tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58079224600941762152024-03-12T19:34:14.879-05:00Growing a TeacherGrowing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-86890585745437713282015-07-17T12:36:00.000-05:002015-07-17T12:59:04.970-05:005 For Friday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://doodlebugsteaching.blogspot.com/2015/07/five-for-friday-linky-party-july-17th.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggYuIfql43FdLxntXgSQUTvRQuNEjVtenqjCnaUBhP90QRbHb0H6svXhLcqAaNPcSvkkAObKjK5vROd_zOzIBM387ZocteLIHL4D_o6lUF19AlI9ShhYsOMx7mkJFidlwY7zrKFpZ3SQIG/s320/fiveforfriday2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Today I'm linking up with Doodlebugs Teaching to share a little randomness from my week.<br />
<div>
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">1.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjUJTzJGTJa4Cqa_Y_PdPvBswTDyrIegCJ__RqdtUxoMOzYiWPfNDrnZZt_me-xmWDXsqmCtGDdi_giZWQ1hX4zqiNyYqrSvnUXcbx5zFIUQ-8Wpkgx9CLY4U5KVNp_dKfNuN_c8pmH0AW/s640/blogger-image-1309140068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjUJTzJGTJa4Cqa_Y_PdPvBswTDyrIegCJ__RqdtUxoMOzYiWPfNDrnZZt_me-xmWDXsqmCtGDdi_giZWQ1hX4zqiNyYqrSvnUXcbx5zFIUQ-8Wpkgx9CLY4U5KVNp_dKfNuN_c8pmH0AW/s400/blogger-image-1309140068.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
Summer Reading! My two littles and I earned free shirts from the library's summer reading program. I've read quite a bit this summer and it's been so nice! Some of my reading has been for my classroom: Wonder, Riding Freedom, Dexter the Tough, and next up is The One and Only Ivan. I'm planning to have my boys read Dexter the Tough while my girls read The Hundred Dresses. Both books are about bullying/friendship and I think we will have some great discussions!</div>
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">2.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1nczqsulbzVIWcORUSzs6id1Nxm7ibZsjIiHIqz4UzXaHfhmAZds-M_9mbDCIMnbJrkDxW4jJd3b6sm4ydxniMzWqhvlVuoE51BXIkfJolk9giglJMdqXkWHH7g5zgMp4-Lq_2qJkEUu7/s640/blogger-image--1889470636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1nczqsulbzVIWcORUSzs6id1Nxm7ibZsjIiHIqz4UzXaHfhmAZds-M_9mbDCIMnbJrkDxW4jJd3b6sm4ydxniMzWqhvlVuoE51BXIkfJolk9giglJMdqXkWHH7g5zgMp4-Lq_2qJkEUu7/s400/blogger-image--1889470636.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My littles and I have theme days this summer. Thursdays are Thinking Thursdays so we can prevent summer slide and also learn new things! Yesterday they worked on sewing projects (a new skill). Lots of fun but very time consuming for mom. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">3.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3C5p1IXBazUjKvZ5jDF83RhmmMKVtG1X1G2L086IlrZZGHcaCoOyW2fbXAwV1hEnmmqYU-RJM4R3zvUDcX7Gl3FB7G0Uu0t9ke1Lc3RBAnypLzrxpMXI6AnYLawsQYXedxdFMsPn_kBe/s640/blogger-image--1652598244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3C5p1IXBazUjKvZ5jDF83RhmmMKVtG1X1G2L086IlrZZGHcaCoOyW2fbXAwV1hEnmmqYU-RJM4R3zvUDcX7Gl3FB7G0Uu0t9ke1Lc3RBAnypLzrxpMXI6AnYLawsQYXedxdFMsPn_kBe/s400/blogger-image--1652598244.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I went to work in my classroom earlier this week. It's a work in progress for sure! I'm trying a new room layout this year so putting things away is taking forever. </div>
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">4.</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZJAxPrAJWODEg-5OxKLYwaqM68qMsv_VoGefKj9YGZa52fQHBBdeNWom_09D25ar-5CYRsvS__mdlsnzBwAtamLnd_WpJY_3EHxmIMElcNuBRC8zui3uZOQLuF66idqGaRXPcLxtz94t2/s640/blogger-image--494532321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZJAxPrAJWODEg-5OxKLYwaqM68qMsv_VoGefKj9YGZa52fQHBBdeNWom_09D25ar-5CYRsvS__mdlsnzBwAtamLnd_WpJY_3EHxmIMElcNuBRC8zui3uZOQLuF66idqGaRXPcLxtz94t2/s400/blogger-image--494532321.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
My new Ipsy bag arrived this week! It's so cool getting a cute bag full of goodies each month. I find makeup shopping very stressful, so getting to try new things that just "appear" in my mailbox is perfect for me. </div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">5.</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6NcQxnwpim1ItY4JN0LS3LjP4B1WDFRkYU4vlL6pAPfwVtqQ1sB8nF3OGrPvn4AYTpDk6vCLJx7QF7h6b7_92ikgE_slscXnrD3jUrHszyCEoTGoiWLRcsLtCmFRgLcSE5ZV2XaV8Z60h/s640/blogger-image-1140721707.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6NcQxnwpim1ItY4JN0LS3LjP4B1WDFRkYU4vlL6pAPfwVtqQ1sB8nF3OGrPvn4AYTpDk6vCLJx7QF7h6b7_92ikgE_slscXnrD3jUrHszyCEoTGoiWLRcsLtCmFRgLcSE5ZV2XaV8Z60h/s400/blogger-image-1140721707.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Pound of Dice. I already had a small collection of dice--6-sided, dice in dice, and 30-sided. But when I saw <a href="http://thebrownbagteacher.blogspot.com/2015/07/classroom-must-haves-resources-i-love.html" target="_blank">The Brown Bag Teacher's post</a>, I knew I had to add to my collection. Our first math unit is place value and I have BIG plans for the 10- and 12-sided dice!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
That's my week in a nutshell. Thanks for reading! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<h2>
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Renee' J</span></h2>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-24688493435994198602015-07-16T11:10:00.001-05:002015-07-16T11:10:33.388-05:00Ditch That Textbook<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNuDL0qNHJ-M-ga1j9m6cGmEIOXhJwt0a0WRw-W_vjtT7WiGzYmRWq2c5qZ9Oh26c819Hd0D5s9yRwrO_vit_p1Oxtj7aFMFexWwX-0Ph9WLewzxXeme3O_bvyiMFwP_g1YPHfeqhFfhew/s1600/+dtt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNuDL0qNHJ-M-ga1j9m6cGmEIOXhJwt0a0WRw-W_vjtT7WiGzYmRWq2c5qZ9Oh26c819Hd0D5s9yRwrO_vit_p1Oxtj7aFMFexWwX-0Ph9WLewzxXeme3O_bvyiMFwP_g1YPHfeqhFfhew/s320/+dtt.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
I downloaded Ditch that Teacher last night and I'm already about halfway through. It's a super fast read with lots of great reminders about changing the teaching mindset. We have to make sure we are meeting the needs of today's students and preparing them for the future. Think about the skills your students are going to need to survive in tomorrow's work force. Are your lessons and strategies going teaching them to problem solve, communicate with others, and take on leadership roles? A true A-HA moment was this quote from the book, "65% of today's schoolchildren eventually will be employed in jobs that have yet to be created." Wow! What a task we have in front of us!!<br />
<br />
I also like that Miller stresses the importance of technology in today's classroom, but he also stresses that we have to be choosy with the technology we implement. Is it purposeful? Does it enrich the learning? Or does it simply replace pencil and paper. It's easy for me to become overwhelmed with all that is out there and try to take on too much at once. When this happens I usually end up giving up on that technology. Trends come and go. I don't have to jump on every trend that someone else on FB or the blogosphere is trying out. Instead, pick one and learn how to use it well. I tried Twitter for the second time this last year and now I love it! It's a great tool for sharing the great things we are doing in class and getting my message out to parents and others. Feel free to follow me @mrsjohnson4th. I also created a closed FB group for the parents in my class. A fellow teacher did this and shared lots and lots of pics that she takes each day. What a treat for parents to "see" their child learning and exploring and just having fun! I sometimes take for granted being able to catch a glimpse of my daughter in the hallway at school. :-)<br />
<br />
A third point I want to make about this book is that Miller talks about finding balance and not "cheating" our families by being too involved in our work. Balance is good! I have found myself feeling guilty for spending Sunday afternoons at school while my two children are at home. This year my younger child will be in Kindergarten, so both kids will be with me in my room before and after school. I won't be able to get much done with a busy 5 year old boy! I have to make the most of my time during the spare moments of the day. I'm also trying to do some big time curriculum mapping this summer to make my planning faster during the school year.<br />
<br />
Finally, Ditch That Textbook tells teachers that we are better together and not to "be a silo." Get connected with fellow teachers both in your building and "out there" in the great beyond. And SHARE your ideas with others. I don't blog often because I convince myself that I don't have anything new or exciting to share. I'm not creating things for TpT, although I am a VIP customer. But I'm going to have to break that mentality. I do have things to share, and while they may only help one person out there, isn't that worth it? <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">My goals this year:</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">1. Be more "present" in my life </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. Become better connected with other teachers</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. Better utilize my free moments at school to free up more moments at home!</span></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo194/gobigbluebg/signaturebubble.jpg" style="width: NaN%;" />Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-28087128230481041822014-11-02T07:20:00.002-06:002014-11-02T07:20:53.606-06:00November Currently<br />
I'm linking up with <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2014/11/currently-november.html" target="_blank">Farley</a> for her November Currently. I haven't done this in AGES. I always see everyone's posts and plan what I'll write, but then I don't seem to make it to my computer. :-(<br />
<br />
But this month I did it!!! Hooray!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYPYhzpuV0CI_V7ZKx9wXtsUUZcxCse6bfACNGUMSfGblkuWQ6mlwQ8HJ8Ai0Nr10cK0Vruuz7aT01gmWOK82orb-aiKFCgJBQkVHdsouCtVcAOmV3tPbNJRSthNIUpWSWYsdfAssM2ggW/s1600/Slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYPYhzpuV0CI_V7ZKx9wXtsUUZcxCse6bfACNGUMSfGblkuWQ6mlwQ8HJ8Ai0Nr10cK0Vruuz7aT01gmWOK82orb-aiKFCgJBQkVHdsouCtVcAOmV3tPbNJRSthNIUpWSWYsdfAssM2ggW/s1600/Slide1.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Listening: My daughter has am impressive imagination and she is always making up stories and adventures for her and her little brother. I just love that!<br />
<br />
Loving: This year I'm teaching 3 classes of 4th grade reading and it's definitely my happy place!<br />
<br />
Thinking: My family is going to Daytona for the Turkey Run (car show) this Thanksgiving. The guys will be at the track all day and my sister and I will be chillin' with the kids at the beach. I can't wait.<br />
<br />
Wanting: We eat way too much junk around here and I'm the worst offender. I really need to plan some simple but healthy meals to get us back on track.<br />
<br />
Needing: I love everyone's riding boots, but I can't seem to find a pair to fit over my very large calves. Boo!<br />
<br />
