2 Teach and 2 Learn

Postings on...HOLD!

2010-03-22T23:40:00.000-05:00

Unfortunately, I'm going to have to put my postings on HOLD for several more days. I'm WAY far behind in grading papers and life just isn't getting any easier right now. I will be taking a break from the blog and will pick it up again VERY SOON...I promise! Spring has definitely SPRUNG...finally! Below is a good book to get you interesting in taking a break and relaxing!

Spring Thoughts for this Blog

2010-03-15T22:44:00.000-05:00

After two busy weeks and the looks of my current schedule with three children playing spring sports...I've given some thought to how I could possibly continue to write each day a bit...

Well, it ISN'T possible...so, for the next several weeks I will make some changes to this blog. After all, I've got to sleep sometime!

It's going to be near impossible to just exist...with ball practices on Monday and Tuesday evenings, Bible study on Wednesday evening, the after school program I work on Thursday evenings, my new cleaning job on Friday nights, ball practices again on Saturdays, and worship services on Sunday...there is no room to breathe!

Could you leave a post and tell me your favorite part of this site right now? I want to keep that part going!

Special Days for March 14-20th

2010-03-15T22:38:00.000-05:00

Poison Prevention Week

This is always celebrated the third week of March.

The theme for National Poison Prevention Week is "Children Act Fast...So Do Poisons!"

This is a great time to make young children aware of the dangers of regular household cleaners, detergents, medicines, and beauty supplies. There are upwards of 2 million reported poisonings every year with half of those in children under 5 years old. The above poster was created for a poster contest promoting the idea of locking up poisons and keeping them out of reach of young children. Go here for some helpful poison control tips from About.com.

Ideas for this week:

*Make stickers for your students from address labels and list the Poison Control Center number, 1-800-222-1222.

*Conduct a poster contest using the theme above.

*Have students explore the Texas Poison Control Center site for valuable information.

*Have students make a list of the items under a sink at their home. Hold a class discussion about several of the items.

*Look through local newspapers, sale papers, or magazines and cut out pictures of items that are potential poisons. Make a collage of those items and display in the classroom.

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Brain Awareness Week

The brain is a complicated, yet interesting organ. There is a really neat website here at BrainsRule.com with lesson plans and activities to explore. This is a Nebraska website using their state standards.

There is a page of questions and answers here. These questions and answers are more geared toward Middle School students. And, go here for some information about "Brain Food"!

Brain Awareness and Poison Control connect very well together since poisoning can greatly affect the brains ability to function!

Do you have an idea for Brain Awareness week?

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Wednesday, March 17th is St. Patrick's Day

We are usually NOT in school during this upcoming holiday. This is our usual week for Spring Break...but, thankfully, this year our Spring Break is actually during Spring!! Woohoo!

The meaning of St. Patrick's Day according to Wikipedia.com is: Saint Patrick's Day (Irish: Lá Fhéile Pádraig) is a yearly holiday celebrated on 17 March. It is named after Saint Patrick (circa AD 387–493), the most commonly recognized of the patron saints of Ireland. It began as a purely Christian holiday and became an official feast day in the early 1600s. However, it has gradually become more of a secular celebration of Ireland's culture.

I found it interesting while reading Wikipedia.com, that the original color of St. Patick's Day was blue!

Resources and Ideas:
* Go to enchantedlearning.com for lots of St. Patrick's Day activities and printables. You may have to sign up and purchase a membership to access all of the printables.
*Kaboose.com has a vast selection of St. Patrick's Day art activities.
*Despite the cool temperatures, go on a 4-leaf clover hunt! Dry any lucky charms found and laminate for students to keep!!!
*Discuss green and all the different shades of green. Then, make a poster displaying the greens.
*Make green with yellow and blue food coloring or paint!
*Hold a "Wear Green" Contest...who can wear the most greeeeeeen!!!

Do you have any special activities you have tried and know the students enjoy? Please share!

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Coming Soon....information for the other TWO fun days this week!

The First Day of Spring

National Agricultural Day

Coming Tomorrow... Special Days for March 14-20

2010-03-15T02:05:00.000-05:00

Sorry...I'm still spending a lot of time AWAY from the computer. There are several interesting days this week. I hope to have them posted tomorrow evening. In the meantime, enjoy the beginning of your work week!

Friday's Finale

2010-03-15T02:01:00.000-05:00

Thankful to have made it through this LONG week...enjoyed being outside in the Spring-like weather! Just not looking forward to the even longer week coming up.

I have morning and afternoon bus duty...plus, our school hours are extended due to extreme winter weather. So...my days ALL next week will be from 6:45 am-3:45 pm. ACK! Report cards go out next week and my two little girls begin ball practice on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Saturdays... Oh yeah, we have an Easter Egg Hunt and a birthday party next Saturday!

Any suggestions?

Thursday's Thought

2010-03-11T20:43:00.001-06:00

" I like coming to school now!"

This made my day, FIRST thing this morning! The above quote came from one of my struggling students, who has gained nearly a whole year in reading and math, but remains unprepared for promotion. THIS is why I teach!!! I love to watch the transformations that happen in those 180 days.

I'm really NOT sure why this precious child just "now" likes coming to school. I'm still teaching the same ways and maintaining the same routines. But, I've noticed many more smiles and interest in the last several weeks, even if an answer is incorrect. I will probably never know the impact I've had on this child's life, but I hope and pray my few days have helped mold what this child will become. Little does this innocent child know that one of this week's vocabulary words, HONOR, was put into action with that simple statement above!

Wednesday's Website

2010-03-11T20:10:00.000-06:00

This is a very resourceful website. There are many activities, both printable and hands-on for prek-6th grade students. These activities span the curriculum. There are also quizzes and worksheet generator tools to help you customize your own worksheets for your themes of study. There are even foreign language resources! Go on over and check out the infinite supply of resources at apples4theteacher.com. You won't be disappointed!

Tuesday's Tip

2010-03-11T18:59:00.003-06:00

I've been away from the computer ALL WEEK running here and running there...running around everywhere...like Dr. Seuss's The Foot Book with feet here and there and everywhere!

So...I guess it's catch up time! I believe it when life "wakes up" in the Spring. We have SOOOO much going on both at home AND at school. How is your life awakening this Spring????

Tuesday's Tip: Newsletter Homework

After several years of teaching, I discovered that "telling" students to practice spelling, vocabulary, and reading and math skills, etc. doesn't mean a whole lot. The students have no idea HOW to practice and many parents are unsure of where to start, too. Because of this, I began including skills and simple practice activities on the back of my weekly newsletters. I also make a tiny space for parents and caregivers to initial when complete. Below is a copy of the "Academic News" portion of my most recent newsletter. I create my newsletter on PrintMaster with three columns. My students and parents ALWAYS know what to do! You may notice spelling activities at the bottom of the first column. I have a list of spelling activities with their explanations that the students keep in their daily binders if they need to refer to it. Tweak this to suit your classroom's needs.

Monday's Moment

2010-03-08T23:58:00.000-06:00

Today went rather smoothly considering we're now adjusting to a new school schedule because of the many snow days we experienced in February. I'm finding MOST of my MONDAY Moments occur while using the new Promethean Board! It seems, I am constantly forgetting to click on the necessary tool to enable me to write or erase, which then causes all kinds of giggles. The kids really get a kick out of my booboos while using the Board!

Did you have a Monday Moment you would like to share?

Special Days for March 7-13th

2010-03-08T23:51:00.000-06:00

Ok - so I'm STILL running a little behind. I'm barely keeping my head above the water right now. Think I'll repeat Thursday's Thought - Whew! Praying for this week to be a little calmer...

)()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()(

This is GIRL SCOUT Week! This is the season for Girl Scout cookies. Yum! Be sure to support your local troops and stock up your freezer so you can enjoy those cookies ALL year.

Wednesday, March 10th is Harriet Tubman Day

I'll have to say I've only touched on Harriet Tubman each year during Black History Month. So, who was Harriet Tubman? She was a Civil War Spy that helped slaves get to free areas of our country. Click here for a nice biography that is kid friendly. Here is a very kid friendly site with all sorts of activities regarding Ms. Tubman. I like to read Follow the Drinking Gourd since this book is about slaves escaping to freedom. Teachervision.com has a several pages of Harriet Tubman printables for the younger students. (You can get 3 items free, but anymore and you have to sign up.) Please, share how you study about Harriet Tubman!

Thursday, March 11th is Johnny Appleseed Day

The resources for an apple day are endless...

Please, everyone share YOUR apple day fun!
Don't forget to include some links!

Thursday's Thought AND Friday's Finale

2010-03-05T15:36:00.000-06:00

Yay for the SuNsHiNe!!!

My thought for Thursday goes along with our Finale...

WHEW!

I can't put it any other way...our FIRST FULL WEEK since before Christmas break! And, it's been a doozy... I'm glad to be back on a predictable schedule, but we end the week with news of having to change our "predictable" schedule because of the many snow days. Our school board voted to extend our school day for the next 13 days. We will now go from 7:45-3:15 for the next 2 1/2 weeks - all to make up just ONE day. WHEW...again!

I've had so many WHEW moments...and I've been SOOOOOO pooped...I've been behind ALL week at posting! Oh well, I'm sure all things will return to normal soon.

^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!^!

MORE HANDWRITING POEMS:

The Letter D

Dd Dd Dd

D is for dinosaur,

Skating on the ice,

Eating a donut

And a dish of rice.

The Letter E

Ee Ee Ee

E is for elephant,

Beating on a drum,

Wearing purple shorts

And chewing bubble gum.

The Letter F

Ff Ff Ff

F is for fish,

Swimming in a lake,

Blowing out candles

On a birthday cake.

Tuesday's Tip AND Wednesday's Website

2010-03-03T21:00:00.000-06:00

Calling ALL parents!!!

I get an email newsletter from education.com and enjoy reading the tips they offer for all learners, from preschool to high school. This particular newsletter I get contains tips/activities for learning at home. Since I stay involved with my own four children at home, this gives us ways to interact and learn WHILE having fun. These activities can also be included on your classroom newsletters to give parents at-home learning ideas. Our school system requires parent involvement opportunities...so, these activities are a GREAT way to meet this standard! Below is a small snippet of my most recent email newsletter. You can also visit education.com and click on the "Tips from Teachers" in the right column to subscribe.

3rd Grade

Cook Up Some Science!

by Julie Williams, a credentialed elementary, middle, and high school teacher from Palo Alto, California.

