My job:
1. Teach 6 subjects
1. Math
2. Reading
3. Writing
4. Spelling
5. Science
6. Social Studies
2. Teach character education
1. Bullying
2. Responsibility
3. Respect
4. Trustworthiness
5. Citizenship
6. Others as needed
3. Teach cursive
4. Create & type lesson plans for the above.
5. Make materials for the above.
1. Smartboard presentations
2. Activity sheets
3. Assessments
4. Activities
6. Prepare materials for the above.
1. Print
2. Make copies (20+ copies)
3. Laminate (20+ copies)
4. Cut (20+ copies)
5. Staple (20+ copies)
6. Glue (20+ copies)
7. Assess students over the above.
1. Administer assessments/assignments
2. Grade assessments/assignments
8. Create behavior plan to use in classroom.
9. Implement behavior plan.
1. Printing behavior reports
2. Classroom Economy
1. Money
2. Prizes
3. Fines/Tickets
10. Create materials for behavior plan.
1. Behavior chart cards
2. Create behavior report
11. Technology
1. Emails
1. Coworkers
2. Parents of students
2. Online textbooks
1. Manually enter each student and corresponding data
2. Print information for parents
3. Online programs (Accelerated Reader, etc.)
4. District related (The Learning Institute)
5. Class and School Website
1. designing the website
2. updating the website weekly:
1. objectives
2. assignments
3. important upcoming dates
4. current study guides and projects
6. Maintaining classroom materials (computers, smartboards, Neos, etc.)
7. Edline (posting grades in 6 subjects for 20+ students every week)
12. Communicate with parents about all of the above.
13. Professional Development
1. Attending PD
2. Planning and scheduling PD
14. Special education students
1. Modifications
1. Reducing assignments
(Highlighting)
2. Reading tests to student
3. etc.
2. Annual reviews/placements conferences during planning time
15. Below level students
1. Response to Intervention (RTI) & tutoring
1. Planning
2. Creating materials
3. Scheduling
4. Tutoring in groups or individually
5. Assessment
2. Academic Improvement Plan (AIP)
1. Create plan
2. Conference with parent
16. School committees
1. Meetings
2. Tasks to be carried out
3. Materials to be made and distributed
17. School related functions and activities
1. Fundraisers- assemblies & collecting money
2. School related assemblies (during instructional time)
18. Classroom design
1. Planning
2. Moving desks and other furniture quarterly
19. Administrative tasks
1. Attendance
2. After grading papers, record on paper, then put on Edline
3. Lunch Count (counted and sent to cafeteria each morning)
20. Permanent Records
1. Create new file for new students or K students
2. Update records yearly
3. Complete final update at the end of the school year (including writing portfolios, standardized
test scores, etc.)
21. Field Trips
1. Planning
2. Necessary paperwork for approval
3. Permission slips & information sent home
4. Write receipts as money is paid
5. Tally money daily by 10:00am
6. Turn in & witness counting of money
22. Standardized tests
1. Preparation
2. Provide information to students and parents
3. Adjustment of schedules
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
zombie
In the back of my mind, I can hear The Cranberries' song Zombie. Don't think I didn't just go to iTunes and put it on.
I say you can define a teacher as a zombie not because we begin to look haggard and blood thirsty (though some would argue that we do) but because we turn into beings that do not sleep and move constantly with one thing on our mind. For me, the one thing on my mind is my class. I'm checking off and adding to a incessant to-do list.
In your head, in your head, zombie, zombie, zombie... just took a lyrical pause there...
Anyway. Yesterday we started week 6 of this school year. I've been back and forth on how I feel about this school year. Here is what I think:
1. It might be the best group of students I've had yet.
2. I LOVE THIRD GRADE. They are so sweet. And willing to learn. And trustworthy.
3. I LOVE MY TEAM! I have the best fellow 3rd grade teachers! I adored my fourth grade team so I was sad to move to a new grade, but in third grade I have felt welcome, valued, and loved! And I love them back!
4. My schedule is flawless. You know how every year you wish things were moved around? You can't get everything done, or kids are pulled at the wrong time, or lunch comes too late, or your planning time is too short, or whatever.... well this year, I LOVE my schedule.
5. The parents of the kids in this group are astounding. They are involved and supportive. I have gotten a lot of help from them. It helps that I've had a lot of their kids before. ;o)
6. We have new administration. A new principal. A new assistant principal. Our building has been turned upside down. But the changes have been good. It's tough to make so many new adjustments, but they have been sensational.
I wish I had someone follow me around all day writing down what I do. Because when I finally stop working, I wonder why I'm so exhausted and what I did all day. One day I sent my husband a text of everything I had to do--as I did it. Other than him wanting to strangle me for all the text messages, he was BLOWN AWAY with all that teachers are required to do. Then I got a mini-lecture about how typing text messages was wasting valuable time. Though I was somewhat disgruntled with his irrational scrutiny, I was inwardly happy that he finally understood that even text messages can't (and shouldn't) make it into my busy day.
