tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60179523942115369972024-03-12T00:48:37.432-07:00The First Grade ParadeCara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.comBlogger563125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-30236716432337822652017-05-09T15:43:00.000-07:002017-05-09T15:43:50.175-07:00Storage Solutions for the Classroom<div style="text-align: center;">
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Earlier this afternoon I posted this picture on<a href="https://www.instagram.com/thefirstgradeparade/"> Instagram</a>....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_nYaLQjLyaAD9wGPMBwNTC875nne2JNufP2ZrF7FQT76M825NxEeQLp4joJyqPB5k72F7Va759muHG4jtOsj7oEo2MWDFE5UMGWrg3p5neDjVkHliCF1m1NWX8Ll1WoDy6ek_C_va5ktU/s1600/organization6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_nYaLQjLyaAD9wGPMBwNTC875nne2JNufP2ZrF7FQT76M825NxEeQLp4joJyqPB5k72F7Va759muHG4jtOsj7oEo2MWDFE5UMGWrg3p5neDjVkHliCF1m1NWX8Ll1WoDy6ek_C_va5ktU/s640/organization6.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I received a few messages after posting regaring the containers I used for organization, so I thought I'd take a minute to break it all down in case anyone else is curious, too!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhssixt3C9vseMpryHZrA4aXph-qOa1tXDZod6PpPeAq85TCeKRZGf-1lpzfKbbrt0MGfOF7yJEXwU_4zq0dohUtnTCFxCH69Ds3Go4iWOQ4w9HfmoEN03XRgWzUgTw8l3A-9-5jQ918t8T/s1600/oRGANIZATIONPIN.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhssixt3C9vseMpryHZrA4aXph-qOa1tXDZod6PpPeAq85TCeKRZGf-1lpzfKbbrt0MGfOF7yJEXwU_4zq0dohUtnTCFxCH69Ds3Go4iWOQ4w9HfmoEN03XRgWzUgTw8l3A-9-5jQ918t8T/s640/oRGANIZATIONPIN.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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Storage containers, Sterilite drawers, and clear shoe organizers!!! Affordable and efficient!!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-gotTN1ziXYpSgHOMnlEdcZuMYWOBwGy8pWOcIdyfRaxa2sAo6gQ-2R4rzp2gniGebgY6iI8axC_5N7rtnJM3-OalKnJSuAMFUm91fVxaL6tGq0XJvOgotIKdSLINr9PIpuNIzY0s8_V/s1600/ORGANIZATION1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-gotTN1ziXYpSgHOMnlEdcZuMYWOBwGy8pWOcIdyfRaxa2sAo6gQ-2R4rzp2gniGebgY6iI8axC_5N7rtnJM3-OalKnJSuAMFUm91fVxaL6tGq0XJvOgotIKdSLINr9PIpuNIzY0s8_V/s640/ORGANIZATION1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I absolutely love the clear shoe organizer (I found mine at Wal Mart for right around $7) for catching lots of odds and ends that would typically end up in a drawer and eventually find themselves at the bottom of said drawer leaving me baffled and beyond frustrated. The visual piece helps keep things organized and easy to find!!!</div>
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These are the two containers I primarily use for storing my materials. They're both the *perfect* size for the materials I need to store. And they're at a really reasonable price point, too.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirhcF-V5KdlYnJzQXG0hSTP5UzEAdUftwA4Wz1yYOjfSR4vFltQ64xs0FFZNApGYpa__HFV4vTQgbUZsn8nOorf9aRht8gSBHfvTREF0rDj-0ovyIhtcowgrkTPXwt7kuIzlbxIDKqcOIK/s1600/organization2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirhcF-V5KdlYnJzQXG0hSTP5UzEAdUftwA4Wz1yYOjfSR4vFltQ64xs0FFZNApGYpa__HFV4vTQgbUZsn8nOorf9aRht8gSBHfvTREF0rDj-0ovyIhtcowgrkTPXwt7kuIzlbxIDKqcOIK/s640/organization2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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These are both Sterilite containers and I got them from Wal Mart.</div>
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<a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Sterilite-6.2-qt-Modular-Latch-Box-Teal-Sachet/49533207?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&wl13=522&adid=22222222227041675277&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=95814779552&wl4=aud-273067695542:pla-196269858272&wl5=9027809&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=local&wl12=49533207&wl13=522&veh=sem">6.2 QT.</a> / <a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Sterilite-2.7-qt-Modular-Latch-Box-Teal-Sachet/113216537">2.7 QT.</a></div>
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The <a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Sterilite-6.2-qt-Modular-Latch-Box-Teal-Sachet/49533207?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&wl13=522&adid=22222222227041675277&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=95814779552&wl4=aud-273067695542:pla-196269858272&wl5=9027809&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=local&wl12=49533207&wl13=522&veh=sem">6.2 qt. </a>is great for storing papers, games, manipulatives, and just pretty much anything you have hanging around in your classroom. It's super verstatile, too. </div>
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What I love about this size is that it can be used with the Mainstays brand Mini StorageTrays & <a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Mainstays-Rectangular-Mini-Bin-Storage-Trays-White-2pk/16224496">Rectangular Mini Bin</a>s for cleaner organization (also from Wal Mart).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4We5veA0qr__hQ-GMWF4UYvBBrQb4H2nbU0TX7pDHPypFdKORfoOza0K3VC3rvGYZk6xubGH_ijjK9dD9TXvHIc6JrYPR15FF3qtaH4JFxdfk2Q_e4tvgq7xe8yRDgePXAaN3wDbDEwX1/s1600/organization19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4We5veA0qr__hQ-GMWF4UYvBBrQb4H2nbU0TX7pDHPypFdKORfoOza0K3VC3rvGYZk6xubGH_ijjK9dD9TXvHIc6JrYPR15FF3qtaH4JFxdfk2Q_e4tvgq7xe8yRDgePXAaN3wDbDEwX1/s640/organization19.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The 6.2 qt. is great for storing games, activities, and papers. I like to use these containers to store my skill based math games. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnWGC8dLx_aYSClRz3ga8jBcKBCLq-nydMQslMHToXhi2K5ND3orkUDV3iL5nKgTcREZ8I4opyJI5o5m5J0e_lYcwYsThvW8RIBqAIXmlp01V4KeRY0id1P4lZUkC7-_vVP1MFjD14Hi9/s1600/ORGANIZATION5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnWGC8dLx_aYSClRz3ga8jBcKBCLq-nydMQslMHToXhi2K5ND3orkUDV3iL5nKgTcREZ8I4opyJI5o5m5J0e_lYcwYsThvW8RIBqAIXmlp01V4KeRY0id1P4lZUkC7-_vVP1MFjD14Hi9/s640/ORGANIZATION5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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My <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Making-Math-Fun-GROWING-BUNDLE-2691602">Making Math Fun games & activites</a> fit perfectly into each container. I like to place each unit into a different bin and store them. Then when I want my kids to play a specific game or complete a specific activity, I'll remove the remainder of the games/activities, place them in an extra box, and then take the container and fill it with the items necessary to complete the activity and place it on the math shelf. The latch-top lid is perfect for keeping everything contained.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikRCWAna-wSfiEse5WQR734w-Lmtw9BlLbF_fZNvbFb6agd0ztwZLvsAscbfD9dWmDherpsR9p9NsWmqltKNwyotFkYWvoHdUrZP_mY6I4NTFfW5-N8XS_yTmYaF6lPLIcNEX4D8rTa4oA/s1600/organization7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikRCWAna-wSfiEse5WQR734w-Lmtw9BlLbF_fZNvbFb6agd0ztwZLvsAscbfD9dWmDherpsR9p9NsWmqltKNwyotFkYWvoHdUrZP_mY6I4NTFfW5-N8XS_yTmYaF6lPLIcNEX4D8rTa4oA/s640/organization7.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Making-Math-Fun-Volume-8-Base-10-Blocks-Place-Value-3124837">VOL.8 PLACE VALUE & BASE 10 BLOCK ACTVITIES </a></span></div>
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Here's my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Making-Math-Fun-Volume-8-Base-10-Blocks-Place-Value-3124837">Place Value & Base 10 Block</a> skill based game container. I placed <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Making-Math-Fun-Volume-8-Base-10-Blocks-Place-Value-3124837">3 different activities</a> in this container that require the use of the oversize dice, expo marker, base 10 blocks, and additional counters (in the blue snap top container). I can easily place this in it's entirety on the math shelf and my kids have all the items they need to successfully complete the activities & play the games in one handy little container.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIMe9c79EJj0zho1oqxVeyOY3vlYPF6t_SG5Mr3x6GyLBBQso9LJ4PtFMbX-UhHY4UiLUJKmyRkLotFCi8S4_fpB4BeZ1qxfVdRyrc6aqJrG8vefd-yGdUVM8NYUEgqoNPPSSCYgniYdvt/s1600/organization11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIMe9c79EJj0zho1oqxVeyOY3vlYPF6t_SG5Mr3x6GyLBBQso9LJ4PtFMbX-UhHY4UiLUJKmyRkLotFCi8S4_fpB4BeZ1qxfVdRyrc6aqJrG8vefd-yGdUVM8NYUEgqoNPPSSCYgniYdvt/s640/organization11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivycUQLS9cFqm_XqzLO9xyg9NCC4GPhLDE-kaQwSyGGHgVhRx2Xn5vBjYMuR9UpP6x9HC4tqjRLvZlZIt_gRskf-MClOHNcVHCTm03DJFa-yf-mTe7lTTcUzRm7r0AHUqi-OpMqERAO00/s1600/organization12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivycUQLS9cFqm_XqzLO9xyg9NCC4GPhLDE-kaQwSyGGHgVhRx2Xn5vBjYMuR9UpP6x9HC4tqjRLvZlZIt_gRskf-MClOHNcVHCTm03DJFa-yf-mTe7lTTcUzRm7r0AHUqi-OpMqERAO00/s640/organization12.png" width="548" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Making-Math-Fun-Volume-6-Subtraction-2926025"><span style="font-size: x-small;">VOL. 6 SUBTRACTION ACTIVITIES </span></a></div>
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This container is such a handy size! And for classrooms with limited space, they become the perfect little workspaces that can go pretty much anywhere you allow your kids to work. They're great storage for teacher resources and materials as well.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtSrDmEmkUhMa3WWkdRW47Ho9DP5Lgw5ZAnXqxoN2XsJWuigy_3tX7bzLQZXz-jS898uP5Zp6X6vAFrfQB5P8ametk-F8TS1lpixymBI3Gx7D3UZupRDYLGuNs6nk2ihoeOdwCPwbkc9Tl/s1600/organization10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtSrDmEmkUhMa3WWkdRW47Ho9DP5Lgw5ZAnXqxoN2XsJWuigy_3tX7bzLQZXz-jS898uP5Zp6X6vAFrfQB5P8ametk-F8TS1lpixymBI3Gx7D3UZupRDYLGuNs6nk2ihoeOdwCPwbkc9Tl/s640/organization10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaTWXC19ZW4PRCWxz_UB8UB4QJYKZk0T5W-uPLBbh4cqZreuXlHkKPLrM2JXbHXmh1NvDJE1zVaeEwze8q75fIDLY-TGaQhljS50TWR4vOcavkuiejg-MZe3kPS05DrFeilhhXMY9iC1I0/s1600/organization9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaTWXC19ZW4PRCWxz_UB8UB4QJYKZk0T5W-uPLBbh4cqZreuXlHkKPLrM2JXbHXmh1NvDJE1zVaeEwze8q75fIDLY-TGaQhljS50TWR4vOcavkuiejg-MZe3kPS05DrFeilhhXMY9iC1I0/s640/organization9.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love that they can be carried around to work with students one-on-one, used to store small group materials, and perfect to grab for whole group as well. Everything can be contained in one small space and then put back inside the closet at the end of the day. My classrom may look like a hot mess during the day, but it always makes me feel like I'm starting my day on the right foot when it's not a disaster! Being able to just put everything back inside it's container and then hide it away until the next day is HUGE!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKf-iCLcQD8a4fihubjTT46SqXKaWbe1P_7tejBfHBvmSk29I3tZ3_8qBGeKK83Yn7zitcoGnEZ4b4DZPLZUOiXrm-qnTTWTZnVNnqTOMxeR0IrODD6MNyJCZ-RiR0Ua7G5mP3eRRBnRw8/s1600/ORGANIZATION3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKf-iCLcQD8a4fihubjTT46SqXKaWbe1P_7tejBfHBvmSk29I3tZ3_8qBGeKK83Yn7zitcoGnEZ4b4DZPLZUOiXrm-qnTTWTZnVNnqTOMxeR0IrODD6MNyJCZ-RiR0Ua7G5mP3eRRBnRw8/s640/ORGANIZATION3.png" width="488" /></a></div>
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If you're anything like me, you love collecting seasonal items to use as counters/manipulatives for different math...or even reading!...activities. The problem for me is always finding a spot to store them all. When I'm working in classrooms, I always suggest to teachers to give kids choices when choosing the counters with which they work. Sometimes this small release of control helps give our kids the sense of autonomy they need to feel successful. It also helps to change things up and make things more exciting :) The problem with giving lots of options is the lack of space we have to store them. I found these Sterilite divided cases at Target and think they fit the bill perfectly! </div>
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<a href="https://www.hardwareonlinestore.com/images/stories/virtuemart/product/6295869_A.eps_High.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://www.hardwareonlinestore.com/images/stories/virtuemart/product/6295869_A.eps_High.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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As you can see, they come with two long trays and 2 divided trays of 3. I bought several of<a href="http://www.target.com/p/divided-case-molokai-blue-sterilite/-/A-51593144?sid=1377S&ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Storage+Organization+Shopping_Brand&adgroup=SC_Storage+Organization&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=s&device=c&location=9027809&gclid=CjsKDwjw0cXIBRCxjqnE3K3sHhIkAL1LezQZGf8a8xRAER2w1sS43S3I2XJyzamOcfpt1sVqkmMAGgLujPD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds"> these containers</a> and just mixed and matched the compartments to use as needed. I like using the trays of 3 for my counters and using the long trays inside of a different container to house my crayons, colored pencils, and skinny markers. I love the idea of keeping my counters in one space making it easy for kids to access. Actually, I have several of these that hold my counters, but you get the idea! It's easy for kids too choose from, easy for me to store, and I know I can always find everything in one spot! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFrJdFY5JDx3Rpn44MCGOfWSDk_I2aMIkMDGzEzWYfW0YQzvp_ov7XfWF7F0AyMxG_1VxS0OroNkwX0Jbu6x7mk9xcSgwimcBDkgLyg9cp4wClY6RypNn1hsY_21I0-6L8D3p8L5NpOuCA/s1600/ORGANIZATION4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFrJdFY5JDx3Rpn44MCGOfWSDk_I2aMIkMDGzEzWYfW0YQzvp_ov7XfWF7F0AyMxG_1VxS0OroNkwX0Jbu6x7mk9xcSgwimcBDkgLyg9cp4wClY6RypNn1hsY_21I0-6L8D3p8L5NpOuCA/s640/ORGANIZATION4.png" width="432" /></a></div>
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These storage containers are great for guided reading, too! </div>
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I have one container I use specifically for my guided reading tools <i>(kind of like my guided reading toolbox!)...</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg2omy1Bv6AZ-hpJd48hc2RCz4ZIDYzzSZfV0HINR26weKj61f3eL7CUuZTuY0rL_8hGeP9V6XQM0XYgfLk9x83aN88wqDES8e1Q8rpkgcpKx89lXrC4YeTdrc86lLq8hkFWqRebUhFm2a/s1600/organization14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg2omy1Bv6AZ-hpJd48hc2RCz4ZIDYzzSZfV0HINR26weKj61f3eL7CUuZTuY0rL_8hGeP9V6XQM0XYgfLk9x83aN88wqDES8e1Q8rpkgcpKx89lXrC4YeTdrc86lLq8hkFWqRebUhFm2a/s640/organization14.png" width="510" /></a></div>
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These 6.2 qt containers really do hold a lot! In my "toolkit", I keep whisper phones, pointers, reading strategy posters & sticks, boo boo tape, highlighter tape, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reading-Comprehension-2217659">reading comprehension before/during/after question rings,</a> <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reading-Comprehension-2217659">reading comprehension prompts</a>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reading-Comprehension-2217659">reading comprehension posters</a>, elkonin boxes, <a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuNW1FYWNoeUU5ZWM/edit?usp=drive_web">ABC linking chart</a>, and counters. I also keep a timer & DRA calculator inside, too.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjhyphenhyphenpnpdg0DMWdjvj9y528ohoHs03papKrEXTwdAfA2EZVHuKKsX5St9b-LSfdBgBFQ-GstdBggZrPJxmlqbNgBgZ5Edpth8kTEH9gIO0oSg5hBUMNP-fv7UmX4q8XNdURv0mFZwNz4xsO/s1600/organization13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjhyphenhyphenpnpdg0DMWdjvj9y528ohoHs03papKrEXTwdAfA2EZVHuKKsX5St9b-LSfdBgBFQ-GstdBggZrPJxmlqbNgBgZ5Edpth8kTEH9gIO0oSg5hBUMNP-fv7UmX4q8XNdURv0mFZwNz4xsO/s640/organization13.png" width="586" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Guided-Reading-Phonics-Activities-2006039">GUIDED READING ACTIVITIES VOL. 1</a> / <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Guided-Reading-Phonics-Activities-Bundle-Vol-2-2234596">GUIDED READING ACTIVITIES VOL. 2</a></span></div>
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Guided reading game containers are also the perfect storage solution! It would great to have a container for each small group you see. That way everything you need for that group is housed in one container and can be switched out quickly. We all know how precious our guided reading time is, so anything that helps with time management is a winner in my book!</div>
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The <a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Sterilite-2.7-qt-Modular-Latch-Box-Teal-Sachet/113216537">2.7 qt. containers</a> are perfect for storing manipulatives & anything else that's "small". I use these for math manipulatives, washi tape, glue sticks, dry erase markers, erasers, dice, etc. They stack up pretty well, too! I love a stackable container!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOhBIBi7tmNZEMgKL9DuTHWAl8Z6B9Bv9XJ5sKx8BdMBC1xqImOQrrCvLN1257pUWTbjiitFQ9e9BlVM6WnTRJDtP6BxkF00x5L79ufopBiwgkN5JqoPomfeHZI2Gc5FaYCG5tcOp6aiw5/s1600/organization15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOhBIBi7tmNZEMgKL9DuTHWAl8Z6B9Bv9XJ5sKx8BdMBC1xqImOQrrCvLN1257pUWTbjiitFQ9e9BlVM6WnTRJDtP6BxkF00x5L79ufopBiwgkN5JqoPomfeHZI2Gc5FaYCG5tcOp6aiw5/s640/organization15.png" width="498" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNTiJ2nYICpiK1Xy0XizBbst_yeraL8MGpUKYa2OdMPqkoRqH7ILfItuCeHVY69sW7P4sxkpBTB0XcCrFcslMBgPudXoDcDDDYXH7Po8qkN0C-8-3bex3qNr7_VPv1lX9KwYg7GEeC4iS/s1600/organization16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNTiJ2nYICpiK1Xy0XizBbst_yeraL8MGpUKYa2OdMPqkoRqH7ILfItuCeHVY69sW7P4sxkpBTB0XcCrFcslMBgPudXoDcDDDYXH7Po8qkN0C-8-3bex3qNr7_VPv1lX9KwYg7GEeC4iS/s640/organization16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I *personally* think these containers are an excellent storage solution for any classroom. They're compatible to fit inside of most cabinet and shelving spaces, they stack, and they latch. Everything I want in a storage container without the bulk! And they're priced really affordably, too! Okay, so if they were more like $1 it would be ideal, but it's definitely better than some of the options without similar qualities.</div>
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There's nothing I love more than an organized space, even if it's only behind closed doors :)</div>
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OH! One more thing. If you're already shopping for next school year, or trying to find things to finish out the current one, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Cara-Carroll">Teachers Pay Teachers</a> is hosting their sitewide Teacher Appreciation Sale today (5/9) and tomorrow (5/10). Everything in <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Cara-Carroll">my store</a> is 20% off and you can use the code <b>THANKYOU17</b> to get an additional 10% off of your purchase at checkout. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Cara-Carroll"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Wxbg2L0aBAs9c9nX0K8i-6kUbXsfqybDMnSlaiyfTybCRn24YMDx7GOTqIZGNH6SYMiNszxzyMVMJteLD25YFzgkCN6oxIwSbCM0MnlzvSvQI81wYv3jAcPVPIamnxQXS6fFumU_Qs8Y/s640/Slide2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-38778928920951069592017-05-01T16:17:00.000-07:002017-05-01T16:17:05.157-07:00Hey Teachers....It's OKAY.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjVyjC-ZkUGO310Dq8d31xE_DWizrf_woDYVR0WRLqCp93ChVBh2D0uiKLJt110pCApasA-6ycUqvMe_a3NQhU5foyiEuSvVh_z1jyyQ8jHIkKXhukdhlH_EeQK5lwg5DGM35nQ5UOXIdN/s1600/heyteach1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjVyjC-ZkUGO310Dq8d31xE_DWizrf_woDYVR0WRLqCp93ChVBh2D0uiKLJt110pCApasA-6ycUqvMe_a3NQhU5foyiEuSvVh_z1jyyQ8jHIkKXhukdhlH_EeQK5lwg5DGM35nQ5UOXIdN/s640/heyteach1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Yes YOU.</b></div>
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The one whose weary body hits snooze 5 times before hurriedly rushing out the door to get to school on time. </div>
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I'm talking to you.</div>
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The permanently positive teacher who slides into the classroom on rainbows and dreads the end of the school year because it means having to say goodbye to your students. </div>
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I'm talking to you.</div>
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And all of you amazing teachers in between. </div>
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I'm talking to you, too. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieLrJvPRwTkAXNeI5le_jGWqLqd4xxo-vh6Qo0B3WwCV7vOog9xWTJy2odQtBvXZdLdsisveM_W7ZGcA3e_Gunyus8wTX9z3wdkKlZlhtwPnZPow4z4WY_a4KhtFu1NvANWbJJ0rZnzUwv/s1600/heyteach2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieLrJvPRwTkAXNeI5le_jGWqLqd4xxo-vh6Qo0B3WwCV7vOog9xWTJy2odQtBvXZdLdsisveM_W7ZGcA3e_Gunyus8wTX9z3wdkKlZlhtwPnZPow4z4WY_a4KhtFu1NvANWbJJ0rZnzUwv/s640/heyteach2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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To the teacher who doesn't like a classroom full of stuff and has opted for a more streamlined and calming decor scheme, IT'S OKAY. It doesn't mean you're not an awesome teacher because your classroom isn't gracing the homepage of Pinterest. Maybe it just means that a Pinterest worthy classroom just isn't your jam. Maybe you teach better in a classroom with less "stuff". Maybe you've opted to let your students do the bulk of your decorating. Maybe you don't have access to funds that would allow you to decorate like crazy. Maybe your administration has adopted the "<i>less is more</i>" motto in regards to classroom decor. Maybe you've decided to use your $$$ to decorate your home instead of your classroom. Believe me...IT'S OKAY.</div>
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To the teacher with the Pinterest worthy classroom, IT'S OKAY. It's okay to have a decked out classroom. It doesn't make you a better teacher than anyone else, it just makes you a teacher who loves to decorate. And that's okay. Maybe you've taken on an extra summer job so that you could decorate your classroom in a way that makes you happy. Maybe you spend 8+ hours a day in your home away from home and want it to feel less like a work space and more like your home. Maybe you love decorating and beam with excitement and pride at the prospect of decorating a classroom at the beginning of each school year. Maybe you just like well organized and aesthetically pleasing spaces. Sweet teacher friend, you do you. IT'S OKAY.</div>
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To the teacher who uses a behavior chart in your classroom even when everyone else is telling you to stop, IT'S OKAY. Behavior charts aren't always a bad thing depending on how they're used. It doesn't mean you're a mean teacher or even that you like to humiliate your students. Maybe you're using it in a way no one understands & you've found a ton of success doing so. Maybe it's the ONLY thing that works for you and your kids. Maybe, just maybe, you know your kids and the dynamics of your classroom better than anyone else and I trust that you do!!! :)</div>
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IT'S OKAY.</div>
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To the teacher who has decided to use an alternative method of behavior management that doesn't include a behavior chart, IT'S OKAY. It doesn't mean you have no classroom managment skills. Maybe you've tried to use a behavior chart and by day 3, you've forgotten to remind your students to keep track of their color. Maybe you've tried behavior charts before and you haven't found any success. Maybe the way you've implemented behavior charts in the past has been ineffective. Maybe, just maybe, you don't like the idea of behavior charts at all.</div>
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IT'S OKAY.</div>
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To the teacher who has opted out of including a flexible seating arrangement in your classroom, IT'S OKAY. There are so many new trends to implement & the thought of trying them all is daunting. Maybe the idea frightens you and right now you're trying to tackle one thing at a time, so flexible seating can wait. Maybe you're waiting to see if this trend is just a fad. Maybe you've decided against flexible seating options at the moment until you have time to do more research on it's benefits. Maybe your administration isn't on board. Maybe your school doesn't have the funds. Maybe, just maybe, flexible seating just isn't your thing. </div>
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IT'S OKAY.</div>
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To the teacher who has decided to include a flexible seating arrangement in your classroom even when no one else in your building agrees with your choice, IT'S OKAY. Maybe you love trying new ideas and are willing to try anything if it means it will benefit your students. Maybe you were lucky enough to be the recipeint of a grant and all of your flexible seating choices were fully funded <i>(yay you!!!</i>). Maybe you feel like flexible seating will help you with classroom management. Maybe you know your kids better than everyone else and you're certain flexible seating will help them become better learners. IT'S OKAY!</div>
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To the teacher who has decided to end the year with a countdown, IT'S OKAY. I don't believe that you're anxious to send your students to the next grade nor do I think you're dying for summer break to start already. We all get it...summer fever is starting to set in and we're all ready to turn off those alarm clocks!!! Maybe you're just excited about the progress your kids have made throughout the year and a countdown is a visual reminder to you of the great work you've done preparing them for the year that lies ahead. Maybe your countdown serves as a visual reminder of the time you have left with your babies and you want to make every day...every minute...every moment count. Maybe your students suggested a countdown because they're looking forward to summer and counting down is just plain fun! Maybe you've always ended the year with a countdown and want to continue the tradition. IT'S OKAY!</div>
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To the teacher who's decided to take down the countdown and end the year on a different note instead, IT'S OKAY. It doesn't mean that you're a better teacher than those who've decided to keep theirs up, but it's a personal choice you're excited about for the end of the year and that's awesome for you and your kids. Everyone sees this subject differently and no one is "wrong". Maybe you're worried about what a countdown says to your kids about the time you have left together. Maybe you can't keep up with a countdown and like the year to end when it ends. Maybe countdowns just aren't your thing. It's OKAY.</div>
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To the teacher who can't wait for summer break....it's OKAY. Your anticipation of a summer break filled with no alarm clocks, bathroom breaks on demand, flexible lunch times, and the occasional nap is totally understandable and quite frankly well deserved. Looking forward to a break doesn't mean you don't love teaching or that you're ready to say goodbye to your students. It just means you're ready for a break, and that's okay!!!! Every teacher needs time to recharge. Every teacher needs time to "miss" her/his classroom and then come back full force in August ready and raring to go. And let's be real....it's never really a much of a break anyway, is it?! LOL.</div>
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To the teacher who can't wait for the weekend....IT'S OKAY. Maybe you've had a tough week on a personal or professional level. Maybe you're feeling like you've failed in some way and you can't wait to step away from it all for a couple of days to recharge and refocus. Maybe you're traveling to see friends or family and you can't wait to see your loved ones. Maybe you're itcing to spend two days in your pajamas chasing around the tiny little humans your'e raising on the homefront. Liking or posting a "<i>THANK GOODNESS IT'S FRI-YAY!!!</i>" post doesn't make you a bad teacher. It makes you human. IT'S OKAY.</div>
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To the teacher with the case of the Mondays, IT'S OKAY. It's okay for you to be tired on a Monday and post...or like... a silly Monday meme on social media about the end of a fabulous weekend. It doesn't mean you loathe the idea of seeing your students or love your school week any less than anyone else. Maybe it just means you have a wickedly amazing sense of humor and Monday memes make you laugh. Maybe you just need someone to validate the way you're feeling and posting for some likes makes you feel less alone. Maybe, just maybe, you're finding the work week a little bittersweet as you kiss your own kids goodbye in a hurried rush to take care of your 26 school babies and you're wishing you had another 24 hours to be at home with them. Maybe it just means you're stressed and overwhelmed about the demands of your responsibilities of a teacher and a sarcastic meme helps to lighten your burdened spirits. IT'S OKAY.</div>
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To the teacher who slides into your classroom each morning on rainbows with a smile on your face & an extra pep in your step, IT'S OKAY. The world needs more happiness and we're glad you're spreading it like wildfire. Maybe you're just a happy person and you choose to go out of your way to avoid negativity. It's okay to be optimistic and encourage others to try to be optimistic, too. Maybe you're just a happy person and optimism comes naturally. Maybe you're experiencing heartache and positivity is the only way to block out the hurt in your life. Maybe you know that the only way you can live a positive life is by surrounding yourself with postivite thinking and positive people. Maybe you're just trying to fake it until you make it. IT'S OKAY.</div>
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To the teachers who occasionally vent about your disappointments & frustrations, IT'S OKAY. It's okay for you to be frustrated about the progress...or lack thereof...of your students. It doesn't mean you're giving up. It doesn't mean you've lost hope. Maybe you just care a whole lot about your kids and you want them to do better because you know they can. Maybe you're feeling like you're not enough. Maybe you're overwhelmed by the burdens of our ever growing responsibilities & cringe at the thought of adding "<i>one more thing</i>" to your plate. It doesn't mean you hate being a teacher. It doesn't mean you don't like your students. It means you're human and you need to talk to people who "get" you. There's only so much a significant other can hear about school until it starts to fall on deaf ears, LOL (j<i>ust ask my husband ;) haha</i>) We all need a sounding board and who better to relate to than a fellow teacher?! There's a difference between venting out of frustration and being negative for negativity's sake. Oh, dear teacher friends....IT'S OKAY!!!! </div>
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To the teacher who feels like you can't do it all, IT'S OKAY. You don't have to. And you shouldn't. It's impossible to be on 100% of your time in every area of your life. Sometimes you fall short and there's nothing wrong with that. We were never made to be perfect, thank God!!! As teachers, parents, friends, etc....we WILL fall short. It's inevitable. Allow yourself some grace, get back up, and keep going. IT'S OKAY.</div>
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To the teacher who seems like she has it all together, IT'S OKAY. It's okay that you really don't. The world may see a smiling face, perfectly coifed hair, great outfit, organized classroom, and the seemingly head-scratching way you are able to do everything "perfectly", but don't feel like you're any less because you can't live up to those perceptions. It's okay to be vulnerable and let your guard down. It's okay that you aren't as together as it seems. There's a wonderful freedom in letting go of those self-imposed expectations. IT'S OKAY. You are enough.</div>
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To the teacher who feels alone, IT'S OKAY. But just be reassured that you are NEVER alone. Even in a building where it seems like you are, you are NEVER alone. You have a classroom full of kids who need you. You are not alone. You have a community of teachers who FEEL you. You are not alone. Join an online community...participate in group discussions...find your person! IT'S OKAY!!! You are NOT alone!</div>
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To the teacher experiencing difficulty with a parent/parent(s), IT'S OKAY. This too, shall pass. Maybe there was a miscommunication. Maybe you can't live up to their expectations. Maybe you made a mistake. Maybe they just don't like you. IT'S OKAY. Parent/teacher relationships can be a beautiful thing, but sometimes they're downright hard. Each relationship is a learning experience and an opportunity for you to grow both personally and professionally. It's okay to cry about it. It's okay to worry about how it will affect you professionally. But don't let it get you down personally because in the end, IT'S OKAY.</div>
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To the teacher who had a rough evaluation, IT'S OKAY. You will survive and come out better for it on the other side. Maybe you were having a rough day. Maybe your kids were having a rough day. Maybe you froze up and forgot how to teach (<i>hey, it's happened to all of us, LOL</i>). Maybe your administrator was having a bad day. Maybe your administrator has it out for you. Maybe, just maybe, this is an opportunity for you to grow. A bad evaluation might seem like the end of the world, but it's not. It's really not. It will pass, you will grow, and next year you'll knock it out of the ballpark. IT'S OKAY.</div>
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To the teacher who loves implementing new and exciting ideas in your classroom in the midst of disapproval from your co-workers, IT'S OKAY. It's okay to be innovative and creative. It's okay to step out of the box and do something that's never been done before. Great ideas aren't born out of comfort. Just because it's always been done the same doesn't mean it always has to be done the same way. You're not bad teacher (<i>or bad person</i>) for wanting to try something different. Maybe you're tired of doing the same thing over and over and something new brings you a renewed excitement for teaching. Maybe you love trying fresh ideas and exciting things in the classroom. None of this means you respect or love your teammates any less, it just means you have your own ideas you want to bring to the table and THAT'S OKAY!!!!</div>
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To the teacher who hates change, IT'S OKAY. Change is scary! It doesn't mean you're a bad teacher, it just means you like the lane you're in and you'd rather not turn on your blinkers to switch just yet. If it's not broke, don't fix it, right?! Are your kids happy? Are they learning? Are they growing and progressing?! Well then, good for you! Maybe you're just a creature of habit. Maybe change is a terrifying prospect for you. Maybe you know what works and you prefer the path of least resistance. IT'S OKAY!!! </div>
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To the teacher who doesn't blog/Tpt/Instagram/Facebook, IT'S OKAY!!!! It doesn't make you less of teacher. It just means you're a teacher who has chosen to forego a social media presence and invest your precious, precious time in the things you dearly love instead. IT'S OKAY!!!</div>
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To the teacher who blogs/TpTs/IGs/FBs, IT'S OKAY! You aren't a better teacher because of your social media presence, but you are quite a bit busier. Busier isn't always better, but you've chosen to forge this path because it's an outlet you LOVE. You love being part of an online community and connecting with other teachers from around the world who "get" you. Instead of curling up on the couch with a good book at the end of a long day, you've chosen to bury your head in the computer creating resources for other teachers, sharing ideas, and staying connected with all things education. IT'S OKAY!!!! And it's okay when you go through seasons of silence, too :) Just like Ross and Rachel, everyone needs a break.</div>
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To the teacher who has decided to leave the classroom, IT'S OKAY. The teaching profession will miss you like crazy, but you've made the best decison for yourself & your family and that's perfectly fine. Maybe you realized you were being called in another direction. Maybe you had a string of bad years and need time to mentally recover. Maybe you've decided to stay home and raise your family. Maybe you've decided to go back to school. In any case, GOOD FOR YOU. IT'S OKAY!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieLrJvPRwTkAXNeI5le_jGWqLqd4xxo-vh6Qo0B3WwCV7vOog9xWTJy2odQtBvXZdLdsisveM_W7ZGcA3e_Gunyus8wTX9z3wdkKlZlhtwPnZPow4z4WY_a4KhtFu1NvANWbJJ0rZnzUwv/s1600/heyteach2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieLrJvPRwTkAXNeI5le_jGWqLqd4xxo-vh6Qo0B3WwCV7vOog9xWTJy2odQtBvXZdLdsisveM_W7ZGcA3e_Gunyus8wTX9z3wdkKlZlhtwPnZPow4z4WY_a4KhtFu1NvANWbJJ0rZnzUwv/s640/heyteach2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I don't know much, but I do know that no matter who you are and how you teach, there will always be someone (<i>whether it be an administrator, parent, co-teacher, or social media presence</i>) who may intentionally or inadvertently make you feel "<i>less than</i>". Be it through a blog, Facebook post, Instagram picture, a quote, a photo, a pin, a conversation, a mass email, a team meeting, a parent/teacher conference....there are SO many avenues that open us all up to both give and recieve criticism. And depending on how you feel, it can be downright terrifying or empowering. It can make us feel inadequate or righteous. Just remember when you feel like you're on the receiving end, your value is not based on someone else's opinion of who you are, how you teach, or anything else.</div>
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IT'S OKAY.</div>
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No matter your belief or philosophy, for the sake of teachers everywhere, just remember that IT'S OKAY. You just go on and do you because that's what you know how to do best. And the only goal you need is to be a better version of the teacher/teammate/colleague you were the day before. Our profession receives so much criticism from people outside of our field. </div>
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Let's not make criticism an inside job, too. </div>
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Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-78127110918071726492017-04-28T09:05:00.001-07:002017-04-28T09:05:37.002-07:00End of Year Science<div style="text-align: center;">
As the end-of-the-year quickly approaches, we often find ourselves looking for exciting ways to engage our kids, keep their interest, and teach them all the way until the last day. Okay, okay....the last week(ish), LOL. So often Science and Social Studies take a backseat to the daily demands of math and literacy, but there are SO many ways to incorporate science on a cross-curricular level. Why not end the year with a BANG and incorporate hands-on science activities that include a literacy and math component as well?! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0H7WF5FjCPNVz8C9nbF6UMzI34S7SUDWFPUC9KXnxIR8ZMOqyJJReUvyjWTG1kYD8dixhOENE6wLeLoIp_MkzjZXNdBWjYEPiEHEVZ5P0CMxdVBKgbC8pwfZ2j-rfsPGgd3h2FVQ7kid3/s1600/EOYSCIENCEPin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0H7WF5FjCPNVz8C9nbF6UMzI34S7SUDWFPUC9KXnxIR8ZMOqyJJReUvyjWTG1kYD8dixhOENE6wLeLoIp_MkzjZXNdBWjYEPiEHEVZ5P0CMxdVBKgbC8pwfZ2j-rfsPGgd3h2FVQ7kid3/s640/EOYSCIENCEPin.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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Abby and I created<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-theYEARLONG-BUNDLE-2897411"> a year's worth of The Science Of</a>...resources to meet the needs of science, but also incorporate literacy and math components. These are our FAVORITE resources(<i>I know, we're biased</i>), but we LOVE them!! And so do teachers and students across the globe!! </div>
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Here's what we have on tap for <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-May-2518343">end-of-year cross-curricular science activities.</a></div>
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The end of the school year is a great time to teach about the ocean & ocean animals. A pretty great segue into summer, don't you think?! Two weeks worth of our science plans & activities focus on oceans and ocean animals. One of my favorite activities is "eating the ocean". We make little ocean parfaits and then write about the different ocean animals and ocean life that can be found in each level of the ocean. Ocean trioramas are always a school-to-home favorite, too!</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-May-2518343"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyV6KSay52NjRA0HrepV7w0FI02aekh-gqqiZf6fND7WRVE37ro9zJVe66zPPv4gxwiBGjLu1aFHbOdNE1B3z1l4ie2q17PsP5HTDUH-6Iur5GVP4IBpk2kuQGLi1dIDioucTCV6u0S7Pu/s640/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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My kids have always seemed to have an ocean animal fascination. Quite frankly, I do too! LOL. We only live an hour away from the beach, so I'll often take a day trip down to Galveston during this time of the year and have my boys help me collect artifacts to bring back and share with my kids. Shells, the occasional shark tooth!!!, sand, etc. We talk all about the different animals in the ocean, the foods they eat, how they protect themselves from danger...etc. My kids are always fascinated to see how small octopuses can be and the looks of disgust on their faces when they learn people eat octopus always gives me a little giggle. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-May-2518343"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqU7vQZXERGPA1kjVjQqLT8XX53U-x2jeEfNxRhzmRY10LtrMi-vKAcBDQqrt9gyAP6tKZGK6t9RWQlD4HWj4XsVhOG0hn6U2u4c5AF4KGpARuEctCeuXPWDYOuCLzUgDHAlQOq8ezsFcx/s640/Slide2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Right now, Target is carrying these darling ocean animal erasers in the dollar spot!!! Aren't they great?! We'll be using these as counters for some of the ocean themed games we have planned.</div>
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<a href="https://scontent-dft4-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/18198418_10211808397262153_7087831389775319372_n.jpg?oh=023f82f1b769e35c4d654970deef6e8c&oe=59909DED" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://scontent-dft4-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/18198418_10211808397262153_7087831389775319372_n.jpg?oh=023f82f1b769e35c4d654970deef6e8c&oe=59909DED" width="640" /></a></div>
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Teaching thematically also gives us an opportunity to introduce rich vocabulary to our kids and prompt them to apply their learning to everyday activities. Little marine biologists, if you will :) </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-May-2518343"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVzPyMXkg8fm9cRmznsgc6ioK3zGcm26hBbYe102wdOKfr1u715O7UfN2INZLjrtAz54_-_Om2iDg8PVKcrPwrb-ubYBmO6V28cGjSVxVT4nR_41rOyiN0Gcq42Zg7pPnplQxOydMz-zko/s640/Slide3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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After ocean animals and ocean life, we move right into dinosaurs. Our babies sure do love dinosaurs, don't they?! And these activities are defintely engaging and hands-on!!! </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-May-2518343"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrOI7h4KxVCzaDKEuAsO2RbXyUJ26zdqWQAahSHAS4Av4QkhgQZ20zhTU1yayJL6HRXM9hXA2FCbdsXmV-O7mvryf8Qpr-cvzOQOXbW_SbuaJ425kqZDzE7nHNy3Ye0MJIwWvp7L2J2iMe/s640/Slide4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Speaking of dinosaurs, Target is KILLING it right now in the dinosaur science department!!! Just look at all these dinosaur goodies I found at Target in the dollar spot! These would be such a great compliment to the activities planned for dinosaur week!</div>
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<a href="https://scontent-dft4-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/18194950_10211808552386031_8651616201121620035_n.jpg?oh=f594ad0787d0cb77d3861efe83058284&oe=597F066F" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://scontent-dft4-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/18194950_10211808552386031_8651616201121620035_n.jpg?oh=f594ad0787d0cb77d3861efe83058284&oe=597F066F" width="640" /></a></div>
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We've heard from so many teachers how much they loved kitchen chemistry week! Cooking & exploring physical and chemical changes sounds like a pretty great way to end the year. Anytime I can incorporate food into my lesson plans, I'm ALL in. My friends know this well :) #noshame</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-May-2518343"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSYbOh-hsm6J01sRuAgCsHMxqDvzkg7u_n0DMYT6uFm4bW24zkCUu3MfM-0fhAvL9qXvOdPwmY5vtpAQaUEYyb_60n_QGMq3tQ6fauZFw374vE36tcRy-aBwygDnZrJrondvTtpI2gi05P/s640/Slide5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Abby and I also created a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-Summer-2536947">"sample" science packet</a> focusing on the science of sunscreen...a pretty timely, and important!, concept heading into the sunny and hot summer days. And if you're only needing a week's worth of cross-curricular lesson plans....or want to see what "The Science Of..." is all about....this is a great resource to have on hand!</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-Summer-2536947"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiObq6DPk-_OqvhHjafOyH3bJuoD7qD_O0Egoulflrr6emTUbWKM5euHeLkYVwJPXGYrMSSWWeiDXjm8B-hk0MecQcg6nyGdDxA5yCPxbIoYT4J_-NLgDsJc-X__EvUWnNWlyuMJ-z8yQw/s640/summersciencePIN.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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Here's one of our sweet homeschool readers proudly displaying his <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-Summer-2536947">Science of Summe</a>r activities! I absolutely LOVE this pic!!! How precious is his work?!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuhqF8u-VEKFgqzWqkF8TVwHK04rHTeqkHFQV3z0IpCZEzNgT0OjakL9pz1pScnWjD9xmXH2ObCH0cdoOT_cTV9VNdswJyy6KZBDM6klTxvwNtwQnWIulQ6dOrd1tA2xDQxCnsDtAD0z1D/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="608" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuhqF8u-VEKFgqzWqkF8TVwHK04rHTeqkHFQV3z0IpCZEzNgT0OjakL9pz1pScnWjD9xmXH2ObCH0cdoOT_cTV9VNdswJyy6KZBDM6klTxvwNtwQnWIulQ6dOrd1tA2xDQxCnsDtAD0z1D/s640/Picture1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Lots of talk about sunscreen....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKj52cMBTWF9Io8Pv7xQJXDhE6oVOiC2qPZZZtw79J975lbi6Wcds4Yj3Lc9U-l0Gs36O4WDncUn3fl6FdCQ54XTtlQSTB2sjxjMKg-az5sU75GE7myEfFU1ybjIuyvWV2GGscZ6cSMQ3e/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKj52cMBTWF9Io8Pv7xQJXDhE6oVOiC2qPZZZtw79J975lbi6Wcds4Yj3Lc9U-l0Gs36O4WDncUn3fl6FdCQ54XTtlQSTB2sjxjMKg-az5sU75GE7myEfFU1ybjIuyvWV2GGscZ6cSMQ3e/s640/Slide2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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How sunscreen works, sunburn info, and some fact & opinion fun, to boot.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizOrkqK64adziRbziIt-OdQpap0xZmhQdadO6X6cMDZbZTEkrDAZ394_kQ99lI30qZqr00BnlubRcV8eYoNCGTKS99tP-z68fmEg2S2KerXGbESjXuk2VOGcnZooBH2PdLYiGMejzmCsLi/s1600/Slide3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizOrkqK64adziRbziIt-OdQpap0xZmhQdadO6X6cMDZbZTEkrDAZ394_kQ99lI30qZqr00BnlubRcV8eYoNCGTKS99tP-z68fmEg2S2KerXGbESjXuk2VOGcnZooBH2PdLYiGMejzmCsLi/s640/Slide3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I had my boys do these activites the first couple of weeks of summer last year because they're always fighting me about wearing sunscreen. Why?! LOL. </div>
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A couple of the experiments included helped them to visually see the kind of damage the sun can do if we choose not to keep our sun protected with sunscreen. In fact, I think I might have laid on the info pretty thick because they sure didn't forget to remind me when I wasn't wearing any, haha. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv2-4ylzZy6tpSeaRjtb8UYLf6WsEQutQllmZHFwiIQU0FG_2bZOSFRxI6zBoLcFlU6r4JdFLhTilUoGgMcvEbNPTtK3D_2L2KjUyNXdzLjm83sBpTQjptgj3lgkkxKH9fnjH3pG_cVJCx/s1600/Slide4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv2-4ylzZy6tpSeaRjtb8UYLf6WsEQutQllmZHFwiIQU0FG_2bZOSFRxI6zBoLcFlU6r4JdFLhTilUoGgMcvEbNPTtK3D_2L2KjUyNXdzLjm83sBpTQjptgj3lgkkxKH9fnjH3pG_cVJCx/s640/Slide4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Alright...time to head outside. And no, I won't forget my sunscreen! LOL!!!!</div>
Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-45709221985477869632017-04-26T12:26:00.000-07:002017-04-26T12:26:27.282-07:00Celebrating Mother's Day<div style="text-align: center;">