Reading: Yesterday I ran in Target and People magazine was calling to me. It was strange, because I never buy magazines at stores. I do have a digital subscription to Better Homes and Gardens, but I'm a sporadic magazine reader at best. I read it cover to cover and felt so indulgent! Next on my reading list is Sophie Kinsella's newest shopaholic books. I can't wait to dig in to that one!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo194/gobigbluebg/signaturebubble.jpg" style="width: NaN%;" />Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-33343729376672202532014-07-25T09:08:00.001-05:002014-07-25T09:41:25.623-05:00Ch-ch-ch-ch-CHANGESI've spent the last week debating my future. Boy, that sounds dramatic, doesn't it? My school's Curriculum Coordinator is leaving and I've always thought I would be great at that job. I have been teaching for 15 years and have gathered many experiences and knowledge that would make this transition a logical next step. BUT, (there's always a but) am I READY to leave the classroom? I love what I do and I've already spent bank at TpT this summer on new resources I want to try out. I think the biggest drawback is that the Curriculum Coordinator position won't be filled until after the school year starts. I hate the thought of starting the year with a group of students and then turning them over to someone new. Any thoughts?<div><br></div><div>Renee</div>Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-39522390986715846112014-02-03T21:17:00.001-06:002014-02-03T21:17:14.338-06:00February? Really?HOW can it be February? We celebrated our 100th Day last week. It still scares me all that is left to teach before May. My feelings might have something to do with the fact we missed 5 days in January and we were out again today. I made the decision two weeks ago to cover my lesson plans with small post-it notes. I'm tired of crossing out and drawing arrows all over my plans! At least this way I just move the post-it's. :-)<div><br></div><div>We have some HUGE events coming up at school. Friday is Cupid's Cafe--our culminating activity for our Economics unit and one of my favorite days of the year! My class gets to operate a restaurant out of our classroom and serve customers from other classes. The kids love it!!</div><div><br></div><div>Next week is our Reading Around the World week and we have a visiting author, visiting illustrator, book character parade, and family reading night! I'm hosting the Intermediate author's cafe. Shew!</div><div><br></div><div>This week we are starting our Matter unit in science. I picked up a couple of resources at the TpT sale yesterday that will really boost my unit. I'm also teaching Economics and activities to reinforce point of view and theme. </div><div><br></div><div>I'll leave you with a pic of my zebra finches. The one without orange cheeks is my new bird. This one is female-- my class named her Mango! Ha! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNfDIUkz1E8K_-fCKymGI7epRISbMYr0Cj_TrZvSAAWCoGtgXk_j7uhu457GvCGIgBBIfUJCUx6LBfziw0HO9dXPz6fkbGBWtmE0rt1-eAPJjmAkGFqQd1rZuh2yWEELmEacKwhS8Vzae8/s640/blogger-image--1395451826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNfDIUkz1E8K_-fCKymGI7epRISbMYr0Cj_TrZvSAAWCoGtgXk_j7uhu457GvCGIgBBIfUJCUx6LBfziw0HO9dXPz6fkbGBWtmE0rt1-eAPJjmAkGFqQd1rZuh2yWEELmEacKwhS8Vzae8/s640/blogger-image--1395451826.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-45237664592732208792014-01-03T06:00:00.000-06:002014-01-03T07:56:13.793-06:00January CurrentlyI'm excited to link up for <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2013/12/january-currently.html" target="_blank">Farley's January Currently</a>. I've missed these!!! Here is yet another reason I need to be more faithful in my blogging during school. :-)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitjyBAOM3AhnWjWe0oz_Zq8PzGZwH8vJKRQwwmNtP7Rkh_4K3p5ktFq91vmfZR313ioilIbE-aUmeMHlaVhYCkX5_vKMyK9WkYwGIH6pGtCH399cuWebpR2JYuHFtzLTh8XDHHjKCzUgU1/s1600/Slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitjyBAOM3AhnWjWe0oz_Zq8PzGZwH8vJKRQwwmNtP7Rkh_4K3p5ktFq91vmfZR313ioilIbE-aUmeMHlaVhYCkX5_vKMyK9WkYwGIH6pGtCH399cuWebpR2JYuHFtzLTh8XDHHjKCzUgU1/s640/Slide1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
*Listening--I was thrilled when I opened Seasons 1-3 of Downton Abbey for Christmas. My husband did well this year! I've been watching episodes here and there when the kids go to bed. It's been wonderful! I can't wait for season 4 to begin. I was late joining the craze, but since I have a crush on all things British I had to check it out. Of course, I was hooked after the first episode!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_pwBI1PPWZh_NpwBG0TLh-QVe-57Je1Dp_3-8LpzUNC4oioMicTEeFZ7-5s6exVzo6OYxhHJDunsiH7xgWGrJ7FQJx5jFH9DqFbVXWnRmxT0PH6A1iolis6zyStLmwqxHIbCpIUL2yK3/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_pwBI1PPWZh_NpwBG0TLh-QVe-57Je1Dp_3-8LpzUNC4oioMicTEeFZ7-5s6exVzo6OYxhHJDunsiH7xgWGrJ7FQJx5jFH9DqFbVXWnRmxT0PH6A1iolis6zyStLmwqxHIbCpIUL2yK3/s1600/images.jpeg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Loving--Even though my kids won't let me sleep "late" it has been oh-so-nice to keep my alarm turned off for two weeks. Usually one or both will snuggle with me in the mornings before we head into the kitchen to make breakfast. I have also enjoyed no makeup and comfy clothes. Whatever will I do on Monday?!? I'm afraid it will be quite a rude awakening.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm41A_kutTMxEXEdjCd29K_K-L15J7wIGJauuLwTX8d-B3lc5_i3Nf8-gPJfLsL-4UmrXKSZX0EuXQJYTzZoU1IcOcktMpSVB1mgvrOUKXQWtJGGfee1mcFU38ry6RF8obVUfyj-4HTddk/s1600/alarm-clock-ringing-2-1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm41A_kutTMxEXEdjCd29K_K-L15J7wIGJauuLwTX8d-B3lc5_i3Nf8-gPJfLsL-4UmrXKSZX0EuXQJYTzZoU1IcOcktMpSVB1mgvrOUKXQWtJGGfee1mcFU38ry6RF8obVUfyj-4HTddk/s200/alarm-clock-ringing-2-1.gif" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Thinking--My students keep Leadership Notebooks, but I'm afraid I'm not very good at helping them record their data and using it to set their own learning goals. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/4th-Grade-Common-Core-Math-Student-Data-Tracking-Binder-Pack-ALL-STANDARDS-288417" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh19loCo92MKXjkRDFFlpt3pQcoYlM90nWrbY5csT_roMbUwfono5JrDK0ctFtiJi7vmIGU6fZLUXVFDufFgL9z6uOQkLBVzVeTXTw0mbiwzDVXq5V8lVArQFgMTdIGHRKqvyqsWiD8cVwq/s200/original-288417-1.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
That's why I'm excited about one of my most recent TpT purchases, Miss Nannini's Student Data pack. only purchased the 4th grade set. I thought it might be better for me to ease in rather than diving in head first. :-) We are currently in the middle of our fractions units so we can start there. I'm anxious to get started with it since there's still half a year left.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Wanting--All we ever seem to get is a dusting of snow, and my children (as well as all of my students) are itching to throw snowballs and make snow angels. It seems like we live in a protective bubble that keeps REAL snow away. I bought sleds, snow pants, and snow boots a couple of years ago in hopes of snow, but all we managed was to outgrow the boots and pants! They are predicting an active winter, so maybe, just maybe…<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxtxu9d1SSyCijrplfSPrpQdUDAE-KgOtVTRVlKFIcJiBhGA3DtLh_sKE9CXPoEi5nyb6vmlRVJkzsHKuKzXw99f5AWUvaHbbsMu1do6rSVSCMAFJicmQ7ViZqaDY7CYJ9_sn-Gl111mkg/s1600/snowman-clipart.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxtxu9d1SSyCijrplfSPrpQdUDAE-KgOtVTRVlKFIcJiBhGA3DtLh_sKE9CXPoEi5nyb6vmlRVJkzsHKuKzXw99f5AWUvaHbbsMu1do6rSVSCMAFJicmQ7ViZqaDY7CYJ9_sn-Gl111mkg/s200/snowman-clipart.gif" width="174" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Needing--<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOdxPhY8GGy2-rpuapsY_Fo8txSq6zkaYP7PzuNtEnf5liLt1OKPgeukj-B-4yBvL2KzSDyyExwxvzRqC8MpxKGCpFYhzTUeRhQw4iXCZErs70tU16HnQOVG0eq4_hOPGM_mX1_QVMJNcR/s1600/37220_full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOdxPhY8GGy2-rpuapsY_Fo8txSq6zkaYP7PzuNtEnf5liLt1OKPgeukj-B-4yBvL2KzSDyyExwxvzRqC8MpxKGCpFYhzTUeRhQw4iXCZErs70tU16HnQOVG0eq4_hOPGM_mX1_QVMJNcR/s200/37220_full.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
At home and at school. I dearly need to purge but I find it awfully hard. My thought is always that I'll need it as soon as I get rid of it! LOL! I've tried to tackle a cabinet or drawer each day over the break. I know it's tot much, but it is at least a start.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Tradition--My family always has cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning. Growing up we ate after we opened gifts, but now that my sister and I have homes of our own, we meet for Christmas mid-morning and eat first. It's a simple breakfast but I'm thankful for such a small but important tradition. My mom passed away five years ago, but my dad kept it going. He makes sure he has cinnamon rolls, milk, and juice for us.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqm5nTlg1nC7IsT6qPYBnkcpMbQ-GkkufqC7AOfHW9jAJ6rn4PMQcOAFYuLib3nJDkgAhAJWY0iSSdinYs1U4BlwXdr_jVa9gUfjJzyNi_aC1IshKLCNle7a0kLZUXF1k0cxUuJR9wmgP/s1600/images-2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqm5nTlg1nC7IsT6qPYBnkcpMbQ-GkkufqC7AOfHW9jAJ6rn4PMQcOAFYuLib3nJDkgAhAJWY0iSSdinYs1U4BlwXdr_jVa9gUfjJzyNi_aC1IshKLCNle7a0kLZUXF1k0cxUuJR9wmgP/s200/images-2.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I did visit my classroom yesterday. Mostly I pulled materials to bring home for planning, but I did move my job board to a different bulletin board. I am kicking off the new year with behavior beads, so I needed a place to display my students' accomplishments. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Braggin-About-Behavior-Beads-Monthly-Homework-Club-752077" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQj89332Mgod850A9JdY1wnx0BKwoGU_iu-RDOVqT-SXCpBDDfJU5fU_-lXwm9HRoQYjqit6NyPCBxHXdkepGVmK_DT2UWvNMQ0VAEKspi0sJQMyV4F25FIyssm23Xd4RA2dR3Z59Ik3pN/s320/original-752077-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I'm going go start off with the homework club beads and the reading goals beads. Then I plan to add the 7 Habits and Bucket Filler beads. I cannot wait to see my students' faces when I tell them about it!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I have much to do before Monday!<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo194/gobigbluebg/signaturebubble.jpg" style="width: NaN%;" />Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-47699630830791566872013-12-30T10:09:00.001-06:002013-12-30T10:09:58.704-06:00Preparing for the New YearDecember sort of flew by for me and I didn't even get to everything I'd planned. Can anyone else relate? I have set a goal to be more organized and intentional in my planning for the second semester. I'm going to sit down with my Common Core tracking tools and create *NEW* maps for myself to make sure I fill in all the gaps and fully prepare my students for the next level. Yes, I thought I'd done that with my original maps, and according to those maps I had. But, let's face it, things happen that are out of our control and we get behind.<div><br></div><div>I'm actually excited about starting fresh with the new year. I purchased a few sets of behavior beads in August but I didn't feel they were a good fit for my class at the time. I think now would be perfect for introducing them and get my class re-energized in the new year!</div><div><br></div><div>I'd also fallen off the math centers wagon in the last month. Both my 3rd and 4th graders were studying fractions and I found myself teaching to both groups at times. It worked well for their initial chapters in fractions because my fourth graders needed a little review and I could introduce a couple of concepts earlier to my third graders. However, it's time to get back to centers! My kids need them and I love spiraling the math through the center activities. This means I need to print out a couple of new ones and pulling out a couple I made last year. </div><div><br></div><div>For Reading, I have so many ideas my head is spinning! This is where I will spend the bulk of my mapping time. There are just too many wonderful books, activities, and choices out there! Not to mention all of the fab TpT purchases I've made and still have in my wish list. :-) I definitely need to work on my fables/folk tales/myths/fairy tales unit and I can't wait to use Nicole Shelby's Greek Mythology products. I love all of her things. I also pinned a few things on Pinterest last night for this unit. I think this will be mid-January because I really, really want to start off with Mr. Popper's Penguins! I purchased a few things last year from TpT to use with my last group and they loved it!</div><div> </div><div>And, of course, I hope to find time for blogging this year. I think about it a lot, but...well...you know...</div><div><br></div><div>What do all of you have up your sleeves for the New Year?</div><div><br></div><div>Renee'</div>Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-58894018342162018392013-08-23T21:16:00.000-05:002013-08-23T21:16:01.020-05:00Five for Friday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://doodlebugsteaching.blogspot.com/2013/08/five-for-friday-linky-party-august-23.html"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgH71hIRWmFBFC6UIyFHLNVs34t7Mgeo2QcDJoauL1x48A8I7ltsiNR469_vK4abvCgdtd0e2bLcM7HFkBUk4K4c6klO5InipeNghSgYVclHSscW4o5vdB-vbcRElpFKeQucLm-lGnF1LD/s320/fiveforfriday2%5B5%5D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