It was simply for scientific purposes, so there.
The point was that between the emails to read & write, papers to grade, lessons to make and prepare, assorted paperwork to complete, I have to teach. I am on contract from 7:30 until 3:00 with one hour of planning time and a 45 minute lunch. But I'm expected to complete quite a bit.
All of these things leave me feeling like a zombie...
I say you can define a teacher as a zombie not because we begin to look haggard and blood thirsty (though some would argue that we do) but because we turn into beings that do not sleep and move constantly with one thing on our mind. For me, the one thing on my mind is my class. I'm checking off and adding to a incessant to-do list.
In your head, in your head, zombie, zombie, zombie... just took a lyrical pause there...
Anyway. Yesterday we started week 6 of this school year. I've been back and forth on how I feel about this school year. Here is what I think:
1. It might be the best group of students I've had yet.
2. I LOVE THIRD GRADE. They are so sweet. And willing to learn. And trustworthy.
3. I LOVE MY TEAM! I have the best fellow 3rd grade teachers! I adored my fourth grade team so I was sad to move to a new grade, but in third grade I have felt welcome, valued, and loved! And I love them back!
4. My schedule is flawless. You know how every year you wish things were moved around? You can't get everything done, or kids are pulled at the wrong time, or lunch comes too late, or your planning time is too short, or whatever.... well this year, I LOVE my schedule.
5. The parents of the kids in this group are astounding. They are involved and supportive. I have gotten a lot of help from them. It helps that I've had a lot of their kids before. ;o)
6. We have new administration. A new principal. A new assistant principal. Our building has been turned upside down. But the changes have been good. It's tough to make so many new adjustments, but they have been sensational.
I wish I had someone follow me around all day writing down what I do. Because when I finally stop working, I wonder why I'm so exhausted and what I did all day. One day I sent my husband a text of everything I had to do--as I did it. Other than him wanting to strangle me for all the text messages, he was BLOWN AWAY with all that teachers are required to do. Then I got a mini-lecture about how typing text messages was wasting valuable time. Though I was somewhat disgruntled with his irrational scrutiny, I was inwardly happy that he finally understood that even text messages can't (and shouldn't) make it into my busy day.
It was simply for scientific purposes, so there.
The point was that between the emails to read & write, papers to grade, lessons to make and prepare, assorted paperwork to complete, I have to teach. I am on contract from 7:30 until 3:00 with one hour of planning time and a 45 minute lunch. But I'm expected to complete quite a bit.
All of these things leave me feeling like a zombie...
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
multitasker: unpack and prepare
Today was the first day back on contract. This morning we looked at our new math curriculum guide (known as "the map") and did some planning for the first week of school. Yay! Got that checked off my list. This afternoon we looked at our literacy map. I'm quite pleased with both. But having both of those documents in my hands reminded me that my classroom is no longer going to get my attention. Now I've got to sit down and plan for Reading, Writing, English, Spelling, Science, and Social Studies for next week. Luckily our district points us in the right directions. And luckily we did our planning for math this morning. Being a teacher involves a strenuous "before" process where we must plan what we're teaching then prepare the materials before we actually teach. It's all quite enjoyable though. I wouldn't be a teacher if it weren't. ;o)
I did get my classroom unpacked and partially set up. Three cheers for me! Pictures to come soon. I ampatiently waiting for my new third grade materials to come in so I can finish my organizing and unpacking. I hope they're sitting in my room tomorrow when I walk in!
I did do a wee little craft for myself-- to get in the school spirit--
It's proudly hanging on my door next to a "Back to School" garden flag I got online earlier this summer. I'm really glad I caught Wal-Mart's back to school sale because I needed 6 boxes of crayons! To the outside world, I'm really embracing the return to school. But behind that door is a lady that's sad to go back! Who wouldn't be? I don't have kids so I get to sleep in everyday and then do whatever the heck I want! Which usually involves making stuff for my classroom and getting this house cleaned and organized. Like I said, whatever the heck I want. I managed to squeeze in a few good books this summer, too. Oh yeah, and a FABULOUS trip to Vegas and California. Let's not forget that. I dare say this might have been my favorite teacher summer yet! I'm sad to see it go!
But honestly I'll be glad to get back into a routine. And getting some exercise. Teaching means I stay on my feet all day and am constantly moving so at least I burn some calories. ;o) (I'm excluding the part of my day where I sit at my desk and grade 336 papers a week--I try to forget that part--)
This must be all for now. I've got a handful of things to get together to work on tomorrow!
Choy blog!