Can y'all believe we're already (quickly) approaching the end of April?! WHERE DID THE YEAR GO?! Our babies get out at the end of May and you know how May goes. Everything sort of hits us at once. Cinco de Mayo, Mother's Day, testing, assessment after assessment, portfolios, cumulative folders, plays, musicals, field trips, graduation, etc., etc., etc. Try as we may to be on top of things, sometimes the inevitable just sneaks up on us! For me, that is usually Mother's Day. I always think I have more time to plan and prep. What about you?!</div>
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Well today I wanted to share with you some Mother's Day ideas so that this doesn't sneak up on you and leave you without a spare second to plan. Shall we?!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBG4GrWi5vRAV-zvZxxvTG-RDpP_ROrAq9RPtbsS5xdfLOOuRQxdmBTWxi7HZrjjgFE5a5W_FhRNy4ZgqiAr1RSVY8NUm7o-O_qjEZ0OI772eGqmxZsA__YwtlJ3hvPoXyLC_NMyknxff/s1600/MomDayPin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBG4GrWi5vRAV-zvZxxvTG-RDpP_ROrAq9RPtbsS5xdfLOOuRQxdmBTWxi7HZrjjgFE5a5W_FhRNy4ZgqiAr1RSVY8NUm7o-O_qjEZ0OI772eGqmxZsA__YwtlJ3hvPoXyLC_NMyknxff/s640/MomDayPin.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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I always love introducing different concepts, topics, and holidays with a read aloud. Here are some of my favorite Mother's Day read alouds.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKCUnllzVDMT4XfT-w2v9G27gFMFJLuHTyJbpeaNT4k3RARzzE8JBsE-WGz72KJOs3xoYI7TfPDTdD0n_IFq3-an2Hj2csGxBUCXPoIPsFd48-egiAdE6QHtg7VwzM8IlkI-VFeCwvWS-K/s1600/Mothersday7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKCUnllzVDMT4XfT-w2v9G27gFMFJLuHTyJbpeaNT4k3RARzzE8JBsE-WGz72KJOs3xoYI7TfPDTdD0n_IFq3-an2Hj2csGxBUCXPoIPsFd48-egiAdE6QHtg7VwzM8IlkI-VFeCwvWS-K/s640/Mothersday7.png" width="482" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0448452138/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0448452138&linkId=203b3c3269d9c41f24ecbf18a49acb50">The Night Before Mother's Day</a>, by Natasha Wing</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0310748690/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0310748690&linkId=b29563f230612a7607c2e88929daa2a0">Mother's Day Blessings</a>, by Jan & Stan Berstain</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/147781647X/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=147781647X&linkId=0276b2a0d27f2664ae2c031a2a87dcab">What Not to Give Your Mom on Mother's Day</a>, by Martha Simpson</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/030712584X/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=030712584X&linkId=b62d0d6670ca4975c9f129c484a2b33e">Just Me & My Mom, </a>by Mercer Mayer</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0525472479/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0525472479&linkId=150af70f2ff394d9eb5074c3df1f01f2">I Love My Mommy Because</a>..., by Laurel Porter Gaylord</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0060539704/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0060539704&linkId=72c492e5402dfa54fb253db79dae535e">Happy Mother's Day!</a>, by Mercer Mayer</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1405437820/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1405437820&linkId=09bff1dc63f651be0ea651fb824045e6">I Love You Mommy,</a> by Jillian Harker</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PUHVD72/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00PUHVD72&linkId=118bdbaf0ccc4daae887f1c1bb1e33f0">Did You Know My Mom is Awesome?</a>, by Shelley Admont</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0374400261/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0374400261&linkId=c9eadee4df4f52640999893354a823d4">My Mom</a>, by Anthony Browne</span></div>
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After reading a couple of different read alouds, we talk about different things that moms do. The responses always make me laugh, LOL. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcy0qD82oErKusOpLmbfSDVug7_uoEKr2QF36HYijdGr7zpVmnRX1Omo3XKHZsYjJyuFkLDoWCAz-8EoFbDRO_V0TUzL-z4MkZEW3_ao5MdT8AZPL9k7Q5krHE71ax4uwjX7PUqcHtYu5l/s1600/mothersday1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcy0qD82oErKusOpLmbfSDVug7_uoEKr2QF36HYijdGr7zpVmnRX1Omo3XKHZsYjJyuFkLDoWCAz-8EoFbDRO_V0TUzL-z4MkZEW3_ao5MdT8AZPL9k7Q5krHE71ax4uwjX7PUqcHtYu5l/s640/mothersday1.png" width="480" /></a></div>
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Speaking as a mom, my favorite gifts I get from my kids are always the handwritten tokens of love. It's like a little piece of their hearts and thoughts on paper, forever frozen in time. I LOVE THEM. SO, I like having my school babies make the same type of gifts for their moms, or V.I.P's, too!! My mom kept all of these kinds of things my siblings and I made for her and I have a growing box of goodies my boys have created for me. Maybe I'm overly sentimental, but I seriously can't get enough. Here's just a little sample of some things we make for Mother's Day...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXhRdmSKZSWwDkr1-IuazAWKpRCa25s3v8em1cV_Ifc8m4SVBhpUZiBI-LP2M744FP61atS3BkPsXqdwk8eQvGQkhV3eihCMu6mC_ayea8PBaNc1rqb05i6EhvlRAxaw9QGHs8eKXWa_ae/s1600/Mothersday2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXhRdmSKZSWwDkr1-IuazAWKpRCa25s3v8em1cV_Ifc8m4SVBhpUZiBI-LP2M744FP61atS3BkPsXqdwk8eQvGQkhV3eihCMu6mC_ayea8PBaNc1rqb05i6EhvlRAxaw9QGHs8eKXWa_ae/s640/Mothersday2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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My most favorite is this<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mothers-Day-Freebie-Keepsake-Booklet-3129089"> Mother's Day booklet.</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJP-WWjoFVykb0M_k1OBxDd1svyFhKhNo-f8B2gkiOrqm4D4Fs2UyVkw0GoBxyqcknBslPT_XBsmsXC6agNRBbX5hlFX5zIGtbdyluZoSeLjGnJ0YowuEyFgFcxMMlgpTUGAFVknFIcMRV/s1600/mothersday8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJP-WWjoFVykb0M_k1OBxDd1svyFhKhNo-f8B2gkiOrqm4D4Fs2UyVkw0GoBxyqcknBslPT_XBsmsXC6agNRBbX5hlFX5zIGtbdyluZoSeLjGnJ0YowuEyFgFcxMMlgpTUGAFVknFIcMRV/s640/mothersday8.png" width="576" /></a></div>
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We create these as a guided writing activity during our guided reading small groups. Sometimes I'll even place some of the pages in the writing center throughout the two weeks leading up to Mother's Day...just depends on the class I have and how much time we have to work on them.</div>
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I adhere the cover to a piece of construction paper and the first two pages are an original poem and an "all about mom" page. The "all about" page is always my favorite, LOL!!! Then I use my 3-hole-punch & ribbon to tie it altogether.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt1DS-SFPNiWstdnSvP2mZsL_hI0EX_Q3WxPjbCqu3BOofvQ5_VskBNhvDb8Jw1NuhYR3qFbzQw4dc5rqt5gMTEGVzru0qZVqqzPbJ6Z7fKDgeiYMqbsD7pag0DJXZpXh1UsuYx3gBrafK/s1600/mothersday5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="582" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt1DS-SFPNiWstdnSvP2mZsL_hI0EX_Q3WxPjbCqu3BOofvQ5_VskBNhvDb8Jw1NuhYR3qFbzQw4dc5rqt5gMTEGVzru0qZVqqzPbJ6Z7fKDgeiYMqbsD7pag0DJXZpXh1UsuYx3gBrafK/s640/mothersday5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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There are lots of different pages within the book. Sometimes we have enough time to finish them all, sometimes we only have time for 3-5. It's a new ball game every year :) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDhd5_ryyedIwPKwsQws4Z2W6_52p9jqTnTfGfAQw0-Sl8hHBdz9HKiuMxikPs8LQhAIcx4iCqaKM4b3dhJfW5Iwnc7B3hHwFO6VD3Lx7g9kdsYjm_RLvBwmK_QkIxMIJzPAovbyIfQFjJ/s1600/mothersday6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="542" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDhd5_ryyedIwPKwsQws4Z2W6_52p9jqTnTfGfAQw0-Sl8hHBdz9HKiuMxikPs8LQhAIcx4iCqaKM4b3dhJfW5Iwnc7B3hHwFO6VD3Lx7g9kdsYjm_RLvBwmK_QkIxMIJzPAovbyIfQFjJ/s640/mothersday6.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anybody remember this gem that one of my students gifted her mom back in 2012?!?! I DIE!!!! This is my favorite to date. Mom and I had a huge laugh over this one, LOL!!! Mom came up to school not long after this booklet went home and she and I could NOT stop laughing!! Out of the mouths of babes!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAQWSLj27sUZzW1P-qprEX_dAxSPfi1dFW6stD7Emqdvn79r_moQt80zEDdzm8Js1W_cNiv10jaZQakOXjF69WLO61XXuwCNJ6h342ZjUynhR6fZsrGyM1Lxo7jsEfQRw_f1Q5GWjnt9sV/s1600/mothersday9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAQWSLj27sUZzW1P-qprEX_dAxSPfi1dFW6stD7Emqdvn79r_moQt80zEDdzm8Js1W_cNiv10jaZQakOXjF69WLO61XXuwCNJ6h342ZjUynhR6fZsrGyM1Lxo7jsEfQRw_f1Q5GWjnt9sV/s640/mothersday9.png" width="470" /></a></div>
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If you're interested in having your kids do something like this for their moms, I uploaded a freebie for you to use in your classrooms :) I was also sure to include pages that read "V.I.P" instead of "mom" should you have any students who need to designate an dad/aunt/uncle/grandma/grandpa/family friend as a mother figure. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mothers-Day-Freebie-Keepsake-Booklet-3129089"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC-EwWoKURUd45WGUGPeh-AHc9lvIGMNCy3zJJ5mOZuiQot_lkQB0x6sFD3SRO60EEx19ewtWdacgY2WaOridLqruhcrnrGhevjDpD_qzvf7d08yPIN2UeJAQqMlNbO24vkAL2cVl6poqH/s640/mothersday4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mothers-Day-Freebie-Keepsake-Booklet-3129089">CLICK TO DOWNLOAD MOTHER'S DAY KEEPSAKE BOOKLET</a></div>
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I also have my kids send home <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mothers-Day-675880">Mother's Day coupon books</a> that include coupons redeemable for things like hugs, foot rubs, house cleaning, naps, etc. My kids get a kick out of these!!! These are SUPER easy to assemble...just print, cut, collate, and staple! I'll often tie a ribbon around the booklets for a little something extra. Your kids can choose the coupons they want to include or you can choose for them :)</div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQX7-SllT5cYGgytqiCWoBMGqjcCn4K-O1vqqfz_w2jNbfvsSBtJanUJ60o-o6UIu5wUkoiSJNUcgT0iaZTyx_fW6utjJzMf3hTW1g4LxZRuT64k-lJlmg9yIgEFg2HpSd6G0lE1u1poK/s640/mothersday12.png" width="640" /></div>
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In addition to the Mother's Day keepsake booklet, I usually have my kids create <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mothers-Day-675880">Mother's Day simile books</a>. I usually start with a mentor book and simile lesson to set the stage. Together we'll brainstorm a list of different descriptors to use in our books. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9LS2f1TouM4yaozvwHokDmxjklT258d0ka4OE1RIjnk-zfgq1SNJLw2NdT2cNhR5trzeThRu4C1FOi3bWnQ36qR9yAK7g0zhmQBjmfHw50cZPvhSYxlH_kSBZcf3oyvW9OyZY37RpUgxX/s1600/mothersday11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9LS2f1TouM4yaozvwHokDmxjklT258d0ka4OE1RIjnk-zfgq1SNJLw2NdT2cNhR5trzeThRu4C1FOi3bWnQ36qR9yAK7g0zhmQBjmfHw50cZPvhSYxlH_kSBZcf3oyvW9OyZY37RpUgxX/s640/mothersday11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I go to the Dollar Tree, but a bunch of white or brown gift bags, and have my kids paint their handprints on the bag. Once they dry, they write "Happy Mother's Day" with a sharpie over their handprint. We place all of these keepsakes inside their gift bags to take home & instruct them to make sure that mom doesn't peek until Mother's Day!!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAqwLSuho8GHtWX521vXLv6VCaW3nEZZUo9RLRIjuc_VgS2PB3RvfnEm7UHpQNY6XrdjUKjkq_635ZvxkuUPygm9VOErzwtq6FMCw2rOCQZPwmKiwomipBaqa2ePY2mektAeKn57A63ID/s1600/Mothersday2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAqwLSuho8GHtWX521vXLv6VCaW3nEZZUo9RLRIjuc_VgS2PB3RvfnEm7UHpQNY6XrdjUKjkq_635ZvxkuUPygm9VOErzwtq6FMCw2rOCQZPwmKiwomipBaqa2ePY2mektAeKn57A63ID/s640/Mothersday2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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And no Mother's Day is complete without some sort of craft! These are a couple of my favorites. I don't send them both home the same year...unless we have a ton of time!!!...but I'll alternate years and just kind of feel out which one is appropriate for the current school year. I love getting things like this from my boys!</div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimpvMxwAfX9aA7lhssQtf3_8nSNjjyK-DMX6NCAqsnz8-yfxbhMHVsnFXyaD0Aq_4f1VU2iQ7PgbRrIx7NdTcaX0V9TjR966zo4ra0SEhxYtjp8mUxIVJZF2J1l6aQTLHU5u6umo2NXZgs/s640/mothersday13.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mothers-Day-675880">BLOWING KISSES CRAFTIVITY</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgFyRhrp4Un7HJZXPKAor5Fk6gg-kNpB3GoCwc22FuT2Bwrv2CAuo-c9dRXBT66OlymgpzJdLhDOgCLnzmhKBmFScPJw4JygBQ6yfTWwZfOR2ikVnw54c8hX_oLnQR48rEApFN4GkxRgYF/s1600/mothersday14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgFyRhrp4Un7HJZXPKAor5Fk6gg-kNpB3GoCwc22FuT2Bwrv2CAuo-c9dRXBT66OlymgpzJdLhDOgCLnzmhKBmFScPJw4JygBQ6yfTWwZfOR2ikVnw54c8hX_oLnQR48rEApFN4GkxRgYF/s640/mothersday14.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mothers-Day-675880">MOTHER'S DAY WRITING CRAFTIVITY</a></div>
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Here are a couple of craft ideas that make my heart swell. Such precious gift ideas for mom or a special V.I.P!!! And easy to boot!</div>
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This suncatcher doubles as a clever little Mother's Day card. How cute is that?!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMV_ZzCjvbT4J42oD72S8huW93RPbW2gmq-azf5EnVuVHwEbAdYOoZwXABU7dZMScx5-_20rJmabuHpcLXGtHxZIoXNHsLh9wiU4NQyvWsKzCAfAZogOQA4SKsGJOOQMxKjiIzFRR-Ldw/s640/000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMV_ZzCjvbT4J42oD72S8huW93RPbW2gmq-azf5EnVuVHwEbAdYOoZwXABU7dZMScx5-_20rJmabuHpcLXGtHxZIoXNHsLh9wiU4NQyvWsKzCAfAZogOQA4SKsGJOOQMxKjiIzFRR-Ldw/s320/000.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.learningandexploringthroughplay.com/2017/01/love-you-to-pieces-suncatcher-card.html">via Learning & Exploring Through Play</a></div>
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How simple and easy is this craft?! "I love my mom because" flowers! You can take this a step further and place it in a clay pot decorated with their thumbprints :) That's for the ambitious teacher. I know this time of the year doesn't always afford us time! LOL!</div>
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<a href="http://busycreatingmemories.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Mothers-Day-1-of-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://busycreatingmemories.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Mothers-Day-1-of-1.png" height="320" width="264" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://busycreatingmemories.com/i-love-you-because-mothers-day-craft/">via Busy Creating Memories</a></div>
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Blowing kisses to mom! A canvas some paint, scrapbook paper, photographs, and mod podge make this a pretty easy, and adorable, Mother's Day gift! </div>
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<a href="http://horadebrincaredeaprender.blogspot.com/2015_05_01_archive.html">via Hora De Brincar E De Aprender</a></div>
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My oldest brought home a picture just like this in a handmade frame a few years ago. I died. His said, "I love you because you give good hugs." BLESS IT. It's still hanging in my room :)</div>
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<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/38913984261308517/">via Pinterest </a>(if you know the original source, holler! Can't find it!!!)</div>
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How do you celebrate Mother's Day in the classroom?!?!?!</div>
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Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-79471237605984269572017-03-28T11:04:00.003-07:002017-03-29T08:35:52.822-07:00Learning About Oviparous Animals<div style="text-align: center;">
If you're anything like me, as a teacher you love teaching thematically. SO much content can be covered on a cross-curricular level...so many connections can be made... when taking this approach to instruction. And because most public schools don't support teaching about Easter, this is a great time of the year for teaching all about oviparous and viviparous animals! Today I wanted to share with you a few activities and read alouds I love incorporating in my plans this time of the year.</div>
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No thematic unit of learning is complete without a good set of read alouds! These are a few of my favorite oviparous animal books to keep in the classroom during this unit of study. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWkwxYM16NB_DEIDlkcRqLNOnY-sa7Usc7xvjkhgbbg1aNqtgrT54PjOlTQz-tNx3-O6Kaw1jVa_uIYT-2cuHEFuQymTHnmIxfhaVn_-xqh6yN0b5FgEbcEN-gPWfkA7AZKeZU_U_voRvy/s1600/Oviparous1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWkwxYM16NB_DEIDlkcRqLNOnY-sa7Usc7xvjkhgbbg1aNqtgrT54PjOlTQz-tNx3-O6Kaw1jVa_uIYT-2cuHEFuQymTHnmIxfhaVn_-xqh6yN0b5FgEbcEN-gPWfkA7AZKeZU_U_voRvy/s640/Oviparous1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0698117786/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0698117786&linkId=ed15e0e56d2fe6e19a956ee944974a7f">Chickens Aren't the Only Ones</a> by Ruth Heller</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1541903110/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1541903110&linkId=f49a0b0a8e28f7435d96696ccae29336">Animals That Hatch from Eggs</a> by Baby Professor</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0822561921/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0822561921&linkId=a6ab9113157c979f8b4ac6ffc87dfc60">Guess What is Growing Inside This Egg </a>by Mia Posada</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/080272311X/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=080272311X&linkId=4fe3dacd3cd6d17a94f513d531bc7f86">What Will Hatch?</a> by Jennifer Ward</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1596432721/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1596432721&linkId=415d33599a1330a5e91bdf1c88ae49a4">First the Egg</a> by Laura Vaccaro Seeger</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1452131481/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1452131481&linkId=a344d472785692a3d0dad0a8033ae1a0">An Egg is Quiet </a>by Diana Hutts Aston</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1925234851/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1925234851&linkId=49d85c4a99974f5675ee6a17fdcaa1e2">Where Are You From?</a> by In-Sook Kim</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0618755039/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0618755039&linkId=9ba7dd8f4948cd85decbe31f24a3cd91">Ollie</a> by Olivier Dunrea</div>
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To start off our unit of learning, I like to create a schema chart to see what kids think they know about oviparous animals. When I ask kids, "Who knows what an oviparous animal is?" I usually get a ton of blank stares and several wild guesses that leave me in a fit of hysterics. Ha! We discuss the definition...as well as the definition of viviparous animals...and then we move on to a read aloud. <i> Chickens Aren't the Only Ones</i> is a great one to start with! </div>
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As a whole group follow-up to the reading, we'll sort pictures of oviparous and viviparous animals. They always love this. </div>
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As we read and learn about oviparous animals, we add to our schema/new learning chart and discuss our misconceptions. Then I have my kids follow-up our new learning with a non-fiction writing craftivity. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpKfAotmP9T6wJH6aA2GCDzLne1DRGXaiPZY-JQEe_2hb9GJ94bsnweTSlUHeu-jYa44WiJqOy71OUVwQwkyVbiKxRYcV_Lcs1jGX1zy6SpatpcZKpcBe3QN7n-yJ7cIReqYlDEsSgVz_B/s1600/Oviparous6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpKfAotmP9T6wJH6aA2GCDzLne1DRGXaiPZY-JQEe_2hb9GJ94bsnweTSlUHeu-jYa44WiJqOy71OUVwQwkyVbiKxRYcV_Lcs1jGX1zy6SpatpcZKpcBe3QN7n-yJ7cIReqYlDEsSgVz_B/s640/Oviparous6.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is pretty simple. I don't have a template available for this, but you really don't need one! First, the kids write a short paragraph...or 2-3 sentences...about oviparous animals. Then they illustrate an oviparous animal of their choosing, cut it out, and adhere it to a piece of construction paper. A cracked egg is placed on top of their illustration to make it look like the animal is hatching from the egg. Then we use kraft krinkle cut paper/gift filler and glue that to the picture to resemble a nest. We love creating hands-on visuals to show off our learning and solidfy connections!</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-April-2463079">THESE ACTIVITIES ARE INCLUDED IN THE SCIENCE OF APRIL</a></div>
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I think it's really important to empower kids with terminology to deepen their understanding. I love incorporating rich and relevant vocabulary into my instruction and then using those vocabulary words in different games and activities that are hands-on and engaging for my kids. The more engaging and hands-on, the more I can guarantee that my kids will remember what they learn. Of course, it's not enough to just memorize, I want to empower them with the ability to then APPLY their learning. My kids have tons of opportunities to apply and use the vocabulary words in the different activities I incorporate during this time.</div>
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One of their favorite vocabulary activities was a small group activity where they had to work to place the eggs in the matching nests (seen above). The nests were made out of paper lunch bags and Easter grass! SIMPLE! Each nest was labeled with a vocabulary word and then they had to work to match the visual representation of the word to the definition and place them in the corresponding nests. Since this was done in a small group setting, I was able to easily facilitate the activity and assess understanding. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-April-2463079">THESE ACTIVITIES ARE INCLUDED IN THE SCIENCE OF APRIL</a></div>
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Of course, I'd be remiss not to include learning about life cycles! Frogs and chickens are in our standards, so I make sure to incorporate these oviparous animals into our unit of study as well. Again, I love incorporating craftivities because they help kids to make connections to their learning in a hands-on way. So important! </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-April-2463079">THESE EXPERIMENTS ARE INCLUDED IN THE SCIENCE OF APRIL</a></div>
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Experiments and investigations are ALWAYS a class favorite, so I try to include as many as I can that help deepen understanding. During our oviparous animal unit, we do an Incredible Egg Investigation where we investigate an egg and its attributes. I make sure to keep lots of paper towels and newspaper on hand for this hands-on activity because little hands often don't know their own strength! Ha!</div>
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We also "hatch" homemade eggs using a vinegar & baking soda experiment that the kids love. LOTS of predictions are made during this time and the "ooohs" and "ahhhhhs" are overwhelming! The kids love to predict which animals will hatch....and they can always eliminate any animal that isn't oviparous because we've learned that oviparous animals are the only animals that hatch from eggs!</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-April-2463079">THESE ACTIVITIES ARE INCLUDED IN THE SCIENCE OF APRIL</a></div>
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My favorite thing about teaching thematically is the cross-curricular connections that can be incorporated. This also allows me to fit in more content throughout my day. SO many great opportunities to incorporate learning into math as well as literacy. Lots of opportunities for writing....text to self connections, etc. I'm often asked, "when do you have time for writing?" Well, ANYTIME is a good time to write and incorporating writing activities throughout the day often helps me not only to target specific skills, but helps me to assess my student's understanding of the content we're learning. </div>
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Speaking of writing, this is one of my most favorite oviparous animal writing activities. I did this every year for almost all 14 years I was in the classroom!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZbwZZraJ-PFXgVpnViaM9M8wd5MD0VPMbHikGJOMB0H6vfhIMnfgdwKmIrz-OxNy4dpglLNpxEnb1Dkd9oehXf16HwNF9MYdo__RLlFDEnv3BQpQGz8xiz83_kQawDJI8pC_vDfCVT-ee/s1600/Oviparous5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZbwZZraJ-PFXgVpnViaM9M8wd5MD0VPMbHikGJOMB0H6vfhIMnfgdwKmIrz-OxNy4dpglLNpxEnb1Dkd9oehXf16HwNF9MYdo__RLlFDEnv3BQpQGz8xiz83_kQawDJI8pC_vDfCVT-ee/s640/Oviparous5.png" width="542" /></a></div>
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I create a huge chick anchor chart out of butcher paper and then we brainstorm a list of words to describe it. I add the words to the chart and then prompt my students to create their very own chicks using a variety of mediums I make available to them. After making their chicks, they have to write about it using descriptive words (adjectives). For my kindergartners, I prompted them to write at least 3 sentences using the prompt, "My chick is....". With my first graders, we took a slightly different approach. I created a can/have/are thinking map with them and they had to write using the prompts "My chick can; My chick has; My chick is". We kept the chicks close by so that they could also write a fiction story all about their chicks in the writing center. That was a favorite for sure!</div>
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These are just a few of the activities I incorporate into our Oviparous Animal study. For more ideas, check out my <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/caralesley/oviparous-animals/">Oviparous Animal Pinterest Board</a>. Don't you wish there were 24 MORE hours in each day, LOL?!?!?! Never enough time for everything I want to do!!!</div>
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<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/caralesley/oviparous-animals/"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfMwxFIOO_fxY0_DfFt0tsmOcp6kEpo3Y1n7gRyg05EtUvr1OaMta_2N8kmx1hm8yiUgLnCeD5t5zJeL75QNtVLtQ5pF6f0XaxSL3PaSZH57d-bnGJ5EhlKWcsqab6U0wpWaYS4d7XPHv/s400/Oviparous7.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #454545; font-family: Merriweather;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(***Amazon affiliate links are included in this post. Purchasing items through the Amazon affiliate links included in this post may result in a commission for the author.***)</span></i></div>
Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-83183236697135760362017-03-24T12:35:00.002-07:002017-03-24T18:11:34.136-07:005 Tips for Teaching Sight Words - How to Make Them Stick!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Today we're talking all about sight words. Specifically, my top 5 effective tips for making sight words STICK! </div>
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So often we as teachers focus on assessing our student's sight word automaticity in isolation, but overlook the need to reinforce that same instant recall when identifying sight words in context. We assume that easily reading sight words in context will be a by-product of focused instruction of words in isolation, right?! </div>
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<b>TRUTH:</b> I would always get so frustrated when my kids would recall words in isolation with NO problem, but when reading them in context...it was like crickets! Complete and utter silence. <i>WHA?!</i> How many times would I say to them, "<i>Baby...I know you know that word! You JUST read that word for me yesterday!!!!</i>" while they stare back at me blankly and wonder what in the world I'm talking about. Can anybody else relate?! </div>
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Teaching & reinforcing sight words in isolation is an integral piece of the puzzle, but it's not the only piece. We need to remember to pair that same instruction with opportunities for kids to explore sight words in context as well. Guided reading is the perfect time to provide our kids with these experiences<i> (reading & identifying sight words in leveled texts, etc.),</i> but we can also transfer these same opportunities to whole group activities as well. Introducing & reinforcing sight words in context helps our kids to build an understanding of how these words are used in everyday language, thus establishing the value & importance of word recognition (<i>both in and out of context</i>). </div>
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Here are some ideas for identifying and reading sight words in context...</div>
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This is one of my favorite activities and typically a favorite among kids, too. The idea behind this activity is to choose 2-3 different sight words and incorporate them in a written message to your kids. I loved making this a part of my morning message. Before showing my kids the message, I would cover up the targeted sight words with sticky notes. During whole group, I would read the message aloud to my kids while pointing to each word. When I'd point to the sticky note, instead of saying the targeted sight word, I'd say "BEEP" <i>(like the "bleep" sound you hear when there's a cuss on TV ;))</i>, and keep on reading. I'd prompt the kids to help me "beep", too! Now can you see why this was a class favorite?! ;) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiecKk8KcLWvvNqA-V2O48e0hczhub8c5FjvlQJhUpkJws0uYGHaqBD0KhQZxsHzQTs41bGsUEayazRnd5DUMRKbWtKwAcME9SOY46SgWjelmtMn0U5_EUUX1wsP2JwDnWi3igrVuEhAjYm/s1600/BeepBeep2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiecKk8KcLWvvNqA-V2O48e0hczhub8c5FjvlQJhUpkJws0uYGHaqBD0KhQZxsHzQTs41bGsUEayazRnd5DUMRKbWtKwAcME9SOY46SgWjelmtMn0U5_EUUX1wsP2JwDnWi3igrVuEhAjYm/s640/BeepBeep2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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The objective of this activity is to prompt students to listen for context clues to determine which sight word best fit into each sentence. After reading the message one time through, I would go back and read aloud each sentence one at a time and pause when I'd get to a sticky note. I'd prompt the kids to tell me what sight word best fit in the sentence and they would use the bank of sight word cards on the chart paper to determine the missing word. After guessing, I'd remove the sticky note to reveal the sight word and then re-read the sentence again and ask questions like,<i> "Did that make sense?", "Is there another word that would make sense there?",</i> etc. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3dyAbglWVIwtkRUk0ac4drM7Q4dqKx4TBV9bwsLyZC5wDPFbaHRrhY9wR7v2lBLUlGpcRKsYfrh80odSMzvQuL7q_1AV6DhK7RGiGvsTnPdRIhstJsWmVYxoUWKNAjhaiprTDWA1GRa5P/s1600/CLozePrompts1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3dyAbglWVIwtkRUk0ac4drM7Q4dqKx4TBV9bwsLyZC5wDPFbaHRrhY9wR7v2lBLUlGpcRKsYfrh80odSMzvQuL7q_1AV6DhK7RGiGvsTnPdRIhstJsWmVYxoUWKNAjhaiprTDWA1GRa5P/s640/CLozePrompts1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sight-Word-Prompts-Fry-Words-1-100-3006181">SIGHT WORD PROMPTS</a></div>
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Cloze sentences are a great extension of this activity. You can easily create cloze sentences using sentence strips and sight word flashcards. Place them in a pocket chart,read, and prompt students to place the matching word in the empty space. I scaled down this idea for use in small group by adding cloze sentences to my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sight-Word-Prompts-Fry-Words-1-100-3006181">Sight Word Support binder.</a> This is just a resource I kept at my guided reading table and would use to quickly reinforce sight word recognition with my small groups. Oftentimes I would read the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sight-Word-Prompts-Fry-Words-1-100-3006181">cloze sentences</a> aloud and prompt the kids to guess the missing word or even use letter tiles to spell the missing words. I would also pass out cover-up cards and have the kids use counters to cover-up the missing word which gave me the freedom to quickly assess understanding of all kids in the group at once. This was a great way to practice identifying and reading words in context in a small group setting.</div>
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Instead of focusing solely on the visual appearance of a word <i>(rote memorization</i>), remember to draw the student's attention to the attributes of the words as well. It's important to give our kids opportunities to analyze words and process them in detail. Looking at the vowels, consonants, number of letters, beginning letter(s), ending letter, etc. is powerful and helps kids to make concrete connections and process words on a deeper level. This doesn't have to be something that takes up a ton of your instructional time, so let me share with you how I was able to incorporate this easily & effectively.</div>
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This activity is easy to implement and very effective. Place 3-5 sight word cards in a pocket chart (<i>or display on an easel/white board. You could even write them on chart paper!</i>). Choose a word from the set as your "secret" word and don't tell the kids which word you've chosen. Tell the kids, "I'm thinking of a word...." and describe it's attributes before prompting students to guess your secret word. For example, <i>"I'm thinking of a word.....that starts/ends with a vowel; that starts/ends with a consonant; that rhymes with _____; that has ___ vowels and ____ consonants; that begins with a tall letter; that ends with a short letter; that means _____.; etc." </i>You can choose to describe your secret word using one prompt or several...whatever works best for your group(s)! Prompt students to guess the word, point to it, spell it, etc. This can be done with several different words in a 3-5 minute time span and makes a great warm-up for a small or whole group activity.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI6x-SF1X1qTJ2RBnVDusDGOLfjD-csdTE5kPrS7h5Lb54tbu0Lj4narR1flR6lbRnwzRiUHygye2zBGoqoJuGLN8lF7DXPOsDsNGbUgnw89BeiaLpbJ57zMW_h1OyZDaJeDBrjUqPbCdw/s1600/SightWordPrompts.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="622" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI6x-SF1X1qTJ2RBnVDusDGOLfjD-csdTE5kPrS7h5Lb54tbu0Lj4narR1flR6lbRnwzRiUHygye2zBGoqoJuGLN8lF7DXPOsDsNGbUgnw89BeiaLpbJ57zMW_h1OyZDaJeDBrjUqPbCdw/s640/SightWordPrompts.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sight-Word-Prompts-Fry-Words-1-100-3006181">SIGHT WORD PROMPTS</a></div>
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To piggyback off the idea of <i>"I'm thinking of a word...</i>", I created a set of <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sight-Word-Prompts-Fry-Words-1-100-3006181">Sight Word Prompts</a> to use during small group/guided reading. These prompts are broken down into sets of 5 & 10 sight words (<i>to target the various needs of my students</i>) and cover a wide variety of prompts to help kids focus on the various attributes of different words. Students are given a cover-up card labeled with sight words. I also pass out a set of counters to the group. I call out the prompts and the kids have to cover-up the matching word on their card described by the attributes read aloud from the prompt. This activity takes anywhere from 3-5 minutes and is perfect to quickly assess understanding and provide immediate feedback and intervention as needed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhwH3NUZM3hUNt0QkB49ZdO7CARf-zGq_NrNZhpyfYg8wN-9ywL0uGsqZDkAU78LOL6BOJsoEexocQVCmOyvHBacZhOZGK_LsUJiePiKWApx_5LpZvOh9c01jbqXetuZtts8YJPTO3OzaJ/s1600/Sightwordoftheday.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhwH3NUZM3hUNt0QkB49ZdO7CARf-zGq_NrNZhpyfYg8wN-9ywL0uGsqZDkAU78LOL6BOJsoEexocQVCmOyvHBacZhOZGK_LsUJiePiKWApx_5LpZvOh9c01jbqXetuZtts8YJPTO3OzaJ/s640/Sightwordoftheday.png" width="504" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-of-the-Day-Bundle-1921078"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-of-the-Day-Bundle-1921078">SIGHT WORD OF THE DAY</a></div>
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I also carried this idea into our whole group activities with the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-of-the-Day-Bundle-1921078">Sight Word of the Day</a>. First, I laminate this focus card and display it on our white board. Then I choose a (sight) word of the day and write it in the space provided. I typically write the vowels in red to bring attention to those attributes and visually display the difference btween vowels & consonants. We work together to break down the word and study it's attributes as well as make connections with the word of the day to other words in our vocabulary or on our word wall. My kids LOVE this!!! </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-of-the-Day-Bundle-1921078">SIGHT WORD OF THE DAY</a></div>
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To extend our whole group word study, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-of-the-Day-Bundle-1921078">I created printables to go along with this activity</a> so that my kids would have the opportunity to independently practice identifying the attributes of the different words we were learning. This might be something they would choose to complete as a fast finisher activity.</div>
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I'm fascinated by brain research, so when I found this idea on Pinterest five years ago I implemented it immediately. And lo and behold, it worked!!! According to brain specialist, Fritz Mengert, using a red dot when teaching and/or reinforcing sight words will improve students' word retention and automatcity. The idea behind the red dot is to place it in the center of a word which will help kids focus on the middle of the word rather than just the beginning. How many times have you had a student quickly look at a word and guess what it says based on the beginning sound alone? That's been my experience too many times to count!! I was so excited to try this strategy with my kids and even more thrilled when I realized that it actually worked! I'm not saying the quick guessing didn't disappear completely, but it was significantly reduced. My kids were focusing on the beginning, middle, and end of each word we were learning. </div>
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I wrote out each of our sight words on an index card and drew a red dot in the center of each word using a red marker. I would spend about 2-3 minutes of our guided reading small group time to review these words with my kids. We'd discuss them a little bit each day <i>(Monday-Wednesday</i>) before guided reading instruction. Then we'd play<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuQUljSldra095aU0/view"> BANG!</a> (<i>incorporating these words</i>) on Thursdays and Fridays. And they got it!!! Pretty cool stuff! My philosophy is to try everything at least once and I'm so glad I gave this one a go!</div>
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We can't expect our kids to improve their retention and automaticity if we don't provide them with the resources to be able to see the words as often as possible. It's so important to be mindful about making sight words visible. When I first started teaching...okay, so the first five years or so...I honestly didn't see the value in word walls. In all honesty, I thought it was consuming too much real estate in the landscape of my classroom. Hello!!! Wall space is limited and PRECIOUS. I wanted to display<i> #allthecutethings.</i> Word walls were anything but that. Remember earlier when I said that I love brain research?! Well I do. And my whole outlook on word walls changed after doing some research of my own. </div>
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Did you know that brain research has proven that kids need 6-12 exposures to a word for it to become embedded in their working memory? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWLUmhrEcSQbXcVwb0nelg5AdG69DS2_51QNKTM9lk1sKdfLpTmMYZq_0jLutFKsrbTMsDum7hxY0Q5W9yGsb9zbh4ebx6o_29LCSTNNlyPIBSay2uQ7YFlUv2ZNo75jvpLXan-vcNSUUY/s1600/WORDWALL2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWLUmhrEcSQbXcVwb0nelg5AdG69DS2_51QNKTM9lk1sKdfLpTmMYZq_0jLutFKsrbTMsDum7hxY0Q5W9yGsb9zbh4ebx6o_29LCSTNNlyPIBSay2uQ7YFlUv2ZNo75jvpLXan-vcNSUUY/s1600/WORDWALL2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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via <a href="http://growingkinders.blogspot.com/2010/10/sight-words.html">Growing Kinders</a> / <a href="http://www.mrswillskindergarten.com/2013/08/teacher-week-2013-classroom-digs.html">Mrs. Wills Kindergarten</a></div>
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<a href="http://larremoreteachertips.blogspot.com/2011/10/debbie-diller-on-word-walls.html">Chalk Talk</a> / <a href="http://mrsbyrdskinder.blogspot.com/2013/08/word-wall.html">Mrs. Byrd's Kindergarten</a></div>
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Brain research has also proven that our brains are actually programmed to see in borders. If you have the opportunity to section off your word walls like the examples in the pictures above, I would *<i>highly</i>* recommend trying this in your own classroom. I'm a big believer in giving kids every opportunity I can give them to be successful and this small, but transformational, design tip works wonders for our littlest learners!</div>
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Speaking of word walls, I think it's extremely important to teach our kids HOW to use them. Can I be honest with you for a second? (<i>Let's be real...I'm nothing if not totally transparent ;) Ha!</i>)When I was in a traditional classroom setting, I was the teacher who had REALLY big ideas and great intentions at the beginning of every school year. In reality, I was more of the teacher who stayed at school until midnight the night before parent/teacher conferences putting all of my words on my empty word wall. <i>#teacherconfession.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyvG5aVNiAbtiQiqeaq6kJIulakeXV8crRa_wnB4FViJelTTguXD59gkZKXu-AKoyQZfwlpuuV_Lk8OpAUndjueaxwP5KaYfZnQvpurtJ0rYJT85rf2m_rfLvywuQp4UWBSplP-w7lFCKK/s1600/WordWall1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyvG5aVNiAbtiQiqeaq6kJIulakeXV8crRa_wnB4FViJelTTguXD59gkZKXu-AKoyQZfwlpuuV_Lk8OpAUndjueaxwP5KaYfZnQvpurtJ0rYJT85rf2m_rfLvywuQp4UWBSplP-w7lFCKK/s640/WordWall1.png" width="476" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Interactive-Word-Wall-Games-Activities-1439604">INTERACTIVE WORD WALL GAMES & ACTIVITIES</a></div>
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We so often neglect the word wall in all of it's glory because we just don't know how to best utilize it. We adamantly insist that our kids to "<i>use the word wall as a resource!</i>", but fail to teach them HOW to use it in a way that will enrich what they're learning and aid in retention and identification. My ineptitude in this area forced me to do some serious research and <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Interactive-Word-Wall-Games-Activities-1439604">create a bank of ideas and activities </a>to teach my kids so that they could best utilize this resource in their daily activities. I needed to give them the chance to put the word wall to use in their everyday word work activities. This was transformational! Teach your kids how to use the word wall and provide them with opportunities to use it as often as possible. </div>
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You can read more about my Word Wall, ideas, and activities...as well as grab several Word Wall Freebies....<a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2014/09/lets-talk-word-walls.html">in THIS BLOG POST</a>.</div>
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In addition to the Word Wall, I labeled my tables with sight words. I had five tables in my room...four students per table...and hung the sight words above each table. When I'd call kids to the carpet....or to line up...I'd say something alond the lines of, <i>"Table <b>YOU</b>...come have a seat on the carpet. Table <b>SAID</b>...line up at the door".</i> This kind of forced the kids assigned to those words to be able to identify them. I was very intentional about where these words were placed. If I knew a particular student needed reinforcement with a certain word, I placed that word above his/her table. I kept the words above the tables for 1-2 weeks, depending on how quickly the students were able to retain and recall the words in both isolation and in context (<i>I assessed this once a week</i>). You can also use this same idea as a behavior management incentive. Write the words displayed above the table on the white board and award points to each group (<i>word</i>) based on positive reinforcement. The table with the most points at the end of the day or week gets an incentive <i>(no shoes for the day, writing with markers, 10 extra minutes of tech time, etc.)</i></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_lET81CaGuk/UJWUSL_nUmI/AAAAAAAAHaQ/TyZCKiY-Fg4/IMG_4751_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_lET81CaGuk/UJWUSL_nUmI/AAAAAAAAHaQ/TyZCKiY-Fg4/IMG_4751_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="470" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://growingkinders.blogspot.com/2012/11/high-5-sight-words.html">via Growing Kinders</a></div>
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Don't limit visibility to the four walls of your classroom. Give your students opportunities to identify and read sight words before they even walk into the room! My most favorite idea for incorporating this quick recognition is in the form of high fives because who doesn't love a good high five in the morning?! Trace & cut out hand templates...or use the pre-cut hand templates like <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1609965647/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1609965647&linkId=74d37f1273e033c77632a2d9047f4942">THIS</a> or <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DEJXLM8/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00DEJXLM8&linkId=48ad7137e66e2c00ce57e8eca1131f66">THIS</a>....and label each with a different sight word. Adhere the hands to the wall right outside of your classroom door at arm's reach (<i>not too high...the kids will need to be able to reach them!</i>). Before your kids can enter the room, they need to give each hand a high five as they read the word on the hand aloud. If they're unable to correctly identify the word, use that moment to quickly re-teach...point out a specific attribute, rhyming word, etc. and move along. Keep the words up on the wall for a week or two or until you feel that your students are able to recall each word with automaticity.</div>
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We're all familiar with the age old adage, "<i>practice makes perfect</i>". The more our kids are given opportunities to explore & practice building, reading, and identifying sight words, the better they will be at recognizing & reading them in isolation and in context. Repetition & consistency is key!</div>
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I think the easiest way to give kids repeated opportunities to build and and identify sight words is to incorporate a sight word station in your room. Kids can visit the sight word station in the mornings for morning work, during center time, or even as a fast finisher activity. I found that the key to making this station successful was to provide a variety of activities that didn't have to be frequently changed (<i>aka - hands-on, no or limited printables</i>). By keeping the activities consistent and allowing students to make their own choices regarding which activities to complete, they were able to build familiarity and could complete the provided activities efficiently and successfully. </div>
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These materials were fixtures in my sight word center. Since I differentiated my sight word instruction, each of my kids had their own ring of sight words they would take to the center to practice and they were given the autonomy to choose how they practiced their words. This gave them ownership over what and how they were learning and made the "buy-in" so much more authentic and the outcome & engagement successful. </div>
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I taught my kids to build words using letter tiles and magnetic letters and baking sheets. We used <a href="http://delicateconstruction.com/2015/09/free-printable-kindergarten-sight-words-play-dough-mats.html">THESE FREE PLAY-DOH WORD MATS</a> to build & write sight words. My kids also loved using wikki stix and pipe cleaners to make letters and assemble them into words. The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KOSUE0O/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00KOSUE0O&linkId=51648ea77a28322584e28c47e58f78ff">small Magna Doodles</a> were always a favorite. Kids loved writing their words and watching them magically disappear. Aren't Kindergarten and First Grade babies the best?!?!</div>
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<a href="http://teachertamseducationaladventures.blogspot.com/2012/09/beaded-bracelets-with-sight-words.html?showComment=1347503039679">via Teacher Tam's Educational Adventures</a></div>
