tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40336656455566970382024-03-14T13:32:51.750-07:00Literacy Loves CompanyTammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.comBlogger90125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-34712569818562249022021-12-28T11:32:00.002-08:002021-12-28T12:15:02.068-08:00Popping Candy Paragraphs<p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEidWDvg2UqErFISLIEr9c0yZ_ViCxZJuOtYj-qDpWEO_FPRtxyaTtJei7FXm9rloI3WE6MRfdtG7wcmqQpKo359Gez7Vc30YDLgmy8boEq94qqrXXfxLIyBySwIURkT74Of_oXLrxw33GHow2hLsPfynM5Meuh7simYDDzPLvyrwPTtLDiLsCWml9CT=s1125" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1125" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEidWDvg2UqErFISLIEr9c0yZ_ViCxZJuOtYj-qDpWEO_FPRtxyaTtJei7FXm9rloI3WE6MRfdtG7wcmqQpKo359Gez7Vc30YDLgmy8boEq94qqrXXfxLIyBySwIURkT74Of_oXLrxw33GHow2hLsPfynM5Meuh7simYDDzPLvyrwPTtLDiLsCWml9CT=w640-h640" title="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing." width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks!</span><span style="font-size: 14.6667px;"> </span></h1></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Upping the engagement and increasing the fun is a must for the dreary months of January and February (and March, April, and most of May here in Oregon). Candy that pops and shocks is sure to be a winner and bring smiles to my kiddo’s faces!</span></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Popping-Rock-Paragraphs-Descriptive-Writing-7562854" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;" target="_blank"><img alt="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing." border="0" data-original-height="956" data-original-width="899" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEikFibKJsKnP6ADipwPGj9tyAFAr2aDYreljiKpcJesDJfblWVBQWvqWm8nC09WSLd6PbyN73amgc6I3c0NFGvFUOYvvEArScRfWt45ZTF1-vdRNBLGX_tFuM2x6Seq16_pN4Av4NR_5FTxeRm7Cuy8BmAFvS2PsdXg9AvU2dFiZDL4lKC_tsVh-KEC=w301-h320" title="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing." width="301" /> </a></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; white-space: pre-wrap;">I think I’ve only had Pop Rocks a couple of times in my life, not sure I’m a fan, but there’s something about the tingle and tickle on your tongue that makes Pop Rocks a hit with kids of all ages! Eating this candy is an experience I’m excited to share with my students and, since I AM a teacher, turning it into a descriptive writing lesson was a no brainer!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0Kqjpz11FrPi8bNHZtkuA2C1fHU6rkTCHLd-JJJXHtRZ42E7AMtDCjXNJBxNqW178GUe-y-b9L9dleRLt_9WU4BRmr7MneqkynICCz3oK80iEv2e3YCyyaC15TTDBolAD60trv3bQgRi77EPq_pATX7AGP9kzQLu5TRQVPFE3enuQ4vQftjCGfYlF=s1200" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing." border="0" data-original-height="1029" data-original-width="1200" height="343" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0Kqjpz11FrPi8bNHZtkuA2C1fHU6rkTCHLd-JJJXHtRZ42E7AMtDCjXNJBxNqW178GUe-y-b9L9dleRLt_9WU4BRmr7MneqkynICCz3oK80iEv2e3YCyyaC15TTDBolAD60trv3bQgRi77EPq_pATX7AGP9kzQLu5TRQVPFE3enuQ4vQftjCGfYlF=w400-h343" title="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing." width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I found the Pop Rocks at my local Dollar Tree. Much less expensive than ordering from Amazon, although I would have almost paid the extra $20 to not have to leave my house. I was only able to find one flavor, but I'm okay with that. All in all, I spent $10 for 30 packages of candy. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: x-small;">I'm writing this post BEFORE I actually teach the lesson because I wanted to share it in case others are looking for an engaging activity for January. I'll come back and revise this post after I've taught the lesson to share updates, photos, and revisions I'd make. Stay tuned for that! </span></span></p></blockquote><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Thinking through this lesson, I wanted to peak student interest and give them a mystery to solve. For my hook, I'm going to play the sounds of Pop Rocks and have students try to guess what the sound is. This is sure to get students asking questions and get their brains thinking. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I also want to make sure students understood what descriptive writing is and why it is important to learn how to do it well. The lesson starts with an anchor chart to focus students on that objective. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: x-small;">(Insert anchor chart photo here.)</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The first part of the lesson is focused on word choices, choosing million dollar words to replace those $10 words we use all the time. In order to facilitate this, I'm having students work in their groups to brainstorm synonyms for words they might use when writing about Pop Rocks. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I'm also planning on doing a "chalk talk" type activity. I'm going to place a large piece of butcher paper up on one of our classroom walls and students will be able to add their ideas, thus creating a large word bank for their writing. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Insert photo here.)</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Now comes the exciting part! Students will get a packet of Pop Rocks and their notes page. Students will spend time focusing on sensory details while tasting their candy. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Popping-Rock-Paragraphs-Descriptive-Writing-7562854" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing." border="0" data-original-height="952" data-original-width="899" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjSpWliYBbJ6djDBoVy3j54XMugmEK-m8CMU-L5zThsqBx7KqYzm6of7jQwKFcScp6UW6Taa5kp-6WQAcyhx-3KLLxiAUL32vmmMEugrpPkjoO1ChS4Z4uGC7UWdE-xAnFnACz6FBhmUaJUt7iSwWUUG2bi2-TvHKB8gl7kJ9Fte2yDNSHZ6YvKIorR=w604-h640" title="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing." width="604" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">During the second day, students will use their notes, the anchor charts, and the word bank to construct a descriptive paragraph about their experience. The notes page is perfect is a perfect tool to help students create a well written paragraph. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Crossing fingers that our school will remain in-person, but if we don't I am prepared!! I've also created a digital version of the student sheets and scoring rubric that can easily be assigned through Google Classroom. All I'll need to do is get the Pop Rocks to the kids and create a Jamboard for the word bank. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Popping-Rock-Paragraphs-Descriptive-Writing-7562854" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing." border="0" data-original-height="783" data-original-width="1191" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiww6bNWy1QDdfxB28xhl7o5FIqNoTFQRZ-vhJeRECQ67B7PqxBNl-V_03OtLkCCmKYkk6iFZhBGDXvdPNzrmTjx3YnCkusr-J51CNNP1qcUC9ovsfjDQ2J7UFMuAQmT96X6at9i-zmIzBpXx1Twy1kXV-R93bJ35j1ynm_2_XTZJZK2OCwXk2R0Cwi=w400-h263" title="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing." width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Popping-Rock-Paragraphs-Descriptive-Writing-7562854" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing." border="0" data-original-height="743" data-original-width="1152" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhADzwGKzONLSdhq_mIcRYYvYL2yj2bsurdaTHFGAKPs1v22eF5uwQte1TV25eConOjltSqsTpJKKx7J4Ep3KcaojPFPYMVA7sEUUl7yT5vn5m7PvA1qazOYZstsqom_KYGCiNZsqMCzV2cbuL89bv1Vf3lsf2fFukKDC6V_skCpjFDKWtFdTKqWodn=w400-h258" title="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing." width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">This year has been tough, so coming up with and teaching fun lessons for our students is so important. This writing activity is easy to implement and a big bang for your buck. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Popping-Rock-Paragraphs-Descriptive-Writing-7562854" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing. Literacy Loves Company" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgGQ-iPCW2jDvz_i-JgcTi4RJX_RsbB7vAAMHAEapvf4h1IWXZF7-oNWW4XTMFE0RzdFu2eQlavuPWN65G5nYG_4q3dIdSBCo8d3b3bSlO8-mZ5iHxDWhlH4Lcz4Ur3JHXnAmGsHrLio3K83mHl9wgV3v1DZG8SLCnUy3e7fq-b_2h6Q-lg4h0_XwvG=w400-h400" title="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing. Literacy Loves Company" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2021/12/popping-candy-paragraphs.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing. Literacy Loves Company" border="0" data-original-height="2249" data-original-width="1125" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEivCC7Z7DsapGil6Y_MkPv0PkcMAiOQPzzWQDNgV6GZ7Oxp7uPfrbqAYCtx-dGM0qFvSpcs7IlMMJwPZ9DmSa1i-pi3lSZcO0Wa-LeyaInDB_bU3OD85Wl-bpbuMZeL-b_oJCB-FvzzSuuivzrlurR0xlDy2JOcUZlXEWUdPzkqGMQ-HwPVH-Ymje8J=w320-h640" title="Sizzle and Fizzle… Pop Rocks Descriptive Writing. Literacy Loves Company" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Thank you for pinning me! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">If you try out this lesson, I'd love to hear how it goes for you!</span><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Stay strong, Friends! </span> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBS5qgmAWf_sKy5w_BN6ICYEJtjCy7xv1hLDswXQOjSaG5N7f4Gv-0-DU006SV8n15ve9N0SimCBs-hEY8JV0YPoHXFVBFpGJJsXz4XWDceNIgwdHMkPIRtM8Y5n_1LFd9r4rOylpw8dJ31ZeKnjbOm8pEaSV29gwUV8dwEKWzqMSIWyaxfXx1YJJ2=s224" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="121" data-original-width="224" height="121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBS5qgmAWf_sKy5w_BN6ICYEJtjCy7xv1hLDswXQOjSaG5N7f4Gv-0-DU006SV8n15ve9N0SimCBs-hEY8JV0YPoHXFVBFpGJJsXz4XWDceNIgwdHMkPIRtM8Y5n_1LFd9r4rOylpw8dJ31ZeKnjbOm8pEaSV29gwUV8dwEKWzqMSIWyaxfXx1YJJ2" width="224" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><p></p>Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-68347902041319942782019-04-14T10:15:00.000-07:002019-04-14T10:15:29.259-07:00How to W.I.N. in the Classroom: Launching Your W.I.N. 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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hGT0B_Te7lY/XLNlKy-JkTI/AAAAAAAAUGU/3JqWWfPtct4pQBka1_qczgmbxCH3vsxwgCLcBGAs/s1600/Launch.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="843" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hGT0B_Te7lY/XLNlKy-JkTI/AAAAAAAAUGU/3JqWWfPtct4pQBka1_qczgmbxCH3vsxwgCLcBGAs/s640/Launch.png" title="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " width="478" /></a></div>
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Welcome to the sixth and final post in my W.I.N. block series! I hope the first five have been helpful in getting you inspired and organized to start a W.I.N. block in your own classroom.<br />
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W.I.N. which stands for What I Need is a time during your class schedule that is set aside for the purpose of meeting individual student needs. During this time you are providing students with intervention, engagement, and/or enrichment activities and instruction based on each student's need.<br />
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In the previous five posts I explained and gave ideas for <a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/01/how-to-win-in-classroom-what-is-win.html" target="_blank">what W.I.N. time is</a>, <a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/01/how-to-win-in-classroom-organizing.html" target="_blank">organizing student groups</a>, <a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/01/how-to-win-in-classroom-station-ideas.html" target="_blank">planning for station activities</a>, <a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/02/how-to-win-in-classroom-managing.html" target="_blank">managing station and teacher materials</a>, and <a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/03/how-to-win-in-classroom-keeping-kids.html" target="_blank">keeping kids accountable</a> during their W.I.N. time. Today I am going to share with you some ideas and some insight into how I launched my W.I.N. block with my math class.<br />
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<u><b>BEFORE DAY 1</b></u><br />
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Before your launch day, make sure you have everything prepared:<br />
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<li>Student groups are set based on data (pretests, other assessments, observations, etc.)</li>
<li>Stations with appropriate activities are ready.</li>
<li>Your "Teacher Time" lessons are prepared.</li>
<li>Student folders are prepped and at the station they are assigned to the first day.</li>
<li>Student "Weekly W.I.N. Reports or Trackers" are printed and ready.</li>
<li>Your W.I.N. Block board is up and student groups and other information are posted.</li>
<li>Know what your signal will be to let students know W.I.N. time is over. I use a small chime. </li>
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<b><u>DAY 1</u></b><br />
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On the first day of W.I.N., I gathered my students around the W.I.N. board. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M7_sx-b5Ps4/XJzzRnqVu_I/AAAAAAAAUEY/LiDR-H-xeEwxE_6EkBdA2YxeGC_axoSGgCLcBGAs/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " border="0" data-original-height="787" data-original-width="1583" height="318" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M7_sx-b5Ps4/XJzzRnqVu_I/AAAAAAAAUEY/LiDR-H-xeEwxE_6EkBdA2YxeGC_axoSGgCLcBGAs/s640/Picture1.png" title="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " width="640" /></a></div>
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They were curious about the information and names on the board, so it was easy to keep their attention. I explained what W.I.N. time was and why we would be using a portion of our math time to participate in it. I have a diverse group of learners in my math class, so the idea of different activities and opportunities was exciting for them. My gifted learners were excited to be challenged in different ways and my struggling students knew that they would be practicing skills and concepts that would help them start to grasp the material we were working on. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vFQOvxEhJuc/XJzx6iNCKeI/AAAAAAAAUEI/0u9JjhkeMEsariGHpuSmX5i0aii3trHmACLcBGAs/s1600/WINTime2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " border="0" data-original-height="927" data-original-width="1200" height="247" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vFQOvxEhJuc/XJzx6iNCKeI/AAAAAAAAUEI/0u9JjhkeMEsariGHpuSmX5i0aii3trHmACLcBGAs/s320/WINTime2.png" title="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Both of these posters are available to download on the first post in this series. </td></tr>
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After I had explained what W.I.N. time was, I went over the expectations for their work and behavior. </div>
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On this first day, we did not actually do W.I.N. It was our practice day. After going over expectations, the students and I traveled from station to station as I explained each activity they would participate in. I have found that it is important to always locate each station in a specific location. Student are then able to easily know that when they are assigned to "Teacher Time" they meet on the carpet, or if they are working on "Targeted Practice" they always meet at the round table. The more consistent you can be, the more smooth the transition into W.I.N. time will be for you and your students. </div>
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It is important that students understand the plan for when they are at their station. </div>
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1. Students should <b>read the directions</b> for their activity and make sure everyone in the group is clear about what the expectation is. If you are using the Tracker, students should read and <b>know what the question is </b>that they will be answering at the end of their W.I.N. time. </div>
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2. Students should <b>begin working</b> on their task. This might be a game, a worksheet, a computer task, or other activity. </div>
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3. There should be a <b>plan for early finishers.</b> What can they do? I have a bin of math picture books, multiplication practice sheets, flash cards, etc. for students to grab if they finish. Make sure to explain this to students. It would be a good idea to <b>make a menu</b> of what students can do and hang it on your W.I.N. board. </div>
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4. What should students do if they have a question or get stuck and you, the teacher, isn't available to help? Students should rely on each other and work together to be problem solvers. They should not interrupt the "Teacher Time" station unless it is an emergency. </div>
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5. At the end of time, when the signal is given, students will <b>clean up</b> their station so that it is ready for the next group.</div>
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6. Students will <b>answer their station question</b> on their W.I.N. tracker and put it back in their folder. </div>
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7. All folder should be placed in the station bin (or if you want to collect them each day, explain to students where they should put their folders.)</div>
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8. <b>All station bins should be put away.</b> Make sure your students know where they should put the bins. </div>
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On this first day, we did a practice run. I explained to students that we were going to "pretend" to do W.I.N. so that we were prepared to start it the next day. I compared it to having fire drills... we practice so we know what to do. </div>
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My W.I.N. time is the first 30 minutes of my math block. I had students leave the room and then come in pretending like it was the beginning of class. Students came in, looked at the board, and then went to their stations. I monitored and helped students who were lost or didn't know what to do. Students went to their stations, got out the direction sheets and read the directions with their group members. Afterward, they pretended to do the work. This whole time I am walking around and helping students. After about 1 minute, I rang the signal bell. Students cleaned up their stations, and then pretended to write on their tracker. I rang the bell again and one student put the bin away. </div>
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At the end of the practice, hold a question and answer session. If the practice didn't go smoothly, go over what the struggles were and clarify expectations once again. It is always okay to hold another practice session. </div>
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THE NEXT DAY</div>
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The next day is the official start to W.I.N. time. Make sure that stations are out in their designated space. When students come in the door, remind them that today they will be doing W.I.N. time. Today you will be meeting with your "Teacher Time" group, so you will not be able to monitor your whole class the whole time, but I always keep an eye out for groups that are off task or students who look like they are unsure what to do. If this happens, I give my group a problem to work on, or a quick task to do like "Explain to a partner how to do this problem." then I quickly check in on the student or group in need of assistance. </div>
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At the end of time and maybe a little early, give students the signal to clean up and write in their tracker. After all stations are cleaned up, ask students what went well today and what they have questions about. I would do this daily for the next week or so as students are getting use to this new classroom routine. It is important to listen to their questions and feedback.<br />
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AFTER THE LAUNCH</div>
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Always be aware of how your W.I.N. block is running. If there is something not quite working, don't be afraid to stop and adjust. My class was having a terrible time transitioning quietly into class and beginning W.I.N. time. This had been a problem all year, even before we started this new routine. To draw attention to the issue and to give students a challenge, I held a meeting with them. I explained my feelings on the problem and then introduced them to a quick incentive chart. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Follow Literacy Loves Company on Instagram and Facebook where I share more of my everyday classroom ideas! </td></tr>
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When I introduced it, the prize was covered. At the end of each day, we discussed our goals and then, if they had reached the goal, we would take the sticky notes off of the sheet. Little by little the prize was revealed. It was intriguing to the students and a fun way for students to work on transitioning and staying on task. </div>
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My W.I.N. block rounds last 5-6 days. It then takes me a couple of days to re-assess and plan for the next round. During this two days, I usually have all my students working on their iReady lessons. If you have access to IXL or another online program, this might be an option for you. You could also put out different math review games, task cards, etc. to practice until your next round of W.I.N. is ready. I'm sure there are people who are able to get their rounds ready back-to-back, I'm just not one of them. :) </div>
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In order for your W.I.N. time to run smoothly, it is important to spend the time at the beginning setting up the routine, explaining the expectations, and practicing.</div>
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Well, that's it! As you start your own W.I.N. time, remember to be flexible. Sometimes things don't work out the way you planned and you need to be willing to make changes. Once you get the kinks ironed out and the students trained on the routine, the time you've put aside to give students what they need will be worth every minute!<br />
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Thank you for visiting Literacy Loves Company and following along as I shared my experience and advice for setting up a W.I.N. time in your classroom. Please be sure to check out the previous posts and get the free downloads.<br />
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Below you will find some links to FREE math station activities from my TeachersPayTeachers store.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fraction-Subtraction-Race-Pencil-Box-Game-Kit-FREEBIE-4384745" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ipDX9mJG5wg/XLNKUJQmwXI/AAAAAAAAUFc/M1NSOTDMnVclhzeXkUgeILFfyKLwyFkfgCLcBGAs/s320/PB8x8.png" title="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Students construct and solve subtraction equations to beat their opponents to the finish line!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Domino-Fractions-Math-Station-FREEBIE-1752961" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " border="0" data-original-height="556" data-original-width="720" height="247" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AIp1iURQv_Y/XLNKhi8EcTI/AAAAAAAAUFg/lHtKL9H45qE8L8Ikx8CIRo9kZYsTNDVmQCLcBGAs/s320/Domino%2BFractions.jpg" title="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Practice with number lines and tape diagrams. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Math-Workshop-E-Book-2723866" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " border="0" data-original-height="1356" data-original-width="1058" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qAqGyOmqKDA/XLNMtnLlKAI/AAAAAAAAUFw/vgZpj0MEZysShqwSC3LP9N5srJqCMtujgCLcBGAs/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2019-04-14%2Bat%2B8.07.11%2BAM.png" title="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " width="249" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A plethora of advice and links to free resources from TpT sellers. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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You may also be interested in these paid resources:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Factors-Task-Cards-Scoot-and-Board-Game-2915098" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="675" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gUzgwC4R5qc/XLNg6pL2NrI/AAAAAAAAUF8/c8vTaplUAa4Be-i2Ig4dYqIYFSt5jc95QCLcBGAs/s320/Slide1.jpg" title="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Several options for practicing factors in a math station. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Multiplicative-Comparisons-Math-Center-Based-on-Jenga-2844462" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " border="0" data-original-height="735" data-original-width="735" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KToKE9Jjn7U/XLNhA30ywfI/AAAAAAAAUGA/n52jDY5MKso_qX3MfQAA_gwXnkBrvZG0gCLcBGAs/s320/MCGames.jpg" title="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Working with multiplicative comparisons in a fun "Jenga" inspired game!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Measurement-Math-Centers-BUNDLE-2442958" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S5bvxZmlXRY/XLNhLtfbCgI/AAAAAAAAUGE/cJnBuMGWA-U3rBjU_M5MyF_GuZBo0w5CgCLcBGAs/s320/bundle%2Bcover.jpg" title="Thinking about starting a W.I.N. block in your classroom? A perfect way to differentiate in the classroom and engage math learners. Join Literacy Loves Company as she shares tips, advice, and free downloads to help you get started! " width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Measurement task mats with QR code self-check answer keys. </td></tr>
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<span id="goog_975575413"></span><span id="goog_975575414"></span>To see all Literacy Loves Company math resource click <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/My-Products/Category:195161" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
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Until next time!<br />
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-574419712879648722019-03-02T22:04:00.001-08:002019-03-02T22:04:22.983-08:00How to W.I.N. in the Classroom: Keeping Kids Accountable<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k-tqaLTt9Z4/XHtmczbIOII/AAAAAAAAT9Y/c7GbyFGNubwnVO7L_Ckp2JlmpSIH76tWACLcBGAs/s1600/KeepAcc.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Keeping students accountable during your W.I.N. block can be a challenge! Get some great ideas and a free download from Literacy Loves company." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1176" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k-tqaLTt9Z4/XHtmczbIOII/AAAAAAAAT9Y/c7GbyFGNubwnVO7L_Ckp2JlmpSIH76tWACLcBGAs/s640/KeepAcc.png" title="Keeping students accountable during your W.I.N. block can be a challenge! Get some great ideas and a free download from Literacy Loves company." width="470" /></a></div>
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<b>Hello and welcome back to the blog! Over the past several weeks, we've been talking about implementing a W.I.N. (What I Need) block during math instruction. If you are new to my blog and you've missed my previous four posts, please take a look at the list and links below. </b></div>
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There are a lot of moving parts to a successful W.I.N. block. We've talked about organizing groups, managing materials, and planning stations, but another big part of a successful W.I.N. block is figuring out how to make sure your students are doing and learning what you spent all that time planning. Today I will be sharing with you what I do with in my 5th grade math class. <br />
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During our 30 minute W.I.N. block, I'm involved in the "Teacher Time" station. This means that most of my students are expected to work independently on a variety of tasks throughout the room while I am primarily focused on my small group. <br />
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The first step to helping your student stay on task is to make sure that your instructions for each station are very clear. When I first start a new round of rotations, which I did on Monday, I take a moment before W.I.N. block begins and do a quick introduction to each station that is new to students. Try not to have more than one or two stations that need an introduction because you don't want to use too much of your W.I.N. block talking to the class as a whole. </div>
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During work time, I give myself opportunities for quick walk-arounds. In order to do this, I give my "Teacher Time" group a problem to work on and, while they work on it, I quickly check in on groups. I do this at least two times to make sure that I get a chance to answer questions and monitor any off-task behavior. <br />
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Another trick to check on on student work, depending on the station, is to have students take a picture of their finished work on a class iPad or other device. I use this when students are working on a task that is not going to be turned in. Recently, my students were working on a coordinate graph sheet. To save copies, I made a few and put in page protectors. Students worked with their partner to complete the task and then took a picture of it to prove they finished their work. </div>
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At the end of W.I.N. time, I ask each student to complete a W.I.N. Weekly Report. The first version I came up with (see below) worked, but students tended to either write the same thing everyday or to leave it blank because they didn't know what to say.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GMFTFZP2_14/XHsoZ8krpvI/AAAAAAAAT80/66UoUCDHhg86YNJh6dODQaMCT_HfNfsUgCLcBGAs/s1600/WINWeekly.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Keeping students accountable during your W.I.N. block can be a challenge! Get some great ideas and a free download from Literacy Loves company." border="0" data-original-height="580" data-original-width="750" height="494" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GMFTFZP2_14/XHsoZ8krpvI/AAAAAAAAT80/66UoUCDHhg86YNJh6dODQaMCT_HfNfsUgCLcBGAs/s640/WINWeekly.png" title="Keeping students accountable during your W.I.N. block can be a challenge! Get some great ideas and a free download from Literacy Loves company." width="640" /></a></div>
Recently, I made a valuable change the Weekly Report. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KZB4t07ldxncq5Zp9b7UbCgz7irmbN1a/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank"><img alt="Keeping students accountable during your W.I.N. block can be a challenge! Get some great ideas and a free download from Literacy Loves company." border="0" data-original-height="971" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6AHjQWzrB70/XHsvvQ_pBlI/AAAAAAAAT9M/_Jq7HAS7BHQopLsgdB9m-5PeaEZa7eJrQCLcBGAs/s640/WINTracker.png" title="Keeping students accountable during your W.I.N. block can be a challenge! Get some great ideas and a free download from Literacy Loves company." width="494" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KZB4t07ldxncq5Zp9b7UbCgz7irmbN1a/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Click on image to download your own copy.</a></td></tr>
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This new tracker has been a game changer for accountability. At each station, I create a question that students answer based on what they learned or worked on that day. At the end of W.I.N. time, I collect the forms and quickly read responses. In the margin, I put a star or a check. This is based on the student's response. Stars for complete sentences and thoughtful answers. Check for answers that were vague or not written in complete sentence form. The goal is for students to get 4 or more stars for each round of stations. <br />
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Asking these questions has made a big difference in the quality of responses and my ability to get a better understanding of how students are doing in their stations during their W.I.N. time. The questions don't have to be elaborate, they just need to guide your students into telling you what they worked on that day. For example, my student work on the computer on a program called iReady. The question I had for them last week was, "What was one question/problem challenged you or made you really think today?" Students know the question ahead of time, so they are on the lookout during their work time. <br />