As winter days continue, remember that there’s lots of warm and cozy third grade learning available right in your kitchen! Third grade math includes extensive work on fractions and measurement. In science class, students transfer these skills into early experiments that show what happens when you blend ingredients.

Cooking helps all this science make sense, often with delicious results. While we may take it for granted that eggs, flour, butter and sugar can be mixed with baking soda, heated up, and eaten as cookies, the chemistry behind all that is really quite sophisticated. One batch of chocolate chip cookies, for example, may require just one teaspoon of baking soda. But try a little practice with the scientific thinking processes of prediction, cause and effect: in part of a batch, leave out that baking soda. It's the ingredient that makes cookies spread: see what happens without it! Click here for another of our favorite kitchen chemistry experiments: making marshmallows you can drop into your hot chocolate.

Monday's Moment

2010-03-02T11:32:00.000-06:00

Monday went VERY well! With all the activities around my building this week and it being only the second full day to use my new Promethean Board, I thought for sure we'd have a Monday Moment of some sort. But, to my surprise things worked out great! I'm so thankful to have had a prosperous, yet uneventful day.

Quote - When prosperity comes, do not use all of it. ~Confucius

So, if you had a Monday Moment that made you want to hit the rewind button and write a new script...please, share it!

Special Days February 28th-March 6th

2010-02-28T23:42:00.001-06:00

It's Read Across America this week!!!!

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Monday, March 1st is National Pig Day

Believe it or not, according to Wikipedia, this "holiday" was begun by a TEACHER in 1972. Ellen Stanley and her sister, Mary Lynne Rave wanted to celebrate one of man's most intellectual and domesticated animal...THE PIG!! Visit this Wikipedia link for more interesting information about National Pig Day.

() Click here and you can sign up for a free trial at lessonplanet.com and get pig printables and activities for ALL grades.

() Here at about.com are some National Pig Day crafts.

() Click here for another short informational page about National Pig Day from holidayinsights.com.

() There are lots of CUTE coloring pages here and they are FREE!!!!

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Happy Birthday to Dr. Seuss on Tuesday, March 2nd!

I'll bet MOST of you already have a favorite activity you like to do with your students on March 2nd EVERY year! Would you be willing to share??? There is an abundance of activities, printables, and celebration activities for this day. It's the Day we "Read Across America"!!

Dr. Seuss happens to be one of my favorites. I remember reading One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish until my book began falling apart and knew EVERY word! My children have always LOVED Dr. Seuss. In fact, my five year old (who hasn't even been to preschool and won't enter Kindergarten until THIS fall) can read The Foot Book and Green Eggs and Ham without missing a word!!! THANKS, Dr. Seuss

Below are a few activities, but I want to read all about your favorite!

() My school always has RIF (Reading is Fundamental) Day. Click here to read more about RIF Day. Each student is able to pick a book and take it home for keeps. I always give my students a "Share Time" after they've chosen a book.

() Make Green Eggs and Ham!!! This is a favorite among Kindergarten teachers. Here are several Green Eggs and Ham recipes. Or you could try gourmet Green Eggs and Ham with this recipe from Tyler Florence at FoodNetwork.com.

() If your students have a designated computer day/time, they can take a trip to Seussville.com for lots of learning fun!

() For those of you that read "The Grinch", there is an interesting quiz here.

() Click on the interactive games link for innumerable Dr. Seuss resources including Math and Science with Oobleck, and other interesting links.

() Horton Hears a Who craft is located at this link.

() Found another great resource at my newest favorite website PrometheanPlanet.com. Click here for Dr. Seuss flipcharts!

There are SOOOOOO many things to do for Read Across America! Please share!!!

Friday's Finale

2010-02-27T11:05:00.000-06:00

Our week ended with warm sunshine and recess OUTSIDE! Yay...even though we spent yet another snow day AT HOME. Below is a picture of the excitement my students and I experienced this week. I hope your week was exciting and profitable!

My new Promethean Board!!!!

And...my little munchkin practicing her spelling words on SpellingCity.com.

Thursday's Thought

2010-02-25T23:50:00.000-06:00

My thought today resembles last week's...Where is Spring?????? We've had yet another snow day...ugh!

Please chant LOUDLY:

SUNSHINE

Wednesday's Website

2010-02-25T07:30:00.000-06:00

... A picture of my new state-of-the-art resource!

My new favorite website...Promethean Planet! I've finally been brought into the 21st century. I wanted to post a day late on Thursday evening so I could include a picture, but couldn't wait. As of noon Wednesday CST, my classroom now has a Promethean Board. It's new and up-to-date with speakers that make you feel like you are in a theater! Woohoo! So...in the next few weeks, Promethean Planet WILL without a doubt become my favorite website while I build my resources for this "new toy".

Until now, my searching on Promethean Planet has been VERY limited. But, I can't wait to dig in. One of the first things I want is a timer...I like for my students to be aware of the time they have for an activity. They are so used to hearing me count...SLOWLY from 5 to 1, I'm sure they will enjoy actually being able to SEE a timer!

Help me out! If you have this state-of-the-art equipment, please let me know some of YOUR favorite activities for your Promethean Board. And, give me some more sites to search for activities!

Tuesday's Tip

2010-02-24T06:16:00.000-06:00

Do your students have MESSY desks? Do they leave every STUFF everywhere every afternoon? Have you ever dumped a desk out and discovered unfinished work, pencils, and leftover snacks? Arghhhh.... There is no easy fix, that's for sure! But, maybe the Desk Fairy can help.

Occasionally, the Desk Fairy (my oldest daughter) will come for a visit in my classroom. He/she is unannounced and unexpected, and will make her appearance AFTER the students have all left or BEFORE they arrive in the morning. She picks out the THREE neatest and most organized desks and leaves a special recognition on the desks. I use a cone that says A+ and a piece of candy or small trinket.

My students have always enjoyed this. And, it's an incentive for them to keep their work turned in, and their area clean and organized.

Monday's Moment

2010-02-22T20:54:00.000-06:00

Today's moment was fortunately...not an embarrassing or humiliating one. It was a YIPPPPPPEEEEE moment! The story goes this way:

The schools in our area are catching up with the 21st Century and have made a concentrated effort to provide a Promethean Board, Smart Board, or Interactive Board of some sort for EVERY classroom teacher. It's been a work in progress. I'm one of the last on the list...for no particular reason. But, TODAY...I got confirmation that MY Promethean Board would be delivered and installed by THIS FRIDAY...Wooohooooo! Guess I'll be posting some exciting lessons in the near future!

OH HAPPY DAY for my students and me...we will be "cookin' with gas" now!

Special Days for February 21st-27th

2010-02-21T20:48:00.000-06:00

Wow - this week will keep you busy...as if you weren't already with your regular curriculum! Wink...wink..

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Sunday, February 21st is National Sticky Bun Day
A Fun Food Holiday

What better way to celebrate the "Sticky Bun", but with sticky buns! Bring a dozen to share with your students. Or, make some with your students! Earlier in the year we read the story Hedgehog Makes a Cake. So, I made the cake from scratch and my students were just in awe! Here is an easy bread machine recipe for cinnamon rolls...and they are definitely sticky. So, I guess it would suffice to call them "Sticky Buns"! The bread machine just makes the dough...and it's a little noisy. But, the sticky buns are out of this world!!!! Yummy!

Go to "My Punch Bowl: Reasons to Celebrate" for an explanation of "Sticky Bun Day".

Here is Wikipedia's definition of a sticky bun:

Sticky buns are a dessert or breakfast pastry that generally consist of rolled pieces of leavened dough — sometimes containing brown sugar or cinnamon — which are then compressed together to form a kind of flat loaf corresponding to the size of the baking pan. Before the dough is placed in the pan, the latter is lined with the "sticky" ingredients like maple syrup, honey (or both), as well as nuts and perhaps more sugar and sometimes butter. After the buns are baked, they are inverted so that the pan lining then becomes a topping. Commercially produced sticky buns, however, are usually just baked in an aluminum loaf tin, which allows the topping to suffuse the buns, making them sticky throughout. The way the buns were baked allows them to more or less be pulled off as individual servings, although it is often a futile effort. Sticky buns appear to have a Germanic origin and were originally known as "Schnecken". Wherever 18th-century German settlers (such as the Pennsylvania Dutch) went, sticky buns have remained long after many other cultural traits have disappeared.

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Monday, February 22nd is George Washington's Birthday

Since President's Day was recently celebrated, you've probably already covered George Washington! Unless, of course, your area has been like ours...snow, snow, snow!

Celebrate President Washington's birthday with a birthday party! Make birthday cards! And, give thanks for one of the most important forefathers of our nation.

Happy Birthday, President Washington!

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Wednesday, February 24th is Flag Day in Mexico

Here is another way to teach multiculturalism in your classroom.

Go here to find an article on the history of Mexico's flag.

If you are a member of enchantedlearning.com, you can click this link to preview the Mexican crafts, activities, and printable they have available. You can view some of the resources without a subscription.

Click here for another page of helpful and interesting information about Mexico and their flag.

I LoVe this activity with HEALTHY FOOD! You can have this for snack after learning all about Mexico! It's an edible Mexican flag. Thanks to familyfun.com.

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Friday, February 26th is Tell a Fairy Tale Day

Many people think fairy tales are for the young...but, I believe fairy tales are for everyone! We ALL need to hear and read stories with toils, trials, and HAPPY ENDINGS! Check out the resources below to help you celebrate "Tell a Fairy Tale Day".

Definition of a Fairy Tale

A fairy tale is a fictional story that may feature folkloric characters such as fairies, goblins, elves, trolls, giants, and talking animals, and usually enchantments, often involving a far-fetched sequence of events. In modern-day parlance, the term is also used to describe something blessed with princesses, as in "fairy tale ending" (a happy ending) or "fairy tale romance", though not all fairy tales end happily. Colloquially, a "fairy tale" or "fairy story" can also mean any far-fetched story. Fairy tales mostly attract young children since they easily understand the archetypal characters in the story.

Thanks to gone-ta-pott.com for this definition. Click on the previous link for more information about this holiday.

Click here for an online fairy tale unit!

This link from Susan Stein in another online unit with LOTS of links to other resources. I have not tested the links, so I can't assure you they are all working.

Wow - I didn't know there were SO many fairy tales. Go to wikipedia to view a list of hundreds of fairy tales! I'll have to say, I've only read a handful of them.