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I kept a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LPO5JEG/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01LPO5JEG&linkId=803fb60226e35fd76a746046b7f0589d">set of pony beads</a> in a container with a set of pipe cleaners (<i>cut in half</i>). I prompted my kids to create word bracelets and allowed them to wear those throughout the day (<i>they had to return the beads and pipe cleaners back to the station before the end of the day.</i>). This was a great way to incorporate fine motor skills into learning as well (a skill severely lacking in today's kids!!!). One of my darling girls loved creating sentence bracelets. She would make several different word bracelets and then place them on her arm one after the other to make a full sentence. She was a HOOT! But boy was she engaged! </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sight-Word-Spelling-Sticks-1981627">SIGHT WORD SPELLING STICKS</a></div>
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I kept a set of <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sight-Word-Spelling-Sticks-1981627">spelling sticks</a> in a container in my station to give my kids more of a guided choice in practicing their words. If there wasn't enough space to sit in the station, they could remove a stick from the container and take it to a spot in the classroom where they could work independently. I love that this activity offered SO many different ways to practice sight words and my kids loved the multitude of choices as well. There was always a new way to practice! Instead of making them all available at the same time, I would limit them to 5-7 choices bi-weekly. Then I'd change them up as the novelty wore off. I made sure to spiral the activities throughout the year so they had many opportunities to repeat the activities.</div>
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<a href="http://www.oneperfectdayblog.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Lego-literacy-activity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.oneperfectdayblog.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Lego-literacy-activity.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://oneperfectdayblog.net/2013/04/05/lego-learning-activities/">via One Perfect Day Blog</a></div>
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It seems like every child I know LOVES to stamp, so giving them options to stamp with different mediums is a great way to provide repeated opportunities for practice. This is one of my favorite ideas. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NAPHABY/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00NAPHABY&linkId=d7ecaf006b538cbcbc5b89309bee4ce6">Tiny legos</a> and play-doh! How great is that?! Not just building the word, but building each letter within the word as well and focusing on the attributes, too.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sight-Words-Bundle-1981656">SOLVE & STAMP SIGHT WORDS</a></div>
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As I said before, most of the materials in our sight word station were hands-on. I had a VERY limited amount of printables available because <b>1.</b> <i>I hated making copies</i>! and <b>2.</b> <i>I felt my kids were so much more engaged in hands-on activities vs. worksheets</i>. This activity required a bit more thinking on their part because they had to determine the beginning sound of each picture in the set, stamp them, and then identify & read the new word and write it in a sentence. And because they got to solve a mystery, they were all over it!</div>
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I copied three different sets each week and placed each set in a labeled drawer. Each drawer contained the mystery sheet as well as a scratch-off class list. This ensured that my kids were only doing this activity 3 times (<i>at the most</i>) each week. Sometimes I'd only make one or two available depending on the week. They'd remove the scratch-off list, use a vis-a-vis to cross out their name, and then take a printable. They wouldn't be able to take another printable from that drawer until I wiped the slate clean. This was an easy way to keep them accountable and on-track while working independently.</div>
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Speaking of mysteries, my kids LOVED hide-and-seek words! I cut up small pieces of white construction paper and wrote various sight words on them using a white crayon. I gave my kids the option of using watercolors or markers to reveal the hidden word. I also gave my kids the freedom to create their own hide-and-seek words and encouraged them to work with a partner, prompting their peers to guess the hidden word using the prompts & directives they were familiar with from our <i>"I'm thinking of a word..."</i> whole group activity. I think they liked being able to create much better than just revealing!</div>
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In addition to building and manipulating words, I also gave my kids multiple options for repeated reading & identification.</div>
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I was constantly asking for (school appropriate) magazines. My kids used their personal sight word rings & highlighters to search through the magazines & identify the words in text using a highlighter that matched those on their rings.<br />
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Each student had their very own <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuNWVhLUE4TFJxMk0/view">Word Collector Notebook </a>as well. They could search through magazines, find the words, cut them out, and glue them inside of their notebooks. They absolutely LOVED this one. You can grab your Word Collector Notebooks by clicking the pic below.</div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuNWVhLUE4TFJxMk0/view"><img border="0" height="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7H_b-vBJB9jbR8MBrrVMmIbm7aJYzrMXz-HOkC_mvng-K18I9P14HwN1zBNql0Uu1OF3VL-UBbejwmFDMLGkYsgUTec8j478whSmnMZ9ooIvOA_t5C9xp92SDxcpn3m92DT7JANzdOEKz/s640/Picture2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Predictable-Sight-Word-Fluency-Sentences-Fry-Words-1-100-3006197">PREDICTABLE SIGHT WORD FLUENCY SENTENCES</a></div>
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Another example of giving students repeated practice in identifying and reading sight words would be to incorporate <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Predictable-Sight-Word-Fluency-Sentences-Fry-Words-1-100-3006197">sight word fluency sentences</a> students can read independently. These can be stored in plastic sheets and kept in a binder. Teach students how to remove the sheets from the binder and take them to a spot in the classroom where they can read these independently. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Predictable-Sight-Word-Fluency-Sentences-Fry-Words-1-100-3006197"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Predictable-Sight-Word-Fluency-Sentences-Fry-Words-1-100-3006197">PREDICTABLE SIGHT WORD FLUENCY SENTENCES</a></div>
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The idea behind<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Predictable-Sight-Word-Fluency-Sentences-Fry-Words-1-100-3006197"> this activity</a> is to identify the word, read it in isolation, and then read it in context three different times (rebus sentences). After those tasks are complete, they can take it a step further by rolling a die and writing the sentence that matches. Allow your kids to use whisper phones and voice cards to read the sentences. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Rock-Your-Fluency-The-Ultimate-Fluency-Bundle-1180758">ROCK YOUR FLUENCY</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Rock-Your-Fluency-The-Ultimate-Fluency-Bundle-1180758">Voice cards</a> are great for reading with expresession and intonation and help tremendously with reading fluency. My kids were able to use these voice cards in their <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Rock-Your-Fluency-The-Ultimate-Fluency-Bundle-1180758">sight word fluency center </a>as well as in the sight word station.</div>
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You can read more about my <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2014/02/fluency-fun-and-sale.html">Sight Word Fluency Center HERE</a>.</div>
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There are MANY different ways to make instruction engaging and effective, but these 5 tips are my go-to's. Please feel free to leave a comment and share your tips for making sight words stick! The more ideas, the better!!</div>
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<i>(***Amazon affiliate links are included in this post. Purchasing items through the Amazon affiliate links included in this post may result in a commission for the author.***)</i></div>
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<br />Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-66487739529740901972017-03-20T05:00:00.000-07:002017-03-20T05:00:12.415-07:00All About the Weather - Ideas & Freebies!<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy first day of Spring to you!!!<br />
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<a href="https://i.imgflip.com/j3jfg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://i.imgflip.com/j3jfg.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
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To be completely honest, I'm not sure Texas even had a winter. Well, not much of one anyway. A few chilly days, but nothing to write home about. I'm definitely NOT complaining....I'm cold when the temps dip below 80 degrees...but it's crazy to think it's already SPRING!!!! </div>
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And you know what that means?! Summer break is only 48 short days away...but who's counting?!</div>
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#andalltheteacherssaidAMEN</div>
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Now let's get on with the reason we're here!</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">WEATHER.</span></b></div>
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Y'all. Have I told you before that this is one of my most favorite thematic units to teach?!?! I love all things weather!!!! And it's fascinating to me that year-to-year my kids love it just as much as...if not more than..I do!!!! I typically don't dive into weather until closer to Earth Day. Some of you may have already finished this particular theme. Hopefully you'll be able to take away some ideas that you can implement into your planning...either this year or next!</div>
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I've been saving up so many of these ideas since last year. It was a crazy time of the year last April and I was doing good just to teach my kids the content and have them participtae in the activities. I seriously had no energy to get into all the details of our learning on the blog. I honestly forgot all about it until I was doing some spring cleaning a few weeks ago. I found my old notebook full of notes and got started organizing everything as soon as I could. GAH!!! I don't know why I'm so excited, but I am!!! I just can't wait to share it all with you!!!</div>
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I always start out our weather study...or any new theme...with some kind of graphic organizer or thinking map. Here's a sample of one I did with my kids when I taught 1st grade.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjREtATspNvn3ux0S2is1uobukPK6Bly8pwCwmkQUhjUcUsPAhCWo35SfaBSRw4GUQhpeUgdE2D7cK-IxDTw4mEbxvMcJdtjPmS8gneVcpN1bxI10XeXEwpLdjMHj5FCOH9on2hNLXRLn4g/s1600/weather8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="616" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjREtATspNvn3ux0S2is1uobukPK6Bly8pwCwmkQUhjUcUsPAhCWo35SfaBSRw4GUQhpeUgdE2D7cK-IxDTw4mEbxvMcJdtjPmS8gneVcpN1bxI10XeXEwpLdjMHj5FCOH9on2hNLXRLn4g/s1600/weather8.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Weather encompasses SO many different concepts and ideas and it's hard to know which way to go with it all...especially when you don't have a concrete curriculum guiding you and telling you exactly what and how to teach the content. I personally like to gauge my kids' interest and that's how I determine exactly what I'm going to teach...then I can go in and implement our state objectives/district standards into the learning.</div>
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I like to set out lots of non-fiction weather books in our library about a week or two prior to starting our study. I take inventory of the books the kids gravitate to the most. If they seem to be reading books upon books about clouds, I'll probably head that direction and teach them about clouds. If they are more interested in the different types of weather, I'll go that route instead. I want them to be as engaged and excited about learning as possible and teaching to their interests always does the trick. I know I can ALWAYS fit the standards and objectives into our learning...I just want to go about it in the most interesting way possible :)</div>
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Speaking of clouds, I make anchor charts for these when we first start learning about them, too...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRuEaAqj6lAthH-7zddh14vQm7LoWm5coo4cwW1shdYBctoOD5gux1fF_OWbcydwkd6ZG-aEG_LfWI2WIFicZjDYJwnzZbt9xKJmzwb6MWQqoaMR2xDvnFKmNJV2VowxHRQTeAzhEnQtYs/s1600/weather4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRuEaAqj6lAthH-7zddh14vQm7LoWm5coo4cwW1shdYBctoOD5gux1fF_OWbcydwkd6ZG-aEG_LfWI2WIFicZjDYJwnzZbt9xKJmzwb6MWQqoaMR2xDvnFKmNJV2VowxHRQTeAzhEnQtYs/s1600/weather4.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://theinspiredapple.blogspot.com/2011/02/wizard-of-oz-unit-day-2-cloud-people.html">Abby's Cloud People </a>are still one of my most favorite ideas and visuals to help kids understand the clouds' placement in the sky. Genius.</div>
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<a href="http://theinspiredapple.blogspot.com/2011/02/wizard-of-oz-unit-day-2-cloud-people.html"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh81wZRJiqxCClGztJlvA-SbL2yeaFKt2zVqHcC7sA74sWwS4l0hGq8WXxhmS_PUGZVcBsziLbsr9OcFho_uOF3HTP0ruvAw_NhMexSiRKHdDhoTPn93X2zUXhJiCh3aE799u4fzLTbRd65/s1600/weather11.png" width="624" /></a></div>
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I always take my Dollar Store trays and teach my kids how to spray them with shaving cream. These go in my word work center and my kids get to practice writing their sight words/spelling words in the "clouds". Oh, they love. And my room smells SO good!!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwa-hErL852_s4WxUp6-reAnxcfuH35VmjUTsjIt-g_sWERkoyBN17NMlCERUc0lppBj_NclDMOAVGVboN3MSvZ_I1Xvsx4aM55KNO_V5SEFbJLNnWQbuxBBZg-XLyM8j9M0DtjiIgb2iK/s1600/weather6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwa-hErL852_s4WxUp6-reAnxcfuH35VmjUTsjIt-g_sWERkoyBN17NMlCERUc0lppBj_NclDMOAVGVboN3MSvZ_I1Xvsx4aM55KNO_V5SEFbJLNnWQbuxBBZg-XLyM8j9M0DtjiIgb2iK/s1600/weather6.png" width="568" /></a></div>
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While we're on the subject of shaving cream, let's talk about this project. This was a class favorite, for sure! A little bit of shaving cream mixed with a little bit of glue equals three-dimenional cloud art! My kids designed their own clouds with this concoction and then wrote about their clouds as a reading response to "It Looked Like Spilt Milk".</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNBMW0mwNAWbVqMFbyq3OUA0kZXRVZP1s0PyyshBZPBh6vuFbnRRQVpeJOFjKa6QI3XsEUoUxlYW0kKZbeEVkby9IqJdQR8oOo_rGnWrWdLGzB4CI0z3aOv22dMCalS-CcgpeyvIX1os16/s1600/weather7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNBMW0mwNAWbVqMFbyq3OUA0kZXRVZP1s0PyyshBZPBh6vuFbnRRQVpeJOFjKa6QI3XsEUoUxlYW0kKZbeEVkby9IqJdQR8oOo_rGnWrWdLGzB4CI0z3aOv22dMCalS-CcgpeyvIX1os16/s1600/weather7.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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We made these little flip strips using cotton balls on the top to represent different clouds. They wrote about each type of cloud underneath the flap. I love that they had to use their new learning to figure out how the cotton balls needed to be styled to represent each type of cloud.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_ojnJabPjgNw8g3sQk1uXmW_maLXbOk2hkUC4iSPF6_gfj2wIQ-DBw8oLkPj-0zfVqh3MHmckTVugEUSxK39TMJN21KSA96lqKZrF5RHDpCI4xG3WnB0Dcg5AC_OCQ_LTU76-z7PBFDw/s1600/weather5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="616" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_ojnJabPjgNw8g3sQk1uXmW_maLXbOk2hkUC4iSPF6_gfj2wIQ-DBw8oLkPj-0zfVqh3MHmckTVugEUSxK39TMJN21KSA96lqKZrF5RHDpCI4xG3WnB0Dcg5AC_OCQ_LTU76-z7PBFDw/s1600/weather5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Keeping with that same thing, I threw out some cotton balls to my kids one day and told them they had to use them to create their favorite type of cloud. Then we graphed them and talked about the data we gathered.</div>
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Last year we created <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419">these fun little clouds</a> and then incorporated that tactile piece with some writing. I made <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419">mini-booklets</a> similar to these where the kids had to tell me all about what clouds are/can do/have and then go on to write facts about each type of cloud. These were fun to display & a really neat piece to send home as well! My kids were so proud to show off what they knew about these giant groups of tiny water droplets. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCe0BmgKw5GfxHdNJv9TZDsVRnaPxdNN1JUFeA7RJfOjvTFsD_nKToguf9buN3-cgWSqG0t-udp39XynDnTJ-m9SOhXaJqTNje0LP-qjSWgsDsXrT-7XVrcQSFYstQEGv-4d4eJHmT2O8v/s1600/weather12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCe0BmgKw5GfxHdNJv9TZDsVRnaPxdNN1JUFeA7RJfOjvTFsD_nKToguf9buN3-cgWSqG0t-udp39XynDnTJ-m9SOhXaJqTNje0LP-qjSWgsDsXrT-7XVrcQSFYstQEGv-4d4eJHmT2O8v/s1600/weather12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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One of my favorite things about teaching thematically is the opportunities to grow my kids' vocabularies. Not only has brain research proven that this is the best way for kids to learn, but I tink there should be some study that determines this is the most exciting way for teachers to teach! Building vocabulary is SO important and I feel like it's something we never spend enough time doing. Teaching thematically brings in so much RICH vocabulary and exposes our babies to SO many new words and concepts. </div>
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I like to keep things like this available for my kids to reinforce new vocabulary. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419">Vocabulary dice </a>and/or vocabulary sticks are two simple and effective ways to engage your kids in using new vocabulary in sentences, etc. </div>
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For my popsicle sticks activity, I just programmed a bunch of the sticks with weather vocabulary words. I place them in a container and then store them in my word work center. My kids can pick a stick and then write about the word in different ways (<i>synonym, antonym, another word with the same number of syllables, write the definition, illustrate the word, etc.</i>) . It's all about building connections. The vocabulary sticks are great for transition and assessment, too. When they aren't in my word work center, I keep them by my desk and when we go to line up, I'll call my friends one-by-one to come and pick a stick. I'll prompt them in different ways before releasing them to line up. {Examples: <i>Use the word thunderstorm in a sentence. Give me another word that has the same number of syllables as lightning. Use 3 words to describe a blizzard. What is a cumulonimbus cloud?</i>} SO many different ways these can be implemented in vocabulary instruction!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv0x60zoVb1hAEIWSnzXp7TZ_AzL5zjFQwuWHcqG10KW5ABza34IvOrwfiqwyEy0tKI3_PEIEetCiy-ZSbdc9cceHRiPVxKUM15oxewHtldJ2TNpnOQ0mnwcQ7OmqkTQVPWp0fEoKbzan9/s1600/weather13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv0x60zoVb1hAEIWSnzXp7TZ_AzL5zjFQwuWHcqG10KW5ABza34IvOrwfiqwyEy0tKI3_PEIEetCiy-ZSbdc9cceHRiPVxKUM15oxewHtldJ2TNpnOQ0mnwcQ7OmqkTQVPWp0fEoKbzan9/s1600/weather13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419">The vocabulary dice </a>are perfect for controlled choice as well. I like for my kids to use them with a variety of writing prompts. Ultimately I would much rather them write to write..not necessarily with a prompt...but non-fiction concepts really lend themselves to this type of writing and I think it's important to make sure our kids are familiar with and comfortable doing this kind of work.</div>
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I love using <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419">predictable charts </a>to help with vocabulary, too. While I know this seems like it might be an activity that is too simple for any grade above K, I can assure you it's not. It's all about the process!!! I love that predictable charts are easy to differentiate for all different learning levels and abilities. It always looks like my kids are doing the same exact thing, but they've all been given a different objective to get them through the process.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7baN4c4qf9sOI5Va3Avf02Od5EfLKPkezKIAN40N48lIeomVm0evQ86bzCs2c8EDsQtpDMzqAZ55i3sMIhhwn5c7aaAloVh6hDV8ZXQ2Q6tRSLtddhcldQd1k9QSs_ygiGfeQ5lcg6387/s1600/weather14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7baN4c4qf9sOI5Va3Avf02Od5EfLKPkezKIAN40N48lIeomVm0evQ86bzCs2c8EDsQtpDMzqAZ55i3sMIhhwn5c7aaAloVh6hDV8ZXQ2Q6tRSLtddhcldQd1k9QSs_ygiGfeQ5lcg6387/s1600/weather14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Some of my kids might just be highlighting certain sight words or letters.</div>
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Some may be matching pictures to words. </div>
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Some may be assembling the sentences in sequential order</div>
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Some might be assembling the sentences and then choosing one to use as a springboard for a story.</div>
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And that's just to name a few different ideas! There are SO many wonderful concepts you can incorporate with a predictable chart!</div>
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How about incorporating vocabulary orally?! I absolutely LOVED this last year!! I couldn't wait to share it with y'all!!!! Eeeeek!!!! Teach your kids about meteorologists and what they do and then have your kids act as "mini meteorologists" and give the class a weather report. You could do this for several weeks until everyone in the class has had a turn. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaQ1R4QuC9oBi6dcVqB_LhnJ85t4C2MIH3nlOa-NCvJwfk5KxfkvKcbHQkGT4nDcOfcbi4j3mJsFzpLubH4_iKyp6aFFRuEzaPjyH3NMRrkQy5on22E-oZB6_HfhmmHWUcMXU9YFwugcn/s1600/weather2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaQ1R4QuC9oBi6dcVqB_LhnJ85t4C2MIH3nlOa-NCvJwfk5KxfkvKcbHQkGT4nDcOfcbi4j3mJsFzpLubH4_iKyp6aFFRuEzaPjyH3NMRrkQy5on22E-oZB6_HfhmmHWUcMXU9YFwugcn/s1600/weather2.png" width="638" /></a></div>
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Cut out a TV shape using butcher paper or poster board. I would suggest laminating so that the TV stands up straight when taking pictures. I adhered to long dowel rods to the back of either side of the TV. That's what my kids held onto as they held up the TV. Display a map...a weather map would be even better!!!!...on your whiteboard or another surface in the classroom. Have your kids check the weather and then instruct them to stand in front of the map. Give them the TV to hold and then have them give their weather report to the viewers :) I kept two laminated speech bubbles and dry erase markers available when doing this. My kids would make two reports. One, they would tell about the current weather conditions and then they would make a forecast of tomorrow's weather. They had to use the vocabulary when delivering their report and let me tell y'all...it was a hoot!!!!! I took pictures of them giving their reports and then combined all of the pictures into a class book I kept in the library. I'm just sick that I didn't take a picture of it! It's currently in storage. I titled the book, "<i>Mrs. Carroll's Mini Meteorologists"</i>. HA!!!! This was their favorite book in the classroom!!!!</div>
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Another way to get your kids making forecasts and observing current weather conditions is to make them responsible for keeping track of it all in their <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419">personal weather report</a>. This was another favorite project of mine last year. My kids kept their reports in a folder inside their desks and we would add to it daily. When it came to the weekend, I had my kids take home their weather reports and asked them to bring it back to school the following Monday to share with the class. SO fun!</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419"><img border="0" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXBJa1VRkGqk2AkD5QTTZ_qCTVTpjInJ47UPBpcTc428Y2mAWZiJWq-Npsxvam9nbt2GneMYmK3s08ozL-DALSTKwV-PeQgmzm-38iHEkhT5hiEi_46_GZkMyjFcLKxgJ-SQipFxMjk6w8/s1600/weather16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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We typically read some type of non-fiction book about meteorology as well. I could never find one with all the info I wanted for my kids to know, so <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419">I created one to read to them.</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmq6XMTjT3U2dfeV2JJgLR-Qo22o-Xkh5iFlQC6c74hdzjqmQ7wIqsZ9J4CjU-t3GOX-eDOSp3YtqtOCLka12bfhF93eUKUmLhb32g1SMs0QsXitYkC8-zusENVNK83dGO2hnET2wqp32q/s1600/weather17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Last year we followed up our reading with these fun<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419"> little comprehension flip books</a>!!! GAH!!!! I love the way they turn out!!!</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZq-Uu_W3ocLKbVH-8xlPJkilidJCz6uc1Lj48yd0n5osaza8W2wquixKl8l5xeS0SQ8fpC1vEk4J334PiVpWQ5yzEwd1cXvCQg4SwnayRR3olnixb3SCsexg0BsQaKYgVvqJdSG12XJeO/s1600/weather15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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And we loved this craftivity<a href="http://mrsleeskinderkids.blogspot.com/2013/02/morning-centers-this-week-weather.html"> from the talented Julie Lee</a>!!!! This was so much fun! I paired it with "<i>IF I were a meteorologist...</i>" sentence starter and they did the rest!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_iPFAbbpfvRgkyisOCMWjp9cOsbNB-GD1GlYjqbBp8xm58byWr8-LhqFb774YqyQfMfw6Rw1kS_H0CkRClpO082eDA5GggT6ryhLdELT1bVsrp1Z0UPS-Pg1xuzwImL8rx6RdRUef5Ipc/s1600/weather10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="630" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_iPFAbbpfvRgkyisOCMWjp9cOsbNB-GD1GlYjqbBp8xm58byWr8-LhqFb774YqyQfMfw6Rw1kS_H0CkRClpO082eDA5GggT6ryhLdELT1bVsrp1Z0UPS-Pg1xuzwImL8rx6RdRUef5Ipc/s1600/weather10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Another thing I love about thematic teaching is integrating the skills/concept across the board in all curricular areas. I had so much fun coming up with games for my kids last year. I love to make everything hands-on and exciting and math is one of my favorite subjects to do things that are really life-sized and interactive! <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419">This subtraction game </a>(<i>please don't take my sunshine away!!</i> hahaha) was a class favorite. Not only did we <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419">play this</a> whole group, but I turned it into an independent anchor activity as well. This was the most visited anchor activity during that unit of study!</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjwuw2u9FhvTyjbP2Oh7GXt7QM5iytHdQu7KOCVejznEloJzFacHThSIgZWuNR0bXIbk3ldoeNWqUnJbfO0d26uW6FTJ1pllmudZMVWwqdPep7maRQXtrgtxH_FohLCr5RdFMHKpXM9e7I/s1600/weather21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Speaking of math, here's a fun game to play with your kids! Another favorite. </div>
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First up, you need a package of lightning and raindrops. (<i>lightning = sparkly gold pom poms, raindrops = multi-colored blue pom poms....Michaels usually has these</i>)</div>
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I cut out a couple of clouds, stapled them together, and then used that to hold my lightning and raindrops. I also set out tens and ones clouds along with two place value dice.</div>
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Basically , the kids will roll one die and then represent the number rolled with lightning RODS under the tens cloud. Then roll the other die and represent the number rolled with raindropsunder the ones cloud. To take it a step further, I have my kids write the base 10 blocks on a dry erase sleeve...along with the matching numeral...to show what they rolled.</div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWudEJ1a0UzYUxNZU0/view?usp=sharing">Click on the pic to download your copy of the place value activity.</a></div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWudEJ1a0UzYUxNZU0/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8bfQsPLMNc3w1QN2SP2ktVoUoqXHVsdK05C-pILGxA6ETNroVJ5xhb2rirczsD3bt79ILy02llvMhnPMUW0h1IRWcHOV-6sOMtsI86kiO-mKrO69qTJvxSnT471JuluTwp2VS82ERcMxq/s1600/weather3.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Speaking of lightning, here's how I integrate weather with our sight words. We play a little game called, CRASH! As in, Lightning CRASHES :) (<i>I spent many a day in the 90's wearing plaid shirts and Doc Martens singing this song over and over. HA</i>.)</div>
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CRASH is played just like BANG!, so if you know how to play it, you're good to go. If you don't, you can<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuYjNCZG5oQWNLSTg/view?usp=sharing"> click on the pic to download the activity and the instrutions.</a>...FREE! </div>
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Although BANG! has always been a class favorite and the novelty doesn't seem to ever wear off with this game, I'm always trying to come up with variations just to spice things up a bit. And this does the trick! When my kids get a CRASH card, the other kids in the group set down their cards and THUNDERCLAP loudly as they say "BOOM"! Hahahaha!! They really get into it!</div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuYjNCZG5oQWNLSTg/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPptAq2NV5NSUK3O_ne3JCefLZLtexaj7kNjArZMZLkdTsK-8P6C6dbmGj6b7FU0iWkCD8v4eeqvUee2Dy0RP0B0bBy3PA8pHegyDLII8G2XDWKqcRGeBjVPL0RKTBAvxLOFgiPUcX2CWL/s1600/CRASHdolchwords.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And no thematic unit is ever complete without <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419">a few writing craftivities.</a>...for good measure, of course ;) My personal favorite is the tornado. My kids were OBSESSED with learning about tornadoes last year. I'm not obsessed...just totally scared. It was neat to see their interest though.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419"><img border="0" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjduI2byGkwDz4gHGs05ifWRq8jxF7fMYxTQA9KnW-xq3dXwb5lYEcRevJxCVhEezkFLNJ6T4S9ybbLVy4aqHafV3NZQw0H7P9KCEYpWWSfYiVElEMXHWVv96K1t5GH8pOodUneX52HH-tW/s1600/weather22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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You can find more of my free weather ideas and activities <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2010/10/whats-weather.html">HERE </a>and <a href="http://here./">HERE.</a></div>
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There are a few freebies in these posts so make sure to look carefully!</div>
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I would keep telling you about more ideas and activities, but this post is fast approaching neverending and I'm sure you've stopped reading by now. You can check out my <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/caralesley/all-about-the-weather/">All About Weather Pinterest board</a> and see what I've created and what I've been pinning over there. </div>
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<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/caralesley/all-about-the-weather/"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnBQUm4Np1ZZzAeRHhBO2bkabQnFX7HCv2M7_W-u00Qo0jOieqlQjFfu5YT-Fg_r4f-VNKFGW_F-zCylEXvU24Rn7yIaF2UCznZShdTSjngZdtlvw2r6ATrPrMM37RWhwZ-yTCf9zqarl/s1600/zzzzzzz.png" width="291" /></a></div>
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Many of the activities mentioned above can be found in my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419">All About the Weather packet</a>. It's a great (mostly) non-fiction resource with vocabulary cards & visual anchors, non-fiction books, close reading and comprehension printables, and MORE! It's 228 jam-packed pages full of weather fun!! And I'm so excited to share it with you!</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-the-Weather-A-Non-Fiction-Resource-1785419"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71Y34wN-HnxFRx5KsL499BqgAJhUbGPUJxS8CZD_l7Bb0QTsyDtsfJEXhMPh7fpiZjfwCT2EfvNtft8FDr9qouFy2LcIjBgXEMl65vjY1aev5lJPKc7af-53CqgVjlJ7_SlMQ4f3W3kN_/s1600/WEATHERPREVIEWPIC.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here are a few more weather related resources from me & my dear friend, Abby, at The Inspired Apple. We collaborated together to bring you four full weeks of cross-curricular science lesson plans and the March themes are all about clouds, rainbows, weather, and space!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghoTi8qcJM4LGsI3Czglyoep3CojT6avMIDqBx_7s7FfthMwRQXVq9R9GZiLMVy90JWbFvWYoVZ3N1r1cmedoUd_bQPcMAwQxQPGa9M4EWZbmfOvg1fZ3atN9WRBwLqCOp3r6AlCw1o5xQ/s1600/ScienceofMarch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghoTi8qcJM4LGsI3Czglyoep3CojT6avMIDqBx_7s7FfthMwRQXVq9R9GZiLMVy90JWbFvWYoVZ3N1r1cmedoUd_bQPcMAwQxQPGa9M4EWZbmfOvg1fZ3atN9WRBwLqCOp3r6AlCw1o5xQ/s640/ScienceofMarch.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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If you're interested in adding this to your science resources, just click on the pic. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-March-2404649"> Four weeks of detailed science lesson plans plus additional cross-curricular activities</a>, too! </div>
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Here's a little weather week mathtivity that's perfect for this time of the year and it's FREE!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTEaGIV49AeMuYCtjmwfRu0jf_vrvWzM48EIoNAJr5V9NjVUds167MrTHlDkv9cWqFKtGXUCJEh80smE4WmydbbERy6LSEqHXXr0P4bNClKQ9syrzBPk2LQf5d8hG-8gJ4ZhImP0pH0_fX/s1600/1weather.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTEaGIV49AeMuYCtjmwfRu0jf_vrvWzM48EIoNAJr5V9NjVUds167MrTHlDkv9cWqFKtGXUCJEh80smE4WmydbbERy6LSEqHXXr0P4bNClKQ9syrzBPk2LQf5d8hG-8gJ4ZhImP0pH0_fX/s640/1weather.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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For this activity, your kids will need a pair of dice and the tracing templates provided. Prompt the kids to roll the dice to determine the addends. They'll write those on the umbrella. Then prompt them to add the numbers together to get the sum (the third and final number in their fact family). The kids will use the raindrop templates to write their related facts and then glue it all together to make a little rainy day (math) scene! Simple and effective...and pretty cute, too! hahaha</div>
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<span class="">You can </span><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWudnlWMlRqX2VSZFU/view?usp=sharing"><span class="">download the tracers below</span><span class="">.</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWudnlWMlRqX2VSZFU/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEXq3Xk770Dhg2lPP4OFTi-v4flAb0amL__G3a_0Kwc2mT5WyXjaflkwZwFKA_TVtYc1haKnW_0Fx6IWZgPWcriUkLaEo7eV48a1l90hCVX-rgz_o7Rz4LcuHFccy7nLR3zSLKj2z8lay1/s640/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now with all that to be said, I'm headed out to enjoy this lovely first day of SPRING!!!</div>
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Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-49126312049354523232017-03-09T10:16:00.001-08:002017-03-09T10:17:51.074-08:00St. Patrick's Day Activities & Freebies<div style="text-align: center;">
We're a week away from celebrating St. Patrick's Day, so I thought it would be the perfect time to</div>
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First, let's talk behavior. I always get a lot of questions about behavior management. You will never hear me say I have it all figured out. Nor will I declare that all of my ducks are always in their rows. However, I do know that sometimes the novelty of what we're doing wears off and when it does our kids become less engaged in learning and more apt to act unfavorably. I've found that changing up behavior incentives at different points during the year really seems to curb undesired behavior. I don't incentivize all behavior, but there are special times of the year I love to recognize positive behavior and reinforce that by working together as a team to reach a particular goal. Here's a little something I love doing during the days/weeks leading up to St. Patrick's Day.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Freebies-3053653"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfsyDiCf59zfxX2YC9xFqXZMuaR8gluqgDjdDItSLW3JHeh8gDHXpZ3c9QqfrFBez7woXzsu_eXyhAYS-xQR58s2j0VXmLfLjr9jAskt-izl8IW0T3eNd1tKl1O6plHm-K2981vIgu2Ir-/s640/stpat1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Freebies-3053653">This behavior management incentive </a>is all about positive reinforcement and compliments and the objective is to get the leprechaun to the pot of gold. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3TmXbmVpSwSlbehYQfSNT0gREj3sqSjCc7QD_AR5FYalTyx364_nBHERaZx-b3N2gETPUPj2G2coYVhp6B7InjRe7PvIRQ-8gslJC168FU2nVfJ6NpGfyg3uyNWpy4bXqIo9zwJM80QWm/s1600/stpat2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3TmXbmVpSwSlbehYQfSNT0gREj3sqSjCc7QD_AR5FYalTyx364_nBHERaZx-b3N2gETPUPj2G2coYVhp6B7InjRe7PvIRQ-8gslJC168FU2nVfJ6NpGfyg3uyNWpy4bXqIo9zwJM80QWm/s640/stpat2.png" width="532" /></a></div>
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I personally like the idea of using this class-wide, but dependig on the dynamics of your classroom, this could absolutely be used by groups/tables/etc. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3TZSpFb9f2DNfPDik5iOUl_4fWS022wZIEpb5pPdCiqPg_L6F2P4QQluvyNIaQ313KLMGAOHx7Fz98i9FdGzKBDgKCRQKwNxahziZ6mRw_ArliTT7tsRfAvj23HRc56XA82sQC-lFwJp0/s1600/stpat3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3TZSpFb9f2DNfPDik5iOUl_4fWS022wZIEpb5pPdCiqPg_L6F2P4QQluvyNIaQ313KLMGAOHx7Fz98i9FdGzKBDgKCRQKwNxahziZ6mRw_ArliTT7tsRfAvj23HRc56XA82sQC-lFwJp0/s640/stpat3.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Print out the rainbow graphic, cut out, and adhere to a posterboard or butcher paper. If you want to make this available year-to-year, be sure to laminate! Otherwise, just adhere velcro sticky dots to the arc of the rainbow and the pot. You can add as many....or few...as you wish. One sticky dot needs to be adhered to the back of the leprechaun as well.</div>
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Each time your class gets a compliment, move the leprechaun to the next sticky dot getting closer and closer to the pot of gold. Once the leprechaun reaches the pot, it's time to celebrate!</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Freebies-3053653"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBp5-lGE1QDXqUueLaJ1e8ABtkgGj623W9MNBwkGrdBNiDLGttFDelPvqHlWSkAliqlTYHj-hNjQvf_HYjEcdMRi2BT_GhBGeYtAUR8FNIZfc_YuIXBwshc6Qjp4IB1xZBVtp61hN_HByz/s640/stpat4.png" width="534" /></a></div>
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In the past, I've used this incentive about 3-5 days leading up to St. Patrick's Day. My kids can receive compliments from other adults as we're walking down the halls, from their specials teachers, or from teachers who pop-in the classroom & comment on how awesome the kids are being. I've often asked teammates to pop-in and compliment my class on something specific. </div>
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Once the leprechaun reaches the pot, we celebrate with a special snack. Depending on the class...and the amount of time you have...the special snack can vary. Lucky Charms. My personal favorite is a Taste of the Rainbow.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwMl1naoxQ9MO1VBZQPj8clG5j5DTWmJxhRF1eJYOlxGd9YOml0o0VbmHjG2L7-Y18nqt639pA9oX8OpjWndnQ7pMbl_kzRzMg401t78mTgLLse7DxbarsCJFCW7wkLYNaWEMC-fmXat0L/s1600/stpat5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwMl1naoxQ9MO1VBZQPj8clG5j5DTWmJxhRF1eJYOlxGd9YOml0o0VbmHjG2L7-Y18nqt639pA9oX8OpjWndnQ7pMbl_kzRzMg401t78mTgLLse7DxbarsCJFCW7wkLYNaWEMC-fmXat0L/s640/stpat5.png" width="472" /></a></div>
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You'll need small clear plastic cups, a variety of fruit (your choice) to represent the colors of the rainbow, whipped cream, and golden raisins (to represent gold coins!!!)</div>
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You could turn this into a great little writing project as well..."How-to taste the rainbow". Bring the fruit to school (pre-cut/sliced) and prompt kids to assemble their own rainbows. Help them top it off with whipped cream and then let them add their own "gold coins". A delicious (and healthy!) celebratory snack!!! </div>
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In the past, we usually enjoy this snack ON St. Patrick's Day. This is always a class favorite!!!</div>
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You can grab the printable rainbow & leprechaun by <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Freebies-3053653">clicking the pic below.</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Freebies-3053653"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP97M3yQ6jJhEX82lhIMHDCjj5km33v5KHQ96R-lViWX7LwqjAJTPpougVk-Vc-vIXdzwoc2L8D2YvlWAkhH_5uQpctel4zS__Iss0sf4RhgxpBQ51AiLh-P9i7LrT_4MLi-irbp9KvXb5/s640/Slide3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Speaking of praise, here are some <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Freebies-3053653">"luck notes"</a> to give to your kids....or team...on St. Patrick's Day and/or the week leading up to it. Our kids LOVE tangible pieces of praise and these fit the bill. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Freebies-3053653"><img border="0" height="588" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlSjXN1mVkA1qqilF0ZDii6BfroHWkF_L5Rtwv2xkIN1xk-JBeHyRMh4JIHywBTiYaVwK2UaV3BW4hGwu1VfHcXhfCXLl6ocwMx-CjMm6Z30rGqYG_1Yq2hwt3ww4btuuyVt7WETofTyCX/s640/stpat6.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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They can be left out on their desks/tables before they get to school (add some glitter or green confetti for an extra little touch), added to treat bags, or given as they leave for the day. I like to treat my team to a little baggie of green Jolly Ranchers and attach the note to that :) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAnKfI83DHtmSwmF0vp0ZBZZIplnTAv9NSo0UP1Qheht69f40g8jFWfZktRmD7I9R823nBn0R8HIgAf_TKFGEjYTkG48vX9GZPcFRLAgEbhEYIl7zXZlG_2kOoeAnLmt15nAYYqEoCRidX/s1600/stpat7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAnKfI83DHtmSwmF0vp0ZBZZIplnTAv9NSo0UP1Qheht69f40g8jFWfZktRmD7I9R823nBn0R8HIgAf_TKFGEjYTkG48vX9GZPcFRLAgEbhEYIl7zXZlG_2kOoeAnLmt15nAYYqEoCRidX/s640/stpat7.png" width="634" /></a></div>
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Grab your luck notes<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Freebies-3053653"> HERE:</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Freebies-3053653"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrdXEtCEKJYATCaWUG5ACFc1fEYXdsLb04j1mx4EwJcErmhUWlMkP8UXxorD6OzmUv8yDMCkt2x-XHkIs2b4AR73dLk4UsD5eRJNfQz6BXAOiQU_w3tcxWueqCG65u0BfzLA2mLIk8q4-j/s640/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here's an extra little treat just for you! <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Freebies-3053653">Race to the Rainbow</a>...a class favorite!!! This little game board can be used in small groups or in pairs and pretty much with any skill you want to reinforce! For the sake of explanation, I'll share with you how we incorporate this for math.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Freebies-3053653"><img border="0" height="530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJki_s9tvW8fCH8GToZkXCNn7PrdTVVycK2rN7InhdTKk7a0Vjgkhse9Ik0TPmB_gOtmkQBntokRwiskam_2rOhCv1H7wk-T4WgfYYDpcEau93iamPA1v-yN8kvravNmec_uKmE7QkSXBa/s640/stpat8.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Before starting the game, just cut out the leprechaun counters, fold along the dotted lines, and glue to keep them upright. </div>
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In a small group setting, I love using this game board to reinforce odd & even addition. Player 1 rolls the dice, writes an equation, and identifies whether the sum is odd or even. If the sum is even, Player 1 moves his counter up one space toward the rainbow on the game board. If the sum is odd, he stays put. Play continues until one player reaches the rainbow first! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1a2tWtlvFavcucHL5haZG_Br0mWQuA2y6AN2gaj-V6NH6BaRJhqxzOir1DBb_5OKJl7oWi9rhSkpXr1dQhEapNCTSu8XCUiN6NaFlfkS0iu0OORNTjl1hYGxXllpuRvhp4zR2xvmfR9Av/s1600/stpat9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1a2tWtlvFavcucHL5haZG_Br0mWQuA2y6AN2gaj-V6NH6BaRJhqxzOir1DBb_5OKJl7oWi9rhSkpXr1dQhEapNCTSu8XCUiN6NaFlfkS0iu0OORNTjl1hYGxXllpuRvhp4zR2xvmfR9Av/s640/stpat9.png" width="566" /></a></div>
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Of course, this can be implemented to use with a variety of skills. Identifying long and short vowels using picture cards (long vowels move forward, short vowels stay put, or vice versa); sight word identification (move ahead if you can read the word correctly, stay put if not); etc. Really, the sky is the limit!! </div>
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You can grab your free game board by clicking the pic below.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-Freebies-3053653"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoxrRb9E_TuJtx0I9QnJhera5vi8dAfXQ67wv2c1NLv8ZwRcwQ5H8TqiaEyNRt888fA8_RI0-GjY-WQsr2cdJodgZUoNSJg8kFgmhX5Dn8y4-PovkUJRge39IBbDHkmUK4waSkakg2-yOU/s640/Slide2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Some of my favorite activities to incorporate this time of the year are thematic science experiments. While we're talking about rainbows, here's a fun science experiment to incorporate into your plans...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7mXs8mFRN5qV7P_CGuwmhTiEpXJcNtas0Wm9O5NVrQ_3NfjFAhSb2e8tC-taIeunYW-H0qfCK1BhCoZjzye-e1vg9DlYAWNwFxcSbdgkBS8eXv0d2-D7sQiMLNr-HcFt6xLYbufRgzjN8/s1600/stpat13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7mXs8mFRN5qV7P_CGuwmhTiEpXJcNtas0Wm9O5NVrQ_3NfjFAhSb2e8tC-taIeunYW-H0qfCK1BhCoZjzye-e1vg9DlYAWNwFxcSbdgkBS8eXv0d2-D7sQiMLNr-HcFt6xLYbufRgzjN8/s640/stpat13.png" width="532" /></a></div>
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You can <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-week-in-rewind-peek-at-my-week-and.html">read more about the experiment HERE</a> and <a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWucmVKVkhrZk5IS28/edit">download the printable observation sheet HERE.</a></div>
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Here's another fun experiment involving candy. And what kid doesn't love candy?!</div>
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<a href="http://www.craftymorning.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/kids-skittles-science-experiment-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.craftymorning.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/kids-skittles-science-experiment-1.png" height="448" width="640" /></a></div>
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You can <a href="http://www.craftymorning.com/skittles-science-experiment-kids/">read more about this experiment at Crafty Morning.</a></div>
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Speaking of experiments, Abby & I have LOTS of amazing rainbow themed experiments and activities in our <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-March-2404649">Science of March</a> resource. It's super comprehensive....lesson plans, book suggestions, and cross curricular activities, too! Here's a little peek at Rainbow Week...</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-March-2404649"><img border="0" height="558" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXfDwtNtAat-ogvRck3XHTTqBp4k2DQZ2E90O8VRPcE6vTSJThw5YqXrNkgMzAIrFyZayuQFICvmpea3lAWpNU-l8a-hB0Mwzcq08jrcuYK8oTb6pYqL1YzX87o3I_nnUdRklVRm3aN4o3/s640/stpat14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-March-2404649">via Science of March</a> - 4 weeks full of cross curricular lesson plans (rainbows, clouds, weather, sun/moon/stars)</div>