1. My Personal Mission Statement. At our Leader in Me training this summer we were presented with the challenge of crafting our own personal mission statement. I tried to think about how I want to live my life and the message I want to send to others through my actions. I finally wrote my personal mission statement and I'm pretty excited about it!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBTmIIMmC7vvLmQPvqjY_BFlydoDqGEYL1xXaNPYvEkhnlE3LfoKJUKhJNxgkJ5hYpo7QoNcEiUtEhLI5bFihX2dPxyQwAuhihLG-O9VpwplU-qj7QPICvWh0-iZ_fN3RtH7jI0SrcOvHO/s1600/Slide2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBTmIIMmC7vvLmQPvqjY_BFlydoDqGEYL1xXaNPYvEkhnlE3LfoKJUKhJNxgkJ5hYpo7QoNcEiUtEhLI5bFihX2dPxyQwAuhihLG-O9VpwplU-qj7QPICvWh0-iZ_fN3RtH7jI0SrcOvHO/s320/Slide2.jpg" 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;">
<br /></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;">
<span style="text-align: left;">2. Class Mission Statement. This week my class brainstormed ideas for out class mission statement and we decided on this one. Pretty great, huh?</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/AVvXsEh0hLnz78BwCyhFbyg59R3kxPdRODKTXQRYtae_QmgSuMut2JlDZbcqaW_Pld5wILl204wFm0-FYIsNAKo-ljLl1sEAvWJ4psnkEO4xWdks97pkb8ZLPubQMtmxVrPdhpBQ7Qe3FiLhBz-V/s1600/Slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0hLnz78BwCyhFbyg59R3kxPdRODKTXQRYtae_QmgSuMut2JlDZbcqaW_Pld5wILl204wFm0-FYIsNAKo-ljLl1sEAvWJ4psnkEO4xWdks97pkb8ZLPubQMtmxVrPdhpBQ7Qe3FiLhBz-V/s320/Slide1.jpg" 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: 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;">
3. Family Fun Friday! My family has adopted a new tradition--pizza and a movie every Friday night. I know it's a simple idea, but my little ones are so excited about it and it really gives us something to look forward to. I have to admit, this week I was equally excited about Teen Beach Movie and Crazy Bread!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.southernsavers.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Pizza_Bread-300x269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.southernsavers.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Pizza_Bread-300x269.jpg" /></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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4. Ingredients for a Great Year. I bought this beginning of the year activity on TpT. It's by <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cooking-Up-a-Great-Year-Together-a-tasty-back-to-school-activity-271528">Fourth and Ten</a>. My kids have loved it and we've had some great discussions about the traits we want to embody in our classroom community. My favorite is "Sharing" because I explained to my class it's also about sharing ideas and participating in lessons and discussions. Monday we get to wrap it all up with our trail mix!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cooking-Up-a-Great-Year-Together-a-tasty-back-to-school-activity-271528"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJ_6SldD-Vg8f_mFIQrwNeY7UPdVda9Fl4yC_DQI3B-JjH9Ex1_KJwzu4ldYftEzUsEhV3zq1bVUN-86Dj9LJuKb6T9mXOOeRov3J3grCoYe8WAQJzZUAi6rp1s5g61Ge8XcLDGsb893x/s320/home-271528-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></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: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
5. No alarm clock tomorrow makes me happy, happy, happy!!! Yes, my little ones will still get me up bright and early, but at least I get to lounge in my PJ's and drink a cup of coffee instead of rush, rush, rushing around trying to get everyone out the door! :-)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Have a great weekend, everyone!</div>
<br />
<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo194/gobigbluebg/signaturebubble.jpg" style="width: NaN%;" />Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-52951490070126934802013-08-19T21:13:00.001-05:002013-08-19T21:13:25.882-05:00I'm Back and a Freebie!Bloggin' Buddies, ya'll are Rock Stars! We started with students about a week and a half ago and I have been too worn out to even THINK about blogging! Honestly, I collapse into bed every night just behind my two little ones.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I have a 3/4 split class again this year, which I love. The biggest challenge this year is Trying to fit in two separate math classes. Last year my 4th graders split up among the three 4th grade classes for Math. (I have the only split; it was created due to numbers in third and fourth.) This year, though, the fourth grade classes are at cap and it would make them way too big if my kiddos join. Same goes for the third grade classes. I know many of you run multiple math groups daily, so I appreciate any and all tips. I have one hour in the morning and 30 minutes in the afternoon for math. I wish the blocks were together so I could do 45 and 45. I plan to have one grade work in stations while I have whole group instruction/practice with the other grade level. It's just a matter of time management, I guess.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I have started Reading to Self and informally introduced Working on Writing today. I really want to try a modified version of Daily 5 this year! I think it will work great with the group I have. We may try two days a week to start and then add another day later.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
One of my favorite things to do with my classes is a weekly Family Meeting. Every Friday during Social Studies time we gather for Family Meeting. There is an agenda sheet each week and students can sign up if there is something they would like to address with the class. Only 5 students can sign up to speak, and they are in charge of that agenda item. I love it because it gives them a voice and shows that it is OUR classroom, not just mine. After we discuss any items on the agenda (sometimes there aren't any, other times it's full) we have celebrations! We share bucket slips for the week, draw book slips for prizes (from AR tests), and have a drawing for behavior prizes. The kids love it and it's a great way to end our week. This year I'm adding in time for accountability partners (AccountabiliBuddies) to meet and check in on their goals.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Students are in the process of applying for their Leadership Positions (class jobs). I spent last week talking up the jobs and then handed out the application. The top of the page is a list of the jobs and a brief description and the bottom is the application itself. My three most popular jobs this time were critter keeper (of course!), meteorologist, and blue slip spy (school PBIS incentives). I filled as many jobs as possible, had the big unveiling ceremony this morning, and then handed out new applications for those that didn't get the jobs they applied for. Last year I only switched jobs quarterly, but this year I'm going to aim for 4-6 weeks. <br />
<br />
Now for the Freebie! I will email my Leadership Application to you if you'll leave your email in the comments! (I couldn't figure out how to link it and it's almost bedtime!) <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDx6xRI4PVKVTojjzkoLPW8iMBT8gBgEYmtccnrLxihePRQYvi7xQ97EhjQze_yVw3-OjeMyITYq_iOJK_ILZdkwoT4NZvE_Wogeq-c38XfJH1RtZT7o6D9KxsfVrG7hx0SAf7H-OnGmrD/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-08-19+at+8.59.55+PM.png" width="257" /></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My year is off to a great start! Hopefully I won't fall back off the blogging wagon!! I'll try to take some more classroom pics to share soon. And, I have tons of TpT purchases to print, laminate, cut out, and put to good use in my class! I spend a load and a half, but it will be so worth it!<br />
<br />
Later Taters,<br />
<br />
ReneeJ</div>
Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-91716217317697575912013-08-05T21:44:00.000-05:002013-08-05T21:44:38.295-05:00Monday Made It<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Tomorrow night is my Open House, and I'm so excited to meet my new students! I've been working non-stop in my classroom trying to get it all together. It's finished except for a few little things I can add later. I have several Monday Made Its to share with you tonight!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/2013/08/monday-made-it-august-5.html"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgURC0ErvDQt5GEAIIK7mSOCfiS1_OIKG02iwwb69jX_XcmBJQjehUJJXE0Q5MqXGWitiGiAPUQIZ_1EC13bpa0-qbB3Z0LIcggJZlTXf21muAuICYCQ2udv7BDRhjTo0Zug6vVqq9iDbO7/s200/3am_tara_madeitmonday_2013.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
This first one is one of my favorites. I found the print at Hobby Lobby on clearance for $10 and I immediately thought it would be perfect for showcasing selected work (I'm thinking student writing pieces). I hot glued sparkly clothes pins on the bottom of the sucker sticks. All I need is a title. What do you think of "Sweet Work"?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiaCtCdmBYkPAWdi3MivKUSL8L3S9xF31KjB4IjiKxI2qVT8Kq63r3DyM4i2Q5kaaGjQDCjOHz3iOcPN__VZNpI9512HKuR6tzDBzqa62OnAUIVDoV8bw6X4lMoxg_rzhE-s6300zW7uQc/s640/blogger-image--708989764.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiaCtCdmBYkPAWdi3MivKUSL8L3S9xF31KjB4IjiKxI2qVT8Kq63r3DyM4i2Q5kaaGjQDCjOHz3iOcPN__VZNpI9512HKuR6tzDBzqa62OnAUIVDoV8bw6X4lMoxg_rzhE-s6300zW7uQc/s640/blogger-image--708989764.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Here is a close up of the clothes pins.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKybObkxsOukAskHCL1HXBwl1lf5bW0TpaIO2eHCusHjaxCVxSlDcvj9nCvkOXI4RFn58d2Xb1BnOJ1b8frk2xyPInMagzRACLDICPOxf2mLJobFB3hL419Q4XxopI2yqDINpJtT0raY_g/s640/blogger-image-2105845068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKybObkxsOukAskHCL1HXBwl1lf5bW0TpaIO2eHCusHjaxCVxSlDcvj9nCvkOXI4RFn58d2Xb1BnOJ1b8frk2xyPInMagzRACLDICPOxf2mLJobFB3hL419Q4XxopI2yqDINpJtT0raY_g/s640/blogger-image-2105845068.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Next up: Washi tape clothes pins! These are for my hallway bulletin board. I made little chalkboard name plates for them and then hot glued push pins on the back. I didn't get a final picture, so maybe next week I can share the finished product!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjndC0SMWN9JjYy3tTWsJZe5LTY53KHGOwm7MiyNEZwLqIc3_BFlwlv-0SxA4L4cvVg1YNjmORcV8RravYn5vCcthCLFlA3oJz_iWRPeJ-s7kbrFtI-RcxrnJdw-qjQbtTfxjEKiRAHlxrx/s640/blogger-image--1965848426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjndC0SMWN9JjYy3tTWsJZe5LTY53KHGOwm7MiyNEZwLqIc3_BFlwlv-0SxA4L4cvVg1YNjmORcV8RravYn5vCcthCLFlA3oJz_iWRPeJ-s7kbrFtI-RcxrnJdw-qjQbtTfxjEKiRAHlxrx/s640/blogger-image--1965848426.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I finally got around to making my copy/file/grade labels for my bins. I love how this turned out! Thanks to Elizabeth at <a href="http://funin4b.blogspot.com/">Fun in Room 4B</a> for the freebie! The colors match my room theme. :-)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVSzPn33eIZ8gRTRFjbOBa3zTlZ4_0J1BJ2YGt38bzEBKiBwF5enmDdmP9oLzilbPyNFuf3fgAD9HxHaxLwmTcHfO-Avegj7LE_IDIUFTeizNnV7yWl5xAu9_ApV9lwzBxHX9dr2KQN1vL/s640/blogger-image--1958700328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVSzPn33eIZ8gRTRFjbOBa3zTlZ4_0J1BJ2YGt38bzEBKiBwF5enmDdmP9oLzilbPyNFuf3fgAD9HxHaxLwmTcHfO-Avegj7LE_IDIUFTeizNnV7yWl5xAu9_ApV9lwzBxHX9dr2KQN1vL/s640/blogger-image--1958700328.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
