tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17588798608392554012024-03-05T01:32:29.404-05:00The Reinspired TeacherAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.comBlogger55125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-89895676782284656892015-03-13T16:09:00.000-04:002015-03-14T14:31:13.139-04:00Morning Messages<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have done morning messages with my classes for years,
even in Kindergarten. I write a message in letter format. I always include a certain number
of mistakes, many of them are based on skills we are learning. Then, I
include a problem for them to solve in Language or Math, which gives a
good review. <br />
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The messages are handwritten on the easel
each day. My students get a post-it, tally the mistakes, and solve the
problem. After that, they turn in their post-its, and we go over the
message after morning work. <br />
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After we go over the message
as a class, I go through each post-it to see who got both the number of
mistakes and the problem correct. Those who get both correct get a treat
of some kind.<br />
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I thought it would be cool to make this into
a Powerpoint that animates the corrections. Then, I realized this is a great idea to share with other teachers! The children enjoy doing them, and are engaged. Teachers get a good review and a quick snapshot as to which students understand certain concepts. It's a win-win situation!</div>
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The result is <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/March-Interactive-Morning-Messages-for-2nd-Grade-1753402" target="_blank">March Interactive Morning Messages for 2nd Grade</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/March-Interactive-Morning-Messages-for-2nd-Grade-1753402" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/March-Interactive-Morning-Messages-for-2nd-Grade-1753402" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN-zxeQt5MTcuL1SXAgS1xDL5iY3E-TYHxcQAmLuQyvV6rPT6Krl3jw6163oxMHZ3QN5zDGaELwm-oF4SC7n4QoXbeuPEO7Mm7zcZSDY-QyYxQsG7y8ocZnARqGqgxbzU095hJqDUjP0qK/s1600/March+Morning+Messages+Front.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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My class was very excited to do the messages in this format! Here are a few pictures!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyuCaWmu6Osx3_6zzoZxrJLZcqZIobiU5uWQUzdRfi3ponIEjs9I_2KKEqOlQu_L1nwZtd7-92Ms1dpGQFXeAfiZQiJeR8Qnj259dxeQSvIrsWBvsSzKJ1n5V4YZXuBhOrzLYRVrvv9nws/s1600/244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyuCaWmu6Osx3_6zzoZxrJLZcqZIobiU5uWQUzdRfi3ponIEjs9I_2KKEqOlQu_L1nwZtd7-92Ms1dpGQFXeAfiZQiJeR8Qnj259dxeQSvIrsWBvsSzKJ1n5V4YZXuBhOrzLYRVrvv9nws/s1600/244.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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This student even used her word bank to look up how to correctly spell a word from the message! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiIIcas0etIW4FCNmhmf8fqNUGmT-uflPaZ3NDoIF610lRxwjSPN14_7JOEjVpdakQuZmRAgZHcsFIynnonB9MHg1vrSsaPvHgGioKtfJpRzk2cFjQpTraAEx6cQMKxXSQvRy0gjRdGds-/s1600/245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiIIcas0etIW4FCNmhmf8fqNUGmT-uflPaZ3NDoIF610lRxwjSPN14_7JOEjVpdakQuZmRAgZHcsFIynnonB9MHg1vrSsaPvHgGioKtfJpRzk2cFjQpTraAEx6cQMKxXSQvRy0gjRdGds-/s1600/245.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLg1LRZk5oo8W_qrpxOjdHjtTEZQWpSddOQQdBrcJaUkVBCpnyLR_bkvGkW0J0uhX_LE7Ttk5qnx9LZsTI1p4vOiCSQwNBAWvAKLbSt0JNNEmi6CZYA1nbj_LLNKXsNqxZU_ssheqmiVsZ/s1600/249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLg1LRZk5oo8W_qrpxOjdHjtTEZQWpSddOQQdBrcJaUkVBCpnyLR_bkvGkW0J0uhX_LE7Ttk5qnx9LZsTI1p4vOiCSQwNBAWvAKLbSt0JNNEmi6CZYA1nbj_LLNKXsNqxZU_ssheqmiVsZ/s1600/249.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I simply have them use post it notes to record the answers. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBJQPv6Q82AulX5Bpwt9JeFmLGfOyxUELYyeuTVLw6DGG4Hf_upRu11anqFH8q2zP0jisMLOr1o0_PySciS0t3guzlt82t7ySdnaL7hYqOwFEiyF1_-yLFP8rRkRHZMC1cLaisaVigbJ2k/s1600/250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBJQPv6Q82AulX5Bpwt9JeFmLGfOyxUELYyeuTVLw6DGG4Hf_upRu11anqFH8q2zP0jisMLOr1o0_PySciS0t3guzlt82t7ySdnaL7hYqOwFEiyF1_-yLFP8rRkRHZMC1cLaisaVigbJ2k/s1600/250.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Then, they fold them and put them in the bucket.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfq-1fBny9_9wzQp10r9OlVf_0bzYum0a45Gw3hz77BRHGmqTmEPp0lr3-A9RgL5CdCUApIW3J9zou8xiHf-kiVM4Bjt74tfZJ6U1ZQnTXGC6aD_UPhVIlA1rRhw06SzkQadihh8bYXlA0/s1600/243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfq-1fBny9_9wzQp10r9OlVf_0bzYum0a45Gw3hz77BRHGmqTmEPp0lr3-A9RgL5CdCUApIW3J9zou8xiHf-kiVM4Bjt74tfZJ6U1ZQnTXGC6aD_UPhVIlA1rRhw06SzkQadihh8bYXlA0/s1600/243.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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This is what it looks like on my projector. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyd7HtZb7_pWsR9vRp0CJq7I2auv0KhqikcsClXo__O_Sd6dWxwD8sp9U3Yy_qyNNZ6r52M0A-CIKZ1tiBpiSPJtdfHFN04p6ysJmykMH9Z6o7dJQhkQ-wrRRTxl65nMAjzjtfuzUaqSe2/s1600/251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyd7HtZb7_pWsR9vRp0CJq7I2auv0KhqikcsClXo__O_Sd6dWxwD8sp9U3Yy_qyNNZ6r52M0A-CIKZ1tiBpiSPJtdfHFN04p6ysJmykMH9Z6o7dJQhkQ-wrRRTxl65nMAjzjtfuzUaqSe2/s1600/251.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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When we finish going over the message, we get a cool picture with an encouraging message!</div>
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Below is a video to show you how they work. You can choose whichever message you want each day. All you have to do is put it on the slide you want, then go to "slide show, use current slide." Please note, there is no narration on the video, so you don't need to adjust your sound!</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/8vRPzxzdlGU/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/8vRPzxzdlGU?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe> </div>
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Since I wanted teachers to be able to use and reuse the messages year after year, I made the date in the heading and the message editable. It's pretty easy to do. However, I am aware that there are many people who aren't familiar with editing in Powerpoint, so I have included this video to show you how to edit the date. There is no narration in this video either.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/vJ2x9f1hUcM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/vJ2x9f1hUcM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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Included in the packet is a slide that would be most helpful if printed for students to use each day. It explains the types of mistakes they should look for. Here is a picture.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFsjf_vfX1oQ60QTQTWx8T24ggn-ikaSvYDDvTfavVgggQk8o4vQl5-iKaX_eJ_wPFM0Tk4pWj_vhBOuIZk9He4yUIgOSdzleg0jsoGwrt8w0dUhW3faOAakrLarg3fl2iQUXtxjCfBS2a/s1600/March+Morning+Messages+look+for.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFsjf_vfX1oQ60QTQTWx8T24ggn-ikaSvYDDvTfavVgggQk8o4vQl5-iKaX_eJ_wPFM0Tk4pWj_vhBOuIZk9He4yUIgOSdzleg0jsoGwrt8w0dUhW3faOAakrLarg3fl2iQUXtxjCfBS2a/s1600/March+Morning+Messages+look+for.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I plan to make them for each month, then maybe do some themed messages. I'm very excited about this product, and I hope other teachers like it too!</div>
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To celebrate this great new product, I will be giving away 2 copies of March Interactive Morning Messages! To enter, simply use the Rafflecopter below! Good luck!</div>
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="8dd7949d5" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/8dd7949d5/" id="rcwidget_0ho0rzf6" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a></div>
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You can also get a copy of <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/March-Interactive-Morning-Messages-for-2nd-Grade-1753402" target="_blank">March Interactive Morning Messages</a> at 50% off March 14 and 15!</div>
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I'd love to hear what skills and concepts you'd like to see in future Morning Messages products! Please comment below to let me know what you'd like. I'm definitely open to ideas that will help other teachers!</div>
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<script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-81073432900009453262014-08-16T23:05:00.000-04:002015-03-13T16:10:21.360-04:00Adventures in Whole Brain Teaching Week 1<div style="text-align: justify;">
I discovered <a href="http://www.wholebrainteaching.com/" target="_blank">Whole Brain Teaching</a> this summer. It sounded so easy, and I could just imagine how wonderfully my new class would respond. I was also a bit nervous about it since I am NOT very animated, and I personally hate it when I have to share what I've learned with a partner. I've always been the type of person who learns best by myself. I was also the kid who would go ahead and start working on the paper while the teacher gave instructions because I already knew what to do. Yes, I was THAT kid who now drives me nuts! :)</div>
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On the first day of school, I was all ready to start WBT. I knew to teach Class-Yes and the WBT rules first. I knew to practice them over and over until the class could do them flawlessly. I also introduced the scoreboard so the children would be even more excited about the process. </div>
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The first Class-Yes was met with a few groans, and, "I've already done this!" So, I tried to make it a little more exciting for them by being animated. I added gestures, funny noises, and little dances to keep the children interested. I had most of the children buying into it, but I felt ridiculous since this was not my personality at all. Still, I was determined to make this work. I had read about the brain research behind WBT, and it made sense to me. </div>
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As the day went on, MOST of the class was doing fine, but I still had a few that didn't respond or complained each time I went through a procedure. I made sure I added points to the scoreboard, keeping to the 3 point rule where there can't be a difference of more than 3 points on each side. We kept practicing, and I introduced Teach-Okay, Mirror, and the 3-peat for following directions. Most of the children seemed to be getting it, and I was being as animated as I possibly could be.</div>
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By afternoon Resource, I was physically and mentally drained. I couldn't imagine teaching like this everyday. It felt so unnatural to me and my fairly quiet personality. I also didn't know what I was going to do about the students who still weren't participating.</div>
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I still wasn't ready to give up on WBT, but I knew something had to change. I went home to do more research. I went to the <a href="http://www.wholebrainteaching.com/" target="_blank">WBT website</a>, reread the introductory information, but still couldn't figure out what I did wrong. I decided to watch some videos of it in action. In one of the videos, Chris Biffle (creator of WBT) mentioned timing students during procedures. They could then try to break their own records by doing it faster the next time. I made a note to myself to try that. Then, I watched a video of a 1st Grade teacher doing WBT. Her children were obviously familiar with the procedures already, but I watched what she did. I knew I hated putting on a song and dance show like I had basically done that day, so there had to be a better way. She simply stated the Class-Yes and Teach-Okay without all of the craziness. The class still responded enthusiastically. That's when I decided I was definitely going to try again.<br />
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I've always been the type of teacher who is mostly serious, but occasionally makes a goofy remark or jokes around with students. My humor is often subtle, but in 2nd Grade many of them seem to get it once they get to know me. So, I went in the next day, reviewed the WBT that we already knew, and practiced procedures more in depth. I wasn't as animated, but I added a few goofy sounds or actions as I felt comfortable. Most of the class responded, but there were still those few that I couldn't seem to reach. Overall, the day was better.<br />
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The next 2 days I felt that I wasn't keeping the attention of a few more students. I felt like I was doing what I was supposed to do, but something had to be wrong. Were my expectations too high? Why didn't it seem to be working as well. They seemed to be bored with it. <br />
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After a long week, I am grateful for a restful weekend! I will continue to learn more about WBT, and hopefully things will go a bit more smoothly next week when we have more academics to add to the mix. I truly want this to be fun and helpful for them and manageable for me.<br />