Here at abcteach.com are fairy tale activities, coloring pages, crafts, crosswords, flashcards, story starters, etc. You may not have access to all of the resources unless you are a member.

This is a great fairy tale unit shared online by Colleen Gallagher. There are pictures of a bulletin board, learning center, worksheets, and lots of directions for hands-on activities.

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Saturday, February 27th is Polar Bear Day

I had never heard of "Polar Bear Day". Here is what I found concerning this interesting day.

#1 - From: Holiday Insights - Polar Bear Day celebrates the world's largest carnivore. A polar bear can grow up to nine feet tall(when standing) and 1400 pounds. They are a favorite at zoos around the country. Polar bears live at the North Pole region, and are native to Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Norway, and Russia. Need some ideas on how to celebrate today? Tops on my list is visiting the local zoo to see live polar bears. Teachers like to use this day to teach about polar bears and other bears, as kids are fascinated with all kinds of bears. Also, check the nature channels on cable Tv. The networks often pick up on holidays like today, and run documentaries.

#2 - Send an ecard from HiCards to celebrate the world's largest carnivore! Introduce other to "Polar Bear Day".

#3 - Here is a page of information from about "Polar Bear Day" from Holiday Soup.

#4 - They have some really neat activities for younger students at Kids' Soup. Unfortunately, you have to pay for a membership in order to access the printables. I am not a member, so I haven't thoroughly reviewed this site. If you do, please come back and share your experience!

#5 - Here is an extra fun "Polar Bear Day" activity for younger students, too. This one has a story to go with it. You will need a plastic bottle shaped like a bear (honey comes in these bottles), bleach, and yellow, blue, and red food coloring.

#6 - Go to DLTK's Growing Together site for various activities about polar bears.

#7 - Now wouldn't this be FUN! Here are directions from Squidoo for making an igloo using plastic milk jugs! Wow - sounds like a classroom winter project!

Friday's Finale

2010-02-20T00:01:00.000-06:00

We made it to school for an entire day today...and, the best part was the weather! We experienced a bit of a heatwave with temperatures soaring around 50 degrees. Needless to say, we couldn't tear ourselves away from recess...so we gave our students (and ourselves) some much needed Vitamin D exposure. Boy, was nearly an hour in the sun uplifting. And, warm enough to enjoy WITHOUT being bundled up like Randy on The Christmas Story.

Honestly, I didn't feel very successful as a teacher today. One student slept the ENTIRE morning, many just couldn't stay focused on our lessons, another had the wiggles, and yet another needed a speeding ticket for talking too much! Arghhh...and, when my students' parents check out the newsletter they are going to think I've lost a few marbles. We are experiencing some heavy-duty catch-up work, not only at school, but also at home...sorry to my wonderful, supportive parents. We've got to get them ready for 3rd grade!

Does anyone know a Spring Dance routine? The Snow Dance is no longer the hype...

Handwriting Poems - Letter A, B, C

2010-02-19T15:32:00.001-06:00

Recap - Before all this snow that has kept us out of school for 14 days...I had planned on posting at least two poems each week. Now, I guess I'll post three to catch up! These poems are simply fun poems for practicing handwriting. I always have my students illustrate to show comprehension. There are plenty other skills that can be covered when using these poems.

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The Letter "A"

Aa Aa Aa

A is for alligator,

Sitting in a pail,

Licking a lollipop,

Holding its tail.

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The Letter "B"

Bb Bb Bb

B is for bear,

Winking an eye,

Eating a piece

Of blueberry pie.

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The Letter "C"

Cc Cc Cc

C is for camel,

Riding in a car,

Playing some music

On a polka dot guitar.

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Thursday's Thought

2010-02-18T21:06:00.000-06:00

Enough with the SNOW DAYS!!! Yes, a few are enjoyable, but we've had at least 2 or 3 EVERY week since our Winter Break...ugh. It's time for S...P...R...I...N...G... That being said...here are some SPRINGTIME thoughts for those of you with the same feelings.

No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow. ~Proverb

Behold, my friends, the spring is come; the earth has gladly received the embraces of the sun, and we shall soon see the results of their love!

~ Sitting Bull

Spring is nature's way of saying, "Let's party!"

~Robin Williams

If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant; if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.

~Anne Bradstreet

If you've never been thrilled to the very edges of your soul by a flower in spring bloom, maybe your soul has never been in bloom.

~Audra Foveo

The first day of spring is one thing, and the first spring day is another. The difference between them is sometimes as great as a month.

~Henry Van Dyke

Wednesday's Website

2010-02-18T17:52:00.000-06:00

Wow - these snow days are really getting me off track! Finally, back to the grind tomorrow...even though it's Friday... Hopefully, we'll have a full week of school next week. We've used ALL of our allotted snow days plus one. There's extra school time in our future!

Today, I've decided to share one of my favorite sites...as far as helping you get rid of "stuff" and saving some money on some items that you want. I discovered FREECYCLE.ORG last year when I wanted an Staples "EASY BUTTON" for my classroom. I wanted to use it during my reading groups and math board times as an incentive for student participation. This was one of my first "wanted" posts. Within a couple of days...I had two generous offers! I took them both...one for my reading table and one for my math board! My students LoVeD them last year and they LoVe them this year. Plus, I saved around $12 since I didn't have to purchase them.

So, if you have some odd and end items that you would like for your classroom...this is a great place to start searching! Plus, if you have other items you would like to have or pass along...this is a great avenue.

Tuesday's Tip

2010-02-16T14:57:00.001-06:00

Spelling Practice Fun - Part 1

Boy, do you tire of having your students write their spelling words 2x, 3x, 5x, or even 10x each? I can remember as a student I would cRiNgE every time my teacher made this assignment. And, what did YOU do when your teacher assigned this... if the word was "blueberry", did you make lines ALL THE WAY down the paper for the 'b' and 'l'? I know I did! This taught us nothing...and repetitive writing still teaches nothing! I've since discovered MANY ways to really practice spelling words...and have FUN at the same time!

The five suggestions below also help get parents INVOLVED with their children, which is greatly needed in today's society.

At-home practice:

1. SHAVING CREAM SPELLING - Squirt on a counter top or in the shower and spell away. (Also helps teach responsibility in that the children have to clean it up!)

2. EDIBLE SPELLING - Spread pudding or yogurt on the counter top...spell and eat! (Yes, the children can clean this up, too...or the doggie! haha)

3. SANDPAPER SPELLING - Write the alphabet on an 8x11 piece of sandpaper. Students trace the letters with their fingers AND spell aloud.

4. BACKSCRATCH SPELLING - Who doesn't like a nice backscratching? Why not work on creating mental images, gross motor skills, handwriting, and spelling ALL at the same time? My parents and students DO NOT like this one at first. But, the more they practice...the easier it gets! You must draw the letter S...L...O...W...L...Y and LARGE. It's also a great way to practice correctly forming the letters. This is usually one of my students' favorites after a couple weeks of practice!

5. ALPHABITS or PASTA WORDS - Suggest that parents purchase a box of "Alphabits" cereal and/or a bag of alphabet pasta. Students can sort the letters once a week, spell their words, then enjoy a cereal treat or glue the pasta to a piece of paper. Parents could help sort into vowels and consonants!

TO BE CONTINUED...

Do you have a special "AT-HOME" activity that your students enjoy? Please share!

Technical Difficulty!

2010-02-16T10:12:00.001-06:00

Well...I've had to kind of REORGANIZE my blog. I've been experiencing lots of technical difficulty. So rather than finding a tech-savvy individual to pay and fix, I've decided to restart it myself...sorry! It'll be unsightly and boring for a few days!

Funny...I managed to find it all already...but, I'm still attempting some changes to try and fix the technical difficulties I am experiencing.

Monday's Moment

2010-02-15T22:41:00.000-06:00

It's impossible to post of Monday Moment in the life of a teacher when we are ONCE AGAIN at home for snow! Yes, our school board had actually voted to make today, Presidents' Day, a regular school day in hopes of depositing an extra snow day into our bank. But, Mother Nature had a different idea...we got our usual Presidents' Day off...and now have ONE snow day in our bank, which we will be using tomorrow! Ughhhh!!

To make this Arctic winter even worse...the weather man is again predicting snow until Thursday. The longer term weather prediction even includes snow in March, thanks to El Nino! Guess we're having our Spring Break right now. Argh!

Back to the Monday Moment...this week, in the life of a mother! You would have to be a neighbor of mine to get the full picture (no pun intended). As my two year old wanted to go outside and play in the snow, I decided to attempt to build a snowman in hopes of my four children helping. Little man wasn't interested, my two little girls were at the neighbors, and my big girl wouldn't come out because I was wearing her boots! So, I spent 20-30 minutes getting a really good snowman bottom going...with my behind shining to all my neighbors. Then, of course, my little man decides it's time to go inside. Ugh... I'll have to remember that mental picture tomorrow as we finish our little snow friend.

Special Days for February 14-20th

2010-02-15T00:35:00.001-06:00

WOW - too many good choices this week...and, they are all very close together!

Now that Valentine's Day is behind us...we celebrated this "day of love" on Friday with a valentine box contest and sharing valentines with our special classmates. Because of so many snow days...I just couldn't have a big shindig. The children certainly enjoyed their afternoon together anyway! There are MANY exciting days to choose from...again!

Valentine's Day, of course!

One of the special things I ALWAYS do in my classroom is have a Valentine's Box Contest. I have THREE winners: The Most Creative Box, The Most Unusual Box, and The Most Unattractive Box. The last prize is always the most fun since many of the children "try" to win this one! I've never really had an "unattractive" box. They're usually all really cute! I have other people from our school building to judge. This eliminates favoritism within the classroom.

My gift to my students is a free homework pass! I simply create and print these using a program that creates labels, and viola! (I use PrintMaster.) Simple, inexpensive, and extremely desirable among students. When the homework pass is used, it can ONLY be used on a written assignment and must be attached to the assignment for a grade of 100!

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Chinese New Year is Sunday, February 14th

The Year of the Tiger

Now, I've never actually taught Chinese New Year so this will be a new idea for me. I recall having a mini-lesson several years ago, but that's it! However, the more I read and discover, the more I believe this would be a FUN day to promote multiculturalism. I've posted some links below to help you get started! Keep in mind, Chinese New Year is a 15-day holiday! Please...leave a post on your favorite Chinese New Year activities.

