Sparking Moments That Matter: Engaging experiences in language arts

Across Upper Arlington Schools, innovation in language arts is coming to life through immersive, creative experiences that help students deepen their learning and share it with pride.

This year, the district adopted a new language arts resource for grades K-5 called Amplify CKLA, which is designed to build knowledge through engaging content. 

“We’re always trying to come up with ways to excite the students so that the experiences we provide them through CKLA are really memorable,” said Barrington Elementary School teacher Michele Crandall.

That spirit of innovation was on full display this fall at Barrington, where all fourth graders stepped back in time with a full-scale Medieval Times Day. In honor of their language arts unit about the Middle Ages, teachers transformed their classroom neighborhoods into castle-themed learning spaces.

 “We learned about serfs and monks and lords and ladies, and the kids thought it would be so cool if we could dress as these people,” said teacher Nicole Staker.

With support from all fourth-grade teachers, intervention specialist Stacie Caruso, the Upper Arlington Education Foundation and the Barrington PTO, the vision came to life. 

“Everybody got to dress up and learn how stuff was made back then,” shared student Noah R. “It’s more fun than an average day of reading and writing, but also you’re learning at the same time. It gives you a different perspective of how learning can impact you.”

Local expertise also elevated the experience. “We had professors from Ohio State who could speak Old English and read it to us,” said student Kate M. “We still did learning, but it was more like the fun side of learning.”

Teachers were impressed by the depth of student engagement. “Our kids have taken it so much further than I would have ever thought,” said teacher Emma Skarsten. 

At Greensview Elementary School, third grade students had a different kind of celebration this fall — a poetry slam. Students spent the unit exploring multiple forms of poetry and building vocabulary around literary devices. They each wrote five poems before choosing their favorite to perform. 

“So many kids were like, ‘Can I write another poem?’ ” recalled teacher Bethany McFarland. “There were no two poems alike, and I think that speaks to the level of originality we allowed our students to have.”

Performing for classmates and families was a powerful moment. “It’s really cool that I get to share with all of third grade and some parents that I love to write,” said student Cami S., whose poem was inspired by her favorite things — animals and strawberries. 

Student Elena P. added that the experience was more than a unit finale: “Even though the unit’s over, I can keep doing it. … You’re never too old for poetry.”

Both celebrations reflect how educators across the district are leveraging language arts instruction to make learning exciting, meaningful and memorable. Whether stepping into history or stepping up to the mic, students are discovering new passions and perspectives — showcasing that great learning doesn’t end with a unit. It comes to life.