“three good things”). Other commonly reported techniques were mindfulness/meditation (33.63%), exercise (21.24%), journaling (17.70%) and kindness (10.62%).


    How to Create Sustained Positive Change

    The study recommends that schools and institutions consider the long-term impact of psychoeducational courses. While initial benefits are essential, sustained effects depend on prolonged engagement and commitment.

    Course designs should incorporate mechanisms to encourage continued practice:

    The goal of psychology – whether it’s with a course, book, article, therapist, or coach – is always to take what you learn and integrate it into your real world living.

    In the moment, learning about these tools and exercises can provide a nice temporary boost of relief, but then we quickly get bored, forget about them, stop applying them, and lose out on their benefits over time.

    Much like a diet or exercise regimen, you need to create a mental health system in your life that works for you and is sustainable into the future. Quick fixes are a myth. You’ll always snap back to your old ways if you don’t choose a course of action you can follow continuously and indefinitely.

    In theory, choose habits you can do for the rest of your life. That’s the mindset you need for continuous growth, happiness, and well-being. Gratitude, kindness, meditation, exercise, and journaling can become habits that are just as second-nature to you as tying your shoes or driving a car. Make self-care an everyday occurence.

    Ultimately, if you want to build a happy life, you have to be in it for the long haul.


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    Steven Handel

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  • 70+ Best Spring Quotes To Celebrate the Season

    70+ Best Spring Quotes To Celebrate the Season

    The snow is melting, the temperatures are rising, the birds are chirping, and the sound of children at play are filling the air. Springtime is right around the corner, and with it, the hopes and plans of many. Spirits rise in spring, and your students are certainly not immune. Perhaps you want to incorporate a writing prompt about spring into your next ELA lesson. Or maybe you need an inspirational message to share at the start of class. Bookmark this page for sharing some of our favorite spring quotes in the classroom!

    Spring Quotes by Poets

    No man can taste the fruits of autumn while he is delighting his scent with the flowers of spring. – Samuel Johnson

    There are no ordinary feelings. Just as there are no ordinary spring days or kicked-over cans of paint. – Dean Young

    There are no ordinary feelings. Just as there are no ordinary spring days or kicked-over cans of paint. - Dean Young

    And as he came he saw that it was spring,
    A time abhorrent to the nihilist
    Or searcher for the fecund minimum.
    – Wallace Stevens

    And as he came he saw that it was spring, A time abhorrent to the nihilist Or searcher for the fecund minimum. - Wallace Stevens

    A little Madness in the Spring Is wholesome even for the King. – Emily Dickinson

    A little Madness in the Spring Is wholesome even for the King. - Emily Dickinson

    In California in the early Spring,
    There are pale yellow mornings, when the mist burns slowly into day,
    The air stings like Autumn, clarifies like pain –
    Well, I have dreamed this coast myself.
    – Robert Hass

    In California in the early Spring, There are pale yellow mornings, when the mist burns slowly into day, The air stings like Autumn, clarifies like pain - Well, I have dreamed this coast myself. - Robert Hass

    One swallow does not make a summer, but one skein of geese, cleaving the murk of a March thaw, is the spring. – Aldo Leopold

    One swallow does not make a summer, but one skein of geese, cleaving the murk of a March thaw, is the spring. - Aldo Leopold

    Sweet April showers Do spring May flowers. – Thomas Tusser

    Sweet April showers Do spring May flowers. - Thomas Tusser

    Spring’s greatest joy beyond a doubt is when it brings the children out. – Edgar Guest

    Spring's greatest joy beyond a doubt is when it brings the children out. - Edgar Guest

    But the true nature of the human heart is as whimsical as spring weather. All signals may aim toward a fall of rain when suddenly the skies will clear. – Maya Angelou

    But the true nature of the human heart is as whimsical as spring weather. All signals may aim toward a fall of rain when suddenly the skies will clear. - Maya Angelou- spring quotes

    Spring has come back again. The Earth is like a child that’s got poems by heart. – Rainer Maria Rilke

    Spring has come back again. The Earth is like a child that's got poems by heart. - Rainer Maria Rilke

    What potent blood hath modest May. – Ralph Waldo Emerson

    What potent blood hath modest May. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

    Earth laughs in flowers. – Ralph Waldo Emerson

    Earth laughs in flowers. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

    The sun was warm but the wind was chill.
    You know how it is with an April day.
    When the sun is out and the wind is still,
    You’re one month on in the middle of May.
    – Robert Frost

    The sun was warm but the wind was chill. You know how it is with an April day. When the sun is out and the wind is still, You’re one month on in the middle of May. - Robert Frost- spring quotes

    If winter comes, can spring be far behind? – Percy Bysshe Shelley

    If winter comes, can spring be far behind? - Percy Bysshe Shelley

    The beautiful spring came; and when Nature resumes her loveliness, the human soul is apt to revive also. – Harriet Jacobs

    The beautiful spring came; and when Nature resumes her loveliness, the human soul is apt to revive also. - Harriet Jacobs

    Never yet was a springtime, when the buds forgot to blow. – Margaret Elizabeth Sangster

    Never yet was a springtime, when the buds forgot to blow. - Margaret Elizabeth Sangster

    If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome. – Anne Bradstreet

    If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome. - Anne Bradstreet

    It is about five o’clock in an evening that the first hour of spring strikes—autumn arrives in the early morning, but spring at the close of a winter day. – Elizabeth Bowen

    It is about five o'clock in an evening that the first hour of spring strikes—autumn arrives in the early morning, but spring at the close of a winter day. - Elizabeth Bowen- spring quotes

    What are heavy? sea-sand and sorrow. What are brief? today and tomorrow. What are frail? spring blossoms and youth. What are deep? the ocean and truth. – Christina Rossetti

    What are heavy? sea-sand and sorrow. What are brief? today and tomorrow. What are frail? spring blossoms and youth. What are deep? the ocean and truth. - Christina Rossetti

    If spring came but once a century instead of once a year, or burst forth with the sound of an earthquake and not in silence, what wonder and expectation there would be in all hearts to behold the miraculous change. – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

    If spring came but once a century instead of once a year, or burst forth with the sound of an earthquake and not in silence, what wonder and expectation there would be in all hearts to behold the miraculous change. - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

    Dead my old fine hopes
    And dry my dreaming but still …
    Iris, blue each spring
    – Shushiki

    Dead my old fine hopes And dry my dreaming but still ... Iris, blue each spring - Shushiki

    Quotes About Spring by Songwriters and Musicians

    It’s spring again. I can hear the birds sing again. See the flowers start to bud. See young people fall in love. – Lou Rawls

    It’s spring again. I can hear the birds sing again. See the flowers start to bud. See young people fall in love. - Lou Rawls- spring quotes

    Spring is here, there’s no mistaking
    Robins building nests from coast to coast
    My heart tries to sing so they won’t hear it breaking
    Spring can really hang you up the most
    – Ella Fitzgerald

    Spring is here, there's no mistaking Robins building nests from coast to coast My heart tries to sing so they won't hear it breaking Spring can really hang you up the most - Ella Fitzgerald

    The spring, summer, is quite a hectic time for people in their lives, but then it comes to autumn, and to winter, and you can’t but help think back to the year that was, and then hopefully looking forward to the year that is approaching. – Enya

    The spring, summer, is quite a hectic time for people in their lives, but then it comes to autumn, and to winter, and you can’t but help think back to the year that was, and then hopefully looking forward to the year that is approaching. - Enya

    Spring fever, spring is here at last. Spring fever, my heart’s beating fast. Get up, get out. Spring is everywhere. – Elvis Presley

    Spring fever, spring is here at last. Spring fever, my heart’s beating fast. Get up, get out. Spring is everywhere. - Elvis Presley- spring quotes

    You make me feel so young, you make me feel so spring has sprung. – Frank Sinatra

    You make me feel so young, you make me feel so spring has sprung. - Frank Sinatra

    There will be children with robins and flowers; sunshine caresses each new waking hour. – Rascal Flatts

    There will be children with robins and flowers; sunshine caresses each new waking hour. – Rascal Flatts

    Spring time. As the view from the window is getting greener and greener, my heart is getting stronger and stronger. – Yoko Ono

    Spring time. As the view from the window is getting greener and greener, my heart is getting stronger and stronger. - Yoko Ono- spring quotes

    Spring Quotes by Philosophers and Mathematicians

    For what is the program of the bourgeois parties? A bad poem on springtime, filled to bursting with metaphors. – Walter Benjamin

    For what is the program of the bourgeois parties? A bad poem on springtime, filled to bursting with metaphors. - Walter Benjamin

    I return to the newborn world, and the soft-soil fields,
    What their first birthing lifted to the shores
    Of light, and trusted to the wayward winds.
    First the Earth gave the shimmer of greenery
    And grasses to deck the hills; then over the meadows
    The flowering fields are bright with the color of springtime,
    And for all the trees that shoot into the air.
    – Lucretius

    I return to the newborn world, and the soft-soil fields, What their first birthing lifted to the shores Of light, and trusted to the wayward winds. First the Earth gave the shimmer of greenery And grasses to deck the hills; then over the meadows The flowering fields are bright with the color of springtime, And for all the trees that shoot into the air. - Lucretius

    If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need. – Cicero

    If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need. - Cicero- spring quotes

    In these minute creatures [insects], so nearly akin as they are to non-entity, how surpassing the intelligence, how vast the resources, and how ineffable the perfection which she [Nature] has displayed. – Pliny the Elder

    In these minute creatures [insects], so nearly akin as they are to non-entity, how surpassing the intelligence, how vast the resources, and how ineffable the perfection which she [Nature] has displayed. - Pliny the Elder

    A flower cannot blossom without sunshine, and man cannot live without love. – Max Muller

    A flower cannot blossom without sunshine, and man cannot live without love. - Max Muller

    It seems to be true that many things have as it were, an epoch in which they are discovered in several places simultaneously, just as the violets appear on all sides in springtime. – Farkas Bolyai

    It seems to be true that many things have as it were, an epoch in which they are discovered in several places simultaneously, just as the violets appear on all sides in springtime. - Farkas Bolyai

    Mathematical discoveries, like springtime violets in the woods, have their season which no human can hasten or retard. – Carl Friedrich Gauss

    Mathematical discoveries, like springtime violets in the woods, have their season which no human can hasten or retard. - Carl Friedrich Gauss

    Quotes About Spring by Actors

    The spring in Boston is like being in love: bad days slip in among the good ones, and the whole world is at a standstill, then the sun shines, the tears dry up, and we forget that yesterday was stormy. – Louise Closser Hale

    The spring in Boston is like being in love: bad days slip in among the good ones, and the whole world is at a standstill, then the sun shines, the tears dry up, and we forget that yesterday was stormy. - Louise Closser Hale- spring quotes

    Baseball begins in the spring, the season of new life. Football begins in the fall, when everything’s dying. – George Carlin

    Baseball begins in the spring, the season of new life. Football begins in the fall, when everything's dying. - George Carlin

    Gardening is the greatest tonic and therapy a human being can have. Even if you have only a tiny piece of earth, you can create something beautiful, which we all have a great need for. If we begin by respecting plants, it’s inevitable we’ll respect people. – Audrey Hepburn

    Gardening is the greatest tonic and therapy a human being can have. Even if you have only a tiny piece of earth, you can create something beautiful, which we all have a great need for. If we begin by respecting plants, it's inevitable we'll respect people. - Audrey Hepburn

    It’s a wonderful opportunity to be part of a child’s growing up, which is always an endless springtime. You see the blossoming and the growing and the nurturing and the payoff. – Harrison Ford

    It's a wonderful opportunity to be part of a child's growing up, which is always an endless springtime. You see the blossoming and the growing and the nurturing and the payoff. - Harrison Ford

    I like to run in the springtime or in the fall … if I’m outside, I could just run for ages. – AnnaSophia Robb

    I like to run in the springtime or in the fall ... if I'm outside, I could just run for ages. - AnnaSophia Robb

    I realize there’s nothing quite as satisfying as eating food that you’ve pulled up from the ground, and that’s why, at the height of the planting season, I bury cans of tomato soup in my backyard and dig them up in late spring. – Ellen DeGeneres

    I realize there's nothing quite as satisfying as eating food that you've pulled up from the ground, and that's why, at the height of the planting season, I bury cans of tomato soup in my backyard and dig them up in late spring. - Ellen DeGeneres

    Quotes About Spring by Writers

    From you have I been absent in the spring,
    When proud-pied April, dress’d in all his trim,
    Hath put a spirit of youth in everything.
    – William Shakespeare

    From you have I been absent in the spring, When proud-pied April, dress'd in all his trim, Hath put a spirit of youth in everything. - William Shakespeare- spring quotes

    Beauty is a form of Genius—is higher, indeed, than Genius, as it needs no explanation. It is one of the great facts of the world, like sunlight, or springtime, or the reflection in the dark waters of that silver shell we call the moon. – Oscar Wilde

    Beauty is a form of Genius—is higher, indeed, than Genius, as it needs no explanation. It is one of the great facts of the world, like sunlight, or springtime, or the reflection in the dark waters of that silver shell we call the moon. - Oscar Wilde

    Youth has its romance, and maturity its wisdom, as morning and spring have their freshness, noon and summer their power, night and winter their repose. Each attribute is good in its own season. – Charlotte Brontë

    Youth has its romance, and maturity its wisdom, as morning and spring have their freshness, noon and summer their power, night and winter their repose. Each attribute is good in its own season. - Charlotte Brontë

    It is better to remember our love as it was in the springtime. – Bess Streeter Aldrich, Spring Came On Forever

    It is better to remember our love as it was in the springtime. - Bess Streeter Aldrich, Spring Came On Forever- spring quotes

    In the spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours. – Mark Twain

    In the spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours. - Mark Twain

    There’s a word in Japanese for being sad in the springtime—a whole word for just being sad—about how pretty the flowers are and how soon they’re going to die. – Sarah Ruhl, The Clean House and Other Plays

    There's a word in Japanese for being sad in the springtime—a whole word for just being sad—about how pretty the flowers are and how soon they're going to die. - Sarah Ruhl, The Clean House and Other Plays

    It was such a spring day as breathes into a man an ineffable yearning, a painful sweetness, a longing that makes him stand motionless, looking at the leaves or grass, and fling out his arms to embrace he knows not what. – John Galsworthy

    It was such a spring day as breathes into a man an ineffable yearning, a painful sweetness, a longing that makes him stand motionless, looking at the leaves or grass, and fling out his arms to embrace he knows not what. - John Galsworthy

    Nostalgia in reverse, the longing for yet another strange land, grew especially strong in spring. – Vladimir Nabokov, Mary

    Nostalgia in reverse, the longing for yet another strange land, grew especially strong in spring. - Vladimir Nabokov- spring quotes

    I enjoy the spring more than the autumn now. One does, I think, as one gets older. – Virginia Woolf

    I enjoy the spring more than the autumn now. One does, I think, as one gets older. - Virginia Woolf

    “Is the spring coming?” he said. “What is it like?” … “It is the sun shining on the rain and the rain falling on the sunshine.” – Frances Hodgson Burnett, The Secret Garden

    "Is the spring coming?" he said. "What is it like?" ... "It is the sun shining on the rain and the rain falling on the sunshine." - Frances Hodgson Burnett, The Secret Garden

    Nature gives to every time and season some beauties of its own. – Charles Dickens, The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby

    Nature gives to every time and season some beauties of its own. - Charles Dickens- spring quotes

    Revolution is as unpredictable as an earthquake and as beautiful as spring. Its coming is always a surprise, but its nature should not be. – Rebecca Solnit, The Encyclopedia of Trouble and Spaciousness

    Revolution is as unpredictable as an earthquake and as beautiful as spring. Its coming is always a surprise, but its nature should not be. - Rebecca Solnit, The Encyclopedia of Trouble and Spaciousness- spring quotes

    I suppose the best kind of spring morning is the best weather God has to offer. – Dodie Smith, I Capture the Castle

    I suppose the best kind of spring morning is the best weather God has to offer. - Dodie Smith

    The man who has planted a garden feels that he has done something for the good of the world. – Charles Dudley Warner, My Summer in a Garden

    The man who has planted a garden feels that he has done something for the good of the world. - Charles Dudley Warner

    You need friends who think you’re fabulous, an angel in human shape, and a breath of springtime. – Cynthia Heimel

    You need friends who think you're fabulous, an angel in human shape, and a breath of springtime. - Cynthia Heimel- spring quotes

    The only thing that could spoil a day was people. … People were always the limiters of happiness except for the very few that were as good as spring itself. – Ernest Hemingway, A Moveable Feast

    The only thing that could spoil a day was people. People were always the limiters of happiness except for the very few that were as good as spring itself. - Ernest Hemingway

    The beautiful spring came; and when Nature resumes her loveliness, the human soul is apt to revive also. – Harriet Jacobs

    The beautiful spring came; and when Nature resumes her loveliness, the human soul is apt to revive also. - Harriet Jacobs

    Every intoxicating delight of early spring was in the air. The breeze that fanned her cheek was laden with subtle perfume and the crisp, fresh odor of unfolding leaves. – Gene Stratton-Porter, The Song of the Cardinal

    Every intoxicating delight of early spring was in the air. The breeze that fanned her cheek was laden with subtle perfume and the crisp, fresh odor of unfolding leaves. - Gene Stratton-Porter, The Song of the Cardinal- spring quotes

    Gardening is not a rational act. In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt. – Margaret Atwood, Bluebeard’s Egg

    Gardening is not a rational act. In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt. - Margaret Atwood, Bluebeard's Egg

    The desert weed lives on, but the flower of spring blooms and wilts. – Khaled Hosseini, The Kite Runner

    The desert weed lives on, but the flower of spring blooms and wilts. - Khaled Hosseini, The Kite Runner- spring quotes

    Spring was running in a thin green flame over the Valley. – Ellen Glasgow, Vein of Iron

    Spring was running in a thin green flame over the Valley. - Ellen Glasgow, Vein of Iron

    Some old-fashioned things like fresh air and sunshine are hard to beat. – Laura Ingalls Wilder

    Some old-fashioned things like fresh air and sunshine are hard to beat. - Laura Ingalls Wilder

    Stronger than iron crueler than death sweeter than springtime it lives beyond breath – Juliet Marillier, Cybele’s Secret

    Stronger than iron crueler than death sweeter than springtime it lives beyond breath - Juliet Marillier, Cybele's Secret- spring quotes

    Autumn is a second Spring when every leaf is a flower. – Albert Camus, The Misunderstanding

    Autumn is a second Spring when every leaf is a flower. - Albert Camus, The Misunderstanding- spring quotes

    Spring Quotes by Political and Religious Figures

    When Spring unlocks the flowers to paint the laughing soil. – Reginald Heber

    When Spring unlocks the flowers to paint the laughing soil. - Reginald Heber

    Middle age is the way you would feel about summer if you knew there would never be another spring. – Clare Boothe Luce, The Women

    Middle age is the way you would feel about summer if you knew there would never be another spring. - Clare Boothe Luce, The Women

    Satan knows that youth is the springtime of life when all things are new and young people are most vulnerable. – Ezra Taft Benson

    Satan knows that youth is the springtime of life when all things are new and young people are most vulnerable. - Ezra Taft Benson

    This [Ireland] is not the land of my birth, but it is the land for which I hold the greatest affection, and I certainly will come back in the springtime – John F. Kennedy

    This [Ireland] is not the land of my birth, but it is the land for which I hold the greatest affection, and I certainly will come back in the springtime - John F. Kennedy- spring quotes

    If there is any danger in the present weather, in the name of God, Monsieur, wait until spring. – Vincent de Paul

    If there is any danger in the present weather, in the name of God, Monsieur, wait until spring. - Vincent de Paul

    In this springtime of hope, some lights seem eternal; America’s is. – Ronald Reagan

    In this springtime of hope, some lights seem eternal; America's is. - Ronald Reagan

    All that happens is as usual and familiar as the rose in spring and the crop in summer. – Marcus Aurelius

    All that happens is as usual and familiar as the rose in spring and the crop in summer. - Marcus Aurelius- spring quotes

    What quotes about spring inspire you? Come share in our We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

    And if you like inspirational quotes, you’ll love these quotes about teaching.