*Here is a Chinese lantern art activity with step-by-step pictures.

*Familyeducation.com has several Chinese New Year printables available.

*WOW - lots of information and activities here including crafts, printables, coloring pages, stories, games and jigsaws.

*WOW - once again MANY more Chinese New Year activities here at Kaboose.com. The cardboard tube red firecrackers especially look fun!

*www.apples4theteacher.com always archives a wealth of information, activities, and lessons. Here is the Chinese New Year page.

Maybe these will get you started for Chinese New Year. Please...share your Chinese New Year activities in the comment section below.

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Monday, February 15th is Presidents' Day

There are so many ways to teach about Presidents' Day.

Here are some ideas you can focus on:

*our current president, Barack Obama

*the first presidents that helped establish our nation

*a favorite president

*some fun facts about past presidents

*student chosen presidents

*the president's responsibilites

*Washington DC and The White House

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Tuesday, February 16th is Mardi Gras

Fat Tuesday? Ok...this is a brand new one for me. Anyone have any suggestions for teaching Mardi Gras?? Because of 11 snow days so far since Christmas break, I won't get to indulge in this special day. However, I plan to find some time next year during our busy days to teach this bit of culture.

*Here is a link for a Mardi Gras mask craft and a Miniature Mardi Gras float at www.familyeducation.com.

*Here is a complete unit plan for 3-4 grade using Illinois state standards.

*Here is a lesson plan for a Miniature Mardi Gras float parade.

*Go to DLTK's site for a more kid-friendly Mardi Gras.

Friday's Finale

2010-02-14T16:08:00.000-06:00

Ok...so it's Sunday afternoon and I've been soooooooo busy, I just realized I hadn't finalized last week! Funny, the week was fairly uneventful since we had yet another snow break...2 more days at home. I've become nonetheless than a couch potato and internet deal-finding junkie in a major attempt to make my teacher salary stretch even farther! My children are enjoying the many snow days at home together...my girls play non-stop every imaginable game possible. My little man has turned the kitchen cabinets into "his garage". And, my teenager sleeps most of the day away and keeps up with her pals through text messaging and facebook...

And, so finally we welcomed school again...on Friday morning. The day of our school-wide behavior award... a sock hop... and then, of course, valentine's parties. We did manage to get SOME lessons under our belts for the day. And, I'll have to admit, the valentine's festivities were enjoyable.

I can only hope that next week begins on-time, Monday morning, and ends as scheduled, on Friday afternoon, with five full days of instruction despite the weatherman's prediction...2-3 more inches of snow Sunday night! Hmmmph....will the sunshine and spring ever return???? We'll keep you posted.

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

Thursday's Thought

2010-02-11T23:08:00.000-06:00

This thought comes after many days of wintry weather, below normal temps, and no school...

anxiously awaiting

SUNSHINE...

and warmth

and shadows

and green

and blooms

anticipating days with

no white, fluff

no accessories to insulate

no shivers

no pale, colorless nature

Wednesday's Website

2010-02-10T23:36:00.000-06:00

Merriam-Webster's Word Central

According to the mascot Alphabot, this particular website is for the "Younger Humanoids"! I love this site. I'm BIG on developing vocabulary and am always looking for FUN and engaging ways to practice. Vocabulary is of utmost importance for children to develop comprehension. In order to make definitions more grade appropriate for my students, I've used this site to simplify the definitions of many vocabulary words. This site also offers lots of activities, see below...

~Build Your Own Dictionary
~Daily Buzzword
~Games of ALL sorts
~and, an Educators area

Students can even search for RHYMING words and SYNONYMS in a THESAURUS! Click on the title above to check it out!

Tuesday's Tip

2010-02-09T23:33:00.001-06:00

7-up Sentences

Teaching elementary students to be writers is a challenging task. I have my students writing "something" everyday...in their journal, classbook pages, spelling word stories, vocabulary word sentences, and the like. Many times, especially when we first begin writing, the students' sentences are very simple and uninteresting...

"I have a cat."

"I like pizza."

"I can play."

To give my seven and eight year olds an incentive to write longer, more interesting sentences...I display an empty 7-up soda bottle! Then, I explain that the 7-up bottle is our little reminder to ALWAYS write a sentence with 7 or more words...which makes 7-up sentences.

"I have an old cat that sleeps on my pillow." (10 words)

"My family eats pizza every Friday night." (7 words)

"I can play games with my dad." (7 words)

This has worked tremendously well for my students. Give it a try and come back to let me know if it worked for you.

Monday's Moment

2010-02-08T23:17:00.000-06:00

Okay...it's your turn! I happened to have a VERY SMOOTH Monday. I even got to run a couple of errands with no rush since school was delayed two hours. So, it's your turn to share your Monday Moment in the comments section below.

Special Days for February 7-13th

2010-02-07T23:27:00.002-06:00

Tuesday, February 8th is Toothache Day.

What a great day to discuss dental health!

Since elementary students are loosing teeth very often,

celebrate this day as a means of promoting healthy habits

to PREVENT those toothaches!

Here are some tips:

1. Click here to view some "tooth" books at my Amazon aStore.

2. Visit A to Z Teacher Stuff for a poem, a chant, a game, and other engaging activities.

3. Teaching Heart has a unit dedicated to dental health.

I especially like the first activity titled "Acid Attack".

4. Invite a dental hygienist to come and teach a lesson on brushing and flossing!

5. Have students keep a graph to record a week of teeth brushing!

6. Just found this offer - free Burt's Bees trial size fluoride toothpaste.

I'm sure there are many more resources and activities out there. And, well you probably already have a tried and true activity! I would love for you to share!!

Wednesday, February 9th is Umbrella Day.

I never knew there was an Umbrella day! This would be a great day to begin a unit on weather and the water cycle, especially since Springtime is just around the corner. Or, just keep it simple for now and invite each student to bring an umbrella to school for an umbrella parade. Maybe the meteorologist will forecast some rain that day! Students can also design their own umbrella and enter an "Umbrella Design Contest". If you engage in this "Special Day" with your class, please come back and share !

Friday, February 12th is Abraham Lincoln's Birthday.

Happy Birthday to you,

Happy Birthday Mr. Lincoln,

Happy Birthday to you!

It's another birthday party!!! President's Day is coming on Monday, February 15th and some school systems may be closed for the day. However, celebrating Mr. Lincoln's birthday would be a great way to end the week, yet begin learning about his great contribution to equality! Here is a list of resources.

*Go to Danielle's Place of Arts and Crafts for writing activities and bulletin board displays.

*Click here for an activity packed unit using the book, Just Like Abraham Lincoln.

*Go to my Amazon aStore for a list of 13 books about Abraham Lincoln.

*Here is a craft activity for older students.

*The Enchanted Learning site has an abundance of resources.
Some are free, but some require you to obtain a membership before printing.

*Presidential Food Fun - Abe Lincoln's log cabin from pretzels!

Friday's Finale

2010-02-05T23:10:00.001-06:00

Today went surprisingly well, laryngitis and all! The group effort worked out nicely. We started on next week's scheduled reading story, worked on an Alpha-Blocks activity involving adjectives, shared trade books, and became familiar with comparison math stories. I was able to teach at a VERY LOW volume after our lunch break. I was very impressed with my "little people".

So a finale already...and this week just began yesterday! The improvisation was a success. Believe it or not, more snow is in our forecast this weekend...ugh.

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Thursday's Thought

2010-02-04T23:26:00.000-06:00

Today's thought originates from an impending case of laryngitis...ugh! Yeah - so how am I going to teach tomorrow? We are 8 snow days behind...I need to teach my heart out! And, just where was this laryngitis when we were at home in our pjs? Hmmmmm...

Think...Pooh...think...

This isn't the first time this has happened. The many other times I've simply taught right through it for weeks. But, I don't think that's going to be possible this time since I'm nearly mute at this point. Here's my plan...I will enlist an outgoing student as leader for the day. That student will take over my parts in our regular routine. We will introduce our new reading story using our CD. Students will spend time with partners, in groups, and independently working hands-on activities to reinforce and ultimately apply our newest learning. Maybe...just maybe I can take my group to my teacher neighbor and have a Math, Science, or Social Studies lesson. We may even venture to the computer lab for some online learning games.

Whatever the outcome the day will be successful. According to Paul Simon, "Improvisation is too good to leave to chance." I can't allow tomorrow to be a chance for my kids to learn...I'll have to improvise to make the learning meaningful.

Wednesday's Website

2010-02-03T23:45:00.000-06:00

Frugal Living Websites and Blogs

I've labeled this week as MONEY SAVING WEEK, so Wednesday's Website(s) are links to sites and blogs chocked full of ways to save money. I'm having too much fun learning to save, save, save, that I have to share. And, we all know a teacher's salary is NOT terrible, but IS rather skimpy. Because of my recent independent educational experience of reading about couponing until my eyes bugged out of my head...I managed to get a $369 grocery bill down to $192 ($18 of which was tax) - that was a savings of $177!!!! Go ahead...start your new adventure by visiting the sites below. This is just to get you started. There are MANY more. If you happen upon a good one while adventuring to the bank with your saved cash...please, let me know! Maybe money really CAN grow on trees...

Money Saving Mom

Cha-Ching on a Shoestring

Saving Cents with Sense

Spectacular Savings

The Krazy Coupon Lady

Tuesday's Tip

2010-02-03T09:06:00.000-06:00

I'm a day late with Tuesday's Tip...sorry. Late evening grocery shopping and a mad baby. By the time that eventful scenario was over...exhaustion hit.

We haven't been at school since Thursday of last week. And, it's not looking too promising for a full day tomorrow. Tuesday's Tip this week is for the teachers out there who want to, need to, or just plain enjoy SAVING MONEY!

One of my "new leaves" I turned over for 2010 involves finding ways to save money. Since we have four children that keep us busy, my career teaching is a full time job, and my husband has a full time job...neither of us have time or the want to for another part time job to bring in a little more cash. So, recently I've done hours of research learning about "couponing". In the past, my weekly grocery run was to get what I "HAD" to have for fast breakfasts, on-the-go lunches, and family dinners. Coupons and sales were out of the question...I didn't have time for that! After reviewing our expenses for 2009, I was shocked...something had to be done to lower our grocery and household supply bills.