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Stay tuned for more Adventures in Whole Brain Teaching Week 2! I am determined to make this work! :)<br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Whole-Brain-Teaching-Scoreboards-Freebie-1324275" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Whole-Brain-Teaching-Scoreboards-Freebie-1324275" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9s1Uz1NKGiMVB4km9J4Mcvu72ATv1NgLAoZXG6yQnpdiIARxwWZlBdhLlwlcSGkLIot252gQB-wFj5tfJAT2YZ22dMipUH38R0WI56DIGjKeDyI52UpJwTLWPqVPjpEfkwctjMZxoFXr/s1600/Slide1.JPG" height="247" width="320" /></a></div>
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Check out my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Whole-Brain-Teaching-Scoreboards-Freebie-1324275" target="_blank">Whole Brain Teaching Scoreboards Freebie</a>!</div>
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Are there any other WBT teachers out there? Share your experiences! I'd love to hear about them!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-31821129679757642014-08-01T20:57:00.000-04:002014-08-01T20:57:44.205-04:00August Currently<div style="text-align: justify;">
I know, ANOTHER post from me in the same day! I just had to post the August Currently, hosted by <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Farley at Oh' Boy Fourth Grade.</a></div>
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Most of it is self-explanatory. </div>
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LOVING my new classroom setup because I put 2 comfy reading areas instead of my usual 1. I have the students read everywhere in the room anyway, but it's nice to have 2 cozy spots. </div>
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NEEDING to cut and organize all of those task card sets I printed and laminated (I tend to spend all of my TPT seller earnings on TPT products!). I plan to try something new with task cards this year, and I wanted a variety of subject areas and topics. What better time to get them all ready than summer vacation?! Well, it would have been great if I had decided to work on them sooner. I decided to spend more time relaxing and enjoying my break instead. My plan for the cards is based on <a href="http://sunnydaysinsecondgrade.blogspot.com/2011/10/brain-builders.html" target="_blank">this post</a> I saw on the blog at <a href="http://sunnydaysinsecondgrade.blogspot.com/2011/10/brain-builders.html" target="_blank">Sunny Days in Second Grade</a>. I can't wait to try it this year!</div>
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Yes, I go back on August 5. Our Orientation is August 8. The students return on August 12. That's the day my son, Jeffery, starts 4th Grade. I can't believe he's going to be a 4th grader!</div>
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If you have any other great ideas for using task cards, please share them with us!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-57125182468518762452014-08-01T11:46:00.000-04:002014-08-01T11:46:17.385-04:00Back to School<div style="text-align: justify;">
My summer is almost over. I have to go back to school on August 5. I don't mind going back, I just hate getting up early in the morning. This year will be a bit different for me. It will be my first time as Team Leader, and we have 3 new people on our team. Two of them are new to our school. I'm up to the challenge though!</div>
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Be sure to head over to TPT on August 4 and 5! They are having a Blast off Back to School Sale! Items will be 20% off in participating stores, including mine, and you can get up to a total of 28% off by entering the code BTS14. Start your wish list now so you can stock up on August 4 and 5!</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Lori-Smith" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Lori-Smith" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuBDTcfOx_xfYGMEHLufHwZWp95ZK_bHcu9pk29C7hK-frAsUU_ZUkWqCgrPDp4uYMAtsiAOat5jONYGWdyEWXGOHUd_V1nySF794GLn9iUiQmt4Q8N2QffjQHZRc3BVpBP77QgNClGWSf/s1600/Sale+Aug+2014.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Click on the image above to add to your <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Lori-Smith" target="_blank">wish list</a>!</div>
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When do you go back to school? Are you ready, or would you prefer a longer summer? Do we have any other Team Leaders out there?</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-58268900851565877282014-07-26T14:38:00.000-04:002014-07-26T14:38:54.494-04:00It's Time for a Giveaway!<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's almost time for me to go back to school. I can't believe I only have 1 more week! Summer has gone by much too quickly! I have been working on things for school while I have been home though. I was even able to get to my classroom a little bit this summer. I have taken some before pictures. Well, I remembered to take them after I had moved some furniture, but before I really decided where to put everything. I'll be posting after pictures when my room is completely done.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZggWBMECP-toPpzLaDSWKFGPSOfIxYEdGaQU3X6LGtZk-2MqOGPNr3Ict6MX4pGq-VgfWxNP_RCjiXUh_TRsMo7cRPx08hM6aoCZwctjoNtQTn7JZMv71a-Wi553C2xBnsukfIx5Ucizy/s1600/PicsArt.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZggWBMECP-toPpzLaDSWKFGPSOfIxYEdGaQU3X6LGtZk-2MqOGPNr3Ict6MX4pGq-VgfWxNP_RCjiXUh_TRsMo7cRPx08hM6aoCZwctjoNtQTn7JZMv71a-Wi553C2xBnsukfIx5Ucizy/s1600/PicsArt.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Everything that is on the wall was kept up from last year. It makes things much easier if I don't have to start completely from scratch every year. I now have all of the furniture placed, but I'm waiting until everything is 1st day of school ready so you can see the transformation.</div>
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On another note, our county is starting with a new reading and writing series this year - <u>Making Meaning</u> and <u>Being a Writer</u> from the Developmental Studies Center. The books don't look very exciting, but we'll see how well the series works. Since the books aren't very pretty, I decided to make my own writing rubrics based on the ones in the book. </div>
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These rubrics can be used for ANY writing program, not just our series. They are Common Core based, and would work well in any 2nd Grade classroom. </div>
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If you want to see more, click on the images above and download the preview file. This packet includes rubrics for narrative, fiction, informative, nonfiction, letters, poems, and opinion writing.<br />
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I have the rubrics in various styles and colors, including blackline
masters. You are welcome to choose the format you like best. There are
smaller copies of the blackline rubrics for student writing notebooks,
folders, or whatever you choose. Each rubric (and color) has its own
numbered rubric, which can be posted next to it. After each question on
the rubric, students decide how they would rate their work on a scale of
1-3 (3 being the highest). This helps them to take more care in
checking their writing. Of course, modeling the use of each rubric is
necessary, but it will be worth it in the end! </div>
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To celebrate the launch of my latest product, I have decided to give away the rubrics to 2 lucky winners! Simply enter on the Rafflecopter below!</div>
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/8dd7949d4/" id="rc-8dd7949d4" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
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I am also offering this product at 50% off until July 28 if you'd like to purchase it instead.<br />
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Good luck to everyone who enters!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-9171432992770762922014-07-14T21:21:00.001-04:002014-07-14T21:21:56.180-04:00I'm Back - With a Freebie!<div style="text-align: justify;">
I know it's been a long time since I last posted. I had a very difficult class last year, which definitely didn't put me in the mood for blogging. However, I'm ready to start the new school year with a clean slate! </div>
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I recently discovered Whole Brain Teaching! I'm sure many of you have already heard of it. For those who haven't, it's a method of keeping the class engaged through listening, seeing, speaking, and moving. I still have lots to learn about it myself, but if you are interested in finding out more, please visit <a href="http://wholebrainteaching.com/">http://wholebrainteaching.com</a> . </div>
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When you get to the website, they have tons of great information about the program (which costs NOTHING, by the way), including reading materials, videos, and lots of FREE downloads! You have to register to access the downloads, but it is definitely worth it. All they ask in return is that you pass along their website to at least 11 people, and send them proof of it. That's exactly what I'm doing right now! :)</div>
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If you find you want to try out Whole Brain Teaching, there are also tons of free resources on TPT to help you get started. You can start checking them out by going <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Browse/Search:whole+brain+teaching/Price-Range/Free" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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I also made a freebie for you! The first level of classroom management in Whole Brain Teaching is the scoreboard. You can easily draw one on the board, but I'm all about making useful things cute and decorative for the classroom, so I made 7 scoreboards in different styles. You are welcome to use them for anything you want, but I plan to use them for WBT. </div>
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I decided to upload one of the scoreboard images to <a href="http://vistaprint.tellapal.com/a/clk/10FQNR" target="_blank">Vistaprint</a>, and have it made into a small car magnet to put on my dry erase board. </div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Whole-Brain-Teaching-Scoreboards-Freebie-1324275" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Whole-Brain-Teaching-Scoreboards-Freebie-1324275" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhjWuQtRttjNum8laCB3y_nmA6mBDT-w-UNjT-miefK5h74tJ7RQIXwJBWgAkk9V0SFx1l2cTYvZMt-s2BJT8AcEovg6VILJcqvpJ0W6qZdfzg5rpH4itlVxuMs4NNQmie8XktDfGACdb5/s1600/7scoreboards.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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To download these, click on one of the images above or click <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Whole-Brain-Teaching-Scoreboards-Freebie-1324275" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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If you download this product, please take a minute to leave feedback! I really appreciate it! Thanks!</div>
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What are you looking forward to this coming school year? Let me know in the comments section!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-29292976466241995062013-12-01T19:15:00.002-05:002013-12-01T19:15:51.148-05:00December Currently, a New Item, and Cyber MondayIt's December, and here is my Currently, hosted by <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Farley at Oh' Boy Fourth Grade</a>!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXYtTNRuCWG1mG0ybvCxzQhRsnnjucmZ7OoWltw_4czZAUahiD09OzloS1T7fdH7zkCHFGzQYwQPYY_a0tM_nGYRH7GVpP6hLbswyNGH0RnE8xW0d1Iq9vcaDWiK-ZTZrnenItTcQ1ESt5/s1600/december+currently.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXYtTNRuCWG1mG0ybvCxzQhRsnnjucmZ7OoWltw_4czZAUahiD09OzloS1T7fdH7zkCHFGzQYwQPYY_a0tM_nGYRH7GVpP6hLbswyNGH0RnE8xW0d1Iq9vcaDWiK-ZTZrnenItTcQ1ESt5/s640/december+currently.jpg" width="492" /> </a></div>
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Most of these are self-explanatory, except my favorite tradition. Each year, everyone in my family (there are only 5 of us so it's not too excessive) buys everyone else a stocking stuffer costing no more than $10. For some reason, we had stopped doing it for a few years. This year we decided to bring back the tradition. I like this because we have to be more creative with our gifts. It's always fun to try to think of things to buy others, and it's fun to see what everyone else gets.</div>
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I have created a <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mischievous-Elves-A-Multisyllabic-Word-Fluency-Game-1002432" target="_blank">new item</a> for my store, just in time for Cyber Monday (and Tuesday)! My class has a very difficult time with multisyllabic word reading. So, I thought I'd make this simple game that can be used in various ways. You can put it in a center, use it in small groups, or make it a whole-class game. </div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mischievous-Elves-A-Multisyllabic-Word-Fluency-Game-1002432" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mischievous-Elves-A-Multisyllabic-Word-Fluency-Game-1002432" border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnNWt2CCMnUT8ub8MDV8ZKo90pBwf9lT8-81-pVx9LZETaELX0_IMyIV_1J7zeVbMALnFkvm0pL0zwyhHsDbKR5wHtfGz9fcECWnReQhHAP_3oXCIKW5kp8ad6ZEE7nuPU_QA2TRlX_Kr2/s320/Slide1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Each child takes a turn choosing a card. If he/she reads the word correctly, he/she can keep the card. If a "mischievous elf" card is drawn, the player must put back all of his/her cards. The player with the most cards at the end is the winner. </div>