    Kristy Zamagni-Twomey

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  • WTF Fun Fact 13707 – The Biro

    WTF Fun Fact 13707 – The Biro

    Why do some people call ballpoint pens a biro?

    The ballpoint pen was introduced in 1945, by a man named László Bíró, a Hungarian journalist. In 1945, his simple yet revolutionary writing instrument was introduced to the world.

    This innovation dramatically transformed the act of writing, making it more accessible and practical than ever before.

    Rise of the biro

    Biró found fountain pens impractical, so he sought an alternative. His quest was also inspired by the quick-drying ink used in newspapers.

    Partnering with his brother György, Bíró embarked on refining the ballpoint pen to use a paste-like ink that didn’t evaporate, mitigating the common frustrations associated with fountain pens. Bíró created a pen that revolutionized writing by introducing a rolling ball mechanism that evenly distributed ink as it moved across the paper.

    Despite its initial luxury status, the pen’s practicality soon became undeniable. Its ability to write on various surfaces without leaking or smudging was a significant advancement over traditional ink and quill or fountain pens.

    Global adoption

    The Biro’s journey was not without its challenges. Navigating through financial difficulties, patent disputes, and wartime turmoil, Bíró’s invention found a lifeline in Argentina. Later, the British Ministries of Supply and Aircraft Production recognized the Biro’s utility for RAF pilots, propelling it into mass production. The post-war period saw further innovations, with entrepreneurs like Marcel Bich refining the design to manufacture the Bic Cristal, an affordable and ubiquitous model that cemented the ballpoint pen’s place in society.

    Despite initial challenges, including fleeing war-torn Europe for Argentina, Bíró’s invention gained recognition for its practicality. The British Royal Air Force saw the pen’s potential. They ordered thousands for their pilots, who needed reliable writing instruments at high altitudes. This marked the beginning of the Biro pen’s global journey.

    That’s why the name “Biro” is more than just a brand; it’s an homage to the inventor himself. In many parts of the world, the term “Biro” is synonymous with “ballpoint pen.” This is a testament to László Bíró’s lasting impact. The pen’s name varies globally, reflecting its widespread adoption and the universal need it addressed. In English-speaking countries, particularly the UK, the pen is often called a “Biro” in recognition of its creator’s ingenuity.

    Transforming Writing Practices

    The Biro’s simplicity belies the complexity of its impact. This shift facilitated a more dynamic and accessible form of communication, democratizing writing across different strata of society.

    The story of Biro’s influence on writing practices invites us to appreciate the seemingly mundane objects that harbor rich histories.

    — WTF fun facts

    Source: “The Biro, the invention that changed the writing game” — New Atlas

    WTF

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  • Student fights AI cheating allegations for using Grammarly

    Student fights AI cheating allegations for using Grammarly

    (NewsNation) — University junior Marley Stevens faced a startling setback when a paper she worked on received a zero grade, plunging her into academic probation and jeopardizing her scholarship. The twist? She had used Grammarly, a popular writing plugin recommended by her university to refine her work.

    Stevens, recounting her ordeal, expressed initial disbelief upon receiving the email notifying her of the zero grade. “I thought he had sent the email to the wrong person because I worked super hard on my paper,” she said in a Sunday interview on “NewsNation Prime.”

    She didn’t expect that three months later, she would still be entangled in the aftermath, with her scholarship hanging by a thread. Grammarly says 30 million people use this tool to catch spelling errors, typos and grammar issues.

    Grammarly also uses generative AI, and a detection service flagged Stevens’ assignment for the teacher as “unintentionally cheating.”

    “I’m on probation until Feb. 16 of next year. And this started when he sent me the email. It was October. I didn’t think that now in March of 2024 that this would still be a big thing that was going on,” Stevens said.

    Despite Grammarly being recommended on the University of North Georgia’s website, Stevens found herself embroiled in a battle to clear her name. The tool, briefly removed from the school’s website, later resurfaced, adding to the confusion surrounding its acceptable usage despite the software’s utilization of generative AI.

    “I have a teacher this semester who told me in an email like, ‘Yes, use Grammarly. It’s a great tool.’ And they advertise it,” Stevens said.

    Grammarly’s Jenny Maxwell clarified the company’s stance, emphasizing its role as a partner in enhancing writing experiences while ensuring responsible usage. “Our AI engine inside of it helps people create better writing experiences that are grammatically correct, [with] fewer spelling issues,” she explained.

    Maxwell defended the tool’s integrity, highlighting its 15-year history of aiding students and professionals in crafting grammatically correct content. “We’ve recently added a generative engine within Grammarly,” Maxwell explained, emphasizing responsible usage and transparency in citing its assistance.

    Despite Stevens’ appeal and subsequent GoFundMe campaign to rectify the situation, her options seem limited. The university’s stance, citing the absence of suspension or expulsion, has left her in a bureaucratic bind.

    Maxwell, on behalf of Grammarly, extended support, including a $4,000 donation.

    Reflecting on the broader implications, Maxwell urged institutions to adapt their assessment methods in light of evolving technologies like AI.

    “Education is wrestling right now with how they need to evolve the way that they assess writing,” she remarked.

    NewsNation reached out to the university for comment and hasn’t heard back.

    Damita Menezes

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  • The Immovable Mind: Schopenhauer’s Daily Routine For 27 Years

    The Immovable Mind: Schopenhauer’s Daily Routine For 27 Years


    What does the daily life of a legendary philosopher look like? Learn about Arthur Schopenhauer’s unique routine that he consistently followed for over 27 years.

    Arthur Schopenhauer was a major figure in German philosophy throughout the 19th century along with Friedrich Nietzsche and Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel.

    While he’s known for his pessimism and negative outlook on life, there’s no denying that Schopenhauer was an intellectual powerhouse of his time who influenced many great thinkers, philosophers, and artists long after his death.

    His book Essays and Aphorisms is a great introduction and overview of his philosophical ideas. It explains his core metaphysical belief of “world as appearance,” continuing the legacy of other idealist philosophers like Plato, Kant, and Indian philosophy, which warn about viewing the world strictly through a materialist lens.

    The beginning of the book provides a nice biography of Schopenhauer’s family background, education, and life history. There’s one interesting section on his daily routine that caught my attention and wanted to share; it’s always fascinating to gain insights into the habits and lifestyles of influential figures, especially potential role models we can emulate and borrow from.

    This specific routine characterizes the last third of Schopenhauer’s life:

      “From the age of 45 until his death 27 years later Schopenhauer lived in Frankfurt-am-Main. He lived alone… every day for 27 years he followed an identical routine.”

    Keep in mind, I’m only sharing this for educational purposes. I don’t necessarily recommend this way of living, but there are interesting lessons to takeaway from it, including how some of these habits relate to Schopenhauer’s overall philosophy.

    Arthur Schopenhauer’s Daily Routine

    Here’s a breakdown of Schopenhauer’s daily routine for the last 27 years of his life:

    • “He rose every morning at seven and had a bath but no breakfast;
    • He drank a cup of strong coffee before sitting down at his desk and writing until noon.
    • At noon he ceased work for the day and spent half-an-hour practicing the flute, on which he became quite a skilled performer.
    • Then he went out to lunch at the Englischer Hof.
    • After lunch he returned home and read until four, when he left for his daily walk:
    • He walked for two hours no matter what the weather.
    • At six o’clock, he visited the reading room of the library and read The Times.
    • In the evening he attended the theatre or a concert, after which he had dinner at a hotel or restaurant.
    • He got back home between nine and ten and went early to bed.”

    While Schopenhauer mostly kept to this strict routine unwaveringly, he was willing to make exceptions under specials circumstances such as if he had friends or visitors in town.

    Key Lessons and Takeaways

    This daily routine seems fitting for a solitary and introspective philosopher, but there are key lessons that fit with conventional self-improvement wisdom:

    • Early Rising: Schopenhauer started his day at 7 a.m., which aligns with the common advice of many successful individuals who advocate for early rising. This morning ritual is often associated with increased productivity and a sense of discipline.
    • No Breakfast: Skipping breakfast was part of Schopenhauer’s routine. While not everyone agrees with this approach, it resonates with intermittent fasting principles that some find beneficial for health and mental clarity.
    • Work Routine: Schopenhauer dedicated his mornings to work, writing until noon. This emphasizes the importance of having a focused and dedicated period for intellectual or creative work, especially early in the day.
    • Creative Break: Taking a break to practice the flute for half an hour after work highlights the value of incorporating creative or leisure activities into one’s routine. It can serve as a refreshing break and contribute to overall well-being.
    • Outdoor Exercise: Schopenhauer’s daily two-hour walk, regardless of the weather, emphasizes the significance of outdoor exercise for both physical and mental health. This practice aligns with contemporary views on the benefits of regular physical activity and spending time in nature.
    • Reading Habit: Schopenhauer spent time reading each day, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning and intellectual stimulation.
    • News Consumption: Reading The Times at the library suggests Schopenhauer valued staying informed about current events. It’s worth noting that he limited his news consumption to a specific time of day (but it was easier to restrict your information diet before the internet).
    • Cultural Engagement: Attending the theater or a concert in the evening indicates a commitment to cultural engagement and a balanced lifestyle.
    • Regular Bedtime: Going to bed early reflects an understanding of the importance of sufficient sleep for overall health and well-being.

    While Schopenhauer’s routine may not be suitable for everyone, there are elements of discipline, balance, and engagement with various aspects of life that individuals may find inspiring or applicable to their own lifestyles.

    The Immovable Mind

    Schopenhauer was known for his persistence and stubbornness – his consistent daily routine is just one manifestation of this.

    He wrote his magnum opus The World as Will and Representation in 1818 when he was only 28 years old, and he never fundamentally changed his views despite continuing to write and publish until his death at 72.

    Schopenhauer has been described as an “immovable mind,” never letting himself deviate from the course he was set out on.

    His two hour walk routine in any weather is one of the most popular examples of this. From the biography in the book:

      “Consider the daily two-hour walk. Among Schopenhauer’s disciples of the late nineteenth century this walk was celebrated fact of his biography, and it was so because of its regularity. There was speculation as to why he insisted on going out and staying out for two hours no matter what the weather. It suggests health fanaticism, but there is no other evidence that Schopenhauer was a health fanatic or crank. In my view the reason was simply obstinacy: he would go out and nothing would stop him.”

    While this immovability has its disadvantages, you have to admire the monk-like discipline.

    Schopenhauer was a proponent of ascetism, a life without pleasure-seeking and mindless indulgence. A lot of his philosophy centers around a type of “denouncement of the material world,” so it’s not surprising that a little rain and wind wouldn’t stop his daily walk.

    This way of living is reminiscent of the documentary Into Great Silence, which follows the daily lives of Carthusian monks living in the French mountains while they eat, clean, pray, and fulfill their chores and duties in quiet solitude.

    One of the hallmarks of a great routine is that it’s a sustainable system. The fact that Schopenhauer was able to follow this regimen for the rest of his life is a testament to its strength and efficacy, and something worth admiring even if it’s not a lifestyle we’d want to replicate for ourselves.


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    Steven Handel

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  • 117 Moving Quotes About Art

    117 Moving Quotes About Art

    Art has been created and enjoyed since the beginning of humankind. Art takes many forms including painting, drawing, writing, acting, music, and more. It serves as therapy, expression, protest, and entertainment. There have been many beautiful quotes about art, so we have compiled the best quotes about art from artists, writers, actors, politicians, and philosophers. Check out our list below and be prepared to inspire your students (and yourself!) to create.

    Quotes About Art by Famous Visual Artists

    I never paint dreams or nightmares. I paint my own reality. —Frida Kahlo

    Art is the best possible introduction to the culture of the world. I love it for the buried hopes, the garnered memories, the tender feelings it can summon at a touch. It washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life. —Pablo Picasso

    Art is the best possible introduction to the culture of the world. I love it for the buried hopes, the garnered memories, the tender feelings it can summon at a touch. It washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life. —Pablo Picasso

    Those who do not want to imitate anything, produce nothing. —Salvador Dalí

    Those who do not want to imitate anything, produce nothing. —Salvador Dalí

    The task of the artist is to make the human being uncomfortable. —Lucian Freud

    The task of the artist is to make the human being uncomfortable. —Lucian Freud- quotes about art

    Philosophers and aestheticians may offer elegant and profound definitions of art and beauty, but for the painter they are all summed up in this phrase: to create a harmony. —Gino Severini

    Philosophers and aestheticians may offer elegant and profound definitions of art and beauty, but for the painter they are all summed up in this phrase: to create a harmony. —Gino Severini

    The more I think it over, the more I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people. —Vincent van Gogh

    The more I think it over, the more I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people. —Vincent van Gogh

    We don’t make mistakes, we have happy accidents. —Bob Ross

    We don't make mistakes, we have happy accidents. —Bob Ross

    Creativity takes courage. —Henri Matisse

    Creativity takes courage. —Henri Matisse

    If I knew what the picture was going to be like, I wouldn’t make it. —Cindy Sherman

    I’ve been absolutely terrified every moment of my life—and I’ve never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do. —Georgia O’Keeffe

    I've been absolutely terrified every moment of my life—and I've never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do. —Georgia O'Keeffe

    Use your blood to paint. Keep painting until you faint. Keep painting until you die. —Yoko Ono

    Use your blood to paint. Keep painting until you faint. Keep painting until you die. —Yoko Ono

    A painting requires a little mystery, some vagueness, and some fantasy. —Edgar Degas

    A painting requires a little mystery, some vagueness, and some fantasy. —Edgar Degas

    Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life. —Berthold Auerbach

    Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life. —Berthold Auerbach

    Sculpture is the best comment that a painter can make on painting. —Pablo Picasso

    Sculpture is the best comment that a painter can make on painting. —Pablo Picasso

    An artist is not paid for his labor but for his vision. —James McNeill Whistler

    An artist is not paid for his labor but for his vision. —James McNeill Whistler

    The artist’s world is limitless. It can be found anywhere, far from where he lives or a few feet away. It is always on his doorstep. —Paul Strand

    The artist’s world is limitless. It can be found anywhere, far from where he lives or a few feet away. It is always on his doorstep. —Paul Strand- quotes about art

    The sculptor, and the painter also, should be trained in these liberal arts: grammar, geometry, philosophy, medicine, astronomy, perspective, history, anatomy, theory of design, arithmetic. —Lorenzo Ghiberti

    The sculptor, and the painter also, should be trained in these liberal arts: grammar, geometry, philosophy, medicine, astronomy, perspective, history, anatomy, theory of design, arithmetic. —Lorenzo Ghiberti

    A dead princess is only complete when surrounded by gaping crowds with their cameras out, or the opportunity to photograph yourself pulling an amazed expression when a killer whale leaps from a toilet. —Banksy

    A dead princess is only complete when surrounded by gaping crowds with their cameras out, or the opportunity to photograph yourself pulling an amazed expression when a killer whale leaps from a toilet. —Banksy

    In art there is only one thing that counts: the bit that cannot be explained. —Georges Braque

    In art there is only one thing that counts: the bit that cannot be explained. —Georges Braque

    I don’t believe in art. I believe in artists. —Marcel Duchamp

    I don't believe in art. I believe in artists. —Marcel Duchamp

    Painting is the pattern of one’s own nervous system being projected on canvas. —Francis Bacon

    Painting is the pattern of one's own nervous system being projected on canvas. —Francis Bacon

    Quotes About Art by Philosophers

    The culture of a civilization is the art and literature through which it rises to consciousness of itself and defines its vision of the world. —Roger Scruton

    The culture of a civilization is the art and literature through which it rises to consciousness of itself and defines its vision of the world. —Roger Scruton

    As for the story, whether the poet takes it ready made or constructs it for himself, he should first sketch its general outline, and then fill in the episodes and amplify in detail. —Aristotle

    As for the story, whether the poet takes it ready made or constructs it for himself, he should first sketch its general outline, and then fill in the episodes and amplify in detail. —Aristotle

    The most beautiful colors laid on at random, give less pleasure than a black-and-white drawing. —Aristotle

    The most beautiful colors laid on at random, give less pleasure than a black-and-white drawing. —Aristotle

    An artist cannot fail; it is a success to be one. —Charles Horton Cooley

    An artist cannot fail; it is a success to be one. —Charles Horton Cooley- quotes about art

    When shall we see poets born? After a time of disasters and great misfortunes, when harrowed nations begin to breathe again. And then, shaken by the terror of such spectacles, imaginations will paint things entirely strange to those who have not witnessed them. —Denis Diderot

    When shall we see poets born? After a time of disasters and great misfortunes, when harrowed nations begin to breathe again. And then, shaken by the terror of such spectacles, imaginations will paint things entirely strange to those who have not witnessed them. —Denis Diderot

    Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time. —Thomas Merton

    Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time. —Thomas Merton

    Ideas matter—and philosophy is the art of thinking about them rigorously. In my view, that should be done in as public a forum as possible. —Sam Harris

    Ideas matter—and philosophy is the art of thinking about them rigorously. In my view, that should be done in as public a forum as possible. —Sam Harris- quotes about art

    Art, it is said, is not a mirror, but a hammer: it does not reflect, it shapes. —Leon Trotsky

    Art, it is said, is not a mirror, but a hammer: it does not reflect, it shapes. —Leon Trotsky

    We have art in order not to die of the truth. —Friedrich Nietzsche

    We have art in order not to die of the truth. —Friedrich Nietzsche

    The productions of all arts are kinds of poetry and their craftsmen are all poets. —Plato