I did get my classroom unpacked and partially set up. Three cheers for me! Pictures to come soon. I am
I did do a wee little craft for myself-- to get in the school spirit--
It's proudly hanging on my door next to a "Back to School" garden flag I got online earlier this summer. I'm really glad I caught Wal-Mart's back to school sale because I needed 6 boxes of crayons! To the outside world, I'm really embracing the return to school. But behind that door is a lady that's sad to go back! Who wouldn't be? I don't have kids so I get to sleep in everyday and then do whatever the heck I want! Which usually involves making stuff for my classroom and getting this house cleaned and organized. Like I said, whatever the heck I want. I managed to squeeze in a few good books this summer, too. Oh yeah, and a FABULOUS trip to Vegas and California. Let's not forget that. I dare say this might have been my favorite teacher summer yet! I'm sad to see it go!
But honestly I'll be glad to get back into a routine. And getting some exercise. Teaching means I stay on my feet all day and am constantly moving so at least I burn some calories. ;o) (I'm excluding the part of my day where I sit at my desk and grade 336 papers a week--I try to forget that part--)
This must be all for now. I've got a handful of things to get together to work on tomorrow!
Choy blog!
Thursday, August 2, 2012
boxer
There's probably not a job like that. Well, maybe in a moving company. Every year come June, teachers have to pack up. So imagine having to put everything in your office in a box and cover your wall with paper. I'm sure there are many policies and procedures in the schools around the nation, but we get our room all packed up so that it can be professionally cleaned, painted, etc. And also so none of our things collect dust for the months of June and July. Let me pause here to say that there are places in my house that I haven't dusted since we moved three years ago. But my classroom? It'll be spotless! =)
I have been putting off going back to my room. But since I'm switching to 3rd grade (but not moving rooms), I've got a little bit more to do this year to get ready. I'm mostly upset that I won't be able to use my awesome banner that greets my students. I had it made last year at Stumps and it says 4th grade. Shame on me! I should have known better!
I showed up to do Check-In today, so I swung by my room. "Swung?" Is that right? It doesn't feel correct. See? Even educators question things! =) I took a few pics, sighed a deep, heavy, sigh, then promptly got the heck out of there before I hyperventilated! I GUESS I'll go in tomorrow and get started!
**GASP** Where are my student desks?!?!?!?!!? The custodians told me today that I'm getting a whole new set since we're adding a third grade class (me). Now, most people would be THRILLED with new furniture, but the new desks are enormous and I'm not particularly pleased about it. I wish they had just left the old ones. Maybe I can do some bargaining and get the old ones back in here ;o)
So as you can see, I've got a lot to do. I guess this post would be more appropriate for the end of the school year, as that is when I am the "boxer." Starting tomorrow, I'll be the professional "unpacker." Yep, I'm making things up! Why not?!?
On a different note, I found these at Mardel yesterday.
Perfect for my "Bucket Fillers" board!
It rained today. We have needed rain SO BADLY here in Arkansas. I was up at the school, trying to unpack some things from my car, then went to pick up my friend's mom, so the rain was really irritating me. I didn't let it (the rain) know though. I didn't want it to feel unwelcome. So I thanked it for coming and would it please stop by again soon (but not tomorrow around 9am when I'm going back up to the school to unload some stuff from my car again).
Tonight is the first night this week that I'm not going to be cutting out laminated things or working on some school project. What will I do?!?!?!?! Actually I'll be working on my school webpage. **giggling with delight** I quite enjoy working on webpages.
Until tomorrow! Peace out, bloggy!
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
reader
I think it's pretty important to like reading if you want to be a teacher. 'Cause you will do a lot of it. Of course, you could say that since you read all day at work you really don't want to come home and read anymore.
Crap, my whole theory here is flawed now.
Well, who cares!!
Currently I'm reading Lucky by Jackie Collins. It's a winner. So remember on Saved by the Bell when Zach and Kelly broke up? And Jessie, Slater, Lisa, and Screech all hooked him up with different people? Well he went on these dates. To see a movie. And one of the characters was this girl who chats nonstop about reading. She's read all of Jackie Collins novels, and she suddenly asks Zach, "Have you read Hollywood Wives?" Yes, I know each episode by heart. I quote them often and frequently ask myself, "What would Zach do?" "Course he's a lawyer now on Franklin and Bash now and it's just awful to watch him with other women when he should be with Kelly!
Oh my gosh.
I promise in real life I don't birdwalk like this.
Or do I?
ANYWAY, I started reading Jackie Collins because one of her books caught my eye at the airport when my bestie and I went skiing. I saw the book, immediately recalled the episode of Saved by the Bell where Jackie Collins was mentioned and became intrigued. I came back, went to the library, got all her books, and instantly became a huge fan. Another favorite author of mine is Jodi Picoult. I've read all her books. Ohmygosh I sound like Zach's date!!!!