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I have divided the words into syllables by using the colors red and green. This will help students to sound out the words. I plan to review all of the words with my class tomorrow before putting the game out for them to play.</div>
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One thing I love about this game is that the elf cards were made with elf clip art that I drew myself! Those elves can be found <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Shelf-Elf-Christmas-Clip-Art-Graphics-for-Commercial-Use-426657" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Lori-Smith" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Lori-Smith" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfLBHpEaU0O2RLSeWD-6zowfq2xUwCM5sWwkd6MeBpiMayM6ZktTM24tXGMOi1KnTMUja8Jyk6rvTzrp6aaD6wbbFPoJ8ofc6I4-HnB44tbcIvCejMHlc3_jhg730e9x4kYYgtksgAERMr/s320/Cyber+Monday+Sale+Button_3_Creative+Clips.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Starting tomorrow, everything in my store is 20% off! When you make a purchase at TPT tomorrow and Tuesday, be sure to type in the code CYBER to get a total of 28% off everything in my store! Also, if you aren't already a follower of my TPT store, be sure to become one. That way you can get information about new products and sales. </div>
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I already have several items on my wishlist that I plan to buy during the sale. What do you plan to get? Be sure to share with us in the comments below!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-17092341991396779862013-11-02T17:56:00.001-04:002013-11-02T17:56:24.988-04:00November Currently and Some October FunIt's November, and here is my Currently, hosted by <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Farley at Oh' Boy Fourth Grade</a>!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihzCMdrpbTPFCZQyKrxUOxAAurxU_fbXG_J7IEHDAT08STmqPh5CmZyagEphy_YlfZ4b-5s0NzDGcIP6rDMDk77HQBpSysKeLfYDq_7HVCTWZcczoFoWbw4PKJu5SqlnTP6FsNep1KRkeQ/s1600/nov13currently.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihzCMdrpbTPFCZQyKrxUOxAAurxU_fbXG_J7IEHDAT08STmqPh5CmZyagEphy_YlfZ4b-5s0NzDGcIP6rDMDk77HQBpSysKeLfYDq_7HVCTWZcczoFoWbw4PKJu5SqlnTP6FsNep1KRkeQ/s640/nov13currently.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div>
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<b>Listening - </b>It's laundry day, so of course I can hear the washing machine. Otherwise, things are pretty quiet right now.</div>
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<b>Loving - </b>I'm loving that it's the weekend! I can sleep longer, relax, work on my TPT products, and continue reading <u>Allegiant</u>, which I have been wanting to do all week. </div>
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<b>Thinking</b> - I brought my car in to get the oil changed (and to get rid of that annoying light that says, "maintenance needed" or something like that), and they told me I needed 4 new tires. I already knew that, but didn't really want to spend the money. Well, there goes the money! :(</div>
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<b>Wanting - </b>I'm looking forward to using some of the new Christmas clip art that I bought to make holiday items for TPT!</div>
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<b>Needing - </b>Now that the holiday season is fast-approaching, I need to start Christmas shopping. Oh, wait! I can't do that now. I had to buy 4 tires for my car - UGH!</div>
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<b>A Yummy Pin - </b>Anyone who knows me knows I don't like to prepare food. Here is a pin of a dessert that sounded good though. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYg12FN_KS-LQk-NNFr9CWO-COfkeKdakYJUgS6CV_Wm1MZhggKCkOlyH-9SgYREL9yYtSLO7wdQTa_xuXPG4aDxDIuBQrhTCuSCBFMS2-dU_Y0zQD36m2fM6aUFv86E2zXWairqLssu-R/s1600/picZgAuLd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYg12FN_KS-LQk-NNFr9CWO-COfkeKdakYJUgS6CV_Wm1MZhggKCkOlyH-9SgYREL9yYtSLO7wdQTa_xuXPG4aDxDIuBQrhTCuSCBFMS2-dU_Y0zQD36m2fM6aUFv86E2zXWairqLssu-R/s320/picZgAuLd.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's a recipe for Chocolate Chip Cranberry Cheese Bars. I found it on Pinterest, but the original link is <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/chocolate-chip-cranberry-cheese-bars-198502">http://www.food.com/recipe/chocolate-chip-cranberry-cheese-bars-198502</a> .</div>
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The day before Halloween, we were visited by the <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Candy-Corn-Bandit-A-Making-Predictions-Activity-160873" target="_blank">Candy Corn Bandit</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Candy-Corn-Bandit-A-Making-Predictions-Activity-160873" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Candy-Corn-Bandit-A-Making-Predictions-Activity-160873" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR6K5F1Tz-v-NumPh1ZJ241lR7FtmVk3W2TYxu2IoYM-5bB02Oj7SPSqIS1VaS8GxvK-wuF28eyGMo3rYK7-XYR53vMe9IMVy5li1_0l8GWfl3_ZqXGJ9EyScEeZDD2qSA4OeEkH518NRj/s320/ccbcover.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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He stole the Starburst candy corn I had for my class. Before we tried to look for him, we had to predict what he looked like and where the candy was hidden.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQOIKLJDOOxD117S0p9hUe46G1h3qsxiW-0xQDHrm8FZCLewtVNvRWWl24rG8d1Ff0rnpql8shYZBNk_FmQGTzYa4-SIaou4AcLTiaJWi4eDB-faMAPdM1_skNCYsBaj8OvWbqdAbRpHK/s1600/drawccb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQOIKLJDOOxD117S0p9hUe46G1h3qsxiW-0xQDHrm8FZCLewtVNvRWWl24rG8d1Ff0rnpql8shYZBNk_FmQGTzYa4-SIaou4AcLTiaJWi4eDB-faMAPdM1_skNCYsBaj8OvWbqdAbRpHK/s400/drawccb.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjQQNC_-lB6efIL1GlT5MHLVVr3Fjr4jwirnNE9vt6pEiRrpcDTv286mafC5SUmLjtcZq2m58nTXvJ8CZ3fJbe1P29T0DjZjC59yIF3dH_Pa8IHzomvmd5QX5zkPW10TC789dAqRQ-yeJ/s1600/drawccb3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjQQNC_-lB6efIL1GlT5MHLVVr3Fjr4jwirnNE9vt6pEiRrpcDTv286mafC5SUmLjtcZq2m58nTXvJ8CZ3fJbe1P29T0DjZjC59yIF3dH_Pa8IHzomvmd5QX5zkPW10TC789dAqRQ-yeJ/s640/drawccb3.jpg" width="440" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XPudPihVGx-SUSwlw5rRuHuWe-llf_jVjYV9ec1i2n3iyJyVqY56IvMyijSC-FUB3P5Svyp7jdGwaxSieKoyPieoXCbEcyRnnfz4R-W-09TwMeT-i2QM9QZz7z5CmRPPdb2TTNk2-uk0/s1600/drawccb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XPudPihVGx-SUSwlw5rRuHuWe-llf_jVjYV9ec1i2n3iyJyVqY56IvMyijSC-FUB3P5Svyp7jdGwaxSieKoyPieoXCbEcyRnnfz4R-W-09TwMeT-i2QM9QZz7z5CmRPPdb2TTNk2-uk0/s400/drawccb2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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After that, we followed the clues to find where the candy was hidden. That bandit brought us to the cafeteria, PE, the playground, the library, and back to our classroom. It was hidden in the classroom the entire time! </div>
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After that, we wrote about the Candy Corn Bandit and our adventures. Then, we completed the craftivity. My class really enjoyed that part because we hardly ever have time to do fun stuff like that anymore.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQp7VhY6wTsJjCrDckA4ftHaGvzhkuhP4LjuUT3ZZ3qFO6hZSxn_WEviYdsAtPkwhubbzXd4Y-sX-pz4LneKfX-28ZGbE_izP967Y2DoCKquu2TNnedCqU4tNreosSqRWkR6fV3olsI3Y/s1600/ccb1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQp7VhY6wTsJjCrDckA4ftHaGvzhkuhP4LjuUT3ZZ3qFO6hZSxn_WEviYdsAtPkwhubbzXd4Y-sX-pz4LneKfX-28ZGbE_izP967Y2DoCKquu2TNnedCqU4tNreosSqRWkR6fV3olsI3Y/s320/ccb1.jpg" width="279" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignWjJtOmn8mikHiWK5v-YOSkvypkvvJFnVrfTvd6dULDntjcdGvH8Ybd3JWA_HsMrC2M0bHQjpkRML4NJTZeVfIroyQYFrhx_ZJd0KE0xsiHTcsk58cfEjqXBSrx_z_6cx5efHYBhtTyl/s1600/ccb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignWjJtOmn8mikHiWK5v-YOSkvypkvvJFnVrfTvd6dULDntjcdGvH8Ybd3JWA_HsMrC2M0bHQjpkRML4NJTZeVfIroyQYFrhx_ZJd0KE0xsiHTcsk58cfEjqXBSrx_z_6cx5efHYBhtTyl/s320/ccb2.jpg" width="258" /></a></div>
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Obviously, some followed directions, and some decided to add their own creative touches. There were others that took creativity too far, so I didn't post those. </div>
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The most difficult part was gluing the candy corn and the pipe cleaners. I have yet to find an easy way to get pipe cleaners to stick. I'd love to hear suggestions!</div>
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Did you do anything fun with your class last week? Be sure to let me know in the comments below!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-32231617279083780352013-10-16T18:17:00.001-04:002013-10-16T18:17:18.062-04:00Math Fluency - This Is Great!<div style="text-align: justify;">
I was visiting <a href="http://croftsclassroom.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Mrs. Croft's Classroom</a> blog. By the way, I found her through the <a href="http://thereinspiredteacher.blogspot.com/search/label/SLANT%20Boxes" target="_blank">SLANT box</a> program I mentioned previously. She shared about her experience with a site called <a href="http://xtramath.org/" target="_blank">XtraMath</a>. It's a web site that gives students practice with basic facts in addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. It sounded interesting, so I clicked over to check it out.</div>
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I was able to sign up very easily, and it took almost no time at all to get my class entered since it only takes first names. When students use it, they have to type in their assigned 4-digit PIN number. This was easy enough since they have a link to print out all student PIN numbers, one page in list format and another in grid format. I quickly cut apart the grid, taped each student's PIN to an index card, and they were ready to go!</div>
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The true test of this site was yet to come. I couldn't wait to try it out on my class. I set up my computers, logged in to my class, and it showed the names of the students that would go first. I only have 2 very old computers, but they were sufficient to run the site. I showed my class the introductory video so they would know what to do, then sent the first 2 students to the computers. They were able to log in easily, and seemed to have no problem working the program. They are given a pre-test to see what level they should be working on, then they can move on to that level.</div>
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One of the wonderful things about this site is that it requires no effort after you log in! When a student finishes, it shows the name of the next student to go. He/she will go tap the next person on the shoulder to let him/her know it's time to get on the computer. There is no interruption of class time at all! There are buttons to click if a child is absent or busy when it is his/her turn. When "busy" is selected, the program will simply call the student at a later time.</div>
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One drawback to this program occurred when almost everyone had had a turn. A child was on one computer, and her name also showed up on the other computer for her turn. That was resolved simply by pressing the "busy" button. So, it wasn't too much of a concern.</div>
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There are parent letters to let parents know how to let their child do this at home. That's a great way to get homework done while getting extra practice with math facts!</div>
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You can also see the progress of each child. Their daily performance is color-coded, and if you click on the arrow (it looks kind of like a little heart with an arrow in it), you can see which ones the student answered correctly and which ones he/she missed. Over time, it graphs the child's progress. You are also sent weekly reports in case you don't have time to check in on the site.</div>
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Here is a screen shot of one day's scores for one child:</div>
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The colored dots on the right-hand side show how each child did. The class list is covered by this student's scores in the picture.</div>
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To help you interpret the results above, here is something from the site's FAQ:</div>
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<b>"What do the yellow smiley, green check, blue hourglass and red X icons mean?"</b></div>
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<b><img alt="Progress Graph" height="80" src="https://d2cfcsiyc1kky0.cloudfront.net/images/result-icons.png" width="80" /></b></div>
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on the colored dots on the student report calendar or the class report
usage column to see detailed information about the questions answered by
the student. A yellow smiley face means the question was answered
correctly within 3 seconds. A green check mark means the question was
answered correctly within 10 seconds. A blue hourglass means
the question was not answered within 10 seconds. A red X means
the question was answered incorrectly."
