tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78059316092837667512024-02-21T12:16:13.630-05:00Crisscross Applesauce In First GradeHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.comBlogger282125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-16235710843263169562017-12-14T18:07:00.000-05:002017-12-14T18:07:32.245-05:00Teacher - You REALLY DO know what you're doing!<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm here today to remind you of that.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yes, YOU!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm getting ready to make sure you remember that you...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. Went to college and spent a lot of years studying to do what you do best - TEACH</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. Have probably wanted to be a teacher since before you hit puberty - I know all about those stuffed animals you spent hours "teaching". You started honing your craft long, long ago!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3. Might have tried a different profession and realized it wasn't for you and made a VERY conscious decision to become a teacher. You worked your butt off to get yourself there. You have tenacity and grit - and know exactly what's what!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4. You spend hours upon hours on social media...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Watching Facebook Lives about guided reading</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Watching Insta-stories and taking notes</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pinning anything and everything "teacher"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5. Talk shop with all of your teacher friends - yes, we run in a tight circle, and we pretty much "talk teaching" whatever chance we get. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, despite what mutterings you hear from whoever you might hear them from, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
you REALLY DO know what you're doing.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know you might doubt yourself.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know you might question if you are reaching ALL of your students.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know you might think that teacher over there is a rockstar and you aren't.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But I want you to listen and I want you to listen good.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All of that self doubt that you let creep in.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That, that right there.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That is your clue that YOU are the best darn teacher out there.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Why?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Because it shows how much you care.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It shows how much you care about whether or not you REALLY DO know what you are doing.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And you do.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And that's a fact.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rock on!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg391HytV530n-eoRoRjkcrTQGDmK6ukbUeDl8gLL9H033ck6yntuqkyBzcAA-Mb_542Lq68VsaGJHPA-xpkYYyamCUv-swIaGkMYaNb5T87J_DWdz9ooYalSIotvCyAqXpY24uB7QNldY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-12-14+at+6.03.00+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="752" data-original-width="1272" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg391HytV530n-eoRoRjkcrTQGDmK6ukbUeDl8gLL9H033ck6yntuqkyBzcAA-Mb_542Lq68VsaGJHPA-xpkYYyamCUv-swIaGkMYaNb5T87J_DWdz9ooYalSIotvCyAqXpY24uB7QNldY/s640/Screen+Shot+2017-12-14+at+6.03.00+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-53736445161663846842017-08-25T22:56:00.001-04:002017-08-25T22:56:26.155-04:00Classroom Setup in First GradeHi Folks!<div>
<br /><div>
So, I've been thinking a little bit about classroom setup. One thing you MUST know, right out the gate, is I am no Chip or Joanna Gaines...I set up a "cute enough", highly functional, fairly comfortable, exudes love, kinda classroom. I choose the theme "colorful" every. single. year. because - c'mon - it works {for me}!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am one of those people that walks into my classroom and I set it up almost identical to how I set it up the year before {then I tweak}. Occasionally I'll do a major overhaul and just go crazy and put almost everything in a different spot...but mostly, I just stick with what works.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I can set up my classroom in no time...I work up a sweat though! Good golly do I work up a sweat. I get into school, do the obvious hugging and chatting that one has to do when they haven't seen their colleagues in a few months and then I'm in it...I mean, you better not walk in front of me because it's likely I'll just plow you down because I'm doin'.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Typically, I start with my furniture. I like to get things just where I want them. If I'm really lucky, the custodians will understand my weak, weak map of where I want things to go...but I must be a horrible map maker because rarely is my furniture even remotely where I thought I told them I wanted it. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So, yeah, I'm that person that you hear squeaking their tables across the newly waxed floors. Don't worry, I cringe too and I feel really really guilty - and at first, I DO try to be ever so gentle but then I just gotta get things done so I move things with a little more gusto. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Once my furniture is where I want it - I use my tables as different command centers. I start pulling all the stuff out of the cabinets that I basically just crammed into them at the end of the school year. {Like the furniture placement - I start the take down process with care and precision and then I throw in the towel and just start cramming}. Anyway, one table will hold my electronics, another table baskets, another table "decor"...you get the idea.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Then I just start working on each table...one at a time until they are each empty.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After that, I like to work on my bulletin boards. This year I decided that the green that they "came with" was actually very calming and not too shabby looking so I decided to opt for just borders. I don't know...that might sound lazy. Yeah, it really does sound lazy - especially when I think about the cool papers that look like bricks or boards. Hmmm - well, when I made the decision it didn't feel like a lazy one. So, I did it and asked my friends what they thought, and they said it was "genius" and it "looked great" but now I'm hoping they weren't just being nice.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2bLV7y0P05ESOukR9kdg8HxGzYIzLUiEuywED5leBsav8ROfwcjZ97HPfSycBB58y58yxOT6jbELP9XhAricKzd9RSvgptGwAgM33vGYqq_kXm7ULi08EnFPKUQiyNdG21Bh4ZtaioQ/s1600/IMG_7143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2bLV7y0P05ESOukR9kdg8HxGzYIzLUiEuywED5leBsav8ROfwcjZ97HPfSycBB58y58yxOT6jbELP9XhAricKzd9RSvgptGwAgM33vGYqq_kXm7ULi08EnFPKUQiyNdG21Bh4ZtaioQ/s640/IMG_7143.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
By now, the furniture has been rearranged, decor and tchotchke has been tackled, my tables are empty and my bulletin boards are all put up. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLBIuksgnPq2U9OtJCf0o3qmL-0-U3VX9W4kBJVjb33QUXr6t0ZCp8Qs6ngGy35xX5DJJ_covLAeZFi9gt2DfMyhHbCQ8J0ezw6cnKnNo2bY5qKShJjXUBrY5lOAAsZxWmIA_VvIIvxYI/s1600/IMG_7150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="838" data-original-width="1600" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLBIuksgnPq2U9OtJCf0o3qmL-0-U3VX9W4kBJVjb33QUXr6t0ZCp8Qs6ngGy35xX5DJJ_covLAeZFi9gt2DfMyhHbCQ8J0ezw6cnKnNo2bY5qKShJjXUBrY5lOAAsZxWmIA_VvIIvxYI/s640/IMG_7150.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Next comes odds and ends, miscellaneous "stuff". This is what takes me FOREVER.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Now it's time to label all the things, print all the things, laminate all the things, organize all the things, fine tune all the things, rearrange all the things. THIS can take me DAYS. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If I can answer the question "Could your kiddos walk in tomorrow and be none-the-wiser" with "yup, I guess"....I feel like I'm in good shape and my anxiety level goes wayyyyyy down.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMcalQqtrc5eZBGmC5iLxpp34HN5MnhGNsZBIVoC2ZkfyRJarpg8geVKVWmxwWVUdZZA9DBp1igaz_wLrwJAYibrR3zBrzy9iPJLOvLpR8YlNrBfIvbzrGTidmbl6doc6-A1BHb8su6MY/s1600/IMG_7181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1593" data-original-width="1600" height="635" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMcalQqtrc5eZBGmC5iLxpp34HN5MnhGNsZBIVoC2ZkfyRJarpg8geVKVWmxwWVUdZZA9DBp1igaz_wLrwJAYibrR3zBrzy9iPJLOvLpR8YlNrBfIvbzrGTidmbl6doc6-A1BHb8su6MY/s640/IMG_7181.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwFI5rSyNx2RPKyNLZFZWP3bhK7W6dx5daMl0i18dh1vOdI68acTBJ-i7Td5Z_2mjzOUNxOryXsd_8vJpek5jXhhmd0sBQs7EOHKkQAzgerUkfVmpX3-OQkeCWdTnCzFGPID9tmjYVYY/s1600/IMG_7149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwFI5rSyNx2RPKyNLZFZWP3bhK7W6dx5daMl0i18dh1vOdI68acTBJ-i7Td5Z_2mjzOUNxOryXsd_8vJpek5jXhhmd0sBQs7EOHKkQAzgerUkfVmpX3-OQkeCWdTnCzFGPID9tmjYVYY/s640/IMG_7149.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I think I wanted to write this post to help new teachers, experienced teachers, any teachers that might feel overwhelmed by the idea of putting together a classroom understand that it can be what you want it to be. It can be months of work, it can be weeks of work, or simply days. Whatever it is - just enjoy it and feel really good about it!!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Happy new school year! Enjoy your students...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-51680714339072309242016-11-20T10:55:00.000-05:002016-11-30T19:44:32.635-05:00Sixth Annual Pay it Forward Giveaway<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;">Update: The winning organization is <a href="http://www.teamjoseph.org/what-is-team-joseph">Team Joseph </a> - a nonprofit organization whose mission is to fund Duchenne muscular dystrophy research. Good news - a parent from my school matched the donation so that means 200 dollars has been donated. Thanks to those of you who entered. If you happened upon this post and have the itch to "pay it forward" - check the comments below for wonderfully deserving groups that need your support. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_BmXorikO89mXgkntFTZql-CGw-X0dZzvUEXR2QPp3UnQvfhG3BTHsYOIMi0r4NipZ2kuEOYyKssi6Kjgxsc-XKBtl9M75QSQSN36u15pGm1Q9nBptcDj6mTxx3JM4CIHgH7EcV70nGs/s1600/TeamJoseph.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_BmXorikO89mXgkntFTZql-CGw-X0dZzvUEXR2QPp3UnQvfhG3BTHsYOIMi0r4NipZ2kuEOYyKssi6Kjgxsc-XKBtl9M75QSQSN36u15pGm1Q9nBptcDj6mTxx3JM4CIHgH7EcV70nGs/s640/TeamJoseph.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The holidays are here! I'm not sure when they came - but they did and I can't believe it. <br />
I couldn't forget about my annual "Pay it Forward" giveaway. It's my favorite and I hope you'll participate. Here's how it works. You're blessed. You know you are. It might not always feel like it - but you have so many things in your life that you're thankful, beyond measure, for. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig9cueaRmKXwzvpukoV4ZTrsJsvfGroILQ29AmMWizbmjV9nroHLMslYTCrYqoDmSAOXn3J09mt-dWlUnweC2zovtAZe0UXYKBz06VztUtF1vI6KAezckyyFhKDeIfQuRDcuPV7Lec6v8/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-11-20+at+10.31.57+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig9cueaRmKXwzvpukoV4ZTrsJsvfGroILQ29AmMWizbmjV9nroHLMslYTCrYqoDmSAOXn3J09mt-dWlUnweC2zovtAZe0UXYKBz06VztUtF1vI6KAezckyyFhKDeIfQuRDcuPV7Lec6v8/s640/Screen+Shot+2016-11-20+at+10.31.57+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This has been a tough school year for me - in a lot of ways. I'm generally a person who tries to focus on the positive and push down those negative thoughts. That's been hard to do this school year because the negative are so in my face. I know you know how I feel. You've been there or maybe you're there as we speak.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Even with that, I'm reminded that I have it REALLY good. Teaching might be a super crazy profession to be in right now; but good golly I have a job and I have kids that come into my classroom every day eager to learn and they love me more than pizza and I love them just the same.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then there are my family and friends who fill my soul with so much happiness. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
#blessed</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know there are people going through trials. I know there are people going without. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This giveaway is all about thinking of those people {or animals - whoever - WHATever!} who might need a little extra somethin' somethin' to give them what they need. Because, they deserve it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's how it works.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I want you to think of an organization that is near and dear to your heart. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tell us about it in the comments. If you have a special story that you'd like to share - maybe in honor of a special someone or to create awareness - please feel free to do that in the comments as well.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enter your information in the Rafflecopter and that's it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks so much!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="067ab9aa8" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/067ab9aa8/" id="rcwidget_aoemm78m" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Donations can be given in honor of someone special and will be given in YOUR name.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Donations have been given to the following organizations in years past...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Year One:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://amazima.org/about-us/katies-story">Kisses From Katie</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Year Two:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://tunnel2towers.org/stephens-story/">Stephen Siller</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Year Three:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/default.aspx?tsid=675&campaignSource=ONLINE&source=BS16050&gclid=CjwKEAiAsMXBBRD71KWOh6fcjRwSJAC5CNE1Z6Js7pVr0sUfTLFIKc-hxBrWm5BubTR5aEW28fdeJhoCMH7w_wcB">Wounded Warrior Project</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Year Four:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bestfriends.org/">Best Friends Animal Sanctuary</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Year Five:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://blackdogsandcompanyrescue.org/">Black Dogs & Company Rescue</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thank you SO much!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hugs to you all!!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsX_EvaN9hX9YCA747G9ZAT_Z_4S5iwTI2qGKTBRCSwtP0n_mBRftI9hvIse1U2rFmp7RHIwS4_G6-nAoJE4-F-dgr5DwwwLpsRsCCdArZrv0dAcnkA7zWI2NPkk9oWJIw6CUJ6yOeBLE/s1600/blessed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsX_EvaN9hX9YCA747G9ZAT_Z_4S5iwTI2qGKTBRCSwtP0n_mBRftI9hvIse1U2rFmp7RHIwS4_G6-nAoJE4-F-dgr5DwwwLpsRsCCdArZrv0dAcnkA7zWI2NPkk9oWJIw6CUJ6yOeBLE/s320/blessed.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-88855649715707184742016-02-25T16:15:00.002-05:002016-02-25T16:15:16.120-05:00How I Stay Positive {and you can too}!<div style="text-align: center;">
Our profession is HARD! There's just no denying that teaching is stressful, heart wrenching {at times} and tiring - emotionally, physically and intellectually. Sometimes you just want to throw in the towel. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't want you to think I'm Miss Polly Perfect and that I walk around my classroom with twinkle toes and happy dust every minute of the day.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm overwhelmed too. I cry over my strugglers. I worry about my kids who need to be challenged. I feel buried under data. I get frustrated with legislators who seem to have it all figured out and know just what our profession needs. I feel torn in every single direction. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But something happened to me. I don't know when, actually - I just know it happened. I'm positive more than I'm negative. I'm happy more than I'm sad. I love what I do more than I don't. <br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And I want you to feel that way too.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, how did it happen? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What did I do?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I found my tribe.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhp44IjtXf36ZFy31dn32Q71kStkI9sbqiPMjlPvMViDCsa5iY3Ibv9B4AFpOFa_i3g-6Y_fEE0tJQCd9jlYnjEc-x4bLrAufsXQV7lmiuh8CoxCNxQHg275ZcXFMmtNQvBwI2645gMc/s1600/FindYourTribe.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhp44IjtXf36ZFy31dn32Q71kStkI9sbqiPMjlPvMViDCsa5iY3Ibv9B4AFpOFa_i3g-6Y_fEE0tJQCd9jlYnjEc-x4bLrAufsXQV7lmiuh8CoxCNxQHg275ZcXFMmtNQvBwI2645gMc/s640/FindYourTribe.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I did, I found this wonderful group of teachers all over social media. You might call them teacher-nerds {my 8th grade son does} and to that, I say, thank you. Nail hit right on the head. So instead of posting article after article of how teachers are being mistreated {I did that}, reading articles about this teacher who threw in the towel and why she did {I read those}, and seeking out memes about how hard teachers work and how devalued we are {because I did} I found a tribe of people who focus on the good that can still be found in this admirable profession of ours and because they do -<br />
- so can I.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I found my locus of control.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHd-HFt9O7Osi6IAAvAHsTWLaxMt3gpKC9N9ffoRJLaoU7lnRY2liAhRTmxOAMZs5T33eoWnWuGkoW1QjtLwRaE89bw8ZnGDorh3PTCRo6BILVbwjf2fMBnEzhelwCpVoK-IoXZzUYx4/s1600/DrS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHd-HFt9O7Osi6IAAvAHsTWLaxMt3gpKC9N9ffoRJLaoU7lnRY2liAhRTmxOAMZs5T33eoWnWuGkoW1QjtLwRaE89bw8ZnGDorh3PTCRo6BILVbwjf2fMBnEzhelwCpVoK-IoXZzUYx4/s400/DrS.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was so focused on what was going wrong in teaching. I was consumed by it. I was living in the past rather than embracing what good still exists in my today. I was stuck in mourning the glory days when supplies closets were full {ish}, teachers were respected and left to work our magic. So, I decided if I can't directly change the negative that might exist outside of my ability to impact - than I won't worry about it {Or TRY really hard not to}. Won't give it psychological air. In a nutshell - I'm learning to just brush it off. Sounds so simple. Right? It's hard - but I'm doing it more often...<br />
... than I'm not.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I found my why.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8crEg_tCX5ItIWHRmK7W5GIZbOF39fVeqyOxuBv9E8u23bWx0KDWiksqOkdtkBJn9XyoKD1l8S3qR4uKx7icewtqm94rxkgLAGy9ymIOAICCW_0bwogExYQbPcrR9JuiZvuxNU2oeRHc/s1600/Why.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8crEg_tCX5ItIWHRmK7W5GIZbOF39fVeqyOxuBv9E8u23bWx0KDWiksqOkdtkBJn9XyoKD1l8S3qR4uKx7icewtqm94rxkgLAGy9ymIOAICCW_0bwogExYQbPcrR9JuiZvuxNU2oeRHc/s640/Why.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Or maybe I should say, I remembered my why. I teach because I love kids and I care about their future. Our future. It's really that simple. So, I work REALLY hard to remember that. Sometimes I'll even whisper to myself "Remember your why, remember your why, remember your why"...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I found my spirituality.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFVgBELUIIqRvf4bmO-6N-J1Bge9iUDQyqijMHAmy9HyzoaPdE8BM9OH4l-cPuhr0pt0KMG1JLFyPU31TOMzBEk6E8o_ZFX4WKSwAveMBSBf8vlA6g3w2S7xwVVt5u6p8aBd6xE4HnVBY/s1600/BarnLisa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFVgBELUIIqRvf4bmO-6N-J1Bge9iUDQyqijMHAmy9HyzoaPdE8BM9OH4l-cPuhr0pt0KMG1JLFyPU31TOMzBEk6E8o_ZFX4WKSwAveMBSBf8vlA6g3w2S7xwVVt5u6p8aBd6xE4HnVBY/s640/BarnLisa.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So, this might not be your bag - and that's cool. The best gift I received for Mother's Day one year was satellite radio. On my way to work I listen to Joel Osteen and again on my way home. I pray constantly asking for help during my school day. Works for me. Keeps me positive and hopeful.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I found what I say really impacts how I feel.<br />
<br />
I have this hidden in my date book and I start my day off by looking at it and peek at it every now and then; just as a reminder that what I say matters so much...you put it out there...into the world, and you're likely to see it come right back at ya.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAfrq3Tg8qjl5Xxtd1Em5QMTVnHQPLXLohiBm6FNpEM3LKbUEl9nBI7-DGSkjTkMhqe-4AzsfYV03oQOy-zgQH9yXkSW7TlRurx8T6Ktw1tg-IWkXtxdchsCZOosEgyukpERKaso5woBo/s1600/Guard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAfrq3Tg8qjl5Xxtd1Em5QMTVnHQPLXLohiBm6FNpEM3LKbUEl9nBI7-DGSkjTkMhqe-4AzsfYV03oQOy-zgQH9yXkSW7TlRurx8T6Ktw1tg-IWkXtxdchsCZOosEgyukpERKaso5woBo/s640/Guard.jpg" width="486" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, while griping and grumping might feel good at the time - I started to see myself living in that place of discontent. Once I set that guard over my mouth - and chose to focus more on the positive rather than the negative in my life or in our profession - I started to see that I was better able to just deal. I'm not even kidding. I know it sounds like a bunch of hooey - but it's true. I mean, I didn't realize how true it was until I just started doing it and then all of a sudden I noticed that I wasn't on edge as much as I used to be and I can only surmise it's because of this.<br />