I'm going to be honest...getting groceries takes MUCH longer now. In fact, I prefer going shopping late in the evening when other shoppers are already at their humble abodes. Last night, my husband had the honors of helping. After 2 hours of calculating costs, locating coupons, filling our buggy to the brim, and getting more reusable bags from the car...we checked out. Much to my surprise, the food and toiletries rang up to ONLY $192. Now, that sounds like A LOT! Well, considering I had loaded up TWO carts with EIGHT reusable bags...the grocery trip was a great success! And, I got an even bigger surprise when I examined my receipt...we had actually saved $177!

My husband had a really hard time understanding that we could purchase something even if we DIDN'T NEED it at the moment. For example, we bought 12 packages of cheese...well, we don't need 12 packages of cheese at the moment. However, I only paid $1 each for them because of a store special and coupons. So, in reality I only paid $12 instead of $40. Now, that's savings!

There are numerous sites you can visit to learn about couponing. One of my favorites is the one I have listed in the sidebar, Money Saving Mom. She posts ideas and links to other sites. Give it a try! In our tough economy and our low salaries, EVERY teacher can benefit!

This Blog Needs Some...

2010-02-01T23:54:00.000-06:00

FOLLOWERS!

I would like to expand this blog! I'm thoroughly enjoying keeping up with it. It is a lot of work, but I'm learning so much and am accessing so many new ideas that's it's almost addicting!

Here's a challenge...I would like to obtain AT LEAST 10 followers and 10 subscribers this month. For the first 10 followers and 10 subscribers, I would like to offer a small giveaway as a token of my appreciation. I will personally make a classroom set of bookmarks for you and your students. Your name will be chosen by one of my very own little apes!

Please leave a comment to this post AFTER you become a follower or a subscriber. Be sure to tell me the grade you teach so the bookmarks can be made grade appropriate! (But, don't leave your email for the world to see!) Then, stay tuned! I'll leave a post for the winner to contact me.

Monday's Moment

2010-02-01T23:07:00.002-06:00

Well...we are NOT in school because we ARE snowed in! So, unfortunately...no Monday Moment. Check out some of the scenes around my neck of the woods...

First, we had snow, then ice, then snow again...

which resulted in this.

Terrible for snowman building, but perfect for igloos.

That's our mission tomorrow!

Our first time sledding...

my little girls had NEVER seen this much snow!

Yeah - that's the road we are walking on...

it looks like a big white blanket.

This is the scene EVERYWHERE in town!

I was LUCKY to make it to town to use some expiring coupons.

Special Days for January 31st-February 6th

2010-01-31T23:54:00.000-06:00

There are so many special days this week, you'll have a hard time choosing!

This week is National School Counseling Week.

Honestly, I didn't even know there was a set time of the year to honor our school counselors! I'm glad to have discovered this and will be better prepared NEXT year.

We think we have tough jobs in the classroom. Our school counselors touch EVERY student's life in our buildings! We should take a special moment this week to express our appreciation for all their hard work. Our counselors not only help students in time of emotional need, but high school counselors help teens plan a career path. Their responsibilities are endless.

There is a free kit that can be ordered from the American School Counselor Association to help with a week long celebration. Unfortunately, the "free shipping" promotion has passed. Maybe this could be ordered for use NEXT year.

Here are several other ways to honor your school's counselor(s):

*Make a special announcement at the beginning of the week.

*Decorate the counselor's door with a "hero" theme.

*Each grade in the building order lunch for the counselor a different day each week.

*Every class take ONE rose to the counselor during their scheduled time.

*Talk to the principal about giving the counselor VIP parking for the week.

*Students can pen thank you notes and make a special delivery.

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Monday, February 1st is National Freedom Day.

Discussing National Freedom Day is a great way to begin a unit on Black History Month. This special day is in honor of the abolition of slavery so many years ago by President Abraham Lincoln. Since discussions vary greatly on the learning age of every class, I've provided some informational links below.

~ Here is some information from timeanddate.com.

~Family Education has a page containing various links for all ages concerning African-American history.

~This page from The Library of Congress that contains more information and a picture of President Harry S. Truman signing a bill proclaiming February 1st National Freedom Day

Make the day even more memorable...CeLeBrAtE with a bang...just like Independence Day! After all, we do live in a nation of FREEDOM!

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Thursday, February 4th is Rosa Parks's Birthday.

Now, what is the BEST way to celebrate a birthday? None other than with a birthday P...A...R...T...Y! Of course, there would have to be lessons regarding Ms. Parks's importance in desegregation and equality. After all, she is known as "The Mother of the Civil Rights Movement".

Begin the day by reading a book or two about Rosa Parks. (Go to the Black History Month page at my Amazon aStore to view a list of books and resources about Rosa Parks.) Then, follow up with a couple hands-on activities from the list below.

- Head on over to BrainPOP Jr. for some information and activities.
- Go to Education World for a printable activity, called "Rosa Parks Changed the Rules".
- Here is a coloring page from Teacher Vision. You must have a membership to access more than three printables. However, there is a free trial. This could be one of your three free printables.
- Click here for a site suitable for upper elementary and middle school students.
- Don't forget to check out Scholastic's resources.
- Finally, celebrate with a birthday party!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ROSA!

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Friday, February 5th is National Meteorologist's Day.

According to this article by Jim Allsopp, National "Weatherperson's" Day is to commemorate one of America's first weather observers, John Jeffries. My students each have an several opportunities throughout the school year to be our "Classroom Meteorologist". I incorporate this daily job into my Math Meeting Board routine. Not only is "meteorologist" an awesome word for elementary school children to learn, but they also LOVE recording the daily weather on graphs and charts. My "Classroom Meteorologist" reads the outside thermometer, helps the class count to that temperature on the demonstration thermometer, colors a piece of the bar graph based on his/her observations of the weather conditions, and changes a pie graph to match the bar graph.

So, how would a classroom celebrate this rather unique day? For starters, if you don't already have a "Classroom Meteorologist", maybe now would be a great day to begin! Next, this day can be an introduction to a science unit on weather. Or, you could simply watch The Weather Channel with your students and help them discover aspects of a meteorologist's job. Whatever way you celebrate this day, your students are sure to be interested!

Friday's Finale

2010-01-29T18:26:00.000-06:00

We've once again ended with an abbreviated week because of snowy weather. The local meteorologists are calling for upwards of 10 inches now. Ugh... I'm certainly glad "Groundhog Day" is coming SOON! Let's hope for a cloudy day in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania so Punxsutawney Phil DOESN'T see his shadow. I'm definitely ready for some warmth and sunshine. My students are feeling the same. They FINALLY got a recess outside before the snow and thoroughly enjoyed it.

How was your week? Anyone enjoying sunshine? Share with us your Friday Finale!

The 100th Day of School

2010-01-29T15:02:00.000-06:00

...the 100th Day of School, oh yes, oh yes, it is the BEST...the 100th Day of School! (Try that little jingle to the tune of "The Farmer in the Dell".)

My students and I will be celebrating the 100th day next week during the first week of February. I've already planned some exciting activities and the students can hardly wait! This is always a great day to learn more about the number 100 and of course, to celebrate only 80 days of school left! Go to carsondellosa.com to download a free 4-page booklet containing 100th day activities.

Here are several other activities I've successfully used in my classroom:

*100th day snack - Each student brings ONE snack item such as mini marshmallows, Goldfish crackers, M&Ms, Cookie Crisp cereal, Fruit Loops, raisins, etc. to share with classmates. The students then take turns picking groups of snack items...25 pieces of 4 different items, 20 pieces of 5 different items, or 10 pieces of 10 different items.

*100th day project - Each child collects 100 of ONE particular object such as 100 beads, 100 noodles, 100 toothpicks, 100 buttons, etc. They glue them on a piece of posterboard in the same groups mentioned above. They can even choose a "theme" to draw for their posterboard such as 100 stars grouped in colors in space above the Earth, or 100 noodles in groups of 25 in 4 bowls of "soup", or even 100 gumballs grouped in colors inside a gumball machine.

*Write a "googol"plex...the number 1 with a googol of zeroes after it...this one is NOT easy with 2nd grade, but a blast. They didn't realize numbers just keep going and going!

*100th day writing - "If I had 100 ____, I would ____!" Have the students complete this on a sentence strip to share, then hang up.

*100th day necklace - Using yarn, students string 100 Fruit Loops, Cheerios, beads, pasta, etc., or a combination of the items in specified groups.

*100th day exercise - Students work out the wiggles with 100 jumping jacks, 100 skips, 100 ups and downs, 100 claps, 100 snaps, etc. If the weather permits, take this wiggle time OUTSIDE! Or, do a combination throughout the day to equal 100.

*100th day books: (Click here for my 100th day Amazon aStore)
- One Hundred Hungry Ants
- G is for Googol
- Miss Bindergarten Celebrates the 100th Day
- 100th Day Worries
- Ready, Freddy! The One Hundredth Day of School
- Fancy Nancy: The 100th Day of School
- Jake's 100th Day of School
- 100 School Days

*100th day Grammar - Depending on which part of speech you are studying...you can have students locate 100 nouns, verbs, adjectives, etc. and make an individual list or a class poster. This activity will take the entire week of the 100th day. Take a few moments after reading a particular text or book and have students search for the nouns, verbs, or adjectives.

*100th day Measurement - Most schools have tile floors. They are usually 1'x1' tiles. Students can count 100 tiles down a long hallway and discover the length of 100 feet!

There's a GOOGOL of other sites with 100th day activities, including printables. How do you celebrate the 100th day with your students? Please share in the comments below!!

More Snow Day Fun - Snow Cream...Yum!

2010-01-29T12:51:00.000-06:00

SNOW CREAM

So we are out for snow...well, guess it's time for some more snow day fun. My girls have already asked to make more "Tortilla Snowflakes" from the last snow day. Since we are supposed to get upwards of 4 inches of snow, I've got a hankerin' for some good old fashioned Snow Cream! I've located several online recipes. So, if you are in a snow-covered area, check them out and give it a whirl. If you don't have snow near you...just pack a small bag, hop in the car, and drive until you find some! Don't forget to bring along your Snow Cream ingredients. Please come back and share your Snow Cream yummies or a recipe of your own!

*Click here for Allrecipes.com Snow Ice Cream II recipe.

*Click here for Cooks.com Snow Ice Cream recipe.

*Click here for another Cooks.com Snow Ice Cream recipe.

*Click here for a Cooks.com Snow Ice Cream recipe that includes raw eggs for a little protein.