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The best thing about this site, and I KNOW everyone will LOVE this, is that it is FREE!!</div>
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I highly recommend trying this out. It's great for teachers and parents to help children develop math fact fluency. Parents can sign up even if their child's teacher isn't using it.</div>
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<a href="http://xtramath.org/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3uV3jBGSu6rGDzBvRhn9TDxuxFUn8ilsTD0XNvUAQJLr70E5gNltobc827-yJ_1HULbAbbPx_VUCIJbQRWZaoOuR2InSJA-3Spc1Qp59nI9YD0TuFW-FVtcrEpaxrJjlx-xrORj0vv_ov/s1600/logo2.png" /></a></div>
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Do you know of any great learning websites that you'd like to share? Comment below and tell us!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-40441318771604941992013-10-12T17:34:00.002-04:002013-10-12T17:35:28.794-04:00Flash Sale!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm having a 20% off sale from now through 10/14!</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheReinspiredTeacher" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here</span></a> <span style="font-size: large;">to visit my Facebook page, and find out how to save even more!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Be sure to check out my new math facts card games when you visit my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Lori-Smith" target="_blank">store</a>!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have a great weekend! </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-31514447498198468632013-10-06T00:02:00.000-04:002013-10-06T00:17:53.386-04:00October Currently, a New Discovery, and a TreatIt's October, and I'm a little late, but here is my Currently, hosted by <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Farley at Oh' Boy Fourth Grade</a>!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_28kb4y73iuGHPU4tIPJwaFlhl3RTqIFhUzFcluVziBETZwER6hFxvQy62w8juSlU7EbsQx23SYMLu0iOm19mQRRHwvHRnXIxcooKWr5tI-hyf0C2f1lebcU2RqHav_VxFeFjov89N32/s1600/October+2013+Currently.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_28kb4y73iuGHPU4tIPJwaFlhl3RTqIFhUzFcluVziBETZwER6hFxvQy62w8juSlU7EbsQx23SYMLu0iOm19mQRRHwvHRnXIxcooKWr5tI-hyf0C2f1lebcU2RqHav_VxFeFjov89N32/s640/October+2013+Currently.jpg" width="492" /> </a></div>
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Listening - Yes, I live with my parents. I have lived on my own in my own house as well. This situation works out for us right now. Anyway, our computers are set up in what used to be the dining room. All is quiet, except for the faint sound of music from my mom's Scrabble game.</div>
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Loving - After MUCH nagging, I was finally able to get my 8-year-old son to clean his room! He had to be told what to do a little at a time, but he did it!</div>
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Thinking - I posted a few new TPT products today, and now I'm thinking of new ideas.</div>
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Wanting - It's Saturday night, and we still have Sunday. However, it's always nice to have a 3-day weekend. I tend to get more done when we have one. Too bad we don't this weekend!</div>
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Needing - During the summer I had lost 25 pounds. Once school started, it was too easy to fall back into my old eating habits. I need to get back on track!</div>
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Treat - You'll have to do a few tricks to get it! Visit my store and find your favorite product that is $5.00 or less. Comment below with the name of the product and your e-mail address. On Monday, I will randomly select 3 winners to get their favorite product. Good luck!</div>
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Now for my new discovery! I found the blog, <a href="http://lessonswithcoffee.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lessons With Coffee</a>, and found this:</div>
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<a href="http://lessonswithcoffee.blogspot.com/p/the-slant-box.html" title="Lessons With Coffee"><img alt="The SLANT Box Exchange" src="http://i1277.photobucket.com/albums/y493/Jameson_Michelle/SlantBoxButton_zps9bdcd19f.png" style="border: medium none;" /></a><br />
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If you sign up by the 3rd of the month (I was too late for this month), you are paired up with another teacher. You get to know one another, then you send a box with gifts (worth no more than $10.00 total) based on the monthly theme, and a hand-written note to that person. By getting to know the person beforehand, you get ideas for what to send. It sounds like such a fun idea! I signed up for next month already! Click on the picture above to find out more about these SLANT boxes!<br />
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Also, I have added a few new items to my TPT store. They help students develop fluency in addition and subtraction facts, and have a fall theme. They are all 50% off for a limited time! Click on the pictures to learn more!<br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Dont-Pick-the-Pumpkin-Subtraction-Facts-to-10-912308" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Rz_MEdqlwvuFzlJwgxYizPcJAdzjfNwFPee4jz76wte6ntapK4bmsezYAXVXX3GMPMpOz0WWcn4yHROmdc_h54URwEsCWhny15KYHn3h98UDjUR9JTImC1WIqRLLC7EkwPKAbPDOTcDa/s320/Don%2527t+Pick+the+Pumpkin+Subtraction+to+10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Ghostly-Go-Fish-Addition-Facts-0-10-908423" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv0fss9Sdy1DlZv2mrKgl7TxDZWgEKX0Kv8g-BJ0wMSMedmGXTK5EcKOtbtPrvO-MUe-sD3PyBlSKN2DkI5tc1lgUqA2nCsYwP8jUP-p2IIWBy4zhFheV7ihIVZD1bcVgpgrjJUVa7EQ0y/s320/Ghostly+Go+Fish+Addition+to+10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Remember to comment below with the name of your favorite product in my TPT store that is $5.00 or less and your e-mail address! You could be one of 3 lucky winners chosen on Monday!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-75311490277086641922013-08-24T19:51:00.000-04:002013-08-24T19:51:50.789-04:00The First 2 Weeks...Wow! The first 2 weeks of students is done, and I'm exhausted! I think I have a pretty good class this year. They are VERY different from last year. Last year, seemed easy as far as my students were concerned. I showed them what to do, and they did it. They were fairly independent, so I could focus on learning 2nd Grade curriculum. This year, my class doesn't seem to have the same independence. So, I've been modeling, modeling, modeling. They are trying very hard to do what is expected, but I can feel the difference between this class and last year's class.<br />
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I feel good about taking my time with rituals and routines this year. I keep reminding myself it will be worth it later. Then, I hear about all of the things other teachers on my team are already doing. That's when I start to wonder if I'm going TOO slowly...<br />
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Then, today I check my e-mail, and find <a href="http://www.smartclassroommanagement.com/2013/08/24/why-you-should-take-your-time-the-first-weeks-of-school/" target="_blank">this in my box</a> . It was a wonderful reminder that I am doing the right thing. I have subscribed to this e-mail list for months now, and have both of the books on my Kindle Fire. After reading today's e-mail, I thought I'd share it with all of you so you could benefit from it too.<br />
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What has inspired you so far this year (whether you've started school or not)? Feel free to let us know in the comments section! <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-33942126004209190352013-08-17T14:50:00.000-04:002013-08-17T15:13:47.944-04:00Back to School, a Freebie, and a TPT Sale<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our students returned on Tuesday. I have 4 students I have had previously (3 from Kindergarten, and one I retained last year whose mother wanted me to have again). This is a very different group from last year. Last year's class didn't need as much direction, and were calmer overall. That's exactly what I needed because I was starting in a new grade level, and wasn't exactly sure how I would do things. </div>
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This year I'm trying to be more organized, and I know how I want to do routines based on things that worked/didn't work last year. This is good because I can focus more on getting the children to learn routines. So far they have been receptive to learning how I want things done. I just have to make sure I don't let them get carried away with the talking. </div>
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One of the routines we practiced was the <a href="http://thereinspiredteacher.blogspot.com/search/label/Morning%20Message" target="_blank">Morning Message</a>. This year's anchor chart for the message came out much better than the one I did last year.</div>
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After making the chart, we did a practice message together. I showed them how to get their materials (pencil, clipboard, paper). Then, we went through the message sentence by sentence and tallied mistakes. After that, I showed them how to fold their note papers and put them in the Morning Message Bucket. </div>
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The next day, I had them try one on their own. I only put 3 mistakes. However, only 2 people got it right. I'm sure more of them will get it right with practice. The children who get it right get a small prize. It's a great way to review skills taught in class.</div>
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Before going back to school (when I had lots of time), I made some table labels for myself. I liked them so much that I made them into a freebie for you. The colors are pastel, but they show up nicely in my classroom.</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Pastel-Table-Labels-Freebie-808755" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhll6LsLn0UZ8oxFiCnlnwbapCSh2Dr1TI42xnBA_PVLhIOsJAEHWBVhVQtKeFs2u83zo79Y11vht7YmWjpG0S1y6TOLMHngvgxhWTIs3T2jCmJ_E3lJFgNl9sm-r_1xnXR0zF-lVMPMikP/s320/table+labels.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Click on the picture above to download.</div>
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Teachers Pay Teachers is having their annual Back to School Sale on August 18 and 19! All of my products will be 20% off, PLUS if you enter the code BTS13, TPT will take another 8% off. You'll get a total of 28% off of your purchase! Also, remember to leave feedback for all purchased items. If you do, you'll earn points good towards $$ off of your purchases. This works all the time, not just for the BTS sale!</div>
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Click on the banner below to visit my store. </div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Lori-Smith" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMzVwKyNDMmsw3wYLfZ02_ttsU5au1eg4WwxXdGxjhmpaMytOubgh0Mb1jwiRZ_n_JZICQMq19XLzIfGnBtc6b4Duhkij3Le8VJct2NztOwj3ae5pA_gKGwv-dMQSIvnAgH4rk16Xa7URH/s320/FREETpTBackToSchoolSaleBlogIconGraphicClipart.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Thank you to<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Zip-a-dee-doo-dah-Designs" target="_blank"> Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah Designs</a> for the sale banner!</div>
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I also have a brand new product! I decided to make editable templates based on a theme. Since My current theme is sea life, I went with that. </div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Templates-Sea-Life-Theme-832784" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIGFjvVXrkqIvcFIuh75SVCX-RzCXc62sdVG552bOVfSoqSc4GICOgpNPu2-Re8MZuZY0RPeiEKfwgYaEt_C5zD05BRB1PT6E776DYgO2vbX4cS4R65RVr589ECN5ZIqWzgpLjb2Ym4T3P/s320/Slide1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Templates-Sea-Life-Theme-832784" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc3vgAFQpKO-oSwv-TEOh2lOTdl1Bziz-7Gh8OcwknPn5wbRbaSkZRgYw6DDGTOyCghsfvqqs0VmrPKxrBh1Rx32-JmRAJqN0T-OJ47OKbGVIu9ec4CXL9-QGXyMKvKm3CbKN8-XdlU08S/s320/template+preview.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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In this packet you will find editable templates with a sea life theme.
The templates can be used for nameplates, nametags, signs, word walls,
notepads, binder covers, flash cards, and whatever else you can think
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For nametags, simply print the page(s) on full sheet labels, then cut
them to the appropriate size. The rest of the pages work best when
printed on card stock. After printing, laminate for durability.<br />
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I have typed in the text boxes so you can see where they are. Simply
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Click <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Templates-Sea-Life-Theme-832784" target="_blank">here</a> or on the images above to check out this product.</div>
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Now, my question to you is this:</div>
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What themes would you like to see in editable templates?</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-84247253817135888112013-08-01T18:34:00.001-04:002013-08-01T21:40:33.222-04:00August Currently<br />
I know - you're amazed that I'm posting twice in one day! I am too! :) It's time for Currently from <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Oh' Boy 4th Grade</a>!<br />
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<a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdgGaOG2l0KfoVA8QcMgbgBm0Yx8aGqQdY49SePVt4b8tBxgj2VLJufIJAzJ-SaQVegdGq9eV430ePsSE_YmqAxkIstCUIvQ-zYxXMJFh6tu9JmVbDyAYYp-NI7qK6r8NHkgB6OS2ehXK/s1600/farleybutton.png" /></a></div>
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The Listening is self explanatory. The Loving is that I've lost 22 pounds this summer! I still have a long way to go, especially since the loss doesn't seem to show that much, but I'm very excited to have lost as much as I did. I hope I can continue to lose even after school starts!</div>
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As for the Thinking and Wanting - don't we all? I already have a to-do list of things I want to get done before we start school next week. This summer has been a fun and restful time for me, and I hate to see it end. </div>