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It doesn't take a lot to keep track of student progress and participation during W.I.N. time. Making sure students know what is expected of them before they begin, a plan for checking in with them during their station time, and a quick check in routine after their work is done is enough. As students get into the routine and understand that there are expectations for their production of work and participation, they will be more likely to be focused and on task during this valuable time of the day. <br />
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I hope that this post has given you some practical ideas for your own classroom. The final post in this series will be out soon with tips and suggestions on how to bring all of the ideas and planning together as you launch your own W.I.N. time! <br />
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• <b><a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/01/how-to-win-in-classroom-what-is-win.html" target="_blank">What is W.I.N.?</a></b> - free download of "What is W.I.N. Time?" and "Expectations" posters.<br />
• <b><a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/01/how-to-win-in-classroom-organizing.html" target="_blank">Organizing Student Groups </a></b>- Free download of Group Organization tool<br />
• <b><a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/01/how-to-win-in-classroom-station-ideas.html" target="_blank">Station Ideas</a> </b>- free download of editable station signs and group headers<br />
• <b><a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/02/how-to-win-in-classroom-managing.html" target="_blank">Managing Materials</a></b> - free download of binder cover and spine<br />
• <b>Keeping Kids Accountable</b> - free download of student recording sheet<br />
• <b>Launching a W.I.N. Block</b> - Mystery download!<br />
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Until next time! </div>
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Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-51767339583165837202019-02-10T12:06:00.002-08:002019-02-10T13:04:05.349-08:00Art for Kids: Snowy Trees<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vUYcKgRQuec/XGBXHqyS46I/AAAAAAAAT1o/OKWbXqnT2oowuCaPqmVnU9uKrxwmposGwCLcBGAs/s1600/TreeTitle.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Classroom art for kids. Snowy Trees - Beautiful winter art projects for the elementary classroom brought to you by Literacy Loves Company." border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1577" height="486" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vUYcKgRQuec/XGBXHqyS46I/AAAAAAAAT1o/OKWbXqnT2oowuCaPqmVnU9uKrxwmposGwCLcBGAs/s640/TreeTitle.png" title="Classroom art for kids. Snowy Trees - Beautiful winter art projects for the elementary classroom brought to you by Literacy Loves Company." width="640" /></a></div>
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Happy Sunday Afternoon! I'm sitting here in my living room looking out at the beautiful February sunshine. The funny thing is, this weekend we were forecasted to have the snowstorm to end all snowstorms... grocery stores were rampaged. Gas station lines were miles long. Teachers and students alike were prepping for snow days this week. It's now Sunday and I am looking out at bare ground and glorious sunshine. I'm not sure if I should be disappointed or relieved.<br />
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As a type of precursor to this "snowpocolypse", my students completed their snowy tree art project this week and we finally got them on display. They turned out beautifully... each one is unique and the whole display is magical!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAa2azBv9ds/XGBXGfj0a-I/AAAAAAAAT18/ZnOs3_m_9AA2IXArQxDo72JgrYrn0Ss2wCEwYBhgL/s1600/Tree5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Classroom art for kids. Snowy Trees - Beautiful winter art projects for the elementary classroom brought to you by Literacy Loves Company." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAa2azBv9ds/XGBXGfj0a-I/AAAAAAAAT18/ZnOs3_m_9AA2IXArQxDo72JgrYrn0Ss2wCEwYBhgL/s640/Tree5.png" title="Classroom art for kids. Snowy Trees - Beautiful winter art projects for the elementary classroom brought to you by Literacy Loves Company." width="640" /></a></div>
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I often get my inspiration for classroom art from the internet. While searching for a winter project, I came upon a photo of a project similar to the one you see above. As I prepped for writing this post, I tried to search it out so that I could give the original poster credit and was unable to find it.<br />
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One of the things I love to do is find an original piece of art and try to figure out a way to make it accessible to my own students. This means determining which medium to use with our limited resources and the step-by-step order for the project since we have limited time. This project takes at least two sessions with drying time in between.<br />
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For this project we used these materials:<br />
white card stock cut into 8 1/2 by 8 1/2 squares<br />
white, blue, and black tempera or acrylic paint<br />
sharpie markers<br />
larger black permanent markers<br />
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Prep:<br />
I cut the paper into the squares.<br />
I put plates and paint brushes on each group table. On the plates I put a dollop of white, blue, and black paint.<br />
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Step One:<br />
Students paint the background by painting a white circular shape in the middle of their paper. As students work out from the middle of the page, they mix blue into the edge of their white paint creating a light blue. As they work out toward the edge of the paper, they continue to add blue until they are using pure blue. At that point they start to add black to their blue to darken it and continue to work out until they work their way off of the page. Many of my students went back in with white, after cleaning their brush, to smoothed out and widen the middle circle. We stopped at this point, cleaned up, and let the paintings dry.<br />
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Step Two:<br />
Once the painting dry (later that day or days later) hand out the paintings, Sharpie markers, and bold tip permanent markers. I demonstrated for my students, under the document camera, how to draw the curvy branches and fill in the trunk.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwISpbhuWI4jVh3qtP0qouP4QcrRWixaI5EAZGhjs5uYKC41-IvIMxLPiInhk0LUeC2cBPsRVqbpoqvnbbIZg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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When I did this for my students, I modeled directly on the painted background. The background was a bit more rough so students had to work more carefully.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ta3bT2BRvgg/XGBXGtQkRXI/AAAAAAAAT14/LOv6R6LuZ7gdDnM4IEbM8TLTDdJmE4FpgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Tree7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Classroom art for kids. Snowy Trees - Beautiful winter art projects for the elementary classroom brought to you by Literacy Loves Company." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="843" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ta3bT2BRvgg/XGBXGtQkRXI/AAAAAAAAT14/LOv6R6LuZ7gdDnM4IEbM8TLTDdJmE4FpgCEwYBhgL/s640/Tree7.png" title="Classroom art for kids. Snowy Trees - Beautiful winter art projects for the elementary classroom brought to you by Literacy Loves Company." width="478" /></a></div>
Some students positioned their trees in the center of the page and others off to the side. Both are beautiful!<br />
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Step Three:<br />
The final step is to put "snowflakes" on the page. provide one dollop of white paint for each group of about 4 students. I happen to have corndog sticks that we used to make the tiny dots (pointed end) and the large dots (blunt end). You could also use small dowels, toothpicks, the handle end of paintbrushes, etc. The goal is to make sure the dots are random around the page.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8sfujVlvAF0/XGBXE-I-orI/AAAAAAAAT18/WE4JwSuGgrkHlJkcriTS09tcJY_l7T5vwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Tree2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Classroom art for kids. Snowy Trees - Beautiful winter art projects for the elementary classroom brought to you by Literacy Loves Company." border="0" data-original-height="895" data-original-width="912" height="314" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8sfujVlvAF0/XGBXE-I-orI/AAAAAAAAT18/WE4JwSuGgrkHlJkcriTS09tcJY_l7T5vwCEwYBhgL/s320/Tree2.png" title="Classroom art for kids. Snowy Trees - Beautiful winter art projects for the elementary classroom brought to you by Literacy Loves Company." width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DLpxFDADxzU/XGBXExeF2xI/AAAAAAAAT1s/mGwBm2U5j2sJuhDncJVusvFCRlUbH8XGwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Tree3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Classroom art for kids. Snowy Trees - Beautiful winter art projects for the elementary classroom brought to you by Literacy Loves Company." border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="800" height="307" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DLpxFDADxzU/XGBXExeF2xI/AAAAAAAAT1s/mGwBm2U5j2sJuhDncJVusvFCRlUbH8XGwCEwYBhgL/s320/Tree3.png" title="Classroom art for kids. Snowy Trees - Beautiful winter art projects for the elementary classroom brought to you by Literacy Loves Company." width="320" /></a></div>
The results were magical! Every tree turned out just as unique as the artist who painted it.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5J6pyohydnQ/XGBXExfSR-I/AAAAAAAAT14/5aTWxgB9ir8wzGYWPcbBOC3YU0GVFuLgQCEwYBhgL/s1600/Tree1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Classroom art for kids. Snowy Trees - Beautiful winter art projects for the elementary classroom brought to you by Literacy Loves Company." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5J6pyohydnQ/XGBXExfSR-I/AAAAAAAAT14/5aTWxgB9ir8wzGYWPcbBOC3YU0GVFuLgQCEwYBhgL/s640/Tree1.png" title="Classroom art for kids. Snowy Trees - Beautiful winter art projects for the elementary classroom brought to you by Literacy Loves Company." width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qmj_u2xTi2c/XGBXFzBgS_I/AAAAAAAAT2A/b0-OFj7h3n0ngyVc_S-q-9Zem3nQj_QpgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Tree4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Classroom art for kids. Snowy Trees - Beautiful winter art projects for the elementary classroom brought to you by Literacy Loves Company." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="843" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qmj_u2xTi2c/XGBXFzBgS_I/AAAAAAAAT2A/b0-OFj7h3n0ngyVc_S-q-9Zem3nQj_QpgCEwYBhgL/s640/Tree4.png" title="Classroom art for kids. Snowy Trees - Beautiful winter art projects for the elementary classroom brought to you by Literacy Loves Company." width="478" /></a></div>
I hope that this post has inspired you to create some magical winter trees with your students. If you do, please share your pictures on Facebook and/or Instagram and tag LiteracyLovesCompany. I'd love to see your beautiful pieces of art.<br />
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Thank you for visiting!<br />
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-58303315117255624692019-02-03T20:32:00.001-08:002019-02-03T20:32:49.651-08:00How to W.I.N. in the Classroom: Managing Materials<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZa0tbGxOEE/XE9nEWfJxYI/AAAAAAAAT0I/m3UnNhxVmFIu4jvQxHWOubHe1qtcU3wjACLcBGAs/s1600/mmpostpic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Organizing materials for your W.I.N. Block math stations can be a challenge. Get some management ideas from Literacy Loves company." border="0" data-original-height="1133" data-original-width="843" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZa0tbGxOEE/XE9nEWfJxYI/AAAAAAAAT0I/m3UnNhxVmFIu4jvQxHWOubHe1qtcU3wjACLcBGAs/s640/mmpostpic.png" title="Organizing materials for your W.I.N. Block math stations can be a challenge. Get some management ideas from Literacy Loves company." width="476" /></a></div>
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One of the keys to success for incorporating a W.I.N. block into your classroom routine is organization. While implementing W.I.N. in my own classroom I have found that there are three main organizational areas: student materials, station materials, and teacher materials.<br />
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STUDENT MATERIALS<br />
Each of my students has a red pocket folder that follows them from station to station. Of course, you don't have to have RED folders, that is just the color I had on hand. I would suggest, however, that all of your folders are the same color. This makes it easier to locate them and rotate them to the different groups. On the front of each folder, I have written W.I.N. block and the student's name. Students keep their W.I.N. Weekly Report and other station materials inside.<br />
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I also have a file folder for each student. I would suggest using a different color than the pocket folders. I happen to have had red file folders also, and because I used red for both it has been a little more challenging to sort out the folders. This folder stays with the "Targeted Practice" station. At this station, students each have a worksheet or task that is differentiated for them. When planning for my W.I.N. block, I place each student's sheet in that folder. When they get to the Targeted Practice station during our 6 day rotation, their sheet is inside that folder and waiting for them. If a student doesn't finish the worksheet, it stays in their file folder. When it is finished, they turn it in to a "Turn In" manila envelope specifically for that worksheet. I collect the manila envelope at the end of the 6 day rotation and check through the work to see who finished and to check accuracy on the work.<br />
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I include "Turn in" envelopes at any station that has written work that should be collected. This isn't anything fancy, I usually just tape an index card with the name of the worksheet or task on the outside so that I can reuse the envelope the next round of stations.<br />
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In the pictures, you might notice the station signs. I have found that they aren't really necessary since the materials bin acts as the station sign.<br />
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STATION MATERIALS<br />
I have found that in order to successfully stay on top of my W.I.N. stations, it is important that each station has a bin, basket, or tub that is clearly labeled with the station name and includes ALL of the materials students would need to complete the tasks. Because of a limited amount of time for our W.I.N. block, I want my students to be able to sit down at their station and have everything they need right there for them to get started. It doesn't really matter what type of container you use, but if you are able to, it would be helpful if they are all the same style/color so that students easily know that they are for W.I.N. block.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-slrnnhUdKu0/XE3Pot2bwrI/AAAAAAAATzM/5BPRbcNribIZBxR5e41pb-1WUhuZ8xeKgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Group.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Organizing materials for your W.I.N. Block math stations can be a challenge. Get some management ideas from Literacy Loves company." border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="1600" height="230" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-slrnnhUdKu0/XE3Pot2bwrI/AAAAAAAATzM/5BPRbcNribIZBxR5e41pb-1WUhuZ8xeKgCEwYBhgL/s640/Group.png" title="Organizing materials for your W.I.N. Block math stations can be a challenge. Get some management ideas from Literacy Loves company." width="640" /></a></div>
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In each station tub, I include the directions for the task, any worksheets that students may need, rulers, markers, etc. For my game station, if the game has a sheet that needs to be written on, I put four copies of the game in sheet protectors and provide whiteboard markers and erasers. This saves on copies.<br />
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TEACHER MATERIALS<br />
One thing you may not know about me, or maybe you do if you have read some of my other blog posts, is that I can be a jump-in-with-two-feet kind of person. I usually dive right in and figure out the logistics later. The logistics of organizing my teacher materials was the area I put off the longest. When I first started, I kept everything in a pocket folder. This worked okay for awhile, but it became difficult for me to find my answer keys, last round's student grouping information, etc. While writing this block series, I've been working on getting more organized in this area.<br />
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Now I am keeping myself organized by using a binder. Not surprising, I know. In my binder, I have sections for my <a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/01/how-to-win-in-classroom-organizing.html" target="_blank">W.I.N. Block Planning Sheets</a> (Free download available on linked blog post.), answer keys, and targeted skills pages.<br />
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Using the binder, I can keep track of future skills I want my students to work on, data for future groupings, and the answer keys for the worksheets and tasks I am having my groups work on. I'm sure this is going to work out much better than my previous pocket folder did!<br />
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As a gift for visiting Literacy Loves Company and joining me on this W.I.N. blog post journey, I've created a binder cover, spines, and tabs and am sharing them with you.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P_ykPX4SVjw/XE6TizAO6qI/AAAAAAAATz4/ux8y2oSp5Rcm6WrouE6S3MBfs-MVOFENgCEwYBhgL/s1600/bp4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Organizing materials for your W.I.N. Block math stations can be a challenge. Get some management ideas from Literacy Loves company." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1125" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P_ykPX4SVjw/XE6TizAO6qI/AAAAAAAATz4/ux8y2oSp5Rcm6WrouE6S3MBfs-MVOFENgCEwYBhgL/s640/bp4.png" title="Organizing materials for your W.I.N. Block math stations can be a challenge. Get some management ideas from Literacy Loves company." width="640" /></a></div>
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Included in the download is the color version you see here and also a black and white version. </div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EWwm-gSk_n3fKrSq9sYNW3q0KHU1j86F/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">DOWNLOAD HERE</a></div>
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I hope you will continue to visit over the next couple of weeks as I finish off the series with information on how I keep my students accountable for their work during W.I.N. time. My final post on this subject will be some advice on how to bring it all together into a successful routine for both you and your students!<br />
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• <b><a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/01/how-to-win-in-classroom-what-is-win.html" target="_blank">What is W.I.N.?</a></b> - free download of "What is W.I.N. Time?" and "Expectations" posters.<br />
• <b><a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/01/how-to-win-in-classroom-organizing.html" target="_blank">Organizing Student Groups </a></b>- Free download of Group Organization tool<br />
• <b><a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/01/how-to-win-in-classroom-station-ideas.html" target="_blank">Station Ideas</a> </b>- free download of editable station signs and group headers<br />
• <b>Managing Materials</b> - free download of binder cover and spine<br />
• <b>Keeping Kids Accountable</b> - free download of student recording sheet<br />
• <b>Launching a W.I.N. Block</b> - Mystery download!<br />
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If you have any questions or suggestions for managing materials for math stations or a W.I.N. block, please comment below! I would love to hear from you.<br />
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-13025504099439872082019-01-19T22:30:00.000-08:002019-01-19T22:33:45.764-08:00How to W.I.N. in the Classroom: Station Ideas<br />
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My favorite part of organizing my W.I.N. rotations is figuring out what I will have students work on at each station. When planning for station activities, I am always looking at three things:<br />
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1. Does the activity meet students' needs in the area we are working on?</div>
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2. Is the activity fun yet rigorous?</div>
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3. Is the activity easy to organize, understand, and clean up so that students are able to work at it independently? This is going to look very different depending on what grade you teach. </div>
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In my class I run five to six math stations at a time, depending on how many student groups I have. </div>
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<b><i><u>Teacher Time</u></i></b></div>
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As mentioned in the second post in this series, I always start my planning with the Teacher Time station. I've heard this station called many things, but it is basically the station in which you, the teacher, meet with a small group of students for direct instruction. The focus should be whatever caused you, while looking at your data, to group these students together. I am currently scoring a set of post assessments for my math students. While I am looking over their papers, I am keeping a list of students who struggled in each of the areas covered on the test. When I plan for my next round of stations, I will group my students based on the needs I noticed and focus my lesson on that skill, strategy, or concept. </div>
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<b><i><u>Tech Time (iReady)</u></i></b></div>
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During Tech Time, my students work on iReady. This is software that provides students with individualized lessons and practice based on a beginning of the year diagnostic. My school is lucky to have this resource, and I know that not all schools do. There are several free online math resources that are available for students. Some examples are <a href="https://www.mobymax.com/" target="_blank">MobyMax</a> and <a href="https://www.khanacademy.org/" target="_blank">Khan Academy</a> Two game based websites are <a href="https://www.prodigygame.com/" target="_blank">Prodigy </a>and <a href="https://skoolbo.com/" target="_blank">Skoolbo</a>. I have used MobyMax, Khan Academy, and Prodigy in my own classroom. My students LOVE prodigy and will even ask to stay in at recess to play it. </div>
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<b><i><u>Number Corner</u></i></b><br />
Because my school uses the Bridges curriculum, it comes with another component called Number Corner. It is probably similar to a calendar time you would see in a primary classroom. I have never taught primary, so I'm hoping this is an accurate assumption. During number corner, students are working on finding patterns on calendar markers, working with problem solving and computation, fact fluency, and measurement among other things. </div>
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<b><i><u>Game Time</u></i></b></div>
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Game time is a great opportunity to focus students on different skills and concepts. Games can be geared toward what you are working on in class or you can easily differentiate for each group that comes to that station. For example, my students just finished a unit on fractions. After looking through their assessments and organizing groups, I can easily have game kits ready for groups who are working on adding fractions, another for students who need review with equivalent fractions, and still another for students who are struggled with common denominators. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/My-Products/Category:358788" target="_blank"><img alt="W.I.N. Block math station ideas for the elementary classroom from Literacy Loves Company." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1125" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PbRFMuE0LUo/XEPpoSaZHBI/AAAAAAAATw8/M8SRVjfY7q8LIeDMXjK-jp46iTl1X0r2QCLcBGAs/s640/linkit.png" title="W.I.N. Block math station ideas for the elementary classroom from Literacy Loves Company." width="640" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/My-Products/Category:358788" target="_blank">Pencil Box Game Kits available @ Literacy Loves Company on TpT. Click on Pic for more information. </a></td></tr>
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<b><i><u>Targeted Skill Time</u></i></b></div>
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There is always a skill I would like my students to get more practice with. During this station, I focus on one skill and then differentiate within that skill. This is one of the few stations that I use worksheets in. At the beginning of the school year I invested in a subscription to <a href="https://www.mathworksheets4kids.com/" target="_blank">Math Worksheets 4 Kids. </a> I have found this website to be very helpful. I am able to look up worksheets my concept and then find worksheets by level. Another great website is <a href="http://commoncoresheets.com/">commoncoresheets.com</a> . Other options for this station are task cards or task mats. If you can find ones that are self-check, that is a bonus!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Measurement-Math-Centers-BUNDLE-2442958" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="W.I.N. Block math station ideas for the elementary classroom from Literacy Loves Company." border="0" data-original-height="1126" data-original-width="1126" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rsSB4bo7sbI/XEP0_8zzsaI/AAAAAAAATxc/gZvSofR0XkYdk9g7ZKuAb9Qcho3TX2pGQCLcBGAs/s640/pic%2B2.png" title="W.I.N. Block math station ideas for the elementary classroom from Literacy Loves Company." width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Measurement Task Mats available @ Literacy Loves Company on TpT. Click on pic for more information.</td></tr>
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<b><i><u>Geometry</u></i></b><br />
Geometry seems to always be the last unit of the curriculum and the hardest to get to. Because of this, I have a geometry station. I use my math curriculum and the state standards to guide this station. My goal is to give students an opportunity to work with these concepts before state testing in May.<br />
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The above stations are the ones I currently have in my W.I.N. rotation. Some other ideas for stations are:<br />
<b><u>Fact Fluency </u></b>- Practice math facts - This station would be easy to differentiate as student work on the facts they have yet to master. This station could be as easy as flash cards and timers as student work to be able to quickly recall their math facts.<br />
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<b><u>Mathematical Picture Books </u></b>- Sometimes reading a picture book based on a math concept can be a great way for students to connect. There are a lot of wonderful picture books available depending on what you are focusing on in class. For this station, you could have a picture book focusing on the concept you are teaching in class. Inside the book, you could ask discussion questions on sticky-notes strategically placed throughout the book. As students read, they stop to answer and discuss your question. Depending on the book, you could add an extension task.<br />
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<b><u>Math Art </u></b>- Integrating art into your math stations can really motivate students to participate. When working with area, symmetry, plane figures, angles, and more. The activity featured below is from a <a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2015/04/make-math-fun-add-splash-of-art.html" target="_blank">blog post </a>I wrote a few years ago.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9j5eep687wk/VTPPM9fAJnI/AAAAAAAACBI/Zh3ouXeCFxwSzKJz-KmU_Cp6AlM-aIDPwCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/GA%2B8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="W.I.N. Block math station ideas for the elementary classroom from Literacy Loves Company." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="844" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9j5eep687wk/VTPPM9fAJnI/AAAAAAAACBI/Zh3ouXeCFxwSzKJz-KmU_Cp6AlM-aIDPwCPcBGAYYCw/s640/GA%2B8.png" title="W.I.N. Block math station ideas for the elementary classroom from Literacy Loves Company." width="480" /></a></div>
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As you can see, there are MANY ways you can support students in stations during your W.I.N. block. The thing to keep in mind is that whatever task you are asking your students to participate in, it is one that will move them forward and help them be successful.<br />
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Once you decide on what stations would best benefit your students, try to find a space on a classroom wall, blackboard, or whiteboard to host your W.I.N. Station rotation board. This is the area you will post your station signs and student names. Click below for a free download of the station headers and sign. There are two options: Google Slideshow which is easily editable or PNGs which can be printed as is or placed in a PowerPoint slideshow and edited.<br />
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1bxL2tX2saeYifMHjjo4RNvJ-4wfQj5FgrYvU6fzenzM/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">GOOGLE SLIDESHOW DOWNLOAD</a><span id="goog_1433565844"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1433565845"></span></div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1tl0MoVFE_ObIp715Jz78u65JzzOo2Hp-?usp=sharing" target="_blank">PNG DOWNLOAD</a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Opmn6YH-JVg/XC1NesS_lFI/AAAAAAAATug/aFV6YlX0KLYtmgAR1X2oOjX9zsQMXFBjgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/WIN3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="W.I.N. Block math station ideas for the elementary classroom from Literacy Loves Company." border="0" data-original-height="981" data-original-width="1600" height="392" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Opmn6YH-JVg/XC1NesS_lFI/AAAAAAAATug/aFV6YlX0KLYtmgAR1X2oOjX9zsQMXFBjgCPcBGAYYCw/s640/WIN3.png" title="W.I.N. Block math station ideas for the elementary classroom from Literacy Loves Company." width="640" /></a></div>
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I have my W.I.N. board located on a blackboard. My signs all have magnetic tape on the back which makes it easy to move. At the end of each day, I move my station headers to the left, rather than move the student names.<br />
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As you can see, coming up with ideas for your W.I.N. stations isn't difficult! There are a plethora of options available to you. If you have a great idea for a math station that wasn't mentioned in this post, please share it in the comments below.<br />
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In my next post in this series, I will be sharing with you ideas for organizing and managing your teacher paperwork and your station materials.<br />
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• <b><a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/01/how-to-win-in-classroom-what-is-win.html" target="_blank">What is W.I.N.?</a></b> - free download of "What is W.I.N. Time?" and "Expectations" posters.<br />
• <b><a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/01/how-to-win-in-classroom-organizing.html" target="_blank">Organizing Student Groups </a></b>- Free download of Group Organization tool<br />
• <b>Station Ideas </b>- free download of editable station signs and group headers<br />
• <b>Managing Materials</b> - free download of binder cover and spine<br />
• <b>Keeping Kids Accountable</b> - free download of student recording sheet<br />
• <b>Launching a W.I.N. Block</b> - Mystery download!<br />