<br />
And everything else.<br />
<br />
So, while staying positive takes a concerted effort on my part. It's worth it to try.<br />
<br />
I still have my moments.<br />
<br />
I still grumble and mumble over this or that.<br />
<br />
I still, occasionally, drag my feet on Sunday at the thought of a Monday.<br />
<br />
But teaching is my jam.<br />
<br />
I know it's yours too - you wouldn't be in the classroom if it wasn't.<br />
<br />
You can find your smile.<br />
<br />
I know you can.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy_EK7PTeyc6JBj9wb4OfQo9RBjzTmykYRa8q8bupUTdD31SKnTUzruFyaHqJ28HibrFYFKFKEpKRdkevxQnLGWjPHWW_5jhWT3fC0q1JBJzSdGZKN3GOoW0Yp_4LJWhBbuaD3HytBpYg/s1600/smile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy_EK7PTeyc6JBj9wb4OfQo9RBjzTmykYRa8q8bupUTdD31SKnTUzruFyaHqJ28HibrFYFKFKEpKRdkevxQnLGWjPHWW_5jhWT3fC0q1JBJzSdGZKN3GOoW0Yp_4LJWhBbuaD3HytBpYg/s400/smile.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-9932366832378811242015-12-29T11:19:00.000-05:002015-12-29T11:19:39.292-05:00Teacher Challenge - Just Sit Back and Enjoy...<div style="text-align: center;">
...your students!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
How often do you do it? Be honest. How often do you sit back and just enjoy those tiny people?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It seems that these days it's all about the urgency of things. Teach with urgency. Make every second count. Rigor, rigor, rigor.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That's all fine and well - but what I want to challenge you to do is slow it down every now and then. Set the urgency aside, ignore the data, stop taking notes and just sit back, watch the magic happening in your room, and just chat with your kiddos as they work and forget about the teaching point.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I hope you aren't taking what I'm saying the wrong way - I hope you don't think I'm discounting how important those aspects of our teaching are - because...they are important.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, is enjoying your students as people.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you don't enjoy them - they won't enjoy you or their learning.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
So put down your pencil and your notebook. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Breathe.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3WMk3rVsbN4QnuPsVAoBB-seHz0boCA8QgedGOJD51snF0vmVyUO7_yP9j_xdzzRxyAHfPPS5uR15uNQhEtDiR5oIYqBS8zqkboaJt7ncOirgIsg9DKOgT5kx7YU3zUqx93kkRfAkgBw/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="628" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3WMk3rVsbN4QnuPsVAoBB-seHz0boCA8QgedGOJD51snF0vmVyUO7_yP9j_xdzzRxyAHfPPS5uR15uNQhEtDiR5oIYqBS8zqkboaJt7ncOirgIsg9DKOgT5kx7YU3zUqx93kkRfAkgBw/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Laugh and love your students and your time together.<br />
<br />
You might be surprised how much you learn about those little beings in your classroom - that you would have never noticed amidst the fervor...<br />
<br />
So, grab a stool, lay on the floor - next to your students and bask in the the warmth of a day well spent - together, learning, smiling, ENJOYING your time together...<br />
<br />
In that space...<br />
<br />
...your classroom.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-25305507478488803752015-12-13T11:27:00.001-05:002015-12-14T20:45:49.130-05:00Perfect Teacher, Perfect Mom!<div style="text-align: center;">
I had a friend email me the other day who was "bitten by the teaching bug" and is coming back into teaching after staying home with her own kiddos. She's worried. She's not sure how she's going to balance it all. She's losing sleep over wanting to be everything to everyone...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sweetie...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Stop worrying, stop wondering, because I'm here to say...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You won't be everything to everyone...but you will find balance!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But wait, balance maybe isn't what you think it is - what so many people might believe it to be... </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Balance isn't doing it all.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihNEmT2tD9T9IPQLhl1mwKouanLrahljkmCsP9ncxn4zp9UR1Ceogun4RQOuLLnzDTBJzO7QnQzw4vgUSNzPGdSDAg8Z-sv39eWtszfjvI-Fe8x0rrgN_carlt4__pUmq6JfxQz5onWn0/s1600/balance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihNEmT2tD9T9IPQLhl1mwKouanLrahljkmCsP9ncxn4zp9UR1Ceogun4RQOuLLnzDTBJzO7QnQzw4vgUSNzPGdSDAg8Z-sv39eWtszfjvI-Fe8x0rrgN_carlt4__pUmq6JfxQz5onWn0/s640/balance.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Being the perfect teacher & perfect mom is what you make it. If you expect to rise to the expectations that social media has perpetuated than you won't be happy in either role. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you set priorities that match who YOU are - you'll be surprised at how good you can feel about yourself and the job you're doing in each role that you may play...teacher, mother, wife, friend.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You need to also realize that your priorities ebb and flow they shift as the days go by.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Some days you are going to have to put school first. Not all days. Just some days. Report cards, planning that perfect lesson, worry about your struggling sweetheart will be in the forefront of your thoughts or consume hours of your time. Don't worry about that because the village you've worked so hard to create for you and your family will support you and your children will be just fine. You have to know that the stronger your village, the more people you accept into it and allow to help, the better example you are setting. Not being in your own child's classroom helping out with the winter party, or being room mom, or there at pick-up each day, doesn't make you any less of a mom than the one who is able to be there. Your own children will learn to reach out and accept other people into their world and will learn resiliency, acceptance & flourish in ways you maybe didn't realize they could - and it will make you smile when that mom comes up to you and says "Oh my word, your little guy is so {fill in the blank: kind, respectful, funny, sweet}" because they will -<br />
<br />
Because your village cares!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There will be days that your heart and soul are with your own babies and you'll feel like you're short changing your students. That's going to happen and it SHOULD happen!<br />
<br />
You'll take a day off to help out at your kiddo's school, you'll miss a day to snuggle a sick one, you'll get to work right before the bell rings or leave "early".</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That's what makes you the great mother and teacher that you are. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's your big heart and your desire to be your best.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You've worked so hard at creating a classroom culture that embraces hard work & kindness. The parents of the students in your class know how dedicated you are to their children - so when your mind isn't 100 percent in that classroom - you'll see something wonderful happening in spite of that...your kiddos just keep doing their thing in the most magical of ways. Or maybe they won't...maybe your day {or days - let's be real} will feel a little chaotic. Oh well...that's a learning opportunity as well Your students need to learn how to grow from situations that are less than perfect...because, c'mon - isn't that what this post is all about? Life isn't always neat and tidy.<br />
<br />
They WILL learn and WILL love you - no matter what!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
So, don't worry!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You're going to drop balls...but you WILL pick each one back up when it's time. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Balance isn't keeping all of the balls up in the air.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It really is knowing when to let one drop and feeling at peace with it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You are doing wonderful things...even when you feel like you're not!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-50195922524456570262015-11-29T14:19:00.000-05:002015-11-29T14:19:54.065-05:00Why I Won't Quit Teaching and You Won't Either<div style="text-align: center;">
It's all the buzz - it's gone viral more times than I can count. You know what I'm talking about. The "Why I Quit Teaching" videos, public letters, blog posts. Honestly, I absolutely, 100%, without blinking, understand where these people are coming from.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I really do.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm in complete support of somebody who needs to make life changes. If something in your world is dragging you down to the the point where it's impacting your health and well being - I stand behind you doing something - anything - to better your situation.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If quitting is "that thing", I'm behind you. Do it. If that's what will make you happy. Just make sure it's what YOU really want and not what some legislator has made you THINK you want.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Me, on the other hand, I just can't do it. Quit. Oh, I've wanted to, more times than a person could keep track of. I've said to my husband a 1,000 times over "I just can't do it anymore", "I can't take the stress", "The pressure is more than I can bear", "I can't end each day feeling like I didn't do enough, that <b><u>I </u></b>wasn't enough". </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then I remember that old oak.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am strong - so I look for that strength.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I find it and I say "You won't quit". </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I won't quit and maybe you won't either.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You're going to feel like quitting. I know you will because the added pressures of this job make us feel like doing it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's why we won't...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. We were put on this earth to teach. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I really believe that. I think teaching is a calling. Don't let anybody or anything <b>rob</b> you of that.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. Teaching is more than just something you wake up each day and go do - it's something you feel in your heart of hearts - it's IN you...deep rooted like an old oak tree.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I really believe that. C'mon, you're reading this blog on your "free time". It's deep rooted in you too.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3. We love it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I really believe that. Dig down REAL deep and remember why you went into teaching. Granted, it wasn't for the test giving and data collection; but if you dig deep enough you'll remember that you love those "a-ha moments", you love making your students laugh. You just love it. We really do. So, spend time each week just enjoying your kids. Put down the anecdotal notes, quit collecting data and just enjoy the hum of your classroom and the coolness of your students.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4. Office supplies.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yes, I even believe that it can be as simple as that - office supplies are one reason we teachers teach. Seriously, that pack of new flair pens and Scentos markers don't make YOU smile? I've loved crayons, shuffling papers, organizing things since I was a little kid. I bet you can say the same. Office supplies are another reason I won't quit and you won't either!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5. Making a difference.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know it sounds like a cliche but it's not, right? Our world can be so ugly but what we do with our students isn't. Brush aside the stuff you don't like and allow the beauty of what we proudly do shine through. We know that we aren't just teaching the ABC's and 123's we're mentoring & motivating. Somebody who might have been on a path to nowhere is now on a path to ANYWHERE...because of US!!!!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, if you need to quit I get it. I do, and I would NEVER make you feel horrible for it. I get that you need to think of yourself and your family. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If there's even a small part of you that feels like you want to stick with it. Do. Please do. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's stick together and hold onto this calling.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Be an oak.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxyt0dSieusLddRYzBtGRIOHU3AgZ8sNuT0i8ad7JVj8vW2R9HB5MNZqw4e627P06yJTEiBipeQDCSk3mcNg9HOQ8yY3y9elybGjIgGMYQqM0fip7Cwiz6FvCwGPrNfzp2-8AoAB89yQk/s1600/Oak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxyt0dSieusLddRYzBtGRIOHU3AgZ8sNuT0i8ad7JVj8vW2R9HB5MNZqw4e627P06yJTEiBipeQDCSk3mcNg9HOQ8yY3y9elybGjIgGMYQqM0fip7Cwiz6FvCwGPrNfzp2-8AoAB89yQk/s640/Oak.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-35836372128273036772015-11-21T15:37:00.002-05:002015-12-14T20:51:39.099-05:00Fifth Annual Pay it Forward Giveaway<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy happy and merry merry to each and every one of you! <br />
I started this giveaway five years ago. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love it!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRlf5kHpLblMD25u8YHp8KRCdrQGyMRnMIStbEAWoxRhFfiDOXY6v-b6smgwafqesD5sLmgysjs62T8_ZPLr5WzdlKmWbh3ObfKN9Rxmr6cFFISakifpz1VczABbOp6hySFeUAFkkuqpM/s1600/Snippy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRlf5kHpLblMD25u8YHp8KRCdrQGyMRnMIStbEAWoxRhFfiDOXY6v-b6smgwafqesD5sLmgysjs62T8_ZPLr5WzdlKmWbh3ObfKN9Rxmr6cFFISakifpz1VczABbOp6hySFeUAFkkuqpM/s640/Snippy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
To wake up each day, and have what you need to feel safe, taken care of, productive and happy is such an incredible blessing. I don't know if it's getting older that makes me feel this even more strongly - but every year that I do this Pay it Forward Giveaway I find myself feeling so overwhelmingly sad for anybody who struggles in such a way that it makes it hard for them to wake up each day and do what it takes to get through it. Then, I sit here - in my cozy bed, on my computer and I'm just astonished at those who get by with much less and feel blessed anyway. Our world and the people in it are just a wonder!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Each year, for the last five years, I've asked that you name a charity that is near and dear to your heart, in the comments below. If you feel comfortable doing so, I'd like for you to share the reason for choosing this charity. I think, in sharing your story, you can touch the hearts of so many. We all walk this earth with a story in our hearts - having to endure the many storms that sometimes breeze by, others come at us like a tornado and still others almost rip us apart like a hurricane. You just never know who your story will reach and whose life you may change - just by sharing it. I like for you to do this in the comments with the hope that others may feel moved to share theirs and may also consider paying it forward themselves by choosing a charity to give to. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This year, I'd like to give 100 dollars in your name or the name of someone special to you, to a charity of your choice.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We've given to several wonderful charities over the years.</div>
<br />
Year One:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRifs4IVdCPtTsOPhQqhOmCS7NkZob3CZFCuD5G7jeovLbWSNqS326pTgkf91y0DtNezIEW2BRH_g7jp4CiAw7Z_adHiprMzVdxpForHEjWnXuLQWdWgZV6PtUyvgsMi_smT5WLQDhfAw/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-11-16+at+7.51.20+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRifs4IVdCPtTsOPhQqhOmCS7NkZob3CZFCuD5G7jeovLbWSNqS326pTgkf91y0DtNezIEW2BRH_g7jp4CiAw7Z_adHiprMzVdxpForHEjWnXuLQWdWgZV6PtUyvgsMi_smT5WLQDhfAw/s640/Screen+Shot+2015-11-16+at+7.51.20+PM.png" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://amazima.org/about-us/katies-story">Kisses From Katie</a></div>
<br />
Year Two:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxmn9jH6NSKzwXXTB99iofmm7D76g57u47V0PIkyTDvdJkVbV8Jq-QbXa2y_ROsmimxGW_wErWLlfoYPrBkTlGSioEoXHjK_qMpmXRXlad1IQalzjmeEHrSHhIcAhuIa2YBgwkIoxtElk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-11-16+at+7.52.24+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxmn9jH6NSKzwXXTB99iofmm7D76g57u47V0PIkyTDvdJkVbV8Jq-QbXa2y_ROsmimxGW_wErWLlfoYPrBkTlGSioEoXHjK_qMpmXRXlad1IQalzjmeEHrSHhIcAhuIa2YBgwkIoxtElk/s640/Screen+Shot+2015-11-16+at+7.52.24+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://tunnel2towers.org/stephens-story/">Stephen Siller</a></div>
<br />
Year Three:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh04jFkNau_3lmZGHd_ygJy2bmKnzXBg5U2aKDL_Sv8kOTjjiLlrsUjb4qRNV8xbfGzrGo2jF_mTQW1_4pQTNzHTiDX1F2BFPcnAf6kIE2fjat_MHrUf4tgq0MP_3K_HoQDE2lsPC_yWxE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-11-16+at+7.52.54+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh04jFkNau_3lmZGHd_ygJy2bmKnzXBg5U2aKDL_Sv8kOTjjiLlrsUjb4qRNV8xbfGzrGo2jF_mTQW1_4pQTNzHTiDX1F2BFPcnAf6kIE2fjat_MHrUf4tgq0MP_3K_HoQDE2lsPC_yWxE/s640/Screen+Shot+2015-11-16+at+7.52.54+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/default.aspx?tsid=1143&ovr_acv_id=1704&campaignSource=ONLINE&source=BS15173P&gclid=CjwKEAiAmqayBRDLgsfGiMmkxT0SJADHFUhPYaDHApCWzMG4wE4gvvmm72WBViC1RzAmvsSa2Eg4VhoC1Yvw_wcB">Wounded Warrior Project</a></div>
<br />
Year Four:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrCm9e7wiA-LWd78Aym-ir304N0piW_ZXrf724Z9GbneHl8iCE0w6rKS2TXp1z-nk5iM-ZAG7U2Fy49bbmX4_Dc8nTtidSBw6XWz2v3dqPoQ9-AN011_u7pO1jaVb7NyuIPmG4m48-m6U/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-11-16+at+7.57.12+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrCm9e7wiA-LWd78Aym-ir304N0piW_ZXrf724Z9GbneHl8iCE0w6rKS2TXp1z-nk5iM-ZAG7U2Fy49bbmX4_Dc8nTtidSBw6XWz2v3dqPoQ9-AN011_u7pO1jaVb7NyuIPmG4m48-m6U/s640/Screen+Shot+2015-11-16+at+7.57.12+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bestfriends.org/sanctuary/animals-special-needs">Best Friends Animal Sanctuary</a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thank you so much for entering this giveaway!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I just can't think of a better giveaway - especially this time of year.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hugs!!!!!!</div>
<br />
<br />
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="067ab9aa7" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/067ab9aa7/" id="rcwidget_3y5ken5l" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;">Update:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;">I am so happy to tell you that a parent at my school contacted me and asked to match my donation. That means $200 dollars has been donated to <a href="http://blackdogsandcompanyrescue.org/">Black Dogs & Company Rescue!</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;">That's what paying it forward is all about...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xoxoxox</div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-48262206562218383022015-10-18T11:23:00.000-04:002015-10-18T11:23:41.058-04:00Book Shopping for Read-to-Self {Daily 5}<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Weekend!</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I hope life in your neck of the woods is as good as it is in mine! </div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We are currently working on building our reading stamina for read-to-self and have read for an outstanding 17 minutes! {15 minutes was our BIG goal}</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We like to set small goals for ourselves in Room 8. One goal was to read for 10 minutes straight and they did it. Their reward? First, to feel really good about themselves as readers and second, <a href="http://crisscrossapplesauceinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2012/09/weekly-rewind-we-have-winner.html">BOOK NOOKS! </a></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We talked about where we like to read when we were at home. Many of our favorite reading spots were in bed, on the couch, in a big chair, under a blanket - lots of cozy places. So it just makes sense to try and replicate that my classroom.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Since we are reading all over the room it's important to have easy access to our books so that we can spend time reading not getting books. In our classroom we keep our books in personal "book shelves". Before we head off to our book nooks we grab our bookshelves and get started right away.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Each Friday we go "book shopping" so that our bookshelves are ready to go each Monday {We do Daily 4 Monday-Thursday and <a href="http://crisscrossapplesauceinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2013/12/read-to-someone-fridays-and-freebie.html">read-to-someone on Fridays</a>; along with our book shopping}. I've used this system for years and it works perfectly for me.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQw00O0sw4ucPtrLDNq1No8GAkQ3rit2-AoGJ2kHvwZ8zW0UprfmpMmJJ5iZ55j1fzvJaXqqRiABmwutE3fALg5DTbgAuqIZk9BlhdNLOGpOMgOt5AwVk1rqIJsDtnZsRsyH2IL5VdkOA/s1600/BookShoppingPic.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQw00O0sw4ucPtrLDNq1No8GAkQ3rit2-AoGJ2kHvwZ8zW0UprfmpMmJJ5iZ55j1fzvJaXqqRiABmwutE3fALg5DTbgAuqIZk9BlhdNLOGpOMgOt5AwVk1rqIJsDtnZsRsyH2IL5VdkOA/s640/BookShoppingPic.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've had some teachers ask what book shopping looks like in my classroom so I thought I'd take a minute to share that process. I introduced it a couple of weeks ago and it's already going WONDERFULLY!