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And for some more St. Patrick's Day fun, check out these activities!!!</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-3052720">Shamrock Similes</a> is first on the list. In a whole group setting, brainstorm a list of things that are green and follow-up with a little simile writing craftivity...</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-3052720"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOifpdWwoiuIvgXP4h4AzNG8lHGKKLgovoZZVgfJyvmyOFz-fKusPytYpVO05hMfdu9Zgk9p5aw-cwq5ZQ9oe2OxQ0Y6vAzJJvOb1Uah3b4KFjw-wrZWtiqfY1QMWrxZ6IyGmBd6VIGbQE/s640/stpat11.png" width="446" /></a></div>
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And here's a little <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-3052720">related facts craftivity</a>, too! </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-3052720"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPADqmlkuNMHfV3JRLxiFMrvbt2eZYXtmFaNwntrm5P4eaBHfyN5YMFTYor-TMqEypwZ3gvvwH7RXu_c7QEzesFID0gcdt25v6sibXtXEpe0gOR9mpLfj9otLFmxascMzxVLaVVO8EcOWa/s640/stpat10.png" width="446" /></a></div>
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And no holiday is complete without a little hide & seek fun!! I included sight words and numbers as well as editable cards for you to create your own!! My kids always LOVE hide & seek activities!! Great for whole group and reinforcing key concepts and skills!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlxWK9-DHHhKUEMC2BTNOFIJKjMuDdipeWLdxERRNYsoVa5n-Dww3WW7n4cVSRQf4fY-gJfwvGQgcYCmgQeMse-f2xQymefSPYcsO2-Q_Ke48Lbd5eEdVkNYqBrW3yVRXsrNnFNuB_tb7v/s1600/stpat12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlxWK9-DHHhKUEMC2BTNOFIJKjMuDdipeWLdxERRNYsoVa5n-Dww3WW7n4cVSRQf4fY-gJfwvGQgcYCmgQeMse-f2xQymefSPYcsO2-Q_Ke48Lbd5eEdVkNYqBrW3yVRXsrNnFNuB_tb7v/s640/stpat12.png" width="506" /></a></div>
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You can grab all three of these activities in my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-3052720">St. Patrick's Day Fun</a> file....only $3.50! </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-3052720"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://ecdn1.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/St-Patrick-s-Day-3052720-1489025959/original-3052720-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-86167325548988362602017-02-13T11:08:00.003-08:002017-02-13T11:08:51.694-08:00Valentine's Day Freebies! - Blending & Sight Word Games<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tomorrow is Valentine's Day and today I'm at home nursing a sick child. There is nothing worse than not being able to help your baby feel better. This just STINKS. We could absolutely use the prayers. Fevers scare the daylights out of me...especially when the Motrin/Tylenol combo doesn't do a thing to relieve them. </div>
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For those of you who will be at school tomorrow, here are a few activities you can implement for a little extra fun. Of course, they'll work perfectly for the month of February as well so no need to put them away after all the Valentine excitement has died down!</div>
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First up, Valentine Bingo. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI6RfSsh5XF_fPhM4C9RBA-deieUa5LAtNKpjOKj6C38tx2a9xtLKWNf4McOrkzJBwhSicOIteHf7HgNzSnYqCrd2k4QTGNJZJS7jByhLRzjfoJgiyy3zG72BcPD9FU7oik4lcgBt_BBEy/s1600/Valentine6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI6RfSsh5XF_fPhM4C9RBA-deieUa5LAtNKpjOKj6C38tx2a9xtLKWNf4McOrkzJBwhSicOIteHf7HgNzSnYqCrd2k4QTGNJZJS7jByhLRzjfoJgiyy3zG72BcPD9FU7oik4lcgBt_BBEy/s640/Valentine6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Six player cards and one teacher call-out card is included which makes this the perfect little small group activity. This is NOT an editable freebie (so sorry!!!), but it's perfect for a sight word review with the words that are included. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_DyvbgluajcBhilCp4lVJ7LH3sqYBGUv0wZaafq5VxKnRTuarnMFtzIeogBnEc7-tiJM9OLNg5FdXk3SLicrNKYHDFlSHvuzYp4f5M9IvcYsmYEuaJW56uJhsU4OyGcu5BhVEqGzxhJaH/s1600/valentine4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_DyvbgluajcBhilCp4lVJ7LH3sqYBGUv0wZaafq5VxKnRTuarnMFtzIeogBnEc7-tiJM9OLNg5FdXk3SLicrNKYHDFlSHvuzYp4f5M9IvcYsmYEuaJW56uJhsU4OyGcu5BhVEqGzxhJaH/s640/valentine4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The teacher will distribute one HEART card to each child in the group and use the word list to call out sight words to the group. The teacher will call out the word and the student will search their board to identify it and cover it with a counter. As you can see, we used these great little heart counters I found at Wal Mart in the holiday party aisle. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkXxQWEcOlLl8OIw9dj-JzczPJY9vYBHlPwibgt8dBTtMroE0-not-JsJusSI_y6dtcKTuSEJ8_-LHcWlQy4m4LpfpL2p0zs0MG427NRXLkC3eW6bcGkrYV9BS-krP4-bpUdyMiSs2MKv9/s1600/Valentine5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkXxQWEcOlLl8OIw9dj-JzczPJY9vYBHlPwibgt8dBTtMroE0-not-JsJusSI_y6dtcKTuSEJ8_-LHcWlQy4m4LpfpL2p0zs0MG427NRXLkC3eW6bcGkrYV9BS-krP4-bpUdyMiSs2MKv9/s640/Valentine5.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The first person to cover five in a row (vertically, horizontally, or diagonally), will call out "I've got HEART!" and wins the game!! FUN!</div>
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Click the pic below to download your copy.</div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuMFdXT3VyRlM4REU/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga8lzSAm8s824BHTHsl4HbVCaN2kRIL5TIsgg6nq3niOHnQQvKprYdkMnH81zJ7wMOlZHSE0Qd86gqqiiF5uzg6YiFNFOQpCM622H9Ry-OpGXCgsUaRegsUo3LPis4aol1f-8NxLLONUj4/s640/Slide3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Next up, a fun partner game to practice blending onsets & rimes and identifying real and nonsense words.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrvbAutIBHCFFbI62NkYD2aZNT33E5wZF3omLBbeVmj3m0CpU7B7QrFvGNP0P1LAjUlIRD8AajQ9_peGBGoBim1WTPI_WIJ1-UvSq1mBbZ1YDPFTl07Bvbz6rpXJzptq2OIShmdHgIHYsn/s1600/valentine3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrvbAutIBHCFFbI62NkYD2aZNT33E5wZF3omLBbeVmj3m0CpU7B7QrFvGNP0P1LAjUlIRD8AajQ9_peGBGoBim1WTPI_WIJ1-UvSq1mBbZ1YDPFTl07Bvbz6rpXJzptq2OIShmdHgIHYsn/s640/valentine3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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For this activity, pair students together and provide counters for their board pieces. Again, we used these great little heart counters I found in the holiday aisle at Wal Mart. We also used <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00M1HACVC/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=caracarr-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00M1HACVC&linkId=91f6132c5454055c4fc2b6bfdfdfbaa8">these transparent spinner overlays</a> as well, but a paper clip and pencil will work just the same!</div>
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Player 1 will spin the spinner and blend the onset on which he lands with the FIRST rime in sequence on his side of the board. For example, if the player spins and lands on /r/, he will blend that with /-at/ because it's the first rime in sequence. If the player makes a REAL word, he will place a counter on top of the rime. If the word is NONSENSE, he loses a turn. Players will take turns blending and determining if the words are real or nonsense. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYTjeDRZOh1CDv7qz83G84dTfbr8WvRXglTKezohPV1djBprILgFxvMWXNJZXG-JfIUGaKWveVK09tPuBLVy6uRuAuNQRL8w1j6qp6FvSGhk0I4UwFYAXyVt8AWstiUKLf07F66AqsckTy/s1600/Valentine2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYTjeDRZOh1CDv7qz83G84dTfbr8WvRXglTKezohPV1djBprILgFxvMWXNJZXG-JfIUGaKWveVK09tPuBLVy6uRuAuNQRL8w1j6qp6FvSGhk0I4UwFYAXyVt8AWstiUKLf07F66AqsckTy/s640/Valentine2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The first player to cover all of his rimes on his side f the game board, WINS! Great for small group (you can provide guidance as they get the hang of the activity) and independent/partner practice, too!</div>
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Grab your free copy by clicking the pic below.</div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWucDRXcVU2V1Y3SWs/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-BgmRoccYoOYpgYLCUkK4pNDFrWJ6lqqRI4GNsw61A9ZI9ClJrRTVMo17wYsG4pP-GZtyGG3nWVYYvRbEuECBAxMpTEeOFTAF_6HnzXFfukWzijjYgvIT0D2tImrDXpkV9z3sBYqllQiz/s640/ValentineFreebieCovers.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you have any questions, just let me know! Otherwise, enjoy the activities and have a WONDERFUL (stress free, lol!!!) Valentine celebration with your babies!!!! </div>
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<br />Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-80115347631818941182017-02-10T13:19:00.001-08:002017-02-10T13:24:40.376-08:00Printable Valentine GIft Tag & Writing Craftivity - FREEBIES!<div style="text-align: center;">
Can y'all believe it's almost already Valentine's Day? Does it seem someone pressed fast forward on February? Or nah? Well...that's what it feels like to me. </div>
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Moving on.</div>
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Since Valentine's Day is just a few short days away, I wanted to share a writing activity & a printable treat tag that you might be able to put to use in your classroom this coming week. </div>
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First up, let's talk tags. I absolutely LOVE Valentine's Day and love gifting different treats to students, co-workers, friends, and family. There's just something my Kindergarten heart loves about the holiday (as commercial as it may be). I was at Target earlier this week and ran across these tasty little hearts. </div>
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<a href="http://target.scene7.com/is/image/Target/51390967?wid=450&hei=450&fmt=pjpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://target.scene7.com/is/image/Target/51390967?wid=450&hei=450&fmt=pjpeg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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I'm never one to turn down candy....especially candy of the marshmallow variety...so I picked up a few packages to hoard here and enjoy (alone) at home. Then I remembered my pants still aren't buttoning up very easily because of all the holiday eating I enjoyed November-December, so I figured these marshmallow bites would be better served in a treat for my boys and all their friends. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijcFkH7zc6bXIMDn9JA7K8o7zsljC5S3fueETBgC5mJIHdmfHvAR09ZKN7bkBY8NluCPTA-eBWTVOKhTyHOhQ2qooUXUFNpPH91ARx4S5IHbmGp0jBWO3CD0APaCIGyZhI2XVqdANkJOpb/s1600/valentine2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="598" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijcFkH7zc6bXIMDn9JA7K8o7zsljC5S3fueETBgC5mJIHdmfHvAR09ZKN7bkBY8NluCPTA-eBWTVOKhTyHOhQ2qooUXUFNpPH91ARx4S5IHbmGp0jBWO3CD0APaCIGyZhI2XVqdANkJOpb/s640/valentine2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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For this little treat, you'll need 1 graham cracker, 1 Valentine Peep, 2-3 pieces of Dove Milk Chocolate, and a clear cellophane baggie. Tie it up with cute ribbon or twine and attach the gift tag. Done and done! Great little treat for your students or something to send with your own kids to school, too! I went ahead and included gift tags for both!<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuZ2drYVpBTFdNRTA/view?usp=sharing"> Just click the pic to download.</a></div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuZ2drYVpBTFdNRTA/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS3xLOurmwbVT8q1DIxiB-QJvkOdKkgNcBGfAmZe3Y2c3j8L2JaZZzWh1Nd4Axf0XHoHg5oYhtyxSoOaAiQTsE5zljUgOuK8N5izhaFfcH_y0NzaMas6ExIiYSNfQ3YqPQbbFTLdCOf5eQ/s640/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A few years ago I blogged about these Valentine treats for the classroom. <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2011/02/this-thatand-couple-of-valentines-day.html"> Check them out HERE</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8o4MPYVtMHPqGc78rmXy_vkPotlCK-cdbyUTo_VA4NVTlkx4aj9v0VOmZM-KnFP_Wkrb6A07hEWK5i62I5HnLkn0TBwBeAx_M0nn0_CWC6lh11AoIhl389MOeST1YK_yEdajeqcKmsONo/s1600/valentine4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8o4MPYVtMHPqGc78rmXy_vkPotlCK-cdbyUTo_VA4NVTlkx4aj9v0VOmZM-KnFP_Wkrb6A07hEWK5i62I5HnLkn0TBwBeAx_M0nn0_CWC6lh11AoIhl389MOeST1YK_yEdajeqcKmsONo/s640/valentine4.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now let's talk about writing. I always love celebrating friendship the week of Valentine's Day. I'm sure many of you do, too. Here's a writing craftivity that celebrates friendship and is perfect to implement any time in February....or any other time as well! Of course, it would be even better if this were a leap year, but I'll roll with it anyway. Haha!! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnNE2FqLQPv0y1ZapRF69hv23naw9VHT9HUYwIwWzWzvVeZL-yE6gqLEuYyN_jKtCoFIxFJjPH1qKWOVfiHHS5xPpU-bXJwkQSD2STwohcaBVFxj8ncrdwFT8WC9D1t7mGOQn3iF9a54j/s1600/valentine3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnNE2FqLQPv0y1ZapRF69hv23naw9VHT9HUYwIwWzWzvVeZL-yE6gqLEuYyN_jKtCoFIxFJjPH1qKWOVfiHHS5xPpU-bXJwkQSD2STwohcaBVFxj8ncrdwFT8WC9D1t7mGOQn3iF9a54j/s640/valentine3.png" width="482" /></a></div>
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Head<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Valentine-Writing-Craftivity-FREEBIE-3009453"> HERE</a> to grab your FREE printables! </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Valentine-Writing-Craftivity-FREEBIE-3009453"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitRdE_iHzVb3NQBCheHwfNfqgI07giMpNfwOnP_bDKE7C8byMvG8Zivui4e-LuwbhuGCuFdoHN6ML618IYPRm3_wRku8l6Vr2Yt67q8E74iXSWL4MQY_BNCIgR-q2aKUFr6wA2Le-r01sZ/s640/Slide2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hope you've had a WONDERFUL Friday!! Check back here this weekend for a few more freebies - a couple of sight word games, some math freebies, and a blending onset & rime game....all perfect for Friendship Week!!!</div>
Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-55889123902775098982017-01-19T12:33:00.000-08:002017-01-19T12:33:26.742-08:002D & 3D Shapes<div style="text-align: center;">
It's about that time of the year....for us anyway...to introduce & reinforce 2D & 3D shapes (concepts and ideas). Does that hold true for you, too? Shape identification and geometrical language are always among my favorite concepts/skills to teach. Hands-on and engaging and so many connections to the real world! And for our kids, shapes are tangible. They can feel real world shapes. They can play with them. They can even identify shapes in the environment around them. Shapes are EVERYWHERE! And shapes are among the earliest objects they learn, recognize, and identify (<i>thank you, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and every Disney and Nick Jr. toddler show on air :</i>)</div>
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While these concepts and skills are familiar to our babies...and while me may think "they've got it"...we need to make sure we "dig deep" and ensure that our kids not only have a strong sense of understanding, but that they are able to proficiently use geomtetrical language and easily & efficiently apply the learned skills. </div>
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Today I just wanted to share with you a few activities I loved using in my classroom. Activities that are hands-on and engaging...activities that encourage our kids to explore, learn, reinforce, and use geometrical language. Activities, in my opinion, that are just plain fun! </div>
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First up, let's talk about one of the core concepts when teaching these skills and concepts. Composing Shapes. </div>
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This is a great example of an interactive anchor chart from <a href="http://thecontrolledchaosclassroom.blogspot.com/2014/01/our-crazy-short-week.html?m=1">The Controlled Chaos Classroom</a> that I would use with my students to introduce this concept.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvEkk4iBL4xITL5jIS3ON3y4Y8Y_A64Xwr3rKAbf0aUi5iyBmVOC5Nn4Yu_HM3ibwj3na8tHbZdSDGV_IQQvws3QYY0kA2-NOc1jQAatzaWfBkRG1oPCSTi798LUXd534se5_jAKNTxuM/s640/blogger-image-523323708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvEkk4iBL4xITL5jIS3ON3y4Y8Y_A64Xwr3rKAbf0aUi5iyBmVOC5Nn4Yu_HM3ibwj3na8tHbZdSDGV_IQQvws3QYY0kA2-NOc1jQAatzaWfBkRG1oPCSTi798LUXd534se5_jAKNTxuM/s640/blogger-image-523323708.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love interactive anchor charts. I love giving kids the opportunity to not only learn, but teach their peers at the same time. </div>
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These are a great set of <a href="http://thankgoditsfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2014/02/composing-2d-shapes-free-center-cards.html">FREE composing shapes activity cards</a> from my friend, Susan, over at <a href="http://thankgoditsfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2014/02/composing-2d-shapes-free-center-cards.html">Thank God, It's First Grade</a>. These cards are perfect for centers or fast finisher activities and give kids repeated opportunities to practice composing shapes. And we all know that when our kids can manipulate tangible objects learning becomes more concrete and connections are made that help them to remember and apply what they learn.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC__th-orXVnKtui-v4sS1Bqiuk_gpOkgcTn5T7vxR9bOp9GBo79PrYSa4k9Qo9PBYsNCdR0K0O718gY3jNezS1bYCv_uyzS2GEw1KZSQehRYsDmWuG4VPO_Cag9AGqZW-bx0wtyMv1ZOc/s640/composing+shapes+pin.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC__th-orXVnKtui-v4sS1Bqiuk_gpOkgcTn5T7vxR9bOp9GBo79PrYSa4k9Qo9PBYsNCdR0K0O718gY3jNezS1bYCv_uyzS2GEw1KZSQehRYsDmWuG4VPO_Cag9AGqZW-bx0wtyMv1ZOc/s640/composing+shapes+pin.png" width="346" /></a></div>
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Speaking of tangible objects, I love to incorporate any type of tactile material into my lessons and independent activities so that my kids have opportunities to explore hands-on learning with a variety of materials....just something to make learning more concrete.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9n-lQRwH0b3k7IxDknE2k4xKqxCFh8YGdD1Lf4N6K3rvjLCiw-X7UH4xW5l-RTls28tMLK5aW0qQKHJt7wCZadvzGjvwwqdEZHqh3UKIrYzyqatiXwVwA4JN6JPyI8SZIDcqVy_k8QZar/s1600/Shapes1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9n-lQRwH0b3k7IxDknE2k4xKqxCFh8YGdD1Lf4N6K3rvjLCiw-X7UH4xW5l-RTls28tMLK5aW0qQKHJt7wCZadvzGjvwwqdEZHqh3UKIrYzyqatiXwVwA4JN6JPyI8SZIDcqVy_k8QZar/s640/Shapes1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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These are my go-to hands-on materials for learning. Many of them are perfect for composing both 2D and 3D shapes. And if you haven't figured out a way these materials can be used in your instruction, just ask your kids....they always have ideas! </div>
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While we're on the subject of both 2D and 3D shapes, let's talk about something celebratory. At the end of each unit, I like to celebrate with food. If you know me at all, this shouldn't surprise you one bit. Food is my love language <3. I know many schools don't allow food as part of the learning process, but many do. So for those of you who CAN incorporate food into your plans, consider hosting a SHAPE BUFFET after learning about either/both 2D &/or 3D shapes. This is basically a smorgasbord of various 2D & 3D shaped food items. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDEDINBFsKZmj-RCUIbz6Y7HPJfl7ZgreOj3skw9HA5RVz_4hb0EK2mpjMJVecWR-0ShADd9B2QK8fQhgC7YkTAq-reB3IZi499MDU1rNv1Y0YAtyZXIbxCo0kkFaF4vM9TonimpDgO6C/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDEDINBFsKZmj-RCUIbz6Y7HPJfl7ZgreOj3skw9HA5RVz_4hb0EK2mpjMJVecWR-0ShADd9B2QK8fQhgC7YkTAq-reB3IZi499MDU1rNv1Y0YAtyZXIbxCo0kkFaF4vM9TonimpDgO6C/s640/Slide2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Circle:</b> Ritz Crackers, Pepperoni, Round Cookies</div>
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<b>Square</b>: Wheat Thins, Cheez Its, Waffle Pretzels</div>
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<b>Triangle:</b> Doritos, Pita Crackers, Triscuit Thin Crisps</div>
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<b>Rectangle</b>: Club Crackers, Chessmen Cookies, Graham Crackers</div>
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<b>Oval</b>: Flip Sides Pretzel Crackers, Pepperidge Farm Milano Cookies</div>
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<b>Hexagon</b>: Gold-n-Cheese Crackers, Oyster Crackers</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRPf0p69V827wD4TiNr6LRMprfP4gOOdKB0tLMf9DnzSXA3FmbygWQjaPWbMms84XUyjHJsdgaJlf7LoJ1PvYT4KRGxdJ8Sl0RBxEwGNPWvh1uBWxHSm-j3rAYwKa0kUr8sX5_KKDEGb9T/s1600/shapes3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRPf0p69V827wD4TiNr6LRMprfP4gOOdKB0tLMf9DnzSXA3FmbygWQjaPWbMms84XUyjHJsdgaJlf7LoJ1PvYT4KRGxdJ8Sl0RBxEwGNPWvh1uBWxHSm-j3rAYwKa0kUr8sX5_KKDEGb9T/s640/shapes3.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Cylinder:</b> Pirouettes, Slim Jims, Combos, marshmallows</div>
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<b>Sphere</b>: Kix cereal, Cocoa Puffs cereal, grapes, Whoppers</div>
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<b>Cone:</b> sugar cones, Bugles</div>
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<b>Cube</b>: cheese cubes, croutons, caramels</div>
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<b>Rectangular prism</b>: Hershey's kiss, Candy corn</div>
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<b>Rectangular Prism</b>: Twix, sugar wafer cookies</div>
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A Shape Buffet can be implemented as a simple, "<i>Fill your plate with 1 food item of each shape</i>" OR you can fill your celebration with a few educational activities, too. </div>
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<b>SCOOP, SORT, & GRAPH</b></div>
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Fill a giant bowl full of both 2D & 3D shaped food objects. Prompt students to scoop a cup of food objects and sort into 2D & 3D shape categories and graph.</div>
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Fill a giant bowl full of either 2D or 3D shaped food items. Prompt students to scoop a cup of food items and sort into differnt shape categories (example: scoop a cup of 2D shape food items and sort into circle, square, triangle, etc.) Graph results.</div>
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<b>SCOOP & COUNT</b></div>
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Scoop a cup full of food items and count the total amount scooped. Find a friend who scooped more/less/same.</div>
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<b>SCOOP & ADD</b></div>
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Scoop a cup full of both 2D & 3D shaped food items. Sort into 2D & 3D groups. Count the total amount of 2D shape food items and record the number. Count the total amount of 3D shaped food items and record the number. Add the two numbers together and write the total sum. Count the total amount of food items scooped to double check the answer.</div>
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This<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Making-Math-Fun-Volume-7-2D-3D-Plane-Shapes-Solids-2953125"> collection of 2D & 3D shape activities</a> are perfect for everything from whole group to partner work. The activities are engaging and hands-on and are kid & teacher tested and approved :) I think it's extremely important to make learning hands-on. Like I said earlier, hands-on learning creates a strong foundation in conceptual understanding and helps our kids to form lasting connections that allow them to easily remember & apply the skills they learn. PLUS, what kids don't like to have fun while they're learning?! Anytime you can present content in the form of a game, everybody wins :)</div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj3fOC2Lc3tKUUi-WoTcPJXR6jpKRtx6ZlY0XbpBu3shy13SiQU_s0pSkYHGWbP8BrMJ3H_73ShiLvGlQNz-YyR64oidnaAF3Kas99GsfyTSpLr9wpYLuUJGHUWAO1g_TlBILXVuM1HwGY/s640/volume7.png" width="486" /></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Making-Math-Fun-Volume-7-2D-3D-Plane-Shapes-Solids-2953125">2D & 3D Plane Shapes & Solids</a></div>
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And when I'm in the need for a paper/pencil assessment...which isn't the case most of the time, but sometimes paper documentation and samples are needed...I pull out these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/2D-3D-Shapes-Flip-Strips-1652304">2D & 3D shape flip strips.</a> My kids LOVE these!! </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/2D-3D-Shapes-Flip-Strips-1652304"><img border="0" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiiJyvJfiF3nAnEWQDoOUjPGtnrsz0CxKIRpvfYMfvuwik1vjbWBiUNZ_I0jisouq7SD82BH_nmkqsQYQDbwB0r2Va9GMNNSBY84yXvQorVmjP7p6u746s_AOkma4W4tKl9psCe24mZGui/s640/shapes5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/2D-3D-Shapes-Flip-Strips-1652304">2D & 3D Shape Flip Strips</a></div>
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Now let's finish this out with <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/2D-3D-Shape-FREEBIE-2970540">a few freebies</a> for you, shall we?! These are some of my favorite activities to include in my centers, teacher table, and fast finisher tubs. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/2D-3D-Shape-FREEBIE-2970540"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0NoUNRSmklynICZljC1tkPX37Me1roe7Zt-mGWQB7IblLeltTpEJED54igF1773t584MkNtNxFfznNdo2XRMXpKS4sZAPDfhcpBrzAtreDXmVKTzSDkuxXa8cecZScCgpAWy49flIrcO/s640/shapes4.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>ROLL & ADD</b> - for this activity, assemble the 2D die template provided & place the Roll & Add printable in a dry erase sleeve. Roll the die once. Draw the shape on which you land in the first bubble provided. Count the vertices on the shape and record the number on the line beneath it. Roll the die again. Draw the shape on which you land in the next bubble. Count the vertices on the shape and record the numberon the line beneath it. Add the vertices of both shapes together for a combined sum. Write the sum in the space provided and draw a shape with a matching number of vertices in the bubble. Record the shape in the box below. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/2D-3D-Shape-FREEBIE-2970540"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2JUt2bU-yQAlSjHGsV6kwIIBwRNxjvvRg9hyphenhyphenq3HWPAdeGoY1uH1__c5Bfthi9x8TtNkrHqHudRtOU_xdx6QgkbIxJU111VBL1IfrCBTwYRB6-Dy4O-wZi-rdizEkwBu_ktFwvWjTp_P7B/s640/shapes6.png" width="552" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>ROLL & COLLECT:</b> For this activity, assemble the pattern block die template. Prompt students to roll</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> the die 10-20 times (teacher</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">discretion. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Students can even spin a spinner or pull a random number card from a container to determine the number of times to roll the die.) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Students will roll the die, identify the shape on which they land, and then collect that matching shape. Students will continue to roll and collect until they have rolled the die the determined amount of times. Once all shapes are collected, students will assemble into a creation, count, and record in the space provided on the printable.</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/2D-3D-Shape-FREEBIE-2970540"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu4e7eYl1HLaOZKdwz0tja8vhXKigM0LJPRRRr71nrE-rUcwAiTwxagY7jXS9s1pvGcWGubOdQCP7jCEK7wryKpgRfgRLxgJ1TQ8q42mj3NZTwVT9QidoBGMQnu0R7JbvbaVFTQ5iMuH7-/s640/shapes7.png" width="558" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>GUESS THE SHAPE:</b> This
activity is perfect for whole or small group.
You can use a paper bag or something fancier if you prefer. Adhere the “<i>Guess the Shape</i>” label onto the
front</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">of
the bag (optional) and print out the “guess the shape” activity prompt
sheet.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Place a tactile “mystery” shape
in the bag.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">This will be your
discretion.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Use pattern blocks or </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">geosolids</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">
for this activity.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">In a whole/small
group setting, prompt a student to reach into the bag without looking and then
read the prompts aloud to encourage students to describe the shape without
telling what the shape actually is.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">The
rest of the students in the group will listen to the descriptors and determine
which shape is hiding in the bag.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">This
is a great activity to discuss attributes as well as giving kids the
opportunity to use geometric language and would be perfect to introduce shapes
or review them. (<b>ADDITIONAL IDEA:</b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Keep a
set of shape picture cards on hand and prompt kids to determine which shapes
DON’T fit the descriptions and remove until only one is remaining. ) </span></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/2D-3D-Shape-FREEBIE-2970540"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip-7xImv2SK5_oDseSian-6ZE-MqSpEAof79YnUwAHhNbfnsxFdMzBCUw0i-tB8WfxqRlIzA48paYuFhRX4WVxXaF1xMvn1MYft5SRT4oUmU7jM15qt9nfDaZUBTYdOUReUtCyQrTTsfD6/s640/shapes8.png" width="622" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>SPIN & STACK:</b> For
this hands-on 3D shape activity, you will need a spinner overlay (or pencil
& paper clip to create</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> a spinner) and a set of geosolids. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><u><span style="font-weight: bold;">OPTION 1: </span></u>Students
will roll 1 or 2 dice to determine the number of times they will spin the
spinner. Students will spin and collect
the shapes on which they land until they are out of spins. Then students will determine how to stack the
geosolids
collected without it falling over. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><u><span style="font-weight: bold;">OPTION 2: </span></u>Students
will spin the spinner, collect the geosolid
on which they land, and create a stack.
Students will continue to spin, collect, and stack until their “tower”
falls over. The player whose tower is
the last one standing, wins the game.
(With this option, students will quickly determine that cones, and
pyramids/rectangular prisms can only be stacked on its base and spheres can’t
stack at all :) )</span></div>
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I hope these activities are helpful for you and hope your kids enjoy!!!</div>
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<br />Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-66804872089907211652016-12-30T11:46:00.001-08:002016-12-30T11:46:48.927-08:00All About January (and a few freebies!)<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy (ALMOST) New Year, friends! 2017....really?!?!</div>
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Have you made any resolutions? Me...<i>notsomuch</i>. Of course, I always want to be a better version of who I was the year before, but resolutions never quite "stick" if you know what I mean. Sure...I want to eat healthier. Work out more. Get more organized. Keep the house clean. Do the laundry...regularly ;) Yes...I want all those things. And to eat all the things and still be able to fit into my jeans. But really...I just want to have a great year filled with lots of laughter and more memories than I can count. <br />
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I'm still trying to narrow down my ONE LITTLE WORD for the New Year. Here's what I have so far...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTDBmxlno3dEX58dAKsgfR59TI_IgMlAbozuFJcPctGMyw1bvXTgDuqCi_jS-gimIJEaT4J3iTL5e0V682DmV3zmHToDqstMPQDj5XM5MKOy0tc1grGDaHGo5jZ-_8R9fMzLRNt2BNBmln/s1600/newyear1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTDBmxlno3dEX58dAKsgfR59TI_IgMlAbozuFJcPctGMyw1bvXTgDuqCi_jS-gimIJEaT4J3iTL5e0V682DmV3zmHToDqstMPQDj5XM5MKOy0tc1grGDaHGo5jZ-_8R9fMzLRNt2BNBmln/s640/newyear1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Do you see a theme here?! </div>
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I'm *hoping* to take this blog in a different direction after the new year as well. We'll see how that pans out. Ha!</div>
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Before we look ahead to the new year, let's take a look back at a few things we did going into the new year in years past. Maybe there are some activities and freebies that will help you with your planning these next few weeks!! </div>
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This is typically how I start the new year with my cuties. <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2011/01/happy-new-year.html">These were our goals in 2011</a>...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaRSk5Iw3JUn6qJpuRZMb8DniQ1wRRDRtqIrO49ajnM2oWU47zW8jhkDhhFU6-3x6JIlvIVH8EyGzZOdlXQbdKPpwtDp14Xq42G5fcr0F2vBpPcOaeuwQbveJMiWpcXYgvIDT74LyKkCfT/s1600/January6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaRSk5Iw3JUn6qJpuRZMb8DniQ1wRRDRtqIrO49ajnM2oWU47zW8jhkDhhFU6-3x6JIlvIVH8EyGzZOdlXQbdKPpwtDp14Xq42G5fcr0F2vBpPcOaeuwQbveJMiWpcXYgvIDT74LyKkCfT/s1600/January6.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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In 2011, I blogged all about these snowman activities. </div>
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I got this cutie snowman painting idea from <a href="http://whattheteacherwants.blogspot.com/">What the Teacher Wants</a> and then paired that with a reading response for Snowmen at Night. You can <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2011/01/place-value-mlk-and-snowmen.html">read all about our fun that day HERE</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nfimNW-ffAOuTgHDQI_tJFcg4yzZ3zlPAfrLBK1Irj4aYByeDTAzCvLdrNDiYXkab9nRzksxf5fVrsr_6MR7dABdFMKKc053nnHgSDZMdx8b-lK2XCvCD85pDgbEisbsfX7f1tLgFNyy/s1600/january2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nfimNW-ffAOuTgHDQI_tJFcg4yzZ3zlPAfrLBK1Irj4aYByeDTAzCvLdrNDiYXkab9nRzksxf5fVrsr_6MR7dABdFMKKc053nnHgSDZMdx8b-lK2XCvCD85pDgbEisbsfX7f1tLgFNyy/s1600/january2.png" width="616" /></a></div>
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The following year, I was inspired by <a href="http://elementaryartroom.blogspot.com/2010/12/snow.html">The Elementary Art Room</a> with this cute snowman craftivity.</div>
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I decided to have the kids create this with their response to the story. LOVE the way they turned out!!! <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2012/01/snowmen-at-night-and-ryan-gosling.html">You can check out our writing HERE</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrK7TgsI8i_LGNAiuH8ppYiGldQoql72gp04FThADiURS9UjwOWLpudF3F_EVO_C9Op7jmnu28OOlL3mfu0YmRlNLfCrbNkBxJ058Y8vcDqj5P2DjkWeumSg2GEcj8aQj662h-BhaFoBYe/s1600/January9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrK7TgsI8i_LGNAiuH8ppYiGldQoql72gp04FThADiURS9UjwOWLpudF3F_EVO_C9Op7jmnu28OOlL3mfu0YmRlNLfCrbNkBxJ058Y8vcDqj5P2DjkWeumSg2GEcj8aQj662h-BhaFoBYe/s1600/January9.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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At the time we were also working on expository writing. I had my kids build their own snowman out of construction paper...create a little scene...and then write about HOW to build a snowman. </div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtIkoWccUywKvV0qDLXlO2Y2kPlVz07ghgldTP3oGv_Y4yktv52wY2I5cClthlw1uyx1V5u2x-EmIbuSSXkEXeckJT9gajoVjTTA8X-UQVMMy_0tm26o5lJmM-aMMrXOEanp9UdjUy4Wos/s1600/january3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtIkoWccUywKvV0qDLXlO2Y2kPlVz07ghgldTP3oGv_Y4yktv52wY2I5cClthlw1uyx1V5u2x-EmIbuSSXkEXeckJT9gajoVjTTA8X-UQVMMy_0tm26o5lJmM-aMMrXOEanp9UdjUy4Wos/s1600/january3.png" width="640" /></a><br />
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Here's what we did <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2013/01/five-for-fridayon-saturday.html">when I taught Kindergarten in 2013.</a> I made these little snowman parts in power point (sorry...I don't have the file!!! :() and then had the kids build the snowman and then write about how they built it. In these parts of Texas, my kids will probably never have a chance to build a snowman, so this was a way to make the writing a bit more tangible and relevant.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg67UPXCsHQuPgzKQqrcIX8HfhlUaBw8eT2HGwvvflOLFDr-lwc710BN3SnnSL-oOZ1rszAC16tFdEQCzQFVu0MgDtCJthywuONwtvLV-VoayJvHn70teaZvgIf20A_LVeoUqPqK_7TFrtB/s1600/january10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg67UPXCsHQuPgzKQqrcIX8HfhlUaBw8eT2HGwvvflOLFDr-lwc710BN3SnnSL-oOZ1rszAC16tFdEQCzQFVu0MgDtCJthywuONwtvLV-VoayJvHn70teaZvgIf20A_LVeoUqPqK_7TFrtB/s1600/january10.png" width="622" /></a></div>
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We were also working on blends, so I created this simple little activity. You can <a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuMmYyODNkNDctYTY4Ny00YzkwLWFmZGUtYzZkMGMyZDk3MjA2/edit?num=50&sort=name&ddrp=1&layout=list#">grab it for FREE!!!</a><br />
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuMmYyODNkNDctYTY4Ny00YzkwLWFmZGUtYzZkMGMyZDk3MjA2/edit?num=50&sort=name&ddrp=1&layout=list#"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnG_2KjLn62PgK-aMruJQPYEwRqWsgBVTb85MidRTi1i7E-hPgp6oY47bVo6Ct6Qw3FfmLxqHOF8_-wm6sqs9h7agkgz-EH_m9VrLGaHA2zTqSD4fFQyaYPKjbBHJLBs0QY0gjZiQdp6Hv/s1600/January1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Speaking of FREE...and who doesn't love free?!?!....<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuYmQzMDY3OTAtYTAxZi00MTM3LWFiMTItYWRlYTlmNDUyN2Ez/edit?num=50&sort=name&ddrp=1&layout=list#">here's a little freebie</a> I blogged about that same year. A little something fun for the writing center. </div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuYmQzMDY3OTAtYTAxZi00MTM3LWFiMTItYWRlYTlmNDUyN2Ez/edit?num=50&sort=name&ddrp=1&layout=list#"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM45f4A4P95a_mvAGfG6siEmNCDDd41QM4gust45OwNnZfNlVAYuy_vgY1rlvCMtPaytXsy7CFzjMeGyvKULjw754XQADUlqn7RE-sr4BH-USCvJ52DRjBzysMbl3l7Dng0e2euX_z1qw8/s1600/january5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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And of course, a few little math freebies, too!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgogboLrsTTeEsnOsgs_okCOD1Oz2UfhSF3rnIDZiYxrnA6MY2F3d1htpWN4mN_lXgldgShbxqO-NmLcePhZ2BROYeefzIiMkQj3UNnCROpLUxMxZcccj2AQDTdrAuYF9fhDc9iPBGxrPdb/s1600/january7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgogboLrsTTeEsnOsgs_okCOD1Oz2UfhSF3rnIDZiYxrnA6MY2F3d1htpWN4mN_lXgldgShbxqO-NmLcePhZ2BROYeefzIiMkQj3UNnCROpLUxMxZcccj2AQDTdrAuYF9fhDc9iPBGxrPdb/s1600/january7.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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This little math craftivity was inspired by <a href="http://ourartlately.blogspot.com/2010/11/are-you-up-for-winter.html">Joanna Davis at We Heart Art</a>. I used her cutie snowman for problem solving. They used their thumprints to create the snowflakes and then made patterns on the snowman's scarf. <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2012/01/snowflakes-falling-contraction-surgery.html">You can read all about it HERE.</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYpKy2OVNMLntHACohvLCoyV307oTo8vDJafc0NuR9SG2VpwOuLtopvdhq5zTP8u1TuYxhpKp6fsidcTKD7brehETdniyqGVAyNPe6qRKc9BuN49d7ihBMYFFOF96j25QnVyiz2sMqddK/s1600/january8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYpKy2OVNMLntHACohvLCoyV307oTo8vDJafc0NuR9SG2VpwOuLtopvdhq5zTP8u1TuYxhpKp6fsidcTKD7brehETdniyqGVAyNPe6qRKc9BuN49d7ihBMYFFOF96j25QnVyiz2sMqddK/s1600/january8.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love introducing the concept of symmetry in January. Really, any time of the year is appropriate, but I love the activities I can do this time of the year with this concept.</div>
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<a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2013/01/make-snow-mistake-about-itwe-love-winter.html">Here we are making a symmetrical snowman</a>. This really helped the kids to "get" the concept.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzIhtT-FR1Nqo0SWsFFa3jRzA-qqDCl7Pf9s0CitSQHYznsEkYXjQ4Xucojq-Z2vAXin6CICHEXtPr9eLPFUehHaTvRFEIn-9J4ja8nElvXSXlpvCf7xhXvqoZos61t5XEIhK_Em8PkxL/s1600/january11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzIhtT-FR1Nqo0SWsFFa3jRzA-qqDCl7Pf9s0CitSQHYznsEkYXjQ4Xucojq-Z2vAXin6CICHEXtPr9eLPFUehHaTvRFEIn-9J4ja8nElvXSXlpvCf7xhXvqoZos61t5XEIhK_Em8PkxL/s1600/january11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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And we've made these symmetrical snowflakes as long as I've been teaching! 13 years! Say what?!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_eKknU7Jz9rECMaj5Rg820oQLu04nCpgr1mCKd7GoF09cj9IxYLbN929u06jOd8hQYMM_ArydBIrxmWK2Tq_f3vKmQvr3B6VG0xmsDR0XU3o83CbYwbEzQx877ZOh6Z-v78_rs1JY3OHc/s1600/january12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_eKknU7Jz9rECMaj5Rg820oQLu04nCpgr1mCKd7GoF09cj9IxYLbN929u06jOd8hQYMM_ArydBIrxmWK2Tq_f3vKmQvr3B6VG0xmsDR0XU3o83CbYwbEzQx877ZOh6Z-v78_rs1JY3OHc/s1600/january12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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This was such a FUN whole group math game!!!! My kids LOVED it! A great way </div>
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to reinforce making 10 while keeping with the whole snowman theme. #targetsnowflakesforthewin</div>
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<a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2013/01/make-snow-mistake-about-itwe-love-winter.html">You can find out how to play the game (no Target snowflakes needed) HERE</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWVACHuUt3vauAe6-1KtRm7OwJyyDd3SORIlTnPbjLYH_n1MwqJU8Kk3P-06W4qvKCtkd_JeLNR_yQ5Wz6glTnwMet3i_pZnIpLifpm-40zyh6d45QrJLhp5-5UpuY1tMyeyMVkkH0kuLu/s1600/january13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="604" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWVACHuUt3vauAe6-1KtRm7OwJyyDd3SORIlTnPbjLYH_n1MwqJU8Kk3P-06W4qvKCtkd_JeLNR_yQ5Wz6glTnwMet3i_pZnIpLifpm-40zyh6d45QrJLhp5-5UpuY1tMyeyMVkkH0kuLu/s1600/january13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Speaking of games, <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2013/01/make-snow-mistake-about-itwe-love-winter.html">this was another class favorite!!!</a> Aaaahhh!!! This was SUCH a blast for the kids...they asked to play it almost every day after that! Great way to reinforce the concept of comparing numbers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2L4NE-CJp1cva89DrsINRx7sNoZ4xu4CNA9kuTzFzKcbYcWTJJJykY0Fch9YvIgSjGqM_6_gRm5QX0Q4fIbNvsyqmB8ME8dnOCiEg34i7B-awnQsdXlIDFpSS_q1mfzXvmUELg94y7peC/s1600/January14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="588" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2L4NE-CJp1cva89DrsINRx7sNoZ4xu4CNA9kuTzFzKcbYcWTJJJykY0Fch9YvIgSjGqM_6_gRm5QX0Q4fIbNvsyqmB8ME8dnOCiEg34i7B-awnQsdXlIDFpSS_q1mfzXvmUELg94y7peC/s1600/January14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Speaking of games...here's another "making 10" game we loved. Only with this one, we practiced using the number line. <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2013/01/digging-through-snow.html">You can read more about it HERE</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmj7ZJxSzmPEjms8VMI_EbsQBLk05SFrj0BryIpJadRQcjQWiB2iXEPmJMbjT8i-svLRMU4TYEbXmyfRojNHwTVPquo-XT8UHey7pg0pkuGm9Tdf4dOvSc2Z30QtgkHqesUs1aeNRmfBBs/s1600/january15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmj7ZJxSzmPEjms8VMI_EbsQBLk05SFrj0BryIpJadRQcjQWiB2iXEPmJMbjT8i-svLRMU4TYEbXmyfRojNHwTVPquo-XT8UHey7pg0pkuGm9Tdf4dOvSc2Z30QtgkHqesUs1aeNRmfBBs/s1600/january15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here was a little patterning activity we got from <a href="http://mrsleeskinderkids.blogspot.com/2011/01/its-new-year.html">Julie Lee at Mrs. Lee's Kinder Kids</a>. I absolutely <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2014/01/theres-snow-time-like-winter.html">LOVED these</a>!! So did my kids!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixQ0WcvXL221gGEhDk_PYobPZeF7n-xuZxV7CkHcilxH27gNlHrknUpbCjZB7n1bjCPionbSEnxlYK_1gwQMgPZcHmmT5mnOp_uUW4ZOa6Ki9OYzxHjF8GyEuDyzGCn1OFZlroY7FqxqeX/s1600/january16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixQ0WcvXL221gGEhDk_PYobPZeF7n-xuZxV7CkHcilxH27gNlHrknUpbCjZB7n1bjCPionbSEnxlYK_1gwQMgPZcHmmT5mnOp_uUW4ZOa6Ki9OYzxHjF8GyEuDyzGCn1OFZlroY7FqxqeX/s1600/january16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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This was a game we played a TON last year. It really works with ANY skill. <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2014/01/theres-snow-time-like-winter.html">You can find out how we played it in this post.</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6vthTmbeqPxaUM8piZ1onPKBYDBlog79dNOIKdfXT9PF6il7MOl7fJ6Q5k0KgjypOfN-gYhOKmgglN9l_j6TU5SI8R6Gx1Nowy5TkXyRa-6hAO-yJzDZGA4kziCZHnCm1XXzqw-EBVf3/s1600/january17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6vthTmbeqPxaUM8piZ1onPKBYDBlog79dNOIKdfXT9PF6il7MOl7fJ6Q5k0KgjypOfN-gYhOKmgglN9l_j6TU5SI8R6Gx1Nowy5TkXyRa-6hAO-yJzDZGA4kziCZHnCm1XXzqw-EBVf3/s1600/january17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Another favorite was this great sight word activity we kept out almost all winter long. My kids had to dig for sight words and build them with "snowballs". <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuZG9DTU0zZGNUbG8/edit"> You can grab the FREEBIE HERE</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAtjh6nwdLbHwYSJ8uf8KsY3_GndLHqgrAarXV2222M8OkCiYehpGLfIPZoSVypzsrzGjQZ2Us0FZpelkWhQ3CZG8FMhkGIY3f74Zbk53BTjaMVroNZy34eVGE7ajTZDbBYFBYCpq-SOI4/s1600/january18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAtjh6nwdLbHwYSJ8uf8KsY3_GndLHqgrAarXV2222M8OkCiYehpGLfIPZoSVypzsrzGjQZ2Us0FZpelkWhQ3CZG8FMhkGIY3f74Zbk53BTjaMVroNZy34eVGE7ajTZDbBYFBYCpq-SOI4/s1600/january18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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We did SO much more in January in the years past, but this post would be a mile long if I included everything. So I'll save that for another post...maybe tomorrow or the day after that. Hopefully these activities will help you with your planning the next few weeks!!!</div>
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Here's a little something I'm THRILLED about going into the new school year...this <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Place-Value-Intervention-1624127"> Place Value Intervention packet </a>of activities!!!</div>
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Does that sound silly?? #teachernerd</div>
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I'm really passionate about teaching math and place value is one of my most favorite concepts to teach. Here is a little sneak peek at just a few of the activities in the packet...</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Place-Value-Intervention-1624127">Climb the ladder</a> is a fun small group game where kids have to correctly answer several different questions about a number and the value of it's digits to win the game. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6FdZMzWLP0fq9WPF6unsAGw50_50vM2eBc6tvXkfDVoFBvX5Ri6EOYCTqxZyGLEPiO5wKQcL9q0uwPs-bJLbKHchwtz3QxhIFn64DxOBfFCVBihVvHD-hquB0v12gmjhyphenhyphenH2xoLzmOVfBi/s1600/PlaceValue1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6FdZMzWLP0fq9WPF6unsAGw50_50vM2eBc6tvXkfDVoFBvX5Ri6EOYCTqxZyGLEPiO5wKQcL9q0uwPs-bJLbKHchwtz3QxhIFn64DxOBfFCVBihVvHD-hquB0v12gmjhyphenhyphenH2xoLzmOVfBi/s1600/PlaceValue1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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The <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Place-Value-Intervention-1624127">pyramid place value tray</a> is a different twist on building numbers and I absolutely love anything I can put a twist on. I really believe in taking one concept and finding lots of different ways to practice the skill so that the novelty doesn't wear off.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCBNW1H2Ppyz8AyhNwVUoaUMJ-bwp4BBKFPpSWcAtAKrg0qVa1JhB1vd7KTX9skHQTHxVHmw0LeVvNYg2kczmvW4qivV6yi9t34HDpwQkVuCAVv60h7dg5kD77mDxUfNhxRCl95l5DEN8/s1600/PlaceValue2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCBNW1H2Ppyz8AyhNwVUoaUMJ-bwp4BBKFPpSWcAtAKrg0qVa1JhB1vd7KTX9skHQTHxVHmw0LeVvNYg2kczmvW4qivV6yi9t34HDpwQkVuCAVv60h7dg5kD77mDxUfNhxRCl95l5DEN8/s1600/PlaceValue2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Not only does <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Place-Value-Intervention-1624127">this intervention packet include lots of whole group & small group games & activities,</a> but it also provides opportunities for independent practice and reinforcement. That's something our kids can NEVER do enough!!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCMSibhXIYoT_BVcujXwhB6EodZtiggK9Beyg4NBCJGTtay_aq3VI-pCgg5fJzyTGxfYPcTlW-vA0szaCRuTr3utcIXC53EIze7owqZHr1u4ZctCvdVCU6S4sn43_-SMJUHtJPG_h_ox6X/s1600/PlaceValue3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCMSibhXIYoT_BVcujXwhB6EodZtiggK9Beyg4NBCJGTtay_aq3VI-pCgg5fJzyTGxfYPcTlW-vA0szaCRuTr3utcIXC53EIze7owqZHr1u4ZctCvdVCU6S4sn43_-SMJUHtJPG_h_ox6X/s1600/PlaceValue3.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I like using independent acivities for whole group lessons as well. It's a great way to introduce a concept. And when the kids are familiar with a game/activity, that's less reteaching you have to do later on and less interruption you'll get when it comes time for that independent practice.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidmvjaQu7tn9s6tjE9hLTsohpcU-LgcQj3jFOfvrAsw3M29qQQwWZYMkZi336otbIozGMbnL_ThpUa_f-iTa5naJh1AGO8FwX3-f1biS16569vg41LQ8uLLvZsBJQpr2llIRu-4eJxnMcN/s1600/PlaceValue4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidmvjaQu7tn9s6tjE9hLTsohpcU-LgcQj3jFOfvrAsw3M29qQQwWZYMkZi336otbIozGMbnL_ThpUa_f-iTa5naJh1AGO8FwX3-f1biS16569vg41LQ8uLLvZsBJQpr2llIRu-4eJxnMcN/s1600/PlaceValue4.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Speaking of independent practice, I included 15 different print & practice activity sheets. These would be great for morning work, homework, or anything you can think of.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisdkcp-kUQXPhOPOX6rWzLhmqi9XtMt7GRWevlYdZKfNK2Z28umJKbJyU9vAQYh6_cOEFMxVp9-ovzgcYjD6CK48HaRENjCsIisg486mRv7bXhQNJIrfovIA9RCrhXTp706IiwcGr7SnEA/s1600/PlaceValue5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisdkcp-kUQXPhOPOX6rWzLhmqi9XtMt7GRWevlYdZKfNK2Z28umJKbJyU9vAQYh6_cOEFMxVp9-ovzgcYjD6CK48HaRENjCsIisg486mRv7bXhQNJIrfovIA9RCrhXTp706IiwcGr7SnEA/s1600/PlaceValue5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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And if you have interactive journals in your classroom, I also included a few supplemental (editable) journaling pages for additional practice and reinforcement opportunities.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0lL4NHUtybEck0YYXUwMTAYLBjIVxquPN1qJoVfNaLnblgCQO6PkE_6xQyzwWEj2CviUavUNRj4MxUz3Id2AZ0L2x4H3lB-pAE_i0pAHKaMJcF4CidbUNn_iY0XuqNNSDAaoXgg1KfKhX/s1600/PlaceValue6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0lL4NHUtybEck0YYXUwMTAYLBjIVxquPN1qJoVfNaLnblgCQO6PkE_6xQyzwWEj2CviUavUNRj4MxUz3Id2AZ0L2x4H3lB-pAE_i0pAHKaMJcF4CidbUNn_iY0XuqNNSDAaoXgg1KfKhX/s1600/PlaceValue6.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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And the most exciting thing we're doing in January...in my opinion of course, is SCIENCE!!! Our babies LOVE anything and everything science related and unfortunately, we often toss this subject to the side and don't give it the attention it deserves because we have too much to do!<br />