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Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-30600987751244709962019-01-06T03:00:00.000-08:002019-01-06T03:00:08.070-08:00How to W.I.N. in the Classroom: Organizing Student Groups<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jokX17OCL7E/XC7dpv220sI/AAAAAAAATvk/nyUWobXdL08hYnNdYhQkSdS1RlEuAikWACLcBGAs/s1600/Post2Title.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Organizing groups for differentiation in the classroom can be daunting. Literacy Loves Company shares how she manages W.I.N. math stations and creates small groups in her 5th grade math class. " border="0" data-original-height="1275" data-original-width="956" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jokX17OCL7E/XC7dpv220sI/AAAAAAAATvk/nyUWobXdL08hYnNdYhQkSdS1RlEuAikWACLcBGAs/s640/Post2Title.png" title="Organizing groups for differentiation in the classroom can be daunting. Literacy Loves Company shares how she manages W.I.N. math stations and creates small groups in her 5th grade math class. " width="478" /></a></div>
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In the <a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2019/01/how-to-win-in-classroom-what-is-win.html" target="_blank">first post of this series</a>, I introduced you to the W.I.N. block. W.I.N. stands for "What I Need" and as the name implies, the thing that makes a W.I.N. block a different than most workshop or center time models is the focus on individual student needs.<br />
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Before we look at grouping students, let's talk about a couple of decisions that need to be made before you start organizing your groups. </div>
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1. When, in my schedule, can I fit a W.I.N. block? </div>
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In my case, I have a 75 minute block for math. I chose to use the first 30 minutes of that time. There are some teachers in my school who hold a W.I.N. time the last 30 minutes of their math block. </div>
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2. How often will students participate in the W.I.N. block?</div>
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My class has W.I.N. time every day. Students come into the classroom and go straight to their stations. One of my teammates hold a W.I.N. block twice a week. Really, it just depends on your schedule and what you hope to accomplish in that time. </div>
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The first few rounds of W.I.N. in my classroom were 5 days long. I organized my students into 5 groups based on assessments I'll discuss a little later. I chose 5 groups because I had five stations, so each group would complete all 5 stations in five days.<br />
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After the first few full rounds, I realized that, if I am really trying to give students what they need for math, I can't always fit everyone into 5 groups. For the last two rounds of W.I.N. my students have been in 6 different groups. Because of this I planned 6 different stations. </div>
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Speaking of organizing students into groups based on their needs, there are several different ways I gather data to inform my grouping decisions. </div>
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<li>At the beginning of the year, before you have any of your own data on a student, using the previous year's <b>state reading and math assessments</b> is a great place to start. My students participate in SBAC at the end of each year, so that data is available to help me get a better understanding of where each students is academically.</li>
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<li>Many teachers give <b>beginning of the year assessments</b> to their students. The results of those tests can give you some information on your students' needs and help you make decisions about student groupings. </li>
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<li>One assessment tool my district recently purchased for schools is <a href="https://www.curriculumassociates.com/Products/i-Ready/Tour" target="_blank"><b>iReady </b>from Curriculum Associates.</a> iReady is a comprehensive diagnostic test for both math and reading. Students take the assessment at the beginning of the year, the middle of the year, and at the end of the year. Based on their results, the software will group students. The software also gives teachers access to lessons and materials to help support students. This is the first assessment tool I use to organize my intervention and enrichment groups for the W.I.N. block. I realize that not all school districts have the luxury of this diagnostic tool. </li>
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<li>Another assessment I use to organize my students is our math curriculum <b>checkpoint quizzes or mid-unit quizzes.</b> As I am checking over student work, I keep a list of the concepts covered in the checkpoint and write down the names of students who need extra support in those areas. I love grouping this way because it helps me support my students BEFORE the end of the chapter test. </li>
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<li><b>Exit tickets</b> are another great way to quickly get a gauge for what your students need support with. Exit tickets can be purposefully created to help inform you BEFORE your next round of W.I.N.</li>
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<li><b>End of unit assessments</b> are also helpful when putting together groups. Even though the chapter is over, it doesn't mean that all students have mastered the skills and concepts presented in those lessons. W.I.N. time is a great opportunity review concepts with small groups and give students more time and practice. </li>
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These, of course, aren't the only tools you can use to gather data and form groups. The important thing is to know your students and have an understanding of what they need to successfully meet their academic goals. </div>
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Once you have your data, find students who have similar needs and put them into groups together. I try to keep my groups to about 4 to 6 students. I have had groups that only had two students because those two students needed something much different than other students. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kx7yaSAPCpY/XC7hemEZKlI/AAAAAAAATv8/Ou3iAN9PA88PjV4rvkzxZYmegx63Qub7QCLcBGAs/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Organizing groups for differentiation in the classroom can be daunting. Literacy Loves Company shares how she manages W.I.N. math stations and creates small groups in her 5th grade math class. " border="0" data-original-height="787" data-original-width="1583" height="318" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kx7yaSAPCpY/XC7hemEZKlI/AAAAAAAATv8/Ou3iAN9PA88PjV4rvkzxZYmegx63Qub7QCLcBGAs/s640/Picture1.png" title="Organizing groups for differentiation in the classroom can be daunting. Literacy Loves Company shares how she manages W.I.N. math stations and creates small groups in her 5th grade math class. " width="640" /></a></div>
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When looking at student data, I usually have two or three groups that are working on holes they have in the concepts we are working on. I also usually have a couple groups that do not need intervention, but instead need to be challenged. </div>
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When looking at student groups, I usually think of them based on the "Teacher Time" station. This is the station that students work directly with the teacher. I plan the lesson for each group based on why they were grouped together. The last round of W.I.N. that I planned, I worked with one group of students on multiplication strategies, another on division strategies, one group on basic operations, and three groups were being challenged to learn and compare three new multiplication strategies (lattice method, Egyptian method, and the Chinese method for multiplication) Those three groups had already mastered multi-digit multiplication and introducing them to three new strategies was fun for them. Also... the challenge of trying to figure out why they worked got them thinking about place value. </div>
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Once your groups are planned and you know what the goal is for each group. Plan your lessons.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8d9KVpR6ZfM/XC6ypE0i0oI/AAAAAAAATu0/SOE-injAOGoQ1kIVgRqSFwwxZT80WKvewCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_5171.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Organizing groups for differentiation in the classroom can be daunting. Literacy Loves Company shares how she manages W.I.N. math stations and creates small groups in her 5th grade math class. " border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1303" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8d9KVpR6ZfM/XC6ypE0i0oI/AAAAAAAATu0/SOE-injAOGoQ1kIVgRqSFwwxZT80WKvewCEwYBhgL/s640/IMG_5171.jpeg" title="Organizing groups for differentiation in the classroom can be daunting. Literacy Loves Company shares how she manages W.I.N. math stations and creates small groups in her 5th grade math class. " width="520" /></a></div>
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I've used the planning page above for my last couple of W.I.N. rounds. I've revamped it for this blog post and to help me plan my next round. The new planning pages give you space for your group lists, group goals, group lesson plans, and an opportunity to plan each of your other stations.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4aTxtSzzaAw/XC7lvPBUGkI/AAAAAAAATwI/VNUumJdUH3AfUfpmJJuGaLNxtiSyD5lWwCLcBGAs/s1600/Picture2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Organizing groups for differentiation in the classroom can be daunting. Literacy Loves Company shares how she manages W.I.N. math stations and creates small groups in her 5th grade math class. " border="0" data-original-height="1238" data-original-width="1600" height="494" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4aTxtSzzaAw/XC7lvPBUGkI/AAAAAAAATwI/VNUumJdUH3AfUfpmJJuGaLNxtiSyD5lWwCLcBGAs/s640/Picture2.png" title="Organizing groups for differentiation in the classroom can be daunting. Literacy Loves Company shares how she manages W.I.N. math stations and creates small groups in her 5th grade math class. " width="640" /></a></div>
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Click below for a free download of the W.I.N. planner. There are three options:<br />
1. Fillable PDF<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1r1BGCzs8fq0X7DdyQRNZNgd2OyQaGyQI/view?usp=sharing" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="927" data-original-width="1200" height="247" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kVqZp3jPDDg/XC7bIE9jH0I/AAAAAAAATvE/V5rbeXvHbOE9hkR5qpoatfif1i-oQEGUQCLcBGAs/s320/Fillablepdf.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After you open in Google, make sure to "download" it. </td></tr>
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2. Printable PDF<br />
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YWhWsHGbuNn70Clcv6XYgCc3u0_zM_3s/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="927" data-original-width="1200" height="247" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vdkA3JfgmC4/XC7bILNt67I/AAAAAAAATvY/G21P9d0BOqUYH-TXW3sYBASwy6HFGKUpQCEwYBhgL/s320/Printablepdf.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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3. PNG to put into a PowerPoint slide and make your own text boxes. Use this option if you want to be able to change your font, colors, etc.<br />
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CSSdkEjLH76-QjT3knZC1dudrhJS7_OP/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="927" data-original-width="1200" height="247" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9dXs3jM7mNc/XC7bWhnifUI/AAAAAAAATvQ/rfReYbuIvnQcY3DtAhWIyXks920LBQCPQCEwYBhgL/s320/PNG.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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I hope that this post gives you some ideas of ways you can look at student data to plan small groups for your W.I.N. block. Next week I will be sharing ideas for W.I.N. math station activities. Here is a list of upcoming blog posts in this series:<br />
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• <b>Station Ideas </b>- free download of editable station signs and group headers<br />
• <b>Managing Materials</b> - free download of binder cover and spine<br />
• <b>Keeping Kids Accountable</b> - free download of student recording sheet<br />
• <b>Launching a W.I.N. Block</b> - Mystery download! </div>
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If you have any questions about how to form groups please let me know in the comments below. Also, if you use different assessments or sources of data in your classroom, please share with others by commenting. I look forward to hearing from you. </div>
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Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-27594218841471982812019-01-03T02:00:00.000-08:002019-01-03T02:00:17.288-08:00How to W.I.N. in the Classroom: What is W.I.N.?<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--bQ58jbVXxw/XC1MeTJ5u2I/AAAAAAAATuM/PhTBsOUAVRM8tH2MZ2qgh7QfwfNBv2GUgCLcBGAs/s1600/WIN%2BTitle.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="W.I.N. in the elementary classroom with differentiated stations. Intervention and enrichment take on a new look with the W.I.N. block.Literacy Loves Company" border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="931" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--bQ58jbVXxw/XC1MeTJ5u2I/AAAAAAAATuM/PhTBsOUAVRM8tH2MZ2qgh7QfwfNBv2GUgCLcBGAs/s640/WIN%2BTitle.png" title="W.I.N. in the elementary classroom with differentiated stations. Intervention and enrichment take on a new look with the W.I.N. block.Literacy Loves Company" width="528" /></a></div>
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Everybody likes to be a winner, right? I've never met a person who preferred to lose. This is especially true in the classroom. Teachers want their students to be successful, to feel good about their progress and capabilities. The struggle here is that no two students are alike. Every child needs different support systems and strategies to help them along their path.<br />
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Differentiation can be complicated and as good teachers, we are always searching for ways to reach students where they are and help them progress to where they need to be. This is where the idea of the W.I.N. block comes in.<br />
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I first heard of W.I.N. when one of my teammates came back from a professional development workshop shared the basic idea behind W.I.N. W.I.N. stands for What I Need and is a set block of intervention and enrichment time that students are in stations or activities geared toward their needs. I know this is nothing new. I've used the workshop model in my math class and literacy stations in my language arts, so I am familiar with the model. I think the thing that intrigued me about this version of an old idea was the emphasis on really understanding my students' needs and the challenge of finding ideas, activities, and materials to support them.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vBxODqyLnT-KPJZlScufw8j_YDIWlCMZ/view?usp=sharing" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt=" W.I.N. in the elementary classroom with differentiated stations. Intervention and enrichment take on a new look with the W.I.N. block." border="0" data-original-height="927" data-original-width="1200" height="494" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PjeDL81Iw50/XC1OCg53mrI/AAAAAAAATuo/2YGQsYbRYfI84vioAW4YbbsGIXn5XwsbQCLcBGAs/s640/WINTime2.png" title="W.I.N. in the elementary classroom with differentiated stations. Intervention and enrichment take on a new look with the W.I.N. block." width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click to download a copy of this poster.</td></tr>
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You can incorporate a W.I.N. block for any subject. Right now I have a 30 minute W.I.N. block placed at the beginning of my math period. As we move into the new year, I am working on organizing a W.I.N. block for my fifth and sixth grade readers.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Opmn6YH-JVg/XC1NesS_lFI/AAAAAAAATug/ylN_eG18uO4oWzZbPPWxqSZqbNOLIUnEgCEwYBhgL/s1600/WIN3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="W.I.N. in the elementary classroom with differentiated stations. Intervention and enrichment take on a new look with the W.I.N. block. Literacy Loves Company" border="0" data-original-height="981" data-original-width="1600" height="392" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Opmn6YH-JVg/XC1NesS_lFI/AAAAAAAATug/ylN_eG18uO4oWzZbPPWxqSZqbNOLIUnEgCEwYBhgL/s640/WIN3.png" title="W.I.N. in the elementary classroom with differentiated stations. Intervention and enrichment take on a new look with the W.I.N. block. Literacy Loves Company" width="640" /></a></div>
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W.I.N. block can look different for different teachers. It really just depends on your students, your time constraints, your teaching style, and the expectations of your administration. Several teachers in my building are incorporating some version of a W.I.N. block. None of them look the same and all are helping to give students what they need to be successful.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KGjshDih0hI/XC1NqrUp4yI/AAAAAAAATuc/XhbFxnTOSSIii5wBT1TuhYqT9isNeXQvgCLcBGAs/s1600/WIN%2B2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="W.I.N. in the elementary classroom with differentiated stations. Intervention and enrichment take on a new look with the W.I.N. block.Literacy Loves Company" border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1125" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KGjshDih0hI/XC1NqrUp4yI/AAAAAAAATuc/XhbFxnTOSSIii5wBT1TuhYqT9isNeXQvgCLcBGAs/s320/WIN%2B2.png" title="W.I.N. in the elementary classroom with differentiated stations. Intervention and enrichment take on a new look with the W.I.N. block.Literacy Loves Company" width="320" /></a></div>
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So, are you interested in W.I.N.ning in your classroom?<br />
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The key to a successful W.I.N. block is organization. Organization of your student groups, organization of your stations, organization of your materials. If this seems like too much organization for you... I totally understand. You are a busy teacher. There is NEVER enough prep time! Maybe organization isn't your strong suit. Whatever the roadblock, I'm here to help!<br />
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Over the next few weeks, I'll be continuing this topic in a series of blog posts. These blog posts will include downloads of free materials to support you on your W.I.N.ing journey!<br />
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• <b>Organizing Student Groups</b> - free download of a group organizational tool<br />
• <b>Station Ideas </b>- free download of editable station signs and group headers<br />
• <b>Managing Materials</b> - free download of binder cover and spine<br />
• <b>Keeping Kids Accountable</b> - free download of student recording sheet<br />
• <b>Launching a W.I.N. Block</b> - Mystery download! <br />
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Next week I'll share with you what to consider as you are planning your student groups and what opportunities for assessment I use. I will also have available an organizational tool that helps me keep my groups and ideas organized.<br />
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Until then, be thinking of a time in your schedule you might be able to fit in 20 -30 minutes of individualized time for your students. Also, If you have any questions about the W.I.N. block, please comment below.<br />
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-37988413807960159972017-07-20T15:33:00.002-07:002017-07-20T15:33:52.931-07:005 Sanity Savers for Back to School<br />
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As you know, back to school season can be crazy! There is so much to do and very little time to do it. In my school district, we report back to our schools a week before the students show up. That week is filled with district meetings, school meetings, team meetings, and even some parent meetings. AND don't forget the year long curriculum map, weekly lesson plans, Meet the Teacher night, and a host of other things a teacher has to get ready for the new school year. <br />
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Did you notice that I didn't mention getting your classroom in order? Where I work, we have to pack up all of our classroom materials for the summer. This includes taking down bulletin boards and emptying bookshelves. When I show up back to school in August it is like a fresh start, a blank slate. Because there is so much to do, I love knowing that I have a few things that I don't have to worry about as I plan for that BIG first day of school. I'd like to share them with you. <br />
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I have used my first day packet for a few years now. There is so much that I love about it! I love that it is a first day packet, but it lasts the whole first week! My students keep it in their cubbies and when there is some free time, they beg to work on parts of it. The packet includes an FAQ section which covers questions students might have about me, our routines, and expectations. There are also sections to help them get to know me and some fun pages for writing about themselves, drawing, and a classmate name word search. On the first day of school the packets are on student tables so the kids have something to work on while I am greeting parents and other students, helping put materials away, taking attendance, and all those other million things we do on in the first hour on the first day!<br />
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A first day packet isn't hard to put together, but if you want to save yourself a bit more time, I have mine in an editable version available in my Teachers Pay Teachers store. Click the product cover below to open the product description. <br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/First-Day-Packet-for-Back-to-School-EDITABLE-2691139" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="773" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ms7V1zskyko/WXEe6hoNm_I/AAAAAAAAO_0/ftEEy9CcZFowPtLyGt6fL0-cDT410L-owCLcBGAs/s320/Slide01.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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One of the most important classroom management tools a teacher can have is his/her signal that attention is needed. I have a bunch of attention getters in my class. I have a chime that I love to use. It sits on the corner of my desk. I have a cow bell that we use to signal students to get their mail out of their mailboxes. One of the things I don't like about these two signals is that I have to move toward them to ring them. <br />
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Last summer, while reading blogs, Instagram, and Facebook, I came across a post about using doorbells in the classroom. WHAT? GENIUS? I wish I knew who to thank for that piece of miraculous advice, but I don't. What is so clever about using a doorbell in the classroom is that they come in two parts. One is the actual doorbell button that you push and the other is the chime which you can place on a bookshelf or cabinet. The button is small enough to fit in your pocket so that you can ring it wherever you are in the classroom. The one I got had several possible chime settings. I chose one that sounded like a coo-coo click. I taught the students that whenever they heard that sound, they were to stop talking and raise their hands. Not everyone would hear the sound, buy they would notice the room quieting and the hands raised and would follow suit. Genius, I tell you! Pure genius!!!! <br />
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There are many positive behavior reinforcers out there. For the first week or two of school, I just use marbles and a jar... AKA... The Marble Jar! Very low prep! The class as a whole can earn marbles for good transitions, working quietly, etc. Individuals can earn marbles for following directions, getting out materials, walking quietly in the hall... you get the point! The key here is that it is easy for me to implement. It is visual and tangible for the students. And most of all, the students are working together toward a common goal from day ONE. <br />
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I don't use the marble jar all year long. The past 5 or so years, the class would fill up the marble jar so that they could start earning Danley Dollars which was our class monetary system. I'm moving to a new grade level, a 5/6 split, and am working on a new positive behavior system that I am very excited about! I'll make sure to share it here on the blog when I have it presentable. <br />
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Classrooms are digital these days. Whether you are a one device classroom or you are a one-to-one classroom, you have to deal with students' logins and passwords. Last year, I put together password rings for my students. Believe it or not, ALL 32 of my students still have their rings by the end of the year. THIS definitely saved my sanity! We kept the rings in a basket and students got them out when they needed them or we took the whole basket with us to the computer lab. They were brightly colored and have student names on them, so if they did get misplaced, it was easy enough to find them or get them returned to us. I've included a link to my FREE editable template for the password cards on Teachers Pay Teachers. Just click on the product image at the bottom of the post to open it up in a new window.<br />
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The last sanity saver I'd like to share is how I manage classroom jobs in my class. All of my students have a small job that they are responsible for each day. I have a Teacher's Assistant, Light Manager, Chair Stackers, Librarians, Board Cleaners, and the list goes on... 32 students = 32 jobs. Because it could be overwhelming to make sure everyone is doing their jobs, I also have two job managers. It is their responsibility to check off which students do their job each day. I tie this into our classroom economy and students get "paid" each month for doing their classroom jobs. This might sound like a headache to organized, but it really isn't. You can read about it more fully in the blog post <a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2016/08/youre-hired-building-community-with.html" target="_blank">"Your Hired: Building Community with Classroom Jobs"</a><br />
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Having all students help out in the classroom is a big sanity saver! At the end of the day, if everyone is doing their job, I don't have to worry about cleaning up after my students. This saves time for me to grade papers, plan lessons, and clean up my own corner of the room. <br />
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If you are interested in starting classroom jobs with your own students, I've created a resource that includes the editable classified ads, job application, job board, check-off sheets and much more. You can take a look at it by clicking on the product image below. <br />
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There you go. My five Sanity Savers for back to school. I hope that you leave with at least a couple of ideas to help your preparations for the new school year go a little bit smoother. Don't forget to grab the Password Ring FREEBIE by clicking the link below. <br />
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-28206762282244209482017-07-08T23:32:00.001-07:002017-07-09T08:13:12.457-07:00Flexible Seating: The Pros and Cons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have a love/hate relationship with flexible seating. I love the idea of it. I love the way it looks in my classroom. I love the "flexibility" it gives my teaching and my students. I love all the wonderful things about it when it is working well. But over the last year and a half that I have been doing flexible seating in the classroom, I've also found some things I don't love about it and it doesn't always meet the expectations I have for how it should work. This summer I find myself doing a lot of thinking about the pros and cons of flexible seating. I'm moving into a new classroom and grade level this upcoming school year and I'm trying to decide my future with flexible seating. Do we stick together or do we break up?<br />
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The Back Story <br />
When I started flexible seating in my classroom, it was March. My students were about to head off for spring break in a week and I asked them if they wanted to do an experiment. Of course, they were gung-ho: How exciting! We get to choose our own seats? We can sit on the floor? I can stand up if I want? I can switch seats every day if I? We can sit next to our friends? Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! So we went to work, moving tables, taking off legs, raising tables, and stacking chairs in the corner. Each day, students picked their seats for the next day and it worked like a dream. The students took it seriously. We talked about how it was going each week during our morning meeting. After spring break, my principal gave me funds to buy some stools, yoga balls, and pillows. Other teachers in my school noticed and were curious. Some took the leap in their own classrooms. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2016/04/flexible-classroom-seating.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YyJdkfNkEbA/Vvsp97rA8_I/AAAAAAAAF8E/QJ69G9swUpwnTQPl3cWjuJihvrgBkRAuwCPcBGAYYCw/s320/Slide1.jpg" width="160" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2016/04/flexible-classroom-seating.html" target="_blank">Click to read about how I set up my room for flexible seating. </a></td></tr>
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This last school year, I started out the year with flexible seating already in place. A new group of students, the same routines and expectations... with a different result. I'm not sure why it didn't go as well as the first year. It could have been the fact that the first group of students had a part in the transition. They were part of the plan, the implementation, and the ongoing monitoring. For the second group of students, it was handed to them. There was no investment in it. I'm not sure. What I do know is that with both class, there were pros and cons.<br />
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The Pros<br />
Even though it didn't really work out the way I had hoped this second year, I still believe that there are many wonderful things about flexible seating. Here are just a few:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Students love choice! How often do students get to have a choice in where they sit in the classroom? Not often. Giving students that freedom, with guidelines, is powerful. Many students really get to know what seating choices help them be more focused and productive. </li>
<li>Everyone's idea of comfort is different. I am a floor-sitter. I prefer to sit on the floor or on a short stool. I'm short. This may have something to do with it. Some students aren't comfortable on the floor, or in a traditional chair. </li>
<li>The seating options can help students who struggle to sit still. I have a lot of "verbs" in my class. Kids who can't sit still. Kids who jiggle their feet, wiggle their hips, or tap their fingers. They're constantly moving. Some flexible seating options can really benefit these students.</li>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ul8OvWMDk2A/WWGIOerUGsI/AAAAAAAAO9g/3BBnH0fz3wYG1C0oc8or0sjbCZfhW7bxACLcBGAs/s1600/itshardtobeaverb.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="556" data-original-width="625" height="284" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ul8OvWMDk2A/WWGIOerUGsI/AAAAAAAAO9g/3BBnH0fz3wYG1C0oc8or0sjbCZfhW7bxACLcBGAs/s320/itshardtobeaverb.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I read this book to my class every year. </td></tr>
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<ul>
<li>It builds independence. Students start learning how to make decisions about their own learning. They have to determine which space works best for them, which space is distracting or uncomfortable, which space helps them focus and be the most productive. This self-awareness will be important throughout their academic lives. </li>
<li>Where's the teacher? One of the things I love about flexible seating is that it gets me away from the front of the room. The students are never sure where I may present a lesson from. </li>
</ul>
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The Cons</div>
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<ul>
<li>It costs money. The tables and chairs that came with my classroom were free... flexible seating is an investment. I was lucky enough to have a principal and PTA that helped me that first year. The second year, I had more students which means more seating which leads me to the next con... </li>
