tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90741761094582762452024-03-18T15:04:42.023-07:00Elementary IslandElementary Islandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656291891732526402noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-73092832961773069892024-03-18T15:02:00.000-07:002024-03-18T15:03:49.727-07:00Differentiation Guide: How to Easily and Effectively Differentiate in Elementary<p> Do you question if you are reaching all your learners? You have heard the word differentiation, but it sounds like a big pain. Do you question if there is an easy way to differentiate? I have news for you that there IS an EASY way to differentiate and you will beam with excitement when you see how effective differentiation can be for your classroom! Download this FREE 13 page packet to gain valuable information about differentiation and how you can apply it to your lessons immediately. Whether you're new to differentiation or just need a reminder for implementation, this packet is for you!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6mosC5oj3DtCXy7i5OmJ874q_qOvnseQa1bCr5u-rsN_b-I-EsKGDqSwyP0vab_P9GLopieih2WymIhyM1f-aTsStvNfyiwR-AHXP37Wlfwsrw6GsgrdocgG6JmLKT6LKywhwq_rUZTEAbjKGfgz_ITRTu9VNr3kTf7fsM1sNJIumW_3doQom6wUxvPgl/s2000/Differentiation_Guide.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Differentiate guide - how to easily and effectively differentiate in the elementary classroom" border="0" data-original-height="1545" data-original-width="2000" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6mosC5oj3DtCXy7i5OmJ874q_qOvnseQa1bCr5u-rsN_b-I-EsKGDqSwyP0vab_P9GLopieih2WymIhyM1f-aTsStvNfyiwR-AHXP37Wlfwsrw6GsgrdocgG6JmLKT6LKywhwq_rUZTEAbjKGfgz_ITRTu9VNr3kTf7fsM1sNJIumW_3doQom6wUxvPgl/w400-h309/Differentiation_Guide.webp" title="A complete guide to differentiation: How to differentiate for grades 1st through 3rd" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sign up below!</div>
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Elementary Islandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656291891732526402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-53574058041161957552024-02-26T15:13:00.000-08:002024-02-26T15:13:25.866-08:00Summer Book Bingo Freebie: Keep Students Reading Through Summer<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Looking for a way to keep students engaged through summer? This Summer Book Bingo Freebie is a fun way for students to practice reading through the long break. These bingo boxes review common reading response activities for the lower elementary grade levels. Grab this educational freebie, set a reward, and keep your students reading through the summer!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPb_uODLkVVcBtOXQlMqnkb9duCEGp90fyAirXX0Dbq8c2kN4UU8FL8aGos_vey6GaXUN7VS4J8DSfBmf64C6Sk_GN0T0Ehlh0VDv6Xo9OZGpfupG23ml-ov3_Mr3yL7bu9QIB6eURTfUyeYKdpEGKr7EXjqOJM06Snb575kSHfZBTI14HMknFy_e3Wl3U/s2240/Summer%20Book%20Bingo%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPb_uODLkVVcBtOXQlMqnkb9duCEGp90fyAirXX0Dbq8c2kN4UU8FL8aGos_vey6GaXUN7VS4J8DSfBmf64C6Sk_GN0T0Ehlh0VDv6Xo9OZGpfupG23ml-ov3_Mr3yL7bu9QIB6eURTfUyeYKdpEGKr7EXjqOJM06Snb575kSHfZBTI14HMknFy_e3Wl3U/s16000/Summer%20Book%20Bingo%20(1).jpg" /></a></div><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;"> Summer Book Bingo Freebie!</h2><div>We know a lot about the summer slide. As teachers, we try EVERYTHING to keep students engaged and working during the school year, but often overlook summer. Here is a Summer Book Bingo that your elementary students are sure to enjoy! Share the bingo sheet, define the outcome (blackout, 5 in a row, 4 corners, etc), share the reward and see what your students come back with the following year! I love using this every year and have about 50% of my class turn them back in! I'll take it! </div><div><br /></div><p></p>
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Elementary Islandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656291891732526402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-8576606387861612582024-01-17T15:44:00.000-08:002024-01-17T15:44:46.777-08:00Seven Simple End of the Year Gift Tags Teachers Want!<p>Teachers! Are you dreading your end-of-the-year ceremony? Unsure of what to give as a good-bye gift? I love giving each of my students a small gift at the end of the year for their hard work. It's a great way to say good-bye and how proud I am of them. But, it absolutely doesn't and shouldn't be elaborate or expensive. I love looking through the dollar store for budget-friendly options! These 7 gift tag ideas are fun, simple, and cheap for your teacher's pocket. </p>
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Elementary Islandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656291891732526402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-63804122309390213642024-01-12T14:38:00.000-08:002024-01-17T15:26:12.355-08:00St. Patrick's Day STEM Activities and Challenges Kids Love<p> March in an elementary classroom can start to bring that dreaded thought of "the end of the school year" to many students. As teachers, we know there is still so much learning to be had and testing on the horizon. We don't need students to start "checking out". STEM activities are a great way to incorporate some fun, and keep learning progressing, with some hands-on challenges. Through these St. Patrick's Day STEM activities, students will engage in cooperative learning, problem-solving skills and critical thinking skills, as well as engineering practices! I am excited to share with you four of my favorite STEM projects for March that your students will LOVE!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1rzykkc4d93tLxyTUK5CWfYSziIAo6fpKMdeMEcpoS162lDNF6sm5xpYnPmImjXowreeisY-mM4Gqvb5F4T-Fl1yBro4o9apKifUjwnahvUnnN7k5JrOJbCaHcNJLrP54SGELrttwYkCfLpfXu6Yjl-T4YCLOqFG9t2sju3wCBNiGroG2npHXTY6LeoDT/s2240/St.%20Patrick's%20Day%20STEM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cover showing the four St. Patrick's Day STEM challenges that are available for March." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1rzykkc4d93tLxyTUK5CWfYSziIAo6fpKMdeMEcpoS162lDNF6sm5xpYnPmImjXowreeisY-mM4Gqvb5F4T-Fl1yBro4o9apKifUjwnahvUnnN7k5JrOJbCaHcNJLrP54SGELrttwYkCfLpfXu6Yjl-T4YCLOqFG9t2sju3wCBNiGroG2npHXTY6LeoDT/s16000/St.%20Patrick's%20Day%20STEM.png" title="4 St. Patrick's Day STEM Challenges Students will LOVE" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What are STEM Activities? </h2><div>STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. These are all essential skills our students should be exposed to during their learning career, and students are never too young to start. STEM activities are designed to be hands-on learning and allow for a great opportunity to take our elementary engineers through the design process. </div><div><br /></div><div>These St. Patrick's Day STEM challenges are usually presented as problems for students to solve with specific supplies and parameters to be followed. The best part about STEM activities is that the focus is more on the engineering design process than the final product. Students are encouraged to reflect on their design and think about how to improve it. </div><div><br /></div><div>The four basic steps to any STEM activity include: </div><div>1. The problem presented to the students</div><div>2. Research and plan</div><div>3. Construction</div><div>4. Analyze and reflect</div><div><br /></div><div>I can tell you from experience, students will love these fun STEM activities for March. Believe it or not, they are more focused while working on STEM challenges than almost any other St. Patrick's Day activities in the classroom. My students always beg for a little more time to work on their various challenges during STEM and I have even had students ask to stay in from recess to continue working on their projects! That's definitely a win-win in my book! </div><div><br /></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">March STEM Activities</h2><div>So let's talk about some hands-on STEM activities for March that will not only be fun, but educational as well. It can feel overwhelming to try to come up with fun challenges that follow the STEM engineering process and won't take a hit on the pocketbook! That's why I am here to help you with these 4 amazing hands-on activities you can easily complete with your students using affordable, simple materials. </div><div><br /></div><div>But first, I want to share with you what every STEM challenge will have for the teacher and students. These materials will help the teacher plan and prep and will help the students by taking them through the <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2019/11/how-to-implement-stem-in-classroom.html" target="_blank">design process</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Design Brief - The brief is an overview of the STEM challenge. It will display the difficulty level, problem or backstory, the challenge, criteria for the build, and suggested materials. </li><li>Teacher Brief - Materials needed, suggested differentiation options, and rules for the challenge.</li><li>Anchor Chart - A colorful one-page poster to display at the front of the classroom to remind students of the challenge</li><li>Plan Sheets - Students can fill these out individually or in groups. They are asked to get their ideas down on paper first. </li><li>Data Collection Forms - Document the data collected from the challenge</li><li>Reflection Sheet - Asks students to reflect and think about how they can improve their design. </li></ul><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKPyuOrlHId8wj_iiCDMgsirkZLQt3bAiFb9FXbYE4KkwKF5NW3zVNbLULwL5EIU7_KalZF-qu4YnkQSGOr-cLbuf9RIAQUpW50ZpUAFTZVgjtifrqO_r__2auFVlm2iMZ1Cr2erC5cCacaTm-cjeBJe8lr_Tv-_asSKNoVXit63bAf49KB4WScncen4xO/s2240/2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="This picture shows the briefing pages for the teacher and the student to introduce the challenge and components." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKPyuOrlHId8wj_iiCDMgsirkZLQt3bAiFb9FXbYE4KkwKF5NW3zVNbLULwL5EIU7_KalZF-qu4YnkQSGOr-cLbuf9RIAQUpW50ZpUAFTZVgjtifrqO_r__2auFVlm2iMZ1Cr2erC5cCacaTm-cjeBJe8lr_Tv-_asSKNoVXit63bAf49KB4WScncen4xO/w400-h225/2.jpg" title="4 St. Patrick's Day STEM Challenges Students will LOVE" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Ei2-rl34LtG216K1RmDNo3IMV4UTt78vFW9UlIRfVNzYYKP8C2DLeFLWVB42PxOlRbZyJJD2UmMeMaTiF8Sp9lG5jyRKSZZv94aMrbjy3iV0NVs3YckhJN6r7rKcY3zJq3UP0F7xp14pG4sS-cETjyXWIPIb28WXdhb6MmwaDpLkCjbEZASyl57wQXjZ/s2240/3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="This image shows the planning pages that are given for one March STEM challenge." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Ei2-rl34LtG216K1RmDNo3IMV4UTt78vFW9UlIRfVNzYYKP8C2DLeFLWVB42PxOlRbZyJJD2UmMeMaTiF8Sp9lG5jyRKSZZv94aMrbjy3iV0NVs3YckhJN6r7rKcY3zJq3UP0F7xp14pG4sS-cETjyXWIPIb28WXdhb6MmwaDpLkCjbEZASyl57wQXjZ/w400-h225/3.jpg" title="4 St. Patrick's Day STEM Challenges Students will LOVE" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDoL6vy19qkhoHmi0jfaVzr7EB0yV1RZ2TQkwgdW9RU-OmNTYa6IjYOSOoHMFQ6M6vW6jfVvWxBSqOLRJypwjQ3IENJSSzGIW1Q228Jtk9Gnhb9PwmvqO_-TdH4BdKKlFRGJZoMW5RxwjGLd1n9rqDPDYMgGNXMZ9LKYWWACuub8kLF30s0t358OOD7nt/s2240/4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="These are the recording sheets and reflection sheets that students will use for collecting and analyzing data." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDoL6vy19qkhoHmi0jfaVzr7EB0yV1RZ2TQkwgdW9RU-OmNTYa6IjYOSOoHMFQ6M6vW6jfVvWxBSqOLRJypwjQ3IENJSSzGIW1Q228Jtk9Gnhb9PwmvqO_-TdH4BdKKlFRGJZoMW5RxwjGLd1n9rqDPDYMgGNXMZ9LKYWWACuub8kLF30s0t358OOD7nt/w400-h225/4.jpg" title="4 St. Patrick's Day STEM Challenges Students will LOVE" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>One question I always get from teachers is "Can you include an example in your STEM packets?" The short answer is absolutely not. That will deter students from creating their own original ideas together, as a group. I guarantee that if you give a design example to 5 groups of students, you will get 5 that look exactly the same. Sadly, students are trained to believe there is only one correct answer. Through STEM, your students will learn that there are a variety of ways to accomplish a goal. That is one big beauty of STEM in the classroom! </div><div><br /></div><div>Now, let's take a look at the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-STEM-Challenges-March-STEM-Activities-for-1st-4th-Grades-3653198?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=St.%20Patrick%27s%20Day%20STEM" target="_blank">four awesome STEM challenges for March:</a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">1. Bucket Towers</h3><div>This challenge asks students to build towers to hide the pots of gold from sneaky leprechauns! The following components are the criteria: (1) The tower must be able to stand on its own and (2) the tower must be able to hold gold. That's it! Then the students are free to create their tower after research. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkisosSutn2CGF2-wNoA16eQdvmY6O7-DT7J0ErT7duoq-UqKHO1DbQ2HUMq2c1Sq8Wu94IHvJ32LlIfg5bZbygXi6hP-vLnhRWAz4_7ScvIcocaDgpQy-SPXQ1vafiNlpvXDDdsLLlRzzM76PXfrwDqixfmmp4zG6diFYZb1pl4fJUMCp37_GiCHBebZT/s2240/6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Image of a finished St. Patrick's Day STEM project for Bucket Towers" border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkisosSutn2CGF2-wNoA16eQdvmY6O7-DT7J0ErT7duoq-UqKHO1DbQ2HUMq2c1Sq8Wu94IHvJ32LlIfg5bZbygXi6hP-vLnhRWAz4_7ScvIcocaDgpQy-SPXQ1vafiNlpvXDDdsLLlRzzM76PXfrwDqixfmmp4zG6diFYZb1pl4fJUMCp37_GiCHBebZT/w400-h225/6.jpg" title="4 St. Patrick's Day STEM Challenges Students will LOVE" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Let's get a little more in-depth on the skills this challenge encourages:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Engineering and Design: </b>Students are tasked with designing and building towers using materials like straws, masking tape, plastic cups, scissors, string, and marshmallows. This involves planning, creativity, and problem-solving to construct a stable tower that can stand on its own and support the weight of the gold.<br /><br /></li><li><b>Structural Engineering: </b>Building towers that can stand independently and support the weight requires an understanding of structural engineering principles. Students need to consider the strength and stability of their designs to ensure they meet the specified criteria. <br /><br /></li><li><b>Material Science:</b> The challenge introduces students to different materials (straw, tape, cups, string, marshmallows) and requires them to consider the properties of these materials in constructing their towers. This encourages an understanding of material science and how materials can be used for specific purposes. <br /><br /></li><li><b>Problem Solving:</b> As students encounter challenges or difficulties in building their towers, they engage in problem-solving to overcome obstacles. This skill is essential in STEM fields, where finding solutions to real-world problems is a common practice.<br /><br /></li><li><b>Collaboration:</b> Working in teams to construct towers promotes collaboration and teamwork. Students share ideas, distribute tasks, and contribute collectively to the success of the project.<br /><br /></li><li><b>Creativity: </b>Designing and building towers with limited materials requires creativity. Students must think outside the box to create effective and stable structures to hide the pots of gold.</li></ol><div><br /></div><div>Wow! Now you can see all the real-life skills a simple themed STEM activity can address! And your students will be on your case for another experiment all. the. time.... </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">2. Lucky Rainbows</h3><div>This STEM challenge is super fun and easy to complete. Students are asked to construct the longest rainbow using pipe cleaners, marshmallows, and Fruit Loops to help the leprechaun find his going coins at the end of a rainbow. Then, students are asked to measure the rainbow they constructed to see which team has the longest rainbow! What I love about these challenges is they are easily adaptable for any grade level. If measurement isn't your standard, the younger studtns can simply count the Fruit Loops. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDVrfpLH5JFkcEZDrt7nOxjO23CQOKvJZ5HRmFboz4sv0dVb2zxwk2Y0e5IknhQzOG3Df4-YJwZ9bSX_cRYHB5vMkwPGycSPBF5Wm3ReB6rDFrV5wCW1mSgi14XN0-ksL5Klt-y1iUyUyOrymHezZ7e4EY0hAWCvxXyGPQ5b3GrtD31eJHxqD0ro3RMlun/s2240/5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Image of a March STEM challenge, Lucky Rainbows" border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDVrfpLH5JFkcEZDrt7nOxjO23CQOKvJZ5HRmFboz4sv0dVb2zxwk2Y0e5IknhQzOG3Df4-YJwZ9bSX_cRYHB5vMkwPGycSPBF5Wm3ReB6rDFrV5wCW1mSgi14XN0-ksL5Klt-y1iUyUyOrymHezZ7e4EY0hAWCvxXyGPQ5b3GrtD31eJHxqD0ro3RMlun/w400-h225/5.jpg" title="4 St. Patrick's Day STEM Challenges Students will LOVE" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>This activity is a fun way for students to demonstrate engineering skills, teamwork, measurement skills and adaptability. Once cone, they will collect and analyze data and then interpret the data to answer questions about the challenge.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">3. Marshmallow Catapult</h3><div>In this STEM challenge, students will be using Lucky Charms. We all know the leprechaun loves those sugary marshmallows! Students are asked to construct a catapult to shoot the marshmallows as far away as possible. The suggested materials for this challenge are a plastic spoon, rubber bands, popsicle sticks, a small plastic cup, straws, and Lucky Charms marshmallows.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD04KYWYcy0WPws_CFXeLRkKDHOlHypC-m7psw4_g_EnCfuVD2NVld8iidRzRILsnRaBiMBf_JjV8u583F7PsGajbNyo-fJQmC9zLpPVCQP2NpKKxClp8H_-q975rlo5pzYOg0LRDZiBZCjso1R7pqPJIiHZctiyUy7pRX5uc14v9OnFDa4QnG_WlS8CtU/s2240/7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Image of a finished St. Patrick's Day STEM challenge, Marshmallow Catapult" border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD04KYWYcy0WPws_CFXeLRkKDHOlHypC-m7psw4_g_EnCfuVD2NVld8iidRzRILsnRaBiMBf_JjV8u583F7PsGajbNyo-fJQmC9zLpPVCQP2NpKKxClp8H_-q975rlo5pzYOg0LRDZiBZCjso1R7pqPJIiHZctiyUy7pRX5uc14v9OnFDa4QnG_WlS8CtU/w400-h225/7.jpg" title="4 St. Patrick's Day STEM Challenges Students will LOVE" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>As a teacher, one of the "perks" of STEM is if you don't have a suggested material, you can substitute it for something else or leave out completely! The same hold true for the rules. If they are too difficult, adjust them for your students. STEM is very versatile and students are always up for the challenge of creating with what they have. You will be amazed at the outcome! </div><div><br /></div><div>Students are basically constructing simple machines in this St. Patrick's Day activity. This is ther perfect way to expand on the science behind simple machines by introducing vocabulary like level, force, and projectiles. Depending on your level of students, this challenge not only allows student to have fun with a creative project but also introduces them to the principles of simple machines, force, and energy transfer.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">4. Leprechaun Launch</h3><div>For the final challenge, students are asked to design a launch to take the leprechaun AWAY from ll the leprechaun traps that pop up during this time of year! Through research and design, students will come up with amazing ways to fly that leprechaun out of trouble! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG1-uvuIa3Gii4Xyb1WRa5z6LgbJdBF09Yd3nmbMrcOWArkUR7wtDAXIBFwd0DHDGUTb-TsZ04LrC-Xyqx6wt-GpJflRoumWJtU5kYaqByq5tGcEml9Fh3yEXQj7MNzO8UsZXkjYSMu_UqTnU6BtHsvvp9j7q0aSxCGSpXnUpsHHiPN6tZJbbnWAhmVSAM/s2240/8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Image of a finished March STEM challenge, Leprechaun Launch" border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG1-uvuIa3Gii4Xyb1WRa5z6LgbJdBF09Yd3nmbMrcOWArkUR7wtDAXIBFwd0DHDGUTb-TsZ04LrC-Xyqx6wt-GpJflRoumWJtU5kYaqByq5tGcEml9Fh3yEXQj7MNzO8UsZXkjYSMu_UqTnU6BtHsvvp9j7q0aSxCGSpXnUpsHHiPN6tZJbbnWAhmVSAM/w400-h225/8.jpg" title="4 St. Patrick's Day STEM Challenges Students will LOVE" width="400" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Add STEM to Your March Plans</h2><div>These easy and affordable <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-STEM-Challenges-March-STEM-Activities-for-1st-4th-Grades-3653198?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=St.%20Patrick%27s%20Day%20STEM" target="_blank">St. Patrick's Day STEM activities</a> are the key to keeping your students engaged and hitting their learning goals during this holiday. These are so much fun and simple to introduce to your curriculum. Designed with a purpose, each of these STEM challenges includes materials and supplies that are easy to find, super affordable (you can even ask parents for donations) and follow the STEM design process. If you're ready to give them a try, click the cover below!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-STEM-Challenges-March-STEM-Activities-for-1st-4th-Grades-3653198?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=St.%20Patrick%27s%20Day%20STEM" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Image of the Product Cover for the St. Patrick's Day STEM challenges" border="0" data-original-height="1738" data-original-width="1738" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZhyphenhyphenPY3JrVUatDwJSO4G-DG-MIN5U_Sp-nAJdTVU3oU56m1YT3ImglHhN31BPNRPoGTeaZf6X7gf1bFrgQfGQO4bNcHV5HKsCf_R7zRAT-wONiA6YJ2QGsIbG-FzIjT5kv6Ri30dhbH5TNKBdpFBs-OyXumByeyEgcJaoU9hsP8BPDq124vqerIRIHAzG_/w320-h320/Patty's%20Square.jpg" title="4 St. Patrick's Day STEM Challenges Students will LOVE" width="320" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Try STEM in Your Classroom</h2><div>If I haven't sold you on these wonderful STEM challenges and how much the students will love adding these activities into your classroom, give this <a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/y3o2s2" target="_blank">FREE STEM Activity Packet</a> a try. This activity is great to use alone or with the book <i>Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon</i>. STEM is so much more than just fun projects. It's a great way for students to develop critical thinking skills and apply why that have learned in class to a real-life challenge or problem. You won't be sorry!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Pin It!</h2><div>Be sure to<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Patricks-Day-STEM-Challenges-March-STEM-Activities-for-1st-4th-Grades-3653198?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=St.%20Patrick%27s%20Day%20STEM" target="_blank"> save these easy and affordable STEM activities for March</a> to your favorite Pinterest teacher board so you can come back anytime in the future for engaging STEM activities during this fun holiday! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/423127327492741437/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Pin for Pinterest of the St. Patrick's Day STEM challenges" border="0" data-original-height="3600" data-original-width="2400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyYNlpDKQD72NhYyyviUOGbbfNcw_TAfJ3IsD-lpz5D2TQMLjcMBpUV-HItupz73Aco_OSdA5hSBo7baSlNs6RSXDkYNq6NxqFExvonZnTA5SNX3vIwWelF7uuqxJFWdh6GPyn6YPyWTzrE1zeX4gNNcByWDwKAEddE5TsqgUIruXI32kuEURV9CwEwiv8/w213-h320/Page%2002.jpg" title="4 St. Patrick's Day STEM Challenges Students will LOVE" width="213" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div>Elementary Islandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656291891732526402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-15116392439651409822024-01-06T14:38:00.000-08:002024-01-25T08:46:25.924-08:00Fun Place Value Activity for Elementary Students<p>Let's have a teacher-to-teacher chat about place value. You know, that math concept that's as essential as your morning coffee? It's the key to unlocking the world of numbers. But for some students, this key concept can be a brain teaser. In this blog post, we will dive into why teaching place value is vital in our classrooms, why it often gives our students a run for their money, and most importantly, how we can make it click. I'm excited to share with you a resource that will help your students build their confidence while tackling place value in a fun and engaging way! Dare I say, it's been called a "fun game"!?!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbgDkbqjWylRG0yo0DTL4mLpcr4NgYJWwAKfakwsSyFNCJCmG67Dl-btaiiIs08tG3AygqmPzCi2I5tgmCdoBmM5SnPNYhiCjvuwmdST7jUhwZ5040lzJzqLjPf3Rj8P64Q7cvfF-MnlFqBqWSULIXIBcCqGylwxDo8_zOcZ8KBd4edq-wwpt8M52haIo/s2240/Unraveling%20Place%20Value%20Why%20Every%20Student%20Needs%20a%20Clear%20Understanding%20header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Teaching your students about place value is vital in your classroom, and these resources will make teaching place value easy and fun for you and your students." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbgDkbqjWylRG0yo0DTL4mLpcr4NgYJWwAKfakwsSyFNCJCmG67Dl-btaiiIs08tG3AygqmPzCi2I5tgmCdoBmM5SnPNYhiCjvuwmdST7jUhwZ5040lzJzqLjPf3Rj8P64Q7cvfF-MnlFqBqWSULIXIBcCqGylwxDo8_zOcZ8KBd4edq-wwpt8M52haIo/w640-h360/Unraveling%20Place%20Value%20Why%20Every%20Student%20Needs%20a%20Clear%20Understanding%20header.png" title="Unraveling Place Value: Why Every Student Needs a Clear Understanding" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Importance of Teaching Place Value</h2><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Picture</span> place value as this intriguing secret code in the world of mathematics. <span style="font-family: inherit;">It's not just a topic in the curriculum but the bedrock upon which we build a deeper understanding of numbers and mathematical concepts that follow, through many many years of school. Yep - it is that important. And with a topic that important we must give it time each day in our classrooms.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I know what you are thinking, "time every day?" Yes! Since place value is one of those math concepts that gradually builds upon itself, we can build in complexity and difficulty too.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Here are 7 reasons why teaching place value is of utmost importance:</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Understanding the Base-10 System:</span> Place value introduces students to the base-10 system, where each digit's position represents a power of 10. This understanding is fundamental to our number system and forms the basis for all future mathematical operations.</li><li><b>Building Number Sense:</b> Place value helps develop number sense, which is the ability to understand the magnitude and relationships between numbers. Students learn to recognize the value of each digit and how it contributes to the overall value of a number.</li><li><b>Reading and Writing Numbers:</b> With a solid grasp of place value, students can read and write numbers accurately. They understand that each digit holds a specific place and value, allowing them to articulate numbers in both written and numerical form.</li><li><b>Enhancing Arithmetic Skills:</b> Place value is essential for performing addition and subtraction with regrouping (carrying and borrowing). It enables students to manipulate numbers more efficiently and understand the mechanics of arithmetic operations.</li><li><b>Laying the Groundwork for Multiplication and Division: </b>Place value understanding is crucial when students begin to multiply and divide. It helps them comprehend the concept of multiplying by powers of 10, which becomes more apparent as they work with larger numbers.</li><li><b>Facilitating Mental Math:</b> Understanding how numbers are composed and decomposed helps in quick estimation and mental calculation</li><li><b>Preparing for Higher Level Math:</b> Foundational knowledge is needed for tackling more advanced skills such as decimals, fractions, and algebra.</li></ol><div>Phew.... That was a lot! Hopefully, you understand that place value is a skill that needs to be mastered and spiraled throughout the year!</div><div><br /></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Number-Forms-Standard-Expanded-Place-Value-Games-Place-Value-Worksheets-4048511?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Unraveling%20Place%20Value%3A%20Why%20Every%20Student%20Needs%20a%20Clear%20Understanding" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Providing students with lots of practice for place value is a key to helping them master these foundational math concepts." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTqGCXCneJoQAMatIxIjmFWnMrUjlbZKgCpGKhOJZUyJXYcBFtNeKOKHny5wMMsWcO41Hb5X5A-hyH3jsSyYmp7FZXfqScs9bX6NcRVGrOxKBQzcxJ3USDGr0rzvC70YIPI-_Y6SoQeP9fu2AKVcEYskfdlM3SMspJaDcqr_yfjZkh8XARWIiSRt5-Ceo/w640-h360/6.png" title="Place Value Swirls Completed" width="640" /></a></div></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Place value is not just another thing we teach. It's the golden key that unlocks the world of numbers. Our students must genuinely grasp the understanding of place value, as it is the starting point for their math adventures! </span><h2>The Challenge of Teaching Place Value</h2><div>But let's be honest - teaching place value isn't always smooth sailing, right? It's like trying to navigate a maze for some of our students. The younger our students, the more difficulty they have with developing a concrete understanding of abstract concepts. Yeah I know, the words 'concrete' and 'abstract' don't go well together in a sentence. So now you see the problem.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaBBdWTn68r9vcxSM4KWqlnzD34ygLZkx4XGX2mMOXKDInIvOdUeym4zwbsloxpFo3bm-9feFEeFLbycTy4BlLxHUpb649i_8IXuVns7D0iML7SG8OCmAhv9lswnrhzq-4w9xg0z_q1T68jPi1k1n2G_IbuNodfsyQctuB8qOy-6sTECyj6z8hGxstBbg/s2240/Unraveling%20Place%20Value%20Why%20Every%20Student%20Needs%20a%20Clear%20Understanding.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Tackle the challenges of teaching place value with fun hands on activities to increase student success in your classroom." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaBBdWTn68r9vcxSM4KWqlnzD34ygLZkx4XGX2mMOXKDInIvOdUeym4zwbsloxpFo3bm-9feFEeFLbycTy4BlLxHUpb649i_8IXuVns7D0iML7SG8OCmAhv9lswnrhzq-4w9xg0z_q1T68jPi1k1n2G_IbuNodfsyQctuB8qOy-6sTECyj6z8hGxstBbg/w640-h360/Unraveling%20Place%20Value%20Why%20Every%20Student%20Needs%20a%20Clear%20Understanding.png" title="Unraveling Place Value: Why Every Student Needs a Clear Understanding" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>One reason place value can be tricky is that our learners often learn best through hands-on, tangible experiences. They thrive when they can see, touch, and manipulate objects to understand abstract ideas. </div><div><br /></div><div>That's why it's essential to <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2019/12/easy-activities-to-build-strong-foundation-for-place-value.html">build a strong foundation with place value blocks</a> like the picture above, using a place value mat to build numbers and to create and decompose the smallest numbers to the larger numbers. The concept of place value is abstract in nature. Bridging the gap between the concrete and abstract can feel like a tall hurdle, but as educators, it's our creative superpower to take these abstract ideas and serve them up in a relatable, interactive, and fun way!</div><div><br /></div><div>Students must be able to create a given target number with base-ten blocks. It doesn't matter if they are two-digit numbers or three-digit numbers at this point because this place value activity is differentiated for your students. You can meet them at any level with this fun game making this place value activity perfect for 2nd grade, 3rd grade or even for 4th grade review!</div><div><h2 style="text-align: left;">The Solution: Place Value Skills Swirls</h2></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">So.... you might be wondering, how in the world do we make the abstract concepts of place value relatable and downright enjoyable for our students, especially when they're all coming from different learning backgrounds? Well, I've got some nifty tricks up my sleeves and these place value swirls are one of my favorite ways!</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">These classroom tested <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Number-Forms-Standard-Expanded-Place-Value-Games-Place-Value-Worksheets-4048511?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Unraveling%20Place%20Value%3A%20Why%20Every%20Student%20Needs%20a%20Clear%20Understanding" target="_blank">Place Value Swirls</a> are not your ordinary classroom fare. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">These little gems are all about diving into numbers in different ways - expanded form, word form, standard form, and base-ten blocks. It's like an adventure of numbers that will help your students master these concepts. </span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Here's how to play this fun place value game:</span></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Pass out the "game board" to each student. Then add the differentiation, focusing on the different place value of the numbers OR by the place value concepts of different ways to write a number. </span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Students will then cut out all of their strips and place them in a row to be able to see all the different number cards.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Find the start strip and paste it to "START". Look at the question, answer it, and hunt for your answer on the cut out strips. If it's there, GREAT! If not, look at the problem again!</span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Play continues around the page until all the strips have been used!</span></li></ol></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Number-Forms-Standard-Expanded-Place-Value-Games-Place-Value-Worksheets-4048511?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Unraveling%20Place%20Value%3A%20Why%20Every%20Student%20Needs%20a%20Clear%20Understanding" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Skill Swirls Place Value Cut and Paste Activities like these will help your students learn about expanded form, word form, standard form, and base ten blocks." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi177WconYLEC_ReAq4VMcgH0d0wyvoFwlgL21E2vYRe_hHbZFZtXNOJN2MV23L3057TtCNDneEPJlktDc3D2riRAgidnecw5PhZs9FwhDDeeVYnpfqcqzKJ4hHaRl3CgWxCgtSw8QsGsNzMfA9nzmRqdNm07GeJauiuvZHufAIaWdPFGX1Du7CFnlxxn8/w640-h360/7.png" title="Place Value Swirls Activity" width="640" /></a></div></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">This resource has three levels for your learners – numbers to the tens place, hundreds place, and thousands place. No one's left out, and everyone gets a slice of the fun. Want to know an added bonus? These games are a breeze for you, the teacher. They're no-prep, which means you can focus on what you do best – teaching!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"> Your place value unit will love you!</span></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Why These Place Value Lessons Work </h2></div>What's the real magic here? These activities are sneaky little geniuses. Your students won't even know they're learning because they'll think they're playing games! Yes, you heard it right – it's education in disguise. I like to call it undercover learning. Not all our students have the same knowledge of place value. Some might be working with tens and hundreds while others are ready for the challenge of thousands. Guess what? This resource is a great way to reach all learners!<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='321' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxywAhH1aNJ9-qgDHqfc0CpMLOaw_kZqM8Y5ZfCHh7KfZD_zddxnOWcSRsdfqvk4ZTfL7hBxe8qJO3ogtePTQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've designed these hands-on activities with differentiation magic. When your students dive into them, they won't even realize that there are different levels at play. The whole class is having a blast together. No one's feeling left out, and most importantly, no one's left behind.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>That's the beauty of it. It's inclusive education at its best. I've taken the diversity of understanding and turned it into an opportunity for every student to shine. So whether they're taking baby steps or making giant leaps in their learning, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Number-Forms-Standard-Expanded-Place-Value-Games-Place-Value-Worksheets-4048511?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Unraveling%20Place%20Value%3A%20Why%20Every%20Student%20Needs%20a%20Clear%20Understanding" target="_blank">Place Value Swirls</a> are right there with them. </div><div><br /></div><div>The swirls are also <b>self-checking, </b>which not only helps students, but helps you too. It's like having a built-in mentor that gives instant feedback. Students must find the correct number in their strips to move on. This allows students to find and fix mistakes in the moment which only helps learning - using higher level thinking skills to find the mistakes in their own problems. <h2>Building the Foundation of Math with Place Value</h2>We explored the realm of place value and uncovered why place value is important to mathematical understanding. Teaching place value may pose its challenges (easy differentiation, engagement, time constraints to name a few), but we've prepared ourselves with engaging activities and resources that make learning this concept accessible and enjoyable for all learners. </div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Number-Forms-Standard-Expanded-Place-Value-Games-Place-Value-Worksheets-4048511?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Unraveling%20Place%20Value%3A%20Why%20Every%20Student%20Needs%20a%20Clear%20Understanding" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Students love the game like feel of these place value swirls. Teachers love the variety of practice and no prep features." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaZ7j_cZZZXzUzWOJJzz4U_1AcvNnebfLIIy3t-YbpouYtbNBAb1G2IoMULX98lfdj2YZkVFgtqMyf0erR3Z7js686aQdMLR4yvNAPGNR6B7ENHe6ubZIm235X4BPK6HzDmN4sVc7UnH8DVeBwnGk6QyfzDMkgtu29WFnVm8LHz2Q8vFaQh7K0jai2pUc/w640-h360/9.png" title="Place value swirls blank" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Together, we can ignite our learners' curiosity, boost their confidence in math, and turn a laborious exploration into a fun-filled challenge. With these tools in hand, we're well-equipped to help all of our learners at all levels achieve math success!