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<a href="http://theinspiredapple.net/">Abby</a> and I have made it easy for you with our<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Winter-Science-2261597"> cross curricular science resources</a>!!! Here's how the month of January looks at a glance....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWvhyphenhyphenoGGjTO4FATXifpsnA8SYE4cwzzgV3nldzu3539eYohwfLGX9Te5yqziqy2Juozqc-FeXnczZMmv1EKSiU6ZPifw46ZM_XELHBu4VP3b5ZFgP0FM-uQQ0U2693w_KwQT-gegb0lvAR/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWvhyphenhyphenoGGjTO4FATXifpsnA8SYE4cwzzgV3nldzu3539eYohwfLGX9Te5yqziqy2Juozqc-FeXnczZMmv1EKSiU6ZPifw46ZM_XELHBu4VP3b5ZFgP0FM-uQQ0U2693w_KwQT-gegb0lvAR/s640/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Lots of vocabulary...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcVS1vsuOPVsJN9hUc5FzI_S0nPZgIB9HPMLhR1BtVwWz_bLgkJ_kB5VQ_HS24trhh1PeBNB6MgSjmvNJunV27Hapr85LlrLmQp9KqxOvKG3pZ-DA22ficzUcGfDTgRFDLu0iZq2CMUSDx/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcVS1vsuOPVsJN9hUc5FzI_S0nPZgIB9HPMLhR1BtVwWz_bLgkJ_kB5VQ_HS24trhh1PeBNB6MgSjmvNJunV27Hapr85LlrLmQp9KqxOvKG3pZ-DA22ficzUcGfDTgRFDLu0iZq2CMUSDx/s640/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We made sure to include a list of suggested books for each week, although ANY book to which you have access that covers SNOW, ICE, WINTER, & ANIMALS IN WINTER will work beautifully for these activities. We even included three non-fiction books in this resource that you can print out and bind or project and read.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitIaCnulaMCVcoj7-gBAdwgwaEQCrJiW0B9Y6kptKilwA5ZMxVirJ5zEv-1XJStsE672F_0BtajxI4U9zhFe0gviVpWvLIMcTqVWmjgvzUOr5opb19H0dJfZS1pAstNsbnU00uBU2hxEvl/s1600/Slide6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitIaCnulaMCVcoj7-gBAdwgwaEQCrJiW0B9Y6kptKilwA5ZMxVirJ5zEv-1XJStsE672F_0BtajxI4U9zhFe0gviVpWvLIMcTqVWmjgvzUOr5opb19H0dJfZS1pAstNsbnU00uBU2hxEvl/s640/Slide6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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TONS of science activities!!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrQIgghHMa7c1ecJS_VF2tUN0f5Tnb4txbqVkzRWqAQNl_NPEtG7dt4s0_B119QsEvFS-SGKrXtonqP6FjJ0H3c_lVrN0sKSMsrND-PvXRLr_7KrH-6gzotQfNPp3-evISE5GqP8qwTaYn/s1600/Slide5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrQIgghHMa7c1ecJS_VF2tUN0f5Tnb4txbqVkzRWqAQNl_NPEtG7dt4s0_B119QsEvFS-SGKrXtonqP6FjJ0H3c_lVrN0sKSMsrND-PvXRLr_7KrH-6gzotQfNPp3-evISE5GqP8qwTaYn/s640/Slide5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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ELA Extensions...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLLv0q2Lwmxm7YPAdZCTX7zIoHhKHJcCy2jvojTXVKrZpaT5QggfLEMc9uGd6zONopSykxwDOu7awermsO2KXkbEgHhQbGGmlR83Azyul7ojpKg3pAGEa3HUHoCzhhx6EtOh6-TfjuCqmc/s1600/Slide3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLLv0q2Lwmxm7YPAdZCTX7zIoHhKHJcCy2jvojTXVKrZpaT5QggfLEMc9uGd6zONopSykxwDOu7awermsO2KXkbEgHhQbGGmlR83Azyul7ojpKg3pAGEa3HUHoCzhhx6EtOh6-TfjuCqmc/s640/Slide3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Lots of math...</div>
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And my personal favorite...hands-on craftivities!!!!</div>
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If you're interested in implementing<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Winter-Science-2261597"> these activities and plans</a> into your classroom, just click on the pic below. We are SO excited about this resource and can't wait to see how you incorporate it into your plans!!! This was a labor of love and we hope you love it as much as we do!!!!!</div>
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And if you're looking for a few things to help your planning go a little smoother while transitioning into the 2nd semeseter of the school year (WOO HOO!!!!), here are a few things that might be able to help!!!</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Write-On-20-Math-Literacy-Write-the-Room-Activities-January-Edition-1044872">Write ON! 20 Write the Room Math & Literacy Activities</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Work-on-Writing-January-1613482">January Work on Writing</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Get-Your-Waddle-On-Math-Literacy-Activities-1057581">Get Your Waddle On! Math & Literacy Activities</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Feelin-Frosty-Math-Tubs-12-Math-Tub-Activities-for-Winter-497019">Feelin' Frosty - 12 Math Tubs (Kindergarten</a>)</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Frosty-Friends-18-Literacy-Centers-for-Winter-190556">Frosty & Friends - 18 Literacy Center Activities (1st Grade)</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Come-in-from-the-Cold-11-Math-Tub-Activities-for-Winter-192723">Come in From the Cold - Math Tub Activities (1st Grade)</a></div>
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You can<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Cara-Carroll"> grab EVERYTHING mentioned here...AND MORE</a>!!!!...for 20% through New Year's Day! No code needed!!! </div>
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Have a FABULOUS weekend before the crazy starts up again!!!! </div>
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VERY </div>
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HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!</div>
<br />Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-26514748338962698382016-11-27T15:23:00.003-08:002016-11-27T15:23:58.237-08:00Classroom Elf Freebies & Ideas<div style="text-align: center;">
It's almost time for our family elf, Elfabet, to visit us from the North Pole. He is one of my favorite family traditions because his silly hijinx always make my boys laugh. There is just no sweeter sound to wake up to in the morning, I swear. Not only are the elves flying back to homes everywhere across the country, but according to my calendar, they're flying back to classrooms everywhere, too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQfwV3xtgCWLO7E-B4Z8JczstquoiiiF-7UDQVqQRfZMpEbDRg49o3FZFCkwxI8jDG53p11c-rIopj0JT7xw3W1lm6OrSbdlUhMI3OXXEtxsVpghUtwn469DM6c3Krvygm3NInHWrDmm_Y/s1600/clasself1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQfwV3xtgCWLO7E-B4Z8JczstquoiiiF-7UDQVqQRfZMpEbDRg49o3FZFCkwxI8jDG53p11c-rIopj0JT7xw3W1lm6OrSbdlUhMI3OXXEtxsVpghUtwn469DM6c3Krvygm3NInHWrDmm_Y/s640/clasself1.png" width="518" /></a></div>
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Here's a peek back at our visit from our classroom elf a few years ago. A special delivery straight from the North Pole with a letter, a gift tag, and everything!<br />
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<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gY4WalUsVwA/Up6hFLjmgTI/AAAAAAAAjSg/MKmqz_jjWaI/s1600-h/elf3%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="elf3" border="0" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_GvqjRX7e1g/Up6hGq66ptI/AAAAAAAAjSo/qUBEhjWSz7A/elf3_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="624" style="background-image: none; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="elf3" width="406" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uOKVR4eFVI4/Up6hI83Da_I/AAAAAAAAjSw/zL7hh2IyfmA/s1600-h/elf2%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="elf2" border="0" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ep6ZHbb_Gwg/Up6hJ0SbSMI/AAAAAAAAjS4/B6Oni7hbD6A/elf2_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="622" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="elf2" width="396" /></a><br />
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I read <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELFIS-Is-In-The-Building-A-Classroom-Elf-Freebie-1006782">the letter</a> to the kids and they flipped. I mean, they seriously had a conniption. They could barely stifle their screams. We somehow managed to get through the letter without anyone going too crazy, but when it came time for me to open Santa’s special delivery, we just couldn’t contain ourselves anymore. It got a little wild. But it was precious because their little hearts are SO innocent and they just couldn’t hold in their excitement at all. I just LOVE the magic of Christmas!!!! <br />
As we were opening up the package, the kids were BEGGING me to be careful so that I wouldn’t touch her. Luckily, Santa’s little burlap sack and all that North Pole snow made it super easy for her to stay put as I opened her up. I put her under the document camera for everyone to see.<br />
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<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qQjwdL_a9GY/Up6hMYv9aII/AAAAAAAAjTA/Wtm9pDMwFGg/s1600-h/elf1%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="elf1" border="0" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HbJVasn8DwM/Up6hNc6UeuI/AAAAAAAAjTI/pe0VLJQBQD0/elf1_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="700" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="elf1" width="455" /></a><br />
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Almost immediately after opening our special package, one of my babies said, “I’m going to write about our elf today in Writer’s Workshop!” Score. But first, it was time to name her. I was really hoping for someone to come up with a fun name like “Elfis” or something equally as cool. Here’s what the kids chose and then voted on…<br />
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<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yqDHAcNWby4/Up6hQFyGOaI/AAAAAAAAjTQ/zDym9U55fqM/s1600-h/elf7%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="elf7" border="0" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-18hdD4gyqbU/Up6hS0ropVI/AAAAAAAAjTY/jI5gowEw_xY/elf7_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="560" style="background-image: none; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="elf7" width="437" /></a><br />
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I got this great bubble map idea from <a href="http://primarygrafitti.blogspot.com/">Cheryl at Primary Grafitti.</a> Love. Take a look at those names. Elfabet is the name of my boys’ elf and one of my kids DESPERATELY wanted that to be a serious contender, but no such luck. We ended up with “Frozen” and I’m sure that was inspired by Disney’s recent Blockbuster!<br />
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After we named her, we filled out one of the <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELFIS-Is-In-The-Building-A-Classroom-Elf-Freebie-1006782">printables</a> from my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELFIS-Is-In-The-Building-A-Classroom-Elf-Freebie-1006782">Classroom Elf Freebie</a> so that the kids would have something to take home to share with their parents.<br />
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<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IuFIb3W5gGs/Up6hWlNgRtI/AAAAAAAAjTg/Si1H9iDzDwE/s1600-h/elf8%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="elf8" border="0" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8JdbH3pTaV0/Up6hZaWKFkI/AAAAAAAAjTo/vNBUb4strPw/elf8_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="581" style="background-image: none; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="elf8" width="378" /></a><br />
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We took a little break and played “Where’s the Elf?” from <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELFIS-Is-In-The-Building-A-Classroom-Elf-Freebie-1006782">that same little freebie</a> and the kids had a BLAST! You should’ve heard the cheers when they found the hiding elves!! It was even better watching the “elf finders” do their little elf dances at the end of the game. HA!<br />
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<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rqmYKFbnKc0/Up6hcTLSD8I/AAAAAAAAjTw/rtCjtYkQXxM/s1600-h/elf4%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="elf4" border="0" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Yj8hI3uiT4k/Up6hdiJdsqI/AAAAAAAAjT4/uufIDQU7cyc/elf4_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="478" style="background-image: none; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="elf4" width="385" /></a><br />
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We went out to recess and when we came back inside, our elf had flown out of her resting place and landed above one of our tables. I guess she didn’t think anyone would be able to see up her skirt. Bless. #thankgoodnessforstockings<br />
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<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aSXfgicIh8k/Up6he0U0rdI/AAAAAAAAjUA/cs9nSqUp8Xw/s1600-h/elf5%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="elf5" border="0" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_jeUajvwKx8/Up6hgQNwpoI/AAAAAAAAjUI/o2L-z6LudJI/elf5_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="440" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="elf5" width="286" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-60Eo5Wd0D-s/Up6hhchWVSI/AAAAAAAAjUQ/chQxDKPaviM/s1600-h/elf6%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="elf6" border="0" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cXeeSljHwIo/Up6hiVdBB2I/AAAAAAAAjUY/Op09GWt5IWE/elf6_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="440" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="elf6" width="286" /></a><br />
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They were seriously flabbergasted. Could not BELIEVE she was flying around the classroom while they were outside!! This was the *perfect* time to introduce their <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELFIS-Is-In-The-Building-A-Classroom-Elf-Freebie-1006782">little elf writing journals</a>. They couldn’t wait to get started.<br />
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<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DvkSnJKMgrQ/Up6hlL7AZxI/AAAAAAAAjUg/kECiX542snA/s1600-h/elf9%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="elf9" border="0" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3tqhSwNGhtE/Up6hnBJIxkI/AAAAAAAAjUo/FKVz7sTrkpA/elf9_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="421" style="background-image: none; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="elf9" width="601" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-O6P2tPsKo0k/Up6ho4BcHkI/AAAAAAAAjUw/BodhtSrNrtU/s1600-h/elf10%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="elf10" border="0" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WEShRNpWZgo/Up6hp8EXQyI/AAAAAAAAjU4/K5QqSqpDza0/elf10_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="301" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="elf10" width="193" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bj-Gfr9DXBM/Up6hsP-Xl0I/AAAAAAAAjVA/l3nbqYvUYcw/s1600-h/elf11%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="elf11" border="0" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4ZWCJ0gKlts/Up6hs_xk3aI/AAAAAAAAjVI/lKywrndl9ow/elf11_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="302" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="elf11" width="436" /></a><br />
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We even made these little elves for a special writing project all about our North Pole visitor. I don't have a template, but as you can see, it was pretty easy to make.<br />
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<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kOqM-w47KeE/Up6huKm04yI/AAAAAAAAjVQ/UqZ2rpTIsKg/s1600-h/elf12%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="elf12" border="0" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-G6YaDMO_SRc/Up6hv6n2JCI/AAAAAAAAjVY/fcGKYFjtG6w/elf12_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="499" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="elf12" width="402" /></a><br />
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If your elf is coming to visit, grab these freebies to welcome him or her to your classroom.</div>
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You can grab the freebie <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELFIS-Is-In-The-Building-A-Classroom-Elf-Freebie-1006782">HERE</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELFIS-Is-In-The-Building-A-Classroom-Elf-Freebie-1006782"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOhMgJS7vAzIcgbCbB2oNP48dykQVP-r509ViFisqAaXhxDVoXhkIuYthr8cvmea17rv38oCRO02fLVuDoqvZbfVZen8DgTNDCvEG-6eudm_YoKr0PTStyf2HI211duNJhw-SJVHyu1I_-/s1600/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And if you're in search of some elf ideas (for home OR for school...easy to modify for the classroom), you can find them on <a href="http://pearls-handcuffs-happyhour.blogspot.com/2015/12/north-pole-breakfast-and-45-elf-ideas.html">my domestic blog</a> here...</div>
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<a href="http://pearls-handcuffs-happyhour.blogspot.com/2015/12/north-pole-breakfast-and-45-elf-ideas.html"><img border="0" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhS7qoZCpM1Zsi3NKyJVGRhN044qRN4VSwAU2-ETOe7OGlDozZHsBjQg3PkktgXdRcAxwdj8W6JHuI6pD4PoIb5Kfy5_QtF7NRIpIc-KRTc_pT14bvA4tAhhK9zlv22moF25UK32e_X2iB/s1600/ElfIdeas1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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And have you heard the news yet?! </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Cara-Carroll">Teachers Pay Teachers</a> will be hosting their annual cyber sale on Monday and Tuesday, so get ready to shop and stock up for this busy holiday season. Always such a fun time of the year in the classroom and it's so much easier to make it through the next few weeks when you're prepared!</div>
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This is when I like to stock up!! If you're in need of a few more seasonal resources, here's what I have available...</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/1st-Grade-Math-Literacy-Print-Practice-DECEMBER-1581713">1st grade No Prep Math & Literacy</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Print-Practice-Problem-Solving-December-1571109">Print & Practice Problem Solving</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindergarten-Print-Practice-No-Prep-Math-Literacy-Printables-DECEMBER-1588713">Kindergarten No Prep Math & Literacy</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-December-2888912"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Y6svonfg_D8xDevyQ1WpUwzGkvvAefkTFKNF9B6WUUR1pr58EO2KBfd7QIFF-wXFGjC6GKmIWhffkgtFyaqLGkaOdjv1vsztRiBkoAnDH7ZpSRSlLe77WKVDMVjGGe2R1qrrVuqJfAme/s640/xmassale4.png" width="586" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-December-2888912">Science of December</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Christmas-Writing-1561901">December Work on Writing</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Write-the-Room-Christmas-1003501">December Write the Room</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Christmas-Math-Literacy-430870">Holiday Math & Literacy Centers</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Christmas-Math-Centers-432732">Mistletoe Math Centers</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Christmas-Math-Centers-171494">Christmas Math Centers</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Christmas-Literacy-Centers-171492">Christmas Literacy Centers</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mooseltoe-Math-Literacy-Mini-Unit-170488">Mooseltoe Mini Unit</a></div>
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I have lots of phonics and alphabet resources....math activities and content...and MORE! You can visit <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Cara-Carroll">my little store</a> and click on the custom tabs on the left hand side of the screen to find exactly what you're looking for! Until next time, happy cyber shopping!!!!</div>
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Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-46981581399685846492016-11-15T10:17:00.000-08:002016-11-15T10:30:51.906-08:00Thanksgiving Math Freebies!<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello all! I hope this week's supermoon hasn't throw your babies off at all. Oh, who am I kidding?! I know it has, LOL!!! Here's to you and making it through to the Thanksgiving holidays up ahead! Halleluia, right?! </div>
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Okay, so let's talk math, shall we?!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhivKAV1_XZ8pz_QZ-54LPYRuyz6T_4IFxOlwjljiZWzPGQxjU3mDKjAq1OV_6ye-AWb0ilByd_pJrcvqOolKjXlwWZUMN8S-acAHUNrQaPICRWZ2C72X9MurQzaPIsZSokujbGlpTTvpCN/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/AVvXsEhivKAV1_XZ8pz_QZ-54LPYRuyz6T_4IFxOlwjljiZWzPGQxjU3mDKjAq1OV_6ye-AWb0ilByd_pJrcvqOolKjXlwWZUMN8S-acAHUNrQaPICRWZ2C72X9MurQzaPIsZSokujbGlpTTvpCN/s640/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I just wanted to share a couple of math activities from my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Simply-Social-Studies-K1-Thanksgiving-Then-Now-Traditions-Mini-Unit-2874681">Simply Social Studies Thanksgiving Mini Unit (K/1)</a> that you might be able to use in your classroom this week or next. I always try to include ELA & Math extension activities in my social studies lesson plans. I love cross curricular teaching and our kids tend to build a more authentic and meaningful connection to key concepts and ideas when learning on a cross curricular level.</div>
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First up, a little Mayflower Math.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht22DLs4_O8_WB4laloR8noGCFWIh9C3ZdMKwLpjBU8mquoH4hqbT5SPfLkERdjLfXcJ2tRFiWpTTEAEhW28dgUC1J-6a1md_HVYPdgjhEEkQQWe4NghkTKVU_EDijMplrPmBTgwVbWgOi/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252849%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht22DLs4_O8_WB4laloR8noGCFWIh9C3ZdMKwLpjBU8mquoH4hqbT5SPfLkERdjLfXcJ2tRFiWpTTEAEhW28dgUC1J-6a1md_HVYPdgjhEEkQQWe4NghkTKVU_EDijMplrPmBTgwVbWgOi/s640/FullSizeRender+%252849%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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For this activity, you'll need the printable, a bingo dotter, and a die. </div>
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Prompt students to roll the die and identify the amount.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipk8PhD77Py3ca4abFm9ZsnMX_29Mu0q7Nh0Hm2aE_5cbjzsz0NGxjYVMnY3iWeb-dbUt9WWaPSZ-qcmUfS3GwcqqXFIorD66svcJ2f_LnwUIgYn_kBr0YI_43zMFM0gEnfZwwXIGfzqFr/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252850%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipk8PhD77Py3ca4abFm9ZsnMX_29Mu0q7Nh0Hm2aE_5cbjzsz0NGxjYVMnY3iWeb-dbUt9WWaPSZ-qcmUfS3GwcqqXFIorD66svcJ2f_LnwUIgYn_kBr0YI_43zMFM0gEnfZwwXIGfzqFr/s640/FullSizeRender+%252850%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Then prompt students to add a matching number of pips in the tens frame with a bingo dotter (or marker/crayon/sticker if you don't have the bingo dotters available). </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMeekzGwneXLrV_xeuF4HvnJE7-pfFs_6yCnccpF4r_C2sERWtF2oIhFBIQEvrIrZYBJhQqeJc9uhBGaFcX-Bb8KXJDsEmB4NMXbbLpB6yQ8GAuGPsdfmHfStWOm9x8n5sZe4lmAVDozj/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252851%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMeekzGwneXLrV_xeuF4HvnJE7-pfFs_6yCnccpF4r_C2sERWtF2oIhFBIQEvrIrZYBJhQqeJc9uhBGaFcX-Bb8KXJDsEmB4NMXbbLpB6yQ8GAuGPsdfmHfStWOm9x8n5sZe4lmAVDozj/s640/FullSizeRender+%252851%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The objective of this activity is to make 10 altogether. SO, your kids will identify the number in the tens frame and then determine how many more are needed to make 10 altogether. </div>
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Prompt them to use the pilgrim cut-outs to show how many more are needed to make 10. </div>
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In this example, I rolled a 3, dotted three, and then identified that 7 more are needed to make 10 altogether, so I glued 7 pilgrims in the Mayflower to represent that addend. Then have students write the matching equation in the space provided on the sail.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGKWAUORr7KpQ-8_moSLZ9pNc5TJNb0i5H6Es-J277Ezj4u0Fr5ihHB5t7ImvDFOM1Uy3iAGyVfrEXFm4UgueWo7FNZz7e3RnIh_aOFCGz906EwYeKmMPeO5109ZZ1ECgEAV-Tw-0DUGD/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252852%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGKWAUORr7KpQ-8_moSLZ9pNc5TJNb0i5H6Es-J277Ezj4u0Fr5ihHB5t7ImvDFOM1Uy3iAGyVfrEXFm4UgueWo7FNZz7e3RnIh_aOFCGz906EwYeKmMPeO5109ZZ1ECgEAV-Tw-0DUGD/s640/FullSizeRender+%252852%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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This would be great for a small group activity to provide extra support,but it would also be perfect for an independent task!</div>
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Next up, Pilgrim Place Value.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn82QZAZFOp-cdQ3O6VD00nUn5yHzN0TLiM9GfcZ4t0Cxk_QzKI_t0AEM7MAQWkXvmIJIj3SIqeWuhzg_37uEU8G3SdwCzN0wIOuq2WqhAyG_1PQPSEtdMeOzL5k1f8xmVciilEIFUD0YI/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252846%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn82QZAZFOp-cdQ3O6VD00nUn5yHzN0TLiM9GfcZ4t0Cxk_QzKI_t0AEM7MAQWkXvmIJIj3SIqeWuhzg_37uEU8G3SdwCzN0wIOuq2WqhAyG_1PQPSEtdMeOzL5k1f8xmVciilEIFUD0YI/s640/FullSizeRender+%252846%2529.jpg" width="436" /></a></div>
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You'll need the printable included and a set of number cards. I happen to have the yellow ones pictured, but they aren't included in the download. You can use ANY number cards you have available or create your own quickly using index cards and a marker :) </div>
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The objective of this activity is for students to draw two numbers from the number card pile and make the biggest number possible then use the base 10 blocks to represent the value.</div>
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First, draw two numbers from the stack and write the biggest number possible in the space provided (you could also have kids make the smallest number if you choose).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2LtWw2nyyEAOlo2j7XMvPY9d_6oNxgzgCRwVAsTfsU1gBagigUkFHOvy8nJt2MEbECpxDrM8jFP8wj0IoTyXjODdLTeAyhSQMzwmOxS9gk3rb17EIaFCUADzbk5TZmdJpPLWXvSpASvcq/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252847%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2LtWw2nyyEAOlo2j7XMvPY9d_6oNxgzgCRwVAsTfsU1gBagigUkFHOvy8nJt2MEbECpxDrM8jFP8wj0IoTyXjODdLTeAyhSQMzwmOxS9gk3rb17EIaFCUADzbk5TZmdJpPLWXvSpASvcq/s640/FullSizeRender+%252847%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After identifying and writing the greatest/smallest number, prompt students to use the base 10 blocks to represent the total value and glue them in the matching columns.</div>
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If you want to add these activities into your plans this week, just click on the pic below :)</div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWueHBjenRfeHF2RFE/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UYY1Lf-O2wiVUnp0exM0vWlNjsQOGgirCwaQnL2r_BgWNIfQQyo8h0mTQjBrVJpq9Dwt2Ou4_JM2fdf36qVEcfZXVfcRWfMHKJbA0cN7O_a3c573MPGmOT_6bUlX4VoaJSh42CTnRtjN/s320/Slide1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Have a great week!!!</div>
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<br />Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-18111282719790966362016-11-10T06:15:00.002-08:002016-11-10T06:15:42.527-08:00Celebrating Veteran's Day (with Freebies!!!)<div style="text-align: center;">
If you're anything like me, you are always looking for more ideas and resources to add to your ever growing collection. I do this for EVERYTHING. Constantly looking for new ideas...more resources...and more time. If anybody can tell me where I can find more time, I'd really appreciate it ;) </div>
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That to be said, I want to share with you a few ideas to help you with any last minute prep you might be doing for Veteran's Day (tomorrow!!!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrnZcYhzYWSGNTOxZf5CowhUgevoEiwkPFbxrvyHv-14v2s_Z6tVARCR1qRZ_GAJtjWrJ7jFIQFkwyWBfKn1U6ZXFQFSXZjBZ5hUt5M3Ce6DFZu3H7Mprk99MOmkhy9uOpsjs8iY5ryQn/s1600/Vet11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrnZcYhzYWSGNTOxZf5CowhUgevoEiwkPFbxrvyHv-14v2s_Z6tVARCR1qRZ_GAJtjWrJ7jFIQFkwyWBfKn1U6ZXFQFSXZjBZ5hUt5M3Ce6DFZu3H7Mprk99MOmkhy9uOpsjs8iY5ryQn/s1600/Vet11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I absolutely LOVE teaching my kids about veterans and the sacrifices they make for our freedom. At my old school, veterans related to the students were invited to an assembly and honored with speeches and songs and we finished it all off with a parade around the school. It was so cool. The assembly was streamed in all the classrooms so that everyone could watch. At my current school, we celebrate by inviting veterans to lunch...tables are decorated and the walls in the cafeteria and the hallways are, too. It's such a sweet day.</div>
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We read several books leading up to and on Veterans Day to help teach the kids about this holiday.</div>
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These are some of my personal favorites...</div>
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I keep these books in our library center through the month of November. My kids read them during their read to self/someone block of time and they also use these books to write some pretty great stories. "Hero Dad" is such a sweet book and "The Wall" always makes me cry. Make sure your tissues are nearby if you read that one aloud.</div>
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After reading a few of our nonfiction books, we create anchor charts to display. These are a few examples of anchor charts I created with my class the last few years.</div>
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I like to display the kids' Veterans Day writing around the anchor charts to tie everything together. </div>
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Last year we read the book, "My Hero", and I had the kids write a text to self connection with this <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Veterans-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1539720">little writing activity</a>...<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Veterans-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1539720"><img border="0" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizBBw-E3FU3Je5Kpav2NxF0iqZioC-1g5wezu-Uy8bzQJGrNHUt6laQHXkZKZM7GTHX-TMwb17okPYvUktn9QRptyaF6jfGzpyfvsHmD6t2_JqryD4N1BF2AXwwK9oY9zdsg4k_XPf5rOG/s1600/Vet12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I mean, seriously.</div>
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<i>"My hero is my mom because she takes care of me.</i>" </div>
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Can my boys please write something like this for me?! I MELT!!!!</div>
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In addition to our text to self writing, we also <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Veterans-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1539720">wrote what we LEARNED about Veterans </a>and Veterans Day. I loved displaying this in the hallways! </div>
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I included the writing & craftivity templates in my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Veterans-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1539720">Veterans Day mini pack</a>.</div>
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This year I'm adding something new to the mix with <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Veterans-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1539720">this writing craftivity</a>. It's a great way to incorporate our theme based vocabulary, too! </div>
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I love adding poetry and music to every theme/unit. I made up this one and my boys are already humming the tune to themselves. I can't get it out of my head, either! HA!!! </div>
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<img border="0" height="576" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5t5dwb2J3C9HGQ21GO64AdK-v1WWPj6MqiEIw3k4R6d8pYOiFkVelWQhRpKF2iKdgGFMmh800UUAe2iWkRrLOuykX4IAO5soTCwVMqlfjXDQ0i-uWSDBB59RN-J3M3Dq5DtDNENPg8o_3/s1600/Vet8.png" width="640" /></div>
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We always add a printable version of our songs and poems to our poetry folders. I like to write the words on sentence strips, too...then I add them to my pocket chart center and encourage the kids to assemble them in sequential order, practice one-to-one matching, etc. We use the printable version for highlighting sight words, spelling patterns, etc. The <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Veterans-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1539720">printable version</a> of this song is in my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Veterans-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1539720">Veterans Day mini pack.</a></div>
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My boys always get excited when I create new things for my teacher friends. I was printing a few things out the other day and they insisted on trying it all out. It sparked a really great discussion about Veterans Day, too. I promised them I'd pull out my Veterans Day books for bedtime stories this week. Their favorite activity was this little <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Veterans-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1539720">Roll and Color Word Family printable</a>. They, of course, turn everything into a race so they were determined to see who could color the soldier first and fastest! When I told them the prize was a kiss from mommy, they seemed less than excited to finish the race first...hahahaha! They begged for candy kisses instead. Oh, BOYS!!!</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Veterans-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1539720"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNvWB6oi395eP96S0a-nSkaJU-U1rzaJbPQ_EieJWLpZoFgUhKtl1TR87KttR-1Bov-959HE_HJ-cKvJidMKvf0bNwxefTf3phG-mlC5A23exkJmdFOeQJtBbWfHDrA82R-yZQlhOtxpIr/s1600/vet1.png" width="610" /></a></div>
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They also loved <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Veterans-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1539720">these little math booklets</a>. I included two different versions in my Veterans Day mini pack to target differing ability levels. Landon zipped through the Armed Forces Addition...very sloppily {little toot!!!}, my poor lefty...and Grant loved his "<i>jutht-right-for-me-book, right-mom?!?!</i>" version. They boys are enamored with soldiers so these were right up their alley.</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Veterans-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1539720"><img border="0" height="628" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOV4K8TTjAazAMdDd0UxkgiXBVpZSN1bnLqII4f5DGXq_-_wo6iqYuUWCERjtYPYXYCGFMFT_DaEYf70RiinWICOtuT0larXoEUqNTNaIqP7z5jvdPXgcdMx0lPW1SC8oa2vlufOEBtq3r/s1600/Vet5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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You can check out my "<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/caralesley/patriotic-holidays/">Patriotic Holidays</a>" board on Pinterest for some more GREAT ideas and links to some really neat resources {<i>videos, online stories, freebies, craft ideas, etc.</i>}.</div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/caralesley/patriotic-holidays/"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp463qNrNVW2V6XiZJbqRe9BEF1wnWJ4NQlk95uw85fh_zd9OwhsO8Lp2kHibg1KyHpgTct77EKrz0Y64g-i7hhDJljiExDnztoW9fuqMyhGKWP1XHDb1v-sxaOImhDqz9LJpM97fH83zg/s1600/Vet13.png" width="554" /></a></div>
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Here are a few <a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuTzF1TjIxV0VOUTA/edit">FREE printables</a> for you to add to your ever growing collection of "stuff". Hopefully they'll help you out when you're planning for your Veterans Day festivities, too!</div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuTzF1TjIxV0VOUTA/edit"><img border="0" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNguWiH6ZE7_TXa53KXf1B9wMcltTGW94DnrRmhO4i7pfv6gc7nAJp7JtpQn2nTLICd-vNcNMzGBcNUiMnTz3xZPc9IHeazYcHzWLSEoEu5ANoDqBAgh-Ih-sIUVCtLIKzrHeK9cSFBcNy/s1600/Vet10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now it's your turn. What do you do to help your kids learn about Veterans Day? Does your school do anything special to celebrate?! I'd love to hear more!</div>
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Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-15869138869367577822016-10-03T10:15:00.001-07:002016-10-03T10:15:28.593-07:00Columbus Day in the Primary Clasroom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Since we typically have the day off for Columbus Day, I do acknowledge it. And it's in our standards to teach it, too. However, instead of focusing on Columbus being the first to discover America...which, by the way is highly disputed...we focus on exploration, new discoveries, and Christopher Columbus' explorations. <br />
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I figured today would be a great day to share with y'all what I posted last year...in case you're planning, too! </div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Columbus-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1473510"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgvSL7c58HphXj5UGIowgJGw8h1Rd0MpNTe69cXSAgROlJ32jyzvBwT9ulwM6iRRjaflmAXt3-Q6b-JsKDu6Bqig_iLV_tC2BmolBlIfG91dDRmB5q0AZH9ON17q00rpkZHgUemuhMd5Zo/s1600/columbusday7.png" width="640" /></a><br />
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If you're all about the snacks....which you know I am!!!...then these are pretty fun...and cute, to boot! Of course, this will take a little ambition which I don't always have when it comes to preparation the night before. I'm usually too tired to make dinner :) Ha!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ1hMlMaa9TZGdHIU4fFod0H94oPIb0cTRQwcSiCz9sX9Bjl-AQ8-LlxONU7zyowP4iB8tQ_roquXjcns6viO8DH9UXZHP3YWn0n4s-0xksDWLY60EQshcQzLWXXdvFNKerCTtq8a08c0l/s1600/columbusday1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ1hMlMaa9TZGdHIU4fFod0H94oPIb0cTRQwcSiCz9sX9Bjl-AQ8-LlxONU7zyowP4iB8tQ_roquXjcns6viO8DH9UXZHP3YWn0n4s-0xksDWLY60EQshcQzLWXXdvFNKerCTtq8a08c0l/s1600/columbusday1.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://pagingsupermom.com/2011/01/tangled-party-decor-food/">via Paging Supermom</a></div>
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This version is fun, too! </div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/81205599504367976/">link to pin</a></div>
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You could even have your kids assemble the snack and then write an expository piece about how they made it.</div>
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I like to start most of my themed units with a poem or song of some sort. There are lots of Columbus Day type songs out there. I made up this little one and my boys won't stop singing it. Oy. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfJabIrtYjfKen5Xkc9XJur6ypvOVLi-ucEqlbhJwZK3y1RGbmnSlvOOv_M4t7LwJOjsPfxlJclPS0TvahaH8l6aGkalGb3EENCwf245m34UBDa9LwQGWTrf4-l6eDSg5ZM5GJ2oyLG7ME/s1600/columbusday10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfJabIrtYjfKen5Xkc9XJur6ypvOVLi-ucEqlbhJwZK3y1RGbmnSlvOOv_M4t7LwJOjsPfxlJclPS0TvahaH8l6aGkalGb3EENCwf245m34UBDa9LwQGWTrf4-l6eDSg5ZM5GJ2oyLG7ME/s1600/columbusday10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I included<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Columbus-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1473510"> a printable version</a> for poetry folders/independent reading station/etc. as well as song strips for the pocket chart...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSuxSEvWX7by5kXGeNG2Hkkz5OtkXZXdNRgRbLImVNGwolSLkEo_OCs4LABznYFnVmZ_DFJ-UYaghgKS-34g2ug-vcn9qFE0ng5hXTCvVOwa0s6uAul_0UN-kROQWtyqkTa0wzAJEEE_KL/s1600/columbusday11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSuxSEvWX7by5kXGeNG2Hkkz5OtkXZXdNRgRbLImVNGwolSLkEo_OCs4LABznYFnVmZ_DFJ-UYaghgKS-34g2ug-vcn9qFE0ng5hXTCvVOwa0s6uAul_0UN-kROQWtyqkTa0wzAJEEE_KL/s1600/columbusday11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I absolutely LOVE incorporating vocabulary activities into anything I can. After reading the book Word Nerds last year, I was on a mission to amp up the vocabulary instruction in my classroom. I think our babies definitely have the capacity to not only learn, but use "big words" in their every day vocabulary...we just have to guide them in the right direction and provide lots of opportunities for them to work with these words. </div>
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I wrote a little <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Columbus-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1473510">"Let's Learn About Columbus" booklet </a>and highlighted some important vocabulary words from the story...</div>
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I also included <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Columbus-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1473510">printable story vocabulary cards</a> and a couple of activities to go with those words.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZaTbe6AtHh0AO2uNuLa44fJz6S3_XOkNXC5dxGZ185m5PFDAAqPsKobZPT88RUZaK8FuOTdOnFctkI3_GX0UKt5ubIifm67-rrn6Rf5NliHq19X28-cAo9ocnQZ9_7qNUNlEAwyXDVkgU/s1600/columbusday4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZaTbe6AtHh0AO2uNuLa44fJz6S3_XOkNXC5dxGZ185m5PFDAAqPsKobZPT88RUZaK8FuOTdOnFctkI3_GX0UKt5ubIifm67-rrn6Rf5NliHq19X28-cAo9ocnQZ9_7qNUNlEAwyXDVkgU/s1600/columbusday4.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm also loving this "<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Columbus-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1473510">ship-shape" sequencing book</a> that follows along with the story, too!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNREPSapwXFjVaRGBSNMhDcQBm96cI4CUTgyTPLErtptSMZKOGXuFOLGTujl9KQzEqn0jTPiLs9ZvUj2OManvyeAssx3a8T9ZdGUGwRvGwskgYTsjrwZ7R0aYF90EVoMRtKYwvS4T1w9OI/s1600/columbusday5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNREPSapwXFjVaRGBSNMhDcQBm96cI4CUTgyTPLErtptSMZKOGXuFOLGTujl9KQzEqn0jTPiLs9ZvUj2OManvyeAssx3a8T9ZdGUGwRvGwskgYTsjrwZ7R0aYF90EVoMRtKYwvS4T1w9OI/s1600/columbusday5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's this time of the year that I like to talk about symbols. I create a symbols anchor chart that describes what they are and how they are used. I included a printable where the kids have to sort symbols and match them to their corresponding holiday and I also included this little booklet. For this activity, the kids have to look at the symbol on the sail and then write the word on on the lines. This would be a great independent writing activity!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig53V292pQJxMACc4s-wC8D7lk5upaZj0hKAioJs4uiNWhFKZVZP4qd3JeoCV6BLJNaQ4m0GiPtC1OFUB4l71BLi5YYuVtrx50cWdxaUJLG1WEcZoK7C3lEo5X5YXK4dEogkHteCF2tbYm/s1600/columbusday3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig53V292pQJxMACc4s-wC8D7lk5upaZj0hKAioJs4uiNWhFKZVZP4qd3JeoCV6BLJNaQ4m0GiPtC1OFUB4l71BLi5YYuVtrx50cWdxaUJLG1WEcZoK7C3lEo5X5YXK4dEogkHteCF2tbYm/s1600/columbusday3.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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We're going to have the kids use these vocabulary picture/word cards as a resource when completing these activities. They're also going to have them displayed in their writing center.</div>
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I thought it would be fun for the kids to take some of those same vocabulary words and sort them into alphabetical order, so I made this little <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Columbus-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1473510">cut and paste booklet </a>for that...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKLhEEggouVjDB80XZGHUtWxzYSg55CQ4yzMY2e4WexQC3kVqyNgtpYiFlrwicASawxSWlXR39Yz9PJwgMBzDfzCY_b-Rv5spS4DWqZBuisoSzQmlXuK_K1Xx319_AlZiQaO2o-r5FISL/s1600/columbusday2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKLhEEggouVjDB80XZGHUtWxzYSg55CQ4yzMY2e4WexQC3kVqyNgtpYiFlrwicASawxSWlXR39Yz9PJwgMBzDfzCY_b-Rv5spS4DWqZBuisoSzQmlXuK_K1Xx319_AlZiQaO2o-r5FISL/s1600/columbusday2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I also included <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Columbus-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1473510">this little writing craftivity</a> and two different writing prompts. My oldest wanted to make one of his own as soon as he saw this one. Bless. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJEwbuZi3hT5Q2ca9miJIiVP6HjdZJN_syQO8qzTTm2boYozZgPFQNBulB2KFG_0I0Z7nDgMdMriRaF84Ss-EYin2u8Wtdj6vpvFHyAfSsbYdQIJglih7Gs99BPg7ybN1I4wzDJjD6xJ3h/s1600/columbusday13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="568" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJEwbuZi3hT5Q2ca9miJIiVP6HjdZJN_syQO8qzTTm2boYozZgPFQNBulB2KFG_0I0Z7nDgMdMriRaF84Ss-EYin2u8Wtdj6vpvFHyAfSsbYdQIJglih7Gs99BPg7ybN1I4wzDJjD6xJ3h/s1600/columbusday13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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You can check out this resource & read the details <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Columbus-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1473510">HERE</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Columbus-Day-Math-Literacy-Printables-Craftivities-1473510"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiULZMVjdAaPjZoh1uXLOeYdRFqqkslU4HArdED_6dSg3hhFZnFsVwtXIgmuuSOHx6BhEDCWamLD7TrKqzkRr879CFgc35K7NZ2blOJFkH2QZHKO-79Mh9TCvCmBfaXNpcU3j6A0AwOOK_D/s1600/columbusday14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I hope this helps with your planning!!!</div>
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<br />Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-85900338192878415512016-09-06T09:02:00.001-07:002016-09-06T09:02:43.021-07:00Tuesday Teacher Time Savers<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey Y'all! </div>
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Hope you had a wonderful Labor Day weekend and if you started back to school today, I hope your summer treated you well!</div>
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I thought it would be fun to pop-in once a week....in this case, on Tuesdays...and share some time savers with you guys. I know how utterly hard it is to effectively juggle all the demands given the time we have, so any little tips and tricks for time management, whether at home or school, is always helpful! This week we're talking all about time saving meals. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW6BObECiGrHMHU_g4VoVWrhtJ_aVbfjNluQTuH4OFHSwvOeUpqmGv_rpBvhds0dDuazChzLoyNGLlciitxkUpZs1D0Qv3BHvFu8zKMiQ9hYu8bZ77fFcHYY2f7-mreNdNmkChpnx6UOkX/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW6BObECiGrHMHU_g4VoVWrhtJ_aVbfjNluQTuH4OFHSwvOeUpqmGv_rpBvhds0dDuazChzLoyNGLlciitxkUpZs1D0Qv3BHvFu8zKMiQ9hYu8bZ77fFcHYY2f7-mreNdNmkChpnx6UOkX/s640/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I know how important it is for teachers to have access to quick and easy meals. The last thing I want to do at the end of an exhausting day is come home, cook an elaborate meal, and clean the aftermath. Inevitably my kitchen always looks like a war zone when it's all said and done. Thanks, but no thanks. I LOVE quick and easy. I love making food that will last me several days. I chose some of my most favorite fast and easy meals to share with you today. I think you'll LOVE them! You can find these, and a ton more, on my domestic blog -<a href="http://pearls-handcuffs-happyhour.blogspot.com/"> Pearls, Handcuffs, & Happy Hour. </a></div>
