Middle school English teachers face a daily challenge helping sixth-, seventh- and eighth-graders learn the basics of grammar. Integrating literature and encouraging students to write about what they have learned can be a challenge. And delivering instruction to children who are in emotional, physical, and social transition can be tricky. But a low-key approach combined with a good sense of humor can make English class more enjoyable for everyone.

Review grammar and mechanics daily. Instead of teaching grammar one semester and literature the next, teach usage and mechanics within the context of writing.

Begin each class period with a short editing assignment. Display a paragraph with grammatical, mechanical, and/or spelling errors. Ask students to rewrite the paragraph correctly, then discuss the necessary changes. Change your focus every few days from punctuation to subject-verb agreement to correcting fragments or editing run-on sentences.

Demonstrate the essay-writing process at the beginning of the school year. Middle-school students should already be familiar with procedures for writing paragraphs. During the first few weeks of school review paragraph structure and demonstrate how to write a topic sentence. In the following weeks, show students how to develop an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.

Use references that students can relate to for a better understanding. Instead of underlining adjectives and nouns on worksheets, have students cut examples from periodicals. You can ask friends or the school library for back issues of magazines and newspapers.

Take advantage of free educational games on the Internet. There are numerous sites with fun, interactive games that can hold your students' attention while reviewing their English skills. Check out http://www.internet4classrooms.com, which includes activities listed by grade level and curriculum objectives.