</div><div><br /></div><div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What's Included in these Place Value Skills Swirls?</h2><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>(3) Word Form puzzles (tens, hundreds, thousands)</li><li>(3) Expanded Form puzzles (tens, hundreds, thousands)</li><li>(3) Model Form puzzles (tens, hundreds, thousands)</li><li>(3) Mixed Practice puzzles - all place value forms included (tens, hundreds, thousands)</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><br /></div><b>Looking for more tips and ideas on place value? Make sure to check out these blog posts.</b></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2019/12/easy-activities-to-build-strong-foundation-for-place-value.html" target="_blank">Building a Strong Foundation in Place Value</a> - Dives into ways to help with basic place value skills to build that needed foundational level.</li><li><a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2023/07/benefits-of-morning-work.html" target="_blank">6 Benefits of Using Morning Work in Your Classroom</a> - Number sense activities that offer repeated practice through bell ringers for definitive mastery of the concepts.</li><li><a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2021/07/fun-place-value-activities.html" target="_blank">Fun Place Value Activities Your Students Will Love</a> - Other place value activities that help support your learners in the classroom</li></ul><h2><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Love these Place Value Swirls? </span></h2><div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">These skill swirls have become one of my students' favorite place value activities over the years. So much so, they wanted me to create more swirls for other math activities! That's how the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Math-Worksheets-Telling-Time-Money-3-digit-Addition-Subtraction-Place-Value-3808760?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Unraveling%20Place%20Value%3A%20Why%20Every%20Student%20Needs%20a%20Clear%20Understanding" target="_blank">Skills Swirls Ultimate Activities Bundle</a> came to be. The same great game-like feel we used for place value can now be used to help students grasp even more math skills like telling time, money, 3-digit addition and subtraction, place value, and 2-digit addition. It's a buffet of math lessons! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sprinkle these fun ideas into your math centers. Use them with the whole group, individualize them to different learning levels, assign them for homework, review day, or prepare for your substitute teacher. However you use them, just know that your students will be getting high-quality skills practice with this hands-on approach.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Math-Worksheets-Telling-Time-Money-3-digit-Addition-Subtraction-Place-Value-3808760?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Unraveling%20Place%20Value%3A%20Why%20Every%20Student%20Needs%20a%20Clear%20Understanding" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab this Mathematics Skill Swirls Bundle resource complete with 7 hands-on, differentiated activities to use in your classroom as you teach place value this year." border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaJ6zzH9yFMCsI_z7SoTGyYNBl7Bh2YhyphenhyphenEq2ykh5PsP_-FVrpurCVANAsWsFdCqd5qFQ7b2UPLuVVXnn_N8y3he-angy-zRM6OFYbOD7I7T4RkMjhdraY0E7IG8n7Nhu61YUSOFJDjFiyEREO5qPCI3XivEnSrfeHfm4Xt9bTvzCpyHOn0DaZeYHyKKBA/w320-h320/original-3808760-1.jpeg" title="Unraveling Place Value: Why Every Student Needs a Clear Understanding" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you're searching for a vibrant and effective way to teach place value without the hassle of boring worksheets and less-than-thrilled students, these Skill Swirls are your answer! The differentiated levels cater to various learning needs (tens, hundreds, thousands), providing flexibility for every student. The best part? These games require no prep, making it a time-saving resource for busy teachers. Print & go! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Your students will be so engaged in the interactive nature of these activities that they won't even realize they're learning - a sentiment echoed by one student who screamed across the class, "It's like we aren't even learning!" With 12 Skill Swirls covering word form, expanded form, and base-10 blocks, this resource is a comprehensive solution for reinforcing place value concepts throughout the entire year! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">These engaging place value activities are perfect for </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>centers, </li><li>substitutes, </li><li>whole group instruction, </li><li>small group instruction, </li><li>individual practice, </li><li>early finishers,</li><li>homework</li><li>AND MORE!</li></ul></div><div style="font-size: medium;"></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save these Place Value Puzzles</h2></div>Remember to pin this post to your favorite <b>math or teacher Pinterest board </b>so you can come back when you need fresh ideas on making learning place value fun! Remember, this resource helps with many of the challenges regarding place value - differentiation, engagement and time constraints! Take back your weekends, meet the needs of all of your learners, and create truly engaged students with these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Number-Forms-Standard-Expanded-Place-Value-Games-Place-Value-Worksheets-4048511?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Unraveling%20Place%20Value%3A%20Why%20Every%20Student%20Needs%20a%20Clear%20Understanding">Place Value Skill Swirls!</a></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYz0wKEco0n5_qi6_dxHBC8NJ9QDkZKVdpLF-_LO7bGuzwM6TVmKPs5dWsnobyKp3u3frWMjc6pAVDQlAzw7xLN6_DTPRU6zNp2NE7zAkDRkaUSAFZRJVQry851uvbQBIUIcIitC1X_QWwtCfoF_DXEI7E39dBlSzrkAs2VdXX9aWp5S3oDg-NZh1wYtU/s1500/Unraveling%20Place%20Value%20Why%20Every%20Student%20Needs%20a%20Clear%20Understanding%20pin.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these place value activities in your classroom this year to help your students practice, learn, and master place value. With activities like those in the Skill Swirls Bundle, your students can complete daily place value practice using hands-on activities they will enjoy each and every day. Grab the bundle to start using these valuable activities in your classroom today! #elementaryisland #placevalue #skillswirlsplacevalue #teachingplacevalue" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYz0wKEco0n5_qi6_dxHBC8NJ9QDkZKVdpLF-_LO7bGuzwM6TVmKPs5dWsnobyKp3u3frWMjc6pAVDQlAzw7xLN6_DTPRU6zNp2NE7zAkDRkaUSAFZRJVQry851uvbQBIUIcIitC1X_QWwtCfoF_DXEI7E39dBlSzrkAs2VdXX9aWp5S3oDg-NZh1wYtU/w254-h382/Unraveling%20Place%20Value%20Why%20Every%20Student%20Needs%20a%20Clear%20Understanding%20pin.png" title="Unraveling Place Value: Why Every Student Needs a Clear Understanding" width="254" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-26436715226349643262024-01-06T14:15:00.000-08:002024-01-06T14:20:14.323-08:00Easy Elementary Ideas & Activities for Substitute Teachers<p>We all know the struggle when prepping for a substitute teacher. Whether it's a planned day off, a sudden illness, or a professional development day, preparing substitute plans is something that most teachers hate doing. The whole rush to get things organized can be a bit overwhelming, right? Let's be honest with each other, brainstorming engaging activities that your students can do without a lot of help can be challenging, especially when you're not feeling 100% or your mind's elsewhere. I get it! I've been there! That's why I'm excited to lend a hand and share some easy activities for no-stress sub days. No need to spend hours prepping for your absence. These emergency sub plans will make planning for your long-term subs or short-term substitutes a piece of cake so you can focus on caring for yourself and those around you!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip75cFzWxaYnx7J3WC6U8xLM0IO3k6-_KRtmx0upfUxoOng2vP-c0lSOnUe09Mveb5kL43AcJ_nivZXBTltshMYFkBxAkn2O0AZfcE-vL4b8n9zIsy5nBB3v3RDgsWBT0cpy8hWN3BOlndloGRiKaty5A-h8KFoIPdAiN0tvzwAC5SyuL3hy4cZKDH4tE/s2240/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these easy activities for substitute teachers to be sure your students and guest teacher have the best day possible when you are away." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip75cFzWxaYnx7J3WC6U8xLM0IO3k6-_KRtmx0upfUxoOng2vP-c0lSOnUe09Mveb5kL43AcJ_nivZXBTltshMYFkBxAkn2O0AZfcE-vL4b8n9zIsy5nBB3v3RDgsWBT0cpy8hWN3BOlndloGRiKaty5A-h8KFoIPdAiN0tvzwAC5SyuL3hy4cZKDH4tE/w640-h360/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20header.png" title="Easy Elementary Ideas & Activities for Substitute Teachers" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">How to Prepare Easy Activities for Substitute Teachers</h2><div>Getting ready for a substitute teacher doesn't have to be a headache. I usually take a little time during the beginning of the year to prepare my substitute lesson plans. That way, when sick days arise, I don't have to think twice about putting in for a sub. The hard part is already done. Below are the steps that I go through as I prepare and can be used for any elementary grade level. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Create a Sub Tub or Sub Binder </h3><div>You don't need anything fancy to hold your materials. Whether you choose a Pinterest-worthy setups, a plastic bin, or a binder, do what works best for you. I personally have found the best success with a simple substitute binder and plastic bin.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTyCOzOmkfTJOxdtJQXmBGkl20AL-WbEDlnAXa4ivWheuQ053qrOmqB90JNl7qAIXo7AI8VOQvOjKul6vUqVSiyjG9Uy8BKCYidVgWVMGlgu28s0fXtlWWfOSMGfrjWfImQ1KkS-G5Txw8Rbt2jg4B_ftPXIcLJACKu3r_6Hv1qeg5GUnY5RnVUwpWPg/s2000/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A sub binder like this is the perfect place to keep your easy activities for substitute teachers organized and easy to find." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTyCOzOmkfTJOxdtJQXmBGkl20AL-WbEDlnAXa4ivWheuQ053qrOmqB90JNl7qAIXo7AI8VOQvOjKul6vUqVSiyjG9Uy8BKCYidVgWVMGlgu28s0fXtlWWfOSMGfrjWfImQ1KkS-G5Txw8Rbt2jg4B_ftPXIcLJACKu3r_6Hv1qeg5GUnY5RnVUwpWPg/w640-h360/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers.png" title="Easy Activities for Substitute Teachers" width="640" /></a></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I usually use a 2-inch binder for all the information and keep a well stocked bin with copies of the independent work. I found that both hold all the materials needed and keep them all in one spot for quick and easy access. What I love most is that with everything done, I can simply tell my admin or another classroom teacher to "grab the yellow binder" or "my sub basket is on the bottom shelf."</div><div><br /></div><div>Inside the binder, I include essential information that a sub would need. Items like a class list, class schedule, emergency procedures, and a list of helpful students stay together in one section. This is also the place where I add a note to the substitute teacher and provide any additional information they would need like class rewards.</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Detailed Lesson Plans</h3><div>The first thing I include is an outline of the day's schedule and which lessons are taught for which time block. I personally go in with the mentality that more is better. If they don't get to everything by the end of class, that's fine - I just want to avoid downtime! I break down each activity with clear instructions, ensuring the substitute can easily follow the lessons. Once completed, this goes into the binder too!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33nZwasWRJVfJ9NxCZk4irtOroh0-MBXlgDKRKfYlLXJ2R6xfrR8AmC2iMDqca-8IIo1wSfdpd4p7bp7_rhcHp-H0RPeVUimLmotNFz3ZcfiZlerh7s4OKfUfxDHu6paWWVo5-JlwlSMIMK1XanL6Crv8ItHBdQqf5TwHLDPruoii95R-QbGSh4F2HQY/s2000/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(1).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Leave detailed lesson plans along with your easy activities for substitute teachers to make sure the day runs smoothly for them." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33nZwasWRJVfJ9NxCZk4irtOroh0-MBXlgDKRKfYlLXJ2R6xfrR8AmC2iMDqca-8IIo1wSfdpd4p7bp7_rhcHp-H0RPeVUimLmotNFz3ZcfiZlerh7s4OKfUfxDHu6paWWVo5-JlwlSMIMK1XanL6Crv8ItHBdQqf5TwHLDPruoii95R-QbGSh4F2HQY/w640-h360/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(1).png" title="Easy Elementary Ideas & Activities for Substitute Teachers Detailed Lesson Plans" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I highlight the needed materials for each activity in the lesson plans. Then, I gather the needed materials, whether they be worksheets, books, or other supplies, and put them in the bin. I label these with a post-it note with the subject and time to help reinforce the schedule. Most lessons do not require a lot of materials. We don't want to put a lot of work on ourselves.</div><div><br /></div><div>For elementary students, I have found that limiting the amount of new teaching makes for a smoother sub day when possible. Choosing activities that help your students review previously taught skills allows them to work more independently. For this reason, I refresh my sub activities each quarter. That way I can make sure that the substitute lessons provided align well any time of the year.</div><div><br /></div><div>This quarterly check-in allows me to make sure all the information in the binder stays up to date too. If there are unused activities in the sub tub I simply file them away for next year's sub plans or add them to our early finisher activities in the classroom.</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Classroom Procedures</h3><div>After lesson plans, I then turn my attention to classroom procedures. Sometimes, think it's an all-day recess when we are out. It's important to have the expectations clearly laid out for the substitute or guest teacher to reinforce them with the kids. Once the kiddos realize everyone is on the same page, it helps them to step up as the leaders that they are working to become. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb3iJs5XCH0ywlo-yne4BS2QqhPQFlp3fDWMtm2ASCRtvtci7FhWS4g52trtLkEgU5io4jwiv4U4Cdvvy7GBle-KUqn97DshqkP2mY0Rb7PVX9L8IrDnq1A57V4jkF5rUGkWuFW5h_wTRbrQ73wfRawF-1DatPHJwjwlLj0kF1IVyoLl4dGLDU1x-5bRY/s2000/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(2).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Along with the easy activities for substitute teachers be sure to leave detailed classroom procedures as well." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb3iJs5XCH0ywlo-yne4BS2QqhPQFlp3fDWMtm2ASCRtvtci7FhWS4g52trtLkEgU5io4jwiv4U4Cdvvy7GBle-KUqn97DshqkP2mY0Rb7PVX9L8IrDnq1A57V4jkF5rUGkWuFW5h_wTRbrQ73wfRawF-1DatPHJwjwlLj0kF1IVyoLl4dGLDU1x-5bRY/w640-h360/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(2).png" title="Easy Elementary Ideas & Activities for Substitute Teachers Classroom Procedures" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>While preparing the expectations, I make sure to include a copy of our classroom rules, how to take attendance, bathroom breaks, who may need to be pulled into small groups, and how they should transition between activities. This helps our students by giving them a sense of routine and consistency while we are away. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Technology Instructions</h3><div>For my older students, 4th grade and up, I may leave technology items. Whenever I am preparing, I try to think of all the hiccups that could happen during the day and troubleshoot them ahead of time. Sometimes the activities that I have planned are digital and will require the use of our devices. I make sure to provide clear instructions on how to operate my device and how to navigate to any digital materials needed. Then I explain where the students' devices are located, how the devices work, where to find log-in information, and where to access the digital materials on the student sides. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyA82Y-Vwnh7LIR_H9tpWmolmbJwKFfbqZfvrA81a8AMMi2J8bZiXGl0dzLhCAM0Jill4Oo26gtZB_9qHXvqvRpKwPevFso67qIdqnr0-nX4NER2eyXfwGGgXvxmyyAwD5Rjvekxf84492NR6xQyCUWWJefkRM-ARuFJiHBWziekZfh7GvtPYH29t0HOI/s2000/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(3).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="As well as including easy activities for substitute teachers it's also important to leave instructions for expectations when it comes to using technology in your classroom." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyA82Y-Vwnh7LIR_H9tpWmolmbJwKFfbqZfvrA81a8AMMi2J8bZiXGl0dzLhCAM0Jill4Oo26gtZB_9qHXvqvRpKwPevFso67qIdqnr0-nX4NER2eyXfwGGgXvxmyyAwD5Rjvekxf84492NR6xQyCUWWJefkRM-ARuFJiHBWziekZfh7GvtPYH29t0HOI/w640-h360/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(3).png" title="Easy Elementary Ideas & Activities for Substitute Teachers Technology" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I also leave specific guidelines for student usage of devices so that everyone is aware of expectations and how the devices should be used for the day. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you'd like a more detailed look at how I prepare for a sub in advance, make sure to read my other blog post <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2022/06/prepare-for-substitute.html" target="_blank">10 Immediate Actions To Do Now to Prepare for a Substitute Teacher</a>. It's filled with practical tips and ideas that will help you get your sub plans in order before you ever need them. </div><div><br /></div><div>But make sure to keep reading here too, because the rest of this post will help choose what substitute teacher activities to include in your sub plans. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">8 Easy Activities for Substitute Teachers</h2><div>Now that you've got the basics in place, let's talk about ideal sub lesson plans! In my opinion, there are definitely do's and don'ts when selecting activities for when you're out of the classroom. If you're not quite sure where to start or need some inspiration, here are some of my favorite activities. I even explain why I think they're a clear winner for subs! </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">1. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/128290-Color-By-Codes-353120?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" target="_blank">Color By Code Puzzle Activities</a></h3><div>I always make sure to include one or more of these color-by-code activities in my substitute teacher lesson plans. The math class periods fly by when my students are engaged in this activity! Since students know just what to do they can focus on the activity leaving the substitute free to answer questions as they arise.</div><div><br /></div><div>With color-by-code puzzles focused on place value, addition, subtraction, and multiplication I know they can be used all year long. Students solve the problem and then color in the space with the color that aligns with their answer. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/128290-Color-By-Codes-353120?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="This color by code activity is a fantastic addition to your easy activities for substitute teachers." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGHOsn7mSJU0aMNc_2uirsMecoTNy_irC-TJybikWdSmoVzOy9klr3ZnUC8ToVytALYPDd1KZdyAA5bsctVQx833f8GMoswsPKGKqaJjrrmeFo8gI3lxk1otuW3WIad-TUdcC13SPBdANAo1QQ6UJ27ARTZmsqTqKSiGyuXmN_M-XI0En1IqjAfl85dO8/w640-h360/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(4).png" title="Easy Elementary Ideas & Activities for Substitute Teachers Color by Code Activities" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>My students love working on these which is another reason they are great to leave in your sub lesson plans. And. . . they can easily be used for morning work, review in math class, or to fill in extra time. It's an activity that is relevant to their learning, even if it's just a review. </div><div><br /></div><div>Add a Color By Code activity to your sub lesson plans with this <a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/colorbycodefreebie" target="_blank">Addition Color By Code freebie</a>! Or find <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/128290-Color-By-Codes-353120?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" target="_blank">more color by code resources</a> in the Elementary Island store on TPT.</div><div><br /></div><div><h3>2. Math Races </h3><div>Playing a whole class game is another great activity that students love which makes them great for a sub day. For this game, choose a math skill you want your students to practice. Make sure to leave the substitute a list of math problems they can use for this quick activity so they don't have to come up with their own. </div><div><br /></div><div>One student from each team will come up to the board where they'll solve the problem given by the substitute teacher. The one who correctly solves the problem first earns a point for the team. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhteLr3m3Vdfx_nAbeFlRLQShTERzvoGdAbBLNH-4I69KtUpJEJHw9OTU_mOdzdsn_ww1vMfw93kEfHRx4D4OuR3wSPtN85QhdhMmJZhbuPjms5EKZ5pfuUejGoZdDhBGzpg7iDQncDYmxlEKgx3zqgkX7gxbTI1MysFAYRrZqY2pJDTO6PbhJTXGkZq-4/s2000/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(11).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Get in some fun math skills review with a game like math race that's easy to include in your easy activities for substitute teachers." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhteLr3m3Vdfx_nAbeFlRLQShTERzvoGdAbBLNH-4I69KtUpJEJHw9OTU_mOdzdsn_ww1vMfw93kEfHRx4D4OuR3wSPtN85QhdhMmJZhbuPjms5EKZ5pfuUejGoZdDhBGzpg7iDQncDYmxlEKgx3zqgkX7gxbTI1MysFAYRrZqY2pJDTO6PbhJTXGkZq-4/w640-h360/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(11).png" title="Easy Elementary Ideas & Activities for Substitute Teachers" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>You can also divide your class into smaller groups and give each group a whiteboard. Since groups are involved, I have them pre-planned out. This helps your substitute teacher stay organized and efficiently save time, ensuring most of the time is spent on skill practice rather than on who gets to be with whom in a group. </div></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">3. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/128221-Spelling-Vocab-316720?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" target="_blank">Spelling Activities</a></h3><div>Make spelling practice fun with these themed spelling activities that are perfect no matter when in the year you need to take a day! </div><div><br /></div><div>These activities have come in handy many times and take very little prep time. All you have to do is type in your spelling words once and the resource automatically generates a variety of practice pages for your words! All the pages were strategically designed to have students use different strategies to help them remember how to spell the words. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/128221-Spelling-Vocab-316720?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Get in some spelling practice even when you are away when you add these spelling activities to your easy activities for substitute teachers." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM2s9rT0QqXeK9RjM4VG-eykqrcu35xGFgf1vHcRsCScdkdv6D1N_7dg9VmCCEo-QoO9hpuXihoc21oSyyA5BNPWvMCP7BxNVU67T304RgpexB0Q49c1febtn8HrLmhskDaNY2qtrMCFmJ3-SZsSk1XZp8TydcViAciig_Ao1Oe3ZybSx7OVQ8vhsBKB0/w640-h360/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(5).png" title="Easy Elementary Ideas & Activities for Substitute Teachers Spelling Activities" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Adding one of these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/128221-Spelling-Vocab-316720?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" target="_blank">engaging spelling activities</a> to your sub tub is a great way to know that students will be working on their spelling words while you are out.</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">4. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7684964?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" target="_blank">Seasonal Math Activities with a Writing Extension</a> </h3><div style="text-align: left;">While you're away, have your students review their addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division skills with a math craft! The students love them, and they're a fun way to add a little out of the ordinary fun to your math block! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">To prepare, simply choose the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7684964?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" target="_blank">seasonal math craft</a> you'd like to use. In each set, there are two math craft options. For example, the winter craft packet has a snowman and a snow globe to choose from. Plus each set includes math problem pages for a variety of math skills. It's so easy to leave the craft page and a page of problems that align with the skill I want students to practice. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Students can work independently or with a partner on the problems. That's a choice you can make depending on the dynamic of your class. If I allow them to work in partners, I leave a pre-made list of partners in the sub plans for the substitute teacher. This helps to avoid conflicts that may arise with some students. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7684964?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="You know how much your students love crafts, so include these holiday math activities in your easy activities for substitute teachers." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmmzPXfIbUh-0HOHybGQup2x4slIIZTyu_dfTDFKNV-iIDBQQBwFXR9uqs99b2NbHhs6yKYaNWTrYpt2t9Qn-odBtBnxMde67xXE4iiJ-4LQcCwLMLpYDuQLrDURFdFFguNIS5vTK-4zPS4XdD-1-eaigpEgcCyiVv-IsI5zm2lk41UoqwgXdyRTaRALE/w640-h360/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(6).png" title="Easy Elementary Ideas & Activities for Substitute Teachers Holiday Math Activities" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Once each problem has been solved, students will check their answers with the sub. I always make sure to include the answer keys in my sub plans. Once approved, the students begin to color, cut, and assemble their craft. If possible, have a completed example so both your guest teacher and your students know what the end product should look like. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">To take it further I love to connect their math craft to a writing activity. You can keep it math-related and have students write a word problem about their craft. But you can also use the craft as the jumping off place for a creative writing activity. Students can write a story with their craft being the main character. Students love this and I love to see their creativity soar! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you add the writing extension, don't forget to add writing paper to your sub tub. That way the substitute teacher will have everything they need.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h3>5. Read Aloud and Story Elements Exploration</h3><div>One of my favorite parts of the day with my kiddos is our read-aloud time. To keep the same routine while I am out, I always ensure that part of the day stays the same. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrGRPvJaf4uSsUHtZyZQ8W-PBoCKEn6Xkfa_oswvF2o8t2gp47BLNiJMpWgnzapnW0rOYBcQ4qZx8kvZENu8NGdpzQ1fQ1zkxxDyG1XgmpRDp4My9vquOh5Pt1BONKCvYZsqz_tEye4a1J15q744dEO2dETXHjvDG2S_7jqHOVjqK6BzyoEeJN6OspYtY/s2000/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(10).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Include a fun read aloud in your easy activities for substitute teachers." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrGRPvJaf4uSsUHtZyZQ8W-PBoCKEn6Xkfa_oswvF2o8t2gp47BLNiJMpWgnzapnW0rOYBcQ4qZx8kvZENu8NGdpzQ1fQ1zkxxDyG1XgmpRDp4My9vquOh5Pt1BONKCvYZsqz_tEye4a1J15q744dEO2dETXHjvDG2S_7jqHOVjqK6BzyoEeJN6OspYtY/w640-h360/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(10).png" title="Easy Elementary Ideas & Activities for Substitute Teachers" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I pre-choose a short story and have it ready with the rest of the materials for the day. The substitute teacher will read the story to the class. Then, afterward, the class will complete a reading response activity. </div><div><br /></div><div>For younger students in first grade and second grade, one of my go-to activities only requires that students get a blank sheet of paper. The students will fold the paper into four sections. Each section will be labeled with a story element, such as character, setting, problem, and solution. Then the substitute teacher and the class will talk about each one. As they move through each section, the students can draw or write down the elements of the story they read. You can leave a completed version of the elements paper to help guide your substitute teacher. </div><div><br /></div><div>Instead of story elements, my older students may be asked to draw their favorite part of the story and write a few sentences about it, or I might stop before the ending and ask them to illustrate what they think will happen next!</div><div><br /></div><div>The other thing I do is give the substitute permission to do a second read-aloud during the day. Since this is a time that students love and are generally well-behaved for, I want the substitute to know they can do this more than once. I either leave some extra books for them to choose from or let them know where they can find a book of their choosing.</div></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">6. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Fun-Packets-Fun-Activities-for-2nd-grade-Early-Finisher-Activities-10214926?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" target="_blank">Seasonal Activity Packets</a></h3><div>Meet your secret weapon for banishing downtime and keeping your students not just occupied but excited about learning! These no prep activities are the perfect way to add some seasonal fun into your sub plans while also knowing that students will be reviewing and practicing key skills. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Fun-Packets-Fun-Activities-for-2nd-grade-Early-Finisher-Activities-10214926?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Holiday fun packets include everything you need for easy activities for substitute teachers." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQJEd4TiUS-EEN3uLGWJ-QXfAzQMjg9GuTJEyrcudS206nPd2yeOBevjBoHeSLrM9qMXUnjBKTK9X1v920gN5i1gIAqE1e6y0bPG1cY4WIZzsPfYFSzZPTJhFio1SWCMFEFXt2zsGge1HD4XpfKc1cENUBqz_ZDR3l7wKGB9-EEM4DZu_l4qp9XnnR1E/w640-h360/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(7).png" title="Easy Elementary Ideas & Activities for Substitute Teachers Holiday Fun Packets" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I always keep these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Fun-Packets-Fun-Activities-for-2nd-grade-Early-Finisher-Activities-10214926?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" target="_blank">seasonal no prep packets</a> in my sub tub or binder for when I am out. I don't have to worry about my students having too much downtime and starting to get off track. This whole bundle is a lifesaver for any substitute because it provides ready-to-go, engaging activities that align with the skills and concepts students have been learning. You can rest easy knowing that your substitute will effortlessly guide your students through crossword puzzles, creative math challenges, writing prompts, word search puzzles, and grammar adventures!</div><div><br /></div><div>You can find a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Fun-Packets-Fun-Activities-for-2nd-grade-Early-Finisher-Activities-10214926?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" target="_blank">variety of no prep packets for holidays and seasons</a> in my store.</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">7. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/128290-QR-Codes-353100?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" target="_blank">QR Code Activities</a></h3><div>Whenever technology is involved, student engagement skyrockets! Making learning fun and game-like through the use of technology helps engage our learners. Not only does this help students with the learning process, but it also helps a substitute teacher with classroom management.</div><div><br /></div><div>My <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/128290-QR-Codes-353100?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" target="_blank">QR Code Activities</a> are a wonderful way to work on important skills while using technology. Each of the QR Code sets includes task cards with a QR code on it. These task cards can be used independently, with partners, or for centers. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/128290-QR-Codes-353100?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=EASY%20ACTIVITIES%20FOR%20SUBSTITUTE%20TEACHERS" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use these engaging QR code activities for no fuss easy activities for substitute teachers." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg03n8yr0aRNkVW58ZvnPTZWqbxHtqR1afi_r7FOarOg9dB6V2Fs89sp_bQ0YI3D4GjeD_T-wYtosph2QNx-mmURTpHhXH39qQNnbRivjOKpugCrRcjCaVErh1jkhyphenhyphen5ZECCUw2x_BbAFzYiKqm2NEpaKUUjQfq7MqeoXG07g3vwvHSL9HX9RzqYyppmrt8/w640-h360/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(12).png" title="Easy Elementary Ideas & Activities for Substitute Teachers QR Activities" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>For each card, students work on solving the math problem or answering the question on the recording page. To check their answers, they use a digital device, such as a tablet, to scan the QR code to see if their answer is correct. If they're correct, they color in the smiley face on their papers but if incorrect they color in the sad face. It's a great self-checking activity that not only saves me grading time but also allows students a chance to find their mistakes in real time. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you don't have devices that have QR readers, that's totally okay! Each of my activities has an answer key. Even if you do have QR readers, I always print out the answer key in case of technology mishaps and ensure my substitute teacher has quick access and does not have to figure it out as they go. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">8. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/128187-Digital-BOOM-Cards-336266?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=Boom%20Cards" target="_blank">BOOM Cards</a></h3><div>If you still need to discover the magic of BOOM Cards, get ready for a game-changing moment for your classroom and substitute lesson plans. BOOM Cards are digital task cards that students complete on the Boom platform. Say goodbye to printing, cutting, and the hassle of recording sheets as you prep for your day out of the classroom. </div><div><br /></div><div>I love including BOOM Cards in my plans for my substitute teacher because they are hassle-free. My students can independently work on them and they stay engaged from start to finish. These cards are self-checking so students get immediate feedback as they are prompted to try again as needed. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/128187-Digital-BOOM-Cards-336266?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=Boom%20Cards" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Boom Cards are a great addition to your easy activities for substitute teachers because they require zero prep from you and are easy for substitute teachers to navigate." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgacw53LaBuvm2jg5rv5kHD0AAMusuHn8SjVmdvAFB_9YdnpAl896kbM7oXjlNTcQpg4GYdBluoh77Airr7iYK7pLvtn93sMcrBraiKW7InDaBmpf-hRjNzZQpJtykhxFXhg-FzvGIzMpqlMWG0okQc6Vlcnb2ie1ilAqUl0xu6il_w44qpZyxz7o4SMv4/w640-h360/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20(9).png" title="Easy Elementary Ideas & Activities for Substitute Teachers Boom Cards" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Plus you can find <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/128187-Digital-BOOM-Cards-336266?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=Boom%20Cards" target="_blank">Boom Cards for many different skills and concepts</a>. That means no matter when you need them, Boom Cards provide a great activity. </div><div><br /></div><div>Learn more about BOOM Cards by reading <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2018/10/meet-boom-cards-your-new-teaching-bff.html" target="_blank">BOOM Cards in the Classroom</a>! When leaving Boom Cards for a substitute make sure that you leave detailed instructions on how students will access the Boom Card activities. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Time to Prepare Easy Activities for Substitute Teachers</h3><div>So what are you waiting for? Don't wait until you are sick to prepare your sub plans. The key to being prepared for substitutes is being proactive. By creating a sub tub or binder now that is filled with everything a substitute teacher would need, you set the stage for a smooth substitute experience for your guest teacher and for your students. </div><div><br /></div><div>Choose a variety of activities that will help your students practice or review skills they have already been taught. Add in something out of the ordinary, like a math craft, for instant engagement. And. . . engage them with activities you know they love like read-alouds, games, and technology. The next time you need to step away, your plans will be done and ready to go. No stress and no worry! After all, a well-prepared substitute plan is the ultimate gift to your substitute, your students, and yourself! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save for Later</h2><div>Remember to pin this post to your favorite teaching Pinterest board so that you can come back when you need ideas for your sub plans. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNCb8nIIh5TOa3zXnH03GNo9H2XblOZACSIKfSfCvsO6eO_IH9mhRs31LRtiXv9nWaGGh9mFYCU1wjRjXNe5epMLtNWVS0iZC5OPEDUET2Z_R-maD1WKtslJ0TLRlRCiHZGL2VKPeAtZVBkDy5rdx3poT5xp_aCSieoKuf-nYXp-RyQ_ckh3J8qI2QxuI/s1500/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20pin.