I think reading is important because it takes you away to another time and place. It also gives you a great vocabulary. But, you could be like me and know TONS of words and use them all incorrectly and mispronounce them. It's really quite embarrassing. And somewhat amusing to those around me.
When you get home after spending all day with 28 fabulous kiddos (that number is debatable) you really want to unwind. Reading a good juicy book is a great way to do it.
Of course to balance it out, you really ought to read some children's books, too. During the school year I do that enough as it is. But during the summer, I try to see what all the fuss is about when it comes to certain children's literature. I've started Al Capone Does My Shirts and I have truthfully laughed out loud reading it. It's pretty funny! I might add it to my Read Aloud list. But I'm pretty exclusive when it comes to what novels I read to my kids.
I read every day after lunch for about 15-20 minutes. It's my most favorite time of the day. My kids write me letters or journals about how much they love the Read Alouds. I really get into it though. Not so much with voices (4th graders can be a little over that sometimes) because using different voices makes me feel silly. I try to read with a lot of expression. And I know when to read super fast and make them laugh, or drag out sentences and make them wait on pins and needles. And it helps that I've read the book so many times because I can look away and make eye contact with the kids and keep on "reading" the story. I'm exceedingly dramatic. Even those days when I have a headache or feel like giving busy work (which of course I never do, right?) as soon as I start reading to the kids, my mood turns around. I secretly want to come home and read to my husband but I think he might get a little freaked out.
It takes a few weeks to read a book when I'm only reading a little every day. So I try to have a brief recap
before I read everyday. Once I start reading a book, I know if my kids are into it or not. First, if they're REALLY squirmy, I know the book isn't a winner for them. Most kids squirm when they're sitting at my feet on the ground. But if I see A LOT of squirming, I know they aren't into it. Also, when I stop reading for the day, if the kids don't cry out, "Nooooooo!!!!!!" I feel like they aren't liking the book. I always feel so evil and mean when I tell them, "I'm sorry, I can't read anymore today!" But deep down I'm squealing with delight because they're so into it.
I have a few books I read every year and seriously get something new from them every time.
First of all, I like to start the year with Sideways Stories from Wayside School. Louis Sachar has some hilarious characters in this book. It's very light-hearted and silly. I use the copy that I read when I was in third grade. The pages are practically tissue so I have to be careful with it. ;o) But this book is adorable and there are a lot of activities you can do with it to start the year off.
Indian in the Cupboard. A Magical Fantasy sort of book. This book gets them every time. The idea that a toy could come to life and you get to take care of it is absolutely splendid. It's highly entertaining to students. And I really enjoy it, too.
Please tell me you've read Holes to your class. I have never seen the movie, though.
This is a fine point to tell you that I refrain from watching the movie version of any book I've read (with the exception of Twilight). I just don't want the movie to ruin my visualizations. Especially if I intend to read the book again. I'm certain that no actor could capture the character like I have in my head. And call me a snob, but I might be the best visualizer ever.
So anyway, I haven't watched Holes. And my kids ask me every year if we can watch it because they loved the book so much. I always make up some excuse why we can't watch it because I don't want to see it! Once, my neighbor showed her class the movie (we have open classrooms) and I BEGGED her to show it when my kids were in pull-outs so that I couldn't see or hear it! Hahaha!! How selfish am I? Anyway, the book is just plain spectacular. And that's all I can say about it.
I like Bud, Not Buddy. It's historical fiction so I can pull a lot from it. The young man in the story is extremely witty and very brave. And at the end, there's a huge twist that the kids never see coming. I love to watch their jaws hit the floor when I get to a certain chapter.
Bridge to Terabithia is one that I go back and forth with. I always read it but some years I do a novel study with it and let them have their own copies. Some would argue that it's somewhat mature in its content about friendship and loyalty. But mostly, I love that it shows children being....children. Pretending. Playing outside. Looking beyond the outside of others and seeing the good inside. Dealing with things they don't have the capacity to understand or the vocabulary to express. It's so realistic. And every year I let some tears drop at the end. As I read to them a certain part of the book, I keep one eye on the page and the other on them. If I can really get them deep into the book while I'm reading, their faces will change with every word. As soon as I hear the sniffles, I know I've got them--hook, line, and sinker. I usually have some parents contact me because their child comes home with heavy hearts from that book. But it's SO. GOOD. At the end of the book I have the students write a letter. The letter is from Jess, written to Leslie. And I won't say too much in case you haven't read it, but the letters these kids write are astounding. It's amazing what a child will walk away with.