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Needing, well I'm kind of embarrassed about this. Since summer started, my sleep schedule has gotten WAY off track. I can't seem to fall asleep until around 3 am, and then I sleep until 11 or 12. It's going to be hard to get out of that bad habit. Yes, my son gets up earlier than that. He wakes me up when he gets up. I get him settled, and he keeps himself busy (he's very good at that). Then, I go back to sleep. Also, we live with my parents, so they are there to help out with him if he needs something. I consider myself very lucky!</div>
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Now for the back to school must-haves! I LOVE Sharpies of all different colors! I just love writing with the fine tip and using multiple colors on posters for my classroom.</div>
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Computer labels are definitely a must-have! It's so nice to just print out an entire class of names on labels to put on nametags, journals, folders, cubbies, pocket charts, and whatever else I need to put them on. It's so much easier than hand writing the names on everything like I had to do when I first started teaching.</div>
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As for the 2nd Grade Data Folder and Checklist, it's an item I found on TPT by <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/1st-Grade-Is-Wienerful" target="_blank">1st Grade is WeinerFUL</a>. Our grading system and report cards are drastically changing this year. We will be starting to implement Common Core, and I am terrible at keeping data. So, when I found this product I was thrilled. There are pages and pages of charts for students to keep track of data, as well as Common Core checklists for them to use. Also, it's CUTE! Everyone who knows me knows I need to have teaching materials that are cute. If it isn't cute, I make it cute. If you want to check this out, click on the picture below.</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/2nd-Grade-Data-Folder-and-Checklist-Aligned-with-Common-Core-771207" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkZiaKAPYUAWb4nq4XMF3QnIb2po_QyeH66VgJ_4W-tP7TSvbT-CdTpaJaVn2C2AGFNef81opEVxDYhBdUQ-_tR1pZ8AinD1RZc-tRdcQvcobHMvkskKSg0SeCt_Om76IPbsrw6sMprBnF/s320/data+folder.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Be sure to download the preview because it gives you a good overview of the product, and you get a few freebie pages in it. I don't plan to use all of the pages, but many of them will work for me. Also, I may print 2 pages each on the back and front sides of the paper to save on copy paper.<br />
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UPDATE: I found out she has them for <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindergarten-Data-Folder-Checklist-Common-Core-Aligned-724485" target="_blank">Kindergarten</a> and <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/1st-Grade-Data-Folder-and-Check-List-Aligned-with-Common-Core-723419" target="_blank">1st Grade</a> as well, and they are just as cute! </div>
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What are your back to school must-haves? Let me know by leaving a comment below. Thanks!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-42398852788806859392013-08-01T12:24:00.001-04:002013-08-01T12:24:59.809-04:00Back After All This Time!<div style="text-align: justify;">
After <strike>being lazy</strike> relaxing this summer, I'm finally updating my blog! I apologize for my absence. I'm finally ready to start thinking about school (now that we're going back on Tuesday!). I haven't been completely <strike>lazy</strike> relaxing the whole summer though. I did manage to copy all of my books on CD to the MP3 players for my listening center. I even have plenty of room on them to add more books! </div>
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I went to work in my room a few days ago, and was actually quite productive. I was able to arrange furniture, organize a bit, and put stuff up on the walls. This was a nice change since for the last 2 years I had to move my classroom and unpack. I was so glad I didn't have to unpack again this year. There is still lots to do though!</div>
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Instead of my usual rectangular white baskets for the children to put their supplies in, I found some really cute metal buckets that will match the colors in my room. I'm still working on a way to make the buckets quieter when they put their stuff in. Any ideas would be appreciated!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir2u8DU3ulr3QCX8KsPhkuy6Z54SeSLCpxxJGL_peSqLp0yJFg8Z7x68LxNbpJqCxoJCOBg6XlXU3hdcXD1HSQGTj6SyaKIDYu8hCUO66oEPAfePGM5_sNtc43GwIy2Xjq5iyG1LXV2_5l/s1600/IMG_2402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir2u8DU3ulr3QCX8KsPhkuy6Z54SeSLCpxxJGL_peSqLp0yJFg8Z7x68LxNbpJqCxoJCOBg6XlXU3hdcXD1HSQGTj6SyaKIDYu8hCUO66oEPAfePGM5_sNtc43GwIy2Xjq5iyG1LXV2_5l/s320/IMG_2402.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I found these adorable buckets in the Target dollar section!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnjrslHqDcosw9QE7-yOiX5Z_uhjPJmC_O-Y1HgaKpBwYxln8UvuRgcCBEf8dh1MizTw36ylpzxMMX4cCJrO-KvYWBu6eCoFQl5zggCMZgVdftuu8tnrMdv_hHj85qing09K1ABM57VrcD/s1600/IMG_2403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnjrslHqDcosw9QE7-yOiX5Z_uhjPJmC_O-Y1HgaKpBwYxln8UvuRgcCBEf8dh1MizTw36ylpzxMMX4cCJrO-KvYWBu6eCoFQl5zggCMZgVdftuu8tnrMdv_hHj85qing09K1ABM57VrcD/s320/IMG_2403.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Later, I found these at Walmart for 97 cents! They have a label on them that says, "dry erase." I don't know what I would use that for, but it's nice to know I have the option!</div>
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I have a FREEBIE for you! It's a new lunch choice sign. I had another one with A, B, and C lunch choices (which is still offered for free at my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Lunch-Choices-Sign-144641" target="_blank">store</a>). My school no longer offers 3 choices, so I made a new one. This one is a better match for my decor.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWyXirmBHTCh7rV69RVP9Z1j7SGhEoxojB_lodRsop438z4xz9uu7763CmWaAuBDyc_CLjFm9RaF97BPd40CmiGgnvbjdLXts2OZy8H6qyqHcnxA89IpPcNuehz6NRfKHTZXXqsKgLyyT6/s1600/ribbon+lunch+choice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWyXirmBHTCh7rV69RVP9Z1j7SGhEoxojB_lodRsop438z4xz9uu7763CmWaAuBDyc_CLjFm9RaF97BPd40CmiGgnvbjdLXts2OZy8H6qyqHcnxA89IpPcNuehz6NRfKHTZXXqsKgLyyT6/s320/ribbon+lunch+choice.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you'd like one for your class, click <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Ribbon-Lunch-Choice-Freebie-781262" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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At my school, we have an incentive plan for children to become fluent in addition/subtraction facts. I firmly believe in memorizing the facts, but some children might find that boring. So, I created 4 addition card games to make it more fun for children to become fluent in the facts. I plan to add games for subtraction, multiplication, and division very soon!</div>
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As a back-to-school special for you, I am offering each game at 50% off now through Sunday, August 4! The best deal for this is the bundle pack, which will normally offer all 4 games for the price of 3. At 50% off, you can get all 4 games for a little over the price of 1! </div>
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Click on the pictures below to see details about each game.</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Zonk-Splat-Kapow-Addition-Card-Game-Facts-0-4-802307" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHlSMjE7LqKw9-5UrqncwO5V-gR9hfIy80SzkadUFe0qW0kpmPmBZ14rySs7A8cJn7vvHizumP1XRh9f6AGUSltKuP5a6V9bVPALnOdq1NgPPwkPyHiPAotsppxzcU8S_dZ_P5EYl9fjc8/s320/zonk+splat+kapow.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Pow-Bam-Boom-Addition-Card-Game-800452" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6i1cyU5ShI2qDrlyicyHK4J_Z4AJqWwCOBUvass39FiTaEG30WVK7YvCdizTmjG45d_v2nZhNyW0fjtprItn8pHiabLyDb9_mDhYGTRC3KSS31I5AzT4biqzACaRMpfHXYqMLPl9UBOmQ/s320/pow+bam+boom.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Shark-Attack-Addition-Card-Game-Facts-5-9-803024" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7CIZ5eb81W7eDMB7RsdxpuxyuMYys-sN1fmGHTkB6WoQ-YHDR4G03NGSMm7xXYVXceGLpqJ0FFdQjg6dxQo40pe4koU9WivsNbjbWjjldknSsgsYhHETh6ohfYdw86LrlzDXrphaiD5BM/s320/shark+attack+thumbnail.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Shark-Attack-Addition-Card-Game-Facts-5-9-803024" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6IR9Mp0Nx6j621THAK5k_yk1XjOykgrydYDCKUNmRCNZ2MR_dgRKTmpREYLKu9TcOQIYvmYQG5wNcNRBGaes6nZX72gQprgkDLqK4tLEEA18JIx9EiV8i2gB-iM7XIlOD_98jZzo7No7-/s320/shark+attack+2+thumbnail.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Addition-Card-Game-Bundle-All-Facts-0-12-803161" target="_blank">Click here for the link to the Addition Card Game Bundle Pack (All 4 Games).</a></div>
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It will be nice to get back to work, but I will definitely miss staying up late and sleeping in! I am not a morning person at all! We go back on August 6, and the children return on August 13. When do you return to school, or have your already returned?</div>
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Comments are always appreciated!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-45715665910869020162013-05-05T13:55:00.000-04:002013-05-05T13:55:35.920-04:00Teacher Appreciation, A Giveaway, and Caterpillars<div style="text-align: justify;">
Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! I hope all of you are shown how much you are appreciated this week! Our school is pretty good about doing that. We are usually treated to something special each day of TA Week. We get small treats, lunches, ice cream, and even a day where we can get a massage during our lunch time. Since I'm a vegetarian, they also make meal accommodations for me (even when we have parties and stuff throughout the year). So I guess I can consider myself lucky. </div>
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What does your school do for you during Teacher Appreciation Week? I'd love to find out what different places do.</div>
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Speaking of Teacher Appreciation, TPT is having a sale to celebrate! Of course, my store is participating! You get 20% off of everything in my store, and you get an extra 10% off of that price from TPT when you enter the code TAD13. This will give you up to 28% off everything you buy! Click the image below to check out the sale!</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Lori-Smith" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8XYY7XePyheMvnFWdqkuV8gMHZo6xdgjNh7q44cs-fJRN2Aw8jq6RNctNlNObntPZzFEl1zKPTytdDmnrI3ITS0BIPSRXKjyJ6ZRE4u8NT0RRlb7WROw4B4ejA7QzsmywJma4JhZ8QeCE/s400/tptsalepic.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Melissa over at First Grade Smiles is having a 200 Follower Giveaway! There are several prize packages with fantastic prizes from your favorite TPT Sellers! Click the image below to enter.<br />
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<a href="http://first-grade-smiles.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg03IZEn7Ksi-VXVTNzTqqQ4YhNDfZxs6UWVd1AjvdlpRF2Mqo1Joonyz1aaZTxwdvQsVpwt4PZjEER0LxoX_SxfWlJShUubitLeScqrsSR-rXP8Zz94gL7pNoc21OfOGr9CT-2U4Dbnzuq/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-05-02+at+9.54.48+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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When I taught Kindergarten, I would always order caterpillars and teach a butterfly unit. It was one of my favorite units to teach. The children would learn big words like metamorphosis, molting, emerge, chrysalis, etc. They would be so intrigued by the process, and ask lots of questions. There was lots of learning going on. I loved it!<br />
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When I moved to 2nd Grade, I was thrilled that they do the unit as part of their curriculum. Our caterpillars arrived last week. Unfortunately, I didn't take a picture of them on day 1, but I did get one from day 3.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYeFr-q73waQkXumyFMYKIOn1vAgUDNaEwMou6GYbEyzV3eyVqmh5ecQhC41Yt7WCMtvjrNTn21-uPx95IxlQ-ERdrUdBeU5o8MbAwPg6Hjplw5s9U1yit0ZZ0P30Q4XiKoWLUoIw9Zdqf/s1600/caterpillars+day+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYeFr-q73waQkXumyFMYKIOn1vAgUDNaEwMou6GYbEyzV3eyVqmh5ecQhC41Yt7WCMtvjrNTn21-uPx95IxlQ-ERdrUdBeU5o8MbAwPg6Hjplw5s9U1yit0ZZ0P30Q4XiKoWLUoIw9Zdqf/s320/caterpillars+day+3.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
The children are fascinated by them. They have so many good questions about them too. I'll share a few in an upcoming post.</div>
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I found a cute FREE observation journal to use with this unit as well. This was created by <a href="http://thankgoditsfirstgrade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Susan at T.G.I.F.</a> Click on the image to download. </div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Butterfly-Life-Cycle-Observation-Booklet" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivESI0D8sl981Z-iTTJ6TzalLPRuqOPR885Fp-J4MPGgfetP1ebQ-jGd4A_oRs0LSvxW7RsEiFUEYvbeweHHoInXkTIZBt_1za6vFIisZckWklNPZliPzDSyKVCjPHY7y8BToAKK7u91SM/s320/butterfly+cover.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br />Finally, I just wanted to share a picture I took last week. My class is so into completing the <a href="http://thereinspiredteacher.blogspot.com/search/label/Morning%20Message" target="_blank">Morning Message</a>. We even started graphing our class average of it each day, kind of like they do with their personal test scores so they can see their progress. I think they especially like it because they get a treat if everything is correct. I just think it's fun! It's also great to see them working together on it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUiX4YuWc__zGVgG_1ZQWpjdAs_7zOtafwXNxUbLvqhhYqrCbw2ihdLaGatdFV8Sa1MtKsaY2lu3S0QBFQvdI2FySqani1YcHe3BKhmZzIvZCOqZ1O-YzYWMxLUQG1qoaCpSd2divfyhit/s1600/message.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUiX4YuWc__zGVgG_1ZQWpjdAs_7zOtafwXNxUbLvqhhYqrCbw2ihdLaGatdFV8Sa1MtKsaY2lu3S0QBFQvdI2FySqani1YcHe3BKhmZzIvZCOqZ1O-YzYWMxLUQG1qoaCpSd2divfyhit/s320/message.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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Feel free to leave comments below! If you have any great ideas for a butterfly unit, I'd love to read them!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-50964695312308659852013-05-02T19:19:00.000-04:002013-05-02T21:28:23.878-04:00May Currently and Some Giveaways!It's a new month, and time for Currently, Sponsored by <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Farley at Oh' Boy Fourth Grade</a>! I know, I didn't do it last month. I was getting lazy, but I'm getting back on track now.