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for easy activities for substitute teachers to use when you have to be out of the classroom? Check out these amazing activities you, your students, and your guest teacher will absolutely love and aren't just fluff. From helpful tips, lesson plans, and fun activities, your substitute teacher will thank you for this complete list easy activities for substitute teachers." border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="391" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNCb8nIIh5TOa3zXnH03GNo9H2XblOZACSIKfSfCvsO6eO_IH9mhRs31LRtiXv9nWaGGh9mFYCU1wjRjXNe5epMLtNWVS0iZC5OPEDUET2Z_R-maD1WKtslJ0TLRlRCiHZGL2VKPeAtZVBkDy5rdx3poT5xp_aCSieoKuf-nYXp-RyQ_ckh3J8qI2QxuI/w260-h391/Easy%20Elementary%20Ideas%20&%20Activities%20for%20Substitute%20Teachers%20pin.png" title="Easy Elementary Ideas & Activities for Substitute Teachers" width="260" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-43537331105860869732023-12-05T08:41:00.000-08:002024-01-11T14:02:10.314-08:00Favorite Winter Math Craft Activity Perfect for January<p>The winter season brings not only frosty landscapes but also an opportunity to transform your classroom into a hub of excitement and learning through fun winter math activities! My <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Winter-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7569954?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=WINTER%20CRAFTIVITY" target="_blank">January Math Craftivity</a> is more than just an educational resource. It's a chance for your learners to practice key math skills while tapping into the fun and whimsy of winter. We are exploring what makes this winter math activity a must-have for your classroom by looking at the benefits and practical ways to utilize this activity in your classroom. I promise you, this is one activity you want on your winter lesson plans!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghmGWNk1EXv-gop_y8ZwcAmfPEAdPhoAFkUufCJbvLIpedx_TpQYlck1j4-IJGO_CR3vpprXiOUtEBFdWzOrPQ2T3pF9u_wmWSAJhk3A6Yj4VwBwx0n0Ysq4APPnqsCHfsJ4LE1Y4ZD3sRz-ds7QXtRHxYMfr8OI4NytDZ6NOG_LOzRqmJnprTxq6zPXo/s2240/Winter%20Craftivity%20The%20Ultimate%20Guide%20to%20Unleashing%20Winter%20Learning%20Magic%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use this math craftivity in your winter plans for exciting math, ELA, and creative fun." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghmGWNk1EXv-gop_y8ZwcAmfPEAdPhoAFkUufCJbvLIpedx_TpQYlck1j4-IJGO_CR3vpprXiOUtEBFdWzOrPQ2T3pF9u_wmWSAJhk3A6Yj4VwBwx0n0Ysq4APPnqsCHfsJ4LE1Y4ZD3sRz-ds7QXtRHxYMfr8OI4NytDZ6NOG_LOzRqmJnprTxq6zPXo/s16000/Winter%20Craftivity%20The%20Ultimate%20Guide%20to%20Unleashing%20Winter%20Learning%20Magic%20Header.png" title="WINTER MATH CRAFTIVITY" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What is this Winter Math Craft?</h2><div>Let's start with the basics... This <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Winter-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7569954?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=WINTER%20CRAFTIVITY" target="_blank">January Math Craftivity</a> with a winter theme to engage my learners in the cold months. It turns foundational math skills into a wintry math adventure! This resource goes beyond traditional worksheets and offers a hands-on approach that covers a range of math operations. These two winter crafts are the perfect way to ease back into learning after winter break. What sets this winter math craft apart from others is that it's adaptable, covering basic addition and subtraction facts to double-digit division. No matter if you are teaching first grade or fourth grade, kids of all ages will benefit from the differentiation offered in this resource.</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Benefits: Unlocking a World of Possibilities with a Math Craftivity</h2><h3 style="text-align: left;">1. Adaptable Mastery</h3><div>We all know that one size does not fit all in education. As educators, we love that all of our kiddos are unique in their personalities and learning styles. But, it's okay to acknowledge that this can make planning our lessons a bit tricky. This math craft sets out to make your planning a breeze and is easy to incorporate into your small groups, math center rotations, or sub plans!</div><div><br /></div><div>This resource was created to meet your students where they are in their math journey. From single-digit operations for the early grades to the complexity of three-digit multiplication and division in the upper grades, this craftivity ensures that each student finds the right level of challenge to grow and offers practice in a fun way.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Winter-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7569954?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=WINTER%20CRAFTIVITY" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use this math craftivity to meet your students where they are in their math journey making differentiation a breeze." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix29aJRB52UrRAKN8qUxc62sbUmTTW0ddZMozn97wD9dxbP8dlcCJ2eisOMys2tmDXETREWjLcdSBtETYHuJno8ZQYpO2mv7cpoXq23HqvzeLCMVB_UeiP6r_kFbyXml8zzqbhX7EE2jhXfPQ1EEbk4a-ey8B4-tnfZMeuUdop3tICR1ZmgGWO_8_fdfo/w640-h360/Winter%20Craftivity%20The%20Ultimate%20Guide%20to%20Unleashing%20Winter%20Learning%20Magic%20(1).png" title="Winter Craftivity: The Ultimate Guide to Unleashing Winter Learning Magic" width="640" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">2. Effortless Differentiation</h3><div>The overwhelming feeling that blankets us while trying to differentiate our lessons is a thing of the past. This resource takes the headache out of differentiation and offers problems for each skill level. Whether you have students who are just starting to grasp the concept of addition or those ready to tackle multiplication, you'll find the perfect problems to match their abilities. </div><div><br /></div><div>The best part is you don't only differentiate at the skill level, you can differentiate within the skill! Addition.... no problem! Would you like one, two or three-digit practice? With grouping or without? You will find all these different activities inside ONE resource!</div><div><br /></div><div>The math can easily be differentiated while still allowing all students to work on the same final project - the craft. This is an easy way for all students to feel successful despite working on many different levels.</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">3. Seamless Integration Across Operations</h3><div>No need to juggle between different resources for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. My math craftivity provides a seamless transition between the operations. Not only is this valuable for teaching time, but it also helps students see how math concepts connect or relate to one another. </div><div><br /></div><div>The inclusion of all the operations means that whether you are a classroom teacher, math intervention teacher, or homeschool mom to multiple ages - this resource works for you! And. . . if you change grade levels you can still use this activity.</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">How to Use the Winter Math Craft in Your Classroom</h2><div>Math craftivities are some of the best tools to have in your teacher toolbox! They can fit into your classroom wherever you need them to. Whether it's adding a dash of excitement to your math centers for hands-on learning or helping to review concepts within a small group, you're covered. Now, let's dive into the practical ways to use this resource in your own classroom by breaking down how you can add it to your lesson plans effortlessly! </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">First Grade: Building Foundations</h3><div>For the youngest learners, this is a fun way to focus on math fact fluency using single-digit addition and subtraction printable activities. The craftivity offers engaging snowglobe and snowman designs, which help basic math practice turn into an engaging and creative math experience!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Winter-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7569954?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=WINTER%20CRAFTIVITY" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Your students will love being able to choose their own math creativity whether it's a snow globe or snowman." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuZ4Dl8YVcDhPGb3B60POOoi3iTB4n3L9hyphenhyphensaN4oOmPYT5vaSUoVb6uPRJZlHEojdke7s7a74JHPruwgBA3j1esYiw9e9BaW4ZVwxcvzGcnnv_OSoTs2ugrjQF5csBkhy20rmMR9HDLVF5RaBVzV2Ol_eUNHouVnDUD82DauQx9pSlNCzGOHPzUgLtFuE/w640-h360/Winter%20Craftivity%20The%20Ultimate%20Guide%20to%20Unleashing%20Winter%20Learning%20Magic%20(2).png" title="Winter Craftivity: The Ultimate Guide to Unleashing Winter Learning Magic" width="640" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Implementation Steps</h4><div>1. Allow students to choose their preferred craft. </div><div>2. Distribute problems suited to their skill level. </div><div>3. Before coloring, check over their work for correct answers. </div><div>4. Afterwards, students color, cut, and paste their solutions onto their craft! (Added bonus of working on those fine motor skills!)</div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Cross-Curricular Extension</h4><div><div>Half-sheets of paper are provided for students to write a story problem that goes with one of their number sentences. Two versions are included: One with primary lines and another with intermediate lines. </div></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Second and Third Grade: Bridging the Gap</h3><div>As students progress, introduce two-digit addition and subtraction. The math craftivity provides options for regrouping, which, as we know, adds an extra layer of challenge! And. . . if your students are beginning to work on multiplication facts, then pull out the one-digit multiplication problems for some fun winter math fact independent practice.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Winter-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7569954?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=WINTER%20CRAFTIVITY" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use this fun math craftivity to help your third graders practice two digit addition and subtraction." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0RmeCzzdYhQiSWrGNg-jl27wxPsZArCjT5SJKAaYp2oybLxkebv_Zi4Kel6JlPDayBoMotbF-4ycv0oQwrAGwbO0-qYQ9jBvt_0SgIqvcC6QMgAt3umkcEZXlfSGElMTFnepV-mTzGBLVHHV1tG2e7OsjzG0qhmcMpuNc2qSAfvsBfqbVCRNlUaDdO_4/w640-h360/Winter%20Craftivity%20The%20Ultimate%20Guide%20to%20Unleashing%20Winter%20Learning%20Magic%20(3).png" title="Winter Craftivity: The Ultimate Guide to Unleashing Winter Learning Magic" width="640" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Implementation Steps</h4><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Choose a more complex snow globe or snowman design.</li><li>Tailor problems to include two or three-digit addition with regrouping and two-digit subtraction without regrouping, or both. You can also reach for single digit multiplication problems!</li><li>Check over students' work.</li><li>Watch as students confidently tackle the challenges, turning their solutions into a winter wonderland!</li></ol></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Cross-Curricular Extension</h4><div>Students can use full writing pages to craft a descriptive writing piece about their math craftivity. They could even create a story where their crafted character takes center stage. The writing lines printable version comes with primary lines that are perfect for those new cursive writing skills and one with intermediate lines that are great for any writing piece. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Fourth Grade: Mastering Multiplication and Division</h3><div>The upper grades dive into multiplication and division with a single or multiple-digit divisor. </div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Implementation Steps</h4><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Have students select their craft.</li><li>Pass out the differentiated problems involving multiplication and division (or addition)</li><li>Give students time to complete their independent practice of the skill. </li><li>Students turn in work to be checked before being given the green light to go be creative!</li></ol><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Winter-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7569954?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=WINTER%20CRAFTIVITY" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Incorporate your ELA standards into this math craftivity with a fun writing activity." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkoSv7GsCTVjlO1eqAkb-7Up8zN483Xjc8xDxsfT2j2brLaJhQUhxwExhc7cO2L1HsQWWmOCaCUh84TmajNiFwmo3TUENLyec1WlXjK0Ij7ywQJcFCJn1fHqvbdPFAOgXuolIBQDG1Xkwo04SrBii55T-a5uJDSK2Mm0zPQDgTW9eNKGZxK-IWCQpi1Yg/w640-h360/Winter%20Craftivity%20The%20Ultimate%20Guide%20to%20Unleashing%20Winter%20Learning%20Magic%20(4).png" title="Winter Craftivity: The Ultimate Guide to Unleashing Winter Learning Magic" width="640" /></a></div></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Cross-Curricular Extension</h4><div>Just like for 3rd grade, challenge students to write a descriptive story using their craft as an element to their writing! Utilize the two different line options once again for further differentiation and encourage students to get creative! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Making Teachers' Lives Easier: A Time-Saving Approach</h2><div>As educators, time is our most precious resource. I am all about finding ways to "<a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2021/06/7-Super-Smart-Ways.html" target="_blank">get back that teacher time</a>" and this Winter Math Craft is not just about student engagement, it's about making YOUR life in the classroom more manageable with less time devoted at home.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">1. Providing Double Duty</h3><div>These winter activities are perfect for a classroom teacher because not only are you providing an engaging and fun EDUCATIONAL lesson, BUT......put these babies up in your room or on a bulletin board to create a beautiful winter wonderland for January! Your students will be proud to see their work hanging up and as a teacher, you have one less thing to worry about! </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">2. Effortless Planning</h3><div>With clearly differentiated problems and a variety of craft options, planning becomes a breeze! No need to spend hours searching for different resources. This winter math craftivity covers a range of skills, making it an effective tool that adapts to your curriculum. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Winter-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7569954?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=WINTER%20CRAFTIVITY" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Everything you need to have your students complete this fun math craftivity is included in this time saving resource." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5eipgmDC1C2hLRyOAbIML0qJMrtVZ_BvFdQYSuksCleqVHqQ-H6JKhKmnERzf_lg6CO_MCDQP71O29pK-2nAu07zPGJyhcansin9Fa-j8HiqQCNWuB-tiD3jgAw8Hs45hvXmzRovQEmXw6wjjd97tDv0j-m3BjqCyH5Ytz9hldpNh8pPVEgYOmCUGI2Q/w640-h360/Winter%20Craftivity%20The%20Ultimate%20Guide%20to%20Unleashing%20Winter%20Learning%20Magic%20(5).png" title="Winter Craftivity: The Ultimate Guide to Unleashing Winter Learning Magic" width="640" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">3. Simple Implementation</h3><div>Gone are the days of complex setups. The implementation process is simple: </div><div><br /></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Print out problems and craftivity pieces. </li><li>Students pick their craft. </li><li>Distribute the math problems that are easily differentiated for individual learners.</li><li>Students complete the math work, and the teacher checks it over to provide feedback.</li><li>The final step involves coloring, cutting, and pasting the problems onto the chosen craft.</li></ol></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">4. Cross-Curricular Extensions with a Math Craftivity</h3><div>My math craftivity enhances math skills and brings language arts to the mix. Using the included writing pages, students can write word problems related to their craft or tackle a creative writing assignment. It's cross-curricular magic without the added stress of planning separate activities!</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Embrace Winter with the Winter Math Craftivity!</h2><div>Winter isn't always the most fun time in the classroom. I've been there....The inability to get outside due to the weather often makes attention spans run short. Add to that the days seem cold and drab. But we don't have to fall into the winter slump. Instead, focus on bringing the fun and whimsy of winter into your classroom with activities like the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Winter-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7569954?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=WINTER%20CRAFTIVITY" target="_blank">Winter Math Craftivity</a>! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Winter-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7569954?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=WINTER%20CRAFTIVITY" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab this winter math craftivity to use in your classroom this December or January for fun ELA and math learning your students will love." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMc1o0GAVi5oz2iXohoOCHjpVsSS8tr36CbLeEiC7nfzJKhMNNp1mivQ-9YVVxz00egLkq4Ojsce39KgjcGMCIu-ZxuVYDtk5Ola4XXw9yrpmcL5PBebT-sje16w5hR4VLkMfqIJyycnenYWCvfzFzQKtmHkoE8Aq3qkUsgVPKsH99Xp77BckdoY1j7T8/w320-h320/Winter%20Craftivity%20The%20Ultimate%20Guide%20to%20Unleashing%20Winter%20Learning%20Magic%20Product%20Cover%20Images.png" title="Winter Craftivity: The Ultimate Guide to Unleashing Winter Learning Magic" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>You can also find this math craftivity and more in my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7684964?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=WINTER%20CRAFTIVITY" target="_blank">Holiday Math Activities and Centers Bundle</a>! Your students will love working on these math craftivities all year long!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7684964?utm_source=EI%20BLOG%20&utm_campaign=WINTER%20CRAFTIVITY" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Be sure to grab this seasonal bundle for more awesome crafts like this math craftivity." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFB7t-4F_yy8fTdOVfhL47j9cO83QItV88IyL0O5VhnVXn3F6-t5U8sUcyTCcbLIlgSLzJ4uATVhMzSMyMMeKGmJN8s3DrxleRi3scK_4cfxzZDuE_mBRuD_yPJ_RmzrtmUijnaZZbIYzcTOi7dAj-FK6fglzd3FKMu5b0oZ0omELab1kdxiTPII0s7vM/w320-h320/Winter%20Craftivity%20The%20Ultimate%20Guide%20to%20Unleashing%20Winter%20Learning%20Magic%20Product%20Cover%20Images%20(1).png" title="Winter Craftivity: The Ultimate Guide to Unleashing Winter Learning Magic Seasonal Bundle" width="320" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save for Later</h2><div>Remember to save this post to your favorite math Pinterest board to return to when in need of some winter magic added to your math lesson plans!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWQybLwJKdr-_P7s-jE-A8vesCuhU3VHjybciISYL0NfdlX8u7bYyDWkfd1v278gHKZyFJKYGWZuPAhptN0IRGSX-vv4oyfSW2AmU_MLd994T0VQ0_yNq-QTRnVsrPvQ0vq_RYbeceD25jNLrEt9l6c20lhvMijdy5xtCYqtDRJ4vCKNEf71Fl8QMGUmo/s1500/Winter%20Craftivity%20The%20Ultimate%20Guide%20to%20Unleashing%20Winter%20Learning%20Magic%20pin.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for a fun way to get in some extra ELA and math practice while letting your students get creative this winter? This math craftivity includes everything you need for fun math practice, creative writing, and a little art fun too. #elementaryisland #mathcraftivity #wintermathactivity #winterelaactivity" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWQybLwJKdr-_P7s-jE-A8vesCuhU3VHjybciISYL0NfdlX8u7bYyDWkfd1v278gHKZyFJKYGWZuPAhptN0IRGSX-vv4oyfSW2AmU_MLd994T0VQ0_yNq-QTRnVsrPvQ0vq_RYbeceD25jNLrEt9l6c20lhvMijdy5xtCYqtDRJ4vCKNEf71Fl8QMGUmo/w244-h366/Winter%20Craftivity%20The%20Ultimate%20Guide%20to%20Unleashing%20Winter%20Learning%20Magic%20pin.png" title="WINTER MATH CRAFTIVITY FOR ELEMENTARY STUDENTS" width="244" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-15466467833217908102023-09-29T12:44:00.042-07:002023-10-06T08:08:16.770-07:00Enhance Vocabulary Skills with Word of the Week Activities for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Graders!<p>Let's chat about something essential in our line of work: words. You see, in the education universe, language is the magical key that unlocks doors to knowledge and understanding. One of our main missions as teachers is to equip our learners with the superpower of self-expression and the ability to make sense of this ever-evolving world. I have an absolute game-changer for this linguistic adventure with my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-of-the-Week-Vocabulary-Activities-for-2nd-3rd-and-4th-grade-9764265?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Enhance%20Vocabulary%20Skills%20with%20Word%20of%20the%20Week%20Activities%20for%202nd%2C%203rd%2C%20and%204th%20Graders!" target="_blank">Word of the Week Vocabulary Activities</a> resource. Trust me. This resource will make expanding vocabularies an absolute breeze in your classroom!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj599lbqqDrlrtjr0PxllRhstlHic839BccGVm-ZjNVOq0mBK38nWfLyu30xaQaWvWW5PWox_lWKYDUlnDMYVtfqw1oH881aFcOaJ-koXOKQsWrlSC5YOaOoTW4F3fCX2mjOCEp8XbRMO2oC_9WHWqPYVll4k8IPkGXOOow62pK3q_o_XZ7FwdtoA3_JD0/s2240/Enhance%20Vocabulary%20Skills%20with%20Word%20of%20the%20Week%20Activities%20for%202nd,%203rd,%20and%204th%20Graders!.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img alt="This valuable resource has everything you need to enhance vocabulary skills with word of the week activities for grades 2 through 4." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj599lbqqDrlrtjr0PxllRhstlHic839BccGVm-ZjNVOq0mBK38nWfLyu30xaQaWvWW5PWox_lWKYDUlnDMYVtfqw1oH881aFcOaJ-koXOKQsWrlSC5YOaOoTW4F3fCX2mjOCEp8XbRMO2oC_9WHWqPYVll4k8IPkGXOOow62pK3q_o_XZ7FwdtoA3_JD0/w640-h360/Enhance%20Vocabulary%20Skills%20with%20Word%20of%20the%20Week%20Activities%20for%202nd,%203rd,%20and%204th%20Graders!.png" title="Enhance Vocabulary Skills with Word of the Week Activities for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Graders!" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">The Quest for Enriched Vocabulary with Word of the Week</h2><h3 style="text-align: left;">How Word of the Week Can Transform Your Classroom</h3><div>Are you on a mission to supercharge your students' vocabularies while keeping things exciting? My Word of the Week Vocabulary Activities packet is your trusty sidekick in the word power quest. Let's take a look into how this resource can add a dash of word magic to your classroom: </div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Word Integration at Its Best</h4><div>It's not just about learning new words but also about using them! Word of the Week encourages students to sprinkle these magical words into their writing, conversation, and even while reading their favorite books. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div><div>We don't want our students to become passive learners of words. Our goal is to help them weave these new words into the activities and conversations they take part in! It helps them to go from acquiring the vocab to applying it in real-world situations!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-of-the-Week-Vocabulary-Activities-for-2nd-3rd-and-4th-grade-9764265?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Enhance%20Vocabulary%20Skills%20with%20Word%20of%20the%20Week%20Activities%20for%202nd%2C%203rd%2C%20and%204th%20Graders!" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Word integration is easy when you use these word integration activities in your daily lessons." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEPE2RpG_uYXy6QqdUX-0EHDJzIG8V3af2hhizQgMXxtotjvp4NOSmiUNwUUqGqPggSS2G_oIq-AZWl7P9tkB9FkTv3UPWdvZVikuuRb6AGiP874PJWhuqmDKb2e9CyEg6wqjwP8kdMu32hBR5AFBL3KXPFViKEnIG94Q_pZvdrKyQXwQAhltdGaGHHAg/w640-h360/Copy%20of%20Enhance%20Vocabulary%20Skills%20with%20Word%20of%20the%20Week%20Activities%20for%202nd,%203rd,%20and%204th%20Graders!%20Header.png" title="Enhance Vocabulary Skills with Word of the Week Activities for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Graders!" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>As they become more comfortable, your students (readers, writers, conversationalists) will discover how powerful words can be when expressing themselves. Their confidence and excitement heighten when they uncover one of these words while reading or conversing with someone. They're like lightbulb moments or ah-ha moments because they can better understand what is being said!</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Effortless Integration into Your Busy Schedule</h4><div>Here's the cherry on top: implementing Word of the Week activities is as easy as pie! I understand that your schedule as a teacher is often packed to the brim with lessons, activities, and responsibilities. That's why I have designed this resource to seamlessly blend into your daily routine without adding extra stress or time-consuming tasks. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-of-the-Week-Vocabulary-Activities-for-2nd-3rd-and-4th-grade-9764265?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Enhance%20Vocabulary%20Skills%20with%20Word%20of%20the%20Week%20Activities%20for%202nd%2C%203rd%2C%20and%204th%20Graders!" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Implementing word of the week activities is easy when you can break up your weeks into manageable lists like these." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKSkp8GzEh59GQc48Yz_6KFdt4L3BT2SEogdU_-qw2n-hsLRZLUoW_OWG8tY4pYF6zJ7izr4iTPrFukb3SyHpSw4xNoMNilRvl5YVi3R5jXqeIZ7155yG2yvJkHssGmTkwb0-Rl0c5jYxHN4Nn4O5Qrpnme9hnduXpjpTwoSkrsfHnFktGi4kX2v4-xPE/w640-h360/Enhance%20Vocabulary%20Skills%20with%20Word%20of%20the%20Week%20Activities%20for%202nd,%203rd,%20and%204th%20Graders!%20(1).png" title="Enhance Vocabulary Skills with Word of the Week Activities for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Graders!" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Believe it or not, sprinkling this word magic into your lessons takes only 10 minutes a day. Think about it - just a short coffee break's worth of time can help your students grow in confidence when it comes to new vocabulary! No need for complex planning, never-ending preparation, or late-night adjustments. Word of the Week effortlessly weaves vocabulary enrichment into your existing schedule.</div><div><br /></div><div>This resource will enhance your teaching experience and make vocabulary expansion a natural and enjoyable part of your classroom routine. Whether you have a jam-packed day of lessons or a hectic week of grading ahead, Word of the Week fits snugly into your agenda, leaving you more time to focus on what truly matters --- inspiring your students and igniting their passion for learning. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What's Inside Word of the Week</h2><div>Let's dig a bit deeper into the treasure chest that is our Word of the Week Vocabulary Activities resource: </div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>36 Handpicked Words</b>: I've carefully chosen words that will set your students' vocabularies on fire!</li><li><b>Teacher Tips</b>: Need some guidance on making the most of this resource? I've got you covered with tips on setup, introduction, and reinforcement. </li><li><b>Quarterly Assessments</b>: Worried about tracking progress? I've got that sorted with 4 Quarter Tests and answer keys.</li><li><b>Student-Friendly Layout</b>: Every word gets a two-page spread with daily activities, so no one's left scratching their heads. </li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-of-the-Week-Vocabulary-Activities-for-2nd-3rd-and-4th-grade-9764265?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Enhance%20Vocabulary%20Skills%20with%20Word%20of%20the%20Week%20Activities%20for%202nd%2C%203rd%2C%20and%204th%20Graders!" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Quarterly assessments, customizable covers, and comprehensive word pages are just a few of the amazing resources included in this word of the week resource." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSHSus2plJ6E-PCasTCkLpbWKStnuRB8wwHeMcP15pIR4YH04DyraTgdnGYnLhVJ_7YxddUVaAe5y6YSoIQDTk7ichEDoD4-zJRMEGB-gEo2zlO-Y9XPaku36asNnW4dL_kzyeEWb-JY4PjTRe_0DGCzY012ytFHWa-qTkjPOW6jErbU5nJpwVwzrV28c/w640-h360/Enhance%20Vocabulary%20Skills%20with%20Word%20of%20the%20Week%20Activities%20for%202nd,%203rd,%20and%204th%20Graders!%20(2).png" title="Enhance Vocabulary Skills with Word of the Week Activities for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Graders!" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Customizable Covers</b>: Having choice adds a bit of fun to life, right? Students can choose from 12 different covers for their workbook. </li><li><b>Comprehensive Word Pages</b>: Each vocabulary word comes with a header, definition sheet, and a sentence that shows it in action. </li><li><b>Easy Printing</b>: Our student workbook is a piece of cake to print, so no tech stress here!</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Benefits of Using Word of the Week Vocabulary Activities</h2><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Expanding Vocabulary</b>: In just 10 minutes a day, watch your students' vocabulary begin to soar!</li><li><b>Enhanced Comprehension</b>: Their reading comprehension levels will rise as they become comfortable with new words. </li><li><b>Context Analysis Skills</b>: The activities will sharpen their ability to understand words in conversations, in texts they read, and in shows they listen to, resulting in them using the words on their own! </li><li><b>Better Communication</b>: Your students will be able to express their thoughts more clearly, both verbally and written. </li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-of-the-Week-Vocabulary-Activities-for-2nd-3rd-and-4th-grade-9764265?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Enhance%20Vocabulary%20Skills%20with%20Word%20of%20the%20Week%20Activities%20for%202nd%2C%203rd%2C%20and%204th%20Graders!" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Some benefits of using this word of the week resource include: expanding vocabulary, enhanced comprehension, and context analysis skills just to name a few." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGXD4zsNVepXdxCymdrq59jyfbqVXT_uf_ud_Ok2NhBgn8SzbHxMaBfrbm4_YR78Qfhd6_TBcsoKtGApyR0KQ8MIBGbszB45eW_oMUhKVVdy1Gx0QNsa6f95VpIA1QVn1FmB7xhZTSu0OmKMInrYRp91VqyAQGmN-ceKELg08yfU_Z1F5scplGC5qTcM/w640-h360/Enhance%20Vocabulary%20Skills%20with%20Word%20of%20the%20Week%20Activities%20for%202nd,%203rd,%20and%204th%20Graders!%20(3).png" title="Enhance Vocabulary Skills with Word of the Week Activities for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Graders!" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Memory Boost</b>: Repetition and active use make words stick like glue.</li><li><b>Academic Success</b>: Improved performance across the board in all subject areas. </li></ul></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Empower Your Teaching with Word of the Week Vocabulary Activities </h2><div>In the whirlwind world of education, I get it - you're swamped. There's hardly a moment to spare between lesson planning, grading, and guiding your students toward progress! That's precisely why <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-of-the-Week-Vocabulary-Activities-for-2nd-3rd-and-4th-grade-9764265?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Enhance%20Vocabulary%20Skills%20with%20Word%20of%20the%20Week%20Activities%20for%202nd%2C%203rd%2C%20and%204th%20Graders!" target="_blank">Word of the Week Vocabulary Activities</a> isn't just another resource. It's here to make your life easier and your students' learning experience more enriching than ever. </div><div><br /></div><div>It seamlessly integrates into your already-hectic schedule by only requiring 10 minutes a day to work its magic. You won't be sacrificing time for it. I know how precious your time is, but truthfully, you'll be gifting your students a great vocabulary tool. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-of-the-Week-Vocabulary-Activities-for-2nd-3rd-and-4th-grade-9764265?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Enhance%20Vocabulary%20Skills%20with%20Word%20of%20the%20Week%20Activities%20for%202nd%2C%203rd%2C%20and%204th%20Graders!" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab this Word of the Week Resource with 36 Words for the entire year." border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_v0u4rMQLa1d3L7mwhpL0rFB3QDUvuqAa9RnQJWGx9Ka7q1U5UWanrrfRmLfA2tTjGrSx5ih-4W7-CBSeuxJEjS29y4k7a3Fl4MIyke0ZJaRq4-IoZlcd_sq5mX6RdttZbatu42NndTZvFlzrytfesyIJrJe41Mrl6jtJZ5LWSlYsWQ4O0Kvo5BjE10w/w320-h320/original-9764265-1.jpeg" title="Enhance Vocabulary Skills with Word of the Week Activities for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Graders!" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Watch as your students begin to confidently express themselves and understand the world around them as they navigate the topsy-turvy world full of words! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save for Later</h2><div>Remember to save this pin to your favorite teacher Pinterest board for when you need vocabulary activities to enhance your students' learning experience. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKsfzOakGiVOWcZPyVWjAuDuFsHoMBQ7Vfow_MxyWNpwuNdwE_wdUUVB9DY4mYf9MrjAi0AaX476g-pCOzu9UE9hhJZ9V3dF0HWSO11Die_xLsjB35VISjhpMU7AAy9O9mkQIgLr2jiN_KSGqggoXGyuMEoBHxQ01qPAjxQhlBo-VpOWFXl16uBnlrQKI/s1500/Enhance%20Vocabulary%20Skills%20with%20Word%20of%20the%20Week%20Activities%20for%202nd,%203rd,%20and%204th%20Graders!%20%20Pin.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img alt="Looking for ways to enhance vocabulary skills in your classroom this year? This word of the week resource includes everything you need for an entire year's worth of vocabulary skills practice you need. Use the activity pages, no prep worksheets, and more for daily word work practice you and your students will love. #elementaryisland #wordoftheweek #vocabularyskillspractice #wordoftheweekresources #yearlongvocabularyactivities" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKsfzOakGiVOWcZPyVWjAuDuFsHoMBQ7Vfow_MxyWNpwuNdwE_wdUUVB9DY4mYf9MrjAi0AaX476g-pCOzu9UE9hhJZ9V3dF0HWSO11Die_xLsjB35VISjhpMU7AAy9O9mkQIgLr2jiN_KSGqggoXGyuMEoBHxQ01qPAjxQhlBo-VpOWFXl16uBnlrQKI/w213-h320/Enhance%20Vocabulary%20Skills%20with%20Word%20of%20the%20Week%20Activities%20for%202nd,%203rd,%20and%204th%20Graders!%20%20Pin.png" title="Enhance Vocabulary Skills with Word of the Week Activities for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Graders!" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-46829429930806239962023-09-13T07:11:00.001-07:002023-09-13T07:11:07.655-07:004 Ways to Differentiate Instruction in the Elementary Classroom<p style="text-align: left;">In today's diverse elementary classrooms, teachers face so many challenges. One of the main things that comes to mind is meeting the unique learning needs of every student we encounter. I have found through lots of trial and error that a super effective approach to successfully meeting the learning needs of each of my students is by differentiating my teaching. In this post, I am going to focus on how you can differentiate instruction in the elementary classroom. And. . . I will share the 4 main ways to differentiate effectively in the elementary classroom which include by product, process, content, and through your classroom environment. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrbPkxrVMpH1GmC5XfyDy0NPNfe4UhawQ9Zj6RQvvYpwwURDe37gDJWeIEj4xM2N5BptnKxm8rUer89_N0mXUuXXBR5CfWimNq7lcm_gJ1HTRXPJmsv0ls7uWfWPluU4QMNv8224H_UkZTBqIfOv-_Zx3rbkpa0bJ4ULw2qsKXGbr15mdwZX5JsVicU4/s2240/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Get ready for effectively differentiate instruction in your classroom with these ideas sure to make differentiation a breeze for you this year." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrbPkxrVMpH1GmC5XfyDy0NPNfe4UhawQ9Zj6RQvvYpwwURDe37gDJWeIEj4xM2N5BptnKxm8rUer89_N0mXUuXXBR5CfWimNq7lcm_gJ1HTRXPJmsv0ls7uWfWPluU4QMNv8224H_UkZTBqIfOv-_Zx3rbkpa0bJ4ULw2qsKXGbr15mdwZX5JsVicU4/w640-h360/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom%20Header.png" title="4 Main Ways to Differentiate in the Elementary Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What is Differentiation? </h2><div>Differentiation is all about tailoring instruction to meet the individual needs of each of your students. That means using specific content, processes, products, or learning environments to help meet the needs of the individual students in your classroom. </div><div><br /></div><div>For helpful ways to get started with the basics of differentiation in your classroom, be sure to check out the previous post in this differentiation series, <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2023/06/effectively-differentiate.html" target="_blank">Practical Steps to Effectively Differentiate in Your Classroom. </a></div><div><br /></div><div>Even though differentiation has been around for a while now, it doesn't mean everyone does it. But, I can tell you from lots of experience that it's one of the most helpful "tools" I've used in my classroom over the years. And, differentiation doesn't have to be overly complicated or include tons of lesson plans that take hours to write. Differentiation is all about finding out where your students are currently and meeting the m there. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIBBKjaul8eTKV-haCqeuhKi-D1l4Bt6FPFCSYc0ux1cnzCiGLATWWtPrUtmJ76h04iBzKX19AFOu5MigUHrKdPd-1nNAjNj3RyEtQvDEsfuPxnbXMg2CI8wG1_1qkXSRjhGHk_7AArRdlaJSjPecN_tuRsuJUhx_USli5GF2QyfMUXuRhs_t3g_NObyw/s2000/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Differentiation is meeting students where they are with instruction that is tailored to their unique and individual learning styles." