Summer 2026      Volume 54, Number 3

Let’s Get R.E.A.L.: Reflective, Engaging, Active, Learning
By Neil Rigler, Erin David, and Ken Kramer

Document: Special Feature  

Introductory Paragraph:   This recurring special feature presents teacher-created assignments and the resulting products from their students. We encourage teachers to submit favorite assignments that bring out the best original writing, thinking, and creative work from their students. No artificial intelligence needed—our students demonstrate they have plenty of natural intelligence waiting to be unleashed. This particular assignment was submitted by Neil Rigler, an English teacher at Deerfield High School in District 113. Mr. Rigler and his co-teacher Ken Kramer have been collaborating on an American Studies course for 25 years. This assignment relating to the classic book The Catcher in the Rye has been revised over the years to better relate to today’s high school students. Mr. Rigler and Mr. Kramer share how their student Erin responded to the prompts, and what they appreciate about this assignment.

DOI:   https://doi.org/10.33600/IRCJ.54.3.2026.27

Page Numbers:   27-35