*This Snow Cream from foodnetwork.com really sounds tasty with sweetened condensed milk!

Thursday's Thought

2010-01-28T23:52:00.000-06:00

Thought for today...NEVER get an inexperienced substitute for your classroom no matter how desperate...

I'm not sure I even need to elaborate, but my recent experience with a substitute was no less than disastrous. It's amazing how seven and eight year old children just know how to show their worst side when a fresh substitute takes over for a day. As a result of the "junglized" behavior, I placed my unruly monkeys under classroom arrest today in hopes of making an impression upon the importance of "BEEing Responsible", one of our school rules. I later overheard one of my rather wild monkeys say, "Yeah, classroom arrest is no fun, either!"

Please post any thoughts you have for today in the comment section below.

Wednesday's Website

2010-01-27T22:54:00.000-06:00

"An empowering place

where teachers buy & sell original and used teaching materials

and make teaching an even more rewarding experience."

If you haven't checked out this site, you've got to click here and go now! Sign up is free and you can begin to buy materials you find useful and/or sell your own original created works. There is even a martketplace full of used items that others are trying to sell. Maybe you create many of your own worksheets, projects, and/or templates. You can now offer those for sale to others. Go now and learn more. This could be a steady part-time income for all you creators out there!

Tuesday's Tip

2010-01-26T22:48:00.000-06:00

Pencil Cups

How many times have you heard a student screech, "That's MY pencil!"? Or, how many times has a student come to class WITHOUT a pencil? Or, how many times have pencil leads broke during a test and the entire class MUST listen to the grinding of a pencil sharpener?

After several years of these problems and other similar ones, I came up with the "Pencil Cup" system and it has eliminated SOOOOO many pencil problems! I also eliminated the need to purchase a new pencil sharpener once or twice each year!

Since I teach elementary students, I DO NOT allow mechanical pencils of any sort. They are just a play thing to be taken apart! Next, I make the school supply list specifically state...20 - PLAIN #2 pencils, so the students have no surprises about "special" pencils. One the first day of school (when the little fellows look like bag ladies), I take up ALL the pencils. Later I sharpen enough pencils for each child to have at least two each. I also keep pencil top erasers in a little container next to the pencil cups.

On day two, the students begin learning their new morning routine...which includes getting a pencil from the "pretty, painted" cup. I chose these two words because they begin with the letter "p" just like the word "pointy". The sharpened "pointy" pencils are in this cup. Yes, the cup is painted!

One of the best parts - if a pencil breaks anytime during the day...the student simply puts the broken pencil in the "ugly, un-sharpened" cup and get a new one. No fuss, no noise, no hands waving in the air and the ring of "My pencil broke!"

One unfortunate drawback, YOU have to sharpen the pencils EVERYDAY! Ugh!

Now, how do you make a pencil cup. I used an over-sized tin can and hot-glued popsicle sticks to the outside of the can. Then, I painted one cup and left the other alone. I will try to post a picture of my pencil cups soon. This system has been a lifesaver is my classroom!

Monday's Moment

2010-01-25T23:41:00.000-06:00

Today's moment came around lunch time! We've once again been delivered an Arctic blast and our temperatures are hovering at a rather frigid 30 degrees. During our recess time, we noticed that our local TV station was reporting some surrounding counties closing school at NOON! So, we decided to take a peek for ourselves. Of course, being a "hands-on" teacher, I couldn't just stand at the window and look at it! I had to feel it! I noticed a pile of the cold, white stuff in the corner of my outside doorway. So, needless to say, I stuck my head out the door to get some of that stuff...and the snow blew in like a blizzard! I was covered!

Special Days for January 25-29

2010-01-25T23:34:00.000-06:00

Tuesday, January 26th is Australia Day!

What could be more fun that going to the outback? You could make this special day into a Geography mini-lesson! Here are a few suggestions for making this a special day in your classroom!

*Have the students label a map of Australia.
*Compare the time on your local clock to a clock in Australia.
*Research an animal that lives in Australia.
*Draw Australia's flag.
*Go to this website here for loads of printable elementary activities.

Friday, January 29th is National Puzzle Day!

I can't think of a better way to end a week! Have a puzzle afternoon! The students can bring their favorite puzzles to share. Get out your puzzle stash that's been lurking in the depths of your closet! Assembling puzzles is great brain exercise. Group time helps students grow accustomed to sharing, using polite words and responsibility. Plus, you will get an afternoon break. Woohooo!

Friday's Finale

2010-01-22T23:38:00.000-06:00

It's Friday! As much as I love to teach, I'm always glad to see the weekend. This week has been rough...getting back into our normal classroom routine after an extended snow break.

We've studied about the six animal groups this week, and I'm anxious to see my students' animal projects on Monday! We've experienced geometry by making pyramids from straws and twist-ties, learned "cowboy" vocabulary, and practiced cause and effect relationships. As my second graders become more independent, I can't help but marvel at their progress in the last 93 instructional days! They are independent and full of confidence. It's yet another finale to a busy week of fun-filled learning.

Thursday's Thought

2010-01-21T23:05:00.000-06:00

I'm reminded today of WHY I love to teach...my students are currently working on Geometry in our math series. Well, some of the lessons have been rather "abstract". However, our lesson on pyramids today was very hands-on...Yay, my style of teaching! As we were using our 8 straws and 12 twist ties each to construct a pyramid, I heard numerous comments that made me smile and caused me to really think. The following words from several students make all my efforts worthwhile:

1. "Wow! This is fun!"

2. "Thank you for letting us do this today."

3. "Oh man! This is so cool!"

4. "Can we do this again tomorrow?"

5. "Can we try to make the other ones listed in the book?"

6. "I'm going to make another one at home. Yeah, me too!"

7. "I really like doing this."

8. "Can we take these home? I don't want to leave mine here!"

Excitement...is WHY I became a teacher. As a child, I HaTeD school...in any shape, form, or fashion. But, for some odd reason, I wanted to become a teacher! Now, I love it...despite the disadvantages we all experience... Days like today make me know I'm in the right place!

Do you have a thought you'd like to share with us? Please ShArE!!

Wednesday's Website

2010-01-20T22:14:00.000-06:00

Standards Based Lesson Plans...

Online with Standards Toolbox

I happened upon this website last summer while searching for a new lesson plan template. Well, what I discovered was better than just a new template! All of my plans, homework assignments, materials lists, differentiated learning plans, and BEST of all correlating standards for each subject are ONLINE. No need for a hard copy. These can even be emailed, shared, or printed, if necessary. I have not taken advantage of ALL the aspects of the site. But, one of my favorites is the fact that you can "copy" your current lessons over to the next week using the "X-Planner". This enables you to keep your daily schedule and routine week after week...with NO RETYPING! Any attached standards also carry over. My school requires us to write the standard numbers beside each plan...with Standards Toolbox, I just have to click open the"apply standards" box and check the correlating standards.

Some other useful tabs include: Tests, Grades, Website (Classroom), and Network. These are the options I have not needed. I used to be a "hard copy" teacher, so I could mark through the lessons and/or make notes. But, I've weened myself from that habit...(I call it a habit because I could barely go to the grocery store without my lesson plan book).

Check it out. As with anything new, you will have to spend some time "figuring it out". If you use Standards Toolbox or give it a whirl...please, fill share in the comments your experiences.

Click here to discover this unique online lesson planner.

Tuesday's Tip

2010-01-19T22:14:00.000-06:00

Magic Trash...aka Golden Garbage

Do you ever need a quick way to clean up your classroom floor...or even your living room floor? Play "Magic Trash"! I have two students assigned the "Floor Crew" job each week, but it never fails...I am teaching to the last possible moment and this job gets thrown to the wayside way too often. So, rather than expecting two students to clean the entire classroom floor full of the daily magazine cuttings, paper wads, pencils, erasers, crayons, and the like...have all students to "pitch in"!

As the teacher, you locate a "special" piece of trash...and as the students throw their findings away, watch for the "special" piece. When you see it, shout "Magic Trash"! Give the winner a small token of your appreciation.

You may also "pick" your trash while students are throwing their handfuls away. I do this if I know a student is having a bad day. This usually brightens the icky day!

Monday's Moment

2010-01-18T23:59:00.000-06:00

Since school was not in session today for the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday, I have a distinct feeling that this week's Monday moment will come on Tuesday. Today rolled along smoothly while I was at home with my four little darlings. The girls spent most of the day playing outside with the neighbors...yeah, it was 53 degrees! Little man and I also played outside, planted some daffodil bulbs, finally put away the last of the Christmas decorations, and cleaned out the van. Busy day! Maybe this week won't have a Monday Moment????

Special Days for January 17-23

2010-01-17T22:40:00.001-06:00

Monday, January 18th is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Our school system is closed for this holiday. I like to introduce Martin Luther King to my students and discuss why we have a holiday. This prepares the students for more in depth lessons during February, which is Black History Month. Please comment below on any of your interesting activities.

Friday, January 22nd is National Popcorn Day

Yum...popcorn! Popcorn is so easy to enjoy in the classroom with your students. And, most of them LoVe it! There are SO many ways to teach about popcorn across the curriculum. I've posted several resources below.

1. So, why does that little kernel explode into a fluffy white puff-ball? Click here for a podcast about the "magic" of popcorn from "A Moment of Science".

2. Education World has an abundance of popcorn themed activities. Click here to check them out!

3. Help develop fine motor skills by making popcorn necklaces. Students use a needle (cross-stitch needles are dull) and thread to make edible necklaces. My own children, ages 5 and 6, LoVe to do this, but make garland for the Christmas tree rather than necklaces.

4. Pop popcorn using a hot air popper. You'd be VERY surprised at the number of children who only know popcorn from a microwaved bag! My students are ALWAYS intrigued with the air popper. One year, I even had a parent buy one after our popcorn lessons.

5. Graph it - How do you like your popcorn? Choices could be plain, buttery, salty, and cheesy.

6. Estimate it - If your students are having trouble with estimation, this is for you! First, read the books Great Estimations and Greater Estimations by: Bruce Goldstone. Then, have students estimate the following: How many kernels in a teaspoon?, How many in a tablespoon?, How many kernels will pop from a certain amount (maybe 100)?

7. Here is a page that contains many more links to popcorn fun! However, I haven't tested all the links to see if they are still available.

Popcorn is too much fun. The possibilities are endless!