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Here it is!</div>
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Yes, I'm listening to my son singing in the other room. He is playing Minecraft, his latest obsession. He gets these songs from the game or about the game (Thanks, You Tube! - Sarcasm) in his head, and keeps humming or singing them out loud. It's quite annoying since now those stupid songs pop into my head at various times during the day. I just wish he'd sing Bon Jovi or something instead! :)</div>
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I recently learned how to make editable products to post on TPT! I saw it on the Seller's Forum, and was thrilled to find it! It inspired me to update my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Bright-Schedule-Cards" target="_blank">Bright Schedule Cards</a>. I updated the originals that are ready-made with subject areas on them, then made some editable ones with and without clip art so people can change the font or even choose to have text-only cards. I also made smaller cards to include the time of day. I thought they came out pretty good, even if I say so myself. :)</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Bright-Schedule-Cards" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkYycBl77E90NxzoGIi6sdizIlC0QaBHjZ6tKunC_GrY5tgq3L51J6OjTUk0BmltIfZ_jBtbCxrJeO16g28cOgNKOyUXmkSLK8qYx5r6NmaRRuabTea2cCf-1Z1A7eHCKIAqGNd3qC24Td/s320/Slide3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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My class, the one that has been wonderful all year, is starting to go crazy! They are much more talkative, opinionated, and a few even like to argue with me. I'm finding myself having to be much harder on them, which I really don't like. Only 23 more days!</div>
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I find myself wanting to do so many things, but I have to choose just one. I want to read, play computer games, write in my blog, make new products, etc., but I am only able to focus on one thing at a time. Oh, what a joy it would be to be able to enjoy everything at once!</div>
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Like I mentioned earlier, I had gotten lazy, and wasn't writing as frequently. I'm working on that now. :)</div>
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My summer bucket list: </div>
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1. I need to get serious about losing weight, which I'm hoping to do over the summer.</div>
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2. I have tons of books on my Kindle Fire that I haven't read yet. I hope to get to many of them over the summer.</div>
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3. I'd like to go away somewhere fun, even if it's just for a few nights. I'm not sure where, but I'll let you know when I go! :)</div>
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By the way, if you are still looking for a Mother's Day activity for your class, check out my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Happy-Mothers-Day-Pack" target="_blank">Happy Mother's Day Pack</a>. I'm working on the booklet with my class now. They sometimes surprise me with what they write in the blanks. My 2nd Graders even put speech bubbles (they didn't really do that in Kindergarten) to make the booklets even more entertaining. It's definitely a great keepsake for Moms!</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Happy-Mothers-Day-Pack" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheCDa269URNifWhjOHDmTbc6dfQmbgCaS-NoqMhEJ15hZed1qKzuCWc9Mr8YCmOyzGJMN0o6wyxZFK5PID1fpcV-NxLtsEab2cPK_3szZagNIXZamOAZgcTjrwtf1yG9ucUeI7RpRmu5Vl/s320/md+cover.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Curriculum Core is having a <a href="http://curriculumtothecore.blogspot.com/2013/04/100-follower-giveaway.html" target="_blank">100 Follower Giveaway</a>! Be sure to check it out!</div>
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The Learning Lab is having a <a href="http://mrscolegrovesfourthgrade.blogspot.com/2013/04/may-giveaway-party.html" target="_blank">May Giveaway</a> starting on May 5. Remember to stop by!</div>
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Both giveaways have great prizes!</div>
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Feel free to comment below! I love hearing from my readers! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-22106952009719650192013-04-27T15:22:00.000-04:002013-04-27T15:23:03.180-04:00Mother's DayMother's Day will soon be upon us. Of course, I always have my students do something to celebrate their mothers or, in the absence of a mother, another significant person in their lives.<br />
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When I taught Kindergarten, we would have a Mother's Day Tea. All mothers would be sent an invitation to join us in the celebration. I had the children make corsages out of coffee filters colored with markers, and sprayed with water (which gave them a beautiful effect when dry). I'd put a green pipe cleaner for the leaf and the stem, and add a safety pin for the mothers to pin them on. <a href="http://www.dltk-holidays.com/spring/mcoffeefilter-flower.htm" target="_blank">Click here if you'd like to see an example.</a> I always had the children color more than what is shown.<br />
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One year, I also had the children make hats for their mothers in addition to the corsages. I'd cut the center out of a Chinette plate, glue a Chinette bowl in the center, have the children paint them in pastel colors, and tie tulle around the hat so it would tie around the mothers' chins. After finding out that the mothers didn't like wearing them very much, I decided to stop making them.<br />
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The tables were decorated with table cloths, and placemats made by the children. In the center of each table was a ceramic tea pot, which all of the mothers seemed to love. The mothers drank their tea from glass or ceramic tea cups. Over the years I found it was easier and more pleasant for the mothers if I put iced tea in the tea pots instead of hot tea.<br />
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When the mothers arrived, the children were instructed to greet their mothers and show them to their seats. They would then give their mothers the corsages and a Mother's Day book they had made (more on that below). While the mothers looked at the books, the children gave them massages. After everyone arrived, I would have the children "take their mothers' orders" as to what they wanted from the snack table. Then they would get the food and serve it to their moms. If their mothers offered them food, they were instructed to say, "No thank you. This is your day." They would get to eat later.<br />
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After everyone was served, I would call the children over to perform some Mother's Day songs (more on that below) we had practiced. The mothers always loved this part! They would then rejoin their mothers, have a snack, and enjoy the rest of the tea party with their mothers.<br />
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Every year, the mothers would rave about how much they enjoyed the Mother's Day Tea. Now that I'm writing about it, I'm actually considering doing it in 2nd Grade this year, even though I thought I wouldn't.<br />
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The Mother's Day books are something I've also done for years, and I'm doing them again this year with my 2nd Graders. They make great keepsakes as the children fill in the blanks and illustrate them. I still have my son's book from when he was in Kindergarten.<br />
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I have created a version of the book in my new <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Happy-Mothers-Day-Pack" target="_blank">Happy Mother's Day Pack</a>, available at my TPT store.<br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Happy-Mothers-Day-Pack" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheCDa269URNifWhjOHDmTbc6dfQmbgCaS-NoqMhEJ15hZed1qKzuCWc9Mr8YCmOyzGJMN0o6wyxZFK5PID1fpcV-NxLtsEab2cPK_3szZagNIXZamOAZgcTjrwtf1yG9ucUeI7RpRmu5Vl/s320/md+cover.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The pack includes a variety of pages you can use to make your own books. There are 18 total book pages to choose from. Some examples are below.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWkyz1mwY2CfQ4uykkNHbjbtI093azifnN-65tZv6IIDlelKS8onhVIO0FCtm97olS38RF9JaAwMIh9s4myafR9W1ZjxpDAk1RDUYhk2OhILMAio5ws9Sqz-y4TJFcAC1cVhw7vDC5cwAm/s1600/md+book+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWkyz1mwY2CfQ4uykkNHbjbtI093azifnN-65tZv6IIDlelKS8onhVIO0FCtm97olS38RF9JaAwMIh9s4myafR9W1ZjxpDAk1RDUYhk2OhILMAio5ws9Sqz-y4TJFcAC1cVhw7vDC5cwAm/s320/md+book+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOWTQw_Wo2zG1AbbMAOxAamHbP9N6uWkaEvyCiZOEP_XaQoz0QOqqIR-asero57eOIv3-QL_m4IB4Jx_lca_fVPIt1hHi0qkFLxm3DRdrANDUjPcbYYnurMMuRZN9-_e94kOTg_7K6DQqv/s1600/md+book+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOWTQw_Wo2zG1AbbMAOxAamHbP9N6uWkaEvyCiZOEP_XaQoz0QOqqIR-asero57eOIv3-QL_m4IB4Jx_lca_fVPIt1hHi0qkFLxm3DRdrANDUjPcbYYnurMMuRZN9-_e94kOTg_7K6DQqv/s320/md+book+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjndVWcF8EsWIYixyhisIWkXramWeXqaIvdoZiMfnkmAvhfi6OCfJK9i8LhTJ7ekQeQpa-OfjorpNY4AjgVO97e8-WsBONf8Q4g5XXFLRCFXpczx5Mhzw6hM_MUnd-CTekaLMUItXlrIYo0/s1600/md+book+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjndVWcF8EsWIYixyhisIWkXramWeXqaIvdoZiMfnkmAvhfi6OCfJK9i8LhTJ7ekQeQpa-OfjorpNY4AjgVO97e8-WsBONf8Q4g5XXFLRCFXpczx5Mhzw6hM_MUnd-CTekaLMUItXlrIYo0/s320/md+book+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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For people who would like something similar to the book, but on one page, I have included a certificate with fill in the blank sentences. There is one for Mom and one for Someone Special (both in color and blackline).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh9qkncB5Zx-hM6i2tVMTRxxMlj0G4pFg7GOe2l9O1whoY6JFKmnUlz60P2hAgIfOBOflyhHEmhuobqpHl96E9ghU0Z7TiU9r5-xRaQTr62-OBEz5hHrBc3qIUYaXoTVzPRgdDCCX2qMop/s1600/md+book+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh9qkncB5Zx-hM6i2tVMTRxxMlj0G4pFg7GOe2l9O1whoY6JFKmnUlz60P2hAgIfOBOflyhHEmhuobqpHl96E9ghU0Z7TiU9r5-xRaQTr62-OBEz5hHrBc3qIUYaXoTVzPRgdDCCX2qMop/s320/md+book+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV47IVpURfAyHuGn7NY2ImWfScFmTQspkTeEU0YpE0_W40ajrPxLwu2fNJoA5dq-JQl-EQyLabMYUZm4k2N60QvpCKcw_yJ16PL0U0A1cu6IXBIvahPrg_AjXlLRJ0nkzMT3E4FwMLbh8E/s1600/md+book+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV47IVpURfAyHuGn7NY2ImWfScFmTQspkTeEU0YpE0_W40ajrPxLwu2fNJoA5dq-JQl-EQyLabMYUZm4k2N60QvpCKcw_yJ16PL0U0A1cu6IXBIvahPrg_AjXlLRJ0nkzMT3E4FwMLbh8E/s320/md+book+5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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There is also a coupon book for children to make and give to their moms. A few examples are below. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4O3CbSosAGRXFsdzuDHsmaxKzu__G0vqO-PbRIxokF_31f2lV5ViULdIHfP35HGXETSLDTZQYHPiYRz_FCXA6F5XYWZaqMwHNRzO_6OWNQD9aw8YGG0JPFhhGn58LDfcJGvQN7maS7xDO/s1600/md+book+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4O3CbSosAGRXFsdzuDHsmaxKzu__G0vqO-PbRIxokF_31f2lV5ViULdIHfP35HGXETSLDTZQYHPiYRz_FCXA6F5XYWZaqMwHNRzO_6OWNQD9aw8YGG0JPFhhGn58LDfcJGvQN7maS7xDO/s320/md+book+6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdOGl9o7n5O2WELuavilDNkIkaRLgNtPHuBJt9qcgzGq5BXa-UcP1BPpA0RoW8B5-p0uf5evPXv7VL9cbnkNuNwIBOhsghk2QsyjZCULaZnmVGLHHgSpI9gGzd9SDt4cqfrtb__Qyc_mp/s1600/md+book+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdOGl9o7n5O2WELuavilDNkIkaRLgNtPHuBJt9qcgzGq5BXa-UcP1BPpA0RoW8B5-p0uf5evPXv7VL9cbnkNuNwIBOhsghk2QsyjZCULaZnmVGLHHgSpI9gGzd9SDt4cqfrtb__Qyc_mp/s320/md+book+7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXLbJ8VaY_Z9xqdVwcJL55Ei5F4qk5bK14bo3fIDVQbVXmsSeuMZ6EkJBhyphenhyphenOaL3QNEyL1L0m_G0cvj3L9b03DLSqgwCNnLSGH59UFn2yIEG5LBLuGDQb092uJ14ZbRnPaiEvzCGcnAQcZ/s1600/md+book+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXLbJ8VaY_Z9xqdVwcJL55Ei5F4qk5bK14bo3fIDVQbVXmsSeuMZ6EkJBhyphenhyphenOaL3QNEyL1L0m_G0cvj3L9b03DLSqgwCNnLSGH59UFn2yIEG5LBLuGDQb092uJ14ZbRnPaiEvzCGcnAQcZ/s320/md+book+8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Finally, I have included the lyrics to the songs we sing at the Mother's Day Tea. These include possible actions you may want your children to do with the songs.<br />
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Do you do anything special with your class for Mother's Day? Feel free to share your ideas below!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-50803101142466708962013-03-25T12:17:00.000-04:002013-03-25T12:17:46.228-04:00Spring Break, Bunnies, and Random Thoughts<div style="text-align: justify;">
Aaah, Spring Break! Time to sleep in, do some fun activities with my son, read on my Kindle, and catch up on my blog and TPT. I love that it's Spring Break. However, it brings with it thoughts about the end of the year. We all have those wonderful end of the year tests to worry about. Besides that, I kind of hate to see this year end. I've had a really great class this year (not perfect by any means, but great), and I'll hate to see them go. Also, I'm worried about the upcoming year. The class that's coming into 2nd Grade next year is the last class I had as Kindergarteners. That was a tough year for me, and I'd hate to relive it. I guess I just need to enjoy the class I have now while I have them, and pray for the best next year instead of worrying. Wish me luck! :)</div>
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Easter is coming! I know some of us can't use that word in the classroom, so I'll use the word, Spring. On the last day before Spring Break, I was trying to find a way to make a fun day for my class. It was last minute, so I couldn't really ask parents for help, so I went to my teaching guru - MOM. My mom is a retired 2nd Grade teacher (I actually had her for my teacher in K and 2nd), and always has great ideas for me. </div>
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She told me about this easy project she used to do with her classes, and they really loved it because it also allowed them creative freedom. Because of that, my newest activity was created.</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bunny-Craftivity-Easter-Spring" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEO17yiwYPs9X0EtsfA8LwndF65Tt9f-7EPoToBbdZN_7dI2mgwqN8bBS6zvMq0d3Hc9PTlPvjDgw30fVEAdAmDVHD6sSHzoE3I8aZibL4rBWqgG2Uyfg6YeZ8GlMRslM2UFtfdJxJB8nV/s320/bunny+cover+pic.jpg" width="241" /></a></div>
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Below are some samples from my class.</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bunny-Craftivity-Easter-Spring" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9QBu9Twoq0w7Q9OrPdJa-yO2MF31mqmLiSxuo0CTbsWkrmC78hYmNan7_-vjRDoPjukTGyvoklfs_oF8WxhnE_LxTfF3ghjb8PdixFNhMKyxdEo-66HYZYIbzAXutvL97pdSmdFZ0O7Ct/s320/bunny+samples.jpg" width="244" /></a></div>