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIBBKjaul8eTKV-haCqeuhKi-D1l4Bt6FPFCSYc0ux1cnzCiGLATWWtPrUtmJ76h04iBzKX19AFOu5MigUHrKdPd-1nNAjNj3RyEtQvDEsfuPxnbXMg2CI8wG1_1qkXSRjhGHk_7AArRdlaJSjPecN_tuRsuJUhx_USli5GF2QyfMUXuRhs_t3g_NObyw/w640-h360/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom.png" title="4 Main Ways to Differentiate in the Elementary Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>For example, you may have a group of students who you see need a little more help with addition facts. So, to help them, put them in a small group and give them differentiated instruction with a fun center activity, worksheet, Boom Card activity, or anything else that would help give them the extra skills practice they need. At the same time, you may have a group of kiddos who have mastered simple addition and are ready for two or even three-digit addition. You can do exactly the same thing and put them together in a group with worksheets, Boom Cards, etc. for more advanced skills practice to keep them engaged. </div><div><br /></div><div>See what I mean? It's all about meeting your kiddos where they are, identifying their needs, and moving on from that point. Easy-peasy!</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/differentiation_guide" target="_blank">GRAB THIS FREE <b>DIFFERENTIATION GUIDE</b> TO HELP YOU GET STARTED WITH ALL THINGS DIFFERENTIATION!</a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. How to Differentiate Instruction by Product</h2><div>So, now that we have a basic understanding of what differentiation is, let's talk about the different ways you can differentiate in your classroom. The first way is by product. </div><div><br /></div><div>Differentiating by product for elementary students involves offering a range of options for students to demonstrate their understanding of the material. Some practical strategies to implement differentiation by product could include:</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Tiered Assignments</h3><div>Using assignments with different levels of complexity for your students is a great way to effectively differentiate instruction. You are still teaching the same skill to all of your students, but you are able to create tiered assignments for students at different levels of the particular skill mastery. For example, in your math lesson, you can create three sets of problems: basic, intermediate, and advanced. Then, it's as easy as assigning the tier based on each student's ability. </div><div><h3>Learning Stations</h3><div>Whether you call these learning stations or centers is up to you. Basically, they are the same with one difference. Learning stations allow you to set up different activities or tasks related to the targeted skill you want your students to practice. As your students rotate through the stations, they will have several different tasks to choose from. Each task helps them practice the same skill, but your students will be able to choose the task that appeals most to them. This means you will have more buy in and your students will stay more engaged and essentially get the most out of their learning experience. </div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQETVi2vyHCa_YnhV2U4X84QpTPaW5uNo9bZ98WJxTaX8v8ODx1mFbG_VHIrUiW2EnKqSlqnc_ucmIM3LJcGAC40wxFM_Mu9jnWG1J9Rs8b9inCM8V6k2YhfYkIe2dMoQ8xpztbUf0AWASkY0tCUK8ndYuLwNuXiaupdgNMnzFEnBAK3mI_72szuPecFQ/s2000/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom%20(1).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Learning stations are a great way to differentiate in the elementary classroom because they give your students the opportunity to choose how they want to show their learning." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQETVi2vyHCa_YnhV2U4X84QpTPaW5uNo9bZ98WJxTaX8v8ODx1mFbG_VHIrUiW2EnKqSlqnc_ucmIM3LJcGAC40wxFM_Mu9jnWG1J9Rs8b9inCM8V6k2YhfYkIe2dMoQ8xpztbUf0AWASkY0tCUK8ndYuLwNuXiaupdgNMnzFEnBAK3mI_72szuPecFQ/w640-h360/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom%20(1).png" title="4 Main Ways to Differentiate in the Elementary Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Choice Boards or Menus</h3><div>You can design a choice board or menu with various assignment options for your students to select from. Include activities that would appeal to the various learning styles and interests of your students. For example, a choice board for a project may include an option to write a story, create a comic strip, make a diorama, or record a video presentation. Not only does this give you the ability to meet your students where they are skill-wise, but it also gives them a sense of independence. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. How to Differentiate Instruction by Process</h2><div>Differentiating by process means providing a variety of approaches, resources, and opportunities for your students. By providing a variety of ways for your students to learn, practice, and master key skills and concepts you can be sure each of your students can thrive and achieve their full potential in your classroom. Differentiation by process not only enhances academic achievement but also fosters a love for learning and empowers students to take an active role in their education. How cool is that? </div><div><br /></div><div>Some easy ways to differentiate by process include:</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Individualized Learning Paths</h3><div>Develop individualized learning paths for students. This means you are creating a specialized learning goal for your students and giving them the opportunity to reach those goals in ways that work best for their learning styles. These paths can be based on pre-assessments or ongoing formative assessments and guide each student's progress through the curriculum at their own pace. </div><div><h3>Cooperative Learning Opportunities</h3><div>I can't stress enough how valuable it is to give your students the opportunity to learn from and teach one another. When you are able to incorporate cooperative learning activities in your classroom, your students will feel empowered and excited about learning. For example, for a novel study, it would be helpful to group students with different learning styles together. If you have a student who is fantastic at researching but doesn't love drawing, putting them together in a group with another student who LOVES any opportunity to be creative means they can work together to find the information they need and creatively show their learning. Not only does collaborative learning enhance understanding of key concepts, but it also fosters an environment of problem solving.</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY-k7ehdyzxWLTQvGYZEWlZjGBdiKACOplcnmUwiOVqjnhM3WVjOkOwkO9H1gE_0MVvr-T0xaZ_LjRl0WpYK1rDIr4-fq0FA_0Z8eFCRctMvPFp47Jal5clbOcJPvxUxcLesoSteadCrkv6oojjkf2iX6DjCx-pkIEwUjfUYE8GCQjMRcf6WkpVpbLBoA/s2000/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom%20(2).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Giving your students the opportunity to participate in cooperative learning is an excellent way to differentiate learning to meet the needs of your individual students." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY-k7ehdyzxWLTQvGYZEWlZjGBdiKACOplcnmUwiOVqjnhM3WVjOkOwkO9H1gE_0MVvr-T0xaZ_LjRl0WpYK1rDIr4-fq0FA_0Z8eFCRctMvPFp47Jal5clbOcJPvxUxcLesoSteadCrkv6oojjkf2iX6DjCx-pkIEwUjfUYE8GCQjMRcf6WkpVpbLBoA/w640-h360/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom%20(2).png" title="4 Main Ways to Differentiate in the Elementary Classroom Cooperative Learning" width="640" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Scaffolded Instruction</h3><div>Use scaffolding techniques to support your students as they learn new concepts or skills. This is a great "sister" process to the individualized learning paths because you are able to make your scaffolded instruction unique for each student. As your students progress through the skill you are able to gradually reduce support as they become more proficient which allows them to take ownership of their learning. It's an amazing experience for teachers and students alike!</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. How to Differentiate Instruction by Content</h2><div>To differentiate by content means you are tailoring your instruction or curriculum to meet the diverse learning needs, abilities, interests, and readiness levels of each of your students. It's important to remember that each of our students has different prior knowledge, learning styles, and individual strengths. </div><div><br /></div><div>Ways to effectively differentiate by content could include:</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Curriculum Compacting</h3><div>Curriculum compacting is basically identifying students who have already mastered certain aspects of the content you are teaching and providing them the opportunity to explore them more in-depth. I like to think of these as enrichment activities my students can do that will help them stay engaged in the learning, but also choose something that feels fun for them. Curriculum compacting pairs perfectly with tiered assignments because it gives your students the opportunity to have more voice and choice in their learning. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Use of Technology</h3><div>We all know how much our students love any opportunity to use technology in the classroom. So, if we can use technology to our advantage when differentiating by content it's a win-win situation! You can use technology to deliver personalized content or adaptive learning experiences based on the skill level of your individual students. Boom Cards are a perfect resource for differentiating because you can assign decks to students based on the specific skills you want them to be practicing. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ZKCav9V8TWjlpzRbiUcla8iM5SFVRf7KuG0vCF_mHnP-KEdhY4taJadnvnd0v0qpwXCn1fm4o_9l7SZdZTFtpJw7460g-TZzOeoxrXkNLQkIFPBhzt_HDu6WmRz8ZPRY_JlJuARKlBjl8IYZrINuAIqTKs8ORHZqtxT90hanBaSufyyo1SV-sHyX4gk/s2000/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom%20(3).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Technology is a fantastic tool to help you differentiate instruction for each of your students this year." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ZKCav9V8TWjlpzRbiUcla8iM5SFVRf7KuG0vCF_mHnP-KEdhY4taJadnvnd0v0qpwXCn1fm4o_9l7SZdZTFtpJw7460g-TZzOeoxrXkNLQkIFPBhzt_HDu6WmRz8ZPRY_JlJuARKlBjl8IYZrINuAIqTKs8ORHZqtxT90hanBaSufyyo1SV-sHyX4gk/w640-h360/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom%20(3).png" title="4 Main Ways to Differentiate in the Elementary Classroom Technology" width="640" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Varied Learning Resources</h3><div>Providing a range of learning materials like textbooks, articles, videos, interactive websites, and hands-on manipulatives helps your students feel more comfortable with how they are learning. When your kiddos are feeling excited about what they are learning because of how the information is presented, you will find them more engaged and actually learning MORE! </div><div><br /></div><div>You know your students better than anyone and you can probably identify several students who would be more engaged in what they are learning by watching a video. On the flip side, you know there are also several students who wouldn't have the focus for a video but would excel with an interactive website. Just because your kiddos are learning the content in different ways doesn't mean one is better than the other. This is where your differentiation is such a success. You are giving every one of your students the opportunity to learn in the way that works best for them!</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. How to Differentiate Instruction by Environment</h2><div>You may not immediately think of your classroom environment as a tool for differentiation, but it absolutely can be! Differentiation by environment involves adapting the classroom setting, routines, and atmosphere to accommodate the diverse needs of students. By creating a supportive and flexible environment, teachers can optimize learning experiences and ensure that every child feels valued, safe, and motivated to learn. Differentiating by environment recognizes that students respond differently to their surroundings, and it aims to create a space that nurtures their strengths and addresses their challenges. </div><div><span face="Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"" style="background-color: #f7f7f8; color: #374151; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div><div>Some examples of differentiating by environment include:</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Classroom Layout</h3><div>Arranging your classroom to provide multiple learning spaces, such as quiet corners for independent work, collaborative areas for group activities, and designated spaces for hands-on projects is a great way to naturally foster an environment of differentiated learning. You can even create flexible seating options to cater to different learning preferences. These could include standing desks, bean bags, traditional desks, group tables, and more. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Choice and Autonomy</h3><div>This one might sound a little "out there", but believe me when I say this can work! At the beginning of the year, quarterly, monthly, or how often you feel is acceptable, offer your students the ability to choose where they sit within the classroom. This might be flexible seating, but it could also be sitting with a specific group. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can also work together with your class to design the layout of your classroom. This could include a more home-like feel with floor lamps, window coverings, or even a couch. Giving your class (and individual students) the opportunity to have a differentiated learning environment will go a long way in the overall success of your school year. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidMYXh-zdoPltF_w5YbMegigLOnRJENsGGlxmvsIlVLGqdfpYKvDtag5XGQ_muaJUvrRv5mRWpePTiyGzpGRqEinIKizIgLfHnvgmIz_TyE1ZpqPKtCmGKfzl4b2UfrlCQ-_liEsC81L9NblDmZemOn2hbTd_OGVnRXcB0i0JG48Ta5tDSRoj6X9NMZZw/s2000/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom%20(4).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Creating a differentiated learning environment in your classroom will ensure each of your students feels successful and ready to learn each and every day." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidMYXh-zdoPltF_w5YbMegigLOnRJENsGGlxmvsIlVLGqdfpYKvDtag5XGQ_muaJUvrRv5mRWpePTiyGzpGRqEinIKizIgLfHnvgmIz_TyE1ZpqPKtCmGKfzl4b2UfrlCQ-_liEsC81L9NblDmZemOn2hbTd_OGVnRXcB0i0JG48Ta5tDSRoj6X9NMZZw/w640-h360/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom%20(4).png" title="4 Main Ways to Differentiate in the Elementary Classroom Environment" width="640" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Calm Corners and Active Areas</h3><div>Within your class, you are going to have some students who prefer a lot of space to move around when learning. But, you will also probably have several students who do better learning in a snug, cozy and quiet environment. Creating a safe space for both types of learners within your classroom environment can seem impossible, but I promise it's doable. </div><div><br /></div><div>Create a designated calm corner workspace for students who need some quiet to focus while working on school work. This can be an area with a special table, comfortable beanbag chairs, etc. But, work together with your class to discuss what this area should look and sound like so the expectations are clear at the beginning of the year. For your active areas, the same concept applies. Working collaboratively with your students, talk about what sort of activities will be appropriate for the active area and what it should look and sound like. </div><div><br /></div><div>This will help your students take ownership of their learning and give you differentiated areas of your classroom environment for learning to take place in the way that works best for your students. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Differentiation is the Key to Success in Your Classroom</h2><div>By embracing differentiation by product, process, content, and environment in our classrooms we can create a nurturing and empowering learning environment for our students. This will help each and every one of our students thrive and reach their full potential. </div><div><br /></div><div>Whether this is your first or 40th year in the classroom, you are sure to find that differentiating instruction is an incredible way to help each of your students feel successful in your classroom. <br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvRruV1cxuV2ze3tIUPSlcVT2slt0AVBkXeKOGAbH8sCYGVGvud5vJLvZT-R7i6nVH7xLyFhFT7dhUrOuzywMHMUJmrvHMDgViaW7XJEjP7DSTz-iiBk_ruzPvWT63rEmoYVRhiRVmsudbWD3o5ixVMGhRnk3Y9maUAbO47fOH35oQMW2sFCpJ6U5eBmY/s2000/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom%20(5).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Differentiating in the elementary classroom is not only easy but fun when you put these key concepts into practice." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvRruV1cxuV2ze3tIUPSlcVT2slt0AVBkXeKOGAbH8sCYGVGvud5vJLvZT-R7i6nVH7xLyFhFT7dhUrOuzywMHMUJmrvHMDgViaW7XJEjP7DSTz-iiBk_ruzPvWT63rEmoYVRhiRVmsudbWD3o5ixVMGhRnk3Y9maUAbO47fOH35oQMW2sFCpJ6U5eBmY/w640-h360/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom%20(5).png" title="4 Main Ways to Differentiate in the Elementary Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h2 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Differentiation Resources for You</h2><div>If you are ready to jump into differentiation, I have some amazing resources for you! Check out the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Math-BUNDLE-Differentiated-Time-Activities-Fractions-Money-Skip-Counting-2452150?utm_source=Elementary%20Island&utm_campaign=4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom" target="_blank">Math Differentiation Bundle</a> in the Elementary Island TPT store today! From skip counting and fractions to money and learning about time, I've got your differentiated instruction covered!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Math-BUNDLE-Differentiated-Time-Activities-Fractions-Money-Skip-Counting-2452150?utm_source=Elementary%20Island&utm_campaign=4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab this Math Differentiation Bundle to try these differentiation techniques in your classroom today." border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHUipLIzFKBcISuSXQ08iEZ6ikJ7v7lkhXPzJIcF3tQBwrQ-xA7ioGUt-W-do5_PHH2neNVTqlE_DfEMtrxuenB5xxTd_ax7BZ5LSD3jK01DxXERmvq_oadMCrqz0XwpfhOKo_IPIwe6QOH-93VCB2f9OEAwLhkIyBjM5rdTDnPmk2QK5pSoJpDITBt6I/w320-h320/original-2452150-1.jpeg" title="4 Main Ways to Differentiate in the Elementary Classroom" width="320" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Don't Forget this FREE Differentiation Guide</h2><div>Grab this <a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/differentiation_guide" target="_blank">FREE guide</a> that includes specific instructional strategies for each of the core subjects, a student interest form, and more! It's the perfect resource to keep in your teacher binder or with your lesson planning supplies so you always have practical tips and ideas right at your fingertips. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #1c4678; font-family: "Poppins New", Poppins, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 17.6px; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 0.4px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/differentiation_guide" style="color: #f05150; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use this FREE guide to help you navigate differentiation in your classroom this year." border="0" data-original-height="1736" data-original-width="2252" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie89q_D3sInzaAm4GstfZ5YtL9LuacQbgQ9X8XqVTtVVfL2vePh1pcu_3emxlnu9gVhGc7LvJAxbOWc15F3chDYZkiOdUTu-UxySZXk7U2MnHkwvwxjwtdXr6rRdC6sF-po2c0CuitI2QBa02EcguaQjLkydY4raJOrj38HMnaSEZaZ2J5rB21ZzFo/w320-h247/Screen%20Shot%202023-06-12%20at%204.10.43%20PM.png" style="border: none; box-sizing: border-box; height: auto; margin: 5px 0px 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 5px; position: relative;" title="Practical Steps to Effectively Differentiate in Your Classroom FREE Guide" width="320" /></a></div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Pin it!</h2><div>Be sure to save these 4 main ways to differentiate instruction in the elementary classroom to your favorite education Pinterest board today!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmH7dyKM9FN2EhNivqbIcyKp2uyMh_QooyD_ePb4vKS5VNKky3eHxbaBAE-Yy15eD0JpamPBKtVhSQIRE3Rnpq0vRAz4c19JQOReOuSLSvujoiXaVHsqxEOjJm3rDwsZaMYeR1e41U8Lo2LTY1611O-eZJv-vuGdPYoJW46Ku7-_Vex90-GUm3DyaBOc/s1500/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom%20pin.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Differentiating in the elementary classroom doesn't have to be time consuming or complicated with these fun and easy strategies to implement today. From product, to process, to content, to environment, differentiation can be a part of every day learning in your classroom this year. Be sure to check out the FREE Differentiation Guide to help you get started with differentiation in your classroom today! #elementaryisland #differentiation #differentiationstrategies #differentiationintheelementaryclassroom #elementarydifferentiationideas #howtodifferentiateinstruction" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmH7dyKM9FN2EhNivqbIcyKp2uyMh_QooyD_ePb4vKS5VNKky3eHxbaBAE-Yy15eD0JpamPBKtVhSQIRE3Rnpq0vRAz4c19JQOReOuSLSvujoiXaVHsqxEOjJm3rDwsZaMYeR1e41U8Lo2LTY1611O-eZJv-vuGdPYoJW46Ku7-_Vex90-GUm3DyaBOc/w213-h320/4%20Main%20Ways%20to%20Differentiate%20in%20the%20Elementary%20Classroom%20pin.png" title="4 Main Ways to Differentiate in the Elementary Classroom" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-58007687660006555562023-07-12T13:34:00.001-07:002023-07-12T13:34:29.948-07:00 6 Benefits of Using Morning Work in Your Classroom<div>As elementary teachers, we play such an important role in shaping the minds and attitudes of our students. But, how can we be sure we are creating a positive learning environment that will help our young students grow every single day? I have found that using a consistent morning routine is essential for my students' growth and development throughout the year. And, it's as easy as using targeted morning work every single day which my students can complete independently. Not only is morning work a great way to set a consistent routine, but it will also help you set a positive tone for the entire school day. Here are 6 of my favorite benefits of using morning work in the classroom.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdEU290wlSPqQwPF8ZJtyOnpYZs5lbJpYsXmBdBWEDGCaH9AkdMjcG16eTgA933feNptyFHzGUnAsRxpD8MQgLP7qThaDnOaInM8mA53PVriCydTi3jk4l0ISk8lQLPftxp6sBk5yYdH3AznrAJ9uoft8bIpV6Kp7HeQsjZFKfoG2jSCS2HwugiQVe5Y/s2240/_%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Header%20(1).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Learn the 6 benefits of using morning work in your classroom today!" border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdEU290wlSPqQwPF8ZJtyOnpYZs5lbJpYsXmBdBWEDGCaH9AkdMjcG16eTgA933feNptyFHzGUnAsRxpD8MQgLP7qThaDnOaInM8mA53PVriCydTi3jk4l0ISk8lQLPftxp6sBk5yYdH3AznrAJ9uoft8bIpV6Kp7HeQsjZFKfoG2jSCS2HwugiQVe5Y/w640-h360/_%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Header%20(1).png" title="6 Benefits of Using Morning Work in Your Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Morning Work Promotes a Smooth Start to the Day</h2><div>Using morning work every single day helps to set the stage for a smooth and structured start to the day for your students. Students thrive on consistency and predictability. There is a sense of safety that comes when they know what to expect. Creating a consistent morning routine helps this happen in your classroom. And. . . it also helps to reduce anxiety in students while also promoting independence.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKj_J4_ge4eIZ1yfm8KMm1RySM_xqwZYuNF0vlOsywmb4md6ZPvIvGWN5qE6NtKSX_ocXW3cALOulwVaf6pyL5aZoPGshw-_v-99MyNNiI4fQ8Qg-d431RYGF39oqPi_8TNnF9fbrEjgqzv1lSaf8D4vjceSmJvwQyJIJ51NYH1554wZSGHFPOQkHhUpY/s2000/_%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20(5).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Start your student's day off right with morning work that will help them get ready for a fun and productive day of learning." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKj_J4_ge4eIZ1yfm8KMm1RySM_xqwZYuNF0vlOsywmb4md6ZPvIvGWN5qE6NtKSX_ocXW3cALOulwVaf6pyL5aZoPGshw-_v-99MyNNiI4fQ8Qg-d431RYGF39oqPi_8TNnF9fbrEjgqzv1lSaf8D4vjceSmJvwQyJIJ51NYH1554wZSGHFPOQkHhUpY/w640-h360/_%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20(5).png" title="6 Benefits of Using Morning Work in Your Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>A well-planned morning routine, which includes engaging morning work, will also help your students make the mental transition from home to school. This will allow your kiddos to settle in, mentally prepare for the day, and get ready for a fun day of learning.</div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Morning Work Encourages Independence and Responsibility</h2><div><div>Right from the start of the day, morning work encourages your students to take ownership of their learning. By using age-appropriate tasks such as warm-up activities, review of key skills and concepts, and more, you will help foster a sense of responsibility and independence in your kiddos.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlyc-SraepUNKOpnjfimzFeDiAgTCjFIH2YBTN2mzIvCUEDPnd9I7aA50FvyJvsEaXNKRxzt3yk6F5sTwZkJ6RZ7hR1Cnh7c91hDDr89c1SLbrZpa-fjq_SjoTFqPim8Tf5jFu65qPOD2x4og_dEriO7jZcyMA3abNp4ILiSMcu3os_1924aqKSGOwALP1/s3837/Jordana3DigitPrint-13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Learn the 6 benefits of using morning work in your classroom today!" border="0" data-original-height="2878" data-original-width="3837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlyc-SraepUNKOpnjfimzFeDiAgTCjFIH2YBTN2mzIvCUEDPnd9I7aA50FvyJvsEaXNKRxzt3yk6F5sTwZkJ6RZ7hR1Cnh7c91hDDr89c1SLbrZpa-fjq_SjoTFqPim8Tf5jFu65qPOD2x4og_dEriO7jZcyMA3abNp4ILiSMcu3os_1924aqKSGOwALP1/w640-h480/Jordana3DigitPrint-13.JPG" title="Learn the 6 benefits of using morning work in your classroom today!" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>For example, using number of the day activities, like the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Number-of-the-Day-3-and-2-Digit-Numbers-Place-Value-Activities-and-Number-Sense-9722784?utm_source=Elementary%20Island&utm_campaign=%20%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom" target="_blank">Number of the Day 2 and 3 Digit Numbers Place Value Activities Bundle,</a> I can be sure my students are getting the opportunity to practice what we are currently learning in a fun way that doesn't feel high stakes to them. This means it will be more fun for them to complete and will give me a good idea of how well they are grasping the concepts I am teaching. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Morning Work Promotes Time Management and Focus</h2><div>Helping our students learn the skill of time management is so important. By giving my students a specific timeframe for completing morning work, I teach my students the importance of prioritizing responsibilities. They also learn how to manage the time available to complete a task.</div><div><br /></div><div>My kiddos know to come in, get their bags and belongings put away, make their lunch choices on the whiteboard, then grab their morning work from the morning work tub. After the first week or two of school, this will become a simple routine for my kiddos. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqP2KwNF-uiUEoBjhXsaQn6uRfEkcl2mAHGotTSGCCIoneVHf61xNI9KWWh918tazJ1coOxM-kGrBtM6xwWKLT6LSjFWSJ9gNXAM3sQ37S1n684dZW4eqp9msVVAoSmBGqIPt1iY5ykY61pYhecQHoktFApFwE9S4WrQJTd-7ZkAeE8lxbbagpgDWqaSQ/s2000/_%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20(4).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Help your students learn how to manage their time wisely every day with the introduction of daily morning work." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqP2KwNF-uiUEoBjhXsaQn6uRfEkcl2mAHGotTSGCCIoneVHf61xNI9KWWh918tazJ1coOxM-kGrBtM6xwWKLT6LSjFWSJ9gNXAM3sQ37S1n684dZW4eqp9msVVAoSmBGqIPt1iY5ykY61pYhecQHoktFApFwE9S4WrQJTd-7ZkAeE8lxbbagpgDWqaSQ/w640-h360/_%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20(4).png" title="6 Benefits of Using Morning Work in Your Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I know in some schools kiddos line up together in the morning then the teacher takes them to the classroom in one big group. But, more often than not, mornings in elementary school have more of a "rolling start" feel with bus kids arriving all at once and walkers and drop-offs arriving sporadically before the tardy bell rings. That's a whole lot going on before the bell even rings to start the school day. Setting a morning work routine means each of these kiddos, no matter when they roll in, will be able to easily and independently get organized and ready for the day ahead. </div><div><br /></div><div>In addition to fostering a sense of independence, setting a morning routine, which includes morning work, helps your students get into the school mindset. Morning work helps them get ready to concentrate and recall what they are currently learning in your classroom.</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Morning Work Reinforces Prior Learning</h2><div>In addition to encouraging independence and responsibility, morning work also reinforces prior learning. Whether that prior learning is from days or weeks prior, we all know how important it is to continue to give students the opportunity to practice key skills and concepts learned throughout the school year. </div><div><br /></div><div>I like to use <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Place-Value-Activities-Number-of-the-Day-Bell-Ringers-4758534?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=Number%20of%20the%20day%20Seasonal%20bundle" target="_blank">themed morning work</a> throughout the school year to give my students the opportunity to practice previously taught concepts in a fun way they will love. It helps keep my lessons out of that dreaded one-and-done category!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Place-Value-Activities-Number-of-the-Day-Bell-Ringers-4758534?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=Number%20of%20the%20day%20Seasonal%20bundle" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Review key concepts and skills throughout the year with engaging morning work your students will love completing." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOhWS0jzAmcZL57Mm5lHhvZfUcSppv0UbyVdrCQwQqSaOY_eJmWTOenUYiqyR424IYbS97DxtYfxdxB0CZnm7z2DNGKNY1by_uk5g-hoD_uDBeXa3gcNma_fE6CQSiB5PUhoQyJTfnOEfRpeSqgcp2C_gRqBY8XoBRHi1rUFwuhRqsdV4xIGtghEk1WWs/w640-h360/_%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20(1).png" title="6 Benefits of Using Morning Work in Your Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Giving students the opportunity to practice previously learned concepts also gives YOU the opportunity to do a quick check of understanding. You can quickly review your students' morning work and easily identify areas where students may need additional support or intervention. Then, you can differentiate lessons for students individually or in small groups as needed. </div><div><br /></div><div>Check out my <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2023/06/differentiating.html" target="_blank">differentiation series</a> for more helpful tips and tricks to using differentiation effectively in your classroom!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Morning Work Helps You Create a Positive Classroom Culture</h2><div>We all know how important it is to create a positive classroom environment right from the get-go at the beginning of the school year. But, how do we keep that momentum going throughout the year? Surprisingly, morning work is a great way to establish a positive classroom environment.</div><div><br /></div><div>By giving your students tasks they can accomplish independently, you can set the tone for a productive and fun learning environment each and every day. Engaging morning work sends a message to your kiddos that they are learning and retaining important information.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4fZwgCBjPEv3Z0vMlB5Z-euQVzKfjRosVGeZkJPxot7558a9pBA5_640cmAhAyK2K4TXqXNYc5W4lgUu3DXqaooRLVZWBunzOIKzXuspov3aO-FnmkUfnmp4-9mhfsyKTPzTVVzXtoE1Px5Pu2lt7FWOboi_K8ATjo87XnVqH3qaD5pO0rjUQ-RPC-iM/s2000/_%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20(3).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Creating a positive classroom environment is a goal of every teacher and can be accomplished with meaningful morning work your students can complete in a supportive and collaborative classroom environment you create." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4fZwgCBjPEv3Z0vMlB5Z-euQVzKfjRosVGeZkJPxot7558a9pBA5_640cmAhAyK2K4TXqXNYc5W4lgUu3DXqaooRLVZWBunzOIKzXuspov3aO-FnmkUfnmp4-9mhfsyKTPzTVVzXtoE1Px5Pu2lt7FWOboi_K8ATjo87XnVqH3qaD5pO0rjUQ-RPC-iM/w640-h360/_%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20(3).png" title="6 Benefits of Using Morning Work in Your Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I also love going over morning work with my entire class before we actually jump into our daily schedule. I even call on students who would like to share out their answers giving them the opportunity to show off their knowledge with the class. Nothing is better than seeing a kiddo glowing with pride at the start of the school day. It's a great way to foster a positive, supportive, and collaborative classroom culture at the beginning of each and every day. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6. Morning Work Encourages Reflection and Goal Setting</h2><div>Morning work gives your students an excellent opportunity to engage in self-reflection and goal-setting.</div><div><br /></div><div>I like to ask my students to look over their morning work as we go over it together as a class. If they see a question they didn't get quite right, they can go back and look at how they answered the question and see where the mistake was made. This is an easy way for kiddos to learn from their mistakes and encourages a growth mindset. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Place-Value-Activities-Number-of-the-Day-Bell-Ringers-4758534?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=Number%20of%20the%20day%20Seasonal%20bundle" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="By giving your students the opportunity to reflect on their morning work and identify areas where they need improvement you are encouraging a growth mindset from the very beginning of your day." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzo0yRHRjjFob4j81IqpWGrcLXNz9Et0qVIS0zy_jqrhNsyBQNWNlbQ6UL0tZgR5nHQ5D4dBsEtHW5BVhuy2gNIxVV8MYkUBfKbnq41JpRl4Cj5AmZ2xsu_0bSboGxwJycisT69K3k7BtwNoingcvtQ22gDlKqQiGA8cpjkLRGPNqEtNmN1gHb5k4jeSQ/w640-h360/_%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20(2).png" title="6 Benefits of Using Morning Work in Your Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>When students have the opportunity to learn from their mistakes instead of being judged by them, it helps them embrace challenges without the fear of negative consequences. They learn that mistakes are a natural part of the learning process and that taking risks can lead to valuable learning experiences. And, that's the goal of a growth mindset, right? </div><div><br /></div><div>Encouraging a growth mindset is something I focus on heavily in my classroom. So, when I have the opportunity to give my students a daily reminder of the importance of this skill, I know it will be something they remember every day. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">The Power of Morning Work</h2><div>Using morning work as part of your morning routine will have a major impact on your students throughout the school year. By providing structure, promoting independence, and reinforcing prior learning, morning work sets the tone for a productive and successful day of learning! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFHfhdqaRBrqQRtXS1KGMcxq5RhkPqtr4ER-kN6RGYzI_vlicaXGti5GIgWm49GQZGxUxYV6sKSPDljkFdT3z9rd9vgEFB96kN2CK4GeNXOI4Cd6XKZ4_EMNNFnzE7eTfZE6oDSH041gZexrSNoxf0-AYx8F61_C0ZmPCPOAf3P7Xqcg1-PH01UTUiQY/s2000/_%206%20Benefits%20of%20Using%20Morning%20Work%20in%20Your%20Classroom.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Add some morning work to your daily classroom schedule to see all of these amazing morning work benefits." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFHfhdqaRBrqQRtXS1KGMcxq5RhkPqtr4ER-kN6RGYzI_vlicaXGti5GIgWm49GQZGxUxYV6sKSPDljkFdT3z9rd9vgEFB96kN2CK4GeNXOI4Cd6XKZ4_EMNNFnzE7eTfZE6oDSH041gZexrSNoxf0-AYx8F61_C0ZmPCPOAf3P7Xqcg1-PH01UTUiQY/w640-h360/_%206%20Benefits%20of%20Using%20Morning%20Work%20in%20Your%20Classroom.png" title="Morning work" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Be sure to check out the Elementary Island TPT store for awesome morning work resources including:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Number-of-the-Day-Place-Value-Activities-Two-Digit-Place-Value-Practice-4762566?utm_source=Elementary%20Island&utm_campaign=%20%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom" target="_blank">2-Digit Number of the da</a><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Number-of-the-Day-Place-Value-Activities-Two-Digit-Place-Value-Practice-4762566?utm_source=Elementary%20Island&utm_campaign=%20%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom" target="_blank">y</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Number-of-the-Day-3-Digit-Numbers-Place-Value-Activities-and-Number-Sense-4762592?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=3-Digit%20Number%20of%20the%20Day" target="_blank">3-Digit Number of the day</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Number-of-the-Day-3-and-2-Digit-Numbers-Place-Value-Activities-and-Number-Sense-9722784?utm_source=Elementary%20Island&utm_campaign=%20%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom" target="_blank">2/3 Digit Bundle</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Place-Value-Activities-Number-of-the-Day-Bell-Ringers-4758534?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=Number%20of%20the%20day%20Seasonal%20bundle" target="_blank">Yearly Bundle</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Search:morning+work?utm_source=Elementary%20Island&utm_campaign=%20%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom" target="_blank">And much more!