<li>Space. When you have a large class size (think 32 or more students), flexible seating can be a challenge. You really want to have enough seating options and spaces that students can really make a good choice of where to sit. When you have 32 students and only 32 seats, some students are going to get whatever is left, which isn't always the best choice for them. </li>
<li>Less broad friendships. One of the things I noticed about this year's class is that the same students would sit at the same tables every time. It wasn't about the seating choices, it was about their friends. Because they had the free choice, they chose to sit together each day, everyday and other students were left out. My first year of flexible seating this wasn't a problem because the first part of the year, we had traditional assigned seats and students were grouped a lot of different ways. They got to know each other and appreciate each other for their uniqueness. With this new group, it didn't matter how many times we talked about the reason for flexible seating, the importance of choosing a spot that helped you be a productive learner, the need for being inclusive and open to new friendships. It. Didn't. Matter. They still always chose to sit with their friends. </li>
<li>Backpacks, backpacks everywhere. Because my class does not have lockers or backpack hooks, my students have no place to put their backpacks. I provided large rubbermaid tubs to house them throughout the day, but inevitably they, along with jackets, would end up on the floor getting trampled on by dozens of feet. </li>
</ul>
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About halfway way through the school year, we partially stopped flexible seating. The different types of seats were still in the classroom, but I assigned table groups. The floor table and standing table were taken out, the kids didn't like them, and more traditional chairs were brought back into the classroom. </div>
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I was frustrated and sad. I felt like I had failed at flexible seating! How could it go so great one year and bomb the next? </div>
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I'm trying to be reflective now and decide how I am going to handle seating as I start setting up my new classroom in August. I don't want to give up on flexible seating. It fits with who I am and my way of teaching... plus, I have a bunch of yoga balls and crate stools that I don't want to get rid of. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2016/03/classroom-diy-crate-seats.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Are you heading back to school and considering flexible seating for your classroom? Before you jump in, check out some of the pros and cons from an elementary classroom experience. " border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1126" height="398" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q631qkDVpjk/Vvdno7C_FGI/AAAAAAAAFyc/0ThPiSXikyktGUam-5LoLTvAEP1fTQsqgCPcBGAYYCw/s400/pic%2B4.png" title="Are you heading back to school and considering flexible seating for your classroom? Before you jump in, check out some of the pros and cons from an elementary classroom experience. " width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Want to make your own crate seats? Click on the photo to go to my Classroom DIY - Crate Seat post! <a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2016/03/classroom-diy-crate-seats.html" target="_blank"><br /></a></td></tr>
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So, as I end this blog post, I am trying to come up with ways to save this relationship. My plan is to go back to what worked and go from there. You have to be flexible when implementing flexible seating. You have to adjust your expectations and focus on the basics of what works well. Here is some advice for myself and for those of you who are starting your own relationship with flexible seating: </div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Don't start the year off with flexible seating. Let students earn it. Let students be a part of the process. Let students share their ideas for flexible seating. Involve them in the transformation. </li>
<li>Clearly articulate the reasons for and benefits of flexible seating with your students. </li>
<li>Set clear guidelines and expectations.</li>
<li>Regularly monitor how flexible seating is going in the classroom. Encourage discourse on the pros and cons students are seeing and be honest about what I am noticing as the teacher. </li>
<li>Have a clear plan for organization. Where will supplies go? Where will jackets go in the winter? Where will backpacks be stored? </li>
<li>Don't be afraid to adjust your plan. If it isn't working change it. </li>
</ol>
That's it. That's all I have. I'm not throwing in the towel. I'm tenacious if nothing else, and I feel like this relationship is worth fighting for. I'll let you know how it goes.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kllrIUNCHgg/WWJH1Fy2pUI/AAAAAAAAO90/x3SKa0KIUacR75diEGTY7NPnYjf4gWCOgCLcBGAs/s1600/flexPC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Are you heading back to school and considering flexible seating for your classroom? Before you jump in, check out some of the pros and cons from an elementary classroom experience. " border="0" data-original-height="1470" data-original-width="735" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kllrIUNCHgg/WWJH1Fy2pUI/AAAAAAAAO90/x3SKa0KIUacR75diEGTY7NPnYjf4gWCOgCLcBGAs/s400/flexPC.jpg" title="Are you heading back to school and considering flexible seating for your classroom? Before you jump in, check out some of the pros and cons from an elementary classroom experience. " width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks for pinning me! </td></tr>
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I know my experience with flexible seating is not the same as everyone else's. I'm sure there are some people who start it and it is works out perfectly for them. I also know that there are some people who give it a try and regret it. If you are in either of those two camps or somewhere in between, I'd love to know what worked for you and what didn't. Please share your thoughts, ideas, and advice in the comments!</div>
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Until next time,</div>
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-91875506371427472072016-12-29T11:29:00.000-08:002016-12-29T11:37:21.297-08:00Grab 'Em with Guinness World Records<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-efDL9ugqiIA/WGRV85rs06I/AAAAAAAAO1A/5xl39enPihk2QHEkqDqskv5onfqeip3qACLcB/s1600/Facebook%2Bpics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-efDL9ugqiIA/WGRV85rs06I/AAAAAAAAO1A/5xl39enPihk2QHEkqDqskv5onfqeip3qACLcB/s640/Facebook%2Bpics.jpg" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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As teachers, we've all seen it... groups of elementary school kids crowded around a dog-eared, well worn copy of Guinness World Records. Kids are mesmerized by the pictures of the tallest man and the longest fingernails. They giggle over the flamboyant tattoos and the shocking piercings. Many dream about being the fastest person, having the most home runs, or any other number of records just waiting to be broken. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qzGiXPpGhGE/WGRVavXbgCI/AAAAAAAAO04/0MvZY_UAwkQdpEWsJS4MdJeZTCbkgKeqgCEw/s1600/gb27.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qzGiXPpGhGE/WGRVavXbgCI/AAAAAAAAO04/0MvZY_UAwkQdpEWsJS4MdJeZTCbkgKeqgCEw/s640/gb27.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="522" /></a></div>
Guinness World Records is a great way to entertain students, but did you know that is is full of fascinating facts and interesting information that'll peak your class's curiosity and set them up to learn? <br />
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If you've ever taken a close look at the inside of Guinness, you've seen it is ripe with possibilities. So many great ideas, in fact, that the people at Guinness have created a <a href="http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/campaigns/us/teachers-guide" target="_blank">Teachers Guide</a> for the new 2017 edition. <br />
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You can use the Teachers Edition with a hard copy of Guinness World Records 2017 (see the end of the post for a giveaway of the book) or the <a href="http://guinnessworldrecords.com/">guinnessworldrecords.com</a>.<br />
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The lesson plan guide contains activity ideas for grades 2-5 and connect to the Common Core Standards. Activities include ideas for measurement and mapping, language arts, and science. <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3UTkiL1AYhg/WGRjX_puzlI/AAAAAAAAO1s/caEOZa1H3QIGzbvaMVUaaD2zIgCrnMMPQCLcB/s1600/gb26.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3UTkiL1AYhg/WGRjX_puzlI/AAAAAAAAO1s/caEOZa1H3QIGzbvaMVUaaD2zIgCrnMMPQCLcB/s400/gb26.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="342" /></a></div>
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In my classroom, I used the teachers guide to create a measurement math station. Students worked with a partner to measure a variety of body parts and then compared their measurements to the record holders. I've provided the sheet I used <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B10Wq1oZA6SjdExFVnZQbGFOb0k/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">HERE </a>as a free download for you. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KYeo54eBUvM/WGRj4KXJy2I/AAAAAAAAO1w/0ak4tadO4ZEb6uBrybVdM7-X3OQfP63mQCLcB/s1600/Guiness%2Bbook%2Bof%2Bworld%2Brecords.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KYeo54eBUvM/WGRj4KXJy2I/AAAAAAAAO1w/0ak4tadO4ZEb6uBrybVdM7-X3OQfP63mQCLcB/s400/Guiness%2Bbook%2Bof%2Bworld%2Brecords.jpg" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The measurements for the middle section can be found in the Teacher's Edition. </td></tr>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ce8MPX-GqNg/WGRRPzTTPYI/AAAAAAAAO0c/vbWbg3p895oefNpvFdzr7JE1Pm-ngsB6QCEw/s1600/IMG_0048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="578" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ce8MPX-GqNg/WGRRPzTTPYI/AAAAAAAAO0c/vbWbg3p895oefNpvFdzr7JE1Pm-ngsB6QCEw/s640/IMG_0048.jpg" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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I have to be honest, I always thought that Guinness was just a book full of records, but it is SO MUCH MORE! It is packed full of interesting facts and information for just about anything you can think of. As I looked through the 2017 edition I found myself continually thinking about how this book could be used to enhance just about every science and social studies unit I teach in 4th grade! I'm going to give you a quick pic-tour so you can start thinking about how you could use Guinness in your own classroom. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mhR3eXYSYnY/WGQ892Uw0XI/AAAAAAAAOzs/dgllDxgdZmYBLiNrpLEOjJalXw6Dr17wQCLcB/s1600/gb25.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mhR3eXYSYnY/WGQ892Uw0XI/AAAAAAAAOzs/dgllDxgdZmYBLiNrpLEOjJalXw6Dr17wQCLcB/s640/gb25.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="632" /></a></div>
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If your students learn about space as part of your curriculum, sharing some of the facts in this section would be a great way to peak interest at the beginning of your unit!</div>
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If you study geology, clouds, weather, oceans, or plant adaptations, this section if packed with fun facts students will love! </div>
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Every kids loves learning about animals! This section is full of interesting information students will get excited about. If you teach animal adaptations, habitats, spiders, or dinosaurs this is a great section to find attention-grabbing facts!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lVGrqYxPhCo/WGQ88UY8obI/AAAAAAAAOzU/hP1LBy-XdgA-c9fSrrgXlK1nX1L7NolHQCEw/s1600/gb20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lVGrqYxPhCo/WGQ88UY8obI/AAAAAAAAOzU/hP1LBy-XdgA-c9fSrrgXlK1nX1L7NolHQCEw/s640/gb20.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="480" /></a></div>
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Another great feature you'll find at the bottom of many of the pages is a time line. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H-t_jMu3ShA/WGQ87onSXXI/AAAAAAAAOzQ/gVNUHsF6_KAUuv_dapCEI3iXFTku-8VEwCEw/s1600/gb19.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H-t_jMu3ShA/WGQ87onSXXI/AAAAAAAAOzQ/gVNUHsF6_KAUuv_dapCEI3iXFTku-8VEwCEw/s640/gb19.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h2CLPCkdBK4/WGQ87u664vI/AAAAAAAAOzM/5VpxgLAN17IaolnXw5Q1gci1Sz_lVqjQACEw/s1600/gb18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h2CLPCkdBK4/WGQ87u664vI/AAAAAAAAOzM/5VpxgLAN17IaolnXw5Q1gci1Sz_lVqjQACEw/s640/gb18.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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This section would be great for teachers starting a unit on body systems! </div>
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The Journey's section is a wonderful compliment to your study of explorers and explorations. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SWtXCvJXjX0/WGQ86wqKCuI/AAAAAAAAOzE/q3o87A0_FPc3_mFr368AtJgPA2WN2XZ5gCEw/s1600/gb16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="444" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SWtXCvJXjX0/WGQ86wqKCuI/AAAAAAAAOzE/q3o87A0_FPc3_mFr368AtJgPA2WN2XZ5gCEw/s640/gb16.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ClWvJU3e654/WGQ868_K_eI/AAAAAAAAOzA/qVNBGOQK4V4E8IMwAo6nVK5saWXyNAHywCEw/s1600/gb15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ClWvJU3e654/WGQ868_K_eI/AAAAAAAAOzA/qVNBGOQK4V4E8IMwAo6nVK5saWXyNAHywCEw/s640/gb15.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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The "Do Try This at Home..." section is full of fun challenges students can try at home such as how many sugar cubes can you balance on your chin or how fast can you drink a bottle of ketchup. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ITaZHEQJA1g/WGQ86hF2bBI/AAAAAAAAOy8/AMTeOtWNmcQgIwIwv60OucBCQgiMdb1BgCEw/s1600/gb14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ITaZHEQJA1g/WGQ86hF2bBI/AAAAAAAAOy8/AMTeOtWNmcQgIwIwv60OucBCQgiMdb1BgCEw/s640/gb14.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uKJqQZgW6Ak/WGQ86TCwcYI/AAAAAAAAOy4/IJJgAlEFsxMPUrkE8XCVZyvORtXpjw1OACEw/s1600/gb13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uKJqQZgW6Ak/WGQ86TCwcYI/AAAAAAAAOy4/IJJgAlEFsxMPUrkE8XCVZyvORtXpjw1OACEw/s640/gb13.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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And some crazy things you DON'T want to try at home or anywhere else! </div>
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Every kids loves toys and games! There are some great writing prompt ideas you could get from this section! </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SMmTRDJ0R9U/WGQ85qn62iI/AAAAAAAAOyw/Hxglh3fGikEwNtiz4Cpf2TkIeK243584wCEw/s1600/gb10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="488" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SMmTRDJ0R9U/WGQ85qn62iI/AAAAAAAAOyw/Hxglh3fGikEwNtiz4Cpf2TkIeK243584wCEw/s640/gb10.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1M0S5hz63E8/WGQ8_T-tVsI/AAAAAAAAO0I/IPh_rddCGJYFWkuOu3wM7mAeKJ80PzM7gCEw/s1600/gb9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1M0S5hz63E8/WGQ8_T-tVsI/AAAAAAAAO0I/IPh_rddCGJYFWkuOu3wM7mAeKJ80PzM7gCEw/s640/gb9.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bqDu9orUcqw/WGQ8_FJXIII/AAAAAAAAO0E/ENB3w5ML_Y8mhC-VFm7WM9eCFZQ6zd4twCEw/s1600/gb8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bqDu9orUcqw/WGQ8_FJXIII/AAAAAAAAO0E/ENB3w5ML_Y8mhC-VFm7WM9eCFZQ6zd4twCEw/s640/gb8.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="480" /></a></div>
For students who love to build! The facts and information inside this section would be a great way to inspire a STEM unit! There are also a lot of measurements in this section you could use to have students compare and contrast, find the difference, etc. <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vVFbTZpigbU/WGQ8-1VZllI/AAAAAAAAO0A/HUo9QiT7k_sI5uMAVDZjV6YtN93zbU0CQCEw/s1600/gb7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vVFbTZpigbU/WGQ8-1VZllI/AAAAAAAAO0A/HUo9QiT7k_sI5uMAVDZjV6YtN93zbU0CQCEw/s640/gb7.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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The Arts & Media section is another wonderful section to find ideas for writing. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hMOSr5EZ_WI/WGQ8-kWx5wI/AAAAAAAAOz8/WjJPDX6zP-YSS0695QTQaG-xFaUKCuC5wCEw/s1600/gb6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hMOSr5EZ_WI/WGQ8-kWx5wI/AAAAAAAAOz8/WjJPDX6zP-YSS0695QTQaG-xFaUKCuC5wCEw/s640/gb6.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qt5odhH38PI/WGQ8-jKGKsI/AAAAAAAAOz4/ta1KrExCmP8SFK7e8jqoQtyXxjJXff5AACEw/s1600/gb5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qt5odhH38PI/WGQ8-jKGKsI/AAAAAAAAOz4/ta1KrExCmP8SFK7e8jqoQtyXxjJXff5AACEw/s640/gb5.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="622" /></a></div>
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There are so many different possibilities with this section! Writing prompts and facts to grab learners at the start of a science unit are just a couple. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2y081cGa34M/WGQ8-CVUhFI/AAAAAAAAOz0/MGGvCu23LTASCFtPqK-iFoz861Ee2P6awCEw/s1600/gb4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="556" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2y081cGa34M/WGQ8-CVUhFI/AAAAAAAAOz0/MGGvCu23LTASCFtPqK-iFoz861Ee2P6awCEw/s640/gb4.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wH0icMdIExY/WGQ89w3eyFI/AAAAAAAAOzw/M6g24_DBHfAxfHbl4XMnjHuyIATMLDNzgCEw/s1600/gb3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wH0icMdIExY/WGQ89w3eyFI/AAAAAAAAOzw/M6g24_DBHfAxfHbl4XMnjHuyIATMLDNzgCEw/s640/gb3.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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The sports section is another favorite of students! </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-smq8SR30TVk/WGQ88LCwU0I/AAAAAAAAOzc/-SUhZjBGg-MZjBGDyH_DsKZ6qPGLfvB3QCEw/s1600/gb2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="508" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-smq8SR30TVk/WGQ88LCwU0I/AAAAAAAAOzc/-SUhZjBGg-MZjBGDyH_DsKZ6qPGLfvB3QCEw/s640/gb2.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qw1RMU8snOo/WGQ85g3IqsI/AAAAAAAAOys/bdsrXU0jtEQfLRO2gtsoNpCheIdFn38jQCEw/s1600/gb1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qw1RMU8snOo/WGQ85g3IqsI/AAAAAAAAOys/bdsrXU0jtEQfLRO2gtsoNpCheIdFn38jQCEw/s640/gb1.png" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">As you can see, Guinness World Records is a valuable resource for any classroom! It is not only a favorite of students, but there is a lot of great attention grabbing content inside of this book for teachers to use as a support and enhancement to your grade-level lesson and units! </span></div>
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Don't forget to download your FREE Teachers Guide by clicking the link above and as a "Thank You" for visiting Literacy Loves Company and reading this blog post, the people at Guinness World Records have given me a copy of the NEW 2017 edition to give to one lucky reader! </div>
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GIVEAWAY GUIDELINES:</div>
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<ul>
<li>Since, if you win, I will have to ship the book to you, <b>the giveaway is only open to people with mailing addresses within the continental United States.</b> </li>
<li>The giveaway is open from <b>December 29, 2016 through January 9th, 2016</b>. </li>
<li>I only have one book, so there will only be <b>one lucky winner</b>!</li>
<li>To enter, please enter your information in the Rafflecopter widget at the bottom of this post. </li>
<li>The winner will be randomly chosen by the Rafflecopter widget.</li>
<li>The winner will be announced <b>Tuesday, January 10th</b> on my Facebook page, Instagram account, here on the blog, and by email. </li>
<li>The winner will need to <b>respond to my email by January 15th with a mailing address</b> so that I can get your book in the mail that next week. </li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P3AfjAD2pQU/WGRZRTbKE2I/AAAAAAAAO1Q/CUvtn-lQ_oIvVJrtE8q5U1PVoopWk08cgCLcB/s1600/GB%2BPin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P3AfjAD2pQU/WGRZRTbKE2I/AAAAAAAAO1Q/CUvtn-lQ_oIvVJrtE8q5U1PVoopWk08cgCLcB/s640/GB%2BPin.jpg" title="Looking for attention grabbers for writing, math, social studies, and science? Visit Literacy Loves Company to see how using Guinness World Record can be used for writing inspiration, math centers, and anticipatory sets! You’ll see Guinness World Records in a whole new way! " width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Thank you for visiting Literacy Loves Company! I hope this post has inspired you to take a closer look at your Guinness World Records books for inspiration! <br />
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</style>Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-74343627830228914642016-08-24T13:44:00.001-07:002016-08-24T13:47:28.926-07:00For the HEALTH of it! Back to School<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FktCUTwu2_U/V73-fgxSB5I/AAAAAAAANjk/ALp4J_Ks28g78F0KWplcqgyGNXfOPPDkgCLcB/s1600/Facebook%2Bpics.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="This back to school season, teach your students about germs, diseases, and how to stay well with these 3 health lessons. Perfect for 4th and 5th grade classrooms." border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FktCUTwu2_U/V73-fgxSB5I/AAAAAAAANjk/ALp4J_Ks28g78F0KWplcqgyGNXfOPPDkgCLcB/s640/Facebook%2Bpics.png" title="This back to school season, teach your students about germs, diseases, and how to stay well with these 3 health lessons. Perfect for 4th and 5th grade classrooms." width="640" /></a></div>
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Well, next week I officially report back to work. It has been a great summer, but I am excited to get my classroom in order, turn all of those ideas I've been pinning and planning into reality, and finally meet my new bunch of fourth graders. I love back to school time! <br />
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What I don't love about a new school year is being bombarded by germs... coughing, sneezing, dirty hands, nose picking, viruses, bacteria... OH MY! I can feel my throat start to scratch and my sinuses start to drain just thinking about it. </div>
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In my school district, we teach about communicable and non-communicable diseases, pathogens, and heatlhy habits as part of our health curriculum. I always start the year with these valuable lessons that we refer to all year long. Because of a packed schedule, I only teach health once a week, so I need to make that lesson count! </div>
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I've just finished the first three in a HUGE series of health lessons I plan on creating throughout the school year. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_ui_frnM_PA/V74BhfAzA4I/AAAAAAAANjw/xKVU8qubPn42HCQfGChp6ERP-ue2JmlVQCLcB/s1600/minibundle1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="This back to school season, teach your students about germs, diseases, and how to stay well with these 3 health lessons. Perfect for 4th and 5th grade classrooms." border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_ui_frnM_PA/V74BhfAzA4I/AAAAAAAANjw/xKVU8qubPn42HCQfGChp6ERP-ue2JmlVQCLcB/s640/minibundle1.png" title="This back to school season, teach your students about germs, diseases, and how to stay well with these 3 health lessons. Perfect for 4th and 5th grade classrooms." width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's a little bit about each one of the lessons:<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Health-Communicable-and-Non-Communicable-Disease-2739463" target="_blank"><img alt="This back to school season, teach your students about germs, diseases, and how to stay well with these 3 health lessons. Perfect for 4th and 5th grade classrooms." border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xK3jPYDnYNs/V73xzBVhxjI/AAAAAAAANi0/SBPwA7GNkbouXwvQWU6zMEN0uwwAHviRgCLcB/s320/disease.jpg" title="This back to school season, teach your students about germs, diseases, and how to stay well with these 3 health lessons. Perfect for 4th and 5th grade classrooms." width="320" /></a></div>
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In lesson #1 students learn what communicable and non-communicable diseases are, examples of each and ways to protect against contagious illness. As a closing activity they play a "I have, who has" game as a class to review the vocabulary and concepts in the lesson. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Health-GERMS-2739520" target="_blank"><img alt="This back to school season, teach your students about germs, diseases, and how to stay well with these 3 health lessons. Perfect for 4th and 5th grade classrooms." border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UmZON4qk6E0/V73xzNqx4ZI/AAAAAAAANi8/JPkwSnNLKPkFet4Sk2MJRkSBNnwysMsUwCLcB/s320/germs.jpg" title="This back to school season, teach your students about germs, diseases, and how to stay well with these 3 health lessons. Perfect for 4th and 5th grade classrooms." width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Health-GERMS-2739520" target="_blank">I'm FREE! Click to download!</a></td></tr>
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Lesson #2 goes into more depth about what causes communicable diseases, specifically viruses and bacteria. The informational brochure talks about the immune system and how it helps defend against these unwanted intruders. As part of the lesson, students design a germ and create a wanted poster sharing details from what they learned from their health brochure. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Health-HEALTHY-HABITS-2739557" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="This back to school season, teach your students about germs, diseases, and how to stay well with these 3 health lessons. Perfect for 4th and 5th grade classrooms." border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G-qrF2wxKXQ/V73xzDAUraI/AAAAAAAANi4/QEbhIYJQOuotDL_3Zuk3URKPhVouvYt-gCLcB/s320/healthyhabits.png" title="This back to school season, teach your students about germs, diseases, and how to stay well with these 3 health lessons. Perfect for 4th and 5th grade classrooms." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click to go to TpT.</td></tr>
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Lesson #3 teaches students about 8 healthy habits for staying well. This connect to both of the previous lessons, but goes into more details about how to keep well. As an opening activity, students participate in an easy to science experiment to discover where the most germs are in the classroom. </div>
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Each of these lessons includes detailed lesson plans, lesson objectives for posting, an opening activity, main lesson including a non-fiction text in brochure format, and a closing activity. If you buy the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/HEALTH-Disease-Germs-Healthy-Habits-2739613" target="_blank">MINI-BUNDLE</a> of all three lessons, I've also included a grade book page with all of the objectives listed and an assessment covering all three lessons. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dy4ccCGTXiE/V74GmpOJPbI/AAAAAAAANkg/haqs8H4u53wnZcrd--RKZ1_DjRi1iY1nQCLcB/s1600/germs.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="This back to school season, teach your students about germs, diseases, and how to stay well with these 3 health lessons. Perfect for 4th and 5th grade classrooms." border="0" height="638" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dy4ccCGTXiE/V74GmpOJPbI/AAAAAAAANkg/haqs8H4u53wnZcrd--RKZ1_DjRi1iY1nQCLcB/s640/germs.png" title="This back to school season, teach your students about germs, diseases, and how to stay well with these 3 health lessons. Perfect for 4th and 5th grade classrooms." width="640" /></a></div>
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If you already have a health curriculum, the health brochures are also a great way to revisit the concepts in a literacy center or as a take home assignment. They include vocabulary, quick before reading activity, close reading/code the text key, and after reading vocabulary task and comprehension questions related to the lesson objectives. </div>
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<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxlpZjFiJNmREXb6zudGazemgtXTfejg1yFWmFiTEYBSZ3oL89pLnhIYi2OOebI6GndS_vuLf-1evKCf6UwwA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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My next set of For the HEALTH of It! lessons will be focusing on HYGIENE! If you are interested in getting notification of when these lessons are completed, please follow Literacy Loves Company on TpT! All new resources are 50% off for the first 48 hours... that equals big savings. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Literacy-Loves-Company" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bFuaUn36EQ8/V74FL-Zy8UI/AAAAAAAANkU/uCAd4-ieGIMEqqvo0MMDM5hOJR4tDK7BwCLcB/s320/logo.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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*NOTE... as I use these lessons in class, I'll update this blog post with photos of the lessons and activities. If you are interested, follow my blog by e-mail or on blog lovin! </div>
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Thanks for visiting Literacy Loves Company Blog! I hope you stay germ free and have a great Back to School season! </div>
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Attribution for the dirty hands photograph in the video:</div>
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Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-27925970938943704552016-08-15T01:00:00.000-07:002016-08-15T08:20:19.362-07:00You're Hired! Building Community with Classroom Jobs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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No matter how long you have been teaching, whether this is your first year or you've been teaching for a dozen, one of the most important things you can do to support classroom management and help your school year go smoothly is to build a strong rapport with your students and a sense of community in your classroom. There are a hundred different things you can do to accomplish this such as holding <a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2015/08/in-classroom-quick-guide-to-successful.html" target="_blank">class meetings</a>, spending time on <a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2015/09/the-secret-messages-in-your-first-day.html" target="_blank">get-to-know-you activities</a> the first week of school, and having clear expectations and consequences. <br />
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Today I want to talk to you about another classroom routine that not only builds a sense of teamwork in your classroom, but also helps you, the teacher, keep your classroom organized and clean. <br />
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I'm talking about classroom jobs. Classroom jobs are a great way to help your students develop a sense of community and teamwork. When all your students have one small task to complete each day, they begin to see that when everyone puts in that little bit of effort the class runs more smoothly, stays organized, is more conducive to learning, and is a more pleasant place to spend their day. As students complete their jobs and are recognized for their effort it builds self esteem and helps to establish a strong work ethic. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ebwxyh_gLUA/V6er69E8ZOI/AAAAAAAANgQ/a71y2kkI2_4zllNMRrX6IJBfE5Gk_RtuQCEw/s1600/help%2Bwanted.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A closer look at how to use classroom jobs to build community this back to school season. Great tips for getting the most from your classroom jobs!" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ebwxyh_gLUA/V6er69E8ZOI/AAAAAAAANgQ/a71y2kkI2_4zllNMRrX6IJBfE5Gk_RtuQCEw/s640/help%2Bwanted.png" title="A closer look at how to use classroom jobs to build community this back to school season. Great tips for getting the most from your classroom jobs!" width="480" /></a></div>
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The key here is to make sure that every one of yours students has a classroom job that they are interested in, proud of, and are capable of completing successfully.<br />