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You can find this at TPT by clicking on the images above or by clicking <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bunny-Craftivity-Easter-Spring" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Of course, since I love my followers, I've decided to give this project to the first 3 followers who leave a comment on this post. Be sure to include your e-mail address AND a comment!</div>
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Many of you read my post about my son, Jeffery, and his being mainstreamed from the EBD class. He got his report card last Friday, and I'm so proud to say that he got all As and Bs!! His behavior has been very good in class too! THANK YOU to Mrs. R. and Mrs. M. for putting up with ME! Also, THANK YOU to Ms. B., his EBD teacher, for helping him to make so much progress!</div>
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On a final note, my friend, Autumn, over at <a href="http://primarytechie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Primary Techie</a> just started a blog! She's the person who makes those great Watch, Think, Color and Move It games I keep blogging about. Please <a href="http://primarytechie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">visit</a> her blog to find out what she's been up to lately. The first 3 people to follow her, let me know, and leave an e-mail address will also receive a free copy of my Bunny Craftivity. I know you'll love her blog! I do!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-23473582374552851642013-03-08T17:20:00.001-05:002013-03-08T17:20:22.838-05:00Friday Teacher Feature<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm honored that Renee at <a href="http://fantasticfirstgradefroggies.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Fantastic First Grade Froggies</a> has chosen ME for her Friday Teacher Feature! Click the image below to check it out! While you're there, check out some of her great ideas and products!</div>
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Thanks, Renee!</div>
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Enjoy your weekend!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-12657449426819590062013-03-02T19:06:00.000-05:002013-03-02T19:06:47.191-05:00Currently, Lincoln, and GumballsIt's a new month! That means it's time for Currently, sponsored by <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Farley at Oh' Boy 4th Grade</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkP5Z0q1Gu81nLnKnnbN2HuQbwWvZIwiQBArclgFI0oefle3y1DRXmMziQbvmusjhB8iVFocvYPN-ms3VrrI6Dijzu7MtEyagq1AHElLykTL4xrlwevoSOpHCvSuq37dWsPGT9xiaMWCMM/s1600/currentlymarch13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkP5Z0q1Gu81nLnKnnbN2HuQbwWvZIwiQBArclgFI0oefle3y1DRXmMziQbvmusjhB8iVFocvYPN-ms3VrrI6Dijzu7MtEyagq1AHElLykTL4xrlwevoSOpHCvSuq37dWsPGT9xiaMWCMM/s640/currentlymarch13.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<b>Listening</b> - To the Bon Jovi live feed from their concert in Tampa. They have been my favorite since 1986 (I know I just dated myself there). The have a new album coming out this month, and I can't wait!</div>
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<b>Loving</b> - That Jeffery's new meds are working. You might have read my <a href="http://thereinspiredteacher.blogspot.com/2013/01/on-personal-note.html" target="_blank">previous post</a> about his ADHD, and how he was going to be fully mainstreamed. The mainstreaming has gone very well so far. I was still having issues with him in the mornings - refusing to take his meds, refusing to get ready for school, and other ODD traits. The psychiatrist has put him on a patch to start the day. I have to wake up at 4 am (UGH!) to put it on him, and hope he doesn't wake up, but so far it has been working wonderfully! Mornings still aren't perfect, but at least he isn't so oppositional.</div>
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<b>Thinking</b> - I do need to get inspired to make items for my TPT store. I want my store to be successful like many of the other sellers on TPT. I just can't work on things constantly. My creativity tends to get blocked when I try to force myself to make something. When I can, it takes me a long time. I refuse to make something that isn't of good quality. It won't be helpful for other teachers.</div>
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<b>Wanting</b> - My tax refund to come soon. I can always use extra money! :)</div>
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<b>Needing</b> - Motivation to lose weight. I know I should, and I need to for my health. However, it's so hard for me to start eating healthy foods and exercising. I hate to cook, so that doesn't help either. </div>
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<b>Like/Love/Hate</b> - These items were supposed to be things that start with the same letter as my first name. L was kind of a hard one for me to work with, but I came up with 3 things. I like laughing and having fun. I love to learn. I hate doing laundry. Well, I don't mind putting it in the washer. It's the folding, hanging up, and putting away that I don't like. I need to buy stock in Downy Wrinkle Releaser since I refuse to iron. :)</div>
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Well, February seemed to just slip by me, but we did do a few things of note in my classroom. We have been learning all about Lincoln and Washington. So, I used that as an opportunity to teach the children how to take notes and write a report. I had them use books from my classroom library, and they took notes while watching videos on <a href="http://www.brainpopjr.com/" target="_blank">BrainPop Jr</a>. My school has a subscription to this, and I'm so glad we have it! It's an excellent resource. They have a few free videos to watch if you don't have a subscription. You should definitely check it out.<br />
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After taking notes, they narrowed their information down to 6 important facts, and wrote them on a graphic organizer found in this activity pack by <a href="http://acupcakefortheteacher.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">A Cupcake for the Teacher</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/presidents-day-craftivities-Washington-Lincoln" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXS8r_tFn7rNV4fbRZRI0dElb5HBWefB-PnBM38FiIwCoMZ5SF-gxRcn6gaixtqXmPoxerRxzY4itUHwOO2fKK5bs8k0lpZirVMtaxno09BHu4zZrfS-Wx2PifvCj3mAekqxEEYZKmCGn/s400/pres+day.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
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Yes, I had the children do the craft activities too, of course. The Kindergarten teacher in me still loves it when my class does craft activities. They are so much fun! :) </div>
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This one says, "I will put food, drinks, and water because if I got lost I will not have food, drinks, or water."</div>
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We did George Washington too, but I didn't take pictures yet.</div>
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Back to the reports - After they narrowed their facts down, I had them put them into sentences with one of my favorite graphic organizers. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY10C8S8Le_K8zcC3939B023Vak-4UGVCN2rKhCWrWwt-CCZ4tmCb0ntRy5NMaNNcbAH8OLBC1teRskCH00N9Qd0HesDVT31TyVtz62Rfe_U1eOogbMy2TggT8fwVCPoi5coAOlpwdYGDQ/s1600/organizer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY10C8S8Le_K8zcC3939B023Vak-4UGVCN2rKhCWrWwt-CCZ4tmCb0ntRy5NMaNNcbAH8OLBC1teRskCH00N9Qd0HesDVT31TyVtz62Rfe_U1eOogbMy2TggT8fwVCPoi5coAOlpwdYGDQ/s320/organizer.jpg" width="242" /></a></div>
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Students start with a topic sentence, write several supporting details, and write a conclusion. It seems to work very well for my class. You can find this in <a href="http://www.clutterfreeclassroom.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Clutter Free Classroom</a>'s <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FEBRUARY-MARCH-WRITING-PACKET-BUNDLE-6-packets" target="_blank">February and March Writing Pack.</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FEBRUARY-MARCH-WRITING-PACKET-BUNDLE-6-packets" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA7w_8nDg-6ccffmfJ9J0H_iPCKd-oc2FgcYjaMRSyD1uTyi1ZCc3MPl9b-_aJ8vZkAJ1CeT9EpozbIJiEbWpRv-7Jjqrt_0kp_l0hskk-TFVGpLX5TRk5MJPKVzLSRmh6OFDDZmQLlcPP/s320/writing+pack.jpg" width="253" /></a></div>
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Once they fill out the graphic organizer, I had them write a rough draft of their sentences in report format. I check these, conference with them over what they could/should fix, and then they write the final draft. Note: I plan to add pictures, so please check back if you are interested. </div>
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As for the gumballs, my class LOVES bubblegum! It is their favorite prize, and I even let them chew it in class. Anyway, for Valentine's Day, we made these adorable gumball machines (which I thought would be very appropriate for my class).</div>
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They came from this:</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/valentine-i-chews-you-a-craftivity" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIktny6nAEUfgb3Q1YA1kWIaK0wFR_BZ8Ai-qFcg_VF5bF63206ra-QqblBTw2b_MrMkFaa8dEM1V4xLk-q5KztDm75ACxlVR70B5BidDiLZzHQ_qlGJhfFV9AoY-F_8WBbWfcSS8KIALp/s320/chews+2.jpg" width="241" /></a></div>
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Feel free to leave comments below. Have a great weekend!</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-86525941555266847492013-02-22T18:10:00.001-05:002013-02-22T18:11:18.574-05:00The Quietest Classroom Sharpener: Opinions and Mishaps<div style="text-align: justify;">
You might have seen or heard about the <a href="http://www.classroomfriendlysupplies.com/" target="_blank">Quietest Classroom Sharpener</a> on other teaching blogs, and wondered about it. I know I have. So, when I was given the opportunity to review it for myself I was thrilled. </div>
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First, the sharpener was created by a teacher who is still a full-time classroom teacher. Teachers always know what works best in the classroom, so this sharpener starts out with that in its favor. It was sent to me pretty quickly, which is always a plus. I received a red sharpener, but there are several other colors to choose from. I would have preferred blue, but I shouldn't complain.<br />
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I watched the video about how to operate the sharpener. I felt this was necessary since it seemed different from other pencil sharpeners. I was glad I did, because once I watched it, the sharpener was very easy to use. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsqGJcht35C0FSsyOJP43xS4E7sdersvXXK6DLsBCGJvdO7kd2XXmWNnBjSbs84OYQXuhAT8rMaWKCM5o5ZyjpJlm6C-Lg0CJlC8pkEUef0ks8FkpWQka5mUf0qPOFMnwUD5MNtoTKhdUY/s1600/sharpener1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsqGJcht35C0FSsyOJP43xS4E7sdersvXXK6DLsBCGJvdO7kd2XXmWNnBjSbs84OYQXuhAT8rMaWKCM5o5ZyjpJlm6C-Lg0CJlC8pkEUef0ks8FkpWQka5mUf0qPOFMnwUD5MNtoTKhdUY/s320/sharpener1.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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The sharpener can be attached to a shelf using the pieces shown above. It was easy to mount once I saw the picture. <br />
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There are two black knobs at the top. You simply squeeze them together, pull the metal plate out, and insert the pencil. Once you let go of the black knobs, the pencil is nicely held in place. This was a great feature. You don't even have to hold on to the pencil. <br />
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Next, you turn the handle. I know, I was a bit skeptical after seeing this was a crank-type sharpener. However, it's extremely easy to turn, and it sharpens quickly. You can tell the pencil is sharpened by the way the crank feels when you turn it. You don't have to keep pulling the pencil out to check if it's sharp.<br />
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I was very impressed with the way it sharpened every pencil on all sides every time. No more wasting your time sharpening pencils that end up lopsided and you have to peel the wood down to get it sharp on all sides. My class was very impressed with how sharp the pencils came out!<br />
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Emptying the sharpener is very easy too. You simply slide out the clear plastic cup, empty, and slide it back in.<br />
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After using it myself, I allowed my 2nd Graders to try it. This was a very big deal! Students are NOT to touch the pencil sharpeners in my room. It is a very strict rule. I even put it in my sub packet in case they try to get away with it while I'm out. :) I showed them how to use it, and they started to get the hang of it.<br />
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Since I knew I was going to write this review, I thought I'd make it a learning experience for them. As part of their morning work that day, they had to answer the following questions:<br />
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1. What did you like about the sharpener? </div>
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2. What didn't you like about the sharpener?</div>
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3. What would you tell a friend if he/she asked about it?</div>
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You can see a few answers below.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgj8uxvL5oF0de7lnfO7pGFSgwdFFbJ8SRa8HxXnGSw7PZhAHcRdUbopeOrCyIhv2Jz2Jc5LH1VQB1Y3R2BV00hS8K-EpNZpJdX9flUuPdOjmY0Qj5QA4fZcJ2CP-FuAAneZA-0WKh9Iwc/s1600/review+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgj8uxvL5oF0de7lnfO7pGFSgwdFFbJ8SRa8HxXnGSw7PZhAHcRdUbopeOrCyIhv2Jz2Jc5LH1VQB1Y3R2BV00hS8K-EpNZpJdX9flUuPdOjmY0Qj5QA4fZcJ2CP-FuAAneZA-0WKh9Iwc/s640/review+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUC4FU5H2aJJpKLeTdnQc_8tfqixksbGR1QbY_dz9b_8XtD-Gb6jGvmxxX5AIG9P21g1rOxS_9HU3g08hKNGCnUtld0nJ1IooMawbwuueNeaZ0Icjnk9wEdzLc-CNHgzTRkCE6zwMR9vSu/s1600/review+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUC4FU5H2aJJpKLeTdnQc_8tfqixksbGR1QbY_dz9b_8XtD-Gb6jGvmxxX5AIG9P21g1rOxS_9HU3g08hKNGCnUtld0nJ1IooMawbwuueNeaZ0Icjnk9wEdzLc-CNHgzTRkCE6zwMR9vSu/s640/review+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRBQqXDF-7_dHT0SFUVo_zCNUgWDjgePiQGC0qCzrJyvgCPFcg3ILKecOBGeJk7XU3t5l6mLkiJUiIJt6s3nwjhL6GZAg_TWJtrODtk6556r8TQDJPzqD3TBzLp34gDyTwATiBUoEohBn6/s1600/review+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRBQqXDF-7_dHT0SFUVo_zCNUgWDjgePiQGC0qCzrJyvgCPFcg3ILKecOBGeJk7XU3t5l6mLkiJUiIJt6s3nwjhL6GZAg_TWJtrODtk6556r8TQDJPzqD3TBzLp34gDyTwATiBUoEohBn6/s640/review+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Everyone in the class seemed to like it. That's when the trouble started...</div>
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All that day, and the next few days, they were breaking their pencils just so they could sharpen them. It was <strike>driving me crazy</strike> wasting valuable learning time. I tried to make it the responsibility of the Student Teacher (the daily child helper in my class), but then that child wasn't able to get any work done. </div>