    The productions of all arts are kinds of poetry and their craftsmen are all poets. —Plato

    There are three arts which are concerned with all things: one which uses, another which makes, a third which imitates them. —Plato

    There are three arts which are concerned with all things: one which uses, another which makes, a third which imitates them. —Plato

    Without material art can do nothing, material without art does possess a certain value, while the perfection of art is better than the best material. —Quintilian

    Without material art can do nothing, material without art does possess a certain value, while the perfection of art is better than the best material. —Quintilian

    Astronomy was born of superstition; eloquence of ambition, hatred, falsehood, and flattery; geometry of avarice; physics of an idle curiosity; and even moral philosophy of human pride. Thus the arts and sciences owe their birth to our vices. —Jean-Jacques Rousseau

    Astronomy was born of superstition; eloquence of ambition, hatred, falsehood, and flattery; geometry of avarice; physics of an idle curiosity; and even moral philosophy of human pride. Thus the arts and sciences owe their birth to our vices. —Jean-Jacques Rousseau

    Psychology is a science and teaching is an art; and sciences never generate arts directly out of themselves. —William James

    Psychology is a science and teaching is an art; and sciences never generate arts directly out of themselves. —William James

    The rude beginnings of every art acquire a greater celebrity than the art in perfection; he who first played the fiddle was looked upon as a demigod. —Voltaire

    The rude beginnings of every art acquire a greater celebrity than the art in perfection; he who first played the fiddle was looked upon as a demigod. —Voltaire

    It seems to me now that mathematics is capable of an artistic excellence as great as that of any music, perhaps greater; not because the pleasure it gives (although very pure) is comparable … but because it gives in absolute perfection that combination, characteristic of great art, of godlike freedom, with the sense of inevitable destiny. —Bertrand Russell

    It seems to me now that mathematics is capable of an artistic excellence as great as that of any music, perhaps greater; not because the pleasure it gives (although very pure) is comparable ... but because it gives in absolute perfection that combination, characteristic of great art, of godlike freedom, with the sense of inevitable destiny. —Bertrand Russell

    The urge for destruction is also a creative urge. —Mikhail Bakunin

    The urge for destruction is also a creative urge. —Mikhail Bakunin

    Quotes About Art by Composers and Musicians

    You don’t finish something because you need to get it done. You finish something because you have something to say. —Sarah McLachlan

    You don’t finish something because you need to get it done. You finish something because you have something to say. —Sarah McLachlan

    Art is making something out of nothing and selling it. —Frank Zappa

    Art is making something out of nothing and selling it. —Frank Zappa- quotes about art

    In order to create there must be a dynamic force, and what force is more potent than love? —Igor Stravinsky

    In order to create there must be a dynamic force, and what force is more potent than love? —Igor Stravinsky

    To be deprived of art and left alone with philosophy is to be close to hell. —Igor Stravinsky

    To be deprived of art and left alone with philosophy is to be close to hell. —Igor Stravinsky

    If you don’t call it art, you’re likely to get a better result. —Brian Eno

    If you don't call it art, you're likely to get a better result. —Brian Eno

    Try to make things that can become better in other people’s minds than they were in yours. —Brian Eno

    Try to make things that can become better in other people's minds than they were in yours. —Brian Eno

    We must be patient, and believe that inspiration will come to those who can master their disinclination. —Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

    We must be patient, and believe that inspiration will come to those who can master their disinclination. —Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

    It is already a wonderful thing if just the main ideas and general outline of a work come without the racking of brains, through that supernatural and inexplicable force we call inspiration. —Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

    It is already a wonderful thing if just the main ideas and general outline of a work come without the racking of brains, through that supernatural and inexplicable force we call inspiration. —Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

     If it is art, it is not for all, and if it is for all, it is not art. —Arnold Schoenberg

    If it is art, it is not for all, and if it is for all, it is not art. —Arnold Schoenberg

    An artistic impression is substantially the resultant of two components. One what the work of art gives the onlooker—the other, what he is capable of giving to the work of art. —Arnold Schoenberg

    An artistic impression is substantially the resultant of two components. One what the work of art gives the onlooker—the other, what he is capable of giving to the work of art. —Arnold Schoenberg

    Don’t only practice your art, but force your way into its secrets. —Ludwig van Beethoven

    Don’t only practice your art, but force your way into its secrets. —Ludwig van Beethoven

    The best music always results from ecstasies of knowledge. —Alban Berg

    The best music always results from ecstasies of knowledge. —Alban Berg

    The gift of imagination is by no means an exclusive property of the artist; it is a gift we all share; to some degree or other all of us, all of you, are endowed with the powers of fantasy. —Leonard Bernstein

    The gift of imagination is by no means an exclusive property of the artist; it is a gift we all share; to some degree or other all of us, all of you, are endowed with the powers of fantasy. —Leonard Bernstein

    A work of art does not answer questions: it provokes them; and its essential meaning is in the tension between their contradictory answers. —Leonard Bernstein

    A work of art does not answer questions: it provokes them; and its essential meaning is in the tension between their contradictory answers. —Leonard Bernstein

    Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely simple, that’s creativity. —Charles Mingus

    Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely simple, that's creativity. —Charles Mingus

    Passion is one great force that unleashes creativity, because if you’re passionate about something, then you’re more willing to take risks. —Yo-Yo Ma

    Passion is one great force that unleashes creativity, because if you’re passionate about something, then you’re more willing to take risks. —Yo-Yo Ma- quotes about art

    The first mistake of art is to assume that it’s serious. —Lester Bangs

    My role in society, or any artist or poet’s role, is to try and express what we all feel. Not to tell people how to feel. Not as a preacher, not as a leader, but as a reflection of us all. —John Lennon

    My role in society, or any artist or poet's role, is to try and express what we all feel. Not to tell people how to feel. Not as a preacher, not as a leader, but as a reflection of us all. —John Lennon

    Surrealism had a great effect on me because then I realized that the imagery in my mind wasn’t insanity. Surrealism to me is reality. —John Lennon

    Surrealism had a great effect on me because then I realized that the imagery in my mind wasn't insanity. Surrealism to me is reality. —John Lennon

    Listen, real poetry doesn’t say anything; it just ticks off the possibilities. Opens all doors. You can walk through any one that suits you. —Jim Morrison

    Listen, real poetry doesn't say anything; it just ticks off the possibilities. Opens all doors. You can walk through any one that suits you. —Jim Morrison

    All were artists, playing foolish, having fights and making love as if the rest of the world had no racial problems whatsoever. —Chuck Berry

    All were artists, playing foolish, having fights and making love as if the rest of the world had no racial problems whatsoever. —Chuck Berry

    Quotes About Art by Writers

    Art is the stored honey of the human soul. —Theodore Dreiser

    Art is the stored honey of the human soul. —Theodore Dreiser

    I sometimes wondered what the use of any of the arts was. The best thing I could come up with was what I call the canary in the coal mine theory of the arts. This theory says that artists are useful to society because they are so sensitive. … They keel over like canaries in poison coal mines long before more robust types realize that there is any danger whatsoever. —Kurt Vonnegut

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    The practice of art isn’t to make a living. It’s to make your soul grow. —Kurt Vonnegut

    The practice of art isn't to make a living. It's to make your soul grow. —Kurt Vonnegut

    In scorn of nature, art gave lifeless life. —William Shakespeare

    In scorn of nature, art gave lifeless life. —William Shakespeare- quotes about art

    Art and religion first; then philosophy; lastly science. That is the order of the great subjects of life, that’s their order of importance. —Muriel Spark

    Art and religion first; then philosophy; lastly science. That is the order of the great subjects of life, that's their order of importance. —Muriel Spark- quotes about art

    Artists are always the Johnny Appleseeds of gentrification. —Scott Hutchins

    Artists are always the Johnny Appleseeds of gentrification. —Scott Hutchins

    Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time. —Thomas Merton

    Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time. —Thomas Merton- quotes about art

    I know that one of the great arts that the writer develops is the art of saying, No. No, I’m finished. Bye. And leaving it alone. I will not write it into the ground. I will not write the life out of it. I won’t do that. —Maya Angelou

    I know that one of the great arts that the writer develops is the art of saying, No. No, I'm finished. Bye. And leaving it alone. I will not write it into the ground. I will not write the life out of it. I won't do that. —Maya Angelou

    Life is pure adventure, and the sooner we realize that, the quicker we will be able to treat life as art. —Maya Angelou

    Life is pure adventure, and the sooner we realize that, the quicker we will be able to treat life as art. —Maya Angelou

    It is the art of mankind to polish the world, and every one who works is scrubbing in some part. —Henry David Thoreau

    It is the art of mankind to polish the world, and every one who works is scrubbing in some part. —Henry David Thoreau

    The conscious utterance of thought, by speech or action, to any end, is art. —Ralph Waldo Emerson

    The conscious utterance of thought, by speech or action, to any end, is art. —Ralph Waldo Emerson

    Art is the need to create; but in its essence, immense and universal, it is impatient of working with lame or tied hands, and of making cripples and monsters, such as all pictures and statues are. Nothing less than the creation of man and nature is its end. —Ralph Waldo Emerson

    Art is the need to create; but in its essence, immense and universal, it is impatient of working with lame or tied hands, and of making cripples and monsters, such as all pictures and statues are. Nothing less than the creation of man and nature is its end. —Ralph Waldo Emerson

    Bullfighting is the only art in which the artist is in danger of death and in which the degree of brilliance in the performance is left to the fighter’s honor. —Ernest Hemingway

    Bullfighting is the only art in which the artist is in danger of death and in which the degree of brilliance in the performance is left to the fighter's honor. —Ernest Hemingway

    Truth in art is the unity of a thing with itself: the outward rendered expressive of the inward: the soul made incarnate: the body instinct with spirit. For this reason there is no truth comparable to sorrow. —Oscar Wilde

    Truth in art is the unity of a thing with itself: the outward rendered expressive of the inward: the soul made incarnate: the body instinct with spirit. For this reason there is no truth comparable to sorrow. —Oscar Wilde

    The primary distinction of the artist is that he must actively cultivate that state which most men, necessarily, must avoid: the state of being alone. —James Baldwin

    The primary distinction of the artist is that he must actively cultivate that state which most men, necessarily, must avoid: the state of being alone. —James Baldwin

    Artists are here to disturb the peace. —James Baldwin

    Artists are here to disturb the peace. —James Baldwin

    And really the purpose of art—for me, fiction—is to alert, to indicate to stop, to say: Make certain that when you rush through you will not miss the moment which you might have had, or might still have. —Jerzy Kosinski

    And really the purpose of art—for me, fiction—is to alert, to indicate to stop, to say: Make certain that when you rush through you will not miss the moment which you might have had, or might still have. —Jerzy Kosinski

    I collect human relationships very much the way others collect fine art. —Jerzy Kosinski

    I collect human relationships very much the way others collect fine art. —Jerzy Kosinski

    The person who wants nothing, hopes for nothing, and fears nothing can never be an artist. —Anton Chekhov

    The person who wants nothing, hopes for nothing, and fears nothing can never be an artist. —Anton Chekhov

    You are right to demand that an artist engage his work consciously, but you confuse two different things: solving the problem and correctly posing the question. —Anton Chekhov

    You are right to demand that an artist engage his work consciously, but you confuse two different things: solving the problem and correctly posing the question. —Anton Chekhov

    Something is always born of excess: great art was born of great terrors, great loneliness, great inhibitions, instabilities, and it always balances them. —Anais Nin

    Something is always born of excess: great art was born of great terrors, great loneliness, great inhibitions, instabilities, and it always balances them. —Anais Nin

    There are two avenues from the little passions and the drear calamities of earth; both lead to the heaven and away from hell—Art and Science. But art is more godlike than science; science discovers, art creates. —Edward G. Bulwer-Lytton

    There are two avenues from the little passions and the drear calamities of earth; both lead to the heaven and away from hell—Art and Science. But art is more godlike than science; science discovers, art creates. —Edward G. Bulwer-Lytton

    Art is the tree of life. Science is the tree of death. —William Blake

    Art is the tree of life. Science is the tree of death. —William Blake- quotes about art

    I don’t understand how any good art could fail to be political. —Barbara Kingsolver

    I don't understand how any good art could fail to be political. —Barbara Kingsolver

    Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art, like the universe itself (for God did not need to create). It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things which give value to survival. —C.S. Lewis

    Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art, like the universe itself (for God did not need to create). It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things which give value to survival. —C.S. Lewis

    To discover the mode of life or of art whereby my spirit could express itself in unfettered freedom. —James Joyce

    To discover the mode of life or of art whereby my spirit could express itself in unfettered freedom. —James Joyce

    Really I don’t like human nature unless all candied over with art. —Virginia Woolf

    Really I don't like human nature unless all candied over with art. —Virginia Woolf

    How life did imitate art sometimes. And the cruder the art, the closer the imitation. —Stephen King

    How life did imitate art sometimes. And the cruder the art, the closer the imitation. —Stephen King

    Quotes About Art by Mathematicians and Scientists

    The greatest value of a picture is when it forces us to notice what we never expected to see. —John Tukey

    The greatest value of a picture is when it forces us to notice what we never expected to see. —John Tukey- quotes about art

    True art is characterized by an irresistible urge in the creative artist. —Albert Einstein

    True art is characterized by an irresistible urge in the creative artist. —Albert Einstein

    Is there not a certain satisfaction in the fact that natural limits are set to the life of the individual, so that at the conclusion it may appear as a work of art? —Albert Einstein

    Is there not a certain satisfaction in the fact that natural limits are set to the life of the individual, so that at the conclusion it may appear as a work of art? —Albert Einstein

    One of the strongest motives that lead men to art and science is escape from everyday life with its painful crudity and hopeless dreariness, from the fetters of one’s own ever-shifting desires. —Albert Einstein

    One of the strongest motives that lead men to art and science is escape from everyday life with its painful crudity and hopeless dreariness, from the fetters of one's own ever-shifting desires. —Albert Einstein

    One can envisage an end of science no more readily than one can envisage an end of imaginative literature or the fine arts. —Peter Medawar

    One can envisage an end of science no more readily than one can envisage an end of imaginative literature or the fine arts. —Peter Medawar

    Every science touches art at some points—every art has its scientific side; the worst man of science is he who is never an artist, and the worst artist is he who is never a man of science. —Armand Trousseau

    Every science touches art at some points—every art has its scientific side; the worst man of science is he who is never an artist, and the worst artist is he who is never a man of science. —Armand Trousseau

    How often people speak of art and science as though they were two entirely different things, with no interconnection. An artist is emotional, they think, and uses only his intuition; he sees all at once and has no need of reason. A scientist is cold, they think, and uses only his reason; he argues carefully step by step, and needs no imagination. That is all wrong. —Isaac Asimov

    How often people speak of art and science as though they were two entirely different things, with no interconnection. An artist is emotional, they think, and uses only his intuition; he sees all at once and has no need of reason. A scientist is cold, they think, and uses only his reason; he argues carefully step by step, and needs no imagination. That is all wrong. —Isaac Asimov

    All great scientists have, in a certain sense, been great artists; the man with no imagination may collect facts, but he cannot make great discoveries. —Karl Pearson

    All great scientists have, in a certain sense, been great artists; the man with no imagination may collect facts, but he cannot make great discoveries. —Karl Pearson- quotes about art

    Space belongs to all of us. There is science in dance and art in science. —Mae Jemison

    Space belongs to all of us. There is science in dance and art in science. —Mae Jemison

    Medicine is a science of uncertainty and an art of probability. —William Osler

    Medicine is a science of uncertainty and an art of probability. —William Osler

    Errors are not in the art but in the artificers. —Isaac Newton

    Errors are not in the art but in the artificers. —Isaac Newton

    Art is “I,” science is “we.” —Claude Bernard

    Art is "I," science is "we." —Claude Bernard

    Quotes About Art by Actors and Directors

    The thing about performance, even if it’s only an illusion, is that it is a celebration of the fact that we do contain within ourselves infinite possibilities. —Daniel Day-Lewis

    The thing about performance, even if it's only an illusion, is that it is a celebration of the fact that we do contain within ourselves infinite possibilities. —Daniel Day-Lewis

    To that extent that you can sustain and maintain that childlike part of your personality is probably the best part of acting. —Paul Newman

    To that extent that you can sustain and maintain that childlike part of your personality is probably the best part of acting. —Paul Newman

    I’ve had different opportunities in my life, but I’ve tried to maintain the spirit of an amateur. Our culture roots everything in the barometer of success and how much money you make. But if you really just aspire to a life in the arts, it’s really not a barometer at all. —Ethan Hawke

    I've had different opportunities in my life, but I've tried to maintain the spirit of an amateur. Our culture roots everything in the barometer of success and how much money you make. But if you really just aspire to a life in the arts, it's really not a barometer at all. —Ethan Hawke

    It’s hard to act in the morning. The muse isn’t even awake. —Keanu Reeves

    It's hard to act in the morning. The muse isn't even awake. —Keanu Reeves

    The real actor—like any real artist—has a direct line to the collective heart. —Bette Davis

    The real actor—like any real artist—has a direct line to the collective heart. —Bette Davis

    Making films has got to be one of the hardest endeavors known to humankind. —Spike Lee

    Making films has got to be one of the hardest endeavors known to humankind. —Spike Lee

    Actors are agents of change. A film, a piece of theater, a piece of music, or a book can make a difference. It can change the world. —Alan Rickman

    Actors are agents of change. A film, a piece of theater, a piece of music, or a book can make a difference. It can change the world. —Alan Rickman- quotes about art

    It used to be that we in films were the lowest form of art. Now we have something to look down on. —Billy Wilder (on television)

    It used to be that we in films were the lowest form of art. Now we have something to look down on. —Billy Wilder (on television)

    I steal from every single movie ever made. If people don’t like that, then tough tills, don’t go and see it, all right? I steal from everything. Great artists steal, they don’t do homages. —Quentin Tarantino

    I steal from every single movie ever made. If people don't like that, then tough tills, don't go and see it, all right? I steal from everything. Great artists steal, they don't do homages. —Quentin Tarantino

    Once a month the sky falls on my head, I come to, and I see another movie I want to make. —Steven Spielberg

    Once a month the sky falls on my head, I come to, and I see another movie I want to make. —Steven Spielberg

    I regard myself as an entertainer much more than an artist. —Peter Jackson

    I regard myself as an entertainer much more than an artist. —Peter Jackson

    Quotes About Art by Famous Political Figures

    Like music and art, love of nature is a common language that can transcend political or social boundaries. —Jimmy Carter

    Like music and art, love of nature is a common language that can transcend political or social boundaries. —Jimmy Carter

    Above all, we are coming to understand that the arts incarnate the creativity of a free people. When the creative impulse cannot flourish, when it cannot freely select its methods and objects, when it is deprived of spontaneity, then society severs the root of art. —President John F. Kennedy

    Above all, we are coming to understand that the arts incarnate the creativity of a free people. When the creative impulse cannot flourish, when it cannot freely select its methods and objects, when it is deprived of spontaneity, then society severs the root of art. —President John F. Kennedy

    To encourage literature and the arts is a duty which every good citizen owes to his country. —George Washington

    To encourage literature and the arts is a duty which every good citizen owes to his country. —George Washington

    Now I think, speaking roughly, by leadership we mean the art of getting someone else to do something that you want done because he wants to do it. —President Dwight D. Eisenhower

    Now I think, speaking roughly, by leadership we mean the art of getting someone else to do something that you want done because he wants to do it. —President Dwight D. Eisenhower

    And that, I think, is what the arts and the humanities do—they lift up our identities, and make us see ourselves in each other. —President Barack Obama

    And that, I think, is what the arts and the humanities do—they lift up our identities, and make us see ourselves in each other. —President Barack Obama

    Without tradition, art is a flock of sheep without a shepherd. Without innovation, it is a corpse. —Winston Churchill

    Without tradition, art is a flock of sheep without a shepherd. Without innovation, it is a corpse. —Winston Churchill

    A world turned into a stereotype, a society converted into a regiment, a life translated into a routine, make it difficult for either art or artists to survive. Crush individuality in society and you crush art as well. Nourish the conditions of a free life and you nourish the arts, too. —President Franklin D. Roosevelt

    A world turned into a stereotype, a society converted into a regiment, a life translated into a routine, make it difficult for either art or artists to survive. Crush individuality in society and you crush art as well. Nourish the conditions of a free life and you nourish the arts, too. —President Franklin D. Roosevelt- quotes about art

    Like these quotes about art? Check out these motivational quotes for students too!