I have to get to Number the Stars every year. It's a quick read and it's historical fiction so I can--again--tie in a lot of lessons and activities with it. The kids are always on the edge of their seat when I read this book. And I could probably sit all afternoon and listen to their predictions. This novel is perfect for discussing how good readers make predictions. It comes so naturally with this text. And most of the time the kids aren't correct---so it's a great opportunity to talk about when our predictions don't happen. My favorite thing is to be wrong when I make predictions! I love being caught off guard and surprised!! =)
Perhaps my most favorite book to read is Maniac Magee. In fact, I could probably write an entire blog post about it. I choose books to read aloud that I remember from my childhood. But this book was introduced to me by a friend. So the first time I read it was as an adult. I laughed, I cried, I yelled, I smiled. The book does it all. There are so many incredible lessons to be learned from this book. But mostly I like to use the main character, Jeffrey Magee, as a role model. Because he has so many heart-rending things happen to him in this book and he's still the most respectable, honest, admirable child character I've ever read. And he's really clever and quick-witted. If you haven't read this book to your class, you might read it alone first. There are some heavy themes and weighty expressions used which make it an absolutely phenomenal story--but can make others get a little uncomfortable. Every year--it never fails-- I have a parent show up to check a kid out or help with an activity and they come in at the worst time. It'll always be when the bully is attacking Maniac and using some malicious language. I have to assure the parent that in context the words are absolutely necessary. The author, Jerry Spinelli, captures moments and feelings with words like an artist. I usually feel like I'm there with Maniac through the entire story. I feel what he feels. Although it's fiction, deep down I really want to think like Maniac. Jerry Spinelli has written a character that will stay with you forever. Not sure what I mean? Go read it. You'll understand. But beware, it's too good to read just once.
I think I have successfully defined a teacher as a reader with this post. I don't know how many people will read this, but I hope at least one person can walk away from this and read one of those books. And know how important it is to READ! If I didn't read like I do, I probably wouldn't write like I do. It's that engrained in me.
On a lighter note, I am really proud of the USA Ladies Gymnastics team at the Olympics tonight! They are nailing the vault!
Night Night!
Crap, my whole theory here is flawed now.
Well, who cares!!
Currently I'm reading Lucky by Jackie Collins. It's a winner. So remember on Saved by the Bell when Zach and Kelly broke up? And Jessie, Slater, Lisa, and Screech all hooked him up with different people? Well he went on these dates. To see a movie. And one of the characters was this girl who chats nonstop about reading. She's read all of Jackie Collins novels, and she suddenly asks Zach, "Have you read Hollywood Wives?" Yes, I know each episode by heart. I quote them often and frequently ask myself, "What would Zach do?" "Course he's a lawyer now on Franklin and Bash now and it's just awful to watch him with other women when he should be with Kelly!
Oh my gosh.
I promise in real life I don't birdwalk like this.
Or do I?
ANYWAY, I started reading Jackie Collins because one of her books caught my eye at the airport when my bestie and I went skiing. I saw the book, immediately recalled the episode of Saved by the Bell where Jackie Collins was mentioned and became intrigued. I came back, went to the library, got all her books, and instantly became a huge fan. Another favorite author of mine is Jodi Picoult. I've read all her books. Ohmygosh I sound like Zach's date!!!!
I think reading is important because it takes you away to another time and place. It also gives you a great vocabulary. But, you could be like me and know TONS of words and use them all incorrectly and mispronounce them. It's really quite embarrassing. And somewhat amusing to those around me.
When you get home after spending all day with 28 fabulous kiddos (that number is debatable) you really want to unwind. Reading a good juicy book is a great way to do it.
Of course to balance it out, you really ought to read some children's books, too. During the school year I do that enough as it is. But during the summer, I try to see what all the fuss is about when it comes to certain children's literature. I've started Al Capone Does My Shirts and I have truthfully laughed out loud reading it. It's pretty funny! I might add it to my Read Aloud list. But I'm pretty exclusive when it comes to what novels I read to my kids.
I read every day after lunch for about 15-20 minutes. It's my most favorite time of the day. My kids write me letters or journals about how much they love the Read Alouds. I really get into it though. Not so much with voices (4th graders can be a little over that sometimes) because using different voices makes me feel silly. I try to read with a lot of expression. And I know when to read super fast and make them laugh, or drag out sentences and make them wait on pins and needles. And it helps that I've read the book so many times because I can look away and make eye contact with the kids and keep on "reading" the story. I'm exceedingly dramatic. Even those days when I have a headache or feel like giving busy work (which of course I never do, right?) as soon as I start reading to the kids, my mood turns around. I secretly want to come home and read to my husband but I think he might get a little freaked out.
It takes a few weeks to read a book when I'm only reading a little every day. So I try to have a brief recap
before I read everyday. Once I start reading a book, I know if my kids are into it or not. First, if they're REALLY squirmy, I know the book isn't a winner for them. Most kids squirm when they're sitting at my feet on the ground. But if I see A LOT of squirming, I know they aren't into it. Also, when I stop reading for the day, if the kids don't cry out, "Nooooooo!!!!!!" I feel like they aren't liking the book. I always feel so evil and mean when I tell them, "I'm sorry, I can't read anymore today!" But deep down I'm squealing with delight because they're so into it.