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Try to phrase your job titles in ways that make them sound interesting and important. For example, Recycling Manager sounds much more important that just recycler. Light Monitor more esteemed than light person. And Class Botanist more official than gardener. You want students to be proud of their positions and giving them powerful job titles is one way to do that.<br />
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Giving students choices is important to building relationships and community. Rather than just assigning jobs to students randomly, it is a good idea to give students a chance to choose which jobs they would like to do. Classified ads are a great way to give your students some information about each of the jobs. Each job has a short description so that students understand what will be expected of them if they get hired for that position. I plan on making several copies of these classified ads and give students time to read through them and circle jobs that are interesting to them. I also plan on keeping a clean copy on display near my job chart so that the descriptions are easily available for reference throughout the year. <br />
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Undoubtably, there will be some jobs that everyone wants and a few that nobody is interested in. This is when having an Employment Application will come in handy. In the past, I've written all of the job titles on a large sheet of butcher paper and students wrote their names under the three job titles that they were interested in. I'd go through and choose a person for each job. This year, I want my students to give more thought into what skills they have that would make them the best person for the job that they want. I plan on asking each of my students to fill out the application with their top two choices. This will not only give me some information about my students while I am hiring, but it will also give my kiddos practice with the real world task of filling out forms. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click on the image to get a free download of the Classroom Employment Application</td></tr>
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Hold students accountable for their jobs. In my class, I have two students who are my "Job Supervisors". These two students check off workers as they complete their jobs each day. This is important because we have a classroom economy and students get paychecks each month for their clean-up jobs. To help keep track of student positions and to help hold students accountable for their responsibilities, this chart is vital.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7_v2EW2Du_g/V6eKNK2AHYI/AAAAAAAANfk/BDtNs6JkeEYNH_HLi2htFmFLOaCeAyh4QCEw/s1600/checkinchart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A closer look at how to use classroom jobs to build community this back to school season. Great tips for getting the most from your classroom jobs!" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7_v2EW2Du_g/V6eKNK2AHYI/AAAAAAAANfk/BDtNs6JkeEYNH_HLi2htFmFLOaCeAyh4QCEw/s640/checkinchart.jpg" title="A closer look at how to use classroom jobs to build community this back to school season. Great tips for getting the most from your classroom jobs!" width="494" /></a></div>
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I will be writing another blog post on our classroom economy, but for now I will say that I have found rewarding students for their hard work is an important part of this learning experience. As adults, we get paid for our work. I look forward to my paycheck and I enjoy spending my hard earned money. The same can be said for our students. They should be recognized for their efforts. You don't have to have a classroom economy. There are a lot of different ways you can show appreciation. You can have lunch in the classroom, indoor recess, a board game party, and the list goes on. It is just important to let students know that their contribution to keeping the class clean and running smoothly is appreciated. <br />
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Classroom jobs may look differently depending on the grade level you teach, but no matter what age your students are, a small task for each student can be beneficial for all involved, including the teacher. I teach 4th grade and the help my students give me helps me keep my sanity! My students collect papers, deliver mail, change the daily schedule, make sure the calendar is up to date, sweep the floor, take out the trash, make sure absent students get missing work, make sure the lights are on and off... and the list goes on. All of these things I'd have to do myself if it wasn't for their help. And because every student is helping, our clean-up time is only about 5-10 minutes each day!<br />
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If you aren't fully using the power of classroom jobs in with your students, I hope you will consider it. Like I mentioned above, it might look differently in your class than in mine, but hiring each of your students for one small task a day will not only keep your classroom clean and organized, but it will also have many positive benefits for your students. <br />
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If you have more ideas, different suggestions, or questions about how I run classroom jobs with my students, please feel free to use the comment section below! I'd love to hear from you. <br />
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If you'd like to know more about my Classroom Jobs Starter Pack, click on the image below to open a new window to the product description on TeachersPayTeachers.com . <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gbcj2iL2JrI/V6eKBTFkrRI/AAAAAAAANfs/r-ftvAWxZw4HZC06zUt9WGAqga12v8pHwCEw/s1600/classjobsjpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="A closer look at how to use classroom jobs to build community this back to school season. Great tips for getting the most from your classroom jobs!" border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gbcj2iL2JrI/V6eKBTFkrRI/AAAAAAAANfs/r-ftvAWxZw4HZC06zUt9WGAqga12v8pHwCEw/s400/classjobsjpg.jpg" title="A closer look at how to use classroom jobs to build community this back to school season. Great tips for getting the most from your classroom jobs!" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Classroom Jobs Starter Pack {Editable}</td></tr>
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Thank you so much for reading my post! For more great Back-to-School management and organizational tips, hop on to the next blog post by Teacher Erica.<br />
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Don't forget to enter to win some great prizes! One lucky and deserving teacher will win a $50 gift certificate to TpT! </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-blawcZxjerY/V7HdaivjxDI/AAAAAAAANh8/E-_uBaNG_XETOMAxMolne-sKtwLtK4MrACLcB/s1600/IMG_9126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-blawcZxjerY/V7HdaivjxDI/AAAAAAAANh8/E-_uBaNG_XETOMAxMolne-sKtwLtK4MrACLcB/s320/IMG_9126.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Another, equally deserving teacher will win TpT resources from 30, YES THIRTY, different sellers! What a treasure trove of materials to get you started this school year!</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dhpinGafhos/V7HdajiYHLI/AAAAAAAANiA/ztF2K_fSfKEpR4d6JaLG5YC6i1CB921SACLcB/s1600/IMG_9127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dhpinGafhos/V7HdajiYHLI/AAAAAAAANiA/ztF2K_fSfKEpR4d6JaLG5YC6i1CB921SACLcB/s320/IMG_9127.jpg" width="304" /></a></div>
Good luck! <br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IcBUBh1XIH4/V7HdrDDGzXI/AAAAAAAANiE/GUX8LUu9JmEyTlsdDw0HZ8f5hD6tg1TpwCLcB/s1600/Untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IcBUBh1XIH4/V7HdrDDGzXI/AAAAAAAANiE/GUX8LUu9JmEyTlsdDw0HZ8f5hD6tg1TpwCLcB/s320/Untitled.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="58aa6d985" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/58aa6d985/" id="rcwidget_p27f81kj" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-7880465711451468412016-07-31T07:20:00.000-07:002016-07-31T07:20:15.717-07:00The Best Year Ever Sale and Giveaway! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L6tBlHW1oBk/V52PmzqB-yI/AAAAAAAANHY/HbX_ZkUF6fQAn9JgUmq2g0RSiX5X_tRngCLcB/s1600/BESTEVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L6tBlHW1oBk/V52PmzqB-yI/AAAAAAAANHY/HbX_ZkUF6fQAn9JgUmq2g0RSiX5X_tRngCLcB/s640/BESTEVER.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I know some of us are already back in the classroom and some of us still have weeks of summer left, but it's always the PERFECT time for a BACK TO SCHOOL SALE AND GIVEAWAY, right?! <br />
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The prizes are ones that any teacher can appreciate: a $10 TpT gift certificate, a $10 Starbucks gift certificate, and up to $20 in resources from my TpT store! That's $40 worth of goodies! <br />
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To share the love with all my followers on the blog, Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest, I'm giving people a chance to enter on each platform... so, if you have a minute, HOP on over to each of my little social media homes and look for the image above. <br />
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To enter, you'll be asked to do something simple, like make a comment or answer a question. You'll never be forced to follow me to enter, but if you choose to follow me that would be wonderful! Please enter only once at each destination.<br />
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TpT followers will find a bonus entry in their inbox, so check your TpT mail! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Literacy-Loves-Company" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yx8PYwddlvg/V54C7ncn7_I/AAAAAAAANIo/-kKVqPNpXfMLcykGajSF20tMwnVX5yDIQCLcB/s320/psst.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click on the image to be taken to TpT!</td></tr>
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Each time you enter, your name will be entered into a random name picker. One lucky winner will be chosen on Monday, August 1st at noon (pacific time). I will announce the winner's name on my Facebook page and on my Instagram account. The winner will be asked to e-mail me with the items he/she wants from my store and I will email back a link to those items and the gift certificate codes to the winner! Easy Peasy!<br />
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Before you jet off to do some hopping, don't forgot about the HUGE TpT sale that's starting on Monday! Its the BEST YEAR EVER sale and most sellers have their entire stores marked down 20%! On top of that, enter the code <b>BestYear</b> and get an additional 10% off! BONANZA! I've been filling up my wish list and it's time to move some of those GREAT resources to my cart. How about you? <br />
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Back to the Giveaway! <br />
TO ENTER here on the blog, comment below with the date you were/are officially back in the classroom. Me, I've got 4 weeks left. I officially return to work August 29th so I'm still trying to soak it all up! <br />
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After you've left your comment, head on over to my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Literacy-Loves-Company-243344699166239/" target="_blank">FACEBOOK</a> page for another chance to enter! From there you'll be linked to the next stop of 4 stops and 4 CHANCES to ENTER!! Don't forget the bonus entry for my TpT followers! I'll be sending out the note this afternoon! <br />
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Best of luck to you on the giveaway, back to school, and TpT shopping! <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8uCAxrx31sg/V54FeLSDZbI/AAAAAAAANI0/Fs2m-7i0ihk0JApw7MwKmLelW5u2Ux8hgCLcB/s1600/Untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8uCAxrx31sg/V54FeLSDZbI/AAAAAAAANI0/Fs2m-7i0ihk0JApw7MwKmLelW5u2Ux8hgCLcB/s320/Untitled.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here are just a few of the resources I've created and added to my store this summer: <br />
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<a href="xhttps://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Multi-Step-Word-Problems-BUNDLE-2684897" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nSmF-LOxeeg/V54GWaEk2uI/AAAAAAAANJQ/W0dO-pK57PgbBbuc_xHDZ9nNkMfwjyc7QCEw/s320/WPWBundle.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Morning-Message-Templates-BUNDLE-2623125" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j6-gKDkz_mU/V54F9_UXtUI/AAAAAAAANJI/iADwfuYoSHQUG2f1qumYRAxSDqrS3FdWQCLcB/s400/MM%2BPin.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Narrative-Writing-Dumb-Laws-2614935" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1-niIxppxOA/V54HCutleUI/AAAAAAAANJY/DyV-fX-FsI0RUO9Ajhoy9DUsqOVJ0KD5wCLcB/s400/DumbLaws.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-85044453246583265422016-07-09T23:42:00.000-07:002016-07-10T08:53:52.922-07:008 Clever Classroom Uses for Paper Bags<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KpBlKz-bwNA/V4HZ-3xjxZI/AAAAAAAAKAA/25A4ecC97dsrPx1EyW9iv-vshJVOtizOwCLcB/s1600/Paper%2BBags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KpBlKz-bwNA/V4HZ-3xjxZI/AAAAAAAAKAA/25A4ecC97dsrPx1EyW9iv-vshJVOtizOwCLcB/s640/Paper%2BBags.jpg" title="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." width="640" /></a></div>
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We don't really think about them much... kids bring their lunches in them, we put groceries in them, and sometimes they carry our last minute take-out meal. Paper bags. Paper bags have been around since the mid 1800s and, according to what I have read, haven't changed much in all these year. Why mess with a good thing, I guess.<br />
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Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year:<br />
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Ask your students to think outside the box, or should I say "inside the bag" for classroom projects. Creating an art piece and then filling the bag with items connected to the subject is a great way to connect art and content. Students could:<br />
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<li>draw a self portrait and fill the bag with items about themselves.</li>
<li>draw an animal in its habitat and fill with items related to the animal studied.</li>
<li>do a book report by drawing a scene or a character on the bag and then fill it with items the character might have or need in the story.</li>
<li>do a historical research project. Students could draw a historical figures and fill the bag with "artifacts" related to the person or time period. </li>
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I'm sure there are more ideas. If you think of any, please share them with us in the comment section. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S2Yxm069gxg/V4B26hYTSlI/AAAAAAAAJ-k/OqgV4FdWY-YvnMRitvktzVRcFSheZ6sQACLcB/s1600/pb7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S2Yxm069gxg/V4B26hYTSlI/AAAAAAAAJ-k/OqgV4FdWY-YvnMRitvktzVRcFSheZ6sQACLcB/s640/pb7.png" title="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This project was inspired by a pin on Pinterest. You can find it <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/AbM8Hp-j-_f2Yk5KmvqhMy7zsLi_-wCK4O2VTHENSYBwvbVQTJ_9PF0/" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</td></tr>
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Another way that I integrate art into our study of Native Americans of the Northwest is to make Chilkat Blankets.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DKj1iIvgmRU/V4B24p5TlMI/AAAAAAAAJ-I/y7dQQIYcbikJNknivV0oWsyZkvuCl4u4wCLcB/s1600/IMG_4435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DKj1iIvgmRU/V4B24p5TlMI/AAAAAAAAJ-I/y7dQQIYcbikJNknivV0oWsyZkvuCl4u4wCLcB/s640/IMG_4435.jpg" title="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." width="640" /></a></div>
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In my class, I don't send student artwork home with students until Open House in the spring. Instead, I share pictures of the artwork on our class Facebook group and display the originals in the halls at school. When the artwork is taken down, we put our artwork in the portfolios. Every year I purchase poster board for students to make art portfolios with. While looking for ideas for this post I came across a pin on Pinterest about making art portfolios. You can find the pin <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/510173464021420271/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G_NmyBKoDUI/V4Hn9iDg4sI/AAAAAAAAKBo/nXH9ooaLhEcjBovY9hWpoQpgZnk1-S0iACLcB/s1600/pb9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G_NmyBKoDUI/V4Hn9iDg4sI/AAAAAAAAKBo/nXH9ooaLhEcjBovY9hWpoQpgZnk1-S0iACLcB/s640/pb9.png" title="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." width="640" /></a></div>
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Using large grocery bags to make the portfolios is mind-blowing for me! First, I love to recycle and reuse as much as possible. This is a perfect example of that. Second, paper bags are strong and with a little duct tape, you have a sturdy, attractive art portfolio for students to house their artwork all year long. As an added bonus, a lot of grocery bags have handles already built in (The ones I used in the picture didn't so I made my own.) which makes carrying the portfolios easy. </div>
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Interactive Notebooks are all the rage... and great teaching tools to boot! Use small lunch bags to create pockets for storing small items such as vocabulary cards, index cards, and other items that need to keep contained. <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sJRaokrPEoE/V4B25ReUamI/AAAAAAAAJ-g/jT_MhWj8rYk2yjTzJTTbPjaiFXLtBze8QCKgB/s1600/pb4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." border="0" height="612" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sJRaokrPEoE/V4B25ReUamI/AAAAAAAAJ-g/jT_MhWj8rYk2yjTzJTTbPjaiFXLtBze8QCKgB/s640/pb4.png" title="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." width="640" /></a></div>
One lunch bag can make two pockets. The pocket you see on the top opens up for easy access. <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VyK2mQYvckI/V4B24syh3gI/AAAAAAAAJ-Q/LRm1hcJb46YqMA5bIbjers7jYEJEvxOYQCKgB/s1600/pb2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." border="0" height="638" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VyK2mQYvckI/V4B24syh3gI/AAAAAAAAJ-Q/LRm1hcJb46YqMA5bIbjers7jYEJEvxOYQCKgB/s640/pb2.png" title="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." width="640" /></a></div>
The second pocket, used with the bottom of the bag, folds behind the flap to keep items contained and more secure. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XlYPIaYRyQE/V4B25I619tI/AAAAAAAAJ-M/-Vg6RsNKzGUEpezpbl2bxR5gyZYwPH5tQCKgB/s1600/pb3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." border="0" height="612" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XlYPIaYRyQE/V4B25I619tI/AAAAAAAAJ-M/-Vg6RsNKzGUEpezpbl2bxR5gyZYwPH5tQCKgB/s640/pb3.jpg" title="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." width="640" /></a></div>
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Paper bags make great little interactive books. Because they have pockets, they can hold slide-out cards, photographs, and other memorabilia. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ue1EWhfjwDw/V4B25ktOb_I/AAAAAAAAJ-Y/S073eZ0j3GkNY4lQruvionmmwsXBcFU_wCKgB/s1600/pb6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ue1EWhfjwDw/V4B25ktOb_I/AAAAAAAAJ-Y/S073eZ0j3GkNY4lQruvionmmwsXBcFU_wCKgB/s640/pb6.png" title="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." width="640" /></a></div>
I made this book using three lunch bags. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ycTvZhaeKdQ/V4B25njhyOI/AAAAAAAAJ-c/igBe2WPyuYYMLUBCAqEZ1KSrhyFwYYt5gCKgB/s1600/pb5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." border="0" height="638" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ycTvZhaeKdQ/V4B25njhyOI/AAAAAAAAJ-c/igBe2WPyuYYMLUBCAqEZ1KSrhyFwYYt5gCKgB/s640/pb5.png" title="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." width="640" /></a></div>
There are a lot of clever things about this little book. The first is that it has larger pockets for photographs, cards, etc. to slide in and out. I made little tape tabs for my cards to make them easy to pull out. <br />
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When using lunch bags, you get blank pages to write on or down items. <br />
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The third things are these great little side pockets made with the ends of the bag. </div>
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I love these little books and have been thinking about how they could be used in the classroom. My first thought is as poetry books. there is a lot of space to house poems and creatively illustrate student writing. </div>
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Another idea would be to make a personal journal/keepsake/scrap book from another person's point of view. As with the paper bag art above, students could use book characters or historical figures. This would take some critical thinking on the part of the student and would be a wonderful end of novel or unit project. Hmmm... Very interesting... </div>
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Another great use for paper bags is to use them for journal covers. I wrote a whole blog post on how to make these pioneer journals. You can read it <a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2016/05/classroom-diy-pioneer-journals.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </div>
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Everyone loves getting goodie bags, students and teachers alike! Paper bags make cute little holders for any holiday or event. For back-to-school consider making little packages for your students to welcome them your class. Another great idea is to make packages for your colleagues with items teachers love. <br />
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Kids of all ages LOVE puppets! Paper bag puppets are a great way to engage your students and get them thinking creatively. Even with older students, puppets are a meaningful way to apply learning and show understanding of concepts. <br />
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Just like some ideas mentioned above, puppets can be used for traditional reports on historical figures, book characters, and animals reports. But take a moment to ask your students to think a bit more abstractly. What would a puppet of the cell look like? What would it say? How about a stomach, a germ, or even a volcano? Think about the concepts you are teaching and challenge your students to come up with puppets and scripts to present what they have learned to the class. This would be a wonderful alternative to the traditional exam or report!<br />
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It's summer and I don't have any puppets hanging out there at home, but I did find a lot of ideas for paper bag puppets on Pinterest. here are just a couple:<span style="font-size: medium;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm awful at remembering birthdays. Even my own family's. One year I totally forgot my husband's birthday, which is in September... bad timing with back-to-school and all! Eventually he forgave me, but because I am so bad with dates, I have to do everything I can to help myself remember these special occasions.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-642TAZM_pDY/V4Gz38JVgHI/AAAAAAAAJ_w/HBGLF6Glj1oqFY-kI2gc5p8z_7MckRpPgCKgB/s1600/BBoard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-642TAZM_pDY/V4Gz38JVgHI/AAAAAAAAJ_w/HBGLF6Glj1oqFY-kI2gc5p8z_7MckRpPgCKgB/s640/BBoard.jpg" title="Paper bags have always been there to hold our "stuff" but it's time to give the paper bag the glory it deserves! Here are 8 clever classroom uses that'll make you want to "brown bag" it this school year." width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the classroom I've helped myself by displaying students' birthday goody bags by month on one of the classroom walls. It doesn't take up much room and saves me a ton of time. Checking the birthday display now and then I get a quick peek at the birthdays for the month and have a birthday bag all prepared for each student. No more scrambling to find those "Happy Birthday" pencils and stickers... they are already packaged and ready to go! </span></div>
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Paper bags are an easy answer for this display. The personalized bag tags dress them up and they hang nicely when stapled to the wall. </div>
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This summer I've worked on designing a brand new Birthday Display pack I'll be using in my own classroom. I'm very excited to get it up on my wall this fall! It includes editable bag tags and birthday book marks, 6 different birthday coupons, pencil flags, month headers, birthday crown, and "Happy Birthday" bulletin board letters. This will make my year so much easier!</div>
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It's a brand new upload to my TpT store, so I'm selling it for 50% off through July! Click on the product cover to take a look at it. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Birthday-Pack-Board-and-More-2632809" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d_pH-EgGgXM/V4G0AY-CM4I/AAAAAAAAJ_o/80UJEOVZvZgBzrZsKPhQon9ZBXMWXP2HACLcB/s400/BBoard%2B8x8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And now, because you stuck around through all 7 of the ideas above... Here is #8 and a FREEBIE for Back to School! </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nG3XEEupkZ8/V4HfAMfwcPI/AAAAAAAAKBM/WqX7BWBTItYj6HCtZbq1dAzmrc12j5VlwCKgB/s1600/AboutMeBag.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nG3XEEupkZ8/V4HfAMfwcPI/AAAAAAAAKBM/WqX7BWBTItYj6HCtZbq1dAzmrc12j5VlwCKgB/s400/AboutMeBag.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">About Me Bags are a great way to get to know your students at the beginning of the school year. Glue these tags to the front of your brown paper bags and hand out the first week of school. Don't forget to fill your own bags so students learn a little bit about you. This is also a great opportunity to model for your class how to present their bags to the class. As an added extension, use the bags as a writing prompt to learn about how to write a great paragraph or a longer 5 paragraph essay! </span></div>
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Click <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/About-Me-Bags-FREEBIE-2636042" target="_blank">HERE</a> to get your free download of About Me Bags Tags! </div>
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So there you have it! 8 Creative and clever uses for using paper bags in the classroom! I hope that this post has inspired you to try at least one of these ideas this coming school year! I know that I've inspired myself and I can't wait to see what other great ideas you all have for using this everyday item in new and interesting ways! <br />
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Thanks for visiting and I hope you all have a GREAT Back to school! <br />
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-76049535727299265162016-05-29T22:55:00.001-07:002016-05-29T22:55:06.410-07:00Classroom DIY: Pioneer Journals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-meZegRwvuNg/V0vPYuKXe2I/AAAAAAAAHik/3jV1LQsVIaIPZ6KiDHkao81afa6dVr9YACLcB/s1600/pioneer%2Bjournals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-meZegRwvuNg/V0vPYuKXe2I/AAAAAAAAHik/3jV1LQsVIaIPZ6KiDHkao81afa6dVr9YACLcB/s640/pioneer%2Bjournals.jpg" title="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " width="640" /></a></div>
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If you are anything like me, you are always in search of ways to keep your writers writing. When I can integrate writing with another subject area, it is a win-win! During our study of pioneer and The Oregon Trail, pioneer journals are fun way for students to use their creative brains, practice their narrative writing, and share what they are learning with others!<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rtTFCDJl6wI/V0u3qLxtA8I/AAAAAAAAHew/Ntrq3Au_960ccvUPfAtwFTCvnkdQeUfTgCLcB/s1600/pj26.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rtTFCDJl6wI/V0u3qLxtA8I/AAAAAAAAHew/Ntrq3Au_960ccvUPfAtwFTCvnkdQeUfTgCLcB/s640/pj26.png" title="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " width="640" /></a></div>
Every year, the fourth graders at my school participate in an Oregon Trail simulation. Students are grouped in wagon trains groups, select a wagon master to lead them on their journey to Oregon, and buy supplies. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xWz1w8LrctY/V0u3qJK2VmI/AAAAAAAAHes/9CkS3jHV5pg-b3fP8GmO6ecRXFqug6YNgCLcB/s1600/pj23.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xWz1w8LrctY/V0u3qJK2VmI/AAAAAAAAHes/9CkS3jHV5pg-b3fP8GmO6ecRXFqug6YNgCLcB/s640/pj23.png" title="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " width="640" /></a></div>
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Wagon trains earn points which help them move along the trail. As they move across the Oregon Trail map, they learn about the landforms, native people, and the dangers pioneers faced as they made the treacherous journey. <br />
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One of the ways students document their trials and tribulations along the trail is by writing in their pioneer journals. This is a great way for students to practice narrative writing while learning about a history!<br />
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Before my students make their journals, we talk about how important the journals of the pioneers are to preserving history. Much of what we know about pioneer life and the trip west we know because of these primary documents. After that introduction, we get busy making our journals!<br />
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The materials you will need for making the journals are pretty easy to come by. <br />
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You will need a large paper bag for each student. I just had students bring them from home. You will also need yarn or twine, masking tape, a heavy duty hole punch. An electric hole punch would work the best, but I have a two hole punch at school that I used. It is heavy duty and works great! My three hole punch works well too. You'll see a picture of it a bit later. The one shown above DOES NOT work well. I'm not sure why I added it to the photo. :) For the journals you will also need either lined or unlined paper. I gave my students a choice. Each student will need 10 - 15 pages. <br />
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At some point, you will need your students' pioneer portraits. On the day my class was building their journals, we held our photo shoot. I photo edited (more on how to do this later in the post) and had the photos printed over the weekend so that we could finish our journals the next week. <br />
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The first thing your students will need to do is cut the bottom out of their bag. Using a good pair of scissors, model for them how to cut down one corner crease and then around the bottom section of the bag. When you are done, you will have one large section. If your bags have handles, they can be used for a latch which I'll explain later. <br />
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Now for the fun (and LOUD) part! In order to soften up the paper and make it easer to work with (and make it look and feel more like real rawhide) students will need to work their paper. This means they will need to crinkle it up and smooth it out over and over and over and over and over again! The more they work their paper, the more it breaks down the paper fibers and it gets softer and softer. This gets noisy! I suggest having students carefully roll it up and then step on it, putting as much weight as possible. They will need to be careful though. The paper will rip pretty easily. <br />
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Once students are happy with the feel of their paper (or when you can't take the noise anymore) have students carefully smooth out their paper as much as they can. <br />
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Now students can either measure how big their covers will need to be or, how we did it, eyeball it! </div>
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The paper should wrap around both the front and the back to make both covers. In the end, the cover should be be one continuous piece that just gets folded. This could be a great math lesson! Students will need to trip their paper so that it isn't too much bigger than the paper it will hold. <br />
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When the covers have been trimmed, you will now need to hole punch them. I suggest punching 4 - 5 holes. </div>