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know that the whole idea of students finding just right books can be a hot topic but I feel pretty comfortable with how I approach this. We talk about I-PICK before our first experience with book shopping. I found a great anchor chart that I love to share with my students {<a href="http://twocandoit.blogspot.com/2011/06/daily-five.html">here</a>}. After I feel like I've adequately modeled how to LOOK for books rather than just grabbing books - I move on to the logistics of book shopping.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have a certain area in my classroom that has my leveled books in it {it's the only part of my classroom library that is leveled - the rest of my library is organized by genre, author, theme, etc.}. Each basket is organized by Fountas and Pinell levels as well as reading recovery. Our lending library that we use for guided reading groups uses both levels on many books so I do too.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Each student in my class is assigned a number. They use this number for everything: mailboxes, lining up, clip chart, etc. They also have a numbered "book shelf" where they house a whisper phone, pencil, reading folder, handwriting workbook, writing journal, headphones and the books they read for read-to-self.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoDnvtC32WFpkYzmrfVWXfncLy795s3kJA_sQP0GaT1ub4jpIqV94TX3P7I7yOzx0TfC3xOMsx-mN8FOP8jv_wGZx6hyPcC9rom0NqTBWyuXQpVcBNblx7GfBt0iotoRSIS3q8lW4h14/s1600/BookShelf2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoDnvtC32WFpkYzmrfVWXfncLy795s3kJA_sQP0GaT1ub4jpIqV94TX3P7I7yOzx0TfC3xOMsx-mN8FOP8jv_wGZx6hyPcC9rom0NqTBWyuXQpVcBNblx7GfBt0iotoRSIS3q8lW4h14/s640/BookShelf2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here is our leveled library...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3EV0igup-STPPkfoQzOmH7jGkrAv9ia0Cq_gh1heLdgX2QRyjFyE1bu3pkZErc6M5iQoj6mqq-UbZiZdMFbAh1wMJcp17KzQicOvAp5wvvfUhErW6cnjT3ly3rYgWvDWJhrFWoOFf7bA/s1600/BasketsLeveled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3EV0igup-STPPkfoQzOmH7jGkrAv9ia0Cq_gh1heLdgX2QRyjFyE1bu3pkZErc6M5iQoj6mqq-UbZiZdMFbAh1wMJcp17KzQicOvAp5wvvfUhErW6cnjT3ly3rYgWvDWJhrFWoOFf7bA/s640/BasketsLeveled.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have found each child instructional reading level and give them their "magic number/letter" which is two levels below their instructional level. This ensures that they'll know 99 if not 100 percent of the words in the books they read during read-to-self.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Once everybody knows their magic number/letter, have their personal bookshelf and have learned about I-PICK - I talk with them about how book shopping looks. Of course you have to do the whole incorrect/correct model. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sometimes this process takes a couple of days sometimes it takes a week - it totally depends on the class. Once all of the pieces are in place it's time to put it all together.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's what I do...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*I call one table at a time to get their bookshelf and bring it back to their table spot</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*They pull out their five bookshelf books from the week and put them in a pile in front of them</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*I pull the two baskets for each level {one at a time} and set them somewhere randomly in our room</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*The students who shop from that basket carry their five books over and place them back in the basket</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*They go back at get their bookshelf and bring it over to their leveled bins</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*They use IPICK to choose 5 new books for the following week</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*As they are shopping, I'm quietly saying reminders "I'm taking a picture walk, not reading", "I'm looking to see if I'm interested in this story", "I'm choosing books I think I will comprehend", etc.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{I also have my I-Pick poster up on the SmartBoard}</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFT8jFjYLBbdmq1tsF6udommrAp_6WeKBUgqrH9i2eZ4pqxVjONY9pXLIxuyzP5s-JmuCzWaDciw5Q5k3qfzhxAGcCoFV6UH67fjcBxiP3uCPRajaHMI2Xfg_uiGQ1TpPm5E_JOF5Lh4/s1600/IPICK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFT8jFjYLBbdmq1tsF6udommrAp_6WeKBUgqrH9i2eZ4pqxVjONY9pXLIxuyzP5s-JmuCzWaDciw5Q5k3qfzhxAGcCoFV6UH67fjcBxiP3uCPRajaHMI2Xfg_uiGQ1TpPm5E_JOF5Lh4/s640/IPICK.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*After they have chosen their five books, they put their bookshelf back on the counter and find something smart/quiet to do at their tables - waiting for everyone to finish</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Eventually, we'll talk about finding good fit books using the "five finger rule". I know that books are not always leveled {library, bookstore, etc.} so I do want my kiddos to have the opportunity to choose books that are at their reading level - so I will soon have them choose two "dessert books" from our un-leveled portion of our class library. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/hwazy/daily-5/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6IqdSVFDQ7cfXwxWGTl2CQQIV-q56ich-Bq8A-5CmrWFRsS3Dr7MoqjQv2RSZCCcAP9oU_qXSxRYfu0hpd_wn9hqSCzgl5SIEJpJkd5BvG4_cQOYBhh45qyiIYVtLWidnzlLlK1UbsU/s640/daily5.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I pinned a helpful {and cute} Five Finger Rule poster on my Daily 5 Pinterest Board</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've heard that book shopping can be chaotic and overwhelming for some teachers. I hope this post helped - just keep in mind that how I do it may not work for you. Sometimes it's all trial and error and eventually you find what works. Good luck and HAPPY SHOPPING!</div>
</div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-66148007257866181692015-09-26T22:28:00.000-04:002015-09-27T10:11:46.245-04:00Mystery First Grader {Classroom Management} *Freebie*<div style="text-align: center;">
Close your eyes...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Picture the end of the school day....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What does it sound like?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What does it look like?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Did you break into a cold sweat just thinking about it?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It doesn't have to be that way! You can find calm at the end of an otherwise chaotic part of the day if you choose a MYSTERY FIRST GRADER!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know this simple idea is nothing new...or maybe it is? I don't know, but it's one that I've used for years and it works like a charm.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Some might call it bribery - I call it genius.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's how it works:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*You announce that you'll be picking your mystery first grader</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*You eyeball the room dramatically</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*You mention that you'll be locking this person's face and name in your mind and they will never know who it is - until the very end of the day</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*Pause for dramatic effect</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*Eyeball the room one last time and then emphatically nod your head saying "Yup, they're in my brain and there they'll stay while I watch your every last move as you pack up for the end of the day".</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*More pausing, nodding, smirking</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And then they get ready...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Every minute or so you say something like...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Oh my, my Mystery First Grader is _________________{doing a great job, having a hard time but I know they'll do better now, remembering to do everything they need to do, has it goin' on, etc. etc.}"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mostly it's magical. Mostly they are putty in your hands. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Disclaimer: Unless you were completely caught up in a science experiment, looked up and noticed the bell was going to ring in two minutes. Then all bets are off. You're outta luck. It's the mad dash and Mystery First Grader can't slow down the hands of time - it's going to be frantic no matter what you do. Some days are like that.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Keep a checklist handy so that you give everyone a fair shake at being your MFG.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have a treasure basket filled with small items donated by my kids, parents, friends & neighbors. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Or you could just give them a "Wowie Zowie". Or both. Or nothing but a bravo and a class cheer. It's up to you!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B_aKHTGyIZB6VVdCSVlVV3lCSG8/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimWmBeecRfPwes74DnqEH1-xQNzD66k_IG22Nd-dJS02tq9eLy3x4jOua664rE-h2bdJIOuUueRcXdL9QLlxOcaisub4_JDZFtRGn4M-1j0040zKe_cGNTXve3EDRzH2kKQdm4iXdnGMg/s320/WOWIEZOWIEPIC.PNG" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B_aKHTGyIZB6VVdCSVlVV3lCSG8/view?usp=sharing">Click the picture to download.</a><br />
Kindergarten-Fifth</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
May the end of your days be full of peace and smiles!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-80799758562153628932015-09-19T09:47:00.003-04:002015-09-19T20:16:54.163-04:00Brain Breaks {Not the GoNoodle Kind}<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey!! There is life on the other side of this computer - I AM here!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I got a lovely message from my dear friend Patty over at <a href="http://2ndinline.blogspot.com/">2nd In Line</a> telling me that a teacher in her district had sent out an email referring them to my blog to read about how <a href="http://crisscrossapplesauceinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2015/07/are-you-great-teacher.html">GREAT</a> <i>they</i> are! If you read that post you'll see that it has been quite a while since I last blogged. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
No excuses. Just life.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That little bit of happy, from Patty, motivated me to get back to it...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, here I am!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, I hope with this new school year, you've been able to hold on to those good feelings you gathered over the summer months - relaxing, pinning, blogging, Periscoping {don't know what that is - check it out <a href="http://www.schroedershenanigansin2nd.com/2015/07/25-periscope-must-knows-flipthecamera.html">here</a>}, and all those other things us teachers do during those glorious long summer days.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know it can take one staff meeting and you feel like the weight of the world is back on your shoulders. I CANNOT urge you enough to hop on social media. Facebook, Instagram, Periscope, Blab.im {outside of Instagram, that's my personal favorite - google it!} to help you focus on the POSITIVES in our profession. I swear to you, I don't know if I would still be teaching if it weren't for the positive energy I glean from all my online teacher friends/colleagues.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But, that's not why I'm here...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I wanted to share a magical part of our day. Magical in the quiet, non-academic sort of way.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I pride myself on classroom management. It is one area that I can say, with a smile on my face and 100 percent confidence, that I rock the house.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Think about right after recess. What does your classroom sound like? Do tattles abound {even though it has already been handled on the playground by an adult}? Do the acceptable noise levels of a school playground follow your students into your classroom? Do you hear yourself saying "quiet down boys and girls, QUIET DOWN - you are NOT outside anymore, you are in a classroom", over and over? Does it take, what seems like forever, for them to calm themselves down and get ready for the rest of the day?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't have that problem. EVER.<br />
{disclaimer: full moons, party days, random "what on earth" days excluded}</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Okay, at first I do. Like, say, for the first few days of school - but with lots of practice and training, I don't; and here's why:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBmvkHemGnU1E_v1hJs_iNSQ5BOIt7BQizLeA_Dnvx9Z-7v7PS1s9KWHmMxvOcc0tH1xuVqoxW-d-glAczszO3HTcFwGlmA8xV8CmlYRqd7_CrRWm6tug60rNmcwy2AzZtvWrt9QFTM8/s1600/BrainBreak.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="108" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBmvkHemGnU1E_v1hJs_iNSQ5BOIt7BQizLeA_Dnvx9Z-7v7PS1s9KWHmMxvOcc0tH1xuVqoxW-d-glAczszO3HTcFwGlmA8xV8CmlYRqd7_CrRWm6tug60rNmcwy2AzZtvWrt9QFTM8/s320/BrainBreak.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That's one of our schedule cards that hangs on our agenda each day. You can pick my schedule cards up {<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Classroom-Daily-Schedule-Cards-No-Clock-273599">here</a>}for free. It's <i>almost</i> just that simple.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Name it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That's what I did, I named it. I gave that time of day an official name - like math, science, social studies {all have clear expectations} we have "brain break" with lots of expectations that we practice over and over and over.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I tell my first graders that the minute their first foot walks through the door, their voices turn off, and they sit down, drink from their water bottles, take their turn to use the restroom, and focus on their breathing. Some put their heads down, some stare off into space, some find an object to focus on and "smell the soup, cool it down" {how we slow our breathing down}. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And the lights? Make sure they are all off! {I spray some cinnamon air freshener right before they come into the classroom. I'm not sure if cinnamon is an official calming smell - but I like it - it calms me down...so I like to think "happy teacher, happy classroom".}</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The whole first part of the brain break I speak calmly and quietly - reminding them of what they should be doing. I sound so calm...I want to fall asleep. All the while, I'm reminding them that their engines were running really fast outside but now that they are inside they want to slow them down by slowing down their breathing, drinking water, etc. First graders need to be taught HOW to calm themselves down. <b> Every</b> <b>single day</b> I go over some techniques for how to go about doing that.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's magical.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I still have little ones who try to come up to me about a recess problem and I'll quickly {and ever so quietly} say "Did you tell a noon-aide" and if they did - I quietly motion them back to their seats. Soon, they realize they can't come into the classroom with a tattle/recess problem. I am always sure to ask if they told an adult outside - because I don't want to dismiss something serious that is happening outside that may deserve some attention.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Naming this time, setting the expectations for this time, practicing the right way and stopping them when it's the wrong way has made a world of difference.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our afternoons aren't perfect...but after taking the time to calm ourselves and get our bodies ready for an afternoon of serious learning - they are better.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And then there's always <a href="https://www.gonoodle.com/dashboard">GoNoodle</a>...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...for after science</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...and math</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...and social studies</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
HA!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-28697953590776748542015-07-21T12:42:00.001-04:002015-07-21T12:42:25.848-04:00Are You a Great Teacher? <div style="text-align: center;">
What kind of teacher would you say you are? A great one? Dynamic? Getting there? A work in progress? All of the above?</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I talk to so many educators and many of them are self deprecating by nature. You know, you compliment them on something they did, an idea they shared and they can be so quick to point out the error of their ways. </div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Are teachers just humble to a fault or do they truly believe to their core that they aren't really as good at this gig as they want to be, or aren't rockin' it out like their teacher-neighbor, or that blogger that really seems to know their stuff?</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Do you know the saying... "Comparison is the thief of joy?"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
You see that teacher that you think is "highly effective" or "innovating" and you think...<br />
<br />
"Gosh, I'm not doing enough."<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib4RlZ6myDUuSJRCb9aSq9iB4MldwTSgruJDmhNtpZBuM3ahRfaJcPVhRBqCeRrxJEcF69uCe2u7Qn5GivJZqc9uROIXMgpGa-ZwLVISedYBMDoIj8gELIGi4G1rSLK-BnDNFsS6VNBwE/s1600/comparison.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib4RlZ6myDUuSJRCb9aSq9iB4MldwTSgruJDmhNtpZBuM3ahRfaJcPVhRBqCeRrxJEcF69uCe2u7Qn5GivJZqc9uROIXMgpGa-ZwLVISedYBMDoIj8gELIGi4G1rSLK-BnDNFsS6VNBwE/s400/comparison.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have a lot of teachers in my life. My husband is a teacher. Many of my dearest friends are teachers. I engage in a lot of teacher conversations. A LOT. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Like so many of you, teaching is more than a profession; it's a hobby.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mostly, the conversations I have are enlightening, fun, interesting and motivating...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But sometimes they can be disheartening. I've heard teachers say they would never encourage another person to go into this field. While, I understand that - because I do, I urge them to dig really deep inside and remember WHY they chose this profession. It wasn't for the kudos and accolades it was because they love children and want to help them move the mountains in their lives.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Another comment I hear SO often is that more and more they end their days not feeling like they did enough and this feeling has become more and more overwhelming. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Whether you're a teacher or not, I'm sure we can all appreciate that to-do list that goes on for weeks. A day will end and you'll find yourself thinking there are never enough hours. Right? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We can all relate. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Real talk here...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I think it's not so much the physical things that are weighing some teachers down - like cleaning your desk, filing papers, grading work - I think it's the heavy feeling of ending each day and thinking you didn't reach enough students. Not that this is anything new - I mean, we've always felt like we could DO more...but the shift is that we may end our days feeling like we DIDN'T DO ENOUGH for our students. That's different - do you see that? That effects your mindset.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Years ago, I might end my days thinking, "Man, that science lesson was so awesome it went long and I didn't have time to do social studies. Oh well, I'll get to that tomorrow." To me, that was a good thing - I went with the teachable moment. Now, it seems that if we don't get to every lesson we're harder on ourselves - like somehow we've shortchanged our students and need to work harder to </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"do it all." </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I urge you to flip your thinking.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You ARE doing the best that you can. It still is about the teachable moment. You may not get to everything and that means you are a fantastic teacher.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
No teacher does it all, all of the time.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{even bloggers}</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Be forgiving of yourself and know that while it's important to hone your craft and look for ways to fit more in and maximize your time...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's also important to realize you are awesome. Don't compare and if you do use it to your benefit - to motivate and inspire you to move your own mountains.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Are you a great teacher?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