I have a few books I read every year and seriously get something new from them every time.
First of all, I like to start the year with Sideways Stories from Wayside School. Louis Sachar has some hilarious characters in this book. It's very light-hearted and silly. I use the copy that I read when I was in third grade. The pages are practically tissue so I have to be careful with it. ;o) But this book is adorable and there are a lot of activities you can do with it to start the year off.
Indian in the Cupboard. A Magical Fantasy sort of book. This book gets them every time. The idea that a toy could come to life and you get to take care of it is absolutely splendid. It's highly entertaining to students. And I really enjoy it, too.
Please tell me you've read Holes to your class. I have never seen the movie, though.
This is a fine point to tell you that I refrain from watching the movie version of any book I've read (with the exception of Twilight). I just don't want the movie to ruin my visualizations. Especially if I intend to read the book again. I'm certain that no actor could capture the character like I have in my head. And call me a snob, but I might be the best visualizer ever.
So anyway, I haven't watched Holes. And my kids ask me every year if we can watch it because they loved the book so much. I always make up some excuse why we can't watch it because I don't want to see it! Once, my neighbor showed her class the movie (we have open classrooms) and I BEGGED her to show it when my kids were in pull-outs so that I couldn't see or hear it! Hahaha!! How selfish am I? Anyway, the book is just plain spectacular. And that's all I can say about it.
I like Bud, Not Buddy. It's historical fiction so I can pull a lot from it. The young man in the story is extremely witty and very brave. And at the end, there's a huge twist that the kids never see coming. I love to watch their jaws hit the floor when I get to a certain chapter.
Bridge to Terabithia is one that I go back and forth with. I always read it but some years I do a novel study with it and let them have their own copies. Some would argue that it's somewhat mature in its content about friendship and loyalty. But mostly, I love that it shows children being....children. Pretending. Playing outside. Looking beyond the outside of others and seeing the good inside. Dealing with things they don't have the capacity to understand or the vocabulary to express. It's so realistic. And every year I let some tears drop at the end. As I read to them a certain part of the book, I keep one eye on the page and the other on them. If I can really get them deep into the book while I'm reading, their faces will change with every word. As soon as I hear the sniffles, I know I've got them--hook, line, and sinker. I usually have some parents contact me because their child comes home with heavy hearts from that book. But it's SO. GOOD. At the end of the book I have the students write a letter. The letter is from Jess, written to Leslie. And I won't say too much in case you haven't read it, but the letters these kids write are astounding. It's amazing what a child will walk away with.
I have to get to Number the Stars every year. It's a quick read and it's historical fiction so I can--again--tie in a lot of lessons and activities with it. The kids are always on the edge of their seat when I read this book. And I could probably sit all afternoon and listen to their predictions. This novel is perfect for discussing how good readers make predictions. It comes so naturally with this text. And most of the time the kids aren't correct---so it's a great opportunity to talk about when our predictions don't happen. My favorite thing is to be wrong when I make predictions! I love being caught off guard and surprised!! =)
Perhaps my most favorite book to read is Maniac Magee. In fact, I could probably write an entire blog post about it. I choose books to read aloud that I remember from my childhood. But this book was introduced to me by a friend. So the first time I read it was as an adult. I laughed, I cried, I yelled, I smiled. The book does it all. There are so many incredible lessons to be learned from this book. But mostly I like to use the main character, Jeffrey Magee, as a role model. Because he has so many heart-rending things happen to him in this book and he's still the most respectable, honest, admirable child character I've ever read. And he's really clever and quick-witted. If you haven't read this book to your class, you might read it alone first. There are some heavy themes and weighty expressions used which make it an absolutely phenomenal story--but can make others get a little uncomfortable. Every year--it never fails-- I have a parent show up to check a kid out or help with an activity and they come in at the worst time. It'll always be when the bully is attacking Maniac and using some malicious language. I have to assure the parent that in context the words are absolutely necessary. The author, Jerry Spinelli, captures moments and feelings with words like an artist. I usually feel like I'm there with Maniac through the entire story. I feel what he feels. Although it's fiction, deep down I really want to think like Maniac. Jerry Spinelli has written a character that will stay with you forever. Not sure what I mean? Go read it. You'll understand. But beware, it's too good to read just once.
I think I have successfully defined a teacher as a reader with this post. I don't know how many people will read this, but I hope at least one person can walk away from this and read one of those books. And know how important it is to READ! If I didn't read like I do, I probably wouldn't write like I do. It's that engrained in me.
On a lighter note, I am really proud of the USA Ladies Gymnastics team at the Olympics tonight! They are nailing the vault!