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This Swingline hole punch is adjustable with a little effort and I was able to punch 5 holes.<br />
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In class, we used yarn that I had on hand to bind our books. You could also use twine. <br />
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After journals are bound, have students title their journals. Each of my students have pioneer names to go with their pioneer identities. Students used Sharpie markers to write on their journals. The Sharpie bled through the covers, so next year, I'm going to have to remember to plan for that. </div>
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If you are adding Pioneer Portraits, each student will need to leave a large space in the middle of their journal for their picture. </div>
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As a fun added element, students could put "latches" on their journals. Some of our bags had handles and one of my students creatively came up with this ingenious way to keep her journal closed!<br />
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Using the handle pieces, she glued a small part in the front to make a loop. and a larger piece in the back that wrapped around the side of the book and tucked through the loop on the front. <br />
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I was pretty impressed! This may become a regular addition to the pioneer journals in the future! <br />
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Now that the journals are done, let's talk about the Pioneer Portraits! <br />
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This year, I tried something a little different for our journals. I included a Pioneer Portrait of each student. They turned out amazing and were very easy to do. All I used was my iPhone and a photo editing app called Snapseed. <br />
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On our journal making day, I asked all students to bring clothing and props that we could use as part of our photo shoot. Students brought hats, bonnets, vests, scarves, aprons, and more. I put up a brown piece of butcher paper on the wall and each student stood in front of it as I took their photograph. While I took the photographs, the rest of the students were working on their journals or getting dressed in their pioneer garb. <br />
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Once I had all of the photographs, and later that night, I sat down with my phone and worked on the photo editing. Like I said, this was my first time doing this and I am no photo editing expert! I'm going to share how I did it. If you know of tricks and tips that would make the process better, please share them in the comments. Actually, editing the photos wasn't painful at all. Once I figured out the filters I wanted to use, it was just a matter of repeating the steps over and over again 28 times. <br />
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The first thing I did was open up the app Snapseed on my iPhone.<br />
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I opened a photo of one of my students...<br />
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then I clicked on "FILTERS". <br />
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The first filter I chose was "BLACK & WHITE" and picked the "film" option. This gave the photo a bit of a grainy look to it. <br />
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The second filter I chose was "GRAINY FILM". This added a bit more graininess to the photo. <br />
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The third filter I used was "VINTAGE". This filter made the photo more brown, which is what I was wanting. <br />
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The next step was "LENS BLUR". This filter blurred out the edges of the photograph.<br />
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Finally, I opened the tools and chose "VIGNETTE". </div>
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This tool darkens the area around the subject of the photograph. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6UGUh9eO3Ug/V0vE1C1UyfI/AAAAAAAAHhM/_JDWDXhEE8ow3d85i4nvM4cE_1gnZLn8QCLcB/s1600/pj20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6UGUh9eO3Ug/V0vE1C1UyfI/AAAAAAAAHhM/_JDWDXhEE8ow3d85i4nvM4cE_1gnZLn8QCLcB/s640/pj20.png" title="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " width="360" /></a></div>
When it was all said and done, this is the beautiful photograph I ended up with. It makes my heart happy! <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c-cbgVX3EGw/V0vGRNLs2PI/AAAAAAAAHhg/zxI_ENmCwFwJmYj07yRuxy7esiOWXcB9gCLcB/s1600/pj22.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c-cbgVX3EGw/V0vGRNLs2PI/AAAAAAAAHhg/zxI_ENmCwFwJmYj07yRuxy7esiOWXcB9gCLcB/s640/pj22.png" title="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " width="480" /></a></div>
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When I was done editing all of the photographs, I sent them to Costco for printing. They cost me about 17¢ each to print. Well worth it! <br />
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The next week, I had a wonderful parent volunteer cut ovals in the front covers of all of my journals. <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d0EId5VbuJk/V0vHxRWT7II/AAAAAAAAHhs/e9Qf9q9JsJsF-wrbw4VsmMpLmsEAXasYQCLcB/s1600/pj24.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d0EId5VbuJk/V0vHxRWT7II/AAAAAAAAHhs/e9Qf9q9JsJsF-wrbw4VsmMpLmsEAXasYQCLcB/s640/pj24.png" title="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " width="602" /></a></div>
We used this oval cutter by Fiskars, purchased specifically for this project! <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1kkyrxUM6L0/V0vHyAZcHFI/AAAAAAAAHh8/AoD9O6ZX1EAOn0PCHi8qBjW2SFyt8ZvPgCLcB/s1600/pj28.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1kkyrxUM6L0/V0vHyAZcHFI/AAAAAAAAHh8/AoD9O6ZX1EAOn0PCHi8qBjW2SFyt8ZvPgCLcB/s640/pj28.png" title="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " width="640" /></a></div>
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Once the ovals were cut, the photos were added. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QDwe-mkfdnU/V0vHxSy8eaI/AAAAAAAAHhw/WQFNy4jlpP87ZOg3LJ-IT-vrAmeT5qnUgCLcB/s1600/pj25.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QDwe-mkfdnU/V0vHxSy8eaI/AAAAAAAAHhw/WQFNy4jlpP87ZOg3LJ-IT-vrAmeT5qnUgCLcB/s640/pj25.png" title="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " width="640" /></a></div>
It was as simple as using masking tape and taping the portraits on the inside cover of each journal. <br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VR3-jkttTTI/V0vHx9vyiJI/AAAAAAAAHh4/PhCdMuLcGt8bwpZaba_MP-N7aE4PCBRjgCLcB/s1600/pj27.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VR3-jkttTTI/V0vHx9vyiJI/AAAAAAAAHh4/PhCdMuLcGt8bwpZaba_MP-N7aE4PCBRjgCLcB/s640/pj27.png" title="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " width="640" /></a></div>
And here are the final results! They turned out great and the students love them. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mYEXgWkSG6E/V0vJNS0MT4I/AAAAAAAAHiM/OTHtKZ1R_bYy6C8wV33TL7Bs8ZC1muHrwCLcB/s1600/pj35.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mYEXgWkSG6E/V0vJNS0MT4I/AAAAAAAAHiM/OTHtKZ1R_bYy6C8wV33TL7Bs8ZC1muHrwCLcB/s640/pj35.png" title="Are you looking for a meaningful way to integrate writing in your social studies classroom? Try historical journals! A great way to integrate narrative writing and history! " width="640" /></a></div>
I think this would be a great project for any history class. Almost any time period would make great material for a personal journal! I can imagine Civil War and Revolutionary War diaries, Lewis and Clark journals, Civil Rights diaries (just to name a few)! <br />
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Since the events and language need to be historically accurate in the writing, journals and diaries written from the perspective of a historical figure or an imaginary person during an important time in history is a meaningful way for students to construct a deeper understanding of the past and share that understanding with others. <br />
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If you are interested in more things "Pioneer", click <a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2014/06/calling-all-pioneers-day-of-play.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> for my post on our annual Pioneer Day! It's a day full of pioneer activities, crafts, food, and fun! <br />
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Thank you for visiting Literacy Loves Company! If you have any questions about the project or ideas that would enhance it, please share in the comment section! I'd love to hear from you. <br />
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-20533675646032092852016-05-23T22:31:00.001-07:002022-05-26T16:18:02.093-07:00End of the Year Awards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #674ea7;">Click on the photo below to be taken straight to my TpT store and this resource! </span><br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/End-of-the-Year-Awards-Bookmarks-2564041" target="_blank"><img alt="End of the Year Award Bookmarks are the awards students treasure long after the last school bell! Every time they open their books they will be reminded of their school year with you!" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DHYpbvjRvBw/V0PhTNxLMQI/AAAAAAAAHdI/3Pt1er4IaU4fyfaxxId_tMlU4Z-xQcqagCLcB/s640/Awards.jpg" title="End of the Year Award Bookmarks are the awards students treasure long after the last school bell! Every time they open their books they will be reminded of their school year with you!" width="640" /></a></div>
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It is that weird time of year when some of us are spending out last days with our students and the others of us feel like the end of the year is still miles away. Personally, I have 4 weeks left. <br />
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I'm trying to think of those 4 weeks as 19 days to make a lasting impact on the little brains I have in my class. 19 days to see their smiles, laugh at their jokes, and enjoy their company. 19 days to solidify fractions, make it to the end of the Oregon Trail, and finish up our last science and health units. 19 days!<br />
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I'm trying not to spend my thinking moments dreaming of sleeping in with no alarm clock, sipping hot coffee in my pjs on my deck, and enjoying lazy days puttering around in my yard... ahhh... 19 days.<br />
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But as I'm contemplating the end of the school year, I always come back to how much I love my class. They are great kids. They are funny. They are smart. They are caring. They are unique. I love them. I started thinking about what I could do to send them off, that last day of school 19 days from now, with the knowledge that they are all of those things. <br />
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End of the Year Awards! Yes! That's it! <br />
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Okay... I've been around long enough to know the end of the year drill... crazy day! Excitement, sadness, chaos, bags of supplies, papers shoved into backpacks, and then everyone is gone and I'm standing in my classroom by myself surrounded by... forgotten papers, pencils, and miscellaneous supplies.<br />
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I want my end of the year awards to be something that students will keep, will use, will see often. Not just a piece of paper that will end up shoved into the bottom of a backpack. So I came up with End of the Year Award Bookmarks! <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a2FoR_gCpIs/V0PcvDH3zSI/AAAAAAAAHc0/F5bc_q4hFWQax_Q3BTcMjQ1mxMqcGuFGQCLcB/s1600/BM3.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="End of the Year Award Bookmarks are the awards students treasure long after the last school bell! Every time they open their books they will be reminded of their school year with you!" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a2FoR_gCpIs/V0PcvDH3zSI/AAAAAAAAHc0/F5bc_q4hFWQax_Q3BTcMjQ1mxMqcGuFGQCLcB/s640/BM3.png" title="End of the Year Award Bookmarks are the awards students treasure long after the last school bell! Every time they open their books they will be reminded of their school year with you!" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm so happy with the end result: 54 Most Likely To... Bookmarks. Each bookmark has a different graphic. A few of the awards are the same, but with a female and a male image. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X_YOBzWZ_eg/V0PcvAUYtLI/AAAAAAAAHdA/ynrplCOJha0P4HjCDj8d9jSMtAzGwkQdwCKgB/s1600/BM2.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="End of the Year Award Bookmarks are the awards students treasure long after the last school bell! Every time they open their books they will be reminded of their school year with you!" border="0" height="638" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X_YOBzWZ_eg/V0PcvAUYtLI/AAAAAAAAHdA/ynrplCOJha0P4HjCDj8d9jSMtAzGwkQdwCKgB/s640/BM2.png" title="End of the Year Award Bookmarks are the awards students treasure long after the last school bell! Every time they open their books they will be reminded of their school year with you!" width="640" /></a></div>
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Some of the awards are open to interpretation, which I love! It gives the teacher flexibility when choosing awards for students. For example... <br />
•Most Likely to "Find the Evidence" could be a reflection on a students curiosity, love of mysteries, or ability to locate evidence in a text.<br />
•Most Likely to "Knock it out of the Park" could be referring to a students baseball hitting ability or it could refer to the cliche and reflect on a students ability to do much better than expected on a project, assignment, life, etc. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BgGJtLGwwGc/V0Pc1aLpPXI/AAAAAAAAHdA/tkXGieR47iY64fdAxq0aWyEzlEdyo6vSQCKgB/s1600/thnail%2B3.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="End of the Year Award Bookmarks are the awards students treasure long after the last school bell! Every time they open their books they will be reminded of their school year with you!" border="0" height="494" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BgGJtLGwwGc/V0Pc1aLpPXI/AAAAAAAAHdA/tkXGieR47iY64fdAxq0aWyEzlEdyo6vSQCKgB/s640/thnail%2B3.png" title="End of the Year Award Bookmarks are the awards students treasure long after the last school bell! Every time they open their books they will be reminded of their school year with you!" width="640" /></a></div>
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•The bookmarks are editable, so it makes it easy to personalize for students.<br />
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•With over 50 bookmarks, you might think it may be difficult to plan and organize your awards, but I've included 3 planning pages. The planning pages include all 54 bookmarks with space to write students' names before you begin personalizing the book marks and printing. <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y1aLKuvsSWc/V0Pid8pmSsI/AAAAAAAAHdY/YaZ9yCWXJXk115khfn3aSU0ZRbpnvq3jACLcB/s1600/planning%2Bsheet.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="End of the Year Award Bookmarks are the awards students treasure long after the last school bell! Every time they open their books they will be reminded of their school year with you!" border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y1aLKuvsSWc/V0Pid8pmSsI/AAAAAAAAHdY/YaZ9yCWXJXk115khfn3aSU0ZRbpnvq3jACLcB/s400/planning%2Bsheet.png" title="End of the Year Award Bookmarks are the awards students treasure long after the last school bell! Every time they open their books they will be reminded of their school year with you!" width="308" /></a></div>
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For a free sample of the End of the Year Bookmark Awards (an un-editable version), click on the image below! <br />
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B10Wq1oZA6SjQ2xsZEduOTdoZjA/view?usp=sharing&resourcekey=0-eXoZa3EUaRe8U2MtWzu8vQ" target="_blank"><img alt="End of the Year Award Bookmarks are the awards students treasure long after the last school bell! Every time they open their books they will be reminded of their school year with you!" border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_tlCal7v_GI/V0PjzXJpp4I/AAAAAAAAHdk/nEe2EYp0yuU7wX_iDYZV3DbHhUP2sKZRQCLcB/s400/sample%2Bpic.png" title="End of the Year Award Bookmarks are the awards students treasure long after the last school bell! Every time they open their books they will be reminded of their school year with you!" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you are interested in the full resource, please click <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Literacy-Loves-Company" target="_blank">HERE</a> to visit Literacy Loves Company on TpT! </div>
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Thank you for visiting! I hope your last days of school are full of ah-ha moments, smiles, and enjoyable moments! </div>
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-71202337593437114772016-04-02T17:20:00.004-07:002016-08-02T22:13:01.240-07:00Flexible Classroom Seating<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZyyCDHeePN8/Vvsp5i2hDwI/AAAAAAAAF74/mDlwckcDbRg0wnlmWllavum7wqQvTceaw/s1600/Facebook%2Bpics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZyyCDHeePN8/Vvsp5i2hDwI/AAAAAAAAF74/mDlwckcDbRg0wnlmWllavum7wqQvTceaw/s640/Facebook%2Bpics.jpg" title="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " width="640" /></a></div>
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We always hear that it is good to give your students choices. Why then do we very rarely give our students choices in where and how they sit in class each day? <br />
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So, here is a little class information before I tell you about my foray into flexible seating. Over the last 10 years or so I have had between 27 and 34 students in my class. I went from having a library area, computer center, and 6 tables to waving good-bye to my desktops and adding two more tables. With 8 large tables, 34+ chairs, backpacks, lunch boxes, and jackets, it left little space for much else. I've refused to give up my carpet area and my class library, but pretty much everything else extra had to go. <br />
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THE IDEA<br />
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I don't know about you, but I've always been a little bit of a flexible-seater at heart. I expect my students to be at their table and in their chair when I am presenting a lesson, but when it comes time for independent, partner, or group work, students are free to choose where to sit around the room.<br />
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Recently, I've started seeing blog posts, Instagram pictures, and Pinterest pins portraying teachers' classroom conversions to flexible or alternative seating. I've been intrigued. <br />
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This year I have a class of 28 full time students. They are amazing kids. Well behaved. Responsible. Respectful. I also have a wonderful new principal who, when I shared this idea with her, told me to go for it. It seemed like the perfect time to give this a try. <br />
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GETTING STUDENT BUY-IN<br />
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Before I ever rearranged anything or invested any money, I involved my students. They were the ones this would impact the most and I didn't want to do this unless I had their buy-in. <br />
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One morning, when they came into class, I had a chart posted on the white board and I asked each student to write his/her name on a sticky note and put the post-it in the column that best described in which situation they do their best work. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H1tdIWNbym4/VvnrwBVK-rI/AAAAAAAAF4Y/qdYXG7FkHo0O0ybVHg_frHN99kgollYpw/s1600/fs%2B17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H1tdIWNbym4/VvnrwBVK-rI/AAAAAAAAF4Y/qdYXG7FkHo0O0ybVHg_frHN99kgollYpw/s640/fs%2B17.png" title="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " width="640" /></a></div>
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Once all students had responded, we met in our community circles and I shared my idea with them. They were full of curiosity, excitement, and questions. Together we brainstormed the pros and cons for a flexible seating classroom. <br />
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ACTION RESEARCH - A ONE WEEK TRIAL<br />
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Before we continue, there's something you should know about me... I tend to jump feet first into new ideas. One year I ditched my teacher's desk and totally regretted it. Lucky for me, it hadn't gotten taken away when I figured out that I needed it in order to function. I've also leaped into math centers, interactive read aloud, Genius Hour and much more. Most of what I dive into I love, but I was not about plunge into full fledged flexible seating without a trial run! <br />
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On a Monday morning, one week before our spring break, I sat my students down for our weekly class meeting. After our greeting, I asked them if they would like to participate in an experiment with me.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vFnwUqprH54/Vvnrvrh39RI/AAAAAAAAF4Q/JwYdLJ_ZwVgDvIcFyMmu7npV4D6cFxnDQ/s1600/fs%2B15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vFnwUqprH54/Vvnrvrh39RI/AAAAAAAAF4Q/JwYdLJ_ZwVgDvIcFyMmu7npV4D6cFxnDQ/s640/fs%2B15.png" title="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " width="640" /></a></div>
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Of course, my students were gung-ho to try something different and we set to work re-arranging our class. We raised two tables to standing height. and took the legs off of two tables to make them sit-on-the-floor tables. <br />
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Another table we lowered to use with the mix-and-match set of stools that my students love to sit on. <br />
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A few tables with traditional chairs were kept for students who prefer to sit that way. All of these table spaces were located around our meeting rug, which we moved to the center of the classroom. <br />
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Everyday, at the end of the day, we would debrief on how it was going. I shared my observations and concerns and they shared theirs. If we had problems, we tried to find solutions. <br />
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On Friday, before students left for spring break, I had them write a letter to me in their journals. In the letter, they could privately let me know their honest thoughts, concerns, and their vote on whether or not we should keep this seating arrangement once we got back from spring break.<br />
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Out of 28 students, 27 voted "yes" to keep the flexible seating. Only one student voted no and it was because she didn't like that students were rushing to get the "good" seats. Many students commented about their increased ability to focus. They liked being able to choose what worked best for them and move if it wasn't working out. They were pretty insightful in their letters to me and that made me feel even better about the decision to get rid of our chairs and move to a flexible seating model in our classroom. <br />
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THE PROS AND THE CONS<br />
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Now, as you may recall, one of the reasons I wanted to try a one week trial was to see if I would be able to handle the affects of students not having assigned seats. Its interesting because it didn't really bother me. My kiddos actually seemed to be more attentive even if they were sitting next to their friends. Don't get me wrong... there were times I had to ask a student to make a better choice or remind a kiddo to get back to work, but I didn't miss the chairs at all. Actually, the class looked more open and spacious without all the chairs. <br />
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Another positive impact of this arrangement is that I found myself moving around the room much more. I could teach from the front, the back, and all four corners. I found myself sitting on the floor, standing with students, and squatting on stools while I worked with my class.<br />
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The only negative that came from our one week trial is where to put our backpacks. My students have always hung their jackets and backpacks on the backs of their chairs. Now that there aren't any chairs, we have no place to put these items. To solve this problem for the short term, I've brought in two large bins and students put their backpacks in them. We store the bins under the yoga ball table and one of the stool tables during the day. <br />
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THE INVESTMENT IN SEATING OPTIONS<br />
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Once it was clear that the new way of seating was going to be beneficial for my students and for myself I started shopping. I was on spring break, so me and Amazon.com got to know each other really well! <br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tjucHoNA5iI/VvnrvQeg0iI/AAAAAAAAF4M/YolvU7r4T_A22Dx8-0ZmurUZRT_b5xPXw/s1600/fs%2B14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " border="0" height="594" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tjucHoNA5iI/VvnrvQeg0iI/AAAAAAAAF4M/YolvU7r4T_A22Dx8-0ZmurUZRT_b5xPXw/s640/fs%2B14.png" title="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " width="640" /></a></div>
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During our trial period, the stool table was always the one to fill up first. To give more of these types of options, I purchased yoga balls and made crate stools. You can read about the crate seat construction on my last blog post <a href="http://www.literacylovescompany.com/2016/03/classroom-diy-crate-seats.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f35zOPxwvmQ/Vvnru5OtOQI/AAAAAAAAF4I/L3nfnqbHOOIIBhFSpTysaGuughKRL_3yA/s1600/fs%2B13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f35zOPxwvmQ/Vvnru5OtOQI/AAAAAAAAF4I/L3nfnqbHOOIIBhFSpTysaGuughKRL_3yA/s640/fs%2B13.png" title="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " width="640" /></a></div>
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For the floor tables, I purchased "wiggle seats" and floor cushions for students to sit on.<br />
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For one of the standing tables, I decided to place tall stools instead. <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ndEEi5aQQpo/VvnrulRRfmI/AAAAAAAAF4A/wOi0FfV4CyIX3nzPZF_4YWuxQOL1XtBSA/s1600/fs%2B11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " border="0" height="582" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ndEEi5aQQpo/VvnrulRRfmI/AAAAAAAAF4A/wOi0FfV4CyIX3nzPZF_4YWuxQOL1XtBSA/s640/fs%2B11.png" title="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " width="640" /></a></div>
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I also purchased four bean bag chairs, but I haven't put them in the room yet. I'm still trying to figure out the best space for them. <br />
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THE NUTS AND BOLTS<br />
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As I am sure you are aware, organization is key to good classroom management. The one week trial brought up several small problems that I needed to work out before we went full bore. The first being very clear expectations and consequences for behavior. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCMoXCCHmLo/Vv3DpEvHcKI/AAAAAAAAF-8/oCuUYURR_pogwqmt3qtSCvboFhsQKlS2Q/s1600/chart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCMoXCCHmLo/Vv3DpEvHcKI/AAAAAAAAF-8/oCuUYURR_pogwqmt3qtSCvboFhsQKlS2Q/s640/chart.jpg" title="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " width="532" /></a></div>
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This is the anchor chart I made for students to share my expectations and guidelines for their choices. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5V3r-9uWWwc/Vvnryn7rbpI/AAAAAAAAF4s/lWC9o9Cguv81GtUZT86HGCvrHhYjmKXzA/s1600/fs%2B7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " border="0" height="552" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5V3r-9uWWwc/Vvnryn7rbpI/AAAAAAAAF4s/lWC9o9Cguv81GtUZT86HGCvrHhYjmKXzA/s640/fs%2B7.png" title="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " width="640" /></a></div>
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Each of the table areas is named after the setting of a piece of children's literature. Each sign has small squares to indicate how many seat spaces are at that table. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1ttpzASl_FE/VvnrxOR48qI/AAAAAAAAF4k/Zalxlx-qbLA0rr_JjY7SMk6NsEhUET0Yw/s1600/fs%2B5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " border="0" height="634" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1ttpzASl_FE/VvnrxOR48qI/AAAAAAAAF4k/Zalxlx-qbLA0rr_JjY7SMk6NsEhUET0Yw/s640/fs%2B5.png" title="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " width="640" /></a></div>
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To make sure students aren't arguing over the seating options and everyone gets a chance to choose first, students use clothes pins with their names on them to claim their space. At the end of each day, after students do their clean-up jobs, we meet on the carpet. I call each student to line up for dismissal and on their way to the door, they clip their clothes pin to the sign of their choice. <br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dHNud0GjnGI/VvnrwUPysOI/AAAAAAAAF4c/fSbGmHNyg9Ahfab21dNtQplbhKJae8Mug/s1600/fs%2B4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " border="0" height="472" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dHNud0GjnGI/VvnrwUPysOI/AAAAAAAAF4c/fSbGmHNyg9Ahfab21dNtQplbhKJae8Mug/s640/fs%2B4.png" title="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " width="640" /></a></div>
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I have a list of names and call a different student to go first each day. This gives everyone a chance to try out all of the different seating options. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lPWikovyR74/VvnrwbsLGGI/AAAAAAAAF4g/uJsp3OYpjvIgF3UIB-GJiO0Wl2VQx9I_A/s1600/fs%2B3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " border="0" height="454" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lPWikovyR74/VvnrwbsLGGI/AAAAAAAAF4g/uJsp3OYpjvIgF3UIB-GJiO0Wl2VQx9I_A/s640/fs%2B3.png" title="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " width="640" /></a></div>
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If a student is having a hard time making a good seating choice or is not following the guidelines outlined on the anchor chart, the consequence is that his/her clip gets removed and they don't get Free Choice Seating the next day. (There is a free editable download of the table signs at the end of the post.)</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AjpgG4WZZo0/Vv3DrwFRk8I/AAAAAAAAF-4/uYvwSk9K68QzoHcYCZzC87fDG4nYmxkqw/s1600/Big%2BBalls.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " border="0" height="606" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AjpgG4WZZo0/Vv3DrwFRk8I/AAAAAAAAF-4/uYvwSk9K68QzoHcYCZzC87fDG4nYmxkqw/s640/Big%2BBalls.png" title="Are you thinking about flexible seating for your classroom? Alternative seating can improve student focus, increase student participation, and motivate your learners. Here are some great seating choices, organization tips, and classroom management ideas for switching to alternative seating. " width="640" /></a></div>
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To clean up, we put all of the seats on top of the tables so that our custodian is able to easily sweep and vacuum our room. </div>
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We just completed our first full week of flexible seating and it went well. The seating choices are exciting and fun for the kids, which has caused some off task behavior. The yoga balls are noisy and students love to bounce them while sitting. These things are driving me a little crazy, but I'm hoping that, once the novelty wears off, the students will be less focused on the seats and more focused on their work. Another drawback is that I've become super paranoid about staples and pencils on the floor out of fear that the yoga balls will pop. </div>
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All in all, this has been a great experience. There are still some kinks to work out, but I'm loving the challenge of finding solutions and the freedom it has given my students. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PIN ME</td></tr>