    Plus, if you have other favorite quotes about art, come share your favorites in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook!

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  • Past Relationships Worksheet (PDF)

    Past Relationships Worksheet (PDF)


    Learn from past love to improve future love. This worksheet will guide you step-by-step so that you can take away the most important lessons from your past relationships.

    Download:

    Past Relationships Worksheet (PDF)

    Read Why It’s Healthy to Reflect on Your Past Relationships for more information.

    Check out more self-improvement worksheets here!



    Steven Handel

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  • 250+ Best Would You Rather Questions for Kids 

    250+ Best Would You Rather Questions for Kids 

    Jump-start engaging student conversations with Would You Rather questions for kids! Whether for debates, creative writing prompts, thought-provoking discussions, or captivating lessons on comparisons, these questions are your classroom’s secret ingredient to learning in disguise.

    Want them all in one set of Google Slides? Just drop your email in the form, and we’ll send it your way!

    Explore our collection of 250+ Would You Rather questions for kids, spanning a variety of intriguing topics!

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    Would you rather eat spaghetti with a fork the size of a toothpick or a sandwich the size of a surfboard?

    Would you rather have an extra eye or an extra ear?

    Would you rather be able to hear people’s thoughts or see behind you?

    Would you rather have a pet dinosaur that follows you everywhere or a robot that keeps your room clean?

    Would you rather eat ice cream for every meal or pizza for every meal?

    Would you rather have a crayon that brings your drawings to life or a backpack that always has the exact food you want in it?

    Would you rather have a pet horse that tells knock-knock jokes or a pet unicorn with no sense of humor?

    Would you rather have to speak in rhyme all day or dance every time you enter a room?

    Would you rather be able to fly only backward or run as fast as a cheetah but only in circles?

    Would you rather always have to wear a chicken costume to school or a snorkel and flippers to bed?

    Would you rather have a playroom full of slides or a playroom that’s one big bouncy castle?

    Would you rather have an elephant-sized hamster or a hamster-sized elephant as a pet?

    Would you rather be able to understand what animals are saying but not be able to speak their language or be able to talk to plants and make them grow faster?

    Would you rather be a detective who solves mysteries or someone who creates bizarre inventions?

    Would you rather have a personal assistant who’s a nosy gnome or a chauffeur who’s a mischievous leprechaun?

    Would you rather wear shoes that make you dance uncontrollably whenever you hear music or a hat that tells you interesting facts about everything you see?

    Would you rather always have to wear gloves or always have to wear sunglasses, even indoors?

    Would you rather have a pet porcupine that stinks or a pet skunk that is very prickly?

    Would you rather have a backpack that can turn into any vehicle you want or a pair of shoes that can take you anywhere in the world with the click of your heels?

    Would you rather have a never-ending supply of chocolate or a bottomless bag of your favorite chips?

    Would you rather read a paper book or listen to an audiobook?

    Would you rather have to yell everything you say or whisper everything you say?

    Would you rather always have to eat your favorite food or never eat it again?

    Would you rather eat broccoli or brussels sprouts?

    Would you rather always smell something bad or taste something bad?

    Would you rather do 100 math problems or write a 5-page essay?

    Would you rather have a phone or a laptop?

    Would you rather live by the ocean or a lake?

    Would you rather always see in red or see in blue?

    Would you rather be a famous athlete or a famous actor?

    Would you rather eat a bowl of fruit or a bowl of vegetables?

    Would you rather eat a bowl of fruit or a bowl of vegetables?

    Would you rather get paid $10 to do your chores or $10 to do your homework?

    Would you rather live life as a dog or live life as a cat for a day?

    Would you rather wear the same outfit every day or a new outfit every day?

    Would you rather eat pancakes or waffles for breakfast every day?

    Would you rather ride an electric bike or an electric scooter to the park?

    Would you rather have a room full of puzzles or a room full of books?

    Would you rather attend a party where everything is upside down or a party where everything is in slow motion?

    Would you rather learn to play a musical instrument or a new sport?

    Would you rather have a super-long summer break or a bunch of shorter breaks throughout the year?

    Would you rather explore the depths of the ocean or travel to outer space?

    Would you rather be the oldest sibling or the youngest sibling?

    Would you rather have to put hot sauce or syrup on everything you eat?

    Would you rather have a personal jet pack or fly in an airplane with your friends?

    Would you rather sleep in a pile of hay or on a concrete slab?

    Would you rather eat pizza or spaghetti?

    Would you rather always be hungry or always be tired?

    Would you rather live in a tree house or on a boat?

    Would you rather have a talking cat or a flying dog?

    Would you rather view things through a telescope lens or a microscope lens?

    Would you rather have the ability to time-travel to the past or see into the future?

    Would you rather be able to talk to animals or understand every language in the world?

    Would you rather have a robot that helps you with schoolwork or a special pencil case that produces any school supply you need?

    Would you rather have the power to make objects float or make objects turn invisible?

    Would you rather be a character in your favorite book or from your favorite video game?

    Would you rather explore an ancient Egyptian pyramid or snorkel with colorful fish?

    Would you rather be able to teleport anywhere in the world or have a time machine to visit any historical event?

    Would you rather go camping in a tent or stay in a motel in the city?

    Would you rather be a famous movie star or a famous astronaut?

    Would you rather be a famous movie star or a famous astronaut?

    Would you rather play in the World Cup final or the Super Bowl?

    Would you rather take a road trip across the country or a boat cruise around the world?

    Would you rather have a pool filled with chocolate syrup or Jell-O?

    Would you rather have trampoline floors or a slide for your stairs?

    Would you rather wear your clothes backward or your shoes on the wrong feet?

    Would you rather always have to talk in a funny voice or only be able to whisper loudly?

    Would you rather have noodles for hair or clothes made of cotton candy?

    Would you rather have a pet parrot that only speaks in pirate phrases or always sings show tunes?

    Would you rather have a nose that honks like a horn when you’re excited or ears that grow when you’re excited?

    Would you rather be able to jump as high as a kangaroo or have the ability to crawl up and down walls like a spider?

    Would you rather be able to jump as high as a kangaroo or have the ability to crawl up and down walls like a spider?- would you rather questions for kids

    Would you rather build a tree house or create an underground fort filled with secret passages?

    Would you rather have a talking pillow that gives great advice or a magic mirror that tells the silliest jokes?

    Would you rather wear a clown wig or big floppy clown shoes every day for a year?

    Would you rather laugh uncontrollably every hour or sing randomly every hour?

    Would you rather have a magic wand that can transform anything into candy or a magic wand that brings your favorite toys to life for a day?

    Would you rather have a pet lion that thinks it’s a house cat or a pet ferret that tap-dances?

    Would you rather always have to hop like a bunny or waddle like a penguin?

    Would you rather have an opera-singing dog or a cat that can juggle?

    Would you rather have a closet that leads to a secret world or a bed that can fly you anywhere you want but only at night?

    Would you rather live in a world where everyone walks on their hands or where people communicate by making funny faces?

    Would you rather have a garden that grows jellybean plants or a field of flowers made of chocolate?

    Would you rather have a magical burp that smells like your favorite dessert or a sneeze that makes bubbles come out of your ears?

    Would you rather go sledding down a hill of marshmallows or ice-skate on a lake of frozen chocolate milk?

    Would you rather go snowshoeing or snowboarding every day?

    Would you rather build a snow fort with your friends or drink hot cocoa alone by a fireplace?

    Would you rather have the power to stop snowstorms or instantly warm up a chilly room?

    Would you rather have boots that magically turn into warm slippers when you go inside or shoes that turn into skates when it’s icy outside?

    Would you rather ride a sled pulled by polar bears or by penguins?

    Would you rather have a reindeer or an arctic fox as a pet?

    Would you rather be a professional snowboarder or an ice-skating champion?

    Would you rather have a snow fort that never melts or a snow castle that you can eat?

    Would you rather have a snow fort that never melts or a snow castle that you can eat?

    Would you rather wear mittens as shoes or earmuffs as gloves?

    Would you rather it snow marshmallows or popcorn?

    Would you rather spend a weekend in an igloo or in a gingerbread house?

    Would you rather build the biggest snowman or the most intricate snow fort?

    Would you rather have snow taste like your favorite ice cream or icicles turn into Popsicles when you break them off?

    Would you rather wake up to a snowy wonderland or your neighborhood covered in twinkling holiday lights?

    Would you rather ride a magical sled that can go up hills on its own or have skis with rocket boosters?

    Would you rather wear wet mittens or wet socks all day?

    Would you rather experience a long, fast adventure in a dogsled or a bobsled?

    Would you rather meet Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer or Frosty the Snowman?

    Would you rather have skis for feet or mittens for hands?

    Would you rather spend a sunny spring day flying a kite or exploring a garden full of butterflies?

    Would you rather have an umbrella that changes colors with every raindrop or rain boots that make funny squishy sounds with every step?

    Would you rather have the ability to talk to plants or be able to make flowers bloom with a magical touch?

    Would you rather wear rain boots or flip-flops every day?

    Would you rather spend the day jumping in puddles or exploring the park on a bike?

    Would you rather be able to talk to birds or understand what the trees are whispering?

    Would you rather grow a garden with jumping beans that bounce around every time you water them or grow a garden with flowers that change colors when you walk by them?

    Would you rather live in a tree house or a cozy cottage in a meadow?

    Would you rather dance in the rain without getting wet or jump in puddles without getting wet?

    Would you rather spend time in your garden planting seeds or painting rocks?

    Would you rather spend a day as a raindrop or as a ray of sunshine helping plants grow?

    Would you rather be able to talk to animals or have the power to make flowers bloom instantly?

    Would you rather have a bicycle with a basket or a skateboard with a rainbow design?

    Would you rather have a special birdhouse that attracts colorful birds to your garden or a hammock that gently swings you to sleep?

    Would you rather have the power to make the trees bud and blossom on command or be able to turn rain into candy?

    Would you rather have the power to make the trees bud and blossom on command or be able to turn rain into candy?

    Would you rather have a magical seed that can instantly grow into any plant you desire or a special rain dance that makes flowers bloom with each move you make?

    Would you rather watch a lightning storm or a peaceful sunset?

    Would you rather be in charge of a garage sale or a lemonade stand?

    Would you rather fly a kite or roll down a large grassy hill?

    Would you rather it always be summer or always be winter?

    Would you rather go to the same amazing place for summer vacation every year or go to a new place at the risk of not liking it?

    Would you rather spend every day at the beach or at a water park?

    Would you rather go on a camping adventure every weekend during summer break or visit an amusement park?

    Would you rather have a magical beach towel that dries you instantly or a hat that provides instant shade wherever you go?

    Would you rather spend the whole summer at the beach or in the mountains?

    Would you rather have an endless supply of orange slices or an endless supply of watermelon?

    Would you rather organize a summer scavenger hunt or a big game of capture the flag?

    Would you rather have a pet eagle or a pet seagull?

    Would you rather be a sandcastle-building champion or a professional surfer?

    Would you rather always have to wear sandals or always have to wear sunglasses all summer long?

    Would you rather have a magic seashell that can answer any question you have or a beach towel that can fly?

    Would you rather have the ability to breathe underwater like a fish or be able to fly above the ocean like a seagull?

    Would you rather have a backyard barbecue for dinner all summer long or go to an ice cream shop every evening?

    Would you rather have a backyard barbecue for dinner all summer long or go to an ice cream shop every evening?- would you rather questions for kids

    Would you rather have an endless supply of Popsicles or an endless supply of ice cream for the entire summer?

    Would you rather go on a treasure hunt for seashells or a scavenger hunt for a message in bottle?

    Would you rather live in a hut on the beach or a tree house in the jungle?

    Would you rather spend a summer afternoon reading your favorite book in a comfortable hammock or have an exciting adventure hiking in a forest?

    Would you rather have a Jet Ski or a surfboard?

    Would you rather go kayaking on a lake or float around in an inflatable doughnut in a swimming pool?

    Would you rather spend a day jumping in puddles or walking on a trail filled with fallen leaves?

    Would you rather have to wear a winter jacket or a tank top all the time in the fall?

    Would you rather always wear acorns as shoes or always wear a sweater made of acorns?

    Would you rather have a pumpkin for a head or apples for feet?

    Would you rather have to wear fall colors all the time or have your whole room be painted in fall colors?

    Would you rather have the ability to talk to animals preparing for hibernation or fly with migrating birds as they travel south for the winter?

    Would you rather have a movie marathon on a rainy fall day or spend the day baking delicious treats?

    Would you rather go apple picking and make caramel apples or carve a pumpkin and roast pumpkin seeds?

    Would you rather take a hayride through a pumpkin patch or go on a corn maze adventure?

    Would you rather have a pumpkin that can tell the future or a pine cone that can change the weather to your liking?

    Would you rather have the talent to carve intricate designs on pumpkins or paint them with creative patterns?

    Would you rather have the talent to carve intricate designs on pumpkins or paint them with creative patterns?

    Would you rather take a family trip to a cabin in the woods or stay in a historic small town known for its fun fall festivities?

    Would you rather make art with leaves or play in a pile of leaves? 

    Would you rather pick, bake, and then eat an apple pie or a pumpkin pie?

    Would you rather have a cozy outdoor movie night with blankets and pillows or a day of exploring a forest filled with fallen leaves?

    Would you rather make your own Halloween costume or buy one from a store?

    Would you rather build a scarecrow for your yard or design your own scarecrow costume for Halloween?

    Would you rather only get small bags of chips when trick-or-treating or only get mini chocolate bars?

    Would you rather every holiday be Halloween or never have Halloween?

    Would you rather dress up as farm animals and go trick-or-treating with your friends or join your family in superhero costumes for a night of candy collecting?

    Would you rather have an always-full bucket of your least favorite candy or a small bag of your favorite candy?

    Would you rather visit a haunted house or a spooky pumpkin patch?

    Would you rather have a pumpkin that can tell jokes or a black cat that can perform magic tricks?

    Would you rather have a pet bat that sings or a pet ghost that always makes funny faces?

    Would you rather have a spell book that can make objects come to life or a magical potion that changes your mood instantly?

    Would you rather live in a pumpkin-shaped house or a haunted mansion?

    Would you rather have a magical cauldron that makes the best potions or a crystal ball that predicts the future?

    Would you rather go trick-or-treating with a group of friendly mummies or friendly ghosts?

    Would you rather savor all your favorite Halloween treats or trade in all of your candy for $50 to spend on anything you want?

    Would you rather bob for apples or carve a pumpkin?

    Would you rather bob for apples or carve a pumpkin?- would you rather questions for kids

    Would you rather have a costume that makes you invisible for a day or a costume that allows you to fly around?

    Would you rather be in charge of making Thanksgiving dinner or dessert?

    Would you rather have a family football game or an epic scavenger hunt with your family after Thanksgiving dinner?

    Would you rather create your own unique Thanksgiving tradition or celebrate the holiday in a foreign country with new customs?

    Would you rather have a magical pumpkin that can turn into a carriage or a turkey that can help you with your chores?

    Would you rather have a never-ending supply of cranberry sauce or a bottomless plate of mashed potatoes?

    Would you rather have your Thanksgiving dinner in a restaurant or at your home?

    Would you rather snuggle up for a quiet nap after a big Thanksgiving meal or gather with your loved ones to watch a movie?

    Would you rather have a Thanksgiving feast with your favorite cartoon characters or with characters from your favorite book?

    Would you rather help set the table and decorate for Thanksgiving dinner or assist in the cleanup after the meal is over?

    Would you rather participate in a pie-eating contest or a friendly competition for the best Thanksgiving-themed craft?

    Would you rather always smell like cranberry sauce or always smell like gravy?

    Would you rather burp loudly during Thanksgiving dinner or spill your drink?

    Would you rather burp loudly during Thanksgiving dinner or spill your drink?

    Would you rather eat Thanksgiving leftovers for an entire year or never eat Thanksgiving food again?

    Would you rather eat your entire Thanksgiving dinner with no utensils or have to eat dinner served inside a carved-out pumpkin?

    Would you rather have a Thanksgiving where everything is made of candy or a Thanksgiving where everything tastes like your favorite food?

    Would you rather spend Thanksgiving delivering meals to families in need or create handmade cards with thankful messages for friends and family?

    Would you rather start a Thanksgiving tradition of sharing one thing you’re thankful for at the dinner table or make a gratitude tree where everyone adds leaves with things they’re thankful for?

    Would you rather receive one big surprise gift on Christmas morning or open a small gift each day leading up to Christmas?

    Would you rather decorate a gingerbread house or make ornaments for the Christmas tree?

    Would you rather live inside a giant snow globe or have a magical snow globe that lets you visit any place in the world during the holiday season?

    Would you rather spend the Christmas holidays in a snowy cabin in the mountains or on a sunny beach?

    Would you rather live in a house made entirely of candy canes or one made of gingerbread?

    Would you rather go caroling with your friends or cross-country skiing with your class?

    Would you rather have hot cocoa with marshmallows or roast marshmallows over a fire?