YES!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-15600355097992616482015-04-15T06:00:00.000-04:002015-04-15T06:00:01.697-04:00Chocolate Milk, Por Favor! {Book Tour & Giveaway}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilwdWMowZCOssEWYnuD3hEGza1NQwD8LHE6dpPYGA2o4NquVljpj3F0_-ZoPy__Dd_GFR2oLCHxtfxXR0q6DQZ5x-mbWuFnx21wbI-2IPA8yi_zpdS4n-hOYbRQdjcgyLuLLwkVzaC1qk/s1600/BlogTourChocolateMilkPorFavor.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilwdWMowZCOssEWYnuD3hEGza1NQwD8LHE6dpPYGA2o4NquVljpj3F0_-ZoPy__Dd_GFR2oLCHxtfxXR0q6DQZ5x-mbWuFnx21wbI-2IPA8yi_zpdS4n-hOYbRQdjcgyLuLLwkVzaC1qk/s1600/BlogTourChocolateMilkPorFavor.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Guess what?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWDMRCW5OlaMoncrdolUVW-18N1Vp_kma5aoifZWzTsC76YDjsTnMv5Y5NNmgKDZPRdW2Gr8_qLU2gYrRlEGExkO_JsqpMNicixaROq51Bh_JBfZ4bUaELbRx4A4JxBoGcpoYkDoRyv3I/s1600/MariaDismondyPic.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWDMRCW5OlaMoncrdolUVW-18N1Vp_kma5aoifZWzTsC76YDjsTnMv5Y5NNmgKDZPRdW2Gr8_qLU2gYrRlEGExkO_JsqpMNicixaROq51Bh_JBfZ4bUaELbRx4A4JxBoGcpoYkDoRyv3I/s1600/MariaDismondyPic.jpeg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Michigan author, Maria Dismondy, has done it again - made the lives of countless kiddos BETTER...and our teaching lives easier!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Chocolate-Milk-Por-Favor-Celebrating/dp/0984855831/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1425555546&sr=1-1&keywords=chocolate+milk+por+favor"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6NjaiqvplmylEEKhTGz0Q0SkKcczgyKeBPgSyzGzoXd1RSMHXT43lnsoEk-QurFM2IOCjCTMS-sc0XHzBV3WFgqzkxV_rFBxwOX5eGOKTJH7i59d20VyBwDVuDC_BRXt39qxn9YWl4mM/s1600/ChocolateMilkPic.jpeg" height="320" width="284" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She has written another book...and I'm so happy for that! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you're not familiar with her work - Maria Dismondy focuses on writing stories that help children navigate this social world of ours. As teachers, we know that there is much more to our job than the ABC's and 123's. We are also responsible for helping our little ones understand one another as human beings. WOW - that's a daunting task - but one made easier with the help of Maria's books.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kWtminC9H7s" width="560"></iframe>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Such rich discussion can take place before, during and after a read aloud. Chocolate Milk, Por Favor! is about two young boys, Johnny and Gabe. Johnny loved school until Gabe entered into the picture. Gabe doesn't speak English and Johnny has a hard time accepting Gabe with his differences. As the story progresses; Johnny learns a lesson about empathy and he and Gabe become friends who are able to accept and celebrate their individuality. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After I read this story to my first graders here's what they had to say...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbJhZkngpsxDnFxkz9c5Sb-JbYjpz_4Vbas9GWUyBX8qv3xRXmxS56OzfLOEl-fGOHDXRoi7ZAgbj-eo8D0cUeTcfrEE49-juyM7R-7t1aHJPjgqxnotIMIdRl3N9OfRYTqSp-B0CCV0I/s1600/MariaClassThoughts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbJhZkngpsxDnFxkz9c5Sb-JbYjpz_4Vbas9GWUyBX8qv3xRXmxS56OzfLOEl-fGOHDXRoi7ZAgbj-eo8D0cUeTcfrEE49-juyM7R-7t1aHJPjgqxnotIMIdRl3N9OfRYTqSp-B0CCV0I/s1600/MariaClassThoughts.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Character education is part of a well-rounded classroom climate. I know sometimes it's hard to fit it all in - I'm right there with you. That's why I like incorporating it into my daily read alouds. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Maria's other books {<a href="http://mariadismondy.com/books/">here</a>} can help you with that.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To get you started Maria has offered to give away one signed copy of Chocolate Milk, Por Favor! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Because my first graders are so invested in this book and the lessons they learn from all of Maria's books, I'm going to ask that you give one piece of advice to my kiddos, in the comments below, that can help them be a good friend to others. We {my first graders} will randomly choose one winner on April 20th! {Please include your email address with your comment}.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Next up on the blog tour...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Erin Klein at <a href="http://www.kleinspiration.com/">Kleinspiration</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
&</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Andrea at <a href="http://jyjoynercounselor.blogspot.com/">JYJ Counselor Blog</a></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-37136173171435333832015-04-09T11:29:00.000-04:002015-04-09T11:29:06.283-04:00Book Study: Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites: Chapter 11 {Music, Rhythm, Rhyme & Rap}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVfW9kbeDDtFdCw8I42NmV-93DkEPWwU930JxXUNQQNRHS-mKXBCclanvU2lFsLahPO9sOnUsh2_RzGirrF_iJV4J-1ViXOH8VMi3AtlYp8ZfzJtbB9GRi5ZDdRUS1SFhItJWAEzd88Gw/s1600/Chapter11.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVfW9kbeDDtFdCw8I42NmV-93DkEPWwU930JxXUNQQNRHS-mKXBCclanvU2lFsLahPO9sOnUsh2_RzGirrF_iJV4J-1ViXOH8VMi3AtlYp8ZfzJtbB9GRi5ZDdRUS1SFhItJWAEzd88Gw/s1600/Chapter11.PNG" height="187" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNSkivxjQI1E1IzplWDWFYOKpdUmMufRycud1mqDbHYEMTQMVFRBK0_kj4Nd0iiHspwm9IFHpnDsupI_tMF-eU-03yQgELwuQp7JqbvR5roYuSRAkqvU8ug7mS4WAr2FVRNXCkTFSVMQ4/s1600/Worksheets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNSkivxjQI1E1IzplWDWFYOKpdUmMufRycud1mqDbHYEMTQMVFRBK0_kj4Nd0iiHspwm9IFHpnDsupI_tMF-eU-03yQgELwuQp7JqbvR5roYuSRAkqvU8ug7mS4WAr2FVRNXCkTFSVMQ4/s1600/Worksheets.jpg" height="200" width="155" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm linking up with Rachelle and Natalie over at <a href="http://whattheteacherwants.blogspot.com/2015/04/worksheets-dont-grow-dendrites-chapter.html">What the Teacher Wants</a> to talk about chapter 11 in Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think I may have said that chapters <a href="http://crisscrossapplesauceinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2015/04/book-study-worksheets-dont-grow.html">9 & 10</a> were right up my alley - well, so is this one!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They don't call me DJ Jazzy Wazy for nothing..</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Okay - they don't actually call me that...but they SHOULD!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Strategy 11:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u>Music, Rhythm, Rhyme & Rap</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"Music has the remarkable ability to energize, relax, set the daily mood, stimulate student brains, inspire, and make learning fun." {Jensen, 2009a}</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Holy powerful! WOW! That quote right there says it all. I mean, really, "relax <b>and</b> energize", "inspire <b>and</b> make fun". You name the tone you are trying to set and music can help with that. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That's just how powerful music is!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I use music a ton in my classroom. Whether it be during a brain break, a transition, during a quiet calm work time, to have fun, as a celebration, to help us learn new concepts or review previous ones - seriously, I use music CONSTANTLY!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm not much of a singer, so I do rely mostly on the professionals when singing in my room, but you do know that our students don't really care about that, right? So, I will break into song or rap if the situation warrants...{i.e. nobody is listening, all you know what has broke loose, I'm just feelin' it...}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have so many songs/artists - I thought I'd share some so you can add them to your repertoire!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ4cauGJEy8b2ZBQpgrfZ5G_IZXWQ2cnB15rSXHHEyZ-tnKkq3pcc4TGEmzrpUipCzhBLFP1q08IwTOs4Xk4NNfFJZgJ1VDMpbicFoPwLNPpw26cllHP6NUiiJB7j1ra0bXOPwikLT-Wk/s1600/MusicPic.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ4cauGJEy8b2ZBQpgrfZ5G_IZXWQ2cnB15rSXHHEyZ-tnKkq3pcc4TGEmzrpUipCzhBLFP1q08IwTOs4Xk4NNfFJZgJ1VDMpbicFoPwLNPpw26cllHP6NUiiJB7j1ra0bXOPwikLT-Wk/s1600/MusicPic.PNG" height="227" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In no particular order...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
10.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Music-Mind-Kagan-Publishing-Gary/dp/B00KJZCDZQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=dmusic&ie=UTF8&qid=1428592347&sr=1-1&keywords=Kagan+Publishing+%26+Gary+Lamb"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLX016LS6nj2UC22UK71HIqYOpHmuBoqf0vjnkA0f4CuqXI_Sw7r-DQHm-nKhEaVP9Q0bLlQQXYyEmrlxuiOxjgXeu7blZY9TUFjq7ebMfgVR9edB_Y92IJ8y1ApPqWIkt6Id-YcOE0wI/s1600/KaganPublishing2.PNG" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We listen to<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Music-Mind-Kagan-Publishing-Gary/dp/B00KJZCDZQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=dmusic&ie=UTF8&qid=1428592347&sr=1-1&keywords=Kagan+Publishing+%26+Gary+Lamb"> this </a>during writer's workshop. For some reason I don't play music during reader's workshop.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
9.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi460GWSYvjLmdaEoYPDqrjwnpe_WdZ5Drcwxica8Ne_rfeofxdV9TEth6Ck2HHOxMe8UUyRSdl5zDg2zg-VVA4mlKlqPmDDg0knVDYb8FL2VoQHcJI2DivuTytWlI6HLvsHf-d1_Fbay4/s1600/Hunktabunkta1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi460GWSYvjLmdaEoYPDqrjwnpe_WdZ5Drcwxica8Ne_rfeofxdV9TEth6Ck2HHOxMe8UUyRSdl5zDg2zg-VVA4mlKlqPmDDg0knVDYb8FL2VoQHcJI2DivuTytWlI6HLvsHf-d1_Fbay4/s1600/Hunktabunkta1.PNG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We listen to all the <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/hunk-ta-bunk-ta-boo-2/id506801695">songs</a> on this album - I typed up the lyrics and put them on my SmartBoard because so many of them teach a lesson. Some of our favorites:<br />Read a Book {that's our cue that it's time for reader's workshop}<br />All the Way Around the World {our cue that it's writer's workshop}<br />Itchy Itchy, Owie Owie, Boo Boo {clean up time after various activities}</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
8.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nkvDbShAmjM" width="420"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There are so many of "these" that you can find on YouTube - from music set with a fire burning in a fireplace, to sea-side music. I just search until I find one that I like. This is a great one to use when we come in from outdoor recess in the spring time. Lights out, heads down - a wonderfully calming way to give our little bodies/brains a break.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
7.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1GETNevq5-XUv-Wt_fVNZvMZJneCiAsTaTO0umnA4z3UxiXjLUKKi1Flszp5eRgMEiMFTIZQ79opZCd7Q0u7JLHpUnIatMIJHA1KdgWAZ8D9w6itMHtB5HVTE4tlHZ-pj2Cpnblbhis/s1600/KidzBop.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1GETNevq5-XUv-Wt_fVNZvMZJneCiAsTaTO0umnA4z3UxiXjLUKKi1Flszp5eRgMEiMFTIZQ79opZCd7Q0u7JLHpUnIatMIJHA1KdgWAZ8D9w6itMHtB5HVTE4tlHZ-pj2Cpnblbhis/s1600/KidzBop.PNG" height="320" width="311" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have a whole collection of Kidz Bop from my own boys - we like to listen to these when doing "<a href="http://crisscrossapplesauceinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2012/07/ketchup-mustard-pin.html">Ketchup and Mustard</a>".</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/HarryKindergarten" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTFKopX-G30nV70wEeeXHM_-JbJukZiyHL3A3M41ab-lxPFIBMKjDKsxpSZiRbwIjYMUoCi4j_ioxHf2CEflGKVgZ8CoeUnPhavDx6EcUBgmMGHk7hmJmdoYWPiI88NRHdhMhyJykZUjI/s1600/Harry.PNG" height="134" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Need to teach a certain concept and you want it to stick? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/HarryKindergarten">Harry Kindergarten</a> is your man! Many songs are free on YouTube!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/classroom_solutions/2011/01/mr-vasiceks-classroom-music-playlist" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtG51gyE_wzZCXK0J59bQ-Yws5Uc8c3lhbsia-pAbnm2rdqpD5vTVEhfDyciUV70R6ghZkTdej7sOgYuUOvI47OsPTCSwNwRTH1R7KmkM9BN21uzN6XkkM1CqyN5cx0RqjsiwYTuv748/s1600/PlayList.PNG" height="377" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this blog post over at Scholastic - <a href="http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/classroom_solutions/2011/01/mr-vasiceks-classroom-music-playlist">Mr. Vasicek</a> put a lot of thought into the songs he uses and when he uses them. You'll want to check out this post - because I downloaded most of the songs he suggested and will use them throughout the day. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;">4.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEUkao3RNVbGsVvNHioCxuPQnV-1TU97BwUge3BRxLzt2MGKOZ-6F0CQ0RsX96Ywut3NBq6nBplsYyqOOHowQoetciNlNd94wA7OxTRW7DR-KBmi0zkirBtM9hACMEXJKLdvHtOVkwroQ/s1600/Rockabye.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEUkao3RNVbGsVvNHioCxuPQnV-1TU97BwUge3BRxLzt2MGKOZ-6F0CQ0RsX96Ywut3NBq6nBplsYyqOOHowQoetciNlNd94wA7OxTRW7DR-KBmi0zkirBtM9hACMEXJKLdvHtOVkwroQ/s1600/Rockabye.PNG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I just love <a href="http://www.rockabyebabymusic.com/michael-jackson.html">Rockabye Baby</a>! Have a favorite music artist? Rockabye Baby may have just turned one of favorites into an album of lullabies. Great to use during calming brain breaks.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;">3.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHhHMTPcb7A2KIJBQAy-t1gH72kGSepWdksKLLAul3346bAn16oX6hea5IEPTODAUQGXBpAUtvqZLMTGJh9n_0Ij1SId80vMryErKEIIFQxNhp0cqyB88EBo5NlphjfPNt_cSyhYwpPCM/s1600/Have+Fun+Teaching.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHhHMTPcb7A2KIJBQAy-t1gH72kGSepWdksKLLAul3346bAn16oX6hea5IEPTODAUQGXBpAUtvqZLMTGJh9n_0Ij1SId80vMryErKEIIFQxNhp0cqyB88EBo5NlphjfPNt_cSyhYwpPCM/s1600/Have+Fun+Teaching.PNG" height="223" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another YouTube favorite of mine - I love their <a href="http://crisscrossapplesauceinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2012/05/alphabet-songsoh-momma.html">ABC songs</a> - I use these at the beginning of the year as a review - but also throughout the year when working on handwriting.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPdBP_ps1g-UapOOQu2jaDLlHGBXw3WdGpwPzl7JsG0kFiOOjVxYCUwGEsEKupP1VyezYYLWmiC2UVChtU12LoRFA_6Br1mar_gF-mBHlkI5YQGuAJvaOlxGT68uvopGCBlWb5nGrLFA/s1600/Enya3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPdBP_ps1g-UapOOQu2jaDLlHGBXw3WdGpwPzl7JsG0kFiOOjVxYCUwGEsEKupP1VyezYYLWmiC2UVChtU12LoRFA_6Br1mar_gF-mBHlkI5YQGuAJvaOlxGT68uvopGCBlWb5nGrLFA/s1600/Enya3.PNG" height="316" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I still have this one on CD - I've owned this CD since it originally came out. <a href="http://www.enya.com/"> Enya</a> is just good for the soul!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1,</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQxCzfFyhSGudAnNRK4Yi66zGtWIK1h-Bu5d0Vd8LRQWrGG9gxPSWPgc3GZy4PA9RkDquXnQtxSLVDPLOBIlSMUV7ce3SuczIgWJPxcGzTOD4Z7QAlxFtob1WoaN3vmI1Uf9kUDYyrno/s1600/LearningStation.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQxCzfFyhSGudAnNRK4Yi66zGtWIK1h-Bu5d0Vd8LRQWrGG9gxPSWPgc3GZy4PA9RkDquXnQtxSLVDPLOBIlSMUV7ce3SuczIgWJPxcGzTOD4Z7QAlxFtob1WoaN3vmI1Uf9kUDYyrno/s1600/LearningStation.PNG" height="231" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/TheLearningStation/videos">The Learning Station</a> is a favorite of mine because they have a lot of "call and response" type songs. These are great working those listening muscles!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I hope the list of above gave you a few to add to your bag of tricks - having a variety of musical artists/genres is as important as the eclectic choice of books in your classroom reading library.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"Change the music during a learning episode. Set an emotional mood before class starts, upbeat tunes for moving around the room, music appropriate to the task during seatwork, and positive music at the end of the class." {Sousa, 2006}</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
One way I'd like to improve is by incorporating music more authentically by encouraging my students to create their own raps, rhythms and rhymes for various concepts. I'm already seeing this as a work on writing activity during Daily 5!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
How do you use music in your classroom? Do you have any favorites that you'd like to share?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Go visit <a href="http://whattheteacherwants.blogspot.com/2015/04/worksheets-dont-grow-dendrites-chapter.html">What the Teacher Wants</a> to see what other teachers shared!</div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-53718855977782670802015-04-04T16:16:00.000-04:002015-04-04T16:24:24.305-04:00Book Study: Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites: Chapters 9 & 10 {Mnemonic Devices, Movement}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirV7ICXgWagxReMs911U3HjKnrWVSvRc7NdQmVPeT4EWAliCqowZtd7j7XLcL6mai_AD1iYi-M5tDV0dmN-ZYXwPCeknApbC25BiVVvF7d9JbNItPwc26Cq06cl245k0NaSUjffj-r5Vs/s1600/Chapter9.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirV7ICXgWagxReMs911U3HjKnrWVSvRc7NdQmVPeT4EWAliCqowZtd7j7XLcL6mai_AD1iYi-M5tDV0dmN-ZYXwPCeknApbC25BiVVvF7d9JbNItPwc26Cq06cl245k0NaSUjffj-r5Vs/s1600/Chapter9.PNG" height="200" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicGVSXLAHWgE4mSPt06CNdMosoWYbrmy8eB0OZG33sbg1_v936Gb-Ee_rF06oYLxYmeNWEFmiM328yShRxtknLRse0ixbWJ0S9sIbi8vlNv_Kp9nesG_rPNLKDzJG9ZdneinEF7p1lnys/s1600/Worksheets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicGVSXLAHWgE4mSPt06CNdMosoWYbrmy8eB0OZG33sbg1_v936Gb-Ee_rF06oYLxYmeNWEFmiM328yShRxtknLRse0ixbWJ0S9sIbi8vlNv_Kp9nesG_rPNLKDzJG9ZdneinEF7p1lnys/s1600/Worksheets.jpg" height="200" width="155" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy Spring Break!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We are having a staycation 'round these parts - and honestly, I couldn't be happier. Instead of rays - I'm hoping to soak up a lot of laziness, relaxation, snuggles & Netflix! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm linking up with a fellow "Holly" over at <a href="http://mrsehleskindergartenconnections.blogspot.com/2015/04/worksheets-dont-grow-dendrites-book.html">Mrs. Ehle's Kindergarten</a> to discuss chapters 9 & 10. These chapters were right up my alley because THIS is how I learn. I might not be a <a href="http://crisscrossapplesauceinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2015/03/book-study-worksheets-dont-grow_14.html">graphic organizer</a> kinda thinker slash learner - but mnemonics and movement...KA-CHING! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Strategy 9:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u>Mnemonics</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"Mnemonic techniques are time-tested activities that enable students to recall and use material without conscious efforts from the brain." {Mayer, 2003}</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There aren't a whole lot of specifics {aside from those personal stories my teachers told about themselves} that I remember from my days in school. I do, however, remember:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhDrGnjacvA">The Fifty Nifty United States</a>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKpb7lNOU76Krfi6Rn5nc46da-JsMEgWNP2AJMviq-2jSUNm85SBs2IFnjwdE43jxPcVGgkB162yY9bON7gD0PzgShS0MwIen0lI670FYo_w_HlGTklnP1OJQ_PmSCLH6rW1cHwDq8zqs/s1600/FACE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKpb7lNOU76Krfi6Rn5nc46da-JsMEgWNP2AJMviq-2jSUNm85SBs2IFnjwdE43jxPcVGgkB162yY9bON7gD0PzgShS0MwIen0lI670FYo_w_HlGTklnP1OJQ_PmSCLH6rW1cHwDq8zqs/s1600/FACE.jpg" height="162" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjre8AlX3iVQWRzzfhmpoaaAQjSlwd7X1d_Ix2lO5BTPawMtBltUsxoSgzc7wu6BMtL6dZE1tHEsIiu9PNPtwZAjrhWou7X83MsPzfKkRwNLB5GgLX6oxk3EUPcvRyKCIzbOsABEvatf-4/s1600/EveryGoodBoyDeservesFudge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjre8AlX3iVQWRzzfhmpoaaAQjSlwd7X1d_Ix2lO5BTPawMtBltUsxoSgzc7wu6BMtL6dZE1tHEsIiu9PNPtwZAjrhWou7X83MsPzfKkRwNLB5GgLX6oxk3EUPcvRyKCIzbOsABEvatf-4/s1600/EveryGoodBoyDeservesFudge.jpg" height="133" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr75cMwcGWThFrgClDhdRIX2kpGdoq3mAhR0fazR2_ejtazBbc3XtvGwLCPoqxHYkeOFW0UWjkdgOdd3V0NHj6kKqs5KRmVKqr6z4qeYTOQ2RRaUf7Cpvpv7oiIcqVqmnPZWhwF66cIKs/s1600/MYDEARAUNTSALLY.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr75cMwcGWThFrgClDhdRIX2kpGdoq3mAhR0fazR2_ejtazBbc3XtvGwLCPoqxHYkeOFW0UWjkdgOdd3V0NHj6kKqs5KRmVKqr6z4qeYTOQ2RRaUf7Cpvpv7oiIcqVqmnPZWhwF66cIKs/s1600/MYDEARAUNTSALLY.png" height="320" width="274" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...and so many others!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
One I STILL use today!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnRA-rLeggrr6Chisy1Do7AQS1s3DukQaWU1kdwkKPrNerId7voZ_LYDgcso11iJ5yblUlxmIANiZYB4xTQfUbf8Mj1bFRS-cv9VZDq_VQ2nKQJ-PdxkejTru3aqC-r2SO_b51RKpR0fE/s1600/months-knuckles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnRA-rLeggrr6Chisy1Do7AQS1s3DukQaWU1kdwkKPrNerId7voZ_LYDgcso11iJ5yblUlxmIANiZYB4xTQfUbf8Mj1bFRS-cv9VZDq_VQ2nKQJ-PdxkejTru3aqC-r2SO_b51RKpR0fE/s1600/months-knuckles.jpg" height="170" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Just this year, I had one of our parapros say to me "I was working with some of your previous first graders and they shared with me how they will never forget how to spell the words "would, could, should"<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B_aKHTGyIZB6bTlCVnV4bTkwX1E/view?usp=sharing" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje09ryUcQdLGxZjhIZLPr3rl4wvawDANXBfCZlFDBYLJPWy2_Q40lNb_rMc8emqRQ3tM2-v7qqm-Qe4u4XqzeFKTxci-phSd-E1LJwR_BBrAsKOFdAvI26qn_HVnz5ZzTswoMC0atXKlQ/s1600/OULD.PNG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click to grab!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That just goes to show how powerful those mnemonics are!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt7IViGW4NNrKQ2S95OO5H0ak1FDAtCYIlj_Zac31bhMMUoNrSHjTsFE4l7fNgZ8FjUclE8DeqyNCJre6YLCktVpcxgnOQLJ4xv6ehyphenhyphenpo8weonMHozEPLHaxN0599ONydFPtu9509g2JA/s1600/Chapter10.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt7IViGW4NNrKQ2S95OO5H0ak1FDAtCYIlj_Zac31bhMMUoNrSHjTsFE4l7fNgZ8FjUclE8DeqyNCJre6YLCktVpcxgnOQLJ4xv6ehyphenhyphenpo8weonMHozEPLHaxN0599ONydFPtu9509g2JA/s1600/Chapter10.PNG" height="176" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Strategy 10:<br />
<u>Movement</u><br />
<u><br /></u>
Getting those kiddos moving is so important and that's what this strategy is all about!<br />
<br />