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<a href="http://pearls-handcuffs-happyhour.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF1lClafpf-gTa0F6Mo1KROAa9bb3zjuz2OXTs0u1uL37SiupV7q8IgalchxiPEexHhZDV2g8JnEc1oTepGCrk5JFVJZgqZn7Aw0t2ojKP2FCLysXr4DKG5OAVXfBizkAVNfGoCe3Z2iiy/s640/header.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Let's start with breakfast. The most important meal of the day. </div>
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This is one of my go-to morning meals. <a href="http://pearls-handcuffs-happyhour.blogspot.com/2011/12/grab-go-breakfast.html">Grab & Go Egg Muffins.</a> These are great to prep on a Sunday, bake, and refrigerate. The recipes makes a dozen and can be reheated in the morning and eaten for breakfast. I LOVE these! You can really add any ingredients you like. This is just what I prefer in mine. It's like an omelet muffin!! YUM!</div>
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<img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJ7dyNzg9ImDt-K1YksEQmbC_ZYlgyBjRZdV7ZsgNA7WFtNeYBPzZ8y2xq2hoy2NZEBAXDHz_Vq8dVfKH_AJHlhrIHTPcfXSEOMMB7fgsqMlLdCRuDQ8eUZWL_zWmTfwdeV-ACw0bEI3Y/s640/makeahead2.png" width="640" /></div>
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While we're on the subject of breakfast, I'd be remiss not to include this <a href="http://pearls-handcuffs-happyhour.blogspot.com/2014/11/tastes-like-fall.html">amazingly delicious pumpkin bread!</a> Since it's September and closer to Fall, I had to share. If you're making this, grab about 3 disposable loaf pans because this recipe makes a ton. You can freeze the extra loaves and pull them out when you're ready for them. This makes a great breakfast...or dessert :) I also love giving the extra loaves to teachers or co-workers!! Great little surprise gift :)</div>
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Now let's move on to dinner. I wanted to give y'all a few of our favorites that are SUPER simple to prep and cook. A must for the teachers of the world!</div>
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First up, let's talk ravioli. Do you like it?! I LOVE it. And this <a href="http://pearls-handcuffs-happyhour.blogspot.com/2010/07/i-cant-get-away.html">Fiesta Ravioli</a> recipe couldn't be any easier. You can use the refrigerated cheese or beef ravioli. I prefer the cheese. You could also use the cheese and pair it with cooked ground beef, but that's just another step I don't have time for, so I cook it just as is. This takes about 15 minutes start to finish and tastes amazing! Always a hit and great to make for company, too!! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKiGy8WCHOCvqYg_HJUjEPGZ4pP6GgeAM0_d-RqiVV6v8NikIHeg9zdPvfIdOFoW5U1u1itQh1yer7t7BZfa4H3fkMqFfVzfv8gQfYUNA__h8girVd9wzF47JQghwj7NS6-edd2xvh4fiZ/s1600/makeahead3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKiGy8WCHOCvqYg_HJUjEPGZ4pP6GgeAM0_d-RqiVV6v8NikIHeg9zdPvfIdOFoW5U1u1itQh1yer7t7BZfa4H3fkMqFfVzfv8gQfYUNA__h8girVd9wzF47JQghwj7NS6-edd2xvh4fiZ/s640/makeahead3.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's a little something for your slow cooker. <a href="http://pearls-handcuffs-happyhour.blogspot.com/2012/03/take-it-easy.html">Baja Pork Tacos</a>. YUM. As you can see, the ingredient list is minimal and you can toss it all in your crock pot and come home to the most amazing smell and delectable flavors when you walk through your door. This is my husband's favorite. I like to eat this in corn tortillas filled with pico de gallo and avocado. I'll also shred the pork and place it on top of a bed of romaine lettuce and sprinkle with Bolthouse Creamy Avocado Dressing. Makes great leftovers and perfect<i> take-me-to-school </i>lunches :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXkYd5SYPJWygShtaxNrcMxshtUqYlUn4YofYCZKNlDcOA10ykrfJAG4e7JOh_BuDzKwIZ-ymwK2GKgA9zAA5HJvDSdQz2IrU436wem1RbBsufBaPW-z2qVUiOQdZltDNMcBRLJeRYFd1E/s1600/makeahead1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXkYd5SYPJWygShtaxNrcMxshtUqYlUn4YofYCZKNlDcOA10ykrfJAG4e7JOh_BuDzKwIZ-ymwK2GKgA9zAA5HJvDSdQz2IrU436wem1RbBsufBaPW-z2qVUiOQdZltDNMcBRLJeRYFd1E/s640/makeahead1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Last but not least, I'll leave you with some soup. <a href="http://pearls-handcuffs-happyhour.blogspot.com/2014/10/my-current-favorite-cold-front-meal.html"> Spinach Tomato Tortellini Soup</a> to be exact. This is definitely one of the easiest soup recipes in my arsenal. One of the tastiest, too. I love soup recipes because they always make a ton and are fabulous for leftovers. I could eat soup everyday of the week...especially in the cooler months ahead. And pair that with my favorite carb (pasta)?!?! Heaven in a bowl :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcXHZEyCoTslMFtkrG1G80DH-l1ye5egCLkWUHpvfMo8lWdy0bgN_LS6DsT6vQK1ICCRWSsMHMePJ4XAh6hMu-1_Xq7FV0XQh4dB76ar4TssJ_Qe0ru_dO_lTo9o7w5RB4b9-dlz7d6sFb/s1600/makeahead4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcXHZEyCoTslMFtkrG1G80DH-l1ye5egCLkWUHpvfMo8lWdy0bgN_LS6DsT6vQK1ICCRWSsMHMePJ4XAh6hMu-1_Xq7FV0XQh4dB76ar4TssJ_Qe0ru_dO_lTo9o7w5RB4b9-dlz7d6sFb/s640/makeahead4.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you want more meal ideas, head on over to my blog P<a href="http://pearls-handcuffs-happyhour.blogspot.com/">earls, Handcuffs, & Happy Hour</a> to see what's in my kitchen!</div>
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Hope these little time saving recipes free up more time for you to relax and enjoy your evenings!!!<br />
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If you have a time saving tip and would like to be featured, email me at thefirstgradeparade@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you, too!</div>
Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-62581628777862953342016-08-30T11:14:00.000-07:002016-08-30T11:14:12.965-07:00Small Group Alphabet Instruction<div style="text-align: center;">
Sunday I posted all about how I introduce the alphabet in my classroom. I told y'all a little bit about what I do during small group and showed y'all a little sample of what that small group instruction entails....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqPvycc5syWptD4Zfquaz5OLdw7CwT4Eqwa0O02R5yCUpE7Qn1DmA7oQC8w9UOxpzY5EOlYqWqym-VB9V8fcbwTMBF8ewIsJaUeG34fLV-RCnrMITche3DGjk2rmjHwWz3M_wbbffTddcp/s1600/alphabetintro6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="556" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqPvycc5syWptD4Zfquaz5OLdw7CwT4Eqwa0O02R5yCUpE7Qn1DmA7oQC8w9UOxpzY5EOlYqWqym-VB9V8fcbwTMBF8ewIsJaUeG34fLV-RCnrMITche3DGjk2rmjHwWz3M_wbbffTddcp/s1600/alphabetintro6.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now let's go ahead and dive a little deeper.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFYVp0hSPCcneF3LsDN7Iz4LXMQO5ymWubqRDBa1quhGIN0pENgA4IXn0dDlWkE0Tcslo8zhBgqZe1Xd9Gw4HGfk72lieisjz26W6oj7PvGx2WC-_YqXixvQhyMw7DFKJtbeHDPXfJZG-/s1600/alphabetintro8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFYVp0hSPCcneF3LsDN7Iz4LXMQO5ymWubqRDBa1quhGIN0pENgA4IXn0dDlWkE0Tcslo8zhBgqZe1Xd9Gw4HGfk72lieisjz26W6oj7PvGx2WC-_YqXixvQhyMw7DFKJtbeHDPXfJZG-/s1600/alphabetintro8.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Before I get started, let's quickly talk about some invaluable resources I've used in my classroom to help teach and reinforce letter recognition and letter to sound linking. These are materials I use during small group, tutoring, and I keep these out in literacy tubs as well. This isn't everything I use...it doesn't even really touch the surface...but I've found that year after year these tend to be my "go-to" materials...especially when teaching my struggling learners.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiiJPslSH8JBbVrLLMN_2YjZJHjnwX9a5Tq6QsPZJp2ejvOhjXDHOu1zoNNZtXZNS9oaFtVc6k36mzObJyz9fg5AI_Fz6x1ceWynaUncO1c0y2s25vG14MB1fslXdwkHSP_4mvmR_-rMw1/s1600/AlphabetINtro2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiiJPslSH8JBbVrLLMN_2YjZJHjnwX9a5Tq6QsPZJp2ejvOhjXDHOu1zoNNZtXZNS9oaFtVc6k36mzObJyz9fg5AI_Fz6x1ceWynaUncO1c0y2s25vG14MB1fslXdwkHSP_4mvmR_-rMw1/s1600/AlphabetINtro2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I will refer to some of these things in my plans below, so here's my basic set-up I have at teacher table for teaching the alphabet.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggy6kzEq9M8ydnZYjhWWViPdP0nMZv1sufggr3n73EVCd3WRAnUDS5PvQ4YGsD3rvph38FLJE58CZMdRfdS7Ofs28xoeslKnkgc3HPxwmi-sO9rYjQPNArEjlXaDpzQ81Dt4JUkP-tGx_q/s1600/alphabetintro10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggy6kzEq9M8ydnZYjhWWViPdP0nMZv1sufggr3n73EVCd3WRAnUDS5PvQ4YGsD3rvph38FLJE58CZMdRfdS7Ofs28xoeslKnkgc3HPxwmi-sO9rYjQPNArEjlXaDpzQ81Dt4JUkP-tGx_q/s1600/alphabetintro10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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The <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Alphabet-Anchor-Charts-1235119">Alphabet Anchor Charts</a> were one of my most frequently used resources last year and you'll see how I use these in my plans below.</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Alphabet-Anchor-Charts-1235119"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv9-r6WZs_SN5iRdzvAgjLnuObjJkxVQXnyNwdN6y_mRDQTKA3VTS4pKZjd9pilP3S72yhO38KXZTMma0679GChpHT9S3pZH8I68fcorn4nunHDtrmBoYUHgZrlyh_Wi9eE7CaO6JUs15p/s1600/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The clipboard, plastic sheet protectors, & dry erase markers are used for practicing letter formation. I also had the kids write on the table....it wiped perfectly clean!! Of course, dry erase spots would work just as well.</div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuNW1FYWNoeUU5ZWM/edit?usp=drive_web">Alphabet Linking Chart </a>- I keep these EVERYWHERE and I always have a small group set at the teacher table. In case you missed it yesterday, you can grab your copy by clicking the pic below.</div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuNW1FYWNoeUU5ZWM/edit?usp=drive_web"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgonzj543MzxcYISz7yIzYj6Uo8IH9N6wTyXUgmD0z4g_rqRsFPIXUEKqc5lluh7asmjCglWEY7SmwwyWn12J_AahmO7QMgJBEkOQfXqnVlU1QPhFDYOQZoBkoyk-akNPUfx8kTzeppb-ma/s1600/alphabetintro7.png" width="512" /></a></div>
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As you saw earlier, I introduce three new letters a week. This typically starts on the third week of school, but y'all...it's never too late to start :) Here's what each day looks like. I'll use the first 3 letters I usually introduce for this sample schedule of activities.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNugem8U6NvlAEC70G-BjU0Pbiv0r4DH3P8Sv7RpvtGQ6vVtMlnJU7xM5Xx-T0LJ-hhAaZ2bs-Sl3JHkVyDOS8lRHw7qjlCGX4S6i1aPqsjXZfFNevyF513J4p0KuU0yhAvjG-m9M7TOj3/s1600/alphabetMOnday.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNugem8U6NvlAEC70G-BjU0Pbiv0r4DH3P8Sv7RpvtGQ6vVtMlnJU7xM5Xx-T0LJ-hhAaZ2bs-Sl3JHkVyDOS8lRHw7qjlCGX4S6i1aPqsjXZfFNevyF513J4p0KuU0yhAvjG-m9M7TOj3/s1600/alphabetMOnday.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<li> The kids come to the teacher table and each student gets an alphabet linking chart. We go through the entire linking chart saying the name of the letter/the name of the picture that corresponds with the beginning sound/the letter sound and the motion - <i>example: "A, apple, /a/-with motion" {Remember yesterday's post...I introduce the<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuNW1FYWNoeUU5ZWM/edit?usp=drive_web"> linking chart </a>the week PRIOR to starting formal alphabet instruction during small group, so they know how to recite the linking chart by this point}</i></li>
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<li>When we finish reciting the linking chart, I tell the kids to take out their magic alphabet finger {<i>pointer finger</i>} and then instruct them with prompts. "<i>Point to the letter that says /t/. What letter is that?</i>" "<i>Point to the vowel that says /a/. What letter is that?</i>" This helps me to quickly assess who knows what. I include letters to review what we are learning at teacher table as well as letters I'm checking to see if they're just "getting" through informal exposure <i>{station activities, reciting the linking chart, etc.}</i></li>
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<li> Collect the linking charts and pass out dry erase markers and a tissue/eraser {<i>an individual white board or dry erase spot if you have those. A plastic sheet protector on a clipboard works perfect, too</i>}. I make sure they know they can't touch their materials unless they're instructed. If they do, they lose their privileges to use them and they have to write with invisible ink {<i>their fingers</i>}. Sadsville.</li>
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<li> Introduce the letter Mm. Prior to introducing the letter, I make sure to display the letter M anchor chart on the white board next to my teacher table. I will refer to this several times throughout our lesson. I use an uppercase and a lowercase letter Mm card {<i>separate from the anchor chart, you could just write them on index cards</i>} to show them the letter and tell them the sound it makes. We use the letter M anchor chart to take about different objects and words that begin with that letter sound. I use the alphabet tubs too...these are great for my kinesthetic learners.</li>
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<li> I show them how to write an uppercase M following the correct path of motion. I talk them through it as well. For example: "<i>Start at the top and drag a line to the bottom. Frog jump back to the top. Slide down to the bottom right and stop. Now climb up to the top right and stop. Drag a line down to the bottom." </i>If there's a right way to do this, I'm probably not doing it. I made up my own verbiage because it was easier to remember. I write the letter and talk through it first as they're watching me. Then I'll ask them to tell me the name of the letter, repeat the letter sound, and then call on a couple of friends to give me a word beginning with the letter M. I encourage them to use a resource {<i>the anchor chart or linking chart</i>} if they need it OR they can think of ANY word they know that starts with that letter sound. </li>
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<li> Now the kids write the letter with their dry erase markers. I talk them through it the first time and they have to follow along with me....even if they already know how to write the letter on their own. I want to make sure they know the correct path of motion. Then they erase the letter and then write it again by themselves and I monitor for mastery/mistakes/etc.</li>
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<li> Now it's time for the lowercase letter. I introduce the lowercase letter, write it on my white board and talk through the path of motion. I also review the sound and have my friends repeat it for me. Now I instruct my friends to pick up their markers and write the lowercase letter. First they write the letter WITH me as I talk them through it. We erase and then they write the letter using the correct path of motion on their own. If they are struggling, we talk through it and write it together again.</li>
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<li>After writing both the capital and lowercase letters, I have one friend at the table "teach" the rest of the kids how to write the letters...this is just a basic, student led review of what we just learned. Another friend gets to "teach" the table what sound the letter makes and then he/she calls on the students who haven't had a turn to name words/objects that begin with that sound. </li>
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After this, I usually still have time for a quick activity. I typically choose activities this time of the year that reinforce letter recognition and letter to sound linking. Depending on the day here are some of the activities I might choose from....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB2tL1nQoYSaxXT1V8owOfK-bVc6cIqGfTBp_8H3M1rO2z1tPUMEfqet4YIkKSlXKzBiFZRscycRWMuey-M0D2f3a5kmGj62zmOLcZMcPrEGaw3rQD2hNa0GZpN8I22SniglYd7Ee4r7t0/s1600/Alphabetintro11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="516" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB2tL1nQoYSaxXT1V8owOfK-bVc6cIqGfTBp_8H3M1rO2z1tPUMEfqet4YIkKSlXKzBiFZRscycRWMuey-M0D2f3a5kmGj62zmOLcZMcPrEGaw3rQD2hNa0GZpN8I22SniglYd7Ee4r7t0/s1600/Alphabetintro11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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1. I start them on their <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Interactive-Alphabet-Notebook-Letters-A-Z-1289493">Interactive Alphabet Notebooks</a> this first full week of formal alphabet instruction. I show them how they're used and put together. I won't have them do this for every single letter this week. This will be something that is incorporated into their independent literacy tubs, but first we learn how it works!! I love <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Interactive-Alphabet-Notebook-Letters-A-Z-1289493">using this</a> to reinforce what we're learning at the teacher table.</div>
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2. I printed out the alphabet activities in my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ABC-Easy-as-123-Alphabet-Anchor-Charts-Activities-Printables-1235135">A, B, C Easy as 1, 2, 3 packet </a>on colored cardstock, laminated them, and prepped them to use with my small groups. I made a copy for each student in my small group...so about 5-6 copies per activity. For the cut and paste activities, I personally cut them myself and then had the kids use the "pieces" for sorting. Instead of using a bingo dotter for the "dot the letter" activities, I have my kids use seasonal counters or transparent chips. And they use a vis-a-vis for the handwriting piece.</div>
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3. The random games and activities are just that...completely random. Games & activities I've collected and/or created over the years and I keep them in a drawer next to my teacher table to pull out & use as needed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTVoaRJMoFGF6oHlwjhxR38-NStPew4Khb06Sb3tdg0N_Gp78vuwODkSsL10igASB4dGPZwxjdie2eQFC3YFUZN_bkhNG4UuaJJrlVSt23HCToxlNa7evjxVQralKFIsxUb8vnfC8hlwJX/s1600/ALphabetTuesday.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTVoaRJMoFGF6oHlwjhxR38-NStPew4Khb06Sb3tdg0N_Gp78vuwODkSsL10igASB4dGPZwxjdie2eQFC3YFUZN_bkhNG4UuaJJrlVSt23HCToxlNa7evjxVQralKFIsxUb8vnfC8hlwJX/s1600/ALphabetTuesday.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<li> The kids come to the teacher table and each student gets an alphabet linking chart. We go through the entire linking chart saying the name of the letter/the name of the picture that corresponds with the beginning sound/the letter sound and the motion just like we did on Monday. We do this at the start of small group EVERY.SINGLE.DAY.</li>
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<li>Alphabet Linking Chart prompts - today I'll give them a set of transparent chips and have them cover up the letters using prompts. "<i>Cover the letter that comes BEFORE Mm.</i>" "<i>Cover the letter you hear at the beginning of APPLE</i>." {etc....}</li>
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<li> Collect the linking charts and pass out dry erase markers, a white board/sheet protector/etc., & a tissue/eraser.</li>
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<li>Review the letter Mm. I review the letters lots of different ways. Today, I'll say "<i>who remembers the letter we learned how to write yesterday?</i>" Hopefully they'll remember :) If they don't, I'll point to the anchor chart on the white board. If they still can't remember the name of the letter, I'll use a mnemonic cue. I won't say the name or make the sound, I'll just use the cue and that typically illicits a correct response. </li>
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<li>I'll reinforce that letter saying, "<i>That's right! It was the letter Mm. Who can tell me what sound the Mm makes? (wait for response) GREAT!!! Yes! The letter Mm says /m/. Great job. Now who can remember how to write the letter Mm using the correct path of motion?</i>" At this time they're completely jumping up and down excited to show you they remember...even when they don't. Cuties. </li>
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<li>Instruct the kids to open their markers and write the letter WITH them while talking it out. I write the letters one at a time. Uppercase then lowercase or vice versa. Then I have them write it on their own. And then we review the sound. Again. As they're erasing their letters, I ask them to tell me some words that begin with /m/. Then I tell them to put the caps on their markers and sit with their hands in their laps.</li>
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<li> Introduce the letter Ss. So as not to confuse my kids, I'll put up the letter Ss anchor chart on the white board AS I'm introducing it. We discuss the letter sound. I model and we practice together. Then we talk about the different objects/words that begin with that sound using the anchor chart.</li>
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<li> Model write the uppercase & lowercase Ss while talking through the path of motion. Then I'll ask them to tell me the name of the letter, repeat the letter sound, and then call on a couple of friends to give me a word beginning with the letter Ss. Again, just a quick review...something to keep them thinking and making connections.</li>
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<li>Independent letter writing - I write the uppercase WITH them, then they write it independently. Then I write the lowercase WITH them, and they write it independently. Then I have them write them both. </li>
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<li>To switch it up, I'll throw in yesterday's letter. "<i>You showed me how to write the letter Ss. Now show me how to write a lowercase Mm</i>", or something to that effect. If I ask them to write a different letter, I'll also ask them to give me a word that begins with that sound.</li>
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<li>Student teach - one friend "teaches" the rest of the table how to write the uppercase/lowercase letter Ss. Choose another student teacher to tell the kids how the letter Ss sounds. Then have that student teacher choose the rest of the table to give you words beginning with that sound.</li>
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<li>Quick activity as discussed in Monday's plans.</li>
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<li>Recite the alphabet linking chart with motions & point to each letter as you say it.</li>
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<li>Alphabet Linking Chart prompts - today I'll give them 5 M&M's. (<i>yes, we can use candy...don't throw rocks!!! you can use goldfish or anything else...that is, if you're allowed to use food for instruction</i>). I'll tell them that they can eat ALL of their M&M's if they cover the correct letters...no worries, though. I do help them if they get stuck and no one feels left out. I'll prompt them to cover the letters using the prompts we used on Monday & Tuesday and then I let them eat their answers :) If they get stuck, I prompt them to use the anchor charts or show them a mnemonic cue to jog their memory. I don't want them to be wrong and I don't want to discourage them...the M&M's just help to get them a little excited and it's a special mid-week fun snack :)</li>
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<li> Collect the linking charts and pass out dry erase markers, a white board/sheet protector/etc., & a tissue/eraser.</li>
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<li>Review both letters Mm & Ss. I'll pass out a little container filled with letter tiles filled with about 8 different letters. Both the uppercase & lowercase letters (Mm & Ss) are in the container. I tell them to take out their tiles and place them in a straight row (<i>I use every opportunity I can to build and reinforce vocabulary as well)</i>. Then I'll give them prompts. "<i>Push up the letter you hear at the beginning of "monkey". Push up the letter that comes after Rr. Push up the letter that says /s/. Push up the letter that you write by starting at the top, drag a line down, frog jump back up to the top, etc.</i>" (This is just an example of some prompts I might use. I always keep an alphabet linking chart displayed at my teacher table as well so that the kids have that as a resource).</li>
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<li>Pack up the tiles and pass out the markers, white boards, & erasers. </li>
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<li>Instruct the kids to open their markers and tell them that we're going to practice writing letters using the correct path of motion. "<i>Write the CAPITAL/UPPERCASE letter you hear at the beginning of MOUSE</i>." If I see someone struggling to recall, I'll show them a mnemonic cue and then refer them to the anchor chart. If they're still struggling, I'll point to the letter on the linking chart and ask them to tell me what letter it is and what sound it makes. I make sure to tell them and practice it with them as well. I'll repeat this with both uppercase and lowercase letters Mm & Ss.</li>
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<li>Erase the letters and gather up the markers. Now I'll have the kids do some sort of sort for me. It could be a letter sort <i>(sorting M's & S's, both uppercase and lowercase</i>) or a picture sort (<i>beginning M & S words/pictures</i>). You can do this with hands-on materials (<i>letter tiles, flashcards, picture cards, etc</i>.) or something that you've typed up and made yourself. Whatever works.</li>
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<li>If I do have them work on a paper/pencil type sort, I make sure to have them add that to their interactive alphabet notebooks. </li>
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<li>Quick activity - optional</li>
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<ul>
<li>Recite the alphabet linking chart with motions & point to each letter as you say it.</li>
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<li>Alphabet Linking Chart prompts - today I'll hand out little square picture chips to each of my kids. I have a baggie of these for each student at my table. The baggie contains about 4-5 different pictures and I tell the kids that they have to remove each picture from the baggie and cover up the picture/letter on the linking chart that starts the same way. For example, if they pull out a picture of a "sock", they have to place it over the "snake". This is a great little on-the-go assessment and it helps me see who's getting what. I get individual time with my kids during this activity as I stop in with each student at my table and have them talk out their thinking and then tell me the letter that matches the sound they hear at the beginning of the word/picture.</li>
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<li> Clear the charts, bag up the pictures, and then collect the linking charts and pass out dry erase markers, a white board/sheet protector/etc., & a tissue/eraser.</li>
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<li>Review the letters Mm & Ss. Today's review is a writing review. I'll say, "<i>write the uppercase S using the correct path of motion. Write the lowercase letter you hear at the beginning of moon. Can anyone tell me any other words that start the same as moon? What letter is that that you hear at the beginning of moon?</i>", etc. This is all pretty quickfire. I help them as needed, but I always encourage them to use a resource first. </li>
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<li>Now we erase the letters and close up our markers and I introduce the letter Ff. I'll pull out my F anchor chart and I'll tell them the name of the letter, the sound that it makes, and then we'll talk about the pictures on the anchor chart that are associated with the beginning sound. Then we'll brainstorm a few more words of our own. I'll usually try to draw those pictures on the white board as we brainstorm. We'll end this quick activity by reviewing the name of the letter and the letter sound.</li>
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<li> Model write the uppercase & lowercase Ff while talking through the path of motion. Then I'll ask them to tell me the name of the letter, repeat the letter sound, and then call on a couple of friends to give me a word beginning with the letter Ff. Again, just a quick review...something to keep them thinking and making connections.</li>
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<li>Independent letter writing - I write the uppercase WITH them, then they write it independently. Then I write the lowercase WITH them, and they write it independently. Then I have them write them both. </li>
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<li>To switch it up, I'll throw in Monday & Tuesday's letters. "<i>You showed me how to write the letter Ff. Now show me how to write a lowercase Mm/uppercase S</i>", or something to that effect. If I ask them to write a different letter, I'll also ask them to give me a word that begins with that sound.</li>
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<li>Student teach - one friend "teaches" the rest of the table how to write the uppercase/lowercase letter Ff. Choose another student teacher to tell the kids how the letter Ff sounds. Then have that student teacher choose the rest of the table to give you words beginning with that sound.</li>
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<li>Quick activity as discussed in Monday's plans.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix3vfL1K_BW47mW7bibl0F5NcN289Y-13kMPSq5VnLTenvnHaMXT5lkiVpVtcpuNrhUAc1II0RCL_N0F08QzIGTmucS9ZVeYloJaL9_vXGzGxa4zyk_QifrKSghJUaCyd7k0kunGS8NMfU/s1600/AlphabetFriday.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix3vfL1K_BW47mW7bibl0F5NcN289Y-13kMPSq5VnLTenvnHaMXT5lkiVpVtcpuNrhUAc1II0RCL_N0F08QzIGTmucS9ZVeYloJaL9_vXGzGxa4zyk_QifrKSghJUaCyd7k0kunGS8NMfU/s1600/AlphabetFriday.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li>Recite the alphabet linking chart with motions & point to each letter as you say it.</li>
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<li>Alphabet Linking Chart prompts - today I'll gather up the linking chart and then pass out a linking chart that has missing pieces {<i>letters, pictures, or both</i>}. I also pass out baggies that include the missing pieces. The kids have to determine what letters/pictures/both are missing. I keep a linking chart on my desk for the kids to use as a resource if they get stuck. This is also a good anchor activity to include in your dessert tubs or regular literacy stations.</li>
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<li> Clear the charts, bag up the pictures, and then collect the linking charts and pass out dry erase markers, a white board/sheet protector/etc., & a tissue/eraser.</li>
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<li>Review the letters Mm, Ss, & Ff. I pull up a large pocket chart on an easel for this activity, but you don't NEED one. You can do it on your table just as easy. I have a set of alphabet cards {<i>lowercase & uppercase are separate</i>} that I'll prep to show to the kids. I pull out the uppercase M, S, & F. I'll show them to the kids one at a time and ask them to tell me the name of the letter and how the letter sounds. Then I have one or two kids give me a word that goes with the letter. I'll place the uppercase letter card at the top of the pocket chart. I'll do the same thing for the other two letters. Then I'll take the lowercase letter cards and matching picture cards and place them face down on the table in front of them. I give each of the kids a turn turning over a card and putting it in the matching column on the pocket chart. If they turn over a lowercase f, they place the card under the uppercase F. If they turn over a picture of a snake, they place the card under the uppercase S, etc.</li>
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<li>Now we quickly practice writing the letters using the correct path of motion. I'll start with the uppercase and lowercase Ff since we just learned those yesterday and I may need to talk them through the correct path and model it again. I'll repeat the letter, letter sound, and then ask my friends to give me words that match the beginning sound.</li>
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<li> Review write the uppercase & lowercase Mm & Ss.</li>
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<li>Quick activity as discussed in Monday's plans.</li>
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In a nutshell, that's how I introduce and teach the alphabet {formally}. As a whole group we typically recite the linking chart with motions about 2-3 times a day....especially at the beginning of the year. We won't do this all year long, but I've seen a lot of success when we do this frequently in the beginning.</div>
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This is the longest post ever. I'm applauding you all the way from my little house in Texas if you've made it this far. Bless you, child. </div>
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I want to reiterate that by NO means do I think this is the best way to instruct your kids. This is what works for ME. I love to try new methods and new ways of teaching, but sometimes I like to stick to what I know works best for ME. You might be shaking your head at this post wondering what in the world I'm doing in my classroom. I totally understand if you are :) This little method has worked for me for the last 13 years. Each year I have to tweak it to work for my crop of kids because no two years or kids are the same, y'know?! Overall, this is how my small group runs until all of the letters have been formally introduced.</div>
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It is truly AMAZING to witness how fast these babies pick up these skills. Of course, you may have friends who struggle a bit. You may have to differentiate your instruction and slow things down for those guys. I love watching how quickly they take to the instruction and apply what they know. Then we get to move onto concepts like digraphs, cvc words, etc. It blows my mind every year!</div>
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The activities explained above typically take no more than 10-12 minutes of instructional time. 15 at the very most. I have about 30 minutes to work with each small group. 2 hours total. I have about 5 kids in each group. After our alphabet activity, they visit their literacy stations and then I work on guided reading concepts in small groups of 2-4 kids, depending on their level. At the beginning of the year, those skills are very basic so we can build a strong foundation in reading, but that's a topic for a whole different post. </div>
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I also want to mention that it's important to be flexible with your instruction. If you have a class that's really, really struggling with letter recognition and letter to sound linking, scale it back to two letters per week instead of three and really spend time practicing, reviewing, and reinforcing what you learned. At that rate you'll still be learning the alphabet in 12 weeks as opposed to 26 :) I typically only introduce 2 letters a week on short weeks...if we've had an extended weekend or something like that. </div>
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I do hope this lengthy, drawn out explanation helps a little :) </div>
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Now here are a few FAQ's that might help you out, too!! </div>
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Hope this helps!</div>
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The only video I have is this one of my antsy son. I asked him to recite the alphabet with motions the way he was taught by his teacher {<i>who I taught right next door to</i>}.</div>
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If he's hard to understand {<i>which I totally get! He's a crazy 5 year old!!!</i>}, here's an explanation of each of the motions. </div>
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A: Place your hands on either side of your mouth and say "/a/". {<i>kind of like Kevin did in Home Alone, but without the screaming</i>}</div>
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B: B is for bat. Pretend that you are holding and swinging a bat. </div>
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C: C is for cold. I have the kids cross their arms over their chest and shiver because they are "cold".</div>
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D: D is for dig. Use both of your hands to pretend that you are digging.</div>
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E: E is for "eh?" Cup an ear and say "eh". Kind of like an old lady who's having a hard time hearing.</div>
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F: F is for fly. Flap your arms up and down like you're flying.</div>
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G: When you make the /g/ sound, you can feel it on your throat. Have your kids place two fingers on their throat to "feel" the sound.</div>
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H: H is for hot or hello. I taught my kids to wave "hello". My son's teacher taught them to place a hand in front of their mouth and say "/h/" to feel how hot their breath is.</div>
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I: We dot our noses for the letter I, just like we dot the lowercase letter when we write. We actually made the "hang ten" motion with our pinky and thumb and dotted our chin with the thumb and our nose with the pinky.</div>
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J: J is for jump. In your seat, pretend to jump up and down.</div>
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K: K is for kick. When my son does this he kicks with his feet. I had a very spirited group last year, so we kicked with our fingers. It was a lot easier for them to manage that motion at the teacher table.</div>
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L: L is for lick. Make the letter L with your thumb and pointer finger and pretend to lick the L like a lollipop.</div>
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M: M is for m-m-m-m-m-m good. We rubbed our bellies for this one and I told them that M is the most DELICIOUS letter in the alphabet :)</div>
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N: N is for NO! Shake your head back and forth as if you're saying NO. You can also wag your finger back and forth, too.</div>
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O: Use your finger to trace the shape around your mouth when you make this sound. {you're making the O shape :)}</div>
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P: P is for pop. Pretend to make a popping motion with your hands, like popcorn popping. {<i>you can see this better on the video</i>}.</div>
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Q: Watch the video for this one. I don't even know how to explain what we're doing here :) My son's teacher taught me this one when we were teaching next to each other. It just stuck!!!</div>
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R: R is for race. Pretend to hold a steering wheel like you're racing down a race track.</div>
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S: S is for snake. Take a finger or a hand and make a slithering motion {<i>like a snake through the grass</i>}</div>
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T: T is for time. Tap your wrist like you are tapping your watch to check the time.</div>
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U: U is for up. Take both thumbs and thrust them in an upward motion.</div>
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V: V is for vibrate {<i>or as my son likes to say, "vimurate"</i>}. Shake your body like it's vibrating {<i>great way to incorporate new vocabulary!!</i>}</div>
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W: W is for "wassup" or wings. My son's teacher taught him how to do a little motion that indicates he's saying "wassup" {I LOVE IT!!!} and I taught my kids to tuck their fists into their armpits and flap up and down like they have chicken wings. </div>
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X: Cross both arms in front of your body to make an "X". I also explain to my kids that I have two pieces of bacon in the frying pan. I'm taking those two pieces and crossing them over one another like an "x". When it starts to fry, it makes the /x/ sound.</div>
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Y: Y is for "yes" or "yawn". My son's teacher taught them to put their arms above their head in a Y shape {like the Y in YMCA} and say "YES!". I taught my kids that Y was the sleepiest letter in the alphabet...they raised their arms in a Y above their head, made the /y/ sound, and followed it up with a yawn.</div>
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Z: Z if for z-z-z-z-z-z-z. The alphabet is finally asleep!!! Pretend that you are sleeping as you make the /z/ sound. Place your hands together, tilt your head, and place your hands under your cheek like you're resting/taking a nap.</div>
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WHEW!!!!</div>
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I hope this helps explain those motions! Most of them I learned from my son's teacher. She made most of them up. I made a lot of mine up when I couldn't remember hers :) Really, there's no right or wrong way to do this {in my opinion}. As long as your kids can make a connection to a cue. You might have some ideas for motions that you think would work better for your kids. If you do, share those here!! I'd love to know what they are!!!</div>
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My first year teaching, I was taught to use the McCracken order for introducing the alphabet. It just stuck. That's the way I started doing it and that's the way I've always done it. It just kind of became second nature I guess. </div>
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Here's the order:</div>
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M, S, F</div>
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B, T, C</div>
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short A, R, L</div>
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P, short O, D</div>
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G, N, W</div>
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short I, H, J</div>
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K, V, short U</div>
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Y, Qu, Z</div>
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X, E</div>
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In addition to teaching the short vowel sounds, I also teach the kids that vowels have two sounds....long and short. I try to introduce the concept of vowels pretty early on in the year....maybe the third week or so?! We sing the Vowel song and we are constantly identifying vowels in our shared reading/writing activities. Each time we identify a vowel, I have the kids give me both sounds. You might want to change up the order that you teach the letters if you do decide to use this sequence. </div>
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For more info on McCracken Phonics, you should check out <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Spelling-Through-Phonics-Anniversary-Edition/dp/1553793218">this book</a>....</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Spelling-Through-Phonics-Anniversary-Edition/dp/1553793218"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnjcSIiS8CKvh55ddUaRbugr63YtK8y2_ZNrxAG-xkHEt5aOXLeXP2PwUGktQo7bd1Pw9XGw35428MNYtAABt6Gxi7LaR8F_MtUN5-dWYCef6YBlZw_wAQwfqer965sI82-UrgbwrGFZog/s1600/download.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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I haven't used the lessons in this book...I just use the letter order. The theory behind using this order is that you start with the letters that are the easiest to hear and say. There are SO many different studies that suggest one method is better than the other, so by no means am I saying I think this is the best. It's just what's worked best for me in my classroom. I would definitely suggest doing your research if you're wanting to see what other methods and sequences are out there!!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRI4UqTsE6HCoFoIqmWlSlmK8AWf-7xfolod-oSnjEn-6MHN9-Hwc2FBYlWPafJhwjc2HqRQxh1OI_b4KdaZlro2iKc-4esaRkQ21m4I7vrp9Dhm-MLCeCmI6J4GOsXitoRaQKr9QSSx9P/s1600/QA3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRI4UqTsE6HCoFoIqmWlSlmK8AWf-7xfolod-oSnjEn-6MHN9-Hwc2FBYlWPafJhwjc2HqRQxh1OI_b4KdaZlro2iKc-4esaRkQ21m4I7vrp9Dhm-MLCeCmI6J4GOsXitoRaQKr9QSSx9P/s1600/QA3.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I do not use a basal and have not for years. When I did have a "curriculum" to follow, I believe we used houghton mifflin and followed the sequence of letter instruction in those books. I was still teaching 3 letters a week during small group, but I'd use the basal to guide my planning for whole group and literacy stations. Whatever objectives were supposed to be taught in our curriculum was incorporated into whole group {<i>shared reading/writing, poetry, morning message</i>}and literacy tubs. </div>
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Again, the sequence for formal alphabet instruction was something I was taught to do my first year and it just stuck. When I was at my last school, we used Horizons phonics to guide our "anchor" letter instruction....this was the sequence of letters we introduced during our whole group activities. It was generally one letter a week and that was our "anchor letter". I was still introducing 3 different letters {following the McCracken order} at teacher table.</div>
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Clear as mud, right?!?!?!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLe0Dwchp7Zr_etJQkkMfAXIg_qe22PzmbeGldgJGDKaTSkRvAmB6OkkHhNvTdrlolhPuquFwMcD50umBxhvGSK3d1iEpr-l7pzk_uXFrnGZhPVDUk5MYkZ41bccuyzUJ7atNWvtz6c3S6/s1600/QA4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLe0Dwchp7Zr_etJQkkMfAXIg_qe22PzmbeGldgJGDKaTSkRvAmB6OkkHhNvTdrlolhPuquFwMcD50umBxhvGSK3d1iEpr-l7pzk_uXFrnGZhPVDUk5MYkZ41bccuyzUJ7atNWvtz6c3S6/s1600/QA4.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Great question!!!! </div>
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This is almost exactly how it works out. The first couple of weeks of school, I call the kids up to the teacher table individually to assess their alphabet knowledge. I go through all the letters, both uppercase and lowercase, and I include the fancy g and a as well. We ask the kids to identify the letters and sounds. </div>
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I take all of that data and then use it to form my groups. The kids who know very few letters are put in a group together and I know that those kids will need a more "intensive" approach to learning the alphabet. I'll slow down with them and maybe introduce 2 letters a week as opposed to 3. Really, I just take it week by week. You'd be surprised at how quickly they learn!!! </div>
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These groups are typically the same as my guided reading groups with the exception of a few kids. These groups are constantly changing. I do running records on my kids at least 3 times a week to ensure that they are comprehending and applying the skills they are learning. I love having lots of "PROOF" of their learning. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVHe7Bmo0Jsi5nzODQs_DwbIH33DVPMKxs2cSstrJioeIhYsFnS8mS_pT4bReP4yMraUEMlHyFEkwE7-a_xOPcP7WuOVHCNKLIEZom74sOxvqI6vM30fbqDJ45AzZG6gS18R9xB2a2y7z/s1600/QA5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVHe7Bmo0Jsi5nzODQs_DwbIH33DVPMKxs2cSstrJioeIhYsFnS8mS_pT4bReP4yMraUEMlHyFEkwE7-a_xOPcP7WuOVHCNKLIEZom74sOxvqI6vM30fbqDJ45AzZG6gS18R9xB2a2y7z/s1600/QA5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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When the kids weren't with me, they were working in their literacy tubs/stations.</div>
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I can't imagine living the classroom life without independent learning stations. This is what helps me maintain my sanity. It takes a LOOOOOOOOONG time to establish a good routine when it comes to working independently without lots of help, but the time you invest in setting expectations and teaching them rules and procedures really does pay off in the end. I know I'm not telling you anything you don't already know. I'm sure you already do that now!</div>
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My other kids were always doing hands-on station activities...word work, pocket chart, etc. I had a lot of stations set up so that they had a lot of choice. I also had a shelf full of anchor activities so that if they did get stuck on something and I wasn't immediately available to help them, they knew they could visit the anchor activities to work on until I could help. As the year progressed, my kids also had the option to read to self as well. </div>