    Would you rather visit Santa at the North Pole or go on a magical sleigh ride with his reindeer?

    Would you rather be an elf in Santa’s workshop or a reindeer pulling Santa’s sleigh?

    Would you rather make your own ornaments for the Christmas tree or design your own holiday cards to send to friends and family?

    Would you rather have the ability to wrap presents beautifully with a snap of your fingers or instantly create batches of delicious Christmas cookies with a snap of your fingers? 

    Would you rather receive a special gift on Christmas Eve or give a gift that makes someone else really happy on Christmas morning?

    Would you rather be the bright shining star at the top of the Christmas tree or the tinsel that sparkles and dances along its branches?

    Would you rather have a magical sleigh like Santa’s that can take you anywhere in the world or a talking reindeer as your companion for a day?

    Would you rather have a magical sleigh like Santa's that can take you anywhere in the world or a talking reindeer as your companion for a day?- would you rather questions for kids

    Would you rather have a red nose that lights up or pointy elf ears?

    Would you rather have tinsel for hair or have fingernails that light up like Christmas lights?

    Would you rather drink milk or soda at every meal for the rest of your life?

    Would you rather swim in a pool of chunky guacamole or a pool of spicy salsa?

    Would you rather brush your teeth with ketchup or wash your hands with mustard?

    Would you rather have to clean up after a messy pet pig or a messy pet skunk?

    Would you rather drink a glass of pickle juice or take a bite of a sour lemon?

    Would you rather drink a smoothie made of spinach and garlic or a milkshake with chunks of pickles?

    Would you rather have a pet snail that leaves a slimy trail wherever it goes or a pet guinea pig that keeps multiplying?

    Would you rather eat a plate of broccoli covered in chocolate syrup or a bowl of ice cream with ketchup?

    Would you rather your toothpaste tasted like rotten eggs or your shampoo smelled like stinky cheese?

    Would you rather have a pet dragon that sheds glitter or a pet pony that snorts rainbows?

    Would you rather have a piece of spinach stuck in your teeth for a whole day or a booger hanging from your nose?

    Would you rather have to wear socks full of jelly or gloves filled with pudding all day?

    Would you rather have to wear socks full of jelly or gloves filled with pudding all day?

    Would you rather eat a sandwich with peanut butter, pickles, and hot sauce or one with marshmallows, mustard, and relish?

    Would you rather hold a slug in your hand or hold a handful of earthworms?

    Would you rather have a pet that leaves hair and fur all over your house or a pet that drools constantly?

    Would you rather have hands that are always covered in sticky honey or feet that are permanently coated in slime?

    Would you rather be a fish or a bird?

    Would you rather be 12 feet tall or 1 inch tall?

    Would you rather only be able to eat sweet food or only be able to eat salty food?

    Would you rather be a doctor or a firefighter?

    Would you rather learn to play the guitar or the piano?

    Would you rather eat vanilla or chocolate ice cream?

    Would you rather have a never-ending supply of your favorite food or your favorite drink?

    Would you rather have a never-ending supply of your favorite food or your favorite drink?- would you rather questions for kids

    Would you rather explore outer space or a new country of your choice?

    Would you rather go on a magical adventure with talking animals or travel back in time to meet dinosaurs?

    Would you rather be an expert at making delicious treats or a master tree-house builder?

    Would you rather be able to make objects come to life with a touch or have a special hat that helps you think of creative ideas?

    Would you rather have a pet that can talk or a flying carpet that can take you places?

    Would you rather be able to fly on the back of a giant butterfly or ride a rainbow to your favorite destination?

    Would you rather have a wardrobe that allows you to wear clothes from different eras in history or a closet filled with costumes of mythical creatures?

    Would you rather watch a new movie every day or your favorite movie over and over?

    Would you rather have a squirrel’s ability to climb trees or a cheetah’s super speed?

    Would you rather explore the moon or the depths of the sea?

    Would you rather have two left feet or two right hands?

    Would you rather be an only child or have nine siblings?

    Would you rather be able to go 100 years in the past or 100 years in the future?

    Would you rather lose all your books for a week or not be allowed screen time for a week?

    Would you rather eat only vegetables for a month or give up dessert for a month?

    Would you rather have to wake up an hour earlier every day or go to bed an hour earlier every night?

    Would you rather do 50 push-ups or run a mile without stopping?

    Would you rather be the class monitor and remind your classmates about rules or sit in the back of the class and never talk to anyone for the entire school year?

    Would you rather do all your chores in one day or spread them out over a week?

    Would you rather have to speak in front of your entire school or sing a song in front of your class?

    Would you rather have a school day that’s twice as long but only have school four days each week or go to school for six hours six days a week?

    Would you rather learn a new instrument or learn a new language?

    Would you rather have a remote control that can pause time or fast-forward through boring moments?

    Would you rather have the power to make objects appear or disappear?

    Would you rather never taste again or never touch again?

    Would you rather never taste again or never touch again?

    Would you rather have the ability to make objects grow bigger or shrink smaller with a touch?

    Get Your Free Would You Rather Questions Google Slides

    Would you Rather

    Incorporating “Would You Rather” questions for kids into your teaching toolkit can transform mundane learning moments into exciting adventures. These Would You Rather questions for kids ignite students’ curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and foster enjoyable interactions. So, go ahead and infuse a dose of fun into your learning environment and witness the power of engaging discussions and collaboration among your students.

    Want all these Would You Rather questions for kids in a set of Google Slides? Fill out the form and get instant access.

    Donna Paul

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  • This AI-Powered Content Creator Can Help You Write Just About Anything | Entrepreneur

    This AI-Powered Content Creator Can Help You Write Just About Anything | Entrepreneur

    Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.

    Content marketing has quickly made generating interesting writing, sharing likable images, and keeping your clients and potential clients steadily fed with consumable material a must for most business leaders. If you have a product or service you’d like to focus on instead of writing about it, then a new-age AI content creation tool might be perfect for you.

    Through January 21 at 11:59 p.m. PT, you can get this lifetime pro subscription to Write Bot — an AI-driven content creation platform — for just $29.97 (reg. $539). With its own machine learning algorithm and natural language processing techniques, this tool is billed as being capable of mimicking human writing, so you should be able to maintain an attractive, accessible voice for your business.

    The tool is simple to use; just write in the provided blank space with whatever level of detail you have and then ask Write Bot to generate content, which it will do in a matter of a few seconds. From there, you can work back and forth with the AI to edit and publish the work. You can use this brilliant tool for writing social media ads, SEO-driven content for Google, blog posts, outlines, and much more.

    This plan is good for up to 1,000,000 AI words generated each month, as well as more than 12 use cases and priority email and chat support. Discover why one reviewer described this as a “very nice writing assistant!”

    Through January 21 at 11:59 p.m. PT, you can get a lifetime pro subscription to the Write Bot AI-driven content creation platform for the best-of-web price of just $29.97 (reg. $539).

    StackSocial prices subject to change.

    Entrepreneur Store

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  • My Biggest Goal of the Year

    My Biggest Goal of the Year

    Staking my claim on 2024. First new podcast episode!

    My biggest goal of the year is to get my friend’s book published.

    Listen to learn more about my motivations, strategy, gameplan, and potential future.


    I’ll keep you guys updated on the progress of this goal as we get further into the year.

    If all goes well, I’ll be announcing our big accomplishment in a future episode. If we don’t succeed, then none of this ever happened…

    Related Links

    • My Timeline – My goal timeline for the year, including a breakdown of the goals mentioned in the podcast (plus other ambitions).
    • Goals Timeline (PDF) – Create your own goal timeline for the next day, week, month, year, and decade. This is the most important exercise you’ll ever do.
    • Self-Improvement Coaching – Reach out to me for motivation. I’m especially interested in helping other creative types to finish any projects they’ve been procrastinating on.


    Enter your email to stay updated on new content on self improvement:

    Steven Handel

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  • 150 Inspiring Picture Writing Prompts To Spark Creativity

    150 Inspiring Picture Writing Prompts To Spark Creativity

    Creative writing is a challenge for many students, often because they can’t come up with anything to write about. That’s why we love picture writing prompts. Each one sparks the imagination and helps young writers jump right into crafting a story to match. We rounded up a whole collection of intriguing images for use with kids in grades K-12 along. Plus we designed a set of free Google Slides featuring all of the prompts so you can easily share them with students.

    Tip: Start by showing students the picture (or let them choose from among several) without making any comment about what they’re seeing. For kids who still struggle to get started, suggest a potential title or opening sentence, like the examples included here.

    Don’t miss our free downloadable. Grab your full set of ready-to-go Picture Writing Prompts Google Slides with all of the prompts below.

    Jump to:

      

    Elementary Picture Writing Prompts

    When kids first see these picture writing prompts, they may or may not immediately feel inspired. If they need some help, ask them questions like “What led up to this moment?” or “What’s going to happen next?”

    Puppy Love

    anncapictures via Pixabay

    When Larry fell in love, he fell hard.

    Ask Sign

    Lighted sign reading ASK hanging from a building
    terimakasih0 via Pixabay

    When the new sign appeared on Main Street, everyone in town wondered exactly what it meant.

    Snowy Footprints

    A series of random footprints in the snow
    117O8734 via Pixabay

    After that crazy day, all that was left to show for it was footprints in the snow.

    Dinosaur Bones

    Child hiding inside a large toothy skull, reaching out a hand
    Mysticsartdesign via Pixabay

    “Come with me if you want to live!” Ash said, reaching out a hand.

    Undersea Treasure

    Goldfish swimming around a closed treasure chest sitting in the sand under the water
    Larisa-K via Pixabay

    For years, no one saw the locked treasure chest but the local fish, who wondered what it could contain.

    A Game of Fetch

    A claymation dog bringing a stick to a snowman in a snowy scene
    Hitcom via Pixabay

    To Scout, it was a game, but to Mr. Freezy, it was much more.

    Ladybug Gossip

    Of pair of spotted red ladybugs perched on a leaf
    RonBerg via Pixabay

    The ladybug’s picnic was an excellent chance to meet up with old friends and hear all the latest gossip.

    Peekaboo

    Two children peering in through a barred window
    mostafa_meraji via Pixabay

    We met them when they peeked into our window, watching us as we ate lunch and watched cartoons.

    King of the Jungle

    Majestic lion perched on a log wearing a crown
    ThomasWolter via Pixabay

    It wasn’t the crown that made Amari the king of all he surveyed.

    The Final Pitch

    Small child waiting at home base for a baseball pitch that's about to arrive
    jatocreate via Pixabay

    It all came down to this—the final pitch in a game that was tied 2-2.

    Doggie Massage

    Two dogs sitting in a way that looks like one is giving the other a back massage
    Spiritze via Pixabay

    Every dog in the neighborhood knew that Rocky gave the best massages and was always willing to lend an ear too.

    Skateboard Life

    Girl in a striped shirt and red headband posing with a skateboard in front of some graffiti
    ua_Bob_Dmyt_ua via Pixabay

    When Charli got her first skateboard, she made herself a promise.

    Garden of the Past

    Painting of a woman in old-fashioned clothing walking in a cottage garden
    Prawny via Pixabay

    The woman walked in the garden every day, never saying a word.

    Sunset Friends

    Two children on a jungle gym silhouetted against a setting sun
    vigush98 via Pixabay

    They met on the jungle gym every day at sunset, sharing everything about their days.

    Pink Umbrellas

    A sunny alleyway with pink umbrellas strung across it
    lecreusois via Pixabay

    When the pink umbrellas first appeared, Toni thought they might be magic.

    Firefly Forest

    Illustration of a forest at night filled with fireflies
    monicore via Pixabay

    Olivia was surprised to discover that the fireflies didn’t just glow, they also sang.

    Robot Spider

    A large mechanical spider standing on a stormy beach
    Ray_Shrewsberry via Pixabay

    When it first crawled ashore, the mechanical spider moved slowly.

    Fallen House

    House tipped on its side following a hurricane
    paulbr75 via Pixabay

    Staring at their house, which was now on its side, the whole family was in shock.

    Red Riding Hood

    A young girl wearing a red hooded cape riding a brown horse in the forest
    kudybadorota via Pixabay

    If only she’d been riding her faithful steed the day she’d met the Big Bad Wolf, things might have been very different.

    Kangaroo Fall

    A kangaroo sprawled on its back in the grass
    Katrina_S via Pixabay

    “Well, this is embarrassing,” thought Bouncer, as laughter filled the air around him.

    Lost Cat

    A child's hand-drawn sign for a lost cat attached to a tree
    guapita50 via Pixabay

    Daci’s big brother said her signs wouldn’t help them find their runaway cat, but he was wrong.

    Penguin Bookshop

    An illustration of a penguin wearing a top hat, standing in a booksshop
    ThankYouFantasyPictures via Pixabay

    A visit to Mr. Pickerel’s Penguin Bookshop is always an adventure.

    Egg Family

    A carton of colorful eggs with faces drawn on them
    Alexas_Fotos via Pixabay

    Of all the eggs in the carton, Ella was the one who could always crack you up.

    Sky Swings

    Children writing a fairground swing ride
    JillWellington via Pixabay

    That was the year Min was finally tall enough to ride the Sky Swings, but now she wasn’t so sure.

    Rubber Duck Parade

    A row of rubber ducks in various costumes floating down a water-filled gutter
    Couleur via Pixabay

    It was truly an honor to be asked to lead the Spring Duck Parade.

    Teddy Story Time

    Three teddy bears posed to look as if they're reading a book
    MabelAmber via Pixabay

    Every afternoon, the three friends gathered for story time in their favorite spot in the woods.

    Underwater School

    A child sitting at a desk, looking out the window at fish swimming by
    Darkmoon_Art via Pixabay

    Nia thought going to school underwater would be exciting, but some days she really missed going outside for recess.

    Happy Ball

    A red ball with a smiley face floating on the water
    Pexels/Happy Ball via Pixabay

    The day Amos started his journey down the river, the sun was shining brightly.

    Turtle Trouble

    A grumpy looking sea turtle floating in clear water
    GerDukes via Pixabay

    “None shall pass,” growled the old sea turtle, blocking the way.

    Dinosaur Race

    An illustration of a young girl racing alongside a dinosaur
    Dieterich01 via Pixabay

    Pia was supposed to keep Balthazar on a leash, but once they reached the forest, she set him free and they both began to run.

    Finally Seeing Eye to Eye

    Cartoon illustration of a large bear with a tiny mouse standing on its nose, looking into its eyes (Picture Writing Prompts)
    JenDigitalArt via Pixabay

    “So, we meet at last, face to face,” Lord Squeakerton said to his enemy, the Count of Catnip.

    What?!?

    Monkey face with mouth and eyes open in surprise
    LukasBasel via Pixabay

    It takes a lot to surprise a monkey, but you don’t see something like this every day.

    Not Coming Out

    Child hiding behind a heap of pillows on a beige couch (Picture Writing Prompts)
    ambermb via Pixabay

    The day started out normally enough, but by the end, Chris knew he was in over his head.

    Life on Other Planets

    A space scene showing a robot and robot dog standing on the surface of an alien planet, with a domed habitat behind them
    KELLEPICS via Pixabay

    “Hurry up,” Grnklor told his robopup. “We have to get back inside before nightfall.”

    Reindeer Games

    Boy leading a reindeer along a snowy path into the setting sun (Picture Writing Prompts)
    kinkate/Boy and Reindeer via Pixabay

    The wind had died down, but the setting sun seemed to take all the warmth of the day with it.

    Something to Celebrate

    A young boy raises his arms in triumph as a young girl points at a computer screen, smiling (Picture Writing Prompts)
    StartupStockPhotos via Pixabay

    Their classmates could hear their shouts of joy from all the way down the hall.

    Home Sweet Mushroom

    Illustration of a mushroom turned into a house, with a fence and lighted windows, under a full moon
    Noupload/Mushroom House via Pixabay

    When the fairies that lived in the garden invited her to stay with them for awhile, Maria wasn’t sure what to expect.

    Loch Ness Mystery

    Model of the Loch Ness Monster rising from a lake
    GregMontani via Pixabay

    “There it is! I told you Nessie is real!” Angus whispered to Lee.

    Lonely Bear

    Worn teddy bear sitting on a stone bridge
    Pexels via Pixabay

    It was hard to say who was lonelier that night, Amil or his lost stuffed bear, Jasper.

    Sometimes You Lose

    Boy sitting on the ground with his face in his hands
    Jarmoluk via Pixabay

    When his team lost the championship, Miguel was crushed, but it turned out to be the best thing that ever happened to him.
      

    Middle School Picture Writing Prompts

    Middle school writing prompts can be a little more complex, with pictures that have a lot of potential interpretations. Encourage students to delve deeper into the story by describing how the characters feel and why they behave the way they do.

    New Shoes

    A pair of light blue Converse sneakers
    Tien-seven via Pixabay

    Morgan was incredibly proud of those shoes, paid for entirely with money from after-school jobs.

    Never Lose Hope

    Splotch of green paint with the words
    ShonEjai via Pixabay

    With his last bit of energy, Kai scrawled his message in the wet paint.

    Get Me Out

    Computer keyboard with a red button reading Get Me Out of Here
    aitoff via Pixabay

    The keyboard button could only be used once, and no one knew exactly what happened when you pressed it.

    Piano Lessons

    A young child's hands on a piano keyboard
    pixel_modeler via Pixabay

    Before she could even speak, Arya was drawn to the black and white keys.

    Fern Baby

    Rolled fern front photoshopped to look as if a baby is sleeping inside
    165106 via Pixabay

    There was no doubt about it, this was was indeed a very special kind of garden.

    Sad Bunny

    A person wearing a dingy bunny costume standing on the end of a dock
    RyanMcGuire via Pixabay

    No matter how you looked at it, it had been a very rough day to be the Easter Bunny.

    Empty Chairs

    Four empty beach chairs on the shore, with seagulls flying overhead.
    Stevebidmead via Pixabay

    By sunset, all four chairs were empty, and the only signs of life were the gulls swooping down from above.

    Floating Treasure

    Two black birds sitting on a chest floating in the water
    Syaibatulhamdi via Pixabay

    To the birds, it was simply a convenient place to land, but Ali and I knew it was much more than that.

    Shadow Question

    A pair of sneakers and a person's shadow in a puddle
    janrye via Pixabay

    That was the day they discovered that just because you were invisible didn’t mean your shadow was.

    Letter and Key

    An old key lying on an old handwritten letter
    Pezibear via Pixabay

    The day she turned 12, Vivi’s aunt handed her an envelope containing the family secret.

    Space Target

    An illustration of a woman aiming an arrow at a target against an outer space landscape
    KELLEPICS/Space Target via Pixabay

    Onyx paused, knowing that once their arrow hit the target, there was no knowing what would happen.

    Mermaid Mystery

    A mysterious figure that could be a mermaid, seen from below
    sergeitokmakov via Pixabay

    It was a mermaid—or was it?