<i>"Any task learned when we are physically engaged in doing it remains in our memory for a very long time. {Allen, 2008}</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"Because physical movement increases the energy of students, it, therefore, enhances their engagement." {Marzano, 2007}</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"Movement not only enhances learning and memory but it also causes neural connections to become stronger." {Hannaford, 2005}</i><br />
<br />
I could just keep pulling quotes from this chapter. Movement is essential to learning in any classroom - young and old! I've been <a href="http://crisscrossapplesauceinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2013/04/brain-breaks-and-body-signals.html">Brain Breaking</a> before "<a href="https://www.gonoodle.com/">GoNoodle</a>" even existed. HA!<br />
...but thank goodness for those folks at GoNoodle - why didn't I think of that?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibhHGuvuT1-xFMzQLQQZeVRxe-DNeEhs41omkht_48MBeF3J8GBz34n_zNoEi42rVySyvMjEAJxDbmVsajBHUuwUPwkD-HDwBmALmkAOGFzM-tigqdyu_EQWoqnx0sPvcn4JnQ977A8NU/s1600/BrainBreaks.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibhHGuvuT1-xFMzQLQQZeVRxe-DNeEhs41omkht_48MBeF3J8GBz34n_zNoEi42rVySyvMjEAJxDbmVsajBHUuwUPwkD-HDwBmALmkAOGFzM-tigqdyu_EQWoqnx0sPvcn4JnQ977A8NU/s1600/BrainBreaks.PNG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Circa: 2013</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm great at incorporating movement in the form of a brain break in my classroom - but where I'd like to improve is incorporating it into my actual teaching/student learning more often.<br />
<br />
I'm sure you've heard of <a href="http://www.wholebrainteaching.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=135:whole-brain-teachers-of-america&Itemid=105">Whole Brain Teaching</a>. I've read up on WBT quite a bit and after much hemming and hawing - it's not for me - not in its entirety, anyway {It's a little too robotic for me}. There are pieces of it that I really like and believe in. Much like mnemonic devices, I think involving movements as we learn engages the brain and increases retention of new concepts. There are a few techniques that Whole Brain Teachers use that I use as well...<br />
<br />
Blow it in Your Hand/Release - I'll have my students go eye-to-eye, knee-to-knee with one another and share their thinking. Once they've firmed up their thinking I'll have them whisper/blow the answer into their hand and then release it - by saying the answer out loud.<br />
<br />
Just the other day we were talking about decomposing numbers. When we said "decompose means break apart" we pretended to break something apart with our hands. The next time I asked them what decompose meant I had several that quickly made the motion. <br />
<br />
There's a song we sing about living or nonliving things that we've been singing for years. I wish I knew who originally wrote it but it goes like this...<br />
<br />
<span style="color: lime;"><b>Tune: Yankee Doodle</b></span><br />
<span style="color: lime;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="color: lime;"><b>Living or nonliving things,</b></span><br />
<span style="color: lime;"><b>Now which one will it be?</b></span><br />
<span style="color: lime;"><b>If something is to stay alive,</b></span><br />
<span style="color: lime;"><b>It has some special needs.</b></span><br />
<span style="color: lime;"><b><br />Give it food and water,</b></span><br />
<span style="color: lime;"><b>And lots of air to breathe.</b></span><br />
<span style="color: lime;"><b>It also may need space to grow,</b></span><br />
<span style="color: lime;"><b>And sunlight for its leaves.</b></span><br />
<br />
Each year my kiddos love singing this song and creating movements to go along with it. When I give the test at the end of the unit - without fail, I see kids making the movements to this song and whispering the words when they come to the part of the test where they have to list things that living things need.<br />
<br />
<i>"The one most detrimental barrier to learning and recall of information may be a teacher's deliberate attempt to stop students from moving." {Jensen, 2002}</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
My goal is to incorporate even MORE movement into my teaching/student learning. Here are a few bloggers who are Whole Brain Teaching gurus that I'm hoping to pull a few more ideas from.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://mrsshipleywholebrainteaching.blogspot.com/p/whole-brain-teaching-videos.html">Mrs. Shipley's Whole Brain Classroom</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://wholebrainteachingwithstyle.blogspot.com/">Whole Brain Teaching With Style</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.teachingandlearningtogether.com/whole-brain.html">Teaching and Learning Together</a><br />
<br />
I'm curious how you incorporate mnemonics and movement into your classroom? <br />
<br />
If you are a Whole Brain Teacher I would REALLY love if you would share why you like it so much, how much you incorporate the techniques into your day, and anything else you might want to share.<br />
<br />
Go check out <a href="http://mrsehleskindergartenconnections.blogspot.com/2015/04/worksheets-dont-grow-dendrites-book.html">Mrs. Ehle's Kindergarten Connections </a> and read what she has to say about these two strategies as well as what others have to say in the linky! <br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<br /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-74137870153158046022015-03-28T19:45:00.000-04:002015-03-28T19:45:53.639-04:00Book Study: Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites: Chapter 7 {Manipulatives, Experiments, Labs & Models}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWHgSqHhQMAS-RWNf5zojZQ4JE7eHvR6ke69FUHWV1OJ7Qt7AE_6Q6fkPXMFt9KEdasiWIBP5Tc4PfgXW2Ni1aWzL49W1-h-yp8vS9m6ngQP2w-UX6lGYgf84P7EZvElsgVRXlUd67f6Y/s1600/Chapter7.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWHgSqHhQMAS-RWNf5zojZQ4JE7eHvR6ke69FUHWV1OJ7Qt7AE_6Q6fkPXMFt9KEdasiWIBP5Tc4PfgXW2Ni1aWzL49W1-h-yp8vS9m6ngQP2w-UX6lGYgf84P7EZvElsgVRXlUd67f6Y/s1600/Chapter7.PNG" height="177" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7b0q2hSvJpuvsU3nsYlhcB1e79TjUZJ7VuAQaLLd1TAfRj8YeWVIyGawGa5u9n5Es9ewC-enGij_DzdCxNlHtWYp-iHdUAZEeH52l30btiMHn2oZ48zxdrqEAQw7jQruxDVCPtS7y1Sc/s1600/Worksheets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7b0q2hSvJpuvsU3nsYlhcB1e79TjUZJ7VuAQaLLd1TAfRj8YeWVIyGawGa5u9n5Es9ewC-enGij_DzdCxNlHtWYp-iHdUAZEeH52l30btiMHn2oZ48zxdrqEAQw7jQruxDVCPtS7y1Sc/s1600/Worksheets.jpg" height="200" width="155" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm linking up with Deanna Jump over at <a href="http://mrsjumpsclass.blogspot.com/2015/03/worksheets-dont-grow-dendrites-strategy.html">Mrs. Jump's Class</a> to talk about Chapter 7! I love this chapter! I love it so much because I think had I been taught this way I would have done a MUCH better job in school! {One of the reasons I became a teacher}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Strategy 7:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u>Manipulatives, Experiments, Labs and Models</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The chapter started off with a story about the author's daughter doing very well in her chemistry labs but not very well on the paper/pencil tests. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Seriously...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Okay...I'm having a Twilight Zone moment....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just today, we were dealing with this as a family. My son, who is in 7th grade, found out he received a C- on his final in Art class. He received A's all along on every other project - but since this final exam counts for 30 percent of his grade - he'll receive a B in the class.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I know - a B is fine - it's not the letter grade that we are most concerned with - it's the message that was sent to our 7th grader - grades aren't always fair and definitely aren't always reflective of your hard work and your skills.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Marcia Tate said "...when is the last time a chemist walked into a laboratory, sat down, and completed a worksheet or took a paper and pencil test?"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
...and I can say the same for artists.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In his teacher's defense - I'm going to guess she wishes she didn't have to give grades like this either.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Moving on...{I will not send her an email, I will not send her an email}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We use manipulatives a TON! I wouldn't know how to teach without them. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihPjdyvygZ4MHliSBBWjlM6vaEr09LoBSJwxA9OkwHCl1PL52MRGa0L_HRkt0BLVRDVqcPdfUUNGHPxC9fhTLx6ugh45aDprd_zqdddR3DZXBjclr4KRqpNfWslFO4WD-Us-Qys4K00HQ/s1600/KIDpicture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihPjdyvygZ4MHliSBBWjlM6vaEr09LoBSJwxA9OkwHCl1PL52MRGa0L_HRkt0BLVRDVqcPdfUUNGHPxC9fhTLx6ugh45aDprd_zqdddR3DZXBjclr4KRqpNfWslFO4WD-Us-Qys4K00HQ/s1600/KIDpicture.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These letters are from <a href="http://juniorlearning.com/touchtronic-letters.html">TouchTronic</a> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQzutEVJ5z7b2ZPO0Qb7Md6UudJeOU87bomSgsZTW1MJsCwax7qqf96lAKym65WsvRLcPprdiWWkZyajcrkINjfispsSwTFWMSILU6G_J4On-NKiNt9kI9ZITAOEtSE9XutNeU3E7SnLo/s1600/Blog1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQzutEVJ5z7b2ZPO0Qb7Md6UudJeOU87bomSgsZTW1MJsCwax7qqf96lAKym65WsvRLcPprdiWWkZyajcrkINjfispsSwTFWMSILU6G_J4On-NKiNt9kI9ZITAOEtSE9XutNeU3E7SnLo/s1600/Blog1.jpg" height="315" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of our math workshop stations - pattern block reflections</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiewjKHj-hwCpIt-xHQhrCvDUo9gVPVSEJcTG0LQdjMalw32L-oLlQapHAt3w3yXYlBYcfa_g7wJsukJ1327FTma3rN0B2qzR0KNiflE_crkaOn69zgQNoZsnlMNFf6Z9J2gg_fevpgbJU/s1600/Blog3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiewjKHj-hwCpIt-xHQhrCvDUo9gVPVSEJcTG0LQdjMalw32L-oLlQapHAt3w3yXYlBYcfa_g7wJsukJ1327FTma3rN0B2qzR0KNiflE_crkaOn69zgQNoZsnlMNFf6Z9J2gg_fevpgbJU/s1600/Blog3.jpg" height="319" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bins are loaded with manipulatives for math workshop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Cxz0uAwVS6EgJ0WaBnbH_vGuhbQ7-VLmEV942l4Zrb5tTYydVSRwV9O65HeI38XhREcE7LQ1LGLuoVKJvtGCKtI4ktj0HTriBtvyiKQ4H-1xEjS0jcIK7uMZlb81RRIzBiwUeSUTSCk/s1600/Blog4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Cxz0uAwVS6EgJ0WaBnbH_vGuhbQ7-VLmEV942l4Zrb5tTYydVSRwV9O65HeI38XhREcE7LQ1LGLuoVKJvtGCKtI4ktj0HTriBtvyiKQ4H-1xEjS0jcIK7uMZlb81RRIzBiwUeSUTSCk/s1600/Blog4.jpg" height="305" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Learning about shapes - using....shapes!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPSm8LVjWZz7Io8TG2EdGQQTynlTJKThTq1KIJau_wXggRHvXt_PNJIEO8tOfrj6ZRKlMRkscR7TTGjG6UxsMQ2Z1R-RZEHvkRe5RISOJj3hVYXDuJdyPeW7iqjAfaYuzSz62kMR4oBo/s1600/Blog2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPSm8LVjWZz7Io8TG2EdGQQTynlTJKThTq1KIJau_wXggRHvXt_PNJIEO8tOfrj6ZRKlMRkscR7TTGjG6UxsMQ2Z1R-RZEHvkRe5RISOJj3hVYXDuJdyPeW7iqjAfaYuzSz62kMR4oBo/s1600/Blog2.jpg" height="201" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What better way to learn about plants then to plant some grass?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"When students use manipulatives over a long period, they make gains in verbalizing their thinking, discussing ideas, taking ownership, and gaining confidence in independently finding answers to problems.} {Sebesta & Martin, 2004}</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Amen!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On my Pinterest <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/hwazy/math-wizards/">Math Wizard</a> board I pinned a few manipulative finds that I really liked because many of them are DIY - we all know those manips can be expensive!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB60PWAvM-2ReM2T_A1qnxt5J2mNh1R4nSne00CQLC-cgWMq1Zeu56ubZzvryOanUA7_CNqBjciDGVQteG4P32QGJhgjgzWu6oBe9hwalfGSenXGStTrXMybZP-p67HUiV2JX6DV2jmMc/s1600/Pin.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB60PWAvM-2ReM2T_A1qnxt5J2mNh1R4nSne00CQLC-cgWMq1Zeu56ubZzvryOanUA7_CNqBjciDGVQteG4P32QGJhgjgzWu6oBe9hwalfGSenXGStTrXMybZP-p67HUiV2JX6DV2jmMc/s1600/Pin.PNG" height="186" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sources: <a href="http://www.learnplayimagine.com/2012/09/5-diy-manipulatives-for-preschool-and.html">Learn, Play, Imagine</a><br /><a href="http://rachelktutoring.com/blog/the-ultimate-list-of-math-manipulatives/">Rachel K Tutoring Blog</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
Where I need to improve is having them out year round so they are just part of what we do and how we roll - like an appendage. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I found these awesome <a href="http://www.lessonplandiva.com/2013/02/do-you-use-your-manipulatives-everyday.html">"math action cards"</a> that I'm thinking about purchasing. I think constant use of these manipulatives can only increase their learning value and help students understand that they can be used for any learning situation THEY deem them necessary.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Do you use manipulatives?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Which ones are your favorites?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Visit <a href="http://mrsjumpsclass.blogspot.com/2015/03/worksheets-dont-grow-dendrites-strategy.html">Mrs. Jump's Class</a> to see what others are saying about this strategy and join in the conversation!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-70144624922314628552015-03-17T21:11:00.000-04:002015-03-17T21:11:37.198-04:00Book Study: Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites: Chapter 6 {Humor }<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYzDjq-L4tLfZhUJle-RKWBx4MGaMUBYlUcNt20_R9o0xW4vyOQevA_Gyb7rPS5YNLxSC30nKBQ7iOTlhpSeZ59RhNYaRV-su_xwi7Vv-8TA54Yo5rIluycsONWzjaQHeA8NppGs0tXp0/s1600/chapter6.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYzDjq-L4tLfZhUJle-RKWBx4MGaMUBYlUcNt20_R9o0xW4vyOQevA_Gyb7rPS5YNLxSC30nKBQ7iOTlhpSeZ59RhNYaRV-su_xwi7Vv-8TA54Yo5rIluycsONWzjaQHeA8NppGs0tXp0/s1600/chapter6.PNG" height="195" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqAU4VmC2F1LvbDEscNH2g8GMxPbOlFJBue97lMjlsGe2DtcPl6lY57xhey2RAVjBwLt27z49Sj05Q49Uo7Zz9zmbWSCtBsE-RNOgBCkgA8TQqEz5n14Ab1fZSH3JQKg7XbiZckMvh2qA/s1600/Worksheets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqAU4VmC2F1LvbDEscNH2g8GMxPbOlFJBue97lMjlsGe2DtcPl6lY57xhey2RAVjBwLt27z49Sj05Q49Uo7Zz9zmbWSCtBsE-RNOgBCkgA8TQqEz5n14Ab1fZSH3JQKg7XbiZckMvh2qA/s1600/Worksheets.jpg" height="200" width="155" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm linking up with Amanda over at <a href="http://oneextradegree.blogspot.com/">One Extra Degree</a> to discuss chapter 6! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Before I go on...I'm happy to admit we did a <a href="http://crisscrossapplesauceinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2015/03/book-study-worksheets-dont-grow_14.html">graphic organizer</a> together, just yesterday, for one of our guided reading group books! I've gotta tell you, it really solidified what we were reading. It really helped us organize our thinking!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5XXmF71iokm6DmCNLyAcLBfxF5Vj93GAurkgZCwPVoQSdbHlYByTLjcuwINGMvT-9wFKpg5QBku8MDuKNeVkrHAyv9NuxfZ3OTK6cCcKW5ED37EUC_CXP5XIdOAx6TQ_ARF9yBxVQU0E/s1600/GraphicOrganizer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5XXmF71iokm6DmCNLyAcLBfxF5Vj93GAurkgZCwPVoQSdbHlYByTLjcuwINGMvT-9wFKpg5QBku8MDuKNeVkrHAyv9NuxfZ3OTK6cCcKW5ED37EUC_CXP5XIdOAx6TQ_ARF9yBxVQU0E/s1600/GraphicOrganizer.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, gracious, she 'aint pretty - but I did 'er!<br />And doggone it - some little critter erased my "can, have, are"!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Strategy 6:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u>Humor</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Research shows that jokes, riddles, celebrations, and other forms of positive interaction not only create a positive learning environment but may also facilitate learning itself." {Allen, 2008; Jensen, 2007}</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This chapter is RIGHT up my alley! I don't know where I'd be without humor!!!! {probably curled up in a ball crying for my mommy}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhExGovv_DU_BUGfkyn431x1mAC-uKTpiaIq3kFsB2JA3Yq03iTpzEFWicRcLgYNatd_-lrCIAPZMQFhwrrmBMjjLtjEL9dgggOGrJZoy68-2zdwvzdG51ko5YNfJ0Ozib0D6uVRawl_8M/s1600/Humor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhExGovv_DU_BUGfkyn431x1mAC-uKTpiaIq3kFsB2JA3Yq03iTpzEFWicRcLgYNatd_-lrCIAPZMQFhwrrmBMjjLtjEL9dgggOGrJZoy68-2zdwvzdG51ko5YNfJ0Ozib0D6uVRawl_8M/s1600/Humor.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You've seen this little guy on my blog before - it's meant to keep an eye on me. <br />I might be known to pull a prank or two at school. I do have some accomplices though! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"Effective classrooms are alive with positive emotion, anticipation of novel experiences, the excitement of discovery, and celebrations of success." {Allen, 2008}</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have two boys of my own and as they outgrow Halloween costumes they make their way into my classroom. You just never know when one might come out in the middle of a lesson. I sort of feel like Superman - I dig deep in my closet and come out with something like this. I realize this might not be your shtick - but I tell you; you put a beard on and they are putty in your hands!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPO2jQgzM0N8u6b1m6JniJIQjwUoP3XbT66XQ7_3xkNASMfVUrAE5tLptURetWRhnk2OJIlZ7_w5tGJxHG30-12EHpC7YceC3Lmq_tCqxML39sGDxKtH_4Aekl0iUUOQQAdTNYRCYoO4I/s1600/Humor4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPO2jQgzM0N8u6b1m6JniJIQjwUoP3XbT66XQ7_3xkNASMfVUrAE5tLptURetWRhnk2OJIlZ7_w5tGJxHG30-12EHpC7YceC3Lmq_tCqxML39sGDxKtH_4Aekl0iUUOQQAdTNYRCYoO4I/s1600/Humor4.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've used the magic hat, wand and beard to teach my students how to listen for those "magic words" in number stories {i.e. how many are left, how many in all, etc.}, I've threatened to turn them into goons if they didn't turn on their listening ears - you name it, and this get-up WORKS!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"What we learn with pleasure, we never forget." {Allen, 2008}</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoCGKijMQm5W-B3USzlMjT_ERfIafnDiceeEpZZ9qMreKHgLJVavG_88YeiroJ0R1XwMlFqS1bnBEg_PPF6wZNIxRff7oiJwTRulAmPlpOXhYZVizdVD_kHgO2JiYBNmli_lH1vEfpsW8/s1600/Humor5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoCGKijMQm5W-B3USzlMjT_ERfIafnDiceeEpZZ9qMreKHgLJVavG_88YeiroJ0R1XwMlFqS1bnBEg_PPF6wZNIxRff7oiJwTRulAmPlpOXhYZVizdVD_kHgO2JiYBNmli_lH1vEfpsW8/s1600/Humor5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've got a bin FULL of goodies!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnIEkvb2qEmByd-14z4ZHu6v4wV1WjeP5pCozS20dBE_DAH8YBHJhEPcnzHNi6geEXiYZCjyuB2SRudcu-fmJcv9O4e9YPk7-1Eb3YVkdePU6jGlYi1vXba2x_Jt_zWxBmijhTX5WPXqY/s1600/Humor7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnIEkvb2qEmByd-14z4ZHu6v4wV1WjeP5pCozS20dBE_DAH8YBHJhEPcnzHNi6geEXiYZCjyuB2SRudcu-fmJcv9O4e9YPk7-1Eb3YVkdePU6jGlYi1vXba2x_Jt_zWxBmijhTX5WPXqY/s1600/Humor7.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turkey, Firefighter, Old Man, Pom Poms</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFkwOGH1Vt4Fa4xJl4QQy8YUi7xPWS1qDgewtWGGCcGVieRZisl93VJDvxK6H84VPiH8runQJu5F8x8eHgQgZJUe8933H-Vu7sKnCTfMocf5KNdfo0s2UXex9AZ4Cc2cBDIWectZEJIPU/s1600/Humor8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFkwOGH1Vt4Fa4xJl4QQy8YUi7xPWS1qDgewtWGGCcGVieRZisl93VJDvxK6H84VPiH8runQJu5F8x8eHgQgZJUe8933H-Vu7sKnCTfMocf5KNdfo0s2UXex9AZ4Cc2cBDIWectZEJIPU/s1600/Humor8.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Capes, Hulk, Ninjas, Soccer Ball Hat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Who doesn't love a good joke, riddle or funny book!?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"Having laughter breaks in class increases the flow of positive neurotransmitters, which are necessary for alertness and memory." {Jensen, 2007}</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've got a stockpile of joke books - but I tell you, if you haven't allowed your little ones to make up their own - you have been missing out. Sometimes we'll take a little break and read from my wide array of books - but other times, we just do an open mic kinda deal - and holy moly, I might laugh louder than my first graders! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPN0YYo0AwTnQeQJPrIX_0ojSB8YCWibnH0okRgh0lZCbSQ5OZ35oQLO_InJ-8cGKilTO2HHB8b8StErnkU2w4Vw8HhNsmlEgCK3r5huUO6eoonhyphenhyphenmXK1RaLVXgenNj4lmWBfK_mZ_VGA/s1600/Humor2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPN0YYo0AwTnQeQJPrIX_0ojSB8YCWibnH0okRgh0lZCbSQ5OZ35oQLO_InJ-8cGKilTO2HHB8b8StErnkU2w4Vw8HhNsmlEgCK3r5huUO6eoonhyphenhyphenmXK1RaLVXgenNj4lmWBfK_mZ_VGA/s1600/Humor2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course there's GoNoodle - specifically KooKoo Kangaroo - those guys make me giggle like no other! We like to switch up our brain breaks with a little song/dance and some jokes, riddles - both are great for those noggins and really buy you some time in the learning/teaching department. Consider it an investment!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikeyjA7LoAK-NOS1TTSPyGFplX1eP4qP6SwZZo5Q-je5t-epwLiw8iexeStNNbIYF-mIU8KeJJmKGwjnanovbAWdYqPAjklehTr2YypcVHcgOB7huvbTjbGck3XKyY3_9pWyha6xsbDX0/s1600/KooKoo.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikeyjA7LoAK-NOS1TTSPyGFplX1eP4qP6SwZZo5Q-je5t-epwLiw8iexeStNNbIYF-mIU8KeJJmKGwjnanovbAWdYqPAjklehTr2YypcVHcgOB7huvbTjbGck3XKyY3_9pWyha6xsbDX0/s1600/KooKoo.PNG" height="184" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Might I suggest an accent? This book is fun to "round up the rhymes" with. It's full of rhyming words that you can record on chart paper and then look at spelling patterns {or notice that not all words that rhyme have the same spelling pattern}. I like to read this one with a southern accent...which I do REALLY badly!!! But you can't round up the rhymes without sounding like yer a cowboy, y'all!