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<br />Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-21224274903727141992016-08-29T10:34:00.003-07:002016-08-29T10:34:57.194-07:00Science of September<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello friends! Happy Monday!</div>
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I'm heading out for mentoring in just a minute, but before I leave I just wanted to pop in and let y'all know that <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-September-2758460">The Science of September</a> has been posted...just in time for September, HA! </div>
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It's jam-packed and chock full of 4 weeks worth of science lesson plans, vocabulary, read alouds, anchor chart suggestions, experiments, and cross-curricular activities. Whew! </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-qjWRUpA1OsbmC52tEJuoPktFtcwr8v8TkWQ_jnjas6ct2NTh5okzFmOPVB8qoRAVrQ3SaO1TZOnpELSiKJIxRSiVfDdIRdvrxjwGmZn1pSgXSg9u9907Lta13VwbunxipZdhvkUF7cwf/s640/Slide5.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-September-2758460">September's resource </a>will cover various science skills and concepts using the themes of Five Senses, Farm, Apples, and Fall. Some of the skills covered included observable changes, organisms & their environment, changes in physical properties, plant & animal comparisons, plant parts, five senses to explore, seasons, and MORE!</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-September-2758460"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4AgIy_RBkZ1elAYgItMwM41ZOTJWCpscl0v-9VqV6i59-MZU3xvQ_DLqSNiy9Av_uUy4xhTwdFM_9cxvrrWqeysMNuPYgtKad9GxEbTelDaQV9-Tx7B5nxTuNqinVvlXPEYIx-kqf7Mh/s640/Slide2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We're starting the month working with our <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-September-2758460">five senses</a> and this is a theme that will carry throughout the remainder of the weeks included in this resource as well. LOTS of opportunities for exploration through the five senses.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSMTjpqXhwMyqTJ-GrxFd68gBrHpMyXFkvfBrDN4KFXXIdYZi7CQSbpBGrqlEP1p9q-sQkE5DDdgISANELMcTkqu36epxLNESsuLCashwUmsOcquyaTmyQcvVIkIGBDJT9hVrb7H2jwviq/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSMTjpqXhwMyqTJ-GrxFd68gBrHpMyXFkvfBrDN4KFXXIdYZi7CQSbpBGrqlEP1p9q-sQkE5DDdgISANELMcTkqu36epxLNESsuLCashwUmsOcquyaTmyQcvVIkIGBDJT9hVrb7H2jwviq/s640/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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You'll follow-up your five senses investigations with a week full of<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-September-2758460"> fun on the farm</a>! Not only are there a few farm animal activities included in the mix, but the week of farm fun will also cover items produced by plants vs. animals, plant and animal comparisons, and farm crop & animal experiments! Get ready to get your kids excited about what they can do with things found on farms!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCq56i16ANOBE-kgZ_xTWLAiz7xh755k0xWcGZMCCAJn4upop1EZ8cyGcg7AXfrTo9MlnAC1VDNRwdkOsFEjyjVUhRJ3y6TNg3m2KjwFS09DPJwjoXHMAIynMDVY40y8HviIhjrNiLdTN3/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCq56i16ANOBE-kgZ_xTWLAiz7xh755k0xWcGZMCCAJn4upop1EZ8cyGcg7AXfrTo9MlnAC1VDNRwdkOsFEjyjVUhRJ3y6TNg3m2KjwFS09DPJwjoXHMAIynMDVY40y8HviIhjrNiLdTN3/s640/Slide2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Of course, NO September resource would be complete without included some type of apple activity, so we included a full week full of <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-September-2758460">apple experiments, lesson plans, vocabulary, and cross-curricular activities.</a> Anchor chart suggestions are included as always, as well as a variety of (optional) craftivities to provide your students with hands-on visuals of their learning.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK0BXgTDWbSoeFa-DNlwg0lUh2OK9-bvmztTDQSSjpFIOcmDJRtoGQpu1pEzLI-UBhmRHjKbnc6PzSFDHk78-5XmL-vVC0ebavmQn7wC8NEqpMzE14pVM0fSofgWjrIMjAwFNgEzZ5QDxB/s1600/Slide3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK0BXgTDWbSoeFa-DNlwg0lUh2OK9-bvmztTDQSSjpFIOcmDJRtoGQpu1pEzLI-UBhmRHjKbnc6PzSFDHk78-5XmL-vVC0ebavmQn7wC8NEqpMzE14pVM0fSofgWjrIMjAwFNgEzZ5QDxB/s640/Slide3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And just in time to head into October, we're ending the month with a study <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-September-2758460">all about Fall.</a> Lots of opportunities for hands-on investigations and exploration using five senses. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqbVIXm09p9WRR2dhB4r5MOGQud57gUOQX8z5pEOUCYgVunhH_nE96745qbtUam1tFiZqO5G1Vjn0D21rbqpjbzFElvqYz5PSyYE9w8roogmaNN9cxsYux9YYJ3OhY1Td98hOyxOxgRbvQ/s1600/Slide4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqbVIXm09p9WRR2dhB4r5MOGQud57gUOQX8z5pEOUCYgVunhH_nE96745qbtUam1tFiZqO5G1Vjn0D21rbqpjbzFElvqYz5PSyYE9w8roogmaNN9cxsYux9YYJ3OhY1Td98hOyxOxgRbvQ/s640/Slide4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-September-2758460">September</a> is definitely going to be a GREAT month full of lots and LOTS of learning...and FUN!!! Exactly what we believe learning should be...hands-on, engaging, and FUN! </div>
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If you're interested in checking out this resources in greater detail, just click on the pic below. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-September-2758460"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Science-of-September-2758460-1472479039/original-2758460-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Have a great week!!!</div>
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Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-83220851822744738612016-08-28T08:37:00.001-07:002016-08-28T08:37:46.912-07:00All About the Alphabet<div style="text-align: center;">
When I hosted a little <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2014/09/coffee-talk.html">Coffee Talk</a> a few weeks ago, one of the things a few of y'all wanted to know about was how I introduce the alphabet to my Kinder friends. Instead of answering with a little blurb, I felt like this was a concept that deserved a lot more than just a little explanation. So let's get started, shall we?!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhotfq0mDfPOmOuisUL90LUfPqYmqVHijRMNP3KwOkhrhqtSmtGsg9mjlTZyEsMqwQBxtHkJV3Qv1zHyxnzpAAelvvnEKnEcDDO0RuoU8jiumc98WU9WxCC0ldUIkUXebmIGlnX0fimjGaG/s1600/AlphabetINtro.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhotfq0mDfPOmOuisUL90LUfPqYmqVHijRMNP3KwOkhrhqtSmtGsg9mjlTZyEsMqwQBxtHkJV3Qv1zHyxnzpAAelvvnEKnEcDDO0RuoU8jiumc98WU9WxCC0ldUIkUXebmIGlnX0fimjGaG/s1600/AlphabetINtro.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Before I start, I think it's important for you to know that I wholeheartedly DO NOT believe in "<i>letter of the week</i>" alphabet instruction. Although letter identification and letter to sound relationships should be taught systematically and thoroughly, the sequence and spacing of instruction doesn't need to be drawn out. We need our babies to crawl before they can walk and that crawling process shouldn't last for the majority of the year. I mean shoo...we practically want them running by the end of the year, y'know?!</div>
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So let's move them from crawling to walking pretty quickly. It can be done effectively without being rushed. I've seen it year after year. And year after year it amazes me each and every time. </div>
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You know at the beginning of the year {<i>in Kindergarten</i>} our babies come in pretty much all over the board. Some of our kids are reading chapter books...some of our friends can identify most letters of the alphabet...and some of our sweeties don't even know the letters in their names. I always have a mild panic attack at the beginning of each year wondering how in the world I can possibly teach them all. How will I bring my emergent learners into the same playing field as my readers?! How will I differentiate learning so that my sweet & lows aren't lost and my high flyers aren't bored?! The struggle is real! {<i>and they all said AMEN</i>}.</div>
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I feel like the alphabetic principle is the most urgent literacy skill to introduce and implement at the start of each school year. Research has proven that the difference between good readers and readers who struggle is their ability to use letter to sound relationships to identify and read words. If we're stuck teaching a letter of the week, how in the heck are we supposed to get them reading fluently and independently by the end of the year? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIMSGYLyInqJzIhmMuUOuJYXn02Di9wprsmB3SOfvDAZXHxED6NNHqTD0pzFz0rgp0tiL4HgxG8pXK51wiv2b_YsfaamQBmLzafdN1B931oHTY7LQ8Sog81Suiu4xTqPO2zSqji-B9b6g3/s1600/alphabetintro4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIMSGYLyInqJzIhmMuUOuJYXn02Di9wprsmB3SOfvDAZXHxED6NNHqTD0pzFz0rgp0tiL4HgxG8pXK51wiv2b_YsfaamQBmLzafdN1B931oHTY7LQ8Sog81Suiu4xTqPO2zSqji-B9b6g3/s1600/alphabetintro4.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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At the beginning of the year, I tell my kids, <i>"I'm having an ALPHABET PARTY and you're ALL invited!!!</i>" Naturally, I'm completely dramatic about this and the kids just go a little wild. Then we have to tap the breaks <i>thismuch</i>. I basically quote my Texas brother, Robert Earl Keen, and tell them "<i>the road goes on forever and the party never ends.</i>" We'll be using the letters in the alphabet forever and we'll need to be ready to party with them every.single.day. Then we get the party started.</div>
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At the beginning of the 2nd week of school, I introduce the mnemonic strategies {<i>motions/cues/pictures</i>} we use for each letter of the alphabet. The purpose of incorporating these strategies into our alphabet instruction is to help the kids make connections and improve their ability to remember the letter to sound relationships. When I first introduce these motions, I go through about 3-4 and then practice <i>{always with the alphabet linking chart}</i>. Then 3-4 more...and practice them all again. Then we practice those 6-8 a few more times and then brain break. We switch it up a bit and then do a totally different activity and then revisit the linking chart and motions again. I know how short those attention spans can be...especially those first few weeks. We do a lot of introduction and acting out that 2nd week...and lots, and lots, and lots of practice.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGH-tAD1FDLd5s18Ey03m5WOYYsa1isXlnWVuiarL_67Z6BC6Uqp12DPGFWunI_InJdW_aYRydBUoivBqZ4XtbCr1ZKKqZOJUppdhwxCcW03x6HHAqQzx8J6Y_Rn84goHZgt_Rpo2Vi_B8/s1600/alphabetintro5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGH-tAD1FDLd5s18Ey03m5WOYYsa1isXlnWVuiarL_67Z6BC6Uqp12DPGFWunI_InJdW_aYRydBUoivBqZ4XtbCr1ZKKqZOJUppdhwxCcW03x6HHAqQzx8J6Y_Rn84goHZgt_Rpo2Vi_B8/s1600/alphabetintro5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I asked my little guy to help me show y'all what I'm talking about with the motions. He does this in is class, too. If you do watch this, let's keep in mind that this child is ALL boy. <i>Ohmydear</i>. There is no such thing as sitting still or keeping his hands out of his pants. Bless his sweet soul. #sorrynotsorry</div>
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Of course, we would've been doing this little exercise <i>WITH</i> the linking chart, but I was doing good just to get him to cooperate with me for that brief 3 minutes. I didn't want to push my luck. #bribedwithcandy #noshame </div>
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After we practice this for about a week during our whole group block, we incorporate it into our small group instruction, too. This is when I do my explicit alphabet instruction and activities. I formally introduce about 3 letters per week {<i>following the McCracken order</i>}. I've followed the McCracken sequence for the last 13 years and it seems to work well with my kids. </div>
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Here's a sample of how it all breaks down during small group....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqPvycc5syWptD4Zfquaz5OLdw7CwT4Eqwa0O02R5yCUpE7Qn1DmA7oQC8w9UOxpzY5EOlYqWqym-VB9V8fcbwTMBF8ewIsJaUeG34fLV-RCnrMITche3DGjk2rmjHwWz3M_wbbffTddcp/s1600/alphabetintro6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="557" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqPvycc5syWptD4Zfquaz5OLdw7CwT4Eqwa0O02R5yCUpE7Qn1DmA7oQC8w9UOxpzY5EOlYqWqym-VB9V8fcbwTMBF8ewIsJaUeG34fLV-RCnrMITche3DGjk2rmjHwWz3M_wbbffTddcp/s1600/alphabetintro6.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Right now you might be shaking your head and thinking I speed way too fast through the alphabet and my kids surely don't learn a darn thing. I can assure you that they do! Between targeted small group instruction and daily review and repetition of the linking chart & motions, my babies learn those letters & their sounds quickly! In fact, I would say that 18 out of 20 kids have learned and mastered all of their letters and letter sounds by the end of October/early November and they definitely ALL know their letters/letter sounds by January {assessments}. There are very rare occasions when this isn't the case and in those instances there are usually medical reasons why retention isn't possible.</div>
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Let me just tell y'all my favorite success story from last year. One of my favorite successes of my 13 years in the classroom for that matter. I had a lot of friends last year who struggled with letter recognition and letter to sound relationships. It was pretty significant. I had several friends who had little to no working knowledge of the alphabet at all. They weren't able to write their names let alone identify them {<i>or any of the letters in their names for that matter either</i>}. One little friend in particular...we'll call her Matilda Jane...was really struggling. I was so worried about her. She came into Kindergarten knowing only 4 capital letters...none of them in her name. Matilda Jane was very shy and terrified of taking risks, so I knew that the familiar repetition of activities and instruction would help her to feel more comfortable in the learning process. I saw her grow a little every day. At first, I didn't see progress like I had hoped. But then Matilda slowly started to come along. She had mastered all of her capital & lowercase letters {recognition} and letter to sound correspondence by the end of October. I remember that specifically because it coincided with our Book Parade and I had a special Halloween treat saved just for her for her amazing accomplishment. </div>
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Reading was a different story. It took a little bit longer to make those connections. We continued to review the alphabet and those letter to sound relationships pretty much every day before guided reading and then applied that to making words and manipulating sounds. At mid-year assessment time, I was THRILLED to have her reading independently on a 2 {B}. I mean, if y'all only knew how hard we worked to get there, y'all would've been just as proud of her, too! By the end of the year, she was independently reading on an 8. AN 8!!!!! My sweet Matilda Jane!!! She read so fluently...her comprehension was flawless...and she made the most amazing text to self connections. She blossomed into such a great reader!!! I'm not saying she never would've achieved that goal if her alphabet instruction was different, but I think it would've been a little bit more challenging to get there.</div>
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My kids use the motions with the linking chart until they've reached the point of automaticity with their letter to sound relationships. I give each of my kids a quick alphabet assessment every Friday afternoon to make sure they are retaining and recalling the letters that are formally introduced during small group instruction and to see what they're picking up through repeated exposure. The assessment is super quick. I basically just call them up to the teacher table one at a time {<i>while the rest of the class is occupied in Friday Free Centers</i>} and then I have my kids go through a separate set of capital and lowercase letter cards and tell me the name of each letter and the sound that it makes. I only give them about 3 seconds per letter because the goal is automaticity and I'm using these little assessments to guide my small group instruction for the following week. If they are able to recall the letter and sound, I'll write down the date next to the corresponding letter on their check sheet. If not, I'll just leave it blank and use that info to plan.</div>
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I also make sure to have lots of alphabet resources available in the classroom. These are prominently displayed and/or kept in areas of the classroom that are easy to access. I want my kids to become responsible for their learning and use these resources when they get "stuck".</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsb6R6eRUQo5h0jd-b15eg9NLXB170m1WQihB9Hb3GQCck1eNkIh5zSAJ363cjRRuuN6jFyMxBE9QidhfZ1DPydkY-1335QysYshkzbnt6zhi9imVxscW3byaZAaK47qsEPkMIpD3lmcRR/s1600/AlphabetINtro3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsb6R6eRUQo5h0jd-b15eg9NLXB170m1WQihB9Hb3GQCck1eNkIh5zSAJ363cjRRuuN6jFyMxBE9QidhfZ1DPydkY-1335QysYshkzbnt6zhi9imVxscW3byaZAaK47qsEPkMIpD3lmcRR/s1600/AlphabetINtro3.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Those desk plates are my favorite. I love that they have picture cues for each letter. I keep a set of the letter books in my alphabet station. This is in a pretty easy-to-access area in the classroom and the kids know they can use these as a resource any time they need. </div>
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I have a million and one of <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuNW1FYWNoeUU5ZWM/edit?usp=sharing">these linking charts </a>around the room at any given time. I keep one in all of my literacy tubs, my kids keep one in their guided reading folders, and I have a small group set I keep at my teacher table. You probably have them, too! If you don't, or if you just want a new set, you can <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuNW1FYWNoeUU5ZWM/edit?usp=sharing">download it HERE</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvvxUFR4dBkM3AuQgpLK2buANsTgm1F8HW7wE3bNDnJLuQH5iWCbuFep0jzlcw9ws5FYZPnFLNhvMggi8e8x18CmJKyWu_guQdQTqkJRXc_nZj-DYkMVNOMHdppZywm28eNPMruo__x2jr/s1600/alphabetintro7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvvxUFR4dBkM3AuQgpLK2buANsTgm1F8HW7wE3bNDnJLuQH5iWCbuFep0jzlcw9ws5FYZPnFLNhvMggi8e8x18CmJKyWu_guQdQTqkJRXc_nZj-DYkMVNOMHdppZywm28eNPMruo__x2jr/s1600/alphabetintro7.png" width="512" /></a></div>
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I also love <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ABC-Easy-as-123-Alphabet-Anchor-Charts-Activities-Printables-1235135">these anchor charts</a> and so do the kids. I will bring them out when I introduce a new letter and keep it displayed on my white board next to my teacher table. After the week is over and the 3 letters have been introduced and reviewed, I add the letters to our alphabet anchor wall. </div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ABC-Easy-as-123-Alphabet-Anchor-Charts-Activities-Printables-1235135"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7SKIQDaAbbq78RbyEJjOOerTIqeHEujFdaC4aS5TRJmd07IGh20x2Cv8wBJlPuB53Aj2eoUbNwqf3uL7N4akc6khyphenhyphenFPeh8zZO85izV26K3mZBDKu8AwOJGIDb2lp37VuuEdFN5PVTYT-E/s1600/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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So this is a basic little overview of how I introduce and sequence my alphabet instruction. For the rest of the week, I'll be posting a little more about what I do to help my kids master this skill as well as some of my favorite whole and small group activities!! </div>Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-25703770098915114112016-08-25T12:14:00.000-07:002016-08-25T12:14:33.722-07:00Visual Lesson Plans - How I Fit It All In<div style="text-align: center;">
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I often get asked how I'm able to fit things into my day and I'm hoping this helps give you an idea of how that looks. Let's go ahead and start with the plans. I'm fortunate enough to be able to help teachers plan for their days while pushing in to assist and mentor. We talk a lot about "fitting it all in" and I hope this helps you to see what that looks like. I tend to OVERplan because I'd rather have more than enough to get through the day(s).<br />
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWubC1BYUtRb3Fkb1U/view?usp=sharing">You can download them HERE for a closer look.</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJ3uwOQsJOPb6dpNIbmw8DGwBLr1cigGzR-qXI-RMKZNrxMLX-Lfp0SOreilf0En5S5GRL8PVuUHaOJG4KHvaM4vZMZIysG-nP2XVdvqxW0G82yyuR7qtUz4c23y366jT62tLF6Xltc9J/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJ3uwOQsJOPb6dpNIbmw8DGwBLr1cigGzR-qXI-RMKZNrxMLX-Lfp0SOreilf0En5S5GRL8PVuUHaOJG4KHvaM4vZMZIysG-nP2XVdvqxW0G82yyuR7qtUz4c23y366jT62tLF6Xltc9J/s640/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRsb7-lqK0kYFJx75Uor0YeWFHzWK6oPTwKUnLhxS8-2VPRrms2wYeKB9k6AJNoniQLbYPC3-Eth2GQ_LQZ86rY5ZRdp1X_ZxgsPSUBjxtXixK5Xk68VtBGg1aZ2y87S95zq-j_uBf1knE/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRsb7-lqK0kYFJx75Uor0YeWFHzWK6oPTwKUnLhxS8-2VPRrms2wYeKB9k6AJNoniQLbYPC3-Eth2GQ_LQZ86rY5ZRdp1X_ZxgsPSUBjxtXixK5Xk68VtBGg1aZ2y87S95zq-j_uBf1knE/s640/Slide2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Whew.</div>
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Now let's break it all down.</div>
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<b>MORNING WARM-UP</b></div>
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Most kids are still filtering in during this time, so I like to give my kids something hands-on to keep them engaged while everyone is arriving. When I'm working with teachers, I really try to encourage them to give students hands-on materials instead of worksheets. While I do feel like those have their place in the classroom depending on the content, I feel like the morning time is a GREAT time to phase them out. </div>
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<b>Make It Monday </b></div>
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Kids can use various mediums to make their names. Q-tips and paint, tear paper, white crayon and watercolor, or markers & crayons. Each choice is placed at a different table. When my kids come in, they grab their name cards from the pocket chart and then choose how they want to make their names. I write their names for them on a piece of construction paper and they go to town. </div>
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<b>Type It Out Tuesday </b> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTCwInpgkJaENRv4ggm4rV2nvCSbd_ip2kfJYQUIuzxYoa9UvkX83324-w26aXYszM1nvaFGZcIu1R6QKmAfxA2a3Ix56wvl5XBC0SwIRmUQep81ZLeiIZjI7YrJmZUdZg4upnAZig_jU/s400/100_5821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTCwInpgkJaENRv4ggm4rV2nvCSbd_ip2kfJYQUIuzxYoa9UvkX83324-w26aXYszM1nvaFGZcIu1R6QKmAfxA2a3Ix56wvl5XBC0SwIRmUQep81ZLeiIZjI7YrJmZUdZg4upnAZig_jU/s400/100_5821.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.primarily-speaking.com/2012/06/word-work-fun.html">free download via Primarily Speaking</a></div>
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As the kids come in, they can grab a "keyboard" and practice typing their names and the names of their friends. Make name cards available to use as a resource.</div>
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<b>I Wonder Wednesday</b></div>
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On Wednesdays we work in our "I Wonder" journals. I display an "I Wonder" prompt on the whiteboard, we talk about it, and then they write/illustrate their "wonder" in their journals. This week's I Wonder prompt can be found on <a href="http://wonderopolis.org/wonder/whats-in-a-name">Wonderopolis HERE</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNtricyN5gF7yNNnUGKxD4_h1UimLlcDC8f2p_a2ryg4L3CG-q7pG7lZejrgkD_bgeaxh6eWNsbuNwzZGmi3QN5OglI4IISzbgtpq2uajvnAadslr3_gOn1mw0eNDzHD79VGvqoU6DlaDm/s1600/name1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNtricyN5gF7yNNnUGKxD4_h1UimLlcDC8f2p_a2ryg4L3CG-q7pG7lZejrgkD_bgeaxh6eWNsbuNwzZGmi3QN5OglI4IISzbgtpq2uajvnAadslr3_gOn1mw0eNDzHD79VGvqoU6DlaDm/s640/name1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Creative Thinking Thursday</b></div>
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I've used draw starts since my first year teaching. This is one of the components my first district used to identify GT students. Draw starts are a great way for your kids to think outside the box. Once they complete the draw start, they write about it. These are great for collecting and keeping in student portfolios, too!</div>
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<a href="http://www.teachersparadise.com/images/imagecache/product/prods/pimages/Learning-Materials--Draw-To-Write-Doodle-Loops-Prek-2--FS-013339_L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://www.teachersparadise.com/images/imagecache/product/prods/pimages/Learning-Materials--Draw-To-Write-Doodle-Loops-Prek-2--FS-013339_L.jpg" width="306" /></a></div>
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<b>Find It Friday</b> </div>
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Students will search to find their names and the names of their classmates in a Wordle or Word Search. If you're new to Wordles, see how I create them for sight words<a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2014/07/sight-wordle-simple-sight-word-center.html"> HERE</a>. </div>
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You can Google "Word Search Generator" to find a website that best fits your needs for creating customized word searches.</div>
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If you don't think a system like this would work for you, you could always consider rotating the activities throughout the week. On Monday, table 1 does a doodle loop, table 2 does a sight wordle, so forth and so on. Just an idea. </div>
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Now let's break down my literacy/reading block.</div>
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I flexibly pull my kids up to teacher table for small group guided reading activities and lessons. For my K babies, we're learning letters at the teacher table for warm ups. You can<a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2014/09/small-group-alphabet-instruction-aka.html"> read more about that HERE.</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFYVp0hSPCcneF3LsDN7Iz4LXMQO5ymWubqRDBa1quhGIN0pENgA4IXn0dDlWkE0Tcslo8zhBgqZe1Xd9Gw4HGfk72lieisjz26W6oj7PvGx2WC-_YqXixvQhyMw7DFKJtbeHDPXfJZG-/s1600/alphabetintro8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFYVp0hSPCcneF3LsDN7Iz4LXMQO5ymWubqRDBa1quhGIN0pENgA4IXn0dDlWkE0Tcslo8zhBgqZe1Xd9Gw4HGfk72lieisjz26W6oj7PvGx2WC-_YqXixvQhyMw7DFKJtbeHDPXfJZG-/s1600/alphabetintro8.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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I'm using small group activities from my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Guided-Reading-Phonics-Activities-The-BIG-Bundle-Volume-1-2006039">Guided Reading Phonics Activities Bundle</a> for my first graders this time of the year.</div>
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<a href="https://mcdn1.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Guided-Reading-Phonics-Activities-The-BIG-Bundle-Volume-1-2006039-1441109543/original-2006039-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://mcdn1.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Guided-Reading-Phonics-Activities-The-BIG-Bundle-Volume-1-2006039-1441109543/original-2006039-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here's what we've got going on during our literacy rotations (literacy tubs and centers):</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29Yz9DuET3Yv5ZxzhYCuz0mhP-QSo3cNdDrIajIclUX21Syyn6DX1NN1T7XOzOfs7UAkZrBVrygQolERw31kDELi06zW1VAuzhBZFZvu9Ujwr_qu2_kkGhc5vP2Y6A_-zjWigz4OHYjM6/s1600/Slide3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29Yz9DuET3Yv5ZxzhYCuz0mhP-QSo3cNdDrIajIclUX21Syyn6DX1NN1T7XOzOfs7UAkZrBVrygQolERw31kDELi06zW1VAuzhBZFZvu9Ujwr_qu2_kkGhc5vP2Y6A_-zjWigz4OHYjM6/s640/Slide3.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Pocket Chart:</b> I write out the first letters of the names in my class on a small index card and place them in the pocket chart. I also create name cards for each student in my class. You can read more about how<a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2014/09/tutorial-by-request.html"> I created those HERE. </a> I place the cards in a tub and then students work together to sort the names by first letter.</div>
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<a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2014/09/tutorial-by-request.html"><img border="0" height="377" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDwOjzaBJ9RlESRSHDt5jhS6K0Py1ffpJZ2h_DbsbqmnFl-6CWdJHCqZ3ywv9IUlkbm19AV2AsBDrfd8xvXp3eRWrNYoYWB6BIqZ5mmN3ohy2TgDzcflFQDrW5pOOVCXGtv7PwG6_87l3r/s1600/WORDWALL7.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Writing:</b> In Power Point, I create a single sheet class roster with names and pictures. I make sure to take a picture of each of my kids the first week of school. Each picture is placed in the file and their first names are typed underneath their pictures. Then I create a separate writing sheet. I take all of those pictures and place them in a file going vertically then place writing lines next to each picture. I place the picture/writing line sheets in a plastic sheet protector in the writing center. The kids choose one and then practice writing their friends names next to the matching pictures. They use the single sheet class roster as a resource.</div>
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<b><u>Word Work #1</u></b></div>
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<b>Name Baggies:</b> THis activity is from my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Say-My-Name-Math-Literacy-Science-Activities-for-Name-Recognition-328432">Say My Name packet</a>. Students choose 4 name baggies assemble the names, and record. They love this one. I keep this one in my literacy centers for two weeks and then move it over to the "fast finisher/anchor activities" after that. I send them home with the kids at the end of the year.</div>
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<b><u>Word Work #2</u></b></div>
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<b>Name Sorts:</b> This is another activity from my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Say-My-Name-Math-Literacy-Science-Activities-for-Name-Recognition-328432">Say My Name</a> packet. This week the kids will be using letter tiles and t-charts sorting by "letters in my name/letters not in my name". I have them choose up to 5 different names to sort through before moving on to their next activity. I have several sorts included in this packet, so this is a tub that I keep out for a couple of weeks to give my kids several opportunities to practice.</div>
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<b><u>Word Work #3</u></b></div>
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<b>Build a Name:</b> This is another activity included in my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Say-My-Name-Math-Literacy-Science-Activities-for-Name-Recognition-328432">Say My Name</a> packet. The kids build their name with tactile letters or letter tiles, write it with a pencil, stamp it, rainbow write it, and decorate it.</div>
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<b><u>Word Work #4</u></b></div>
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<b><u>Mystery Bags:</u></b> Students assemble scrambled letters inside of a mystery bag to find out who the mystery student is.</div>
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<b><u>Art</u></b></div>
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<b>Name Craftivity: </b>This is another activity included in my Say My Name Packet. Kids put together the craft template and stamp their names. The activity can be differentiated based on student needs.</div>
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Sight Word Station</div>
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The sight word station has a variety of activities with which the students are familiar and they will choose an activity to do giving them an opportunity to practice spelling/identifying/reading their sight words. These are some things from which the kids can choose...</div>
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<a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2014/07/sight-wordle-simple-sight-word-center.html"><img border="0" height="451" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5cBwZA9_eLg2liyhwT-xhj4TfvBLjeNOTZhvyFujU1ngDz6g2w7Z5fOkwMDOghPU10zTO56sVBCZ6qP38GSLAZLpRkzrV81PsoAQ4KC7EtMG4YVwtw6sTD3SjqYhH3N6KmYc35bA7HTJG/s640/TexasK16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2014/07/sight-wordle-simple-sight-word-center.html">Sight Wordles</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmyJ93HPuRrLqXbt32dcC8hMLcFz90m1SnzMhTv78Cp1UjCTjUgvDt_t85_-CRHk7DNv09FOS9xO3uz5Xa7-0BQUQx8wid7XUQSrT8XlrVA4cs51zd-DPdKvlkrMrDzj3Z1fvCk_3q9kIT/s640/sightwords1+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmyJ93HPuRrLqXbt32dcC8hMLcFz90m1SnzMhTv78Cp1UjCTjUgvDt_t85_-CRHk7DNv09FOS9xO3uz5Xa7-0BQUQx8wid7XUQSrT8XlrVA4cs51zd-DPdKvlkrMrDzj3Z1fvCk_3q9kIT/s640/sightwords1+%25281%2529.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sight-Word-Study-Intervention-THE-BUNDLE-1921078"><img border="0" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdEDx_qeqWQF35nd_QkeETYvf0G1M33ySurRnYCgxn6nOlWfz4Jntbw_meCBai7AEHAY00RCs9O_Slx2a8-CRZwduuUKOzUnEehQ8EmOiNz30gBZTlqbZhqd7GzUTPE8aW6llYkFWZjdaa/s640/Picture7.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sight-Word-Study-Intervention-THE-BUNDLE-1921078">Sight Word Studies</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Solve-Stamp-Sight-Word-Mystery-Bundle-PrePrimer-3rd-Grade-Dolch-Lists-1981656"><img border="0" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNwrfP5h1ePsxBTg0gjfQHJAmVHKO7gydcLUN1taNlCPlMKXZAZ9GmhjC0Lor7Ys1oEWz99aGCZhysf_4BrwQNHNfrpnHB-XenwrXlntyJ32fcjIlaYOnyM_XE9TcQg1tAB3v1K-ySLfSM/s640/Picture8.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Solve-Stamp-Sight-Word-Mystery-Bundle-PrePrimer-3rd-Grade-Dolch-Lists-1981656">Solve & Stamp Sight Word Mysteries</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Spelling-Sticks-30-Spelling-Tasks-Printables-1981627"><img border="0" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBnsQ_hay3tDj140qpgclABQx5RR-wgP8BVQKR1xtSdL_IqoeR2AyaZ07W10I5IHGHfHGQ8JJe6ei-r1hlVII2GDjD_ZGiiQ_BF8ml_qhqL-7XMHl-XLsbp-xUSQ-eP0q0H0SEHivD3E4/s640/Picture6.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Spelling-Sticks-30-Spelling-Tasks-Printables-1981627">Spelling Sticks</a></div>
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Now let's move on to Phonics and Poetry...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmdrjNNq0oPivNkpxA8Oa8TmkacLQYdOaHTV1xbt8TWsZb251relanm3GtH1YboQ2EjgKjB2EgqlOk9vRlOImK_IUavmijisEVgDkeIB_MzWKBp04-UQGR68ahAduzvrdTyl-Ehd5kMInE/s1600/Slide5.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmdrjNNq0oPivNkpxA8Oa8TmkacLQYdOaHTV1xbt8TWsZb251relanm3GtH1YboQ2EjgKjB2EgqlOk9vRlOImK_IUavmijisEVgDkeIB_MzWKBp04-UQGR68ahAduzvrdTyl-Ehd5kMInE/s640/Slide5.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
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When the kids come to the carpet for whole group phonics, we start with a poem and a chant for a warm up. These warm-ups/chants are pretty quick and don't take too much time, but they get the kids settled and engaged with a quickness. I keep the Name Chant out all year long and when we're done with the names, sight words take their place. </div>
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You can <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuNVVQMkJrS212b1k/view?usp=sharing">download the Name Chant</a> (for free) below.</div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuNVVQMkJrS212b1k/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjluxzoigfo5j7AwQolZmlUR2aZfgGFYdqMq31biEInQTSy96nsMH2k1MzlglRtaJPf1XUVQkj66EYo2ri4bPFWRFLKcRVzuhx7J1mi7-YIN3EYAOZl-iJMpSWqPR00buuvo0EKkN2pYGLb/s640/Slide1.PNG" width="480" /></a></div>
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After we've warmed up, we do a quick whole group lesson. That's where the direct, explicit instruction takes place. That is necessary before moving onto independent practice. I have to teach before I can expect them to do. All of the independent activities pictured above are in my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Short-A-Printables-Puzzles-Activities-MORE-1425722">Short Vowel Ventures - Short A packet.</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Short-A-Printables-Puzzles-Activities-MORE-1425722"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://mcdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Short-A-Printables-Puzzles-Activities-MORE-1425722/original-1425722-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Now let's talk about Math. </div>
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For Math whole group on Tuesday, we'll be making a<a href="http://mrsleeskinderkids.blogspot.com/2010/09/all-about-me.html"> Name Graph.</a> I love <a href="http://mrsleeskinderkids.blogspot.com/2010/09/all-about-me.html">Julie Lee's from Mrs. Lee's Kindergarten.</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbku_alOBsU5-prsnR_KonZ-EQnkK4jyC7iUbK0MVI0K5meABJVF7AQPNVCoh_fo1B66izvLXZ6mxfqeWi3aeikdX8U4DCkmNIxnJhgdq8gZFyxdQUd-iHQeqvSoX1Qr1nOsnVgB9liZC9/s320/IMG_9786.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbku_alOBsU5-prsnR_KonZ-EQnkK4jyC7iUbK0MVI0K5meABJVF7AQPNVCoh_fo1B66izvLXZ6mxfqeWi3aeikdX8U4DCkmNIxnJhgdq8gZFyxdQUd-iHQeqvSoX1Qr1nOsnVgB9liZC9/s320/IMG_9786.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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You'll also notice that I warm up with our <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Number-Line-Prompts-1969607">Number Line Prompts.</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Number-Line-Prompts-1969607"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vWLsiJlIDfzFmek9_G6MO2LYENC216MYKFzku2Zz0JoW99fHlr9CU3HGpgj6Zf75RC2Zfr6CJFQDpljq_qBSeuGUl3gVfzaOdEa5j9SYH_O9xDFpjnslU6MlMfR36deC_3Yevy4bwY9b/s640/Picture6.png" width="482" /></a></div>
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Let's break down the math tubs. I incorporate name recognition here, too.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMQQGgX9-AAXruf-_C1eoCQdNVeLFWbRtptpCqYmJBUdJ_Ib5Vox71_vsppb-nLUkGR2MA0tC4RGfZR9mPmLgNbrqqnLrcnQ8XG0V1pU3QCIRw80G9FQ2BFgrd7gOpX7Y1YivKHv-6SFbz/s1600/Slide4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMQQGgX9-AAXruf-_C1eoCQdNVeLFWbRtptpCqYmJBUdJ_Ib5Vox71_vsppb-nLUkGR2MA0tC4RGfZR9mPmLgNbrqqnLrcnQ8XG0V1pU3QCIRw80G9FQ2BFgrd7gOpX7Y1YivKHv-6SFbz/s640/Slide4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><u> Math Tub #1</u></b></div>
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I place a set of student name/picture cards in a tub and then have my kids choose 10. They count and graph the names on a recording sheet and discuss the data with a partner.</div>
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<b><u>Math Tub #2</u></b></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Say-My-Name-Math-Literacy-Science-Activities-for-Name-Recognition-328432">Name Measurement - </a>I place a set of student name/picture cards in this tub also. The kids have to choose their own name plus 4 more and use the manipulatives labeled on the recording sheet to measure the names they chose. They will use their own name card to record the data on the recording sheet.</div>
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<b><u>Math Tub #3</u></b></div>
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Choose It. Build It. Add It - Students choose two name cards, count the letters in each, and then build matching snap cube towers. If the name has 7 letters, they build a snap cube tower with 7 cubes. On the recording sheet, students will write the names and color in the number of cubes they used to build their tower. Then the kids will take the number of letters in each name and add them together (write an equation). They can combine their snap cube towers to correct their work. You can <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuOGphNVd0SEp4TW8/view?usp=sharing">download your recording sheet for free HERE:</a></div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuOGphNVd0SEp4TW8/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN07owzHGZH5K85ZzxrRE7orJiU_Rt4wyb4Bs34gYLVpL2V3SafsEZbSb0fAwK_hIR7zf5k1EoucjTfTdRq-yPMrlUkML7nTgpWho3yknLmmfmTWs2MAJVXVf2-hW3B-6VzLm70mXNKuXa/s640/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Math Tub #4</u></b></div>
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Name Frames - one of our favorite activities! The kids will use the letters in their names to fill the frame and then determine the amount needed to make 10 altogether. It's a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Name-In-a-Ten-Frame-388362">FREE download HERE.</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Name-In-a-Ten-Frame-388362"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK2K701dMOesL9Zk-GuQ4nQiYdlofA_mThZkfP7tJYAloDpxa7oIqPeIExgFZzqL2fIU5RV6d3UBakSl0p66OiDZu3j07J7SKF5JkOP3O9F90r6afPl_7z1cS9l6YQYB7o9J474vlnJI2s/s320/photo-6.jpg" width="297" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://northwesternkiddies.blogspot.ca/2012/10/halloween-is-coming.html">picture via Fun with Firsties</a></div>
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<b><u>Math Tub #5</u></b></div>
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If you're familiar with <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-August-2703922">mine & Abby's Science units</a>, you know that we're all about cross curricular content. This is a great way to bring science concepts into the math setting. This activity is called <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-August-2703922">Magnified Math</a> and students have to use science tools (the theme of the week) to find solve equations or find numbers hidden in a picture. </div>
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<b><u>Math Tub #6</u></b></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-August-2703922">Science Tools Tally</a> - this activity brings science tools into the math setting. Students have to roll a die, identify the science tool, and then tally the amount they roll. Simple, easy, and meaningful.</div>
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Math Tub #7</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-August-2703922">Lab Coat Capture</a> - this is a fun partner game (math with friend) where players get to practice 1:1 correspondence and identifying numbers that are more/less.</div>
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<b>Math Tub #8</b></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Simply-Social-Studies-First-Grade-Unit-1-Good-Citizenship-2732718">Good Citizens are ONEderful</a> - again with the cross curricular content, only this time the focus is social studies. This activity compliments our study on good citizenship - the first SS TEK we cover here in Texas and I'll pretty much take any chance I can get to reinforce the importance of being a good citizen.<br /></div>
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And then we finish out the day with Theme...aka - <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-August-2703922">Science</a> and<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Simply-Social-Studies-First-Grade-Unit-1-Good-Citizenship-2732718"> Social Studies.</a> Here's what that looks like visually, but you can take a closer peek in the plans. Just download them HERE.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMmBv81rEjv6iebeiK98Z3URhuvxP7XGkAdsmjKv73RUrT2QeHRzCblSFBzcZ6e-Wl199WuDf1ZoidD5V0KTvWTop4_dteKLthidIlnYVcvtHcs0JmsSVbNPLnXTy6lPvYT3sJGAA3hwAD/s1600/Slide6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMmBv81rEjv6iebeiK98Z3URhuvxP7XGkAdsmjKv73RUrT2QeHRzCblSFBzcZ6e-Wl199WuDf1ZoidD5V0KTvWTop4_dteKLthidIlnYVcvtHcs0JmsSVbNPLnXTy6lPvYT3sJGAA3hwAD/s640/Slide6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Whew!!!!</div>
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Hope this helps you visually see how I try to fit it all in!!! </div>
Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-66308283936575149442016-08-21T20:52:00.003-07:002016-08-21T20:52:48.705-07:00Building Relationships & a ONE DAY ONLY Sale!<div style="text-align: center;">
Today we're talking about something that's near and dear to my heart as both a teacher AND a parent...parent/teacher relationships!!! But before we get started, let's get some housekeeping out of the way. <br />
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<b>TODAY ONLY</b> (August 22), <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Cara-Carroll">Teachers Pay Teachers</a> is having a back-to-school <b>BONUS sitewide sale</b>! You might want to snag some of those items on your wish list before the sale expires at midnight (EST).<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Cara-Carroll"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3MM5b6Q6lY6RQ-pZ19ehz8dZT4QR2TgoSjZoohMMxWbEa90Dd-y-h1M7usUqC-lLd-H_gs8T6x5cZ6gf_sRUOm2EBjQ6qO92G70SDqQyEJZfmDrVIWqNzO_fNFK3EyFR9SJwXCYRYpnA8/s400/BonusSaleButton.png" width="386" /></a></div>
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Just be sure to enter the promo code <b>ONEDAY</b> at checkout to get your discount!!! </div>
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And here's a quick little shopping tip.... </div>
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If you're looking to see if I have something you might need, you can always type keywords in the "Quick Find" bar (pictured below). For example, if you're wondering if I have any <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Cara-Carroll/Search:apples">Apple themed resources, </a>you can type in "apples" and the products I have relating to that keyword will pop up.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Cara-Carroll"><img border="0" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit2ts2ThkwCNRAJnEqlm2M3oD4SeiNnngD4jtqZoS-Z73B7b3_X3aycr5Ck8chJFtDzqm6-GO6rL6XVgMqACya_-6VgA_7nkCEgTwLSbTj4qDE2SWk5iHQn89LAkhLfXHYihhThlfBdcKF/s640/Picture18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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You can also browse through the Custom Categories tab on the left hand side of my store. This is a great way to search based on specific concepts/skills, thematically, subject area, etc. </div>
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Now let's move along with our regularly scheduled programming, shall we?!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9_Eoo7A1uiIgd1ip4wQkRxcnrxQ0KTSfgi_5y5BL_-6kMTrMpEU7kMnqW1Gvd9AktBznHQOp9aDxoWMW0zyhWlmddvOADP_v-slU_vYaLsFsc8NTVKkdtvBNx2LqIj8ezH-Vjq9z4v8aQ/s1600/Picture5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9_Eoo7A1uiIgd1ip4wQkRxcnrxQ0KTSfgi_5y5BL_-6kMTrMpEU7kMnqW1Gvd9AktBznHQOp9aDxoWMW0zyhWlmddvOADP_v-slU_vYaLsFsc8NTVKkdtvBNx2LqIj8ezH-Vjq9z4v8aQ/s640/Picture5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Establishing and maintaining relationships with parents!!!</div>
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When I first started teaching about 14 years ago, I was a very timid and insecure 23-year-old. I was unsure of myself as a teacher and I was nervous as all get out about talking to parents. I remember being asked (by several different parents) on meet the teacher night my first year, "how old are you?!?!" I remember thinking how they must have thought I looked too young to be teaching their babies. Oh, how I wish I still had that problem. </div>
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#grayhairdon'tcare #crowsfeet #wrinklesfordays</div>
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I remember being so scared to tell parents about their child's behavior...would they accuse me of lying? Or say I didn't know how to handle my kids because it was my first year in the classroom? </div>
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I walked on eggshells when it came to important conversations. I wanted to seem competent. I wanted parents to love me. I remember being terrified to talk about the "hard stuff"...low test scores, struggling learners, etc. I wanted to bypass those conversations and talk about all the cool things that were going on in the classroom. Being a professional is tough! </div>
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#thestruggleisreal</div>
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That first year in the classroom taught me SO much about myself as a teacher...both professionally and personally. I learned to put on my "big girl panties" and deal with it all. For me, it was all trial and error. I made a lot of mistakes and there are situations I wish I could take back and do-over. But without those experiences, I wouldn't have learned and grown...both personally and professionally :) </div>