</a></li></ul><h2 style="text-align: left;">FREE 2 and 3 Digit Number of the Day Mats Morning Work </h2><div><br /></div><div>Get started practicing number sense today with these <a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/numberoftheday" target="_blank">FREE 2 and 3 Digit Number of the Day Mats</a> which include TWO weeks of practice for 2 and 3 digit numbers. These Number of the Day Mats will make spiral review easy and fun for your students!</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/numberoftheday" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab this FREEBIE 2 and 3 Digit Number of the Day Mats to use in your classroom today!" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzih81s1ghhZreUB67uedGSYBWFGGCdn6U1ch3y0oiAc_slhWAhTGR0UHbK236FPPOfF-6t0_-Xv8L36aeOU7ZzE4uYQDV2uwgKIZ1L5Lwo37qp38Bmb6_gPG-yU284lXVyutCiKhXiUN6kBaQoLR-D9-Ink2zmVSw-YFxbPS17QzNcGF_9Q5E4n0idBg/w320-h320/Screen%20Shot%202023-06-26%20at%209.54.17%20PM.png" title="6 Benefits of Using Morning Work in Your Classroom" width="320" /></a></div></div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Pin it!</h2><div>Be sure to save these morning work ideas to your favorite classroom Pinterest board today! That way you can quickly come back when you are planning your perfect morning routine.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcxpBeQxOwpD-nAeFGLzKD2tx3tgiTziFiaa2zerzbL7ei0yiozeLL9hzXyHezSIgn81pK_BDotTxZBbvCY5Nvoih_PGYOkNLPXKaY4NOM0m34Hzj53UuAVRraUjBRH9R_Xj64Fr2hFmTHazZgjJgsUjblwUEzgu6GebZNOeI8hc8ldkdigqHpk0GceIY/s1500/_%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20pin%20(1).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The benefits of using morning work in the classroom are fantastic. Find out the 6 major benefits of using morning work in your classroom today. From fostering a sense of independence to encouraging a growth mindset, morning work is not only great for skills review but so much more. Be sure to check out the 2 and 3 digit Mats FREEBIE to get started with exciting and fun morning work in your classroom today! #elementaryisland #benefitsofmorningwork #morningwork #morningroutines" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcxpBeQxOwpD-nAeFGLzKD2tx3tgiTziFiaa2zerzbL7ei0yiozeLL9hzXyHezSIgn81pK_BDotTxZBbvCY5Nvoih_PGYOkNLPXKaY4NOM0m34Hzj53UuAVRraUjBRH9R_Xj64Fr2hFmTHazZgjJgsUjblwUEzgu6GebZNOeI8hc8ldkdigqHpk0GceIY/w229-h344/_%206%20Ways%20to%20use%20the%20Power%20of%20Morning%20Work%20and%20Routines%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20pin%20(1).png" title="6 Benefits of Using Morning Work in Your Classroom" width="229" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span id="docs-internal-guid-a0c480cc-7fff-2594-0d4c-ae59481c7363"><div><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-59824167631566472352023-06-26T12:55:00.002-07:002023-06-26T12:55:11.396-07:00How to Effectively Incorporate Differentiated Literacy Centers in your Classroom<p>Differentiated literacy centers. There I said it. Did your heart start racing? Are you sweating because the thought just overwhelms you? Don't panic! Let's talk about differentiated literacy centers and the importance of incorporating them into our classrooms so they don't feel so daunting and overwhelming.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjilFu3hCjF6OCag6kFbh4ceTssClhiU5KWrRu-Cr6R2j7st3Dc1ofyZTLoBrS69NL0tlbgHD2ttDmjw9tbLdmSGq5ALegqH2P0_9TVGwQhyCs5Y3dz-8Li7PkAc1XdCoeo_UlgAPcqhyOwRmBMqxkVoeUMB-Y3Pzde5v61DhXhzsy97P_iSco0dZ0Dp8mf/s792/Differentiate_Literacy_Centers.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to Effectively Differentiate Literacy Centers in the Classroom" border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="792" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjilFu3hCjF6OCag6kFbh4ceTssClhiU5KWrRu-Cr6R2j7st3Dc1ofyZTLoBrS69NL0tlbgHD2ttDmjw9tbLdmSGq5ALegqH2P0_9TVGwQhyCs5Y3dz-8Li7PkAc1XdCoeo_UlgAPcqhyOwRmBMqxkVoeUMB-Y3Pzde5v61DhXhzsy97P_iSco0dZ0Dp8mf/w640-h360/Differentiate_Literacy_Centers.png" title="How to Effectively Differentiate Literacy Centers in the Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What are differentiated literacy centers?</h2><p style="text-align: left;">To first understand what differentiated learning centers are, we need to define differentiation. <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2023/06/effectively-differentiate.html" target="_blank">Differentiation</a> is meeting the needs of individual students, through the approach or method of learning. Simply put, not all students learn at the same pace or in the same way. </p><p style="text-align: left;">So, differentiated literacy centers are defined as creating activities to meet the needs of your students during the literacy center stations. This will allow students to be challenged at his/her own level and to develop a sense of achievement. </p><p style="text-align: left;">Are you new to differentiation? Or need a refresher of info? <a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/differentiation_guide" target="_blank">Grab my FREE complete guide to differentiation to learn more!</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/differentiation_guide" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1388" data-original-width="1796" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisKZBRajvxKm2SkdlSo1k0FfjNqLC3P0nAuadSIxu-QU_Bq0camsMZZw7Jl67yjHXda_xpIQO-68N2NXaCrgJWG3pGwvQysV9xM2u43MjTBAC9pbbxwic6SX1gvuRLnHtraOOky1_XuALRK9pQhmftqfaLHwXJYUjXnY_5HKQKV5VkzArSTyB-5Ruha7Je/s320/Differentiating_Literacy_Centers_6.png" width="320" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">But why do I need to differentiate literacy centers?</h2><div>Many of you are already working <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2023/06/effectively-differentiate.html" target="_blank">differentiation</a> into your small groups by the instructional materials that you choose. These lesson materials are selected based on informal or formal assessments students have taken. Even with whole group instruction, we scaffold our instruction to meet the needs of students or use question stems to vary the level of questions asked to the class.</div><div><br /></div><div>The question comes up, why do we need to differentiate in our centers then? Well, because it's the right thing to do. It's part of our instructional day. Often times it's part of multiple instructional days. Differentiation allows for additional meaningful practice at his/her own level. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What are the 3 most important factors of literacy centers?</h2><div>1. Leveled Reading/Writing activities</div><div>2. Monitoring student participation - holding students accountable</div><div>3. Routine, routine, routine</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpt4DRMbfIOY9E5EEwkB5shkNRMiCxsOo1ThJAW6WjTtKvgYpqY5uwQzYBAi8LbBbhoT26EDOTtp9cDawEvAnQmHmXo4qz13FxO7ziVxtp4CNbVnlKCfYl9WzNMQlhQ-n-efz0VI_PEXRccWtT5hCvl38kki7ZfJL1q1X-i_0vzbIc50naO-ns52o9TTOm/s1049/Differentiating_Literacy_centers_2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Check list with 3 checkmarks showing the 3 most important factors of literacy centers" border="0" data-original-height="695" data-original-width="1049" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpt4DRMbfIOY9E5EEwkB5shkNRMiCxsOo1ThJAW6WjTtKvgYpqY5uwQzYBAi8LbBbhoT26EDOTtp9cDawEvAnQmHmXo4qz13FxO7ziVxtp4CNbVnlKCfYl9WzNMQlhQ-n-efz0VI_PEXRccWtT5hCvl38kki7ZfJL1q1X-i_0vzbIc50naO-ns52o9TTOm/w400-h265/Differentiating_Literacy_centers_2.png" title="Check list with 3 checkmarks showing the 3 most important factors of literacy centers" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>We will go over each one more in-depth below. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">How do you differentiate literacy centers?</h2><div>Let's start with reading and writing activities. First, let me remind you that some stations are naturally differentiated for your students. For example, writing - some will write letter strings, while others will put together one or two sentences or even a paragraph! Or if you have district testing, there may be a reteaching component offered to each child that allows them to work on activities that they struggled with on the testing. We use IXL and Study Island in our district to differentiate digital classwork. These are examples of items that you may be doing already to differentiate and not directly aware that it is differentiation. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Here are some examples of differentiating literacy centers:</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">1. Create different levels of materials for instruction. </h4><div style="text-align: left;">I usually create 3 levels for my students. For instance, if I am working on blends:</div><div><br /></div><div>Below level: work on L blends only</div><div>On level: work on all blends at the beginning of the word</div><div>Above level: work on blends at the beginning or end of the word</div><div><br /></div><div>OR</div><div><br /></div><div>Below level: match blend words to pictures</div><div>On level: Incorporate the word into a sentence</div><div>Above level: create a new blend word</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Centers-Differentiated-Phonics-Activities-for-Blends-Digraphs-More-9641704?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=Differentiation%20Ph%20Centers%20Bundle" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Three worksheets showing how each page is leveled with a icon and different directions" border="0" data-original-height="1388" data-original-width="1393" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyKAPv3J2qAkHGaHyziP4ZMPOzxIH8VPpRQfIyT-3CsKVrpA1bBYtzHGEnpuRmw8T3AC9ks1_c9AFAYGp5JhV5SsTBpQTldgngRVXMUuQ4OAC0BtQhmmu633JrHE_CrMwvQjQod4VM7zBuKjaoeWJi-qQ_6HnY2sUGAv4u4XDnC05kdJV4bNn9zIxWtH4u/w320-h319/Differentiating_Literacy_Centers_3.png" title="Three worksheets showing how each page is leveled with a icon and different directions" width="320" /></a> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Centers-Differentiated-Phonics-Activities-for-Blends-Digraphs-More-9641704?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=Differentiation%20Ph%20Centers%20Bundle" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Another example of differentiation showing the SAME center lesson for all students but a differentiated recording sheet" border="0" data-original-height="1388" data-original-width="1851" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy9nc6ZkdVHQ5xQiYwVzwI9kE3Nrc7VNcGCkvaU3UKAd6aG4TJvCpCr72-Omr5ehDez-7Ci-qaF7pKtEIKSeklNr7EJQ62LYPIIbig6GEpI9ji6VNfVJr46H0a7GtF1GKrq8Lkv_DlWapPrDhC4B4J2RrMEnbwPV7thF1NHFyC_Z8tLlQ1mRunQ2twpBNt/w320-h240/Differentiate_Literacy_Centers_4.png" title="Another example of differentiation showing the SAME center lesson for all students but a differentiated recording sheet" width="320" /></a></div></div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">2. Use flexible grouping - </h4><div>You may have your below-level group work with a teacher or in pairs. Your on-level and above-level group may be working independently to complete the task at hand.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">3. Scaffold support - </h4><div>Scaffolding support means offering various levels of support to your students. In a writing station, your below-level group you could offer a picture word bank, use fewer words, or provide sentence starters.</div><div><br /></div><div>On-level students may only require a word bank of multiple words to stimulate ideas for writing, and your above-level kids are good to go writing their next best novel and look forward to using an editing checklist.</div><div><br /></div><div>Just remember: There are multiple ways that you can differentiate for students! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">How to manage it all?</h2><div>Monitoring student participation and creating a routine both fall under management. How do the students know what to do and what to expect during literacy stations? Here are some tips:</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Hold students accountable for their work </h4><div>Students should be responsible for turning in some kind of checklist to you so that you know they completed all the stations. If it's a product the student would need to turn in, I would expect the child to place their work into a bin and check that off on their sheet. If they are doing a computer activity, I would have them write the score they received at the end of the activity on the checklist sheet. If it's a partner game, I would have them write the name of the winner on the sheet. Then finally, whether they finished all the activities or not, place the checklist into a bin for review.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Set clear expectations</h4><div>Explain each center to the students. They need to know EXACTLY what to need to do at each center, how long they have, and what the work outcome should be. Ideally, you would have practiced most station activities as a whole group before ever implementing stations. For example, students should already know how to log in to IXL and find the activity that has been assigned to them. But for center work, where the content may change, an explanation will be beneficial. For my below-level group, I will usually assign one of my above-level students to read the directions again to those struggling students and then proceed to their assigned group. </div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Establish those routines</h4><div>Students need to know when to move from one center to another, where to go next after one center is completed, what work to work on when they get to that center, how to clean up the area for the next group, where to place completed work and what to do if they get stuck. This takes many weeks of practice BEFORE I even think about pulling small groups for myself. I like to use colored folders for each of my three groups. That way, the students know exactly what folder to grab for the work and what color bin to put their work in when completed. See the example below. Easy peasy!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3K74bEB2jp3ZzYvdNTLuHxepYUYbllq8Ct64Kg0uafC6Jy4fesag-goQ9dDSLQz_kiftNWUKVZrwBs2XxRP7yFS65Fh8QqeyiQNI9c3_fI8dJAxSLHbllzHmiegpIVc9gjIezPZQOtDwKvzYyUAqxkrmgb0VZytkNGJIF8IsMG9e59-JxDGCARZKN5D_z/s2000/Differentiating_Literacy_Centers_5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="An example of colored folders with symbols so the students know where to get their work from." border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1545" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3K74bEB2jp3ZzYvdNTLuHxepYUYbllq8Ct64Kg0uafC6Jy4fesag-goQ9dDSLQz_kiftNWUKVZrwBs2XxRP7yFS65Fh8QqeyiQNI9c3_fI8dJAxSLHbllzHmiegpIVc9gjIezPZQOtDwKvzYyUAqxkrmgb0VZytkNGJIF8IsMG9e59-JxDGCARZKN5D_z/w247-h320/Differentiating_Literacy_Centers_5.png" title="An example of colored folders with symbols so the students know where to get their work from." width="247" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Monitor student progress</h4><div>How will you monitor the students and their success? How will you decide what groups students will be in? How will you check if the work is accurate and complete? How will you decide if students can transition to another group? Have answers to all these questions BEFORE you start. I use these <a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/i9w0w7" target="_blank">checklists</a> to monitor student progress. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/i9w0w7" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Differentiation worksheets to keep track of student progress at each level / center" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Z3TCz74tgIPj1IFen0BYQ-SAthU30YblJfofvSqw_OcYerg9Olz8jJG2HnWhKUmH1vwE0u1vJiB3fwr5NUJTrAfSMNJgtt_oUtdoByunb7T5acHHOZXZVkl0Kwc6f9rQxvzuqrtFUs8XQdbBcVWWSrejrvoVvj2h-iV-_LgrQ-thrRoeHEXzTUp2BKdt/w320-h320/diff.png" title="Differentiation worksheets to keep track of student progress at each level / center" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> Here is what my differentiated centers typically look like when we are ready to roll:</div><div><br /></div><div>1. Small group with the teacher - differentiated lessons usually from reading series</div><div>2. Writing center - naturally differentiated</div><div>3. Tech center - using BOOM learning to differentiate, IXL, or Study island</div><div>4. Independent work - Differentiated centers</div><div>5. SSR - Sustained silent reading/AR - differentiated levels in our district for student choice reading</div><div><br /></div><div>If I'm lucky and my schedule allows, this would be the time I would select for my pull-out students to leave and work on their reading skills with our reading specialist, and/or if I have an assistant, they will also pull a small group of students to work on with a group. </div><div><br /></div><div>That's potentially 7 DIFFERENT STATIONS in my classroom all working on DIFFERENTIATED literacy instruction!!! That's AMAZING and.....if you noticed, there's not a lot of classwork that needs to be graded. Literacy stations are NOT meant to be busy work! </div><div><br /></div><div>If you are looking for <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Centers-Differentiated-Phonics-Activities-for-Blends-Digraphs-More-9641704?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=Differentiation%20Ph%20Centers%20Bundle" target="_blank">literacy centers that are already differentiated</a> for you, I have the perfect product! These centers are different because ALL STUDENTS will complete the exact SAME center (easy prep, explanation & storage) BUT, the response sheets are differentiated! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Centers-Differentiated-Phonics-Activities-for-Blends-Digraphs-More-9641704?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=Differentiation%20Ph%20Centers%20Bundle" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Differentiating Literacy Centers Phonics Worksheets Examples" border="0" data-original-height="1388" data-original-width="2181" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8bn7iSsTUbM_McykGu4nV1QOhmOpLOhqJGCsh-qdHBt7OvEAByl_R0go1eDqLUKQz_MqC0oVWRveKiFMWZm9SwHfZZUsuo3c1ahwbLCMUA9zMb8vWgB4KnZ3Vxp1zV_EkzisedKcTXp0e80BwoDifbCNQSHhXmcoIZZlPJhqbM_wgHY7HBXdmr3NWD_6s/w400-h255/Differentiating_Literacy_Center_7.png" title="Differentiating Literacy Centers Phonics Worksheets Examples" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Centers-Differentiated-Phonics-Activities-for-Blends-Digraphs-More-9641704?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=Differentiation%20Ph%20Centers%20Bundle" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Differentiating Literacy Centers Phonics Worksheets Examples" border="0" data-original-height="1384" data-original-width="2012" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQTzxnDhviiell-j72SkUDOYXHw4QLe9YekajgGSSiOSDcf10qsmEhUFPqIaTiFLXk4gBV7An-0ZRjmHnBLkiKw0EBbD3MWJQZemIELMB7LGZPN1u5KmzsuFR4US7kLOhjdTG5qN95_UeKAjYZtjUWaSkSYQWlBrvaszlZYiPOOcXxdJGyxMqpKaikfcr/w400-h275/Differentiating_Literacy_Center_8.png" title="Differentiating Literacy Centers Phonics Worksheets Examples" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Centers-Differentiated-Phonics-Activities-for-Blends-Digraphs-More-9641704?utm_source=EI_BLOG&utm_campaign=Differentiation%20Ph%20Centers%20Bundle" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Differentiating Literacy Centers Phonics Worksheets Examples" border="0" data-original-height="1388" data-original-width="1943" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtIWg-h1ZM3GJlTpNEXcvEFURuYGgnhcBhMHAUII1Wpac4OGx6T_WCYPw-lV90-P5P8VWhzHP2tb-kx7wNArk7NP_98oYeIUMW_33gmbOj_QZVCpT2YfXPYQjjttY9nR3TadYStYbNNN5DH2fNHy5e4w8zcKdWFFnOHopwn5kG1p6F9wCQJ2O45-UpJsCu/w400-h286/Differentiating_Literacy_Center_9.png" title="Differentiating Literacy Centers Phonics Worksheets Examples" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I hope this helps to put you at ease and step back from the PANIC button! Differentiated literacy centers can fit seamlessly into your existing curriculum with the right materials. </div><div><br /></div><div>Leave a comment with how you run literacy stations in your classroom.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you have Pinterest, SAVE for LATER:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5mzFgD-85-HSL7WcCWyP641NKpEMOuwnL4rWe3Gy-pxWCf54aIaVw-6j4lvxaIaXLziPhXoAKSkB9YIavu-pKnJG83hJtAgNXfn0VXXg2l_m7yc53H7bIYF3alPdAVZ9ahDRm9T9PdlHWoUcX1ugbfyvxaGh0gsJzOGruGGuq3crH47vjHDc3IPBQXNgj/s1500/Differentiating_Literacy_Centers_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5mzFgD-85-HSL7WcCWyP641NKpEMOuwnL4rWe3Gy-pxWCf54aIaVw-6j4lvxaIaXLziPhXoAKSkB9YIavu-pKnJG83hJtAgNXfn0VXXg2l_m7yc53H7bIYF3alPdAVZ9ahDRm9T9PdlHWoUcX1ugbfyvxaGh0gsJzOGruGGuq3crH47vjHDc3IPBQXNgj/s320/Differentiating_Literacy_Centers_10.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Elementary Islandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656291891732526402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-38119771945659865712023-06-07T20:21:00.013-07:002023-06-13T11:20:32.133-07:00Practical Steps to Effectively Differentiate in Your Classroom<p>Differentiation has been a hot topic in the classroom for a while now. But how do you know you are effectively differentiating for each student in your classroom? It can feel overwhelming to think that you have to plan individual lessons or activities for each of the 25 to 30 students in your classroom. Differentiation is not only doable but can end up being one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself and your students. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnuz8bH7CRLUb5DNjmPGLljKYTiqCaleI23tipP75akWzCky8ROdfoMW_bDWYP0yfGCmad3jPpfQBMkPDU5C5qu4SXY0TBkZNcNAwrhaDPofqF2wvWeiiUuzqg5cGRmQJ09_up6idHgmTjawbXIrq514pe-vAURBXMJLS7oWcbFgtdi8PMgPsdYYMc/s2240/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="UseUse these practical steps to effectively differentiate in your classroom today to help your students get the most out of their learning this year." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnuz8bH7CRLUb5DNjmPGLljKYTiqCaleI23tipP75akWzCky8ROdfoMW_bDWYP0yfGCmad3jPpfQBMkPDU5C5qu4SXY0TBkZNcNAwrhaDPofqF2wvWeiiUuzqg5cGRmQJ09_up6idHgmTjawbXIrq514pe-vAURBXMJLS7oWcbFgtdi8PMgPsdYYMc/w640-h360/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today%20Header.png" title="Practical Steps to Effectively Differentiate in Your Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">So, What is Differentiation?</h2><div>Differentiation is all about <a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/differentiation_guide" target="_blank">tailoring instruction</a> to meet the individual needs of each of your students. That means using specific content, processes, products, or learning environments to help meet the needs of the individual. </div><div><br /></div><div>Because differentiation has been around for a while now, thankfully there are a lot of us who have already been through the trial-and-error phase. I can tell you from experience that differentiation is not about developing overly complicated lesson plans for each and every single one of your students. That would be bananas! However, what you can do is find out where your students are and meet them there. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizPt87CuqAtycSYBwY4iZ7l5dJMIMg3HI8u_flz1GfjcST5g6LIS3LSUFO5WF08d5SdGgsjBSDCZrU9g1c7u0E0HjJfuwxVOXWflxdstgoaXpJccrRD1qROMYp5IOiGuAumzonpJlWex_p4gntUJx_e14JeJaJrY1L_e7eGDZ-9IvpNrBKTVXMCKkE/s2000/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today%20(6).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Differentiation is the ability to individualize learning and instruction for the benefit of each individual student in your classroom." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizPt87CuqAtycSYBwY4iZ7l5dJMIMg3HI8u_flz1GfjcST5g6LIS3LSUFO5WF08d5SdGgsjBSDCZrU9g1c7u0E0HjJfuwxVOXWflxdstgoaXpJccrRD1qROMYp5IOiGuAumzonpJlWex_p4gntUJx_e14JeJaJrY1L_e7eGDZ-9IvpNrBKTVXMCKkE/w640-h360/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today%20(6).png" title="Practical Steps to Effectively Differentiate in Your Classroom" width="640" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>It may be that you have a group of students who need a little more practice with CVCe words. Okay, put them in a small group and give them differentiated instruction with a fun center activity, worksheet, Boom Card activity, or anything else that would help give them the extra skills practice they need to master that skill. At the same time, you may have a group of kids who have mastered that and are ready for 3 letter blends. Get those kiddos moving in that direction.</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">How do I Start Using Differentiation in my Classroom? </h2><div>Follow these steps to start using differentiation in your classroom. It won't require a lot of extra planning and prep on your part, and before you know it many of these steps will become second nature. And, the best part is, I have tried these myself, so I know they work!</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">1. Understand the Concept</h3><div>Differentiation is the practice of adapting instruction to meet the individual needs of students. That means it involves providing multiple pathways for learning. It doesn't mean you go crazy and plan 25-30 unique lessons. </div><div><br /></div><div>Consider your students' diverse backgrounds, abilities, and interests to help you determine how to best meet them where they are. That way, you can be sure you are giving them the right materials and resources to help them feel successful. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">2. Identifying Student Needs</h3><div>Teachers should assess and understand the unique needs of their students. This includes understanding each of their unique learning styles through observation or surveys. If you have a student, for example, who loves to color and does best when being creative, consider a color-by-code activity when introducing a new math concept. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkHyvNpKSB2aLrfCfHFTuByCY0HD3s43GmEFBomYBkDYqCMrMP_WLwxMACqzQfIgAlKjOu_5S3OECH9KzsNCkEheJQWxcAZyeLPjB1Ux5sXXGqr0eWnp0fHITPryiQJ4fJsAmyxUN9E_slClMpP2_bW-p-6hgucLm9OwzW3LSysy6n3fPNNXF9QxPQ/s2000/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Differentiation is easier for you when you can identify each of your student's needs." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkHyvNpKSB2aLrfCfHFTuByCY0HD3s43GmEFBomYBkDYqCMrMP_WLwxMACqzQfIgAlKjOu_5S3OECH9KzsNCkEheJQWxcAZyeLPjB1Ux5sXXGqr0eWnp0fHITPryiQJ4fJsAmyxUN9E_slClMpP2_bW-p-6hgucLm9OwzW3LSysy6n3fPNNXF9QxPQ/w640-h360/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today.png" title="Practical Steps to Effectively Differentiate in Your ClassroomIdentifying Student Neeeds" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Have a student who learns best when singing? Ask them to come up with a "rap" to help them with counting by 5's. Not only will this help them practice and learn, but they can share it with others which will in turn build their confidence and maybe help another student learn how to count by 5's. Pretty cool right? </div><div><br /></div><div>Assessing your student's learning styles, readiness levels, and interests will go a long way in helping you tailor instruction to meet individual needs effectively. I've got a <a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/differentiation_guide" target="_blank">free Differentiation Guide</a> that includes a student interest survey to help you with this. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">3. Flexibility in Lesson Planning</h3><div>This is one of the little-known benefits of differentiation in the classroom. While differentiation does require you to create flexible lesson plans, it also means you get to think outside the box and bring in some really fun and exciting lessons to your classroom. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcaIWEDezAuEMvcCtqYg5GkuVT_nb-4f8KDPJLaH-m8NH43SrZzOTGWXYcThJQc_i0d7JsJ_KfuZsIaqPk9GLPdBjhTp0T3KjE-w_TR1aHfiU22WXAuPftoTkeTR8EMpT3PtqJ9YNUrIkXfIU3wtP3xiDlHfjiyljGtj6k-5Nt0hauWmsEEn-UrD9v/s2000/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today%20(2).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="One of the best benefits of using differentiation in your classroom is the ability to have flexibility when planning your lessons which will increase student engagement." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcaIWEDezAuEMvcCtqYg5GkuVT_nb-4f8KDPJLaH-m8NH43SrZzOTGWXYcThJQc_i0d7JsJ_KfuZsIaqPk9GLPdBjhTp0T3KjE-w_TR1aHfiU22WXAuPftoTkeTR8EMpT3PtqJ9YNUrIkXfIU3wtP3xiDlHfjiyljGtj6k-5Nt0hauWmsEEn-UrD9v/w640-h360/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today%20(2).png" title="Practical Steps to Effectively Differentiate in Your Classroom Flexible Lesson Planning" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Meeting the needs of your diverse learners means you can provide various resources, materials, and activities to support each of your students. This will help keep them engaged in learning no matter the subject you are covering. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">4. Varied Instructional Strategies</h3><div>One of the amazing things about teachers is we are able to utilize a range of instructional strategies in our classrooms. Use that to your advantage when planning your differentiation activities this year. You can use so many different instructional strategies to address different learning preferences and abilities. Think about the 5 senses when you do this. When you do this you are covering most of the learning styles you will find in your classroom. By incorporating things you can see, hear, and touch you can tap into a variety of learning styles. And sometimes. . . you will have the perfect lesson for adding in smell and taste too!</div><div><br /></div><div>Not sure where to start? Check-in with your grade-level team and have a brainstorming session. More heads are better than one. Maybe you can come up with a list of activities perfect for different levels of learners in your classrooms that you can all use when needed. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can use <a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/differentiation_guide" target="_blank">differentiated instructional strategies</a> in the following ways:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Small group instruction</li><li>Cooperative learning</li><li>Technology integration</li><li>Hands-on activities</li></ul><h3 style="text-align: left;">5. Assessments</h3></div><div>In order to differentiate, you need to know where your students are, what they are excelling at, and what they are struggling with. Assessments are the perfect way to do this. But set aside that picture in your mind of standardized tests. There are many informal ways we can assess our students on a daily basis.</div><div><br /></div><div>Don't underestimate the power of your observation in day-to-day classroom activities. Your questioning during whole class lessons is also a great way to get an idea of where students are. Add to that some independent practice activities and/or a quick exit ticket and you can learn a lot about each of your students. Use what you learn to differentiate! You can use this information to help you group students based on skills and concepts they are struggling with. Then, it's as easy as grouping those students together for some varied instructional strategies like those mentioned above.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV9CX43NpLdZOSS6P0ps4FvSDvuGBq9p6mdrGekQZjKBRD6MXjTjmGFFSm3LahnEaqN5aBIVcOX7fBp6QRCJvkCQjvpfsW7urGVdJxXy_bVnsJmjGMOWi6f6kulph1zMKlcgZwUDyADmmPaPA0KPMPtdFGUl5wK5dMb9aYd0_ZwlaZkp_IFAQ_K88n/s2000/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today%20(3).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use formative assessments to help you plan effective differentiation for each of your students in your classroom." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV9CX43NpLdZOSS6P0ps4FvSDvuGBq9p6mdrGekQZjKBRD6MXjTjmGFFSm3LahnEaqN5aBIVcOX7fBp6QRCJvkCQjvpfsW7urGVdJxXy_bVnsJmjGMOWi6f6kulph1zMKlcgZwUDyADmmPaPA0KPMPtdFGUl5wK5dMb9aYd0_ZwlaZkp_IFAQ_K88n/w640-h360/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today%20(3).png" title="Practical Steps to Effectively Differentiate in Your ClassroomFormative Assessments" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Understanding your students' progress, identifying areas of strength, and areas that need further support will help you make instructional adjustments accordingly, and are the key to successful differentiation in your classroom.</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">6. Individualization and Grouping</h3><div>Now that you have gathered information and can identify areas where students need help or need a little more challenge - you are ready to decide how to do that. Here's my rule of thumb - if the vast majority of the class is struggling - reteach to the entire class. If there is a handful of students struggling or needing a challenge, put them in a small group together. If there are just 1 or 2 students struggling, some 1-on-1 instruction and practice can be very effective. And don't forget about that student who needs a little extra challenge. Differentiation is not just for strugglers. </div><div><br /></div><div>Differentiation can involve both individualized instruction and group work. You can use formative assessments, informal assessments, or even class work-based evidence to help you group students. Then, it's easy for you to group students or provide one-on-one support to individual students or small groups based on the student's needs and goals. Easy Peasy!</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">7. Classroom Environment</h3><div>It may sound crazy to think that differentiation can help build a positive classroom environment. But, I can tell you from experience, that's exactly what happens! When you meet your students where they are, you will find more engaged and focused students in your classroom. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7fZdpc4eIG0ScRbN_AZhx8TJLWtoNszEhHtxABZ4zgoNgspo8TZDXNjVXQ9fYKjX3QREhqSPTTDRBrhMgC4W5avYnxlMEJ_Wlh982yzjDr2mdKRMG0EEhaiPJdHPP-XHs8DbtkVjqPiZsTpLuRVsRi3WwtUDVY84K0An5aSnuDScYtDaxR30xy1T1/s2000/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today%20(4).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Using effective differentiation in your classroom has tons of benefits but will absolutely increase the positive environment in your classroom as well." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7fZdpc4eIG0ScRbN_AZhx8TJLWtoNszEhHtxABZ4zgoNgspo8TZDXNjVXQ9fYKjX3QREhqSPTTDRBrhMgC4W5avYnxlMEJ_Wlh982yzjDr2mdKRMG0EEhaiPJdHPP-XHs8DbtkVjqPiZsTpLuRVsRi3WwtUDVY84K0An5aSnuDScYtDaxR30xy1T1/w640-h360/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today%20(4).png" title="Practical Steps to Effectively Differentiate in Your ClassroomClassroom Environment" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>When your students feel like their needs are being met, they are not feeling overwhelmed by concepts they have not yet grasped, or they are working with other students collaboratively, you will find a positive and inclusive feeling classroom environment. </div><div><br /></div><div>Having students feel respected and accepted, being able to express themselves, and feeling that it is safe to take risks are natural effects of differentiation and some of my favorite things to see in my classroom. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">8. Ongoing Reflection and Professional Development</h3><div>Did you know differentiating for your students is good for you too? It is! When you differentiate for your students you are required to continuously reflect on your instructional practices. This can lead to professional growth throughout the year. And, you can share that learning with others. </div><div><br /></div><div>A school is like a village and nobody is there to hoard information. We all know how important it is to keep trying new things and differentiation in the classroom is one of the best ways to keep learning yourself. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnDBm7GEigKfMfXOnxtc8QckwtSZ0grjv-r89Cdr7iFDyxQDjiH8Uh2EsO6KmEHZJzHsbLZFIxkjIuaHCt4Hllql6hhC992zsCPQCIUIYxaLQDyXPAWnVo5mnZY99tpJVKiEAXnD5FbEGpiFo4dao9Z5NlwUj3UVq70newGWKCHaOkYqVcJOEMhFG7/s2000/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today%20(5).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Get help with differentiation with ongoing reflection and personal development with colleagues." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnDBm7GEigKfMfXOnxtc8QckwtSZ0grjv-r89Cdr7iFDyxQDjiH8Uh2EsO6KmEHZJzHsbLZFIxkjIuaHCt4Hllql6hhC992zsCPQCIUIYxaLQDyXPAWnVo5mnZY99tpJVKiEAXnD5FbEGpiFo4dao9Z5NlwUj3UVq70newGWKCHaOkYqVcJOEMhFG7/w640-h360/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today%20(5).png" title="Practical Steps to Effectively Differentiate in Your ClassroomReflection and Professional Development" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Not sure where to start? Take a professional development course on differentiation with some colleagues. Then, share your learning in a staff meeting. Jump at the opportunity to collaborate with other educators in your building whether they are in your grade level or not. Or, just reach out to a teacher friend and ask for advice on how to help a specific student. All of these put you on the road to differentiating for your students. </div><div><h2 style="clear: both;">Grab Your FREE Differentiation Guide </h2><div>Grab this <a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/differentiation_guide" target="_blank">FREE guide</a> that includes specific instructional strategies for each of the core subject matters, a student interest form, and more! It's the perfect resource to keep in your teacher binder or with your lesson planning supplies so you always have practical tips and ideas right at your fingertips. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/differentiation_guide" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use this FREE guide to help you navigate differentiation in your classroom this year." border="0" data-original-height="1736" data-original-width="2252" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie89q_D3sInzaAm4GstfZ5YtL9LuacQbgQ9X8XqVTtVVfL2vePh1pcu_3emxlnu9gVhGc7LvJAxbOWc15F3chDYZkiOdUTu-UxySZXk7U2MnHkwvwxjwtdXr6rRdC6sF-po2c0CuitI2QBa02EcguaQjLkydY4raJOrj38HMnaSEZaZ2J5rB21ZzFo/w320-h247/Screen%20Shot%202023-06-12%20at%204.10.43%20PM.png" title="Practical Steps to Effectively Differentiate in Your Classroom FREE Guide" width="320" /></a></div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Differentiation is Here to Stay!