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For your free editable download of the table signs click <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B10Wq1oZA6Sja3RUQnlmWnhGRmc/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">HERE. </a> It is in PowerPoint, so you will need to <b>download and then edit</b>. You will not be able to edit the original. :) The font I used is "HelloBigBen" from Hello Literacy. <br />
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If you have a question about flexible seating or have an experience with it you would like to share, please leave a comment! I'd love to hear from you!<br />
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Until next time,<br />
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com91tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-14318776243976059322016-03-26T23:38:00.002-07:002016-03-26T23:38:57.074-07:00Classroom DIY: Crate Seats<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4zs52RkvAW0/VvdnZ1vOzlI/AAAAAAAAFxo/8d6KiGTYX0sXOi40yQIu4brvhV7xa6Fiw/s1600/Crate%2BSeats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4zs52RkvAW0/VvdnZ1vOzlI/AAAAAAAAFxo/8d6KiGTYX0sXOi40yQIu4brvhV7xa6Fiw/s640/Crate%2BSeats.jpg" title="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " width="640" /></a></div>
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If you've been anywhere on the internet you know what a crate seat is... an ingenius combination of crate for storage and cushioned top for sitting. They are a perfectly clever addition to the classroom.<br />
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Although I've always admired them, I never really had the need for these stools in my own classroom until recently. Right before spring break my 4th grade students and I did a one week "trial" of flexible seating. It was a wonderful way to see if flexible seating was going to be beneficial for my students and do-able for me. For 5 days, we adjusted our tables so that we had 2 standing tables, 2 floor tables, a stool table, and a regular table and chairs. Throughout the week, the stool table was by far the most popular! <br />
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At the end of the week, students wrote to me and shared their experience. They also got a chance to privately vote on whether or not they wanted to keep flexible seating for the rest of the year. Overwhelmingly, students voted yes... thus the need for crate seats!<br />
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This week was spring break for my school district, so I had a bit of time to take on a Classroom DIY project. The Great Crate Seat Construction project was underway! <br />
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I bought my crates from The Container Store. They were $9.99 each, but are heavy duty. I purchased a sheet of plywood from Home Depot for $19. I love that Home Depot will cut the wood for you. That really sped up this project! I had the nice man at HD cut 14" x 14" squares for the seats.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-px16kYK3ZTo/VvdnnrpbqcI/AAAAAAAAFxs/YkRWpVkeK143xNfLIm83WX1aISbEB2BhA/s1600/IMG_7386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-px16kYK3ZTo/VvdnnrpbqcI/AAAAAAAAFxs/YkRWpVkeK143xNfLIm83WX1aISbEB2BhA/s400/IMG_7386.jpg" title="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " width="400" /></a></div>
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While I was searching for a heavy duty fabric to cover the seat cushions, I came across this pattern. It was love at first sight! The fabric was a little spendy, but all I could think about was how much joy I would get by seeing those colors everyday.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EDqg9ohG4v4/VvdnnrF_KTI/AAAAAAAAFxw/PaA8pGQ98vsWuQIvgSRhC-LNd9IYh6NCg/s1600/pic%2B12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EDqg9ohG4v4/VvdnnrF_KTI/AAAAAAAAFxw/PaA8pGQ98vsWuQIvgSRhC-LNd9IYh6NCg/s400/pic%2B12.png" title="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " width="300" /></a></div>
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I decided to buy the 2 in. thick cushion. There were other choices that were much thinner, but I wanted to make sure my kiddos were comfortable sitting on these seats all day. I ended up having to piece together some of the foam because I didn't have enough for 6 complete squares. I cut the pieces and, using some spray adhesive, attached them to the board. Once the fabric was on you couldn't tell that it wasn't one complete square. Yay! </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2Syr3NVn3Pk/VvdnntTCoSI/AAAAAAAAFyc/22ksLA_BBfscy6W5UCxilvJYap4Un1zow/s1600/pic%2B10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " border="0" height="398" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2Syr3NVn3Pk/VvdnntTCoSI/AAAAAAAAFyc/22ksLA_BBfscy6W5UCxilvJYap4Un1zow/s400/pic%2B10.png" title="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " width="400" /></a></div>
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After layering the plywood, cushion, and fabric, I used a staple gun to attach the fabric to the wood.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-trmQD-2eQTs/Vvdnq4yfreI/AAAAAAAAFyc/PuIQIOCss-4pJTm_w1SUrithjkcdfNMxQ/s1600/pic%2B9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " border="0" height="398" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-trmQD-2eQTs/Vvdnq4yfreI/AAAAAAAAFyc/PuIQIOCss-4pJTm_w1SUrithjkcdfNMxQ/s400/pic%2B9.png" title="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " width="400" /></a></div>
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Here is one of the finished cushions. My technique improved after the first few. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wZq31uh1rgI/Vvdnpz76HRI/AAAAAAAAFyc/5ABjmjwD_OYrmbbxOOkrwnpv6J1CpHZlg/s1600/pic%2B8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " border="0" height="398" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wZq31uh1rgI/Vvdnpz76HRI/AAAAAAAAFyc/5ABjmjwD_OYrmbbxOOkrwnpv6J1CpHZlg/s400/pic%2B8.png" title="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Once the fabric was attached, the hubby screwed a 12" x 12" square of wood to the back of the cushion. My milk crates don't have an inner lip for the cushion to sit down in, so the cushions will sit on the outer rim of the crate. This 12" x 12" will keep the seat secure on the crate. </span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OegEDav_hLs/VvdnpsCbudI/AAAAAAAAFyc/iIncV6bu43QDfCzfRWahhm7Su0nToGZrg/s1600/pic%2B7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " border="0" height="398" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OegEDav_hLs/VvdnpsCbudI/AAAAAAAAFyc/iIncV6bu43QDfCzfRWahhm7Su0nToGZrg/s400/pic%2B7.png" title="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " width="400" /></a></div>
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This pic shows how the seat fits on/in the crate.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-peRG3Ik96O4/VvdnpnJ5jXI/AAAAAAAAFyc/5RBGpsc0QR8cmQSVq3ee3ToDZwg1rCKYA/s1600/pic%2B6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " border="0" height="398" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-peRG3Ik96O4/VvdnpnJ5jXI/AAAAAAAAFyc/5RBGpsc0QR8cmQSVq3ee3ToDZwg1rCKYA/s400/pic%2B6.png" title="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " width="400" /></a></div>
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Voila! The finished crate seats! A little pop of spring for my classroom! They make my heart pitter patter a little bit. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q631qkDVpjk/Vvdno7C_FGI/AAAAAAAAFyc/GMFH5wO6QoIzGhT00ZTNnOP_MSo9QIytQ/s1600/pic%2B4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " border="0" height="398" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q631qkDVpjk/Vvdno7C_FGI/AAAAAAAAFyc/GMFH5wO6QoIzGhT00ZTNnOP_MSo9QIytQ/s400/pic%2B4.png" title="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GezX8YalzlY/VvdnothPQLI/AAAAAAAAFyc/WOplenW8UGw0WJIasLfaFT-pjjw7LHmhA/s1600/pic%2B3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " border="0" height="398" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GezX8YalzlY/VvdnothPQLI/AAAAAAAAFyc/WOplenW8UGw0WJIasLfaFT-pjjw7LHmhA/s400/pic%2B3.png" title="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yFhA3Yzu5dk/VvdnoOzkMDI/AAAAAAAAFyc/1HtUejSgRE0wOBM5xg8F02-Ji29Rxg-FA/s1600/pic%2B2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " border="0" height="398" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yFhA3Yzu5dk/VvdnoOzkMDI/AAAAAAAAFyc/1HtUejSgRE0wOBM5xg8F02-Ji29Rxg-FA/s400/pic%2B2.png" title="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " width="400" /></a></div>
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Here they are all stacked up and ready to take to school tomorrow! Another Classroom DIY project completed! </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TWHjZrZazvs/VvdoGEboyMI/AAAAAAAAFyY/4HyHHPinHxw-bXmJy0SRbIMrgH8HeESyA/s1600/pic%2B1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " border="0" height="396" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TWHjZrZazvs/VvdoGEboyMI/AAAAAAAAFyY/4HyHHPinHxw-bXmJy0SRbIMrgH8HeESyA/s400/pic%2B1.png" title="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " width="400" /></a></div>
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I hope you'll stop back by to check out my next blog post! I'll be sharing my new classroom seating arrangement! I've been working hard this week to get my classroom ready for our "Foray into Flexible Seating!" and am excited to share the process we went through, seating choices, and lots and lots of photos! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6dx3KL99f34/VvdpCy92-SI/AAAAAAAAFyo/lwxL3SUgzR85-szbCNVEsI11mHCkGsO7A/s1600/CrateSeat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6dx3KL99f34/VvdpCy92-SI/AAAAAAAAFyo/lwxL3SUgzR85-szbCNVEsI11mHCkGsO7A/s400/CrateSeat.jpg" title="Crate stools: the perfect combination of extra seating and much needed storage. This easy DIY project will brighten up your classroom décor and aid your classroom organization. " width="200" /></a></td></tr>
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Another project I worked on and completed over my spring break is my seventh Word Problem of the Week set. If you aren't familiar with this resource, it is a set of word problems that supports the teaching, development, and use of the 8 Mathematical Practices while also supporting 4th grade CCSS. <br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-Problem-of-the-Week-April-2465081" target="_blank"><img alt="Word Problem of the Week supports students with the 8 mathematical practices and common core standards. Perfect for the 4th and 5th grade math classroom. " border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zEwBWHLfHNM/VvdpXrzvlzI/AAAAAAAAFyw/ubAnKFlpm5EXcyOOxbeT6qysMTJLkSdSg/s400/Slide01.jpg" title="Word Problem of the Week supports students with the 8 mathematical practices and common core standards. Perfect for the 4th and 5th grade math classroom. " width="303" /></a></div>
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The resource includes a PDF and PowerPoint slideshow of 5 real world word stories/situations that connect to special days or events during the month. Each story has 3 mathematical problems associated with it (each varying in difficulty and skill), as well as an opportunity for students to "Critique the Reasoning of Others". </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TqRA-wci2Ss/Vvdp0OyhQpI/AAAAAAAAFy4/HUM3X4tUgMAnSxmVsXbbnzMezpuU2jk-A/s1600/IMG_7381.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Word Problem of the Week supports students with the 8 mathematical practices and common core standards. Perfect for the 4th and 5th grade math classroom. " border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TqRA-wci2Ss/Vvdp0OyhQpI/AAAAAAAAFy4/HUM3X4tUgMAnSxmVsXbbnzMezpuU2jk-A/s640/IMG_7381.jpg" title="Word Problem of the Week supports students with the 8 mathematical practices and common core standards. Perfect for the 4th and 5th grade math classroom. " width="640" /></a></div>
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There is much more to this resources so, if you are interested, please click on the product cover above to take a look at the complete product description, thumbnails, and preview!<br />
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If you are not yet following me on TpT, you are missing out on an opportunity to get my resources for <b>50%</b> off! <span style="color: red;">All new products are 50% off for the first 48 hours</span>! You could also get access to <span style="color: red;">follower-only-freebies</span> in your TpT inbox when I send out special notes to my followers. Click <b><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Literacy-Loves-Company" target="_blank">HERE</a></b> to open my TpT store in a new window. Click on the green <span style="color: #6aa84f;">*Follow Me</span> tab under my store name, Literacy Loves Company. <br />
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Thank you for stopping by! If you have an idea for another Classroom DIY project, one you've done or one you'd like to see done, please share it in the comment section! Also, if you have ideas for my readers on how to improve the seat crate construction, please feel free to share that also! I appreciate your comments and ideas!<br />
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Until next time,<br />
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com41tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-79080197896159112432016-03-01T17:32:00.001-08:002016-03-01T17:32:05.791-08:00Multiplication Ninjas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oTIemWyINaI/VtT6xMnAMII/AAAAAAAAEsU/lR1Amq5mgG8/s1600/ninja.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oTIemWyINaI/VtT6xMnAMII/AAAAAAAAEsU/lR1Amq5mgG8/s640/ninja.jpg" title="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" width="320" /></a></div>
You know the look... the look a student gives you after you've asked them what 3x4 is or 4x7... that eyes-up-to-the-right, head-bobbing-count-in-your-head look. We tell our students over and over again how IMPORTANT it is to learn their math facts. How much EASIER multi-digit multiplication, division, and fractions will be if they just learn their times tables. For most students, our supreme knowledge and crystal-ball insight doesn't inspire them. I tell my students over and over again, "Your times tables aren't just going to suddenly come to you. Just because you are in fourth grade doesn't mean you will now magically know your 4's. You have to study!"<br />
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So, what inspires students to study their facts? In my own experience, the average 4th grader isn't inspired by the thought that it will make math-life easier. They need a challenge. They need a little bit of healthy competition, they need a PRIZE! <br />
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I've seen a lot of multiplication motivators in my time. The third grade team at my school does a great job of inspiring their students with a Multiplication Sundae Challenge. For each level students pass they get a topping on an ice-cream sundae in June. This is very inspiring to those 3rd graders! I've done a solar system theme where students each have little rockets and travel from planet 2's to planet 3's and on. <br />
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All of these ideas have been great, but this year I decided to try something different. To be honest, I wanted to inspire my kiddos in a way that was less messy than sundaes and took up less wall space than traveling in outer space. <br />
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So, I came up with Multiplication Ninjas! <br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h6fD9vC537o/VtT-UN7UUdI/AAAAAAAAEtA/fvIV213CrPA/s1600/nb%2B10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" border="0" height="548" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h6fD9vC537o/VtT-UN7UUdI/AAAAAAAAEtA/fvIV213CrPA/s640/nb%2B10.png" title="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" width="640" /></a></div>
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THE SUPPLIES<br />
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The idea is pretty simple. Students pass their 2's and 3's to get their Ninja, a Black Warrior pencil. (Get it.... Black Warrior?! I thought I was being pretty clever.) <br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1HoIvazXOKQ/VtT-WeaM9BI/AAAAAAAAEtQ/U6YAtpA8sVk/s1600/nb%2B8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" border="0" height="562" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1HoIvazXOKQ/VtT-WeaM9BI/AAAAAAAAEtQ/U6YAtpA8sVk/s640/nb%2B8.png" title="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once a student has their Ninja, they earn "belts" as they pass each level indicated on the Ninja poster. The belts are simply Loom Bands.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b7cWTvc5dDo/VtT-UKrDEsI/AAAAAAAAEtE/C_8D9-8XZtg/s1600/nb%2B11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b7cWTvc5dDo/VtT-UKrDEsI/AAAAAAAAEtE/C_8D9-8XZtg/s640/nb%2B11.png" title="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" width="210" /></a></div>
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I bought a package of Loom Bands in each of the belt colors indicated on the poster. I got them on Amazon.com for between $3 and $6 each. There are 500 bands in each package, so they will last a very long time!<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aAJb63_ATYQ/VtUdkp-9waI/AAAAAAAAEtw/oiDMfg_gh8g/s1600/nb%2B6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" border="0" height="313" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aAJb63_ATYQ/VtUdkp-9waI/AAAAAAAAEtw/oiDMfg_gh8g/s320/nb%2B6.png" title="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" width="320" /></a></div>
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The belts go up through the 12's facts. Once students pass their 12's they've earned all of their belts and their pencil. If a student passes their 13's, they get the ultimate prize... wait for it...<br />
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A HIGH FIVE ERASER! What kids wouldn't want that! Am I right?!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X1RavbOfo3k/VtUgc80TBVI/AAAAAAAAEuM/fkYFhbltSEY/s1600/nb%2B7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" border="0" height="600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X1RavbOfo3k/VtUgc80TBVI/AAAAAAAAEuM/fkYFhbltSEY/s640/nb%2B7.png" title="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" width="640" /></a></div>
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THE NINJA HOLDER<br />
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To make a ninja holder, my husband drilled holes in a 4 x 4 and I painted it. I used white chalk marker to write the letters and then sprayed it to keep the chalk paint from smearing. <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4A-7LVs1Dho/VtT-Xsq5iPI/AAAAAAAAEtc/W-MjAHRjuGs/s1600/nb3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" border="0" height="448" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4A-7LVs1Dho/VtT-Xsq5iPI/AAAAAAAAEtc/W-MjAHRjuGs/s640/nb3.png" title="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" width="640" /></a></div>
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THE TESTS</div>
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Now, you may wonder how I test my student's facts and I have to be honest once again, I hate scoring multiplication quizzes. So I asked myself, in this day and age, why on earth would I print a bunch of paper tests and spend hours scoring them... We have TECHNOLOGY people! This is where <a href="http://multiplication.com/">multiplication.com</a> comes in. </div>
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The website is free and easy to set up a class. Students have access to timed quizzes, games that help them practice, and videos that help them study. That is only the tip of the iceberg. I haven't even had time to play with all of the great features. Right now I'm just happy that I can put students on an iPad and have them quickly take a timed quiz on the level they are at. They get instant feedback and I can see which facts they know quickly, which facts they had to think about, and which facts they don't know. It makes life a TON easier. </div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">To start Multiplication Ninja in your own classroom, I'm offering the poster for free in my TeachersPayTeachers shop. Just click <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Multiplication-Ninja-Poster-2423005" target="_blank">HERE</a> to download it. (If you download, please consider leaving a bit of positive feedback on the product at TpT. :) )</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hRlaUKrHbJk/VtUh0UKzwiI/AAAAAAAAEuY/DEcz5CDlKcY/s1600/nb2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" border="0" height="638" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hRlaUKrHbJk/VtUh0UKzwiI/AAAAAAAAEuY/DEcz5CDlKcY/s640/nb2.png" title="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">The poster comes in 4 pages. To make the colors POP! I printed on photo paper. I taped the pages together using double sided tape and Voila! </span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m_z70Fpqj28/VtUfpc8IQWI/AAAAAAAAEuA/bU-3A-NQosc/s1600/ninja%2B15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m_z70Fpqj28/VtUfpc8IQWI/AAAAAAAAEuA/bU-3A-NQosc/s640/ninja%2B15.png" title="Make learning multiplication facts fun for your students with this classroom motivation tool that turns learning times tables into a game!" width="360" /></a></div>
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I had thought about this idea for weeks and was super excited to share it with my students, but I wasn't certain if they would be as excited as I was. My class did not disappoint! They are such good sports. I've had students wanting to stay in at recess to practice and take their tests. It makes a teacher's heart happy. </div>
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Today we had our second "belt ceremony". I proudly announced the ninjas and the belts earned. My students made ninja moves which brought applause from the audience. It was great fun and inspirational for my other little soon-to-be ninjas! </div>
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Do you have any great ideas for motivating your students to learn their math facts? Please share them in the comments! </div>
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Thank you for visiting! </div>
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Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-15079862479092038132016-02-08T19:57:00.002-08:002016-02-09T19:55:23.960-08:00Are Anchor Charts Weighing You down? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--aq0GleNE7g/Vre6h38SGhI/AAAAAAAADA8/UCP90pwZ-Jk/s1600/Anchor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Do you have a sea of anchor charts in your classroom? Looking for some tips, ideas, and inspiration to create, display, and store your anchor charts. " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--aq0GleNE7g/Vre6h38SGhI/AAAAAAAADA8/UCP90pwZ-Jk/s640/Anchor.jpg" title="Do you have a sea of anchor charts in your classroom? Looking for some tips, ideas, and inspiration to create, display, and store your anchor charts. " width="320" /></a></div>
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Hello. My name is Tammy and I'm an Anchor Chart Addict. Reading charts, writing charts, grammar charts, math, science, social studies... you name it... I've got an anchor chart for it! If you are like me, by the end of the year, you're drowning in a sea of chart paper! <br />
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Before I throw out the life preserver, here are a few anchor chart tidbits I'd like to share:<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kJ0Muk41-l4/VrlY64MZxiI/AAAAAAAADCM/AzXSPcObuCw/s1600/ac15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kJ0Muk41-l4/VrlY64MZxiI/AAAAAAAADCM/AzXSPcObuCw/s320/ac15.png" width="320" /></a></div>
I'm artistic by nature and I think making anchor charts taps into that creativity. Not only do anchor charts brighten my classroom, but they are also meaningful teaching and reference tools for my students. <br />
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I almost always make my anchor charts with my class. I believe that there is more buy-in and ownership for the content if students are active participants in the creation of the charts. When we make our anchor charts, I start with the title and design a border around the edge of the paper. I read something, somewhere, a long time ago that said when you add a border, you keep your reader's eyes focused on the information within the frame. If you don't have a border the eye may, more easily, drift from the page and we don't want that!<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-djhRqqvo1lo/VrlOL9_N8UI/AAAAAAAADBw/zV7d6uOeDwc/s1600/ac6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="You'll not only find this Close Reading anchor chart, but many more ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and scoring anchor charts! " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-djhRqqvo1lo/VrlOL9_N8UI/AAAAAAAADBw/zV7d6uOeDwc/s640/ac6.png" title="You'll not only find this Close Reading anchor chart, but many more ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and scoring anchor charts! " width="608" /></a></div>
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Colors are also important. I don't pre-plan a color scheme, but that might be a good idea for the future. I usually just pick colors I like, colors that fit my classroom, or colors of markers that actually have some ink in them (I need to get some new markers!).<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tebJoqEtatA/VrlOI9pCPOI/AAAAAAAADBU/PCAuiXxl5SE/s1600/AC1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Do you have a sea of anchor charts in your classroom? Looking for some tips, ideas, and inspiration to create, display, and store your anchor charts. " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tebJoqEtatA/VrlOI9pCPOI/AAAAAAAADBU/PCAuiXxl5SE/s640/AC1.png" title="Do you have a sea of anchor charts in your classroom? Looking for some tips, ideas, and inspiration to create, display, and store your anchor charts. " width="604" /></a></div>
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My favorite markers for anchor charts are the Sharpie Flip Chart Markers. They have a bullet tip and put out a lot of pigment onto the paper. I also like Scentos markers because they... well... smell good and in a fourth grade classroom, that means something!<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UmEhmQ3-Gc8/VrlY65Rm2ZI/AAAAAAAADCU/5F_sRyTjvXo/s1600/ac16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UmEhmQ3-Gc8/VrlY65Rm2ZI/AAAAAAAADCU/5F_sRyTjvXo/s320/ac16.png" width="320" /></a></div>
In my classroom, anchor charts that are currently in use are pretty much displayed all around the room. My math anchor charts are on the math wall. My science or social studies charts are in that area of the room, and my ELA charts are on my ELA wall. Charts that we are currently working on are usually displayed on our white board at the front of the room so that we can continue to add information to them. <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tmLH4aF6aDA/VrlOLo48D8I/AAAAAAAADBs/Z7_B5V8LplM/s1600/ac4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Do you have a sea of anchor charts in your classroom? Looking for some tips, ideas, and inspiration to create, display, and store your anchor charts. " border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tmLH4aF6aDA/VrlOLo48D8I/AAAAAAAADBs/Z7_B5V8LplM/s640/ac4.png" title="Do you have a sea of anchor charts in your classroom? Looking for some tips, ideas, and inspiration to create, display, and store your anchor charts. " width="352" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rIlBKLYXltQ/VrlOIs6c3iI/AAAAAAAADBQ/YC06_571MX8/s1600/AC%2B2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="You'll not only find this speech anchor chart, but many more ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and scoring anchor charts! " border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rIlBKLYXltQ/VrlOIs6c3iI/AAAAAAAADBQ/YC06_571MX8/s640/AC%2B2.png" title="You'll not only find this speech anchor chart, but many more ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and storing anchor charts! " width="570" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f2WFyB4O1Kc/VrlOLExN97I/AAAAAAAADBo/HnghLxBER-A/s1600/ac14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="You'll not only find this writing anchor chart, but many more ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and scoring anchor charts! " border="0" height="626" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f2WFyB4O1Kc/VrlOLExN97I/AAAAAAAADBo/HnghLxBER-A/s640/ac14.png" title="You'll not only find this writing anchor chart, but many more ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and storing anchor charts! " width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BEqWGLCHCTU/VrlOK_FRqgI/AAAAAAAADBk/u64CD4crDP0/s1600/ac13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="You'll not only find this Resolving Conflict anchor chart, but many more ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and storing anchor charts! " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BEqWGLCHCTU/VrlOK_FRqgI/AAAAAAAADBk/u64CD4crDP0/s640/ac13.png" title="You'll not only find this Resolving Conflict anchor chart, but many more ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and storing anchor charts! " width="512" /></a></div>
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Once an anchor chart is completed or we have moved on to another topic, I move that anchor chart to the reference section of our classroom. The anchor charts are stacked and stapled, one on top of each other, but still accessible for my students. It is not unheard of for a student to go to that wall and look through the anchor charts to find some tidbit of information that they need for an assignment or project.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tzeJGZayW1A/VrlOIzFH-sI/AAAAAAAADBY/PQ4vubXGOXo/s1600/ac10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Do you have a sea of anchor charts in your classroom? Looking for some tips, ideas, and inspiration to create, display, and store your anchor charts. " border="0" height="438" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tzeJGZayW1A/VrlOIzFH-sI/AAAAAAAADBY/PQ4vubXGOXo/s640/ac10.png" title="Do you have a sea of anchor charts in your classroom? Looking for some tips, ideas, and inspiration to create, display, and store your anchor charts. " width="640" /></a></div>
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Here are some other brilliant display ideas from Pinterest Pinners:<br />
<a data-pin-do="embedPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/510173464019272475/"></a>
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<a data-pin-do="embedPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/510173464019272967/"></a>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oINYRrHgieU/VrlY64FR0TI/AAAAAAAADCQ/tt7nMxAvJ-k/s1600/ac18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oINYRrHgieU/VrlY64FR0TI/AAAAAAAADCQ/tt7nMxAvJ-k/s320/ac18.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Needless to say, but by the end of the year, I have a ton of anchor charts to deal with. I feel like I'm drowning in a sea of paper. Since I prefer to make my anchor charts with my students, I usually end up recycling all of them. The last year or so, I've gotten a little bit smarter and started taking pictures of the ones I'd like to repeat with my class the next year. I save these photos in a file name Anchor Charts on my school computer so that I can reference them the next year. <br />
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I've also seen a lot of great storage ideas on Pinterest. Here are a few smart storage suggestions:<br />
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<a data-pin-do="embedPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/510173464019272383//"></a>