    World on a String

    A girl standing on a path, holding a suitcase and a bunch of balloons that look like planets
    Jordan_Singh via Pixabay

    Her dad had promised to give her the world, but she wasn’t expecting three more planets as well.

    Bee Standoff

    Two bees face ot face on a purple flower
    ClaudiaWollesen via Pixabay

    “This flower ain’t big enough for the both of us!” said Bianca.

    Solitary Seat

    A leather chair next to an old woodstove with a valise and old books
    StockSnap via Pixabay

    For as long as anyone could remember, Angus McGee spent his evenings in the same chair next to the woodstove.

    Best Friends

    A little girl holding a very large teddy bear, dragging it down a dirt road
    Greyerbaby/Runaway via Pixabay

    When you decide to run away from home forever, you can’t possibly leave your best friend behind.

    Dinosaur Demise

    Illustration of dinosaurs panicking as a meteor is about to hit the earth
    12222786 via Pixabay

    In retrospect, setting the time machine to randomly choose a day and time in the past might not have been such a good idea.

    Magic Lamps

    A collection of green
    sharonang via Pixabay

    “Choose wisely,” said the old shopkeeper, “for only one of these lamps is truly magic.”

    Message in a Bottle

    Glass bottle on a seashore with a rolled up paper inside
    Atlantios via Pixabay

    The message floated at sea for more than 50 years before the day we found it on the beach.

    Barrel Boat

    Man wearing a life jacket and paddling half a barrel in a lake
    99pixel via Pixabay

    Of all the ways to impress someone, Jonah thought to himself, this had to be one of the most ridiculous.

    Dragon Guardian

    A child sitting in the grass, with a dragon curled up around her
    Xandra_Iryna via Pixabay

    When your parents give you your own dragon guardian, your childhood is bound to be enchanted.

    Octopus’s Garden

    Diver encountering a large octopus with fish in the background (Middle School Picture Writing Prompts)
    Dieterich01 via Pixabay

    Wouldn’t you like to be under the sea, in an octopus’s garden in the shade?

    Around the Corner

    Girl peering around a corner at a boy walking a dog
    StockSnap via Pixabay

    After finally pressing “send,” she couldn’t resist peeking around the corner to watch him read the text.

    Beam Me Up!

    Small child sitting in a field watching a flying saucer beam up its tricycle (Middle School Picture Writing Prompts)
    51581/Alien Abduction via Pixabay

    Milo’s earliest memory was of watching his beloved tricycle float into the sky above him, caught in a beam of light.

    Poison Apple

    A red apple held in a skeleton's hand
    ulleo via Pixabay

    To join the club, all Aaron had to do was creep up and snatch the apple from the skeleton’s hand without being seen.

    Giraffe Council

    Three giraffes shown from the neck up against a cloudy blue sku
    Sponchia via Pixabay

    “It is now 3 p.m., and I call this meeting of the Mighty Council of Giraffes to order,” announced Imari.

    Mystery Creature

    Computer illustrated creature with blue scales, pink spikes, and large eyes
    rosesdotty via Pixabay

    At first glance, it was hard to tell whether the little creature was friend or foe.

    Onward

    Woman leaping across a chasm silhouetted by an orange sky
    sasint via Pixabay

    As the sky turned orange, Keisha ran faster than ever and used the last of her energy to push off and soar over the water below.

    The End of Days

    A boy stands with his bicycle watching as bombs rain down on a city skyline (Picture Writing Prompts)
    TheHilaryClark via Pixabay

    Despite their best efforts, they arrived too late—the battle had already begun.

    Out of the Book

    Woman dressed in a blue ball gown peering out of a book lit from inside, with a mouse nearby
    LisaChe via Pixabay

    “Happily ever after” was about to take on a whole new meaning.

    Stopped Clock

    Old broken alarm clock stopped at 11:17
    Monoar_CGI_Artist via Pixabay

    I was sure that the time on the broken clock was the clue to solving the mystery.

    Dueling Webs

    Two dew-covered spiderwebs in the early morning sun
    pimpelucha via Pixabay

    It’s never a good idea to build your web too close to another spider’s, but this time I had no choice.

    Do Shoes Grow on Trees?

    A bare tree covered with hanging pairs of shoes against a clear blue sky
    PDPhotos via Pixabay

    The day I threw my own shoes into the tree was the day I really started to grow up.

    Abstract Art

    Closeup of splotches of colorful paint
    garageband via Pixabay

    “So,” asked their art teacher, “what do you think this painting means?”

    Wandering Robots

    Small cardboard robot in a field of daisies (Picture Writing Prompts)
    cuilei2016 via Pixabay

    Everything about NB-317 was made of cardboard except his heart—that was made of flesh and blood and very capable of being broken.

    Dream Come True

    Blue house floating in the sky above mountains, held up by blue balloons
    51581/Balloon House via Pixabay

    It all started when Quinn watched her favorite movie the night before they assigned partners for the eighth grade science fair project.

    Mysterious Cave

    Rocky cave with strange geometric patterns in the rock
    TheDigitalArtist via Pixabay

    The cave was unlike anything we’d ever seen before, and what was more, it almost seemed like the rock was alive.

    Storm at Sea

    A pirate ship on stormy seas, with a purple sky and dramatic streaks of lightning
    Noupload/Stormy Seas via Pixabay

    As the rain lashed his face and lightning tore apart the sky, Kiran had to admit he’d always thought it would be a lot more fun being a pirate.

    Grasshopper Close-Up

    A closeup view of a grasshopper looking directly at the camera
    RoosRojas via Pixabay

    That’s when Javed realized it wasn’t that the grasshopper was too big—it was that he was suddenly very, very small.

    UFO Parking

    Sign saying UFO Parking with picture of a flying saucer
    MartinStr via Pixabay

    “Well, that’s convenient,” Javdok remarked to Qabow when they saw the sign.
      

    High School Picture Writing Prompts

    High school writers are ready to dig deep, exploring character development and detailed plots. These pictures offer a jumping-off point to set their imaginations free.

    Cyborg Girl

    An altered image showing a young girl in a black dress with a white collar, with a neck made of mechanical gears
    51581/Cyborg Girl via Pixabay

    When she was 14, Tasha’s parents finally told her the truth about what she really was.

    BBQ Cookout

    Barbeque grill with many different kinds of meat
    davyart via Pixabay

    “So, I’m guessing no one told you I’m a vegetarian?” asked Sadie with a smile.

    Faces

    Hands holding up a phone with a picture of a baby's face in front an old man's face
    geralt via Pixabay

    The latest app was like a time machine, allowing people to look back in time, but it also had a dark side.

    Hopeless

    Woman sitting on a sidewalk with her head on her knees as others walk by
    Jackie_Chance via Pixabay

    She was surrounded by people but never felt more alone.

    Hippo Troubles

    A hippo mother and baby with its mouth open
    christels via Pixabay

    Like all parents, hippos sometimes really need a break from their kids.

    iPad Farmer

    Old man in overalls using an iPad while snapping green beans
    BarbaraJackson via Pixabay

    Grandpa Jack never failed to surprise us.

    Marching Band Blues

    Black man in a red shirt sitting on a bench, wearing a sousaphone
    giovanni42 via Pixabay

    Kaleel sat sadly on the bench, watching the rest of the band march away in jaunty time to the music.

    Never-Ending Tunnel

    A white-tiled tunnel stretching far into the distance
    MarkusDHamburg via Pixabay

    The tunnel seemed to stretch to infinity, but Jayma knew what was at the end, and it terrified her.

    Carving Out Love

    A birch tree with
    elljay via Pixabay

    For years, we wondered who “WP” was, and who it was who loved them so much they carved it into a tree for all to see.

    Glowing Globe

    Man holding a glowing globe in a misty library
    darksouls1 via Pixabay

    Just then, the globe began to glow, and Jaxson knew he was about to leap through space and time once again—destination unknown.

    See No Evil

    Three skeletons posed in the classic
    paulbr75 via Pixabay

    It seemed like a funny joke to pose the skeletons in front of old Mrs. Petoski’s house, but then she turned up dead, and the police said it was murder.

    Upside Down

    Woman hanging upside down from the ceiling in a kitchen
    xusenru via Pixabay

    It’s an odd feeling to wake up one morning and find yourself able to walk on the ceiling.

    Face at the Fence

    Child with their face pressed up against a wire fence
    Greyerbaby/Fence via Pixabay

    So much depended on which side of the fence you were on.

    Bicycle Race

    Three people competing in a bicycle race
    ArminEP via Pixabay

    Finley had trained too hard for this race to come in third—it just wasn’t good enough.

    Family Travels

    Vintage photo of a Black family strapping luggage to a car, with a young girl posing in front
    ArtsyBee via Pixabay

    In the picture, my grandmother’s expression is hard to interpret, but she’s told me the story many times.

    Laundromat Antics

    A pair of legs waving out of a dryer in a laundromat
    Pexels via Pixabay

    Dani never expected to meet her first love feet first.

    I’m Sorry

    Black and white photo of a wedding ring lying on a sheet of notepaper saying "I'm sorry!"
    Catkin via Pixabay

    Molly’s mom probably didn’t mean for her to be the one to find the note, but that’s how things turned out.

    Through the Storm

    Pickup truck driving through flooded streets in a storm
    12019/Storm Drive via Pixabay

    Javier knew it would have been smarter to stay put, but he had to make sure his mom was safe before the worst of the storm arrived.

    Lifetime Friends

    Two babies holding hands while being held by adults
    PublicCo via Pixabay

    They’d been friends for as long as they could remember—even longer, in fact.

    Stray Kitten

    A small kitten facing a person's legs, in black and white
    Alek_B via Pixabay

    “I am NOT taking you home with me,” Kai told the tiny mewling kitten firmly.

    Abandoned Greenhouse

    Woman inside an abandoned ramshackle greenhouse in the woods
    Vika_Glitter/Greenhouse via Pixabay

    Willow was free to leave at any time, but she couldn’t make herself go.

    Razor Wire

    A fence topped by rolls of razor wire against a blue sky
    JodyDellDavis via Pixabay

    Amani’s earliest memory was razor wire—miles and miles of it.

    Church Graveyard

    An old graveyard outside a stone church
    PublicDomainPictures via Pixabay

    Everyone feels differently in a graveyard, but for me, they’re very peaceful places.

    Orb of Death

    A hooded figure folding out a crystal ball with a spooky image in it
    2541163 via Pixabay

    “Do you really want to know?” Death asked. “Because once you know, you won’t be able to forget.”

    Missed Shot

    Men in wheelchairs playing basketball, as one laments a missed shot
    12019/Basketball Game via Pixabay

    Steve was sure his shot would make it, but it bounced off the rim just as the buzzer rang to end the game.

    First Contact

    Alien figure with a human in a spacesuit visible in the window behind them (High School Picture Writing Prompts)
    geralt via Pixabay

    This was it—the moment that would change what it meant to be human forever.

    One Life To Live

    An old man wearing a cowboy hat sits in front of a house (Picture Writing Prompts)
    marcoreyes via Pixabay

    His face said his life had been a hard one, but his eyes told a different tale.

    Winter Walk

    Snow-covered field with a winding trail of footprints
    kinkate/Snowy Scene via Pixabay

    Snow fell, creating a blank canvas to record the story of that fateful walk.

    Train to Nowhere

    Sepia-toned image of an old sleeper train car in disrepair
    NoName_13 via Pixabay

    It certainly wasn’t the most luxurious way to travel, but then again, no one really wanted to make this trip in the first place.

    Modern Mary Poppins

    Woman standing in the middle of a wheat field on a gray day, holding an umbrella and bag
    Vika_Glitter/Umbrella Woman via Pixabay

    She dropped into our lives on a gray day in midwinter, a hint of the spring that was to come.

    All That Remains

    A chair sits in the hallway of an abandoned building under a shaft of light from above (High School Picture Writing Prompts)
    Pixabay via Pexels

    Dust motes filled the air of the abandoned hallway, replacing the voices once heard there.

    Pocket Pal

    A very small bunny being carried in a shirt pocket
    joannafotograf via Pixabay

    From the day he found the little creature, Luis refused to go anywhere without him.

    The Question

    Figure holding flowers behind its back, with a woman turning to look in the background
    aliceabc0 via Pixabay

    Their happily ever after began quietly, with a bouquet of wildflowers.

    Night Lights

    A person holding an umbrella walks down an alley toward a street filled with neon lights
    MasashiWakui via Pixabay

    Misty rain both blurred and emphasized the lights that lit Suri’s way home that evening.

    Forest of Fear

    Black and white photo of tree trunks with arms and hands reach out from behind them (Picture Writing Prompts)
    simonwijers via Pixabay

    At first, Mateo thought it was a joke, but the screams that followed told him there was nothing remotely funny about it.

    Eye Spy

    Closeup of a human eye, with the pupil represented as a camera lens
    Angel-Kun via Pixabay

    At the elite level, being a spy meant serious commitments.

    The Yellow Door

    A row of white doors with one yellow door (Picture Writing Prompts)
    qimono via Pixabay

    On their 14th birthday, every resident of Fresnia was required to stand before the Wall of Doors and make a choice.

    Graffiti Palace

    Abandoned warehouse with graffiti on the walls
    652234 via Pixabay

    To strangers, it seemed random, but every mark on those walls had deep meaning for us.

    Fossil Fish

    Fish fossil in light-colored stone
    photosforyou via Pixabay

    Millions of years ago, the fish gave one final flop before lying still in the deep mud.

    On the Rails

    Woman standing on railroad tracks holding a guitar and looking off into the distant sunset (Picture Writing Prompts)
    NoName_13 via Pixabay

    Aliyah stood on the tracks, uncertain of where to go next.

    Art Picture Writing Prompts

    These picture prompts are all works of art, some more well known than others. Try providing them to students without sharing the titles first, then offer up the titles if they need some help getting started.

    The Dance Class (Edgar Degas)

    The Dance Class by Edgar Degas
    Degas/The Dance Class via metmuseum.org

    Greek Funerary Plaque (520-510 BCE)

    Greek Funerary Plaque
    Greek Funerary Plaque via metmuseum.org

    Washington Crossing the Delaware (Emanuel Leutze)

    Washington Crossing the Delaware by Emanuel Leutze
    Washington Crossing the Delaware via metmuseum.org

    Kyōsai’s Pictures of One Hundred Demons

    Kyōsai’s Pictures of One Hundred Demons
    Kyōsai’s Pictures of One Hundred Demons via metmuseum.org

    First Steps, After Millet (Vincent van Gogh)

    First Steps by Vincent Van Gogh
    First Steps via metmuseum.org

    Lady Lilith (Dante Gabriel Rossetti)

    Lady Lilith by Dante Gabriel Rosetti
    Lady Lilith via metmuseum.org

    A Sunday on La Grande Jatte (Georges Seurat)

    A Sunday on La Grande Jatte by Georges Seurat
    A Sunday on La Grande Jatte via metmuseum.org

    After the Hurricane, Bahamas (Winslow Homer)

    After the Hurricane, Bahamas by Winslow Homer
    After the Hurricane via artic.edu

    Drawing Lots for Prizes (Kitagawa Utamaro)

    Drawing Lots for Prizes by Kitagawa Utamaro
    Drawing Lots for Prizes via artic.edu

    Portions of Field Armor (Jacob Halder)

    Portions of a Field Armor by Jacob Halder
    Field Armor via artic.edu

    Sadie Pfeifer, a Cotton Mill Spinner (Lewis Wickes Hine)

    Sadie Pfeifer, a Cotton Mill Spinner by Lewis Wickes Hine
    Cotton Mill Spinner via artic.edu

    Still Life With Monkey, Fruits, and Flowers (Jean Baptiste Oudry)

    Still Life With Monkey, Fruits, and Flowers by Jean Baptiste Oudry
    Still Life With Monkey via artic.edu

    Man Leading a Giraffe, 5th Century Byzantine

    Man Leading a Giraffe, 5th Century Byzantine
    Man Leading Giraffe via artic.edu

    The Three Skulls (Paul Cézanne)

    The Three Skulls by Paul Cézanne
    The Three Skulls via artic.edu

    The Madame B Album (Marie-Blanche Hennelle Fournier)

    The Madame B Album by Marie-Blanche Hennelle Fournier
    The Madame B Album via artic.edu

    Coiled Trumpet in the Form of a Snarling Feline Face (c. 100 BCE to 500 CE)

    Coiled Trumpet in the Form of a Snarling Feline Face (c. 100 BCE to 500 CE)
    Coiled Trumpet via artic.edu

    Crazy Quilt With Animals (Florence Elizabeth Marvin)

    Crazy Quilt with Animals by Florence Elizabeth Marvin
    Crazy Quilt via artic.edu

    Storytime (Eugenio Zampighi)

    Storytime by Eugenio Zampighi
    Storytime via artvee.com

    Cubist Village (Georges Gaudion)

    Cubist Village by Georges Gaudion
    Cubist Village via artvee.com

    Zig-Zag Passenger and Freight Train (Unknown)

    Zig-zag Passenger and Freight Train (Unknown)
    Zig-Zag Train via loc.gov

    The Power of Music (William Sidney Mount)

    The Power of Music by William Sidney Mount
    The Power of Music via clevelandart.org

    The Large Tree (Paul Gauguin)

    The Large Tree (Paul Gaugin)
    The Large Tree via clevelandart.org

    After the Bath (Mary Cassatt)

    After the Bath (Mary Cassatt)
    After the Bath via clevelandart.org

    Wedding Gown (Korea, Late 1800s)

    Wedding Gown (Korea, Late 1800s)
    Korean Wedding Gown via clevelandart.org

    The Contemplator (Eugène Carrière)

    The Contemplator (Eugène Carrière)
    The Contemplator via clevelandart.org

    The Girl I Left Behind Me (Eastman Johnson)

    The Girl I Left Behind Me (Eastman Johnson)
    The Girl I Left Behind Me via si.edu

    24c Curtiss Jenny Invert Single

    24c Curtiss Jenny invert single
    24c Curtiss Jenny via si.edu

    Creeping Baby Doll Patent Model

    Creeping Baby Doll Patent Model
    Creeping Baby Doll via si.edu

    Wrecked Zeppelin (British Library)

    Wrecked Zeppelin photograph from The British Library
    Wrecked Zeppelin via flickr.com

    Skeleton (Tales of Terror Frontispiece)

    Skeletons Frontispiece from Tales of Terror
    Tales of Terror/British Library via flickr.com

    Get Your Free Picture Writing Prompts Google Slides

    Gif featuring picture writing prompts Google Slides.
    We Are Teachers

    Just click the button below to fill out the form and get instant access to free downloadable Picture Writing Prompts Google Slides with all the prompts included above.