These are another of my favorite summer projects! I bought plain wooden frames from Michaels and painted them (I shared the empty frames in an earlier post). Then I purchased these motivational chalkboard sayings from <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Motivational-Sayings-and-Quotes-for-the-classroom-731971">Miss Nelson</a> and thought they were just perfect for the frames! Everyone that comes in my room comments on these right away! (Sorry about the picture quality. I really need to take my camera to school to get some decent shots. My phone camera just doesn't cut it.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72nqaIS7IKJjd_ou9K7MjZthFszYLwJE2KiUYyMghs9h6KvftY6WANGzWApweKzN6BJHI-_n9-fyLULjgvvAPFPmsPq79jHXomW1JrOJaNJR33mPVuypT4Hz7XqhDYI4_V1FfK3awQ2cW/s640/blogger-image--946948191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72nqaIS7IKJjd_ou9K7MjZthFszYLwJE2KiUYyMghs9h6KvftY6WANGzWApweKzN6BJHI-_n9-fyLULjgvvAPFPmsPq79jHXomW1JrOJaNJR33mPVuypT4Hz7XqhDYI4_V1FfK3awQ2cW/s640/blogger-image--946948191.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I found some colorful tie-dye packaging tape and thought that the colors would be cute in my room. I decided to purchase a pack of 4 small cork boards and cover the edges. I have a bulletin board over my desk for our big calendar. I used to put notes for myself under the calendar, but last year I decided to use part of that board for my prefix/suffix of the week so I didn't really have room for my "stuff" anymore. I think these will work nicely and I found a space just to the left of my desk for them.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_x3lYDp5I4E51E_rwniItpz_RyHy8xFYllolVEFqKj9jnU73vhlCPc2XxUBPr3Gckfyp7a2kE5IF4Ps72eCrdhaIHUhD3UU5D5728uCv_xCXYVAsc6hvL-hozAipvxqPR_32TVsvnSOx7/s640/blogger-image--922806201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_x3lYDp5I4E51E_rwniItpz_RyHy8xFYllolVEFqKj9jnU73vhlCPc2XxUBPr3Gckfyp7a2kE5IF4Ps72eCrdhaIHUhD3UU5D5728uCv_xCXYVAsc6hvL-hozAipvxqPR_32TVsvnSOx7/s640/blogger-image--922806201.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I also made <a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/">Tara's</a> Showing My Understanding chart. It's a freebie on her FB page, so be sure to follow 4th Grade Frolics on Face Book! Love how it looks on my painted wall!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX9cB1Pmq0n0MWbRijy-D8LAYsrXe7LpRgrnrjM7b-62V8gzLRgz8ufOQnTBznR7o6AzkIpzcS2CILafUZSPHjZ2FYEJOwFxXAVVXDkiJEV9myV_WQW2yV1vOlMeA5SCt4zjNiRbkUAAzd/s640/blogger-image-1596982502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX9cB1Pmq0n0MWbRijy-D8LAYsrXe7LpRgrnrjM7b-62V8gzLRgz8ufOQnTBznR7o6AzkIpzcS2CILafUZSPHjZ2FYEJOwFxXAVVXDkiJEV9myV_WQW2yV1vOlMeA5SCt4zjNiRbkUAAzd/s640/blogger-image-1596982502.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Please excuse the mess still on my back table and student desks, but this is the view of my painted wall. My mother-in-law made new curtains for me (LOVE!). Notice how the Sweet Work sucker print pops on that wall? You can also see my tissue paper pom-poms. I made those last year, and though they are starting to droop just a bit, I'm going to try to get one more year out of them since I didn't change my color scheme.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSg8Nm1kIcP4UctAr89nn8z9inEt0pZMkcsw-yalm2gse9xu_rM3zRGPicuj6Mv6mSOvS9ypUY-wABXf8LGFMWaxtRH-vxJXuuDoxclRPPWf0dJVPSTFuIHFVCSXuh8weIkPBomLxusWYW/s640/blogger-image--2068834505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSg8Nm1kIcP4UctAr89nn8z9inEt0pZMkcsw-yalm2gse9xu_rM3zRGPicuj6Mv6mSOvS9ypUY-wABXf8LGFMWaxtRH-vxJXuuDoxclRPPWf0dJVPSTFuIHFVCSXuh8weIkPBomLxusWYW/s640/blogger-image--2068834505.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It's all starting to come together! School starts this Thursday for students. When do you go back? Are you ready???<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvSNAweGD0wdOVrov-OfNga3lB51yhE3XGjUHw3easplnL_jGALJUzV0u-GX_20RCZzTpyC6MHkP4AA_KpgOCvj8cEAi1f_CviuUes2yOY-cMJIqcOWFJy9MTcEjjRobvt8X12x2hszQ2/s1600/signature.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/AVvXsEiuvSNAweGD0wdOVrov-OfNga3lB51yhE3XGjUHw3easplnL_jGALJUzV0u-GX_20RCZzTpyC6MHkP4AA_KpgOCvj8cEAi1f_CviuUes2yOY-cMJIqcOWFJy9MTcEjjRobvt8X12x2hszQ2/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-1438119444104815372013-08-01T22:30:00.001-05:002013-08-01T22:30:19.446-05:00Currently August<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I am so in "school mode" right now! I spent the bigger part of last weekend trying to unpack boxes and organize my classroom. Did I finish? Not even close! So I went back Wednesday afternoon and stayed until Midnight, determined to finish. Did I? Nope. But I'm closer than I was. I have my mess contained to a single table now, which is definite progress. I just REALLY don't want to get to the point where I put what's left in a box to sort through later, because later never seems to come. And then it stays in that box for the entire year and I fuss at myself in May when I start packing my room up again. Anyone else guilty of that? Please say yes.<br />
<br />
I am loving my new wall color at school and my most recent made-its. You'll have to check with me on Monday for the big reveal! <br />
<br />
Today we had PD, a Leader in Me student empowerment training. It was a great day! My head is swimming with ideas for next year and how to better my kids' Leadership Notebooks, creating my personal mission statement, and how I can take the Leader in Me to the next level in my classroom.<br />
<br />
For now though, I will share with you my August Currently...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2013/08/currently-august.html"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGpiZybJf3e-FsAGgImT8FX0Ev-fsxIqaNgWEK3MWlMJd9Nn7AX92xXlRGZZXy2_FE31eFr8JAVddkqF-DA5ytWdxzkhLOQBvCLOAE9Z5YGElbp0232X5vvyinlLwoKib12UpfuLocRxpi/s640/august+currently.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
If you haven't already, be sure to link up with Farley and share your Currently August.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2013/08/currently-august.html"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHYQLxWDAIOwe5FwcXaaQs-3JTWVfNTc5IQIzRafkarekP-SZHp-KB_cFg3XTeo9KzAHAuA8wzgavU3GsCAWJ3iT4LglFSaU0RU8clXXawjTnMsTWpfdFfNaz3Rf7bSldTZvCKhJpUwUW/s1600/farleybutton.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo194/gobigbluebg/signaturebubble.jpg" style="width: NaN%;" />Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-29775022181854864752013-07-22T08:30:00.002-05:002013-07-22T08:30:39.585-05:00Monday Made It!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">I still have some crafty ideas floating around in my head, but this week I tried my hand at Vistaprint for my Monday Made it. I was inspired by </span><a href="http://allthingsupperelementary.blogspot.com/2013/07/vista-print-fun-make-it-to-match-your.html" style="text-align: left;">Jennifer Findley</a><span style="text-align: left;"> from Teaching to Inspire in 5th and All Things Upper Elementary. She had a great post showing some of her Vistaprint goodies and talking about the Groupon deal she scored. I found my deal on Retail Me Not. With $50 purchase I got free shipping and some of the prices were unreal. My return address labels were less than $2 each! I created a ton of those. :-) Without further ado, I present to you a sampling of my Monday Made It! (Believe me, you don't want to see ALL of it!)</span></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="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/2013/07/monday-made-it-72213-early.html"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOx0_b04ZHPhUaOg8vOBtu7qaREnVu6nS-4dwfCUHQggftdLUExdScZf1LoTjeQGzhaw2Mv8AWlSotkMoQ8Ehjqoj4869ZgHdc3hnfu51re4ydlPN7Z0Cu7LKtgDLsdN_jFjeETliOWTcz/s320/3am_tara_madeitmonday_2013.png" 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;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6xD8Y8-kiXPLTlpkoz1pLIMOxruckc1XpWOX6R5p7BJ2ZqyCwzsvuVti-RrdvebzJu4RJZRuNxFneW_adE_bmCgD89-cJ_4ngdNenYDZ6Q7KmQj97fU6mKZNMNdEoHB3SaQ7OTFJXt9A6/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-20+at+5.34.20+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="104" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6xD8Y8-kiXPLTlpkoz1pLIMOxruckc1XpWOX6R5p7BJ2ZqyCwzsvuVti-RrdvebzJu4RJZRuNxFneW_adE_bmCgD89-cJ_4ngdNenYDZ6Q7KmQj97fU6mKZNMNdEoHB3SaQ7OTFJXt9A6/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-07-20+at+5.34.20+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I made Keep and Return labels for my students' folders.</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/AVvXsEhXJZH9Rhs3AThZnbLtHAROicpbvDbnQGKFoiJhWooE0VqlqYZ-q0CPvJ95GA8bKm5wOcnoLkk-r2Lp9fHOPS-mXEl46r1QfzB3EOB1stQPoUycKqsQGIB8sdjd4IqJzEsPV7_bHXg8yZx2/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-20+at+5.36.38+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="93" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJZH9Rhs3AThZnbLtHAROicpbvDbnQGKFoiJhWooE0VqlqYZ-q0CPvJ95GA8bKm5wOcnoLkk-r2Lp9fHOPS-mXEl46r1QfzB3EOB1stQPoUycKqsQGIB8sdjd4IqJzEsPV7_bHXg8yZx2/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-07-20+at+5.36.38+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I thought these would would be fantastic for students to stick in their agenda books!</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/AVvXsEjmcJ3-tGprls38KEP0z4YvnySAkHgoF9eLcWOpOGZracrhgxxT10gbLbhasSdiNnD9fJe-aPFIc3S91P5e5yT700kfK-x8E-UiF74h4WagqjKRAq32D9jnzKcl4yd7ZIYndN3Lo_lyRwzg/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-20+at+5.37.12+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmcJ3-tGprls38KEP0z4YvnySAkHgoF9eLcWOpOGZracrhgxxT10gbLbhasSdiNnD9fJe-aPFIc3S91P5e5yT700kfK-x8E-UiF74h4WagqjKRAq32D9jnzKcl4yd7ZIYndN3Lo_lyRwzg/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-07-20+at+5.37.12+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I also made labels for their journals (math, science, ELA, and writing.)</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/AVvXsEgkjfqKBbBDHJ_ZOuE-epUA9BC3DD1ifgP1hbEefGcRRDnfQA-c0bV4QCpfrIVf5YdURmBK5eDvCGTEO4MMJcLtVJiK9gai3QEenHYjcTCi8-hWCHNvKElrFoyeKRMq12zFAtVUC2iquBon/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-20+at+5.35.48+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkjfqKBbBDHJ_ZOuE-epUA9BC3DD1ifgP1hbEefGcRRDnfQA-c0bV4QCpfrIVf5YdURmBK5eDvCGTEO4MMJcLtVJiK9gai3QEenHYjcTCi8-hWCHNvKElrFoyeKRMq12zFAtVUC2iquBon/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-07-20+at+5.35.48+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I also made cute homework passes using the business cards. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Digital papers are from <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Stitches-Stripes-Ice-Cream-Shoppe-Digital-Background-Papers-771028">Lovin' Lit</a> and <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fruit-Punch-12x12-Digital-Papers-for-Commercial-Use-485744">Ashley Hughes</a>. Frames are MrsDsBorders and <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Tonyas-Treats-For-Teachers">TRDoodleFrameSet</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;">