Night Night!
bargain shopper: @ Wal-Mart
Who knew Wal-Mart would start carrying teaching supplies? I saw some stuff years ago at Wal-Mart but honestly haven't seen them since. But that might be because I haven't looked. I've been doing my grocery shopping at Kroger since I moved to NLR three years ago. I love Kroger. Or Krogs, as I call it. It's more value for the way you live! <---I like to throw their slogan into everyday conversation.
Anywho, Wal-Mart. While getting school supplies for myself, I saw some cute things! And each thing was only 88¢ so of course I had to buy it.
I liked this Homework Schedule they had. They claim it's dry-erase. But I don't trust them. So I'm just going to laminate it. It's funny that I'm using it because I usually have to do EVERYTHING in my Hollywood theme. But never fear! I might still incorporate some Hollywood in this thing!
These folders came in packages of three. I threw them in my "to be laminated" pile but realized that they are already pretty durable! They'll be for me at my desk anyway.
I used to hang posters each day with the schedule. Then I started writing it on the board everyday. So now I'm back to the posters. I bought 5 of these---one for every day. I'll probably laminate them though they too claim to be dry-erase. I was thinking of writing assignments or objectives out next to them, but I don't know. I'll figure all that out when I get back to my classroom.
This magnetic board was actually 97¢ and not in the school supplies section. But I figured I could use it for my estimation station or something. It's pretty scratched up though. They had a dozen or so of them lying haphazardly on a shelf. I dug around and tried to find the least scratched. Also, I really struggled with this purchase because it won't go with my Hollywood Theme at all. Probably I should just get over it.
Anyway, it's 104° outside and I'm trying to spray paint some plastic bins in the garage. What terrible timing I have. So I'm going back out to finish!
Love you long time, blog!
Anywho, Wal-Mart. While getting school supplies for myself, I saw some cute things! And each thing was only 88¢ so of course I had to buy it.
I liked this Homework Schedule they had. They claim it's dry-erase. But I don't trust them. So I'm just going to laminate it. It's funny that I'm using it because I usually have to do EVERYTHING in my Hollywood theme. But never fear! I might still incorporate some Hollywood in this thing!
These folders came in packages of three. I threw them in my "to be laminated" pile but realized that they are already pretty durable! They'll be for me at my desk anyway.
I used to hang posters each day with the schedule. Then I started writing it on the board everyday. So now I'm back to the posters. I bought 5 of these---one for every day. I'll probably laminate them though they too claim to be dry-erase. I was thinking of writing assignments or objectives out next to them, but I don't know. I'll figure all that out when I get back to my classroom.
This magnetic board was actually 97¢ and not in the school supplies section. But I figured I could use it for my estimation station or something. It's pretty scratched up though. They had a dozen or so of them lying haphazardly on a shelf. I dug around and tried to find the least scratched. Also, I really struggled with this purchase because it won't go with my Hollywood Theme at all. Probably I should just get over it.
Anyway, it's 104° outside and I'm trying to spray paint some plastic bins in the garage. What terrible timing I have. So I'm going back out to finish!
Love you long time, blog!
bargain shopper: @ Dollar Tree
Anyway--classroom library tubs-- I went to Dollar Tree first since they tend to have the best little tubs. But I'm trying to find yellow so it makes my search difficult. Anyway, that has nothing to do with this blog. The point is that I ended up in the teacher's section at Dollar Tree and basically went berserk. Here are my awesome finds!
These are labeled as Word Wall Spinners, but I'm going to use them for my Working with Words part of Daily 5. I bought 4. I'll probably stick two in storage in case the other two get destroyed
Dollar Tree had these magnificent handouts that I couldn't pass up. 24 in a package. I can use them in 4th grade for sure, but maybe I can use them this next year in third. I got two packs just in case ;o) They also had the skeletal system--another one for 4th grade but possibly for 3rd?
While grabbing the handouts, I noticed this activity:
I'm going to use it the week of election. They only come in packs of 15 so I've got to go track down another package somewhere!
Last year I handed out Diplomas for my kiddos on the last day of school. I also gave a mini speech for each kid, saying something nice about them. It was really a positive way to close out the school year. Last year I found certificates at Mardel. They were generic "Certificate of Completion" awards that I filled out to say they are done with 4th. But these I found at Dollar Tree are WAY better, include a string to tie them up like a scroll, and the wording is more appropriate! They've got stars all over them which is perfect for my classroom theme!
I found some posters--some I've already got in my classroom but are all torn up, so I bought some new ones. This time I'll laminate them! I got 6 posters for $3--they came in a two pack.
I challenge my class each year to pass 100 AR tests before the 100th day of school. This is a class combined effort. I found this cute banner that I can laminate and reuse for this year's challenge!