Saturday, January 23rd is National Handwriting Day

Let's face it...with so many standards to teach, tests to give, data to maintain, programs to follow, full schedules, and VERY limited classroom time...handwriting is an important subject that gets pushed to the back burner. I recall my elementary days when my teachers stressed handwriting, both print and cursive. They spent TIME with us, making sure we learned to form our letters correctly and create neat work. Now, it seems the TIME just isn't there.

In recent years, I've noticed a steady decline in penmanship despite the new and improved modern handwriting. So, what can we do to teach and motivate good handwriting. Below are several things to try.

*On your wall alphabet, make a BIG BLACK dot at the beginning point of each letter. (I'll try to post of picture.)

*Introduce only TWO letters each week (maybe Monday and Wednesday). Be sure to show students the correct and incorrect ways to form the letters. I like to "make light" of the incorrect ways since so many of my students do this. Stress the fact that they are not allowed to make the letters incorrectly anymore!

*Letter poems - These poems make handwriting practice more fun because they are silly. You can create your own, or stay tuned...I'll start posting the ones I use...2 a week! I always have my students illustrate for practice with creating mental images.

*Have a weekly handwriting contest and pick the top 3..."Best of Show", "Neatest", and "Most Improved". Of course, give small tokens for the winners. I like to give a "homework pass" for the Best of Show and a special pencil for the other two winners.

Just remember, it's VERY difficult to RE-learn a skill that had been learned incorrectly. Patience, practice, and praise! Do you have an activity to make handwriting fun for your students?

Friday's Finale

2010-01-15T23:48:00.001-06:00

Despite being a short work week for our area, I worked my students all day yesterday and today...and I have a pile of papers to wade through this weekend. Luckily, it's a three day weekend. And, despite the devastation that so many people have encountered in recent days, this week ended with a burst of warm weather and beautiful sunshine! Mmmmmm, sunshine. It's an awesome pick-me-up.

This week ends with gratefulness for the abundance of blessings in my life. I am on a mission to find a way for my students, their families, and my family to help those hurting and needing in Haiti. Please, stay tuned for a post concerning this special project I feel will instill more than just book smarts in my students and children. No matter how young, these little people can help!

Do you have an idea you would like to share?

Thursday's Thought

2010-01-14T22:56:00.000-06:00

As we returned to school today following five consecutive "snow" days...my thoughts turn to my students' lives away from the classroom. We departed last Wednesday with hopes of a little snow for playing and keeping us at home for a day or two. We got way more than we bargained for...then, I wonder what did my students do at home for the last week???

Only three out of twenty came in with homework complete...hmmm. Guess they thought we were on winter break again... During our "morning message", several students shared interesting moments about snowball fights, basketball games, and mishaps with a BB gun and a four-wheeler. Sounds like they are busy little bees. But, I wonder...are they really happy and secure?

I like to THINK they know love and security in their emotional hearts. Then, I'm saddened remembering the little ones whose parents can't read them a book before bedtime, and the ones who've witnessed sick loved ones passing on, and the ones who probably didn't have a healthy meal during those snow days... This is all they know despite our efforts...school is just a different setting. Family time...nothing substitutes for spending time living life with family. Just being together...not going and doing constantly, but spending precious moments together.

I'm thankful for those parents and caregivers that love their children and family unconditionally and teach them everything good they know. For these are the children who will be taking care of us and our blessed country one day.

Parents are a child's FIRST and MOST IMPORTANT teacher.

Please, share a thought.

A Fun Poll...

2010-01-14T18:08:00.002-06:00

Which way do you roll? Click here.

You can be a winner! Enter the "Team Over" or "Team Under" poll and have a chance to win. Just leave a comment to this post and you will be entered to win 1 of 10 Cottonelle gift baskets randomly chosen on January 29, 2010.

Now, we all know that teachers and students use A LOT of toilet paper...even if it's just to stroll all over the bathrooms or roll a yard! So...when the roll is new, which way do you like it to roll... OVER or UNDER? Hey, discuss voting with your students and do this at school! Make ribbons for the winning TEAM to wear after votes have been tallied!

I've made my choice and am now entered in a contest for a month's worth of Cottonelle toilet paper from the Mom Bloggers Club. Let me say...this would be AWESOME for a family of six!

I'm now a member of TEAM OVER!

Wednesday's Website

2010-01-13T22:23:00.001-06:00

Starfall.com is an EXCELLENT website to get the youngest children reading! My five year old has been "playing" on this website since she was three! After just turning five in November...she is already reading Dr. Seuss books with a 1st grade Accelerated Reader (AR) level! She LoVeS this site! The little man of the house, age 2, now sits with her and "helps" her with the reading games. Hopefully, he will obtain some reading skills, too!

The games and activities are leveled - 1. ABCs, 2. Learn to Read, 3. It's Fun to Read, and 4. I'm Reading! This site is geared more for younger children, preschool to grade 2.

Check it out and leave a comment to let me know your experiences.

Update on "Snow Themed Food Fun"

2010-01-12T20:08:00.001-06:00

Well...we had fun with our snow day(s) menu! Plus, we added the Snowflake Crystal science activity! Here are some of the results...

Snowflake Crystals from Borax laundry detergent

Banana Snowman!

Mashed Potato Snowmen

Tortilla Snowflakes

I guess you can say this was a fun mess! The girls enjoyed the tortilla snowflakes the most! I enjoyed the snowflake crystals best. And, our little man...well, he enjoyed it all!

Tuesday's Tip

2010-01-12T08:32:00.000-06:00

Hula Centers

If you enjoy having small centers out for your students, here is a way to keep them corralled! Just use a large sized hula hoop for all the center manipulatives. Tell the students that all the materials must be kept INSIDE the hula hoop or placed back inside when finished. My two year old responds very well to this. He enjoys playing with dried beans and kitchen utensils. This has kept him from kicking the beans everywhere when he finishes.

Monday's Moment

2010-01-12T05:54:00.000-06:00

Well...even though we are still off for snow, I managed another Monday moment! Luckily, I have recovered from last week's moment and the window in the van is fixed. And...believe it or not, this moment involves my van, too! Ugh. While doing my usual errands, I made a quick pit stop to see my mother and pick up a package. Well, I managed to lock my keys in the van with the van running...good grief! My "quick" pit stop turned into a 30 minute ordeal as I waited for my hero husband to come to my rescue. Thank goodness I wasn't on my way to school!

Did you have a Monday moment that you would like to share? Please share!

Special Days for January 10th-16th

2010-01-11T01:51:00.000-06:00

Thursday is National Clean Off Your Desk Day!

The "busy"ness we all juggle while school is in full swing tends to leave our desks in heaps. Even my students' desks tend to be in shambles. I've been unable to discover a quick, effective fix for my desk. I usually spend an afternoon cleaning before each of our 9-week breaks.

However, I have tweaked a system and an incentive for my students to KEEP their desks tidy!

ALL papers have a home...turned in, mailboxes to take home, OR file 13 - recycled!
Journals are kept in student mailboxes until needed.
Books from our classroom library are kept in "Book Pockets" on the back of student chairs.
The Desk Fairy appears during the evening occasionally and leaves a special A+ cone with a treat on the three tidiest desks! The students LoVe this part!

Do you have a trick or organizational system to help yourself or your students maintain a tidy desk? If so, please share a comment below!

Friday is Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday and Hat Day!

Since Martin Luther King Day is Monday, you can finish your week with a short study of his life. Black History month is February, so you could easily introduce him now and elaborate later. Simply share a read aloud to your students, such as "Happy Birthday, Martin Luther King" and discuss his importance in desegregation. Click the title above to view the book at Amazon.com.

Hat Day! What fun! Have your students wear their favorite hat to school and share why it's their favorite. Then have them describe their favorite hat using as many adjectives possible. They can draw their hat and write the adjectives around it.

Friday's Finale

2010-01-08T23:33:00.000-06:00

When we returned on Tuesday, I overheard several of my students talking about the hopes of snow. However, one student's voice bounded over the others', "are you kidding, I'm glad to be back at school!" I couldn't help but grin.

This week of teaching was rather...ummm...relaxed. I barely got started with new lessons when the snow fell! A nice finale to a cold, wintry week!

Snowflake Science

2010-01-08T14:16:00.000-06:00

So, it's the time of the year for snow...now what? Get ready for some snowflake science! I'm not one that enjoys the frigid temperatures, but snowflakes are just plain interesting! I share a book with my students EVERY year about a man named Wilson Bentley. This book is about his lifelong love and photography of snowflakes. Click on his name below to view or purchase his book and others about his photography.

Snowflake Bentley

Below are activity ideas for some snowflake science fun:

Download a flipchart for your ActivBoard. There are several other resources available at Promethean Planet.
Examine Wilson Bentley's snowflake photographs up close and personal.
View a very short snowflake science video.
Grow a snowflake from Borax. I've tried this once...but, it was a LONG time ago. Think I'll try this one again (at home first)!
Cut out some snowflakes and decorate your windows...especially if you live in an area where you DON'T get snow! Check out these snowflake patterns for kids.
You can even try snowflake catching! Give each child a black piece of construction paper and a magnifying glass. Bundle up and venture outdoors before school is canceled! As the students catch the snowflakes, they can also examine them up close. Extend the lesson by having them write and draw about the types of snowflakes they caught. My students LoVe this activity! Click here for a link to the different types of snowflakes. This link also has MANY other activities for snowflake science.

Share your snowflake science ideas!!!

Thursday's Thought

2010-01-07T19:42:00.001-06:00

We've had our FIRST snow day of the school year and will enjoy another tomorrow. The snow fell late this morning and quickly covered the roads, making them a solid sheet of ice by the afternoon. As I prepare to enjoy my long weekend...right after a long winter break, another wintry moment comes to mind and makes me appreciate our director's decision to close schools BEFORE the snow fell.

The morning went as most cold, wintry mornings...bundling up, hustling and bustling to arrive on time. On my 20 minute commute across town, the dark snow clouds gave way to a fury of snow that seemed to glisten! Yes! We'd get to go back home.

My students had situated themselves and had been writing and sharing about the impending "snow day" for roughly thirty minutes, when the announcement was made! We would be dismissing NOW...not in a few minutes, but NOW! Although I've never seen a blizzard, I'd say this was fairly close. We had no less than three inches of snow pile up in 45 minutes. For our area...that's debilitating!

