How to Identify the Theme in Literature (9-13)

Hello, my name is Natalie Sydor. I have been an English Language Arts and Reading Teacher for over 25 years. I have taught ELA and Reading to students from the ages of 5 - 18. My students have been native English speakers as well as English language learners. My lessons have focused on phonics, grammar, speaking skills, writing skills, comprehension, literary work analysis, and research. I have taught in the mainstream classrooms and have also worked in small group and tutoring settings teaching: phonics, ESL, Guided Reading, Spanish, Ukrainian, English language skills and test taking skills. 

My responsibilities have included monitoring students' progress from all academic abilities. I understand that everyone is unique. Some students need guided attention and support to thrive, while others need minimal guidance and prefer a more independent environment to succeed. I have helped my students to progress to their academic goals and have helped them learn to strive for continued improvement. I guided my youngest son through his Home School Education. My goal is to help motivate every student to work hard and achieve their highest academic potential! 

I have a Bachelor's Degree in English/Education from Loyola University (Chicago, Illinois), as well as ESL and Bilingual Certifications from Concordia University (Chicago, Illinois). My Master's Degree is in Education and Teacher Leadership from St. Xavier University (Chicago, Illinois). I have also completed 45 graduate credit hours at Colorado State University in English, Reading, and Multicultural Education. My continued attendance at seminars contributes to my own personal and professional growth. I currently work as an Academic Advisor at a University.

I love to spend time with my family, especially with my three grown children and their families. I like to cook and bake (gluten free and allergy friendly meals), take walks, and explore nature. I also read a lot! That’s definitely a super important part of my life. I spend time working in our native plant garden, I take care of our organic vegetable gardens, raise Monarch butterflies in the summer, and go on walks with my dog Juniper. 

I am proud to have the opportunity to teach on the Outschool platform and to have the possibility to work with your learner. Please consider joining my classroom soon!