This was actually my first attempt at using digital papers and frames to create something. It took me a while to get the hang of it, but I'm really pleased with how it all turned out. What have you created on Vistaprint? Any tips and/or ideas are welcome!!</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;">
<br /></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;">
<br /></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;">
<br /></div>
Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-78930540622311948732013-07-21T22:56:00.000-05:002013-07-21T22:56:07.786-05:0010 Things I've Learned from Teaching<div>
Tonight I'm linking up with Miss Kindergarten. I had a chance to do some reflecting with this post and I think it's helped me to get even more mentally prepared for school to start. The Hubs is an elementary administrator. After I shared my list with him, he was so impressed by the linky topic he may use it with his staff!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://www.miss-kindergarten.com/2013/07/10-things-ive-learned-from-teaching.html"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBOmJOFiK7AxEz_2hlOh7X4bmfsT_WNs5SLpyp_PS9O4iPrC4GD1ugMhfvgRkOzSfHZRBPSHq5tAZLuq5q_w3079NBmlSG0jdgE7PygLeVxBHp14A1RU_lYQRQKoHl5PnCFj3dGQ5o_mxM/s640/blogger-image--249576938.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
1. Expect the unexpected. No matter how prepared you "think" you are, you just never know what will happen--good or bad! Lol!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
2. Every August you get a chance to do it better. I always teach like it's my first year because I'm always looking to be better than I was the year before. Hence, my blog name "Growing a Teacher."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
3. Negativity is poison and it spreads. I try to avoid "Negative Nellies" because I don't like how their attitude rubs off on me and brings down my day. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
4. There is no one strategy that works for every child. I once heard a young teacher say she knew what works and wanted her new teammate to do it her way. Wow! Dangerous words for sure. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
5. Laugh at yourself in front of your students. It makes you human in their eyes and gives them freedom to make mistakes. Plus, it's a lot more fun!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
6. Building a classroom family atmosphere is essential. I try to emphasize this from the get go.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
7. Keep an open mind. About kids, parents, peers, new initiatives, etc. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
8. Make your students feel important and let them know you care about them. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
9. Ask for help. It's a sign of strength not weakness. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
10. The journey isn't always easy, but it's so worth it!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What have you learned from teaching?</div>
Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-30984922665032082362013-07-19T23:40:00.000-05:002013-07-19T23:40:51.723-05:00Blue Wall and Cool Finds<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Okay, so I've been frantically trying to put our house back together. Hardwood floors are finished and look ah-mazing! (But there is dust everywhere!). I haven't had time to do anything else in my classroom besides paint, but I think painting is pretty major! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Anywho, here is the before pic...Boring!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQjUMz5Lmkoim-6-Yrnp2-uuEPpRrNuZsyKsJAVWOtBmMAgeQxLE3x5sIVquq-4sXm7TgMwf5vRm77ux_xeUyh_3Ryp09Tk_hW0On3VWkUvHUkXRJkpU9JVWKNeyTez4g42fLf0GFJeHz/s640/blogger-image--1051839192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQjUMz5Lmkoim-6-Yrnp2-uuEPpRrNuZsyKsJAVWOtBmMAgeQxLE3x5sIVquq-4sXm7TgMwf5vRm77ux_xeUyh_3Ryp09Tk_hW0On3VWkUvHUkXRJkpU9JVWKNeyTez4g42fLf0GFJeHz/s640/blogger-image--1051839192.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
And here is the after!!! (Please excuse the mess.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbkdAVVNFS0k0iKQcozrDFCDKIcN936mkAoc-STosr3HFfqQnFK3JXB0unixnyWPdICEXlbx8XkCvY7QdqIj3HCc-o4mmVQfwR2szPd6SvDi5K2zo11SQ12K16IudgIwVq62n9sl3gWljf/s640/blogger-image-1081422287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbkdAVVNFS0k0iKQcozrDFCDKIcN936mkAoc-STosr3HFfqQnFK3JXB0unixnyWPdICEXlbx8XkCvY7QdqIj3HCc-o4mmVQfwR2szPd6SvDi5K2zo11SQ12K16IudgIwVq62n9sl3gWljf/s640/blogger-image-1081422287.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I found these frames at Michael's on clearance for $1 each so I painted them the same color as my focus wall. Not sure what I'll put in them yet, but I'm going to use them on another wall to tie in with the focus wall. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLvsyTIa_51FzNvzLsnOG6grvRAjFLwj1dJcWBV54AiZXGMzupDyCBZRT5CQwn1kZhDpoWBxHGJFw7oXWVFOjUCv_W5q-BVBHvkm7i2q4v61HQgDqyaPhEgjcW6RpWd0av0-OzADC9hRL/s640/blogger-image--1572906843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLvsyTIa_51FzNvzLsnOG6grvRAjFLwj1dJcWBV54AiZXGMzupDyCBZRT5CQwn1kZhDpoWBxHGJFw7oXWVFOjUCv_W5q-BVBHvkm7i2q4v61HQgDqyaPhEgjcW6RpWd0av0-OzADC9hRL/s640/blogger-image--1572906843.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I love everyone's painted/papered READ letters and I definitely want to do that, but let's get real. My wish list of to-do things is much longer than I can accomplish between now and the start of school! I happened upon these felt letters (Michael's again) for $1 each and they go with my room colors. Score! These will get me through this year no problem. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYA4B1T1MJhHvxO6oR-k9DVwZE22g2wExT6Fx7-u7Es9kEAjK1648AwexViDhheA678yiOMECbdjtKQ7SaZKYOpGDPvMMqID8Ap5KusiMylaW7fEo8mus-ZX9LiqICdafDrd_aiC4gNSHf/s640/blogger-image--104900201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYA4B1T1MJhHvxO6oR-k9DVwZE22g2wExT6Fx7-u7Es9kEAjK1648AwexViDhheA678yiOMECbdjtKQ7SaZKYOpGDPvMMqID8Ap5KusiMylaW7fEo8mus-ZX9LiqICdafDrd_aiC4gNSHf/s640/blogger-image--104900201.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
These are my class pets. They are Zebra Finches. I went in to check on them the other night and they were both sleeping in the same basket. How cute is that? I had to take a picture and share. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdbErGB2EBybampX_xtqNtkksLI01wMGCd5KMDauMfb86n65CpxVAiJOxVRBYoBEArnByFJECaPKp5ag8jMv13hVgWcKvdgpIZY-UrOJ8Mai1B2EF2VNCthJWg3c-b_IkH00w7mquaNs59/s640/blogger-image--1907680017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdbErGB2EBybampX_xtqNtkksLI01wMGCd5KMDauMfb86n65CpxVAiJOxVRBYoBEArnByFJECaPKp5ag8jMv13hVgWcKvdgpIZY-UrOJ8Mai1B2EF2VNCthJWg3c-b_IkH00w7mquaNs59/s640/blogger-image--1907680017.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Hopefully next week the house will be "whole" again and I can focus on my room and get my craft on. :-)<br />
<br />Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-60827855342990634322013-07-16T10:17:00.001-05:002013-07-16T10:17:26.062-05:00Painting Time!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jCwTS4M1v-_AHhOd5ClqfctSdQArtjoiPik2Sl0OqsNkzCAGzn4JBGwY9WN7iexuCmay0MMBV_7sGeqCb_vrQiMZzBayST8feg_k8cQi4_Rsh2sncTSsscRfZ9m2AANLCJnua722Uwkl/s640/blogger-image-1731610140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jCwTS4M1v-_AHhOd5ClqfctSdQArtjoiPik2Sl0OqsNkzCAGzn4JBGwY9WN7iexuCmay0MMBV_7sGeqCb_vrQiMZzBayST8feg_k8cQi4_Rsh2sncTSsscRfZ9m2AANLCJnua722Uwkl/s640/blogger-image-1731610140.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I got "the call" that my room is ready for me to move back in. We have been given permission to paint a focus wall, so I bought some paint earlier this summer. I think the hubs and my sister might help me paint tonight!!! I will definitely share pics of the before and after. Keeping my fingers crossed that we can get it done tonight. :-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br>Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-8740961094121293832013-07-12T13:30:00.002-05:002013-07-12T14:04:01.742-05:00Sorry for the 2nd post...I'm feelin' pretty silly right now...<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/8851971/?claim=ystmyd7u4j2">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a><br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It seems I never "claimed" my blog on Bloglovin'. <b>If you have become a follower by clicking on the button on the right, please do it again...it takes you to a different "Growing a Teacher" blog.</b> Who knew there were two of us?!? This might explain why my number of followers hasn't changed in a week. Aye, aye, aye! <br />
<br />
I think blogging for me is one step forward, two steps back! Lol.... </div>
<div>
<br />
Will I ever get the hang of it?!?</div>
Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-13567391102837799972013-07-12T10:47:00.004-05:002013-07-12T10:49:26.180-05:00Favorite Pins Friday!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2013/07/favorite-pins-friday_12.html"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4KCEpyHNN6IK-xzMH0lj2eLN0AD6hmiVrxAelNqgvwEhqYPps6lKaT9PuJEzMaKzn0RU86ZghUS03vXNLW9_l4S10ANpeD2eLLmSZUTjJ9nfemLqIk2E-jIZ3qTV-QwHjhpqNaWhWmyj7/s1600/FavoritePinsButton.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'm linking up with First Grade Parade for this week's Favorite Pins Friday! I chose four of my favorite pins to feature today. I hope you see something you like, too! Click on the pics to visit the websites the pins came from.<br />
<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="http://www.storiesofahouse.com/2010/09/have-you-ever-received-text-like-this.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-A-dcI1iJeflrzn2CA7QB0BuFqHNN_eQsKNmTpPqce7-PYW_VqDe2ZFGsH4jYS0apuEavS6YQqZcUqhyphenhyphensHhXRy_Qr0MCKWkhNQtyq3k70rLKcZxKZ1Fyra8BG_kkYtXwZYuolYDOOQbeP/s320/c48952b556b65ad127a15dd68f5602db.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
This Pin from Stories of a House shows how to paint and distress furniture. I won't get to this project any time soon, but it's definitely on my "list." I'd love to pick up and odd set of table and chairs (would also love a bench for one side of the table) and then do it up Pottery Barn style!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pearls-handcuffs-happyhour.blogspot.com/2011/04/two-timin-pasta.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFbfO4gjadRQ0nUVrIYGol3ReP5EjSq03NVxrWDGL3PeVt1J8k-rpjUVi9MpARkJ1VyQ7q77hKJH1ci3hx8iV3zAZEfTj87YR38ms19i-wJzDjqVWWZMvcH61guy_kPBwtu2ZHn3dSeUC-/s320/f68b6b3083f469432663e7e0aca66888.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Two Timin' Pasta Bake</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I made this for dinner last night. Can I just say Yumm Yumm! I did make two minor changes. I used shells instead of penne (smaller bites for my little ones) and I added sausage. Add a little garlic bread and this meal was a winner for my family.</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: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bubble-Gum-Day-for-3rd-4th-Graders-737112"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8qSYsLqaBtlOWxJO6JIWBmZkAuzBCBWLF72vLLr5ihsGVrIE4tPgDta_1Kih7mstoTA7ih9qEjuDJ5vsnWP80naWwM3ikX5oagOnJPJ_WpXgucapP222KPCmpY1FsCkowuHWZCuflWt10/s1600/bcaf7071a9673a87b703a697c843d1ab.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I purchased this little piece of fun from <a href="http://ideasbyjivey.blogspot.com/">Ideas by Jivey</a> and I cannot wait to use it with my third/fourth graders this year! I will be their new favorite teacher for sure!!!</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;">