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHYE7DwVzhFIaJJv3HG5gsVSh2DznE5PYwGR0juc9u5CnM4cku-1oO1NFHqyTLKN3fRkLyCpLHZi0cwsgKReb3lwGcs0tmb4nQvABfXZ2OP-cL6Ck0yntoceOHD4RhrHGsXPWja8Q-FTE/s1600/The+Fleas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHYE7DwVzhFIaJJv3HG5gsVSh2DznE5PYwGR0juc9u5CnM4cku-1oO1NFHqyTLKN3fRkLyCpLHZi0cwsgKReb3lwGcs0tmb4nQvABfXZ2OP-cL6Ck0yntoceOHD4RhrHGsXPWja8Q-FTE/s1600/The+Fleas.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiExUaI_3YUY5cg7964WcXcB7Euq2DR0R4WHomYl5XWBFb6k6jSdgP3ZDvm3rSAf2W8RZ1v3yslSl7K8vf-Q1vfZ2j0Trkh2iRPwrppT_SoO3k0K5R3L-6iHHqtV3EIHF3BfG6fhNJGZ_Q/s1600/Humor3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiExUaI_3YUY5cg7964WcXcB7Euq2DR0R4WHomYl5XWBFb6k6jSdgP3ZDvm3rSAf2W8RZ1v3yslSl7K8vf-Q1vfZ2j0Trkh2iRPwrppT_SoO3k0K5R3L-6iHHqtV3EIHF3BfG6fhNJGZ_Q/s1600/Humor3.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And my "smart glasses" - We can't forget zee smart glassees...complete with accent. <br />Trust me when I say, you will get through a whole lesson with your students hanging on<br />to your every last word if you do it with an accent. These glasses help for some reason - Dollar Tree!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />I've got a confession. I think I'm pretty funny. Sometimes I think I'm as funny as Ellen. Like, I will giggle at myself and sometimes wish there was a hidden camera in my classroom - because Ellen<br />would invite me on her show if there were. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Humor can come at the least expected of times -and honestly, if it's not in your nature to be silly/funny, I have to tell you - I'm not sure you can stick it in your lesson plans and pre-plan it. Maybe you can. I can't...usually the mood just strikes. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Like here...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeQkec9ZWIsu0YISMmn9kxpUzW-qo2Ga2B2iJEV3iC2h-E8VqnpGbicP5zIt367JVW26EgEkTsIzqMCsEJDnne3w31J2bCQF6h3LY1MumxfI3_Lekq4QkR2ojxpMVkocjAnIIf2ssCd4k/s1600/Humor1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeQkec9ZWIsu0YISMmn9kxpUzW-qo2Ga2B2iJEV3iC2h-E8VqnpGbicP5zIt367JVW26EgEkTsIzqMCsEJDnne3w31J2bCQF6h3LY1MumxfI3_Lekq4QkR2ojxpMVkocjAnIIf2ssCd4k/s1600/Humor1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I bought this little arm/hand thingy at the dollar store. It has a magnet on it and it's a spinner. Thought that guy would be mighty handy - except it doesn't work {on an upright surface}. Every time you spin it, it lands in the same place. Soooooo....you choose the word, say a fill in the blank sentence, spin the spinner...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mrs. W. is ________________ {awesome}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Learning is ________________ {awesome}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The other day our word of choice was "macaroni".</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Math is {spin the spinner}...MACARONI - oh the laughter!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Even if you aren't a stand-up comedian...anything silly you do or say, your kids will LOVE!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ever drop a pencil? Giggles.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Write the wrong date? Laughter!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Forget something? All out chuckles!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It doesn't take much, people.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
And there's Yurtle - how can you not smile at a turtle tent?</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7D-CGF9llfFO9eLgMcOHjSdoF72PVS1Hsk522mNGgQULFUc6BwlYoYPf4c728_ULV043QsgNOfCXOdEUQA8cr_9A38eUGF7fFwBwT6x79nuRcqa2uPIjYYN6TJ1cdqtXb3XoNKAExOw/s1600/Humor6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7D-CGF9llfFO9eLgMcOHjSdoF72PVS1Hsk522mNGgQULFUc6BwlYoYPf4c728_ULV043QsgNOfCXOdEUQA8cr_9A38eUGF7fFwBwT6x79nuRcqa2uPIjYYN6TJ1cdqtXb3XoNKAExOw/s1600/Humor6.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My take away? I'd like to find more ways to incorporate humor into our actual learning activities.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Where are you in the humor department? Deserve your own show? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Or are you the more sweet and quiet type?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Go visit <a href="http://oneextradegree.blogspot.com/2015/03/book-study-worksheets-dont-grow.html">One Extra Degree</a> to join the linky and see what others have to say about humor in the classroom!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-81665185569229598612015-03-14T09:30:00.000-04:002015-03-14T09:30:55.348-04:00Book Study: Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites: Chapter 5 {Graphic Organizers}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYbW_VZWW7Pt-ZRmgEj0ncQtZCKRbymPGJC_A9GgXgvXxAJ11AEXT36j-vOA0owd26E-MNYNWi_6dizPPs1QF0oXYp8hn0LNxiJzEDskXnSw_0ZBpiIJk6tdO9FjHe3jGNLsMccubalb4/s1600/Chapter5+pic.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYbW_VZWW7Pt-ZRmgEj0ncQtZCKRbymPGJC_A9GgXgvXxAJ11AEXT36j-vOA0owd26E-MNYNWi_6dizPPs1QF0oXYp8hn0LNxiJzEDskXnSw_0ZBpiIJk6tdO9FjHe3jGNLsMccubalb4/s1600/Chapter5+pic.PNG" height="190" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4N9Vdjvae7mYkq9-_Ouag4dasVKvwe6VksJYMQ4TukdUmzLTF2de6mn0xsE8o9J7MZFb5QwSYKUQLb3ZjXiBfLmQilsqOG02yBMNZEHXzahC7Mir2j2VJAN_32S_OxvhWLsVY0cvlp9Y/s1600/Worksheets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4N9Vdjvae7mYkq9-_Ouag4dasVKvwe6VksJYMQ4TukdUmzLTF2de6mn0xsE8o9J7MZFb5QwSYKUQLb3ZjXiBfLmQilsqOG02yBMNZEHXzahC7Mir2j2VJAN_32S_OxvhWLsVY0cvlp9Y/s1600/Worksheets.jpg" height="200" width="155" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Today I'm linking up with Michelle Oaks over at <a href="http://fabulousinfirst.blogspot.com/2015/03/book-study-worksheets-dont-grow.html">Fabulous in First</a> to talk about chapter 5! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Can you tell that I am REALLY enjoying this book? Like I said before, I read and find myself nodding my head vigorously because I'm already doing so much of it. But can I just tell you that feels GOOOOOOD!?!!? Remarkable, as a matter of fact. Have you ever reached that point where you say "I can't do ONE MORE NEW THING" "Leave me alone!!!!!!" </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Okay, first let me just say I try many, MANY new things every single year. I just can't imagine sticking with the same 'ol same 'ol - but....I've reached my cap this year. With the newness of a school-wide WIG {wildly important goal}, data notebooks, math workshop, Marzano, and other odds and ends...this brain couldn't hold one more new idea...so, this book has been a perfect pat on the back and brought some oldies but goodies to the forefront of my thinking - gotta love that!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Strategy 5:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u>Graphic Organizers, Semantic Maps, and Word Webs</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"They address both the left and the right hemispheres of students, so they are beneficial to all. The students strong in the left-hemisphere can supply the verbage, and the right-hemisphere students have the option of showing what they know pictorially." {Marcia Tate}</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Who doesn't like the sound of that? Are you like me? I go through hills and valleys with things. I use something a ton, and then for some reason, something else takes their place and I temporarily forget about that other thing I used to do. That's me with graphic organizers. I was using them a ton. I've purchased several awesome packs of them on Teachers Pay Teachers! I also try really hard to make my own on chart paper....mind you, I don't have an artistic bone in my body!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After reading this chapter, I just know I have to incorporate them into my teaching more than I currently am....why?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"Because the brain remembers images more easily than just words, graphic organizers are one of the tools that are effective for organizing patterns." {Feinstein, 2004}</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5rKrrz7Sy4hSs94QYjX_QhYg7sf1HZHIHBzGgtyD8UgapWkRIygJ-XhkYYfLx48P3QyX6p60r_JCZIMB95G1Sp8tibFrZzqJV90xSHoAZFhlim1KbsQnDhrC8KyctDY9U7SlC6me-qds/s1600/honestabe.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5rKrrz7Sy4hSs94QYjX_QhYg7sf1HZHIHBzGgtyD8UgapWkRIygJ-XhkYYfLx48P3QyX6p60r_JCZIMB95G1Sp8tibFrZzqJV90xSHoAZFhlim1KbsQnDhrC8KyctDY9U7SlC6me-qds/s1600/honestabe.PNG" height="319" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My brain is not wired for graphic organizers. I don't know - is there another hemisphere? They have never helped me and as a matter of fact, sometimes I get so caught up in understanding how a particular one works and what it's trying to teach me - that the concept has been lost for me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Having said that...I do realize they work for most!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A goal of mine, after reading this chapter, is to not only use them more than I have been in my classroom - but have my students create their own!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"Having students create a mind or concept map is a meaningful strategy for helping them make sense of and learn vast amount of new content" {Budd, 2004}</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Do you use graphic organizers in your classroom? Do you use them across the content areas or do you find that you use them more in one area than another? Is there anybody out there like me, that doesn't find them particularly helpful in their own learning? {I know, I could be completely alone here - wouldn't be the first time - HA!}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Head on over to Michelle's <a href="http://fabulousinfirst.blogspot.com/2015/03/book-study-worksheets-dont-grow.html">blog</a> to visit other bloggers who shared their thinking on this same topic! </div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-12803951503218405482015-03-10T17:48:00.002-04:002015-03-10T17:48:38.545-04:00Book Study: Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites: Chapter 4 {Games}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJDGZSoTEz6CepAxVVj71qoMqM9MnRsg4IYUZnLntl5D2ry_3wRxnKGvgLEKjrhkQYWmzedp08jX2aWQTdkvm0vf7SqpTyVcxZkxyLQ-zC6yrTgS2PgTuFLkj5loLjVeq3enDdApJKk7I/s1600/Chapter4.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJDGZSoTEz6CepAxVVj71qoMqM9MnRsg4IYUZnLntl5D2ry_3wRxnKGvgLEKjrhkQYWmzedp08jX2aWQTdkvm0vf7SqpTyVcxZkxyLQ-zC6yrTgS2PgTuFLkj5loLjVeq3enDdApJKk7I/s1600/Chapter4.PNG" height="187" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxdQ7Sin2q3yioPV40tPfri0BPpMNJzB5imwIxRccgFkaX-P_7WwmyzM0Xtqr78nm7pmNj1FwSmM0uK2j7uNYICOWSTm9MVSpEy7_dH1Tmdjk4Tlx1zjaONBP3CpQKTO0gKXZrhw3dTY/s1600/Worksheets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxdQ7Sin2q3yioPV40tPfri0BPpMNJzB5imwIxRccgFkaX-P_7WwmyzM0Xtqr78nm7pmNj1FwSmM0uK2j7uNYICOWSTm9MVSpEy7_dH1Tmdjk4Tlx1zjaONBP3CpQKTO0gKXZrhw3dTY/s1600/Worksheets.jpg" height="200" width="155" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm linking up with one of my favorites, Katie, from <a href="http://queenofthefirstgradejungle.blogspot.com/">Queen of the First Grade Jungle</a>, to talk about chapter 4! This chapter is, by far, one of my personal favorites! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Strategy 4:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u>Games:</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"When students develop a game's content as well as play the game, the amount of time they are exposed to and involved with the content is doubled." {Allen, 2008}</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What I like about that quote is it really targets our primary students as well as our upper elementary, middle and high school students. I mentioned in my discussion of <a href="http://crisscrossapplesauceinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2015/02/worksheets-dont-grow-dendrites-chapters.html">chapter 1</a> that sometimes the use of these strategies wains as our students progress through the years. The use of games can be so powerful - both in the creation of them as well as the actual playing. I can envision middle school students creating games for their peers just as easily as I can see my little first graders enjoying the games they play on a daily basis. Games are where it's at, people!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmwd4hucnuh50jPWWAf5K9MQn0tKBYaYZGjPAEGl9334ITuv-1xPHcm1GitKJ0lnSMJGAOaEcGt-_stEPNy15RsxJ57lIYkkgulD562mcdnduNtNCvEMdJUMi1C6Lg6ycoRcr8WUmglls/s1600/kahoot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmwd4hucnuh50jPWWAf5K9MQn0tKBYaYZGjPAEGl9334ITuv-1xPHcm1GitKJ0lnSMJGAOaEcGt-_stEPNy15RsxJ57lIYkkgulD562mcdnduNtNCvEMdJUMi1C6Lg6ycoRcr8WUmglls/s1600/kahoot.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0t0Km3PyBJUYnV28yt0tlMawZAqdqAclEJm65DnZ8sXbZPpUC_kAku8dXv0Y8ZaT9U7DSh2beB4GKlgWCFMbfn6Pq-_GSNfsGSB6l1TfOljH4yGLA2WQH3uFQSsU4yipr8VY4Cf9UM94/s1600/Kahoot.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0t0Km3PyBJUYnV28yt0tlMawZAqdqAclEJm65DnZ8sXbZPpUC_kAku8dXv0Y8ZaT9U7DSh2beB4GKlgWCFMbfn6Pq-_GSNfsGSB6l1TfOljH4yGLA2WQH3uFQSsU4yipr8VY4Cf9UM94/s1600/Kahoot.png" height="172" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kahoot is digital game-based learning</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My middle school son loves when his social studies teacher has him create quizzes for whatever they are working on/reviewing. He loves it even more when his Kahoot is chosen to use for a class review. I love that his middle school teacher understands the value of games in the middle school classroom!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"Games are not only perfect for raising the level of feel-good amines in the brain but also, in the correct amounts, games can also increase cognition and working memory." </i>{Jensen, 2007}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
{Amine, in this case = dopamine}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Reading this chapter came at just the right time. I received an email from a parent who told me that her child is experiencing anxiety over memorizing her math facts. {Math fact fluency in first grade is a whole 'nother ball of wax and blog topic - oy} My teacher-heart was so sad to read this. It's nothing new, every year I have a parent express concern over this and rightfully so. My automatic teacher go-to was to remind her to keep it fun in order to eliminate the stress factor. Play games, grab the sidewalk chalk and write some math facts on the sidewalk {once the snow clears}, give her some problems in the tub and have her write the answers with tub crayons, play giant step where you hold up a flash card and have her and her sister take a giant step forward each time they get a fact right - first. The first person to reach the person holding the flash cards - wins! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cortisol - BAD</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dopamine - GOOD!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This chapter gives TONS of great games that a teacher/parent can play with their students/children!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One of those ideas was bringing in a Nerf ball and tossing it to children as they answer questions which made me think of this...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJM0WxZEMR8y7NMCMlEWn2zdxu76BzdnWB1gVr9cBmU3lLAkgcBT6S6Mm3x_xwAq52uxF5ZJeqRzG4JO9bO7mysFoSkNlksMW1KwEsAqrdQETonro4qJGkbxDd-Amk73lahkPtcavVGrg/s1600/Nerf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJM0WxZEMR8y7NMCMlEWn2zdxu76BzdnWB1gVr9cBmU3lLAkgcBT6S6Mm3x_xwAq52uxF5ZJeqRzG4JO9bO7mysFoSkNlksMW1KwEsAqrdQETonro4qJGkbxDd-Amk73lahkPtcavVGrg/s1600/Nerf.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Wouldn't this be fun to incorporate into your day? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
*Read all of your word wall words? Take 3 shots!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
*Read with awesome fluency/expression? Take 5 shots!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
*Figured out a tricky math problem? Take 10 shots!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
*Helped a friend pick up a dropped crayon box? Take 5 shots!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In a nutshell, games engage student brains!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And don't you just love hearing...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfjmDXmXvsdEy45KJBKekUkWsVJMymYQR3Z8-8HCUnj8k248fZr2J5yxGqJkF8MOlEvPyztp5RWSaCpjnPCXzNAXXRQeZ9jY78CYXAD85yhbyHE1KQcEU3EPDyrRcqoISNC_shWFCcylw/s1600/GamesQuotes.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfjmDXmXvsdEy45KJBKekUkWsVJMymYQR3Z8-8HCUnj8k248fZr2J5yxGqJkF8MOlEvPyztp5RWSaCpjnPCXzNAXXRQeZ9jY78CYXAD85yhbyHE1KQcEU3EPDyrRcqoISNC_shWFCcylw/s1600/GamesQuotes.PNG" height="305" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You have really hit the nail on the head when they don't even realize they are learning!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Want to read more thoughts about this chapter? Go visit <a href="http://queenofthefirstgradejungle.blogspot.com/2015/03/book-study-worksheets-don-grow.html">Katie's blog</a> and join the linky party!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Care to share any fun & simple games that are a fan favorite!? Leave a comment below!</div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-14335640867539348322015-03-07T08:29:00.003-05:002015-03-07T08:29:54.555-05:00Book Study: Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites: Chapter 3 {Field Trips}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hi All,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm linking up with <a href="http://www.mrswillskindergarten.com/2015/03/book-study-worksheets-dont-grow.html">Mrs. Will's Kindergarten </a>for our blogger book study!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptACwyCoZ-RTPFp6YptJua819MHaKTj6JEtJpqQA1jOeyXW-l1i9eWZDw5fS1wGdYWZUfRwkiDjQnz6IK9ZFm0AiWH-ZdHpJuDQ0SFhKZY86BrblZxCKTa6m_Gl4KYZAmHF0wEz5V_zw/s1600/Worksheets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptACwyCoZ-RTPFp6YptJua819MHaKTj6JEtJpqQA1jOeyXW-l1i9eWZDw5fS1wGdYWZUfRwkiDjQnz6IK9ZFm0AiWH-ZdHpJuDQ0SFhKZY86BrblZxCKTa6m_Gl4KYZAmHF0wEz5V_zw/s1600/Worksheets.jpg" height="200" width="155" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's time for chapter 3 of <u>Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites!</u>!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ5He6AES9_zrl-G80xNN3CrGao-BF2mM9i56lxbcliCzGHeO02zRCg0dSaLJap85hoFu8_DenlbYBBjt9RVkjUmHNcGnH2WZEW9Ozj6wMJBR2r3sHDqvLX9RMeD15_ZMjxkzfMMiBP6k/s1600/Chapter3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ5He6AES9_zrl-G80xNN3CrGao-BF2mM9i56lxbcliCzGHeO02zRCg0dSaLJap85hoFu8_DenlbYBBjt9RVkjUmHNcGnH2WZEW9Ozj6wMJBR2r3sHDqvLX9RMeD15_ZMjxkzfMMiBP6k/s1600/Chapter3.PNG" height="185" width="320" /></a>"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Strategy 3:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u>Field Trips</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"The purpose of the brain is not to make good grades or to score high on standardized tests. The brain has one purpose - survival in the real world."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Can somebody, anybody PLEASE get this through the thick skulls of our legislators? I'm seeing more and more teachers feeling more and more compelled to teach to the test - focusing their efforts on test prep rather than STELLAR teaching. I'm not at all, not even a little bit, saying I blame them. I completely understand their plight - I recently purchased a test prep pack myself and I would have NEVER thought I'd feel compelled to do that. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What do I always say? BALANCE & MODERATION people...that's where it's at!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Marcia Tate goes on to say...<i>"Is it any wonder that the places that you travel to in the real world are long remembered? This would make the strategy of field trips one to be remembered."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We are finishing up our learning of plants in science. We culminate this unit by going to a local metropark where the students get to see everything we've been learning in its natural setting. It's no surprise that I have third and fourth graders and even high school students come back to me and ask if I remember the time we tapped maple trees and made pancakes back at school? Of course I remember, it was snowing and FREEZING...HA!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpoZFStlcH1vv1b2zEgR3GHfSkQ0UCZL_T03Z21UcfmEla6C55r9jF-ws44xSRGHHTb6jb1WoxQ5L0kJQxQWfP9B-XNU5XrX4n-sl3yypLmSD592PlMTE4z527wlS9kqdg_xWZbKcNdPU/s1600/sugarshack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpoZFStlcH1vv1b2zEgR3GHfSkQ0UCZL_T03Z21UcfmEla6C55r9jF-ws44xSRGHHTb6jb1WoxQ5L0kJQxQWfP9B-XNU5XrX4n-sl3yypLmSD592PlMTE4z527wlS9kqdg_xWZbKcNdPU/s1600/sugarshack.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Aside from remembering the experience they remember the content. Isn't that what this whole book is about? Providing as many experiences as we can for our students to cultivate those dendrites...we want them to make connections to their learning in such a way that they won't easily forget their meaning. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What I think I appreciate most about this chapter is that Marcia Tate acknowledges the fact that we might not all be able to take field trips - they can be costly. That shouldn't stop you from giving your students a change of scenery. I know sometimes I get stuck inside the confines of the four walls of my classroom - but once I remember to think outside of that physical box my imagination can create experiences for my students that closely resemble that of an actual field trip.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtcW7xeR-4bieO28g29YZUaDSQ2D9E64z2ypF_YNA-xGJNyXBj3gLl20KsTTlzcIO4tnb-5EPjX0LHA5gFeR8O7p9TTxazZUjdsPFbCdsQKtxvjs2XOdHJDHzG2azHhB7BBXaTp2RfqQs/s1600/OutdoorClassroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtcW7xeR-4bieO28g29YZUaDSQ2D9E64z2ypF_YNA-xGJNyXBj3gLl20KsTTlzcIO4tnb-5EPjX0LHA5gFeR8O7p9TTxazZUjdsPFbCdsQKtxvjs2XOdHJDHzG2azHhB7BBXaTp2RfqQs/s1600/OutdoorClassroom.jpg" height="320" width="229" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-JCA6uCzimRwqcIek-jXSOkOVB0-4rx1YnYDbFhOVJbfUl9MsXD8riMPuo4gEBs-mRTOL5P_XpqciswyOPn5LHtGxJRha2hFYh1PdOZv9Qs9CsucR7rAahqfzQCQQfVJdrm0tokx4BKQ/s1600/NoFieldTripPic.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-JCA6uCzimRwqcIek-jXSOkOVB0-4rx1YnYDbFhOVJbfUl9MsXD8riMPuo4gEBs-mRTOL5P_XpqciswyOPn5LHtGxJRha2hFYh1PdOZv9Qs9CsucR7rAahqfzQCQQfVJdrm0tokx4BKQ/s1600/NoFieldTripPic.PNG" height="320" width="227" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Some other ways you can change the scenery:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