    How do you use picture writing prompts in your classroom? Come share ideas and ask for advice in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

    Jill Staake

    Source link

  • Best of 2023: Recap, Articles, Worksheets, and the Future

    Best of 2023: Recap, Articles, Worksheets, and the Future

    An honest review of 2023, featuring stand-out articles, practical worksheets, and a preview of the near future at The Emotion Machine.

    Another year is coming to an end. It’s time for my annual recap and roundup of best articles.

    To start, I’ll say this year was a good year for me overall. Not excellent, not bad – but “good.” It was more turbulent than past years and I certainly had low moments, but I adapted quickly and made a couple major habit changes that are going to payoff big in the future.

    Despite the chaos, I was remarkably consistent in my output this year. After a decade working on this site, creating new content is almost automatic for me. There’s no reason to assume I’ll be slowing down anytime soon, as new ideas and new projects are constantly coming to mind.

    The most successful endeavor this year has been my addition of self-improvement worksheets.

    Last year I pledged to make one new worksheet per month, so we already have a nice collection of 12 available going into the new year. These have received a lot of positive feedback so far and I’ll keep making new ones in 2024 (already have a long list of ideas).

    I’ll share more on my goals for 2024 soon, but let’s first take a look at the best self-improvement content that was published at The Emotion Machine in 2023…

    Best Articles/Worksheets of 2023

    Here’s a list of my best articles and worksheets from 2023 by category.

    Happiness and Mental Health

    A to Z Gratitude List (PDF)

    5 Senses Meditation (PDF)

    50+ Stress Relievers That Take 5 Minutes Or Less

    Fresh Starts: How to Use Landmark Dates to Spark a Change

    No Matter How Bad Things Get: If I Can Overcome This, I Can Overcome Anything

    Framing Depression as an Adaptive Signal, Not a Lifelong Disease

    The Drawing Effect: How Doodling Can Improve Your Thinking, Memory, and Emotions

    Habits and Motivation

    Strengths Worksheet (PDF)

    Goals Timeline (PDF)

    New Habit Worksheet (PDF)

    Renaissance Man: Why You Should Cultivate Multiple Interests

    Going Cold Turkey: Breaking Free from the Chains of Unhealthy Behaviors

    The Hidden Exhaustion of Mental Work: Why It Can Be Just as Tiring as Physical Labor

    Abandon Your TV: The Mental Benefits of Canceling Your Cable Subscription

    4 Japanese Concepts That Will Improve Your Well-Being

    Relationships and Friends

    Role Models Worksheet (PDF)

    The Big 5 Personality Traits: A Framework for Understanding Our Differences

    Conflict Resolution: 4 Principles Behind Constructive and Peaceful Negotiation

    Feeling Unloved: The Need to Be Appreciated

    Words Have Consequences: The Power of Language in Effective Communication

    How To Deal With Stupid People

    Thinking, Philosophy, and Wisdom

    Core Values Worksheet (PDF)

    Rewrite Negative Beliefs (PDF)

    Creative Self-Reflection Exercises (PDF)

    Explain Yourself: The Healthy Challenge of Describing Your Beliefs

    Mental Gymnastics: 7 Self-Sabotaging Effects of Over-Rationalization

    The Gish Gallop Effect: How Rapid Argumentation Distorts Perceptions and Beliefs

    Past, Present, and Future: Lessons from A Christmas Carol

    In-Yeon: Exploring “Past Lives” and Eternal Connections

    Near Future Plans

    I haven’t yet worked on my goals timeline, an annual tradition I do at the beginning of every year, but I’ll give you a quick peak at my main work goals in the near future:

    • Worksheets – As mentioned, I will definitely continue making one new worksheet each month. They are easy evergreen content and I’ve received compliments on them. The “Daily Routine” PDF will be coming out mid-January 2024.
    • Coaching – I’m bringing this back. Took most of the year off to focus on website but I think coaching is one of my better and more rewarding strengths. I already set up a calendar for easy scheduling and updated my coaching page.
    • Podcasting – I have too many thoughts per day that could be turned into valuable content but never materialize anywhere. “Everyone has great ideas, but not everyone acts on them.” Just pressing the record button and letting my mind riff is easy content that I think people will find interesting. I just need to suck it up and do it. I already have a Soundcloud (with a lot of old content) that I just need to reactivate.
    • Literary Agent – This is new territory for me. I’ve been working closely with an upcoming author friend and we’ve been making plans on finishing her first manuscript and sending pitches to publishers. She just finished the rough draft last week, but I’m going to be working with her more closely on editing, feedback, and reaching out to publishers once we have things tidied up. I still need to do more research but it could be a good avenue for me. It plays on multiple strengths: 1) Understanding the creative process, 2) Motivating people to actually finish their projects, 3) Finding people who have talent and potential, 4) Rooting for other people’s success. It feels like a natural outgrowth of a lot of my past work with creative people (at music venues, art galleries, and coaching various writers, artists, musicians, and filmmakers).
    • Articles – This isn’t changing. I’ll still be publishing at least one new or updated article every week. These make up the backbone of the website and I have no shortage of ideas and no reason to stop writing them anytime soon. If you want me to write about a specific topic, just use the contact page and let me know. I have many interests but it’s easier for me to cater to what you guys want. Feedback makes the site better.

    All in all I’m excited about 2024, and the ideas above feel like a perfect balance between “sticking with what works” vs. “trying new things.”

    Join Me In 2024

    If you find this work valuable to your life and want more, join me and support me going into the new year.

    My entire archive currently has over 850 articles covering a wide-range of subjects in psychology and self-improvement; and there’s plenty more to come in the future. I’m just getting started.

    To be honest with you, some of my earlier articles may not have aged as well as others. When you consistently produce content over 14 years, you inevitably release some less-than-stellar pieces. It’s a part of the process – having both “winning streaks” and “losing streaks” is a universal theme in life.

    Over the years, my beliefs, values, and interests have also shifted since I first started this site. There are things I wrote in the past that I don’t wholly agree with today. However, I choose to keep these old posts accessible because people often need different advice at various stages of their lives.

    I bet that’s not the hottest sales pitch you’ve ever heard. At heart, I consider myself a teacher more than a salesman, and that means being sincere, honest, and truthful before everything else. If you’re looking for “one trick” to magically fix your life, you’re in the wrong place. I don’t have those – never found them.

    All I can do is offer an array of tools, advice, and guidelines. You ultimately have to figure out what applies (or doesn’t) to your life. In truth, 80% of the content on this site may not interest you at all, but there’s that 20% that could be just what you need at this exact moment in your life.

    What I can promise you is that I’m one of the most dedicated writers on self-improvement currently going. I’ve seen thousands of other “self help” sites rise and fall over the years, but I keep chugging away no matter what.

    If you want to align with my commitment to happiness and well-being, then your first step is to join me.

    Better yet, get a Yearly subscription, for two simple reasons: 1) You’re committing yourself to a year of self-improvement, and 2) It’s cheaper. I’m honestly saying this from a self-improvement perspective and not a sales one.

    Let’s Go…







    You can cancel your membership at anytime. Please use the Contact form if you have any questions or comments.

    Steven Handel

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  • Save Time by Leveraging This AI Content Generation Tool for $20 | Entrepreneur

    Save Time by Leveraging This AI Content Generation Tool for $20 | Entrepreneur

    Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.

    Writing can open up doors in so many ways. It can help a business or business professional gain recognition with discoverable blog posts and SEO-friendly pages. It can help someone get a job with professionally polished cover letters, and it can help someone stand out in their industry with a thoughtfully written LinkedIn post. But it’s also time-consuming and challenging. So you can automate it for someone this holiday season.

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    Write Bot is a platform that uses a special machine learning algorithm to generate content that utilizes natural-sounding language that mimics the voices of human writers. It’s easy to prompt with a fill-in-the-blank space design, and after the platform generates a piece of writing, you can edit it and publish it right there.

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    Entrepreneur Store

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  • 110 Idioms to Teach Kids and Use in Idiom of the Day Lessons

    110 Idioms to Teach Kids and Use in Idiom of the Day Lessons

    Idioms are expressions that have a meaning that isn’t immediately obvious from the words themselves. Every language has them, and fluent speakers use them casually without even thinking about them. But for young students or those learning English as a second language, these phrases can be really confusing. Share these idiom examples with your students to deepen their understanding and use of American English idioms in no time flat!

    We’ve put together a list of some of the most common English idioms, complete with meanings and examples. Try using them for Idiom of the Day lessons, posting them around the classroom, or creating an idiom examples bulletin board.

    Get a free Google Slides deck of all 110 idioms to use with your students by filling out the form on this page.

    We Are Teachers

    A fish out of water

    Meaning: Someone in an uncomfortable position or situation

    Example: It was Allison’s first day at her new school, and she felt like a fish out of water.

    Add fuel to the fire

    Meaning: To make things worse

    Example: Celia added fuel to the fire by accusing the opposing team of cheating.

    Add insult to injury

    Meaning: Do something to make a bad situation worse

    Example: Learning she failed her science test on the same day her best friend moved away added insult to injury.

    All bark and no bite

    Meaning: Full of big talk but not willing to take meaningful action

    Example: Don’t be afraid of him when he gets mad. He’s all bark and no bite.

    All ears

    Meaning: Eager to listen to what someone has to say

    Example: The class was all ears when Ms. Ali mentioned a way to earn extra credit on the test.

    Ants in your pants

    Meaning: Can’t sit still

    Example: “Stop wriggling while I’m braiding your hair!” Kehlani’s mom said. “You have ants in your pants this morning.”

    Anything but

    Idiom slide with description of the idiom Anything but
    We Are Teachers

    Meaning: Not at all

    Example: When they heard about the pop quiz, the students were anything but excited.

    Bad egg

    Meaning: A person who causes trouble or is dishonest

    Example: Most of the group were kind and honest, but a few bad eggs caused trouble for the rest.

    Barking up the wrong tree

    Meaning: To be looking for answers in the wrong place

    Example: James thought Christopher was the one who broke the vase, but he was barking up the wrong tree.

    Be a fly on the wall

    Meaning: To watch something happen without anyone knowing you’re there

    Example: Nico wished he could be a fly on the wall when his sister discovered the toad he’d left in her shoe!

    Beat around the bush

    Meaning: To avoid saying what you mean, often because it would be difficult or uncomfortable

    Example: Don’t beat around the bush. Just tell me why you can’t come to my birthday party on Friday.

    Beef up

    Meaning: To make something stronger

    Example: My teacher recommended I beef up my essay with stronger examples to support my main point.

    Bend over backward

    Meaning: To try very hard to do something, even if it causes you problems

    Example: I’ve been bending over backward to plan this party at the last minute.

    Bigger fish to fry

    Meaning: More important things to do

    Example: Don’t waste my time with silly little things today. I’ve got bigger fish to fry.

    Bite the bullet

    Meaning: To do something that’s uncomfortable or not fun and get it over with

    Example: After putting it off for several days, Alex decided to bite the bullet and start work on the history project.

    Blessing in disguise

    Meaning: An apparently bad thing that turns out to be good in some way

    Example: Dashaun was disappointed he couldn’t go to the party, but after everyone who attended got food poisoning, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

    Bone to pick

    Meaning: To be angry at someone about something and want to talk about it

    Example: I’ve got a bone to pick with you! You need to stop leaving your junk all over my desk.

    Bread and butter

    Meaning: A person’s main source of income

    Example: Khalil loves playing with his band on the weekends, but giving guitar and piano lessons is his bread and butter.

    Break a leg

    Meaning: Good luck! Often used in the theater before a play or performance.

    Example: Is your piano recital tonight? Well, break a leg!

    Break the ice

    Meaning: To do or say something that will make people feel more comfortable

    Example: OK, since none of us have met before, let’s introduce ourselves and break the ice by sharing our favorite ice cream flavor.

    Burn your bridges

    Meaning: To do something that makes it impossible to return to the way things were before

    Example: If you insult your boss when you resign, you’ll burn your bridges with that company.

    Butter up

    Meaning: To flatter or praise someone to get their help or support

    Example: Malik is being really nice to me all of a sudden. I think he’s trying to butter me up and get me to vote for him for class president.

    Call it a day

    Meaning: To stop working on something and plan to pick it up again later

    Example: After working for three hours on her science fair project, Sofia decided to call it a day.

    Change of heart

    Meaning: To change your opinion about something

    Example: Ms. Ramirez used to be opposed to allowing dogs at school, but she’s had a change of heart.

    Cherry on top

    Meaning: To make something that is already good even better

    Example: We won free tickets to the concert, but the cherry on top was learning we’d also won backstage passes!

    Chicken out

    Meaning: To be too afraid to do something

    Example: She stood on the high diving board for almost 10 minutes, but in the end Dionne chickened out and came back down the ladder instead of jumping.

    Chip off the old block

    Meaning: A person who is similar to a parent in some way

    Example: Kayden loves to play chess as much as his dad does. He’s a real chip off the old block.

    Cool as a cucumber

    Meaning: Calm and serene, often in a difficult situation

    Example: While everyone else panicked about the pop quiz, Inez was cool as a cucumber.

    Costs an arm and a leg

    Meaning: To describe something that is very expensive

    Example: A new PlayStation costs an arm and a leg, so you’d better start saving now if you want to buy one.

    Crack a window

    Meaning: Open a window slightly

    Example: It’s so stuffy in here. Can someone please crack a window for some fresh air?

    Cream of the crop

    Meaning: The very best of a group

    Example: Everyone knows that Harvard and Yale only accept the cream of the crop.

    Cross your fingers

    Meaning: To wish someone luck or hope for something to happen

    Example: Headed to your audition? I’ll cross my fingers that you get the part you want!

    Cry over spilled milk

    Meaning: To feel sorry over something that has already happened, even though it’s not helpful

    Example: It’s too bad you broke your phone, but there’s no use crying over spilled milk.

    Cry wolf

    Meaning: To lie about something to get attention or help

    Example: If you keep crying wolf, no one will believe you when you’re really hurt.

    Cut somebody some slack

    Meaning: To ease up on someone, to allow them some leeway or another chance

    Example: Even though Jake was late with his English essay, Ms. Davis decided to cut him some slack since she knew he’d had the stomach flu.

    Cutting corners

    Meaning: To do something quickly and badly in order to save time or money

    Example: Liza cut corners on her math homework so she could watch TV and ended up getting most of the answers wrong.

    Don’t count your chickens before they hatch

    Meaning: Don’t depend on something before it happens

    Example: I know you’re sure you’re going to get the lead in the spring play, but don’t count your chickens before they hatch.

    Drag your feet

    Meaning: To be reluctant to do something

    Example: Rohan knew he needed to start his research paper, but he just kept dragging his feet.

    Draw a blank

    Meaning: To fail to remember something

    Example: Keiko studied hard for the test, but when it came time to answer the question, she drew a blank.

    Drop the ball

    Meaning: To make a mistake

    Example: Aisha said she’d make the poster for our project, but she forgot. She really dropped the ball on this one.

    Eagle eye

    Meaning: Close or careful watch on something

    Example: Ever since I broke a glass, my parents keep an eagle eye on me when I’m washing dishes.

    Ear to the ground

    Meaning: To be well informed or try to learn more about events

    Example: Keep your ear to the ground and see if you can learn more about their plan.

    Every cloud has a silver lining

    Idiom slide with description of the idiom Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining
    We Are Teachers

    Meaning: No matter how bad something seems, there’s usually a good side to it as well

    Example: Jamal was disappointed that his soccer game was canceled, but it gave him time to go to the movies with his friends, and his mom pointed out that every cloud has a silver lining.

    For the birds

    Meaning: Worthless or no good

    Example: Those cheap pens are for the birds; they barely work at all.

    Get off my back

    Meaning: Used to ask someone to stop bugging you about something

    Example: I told you I’d mow the lawn this weekend—now get off my back!

    Get out of hand

    Meaning: To become difficult to control

    Example: Ms. Rodriguez told her students they could chat while they worked, as long as the noise level didn’t get out of hand.

    Get something out of your system

    Meaning: Do the thing you’ve been wanting to do so you can move on

    Example: Mr. Patel knew his students were eager to try out the new playground equipment, so he told them to go ahead and get it out of their system before they started class.

    Get your act together

    Meaning: Behave properly, or organize your thoughts so you can do something successfully

    Example: After the third time he was late to class, Connor’s teacher told him he needed to get his act together and start showing up on time.

    Get your ducks in a row

    Meaning: To get things organized or make plans

    Example: I have so many things to get done today! I need to get my ducks in a row before I get started.

    Get your feet wet

    Meaning: To take a small step in an effort to learn or do something new

    Example: Before joining the cross-country team, Melanie got her feet wet by running a few local 5K races.

    Give it a whirl

    Meaning: To try something

    Example: I’ve never made a cake from scratch, but I’m willing to give it a whirl.

    Give someone the benefit of the doubt

    Meaning: To trust what someone says, even if you’re not entirely sure what they’re saying is true

    Example: Charlotte wasn’t sure Amelia was really late because she missed the bus, but decided to give her the benefit of the doubt.

    Give someone the cold shoulder

    Meaning: To ignore someone, usually because you’re upset or angry with them

    Example: Will and Jessica were mad at Emma, so they decided to give her the cold shoulder until she apologized.

    Go back to the drawing board

    Meaning: To start something over again with a completely new idea

    Example: When her science experiment failed completely, Hailey knew it was time to go back to the drawing board.

    Go the extra mile

    Meaning: To do more than you’re required to do

    Example: Minh went the extra mile and really impressed the selection committee.

    Gut feeling

    Meaning: A reaction based on an emotional response instead of reason

    Example: I want this project to work out, but I’ve got a gut feeling we’re doing things the wrong way.

    Hang in there

    Meaning: Don’t give up, keep on trying

    Example: “I’m sorry you’re having a rough day,” Lucas told Olivia. “Hang in there. I’m sure things will be better tomorrow.”

    Happy as a clam

    Meaning: Very content with a situation

    Example: Give her a book, some hot chocolate, and a warm blanket, and she’s happy as a clam.

    Hit-or-miss

    Meaning: Something that might be good sometimes and bad other times

    Example: Anna was a bit hit-or-miss when it came to remembering to take out the trash on Thursdays.

    Hit the sack/hit the hay

    Meaning: To go to bed

    Example: “Nine o’clock!” said Mia’s dad. “It’s time to turn off the TV and hit the sack.”

    Hold your horses

    Meaning: Slow down, stop and think about what you’re doing

    Example: “Hold your horses!” their dad said. “You can’t go swimming until you put on sunscreen.”

    Hook, line, and sinker

    Meaning: Completely tricked or deceived

    Example: I told my teacher the dog ate my homework, and she fell for it hook, line, and sinker.

    In the same boat

    Meaning: To be in the same bad situation as other people

    Example: We’re all in the same boat here; let’s help each other out and fix the problem.