<a href="http://oneextradegree.blogspot.com/2012/05/little-bit-of-this-little-bit-of-that.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6VIfConGl1q6l3IUSySJjtqkh1bwtNp0RHyszNmVqldVAz6dWmgKraTVydluxofC9iAAwW-FRzhL_wdiGp81GntxC3OMlVsnupJXJBERKJYbSbyegwwQW5XTOLzynnH6uISQ3BUi8Q8k/s320/227b6ee9ee39a95415375056441a470f.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I found this pin from <a href="http://oneextradegree.blogspot.com/">One Extra Degree</a> and I fell in love. I've seen others use the book <u>Donovan's Word Jar</u> and then have an actual jar in their classroom for collecting words. I like the idea of kids collecting words, but I didn't like the "out of sight, out of mind" issue once the words were in the jar. This is such a simple solution but a real "aha" moment for me. I am for sure doing this!</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;">
There you have it! I'm off to see what everyone else has pinned recently. Maybe I can get a new idea for dinner next week or a new craft project to add to my ever increasing "list." :-) Happy Pinning everyone!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo194/gobigbluebg/signaturebubble.jpg" style="width: NaN%;" /><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-28501824822622579462013-07-10T16:41:00.000-05:002013-07-10T16:41:13.344-05:00Ten Pin Linky<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justreed-ashley.blogspot.com/2013/07/ten-pin-linky-party-science-social.html"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyRpIccOdlalJkNbM5XaRp2LbFaIm2LBf5QzmeHqYBTESeU4DGoO-0JkWwMQWKUGyjSWNTVr5rJVZQgzKEkoylNRCyf3ihvnMlnVjF2fo_bb1djYz-tnSPFv6PGkQ2F_USvKqDC8YfDeg_/s320/Ten+Pin+Linky.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I. adore. Pinterest.<br />
My three year old wants me to lay down with him at night while he goes to sleep. This is a special time for us and we get in lots of snuggles. However, some nights he just refuses to fall asleep! On a bad night it can take over an hour. Sigh! Anywho, I've gotten to where I take my phone or iPad with me, and I get on Pinterest while he settles in. So.....this Linky is right up my alley! <br />
<br />
In Kentucky 4th grade students are assessed in Science, so I am always on the lookout for new pins! Here are a few of my recent Science and Social Studies pins.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thesciencepenguin.com/2013/05/skittles-and-scientific-method.html"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48caFCjXFrrnyZfXnRylV9meMaZNQz96zB2Nz9MhVkvnA1UddIVqISAPWX7pWORNa328Efxbw2_4gP6xDQufPv7-EfYQvj0my4GQ6FdyQpCugjgwn0sFaLqPhPTw-XuG-upXIH2vlIwr0/s1600/f103959549818b3f0173c74fe4235b99.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Skittles and the Scientific Method</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I usually start the year out with scientific method. How fun to use skittles for our first experiment? This lesson is from <a href="http://www.thesciencepenguin.com/">The Science Penguin</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMdlJVRDbKjp7z9lqR5OPlkEjZxCLH-ZiSLMz26xgWReDniDDIuo2yq9ZK9P4yhX2pN8_Pl1pPXxfCxvy9kojc1l7MPeMhQ9gQHAICxsJXuNcusFqI5MlxGK0m1echFkoudYgzsEdkPj82/s1600/039821eb95c01bc7fce7f3ade6002d7a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMdlJVRDbKjp7z9lqR5OPlkEjZxCLH-ZiSLMz26xgWReDniDDIuo2yq9ZK9P4yhX2pN8_Pl1pPXxfCxvy9kojc1l7MPeMhQ9gQHAICxsJXuNcusFqI5MlxGK0m1echFkoudYgzsEdkPj82/s1600/039821eb95c01bc7fce7f3ade6002d7a.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Pizza Box Solar Oven</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
When I tried to visit the website I got the "suspicious link" warning. BUT, one of my new teammates said she used to do something like this in GA, so I'm very excited that I'll get to try this out with my kiddos this year!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://theinspiredclassroom.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2011-09-12T04:57:00-07:00&max-results=7&start=35&by-date=false"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOkWvR6hl6tFHJtEhpKGnQx4NQFhccsigKESo0z8wr4dPjXYhyphenhyphenlRGKXrh-7OwbUxbO0A3a1elREOyV9-wnaX1O17oomkQwmUZEpwJIATAOO8EKf-8rQ_pfqhFkh4Fsvuh5w32AX9iLT_BH/s1600/9cfe2903984523d18cde2001e4ff91ca.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Photosynthesis Model</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I am definitely moving toward the interactive Science notebook this year. We have always used science journals for note-taking, but I want to take it to the next level! I love this model for photosynthesis!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://larremoreteachertips.blogspot.com/search/label/force%20and%20motion"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTyU6JhJBbb7O2QDnh-YxRYMu5V1OcB5UEWd9NQXF8JMLB5Xp16iUgu8oZbxMhkJg4iA8sgcPr3egbbjcxTWaFH3OgCAVaWLxk2AnAgOIE6beor2hlq_pCiCcVqqbGjYQ6gfxYVeVnr-L3/s1600/321558adb5af0575cc29a6ef9b092936.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Using Non-Fiction Picture Books</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I LOVE this series of books. In fact, I just picked up two more today at Barnes and Noble. They take science concepts and write about them in a way that students can read independently and comprehend. I made a HUGE push with my class last year for reading Non-Fiction. In fact, I made it part of their weekly AR goal. Many of them had been afraid of reading Non-Fiction before but found that they really enjoyed it. Plus, I got to hear lots of talk about science as they shared with one another what they were reading. :-)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://mrsfeinmansclass.blogspot.ca/search/label/soil"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Fh7PIUQPttjTfEVXfDLJy6SioHA2hL0NskbXp0R9Zhm_zlHH9nTVfoth3jjOhvl7rjrmtCtahmOz-nIDX6NVM8c9MBjMij5OOEdYYJCnuMSIVDBvdGaFdKeD5tSGxHyeDipe3nhXnBpc/s320/47520d69a9ee589a586f9f970589d146.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Edible Soil Layers </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I try to incorporate food in my science lessons whenever possible. Why? Kids love it and they remember it! We made these last year during the first semester when we studied soil. At the end of the year when we were reflecting on activities we loved, this one came up multiple times!!!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/64457838387204462/"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtSbjg9klbW7EgBafJ9aIhbYb5lzKlOzWDxke4F74LxJH9YsHCT26m4VG33P-T7W8hnw2U4vpMcQJx0wePZkb5QTtnBOA2vM98l2jXyInLhSlkdJtVP8OYcTQMiAPOiPbtoL94CzlMLqrr/s1600/236eaabb550e0c41d8e8a79efeb50f02.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Sun, Earth, Moon</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
What a great visual for discussing day/night, seasons, and solar and lunar eclipses!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.doodle-art-alley.com/school-subject-coloring-pages.html"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP1ZkIVidLTHpAiQgxw31tNd18TN-QYpyl-3Kz6Y4dzcho7OXE0lOOU5_JfCxD0CyrGB0Z3KzPq3Qk1C-LNSOlSrDu9vqudY0-X75t_qBTWpE8I-5VZb9lwn0iJXznCGYuSyXGTkc2iNUe/s1600/d6815f85d8412b2c09c076b2dd4e98fa.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Science Journal Cover Sheet</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I want to let my kids decorate this page and either use it as the cover for their science notebooks or to use it as the first page. Isn't this a fun sheet?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Social Studies Pins</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://primarypractice.blogspot.com/2012/01/martins-big-words-and-writing-response.html"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqAzplz9anS0BtjB3kUVRx4vsp80MXf8YLBaEokLRDTDskLLjRa1bSwzd3eDV7CA9GAkJsGhJzPp3KSfqdiIi53sSwImXqzRWTddYHonk61Y7wz-Difyqd9gJrmddWXIRHlOOejWQnStUr/s320/952a1d87066edf6493a233045b7164aa.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Martin's Big Words Written Response</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I used this activity with my class last year, and I thought their responses showed a lot of insight.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://melissa-wade.blogspot.com/search/label/Anchor%20Charts"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkET5FsL4YW0DVck-8mNvzW0HExywsSXyLjVcdo26Egyj46seK9tPAO_Wyg2ejRxaKjCd9_kFe3o0wmz61lZNaNRV6d_c0oEs9TpfvC0t0jpzDvbANl73NfTPoa6cwwXSo0UfROKRJ3tO5/s320/db12eac4cddd6ae0a79231be6d242e94.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Branches of Government Tree</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I love this anchor chart. I think actually using a tree for the organizer makes so much sense!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/60114532/Bucket-Filling-Slips"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-JhLrz9ex0dBDZR77gjVbZj38PIcHN2La78tk-Tv4aOIqCpzVcusZU6HG6hezZ-WFcvEP-xK3iva2lnI3kK4QOrB-SxPs-IDs5D_MqrLggmE72gXf2EQI6UAggPW0WYg_UkFwax0jagUV/s1600/e9634b02771cb3e606a53792a804ba95.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Bucket Filling Slips</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I used these with my class last year and we all loved them. We shared our bucket slips at family meeting on Fridays. The kids were very disappointed if we ever had to miss a family meeting and would ask Monday morning if we could make it up that day. I'm a big believer in being a Bucket Filler!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I hope you enjoy checking out a few of my favorite Science/Social Studies pins. If you have some great ones, I hope you'll link up, too! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-10033543446787526272013-07-09T17:00:00.000-05:002013-07-09T17:01:02.137-05:00Liebster Award<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;">Oh My WOW! I have been nominated for a Liebster Award by Veronica at </span><a href="http://teachingwithgiggles.blogspot.com/" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; line-height: 18px;">Teaching with Giggles</a><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;">! I have been blogging for exactly 2 weeks and it has been so much fun! I'm following so many new blogs these days and gathering tons of great ideas. I am so excited to receive this award, along with other new bloggers. :-)</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiZBPCvw_uD10BY0kA_RIK1z24vxpqoZmpo8ZfMIr2lYTei-bautdtNYwdk0r6L5GtjsPHFSTVlwi91ZharXhQcs4rnYcpQNStYYmc9u_5uJPwt-qzFnyywufmXmDFud4hjtyBsA1dDu3s/s1600/Liebster+award.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiZBPCvw_uD10BY0kA_RIK1z24vxpqoZmpo8ZfMIr2lYTei-bautdtNYwdk0r6L5GtjsPHFSTVlwi91ZharXhQcs4rnYcpQNStYYmc9u_5uJPwt-qzFnyywufmXmDFud4hjtyBsA1dDu3s/s1600/Liebster+award.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Here are my 'rules' for accepting this nomination: </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">1. Link back to the blog that nominated me</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">2. Nominate 5-11 blogs with fewer than 200 followers</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">3. Answer the questions posted for you by your nominator</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">4. Share 11 random facts about yourself</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">5. Create 11 questions form your nominees</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">6. Contact your nominees and let them know you nominated them</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">--------------------------------------------------------------------</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><b>Here are the blogs I am nominating:</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><b><br /></b></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b><span style="line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">Katie at</span><span style="line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"> </span><a href="http://kdotslearningspot.blogspot.com/" style="line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">Kdot's Learning Spot</a></b></span><br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">Elizabeth at <a href="http://2preschoolpals.blogspot.com/">2 Preschool Pals</a></b><br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;">Cathy at <a href="http://mrswhitehead.com/">Mrs. Whitehead's</a></b><br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;">Lori at <a href="http://secondgradeserenade.blogspot.com/">Second Grade Serenade</a></b><br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;">Julia at <a href="http://lattesnlaughter.blogspot.com/">Lattes & Laughter</a></b><br />
