Why Your Bell Ringers Aren't Working (And What to Do Instead)
Bell ringers shouldn't feel like one more thing to grade—or another worksheet students rush through without thinking.
In this episode, Caitlin is joined by EB Academics curriculum writer Pat to break down what actually makes bell ringers effective. They share how intentional, connected bell ringers can reinforce standards, build deeper understanding throughout the week, and help teachers make the most of those first few minutes of class.
Whether you create your own bell ringers or use ready-made resources, you'll walk away with practical ideas you can implement immediately.
HERE ARE THE 3 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE:
1. Great bell ringers are connected—not random.
Instead of isolated daily warm-ups, design bell ringers around one weekly focus. Build from simple practice on Monday to deeper analysis and application by Friday so students develop skills over time.
2. Repeated reading leads to stronger comprehension.
Using the same short passage across multiple days gives students the opportunity to reread with a different purpose each time. This layered approach strengthens reading comprehension, analytical thinking, and confidence.
3. Bell ringers should reduce your workload—not increase it.
Don't create another grading burden. Use participation points, occasional spot-checks, and class discussions to monitor understanding while keeping bell ringers sustainable throughout the school year.
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
- EB Teachers ELA Portal
- EB Teacher Digital Planner
- EB Bell Ringers (Pro & All-Access Members)
- Join the EB Teachers ELA Portal waitlist: ebteacher.com/portal
MORE FROM EB ACADEMICS
At EB Academics, we believe every minute of instructional time matters.
Our curriculum is designed to help middle school ELA teachers maximize class time with standards-aligned, engaging resources that reduce planning and grading while increasing student learning. From bell ringers to complete curriculum units, everything is intentionally scaffolded to help both teachers and students succeed.
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*School and District Partnerships are also available at https://schools.ebacademics.com/eb-all-access