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Here are a few more of my MANY anchor charts:<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5s9MDeZKln0/VrlONDZavwI/AAAAAAAADB8/6Z9WB94tFBo/s1600/ac9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Find this anchor chart and many more plus ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and storing anchor charts! " border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5s9MDeZKln0/VrlONDZavwI/AAAAAAAADB8/6Z9WB94tFBo/s640/ac9.png" title="Find this anchor chart and many more plus ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and storing anchor charts! " width="520" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uTjYgyoDyiM/VrlOKj_Ho-I/AAAAAAAADBg/bcuXbQEE2zM/s1600/ac12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Find this anchor chart and many more plus ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and storing anchor charts! " border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uTjYgyoDyiM/VrlOKj_Ho-I/AAAAAAAADBg/bcuXbQEE2zM/s640/ac12.png" title="Find this anchor chart and many more plus ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and storing anchor charts! " width="356" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ld8eJqffb2o/VrlOKBS8qkI/AAAAAAAADBc/xoLAxJXYAO4/s1600/ac11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="You'll not only find this behavior anchor chart, but many more ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and storing anchor charts! " border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ld8eJqffb2o/VrlOKBS8qkI/AAAAAAAADBc/xoLAxJXYAO4/s640/ac11.png" title="You'll not only find this behavior anchor chart, but many more ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and storing anchor charts! " width="336" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hmqf3dsGcmI/VrlOC9zaPeI/AAAAAAAADBM/-BHRj5NyLRE/s1600/ac3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Find this anchor chart and many more plus ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and storing anchor charts! " border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hmqf3dsGcmI/VrlOC9zaPeI/AAAAAAAADBM/-BHRj5NyLRE/s640/ac3.png" title="Find this anchor chart and many more plus ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and storing anchor charts! " width="562" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R3_PKqLXu5g/VrlOLwL0zpI/AAAAAAAADB0/LaZf5FwCaq4/s1600/ac5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="You'll not only find this behavior anchor chart, but many more ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and storing anchor charts! " border="0" height="500" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R3_PKqLXu5g/VrlOLwL0zpI/AAAAAAAADB0/LaZf5FwCaq4/s640/ac5.png" title="You'll not only find this behavior anchor chart, but many more ideas, tips, and inspiration for creating, displaying, and storing anchor charts! " width="640" /></a></div>
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I hope you found some great ideas for your classroom. Thank you for visiting!<br />
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-43161583442350296082016-02-06T23:39:00.001-08:002016-02-09T17:51:01.601-08:00A Letter to the Invisible Teacher<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Dear Invisible Teacher,<br />
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I'm sharing some honest talk with you today because I have something on my mind, but first let me tell you a story:<br />
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<i>It is a bright spring day and I am standing in front of my math class teaching something really important, I'm sure. I hear a knock at my door and there stands three suit-and-tie, skirt-and-heels, smiling-stranger faces. They come into my classroom and stand next to me and start addressing my students. They tell them what a wonderful teacher I am and how happy they are to inform me and my students that I have been nominated for a local teaching award. I am so surprised and a little teary eyed. I happen to glance down at the paperwork Stranger #1 is holding in her hand as she is beaming at my class and there, in black and white, is another teacher's name. Another teacher... in my school... with the same first name. A lot of thoughts run through my head. Oh my gosh! This award isn't for me! Do I tell her now, in front of my class? Do I just not tell her and accept it and tell them later? Do I wait until she is done and then privately explain to them as they leave? </i><br />
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It sounds like one of those bad teacher dreams we all have before the first day of school, but in this case it wasn't a dream. It really happened... to me.<br />
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<i>I turned to stranger #1 and said, "I'm sorry, but I have to interrupt. I think you have the wrong teacher." I explained what my name is and that the award was meant for someone else. The Three Strangers were embarrassed. I was embarrassed. My students were confused. I tried to laugh it off, but still, to this day about 10 years later, it hurts. It was an awful, awful moment, that moment I went from feeling recognized and valued to being a mistake.</i><br />
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I bring this up now, because its award season. Not just the Grammies and the Oscars and all those other Hollywood ones, but it is also the season of teacher awards. National awards, state awards, and district awards. <br />
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Awards were announced at our school this week and, while I couldn't be more happy for the recipients at our school (They are totally deserving and amazing teachers!), it always brings back that moment when the award almost went to me. <br />
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I've been teaching for over 16 years and have never been formally recognized for my dedication and hard work. I could go into all of the different reasons why I think I deserve an award, but that would be stupid because we all deserve an award. There are millions of teachers in the world and we all work hard and give our hearts to our job and our students. We don't choose this career for the accolades, which is a good thing because most of us will never get a plaque with our name inscribed on the front. <br />
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I wanted to share this with you, because as teachers, we can sometimes feel invisible in our own little classroom worlds. Even though you are at school early. You leave late. You run after school clubs or sit on committees. You take on more than your share of responsibility... even though you care and cry for your students, it may feel like no one notices and when you start to feel like that, you start to lose your momentum, your fire, your passion for teaching. You start to fade. <br />
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So how do you get your spark back? <br />
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Here are some ideas:<br />
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1. Remember why you chose this career in the first place. Find joy in your students. Smile with them, laugh with them, play with them. Venture out to recess and swing on the swings. Build bonds with these little treasures. Their joy will rub off on you. <br />
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2. Remember that you may not be the only one feeling invisible. Spread some joy. I plan on putting some cards in staff members' mailboxes, maybe buy coffee for my team, sneak heart sticky-note pads to staff members, anything that lets my colleagues know that they are seen and they are important to me. Make other people feel noticed and they will spread the love.<br />
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3. Remember that, in the end, this is just a job. Put that bag of take-home-work aside and have some fun. Build up your relationships with others and with yourself. Go on a date with your significant other. Ask a friend to go shopping and buy a new pair of shoes (that always brings me joy!) Go see a movie by yourself. Take your dog for a walk. Do things non-school related that bring you joy.<br />
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4. Pursue your other interests. Find another Tribe. Take a class or join a club. Sometimes it is nice to take the teacher hat off and just be the student. Let someone else run the show. Let someone give you positive feedback and tell you you're doing a great job. I especially love taking art classes because, for the most part, you can be creative and there is no "wrong" way. If you have a hobby or another interest, find people who share that interest. Cultivate relationships in that circle by participating in events, Facebook groups, conferences, and get-togethers. A couple of years ago I started creating and selling resources on TeacherPayTeachers. Now, every time a buyer leaves comments on a product letting me know that I saved them time, helped them teach a difficult concept, or made learning engaging for their students its like getting a little award and my light shines a little brighter.<br />
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And last but not least...<br />
5. Have your own awards ceremony. On that terrible day, so long ago, I tried to laugh it off, but my students must have known how disappointed I was. Later they gave me cards with their own versions of the award drawn on the front. The words written inside were kind and compassionate. I keep a stash of cards and notes from former students and families. I get them out every now and then and read them. They are uplifting and funny, and fill my heart with joy and my eyes with tears. They remind me that I matter to who matters most.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7KQwbbVm68k/VrbztK0Aw8I/AAAAAAAADAY/ej9pPJV6hU0/s1600/cards.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Not feeling the teacher appreciation? Feeling invisible? Here is one teacher's story and with tips and inspiration for finding your own light to shine by. " border="0" height="294" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7KQwbbVm68k/VrbztK0Aw8I/AAAAAAAADAY/ej9pPJV6hU0/s320/cards.png" title="Not feeling the teacher appreciation? Feeling invisible? Here is one teacher's story and with tips and inspiration for finding your own light to shine by. " width="320" /></a></div>
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So, Dear Teacher, during this awards season remember that you may not get the trophy, but you've already won the prize. You are loved by your students and cared for by your colleagues. You are not invisible. And when you start to feel yourself fade, shine a light on yourself and be your own biggest cheerleader! <br />
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With Joy and Love,<br />
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Interested in DIY gifts for colleagues and friends? Check out my Pinterest board:<br />
<a data-pin-board-width="900" data-pin-do="embedBoard" data-pin-scale-height="120" data-pin-scale-width="115" href="https://www.pinterest.com/literacylovesco/literacy-loves~diy-gifts/"></a>
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-52439598030742322942016-01-17T13:26:00.000-08:002016-02-14T05:45:59.718-08:00What I've Learned: Quick and Easy Square Product Covers<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j8ruKM1arVQ/VpvzzBxEHRI/AAAAAAAAC5A/Wv-1-K4D7pk/s1600/Literacy%2BLoves%2BCompany.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j8ruKM1arVQ/VpvzzBxEHRI/AAAAAAAAC5A/Wv-1-K4D7pk/s400/Literacy%2BLoves%2BCompany.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Hello and welcome to Literacy Loves Company blog! I wanted to take a moment to share with you a little bit of what I have learned as a TpT seller. When I first started on TpT a little over 2 years ago, I didn't know a thing. It was SCARY! I felt like I had great ideas for resources, but I had no idea how to make a product, handle copyright, clip art, use PowerPoint.... the list of what I didn't know is endless. <br />
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Over this two years I have learned so much and I learned it from fellow TpT'ers and bloggers. I read, watched videos, tried and failed many times and, in the end, I feel like I have learned more in the last 2 years than I have learned in the 10 years before that. <br />
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Because other sellers have been so helpful to me, I thought I would branch out and share a little bit of what I have learned in this TpT and blogging journey. For my first video (Yikes!) , I'm sharing with you how I quickly and easily make square product covers for my TpT products. After watching the video, please leave your own tips and trick in the comment section! We can all learn from each other.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/-r9IBJrh-CM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-r9IBJrh-CM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe><br />
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(This is all a learning process for me, so I'm trying to figure out why the video is blurry. Eeek! You can watch a much crisper version by clicking <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-r9IBJrh-CM" target="_blank">HERE</a>. It will take you to Youtube.)<br />
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I hope the video was helpful! If you have questions or would like me to make other short videos on TpT topics, please let me know in the comments. <br />
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As the video indicated, click <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Border-Sampler-2312070" target="_blank">HERE</a> for a free download of not 2... but 6 free borders (3 matching pairs)! If you like the borders, please take a moment to leave feedback for the product on TpT. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UPiPQxbr5oY/VpwFPXP1c6I/AAAAAAAAC54/_eNVlJKRbY8/s1600/thnail%2B2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UPiPQxbr5oY/VpwFPXP1c6I/AAAAAAAAC54/_eNVlJKRbY8/s200/thnail%2B2.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Free from Peek-a-Boo Borders!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Free from Dot-Dash & Swirl Border Set!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Free from Cozy Corner border set! </td></tr>
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If you are interested in the full border sets, you can click on them here:<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Borders-Cozy-Corner-2273567" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pLBiC6JqH1k/VpwEHXRwgHI/AAAAAAAAC5Q/Eh_GpzzmwNo/s320/Slide1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Peek-a-Boo-Corner-Borders-2277626" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5_-xlaivWP0/VpwER-f5POI/AAAAAAAAC5g/FsR8a_rEnQk/s320/border1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Thank you for visiting Literacy Loves Company! I hope you will take a moment to follow me here, on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram where I share classroom ideas for lesson, organization, and management! <br />
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Until next time... <br />
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-4894008466048186442016-01-09T15:07:00.002-08:002016-01-09T15:07:33.039-08:00Finding the Joy in Planning<div>
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There's something very comforting in fresh starts. As a teacher, you get a fresh start each day, each week, and a big fresh start each year. A chance to start over. A chance to improve. A chance to try something different. </div>
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January is another chance for a fresh start. I consider it the season of fresh starts for my personal life. A chance to renew goals and set new ones. This year, I didn't make any "official" new year resolutions. (To be honest, I was recovering from pneumonia and all I wanted was to stop coughing.) Instead I have the life goal that I'm always striving for: <br />
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Of course that goal isn't as simple as it seems. There are a lot of "sub-goals" that go with it and the toughest one for me is being organized. <br />
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People who know me think I am an organized person. Maybe I am on the outside, but inside of myself I feel like I am one sticky-note from losing it. If you took a look at my desks at home and at school you would see stacks, sticky notes, and a dozen different notebooks and notepads. I've tried planners, journals, electronic schedules. None of these methods have brought me joy or made me calm. <br />
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During winter break, while I was wheezing and hacking my way through another day of Instagram and Pinterest browsing, I came across an intriguing post about Bullet Journals. It caught my attention and I embarked on a research frenzy. I watched youtube.com videos, searched hashtags, and stalked blogs (I'll post links at the bottom of the post.) <br />
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By the end I was hooked. Here is why:<br />
1. You can use whatever notebook you want. No need to buy a $50+ planner system. <br />
2. It's a planner... a journal... a sketch book... whatever you want or need it to be.<br />
3. It's a fairly simple idea.<br />
4. It's artistic and colorful.<br />
5. It's everything in one place.<br />
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Here is a little pic-tour of my bullet journal as it is at this point:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zi208hvTchM/VpFyhg0EWJI/AAAAAAAAC28/zg-omGRAwvg/s1600/Journal.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zi208hvTchM/VpFyhg0EWJI/AAAAAAAAC28/zg-omGRAwvg/s400/Journal.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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This Leuchtturm1917 journal was highly recommended for using as a bullet journal. They come in lined, grid, and dotted. Most bullet journal enthusiasts suggest using the dotted. This journal is great! It comes in a variety of vibrant colors, includes a pre-made index, and has a convenient little pocket on the inside back cover to hold journal goodies. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U3Aarhu318I/VpFykmxKvtI/AAAAAAAAC3g/ruEfXy_fmyE/s1600/pens.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U3Aarhu318I/VpFykmxKvtI/AAAAAAAAC3g/ruEfXy_fmyE/s400/pens.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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I started out using this collection of pens, but noticed that I was having some issues with the ink not drying quickly (You'll be able to see what I mean in the pictures below.) After doing some reading, I bought a set of Staedtler pens and a set of Tombow Dual Brush markers. Both have been working out wonderfully!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nlyVSxPJdCA/VpFyiveCEBI/AAAAAAAAC3A/26WkE7b5K_Q/s1600/Key.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nlyVSxPJdCA/VpFyiveCEBI/AAAAAAAAC3A/26WkE7b5K_Q/s400/Key.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is my "Key". When I jot things into my bujo (bullet journal) I use these symbols. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_DitWs2GK_Q/VpFyjd9QqcI/AAAAAAAAC3Y/izL57VOhIyE/s1600/Year%2BAAG.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_DitWs2GK_Q/VpFyjd9QqcI/AAAAAAAAC3Y/izL57VOhIyE/s400/Year%2BAAG.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is my "Year at a Glance" page. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vzC186PgiGM/VpFygMe7X3I/AAAAAAAAC2g/HHTBn3fADPY/s1600/Daily%2Bview.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vzC186PgiGM/VpFygMe7X3I/AAAAAAAAC2g/HHTBn3fADPY/s400/Daily%2Bview.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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This page is for daily tasks, thoughts, events, etc. I've also been adding the weather for the day.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HS03Q8cnuSs/VpFykT2cDtI/AAAAAAAAC3k/IslmHIFfkrA/s1600/habit%2Btracker.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HS03Q8cnuSs/VpFykT2cDtI/AAAAAAAAC3k/IslmHIFfkrA/s400/habit%2Btracker.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is the "Habit Tracker" for the month. I've put things I hope to do daily or weekly. I haven't yet stepped on the treadmill... Yikes! I may have to do that just so I can put a mark on that line. It is getting pretty obvious! </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U6Bks9safnE/VpFyhTT3KNI/AAAAAAAAC2o/5BNKXGVRTuM/s1600/Gratitude%2B2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U6Bks9safnE/VpFyhTT3KNI/AAAAAAAAC2o/5BNKXGVRTuM/s400/Gratitude%2B2.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is my "Daily Gratitude" page. I've seen them done many different ways, but this is how I chose to do it. I'm trying to jot down at least 2 things I am grateful for each day. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1xuMls8ASbc/VpFyimPcNGI/AAAAAAAAC3I/UXMDVjBo8qo/s1600/Quotes.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1xuMls8ASbc/VpFyimPcNGI/AAAAAAAAC3I/UXMDVjBo8qo/s400/Quotes.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is my "TpT Product Idea" page. The name says it all. I've added a little quote I saw on instagram posted by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/megsnewboxofcrayons/" target="_blank">MegsNewBoxofCrayons</a>. </div>
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This is my "Wish List" page. This page is for the things I hope to do or get this year. </div>
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These are my "Future Planning" pages. This is where I add events that are happening later in the year. </div>
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There are many other pages I am planning on adding. For example, I am starting to read "The Life-changing Magic of Tidying Up" by Marie Kondo. I will be adding a page in my bujo for taking notes from the book.<br />
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So far, this little journal has brought joy to my life. I don't feel stressed about keeping it up to date. JOY! I love getting it out each night with my colored pencils and markers and updating it. JOY! I'm excited about finding designs and inspirational quotes to add to the pages. JOY! and I know exactly where my to-do list is for both school and home! calm. <br />
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If you would like to know more about bullet journaling, here are a couple of resources that I found very helpful:<br />
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<li><a href="http://bulletjournal.com/" target="_blank">Bullet Journal</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.bohoberry.com/" target="_blank">Boho Berry</a> Click on the Bullet Journal tab on her website. She has a great video "flip through". </li>
<li><a href="http://www.tinyrayofsunshine.com/" target="_blank">Tiny Ray of Sunshine</a></li>
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Thank you for stopping by! Be sure to follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/literacylovescompany/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and/or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Literacy-Loves-Company-243344699166239/?ref=tn_tnmn" target="_blank">Facebook</a> for more pics of my bullet journal journey as well as classroom ideas and resources!</div>
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New TpT Resources:</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Greek-and-Latin-Root-Morphology-Set-1-2206227" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B2usO_KtI-0/VpF9hom00fI/AAAAAAAAC4E/PkaUaITWKaE/s320/set%2B1%2Btitle.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Greek and Latin Root Words - PowerPoints Slideshow, posters, interactive notebook pages, hands-on literacy/word work stations!</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Metric-Measurement-Task-Mats-Math-Center-2271954" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5p_f9HnECek/VpF9t801i8I/AAAAAAAAC4M/H2v43t_K5tg/s320/Title%2BSlide.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Math Center: Converting, adding and subtracting, and multi-step word problems for metric measurement. </div>
Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4033665645556697038.post-30698280056021569262015-10-24T12:07:00.002-07:002016-01-29T22:42:03.567-08:005 Fun Grouping Strategies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Have you ever felt like time is getting away from you? That is how felt when I saw the date of my last blog post! I can't believe how long it has been since I've sat down to write! With school starting and a HUGE home project, I've struggled with fitting everything in. I'm happy to say that the home project is completed and I'm crossing my fingers that I can get back on a regular blogging schedule. <br />
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Do you ever find yourself in a student grouping rut? Well, I have some fun, easy to prep, grouping strategies that will make your students cheer!<br />
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There are times when, as teachers, we have to make careful, purposeful grouping decisions, BUT... there are other times when letting fate decide is the way to go! <br />
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Here are 5 cheer-worthy ways to randomly partner up or group your students:<br />
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<b>1. Postcard Puzzle Pieces</b></div>
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My students LOVE when I make groups using postcard puzzles! I pull out the envelop and they begin to wiggle with excitement. Making postcard grouping puzzles is easy. I have several sets of these puzzles. One for each number of students I want in a group. I have a set that makes groups of 3, one for groups of 4, and one for groups of 5, etc. <br />
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First, obviously, you'll need postcards! I have a set of postcards from around the state that I live, another a student brought me from her trip to Italy, and still another with artwork that I bought at the local art museum. <br />
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Second, figure out how many students you want in a group and how many postcards you will need. For example, if you have 24 students and you want groups of 4, you will need 6 postcards. <br />
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Third, cut each of the postcards up into however many students you want in each group. The pieces don't have to look like puzzle pieces, but I try to make them look interesting. <br />
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Most postcards already have a plastic coating, so this makes them more durable and you usually don't have to laminate them. I keep my puzzles sets in manila envelopes with the grouping information labeled on the outside. <br />
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Sometimes you may not have enough puzzle pieces or too many. I just adjust as needed. I make sure that I have enough puzzle pieces for everyone, but pull out any of the extra's. The student who gets the one lonely piece gets to choose whichever group they would like to join. It's like getting the golden ticket! Sometimes I take out just one or two pieces and let the class know that some groups will be one piece short. It just depends on how many kiddos you have and how many students you need to be in a group. <br />
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2. <b> Popsicle sticks (or, as my students like to call them, "The Sticks of Doom.")</b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2v-KSZ4ocW0/Viu3kn1OKqI/AAAAAAAACzs/GlPrumpoDg4/s1600/pick%2Bpic%2B4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Make grouping students fun and stress free with these 5 tips and tricks. Tip #5 is my favorite and it's free!" border="0" height="582" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2v-KSZ4ocW0/Viu3kn1OKqI/AAAAAAAACzs/GlPrumpoDg4/s640/pick%2Bpic%2B4.png" title="Make grouping students fun and stress free with these 5 tips and tricks. Tip #5 is my favorite and it's free!" width="640" /></a></div>
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I write the name of each of my students on a different large popsicle stick. When making groups this way, I pull the sticks out of their container in the amount I want in each group. This is a quick way to make groups!<br />
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<b>3. The Sticks of Doom take 2</b></div>
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Another way to use popsicle sticks to make groups is to paint the end of each popsicle stick a color. For example, paint 4 sticks green, 4 yellow, 4 blue, etc. Students pull sticks and group themselves by the color they pull. If you have an odd number or an extra student, you can create a "golden stick". The student who pulls the golden stick gets to choose which group they would like to join. <br />
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<b>4. Blind Grab</b></div>
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In a paper back or other opaque container, place colored tiles or pattern blocks. Students blindly pull out colored tiles and arrange themselves in groups based on the color of the tile or the shape they pull. <br />
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Other Options: You can also do this with candy. Go to the bulk section of your grocery store and buy some of the mixed candy. Put candy in the bag in the amount you will need for grouping. For example, if you need groups of 5, put in 5 peppermints, 5 Jolly Ranchers, and 5 caramels. Kids love this way of grouping! <br />
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<b>5. By Appointment Only!</b></div>
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You've probably heard of appointment clocks or clock buddies. In my class we just call it "Appointments". Here is how it works: <br />
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Each student gets a "By Appointment Only!" bookmark. Students walk around the classroom and make appointments with each other for the times listed on the card. For example, if Jane and Steve want to make an appointment, they find a time that they are both open and then Jane writes Steve's name on her sheet and Steve write's Jane's name on his sheet and that time. <br />
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I usually give about 15 minutes or so for students to make their appointments. When most students are finished, I take over and help match up students based on what appointment they still have open. Sometimes I have to end up making groups of 3 which still works. I only do this at the end though. <br />
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When all of the appointments have been made, I gather the bookmarks and laminate them. I hand them back to my students and they become responsible of them. When I need students to work in pairs or share their work with a partner, I roll one or two dice and call out the number rolled. Students meet with the person who is scheduled at that time on their appointment list. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iyFkBxgiXq0/ViMcISWIPEI/AAAAAAAACzQ/5nHM9joG_3s/s1600/LLC%2BGroup%2B5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Make grouping students fun and stress free with these 5 tips and tricks. Tip #5 is my favorite and it's free!" border="0" height="500" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iyFkBxgiXq0/ViMcISWIPEI/AAAAAAAACzQ/5nHM9joG_3s/s640/LLC%2BGroup%2B5.png" title="Make grouping students fun and stress free with these 5 tips and tricks. Tip #5 is my favorite and it's free!" width="640" /></a></div>
You can grab a <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B10Wq1oZA6Sjb0ktR0VSbUlCVW8/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">FREE DOWNLOAD</a> of these bookmarks as a "Thank You!" for visiting Literacy Loves Company! <br />
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Keeping students engaged and helping them to work with a variety of people is one of the many tasks we do as teachers. I hope that one or more of these grouping ideas helps make that task a little more interesting for both you and your students. <br />
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I know that there are MANY, MANY more great grouping ideas out there! I'd love it if you would share yours in the comments below. <br />
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Thanks again for visiting! <br />
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NEW PRODUCT ALERT! </div>
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Are you a 3rd - 4th grade teacher? Check out the newest resource in my TpT store:</div>
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<strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Geneva, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">This product includes 5 different MULTI-STEP word problems connecting to special days and events in the month of November! </strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "geneva" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Each word problem story has 4 problems for easy differentiation . The provided answer sheets guide students to focus on parts of each problem and break them down into small tasks throughout the week. In just 5-10 minutes each day, students work on CCSS math standards while improving their mathematical practices. </span></div>
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<br />Tammy Danleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07139358029585547254noreply@blogger.com0