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; line-height: 18px;">These are the questions that Veronica asked me:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b><br /></b></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b style="line-height: 18px;">1. How long have you been teaching? </b><span style="line-height: 18px;">This will be my 15th year teaching. (I wish that didn't sound so old!) Honestly, it doesn't feel like it's been that long. I guess because I like to keep it fresh.</span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b style="line-height: 18px;">2. What is your favorite grade to teach? </b><span style="line-height: 18px;">I am currently teaching a third/fourth split class, which I actually love. If I had to choose between the two, I'd probably say 4th edges out 3rd, just because I love my team. (I team with the 4th grade teachers.)</span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b style="line-height: 18px;">3. What is your favorite college memory? </b><span style="line-height: 18px;">I was at UK and lived on campus one of the years they won the National Championship. After the game, everyone flooded the streets and celebrated. It was awesome!!!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><b>4. What is your favorite grade school memory? </b>I already shared a memory about making a piñata in 4th grade, so I'll choose another memory...In my 5th grade reading class, the teacher divided us up into groups to write a class play. Each group was responsible for writing a different act for the play and had to build on what the previous group wrote. When it was all done, we got to act it out. This was a very lengthy project, but for the life of me I can't remember what our groups did when we weren't writing on the play. I guess because it wasn't as much fun? :-)</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><b>5. Have you lived in more than one state? </b> I am a Kentucky girl through and through. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><b>6. What is your dream vacation spot? </b>I would like to visit Alaska. I've heard it's beautiful there!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><b>7. If you were stranded on a deserted island, what would you take? </b>My iPad. Wait, I'm guessing I won't have wifi on a deserted island. Maybe I should rethink this one. Do you think they will have Starbucks? I think we have just established I would NEVER survive on a deserted island!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><b>8. Do you prefer hot or cold weather? Why? </b>Maybe because it feels like 1000 degrees outside, but I'm going to go with cold weather. As a teacher, I'm always wishing and hoping for a snow day (even though they just tack that day onto the end of the year).</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><b>9. If you won the lottery what would be the first thing you would buy? </b>A new car for my husband. His car has no air conditioning! For the record, he doesn't want to get it fixed; he says he will drive it like it is until it's time for a new one. Crazy!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><b>10. What is your dream car? </b>I'm not really that into cars. As long as I like the looks of a car and it runs well, I'm satisfied. I have a 4-Runner now and I really like it. I guess I'd just take a new 4-Runner with all the bells and whistles. :-)</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><b>11. What is something you never leave home without? C</b>hapstick. I am seriously addicted!! </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Josefin Sans; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Josefin Sans; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;"><b>11 Random Facts:</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;">1. I love Skinny Vanilla Lattes from Starbucks</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">2. My gray Toms are my most favorite shoes ever</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">3. Our dog's name is Eeyore</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">4. I am not a morning person</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">5. I'm not as crafty as I'd like to be, but I am trying</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">6. I know just enough about computers and technology to be dangerous, but not enough to to be tech savvy.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">7. My desk is always a mess!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">8. I have watched Grey's Anatomy since it first came on</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">9. I always sing in the car</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">10. I saw New Kids on the Block and Tiffany in concert when I was 12</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">11. I knew I was a "real" teacher when I bought my first pack of scented markers</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">-----------------------------------------------------------------</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;"><b>Now the questions for the nominees:</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;">1. When did you know you wanted to be a teacher?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">2. Best classroom moment last year?</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">3. What is your closet addition?</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">4. How do you get your morning caffeine fix--coffee or soda?</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">5. What was your first "teacher" purchase?</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">6. What is your all-time favorite movie, you know, the one you always quote?</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">7. When you go to Target, what's the section you MUST visit every time you go in the store? </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">8. What have you enjoyed most about this summer?</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">9. What are some things you purchased for your classroom this summer?</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">10. What is your favorite subject to teach? Why?</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">11. What's at the top of your bucket list?</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;">Thanks again, Veronica! I'm a proud nominee!</span><br />
<br /></div>
Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-40701399452076498032013-07-07T22:26:00.000-05:002013-07-07T22:27:50.138-05:00Picture Book Linky Party<div>
I'm linking up with <a href="http://firstgradeandfabulous.blogspot.com/2013/07/picture-book-linky-party-week-3.html?m=1">First Grade and Fabulous</a> for this week's picture book linky. We are a Leader in Me school, so I'm always on the lookout for picture books with a connection to the 7 Habits. I also have a weekly family meeting on Fridays (which my kids LOVE). The students set the agenda for our family meetings and pretty much run the entire thing. However, if a problem arises during family meeting that I think needs extra attention, I often pull a picture book to share and discuss the following week.<br>
<br></div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://firstgradeandfabulous.blogspot.com/2013/07/picture-book-linky-party-week-3.html?m=1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQVRr-7siUZmCBf9ZmfY2cTkTzLDM9MIJ_YfLeOQ_F8zwQi4-pwJ1opfZ8bvnXYVAGJ0MSBres6XhMSVkS4-9BPWuk_GSRKnQx5XVDnC46mSJ0zq20MAAz_QN8dlp_BHayXvkSMVx5oFO/s640/blogger-image--171999762.jpg"></a></div>
<br></div>
<div>
<br></div>
<i>Little Blue Truck</i><br>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3wLngxSa2YPWjp0WXdPEhPib-Bp0yTU3sfa0A4dN2e_NMfSGksTJUzzuES_vZxxCEOHE2K0z2Ng-SgPMAMBF2q68zxblqLojOd2FhvRM3T-6p61Wbe7sjoL0vdm9IHZ6xKUR4h5h29nrr/s640/blogger-image-118937369.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3wLngxSa2YPWjp0WXdPEhPib-Bp0yTU3sfa0A4dN2e_NMfSGksTJUzzuES_vZxxCEOHE2K0z2Ng-SgPMAMBF2q68zxblqLojOd2FhvRM3T-6p61Wbe7sjoL0vdm9IHZ6xKUR4h5h29nrr/s640/blogger-image-118937369.jpg"></a></div>
<br></div>
<div>
Ok, so this is actually one of my little boy's board books, but I'm stealing it for a day to share with my class this year. If you are a Leader in Me school you can talk about how the animals in the story Synergize. In this story a dump truck thinks he is too important for the little blue truck and his animal friends until he gets stuck in the mud and they all come to his rescue. In the end he realizes the importance of friends and treating others with kindness and respect.</div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
<i>Hooway for Wodney Wat</i></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1X6zyBaOY9lYyZM53xBYQKaCTS8HWhUe-awwEeasP2qNHWTRnD3Omn7Qd7wp-bIiFZ5Lza0X-R9OaB4Z4x6HdrksnZXoPChZ8ZOizewA_HdwG2FcfYakKHNcvxHr0WK_y5PQeNpIfO8OA/s640/blogger-image--673156624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1X6zyBaOY9lYyZM53xBYQKaCTS8HWhUe-awwEeasP2qNHWTRnD3Omn7Qd7wp-bIiFZ5Lza0X-R9OaB4Z4x6HdrksnZXoPChZ8ZOizewA_HdwG2FcfYakKHNcvxHr0WK_y5PQeNpIfO8OA/s640/blogger-image--673156624.jpg"></a></div>
<br></div>
<div>
I have shared this book on the first day of school since my first year of teaching. This book is about acceptance and an unexpected hero. Kids of all ages fall in love with Wodney, whose speech problem ends up saving the day from the new class bully!!</div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
<i>Mr. Peabody's Apples</i></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb1b585Wn417QIPJSFPkXQm6kzv-_hEqa_jsVcyflIWdaALCWFpdQuUqFuui5903MQUjRs1QduO_HMpDtT1zMs8gdA0FQza85_7tnj-x_2xboAe9IhuKGKadfLKxCOe6kG7Y_AqKBnDHZu/s640/blogger-image--1008372597.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb1b585Wn417QIPJSFPkXQm6kzv-_hEqa_jsVcyflIWdaALCWFpdQuUqFuui5903MQUjRs1QduO_HMpDtT1zMs8gdA0FQza85_7tnj-x_2xboAe9IhuKGKadfLKxCOe6kG7Y_AqKBnDHZu/s640/blogger-image--1008372597.jpg"></a></div>
This is a wonderful book for talking about the power of words and how talking about others can have serious consequences. There is a great analogy of feathers being spread by the wind is like a rumor being spread. It can also be used to teach Habit 1: Be Proactive!</div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
Be sure to link up and share your fave picture books for teaching character education. </div>
Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-43519028933034325492013-07-04T18:38:00.003-05:002013-07-04T18:38:44.552-05:00Let's Get Acquainted<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Happy 4th everyone! We are laying low until fireworks time so I thought I'd sneak in a little TpT shopping and a blog post.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Today I'm linking up with <a href="http://flyingintofirst.blogspot.com/2013/06/lets-get-acquainted-linky-party.html">Flying into First Grade</a> for a really fun Linky! It's a getting acquainted Linky. :-) Choose any 3 in a row and respond!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://flyingintofirst.blogspot.com/2013/06/lets-get-acquainted-linky-party.html"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiC4kBG171pztww1HruO_CiRsvuDv0o8s0bVeI7MC2K9gaz9KKcs0MdEMYZ1d94gusRycaOZ7G1j4rdhriYZBQE3wtUKwWOMqIo3EDYzaytSxPkVug2Cul0q0GQr7cND4akoPjTtsmnItw/s400/blogger-image--104116934.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