</h2><div>Whether you are a new teacher or a seasoned veteran, differentiation is sure to become one of your favorite ways to help each of your students feel successful in your classroom.</div><div><br /></div><div>By understanding the basics of differentiation you can effectively implement differentiation in your classroom. This will help to promote student engagement and success, and create an inclusive learning environment that meets the needs of all students!</div><div><br /></div><div>If you are ready to jump into differentiation, but want some activities that are already done for you then check out his <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Math-BUNDLE-Differentiated-Time-Activities-Fractions-Money-Skip-Counting-2452150?utm_source=Elementary%20Island&utm_campaign=8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today" target="_blank">Math Differentiation Bundle</a>. It has a variety of differentiated activities to help you teach money, time, skip counting, and factions. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Math-BUNDLE-Differentiated-Time-Activities-Fractions-Money-Skip-Counting-2452150?utm_source=Elementary%20Island&utm_campaign=8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab this Math Differentiation Bundle to get started with differentiation in your classroom today!" border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Nk47Hr1TklRUCJe4P1BmymcZ_aQmjQCAcYWefw50UHyRNXNa3N2wJduvQICHQv9njNKw-hhK0ogyFfZA5DVFKGg3uBINqG2dbpGjA-LFdPjkUhxMVoD1Gpvn3Uek7jVo5_4KbMASEnb6JCKJpm086hlKBQnaMVbq1MDu4ZkQns0aUgwKH9vZkS4a/w320-h320/original-2452150-1.jpeg" title="Practical Steps to Effectively Differentiate in Your Classroom" width="320" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save These Practical Differentiation Tips and Ideas</h2><div>Be sure to save these differentiation ideas to your favorite classroom Pinterest board today! That way you can quickly come back when you are ready to up your differentiation game.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-TgJRAwXNx_MhUYWzFIx_HZyU9EIrOp1sEWAP7Ebg1vkUx89YqLjcp-xbKVfHHighzJqgoDIyJOoICLRxlipj_IYXDNQyLNkOFhXEf0F3rKM92j59FN_z4JYztuJ9orW7ZtGIE-5tO6qcGWhXATqXt6p13Ae14I_zfC1sRsrN66J0Jbe4IL0YB9DH/s1500/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today%20Pin.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking to use more differentiation in your instruction this year? Use these 8 ways to effectively differentiate in your classroom to help get you started with individualized instruction sure to make a huge impact on your students this year. Use these helpful tips to get started or make your differentiation journey even easier. Be sure to check out the Math Differentiation Bundle for awesome differentiation resources you can start using in your classroom today! #elementaryisland #differentiation #howtodifferentiateintheclassroom" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-TgJRAwXNx_MhUYWzFIx_HZyU9EIrOp1sEWAP7Ebg1vkUx89YqLjcp-xbKVfHHighzJqgoDIyJOoICLRxlipj_IYXDNQyLNkOFhXEf0F3rKM92j59FN_z4JYztuJ9orW7ZtGIE-5tO6qcGWhXATqXt6p13Ae14I_zfC1sRsrN66J0Jbe4IL0YB9DH/w213-h320/8%20Ways%20to%20Effectively%20Differentiate%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Today%20Pin.png" title="Practical Steps to Effectively Differentiate in Your Classroom" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-89544516003406565822023-06-05T08:00:00.000-07:002023-06-05T08:00:33.694-07:009 Effective Strategies for Increasing Student Engagement<p>As teachers, we know that the more engaged our students are in the lesson, the more learning happens and solidifies. That makes engagement a BIG part of what we do in the classroom. I don't know about you, but I am tired of feeling like I have to put on a big production just to get students engaged. I decided to spend some time digging into what engaged my students so that I could use more of that. Over time, I've found 9 effective strategies for increasing student engagement. And. . . none of them involve a song and dance!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPZWfs1E8IQwvLqDdZtqvDwVOCnyvbPLfcDkknQbSA3BQ-zCnbVhk7jhvSAX3lejvqpep_ezINQm2AuKL70hj8w2NsGyi0cJMhBRjmXWwLz7-WeQzJbILM6tE_cU_myCvYZjI3dksbWrpjzAl2ElvhARPmTHRXxyNtp0ybVjTMDwbhXQcnXgTFNvaC/s2240/5%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement%20Header%20(6).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Increasing student engagement can be a challenge, but with these 9 effective strategies it doesn't have to be!" border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPZWfs1E8IQwvLqDdZtqvDwVOCnyvbPLfcDkknQbSA3BQ-zCnbVhk7jhvSAX3lejvqpep_ezINQm2AuKL70hj8w2NsGyi0cJMhBRjmXWwLz7-WeQzJbILM6tE_cU_myCvYZjI3dksbWrpjzAl2ElvhARPmTHRXxyNtp0ybVjTMDwbhXQcnXgTFNvaC/w640-h360/5%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement%20Header%20(6).png" title="9 Effective Strategies for Increasing Student Engagement" width="640" /></a></div><p>We are all familiar with the excitement and pride we have on the days it feels like we have every student engaged in some way. You caught their attention from the start, and they are actively working on the activities. Plus, the skills and concepts are clicking. That's a great day in any classroom.</p><p>On the flip side, what can you do when engagement seems to be waning? I have nine effective strategies for increasing student engagement that you can pull out anytime you need to pump up the engagement levels! </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Strategy #1: Get Students Up and Moving with Task Cards</h2><div>I look for any opportunity to get my students up and moving around the classroom. I can remember when I was a student, and constantly being concerned about the time because I was ready to move! </div><div><br /></div><div>My students know that when a new topic or concept is being introduced that they will be sitting. However, they know that I like to move as much as they do, so they also know partnering up or moving around will soon follow the whole class lesson. </div><div><br /></div><div>When it's time to practice, one of my favorite ways to have my students move around the room is by using task cards. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/-Task-Cards-338222?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Task%20Card%20Category" target="_blank">Task cards</a> can be used in all subject areas and offer great opportunities for adding movement to an activity. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/-Task-Cards-338222?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Task%20Card%20Category" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Task cards like these get your kids excited about getting up and moving which will help with increasing student engagement no matter what skills you are focusing on." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNuZ-qGC2E5lZW4RaWjxxBDBbUoq0VuJtchaxoBR0vMdkKBgS7wA1XDZbAYOO0qqVbUP4lfVMbSNywLfLRxmyM_O7W36uMALIrPNuNhqbjEZdPKqO12CTHop5rHAdJ0vkP3ujsbqHB52OnouSKfsG62kVGS2QxIwelDFvfaeBQ4WmVVsSaUIMNPPep/w640-h360/4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom.png" title="9 Effective Strategies for Increasing Student Engagement Task Cards" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Before our activity, I will have posted the task cards around the room or in the hallway. This will be the basis of our Write the Room or Scavenger Hunt activity. The only other thing I need is the recording sheets and a bin of clipboards set out for the students to easily grab. </div><div><br /></div><div>Each student moves to a task card to begin the activity. The first thing they do at each task card is to look for the question number on the card. This will correlate with the number on their answer sheet. Then they read the question and answer the question by writing the answer on the recording page. </div><div><br /></div><div>The order in which the students complete the task cards changes depending on the size of the group. If a small group is working with task cards, I will let them move at their own pace. When they are finished with a card, they can move to another card as long as they have completed each one by the end. </div><div><br /></div><div>If the whole class is working with the task cards, I will have the movement be more structured. They will have a certain amount of time to work on the task card, and then they will all move clockwise to the next card. </div><div><br /></div><div>This is just one way to use task cards! There are SO many more ways you can use task cards as a strategy to increase student engagement! You can learn about <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2022/06/task-cards.html" target="_blank">24 more ideas</a> on how to use task cards in your classroom that are fun and engaging for your students! </div><div><br /></div><div>In the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/-Task-Cards-338222?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Task%20Card%20Category" target="_blank">Elementary Island TPT Store</a>, I have many sets of task cards for Math, English, and Reading. They all have different levels of difficulty to help differentiate for your students as well! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Strategy #2: Encouraging Student Participation with Posters</h2><div>Another amazing strategy that increases student engagement is a class Seek and Find Challenge. I started this because I wanted to incorporate a way for my students to always be on the lookout for the things we are learning in their day-to-day lives. Not only does it engage students but they also take ownership of their learning.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Seek and Find Challenge encourages students to look for things they have learned about in class in the books they are reading, TV shows they are watching, or in other day-to-day activities. Whether in class or at home, students are encouraged to write down what they found and post it on the Seek and Find board.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsyAr9vNMduFuRYU0yDlPrtViXYYyVWZ_qABJfKt_RB0bHn37DVwtK_qRulFXKWyY-i7cvLOY0RFIkJNAdsZjzA6Jq2csNCY-BncXFV4s2OGuHrJgnz3PPmJCY3PgOD7qFyMlxWfotwkJGqUAwy9TU8b9O-MiHYYjjNBTb-oYO3m9Q4WScFQt5nz_6/s2000/5%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement%20Header%20(7).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Make learning interactive with sticky notes for help with increasing student engagement." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsyAr9vNMduFuRYU0yDlPrtViXYYyVWZ_qABJfKt_RB0bHn37DVwtK_qRulFXKWyY-i7cvLOY0RFIkJNAdsZjzA6Jq2csNCY-BncXFV4s2OGuHrJgnz3PPmJCY3PgOD7qFyMlxWfotwkJGqUAwy9TU8b9O-MiHYYjjNBTb-oYO3m9Q4WScFQt5nz_6/w640-h360/5%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement%20Header%20(7).png" title="9 Effective Strategies for Increasing Student Engagement" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The first time I tried this with my class we were studying word building with prefixes. One day, during a read aloud we came upon a word with a prefix. I stopped and showed students the word and we discussed how it connected to what we were learning in grammar. When the students realized this was a "real life" example they got really excited. I grabbed a sticky note and wrote down the word, underlining the prefix. Then I stuck the note to our Seek and Find poster. </div><div><br /></div><div>I told the class that if they came across any words in their books, on a billboard, or even on a TV show, they could write it down and add it to the board. At the end of the week, we shared out our discoveries from the poster. I was truly amazed at not only how excited my students were to connect their learning to their daily lives, but they seemed to have a better understanding of prefixes than before.</div><div><br /></div><div>This might have been the first Seek and Find Challenge, but it definitely wasn't the last. Now I use them all of the time. The topic of our Seek & Find board is always changing. Sometimes it is math related, like fractions, and other times it might be vocabulary words from our science unit. Whatever you choose, just know that your students are going to become super detectives. </div><div><br /></div><div>I love seeing the excitement students have as they add a new note to our poster. I've also noticed that they improved their communication skills as they explain their note at the end of the week. Each explanation is almost like a mini-lesson that reviews the skill or concept. The Seek and Find Challenge promotes a sense of ownership in learning and helps students take an active role in their education. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Strategy #3: Did Someone Say Digital? </h2><div>Another effective strategy for increasing student engagement is using digital activities in the classroom. Like it or not, our students are growing up in a digital age, unlike any generation before them. Their entire lives have included technology. Not to mention that they love it!</div><div><br /></div><div>Incorporating technology and digital learning activities is a surefire way to increase student engagement. I dig further into all the different <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2021/02/The-Benefits-of-digital-activities-in-the-classroom.html" target="_blank">benefits of digital activities in the classroom</a> in a previous post. You will find inspiration, well-explained ideas, and a free resource ready to be used in your class today! </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/-DIGITAL-BOOM-Cards-336266?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Digital%20Boom%20Card%20Category" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Digital activities like these are a sure fire way for increasing student engagement because kids generally love being on digital devices." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfeqGeGiU94ueCHvnD7x6VbNqPIbcm6lfX7ON5TeYL6EPxua0iO4n44K3aHXB6l7WV9OvU9ExGMkYneeuFvHznxhqnh-9tEcsOQ6xqBlzQp3C2qXdoPuAS2u3Pti495fmcz_HusUjntYXDMl2wL3Hg-lat--ZJOgD9Tctri_KifT0KbyGMrPE05bC/w640-h360/4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20(1).png" title="9 Effective Strategies for Increasing Student Engagement Digital Activities" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>A digital resource I enjoy using in my classroom regularly is <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/-DIGITAL-BOOM-Cards-336266?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Digital%20Boom%20Card%20Category" target="_blank">BOOM Cards</a>. BOOM Cards are digital task cards. They are a fun and interactive way for students to practice and review different topics and skills. The game-like feel of digital activities makes them exciting for students. Students will happily complete 25 questions using BOOM Cards, but if the same 25 questions were on a traditional worksheet the assignment would be met with moans and groans.</div><div><br /></div><div>You can also use BOOM Cards and other digital activities as a whole-class warm-up at the beginning of class or whole-class practice during a lesson. </div><div><br /></div><div><div>Learn more about the benefits of BOOM Cards by reading <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2018/10/meet-boom-cards-your-new-teaching-bff.html" target="_blank">BOOM Cards in the Classroom</a>! Read all the way to the end for a free deck of BOOM cards to try out in your classroom! </div></div><div><br /></div><div>And. . . if you are looking for digital activities, in general, hop on over to check out my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/-DIGITAL-Google-Slides-Forms-427175?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Digital%20Google%20Category" target="_blank">digital interactive activities for my Math, Language Arts, and Reading skills</a> resources. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Strategy #4: Student Choice Options</h2><div>An important and effective strategy for increasing student engagement is allowing students to have a choice in what they can do. When students are interested in what they are doing, there will be an increase in work effort and time management. This might include a choice in the activity they complete or a choice in the topic they learn about.</div><div><br /></div><div>Students can be given a choice in all subject areas. One way I incorporate it in my subject areas is through a Choice Board or Menu. There are various names for it, but basically, it's a page with 9 options of different activities students can choose from. Activities will vary in length and type of activity (digital, make a poster, write a comic strip, create a song, etc.) Depending on the goal and length of time students have to complete the activity, they are given a set number of menu activities they need to complete.</div><div><br /></div><div>These choice boards or menus can be used as part of a class assignment, as extension projects, or as activities for early finishers. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/-Spelling-316720?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Spelling%20Category" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Spelling activities like these can help your kids think of spelling practice as more of a game than practice thus increasing student engagement." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitqdW6iDRRjDZ__80aUcaQ3piIBmVkHfvBf7oUkHFaEAQL78Hw1JFDg30iL6EIx0jUpOhYHgUaGIUfoSNbaraFe45KytBXMBcXfGDH-CKjKhpINwvgqBDXnHwdvfk02JDnA3L7ADGkNFs2b_msfkD0pgytuVFmTYlasxp1BYbtEQkiHJ98g98nUbMs/w640-h360/5%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement%20Header%20(5).png" title="9 Effective Strategies for Increasing Student Engagement Spelling Activities" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>One way I incorporate choice is in our <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/-Spelling-316720?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Spelling%20Category" target="_blank">spelling practice</a>. While the goal of each activity remains the same, learn to spell the target words, the activities students can choose from varies. When you need to repeat, repeat, repeat, it's important to have a variety of activities ready to help keep engagement high amongst your students. I have 12 different spelling activities for them to choose from and students know that they must complete a set number. </div><div><br /></div><div>Throughout the year, the theme of the activities will change. I find that this helps to bring excitement to these practice activities resulting in higher engagement. My <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/-Spelling-316720?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Spelling%20Category" target="_blank">Spelling Choice Activities</a> are no-prep and work with any spelling word list! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Strategy #5: Differentiate, Differentiate, Differentiate</h2><div>Every learner learns differently! In today's classroom, differentiation is key to our students' success. Differentiation is not a crutch. Instead, it allows you to meet your students where they are and encouragingly provides them an opportunity to be successful. You are providing access to a beneficial educational experience with this strategy. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2018/07/tips-for-making-differentiation-easy.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="One of the keys to increasing student engagement is differentiation. Keep track of differentiation with record sheets like these." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIEnMtezEGWYXJA82i0L3RYcvBC_T5hzFzrPxE63uOJvlWIqJjQHwPWPkuMlcl5MTw7_WKBC3-wWmPhGScI9PhO3WkZQtMx6x8_6_yOoVcsRqIl7J23mpgsC9bjabMoizVPzbzeVT9Kw1r_WbOnLr0aQiqmkh64Evc3Agm5ApXkVi_dvDgZRNGnaBK/w640-h360/5%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement%20Header%20(4).png" title="9 Effective Strategies for Increasing Student Engagement Differentiation" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>As teachers, our plates are full, and as a result, differentiation can feel like a daunting task. But it doesn't have to be! To help streamline the process of differentiation in the classroom, I walk you through a series of tips and steps in <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2018/07/tips-for-making-differentiation-easy.html" target="_blank">Tips for Making Differentiation Easy</a>. I wrote this post to help you become organized and feel confident to help meet the needs of each of your students! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Strategy #6: Using Student Names in the Classroom</h2><div>"Hey, you!" </div><div>"Who? Me?" </div><div>"Yeah, you!" </div><div><br /></div><div>One of the worst feelings is when someone chooses to not say your name or forgets your name and refers to you as "you." A person's name is so important to their identity. As a teacher, you know that addressing your students by name is essential in building positive relationships. When students feel valued and recognized as individuals, they are more willing to build trust and rapport with you. </div><div><br /></div><div>Using their names creates a personal connection, fosters a sense of belonging, and can increase their engagement in the classroom. Incorporating student names into your teaching and classroom environment can be done in many ways. For example, use name tags or nameplates on desks, assign classroom jobs using their names, or create personalized rewards. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxUXIkMJTV0gButhIh4t2qsTXxqdDyB5OA6zY0GZuMjKXUTq7zfLkPLKSz5VGcVobnShZopgfkFEzWsRvs4ZAW7A-Jw1-wGZ7SiTpJ2yhp8JLh4qPHINtN5C5MtaFko6OBfUdYYRUjLbl8YxRpHmshaV08EsQodpUk1mjuhJ0SLgxxVFOdqJ0g4Ak/s2000/5%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement%20Header%20(3).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Greeting your students every day with a special hello can go a long way when you are focusing on increasing student engagement." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxUXIkMJTV0gButhIh4t2qsTXxqdDyB5OA6zY0GZuMjKXUTq7zfLkPLKSz5VGcVobnShZopgfkFEzWsRvs4ZAW7A-Jw1-wGZ7SiTpJ2yhp8JLh4qPHINtN5C5MtaFko6OBfUdYYRUjLbl8YxRpHmshaV08EsQodpUk1mjuhJ0SLgxxVFOdqJ0g4Ak/w640-h360/5%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement%20Header%20(3).png" title="9 Effective Strategies for Increasing Student Engagement" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Another way to engage students using their names is to incorporate them into your lessons. Turn boring word problems into pure excitement just by adding in student names. Your students will love to be the star of their own classroom questions. And. . . you don't even have to write your own questions to do this. Use the questions from your textbook or lesson and just change out the names. You can even make the setting and events line up with things you've done as a class. </div><div><br /></div><div>When students feel valued and respected, they are more likely to pay attention and actively participate in discussions and activities. The engagement and success levels of your students begin with that one simple but powerful decision to use their names. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Strategy #7: Make Cross-Curricular Connections</h2><div>During my practicums during college, I planned a few cross-curricular lesson plans. I didn't really start appreciating cross-curricular connections until my first full year of teaching. I remember sitting down with all of my school's standards and wondering when, where, and how was I going to fit all of these into our 180-day school year.</div><div><br /></div><div>I quickly realized that making cross-curricular connections was such a powerful way to deepen students' learning and increase engagement. Added bonus, it made my teaching a little less frenzied knowing I was teaching to several different standards at one time!</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7684964?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=9%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Hands on crafts and STEM activities like these make learning fun which naturally helps with increasing student engagement." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFD6EbsJAgPWURSFsUcJOGk3I8DEwcgWK94sBMyXfzhQDSHEZ45IvNx5RjidqbAW__u8PjLTx8FO38ZX_OABbcF_JyBzN0zABJoXXvQijGC0FqAFMmi5gxJSF51lzl-6eO2Kz6I9ZyWAz8MrihskjVkyIB3VXMuXUrnJSfyTzJnRUN5tRukzURSAv/w640-h360/4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20(2).png" title="9 Effective Strategies for Increasing Student Engagement Crafts and STEM" width="640" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Math crafts and STEM activities are a great way to integrate subjects like math, science, art, reading, and writing. For example, students can build the skeletal system using Q-tips or create a math craft where they write about the math they are using. </div><div><br /></div><div>Any time that I can connect multiple skills or standards in one activity, I feel like I've won the teacher time management lottery! So much so, that now my goal is to try and always incorporate multiple skills or standards in my classroom activity. That's why I created a variety of <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7684964?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Math%20Craftivity" target="_blank">math crafts for different holidays</a>. Students can add some holiday learning and fine motor skills to their practice of basic math operations. </div><div><br /></div><div>STEM activities are also great ways to get students working on multiple skills and concepts at the same time. I was constantly looking for hands-on STEM resources that provided my students an authentic, approachable learning experience when it came to science, technology, engineering, and math. I created <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/-STEM-282245?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=STEM%20category" target="_blank">a series of STEM resources</a> that cover a range of STEM-related topics - coding, robotics, chemistry, and physics. These activities are innovative and help to bring these subjects to life by being hands-on and interactive. My students ask me every day when our next STEM activity will be! They love being collaborative with their team members, designing and manipulating the materials for the end goal! </div><div><br /></div><div>These activities not only make learning more meaningful but also foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Strategy #8: Use Active Response Techniques </h2><div>Fun student responses are a great way to promote engagement in the classroom. One of the reasons why I love this is because there is no end to your options! And. . . the sillier the better when it comes to keeping students engaged. My advice is to find several that will work for you and have them in your teacher toolbox to rotate through! </div><div><br /></div><div>One student response I use is to have students complete an action to show which answer they agree with. For example, I have the students touch their noses if they agree with a statement or touch the floor if they disagree. You can easily change up the two things they touch or add a new action. Sometimes I will save this technique for that time in the lesson when attention starts to fall off. So, for the first few minutes, we use our traditional thumbs up or thumbs down. Then out of nowhere, I change it up. I can quickly see who is paying attention and this surprise change usually results in lots of giggles.</div><div><br /></div><div>Call and response activities are also effective for engagement, active listening, and classroom management. They are so many out there, like: </div><div><br /></div><div>1, 2, 3 Eyes on Me....1, 2 Eyes on You</div><div>Holy Moly...Guacamole </div><div>Hocus Pocus...Time to Focus</div><div><br /></div><div>These types of calls are a great way to get student attention when they have been working independently.</div><div><br /></div><div>Lastly, I use four corners and whiteboards, especially during review sessions before a test. Each corner of my room will represent an answer choice, such as A, B, C, or D. I will read off the question, and the students will move to the corner with the correct answer. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg3RQn_9-ZQ-kRNUq736ufk_d0wAayXbCz_ozLNJY9x649Xe6WhQsM1B7-js90AuhPt28Iw-pIq8m7-nf7jW8TbQHB8EgOF-pA1qggxjHQCVA-vy3piHqaBE6itPqozjz7MOhuZAo7JPZN92SCUnaYt7_JiGjEuDkXckXY0GxRCPPNEChsZOH27ZFs/s2000/5%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement%20Header%20(2).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Using fun responses like writing answers on whiteboards like this will definitely lead to increasing student engagement because your students will be excited to try something new." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg3RQn_9-ZQ-kRNUq736ufk_d0wAayXbCz_ozLNJY9x649Xe6WhQsM1B7-js90AuhPt28Iw-pIq8m7-nf7jW8TbQHB8EgOF-pA1qggxjHQCVA-vy3piHqaBE6itPqozjz7MOhuZAo7JPZN92SCUnaYt7_JiGjEuDkXckXY0GxRCPPNEChsZOH27ZFs/w640-h360/5%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement%20Header%20(2).png" title="9 Effective Strategies for Increasing Student Engagement Fun Responses" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Allowing students to interact with a lesson using whiteboards is another great way to increase engagement. Each student receives their own whiteboard and marker. They listen to the question being asked, and they write down their response on the whiteboard. I will count down 3, 2, 1, and then say "Flip." The students will hold up their whiteboards and show me what they wrote. I can quickly look at their responses and see who is understanding and who needs more practice. It's amazing how excited my students become when they hear, "Please grab a whiteboard." </div><div><br /></div><div>These responses not only make learning fun but also promote active listening and critical thinking skills. Keep in mind these are just a few examples of active student response ideas. Anything that allows students to actively participate in the lesson without a traditional pencil and paper activity will help improve engagement. Experiment with them, and see what works best for you and your students!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Strategy #9: Hands-On Activities to Promote Active Learning</h2><div style="text-align: left;">Hands-on activities provide an excellent way to promote active learning and engagement. Through my years of teaching, I have observed the power of hands-on activities with my students. It doesn't matter the age. And. . . the science of learning supports this! Doing results in better learning than just seeing or hearing. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">A great example of hands-on learning is STEM activities. The basis of STEM learning is that students are using what they know to build and create. Even if they don't have a deep understanding of the concepts, the opportunity to plan, create, test, and correct, offers valuable learning opportunities.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Try out some <a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/y3o2s2" target="_blank">free STEM Activities</a> in your classroom and watch as the engagement soars!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/-Color-By-Codes-353120?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=9%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Color by code activities like these are a great way for increasing student engagement because your kiddos will look forward to completing these worksheets." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGtmSU3Yle4xUpn-zcmUAjtGB0Yxv2l9akJMgUpbImCawRiQqLb9VSWspp-jeLbTygh_S7CeP5JRjAE5F1SU-ubOzEbBWmU6IfnADuFAVQC_Nb7ZvAOsb_zXI3X1lH1Ol7Ok8Vbh_JZxpCzS3oCB5QM84JycYoY1cE6U0f-fVcOdBhUfkD-wyA4PBk/w640-h360/5%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement%20Header%20(1).png" title="9 Effective Strategies for Increasing Student Engagement Color by Code Activities" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div>Another way I incorporate hands-on learning is through <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/-Color-By-Codes-353120?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=9%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement" target="_blank">Color by Code Math Activities</a>. I like to incorporate these pages into one of my math centers. Students are free to use any available math manipulatives as they solve the problems. Then, instead of writing the answer, they color the space with the correct color. The students love that they don't have to write their answers in the traditional way. My students love these pages because they enjoy trying to figure out what the picture is, and I love that they are getting in key math skills practice! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">BONUS Strategy: Songs and Chants</h2><div>Sometimes my students have a difficult time remembering a new concept. I often feel that this can happen when they aren't actively engaged in the lessons. When this happens I know it is time to tap into my inner rock star. Just kidding - but not really. Making up songs or chants is a great way to engage students and help them remember. There's something about the rhythm that just reaches the brain differently.</div><div><br /></div><div>Not sure where to start? Choose a common tune that the kids know or try the "I don't know but I've been told" military cadence. Write your own version to help students remember the concepts they have been learning. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here's an example that I have used in my classroom when working on place value models.</div><div><br /></div><div>Teacher: I don't know but I've been told</div><div>Students: I don't know but I've been told</div><div>Teacher: Tens are tall and ones are small</div><div>Students: Tens are tall and ones are small</div><div>Teacher: Then hundreds are after that</div><div>Students: Then hundreds are after that</div><div>Teacher: They are round and they are fat</div><div>Students: They are round and they are fat</div><div><br /></div><div>Add some hand motions to the words and you've got a multi-sensory, interactive learning song that your students will be fully engaged with and aren't soon to forget!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Looking for More Engagement Ideas?</h2><div>If you are looking for even more engagement ideas, then check out the blog post <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2018/11/activities-to-engage-students-now-with.html" target="_blank">Activities to Engage Students Now</a>. In this post, you will learn more ways to increase student engagement. Plus you can grab a freebie too! </div><div><br /></div><div>Every group of students will respond to different engagement strategies. Have a variety in your teacher toolbox and you'll be ready to engage all year long. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save for the Future!</h2><div>Remember to pin this post to your favorite classroom Pinterest board so you can come back any time you need student engagement ideas! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyERW6g5XdPjkjS6eBxDd-f24I_B5ciMBQIL5sQkTxP_jmeEPZk80SPlbDyaDh_iVv8CdknKaFLLUaAJxFIirU862WHjbpj3wj5-gD1Q2FGvu-ZEDXkX8kzDQCm5gG5ZlDI8ueMS4mxfw3Yw8k-nqpB47CW6WIXm3tzHBh_K5oXInfpdZLCePtHH4s/s1500/9%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Increasing students engagement in your classroom doesn't have to be difficult or time consuming. Use these 9 effective and fun strategies in your classroom today to help with increasing student engagement in ways your students will love. From color by code activities, to hands on learning with STEM, your students will be excited to learn and won't want to stop. #stopandsmellthecrayons #studentengagement #increasingstudentengagement" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyERW6g5XdPjkjS6eBxDd-f24I_B5ciMBQIL5sQkTxP_jmeEPZk80SPlbDyaDh_iVv8CdknKaFLLUaAJxFIirU862WHjbpj3wj5-gD1Q2FGvu-ZEDXkX8kzDQCm5gG5ZlDI8ueMS4mxfw3Yw8k-nqpB47CW6WIXm3tzHBh_K5oXInfpdZLCePtHH4s/w254-h382/9%20Effective%20Strategies%20for%20Increasing%20Student%20Engagement.png" title="9 Effective Strategies for Increasing Student Engagement" width="254" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-87938463516463584722023-04-10T11:10:00.000-07:002023-04-10T17:10:27.232-07:004 Fun Ways to Teach Biographies <p><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Biographies are fascinating to read at any age, but young children love hearing stories about real people. Learning about the lives of those who lived before them is intriguing. Biographies give kids a peek at what it's like to be someone else and possibly live in a different time period than they do. Bringing biographies to life for your students can even help spark a love of reading! Are you excited about teaching biographies but feel a bit intimidated? I've got four fun, engaging ways for you to teach your students all about biographies!</span></span></p><p><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE45M4cHjF02Nl2cVj6-GlLHYTzI1fPyWhqw1nTkfxGjWJvnfnerN-zLw7oAOPYFkP01AcAmMgxoBcJghlcmraSH48oUtKvpNPTK47ZVtSsL_TxmJMkoTcCPHz3qLFV4obSJRsG3LJF5sYGMitxq1-7zOaJpjRC2UE2ftkjkK0SIWLbQKB9eP3A0AL/s2240/4%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Teach%20Biographies%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for fun and easy ways to teach biographies in your classroom this year? These amazing activities will help your students get the most out of learning about biographies." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE45M4cHjF02Nl2cVj6-GlLHYTzI1fPyWhqw1nTkfxGjWJvnfnerN-zLw7oAOPYFkP01AcAmMgxoBcJghlcmraSH48oUtKvpNPTK47ZVtSsL_TxmJMkoTcCPHz3qLFV4obSJRsG3LJF5sYGMitxq1-7zOaJpjRC2UE2ftkjkK0SIWLbQKB9eP3A0AL/w640-h360/4%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Teach%20Biographies%20Header.png" title="4 Fun Ways to Teach Biographies" width="640" /></a></span></div><p></p><h2>Why Should You Teach Biographies?</h2><div><span id="docs-internal-guid-617ba8ab-7fff-d239-a0e7-f8ff841e9597"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Biographies are a fantastic way to introduce young students to important historical figures and teach them valuable life lessons. Biographies are windows into people's lives who have made a difference in the world and can inspire kids to dream and reach for their goals. They help kids understand that the world is diverse and that not everyone is just like them. </span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span id="docs-internal-guid-55bdb4e1-7fff-136f-c16f-95dbd89b48ea"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Students can also learn empathy by reading about people's experiences and challenges. They may feel really sorry for famous people they learn about. Students will start to understand what these individuals went through or see that they were treated poorly.