Of course, teachers must stay until their last child is safely on the road home...so, by the time I headed toward home the grass and roads were blanketed in the fluffy, white stuff! My 20 minute commute turned into an hour long battle. I'm thankful to still be sitting in my pjs this evening!

Please - share your thoughts for Thursday!

Wednesday's Website

2010-01-06T20:02:00.001-06:00

This is a great website for creating your own personalized lists. I've used it for spelling, vocabulary, sight words, and high frequency words that relate to a particular story or theme. My students LoVe the practice games. Just today, I enjoyed working with two students on the game "Hang Mouse". If you already use this site, tell me about it! If you are new to the site, give it a try and let me know about your experience!

Tuesday's Tip

2010-01-05T20:13:00.000-06:00

The Thematic/Monthly Box

After a couple years of teaching, I really needed a way to organize all the resources fellow teachers had provided to help me get started. It seemed to take hours just to plan for a single day's lessons because I would scour through books and files looking for special activities. So, I purchased several plastic tubs with lids. As I planned and taught a particular theme, I gathered handouts, books, activities, manipulatives, etc. and threw it all in the labeled tubs. I have one for each month of the school year. Other labels include - frogs and amphibians, reptiles, weather, oceans, All About Me, space, Native Americans, plants, and penguins. This has simplified by planning, organized my closet, and proven a tremendous timesaver!

Monday's Moment

2010-01-05T00:53:00.001-06:00

Well, we headed back to school today for inservice sessions. The temperatures were around 20 degrees and the snow was steadily falling. Boy, did I want to just curl up on the couch with my kids all day. We could have spent the day coloring, reading, and napping! Instead, I headed out the door...reluctantly.

My first couple of sessions seemed to fly by...thank goodness, since my stomach was telling me it was lunchtime. To my surprise, when I stepped out the door, it looked like a winter wonderland. My plans of going home to have lunch with my children were exchanged for a trip to the grocery...since I hadn't been in nearly two weeks. I couldn't bare the thought of being "snowed in" with an empty fridge.

After my 45 minute fly through to get the essentials, I walked out and realized that someone had turned off the snow buckets and employed the sun...there was NOT one drop of snow left! So, I stopped to get some lunch to scarf down on the way back to my afternoon inservice sessions. The Monday Moment came as I attempted to roll my power window BACK UP. Well, it wouldn't budge...ugh! Okay...so, I'm going to be late AND I have to ride through town with my window down...and it's 20 degrees???

The groceries rested nicely in a cold car while I finished my sessions...and to no avail, the window remained down on the way home. My fix-it husband discovered the power window motor was shot. Not an easy fix, but at least not expensive. For the mean time, I must drive around town with duct tape holding my window up...hmmmmm. I hope this isn't an example of all Mondays in 2010.

Special Days for January 3-9

2010-01-04T21:41:00.002-06:00

There are two special days that may be of interest to you this week!

Tuesday, January 5th is National Bird Day

Birds are an important part of our lives. They help to fertilize plants, consume weed seeds, control harmful insects and rodents, and spread seeds to other places. You can make it a bird themed day or just a short science lesson to celebrate birds. I've listed a few links below.

Printables

Riddles

Click here to get information about The Great Backyard Bird Count that takes place in February. Lots of activities, too!

Saturday, January 9th is National Static Electricity Day

Wouldn't it be FuN to end the school week with a lesson on static electricity? I remember my mom and dad teaching me all about it! We rubbed balloons against our hair and clothing, then watched them "stick" to the wall. We scooted across the carpeted floor with sock feet "shocking" each other and anticipating the sNaP, cRaCkLe, pOp! I remember hating the cold weather because I'd have to wear sweaters that caused my stringy blond locks to "fly-a-way". Now, I joy in watching my youngsters' hair stand on end as they zoom down a slide!

So enjoy a static electricity mini-lesson with your students. Below are several links for you to view.

Click here for a link to a 4th grade lesson, but could also be simplified for younger students.

This link leads you to a lesson designed for 3rd and 4th grade, but for younger students could be demonstrated by the teacher.

Surprise your students and go to school dressed like the word "static" by attaching dryer sheets, socks, and other stray items you might find in your dryer. Or, better yet...have your students come dressed like "static"! (Got that one from an inservice today. Thanks Mrs. Anderson!)

Click here for a link to a PBS Zoom activity.

Channeling the Excitement of a New Year

2010-01-01T22:46:00.000-06:00

ImageChef.com Poetry Blender

Hopefully, all is well and you are ready to rejoin with your students and colleagues after a well-deserved break! I've thoroughly enjoyed the last couple of weeks. With pajama days, family get-togethers, food, parties, gifts, late-night movies, and the like, my children and I feel a bit spoiled. But, sooner than we can blink, we'll be back to the hectic life juggling school, homework, ballgames, church, and family time. We are blessed to have these special times and make the most of all our time together.

I've been grinding at record speed to complete lesson plans and finish up those last minute grades. I can safely say I'm about 75% ready for my little sponges next week. I can just image the exciting conversations and bubbling energy, which is what lead to this post. So...

Just how do YOU manage the first day after winter break?

I've learned that most younger elementary students have never heard the word "resolution". And, because I'm a stickler to increasing vOcAbuLaRy...my first activity on day one of the New Year revolves around this word! My students and I create a colorful class chart during the activities listed below.

First, we examine the word "r e s o l u t i o n"... syllables, prefix, suffix, base word.

Next, it's definition time. This is a great time to practice dictionary skills!

After we have the gist, we discuss examples of resolutions for our parents, grandparents, friends, etc.

Then, each child gets a few moments to reflect upon the previous year. They each write and draw about something they said or did that was not their best. They are allowed to share their mistake with the class.
Then, each child gets a few moments to write and draw about a resolution for the New Year that will help them be their best. They are again allowed to share.
Finally, the finished products are either displayed on a bulletin board or placed in a portfolio for future reference.

This activity usually takes around 45+ minutes for 2nd graders, depending upon how many students share their work. Following this activity, we can usually hit the ground running with little to no interruptions.

Please share your best "First Day Back" Activities!!

Snow Themed Food Fun

2009-12-31T15:01:00.001-06:00

Mashed Potato Snowman

Now this is way too cute! After the sugar buzz of the holidays is over, give this little guy a try. Mashed potatoes are just plain fun anyway. And, how often is playing with food welcomed? When our first "snow day" rolls around, my four children and I are going to dig in! I'm not brave enough to try this one with twenty 2nd graders! Click the link below for the recipe.

Make a Mashed Potato Snowman | Activities | Education.com

Posted using ShareThis

Banana Snowman on a Stick

While we are in the mood for some snow and healthy food... how about some fruit to go with the mashed potatoes? My children LoVe to cook, so I guess our healthy lunch menu is planned for our first snow day! This is one that I would definitely try with my students, too. It would be an engaging "hands-on" addition to any winter unit. Click the link below for the recipe.

Banana Snowman on a Stick compliments of Family Fun

Sweet Tortilla Snowflakes

Okay, so I guess you can eat the REAL ones, too. But, this recipe sounds like more fun and not too sweet. You will definitely want to practice the art of cutting snowflakes from paper first. Homemade snowflakes decorating our windows during the month of January has always been a tradition at my house. My husband is "in charge" of that fun-filled activity. However, I prefer the idea of eating them and I'm sure my children would, too! For school use, I would simply sprinkle some powdered sugar on top rather than the other ingredients. Click below for the recipe.

Edible Snowflakes from compliments of Family Fun

Ideas for Organizing "2 Teach and 2 Learn"

2009-12-31T09:38:00.003-06:00

Since my plate is rather full and I work better with a plan, I've contemplated several ways of organizing this blog. With the BEST creative juice I can produce, here is ONE idea that seems feasible. Please read on...

Each day will have ONE particular "idea". Then, of course, other ideas may follow each "expected" post. Here are my thoughts...

Monday's Moments (since we ALL, as teachers, know how Mondays affect us)

Tuesday's Tips (because we all need tried and true helpful hints)

Wednesday's Websites (for those CoOl websites we use to make teaching FuN)

Thursday's Thoughts (for reflections of our past teaching experiences)

Friday's Finales (JuSt BeCaUsE...it's the end of the week)

The ONLY thing that scares me about this avenue is that living my life will interrupt DAILY postings...hmmmm. Let me know what you think!

Dr. Jean Feldman...A Must for Kindergarten and First Grade Teachers

2009-12-31T09:14:00.000-06:00

If you haven't heard of this lady...you've got to check out her website! Words cannot describe her imagination. She integrates SO MANY engaging and brain stimulating activities that it's exhausting. I've had the pleasure of spending a day with her at a seminar and was just flabbergasted! (My students LoVe that word!)

My explanation does her no justice! You've got to explore Dr. Jean at her website. Just click here and let the fun begin for you and your students!

Thoughts on this Blog

2009-12-31T08:08:00.001-06:00

Wow - beginning something new really creates a lot of anxiety...not the worry kind, but the exciting kind. So many ideas racing through my mind. I have a vision for this blog, but know it won't happen overnight or even over several weeks.

The idea for this blog has been in the back of my mind for some time. Recently, while talking with my 15 year old daughter, I found myself wanting to make it a reality. So, here it is, in the infant stages along with my blogging skills. Honestly, I didn't get much sleep last night...thinking of the many aspects of teaching that I'd like to share, NOW! And, pondering just how this blog should be organized. AND, concocting ways to make it a place readers want to keep coming back to regularly. AND...oh, I could go on at record speed.

The 2 Teach and 2 Learn blog and I shall remain infantile for a while. We will grow together in "our own time", the way my students grow and learn.

I look forward to your ideas, suggestions, teaching tips, and all the wonderful aspects of your teaching experiences that you choose to share!

I'll end this post with a quote...

"The beginning is always today."

-Mary Wollstonecroft

Her quote along with several other inspirational "quotes for kids" can be found here and printed as BoOkMaRkS!

WeLcOmE...

2009-12-31T00:45:00.000-06:00

This is the beginning of an adventure...I'm sure. Attempting to juggle four children at home, twenty students at school, bus duty, after school tutoring, ball schedules, church functions, household chores, and maintain two blogs...ugh, I'm sweating already! This new adventure is, hopefully, going to prove an "outlet" for my teacher side. What a way to end an eventful year and to begin another!

Thought I'd begin with a freebie for teachers from author T.A. Barron. I haven't received this kit, but can't wait to get it! Click here to read more. One of his books is pictured below.