    It’s not rocket science

    Meaning: Used to describe something that isn’t complicated or difficult

    Example: All you have to do is put the books back on the right shelf. It’s not rocket science!

    It’s raining cats and dogs

    Meaning: To rain very hard

    Example: I hope you brought your umbrella. It’s raining cats and dogs out there!

    Let someone off the hook

    Meaning: To not hold someone responsible for something

    Example: Logan was caught running in the hallway, but Ms. Walker let him off the hook because she knew he was late for the bus.

    Miss the boat

    Meaning: To be too late for something that’s already started or is over

    Example: Sarah wanted to join the lacrosse team, but she was too late to sign up and missed the boat.

    On cloud nine

    Idiom slide with description of the idiom On Cloud Nine
    We Are Teachers

    Meaning: Extremely happy about something

    Example: When Wyatt learned he’d gotten a perfect score on both his math and science tests, he was on cloud nine for the rest of the day.

    On the ball

    Meaning: To be quick and alert, dealing with things right away

    Example: Alice got all her homework done and practiced her clarinet before dinner. She’s really on the ball today!

    On the same page

    Meaning: To agree with someone

    Example: I think you and I are on the same page; we both agree that recycling is important.

    On thin ice

    Meaning: In a risky situation or position

    Example: When Mrs. Chen had to ask Ava and Noah to stop talking for the fourth time that day, she warned them both that they were on thin ice.

    Out of the blue

    Meaning: Suddenly and without warning

    Example: Everything was going fine when out of the blue, Joey said they were really mad about something.

    Out on a limb

    Meaning: To take a risk for someone or something

    Example: I’m going to go out on a limb and give them the extra funding they’re asking for.

    Piece of cake

    Meaning: Extremely easy

    Example: Putting the new desk together was a piece of cake.

    Pig out

    Meaning: To eat a whole lot all at once

    Example: Come over for dinner and we’ll pig out on pizza and ice cream.

    Play it by ear

    Meaning: To figure things out as you go

    Example: We didn’t get a schedule in advance, so we’ll just have to play it by ear as the day goes along.

    Pleased as punch

    Meaning: Extremely happy about something

    Example: Tia is pleased as punch about going to Hawaii for spring break.

    Pull someone’s leg

    Meaning: To tease someone or try to fool them

    Example: No, the cafeteria isn’t really giving away free ice cream. I was just pulling your leg!

    Pull yourself together

    Meaning: To calm yourself down when you’re very upset

    Example: I know you’re upset that your team lost the game, but you need to pull yourself together and go congratulate the winners.

    Run in circles

    Meaning: To try very hard but have little or no success

    Example: We’re just running in circles here; we need a plan before we do any more work.

    Second wind

    Meaning: A fresh burst of energy

    Example: Quinn thought she was too tired to go to the party after playing soccer all afternoon, but then she got a second wind.

    See eye to eye

    Meaning: Agree with someone about something

    Example: No matter how long they argued, they couldn’t seem to see eye to eye about painting the room orange.

    Sell like hotcakes

    Meaning: To sell quickly and in large amounts

    Example: The latest iPhone model is selling like hotcakes!

    Sleep like a log

    Meaning: Sleep very soundly without waking

    Example: After a long day at the beach, Jayma slept like a log that night.

    Slip your mind

    Meaning: To forget something

    Example: I meant to do the laundry, but it totally slipped my mind.

    Spill the beans

    Meaning: To give away a secret

    Example: Isabella’s surprise party was ruined when Sarah spilled the beans a few days before.

    Start off on the wrong foot

    Meaning: To start a relationship or activity badly

    Example: After starting off on the wrong foot, Robin and Hayden finally figured out how to work together.

    Take a rain check

    Idiom slide with description of the idiom Take a Rain Check
    We Are Teachers

    Meaning: To postpone a plan until another time

    Example: I’d love to play basketball after school, but I’ve got to go home to mow the lawn. Can I take a rain check?

    The ball is in your court

    Meaning: The decision or next step is up to you

    Example: Nick’s mom told him he could either join the basketball team or sign up for karate class, so he had to choose one. “The ball is in your court,” she said.

    The early bird gets the worm

    Meaning: Those who arrive first have the best chance for success or receive the best things

    Example: Grayson and Jayden showed up to find the best seats in the room already taken. “The early bird gets the worm!” said Maya with a grin.

    The elephant in the room

    Meaning: A large, obvious issue or problem that people are avoiding mentioning or dealing with

    Example: After waiting for Joseph to explain his bright-green hair all through dinner, his mom finally decided it was time to address the elephant in the room.

    The icing on the cake

    Meaning: Something that makes a good situation even better

    Example: The band was excited to learn they’d earned a place in the regional competition. Finding out it would take place at Disney World was the icing on the cake.

    The last straw

    Meaning: The last in a series of events that causes someone to run out of patience

    Example: “That’s the last straw!” said Elena after her little brother’s ball landed in her cereal bowl. “Go play outside!”

    The whole nine yards

    Meaning: Everything, all the way

    Example: Grace and Nora went the whole nine yards to make sure Hannah’s birthday party was really special.

    Think on your feet

    Meaning: To react quickly in a tricky or fast-moving situation

    Example: Dani excels at basketball because she’s so good at thinking on her feet.

    Through thick and thin

    Meaning: When things are good and also when they’re bad

    Example: Sophie and Chloe had been best friends since first grade, sticking together through thick and thin.

    Time flies when you’re having fun

    Meaning: When you’re having a good time, you don’t notice how quickly the time is passing

    Example: “Recess is over already?” said Ben. “I guess time flies when you’re having fun!”

    To get bent out of shape

    Meaning: To get upset about something

    Example: I didn’t mean to step on your foot—there’s no need to get bent out of shape about it.

    To make a long story short

    Meaning: To give the basic facts about something instead of a long explanation

    Example: To make a long story short, Liam tripped over his shoelace and that’s how he broke his wrist.

    Under the table

    Meaning: To do something secretly, often used to refer to working for pay unofficially (and illegally)

    Example: Gabi knew she shouldn’t, but she took a job working under the table so she didn’t have to worry about paying taxes.

    Under the weather

    Meaning: To be sick

    Example: Miguel won’t be at the Scout meeting today because he’s feeling a little under the weather.

    Up in arms

    Idiom slide with description of the idiom Up in Arms
    We Are Teachers

    Meaning: Very angry about something

    Example: When they heard the plans to cut down the old oak tree, the townspeople were up in arms.

    Up in the air

    Meaning: Uncertain or unsettled

    Example: Until we know if it’s going to rain or not, our weekend plans are up in the air.

    We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it

    Idiom slide with description of the idiom We'll Cross That Bridge When We Come to It
    We Are Teachers

    Meaning: If that problem comes up, we’ll deal with it then, not right now

    Example: We might have a snow day on Monday, but we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.

    When pigs fly

    Meaning: Something that will probably never happen

    Example: Would I ever go sky-diving? When pigs fly!

    Wild goose chase

    Meaning: A senseless or hopeless attempt to do something

    Example: They looked all over for a copy of the new video game, but in the end it turned out to be a wild goose chase.

    Wrap your head around something

    Meaning: To understand something complicated or surprising

    Example: It’s hard to wrap your head around just how big the universe is.

    You can say that again

    Meaning: I completely agree with what you just said

    Example: “This pizza is the best food I ever ate!” exclaimed Mateo. “You can say that again!” Dylan agreed.

    Your guess is as good as mine

    Meaning: When you have no idea what the answer is to a question or problem

    Example: “Do you know how to solve number four in our math homework?” Maria asked. “Your guess is as good as mine,” David replied, shrugging his shoulders.

    Get Your Free Idiom of the Day Google Slide Deck

    Just share your email address for instant access to a Google Slide Deck with all 100 idioms on this list.

    What other idiom examples do you teach? Come share in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

    Plus, puns and jokes only a true grammar nerd will get!

    Idioms are expressions that don't always make sense literally. Use these idiom examples to teach kids and English language learners.

    Jill Staake

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  • 11 Helpful Note-Taking Strategies Your Students Should Know

    11 Helpful Note-Taking Strategies Your Students Should Know

    We’ve all been there: You’re delivering a lecture full of insight, but students haven’t even picked up a pencil. Yes, today’s students expect printouts, class web pages, and graphic organizers, but good old-fashioned note-taking is still a skill they should master. Here’s why, along with some note-taking strategies they should try.

    Why is it important for students to have good note-taking skills?

    When it comes to learning and remembering information, study after study has shown the importance of actively taking notes rather than passively reading a handout later on. The act of writing engages different parts of the brain, forging new pathways that help students retain information in long-term memory.

    What’s more, the studies show that the more detailed the notes, the better. And using different note-taking strategies helps too. In some cases, a general outline can be effective. But when you want students to analyze the content, encouraging charting or mapping can be more helpful.

    One more good reason to learn to take notes? It’s a skill we use throughout our entire lives. Most jobs require you to be able to take notes during meetings or other activities so you can refer back to them later on. Adults use note-taking strategies on a regular basis, so teaching kids the skill early on will help them succeed later in life.

    Digital vs. Handwritten Notes

    There’s a lot of discussion these days about whether handwriting notes is better than typing them on a computer. Some worry that the digital devices themselves serve as too much of a distraction. When kids aren’t taking notes, they might be browsing the web, playing games, or sending each other messages instead of participating in the lesson. Others wonder if typing is less effective than handwriting when it comes to retaining information.

    The research is still out on whether handwritten notes are better than digital. Some studies say that handwriting is better for learning, while others note that many people type faster than they write, enabling them to take more complete notes that way. And those who have dysgraphia or other learning disabilities should be able to take notes in the way that suits them best. Read more arguments from both sides here.

    Graphic Organizers

    Many teachers use what’s called “structured note-taking” in their classrooms. They provide easy-to-read graphic organizers that only require students to write in specific information. Learn more about graphic organizers here.

    This is an excellent beginning strategy that enables students to grasp difficult concepts and focus on content and connections. But students should also learn to take notes from scratch. After all, in real life, the most they’re likely to get is a printed agenda for a meeting. They’ll need to know how to capture the important points themselves.

    General Tips for Taking Good Notes

    Ultimately, what’s most important is that students learn to take notes, period. Whatever method or strategies they choose, the key is having information in their own words they can return to later when they need to review and study. Here are some general tips to share with your students.

    • Focus on recording the main points of the lesson. Listen for key words and phrases, but don’t try to frantically write everything you hear.
    • Try to summarize the information in your own words rather than writing down the teacher’s words verbatim. Write your notes in a way that will make sense to you later on.
    • Jot down words you’re unfamiliar with or confused about and look them up later. Consider circling these words so they’re easy to spot when you’re reviewing your notes later.
    • Add color, either while you’re taking notes or later on, with a highlighter. Color helps show relationships between concepts, and it engages the brain better too.
    • Don’t be afraid to ask your teacher to repeat something if you feel like you missed it. If you feel like you can’t interrupt, put a star by that section to remind you to ask about it after class.
    • If your handwriting is hard to read, or you think you can organize the information in a better way, go ahead and re-copy your notes after class. It’s a good way to reinforce the information too.

    Symbols and Abbreviations

    College Compass/symbols and abbreviations via collegecompass.co

    Using standard note-taking symbols and abbreviations can be really helpful. There’s no need to memorize all of them at once; choose a few that seem the most useful and give them a try. You can add more as you get better at taking notes. Refer to the chart above for a good list.

    Helpful Note-Taking Strategies

    The most important thing about learning how to take notes is finding a strategy that works. Each student will have a different favorite strategy, so it’s helpful to expose students to different strategies. These are note-taking strategies that can be used across grade levels and subjects.

    Boxing Method

    Colorful math notes on exponential models and kinematics using boxing note taking strategies
    Society 19/box method via society19.com

    For students who have trouble keeping things organized (including their thoughts), the boxing strategy can be very helpful. Each box contains a complete concept, idea, or category. Adding extra colors with pens or highlighters makes things even better. Boxing is a fairly new note-taking strategy, one that’s gained popularity among college students who take notes on digital devices. But it also works well with handwritten notes.

    How it works: Start a box on the page, but don’t draw the fourth line on the bottom. Take your notes inside that box, keeping everything relating to one idea or concept together. When you’re finished with that section, draw the final line to close the box, and begin a new one. (If you’re using a tablet or laptop instead, you can draw a text box instead. It will automatically resize as you work.)

    Charting Method

    Diagram of the charting method of note taking with instructions in how to use it
    Learning Essentials/charting via learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz

    When students need to organize, compare and contrast, or categorize, the charting method comes in handy. It’s simple and easy and works well digitally or when taking notes by hand.

    How it works: Draw lines to divide the page into columns and rows. Write headers on the columns (and rows, if necessary). As you take notes, put the information into the appropriate place on the chart. It’s that simple.

    Cornell Note-Taking Method

    Page demonstrating the Cornell method of note taking (Note Taking Strategies)
    Think Insights/Cornell via thinkinsights.net

    The Cornell method is more than just a note-taking strategy. It offers tips on how to use notes after class for studying too. Cornell University professor Walter Pauk created this method in the 1950s. Others quickly adopted it, since it’s easy to learn and has been proven to help students learn.

    How it works: Divide a page into two columns. The wider column on the right is the Notes column. Here, take concise notes during class, capturing keywords and other important information. Leave space across the bottom of the page or section for the summary, which you’ll complete after class. This is the space for a brief overview of what was covered.

    The left-hand column is known as the Cue column. Use it after class to write review questions that relate to the information in your notes. Then, cover up the Notes section and try to answer the questions in the Cue column. Take some time to reflect on the information, making connections and evaluating what you’ve learned. At the end of each week, review all of the notes you’ve taken to reinforce the learning.

    Mapping Method

    Mindmapping Guide showing the mapping method of taking notes (Note Taking Strategies)
    Chloe Burroughs/mapping via chloeburroughs.com

    The mapping method is terrific for visual learners, as it helps show the connections between main points and supporting details. It’s also helpful for analyzing and evaluating content, rather than just writing it down. Fun fact: Leonardo da Vinci used this method!

    How it works: Start by writing a main topic in the middle of the page. If you like, you can use the same color for all your main topics, then switch to different colors as you add and connect subtopics. Continue to add supporting details where they fit, drawing lines and arrows to note connections. Switch to a new page to begin a new main topic.

    Outline Method

    Handwritten pages showing the outline method of note taking
    A Day to Study/outline method via adaytostudy.tumblr.com

    This is one of the oldest methods of note-taking, and one most kids learn somewhere along the way. You can teach them to use the standard Roman numeral and lettering/numbering system. Or just use bullet points and dashes to simplify things. This logical strategy works well in nearly any subject.

    How it works: Start a main topic to the farthest left on the page. Add subtopics and supporting details on the lines beneath, indenting them slightly:

    Main Topic

    1. Subtopic
      • Supporting Detail
      • Supporting Detail
    2. Subtopic
      • Supporting Detail
      • Supporting Detail

    Start the next main topic all the way to the left, and continue your notes. Rather than writing long sections, try to keep your notes to just key words and phrases, enough to jog your memory later on.

    Sentence Method

    Page describing The Sentence Method of note taking (note taking strategies)
    College Compass/sentence method via collegecompass.co

    The sentence method looks similar to the outline method, but it includes much more information. As the name implies, students write full sentences for each line. This requires the ability to write (or type) quickly and is best for students who have mastered both these skills. One benefit to the sentence method is that you’re likely to have more-complete notes to refer to after class.

    How it works: Start a topic by writing the main point on one line. On the lines beneath it, add bullet points and a full sentence describing the supporting information. Be sure to use your own words rather than the teacher’s. This ensures you’re fully understanding the information rather than just recording what you hear.

    Sketchnotes

    Sketchnotes are fairly new but have a real appeal for those who learn best visually. They combine elements of mapping or boxing with meaningful doodles. The colorful result is fun to look at, and some students may retain images better than words.

    How it works: There aren’t a lot of rules with sketchnotes. Basically, students should try to capture keywords and important phrases, then add images that help them connect with the topic. Block lettering and other doodles are fun to add too.

    Check out: 8 Creative Ways To Use Sketchnotes in Your Classroom

    Q/E/C Method

    Q E C method of note taking question explain conclusion
    Medium/Q.E.C. method via medium.com

    The Question/Evidence/Conclusion method of note-taking is a way to organize and record information from lectures. The Q/E/C note-taking method is ideal for subjects in the humanities, such as history, philosophy, and literature. It helps students keep track of how information is being presented, while focusing on the bigger picture.

    How it works: Students organize their notes by listening first for the question being addressed. Then, they write the evidence that answers the question. Finally, they draw a conclusion. At the end of a lecture, students can review their notes and have concise summaries of each main topic.

    Flow Method

    diagram of flow note taking
    iblog/flow notes via iblog.iup.edu

    Flow note-taking is a nonlinear way to take notes. Nonlinear note-taking methods ask students to actively engage with the topic that they’re learning about as they listen. Flow note-taking looks similar to mapping, but the idea here is to connect higher-level ideas and how they relate to each other. Students write the topics and draw arrows to indicate how they connect with each other.

    The flow note-taking method is active and requires students to think about what they are learning as they learn it. It’s also flexible, and useful in most subjects. It is best when students have some background knowledge, however.

    How it works: Students start by writing one main topic. Then, they jot down the next topic and connect the two to show how they are connected. They write the next topic and continue until they have a web.

    REAP Method

    The REAP method (Read, Encode, Annotate, Ponder) is an active reading note-taking strategy. The idea is that students are engaging with text by reflecting and thinking about their content. Using REAP helps students improve reading comprehension and recall of information. It also builds students’ ability to engage with text and learn how to engage with complex texts.

    How it works: Students complete four stages:

    • Reading the text
    • Encoding or writing the main ideas of the text in their own words
    • Annotating of ideas and quotes in the text
    • Pondering or thinking about the text and writing their reflections or discussing with others.

    Watch how to use the REAP method with historical texts:

    Paragraph Shrinking

    paragraph shrinking example of a graphic organizer
    Read Relevant/paragraph shrinking via readrelevant.com

    Similar to REAP, paragraph shrinking is a way to condense and take notes on what students read. This strategy is a good way for students to focus in on the main idea of a text as they read through. It is useful for both fiction and nonfiction texts, but can be particularly helpful when students are working with nonfiction.

    How it works: Students read a paragraph or section of text. Then, write the main topic or event in that section in the margin or on a separate page. Then, they shrink the paragraph further by stating the main idea in 10 words or less.

    What note-taking strategies help your students succeed in the classroom? Come share your ideas and ask for advice in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

    Plus, These Are the Executive Functioning Skills Kids Should Learn, Grade by Grade.

    Use these note-taking strategies, including boxing, charting, mapping, outlining, and the Cornell method, to retain what you've learned.

    Jill Staake

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