</span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Biography-Report-Templates-and-Research-Activities-Biography-Anchor-Charts-2363307?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Biography%20Report%20Templates" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center; white-space: normal;" target="_blank"><img alt="These worksheets are great for helping students get to know the person they will be writing the biography about when teaching biographies." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4lQAH6-IBOkjoEYlJObsRHyugllL_DBLMZ8E0PS3MbUBlsRkyzUA8ywT8AjiXTkLRtt_8GJ1BQ9F7nJtM1fUE9ZEWa0KkaHrlRdWLkXW1fUSBoxYYaIZsEma8YXH9ea3cxGr89g3q_NY227X-qHDopBOEBtZ-I1F3GuBobrHPQH3SNQ4mNT3V4j5S/w640-h360/_4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20copy.png" title="4 Fun Ways to Teach Biographies Interview Worksheet" width="640" /></a></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span id="docs-internal-guid-6219c573-7fff-5591-f0d3-0878e103d696"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Biographies are the perfect complement to any Social Studies Unit or Thematic Unit! Students can relate to history more easily through personal stories because historical events are explained from the perspective of real people who lived through those times. Check out this blog post about <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2022/09/MLK.html" target="_blank">how I use biographies to teach about Martin Luther King Jr.</a>!</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Now that we know why teaching biographies is important, let's jump into HOW!</span></p><h2 style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></h2><h2>1. Introduce Students to Biographies with Read Alouds </h2><div style="text-align: left;">I can't say enough about how much I love reading a good picture book to my students to stir up excitement for a lesson. Sharing a great biography is no exception! Start with a beautiful book like:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://amzn.to/413M4rJ" target="_blank">Counting on Katherine</a> by Helaine Becker</li><li><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 36px; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="a-size-extra-large" id="productTitle" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 36px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3GlTwqa" target="_blank">Pocket Full of Colors: The Magical World of Mary Blair, Disney Artist Extraordinaire</a> by </span><span style="background-color: transparent; white-space: pre-wrap;">Amy Guglielmo and Jacqueline Tourville</span></span></div></li><li><div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 36px; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://amzn.to/43oNr6v" target="_blank">Who SaysCan’tn Can't Be Doctors? The Story of Elizabeth Blackwell</a> by Tanya Lee Stone</span></span></div></li></ul><div><span style="color: #0f1111;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQW-8R-YVm7LUT6j_Zq9J1ypjlrJ0Qov_WLQohXPWXTbB3nOvCLQxF6WhHUHBPkjP2KcyXOmYqC7F6j2fNCE_z5yE1gC5_m7NhZ7I5afezC6jW4cg1Lijtd4LSyLywUUq2UP80cCXCZoZDiLUke0LfxKTKSbFjKEoFbxdR3ozKN_DBNA-7EP0eLCLa/s2000/_4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="These books are the perfect introduction as you begin teaching biographies." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQW-8R-YVm7LUT6j_Zq9J1ypjlrJ0Qov_WLQohXPWXTbB3nOvCLQxF6WhHUHBPkjP2KcyXOmYqC7F6j2fNCE_z5yE1gC5_m7NhZ7I5afezC6jW4cg1Lijtd4LSyLywUUq2UP80cCXCZoZDiLUke0LfxKTKSbFjKEoFbxdR3ozKN_DBNA-7EP0eLCLa/w640-h360/_4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom.png" title="4 Fun Ways to Teach Biographies" width="640" /></a></div><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">These books are incredible stories of perseverance and overcoming obstacles. Students see a glimpse of what life was like years before they were born and how things were very different! Did I mention the illustrations? They are gorgeous!</span></div></div></span></div><div><span style="color: #0f1111;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There are a million incredible biographies, so it can be tough to sift through them to find the perfect books for your students. Check out this post I wrote about</span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2021/12/6-amazing-biography-book-series.html" target="_blank">my six favorite Biography Series</a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">! You will find plenty of biographies that fit right in with your next Social Studies Unit or for a Biography Unit!</span></div><div><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Once you have finished sharing your biography read-aloud, ask your students to create a timeline of events in the person's life from the book. In my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Biography-Report-Templates-and-Research-Activities-Biography-Anchor-Charts-2363307?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Biography%20Report%20Templates" target="_blank">Biography Student Reports</a> resource, you will find two options for a print-and-go timeline: one with space for five events and one with space for seven events. Your high flyers will get a bit of a challenge identifying seven events, while your struggling students can still do the same activity focusing on five key events.</span></div><div><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div><h2>2. Conduct an Interview!</h2></div><div>Want a fun way to get your students excited about biographies and writing one? Ask them to interview a friend in the class! You can allow students to choose a classmate they would like to interview or assign students to interview each other. Give students a list of questions to ask and 20 minutes or so to conduct their interviews.</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Students can ask questions like:</span></div><p style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p><ul style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Where were you born?</span></li><li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">How many brothers or sisters do you have?</span></li><li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">What's your favorite movie?</span></li><li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">What do you want to be when you're older?</span></li></ul><div><br /></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Biography-Report-Templates-and-Research-Activities-Biography-Anchor-Charts-2363307?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Biography%20Report%20Templates" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use worksheets like these to help your students when they interview their classmates when creating their own biographies." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimXJUOYqnWEX7fxAVfg40og-Pn6xQgjP9s6UevUZTZcZBwS_bdZtE6fFqrkenZOUdve1n8FENocB6ooUQlHJefDfGtVCGHjSYDEspH-rLji7nkD47C-D6RXaaIZhb8jLmQoL3_-kc0Bv4SDy3rRLBKOQVzmBNR40GuXzxr-qvmcQAR0gT2PRdoyauH/w640-h360/_4%20Ways%20to%20Teach%20Biographies%20.png" title="4 Fun Ways to Teach Biographies Interview Worksheets" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>You could allow students to share what they learned in their interviews with the class or take this activity further by writing a biography about their friend! </div><div><br /></div><div>This type of project can take a bit of preparation on your part to keep it running smoothly. However, with my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Biography-Report-Templates-and-Research-Activities-Biography-Anchor-Charts-2363307?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Biography%20Report%20Templates" target="_blank">Biography Student Reports</a> pack, this "interview and write a biography" activity is a breeze to incorporate into your classroom!</div><div><br /></div><div>Included are 2 Student Interview Pages filled with interesting questions to get your kids talking! Plus, printable pages where students write the information they learned. They then piece the pages together to create a friend's biography! Your students will love learning about each other and feel accomplished because they wrote a biography!</div><div><br /></div><div><h2>3. Research a Famous Person and Write About Their Life!</h2></div></div><div>How can you ensure your students understand what biographies are and what information they include? Have them write a biography about a famous person! Yes, writing a biography can seem overwhelming- even for an adult, much less a student! It can definitely be done, but your students will need guidelines and support throughout the process.</div><div><br /></div><div>Luckily, my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Biography-Report-Templates-and-Research-Activities-Biography-Anchor-Charts-2363307?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Biography%20Report%20Templates" target="_blank">Biography Student Reports</a> resource includes Notes Pages that allow your students the freedom of choosing who they learn about while having questions that will guide them during their research! To help students include important information in their biographies, they will be asked questions like:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>When was this person born? When did they die?</li><li>Describe this person as a child.</li><li>Did this person get married or have children?</li><li>How did this person contribute to society?</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Biography-Report-Templates-and-Research-Activities-Biography-Anchor-Charts-2363307?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Biography%20Report%20Templates" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="When teaching biographies, your students will be able to use biography student reports like these to help them organize information." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpc328jY2G3RaEiQ-ikPwegaP4z8rzPpJ_NwWu_P1K4eIlb-BnvIKLMe3QTCjn3ABp1pagpFNE0yokhC-_OuEJPC6PzzPH7jfqtJ8a9MQzEgw6E_rdrSSAfsEHwiy9BNFMci0-agD0UxFUh890ihbGWSJoGBBKNobQHMCbdS4pbOiH8Ov0_tHlKhYV/w640-h360/_4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20copy%202.png" title="4 Fun Ways to Teach Biographies Student Reports" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>These pages have differentiated versions so students of all ability levels can participate in this activity. Each version has questions, but some are more specific and require more detail. This allows you to easily differentiate for your students and push some to think a little more deeply, while other students can answer the questions more broadly while still experiencing success!</div><div><br /></div><div>A booklet with labeled pages is included so that students can practice transferring the information from their Notes Pages into an actual biography of their famous person! Your students will feel fulfilled when they finish their biographies and see all the hard work that went into that challenging (but fun!) project! </div></div><div><br /></div><div><h2>4. Incorporate Art with Your Biographies!</h2></div><div>Now that students have researched their famous person, learned interesting facts, and written those facts into a biography, let them celebrate with a little art project! The art project included in my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Biography-Report-Templates-and-Research-Activities-Biography-Anchor-Charts-2363307?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Biography%20Report%20Templates" target="_blank">Biographies Pack</a> is the perfect way to allow students to show what they know in a different and creative way!</div><div><br /></div><div>Using a piece of large construction paper and the directions in the pack, students will cut the paper in such a way as to create the shape of a body. Students will then fold the paper to make two flaps appear to be clothes, then add arms, hands, feet, and a head to the body shape.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Biography-Report-Templates-and-Research-Activities-Biography-Anchor-Charts-2363307?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Biography%20Report%20Templates" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Bring extra creativity to your lessons when you teach biographies with this fun and engaging activity." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIDJes5lBZ-erqbO8TAVIGHJmdfeXpchDwmcI9veW1qozB2xpo4AgtPToBq-sYuQEbM31KO_WzjWdaE4eKriCUtSnJEx-f6WssnKdJh5Y6W8pr7PnyxpQsQoBhS5u4ikTlaizXbwDFWJYTL0zKBFqIG7eAZ7UcVP2UDB_OApPQLW6oGx6KirIdOYzM/w640-h360/_4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20copy%203.png" title="4 Fun Ways to Teach Biographies" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Students will decorate their body shape to look like the famous person they researched (adding as many details as possible). They will take the biography book they wrote and glue it inside the clothes flap, making the cutest display for all of their hard work! </div><div><br /></div><div>I love displaying these in the hallway for other classes to see. You could even invite other classes to come by and have your students read their information out loud to their audience!</div><div><br /></div><div><h2>Would you like to try Biographies?</h2></div><div>Your students will love learning about famous people from history, but sometimes you have to try things for yourself to see how awesome they are! Dip your toe into biographies with this incredible <a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/a9y8y3" target="_blank">Biography Templates Freebie</a>! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/a9y8y3" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab these free biography templates to help you teach biographies in your classroom." border="0" data-original-height="846" data-original-width="1192" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUccuAPwQ7jnjT9uTKTJLwFpV8xcsiJEa_3WCYiW0DuysHc9lWNgMb0LM_bDCm3zj7x1AMKUwmIgKK8rlUVbOncHX1ckNRVtxHevd7k34jwNDAirMHjmxLWz0XqBxlKsTfQ5psudV2nFpqlDG-_Rvd6b_r4z7AdnzeO4bmXak2E3W9nxA6wlEswrBM/w640-h454/Screen%20Shot%202023-04-03%20at%201.54.43%20PM.png" title="4 Fun Ways to Teach Biographies" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Use these templates to help your students organize three facts they learned about important historical figures like Benjamin Franklin, Rosa Parks, Henry Ford, and many more! This is a great way to ease your students into learning about biographies.</div><div><br /></div><div><h2>Let's Teach Biographies! </h2></div><div><span id="docs-internal-guid-9b9d481e-7fff-898d-5944-38e914295e55"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Introduce your students to biography research and make learning fun with this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Biography-Report-Templates-and-Research-Activities-Biography-Anchor-Charts-2363307?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Biography%20Report%20Templates" target="_blank">Biography Report and Research Activities Unit</a> from my TPT Store! </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Biography-Report-Templates-and-Research-Activities-Biography-Anchor-Charts-2363307?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Biography%20Report%20Templates" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab these biography student reports to help you teach biographies in your classroom this year." border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NmbdskycFcmsM-KrLu4pddk9TIP1WnbROQrjYOOxwtVUTvkEhREuJ6e545oTjdYFHy-9awUQ_2xuHX5Zgimt7thfSoL5D32RHfO42CgKLJ-kJuh7Kx6SWoqpZaQ8jkIJIusvkMcsr1WHhbfN1uUSnpVh1eqkLuByx1UZWmy9m2_OaMIHZHPyJGIw/w320-h320/original-2363307-1.jpeg" title="4 Fun Ways to Teach Biographies" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The set includes templates for biography reports that can be used all year long, catering to the needs of different levels of learners. Differentiated research activities are included, along with anchor chart sets that can be printed in black and white or color for student reference during the unit. A classmate research activity is also included, fostering community building within the classroom. Engage your students in the excitement of learning from history through biographies!</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><h2>Pin this Post on Pinterest</h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><div>Not ready for ideas on teaching biographies but need them later? Save this post to your favorite Teaching board on Pinterest. You'll have them when you need them!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSd3Tu7J5iyTmF3D6LOPUvRB6w1CL7JDe_AQnwsU79g1sQ3g-wsXATPMk6qDge4bUDG0q8HzmrSrunY0x-m8ZakTJZsI-DkQ2f1Kj1WYLiOHbnXckI9wbKTV4CsOSWQvJDj4MLbo1p_oGxlx02YgPjg7lFYL3l0Du2XfptgPY9XlUIe6Ynce0-MPtn/s1500/4%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Teach%20Biographies%20Pin.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for fun and engaging ways to teach biographies this year? These activities include everything you need to introduce and teach biographies in ways your students will love. The resource even comes with a super fun art activity you can use at the end of your unit. #elementaryisland #teachingbiographies #activitiesforteachingbiographies #biographyactivities" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSd3Tu7J5iyTmF3D6LOPUvRB6w1CL7JDe_AQnwsU79g1sQ3g-wsXATPMk6qDge4bUDG0q8HzmrSrunY0x-m8ZakTJZsI-DkQ2f1Kj1WYLiOHbnXckI9wbKTV4CsOSWQvJDj4MLbo1p_oGxlx02YgPjg7lFYL3l0Du2XfptgPY9XlUIe6Ynce0-MPtn/w213-h320/4%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Teach%20Biographies%20Pin.png" title="4 Fun Ways to Teach Biographies" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-81618077807834638362023-03-22T18:07:00.005-07:002023-04-04T11:28:42.892-07:004 Ways to Use Challenge Phonics to Teach Digraphs<p><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As ELA teachers, we all want our students to become confident and proficient in reading and spelling English. But English can be a tricky language! </span></span><span style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; white-space: pre-wrap;">If only learning to read English was as easy as learning the letters and their sounds. The next step is introducing digraphs, which can be a tricky concept for many students. But don't worry, having a structured approach to teaching phonics can help your students become great readers and spellers. And that's where Challenge Phonics comes in! Keep reading to find out how Challenge Phonics can help your students master digraphs.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXvGclQkgsymgFI-4Lvhf-7pVf6VWZHxE3ugDMEYIBS69j2VgYWM-53tVJChyGHs_oJ_4f7mPX7FB834IZCU7krPbL1JiRd7ukuHbPeT23nyISCS_9voAazd6l4Ml36cOGaoPu-JoBvsc2g_ma7wvnj585Ub3GjhLacz1VzfZZmg3maHW3gvxAH86y/s2240/4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these 4 fun activities for your students who have already mastered basic phonics with exciting challenge phonics activities they will love." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXvGclQkgsymgFI-4Lvhf-7pVf6VWZHxE3ugDMEYIBS69j2VgYWM-53tVJChyGHs_oJ_4f7mPX7FB834IZCU7krPbL1JiRd7ukuHbPeT23nyISCS_9voAazd6l4Ml36cOGaoPu-JoBvsc2g_ma7wvnj585Ub3GjhLacz1VzfZZmg3maHW3gvxAH86y/w640-h360/4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Header.png" title="4 Ways to Use Challenge Phonics in Your Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><span id="docs-internal-guid-fe184ac8-7fff-57b1-6991-b952584f04f1"></span></p><h2 style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt; text-align: left;">What are digraphs and why are they important?</h2><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">D</span></span><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">igraphs can be challenging for younger readers because they represent sounds that don't match up with the basic phonics rules they have learned. Just when students learn each individual sound, we start changing the rules. </span><span style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students learn early on what sound the letters "c" and "h" say on their own, but Challenge Phonics teaches students that "ch" says a completely different sound when they are placed together. </span></span><span style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">By using Challenge Phonics, students will learn to recognize those tricky digraphs, making them more confident readers!</span></div><div><span style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-DIGRAPHS-End-of-the-Year-REVIEW-2439099?utm_source=Challenge%20Phonics%20EI%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Challenge%20Phonics%20Worksheet%20Digraphs" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Teaching challenge phonics in your classroom to students who have already mastered basic phonics is fun and easy with these activities your students are sure to love." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5ZYE70C1u2wtMQQoL8z4E58XJZEd06yINDp_SiaxPu05tTRCr_bK_HP4m5ibEEs8h2dB2BnsntbVzvQiCFedpq715Sg_XFosduRPuQpqTZKWFCR2EQy-FHbATgXYhTSwvRp82KNc9y9XUDFWSjFRoMrmon3UMQoJZ6R7jUZWjfwBtaYWbGSbQhnz/w640-h360/4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20copy%204.png" title="4 Ways to Use Challenge Phonics in Your Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Teaching phonics is important because it:</span></span></div><div><span id="docs-internal-guid-94fa77d4-7fff-bc39-d611-0c214b5d3b49"><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 29pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Improves reading fluency. Students can begin tackling more difficult words because they know diagraphs make a new sound together. They don’t have to struggle to sound out each individual letter.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Enhances spelling ability. Knowing advanced phonics skills helps students spell words containing digraphs because they recognize which letter combinations work together to make those sounds and will use the correct digraphs when spelling. </span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 29pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Makes reading easier and more enjoyable. When our students understand complex phonics rules and patterns, they are more likely to enjoy reading and writing because reading isn’t a struggle for them.</span></p></li></span></ol></span></div><div><span id="docs-internal-guid-f6ef8df9-7fff-1efb-ccec-cd8e4a0baed8"><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So how do you help your students get all of these benefits? Challenge Phonics to the rescue! This done-for-you phonics resource has everything you need to help your students master digraphs and other important phonics concepts while saving you time. </span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Challenge Phonics is designed to provide higher-level phonics activities to help you challenge all of the students in your class. Many students will be challenged working on digraphs with one syllable words, but others will need more of a challenge. Challenge Phonics allows all of your students to work on the same skill but at their just-right level! </span></span></span></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Start With Hands-On Activities!</h2><div>As teachers, we know that hands-on activities are an important part of the learning process. <span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When teaching phonics, it's important to use a multisensory approach that engages all of the senses! This is something I incorporate from the beginning as I am introducing a new concept. </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here are a few fun and easy hands-on activities you can use to teach and practice digraphs.</span></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Have students work with letter tiles or magnetic letters to create digraphs and repeat the sound it makes. You can extend this by adding some picture cards and having students say the word, listen for the digraph sound, and then build the proper digraph.</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Spray foam shaving cream on students' desks and have students write the digraph after listening to you say the sound. Then have them repeat the sound.</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Allow students to dig through a sensory bin to find hidden letter tiles. Then let them work together to make a digraph. Once they find a match they can say the sound the digraph makes.</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Have students string letter beads onto pipe cleaners to make a digraph and repeat the sound it makes as they slide the beads toward each other.</span></span></li></ul><div><span style="color: #374151;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJocwhbG9u5n8qxOyYXHa8Mrn_Q18yFHGCRmhaSZZ4CW3N_HwO2UHOKKvebOsUQnuEzMJknPeoGQZIsxT70Aw6aVd4pIsRwWjsteWgw6Z9ygc9RPLyodx2xfFC6UtszpJr_whwMGKUY6eO9_gE8AggC8IHLlMczjelOm1r6eSFJZW0TwlF95Tl-Nh/s2000/4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Hands-on activities like these are a great way to get in more challenge phonics practice your students will love and they are perfect for centers." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJocwhbG9u5n8qxOyYXHa8Mrn_Q18yFHGCRmhaSZZ4CW3N_HwO2UHOKKvebOsUQnuEzMJknPeoGQZIsxT70Aw6aVd4pIsRwWjsteWgw6Z9ygc9RPLyodx2xfFC6UtszpJr_whwMGKUY6eO9_gE8AggC8IHLlMczjelOm1r6eSFJZW0TwlF95Tl-Nh/w640-h360/4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom.png" title="4 Ways to Use Challenge Phonics to teach digraphs" width="640" /></a></div></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">When you allow your students to use their hands and bodies to explore new ideas, their brains make connections quicker and the information is less likely to be forgotten. By starting off with hands-on activities, you are explicitly teaching the concept of digraphs and can now move on to practice!</span></span></div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2. Give students lots of isolated practice with specific digraphs</span></span></h2><div><span id="docs-internal-guid-17183b1f-7fff-ac49-f9c8-cae200129ca2"><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Like with any skill, repetition, and practice are key to mastering digraphs. Once students have learned that the letters 'c' and 'h' together say "ch", give them practice seeing this "ch" digraph in action!</span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I love using the digraph practice pages from my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-DIGRAPHS-End-of-the-Year-REVIEW-2439099?utm_source=Challenge%20Phonics%20EI%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Challenge%20Phonics%20Worksheet%20Digraphs" target="_blank">Challenge Phonics</a> resource! These pages work perfectly for small group instruction, independent practice, or as a center activity. </span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My students love these pages because they never get bored. There are several activities to complete, on each page which keeps them engaged. I love that each activity gets them thinking and working with the target digraph in a different way. </span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Activities on each page include:</span></span></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">repeated reading of words</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">sorting based on beginning/ending digraph sounds</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">unscrambling words</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">completing sentences with the correct word</span></span></li></ul><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">and more! They are also a great activity for building vocabulary, which is an added bonus!</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-DIGRAPHS-End-of-the-Year-REVIEW-2439099?utm_source=Challenge%20Phonics%20EI%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Challenge%20Phonics%20Worksheet%20Digraphs" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Challenge phonics worksheets like these are great because they give students lots of different opportunities to practice the targeted digraph you are working on." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis6lr0oFjOiYRfKC96YgsRaEwm1fH2GVaa5E2XM-Y23iumNbNsUy_C7j9sqpWvrk6GJniQcUunLzAP2xgqrOw6Rk50RC__v6rcIQnPy-Fv471p1fgrLOo83EzDKZos6TpQ5W1Z6NiAb0_U1gsP0tIy0OxVJz2-o9P_byNsR-4Qfvh5CG1UvpXogo4v/w640-h360/4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20copy.png" title="4 Ways to Use Challenge Phonics in Your Classroom Digraph Pages" width="640" /></a></div><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This practice page gives students lots of interaction with how to say the digraph, what it looks like in actual words, as well as how to write it. Once students have practiced this digraph in isolated words, it's time to help them easily recognize digraphs as quickly as possible.</span></span></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">3. Build automaticity of digraphs </span></span></h2></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In the beginning, you want students to be able to find digraphs in words when they look for them. But eventually, you want students to know digraphs so well, that it becomes automatic for them. Students no longer have to think about digraphs, they just know them!</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Repetition of skills is the best way to build automaticity, so I give my students fun word sorts and word searches for this very reason! Using the word sort in my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-DIGRAPHS-End-of-the-Year-REVIEW-2439099?utm_source=Challenge%20Phonics%20EI%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Challenge%20Phonics%20Worksheet%20Digraphs" target="_blank">Challenge Phonics</a> pack, students get to highlight the digraph in each word, cut out the word list, and sort the words based on where the digraph falls in the word. They get really good at identifying whether the digraph sound is at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end of the word. Students then glue the words into the proper columns.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-DIGRAPHS-End-of-the-Year-REVIEW-2439099?utm_source=Challenge%20Phonics%20EI%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Challenge%20Phonics%20Worksheet%20Digraphs" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Word search activities like this challenge phonics digraph activity will help your students quickly learn to identify the specific digraph you are focusing on." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinZEM0vZg6TS4TiOw7HmOliIndHx6C1NNfFj2RO9cLW6c0AzqTDpKzq4FVlK9dhUC1eVPDFqueJJ9XKCL0V_LNsQ83OoBKEl1c_IyAIZzN5dRz6JQCok0jzhMCJWHSuVEp8cWryVwm3ebD3f0f94JABdFUvcH016aYiRFxy4ddSOZixwfwk-IASiSo/w640-h360/4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20copy%202.png" title="4 Ways to Use Challenge Phonics in Your Classroom Word Searches" width="640" /></a></div></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I also love using word searches! These puzzles </span></span><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">require kids to visually scan through all those letters to find the words that contain the specific digraph we're studying. Word searches help develop students' visual recognition skills, which are essential for building automaticity with digraphs.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><span id="docs-internal-guid-81d6fa4c-7fff-78af-029f-5eb8ae57aa06"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This continued repetition helps to reinforce learning and makes these digraphs stick in students' long-term memory. When kids are repeatedly exposed to digraphs, they are more likely to remember the sounds associated with those letter combinations. Using these worksheets as morning work or centers are a great way to make repetition more fun!</span></span></p></span><div><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;">Now that students have had several different activities working with the same digraph, it's time to move on to giving students the opportunity to recognize these digraphs in longer text!</span></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">4. Put students' knowledge to the test</span></span></h2><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Your students are feeling confident about what they have learned about the digraph they have been working on, but how do you know they really "get it"? </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Students who understand digraphs should be able to read words containing those letter combinations with accuracy and fluency. Asking students to read words on flashcards is one way of doing this, but I also want to see that my students can read these words in actual text rather than just in isolation.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-DIGRAPHS-End-of-the-Year-REVIEW-2439099?utm_source=Challenge%20Phonics%20EI%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Challenge%20Phonics%20Worksheet%20Digraphs" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Want to help build fluency while also getting in some valuable challenge phonics practice? These no-prep worksheets are just the ticket!" border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDLJC9NeAlRvlmQbw5Lv_5yijZ4WXkslrVUuXzaO_8dlC8pnvSGm8vzby02INps0oOvAiJnR9RR3oc8Sw1suSgKF6VGuKLXGENwo7QB96k80y8upc4WPk0VP1IKiie4JEcQsdKVpnMe7x6rhdj4yVSjGIy_8a7QSdR7KQZUSiIVNHAUHRjRt4bExb-/w640-h360/4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20copy%203.png" title="4 Ways to Use Challenge Phonics in Your Classroom No prep Fluency Pages" width="640" /></a></div><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">One of my favorite pages in my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-DIGRAPHS-End-of-the-Year-REVIEW-2439099?utm_source=Challenge%20Phonics%20EI%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Challenge%20Phonics%20Worksheet%20Digraphs" target="_blank">Challenge Phonics</a> resource is the reading comprehension page! Students are challenged to read a paragraph that uses as many words containing the digraph we are focusing on as possible. Students will read this story a total of 3 times to practice those digraph words and help build their fluency.</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To be sure students understand what they read in the story, there are 3 reading comprehension questions that students must answer as well. </span></span><span style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Using these questions to check student comprehension of the text can tell you whether they truly understand the digraphs in context.</span></div><div><span style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><h2 style="color: black; white-space: normal;">Want to give Challenge Phonics a try in your classroom?</h2><div style="color: black; font-size: medium; white-space: normal;">I know just how helpful and effective Challenge Phonics has been in my classroom. That's why I want you to try it out in your classroom! I truly believe that it won't take you long to see how valuable Challenge Phonics is for your students. </div><div style="color: black; font-size: medium; white-space: normal;"><br /></div><div style="color: black; font-size: medium; white-space: normal;">Grab this FREE <a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/challengephonicsblog4weeks" target="_blank">4-week pack of Challenge Phonics activities.</a> In this free set, I have included 4 different phonics skills or concepts. That way, no matter what time of year you grab this, there is something you can use right away! This free <a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/challengephonicsblog4weeks" target="_blank">Challenge Phonics</a> pack includes activities for teaching and practicing digraphs, diphthongs, long vowels, and -or words.</div><div style="color: black; font-size: medium; white-space: normal;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black; font-size: medium; text-align: center; white-space: normal;"><a href="https://www.subscribepage.com/challengephonicsblog4weeks" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="880" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkzYEdZa5S0asRS5GG3oiR5DBfSquZ_w35MPikKdcY5KW5WbFU3wNwNHw6kiHbEJjABMJc36JAFdlqVsrN9Q8PjExqwUr6rNH-W2HW7Tb0JBvJ34-HqdUeXHcXBkalZi5dlII8oCuBOahvMzt8_M4pCn6RXdhQ9F6qwLzig_hhG-b4DxDYUEqs5RIB/s320/4weekfreebie.png" width="320" /></a></div></span></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Are you ready to challenge your students?</h2><div>When it comes to our students, we want to give them every opportunity to grow their reading skills as much as we can throughout the year. If you have students who are ready to move beyond basic phonics, then my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-DIGRAPHS-End-of-the-Year-REVIEW-2439099?utm_source=Challenge%20Phonics%20EI%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Challenge%20Phonics%20Worksheet%20Digraphs" target="_blank">Challenge Phonics Digraphs Worksheet</a> resource is just the thing you need! It's the perfect way for all your students to work on the same skill but at different levels. Challenge Phonics works well with advanced 2nd grade students and 3rd graders. </div><div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-DIGRAPHS-End-of-the-Year-REVIEW-2439099?utm_source=Challenge%20Phonics%20EI%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Challenge%20Phonics%20Worksheet%20Digraphs" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="These challenge phonics digraphs activities are a sure fire way to keep your students who have already mastered basic phonics engaged and learning in fun ways they will love." border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJSoy6VN9dk-j-1uDCG4HB8y-oX81txz6RfuDmIbLwgtF14GF3vQml5QB3v90-MXI92L01pUtvdYLMZnEWXth0U21B4gab6x-9oYrBYOdyeq6073ymVDxt80MmGZkT9GNbzFvU-G2RGc18ft4r7Lb9qmoQas7yC6suI16YsVTsWJjdWlwaW0A_uEY3/w313-h313/original-2439099-1.jpeg" title="4 Ways to Use Challenge Phonics in Your Classroom" width="313" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>This resource includes the activities mentioned in this post for the digraphs: ch, sh, th, wh, ph, ck, kn, wr, and qu! Head on over to my TPT Store to grab this pack and get this digraph party started!