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As I tried to think of a solution, someone went to sharpen his pencil and said the sharpener was broken. I was <strike>livid</strike> extremely angry! This is a brand new sharpener! It's supposed to be fantastic! It's not supposed to break so quickly! How will I ever write my review?! </div>
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When I tried to calmly inspect the sharpener, one of my little darlings told me that _______ put a crayon in there to sharpen it. WHAT??!!! I was not expecting that at all!! I thought these were smart kids!! How could I be so wrong?!</div>
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After obtaining that interesting piece of information, I figured out how to remove the handle (which was quite easy) and inspect the blades. Sure enough, there were pieces of pink crayon stuck in the blades. While this was going on, the darling girl with the now sharpened pink crayon ran to the restroom crying. I hadn't yelled or said much of anything to her, but she could feel my anger while I tried to remain calm.</div>
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I let her go, and sat down to try to salvage the sharpener. I took a paper clip, straightened it, and ran it along the blades to remove the crayon. Luckily, I was able to get all of the pink crayon out of the blades, and managed to shake out the tip of a green crayon that I didn't know was in there. No wonder the sharpener didn't work!</div>
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Next was the real test, and I knew it would definitely make or break my review. I attempted to sharpen a pencil...</div>
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Most of the class was gathered around to see if I had fixed it. ______ was still pouting or crying in the restroom. I let her stay there for a little while before talking to her about her actions.</div>
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Okay, the pencil came out just as sharp as the ones that had been sharpened before the infamous crayon incident. I decided that I would be the only one (once again) to touch the sharpener. I sharpen their pencils once at the beginning of class, and again only if it breaks and they don't have a back up pencil. ______ has been forgiven for her lapse in good judgement, and I believe she has forgiven the tattle-tale who said she did it.</div>
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My final opinion of the <a href="http://www.classroomfriendlysupplies.com/" target="_blank">Quietest Classroom Sharpener</a>:</div>
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I actually like it better than my electric sharpeners. It sharpens nicely, it's quiet, and I don't have to keep pulling the pencil out to check if it's sharp. I would definitely recommend it to other teachers who want to try it. Click on the image below to check it out for yourself.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-34485936810333444682013-02-02T13:17:00.000-05:002013-02-02T13:17:03.654-05:00February Currently and a Sale Reminder<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's a new month, and a new month always means a new Currently, sponsored by<a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank"> Farley at Oh' Boy 4th Grade</a>!</div>
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<a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdgGaOG2l0KfoVA8QcMgbgBm0Yx8aGqQdY49SePVt4b8tBxgj2VLJufIJAzJ-SaQVegdGq9eV430ePsSE_YmqAxkIstCUIvQ-zYxXMJFh6tu9JmVbDyAYYp-NI7qK6r8NHkgB6OS2ehXK/s1600/farleybutton.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhtjwLim3HFF1PctO-0jWubIGa-xwdRNI4J3kOWEqSTGpBxQqNsjxXQjHP2gQVg93t-0sfucNlXLI4AiMUxc0yVIr_I0clyEMan0f-2nuzey97uFXhiOzu4uOiUlBbv5CM7S_0MIZvs_v3/s1600/currently+feb+2013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhtjwLim3HFF1PctO-0jWubIGa-xwdRNI4J3kOWEqSTGpBxQqNsjxXQjHP2gQVg93t-0sfucNlXLI4AiMUxc0yVIr_I0clyEMan0f-2nuzey97uFXhiOzu4uOiUlBbv5CM7S_0MIZvs_v3/s640/currently+feb+2013.JPG" width="480" /> </a></div>
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Remember, tomorrow is the Super Sale at TPT! You'll get up to 28% off of items from me and your other favorite TPT sellers! You'll get 20% off of everything in my store, and if you enter promo code: SUPER at the checkout, you'll get another 8% off of your purchase.</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Lori-Smith" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="532" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinUA-lhtFPymB212lhqZgG4Xg0kQkkdqdzOTCtUXlr6E2sypkWxxcM2VuQXgAN4jUQUYMo-dxCzlkbK16L6HQM792fAw1qvn_1JcgpabuImx6Zod6HAiYPJlTR7lZDpKAWzmx4HcbC70bW/s640/sale+banner.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-78100327735945210712013-01-31T22:53:00.000-05:002013-01-31T22:56:49.610-05:00100th Day, a Special Note, and a Super SaleOn January 30, we celebrated the 100th Day of School! I had the students working on 100th Day hats, books, and a <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/100th-Day-Ten-MoreTen-Less-Watch-Think-Color-Game-CCSS1NBTC5" target="_blank">100th Day Watch, Think, Color</a> (my class LOVES these!) from <a href="http://readingticket.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Primary Techie</a>. I also had the children dress up like they were 100 years old. That was fun! My son Jeffery's class dressed up as well. I just HAVE to share how cute he looked!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicXkJvnOOx-iWdKAvbyGWjzsVt4rDepSjBXvkP_UyVYdvvtMTM7Cf4XeaFFp2hfTSneYt25JRhhJKn2Nd7lB1ayXE2rZh-F_MA0RB7J287d05JjE5KRc0GVAg9Qk-fd4cwFs-f8bepm17l/s1600/100+jeffery.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicXkJvnOOx-iWdKAvbyGWjzsVt4rDepSjBXvkP_UyVYdvvtMTM7Cf4XeaFFp2hfTSneYt25JRhhJKn2Nd7lB1ayXE2rZh-F_MA0RB7J287d05JjE5KRc0GVAg9Qk-fd4cwFs-f8bepm17l/s320/100+jeffery.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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Keep in mind, Jeffery is a t-shirt and jeans kind of kid, so the shirt and tie are completely out of character for him. I still think he looked adorable! I put gray hairspray in his hair, but it didn't show up very well. As soon as school was over, the tie and suspenders came right off!<br />
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Today, when I was letting my class in the room, one of my students handed me a note. The note was from a child I had 2 years ago when I taught Kindergarten. He was a little bit of a behavior problem, but not too bad. I heard that last year he gave his 1st Grade teacher a very hard time. He has been okay in my class this year. Occasionally, he'll act out. He's one of those kids who is very smart and tries to get away with whatever he can, but at other times he tries to please. I'm used to getting short, "I love you," kinds of notes, but when I read this I was very surprised. Here is a picture of his note. Most of it can easily be read by any teacher.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQnD_uy3gUCAAcuLUpOy_9eU4GctePf9WoHO0pZsmrAMCp6bm5yHMXTzwimkalg_qs20TiMU0ET6sdMDFE2FsKL1D8C2irwvqrr7t4leNuuAY7bahatQuoGGBSPlw6h46SYIh-bqx3fCU/s1600/note2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQnD_uy3gUCAAcuLUpOy_9eU4GctePf9WoHO0pZsmrAMCp6bm5yHMXTzwimkalg_qs20TiMU0ET6sdMDFE2FsKL1D8C2irwvqrr7t4leNuuAY7bahatQuoGGBSPlw6h46SYIh-bqx3fCU/s640/note2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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By the way, the "mystery pictures" refers to the <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Primary-Techie" target="_blank">Watch, Think, Color</a> activities. I just love the "Your Great Student" closing (with the incorrect comma). LOL! <br />
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Now for the sale! On Sunday, February 3, TPT is having a SUNDAY SUPER SALE! All of my products will be 20% off. Then, if you enter the code SUPER at the checkout, TPT will increase the savings to a total 28%! <br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Lori-Smith" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="531" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinUA-lhtFPymB212lhqZgG4Xg0kQkkdqdzOTCtUXlr6E2sypkWxxcM2VuQXgAN4jUQUYMo-dxCzlkbK16L6HQM792fAw1qvn_1JcgpabuImx6Zod6HAiYPJlTR7lZDpKAWzmx4HcbC70bW/s640/sale+banner.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Be sure to check out my store as well as hundreds of other TPT sellers for some great deals on February 3!</div>
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Thank you to <a href="http://www.lawteedah.com/" target="_blank">Lauren</a> for sharing this banner!</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11071951780927695925noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1758879860839255401.post-85917616541306971372013-01-27T12:43:00.003-05:002013-01-27T12:45:23.460-05:00Morning Messages, a Question, and New Clip Art<div style="text-align: justify;">
I do a Morning Message almost every day at school. I know there are lots of resources out there about how to use them, but I've always done it on my own. When I taught Kindergarten, I would write the message with blanks and mistakes the children should be able to find (capital letters, no spaces, punctuation, etc.). Then, as a class we would find the mistakes together. I always mentioned the "Student Teacher's" name in one of the sentences, and that child would get to take the message home that day.</div>
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In 2nd Grade, I decided to do it a bit differently. I write the message on the board, and let the children find the mistakes and answer a problem or 2. I have a small note pad and basket by the message so the children can write their answers. They are to write their names, number of mistakes, and the answers to any problems posted in the message. When they are done, they fold their papers and put them in the basket. This is done during our Morning Work time, so some people are at the carpet working on the message while others are at their tables doing their work. They are allowed to do the message at any time during Morning Work time.</div>
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The 2nd Grade messages are written in letter format. I usually include a sentence about the date, and say something about our day. Sometimes I mention our Student Teacher (my child helper for the day), and I mention birthdays when we have one. After that, I usually have a math problem and a language arts problem for them to solve.</div>
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Later, we go over the message as a class, and count the errors and solve the problems. This way they can see if they made any mistakes. The best part for them is when I unfold each note and see who completed it correctly. Those students all get to choose a treat. </div>
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This is a great way to review skills we have been working on in the classroom. It also gives me a quick view as to who doesn't seem to understand certain concepts. The students enjoy it, which is always a plus when we are learning!</div>
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Here is a sample of one of my messages:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhNKjz65d1mnI6sJTkq1dIuA9qV17TOI1JGFdJnXmX2sDHOLG0GzU2qn8Ke_DM_Xeg9-D63Ep18ppcD86Aw5rgIgxosq7mdh_PQsk_7u8NFq60D2d9Owmdjm67OXLp3lsDWnVnRWdcv1LX/s1600/mm+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhNKjz65d1mnI6sJTkq1dIuA9qV17TOI1JGFdJnXmX2sDHOLG0GzU2qn8Ke_DM_Xeg9-D63Ep18ppcD86Aw5rgIgxosq7mdh_PQsk_7u8NFq60D2d9Owmdjm67OXLp3lsDWnVnRWdcv1LX/s320/mm+before.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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Here it is after we corrected it: <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiSu2NYtpWru6J4eaGnFGmFUUdat4UbcC4KaekHhkMBz1vhT-wU76Y_l0dZG6DpGq5Uo33dLwNGEUn6I38gcFJ8KGMxhbVzts7qiSDbpyg-t10AyOt1nmuNHez5Pz-tJGLePp-ETiihT2O/s1600/mm+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiSu2NYtpWru6J4eaGnFGmFUUdat4UbcC4KaekHhkMBz1vhT-wU76Y_l0dZG6DpGq5Uo33dLwNGEUn6I38gcFJ8KGMxhbVzts7qiSDbpyg-t10AyOt1nmuNHez5Pz-tJGLePp-ETiihT2O/s320/mm+after.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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Do you do a Morning Message? If you do, feel free to share how you do it. Also, I was wondering if you would find a packet with ready-made morning messages useful. I've been thinking about how to put it together and still make it personal for everyone who uses it. I thought maybe a general letter with blanks for teachers to fill in and 2 problems for each day. Please let me know your thoughts. If enough people show interest, I'll create one for TPT. </div>
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I created some new clip art for Dental Health month! It is available for personal or commercial use. I hope you find them useful!</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/February-Dental-Health-Clip-Art" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtvWBSAg1R1OJjcpDBsA2KIH75ZVmmZf4B9tmUJmYcx4thDP0twrtzxZt7WVvbjo2xvPVNJq2Dl8ywvPBX955N7vimQfB0W6O0ma0Wx7Hin5Z9ekyv6lLHZscuO1R8KC58q0wA8876xJT0/s320/dental+health+clip+art+preview.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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There is one more thing I just HAVE to share! I found a TPT store by The-Primary-Techie. She makes these "Watch, Think, Color" Powerpoint presentations that give students practice in various math skills. You give each student a hundreds chart and start the Powerpoint. It runs itself, and the children are quiet since they are busy figuring it out. This gives you extra time to grade papers, prepare for the next lesson, or whatever else you have to do. We did place value and ten more, ten less activities. My students are now begging to do one everyday! The only thing to watch for is the timing on the slides. Once I figured out how to set it (I'm not very familiar with Powerpoint), I set it for 25 seconds per slide. That seemed to be enough for the slower learners, and not too long to bore the faster ones. She has a freebie activity if you want to try it out. She also has lots of different activities with different concepts and themes. They are also suitable for older students and younger students.</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FREE-2013-Watch-Think-Color-Place-Value-Practice-Game" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJKWACHVKhB1sQUuzzmnzzbCPk4317iLCAuEgjDyUZM-kmjFDMBQ48SwxDbyQTgG8sd0z2q4iIigZu4vOl734YukFJUcS-j7JHbqQTdwjxbah0IdBglEr_Wx5hGsnxRrjWJY5y7IDgtll/s320/watch+think+color.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Click on the image above to get to her freebie. If you want to visit her blog, go to <a href="http://readingticket.blogspot.com/">http://readingticket.blogspot.com/</a> . I'm definitely following her!</div>
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Enjoy the upcoming week! February is almost here! </div>
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