*I went to the University of Kentucky. I was living on campus one of the years they won the National Championship. And WOW! What a memory! Everyone flooded the streets and strangers were high-giving each other cheering for the Big Blue Nation (BBN). It. was. awesome.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
*My favorite school memory as a kid. It's true, our kids may not remember the lessons we teach, but they will remember the experiences we provide. When I was in fourth grade my class made a paper mâché heart-shaped piñata. We got to go to the back table and work on it when we finished our class work. As an early finisher, I got to work on it a lot. :-)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
*Hobbies--I love to read when I find/make the time. I typically read during school breaks. This summer I read the newest Sophie Kinsella (Love her books! This one was funny, but not my favorite.) I also read Shine On by Allison Jewel. Definitely recommend it! I also LOVE shopping at Target and going up and down ever single aisle. Wait, does that count as a hobby?!? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I can't wait to read more about my fellow bloggers!</div>
Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-79044770251453370432013-07-02T14:58:00.001-05:002013-07-02T16:08:59.501-05:00Going on a Blog Hunt<a href="http://corkboardconnections.blogspot.com/2013/07/bloghunt.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://www.lauracandler.com/images/bloghunt.png" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
I'm new to teacher blogging. I've blog stalked the old fashioned way up till a few weeks ago. I found a bog I liked and bookmarked it. The problem was it took WAY too long and I was inconsistent in checking in.<br />
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Then someone introduced me to feedly. I like Feedly and really like that I can set the background to black since I check it while laying down with my little one at night (he can sometimes take forever to fall asleep!).</span></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">BUT then I kept seeing Bloglovin pop up all over blog land so I checked it out, too<b>.</b> It is really easy to navigate and add new blogs. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Honestly, I like both. Both have an app, which is nice! I decided to use Feedly for following friend's personal blogs and Bloglovin for teacher blogs.</span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /></span>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Click on the cute little bear at the top of this post to visit the linky!</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-18935548086137603312013-07-02T13:38:00.002-05:002013-07-02T13:38:29.760-05:00Blogging on Down the RoadThe fam and I are headed to Gatlinburg for the 4th. I only have my iPhone and a first gen iPad for the next few days. I can easily keep up with everyone with Bloglovin, but I haven't had any luck with leaving comments.<br />
<br />
Any suggestions for successful mobile blogging?<br />
<br />Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-76632947894235095392013-07-01T09:04:00.001-05:002013-07-01T18:28:35.404-05:00July Currently and Monday Made-ItSitting here in an almost empty (furniture moved out because they are starting on our hardwood floors today), quiet house while my kiddos are asleep (l-o-n-g night) and taking advantage of the opportunity to do a little bloggin'. I'm linking up with Farley for my first currently:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3X7REcev7y_aUNLReOR2rgXzPeiCFrnR-50fEZNMLq6QtQOGlspX3e_2_Xn98pIlNKkgtTgJGcSVDCA4T_9lvWUpjByJGS4S2sFoWH90kpFJeMqpinmJW3o2_lmd46XcAOOUpki-MG6WR/s320/Currently+July.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
*I feel like rainy days almost give permission to be lazy, but just as I am typing this the sun has popped out and the rain has stopped. I don't really *want* to be productive today. This weekend was nuts trying to empty our house and pack for two weeks of vacation and house hoppin'. <br />
<br />
*We always planned to replace our yucky carpet with hardwood floors but thought we'd wait until the kids were a little bigger (3 and 5 now) before we did it. But, after some water damage to the playroom floor because of a roof leak, we decided to move the project up a few years. We also decided to do some painting while the yucky carpet was still on the floor, so it's going to look like a brand new house!<br />
<br />
*I am so jealous of all the cute graphic organizers and activity pages that everyone is making these days. I'd really love to learn how to do it so my "stuff" can look fun!<br />
<br />
*Last year was my first year teaching a 3/4 classroom and as much as I tried to map things out ahead of time, a lot of it was trial and error. Plus, it was my first year utilizing the great resources from Teachers Pay Teachers and Pinterest, so at times I was searching for innovative ideas the night before! This year I want to go in with a better plan to make my life easier and my teaching more effective.<br />
<br />
*My advice is to Embrace Change! In education, the next "big thing" is always around the next corner. This means, just as I am getting comfortable with one initiative my district springs a new one on me. :-) It also means that every new group of students is different and I have to be prepared to make adjustments to meet their needs. Sometimes change is scary, but I have found that if I embrace it the transition is much easier.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxGEfy0s2c-PEgUGRp8Vbw8kIQmS36TDVXejIWMFnq0ZWvU7JsjIhdJ_956D3LkENMQlUYKcvlDp8w9HdVbknZA8GQNAXX78JOAU6EvN5a0JQovu_0l6mtcYIKrYP6yaQXs3V_g_JIIg3H/s320/3am_tara_madeitmonday_2013.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
While scrolling through Pinterest (Man, I love that site!) I found a long-range science planner that I loved. Unfortunately, I can't find the pin and I don't know who to give credit to, but here is the original. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7JhM926ooa7zM5vWA561nguco9PPEne04g0JFO2OLPFbJB8-jSmpNzzI5CT13iay0Uycdo6o22CCNLY2gQVPrE2PB-9CTeN6vjb3BG2Uls0Y9oBx-ylGDf7yS9kVoG8bMBQUikju7T18Z/s802/Screen+Shot+2013-07-01+at+8.46.17+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7JhM926ooa7zM5vWA561nguco9PPEne04g0JFO2OLPFbJB8-jSmpNzzI5CT13iay0Uycdo6o22CCNLY2gQVPrE2PB-9CTeN6vjb3BG2Uls0Y9oBx-ylGDf7yS9kVoG8bMBQUikju7T18Z/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-07-01+at+8.46.17+AM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I thought, how simple but effective! This planning calendar spoke to me because I could see a snapshot of the year at a glance and see exactly how many weeks I would spend on each unit. So I borrowed this teacher's idea and created my own template for long range planning. I met with my team last week and we mapped out our Science. Next time we meet we will look at Math for the year. I think doing this as a team is also really helpful so we are all on the same page and ending/starting units about the same time. I don't have a pic to share of our science map. It's packed away in a box for the next two weeks while we are out of our house.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjgvcB7yk3TYvfbnQ0Awiibkb-xKWAVKfxthBqwkUdaa7IHjTnB0qdTPAYPSey2bddpRtm4CtiB1xkBDbg0y15M3ZM70zzrs0bKGlUKS2Qh-FRKjy31eH1N-RadCMieY6p9zItLCFCTwL-/s826/Screen+Shot+2013-07-01+at+8.57.25+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjgvcB7yk3TYvfbnQ0Awiibkb-xKWAVKfxthBqwkUdaa7IHjTnB0qdTPAYPSey2bddpRtm4CtiB1xkBDbg0y15M3ZM70zzrs0bKGlUKS2Qh-FRKjy31eH1N-RadCMieY6p9zItLCFCTwL-/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-07-01+at+8.57.25+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I am going to use this template to map out my big ideas/units for Reading skills, Chapter book clubs, writing pieces, math units, science, and so much more! Then I can put them in my binder to pull for my weekly/monthly planning. I like that it shows the short weeks, too, so I can pre-plan accordingly.<br />
<br />
Ok, sun it definitely out and the kiddos are up and ready to have some fun.<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>
Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807922460094176215.post-64112169028774637272013-06-28T08:34:00.000-05:002013-07-01T18:21:31.409-05:00Five for Friday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://doodlebugsteaching.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WypE1Xg3rRg/Uc2ElTwDdmI/AAAAAAAATMo/NlfLI0-FMXE/s320/fiveforfriday7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: lime; font-size: x-large;">1.</span> This is my first ever Linky Party! Is it sad that I now feel like one of the "Cool Kids"? HaHa! I've blog stalked for the last year and now I'm testing the waters. And I must say the water feels pretty good.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">2.</span> My head is spinning in so many different directions right now. We are in the midst of some home renovations, planning a vacation, and I'm trying to do a little school work on the side. On the home front we are having hard wood flooring laid in most of the house and new carpet in the kids bedrooms. I can't wait until it's all done. It will be like living in a new house!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">3. </span> I'm a KY blogger and today the husband (today's his birthday) and I are taking the kids (ages 5 and 3) to Kentucky Down Under. Teachers can get in free the month of June, so we are taking advantage. I think the kids will LOVE seeing all of the animals. I took a class there on a field trip a thousand years ago and my 4th graders loved it, too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: orange; font-size: x-large;">4.</span> I'm trying to decide whether to read Teach Like a Pirate or Guided Math next month. Any suggestions?!? I want to try teaching math in a different way this year. This will be our 3rd year teaching with the CCSS and I think the students will finally have the math background to be able to differentiate more. (The jump from our old state standards to CCSS was huge and there was little room for differentiation because we were busy trying to fill in the gaps created with the jump.) Now the students have two years of CCSS under their belts, are used to conceptual learning, and already have some background with the various strategies we will use this year. Ahh (big sigh of relief), I'm excited to take my kids to the next level this year!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: cyan; font-size: x-large;">5.</span> Last week I created a yearly planning page (based on some Pinspiration, of course) and my team and I put it to good use last week when we met. We knocked out our science map for the year in no time! Next month we are going to map out math and ELA, but we spent the rest of this meeting organizing our students' Leadership Notebooks. Our school is trying to achieve Leader in Me School status this year. We have been implementing The Leader in Me for over two years and I have seen such great things with it!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">So there you have it, a random sampling of my summer!</span>Growing a Teacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02811185427465575756noreply@blogger.com4