*Take a walk around the inside of the school - clipboard in hand - looking for writing ideas</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
*Visit another classroom in your school - buddies</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
*Skype/FaceTime with other classrooms around your district, country, world</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Some Virtual Websites to Consider:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.fieldtripzoom.com/">field trip zoom</a>, <a href="http://virtualfieldtrips.org/">virtualfieldtrips.org</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
While you and I knew their importance and significance in a child's learning - isn't it nice to have research to back it?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"Field trips, including those that are virtual, enable teachers to create as many authentic, experiential experiences as possible. These spatial memories are embedded in the brain and need no rehearsal." {Fogarty, 2001}</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;">How do you incorporate field trips into your instruction? </span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;">Do you go on more than one field trip each year?</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;">If you aren't able to go on field trips - what are some ideas you've done instead?</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2VmGP1bgdg1s1-jmReTyE-Sa5BdkhPwTbUt9stFbLtvv5tJNgXdYHz7vtkz2xitPXVuhVrElbJIICMdh8iqLrb7ofiE8uE57riUlpw1-cfMaYOVZ5UNZVzr1zD0RQGLhnJYJZgFKkh5U/s1600/Buddy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2VmGP1bgdg1s1-jmReTyE-Sa5BdkhPwTbUt9stFbLtvv5tJNgXdYHz7vtkz2xitPXVuhVrElbJIICMdh8iqLrb7ofiE8uE57riUlpw1-cfMaYOVZ5UNZVzr1zD0RQGLhnJYJZgFKkh5U/s1600/Buddy.jpg" height="320" width="319" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-78553797244747395002015-02-28T08:52:00.000-05:002015-02-28T12:41:15.136-05:00Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites ~ Chapters 1 & 2 ~ This Post Will Make You THINK!I'm all geared up for this book study. If you don't have a blog, but you'd like to participate in this awesome professional development opportunity, join in the linky by visiting the various blogs that are participating. Chime in with your thoughts via the comment section. If you don't have the book you will be able to share your thoughts just based on what the bloggers have shared - but you could also pick it up through iBooks if you have an iPad, iPhone, etc. That's where I got mine.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://kickinitinkindergarten.com/book-study-worksheets-dont-grow-dendrites-chapters-1-2/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOyTkXqGYZfaFMwPAC7NiMUgqLoUErRU6GjR2t7y2NyRUehITDNkqU7LEK90D-H6k1n5NorM1HeAqHXPsIdeqnyT2C8tb__JyD9MqvU5YDJ_VOiML9LoDVSCxutePn9qq368Xl2mLvvtc/s1600/bookstudy.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm joining Kickin' It In Kindergarten today to talk about chapters 1 & 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Just as soon as I heard about the book study I shared it with my staff. While I love all types of professional development - because there are benefits to each and every type {whether it be in a lab classroom format, webinar, Instagram, in-school book studies, blogger book studies, etc.} this is one of my favorites.<br />
<br />
Life around these parts can be hectic - basketball, baseball, house cleaning, etc. it can be hard to be held hard and fast to a specific time/place/event for professional development. Read when I can? Sounds great. Share my thoughts with THOUSANDS of others? Oh yeah! Mull over the thoughts shared by many? Sign me up! Professional development at its finest! {In my opinion}<br />
<br />
With that, it's time to link up with <a href="http://kickinitinkindergarten.com/book-study-worksheets-dont-grow-dendrites-chapters-1-2/">Kickin' it in Kindergarten</a> for chapters 1 & 2 in <u>Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites</u> by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CedEizNg9mc">Marcia Tate</a>.<br />
<br />
You know you have found a book that is right up your alley enough for you to relate and enough for you to learn from when you start highlighting like a mad woman...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgncshmAQBC4xTUw223cvipLux8e1MTCj-O1XOOtVttJYFihOXK_WIbvfCRvE6Y2Ia4bN_6vyVAgEp8JrbWxTcPKyj1BasDK9D6T8PVomh3BpyyMI4PE45k4keSrQHdD6Jvx0mCBRZJCNs/s1600/dendrites.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgncshmAQBC4xTUw223cvipLux8e1MTCj-O1XOOtVttJYFihOXK_WIbvfCRvE6Y2Ia4bN_6vyVAgEp8JrbWxTcPKyj1BasDK9D6T8PVomh3BpyyMI4PE45k4keSrQHdD6Jvx0mCBRZJCNs/s1600/dendrites.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
...and talking to yourself "Oh yeah!" "Amen!" "Sing it sister!" <br />
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u>Introduction</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"...{we} are not only teachers but also gardeners, better known as dendrite growers because every time students learn something new in their classrooms, they grow a new brain cell, called a dendrite"</i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I just like that because it's such a hefty thing to think about. Nothing bothers me more than feeling somebody in my class is there tuned out, and for lack of a better way to say it "rotting". We are gardeners and we must cultivate those dendrites. It can be daunting - but we have to remember the various ways students learn and how we can best reach them. I have recently adopted the workshop/guided {fill in the blank} approach in most subjects. It's just the only way I can see meeting individual needs in a way that targets their readiness and skill level the best. Differentiation isn't just a catch phrase, it's not just a part of our teacher-jargon - it's what's right for students.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"When you examine the list of 20 {strategies}, you will find that they are used most frequently in the lower elementary grades. When the strategies begin to disappear from the repertoire of teachers is about the same time students' academic achievement, confidence, and love for school also diminish"</i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My colleagues and I have talked about this time and time again. It seems that we work our behinds off trying to help all students reach their fullest potential and we do a darn good job! Years pass and we hear mutterings of these same students struggling either in middle school or high school. We just couldn't figure out what was happening. Don't get me wrong - I'm not AT ALL disparaging middle school or high school teachers - my husband is one and a darn good one at that. Things do change somewhere between first grade and 12th grade and I wish they didn't. Sometimes I think we focus our "reform efforts" in the wrong places...not to toot our horns - but elementary teachers have such a strong understanding of human beings and their needs and I think your upper grade teachers have a very strong understanding of their content....it's just that some need to find a way to mesh the two.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheq4U1_c2EixRoLK1SNTICopR7-y1zjXGquFxPMc-e_0_xcyXcKXgq20Hk9ZOAVtqnDc1ewnaR3zd2V21hzH7mWHqOrjp4ldPYRM6JwpC9peph05y6GlO3AKkgHzFa1wEd9NfPL0ddduc/s1600/DendritesChapter1Pic.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheq4U1_c2EixRoLK1SNTICopR7-y1zjXGquFxPMc-e_0_xcyXcKXgq20Hk9ZOAVtqnDc1ewnaR3zd2V21hzH7mWHqOrjp4ldPYRM6JwpC9peph05y6GlO3AKkgHzFa1wEd9NfPL0ddduc/s1600/DendritesChapter1Pic.PNG" height="192" width="320" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Strategy 1:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u>Brainstorming and Discussion</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"They can't talk in class. They can't talk in the hall. They can't talk in the cafeteria. They can't talk at all!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This one hit me "right there". I see people asking for ways to make their transitions quieter, I hear of schools that require students to sit and eat without talking. I'll never forget a quote a professor shared with my class when I was in college. I wish I could find the person who first said it. If you know, please let me know!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCF8aTI2XKB662BrsYjvJ19z1ZgBDl4FKwMKy_oSE36e3EXyYrDYFOgqHxFWAxHOws1AmLh5aHqFQDPTh32YIGrZlwSJvqgwXxVcoMaMCO8BdWKMXW5ILU534z7MnSM6j5wDBs9oBbgy0/s1600/Quiet.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCF8aTI2XKB662BrsYjvJ19z1ZgBDl4FKwMKy_oSE36e3EXyYrDYFOgqHxFWAxHOws1AmLh5aHqFQDPTh32YIGrZlwSJvqgwXxVcoMaMCO8BdWKMXW5ILU534z7MnSM6j5wDBs9oBbgy0/s1600/Quiet.PNG" height="310" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I know it's important to have control of your class and to manage behaviors but there is a way to do this and allow your students to be human beings. Can you sit in a workshop for 6 hours without chit chatting with your teacher-neighbor? I know I sure can't! So why expect that of your students? I swear, it's during these conversations, that our students learn most! Next time your class transitions, pay close attention to what they are talking about - I can guarantee that in some way, what they are talking about, is helping them grow...whether it be socially, behaviorally or academically - they are growing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Some strategies the book mentions to allow for constructive conversations:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*Ask questions based on Bloom's Taxonomy</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmUteQrWO1o9_ue0mwG0o_Y2lRytU7dHpL71ciDJTpxeNgbeC9Ql4iLxWhHx4yUEGY50vBKY0cChW1LKe9Mo7t255hFFDCe3BpR-ErexNu7IzziJ34kQw-rYGHuhHPhfRfkLeokCTJKF0/s1600/stickpick.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmUteQrWO1o9_ue0mwG0o_Y2lRytU7dHpL71ciDJTpxeNgbeC9Ql4iLxWhHx4yUEGY50vBKY0cChW1LKe9Mo7t255hFFDCe3BpR-ErexNu7IzziJ34kQw-rYGHuhHPhfRfkLeokCTJKF0/s1600/stickpick.png" height="295" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Stick Pick" - I've mentioned this app before - it's great for picking students to answer questions - and has the Bloom's question stems built right in!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*Think, pair, share {and oldie but a goody} - I do this in my classroom, but not often enough that my students feel comfortable with one another to take risks. I create "learning partners" for each trimester where students sit by the same student every day for every group discussion {for every subject} - I just get so caught up in my own mini-lessons, I forget to have them TALK with one another {and keep my mouth SHUT}. Must fix this!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My big takeaway? Allow more time for students to talk and challenge one another's thinking. Model this with your own questions during whole group conversations.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirOEKR5A6tj6EHRdiSgn-9FRehznN9r65huqz5TKA7jJ_aIi6CcS921APby1lDInBxzHxHJoSn2Aw1p9Ay0JhMPT9nMF_sHOJ4DPLbOLehzO3Kr7gQQvnY7SxjjFbAtNpU3NS6af64y8Y/s1600/DendriteChapter2Pic.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirOEKR5A6tj6EHRdiSgn-9FRehznN9r65huqz5TKA7jJ_aIi6CcS921APby1lDInBxzHxHJoSn2Aw1p9Ay0JhMPT9nMF_sHOJ4DPLbOLehzO3Kr7gQQvnY7SxjjFbAtNpU3NS6af64y8Y/s1600/DendriteChapter2Pic.PNG" height="190" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Strategy 2:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Drawing and Artwork</u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This chapter was EXTREMELY encouraging and validating for me. I've had this conversation more than a few times, over the years, since moving toward a more "rigorous" and "data-driven" age of teaching - "How is artwork aligned with the common core?" It was hard for me to find words aside from "Seriously, you can't see how it's important?" No, there isn't a CCSS that specifically addresses doing craftivities or the like; but you HAVE to trust your <a href="http://crisscrossapplesauceinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2014/11/data-vs-professional-instincts.html">teacher instincts </a>people! You know what is good and right for your students. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
But now you have this book, written by an amazingly respected educator, and can you really disagree with more than 70 years of research? {Allen, 2008; Dewey, 1934} "Researchers have written about the positive relationship between thinking in art and thinking across the curriculum." Adding to that affirmation, "When children play - draw, dance and sing - they engage every sense and help wire the neurons for learning successfully." {Sousa, 2006}</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So, when somebody skeptically gives you the hairy eyeball while <strike>secretly admiring</strike> looking at the artwork you have hanging in the hallway or your classroom remember Marcia Tate and her collection of research that supports why you do what you do. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I try to repeat this mantra in my mind - because even I, after enough hairy eyeballs, lose sight of the fact that I'm giving my students something that will serve them well in the real world. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>"As long as I can support why I do what I do, and what I do is purposeful, I'll do it - even if I may encounter some friction" {Crisscross Applesauce in First Grade, 2015}</i></div>
<br />
I would absolutely LOVE for you to comment below, with your thoughts and ideas - we can learn even more through thoughtful and reflective dialogue with one another!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-86968823349422264792015-02-16T10:15:00.000-05:002015-12-09T20:00:17.668-05:0010 Things That Make my Teaching Life Easier {In no particular order}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmrvs_KQ_PUBBXuLRKYgoZwmwLBzFsSpTgH6Dk3z_G23RWeZ1h-Mjm-DleKmn8c1ckI_WcvmkZZ6ZrMkcAO1B7cCKIpYF0KmLNmsBe9SfpsiAIOHt7j-TySN3aQcKQunsgZxiVyz6Y5M/s1600/Picture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="475" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmrvs_KQ_PUBBXuLRKYgoZwmwLBzFsSpTgH6Dk3z_G23RWeZ1h-Mjm-DleKmn8c1ckI_WcvmkZZ6ZrMkcAO1B7cCKIpYF0KmLNmsBe9SfpsiAIOHt7j-TySN3aQcKQunsgZxiVyz6Y5M/s640/Picture.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
1. Planbook<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Wol87Yme0KAdZJ7HXBhN25T5Uxxzu_B3WcXAzbajqDi5Goiw8YaasWlrCBHS_ScUo2ksDNSpF14YqxnwQylBRD_t-EOTC-KbZx1jkkvx-C5T-i-JoyQk2DqKd8Wi7WJSOSq41vMjSXM/s1600/planbookpic.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Wol87Yme0KAdZJ7HXBhN25T5Uxxzu_B3WcXAzbajqDi5Goiw8YaasWlrCBHS_ScUo2ksDNSpF14YqxnwQylBRD_t-EOTC-KbZx1jkkvx-C5T-i-JoyQk2DqKd8Wi7WJSOSq41vMjSXM/s1600/planbookpic.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<div>
I know I have mentioned Planbook.com on my blog many times - but that just illustrates how in love with it I am. Honestly, I know I said this list is random; but Planbook has been such a life saver and TIME saver I may have subconsciously put it at number 1 for a reason! I can do lesson plans from my phone, in bed, at the doctor's office...wherever. You can see that I have a lot of specifics in my daily plans. That's so if I ever have an unplanned guest teacher - everything they need to know about the daily in's and out's of our day are there. I can easily email my plans to my colleagues and I am able to see my friend's daily plans {they have to give you "the key"} which is so helpful if I need a little help with where I want to go next or get ideas for how I want to teach a concept.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
2. A Great Coffee Mug</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvhD6XO1EJQ4WzXdw6FYLl05eZBzm1flxdmb1qucfqrmzvGqRyeZImhYSN299DIXmZ5Hr108zHx2555lObSxe2ly4GtuCbnp2jwEA5BBC3tfPcPJN-dLnNVdkq6d6NwcCFOuz1lA-lNnk/s1600/contigo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvhD6XO1EJQ4WzXdw6FYLl05eZBzm1flxdmb1qucfqrmzvGqRyeZImhYSN299DIXmZ5Hr108zHx2555lObSxe2ly4GtuCbnp2jwEA5BBC3tfPcPJN-dLnNVdkq6d6NwcCFOuz1lA-lNnk/s640/contigo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have tried every travel coffee mug known to man! This one is, by far, the BEST! HA! You bet this makes my teaching life easier. My coffee is still warm after lunch {I teach first grade - I don't get it all sucked down before lunch!} and you can drop this thing and it doesn't even get a dent...and no spills {No more coffee stained teachers guides, student work, clothing!}. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
3. Instagram</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYdWrApEzmfSnz4OkXKXPfmei2aKKVvUA9qb5FyFjvzWbGeSXkQ-1gjseMEuaGNkAY3_tC9avO-YWut0a1ClrC6bCeF3weMKYICEC5i96lZDLRScmZTaD6xIKCPP-JsNYyiXZRp-DnsE/s1600/Instagram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYdWrApEzmfSnz4OkXKXPfmei2aKKVvUA9qb5FyFjvzWbGeSXkQ-1gjseMEuaGNkAY3_tC9avO-YWut0a1ClrC6bCeF3weMKYICEC5i96lZDLRScmZTaD6xIKCPP-JsNYyiXZRp-DnsE/s640/Instagram.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I know it's nothing new - but it remains a constant in my life. Need a quick motivator, either personally or professionally? This is where I go! Open the app and it's instant PD. {Professional Development/Personal Development}</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
4. Friends</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5NOgoG20ZEsi_KijRZZ4wAB6TJY4EZzT9PZjZ3ka-QFs1bqXRcTczf-JaY8bLNX8BaiqggstgcfT8zqvu5z-UuI8M8YfEaaHOha_KHdAjbxNowoJbNJRFfY3-UqJUcnMwB2ucqw_MUYA/s1600/LynnTammy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5NOgoG20ZEsi_KijRZZ4wAB6TJY4EZzT9PZjZ3ka-QFs1bqXRcTczf-JaY8bLNX8BaiqggstgcfT8zqvu5z-UuI8M8YfEaaHOha_KHdAjbxNowoJbNJRFfY3-UqJUcnMwB2ucqw_MUYA/s640/LynnTammy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
My teaching life is SO much easier with friends to talk with, laugh with, vent to, plan with, have professional conversations with, to LISTEN to me, the list goes on and on. What would I do without my friends? My students love them too! I can't think of a better gift to give to my students then the gift of knowing their teacher is a human being! It's these moments, when your teacher friends come in to sing to your class, your students will remember! {me too}<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
5. Laughter</div>
<div>
See above! I don't know if you know this about me - I think I've blogged about it before - but I love a good practical joke, a costume to wake up my kiddos and put a sparkle back in their tired little eyes...if you're ever feeling like the burden of our profession is weighing you down...give yourself a good belly laugh {or somebody else} and that load will lighten just a bit.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2W6LnD4ElC91ejG4GgprXniEwUw3dByGcp-XTb59HNOGxb88xUZLXt89_n458pQjjOv_bO61Obq6v57giqBZh6L1Og-bhZx1N8kzeZFSbnmbGetBOJjMtYblkqjQ4zNKdZ-I7CEWkToA/s1600/wig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2W6LnD4ElC91ejG4GgprXniEwUw3dByGcp-XTb59HNOGxb88xUZLXt89_n458pQjjOv_bO61Obq6v57giqBZh6L1Og-bhZx1N8kzeZFSbnmbGetBOJjMtYblkqjQ4zNKdZ-I7CEWkToA/s640/wig.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
6. An Early Special</div>
<div>
You probably don't have any control over this; but if you are ever asked for input on when your grade level wants their special {i.e. music, art, p.e.} I suggest the first slot! {If it's not TOO early} Our day is broken up so nicely. We teach for about 40 minutes {just enough time to get our day started and do calendar} then they are off to their special {and I can gather my thoughts for the rest of the morning}. We also have a later lunch so we are able to really hunker down for reader's workshop. Our afternoon is a bit shorter with the later lunch which is also helpful because we all know their attention wanes as the day goes on.<br />
<br />
7. GoNoodle - Speaking of waning attention spans...our afternoons might be short, but brain breaks are a lifesaver. Just think of yourself at a LONG day of professional development...you'd welcome a chance to get up and get moving! Consider it an investment in your students' learning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMsxtchvidZyW27hLGrTE5rxLIzEfkCGpdVBpPsKVv8EAh2ya-iGNmxBt_P_A6avzsZuihb5JR_bIYaJOIEMM83msl61LXxa1Wiv6U-Q3va0z1ZrI1GJlPa34sLFmOJ5vG8eXRT7hdACQ/s1600/Popseeko.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMsxtchvidZyW27hLGrTE5rxLIzEfkCGpdVBpPsKVv8EAh2ya-iGNmxBt_P_A6avzsZuihb5JR_bIYaJOIEMM83msl61LXxa1Wiv6U-Q3va0z1ZrI1GJlPa34sLFmOJ5vG8eXRT7hdACQ/s640/Popseeko.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
8. Growing Our Village Together</div>
<div>
Instagram, Facebook, becoming a lab classroom {letting others come in and watch you in action}, going into other teachers' classrooms, blogging, reaching out to others, encouraging others, opening yourself up to others...growing your village only makes you stronger. You can't do this alone - nor should you. You're not perfect - nor should you be. The more people invested in your personal/professional growth and the more people you help or encourage - the better. As nervous as it makes me; I like to open my classroom up to other teachers and I SO appreciate it when other teachers open their classrooms up to ME! Just as soon as I walk into those rooms I feel hopeful and validated. I see things that I do too and I think "okay, I'm doing that, they are doing that, this is good" or I find an idea that is just pure genius and nab it!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiARQSTccMCttfrGleBP21jYJJgvYZvmTYz2DGojPC6TtqYJG4_n3sL_PbvBZugvwcpHte3j_1wIqD8_DjxgYWuPv3z81tBLC97CTzfqmqp6UO42wAyzgOmp356wGOSiWfMqS2mTGnTHBo/s1600/lab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiARQSTccMCttfrGleBP21jYJJgvYZvmTYz2DGojPC6TtqYJG4_n3sL_PbvBZugvwcpHte3j_1wIqD8_DjxgYWuPv3z81tBLC97CTzfqmqp6UO42wAyzgOmp356wGOSiWfMqS2mTGnTHBo/s640/lab.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
9. A Cute Spiral Bound<br />
