Please register here for Shakespeare Amazes in the Classroom (Fall 2025)
BTLC Credits: AATD, IS
Insights, Experience, Humor, Explore! using Shakespeare in intermediate and middle school classrooms with author and educator Jen Szwaya. For over a decade, Jen has used Romeo and Juliet, Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Hamlet to support learners needing to be challenged with content that is complex, rich, and of high interest. Participants will review a collection of lessons and resources that address learning goals relating to point of view, character development, theme, comparing and contrasting, as well as multimedia interpretations. Also included in the workshop: strategies to support the social and emotional needs of students, the needs of multilingual learners, and tips for supporting twice exceptional students. Plus, discover how organizing a student-led Shakespeare festival can boost motivation, foster student agency, and create meaningful, real-world learning experiences—all while having fun with the Bard’s words.
Whether you're planning to teach, already in the classroom, or just love Shakespeare, this session offers a fresh, humorous, and hands-on approach to making classic literature relevant and exciting for today’s students.
Learning Goals:
Understand how to use Shakespearian text and resources to target specific learning goals and support learners needing to be challenged with rigorous content.
Recognize the value in providing students the opportunity design and implement their own Shakespearean Festival, and understand how to go about making such an event happen.
Develop confidence with using Shakespeare in the classroom
Workshop Details:
When: Thursday, September 18, 2025 from 5:00 pm to 6:15 pm
Where: Online via Teams
Who: Current and aspiring preK-12 educators and staff
Cost: Free
BTLC Credits: IS, AATD
Presenter(s): Jen Szwaya, Accelerated Learning Teacher and Author
*By registering for this event, you agree to be photographed or filmed for promotional purposes.
If you have any questions or concerns, please email the Baker Teacher Leader Center at TLC@uiowa.edu and we will work with you to make any accommodations.