This thing depressed me. It's for the last month of school. A countdown wheel thing that spins. I got it because it's only $1 and I'll probably keep it behind my desk ;o)
I thought this banner was cute so I bought it... It's a tool theme---it has character words with lovely things written beneath them. I'll hang this by my bucket fillers display. Something about "tools to use to fill buckets" or something of that nature.
Once again I bought something for 4th grade---but when I find these things and they're only $1, I figure, what the heck? These are flash cards that you've got to cut apart. I'll separate them by region (Northeast, Southwest, etc.) and have the students match the state to the capital. It'll be useful when they take their Map Tests and need to study.
I love cutouts. You never know when you'll need them though--IF ever. But I like to stock up. Plus there's 30 in a package so they'll last me forever!
Please tell me you already know about Dollar Tree's super awesome stickers. They are pretty much the only ones I use. So I stocked up on them. This year they added stickers with messages like "please follow directions" and stuff (see pic above) and I thought that was rather clever since I end up writing those phrases a million times on papers.
I am so excited about these clocks! I saw an idea on another teacher's blog where she put big clock faces up in the room with important times like when school starts, dismisses, and lunch. I was going to do the same but print off some. But I found these!! I bought a bunch in every size in case I come up with something brilliant to use for the other sizes.
They had these sentence strips--three colors in a package. I'm laminating them and using them on the board where I write their assignments everyday. I will probably also use them with the clocks.
My class is in charge of collecting recycling bins for the school. A task I gladly volunteered for. They wear lanyards with some "recycling star" tags on them for hall passes. Now that I found these awards, I can send them home with the kids who help me. ;o)
And lastly, homework passes. Please don't ask my opinion about homework because I will give a huge soapbox lecture about it. But lets just say I really like homework passes. I give them out a lot for rewards, gifts, etc. I got another package for my birthday treats this year (tip: sit down at the beginning of the school year and write them all out, then grab them throughout the year as you need them-I also give the summer birthday kids theirs immediately when school starts). I saw the fall/Thanksgiving themed passes and snatched them up. I usually try to send the kids home with a free book (that I get from Scholastic) over Thanksgiving break. I'll put a homework pass in there as a bookmark and let them spend it when they return. ;o)
So my trip was amazing. I also found some border, bookmarks, and other goodies that I didn't put on here. I was so excited! My husband didn't even blink an eye when I told him I spent $75 because he knew I got 70+ things!
Yay me!!!! Thanks Dollar Tree! (I just inadvertently rhymed there).
creator: noise-o-meter
I saw this idea on Pinterest. And of course I had to take the idea and change it to accomodate my classroom theme! It's a Noise-O-Meter and I titled it the "Celebrity Buzz." I designed each piece in Powerpoint and Microsoft Word, using Phillip Martin's graphics.
After I printed them, I used my paper cutter thingy to cut them apart. I love the paper cutter. I bought it when I was student teaching and it has been the best tool ever!!
I used scrapbooking paper and attached each piece using spray adhesive. Here's an idea, use a pizza box so you won't make a mess!
I let them sit before I went off and laminated them. Unfortunately when I laminated them, two stuck together. I had to cut them out of the laminating film and redo it! I was so angry!!!
Anyway, I used a hole punch and punched holes in all four corners (except for my bottom piece).
I used some burlap string (?) to weave them all together.
I made a loop at the top so I could hang it in my classroom.
I like the way I weaved it all together. It lets me move the pieces up and down the string in case I need to. To tell the class what the buzz should be I found an arrow (I used one from another poster I had) and an old clothespin.
I used E6000 to glue them together. And of course I used a clamp to apply some pressure. I just adore my little clamp.
After it dried, I had my arrow ready!
Whoo Hoo!!! My Noise-o-Meter is complete!
After I printed them, I used my paper cutter thingy to cut them apart. I love the paper cutter. I bought it when I was student teaching and it has been the best tool ever!!
I used scrapbooking paper and attached each piece using spray adhesive. Here's an idea, use a pizza box so you won't make a mess!
I let them sit before I went off and laminated them. Unfortunately when I laminated them, two stuck together. I had to cut them out of the laminating film and redo it! I was so angry!!!
Anyway, I used a hole punch and punched holes in all four corners (except for my bottom piece).
I used some burlap string (?) to weave them all together.
I made a loop at the top so I could hang it in my classroom.
I like the way I weaved it all together. It lets me move the pieces up and down the string in case I need to. To tell the class what the buzz should be I found an arrow (I used one from another poster I had) and an old clothespin.
I used E6000 to glue them together. And of course I used a clamp to apply some pressure. I just adore my little clamp.
After it dried, I had my arrow ready!
Whoo Hoo!!! My Noise-o-Meter is complete!
I couldn't get the turned version uploaded. But you get the idea!
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