I tried keeping notes on my iPad - it looked cool, it looked like I had it going on. It just didn't work for me. Instead, I have a cute spiral bound to keep my reader's workshop and writer's workshop conferring notes. I know...in this day and age I should be all "paperless" and "techie"...I tried. It didn't work. Add a cute notebook...and I'm all "Mistress of Note Taking"...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlrzfFWyvbcgAIaFaIDxMW7D7MzPiYu3-tmCwyN4I_dWw9qDo8ZHYgPuhSVM45yYpX7Njici_WyNwxLJ4aykxmEWWo6ip8TzX7sFWmE79Z4j5VLcfEaAOAjQbaJFA1L0jlFnS9AQdw_w0/s1600/kitten.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlrzfFWyvbcgAIaFaIDxMW7D7MzPiYu3-tmCwyN4I_dWw9qDo8ZHYgPuhSVM45yYpX7Njici_WyNwxLJ4aykxmEWWo6ip8TzX7sFWmE79Z4j5VLcfEaAOAjQbaJFA1L0jlFnS9AQdw_w0/s640/kitten.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
10. Prayer & Inspiration<br />
I've always prayed but was pretty random about it. I've made more of a concerted effort to pray before school {in the car - on the way} and after school {in the car - on the way home}. It's more like a conversation and I do it while listening to Joel Osteen. I realize this may not be your thing...but if there's something you can do in your car to find peace...I say give it a go. I don't even notice traffic now because I'm just chatting away ... thank goodness for "blue tooth" {which I don't have} I'm going to hope that the person in the car next to me thinks I'm chatting it up on the phone...but hey, who cares what they think!?! <br />
<br />
It's easy to fall victim to a negative attitude - I have my ups and downs for sure! That's why I seek out teachers who are able to hold on tight to why they do what they do and have made it their personal & professional mission to ensure that other teachers stay positive. One of those teachers is Sarah, from <a href="http://www.arockytopteacher.blogspot.com/2015/01/mondays-moment-inspiration-from-heart.html">A Rocky Top Teacher</a> who posts Monday's Moment where she aims to inspire and motivate fellow teachers.<br />
<br />
I did her sticky note challenge...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZ5XV8wJVPS0xj5wwkO1GUPdCF31Czhb5g7Fcy8wHNcMlZso48HpjHcI8yq8r5hKXuEiHj5FlCcL_0m4s3cQVbMZwIl_UqT_lSSqqjJ3JhtAbPGlFNFzVIO3x3k9XOmw8GtUV2YB96pA/s1600/Stickynote.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZ5XV8wJVPS0xj5wwkO1GUPdCF31Czhb5g7Fcy8wHNcMlZso48HpjHcI8yq8r5hKXuEiHj5FlCcL_0m4s3cQVbMZwIl_UqT_lSSqqjJ3JhtAbPGlFNFzVIO3x3k9XOmw8GtUV2YB96pA/s640/Stickynote.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
...which was just as much for those teachers at my school as it was for me. Writing on those sticky notes and then sneaking them into teacher mailboxes just made me smile and I carried that warmth with me for the rest of the day. Need to get rid of some stinkin' thinkin'? Give it a try! Check out Sarah's Monday's Moment for more ways to feel good about what you do!<br />
<br />
What makes your teaching life easier? I would love for you to share! Who knows, you may just share something that makes a huge difference in a fellow teacher's life!</div>
</div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-32158568123626970102015-01-04T10:35:00.000-05:002015-01-04T10:37:58.340-05:00How I Spent my Winter Break ~ LinkyHey Everybody,<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://mrswheelerfirst.blogspot.com/2015/01/how-i-spent-my-winter-break-linky.html"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT2M6LOuL6yE94kAGwupcWpP4wZLMA2EKEapX5lO9dNmFiWCMNavPqjgaelGmAfwfLeOVXpybnjdM_9fHC5_0rUdRk7law-g5QIef-gczc-X0p-fjgsEwKCuYBBb59xvUkVGGLJov40d0/s1600/How+I+Spent+My+winter+Break.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
<div>
<br />
<br />
<div>
I hope you had the best break EVER! I know I did! I tried to incorporate a lot of laziness to our days off. I just feel like during the school weeks we are so busy that we don't stop to smell the roses enough. Case in point...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR42Qd1yoW8Ni9xRV1NOOt5QbV-J0hyLfsgHqUgHw2cbI8teGa2iKsDHY4ZXwuCOUTc-qboIa2rSc7DrWdROhkhk1iIetPrCIXUvQXo2trU5jAmPpHAvY0NcfmdeFWxRM0RQ6Z3RV_7EE/s1600/TrumpChicago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR42Qd1yoW8Ni9xRV1NOOt5QbV-J0hyLfsgHqUgHw2cbI8teGa2iKsDHY4ZXwuCOUTc-qboIa2rSc7DrWdROhkhk1iIetPrCIXUvQXo2trU5jAmPpHAvY0NcfmdeFWxRM0RQ6Z3RV_7EE/s1600/TrumpChicago.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We spent some time in Chicago over break. My family was practically a block ahead of me {who could blame them in those frigid temps?!?} as I kept stopping to really look at and appreciate the sights. After a while, I heard my youngest say " I want to slow down so I can notice things". </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnqJCv28Drq3TbU5ONbSmR7lonHLfEgDxDZPJL-bh5AF-fiHGhFEuvZq5zG04KH9viR7tCHty2cpJ53xO9fhv-_MxHcrZ3w0jjalJSY3l9vVboHfQhgYcTQqMloAWO70YejbpOcU8Eh-A/s1600/BoysChicago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnqJCv28Drq3TbU5ONbSmR7lonHLfEgDxDZPJL-bh5AF-fiHGhFEuvZq5zG04KH9viR7tCHty2cpJ53xO9fhv-_MxHcrZ3w0jjalJSY3l9vVboHfQhgYcTQqMloAWO70YejbpOcU8Eh-A/s1600/BoysChicago.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHJ4A6PfFr1slR6_VHnIlaV0CcSv7_-baH77XqoJYBEJZB-p7gRGF1Tbe0NgpVBpJ7rgBrnZ8CkgSfrbhxPmvwuoHuSRDOtr99IAbN9y2UUr2DOJm7nnN60F3F7He4bDz7UXHZxyEtbe0/s1600/GoodmorningChicago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHJ4A6PfFr1slR6_VHnIlaV0CcSv7_-baH77XqoJYBEJZB-p7gRGF1Tbe0NgpVBpJ7rgBrnZ8CkgSfrbhxPmvwuoHuSRDOtr99IAbN9y2UUr2DOJm7nnN60F3F7He4bDz7UXHZxyEtbe0/s1600/GoodmorningChicago.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpfNQJMGylGiExL-iofrayDyiUpUEqc3B70taM3JtgTFvf_M70effkOhy2TkTwSbiU-NHlpHaHxCFQseQb5WR38BUsERRy2F8O3d4idDzbFWk3oO8uk94yd_lOoJsZCMkpkMBuVjoNywg/s1600/GoobyeChicago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpfNQJMGylGiExL-iofrayDyiUpUEqc3B70taM3JtgTFvf_M70effkOhy2TkTwSbiU-NHlpHaHxCFQseQb5WR38BUsERRy2F8O3d4idDzbFWk3oO8uk94yd_lOoJsZCMkpkMBuVjoNywg/s1600/GoobyeChicago.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Other than our travels to mine and my husband's childhood homes, and our Chicago trip - we spent a lot of time just chilling and loving the calm.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Y0d70fu_SRNHs8voYN0Iv-K69stEO_kXfAq8WOWf7S5jWw0nLSaCcOpBfa_4PSddn7RICQmTwUhnSrXdA3JRx9Sul4HMy9cjL5VOnrbma3WJLfPS0e_-hsDKJD4axvOgQcmpYEuHGZI/s1600/Jetta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Y0d70fu_SRNHs8voYN0Iv-K69stEO_kXfAq8WOWf7S5jWw0nLSaCcOpBfa_4PSddn7RICQmTwUhnSrXdA3JRx9Sul4HMy9cjL5VOnrbma3WJLfPS0e_-hsDKJD4axvOgQcmpYEuHGZI/s1600/Jetta.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Then, it happened - I woke up in the middle of the night and sort of felt my heart pitter patter and I couldn't fall back to sleep. I realized, at that moment, that I had to do some teaching on Monday and that I didn't really remember what I had planned for it two weeks ago.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So, I went downstairs, fired up the computer and looked...just so that I could fall back to sleep.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4tVeIFW6c_6W2khVs76mn2exT_UoLT1sm1g0aGYfzGfmm0sIagNs3cjvpNGrCBmgJGEit2eDFlseIS_6dBN7gpG_Xcs2-GtkwqZibHIVSk8qqpnAVNECiKUI4RjSv4gM9fnRZGzYckY/s1600/Reader'sWorkshopPlans.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4tVeIFW6c_6W2khVs76mn2exT_UoLT1sm1g0aGYfzGfmm0sIagNs3cjvpNGrCBmgJGEit2eDFlseIS_6dBN7gpG_Xcs2-GtkwqZibHIVSk8qqpnAVNECiKUI4RjSv4gM9fnRZGzYckY/s1600/Reader'sWorkshopPlans.PNG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy9iM1E9aMZq1C-O9ECAyu3DuNLbULdf880HUH2CVAM0qgrkT6rIliuAVFnD19_Lu6aOvxAxf2IymOCmh6-228pxu6K8teWFFYCDpbBB3sOwBdzeUXoXfpEDFifE3hTLd0agbGYee178k/s1600/WordWallPlans.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy9iM1E9aMZq1C-O9ECAyu3DuNLbULdf880HUH2CVAM0qgrkT6rIliuAVFnD19_Lu6aOvxAxf2IymOCmh6-228pxu6K8teWFFYCDpbBB3sOwBdzeUXoXfpEDFifE3hTLd0agbGYee178k/s1600/WordWallPlans.PNG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWsovT2dez8b15fOTUGdZ0byPE1ngBy1iqICGklqBVRfxHKzoZA0WlK32RmHvrZyAFxYsi4EtRWbamQmZrIwqlp8kRMdBZFxUJqE8H7x7YKo1cQDuB7uTB1Elurwqjf6EVgFkb1weLl_I/s1600/KetchupMustardPlans.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWsovT2dez8b15fOTUGdZ0byPE1ngBy1iqICGklqBVRfxHKzoZA0WlK32RmHvrZyAFxYsi4EtRWbamQmZrIwqlp8kRMdBZFxUJqE8H7x7YKo1cQDuB7uTB1Elurwqjf6EVgFkb1weLl_I/s1600/KetchupMustardPlans.PNG" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I thought that would calm my overactive brain - but it didn't, so I might have watched a couple episodes of my newest Netflix addiction...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKQzsif4z4Be2g9AMAiHIQbP8Yb-n9iTyY1Vc6mSuqIrLORvCa4ObWMLz_iSavtRWCA5-JYPB__TVbpcOCz5_MGsI_aAWfNrFqpXEAF9oa224gBEcOWYamNBEn21P6VyefQB3WBkjMOsU/s1600/Supernatural.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKQzsif4z4Be2g9AMAiHIQbP8Yb-n9iTyY1Vc6mSuqIrLORvCa4ObWMLz_iSavtRWCA5-JYPB__TVbpcOCz5_MGsI_aAWfNrFqpXEAF9oa224gBEcOWYamNBEn21P6VyefQB3WBkjMOsU/s1600/Supernatural.jpg" height="168" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It was if you give a Moose a Muffin...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Then, I couldn't sleep because every time I closed my eyes, I pictured super freaky ghosty-demon things...oy...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So, I decided to watch some Shaytards...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigHVWy_yITPiNq1jGcA28Lo-nH8C8YVAtpscqyJeCPHSNMic7wxuecQ2thgmOEisjdipes2mgV_OA8_K4h5pZuTkm2-1GE8mP_Jch5kIfNQ4pNWioZN2G5R53ZiaBSx5XCXCCSZQOHIKc/s1600/Shays.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigHVWy_yITPiNq1jGcA28Lo-nH8C8YVAtpscqyJeCPHSNMic7wxuecQ2thgmOEisjdipes2mgV_OA8_K4h5pZuTkm2-1GE8mP_Jch5kIfNQ4pNWioZN2G5R53ZiaBSx5XCXCCSZQOHIKc/s1600/Shays.PNG" height="382" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
I was introduced to this wonderful family of vloggers by Ms. T. {AKA - <a href="http://www.journeyofasubstituteteacher.com/">Journey of a Substitute Teacher</a>} If you ever need to readjust your outlook on life - this family will help you do that! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The highlight of our break?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHRM2YUW_ci9zU5JFmH59P81y23oxvcON-Tc_fKU0TgprUBR7s54nB-dSmXrnU4KdTyrM6sj7tSOopaw8G6RP6ZhfmrWLQ8yGu6TL3M_ZeIyVPGmEAjedyIu05KDReKzV_etxIj2Mn01M/s1600/Toilet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHRM2YUW_ci9zU5JFmH59P81y23oxvcON-Tc_fKU0TgprUBR7s54nB-dSmXrnU4KdTyrM6sj7tSOopaw8G6RP6ZhfmrWLQ8yGu6TL3M_ZeIyVPGmEAjedyIu05KDReKzV_etxIj2Mn01M/s1600/Toilet.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We no longer have a vanity and a toilet in our living room!!!! WOO HOO!!!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Goodbye 80's bathroom...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKgxHeP0j2X65XJ3heQQyrmpkbo0IS10DBVqgYgBwW4GvqLCEq3AinG4gTQlFVwESOAfyJvwfKVGEN_O-ErVwxgV2cGqpIK4tiPcJqJpBaY4ZRliU1FPqlPKr6DVApccKMZaFSjhq-WQ/s1600/Bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKgxHeP0j2X65XJ3heQQyrmpkbo0IS10DBVqgYgBwW4GvqLCEq3AinG4gTQlFVwESOAfyJvwfKVGEN_O-ErVwxgV2cGqpIK4tiPcJqJpBaY4ZRliU1FPqlPKr6DVApccKMZaFSjhq-WQ/s1600/Bathroom.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All in all, I'd say our break was filled with a little bit of 'dis and a little bit of 'dat. Which was perfect!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As we head back to work - I posted this on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CrisscrossApplesauceInFirstGrade?ref=hl">Facebook</a> page as a reminder to myself and others...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAoIZXsXo82C-eHDxuRWh0UYFKVTFfGs4xnDRo7Kb2LfoZr3vxrwr46IN3j657_54c7OW3nAPhyphenhyphen-0CtUs59o9z2aOXbCcWevZSFvnOYzolUSjVbKBv3rSXhXZm_CwU_EPe0XtjeWQnngU/s1600/Facebook.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAoIZXsXo82C-eHDxuRWh0UYFKVTFfGs4xnDRo7Kb2LfoZr3vxrwr46IN3j657_54c7OW3nAPhyphenhyphen-0CtUs59o9z2aOXbCcWevZSFvnOYzolUSjVbKBv3rSXhXZm_CwU_EPe0XtjeWQnngU/s1600/Facebook.PNG" height="388" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's the blog post I was referring to..</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://club31women.com/2014/05/12-simple-things-that-can-bring-peace-into-your-home-2/"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv1TTLDJgYiZp0OpPqYHnuDEC3qhTR3tsxUxjdgu0qns8_kuUZTLoE3YNf2bNz3VgbdSo86gI8Q-Tiov1UBLRmXp1OzzcOst_cT3uhR4vMQd2yjk3DwlVauoVq1QJwGA4Pk4u4N5zTt88/s1600/12simplethings.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'll leave you with that!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy New Year!!!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-25133800736280369362014-12-22T17:47:00.002-05:002014-12-22T17:47:53.361-05:00Beginning our Math Workshop Adventure...Well, the time is here - it's time for me to take the plunge. I haven't really been dragging my feet - not totally, anyway. Maybe just a little bit. Okay, I'm NERVOUS about this, people, I'm just plain 'ol nervous. I'm not new to the workshop model. I have done reader's and writer's workshop for MANY MANY years. I used the workshop format before it was even called workshop. So, I'm not really sure why I haven't been teaching math this way. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But now I am...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Well, at least I'm getting started with it. Our last day before break was Friday. My dear friend- couldn't-teach-first-grade-without-her pal, Barb and I met up at my school on Saturday {we sure do know how to kick our feet up and relax on our first day of break - right?} to pound out some of the details. She's going to dip her toes in the workshop waters too.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I know it has to get really ugly before you see any headway. It seemed like we spun our wheels a ton, but thanks to that preliminary work, when I got home I was really able to wrap my brain around it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifLDmpsmr_ZAzOMRTcmu4sLudsjnoWeZaJW_ZdI_rsSTB4lOjfVKuo3rcmRA9f6VWPkhyphenhyphengqIbAhwv3xJvkqhMEEwBa_wZy7xivO_tEr6hCKOPEt44sXnLPV1fxuicj8ZBift6fw13ZhOk/s1600/CHICKENSCRATCH.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifLDmpsmr_ZAzOMRTcmu4sLudsjnoWeZaJW_ZdI_rsSTB4lOjfVKuo3rcmRA9f6VWPkhyphenhyphengqIbAhwv3xJvkqhMEEwBa_wZy7xivO_tEr6hCKOPEt44sXnLPV1fxuicj8ZBift6fw13ZhOk/s1600/CHICKENSCRATCH.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken Scratches - Before</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAWKJNUlAD2AGaiSUC0mOERe2nrtpLIGEE2AKYsXP24yDKQanUjdaCWJBS28YpzXDsO-krVHr62ho3CDi-WRcN6_sWLT7ff1mt5avd58EZbqXwgP_EJBsSSrlBH2tFRWtuPKCBPxRSHBg/s1600/MathMonsterGroupsPic.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAWKJNUlAD2AGaiSUC0mOERe2nrtpLIGEE2AKYsXP24yDKQanUjdaCWJBS28YpzXDsO-krVHr62ho3CDi-WRcN6_sWLT7ff1mt5avd58EZbqXwgP_EJBsSSrlBH2tFRWtuPKCBPxRSHBg/s1600/MathMonsterGroupsPic.PNG" height="252" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All Grouped - SmartBoard - After</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Currently, we use Bridges Math. There are some really great pieces to this program - but....there are A TON of holes. I've been hemming and hawing over how to fill these holes. It seems like math workshop/guided math groups are the answer. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm starting out with doing it three times a week and possibly more once I tweak and fine tune. I'm going to run four "stations":</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
*WIG {wildly important goal} Work - students will practice their basic math facts a number of different ways. We'll really drive home the strategies we need to become fluent in solving addition and subtraction math problems. This is something Bridges misses the boat on. They kinda went overboard on the whole "spiral model". It seems that we are spiraling out of control and never really stick with anything long enough for my kiddos to see/feel success. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
*Workplaces - A large part of Bridges Math is what they call "workplaces" where students play a variety of math games. Many of the games are great but some are either way too easy for my kids or too complicated for others. Now I can plan which workplaces my groups will do - BRAVO!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
*Work on Math {computers} - There are a whole slew of different web-based math games they can play.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
*Guided Math Groups - This is where I'll be able to better differentiate instruction.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQFTvaBWKYQATgGNb0pIbxB8fcQroREDKpAKW3eGUAx-eZAnrMra5TRWWWZ2cklbiOo0CGOwHFP34JAk3SOZ0g1-vdQv6kIfTh-_vGCGTjI0UDiICUSaBAPVmZFi_Ogm8yDslM0Srq_us/s1600/MathworkshopPlans.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQFTvaBWKYQATgGNb0pIbxB8fcQroREDKpAKW3eGUAx-eZAnrMra5TRWWWZ2cklbiOo0CGOwHFP34JAk3SOZ0g1-vdQv6kIfTh-_vGCGTjI0UDiICUSaBAPVmZFi_Ogm8yDslM0Srq_us/s1600/MathworkshopPlans.PNG" height="301" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Right now, I'm looking through curriculum trying to decide which lessons will make good mini-lessons, which ones I should only teach to certain guided math groups, and which number corner lessons I want to incorporate into this instruction. Number corner are additional lessons that I have such a hard time fitting into my day - but now that I plan on using them in guided math groups - I'm hoping I'll get to them more often. So much to do, so little time...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO70OoyIFo7mbLu-T94lwltf4GO8P1S8fkM7WZpSanaYJN8hhYmomReXMdw7eBgwNBVCmtTISntj8lQK0HnbOxS03lDw_on6NkDhJn7-LV0Tdf5bcjggLV0JajS_s6LJlrcotPEs0a9zI/s1600/Bridges.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO70OoyIFo7mbLu-T94lwltf4GO8P1S8fkM7WZpSanaYJN8hhYmomReXMdw7eBgwNBVCmtTISntj8lQK0HnbOxS03lDw_on6NkDhJn7-LV0Tdf5bcjggLV0JajS_s6LJlrcotPEs0a9zI/s1600/Bridges.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
To start, I plan on doing two groups each day - seeing my friends who struggle most all three days in a guided math group. I'm really looking forward to getting this up and running. I can only see good things coming from this adventure and can't wait to do a better job at differentiating my instruction!!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Wish me luck!<br /></div>
<div>
Do you do math workshop/guided math? Any words of wisdom?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805931609283766751.post-17121409948931984362014-11-26T20:20:00.000-05:002014-11-26T20:20:24.599-05:00Writing Note Freebie, Pay it Forward & Some Randomness<br />
<div>
Hey Guys!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We had today off. We went to Frankenmuth...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCpgb7cMSxEzbxReYQC5ijLmCrHvoaZBkX8Qa402JoC6JE-TH4JuGJ6YmIjHpxslDOtbE9mwqW6WCHGCJ50gvgKYjtiZY8BRTSrL8_jWftjFyAje18cX2wF9VKW39wFVK26Ev6UZDgMg/s1600/Bronners.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCpgb7cMSxEzbxReYQC5ijLmCrHvoaZBkX8Qa402JoC6JE-TH4JuGJ6YmIjHpxslDOtbE9mwqW6WCHGCJ50gvgKYjtiZY8BRTSrL8_jWftjFyAje18cX2wF9VKW39wFVK26Ev6UZDgMg/s1600/Bronners.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We go every year. This place is the happiest on earth. My husband, AKA Clark Griswold...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8-hyvM-0KTxQrZl9G4my9d7W8vGQFNdvfRFgBRCBvN5SPUFjslbnyfr238cupM0aRF6LUA9vcc5J_VHS7DlcZmRkOh589chPD8WY7UeM2XAmLSXPwZfeK7aNemt9sSSJaH5rzlz9opYc/s1600/Chevy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8-hyvM-0KTxQrZl9G4my9d7W8vGQFNdvfRFgBRCBvN5SPUFjslbnyfr238cupM0aRF6LUA9vcc5J_VHS7DlcZmRkOh589chPD8WY7UeM2XAmLSXPwZfeK7aNemt9sSSJaH5rzlz9opYc/s1600/Chevy.jpg" height="224" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
...was in heaven. If it weren't so cold outside I'd take a picture of our house. It closely resembles the one above. Let's just say, I wasn't able to blow dry my hair yesterday morning because I kept blowing the fuse. All those lights suck up a lot of energy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yesterday was a half day of school for us. Contrary to what so many people think - it wasn't a half day for the teachers. It was our records day. If you can believe it, my cards are actually almost done - now that's a miracle! It must have been the cozy fire that put me in the mood to get things done...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiglLskh71icu6Vk2hCBLbdZhglHsxePU6E5BlaROgX7IQB5HKIeKA0wKrGqyEcgpaOpNDeod5td_6Z307ukcWyfrzAQVP_0_OZ5OioscZg0BtWsGi9XZAk8TujkfwWPWYHGy5S-85psI/s1600/firepic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiglLskh71icu6Vk2hCBLbdZhglHsxePU6E5BlaROgX7IQB5HKIeKA0wKrGqyEcgpaOpNDeod5td_6Z307ukcWyfrzAQVP_0_OZ5OioscZg0BtWsGi9XZAk8TujkfwWPWYHGy5S-85psI/s1600/firepic.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This "fire" lasted 10 minutes on YouTube - it was our "timer" for our daily 10 minute snack time.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
At the end of each writing unit I send a letter home with the "pile 'o writing" explaining what we worked on. A bunch of you asked for a copy of it on Instagram. I'm not sure how helpful it will be since it is specific to what I taught this trimester - but if you can use it, it's yours.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B_aKHTGyIZB6LTVHZlpWQ0ZmNVk/view?usp=sharing" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsifAxkLG2YXBIUu1TQxwS3-bRNJef7zaWJw6_M_hG77vmLmDpczMuGaom0kcCuIvSDdPPiUzwuowhz0EPNgaYhwqm7C3lynLpx7ZAXoOpdC-Hsz_ICr5Yr-2ZBuOgMSuBja4A5MzDA2w/s1600/TakeALookPic.PNG" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click the pic to grab yours!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you haven't entered my Pay it Forward giveaway, which I'm pretty sure you haven't since only 2 people have {insert really sad face here} if you could take a moment to do that, that would be great. When you enter, you have an opportunity to give a shout out to a charity that is near and dear to your heart. You also have a chance to win 50 dollars for that charity - it's all in the name of paying it forward. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE consider entering. It's super easy too - you get one entry by sharing the name of our charity in a comment and another entry if you give someone a hug! Seriously....it doesn't get much easier than that! Enter {<a href="http://crisscrossapplesauceinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2014/11/fourth-annual-pay-it-forward-giveaway.html">here</a>}.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alrighty - time to make the mashed potatoes. HA! I'm totally kidding. My husband does that. Time to go see if I can lick the bowl...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10861143488616582042noreply@blogger.com0