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Since that first year, parent/teacher relationships have always been important to me...even the hard conversations. I'm even more sensitive to these relationships since becoming a parent myself. </div>
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My goal as a teacher has always been to have strong relationships with my parents. I know some of the girls I've taught with think I'm nuts for having hour long conferences with my parents. I just can't stop talking. I love building those relationships!!! </div>
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To this day I'm still great friends with SO many of my former parents. I even had a few of my parents drive from Dallas to Houston when I got married 12 years ago! Every year I get Christmas cards from many of my former families and I love keeping up with them all on Facebook, too. Really, they've all become part of my family. Part of who I am as a teacher. And I love them to pieces.</div>
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I'm definitely no expert when it comes to these relationships, but I think it's an important conversation to have and I wanted to share a few little tips I think (in my own experience) are really important for establishing and maintaining them.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsukaGZnrU1ckrNAlvrBcqRzCDM2JIFDmlMi8YfUmWeg0zdpJ5G1PqRn1SyzcrjPUbzqIrkHHbGhIXpZ0Og-F-feCEIcOZK9lDu-yubi6GbppOVx7KRrf3t4m-SAIvJhN9sbEACbCn62zr/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsukaGZnrU1ckrNAlvrBcqRzCDM2JIFDmlMi8YfUmWeg0zdpJ5G1PqRn1SyzcrjPUbzqIrkHHbGhIXpZ0Og-F-feCEIcOZK9lDu-yubi6GbppOVx7KRrf3t4m-SAIvJhN9sbEACbCn62zr/s640/Picture1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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1. Making deposits before taking withdrawals</div>
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Oh goodness is this important! As a parent, I don't want the first thing out of my teacher's mouth to be something negative about my kids. Trust me...I know they can be a handful, but <i>ohmiword</i>...hearing the bad before the good would sure make me wonder if they see anything good about my child at all. Every parent's wish is for a teacher to love their child and see the good in them {or maybe that's just my wish??!!}. I always try to keep that in mind. Every student is someone's child. </div>
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Every year we have our sweet little stinkers. We really want to nip their not-so-desireable behavior in the bud before it gets out of control and our first line of defense is to pull clips/call parents/send home notes, etc. I'm not saying any of that is wrong, but if that's the first conversation our parents have with us, we're probably less likely to bond. That could make for some really awkward and tense conferences in the future and it could put our parents on the defense if other situations arise throughout the year. Until you're able to have positive communication with your parents, try and find the best in every student and focus on that. Make a deposit before taking a withdrawal.</div>
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Here are some tips:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gilwe6Q7NC3XlAuQ_4mS8f0akFYYXEuIr9fT_SRi93b7XL_ZVUKTAzmpCoXhqX7c-9ruM9O5zafK2MJnVU9sb2JDgztVUd11sWb_7yqVF2KadMyMzzLdREMgxDcOgNsaTTvBku-IoPpX/s1600/Picture2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gilwe6Q7NC3XlAuQ_4mS8f0akFYYXEuIr9fT_SRi93b7XL_ZVUKTAzmpCoXhqX7c-9ruM9O5zafK2MJnVU9sb2JDgztVUd11sWb_7yqVF2KadMyMzzLdREMgxDcOgNsaTTvBku-IoPpX/s640/Picture2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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-Make a positive phone call home to each of your parents/guardians the first few weeks of school. This establishes a good connection with your parents and starts the year off on the right foot. Don't email. CALL. Call a few different parents each day so that you aren't trying to fit it all into one afternoon. If you're worried about getting "stuck" on the phone in a long conversation, preface the conversation with, "<i>I know you're busy and I don't want to keep you, but I just had to call you and tell you how much I love having Susie in my class! She is always so happy and I love the way she takes the initiative to help without being asked. This is going to be a great year! I just wanted to let you know!!" </i></div>
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-In addition to a phone call, send home a handwritten "thank you" card to each of your parents the first few weeks of school. I've done this for years and always have parents tell me how much they loved the gesture. My thank you cards read something like this....</div>
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<i>"Dear Mr. & Mrs. Carroll, </i></div>
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<i>Thank you so much for trusting me with Landon. He is such a sweet boy with so much potential and I can tell this is going to be a great year. I am so excited to watch him grow this year. He is so kind to others and has such neat handwriting. He loves to participate in our group discussions, too! Thank you so much for giving him such a great foundation and preparing him for our year together. I'm looking forward to partnering with you this year and if you ever have any questions, concerns, or suggestions, please contact me at (123)555-5555. This is going to be a wonderful year!</i></div>
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<i>Sincerely, me"</i></div>
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I always try to include something specific about their child in the note (<i>handwriting, participation, etc.</i>).</div>
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- Keep a "behavior sheet" for every student in your class. At the beginning of the year, organize these into their portfolios. Carry around a clipboard with blank labels. When you notice something great about your kids, jot it down on a label and stick it on their "behavior sheet". These behaviors could be ANYTHING...works well with others, helps without being asked, very attentive, always positive, etc. Notice the good and jot it down. When you want to make a positive phone call home or send home a quick little "happy note", you'll have specific examples of things to include in your conversation :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEdhNc8LUDc4PUOcoc6GGjRR6DFNJAKOWbI_9jVpClLQylme69-jifriDfx7bY1hy0MU6HJirzAql1SFyl0gsGZRQbYPeXDPCXttIQIr0_BeEc1mo7Cxz3ILWfA00TJZc1Kv2y6urf5XRy/s1600/Picture3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEdhNc8LUDc4PUOcoc6GGjRR6DFNJAKOWbI_9jVpClLQylme69-jifriDfx7bY1hy0MU6HJirzAql1SFyl0gsGZRQbYPeXDPCXttIQIr0_BeEc1mo7Cxz3ILWfA00TJZc1Kv2y6urf5XRy/s640/Picture3.png" width="554" /></a></div>
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2. Be Accessible</div>
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An "open door policy" can mean a lot of different things depending on where you teach. As teachers we definitely want to establish boundaries. It can be distracting for our kids when there are too many visitors and it can definitely throw off a routine and cause interruptions in our instructional time. Make sure those boundaries are set, but also make sure that parents know they are welcome. If your school doesn't allow parents in the classroom, this might manifest itself by way of phone calls and conferences. I personally give parents my cell phone and tell them "if you can trust me with your child for 10 months, I can trust you with my phone number. I may not get back to you right away if I'm spending time with my family, but if it's an emergency I will contact you as soon as possible." This sets boundaries in a nice way, but also lets them know I'm there for them if they need me. Of course, this doesn't work for everyone, but it's something I'm comfortable with and it works for me. And I always want my parents to know that they can contact me about anything...if they're unsure about something, have a question, are upset, worried, etc. Whatever it is, I want them to know they can contact me about it. I personally prefer phone calls because tone can't be read through an email and so many things can get misconstrued and taken out of context. HOWEVER, I also know that email is important for documentation purposes. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzNE4pmUkOHX8G8LO-QDvHz4ML4Gvfs7qR0xMzxPjR8n2XrDOH854hhPGx59kDe5tEfd2XfL0Prv2zO6fXao9itp33SBoPGjpVdZfa2P5d8a29dC4Phj_0BEmIvW4cdPScEIFC6cwTvWl/s1600/Picture4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzNE4pmUkOHX8G8LO-QDvHz4ML4Gvfs7qR0xMzxPjR8n2XrDOH854hhPGx59kDe5tEfd2XfL0Prv2zO6fXao9itp33SBoPGjpVdZfa2P5d8a29dC4Phj_0BEmIvW4cdPScEIFC6cwTvWl/s640/Picture4.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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3. Be Upfront</div>
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Don't be scared to talk about the hard stuff. You're not doing anyone any favors by tiptoeing around the hard to have conversations. As always be professional and kind, but by all means, be upfront. Parents need to know if you have concerns and you need to tell them exactly what your concerns could mean for the future. They most certainly don't want to be blindsided by anything. If your sweetie is bullying his friends, let your parents know what you see so they aren't in shock when he is sent to the principal for something really serious. If your sweet baby is struggling in various academic areas and isn't on track to be promoted to the next grade level, let your parents know before the last day of school. Nobody likes to be surprised!! </div>
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4. Communicate, Communicate, Communicate!!!</div>
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I don't think I can stress this one enough! I've always had great relationships with my parents, but there have been a couple of times when parents have been upset with me (happens to us all!) due to a misunderstanding or miscommunication. Parents are the best advocates for their kids and I always encourage them to do just that...advocate for your babies!!! Heck...I'll advocate for mine because I know no one else will. All that to be said, the better the communication, the less you'll have to worry about anyone misunderstanding. Here are some things I've found that really help keep parents in the loop.</div>
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- Parent/Teacher Conferences - I'm not talking about the conferences you're required to have 3-4 times a year. I'm talking about the conferences that are needed to discuss pressing issues....behavior, academic concerns, bullying, etc. Be proactive and set-up conferences when you feel there's a need. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDqacOAO-ocJQmxr1cx6wHHifmYCz9DBFLNxsCsPEiU_hiO0x_OftWWv51Q9bn-gInbMg7LqBIWxgc4W9Jy5yM_hoY0PtAQLf07TRCAl-FTp4qSNDHTDY2eDk0yzat7LeLl5W6qEWt0Qtg/s1600/Picture8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDqacOAO-ocJQmxr1cx6wHHifmYCz9DBFLNxsCsPEiU_hiO0x_OftWWv51Q9bn-gInbMg7LqBIWxgc4W9Jy5yM_hoY0PtAQLf07TRCAl-FTp4qSNDHTDY2eDk0yzat7LeLl5W6qEWt0Qtg/s640/Picture8.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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- Weekly Newsletters - Let's be real. Our students aren't always forthcoming about what's going on in their classrooms. I know when I pick up my boys at the end of the day the first question I ask is always, "how was your day?!?!" or "what did you do today??!!" The answers are always "fine" and "nothing", LOL!!! But it's SO true!!! Being a parent myself, I always want to know what my kids are doing when they're not with me. What are they learning? What can I do at home to help them be more successful in the classroom? Are there any special events/birthdays/activities coming up? A weekly newsletter keeps them in the loop and aware of what's going on. I email my newsletter to my parents and include a section for "What We Learned This Week", "What We're Learning Next Week", "Upcoming Events/Birthdays/Activities", "Important Reminders", and "Kids Say the Darndest Things". </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGvx-1WWPDnhki-Pf9z0SLuScnxjtUjKtd-uhyoRFedvZ3CBholq4PdUyUkOud_kGMiuaeHaQgw1K43oiB4TJC52QBiHNZwdisNUGZIMvIczhVebKqVtJn9wMGJF0p4DvdMbjmUrFiSFXE/s1600/Picture9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGvx-1WWPDnhki-Pf9z0SLuScnxjtUjKtd-uhyoRFedvZ3CBholq4PdUyUkOud_kGMiuaeHaQgw1K43oiB4TJC52QBiHNZwdisNUGZIMvIczhVebKqVtJn9wMGJF0p4DvdMbjmUrFiSFXE/s640/Picture9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.simplycircle.com/">-Simply Circle</a> - This is an EXCELLENT platform for communicating with parents!!!! If you're not familiar with S<a href="http://www.simplycircle.com/">imply Circle,</a> you must check it out!!!! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB8di1fMw53-axb9TZOlTsJA3YTWilAAwX_rmUy7-WiDe9TqwyEJd4LOd-fMZfMqY9ebW2qvDETCjHf7r9f6dBI-ijPdIDrHbyhUQwS4m-Ly1g-5nBf1a9_TUehK93b2IoC8oZo5rbxH0r/s1600/Picture6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB8di1fMw53-axb9TZOlTsJA3YTWilAAwX_rmUy7-WiDe9TqwyEJd4LOd-fMZfMqY9ebW2qvDETCjHf7r9f6dBI-ijPdIDrHbyhUQwS4m-Ly1g-5nBf1a9_TUehK93b2IoC8oZo5rbxH0r/s640/Picture6.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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5. Love Their Kids</div>
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If you do nothing else, LOVE their kids. Even the babies that are hard to love. Love them. Be kind to them. SMILE at them. Praise them. Compliment them. Hug them. Make them laugh. Listen to them. Love them, love them, and then LOVE THEM SOME MORE. When you love them, they love you and in turn, so do their parents. I have LOVED my boys' teachers to pieces because I know they've loved my boys. I hear what my boys say about them. I hear how my boys feel about the way they're treated. They have LOVED their teachers and because of that, I have loved them, too. </div>
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If you can and if you feel comfortable, here's a tip...</div>
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-Spend time getting to know your kids OUTSIDE of the classroom. Attend dance recitals, baseball games, church events, etc. You can't attend every single event for every single child, but try to attend at least one. Send home a little survey or questionnaire at the beginning of the year asking your parents for a schedule of their child's extracurricular activities/events. Just an extra little something to show you're invested in WHO they are...not just who they are in the classroom. And ohmiword, the look on your kid's faces when they see you at THEIR event?!?! Priceless!!!!</div>
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And just remember that sometimes, no matter how much you communicate...how much you praise...how much you LOVE their child...some parents might not see eye to eye with you and/or your teaching philosophy. Sometimes they want what you can't give. Sometimes they don't want what you're giving. But as long as you have their child's best interest at heart....and as long as you are doing everything you can to give their child every opportunity possible...that has to be enough :) </div>
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Just remember to be positive and professional in every situation and take every experience as a learning opportunity.</div>
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What are some things you do to establish and maintain parent/teacher relationships?! I'd love to hear more!!!</div>
Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-70133583172624234952016-08-16T15:09:00.001-07:002016-08-18T09:47:16.324-07:00Social Studies & Such<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey y'all! Is everybody surviving the back to school rush? My boys know who their teachers are and we're meeting them tomorrow night so they're all kinds of excited! (ME TOO!!!!)</div>
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Lots of things have been happening behind the scenes here that have been keeping me unexpectedly busy (that's life, right?!), but I wanted to pop-in real quick to tell you a little bit about my newest resources for my K & 1st teachers. </div>
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<a href="https://scontent-dft4-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/14064037_10209366341292280_5644009505885708227_n.jpg?oh=ff4fbd7a4e2cc640d837a6bdcb05bbf8&oe=584A42FA" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://scontent-dft4-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/14064037_10209366341292280_5644009505885708227_n.jpg?oh=ff4fbd7a4e2cc640d837a6bdcb05bbf8&oe=584A42FA" width="640" /></a></div>
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After we released several months worth of Science plans in the Spring, we received lots of emails asking if we were planning on creating a similar Social Studies resource filled with detailed lesson plans and cross curricular suggestions and ideas. I loved that idea and quickly got to work laying out an outline for the school year. I went to our state standards (<i>in Texas we use TEKS</i>) and worked on aligning those standards with the national social studies standards for K-1. Many of the standards for K-1 overlap in certain areas, but I thought it was important to make sure that these resources were separate to target specific grade level objectives. So unlike The Science Of resources that are a K-1 combo, these social studies resources for K-1 are separate</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgtRnSNXl88MT-1esJs4cdahuPgI9g7_C951v9uC3JBerwEfGsQr4-ov9lHXJ2qNW1hjfwzniUIcZNQIbIjxDkyrM97grMteSkKJ6miwNrlS9XS5ejkscF2EYEx2sBIaohMhTXtHR6jloQ/s1600/SimplySS1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgtRnSNXl88MT-1esJs4cdahuPgI9g7_C951v9uC3JBerwEfGsQr4-ov9lHXJ2qNW1hjfwzniUIcZNQIbIjxDkyrM97grMteSkKJ6miwNrlS9XS5ejkscF2EYEx2sBIaohMhTXtHR6jloQ/s640/SimplySS1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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So for those of you that have been emailing asking if social studies is ready, well now it is! The first unit anyway :) Sorry for the delay and thank you for your patience and understanding!!!</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Simply-Social-Studies-First-Grade-Unit-1-Good-Citizenship-2732718">Simply Social Studies</a> is similar to <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-August-2703922">The Science Of.</a>.. in regards to the detailed lesson plans, book suggestions, cross-curricular connections, vocabulary cards, craftivities, and anchor chart ideas. And just like The Science Of..., you can use as much or as little of each lesson as best fits the needs of your class!!!</div>
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<a href="https://scontent-dft4-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-0/p206x206/14045659_10209366340612263_8616568499538938089_n.jpg?oh=dcca71e511a4905de9829ba029d35472&oe=58501C34" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://scontent-dft4-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-0/p206x206/14045659_10209366340612263_8616568499538938089_n.jpg?oh=dcca71e511a4905de9829ba029d35472&oe=58501C34" width="480" /></a></div>
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The first unit of <i>Simply Social Studies</i> is all about citizenship. The first unit of <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Simply-Social-Studies-Kindergarten-Unit-1-Being-a-Good-Citizen-2732697">Kindergarten Social Studies</a> focuses on being a good citizen while the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Simply-Social-Studies-First-Grade-Unit-1-Good-Citizenship-2732718">First Grade Unit</a> dives deeper into the concept of good citizenship. Both the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Simply-Social-Studies-Kindergarten-Unit-1-Being-a-Good-Citizen-2732697">Kindergarten</a> and <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Simply-Social-Studies-First-Grade-Unit-1-Good-Citizenship-2732718">First Grade Unit 1</a> resources include vocabulary cards and discussion questions for each lesson. I like to keep my vocabulary cards on a ring so that I can carry them with me and use them during transitions and whatnot.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPUTEGLv2ODc7ODP4qtUIpEaNfYDVdl_8PXyhSAXorE0Dm6GqbhUIyZy28jwKzD7opoOZLLsvg0mSjskyxFEXeK0I3xu3DRqnuuuHArguaqLCBv6nupI8ZgelG38KuFenuSKc5GoCRlCLx/s1600/SimplySS2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPUTEGLv2ODc7ODP4qtUIpEaNfYDVdl_8PXyhSAXorE0Dm6GqbhUIyZy28jwKzD7opoOZLLsvg0mSjskyxFEXeK0I3xu3DRqnuuuHArguaqLCBv6nupI8ZgelG38KuFenuSKc5GoCRlCLx/s640/SimplySS2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Detailed lesson plans include objectives, vocabulary, ELA & Math extensions, as well as a "materials needed" list for quick reference...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKBFnKILJTP96VMvg9Hj4zxmMaCM-tB6Ht6IYQD4YWU3VT13lnd5CPIIYde2GJSxHrX1iKol07RsswkuL34kHUIlVrjUsM0KO9OUa-phmhmztdBNBOYh5-D9ERqXCeLZNBwmqmeID2rGN0/s1600/SimplySS4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKBFnKILJTP96VMvg9Hj4zxmMaCM-tB6Ht6IYQD4YWU3VT13lnd5CPIIYde2GJSxHrX1iKol07RsswkuL34kHUIlVrjUsM0KO9OUa-phmhmztdBNBOYh5-D9ERqXCeLZNBwmqmeID2rGN0/s640/SimplySS4.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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...and each lesson also includes an optional review/assessment printable that can be completed in a whole group/small group or independent setting.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhDf1DbES1aqS5WZBmdffsyTbPFTl1h3wMQ1RhFmu5ENCooxV0VkbMN2yRH9c0B3FabIIhWUchLFDNFsuWJ6fLb0G9mELvhW5Kw0rS4Zu_merXhEg7NBrc81M2tYictSoPEp5kO05cuZq/s1600/SimplySS5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhDf1DbES1aqS5WZBmdffsyTbPFTl1h3wMQ1RhFmu5ENCooxV0VkbMN2yRH9c0B3FabIIhWUchLFDNFsuWJ6fLb0G9mELvhW5Kw0rS4Zu_merXhEg7NBrc81M2tYictSoPEp5kO05cuZq/s640/SimplySS5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Just like in <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-of-August-2703922">The Science Of</a> resources, book suggestions are also included for each lesson in the unit as well as anchor chart suggestions and accompanying craftivities. While book suggestions are included, they are by no means necessary for the success of the lesson. That to be said, I do feel strongly about including read alouds in your lessons (<i>whatever books you choose!!!</i>) to help your kids make deeper connections and build a more authentic understanding of the content. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXazY058G1uRvebSYDPERJPSA_4WfY9x_JWJLTQrl8emTe_jvb31BtP7pPCYVMyUrDo5kss0Kj163j06s-wvwuP1iaIl3aX0TyNkoIe_eqV-ER6ctkk46CIxGmoQOsRmlIyB3esAg94yz6/s1600/SimplySS6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXazY058G1uRvebSYDPERJPSA_4WfY9x_JWJLTQrl8emTe_jvb31BtP7pPCYVMyUrDo5kss0Kj163j06s-wvwuP1iaIl3aX0TyNkoIe_eqV-ER6ctkk46CIxGmoQOsRmlIyB3esAg94yz6/s640/SimplySS6.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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And as usual, cross curricular activities and suggestions for further skill & concept implementation.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpmuDMXyAV7mepbQMSFNq9dXid6_u8UljPV3DULM0QTZMIbwrT6E2wtiTh3-I3B00xkHfX0Y8PSJMgKcjJVJ6NABkVcJp_9nbeccFqQpv34auKlBBs6F1mRekEYNfG4NqdLS0whNpxhj0z/s1600/SimplySS7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpmuDMXyAV7mepbQMSFNq9dXid6_u8UljPV3DULM0QTZMIbwrT6E2wtiTh3-I3B00xkHfX0Y8PSJMgKcjJVJ6NABkVcJp_9nbeccFqQpv34auKlBBs6F1mRekEYNfG4NqdLS0whNpxhj0z/s640/SimplySS7.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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As the year progresses, more Simply Social Studies units will be added...as well as four mini-units!!!...so be on the lookout for those. </div>
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Here's what that will look like...</div>
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<b>Kindergarten (to be added)...</b></div>
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<b>Unit 2: </b> Alike & Different</div>
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<b>Unit 3</b>: Community Helpers</div>
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<b>Unit 4</b>: Basic Needs & Going to Work</div>
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<b>Unit 5:</b> On the Map</div>
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<b>Unit 6:</b> Where We Live</div>
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<b>Unit 7</b>: Technology & How We Live</div>
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<b>First Grade (to be added)...</b></div>
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<b>Unit 2:</b> Families & Communities</div>
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<b>Unit 3:</b> Basic Needs, Wants, & Family Provisions</div>
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<b>Unit 4</b>: On the Map</div>
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<b>Unit 5:</b> Where We Live</div>
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<b>Unit 6</b>: Inventors & Inventions</div>
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<b>Unit 7</b>: Basic Economics</div>
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<b>Unit 8</b>: Technology at Home & Work</div>
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<b>Mini-Units for K&1 (to be added)</b></div>
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<b>Mini-Unit 1</b>: Choosing a Leader (Elections & Voting)</div>
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<b>Mini-Unit 2</b>: Thanksgiving History, Customs, & Traditions</div>
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<b>Mini-Unit 3</b>: Holidays Around the World</div>
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<b>Mini-Unit 4: </b> Celebrating America</div>
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And unfortunately, I don't have completion dates available NOR do I have plans for a growing bundle! As I've learned over the last few years, life is just TOO unpredictable and I would hate not to be able to fulfill a commitment on time!!! </div>
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Have a FABULOUS day!</div>
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Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-71885271380914908232016-08-09T07:49:00.002-07:002016-08-09T07:49:31.832-07:00Meet the Teacher Freebies!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well...it's about that time. Time to go back to school. Do I hear a resonating sigh?? Or are you ready for routine and structure?! Me personally...I need routine! </div>
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At any rate, with the approach of a new year also comes the anticipation of Meet the Teacher night. I absolutely LOVE Meet the Teacher! I love meeting my kids and their families. I love seeing my students around their parents. I mean seriously. The kids I'm always nervous about at the end of the night are typically my most well behaved kids! They're just really comfortable around their parents :) And that's perfectly fine with me! </div>
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With the new school year right around the corner, I thought it would by a great time to talk a little about one of my favorite nights of the year. I'm no expert and I'm sure there are a million and one different amazing ideas out there for running a smooth and successful Meet the Teacher night, but I'd like to share with you a few tips and tricks that worked well for me when I was in the classroom.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXF5QlnTdhzTho31rvnuuhSic-IsBVB7kUNHmB0p1zbemDBd-GhMzbGqQsUfa-F_suyS43sfLgR6iY_r8g22oU0FPGiPgAvMUtOo1oBCb70Wgp1y6ADTKRyr35jDRmHoe90ITzU2Fr8BL7/s1600/Picture17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXF5QlnTdhzTho31rvnuuhSic-IsBVB7kUNHmB0p1zbemDBd-GhMzbGqQsUfa-F_suyS43sfLgR6iY_r8g22oU0FPGiPgAvMUtOo1oBCb70Wgp1y6ADTKRyr35jDRmHoe90ITzU2Fr8BL7/s640/Picture17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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When the kids walk in on Meet the Teacher night, their desks/tables are prepped and ready for their arrival. Desks/tables are labeled with names. My supply boxes are set out and labeled. My transportation chart is up. And I have a huge smile on my face :) </div>
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Lets talk about what's on the desks first.<br />
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A Meet the Teacher Checklist<br />
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A "Welcome to First Grade" Booklet including:<br />
- Meet Your Teacher handout<br />
- First Grade Expectations handout<br />
- Class schedule<br />
-What is My Child Learning in First Grade? handout<br />
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A Student information sheet<br />
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A 9x12 tabbed envelope filled with paperwork (from the school) & a "Getting to Know You" handout from me<br />
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Name card for transportation pocket chart<br />
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Ready Confetti package and poem<br />
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This checklist sits on top of everything else on the desk. I tell my kids to find their desks when they walk in the room. Of course, they have to search for their name and they're shy for all of about 5 seconds before they start whipping around the desks to see where they'll be sitting. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuoxeH2wWvaFwbur4N3FueSCFxVNIvUwqTrxWWrQ0YH_zLmIjt-qvkclGPnJffXlhAHdcbNpImCBy9h9hDJxxu3XL0Rqraiva8Hj6Vuk2gMvnroHbf-9KjrF7bm1ur977uvtybPsCqYjrr/s1600/Picture24.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuoxeH2wWvaFwbur4N3FueSCFxVNIvUwqTrxWWrQ0YH_zLmIjt-qvkclGPnJffXlhAHdcbNpImCBy9h9hDJxxu3XL0Rqraiva8Hj6Vuk2gMvnroHbf-9KjrF7bm1ur977uvtybPsCqYjrr/s640/Picture24.png" width="554" /></a></div>
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This checklist tells my parents exactly what I want them & their kids to do while they're in the room. I love having a checklist for them to complete because it takes the pressure off me and frees me up to walk around the room and greet my kids & families as they walk in. I get a lot of questions too so it's good to have them all working on things while I'm answering those questions.<br />
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The checklist...as mentioned before...sits on top of a 9x12 envelope filled with paperwork (from the school) and a <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuaFpjRnlHZnNnU0k/view?usp=sharing">Welcome to First Grade! booklet </a>I compile for the parents to read through (either at home or in the classroom). This is what's included in that booklet...<br />
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuaFpjRnlHZnNnU0k/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3rAPT5kRbpVRI28oQAqYWawWweAjIuXBwJ1EYXmyZtdDmOvK_Qu3jHbur48gnXPu8NvJSHpvkNtwohbIDo5D4lS4XDnHOYwESqSMepvnAs8lpcC03v-ZYmocC2HtlHtV3Y1j1nYRDdofo/s640/Picture25.png" width="544" /></a></div>
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I like for the first page in that booklet to be a little "all about me" handout just to let them know a little bit about who I am. I think it's a great way to make an immediate connection with your kids and they love getting to know more about their teacher.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdJS0CrgniFe6JQqhQxXjB7-b8y8xkmD25fTPvsHASAyHCjNrZNuamkm7lUzZhqGWDJWW8SoyKDoQZpKMreFWL_Pp07aexBimbCILpq_kb-VA46S4DzrQ8LevyTHO6kG36sHTj5e6Sm_dc/s1600/Picture26.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdJS0CrgniFe6JQqhQxXjB7-b8y8xkmD25fTPvsHASAyHCjNrZNuamkm7lUzZhqGWDJWW8SoyKDoQZpKMreFWL_Pp07aexBimbCILpq_kb-VA46S4DzrQ8LevyTHO6kG36sHTj5e6Sm_dc/s640/Picture26.png" width="486" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuaFpjRnlHZnNnU0k/view?usp=sharing">This student information sheet </a>also sits on top of the 9x12 envelope. I want my parents to fill this out before heading home so that I have all this information on hand come the first day of school. I have a student information binder I keep next to my computer. Each child in the room has his/her own tab. I file these information sheets inside that student binder (along with many other things!!!)<br />
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuaFpjRnlHZnNnU0k/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrFrzsBEOvlMWEeh1duYC7tA-Z4fD0MU7IwSVVZC14rxtvoWCKqaPfUKtOAEQcgBzOau-wGNfjcWKkFamgMqEOq_ZRER0Vx35AfKjuoD4wBgtjhBujDcEIHNlBKAbMDI1QCYapmNlQ7uIq/s640/Picture27.png" width="486" /></a></div>
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Next up on the checklist....transportation. This is what I consider to be the single most important piece of information you need to get from your kids before they leave that night. My biggest first day...uh, first week...fear is losing a child due to transportation confusion. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-8y0u7nWnWg7CH-Uo2cRklubIXIzplhQAaKkjWQHTl2PUmU1I5NkSyy4Fp10rxyJ1ZJDMwHGVLBPeHjUI1kivsCQp9SziEKjM1dxXsTUwNVbNxRJsT_1a1TSufdalya-1hXFhhOSvLwEb/s1600/Picture18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-8y0u7nWnWg7CH-Uo2cRklubIXIzplhQAaKkjWQHTl2PUmU1I5NkSyy4Fp10rxyJ1ZJDMwHGVLBPeHjUI1kivsCQp9SziEKjM1dxXsTUwNVbNxRJsT_1a1TSufdalya-1hXFhhOSvLwEb/s640/Picture18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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When I have kids that don't show up, I make sure to call home before the first day so that I can have their transportation information when I start the day. Sometimes things are so chaotic and busy on that first day that I'm afraid I'll forget to ask my parents how their kids are getting home. A phone call home really helps to put my mind at ease. I like keeping the transportation arrangements on a pocket chart because it helps me...and the kids..to "see" exactly how everyone is getting home at the end of the day. It's a great visual reminder for my kids..especially those that are really anxious about how they'll be getting home at the end of the day.</div>
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In addition to having a visual of the transportation arrangements, I also have my parents complete a school issued transportation sheet before leaving that night as well. This sheet requires them to indicate transportation arrangements for the first day, first week, and remainder of the year. I make copies of this sheet and keep one in my student information binder and then the original stays in the office.</div>
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Moving onto supplies...</div>
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I've organized supplies in a million different ways through the years, but the most efficient way I've found is having your kids/parents sort for you the night of Meet the Teacher. This is a no-fuss, low-prep way for you to get organized and goodness knows that in the chaos and craziness of prepping for Meet the Teacher, you need as much no-fuss/low prep as you can get ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxL6Q1Tji_A-k4y4wqiyHJ5jUDM-K8cG-frno4td852V1IuGVJooxvtsPMubj-zR1O21BWGHmYYUJDThU4MFYbcXe9VjFRP1hLmxrmYGXhdsDaG_fz0GbNqCYTSoEGcSE6ZNrZJ1tB1Vtl/s1600/Picture20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxL6Q1Tji_A-k4y4wqiyHJ5jUDM-K8cG-frno4td852V1IuGVJooxvtsPMubj-zR1O21BWGHmYYUJDThU4MFYbcXe9VjFRP1hLmxrmYGXhdsDaG_fz0GbNqCYTSoEGcSE6ZNrZJ1tB1Vtl/s640/Picture20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Most kids will either be bringing their supplies or having their supply packs delivered to the classroom that night. I remember sitting in my classroom for about 2 hours AFTER Meet the Teacher every year for the first 7 years, I swear. I would be going through each of my kids' supplies and sorting them into our community supply bins. It took FOREVER. Then a smart friend suggested the kids do it. GENIUS. If you don't do this already and you're looking for an easier way to manage supplies, I would definitely suggest trying this! Because I have community supplies in my classroom, this arrangement works beautifully. At the end of the night all I have to do is take the boxes and transfer the supplies into the tubs on my supply shelf. I do have my kids keep a few supplies in their desks (as mentioned on the checklist) for the first day, but everything else gets put on the supply shelf. I know some teachers like to label and sort through the supplies with their kids on the first day to just make sure all of their kids brought them, but I prefer for them to be completely sorted because the first week of school is crazy enough :) I want to focus my time & energy into other things that are really important!</div>
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I strongly believe in making deposits before you can take withdrawls, so I want to start the year off on the right foot with my parents and let them know I'm invested in their child. We're a team!! </div>
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Set out a stack of envelopes and ask your parents to fill them out with their name and address. Hold on to the envelopes and spend the first couple weeks of school getting to know their child....take notes on specific details about the child (Bobby is a very detailed artist....Susie is so kind and compassionate...a real friend to everyone,etc.) Write a handwritten note home to parents including some of these specific details and tell parents how much you enjoy their child and how you're looking forward to watching him/her grow throughout the year. BUILD THOSE RELATIONSHIPS!! </div>
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A handwritten letter is SO much more personal than an email or a text. I've had parents in the past tell me that receiving their note was a *highlight* of the year for them...parents LOVE hearing that their teachers see the good in their child like they do :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnrD7U3LKyQh7yaIus1En7ffBsZ8pq5xSs8wIzNjOpD2qd9EJkNmRYnAdENMvopN7ZQcHzZR4Z9-yXJzK6S66EyAYAYTHa50bVCOaTsqKfx8IQv_GIv5idVR2pptK4qMtPPyJ_aMcV-aIC/s1600/Picture19.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnrD7U3LKyQh7yaIus1En7ffBsZ8pq5xSs8wIzNjOpD2qd9EJkNmRYnAdENMvopN7ZQcHzZR4Z9-yXJzK6S66EyAYAYTHa50bVCOaTsqKfx8IQv_GIv5idVR2pptK4qMtPPyJ_aMcV-aIC/s640/Picture19.png" width="540" /></a></div>
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Not only do parents like to hear great things about their kids, but they like to stay connected, too. I personally have no problem giving my parents my cell #. I like to be able to text them pictures of their kids while they're at school...especially on field trips the parents can't attend. But that's just me. Create a QR code with your info (cell #, email, etc.), print, and display during Meet the Teacher. Encourage your parents to scan the code so that they'll have all your contact info in their phones before they leave for the night. I love having all that info at my fingertips...just in case ;) Of course, if you're not into letting your parents have your info, Meet the Teacher night would be a great time to s<a href="https://www.remind.com/">tart your campaign for Remind</a> and encourage everyone to sign up before leaving.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtQ8RxapX8a7Ag_Ebyhv9ygF9jzBYOghBMpfBLNoAf-35pvMGQ8poBWAL9r9dxZiwBYFfpGmBs1wJETi8pPJpxP8qCqskUGdWMAmaVg3p3t_cGUa1QLBndgakdAWy8nelgIqV0_0uovA00/s1600/Picture21.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtQ8RxapX8a7Ag_Ebyhv9ygF9jzBYOghBMpfBLNoAf-35pvMGQ8poBWAL9r9dxZiwBYFfpGmBs1wJETi8pPJpxP8qCqskUGdWMAmaVg3p3t_cGUa1QLBndgakdAWy8nelgIqV0_0uovA00/s640/Picture21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I didn't have any personal pictures from my classroom saved, so I found a couple of my favorites to give you a visual of my explanation. If you have any wishes you'd like filled for the year...extra glue sticks, construction paper, craft supplies, etc., write them on a label and stick them to the teacher supply cutouts and display them for your parents to see. In the past I've used the "helping hands", popcorn pieces in a popcorn box (displayed on my white board), and fish in fish bowl. Same idea, different presentations. I kindly suggest that they might like looking at that display and if they find it in their hearts to fulfill any of those wishes, I will be FOREVER grateful :)</div>
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I collect the wishes that don't get taken and then type them up in the weekly newsletter.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPzrJUgKaLXKoXzDBvJq4wWmNVNNbhc5Up4exq927qDgBpukdPlB6EnqZc1qfnPXKUs2dciajTCcIAxNTYbfMAe_VgV3ZGXdCSwsFQlgnhtOPOicae_xFhO9gXxnpTlwQ9x9tyH0bhGXVd/s1600/Picture22.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPzrJUgKaLXKoXzDBvJq4wWmNVNNbhc5Up4exq927qDgBpukdPlB6EnqZc1qfnPXKUs2dciajTCcIAxNTYbfMAe_VgV3ZGXdCSwsFQlgnhtOPOicae_xFhO9gXxnpTlwQ9x9tyH0bhGXVd/s640/Picture22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://headoverheelsforteaching.blogspot.com/search/label/Open%20House">Helping Hands via Head Over Heels for Teacher (with a link to free wish list labels)</a></div>
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<a href="http://justreed-ashley.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2011-07-31T13:42:00-04:00">Wish Tree via Just Reed</a></div>
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The best part of my night is sending my kids home with their "<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWubXdqUGgxcnRHZnM/view?usp=sharing">Ready Confetti"</a>. Such a fun tradition and one the kids...and parents...talk about ALL year. For real! I'm so happy I have such smart friends because this is in no way my idea. </div>
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You can <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWubXdqUGgxcnRHZnM/view?usp=sharing">grab your Ready Confetti poem and tags (K-2) HERE</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWubXdqUGgxcnRHZnM/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl38bkJciUpfikzhSCNUofO3d-yfNIobmBYW5hrGaCcdrJIM6mtny301mIGAoGUo5YvBjv-53BPJPwNtl5e3vlnuW4CifMQQ6y-ZJq2266JXAiaJ_kb0MD2XZk557KKdyIvTj30Xj8lcWk/s640/Picture23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Speaking of Meet the Teacher, these are my favorite student gifts. Just print and hot glue the bouncy balls into the empty space :) You can get the balls at Hobby Lobby or Michael's! Easy peasy! I like to leave these in my kids' mailboxes and have them find their boxes and grab their gifts before heading home that night. Such fun!<br />
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You can download these..<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuRDhvdzVFX1BsUlU/view?usp=sharing">.FREE...HERE!</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC6aQmzqbOOdT8mClDH5t8h26k_wWXXhEp6DJj-TE1XFfdiOq1sNtg_yyGatfuzOcPWO2MtDptnRCUgbHTJsh411KaVc8g5DE2PcbJjXfBEFaamUillQH6V78-dqyWb1bcH9JOsEZORgxs/s1600/Slide5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC6aQmzqbOOdT8mClDH5t8h26k_wWXXhEp6DJj-TE1XFfdiOq1sNtg_yyGatfuzOcPWO2MtDptnRCUgbHTJsh411KaVc8g5DE2PcbJjXfBEFaamUillQH6V78-dqyWb1bcH9JOsEZORgxs/s640/Slide5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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While we're talking about Meet the Teacher, let's consider setting up your room in stations!!! I printed out these station signs to make the night easy to manage and free me up to answer any questions my parents might have. They're editable and you can grab them <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuRDhvdzVFX1BsUlU/view?usp=sharing">FREE HERE</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgus6XhOlJBGoK9_qV2-eqttKIiORwZVzJdDYvyuVGTVjSb5mJmHd8hyPFJPp1d92bzWsuA2EYKcH12e_F23O9pxeELNBanPiLJyzomd9rNQd6w0pTYlfyYJTFsIMZ0_RZl-pEme8Oq4ATv/s1600/Slide4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgus6XhOlJBGoK9_qV2-eqttKIiORwZVzJdDYvyuVGTVjSb5mJmHd8hyPFJPp1d92bzWsuA2EYKcH12e_F23O9pxeELNBanPiLJyzomd9rNQd6w0pTYlfyYJTFsIMZ0_RZl-pEme8Oq4ATv/s640/Slide4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Whew! I think that covers it!</div>
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If you have any questions or want to share any amazing ideas or simple "why didn't I think of that?!" management & organization ideas, I'd LOVE to hear 'em! </div>
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Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017952394211536997.post-6184418979196993542016-08-07T05:00:00.000-07:002016-08-07T05:00:31.192-07:00B2S Bash 2016 - Bash Basket #5<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello friends!!! I'm SO glad you stopped by today because you are in for a TREAT!!! </div>
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I'm teaming up with some of my most favorite blogger friends to bring you my most favorite back to school tradition...the 4th annual <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2016/08/back-to-school-bash-2016.html">BACK TO SCHOOL BASH</a>!!!!<br />
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<img height="640" src="https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13891802_10100220378322835_4039264723097774974_n.jpg?oh=2e27973b19d72736d249227399cc55c9&oe=581CED92" width="640" /></div>
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Get excited people!!!!</div>
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It's that time of the year again and we want to get you ready...and EXCITED...to go back to school, so all 24 of us bloggers are giving away bash baskets valued each at $100 (or more!!!)<br />
Now that's DEFINITELY something to get excited about, don't you think?!</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">HERE'S HOW IT WORKS:</span></b><br />
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You will have a couple of days to hop around to the participating blogs.<br />
When you hop to each new blog, enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter included in the post.<br />
Click on the "CLICK HERE TO HOP ON" button at the bottom of each post to hop to the next blog and enter the next giveaway.</div>
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24 blogs<br />
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24 HUGE giveaways<br />
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24 chances to win gift cards, classroom resources,wardrobes, and MORE!<br />
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Here's what's in my bash basket...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPAuDqaYErfZieiWG1cqa824TxZz2SuOarsJA8UujuOPr8ZpbmgKJ6VCgnZKiC0sYDE_pojOPi9akmylO2riEZmWZ57RTVxHv-0chcFeRkzQBokhhRWA3DOboYXP7aGVpbq7nCenjgulLG/s1600/BashBasket1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPAuDqaYErfZieiWG1cqa824TxZz2SuOarsJA8UujuOPr8ZpbmgKJ6VCgnZKiC0sYDE_pojOPi9akmylO2riEZmWZ57RTVxHv-0chcFeRkzQBokhhRWA3DOboYXP7aGVpbq7nCenjgulLG/s640/BashBasket1.png" width="610" /></a></div>
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That's right...a <span style="font-size: large;"><b>$100 eGift card </b></span>to <a href="http://www.lakeshorelearning.com/">Lakeshore Learning</a>!</div>
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I've always LOVED <a href="http://lakeshore./">Lakeshore.</a>..their games, resources, supplies, and well....EVERYTHING!</div>
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We know how challenging it can be to set-up a classroom at the beginning of the year and then try to stock it with <i>#allthethings</i>. This gift card was purchased with the hopes of helping you stock your classroom AND save you those precious back-to-school dollars that seem to disappear the second you walk through the door of the teacher store.</div>
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So what are you waiting for??!?!?</div>
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Enter using the Rafflecopter below! You have until the end of Tuesday!</div>
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="2ebedd3a3" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/2ebedd3a3/" id="rcwidget_18zrcfar" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
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Now, head on over to one of my favorite friends, <a href="http://vera./">Vera.</a>.aka: <a href="http://www.thetututeacher.com/">The Tutu Teacher</a> and read all about the AMAZING gift in her bash basket!!!!!</div>
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<a href="http://www.thetututeacher.com/"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfR-gyS4DuQUvnHEIbe8a3_IhOoId4i-qZWs6VgKcebMGMKf0huDdpVLmOdA49L0ARwiao_PGSBIz5vFft2qtCYm5fPyVgQ1ASfJ5SMjqSzt6Yp4zOIv-0bnyXLAyeZBxdHemE-FQz1M75/s400/2-hope+image.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Don't forget to check out <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thefirstgradeparade/">INSTAGRAM</a> on Wednesday for the GRAND PRIZE announcement and how to enter! You definitely won't want to miss out!!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1us3bfUrqR9oBxCPlW12h3wiu5N6ojhAaSxEO4r0YK7UVu_f9nvK677iTQU0JV6nqfvo53nHgOztwz1wD0k_vqVcLv68eUS2lX4wCqsJB0aTJtNp4zAXJGMUsV9Xw7TL8eUr67aOxT4zM/s200/Slide05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1us3bfUrqR9oBxCPlW12h3wiu5N6ojhAaSxEO4r0YK7UVu_f9nvK677iTQU0JV6nqfvo53nHgOztwz1wD0k_vqVcLv68eUS2lX4wCqsJB0aTJtNp4zAXJGMUsV9Xw7TL8eUr67aOxT4zM/s400/Slide05.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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GOOD LUCK!!!</div>
Cara Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04526401074898360396noreply@blogger.com47