</div><div><br /></div><div>And. . . if you are ready to add Challenge Phonics to your classroom all year long, then check out the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Worksheets-Multiple-Syllable-Words-Phonics-Fluency-Activities-Bundle-3097015?utm_source=Challenge%20Phonics%20EI%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Challenge%20Phonics%20Worksheet%20Digraphs" target="_blank">Challenge Phonics Bundle</a>. This bundle includes everything you need for teaching and practicing digraphs, diphthongs, long vowels, r-controlled vowels, and three letter blends! And. . . all for less than a fast-food meal for your family.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Worksheets-Multiple-Syllable-Words-Phonics-Fluency-Activities-Bundle-3097015?utm_source=Challenge%20Phonics%20EI%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Challenge%20Phonics%20Worksheet%20Digraphs" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Challenge Phonics is a great way to teach digraphs to your 2nd grade or higher students." border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgulfJvJVv8yFrfOnf6HSXKoCJGzxHxe0CVn0TSnQEf4XqFICn31lVluhpnbet-k_yChClRhAW1DBde7vB4hol00jQi4LV5ALca5FyClM0zY-vnbHC_BLiw5vX8N_RjrJ4ewEvCwYc-Mlmka2JTY-_TTtF0bZ-vSdx09sc0cbK4ZXlq13m5nNz69-0Q/w320-h320/Page%201.jpg" title="Challenge Phonics Bundle" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Pin this Post on Pinterest</h2><div>Be sure to save this post to your favorite reading activities board on Pinterest so you'll have these ideas when you need them!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTJ0riPYTfQqlorqj3HynFAgd3iQlRrK8gfFJlGTsuufWiG-BDB9Wc9vxqXVKkYvkUYcWt3W1Igxl38O7mF7kAqFdFEx2BZFTFLKrROuhQMNDJWhCjCrsuddnAqkG8vmX3eNCny_pJiFm5yFxJdo05q4Z1rnvzjEV0pdi-OSSq6RTRhQpqv7IOiPpx/s1500/4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Pin.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="What do you do when your students have mastered basic phonics? Introduce them to challenge phonics of course! Use these 4 fun ways to use challenge phonics in your classroom to get those students excited about learning even more digraphs. With fun activities like word searches, fluency pages, and more, your students will be so excited to practice and master challenge phonics. Be sure to grab the challenge phonics FREEBIE to use in your classroom today! #elementaryisland #challengephonics #challengephonicsactivities" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTJ0riPYTfQqlorqj3HynFAgd3iQlRrK8gfFJlGTsuufWiG-BDB9Wc9vxqXVKkYvkUYcWt3W1Igxl38O7mF7kAqFdFEx2BZFTFLKrROuhQMNDJWhCjCrsuddnAqkG8vmX3eNCny_pJiFm5yFxJdo05q4Z1rnvzjEV0pdi-OSSq6RTRhQpqv7IOiPpx/w243-h365/4%20Ways%20to%20Use%20Challenge%20Phonics%20in%20Your%20Classroom%20Pin.png" title="4 Ways to Use Challenge Phonics in Your Classroom" width="243" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-55780225661306327712023-02-13T12:23:00.001-08:002023-02-22T10:00:18.138-08:004 Fun Ways to Teach Prefixes<p>Many important language arts standards must be taught for students to be successful readers and writers. Oftentimes, those standards can be a bit dry for students to learn. And by that, I mean boring! So, as teachers, it's our job to come up with creative ways to make learning more engaging for our students. If you need some new ideas for teaching prefixes, you've come to the right place! I have 4 activities to show how to teach prefixes in a fun way that both you and your students will enjoy!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFji542KoFzmiSlRnW0RKizUQEJ0mJh2W2qMpWI6kTUXp1jjm3lweMpBhy4T7UulpCqeEERfmUudLqlPj5-2IC6gmDNfknXadlcADYGFq7rfiICxiTVptA6_ydcvdw8KAOe_ezaOXzgwdt8ydrAkeyvtb5X86SfzYGMHnvru-j-Lt1Xa1VT9pC2HNV/s2240/4%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Teach%20Prefixes%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Teaching prefixes is fun and easy with these 4 engaging activities your students will love!" border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFji542KoFzmiSlRnW0RKizUQEJ0mJh2W2qMpWI6kTUXp1jjm3lweMpBhy4T7UulpCqeEERfmUudLqlPj5-2IC6gmDNfknXadlcADYGFq7rfiICxiTVptA6_ydcvdw8KAOe_ezaOXzgwdt8ydrAkeyvtb5X86SfzYGMHnvru-j-Lt1Xa1VT9pC2HNV/w640-h360/4%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Teach%20Prefixes%20Header.png" title="4 Fun Ways to Teach Prefixes" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Why is Teaching Prefixes Important?</h2><div>Before I jump into the fun and engaging ways to teach prefixes, you've got to understand why it's important! Students can improve their reading, vocabulary, spelling, and writing skills <span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">simply by studying prefixes. When you explicitly teach your students the concept of prefixes, they build their vocabulary and begin to understand new words and what they mean. </span></span><span style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">When students understand the meanings of words with prefixes, their reading comprehension begins to improve. They can move on to more complex thinking while reading such as noticing character traits and making predictions.</span></div><div><span style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Prefix-Activities-Prefixes-Bundle-4653473?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Prefix%20Bundle" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Help your students expand their vocabulary while you teach prefixes with these fun and engaging activities they will love!" border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmjGorJd1UBc5pY58IwQQkpc0lDelF-42iB8W85Ejb0pRcEzjYvLbv_cHL1zwASetaqOJblTH5jVz0l6bNGjKoe2LgbgvlEhS1-pdRT7CarahFjdaf8rUCpI9_QT1wCE5LyncSYqdJYEMjy0sq4rzcB_78kYnccR-46F_FZZ7jdkJnzmonSUJDc6W5/w640-h360/4%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Teach%20Prefixes%20copy%203.png" title="4 Fun Ways to Teach Prefixes" width="640" /></a></div></div><div><span style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Not only does their reading improve, but students' spelling and writing skills improve as well! Knowing prefixes allows students to spell correctly because they understand the spelling patterns of those prefixes. Building students' vocabulary through prefixes also helps students write more descriptively and express their ideas more easily.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">So let's talk about how to teach prefixes in a fun way! </span></span></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Use Interactive Notebooks for Teaching Prefixes</span></span></h2><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I absolutely love using Interactive Notebooks in my classroom, and my students love them too! If you haven't heard of Interactive Notebooks before, then simply imagine each of your students having their own hand-made learning journal. The notebook is filled with anchor charts that use foldable pieces and paper pockets that contain learning manipulatives. Students can use each page to review the information and activities inside any time they need a refresher on a standard. That's an Interactive Notebook, my friend - and they are amazing!</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Every year when I begin teaching prefixes, I always start by using Interactive Notebook activities. They are the perfect way to directly instruct my students about what each prefix means. I also like to share examples of words that use each prefix so that students can recognize that words they already know contain prefixes! We also complete a hands-on activity to help students understand how to correctly use each prefix. </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Prefix-Activities-Prefixes-Bundle-4653473?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Prefix%20Bundle" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Interactive notebooks like these are not only great for teaching targeted concepts but are also perfect for some engaging hands on learning your students will love!" border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNWJ4RUzvj8biaqrK0oe65s77aWJHjM9Ydk9tvyIXC6SQeJ_4_8loOv_CrUFWgraQ0dluiVoiRLPqNWFDLRrRaBopwZ_VwPFruzj1_lv3IzNMcVy1WdQKl-gtvrcsZQYgkdwBESx3Jcr2M6P0QWtt14imtJfSonCoJ2nYvZPaoBOPpdxUG2S9YphfR/w640-h360/Copy%20of%20images%20template%20size.png" title="4 Fun Ways to Teach Prefixes Interactive Notebooks" width="640" /></a></div><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Prefixes-Interactive-Notebook-4653225?utm_source=EI%20Prefixes%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Prefixes%20Interactive%20Notebook" target="_blank">Prefixes Interactive Notebook resource</a>, you will find engaging activities that help your students better understand prefixes! Activities such as:</span></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">foldables to brainstorm prefix word lists</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">pockets with prefix word sorting cards</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">liftable flaps for word definitions</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">cut and paste cards with example sentences</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">liftable flaps for sentence examples</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">puzzle piece sorting activity</span></span></li></ul><div><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;">You will not regret using Interactive Notebooks to teach prefixes to your students! Not only will your students be engaged by the cutting and gluing aspects of these activities, but keeping all the information in one place means that students can review this information any time they need to.</span></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;">Utilize Posters When Teaching Prefixes</span></h2></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Once you have explicitly taught each prefix, you need to keep those prefixes front and center so your students won't forget them! The easiest way to do this? Display your prefixes for all to see!</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Create a bulletin board or dedicate some wall space to hang</span></span><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;">ing mini-posters for each prefix. The posters I use are printer paper sized, so they are small enough to fit several in one area but large enough to be seen from anywhere in my classroom. These posters are perfect as they each focus on one prefix, and contain the prefix meaning, example words, a picture of the word's meaning and an example of the word in a sentence.</span></div><div><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Prefix-Activities-Prefixes-Bundle-4653473?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Prefix%20Bundle" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Using mini-posters like these in your classroom will help your students remember important details about each of the prefixes you are focusing on." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTdb-BoDiJ774z742KRvjVJQ7U8_G7HzWk1fepOXn7ZeOKQ-H82GRHoqpx6DHwSD3AhpP1PO35Fcyov1pWXh5C-DYmiVQofdDUk2_fn6F4nqG0Em7pHxphr9oXuO1DPiEOZ-qkYW3w9JZWiPUnHs2Mn2EWMZESVkZAZObKaFCx4yYwEkGBP7oC7vgU/w640-h360/4%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Teach%20Prefixes.png" title="4 Fun Ways to Teach Prefixes Posters" width="640" /></a></div><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Not only do I display these premade posters, but I have my students make a "fill-in" poster to supplement each premade poster! </span></span><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;">To make these fill-in posters, students simply:</span></div></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">write as many words as they can think of that use this prefix</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">write the definition of the prefix</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">choose one of the brainstormed words to write in a sentence</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">give the definition of the word from your sentence</span></span></li></ul><div><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;">These fill-in posters could be created by individual students as seat work or you could allow students to make one with a partner or in a small group. They are an excellent way to help cement the meaning and usage of prefixes and engage your students at the same time! And. . . students can glue them into their interactive notebooks too!</span></div></div><div><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If this activity sounds right up your alley, check out the exact resource I use with my students! My <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Prefix-Posters-with-Prefix-Fill-Ins-4650829?utm_source=EI%20Prefixes%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Prefix%20Posters%20with%20Fill-Ins" target="_blank">Prefix Posters with Prefix Fill-Ins</a> resource is available in my TPT store! </span></span></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Prefix Centers are a Great "Next Step"</span></span></h2><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students have been explicitly taught prefixes and have reviewed them with posters, so... now what? Well, in my classroom, "now what" means practice. Lots and lots of practice! I love allowing students time in centers to practice the skills I have taught them.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Prefix-Activities-Prefixes-Bundle-4653473?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Prefix%20Bundle" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="When you teach prefixes it's important to give your students lots of opportunity for practice, and pages like these are perfect for prefix practice during center time!" border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-5UKZ9SJ6-YaaOVdPv8XnDG7vZeFANt9btSc8G1Y8UeveubkygNqWc7XA-4dsvNwiAu0AkK_kEzYU_8hLOHvyDzJ9-jpdjp0jpX1mVAD35gRFvsk7aid2IuNgRKUMB-qqV_RrUTGSmRkMhI-7Qn0L8HZt4qhFzCdCBsVyRPMFOeo-5dyCWDRnyP_o/w640-h360/4%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Teach%20Prefixes%20copy.png" title="4 Fun Ways to Teach Prefixes Center Activities" width="640" /></a></div><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">One great way to easily incorporate centers into your day is to use my Re, Un, Pre, Dis, Mis Prefix Centers resource! This all-in-one, print-and-go pack has everything you need to set up a prefix center without any stress. You'll find premade word cards, sorting pages, fill-in-the-blank sentences, a deconstructing words activity, and color by code pictures.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;">You could choose to complete a few examples together as a whole group before moving on to centers or just jump right into centers. No matter how you choose to use it, this Prefix Centers resource is exactly what your students need for a fun way to practice prefixes. Check it out </span><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Prefixes-re-un-pre-mis-dis-centers-or-whole-group-2473588?utm_source=EI%20Prefixes%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Prefix%20Re%20Un%20Dis%20Mis%20Pre%20Centers" style="white-space: pre-wrap;" target="_blank">here in my TPT</a><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;"> store!</span></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Games Make a Great Prefix Assessment</span></span></h2><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Alright, you amazing teacher, you! All of your hard teaching work has been worth it! You're confident that your students "get" prefixes, so let's see what they can do! A test, you say? Not necessarily. Sure you could give a test, but you could also assess what your students know with a fun cut-and-glue game!</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I love using alternative ways to assess my students and this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Prefixes-re-un-pre-mis-dis-3591965?utm_source=EI%20Prefixes%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Prefix%20Re%20Un%20Dis%20Mis%20Pre%20Cut%20and%20Paste%20Game" target="_blank">Skills Swirl Cut and Paste Prefix Activity</a> totally fits the bill!</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIdPSdIecY7AwotnBH56tNJlox89MoGjg2kVXujSQFUZ8pEgryTU8Kb7h_Vs2zUVM22JC9H578pAZ6cljF9FCOxSLgsD_IpEG1g6ODJBdDPBedJALhN-4PfcqIpwDDEGPa-Jk2HDm-PkefS-Ue4jlvW6ReO7tH5jNlMEWAm9RxbhNm5Jxq-R3y_9uo/s2000/4%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Teach%20Prefixes.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="When you teach prefixes, turn it into a game with a fun activity like this DIY gameboard!" border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIdPSdIecY7AwotnBH56tNJlox89MoGjg2kVXujSQFUZ8pEgryTU8Kb7h_Vs2zUVM22JC9H578pAZ6cljF9FCOxSLgsD_IpEG1g6ODJBdDPBedJALhN-4PfcqIpwDDEGPa-Jk2HDm-PkefS-Ue4jlvW6ReO7tH5jNlMEWAm9RxbhNm5Jxq-R3y_9uo/w640-h362/4%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Teach%20Prefixes.png" title="Prefix Game" width="640" /></a></div></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students are given a "game board" with arrows for the spaces as well as a page with words and definitions (or sentences). S</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;">tudents must match the definition to the correct word (for grade level students) or sentence that matches the word (for above grade level students). They will cut out that game piece and glue it to the game board. </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;">The game works like dominoes where each piece connects to the piece before it. When students glue game pieces to the board, it makes a "swirl" on the paper until they get to the center of the page. </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #374151; white-space: pre-wrap;">My kids love this game, and yours will too! It's perfect for an assessment, but definitely could be used in centers, partners, or small learning groups. A different activity like this makes learning fun for your students and teaching prefixes so much more fun for you!</span></span></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Wow! Teaching Prefixes Can Be Fun!</h2><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">See there? I told you teaching prefixes wasn't so bad! If you're ready to have some "Prefix Fun" in the classroom, be sure to head on over to my TPT store where you will find each of the resources from this post.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In fact, I have an incredible money-saving <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Prefix-Activities-Prefixes-Bundle-4653473?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Prefix%20Bundle" target="_blank">Prefix BUNDLE</a> that has all 4 resources together in one place! Be sure to check it out for the best deal possible!</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #374151;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Prefix-Activities-Prefixes-Bundle-4653473?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Prefix%20Bundle" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNNMCZFmSyHuj6A1NiP_MW3w6Hsifh9oQdLuNupfgmPfgahdDErwxmYnI2GhQ5ON7EnFQhwBwbFkAMEduCkTy7TUkz1j3Cu6kFfHJwTIn49zh5K3f50g7uiG5q2Bp7pmI-_oCDoABnyVgPkbd1D09x4YXjzzfLo7m9_dRx5AMZdWndEJihQ730tkQj/s320/original-4653473-1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div></span></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Pin this Teaching Prefixes Post</h2><div>Save this post to your favorite Pinterest teaching board so you won't forget these fun teaching ideas! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO4K_jbngG-gDSSmyqPaBWJZu0uc_1SGV9bxg3d7NhQ1KW25ves98nrDifC4mvJ-KRQtTSKHu8N186ZVYhElPAwNVYhAChzIMhhvjStbEX2hx28gMJgbwUapt_RkQ7OO_LrSSl26tw-50alcJUQ4KV5CN-mPodH6VQcGaup3qx-r8eNmwolkKkSCYy/s1500/4%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Teach%20Prefixes%20Pin.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ready to teach prefixes in your classroom this year but don't know where to start? These 4 fun ways to teach prefixes are not only easy but are sure to be instant favorites in your classroom! From center activities, to posters, to games, your students will love learning all about prefixes. Grab all of these activities and more in the prefixes bundle for fun and engaging prefix activities you can use all year long. Teaching prefixes has never been so easy! Try it out today! #elementaryisland #prefixes #teachingprefixes" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO4K_jbngG-gDSSmyqPaBWJZu0uc_1SGV9bxg3d7NhQ1KW25ves98nrDifC4mvJ-KRQtTSKHu8N186ZVYhElPAwNVYhAChzIMhhvjStbEX2hx28gMJgbwUapt_RkQ7OO_LrSSl26tw-50alcJUQ4KV5CN-mPodH6VQcGaup3qx-r8eNmwolkKkSCYy/w213-h320/4%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Teach%20Prefixes%20Pin.png" title="4 Fun Ways to Teach Prefixes" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-47766949883853631232023-01-09T11:10:00.002-08:002024-02-27T15:37:38.151-08:0025 Meaningful Report Card Comments for Elementary Students<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: times;">Student report cards are often mementos parents keep as their child progresses through each school year. They are more than just a letter grade and are often</span><span style="color: #b8312f; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"> </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: times;">looked back upon as a reminder of what the child was like during that age. This is definitely teacher stress and makes writing teacher comments so difficult!</span></span> How do you give parents an honest and clear picture of how their child is doing in one comment? Oftentimes, teachers have to say things that aren't easy for parents to hear but need to be told. Certain information is essential for parents to be aware of if they're going to work together with you as a team to help their child get the best education possible. Here are some tips to help you write effective report card comments to help parents understand their child's progress and <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2019/10/how-to-have-successful-parent-teacher-conferences.html" target="_blank">how to lead a parent-teacher conference</a>. There are also examples and 25 actual comments that you can use on your own report cards or a progress report.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFyEpmglicBidnpjseCUdiK4FdZDVptAVCOGXOPxUq8_ovi4f7yAne2GiFSo81F2av_Cb-PPfm6XFitdq47qrAspzl2-9i8rDvK21CnrCqPG7dbSpSpQ4yJ66aFo_NoPR69X2JJ8x5bhq2q3fna1UEaU5CzYmPkAYkerk2A-V6mElxYDNRzHUKd9t/s2240/25%20Meaningful%20Report%20Card%20Comments%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Instead of filling out report card comments with the same boring phrases over and over, mix things up a little with meaningful report card comments both your parents and students will appreciate." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFyEpmglicBidnpjseCUdiK4FdZDVptAVCOGXOPxUq8_ovi4f7yAne2GiFSo81F2av_Cb-PPfm6XFitdq47qrAspzl2-9i8rDvK21CnrCqPG7dbSpSpQ4yJ66aFo_NoPR69X2JJ8x5bhq2q3fna1UEaU5CzYmPkAYkerk2A-V6mElxYDNRzHUKd9t/w640-h360/25%20Meaningful%20Report%20Card%20Comments%20Header.png" title="25 Meaningful Report Card Comments" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Here are my best tips on how to write meaningful Report Card Comments</h2><h3 style="text-align: left;">1. Start and end with a compliment</h3><div>Have you heard about a compliment sandwich? For any grade level, anytime you share information about a child with their parents, always start and end the conversation by sharing a kind, heartfelt compliment. This is especially important when you need to say something that might be hard for parents to hear. This helps to start and finish your conversation in a positive manner and keep parents engaged and on your side. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZJ0oeIc5xnWImJuNNxCpyzSNZRQIdBkZXteZroaAOKTS6afE3qITxeEPRRvb_NnCDr9Yyi2tNjW5_yYU8G1XH5cR3_eDj_ThM8jZXe0EjjtmRrBVusNJ8RptLgdbRvmvWSrqM9rsinkCSJqt6l24uQ1bIDOoV4pA0PZp3ch5R2bsQtLISm-U8-yu/s2000/11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Show parents that you not only know their child, but can see the amazing kiddo they are by starting out your meaningful report card comments with a compliment." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZJ0oeIc5xnWImJuNNxCpyzSNZRQIdBkZXteZroaAOKTS6afE3qITxeEPRRvb_NnCDr9Yyi2tNjW5_yYU8G1XH5cR3_eDj_ThM8jZXe0EjjtmRrBVusNJ8RptLgdbRvmvWSrqM9rsinkCSJqt6l24uQ1bIDOoV4pA0PZp3ch5R2bsQtLISm-U8-yu/w640-h360/11.png" title="Meaningful Report Card Comments" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>When a parent knows that you care for their child and believe in them, they are much less likely to get upset when you bring up areas of weakness. They trust you and will listen to what you have to say. Give each child many meaningful comments so that parents feel good knowing their child is doing something well. This compliment does not need to be all about academic achievement, it could be the student's strengths with behavior, a positive character trait, social skills, or awesome organizational skills.</div><div><br /></div><div>Some ideas could include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Jack is such a creative thinker with a positive attitude!</li><li>Susan gives her best effort every day!</li><li>I can always count on Cody to follow the classroom rules and directions!</li><li>Beth knows all of her multiplication facts all the way up to the 12s!</li><li>I love how Neil is always willing to help his classmates!</li><li style="--tw-blur: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-border-opacity: 1; --tw-brightness: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-contrast: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-drop-shadow: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-filter: var(--tw-blur) var(--tw-brightness) var(--tw-contrast) var(--tw-grayscale) var(--tw-hue-rotate) var(--tw-invert) var(--tw-saturate) var(--tw-sepia) var(--tw-drop-shadow); --tw-grayscale: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-hue-rotate: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-invert: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-saturate: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-sepia: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-transform: translateX(var(--tw-translate-x)) translateY(var(--tw-translate-y)) rotate(var(--tw-rotate)) skewX(var(--tw-skew-x)) skewY(var(--tw-skew-y)) scaleX(var(--tw-scale-x)) scaleY(var(--tw-scale-y)); --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; border-color: rgba(229,231,235,var(--tw-border-opacity)); border-image: initial; border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit;">Tyrone has great time management skills that complement his work habits.<br /></li><li style="--tw-blur: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-border-opacity: 1; --tw-brightness: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-contrast: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-drop-shadow: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-filter: var(--tw-blur) var(--tw-brightness) var(--tw-contrast) var(--tw-grayscale) var(--tw-hue-rotate) var(--tw-invert) var(--tw-saturate) var(--tw-sepia) var(--tw-drop-shadow); --tw-grayscale: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-hue-rotate: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-invert: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-saturate: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-sepia: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-transform: translateX(var(--tw-translate-x)) translateY(var(--tw-translate-y)) rotate(var(--tw-rotate)) skewX(var(--tw-skew-x)) skewY(var(--tw-skew-y)) scaleX(var(--tw-scale-x)) scaleY(var(--tw-scale-y)); --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; border-color: rgba(229,231,235,var(--tw-border-opacity)); border-image: initial; border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit;">Madison is an excellent student and takes charge during group work activities. She is a natural leader.</li><li style="--tw-blur: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-border-opacity: 1; --tw-brightness: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-contrast: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-drop-shadow: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-filter: var(--tw-blur) var(--tw-brightness) var(--tw-contrast) var(--tw-grayscale) var(--tw-hue-rotate) var(--tw-invert) var(--tw-saturate) var(--tw-sepia) var(--tw-drop-shadow); --tw-grayscale: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-hue-rotate: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-invert: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-saturate: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-sepia: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-transform: translateX(var(--tw-translate-x)) translateY(var(--tw-translate-y)) rotate(var(--tw-rotate)) skewX(var(--tw-skew-x)) skewY(var(--tw-skew-y)) scaleX(var(--tw-scale-x)) scaleY(var(--tw-scale-y)); --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; border-color: rgba(229,231,235,var(--tw-border-opacity)); border-image: initial; border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit;">Yeiko is an active participant in classroom discussions and responds well to positive reinforcement.</li></ul>If you're struggling to come up with something positive for a particular student, think of what the rest of your class might say about this child. Would they say he makes them laugh and is really funny? Then, "Caleb has a great sense of humor" might be the compliment you're looking for! Students often find a way to come up with the best compliments for others because they are not looking at the student from an educational standpoint.</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">2. Tell the truth in a caring way</h3><div>Now that you've got a compliment to acknowledge the student's good attributes, the next steps are to share areas of improvement. Always remember that report cards reflect how students are doing in their classes. Even though a report card is probably not the first time you have shared that a student is struggling, it can be difficult for parents to see it in black and white. You can help parents be receptive to any perceived "criticism" by staying positive. Focusing on the "thing" with specific examples, as opposed to the student can make a big difference in how the words are received. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQYF4ixTDGaSBhQWulby_IShDX1d0PdfdHb8eAsoHHsCJtdieaS21xa1b5ZRaxLEuyptKrJkZLs_WD7RQWCH8eL2Wmyl9xLBKpIIG1djlvb9pOv5eeXorcys3MSl0wFbPHSevw-bAClBgwSSD9z45Oc1gJMIvLRgTF-eXNUaeWb9J1_ycQi1mTeD7j/s2000/14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="When sharing news that could be negative, focus on the act as opposed to the studetn." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQYF4ixTDGaSBhQWulby_IShDX1d0PdfdHb8eAsoHHsCJtdieaS21xa1b5ZRaxLEuyptKrJkZLs_WD7RQWCH8eL2Wmyl9xLBKpIIG1djlvb9pOv5eeXorcys3MSl0wFbPHSevw-bAClBgwSSD9z45Oc1gJMIvLRgTF-eXNUaeWb9J1_ycQi1mTeD7j/w640-h360/14.png" title="Meaningful Report Card Comments" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Have you ever had your principal or other superior say something about your performance in a negative way? If so, then you know exactly how it feels (and it's not good!). Parents can often feel personally attacked when receiving "bad news" about their child's academic abilities or behavior, and that can cause them to become defensive. Try to keep comments focused on the actual problem and the effects the problem causes.</div><div><br /></div><div>For example:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Abby shouts out in class all the time!</b>- "I love that Abby is so willing to participate in class discussions, but blurting out is distracting and prevents others from being able to share."</li><li><b>Hunter never reads at night and really needs to!</b>- "It is very important that Hunter reads 20 minutes each night to help improve his fluency skills."</li><li><b>Callie talks too much with friends during class!</b>- "Callie's desire to socialize with her friends is causing her to lose focus during instructional time."</li><li><b>Jason is not growing in any academic areas!</b>- "I am concerned that Jason is not showing the growth I would have expected at this point in the year." </li></ul><h3 style="text-align: left;">3. Give a "next step" solution </h3></div><div>Once you have shared the problem, give parents an actionable step that shows a plan to fix it! Parents can feel overwhelmed knowing that there's a problem. Giving them a "next step" can show that you are committed to helping them and their child work towards a solution. Remember that saying, "It takes a tribe." Well, it is spot on. Sharing a concern without a next step often feels like the problem will continue because there is no answer. Parents need support and direction. </div><div><br /></div><div>This "next step" doesn't have to be cumbersome. It could simply be something the student is responsible to work on, a method you try at school, a way parents can help at home, or a plan that you work on together to benefit the student . Parents want to feel like they are taking actionable steps to help with the student's progress toward the goal because..... we are a tribe.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XKIRZwB1UIQ_UiUVbebHJytg1TdRUOz-Y5i8maDfPJqla1HpfKHmIJSHweH4kKpe2qeoVdwKNXYeVCzIphoRJ1R7tT9H_fOGsPED8jryAm5GU-SHvRqXw4cdlYOqkh5cIumAF8_8l_mj6QDszDSLrksCnWG75WCnvLi8aPxWXhQ4b_mRPmpfC4cB/s2000/9.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use your meaningful report card comments to offer helpful solutions to parents." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XKIRZwB1UIQ_UiUVbebHJytg1TdRUOz-Y5i8maDfPJqla1HpfKHmIJSHweH4kKpe2qeoVdwKNXYeVCzIphoRJ1R7tT9H_fOGsPED8jryAm5GU-SHvRqXw4cdlYOqkh5cIumAF8_8l_mj6QDszDSLrksCnWG75WCnvLi8aPxWXhQ4b_mRPmpfC4cB/w640-h360/9.png" title="Report Card Comments" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Some examples include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>"Please discuss with Abby the importance of raising her hand before speaking in class."</li><li>"Feel free to read aloud with Hunter each night for his 20 minutes of reading."</li><li>"Callie and I have talked about how important listening in class is. Please remind her of this at home as well."</li><li>"Let's get together and talk about a plan on how we can help Jason. Call or message me to let me know dates that you are available to meet."</li></ul></div><div>If a student is doing well and doesn't have any areas of weakness, a "next step" could be to address the student directly with acknowledgment of all they are doing: "Sarah, I'm so proud of you! Keep working hard!" The student and their parents will enjoy seeing that you noticed their efforts. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Don't know where to start?</h2><div>Sometimes it's stressful writing report card comments, especially if you're in a time crunch! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpN-UO8bKLymF5X5QU3lZ2OBoD5JZEgxkqEjupqHAtwzm2zxZoy82YNa7j25aMnZzFZlKIgQzMlXwE02ayAc49lrLg1oKcaLmSkv-AbBYoEo3lOxz6PWjatpcaJSEfXoC7nJUSYfZSs96MuQDXW6PneZ5Fdf2igMy_Ta-8C4VYvL-tt7tlD8cAiQ8A/s2000/25%20Meaningful%20Report%20Card%20Comments%20Blog%20Images%20copy%203.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="If you are struggling to write meaningful report card comments, don't be afraid to use a template to help you along the way." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpN-UO8bKLymF5X5QU3lZ2OBoD5JZEgxkqEjupqHAtwzm2zxZoy82YNa7j25aMnZzFZlKIgQzMlXwE02ayAc49lrLg1oKcaLmSkv-AbBYoEo3lOxz6PWjatpcaJSEfXoC7nJUSYfZSs96MuQDXW6PneZ5Fdf2igMy_Ta-8C4VYvL-tt7tlD8cAiQ8A/w640-h360/25%20Meaningful%20Report%20Card%20Comments%20Blog%20Images%20copy%203.png" title="25 Meaningful Report Card Comments" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>If you're struggling and need a boost to get started, try filling in the blanks of the templates below:</div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>"I am so proud of (Student's Name) for (something positive he or she does). He/she is a joy to have in class! Keep working hard!"</li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>"(Student's Name) does a really great job (something positive he or she does). I have noticed that (name a problem the student has). Let's meet to discuss how we can help your child with this issue." </li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>"I love the way (Student's Name) (something good he or she does)! I think that if he/she would (something the student needs to stop doing or start doing), it would really help him/her grow in (area of needed improvement). Thank you for your support!" </li></ul><div></div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Need more report card comment inspiration? Check out the comment bank below!</h2><div>Here are 25 quick and easy sample report card comments to add to any report card! Writing block is a real thing and sometimes we just need some gentle guidance. As teachers, we want our families to like us and support us but we must be the voice for student support. Look at these general comments below and see if any of them remind you of a particular student. Remember that is you need to focus on a "needs improvement" comment, to sandwich it in between two positive comments.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHOddHpbwTwEAt-WYw1r2E5F4NkmpBY5eR86ZcVpI_nYJwdJQ1o90zeGn1lmYv1TTD45XhKzZvjubZarpydmshP8tDzWU1x6HL6jGnIhsvQDpD68LDzsE03umVVTBZ5jItbr_xh97Hjx-jvT78YMZTuLQjg_pHeOn38SvXLzJblm7jfNHFsyErgIqJ/s2000/25%20Meaningful%20Report%20Card%20Comments%20Blog%20Images%20copy%205.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Even if you are offering areas where students need to improve, it's possible to write meaningful report card comments to help parents understand what's going on at school and how they can help." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHOddHpbwTwEAt-WYw1r2E5F4NkmpBY5eR86ZcVpI_nYJwdJQ1o90zeGn1lmYv1TTD45XhKzZvjubZarpydmshP8tDzWU1x6HL6jGnIhsvQDpD68LDzsE03umVVTBZ5jItbr_xh97Hjx-jvT78YMZTuLQjg_pHeOn38SvXLzJblm7jfNHFsyErgIqJ/w640-h360/25%20Meaningful%20Report%20Card%20Comments%20Blog%20Images%20copy%205.png" title="25 Meaningful Report Card Comments" width="640" /></a></div><div></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Positive Comments</h3><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>(Student Name) is a hard worker and does all that I ask of him/her.</li><li>(Student Name) perseveres even when tasks are difficult.</li><li>(Student Name) is a good leader for other students to follow.</li><li>(Student Name) completes work neatly and on time.</li><li>(Student Name) works well in partners and groups.</li><li>(Student Name) participates appropriately in class discussions.</li><li>(Student Name) is kind to others and well-liked by his/her peers.</li><li>(Student Name) is making great growth in Reading/Math/Writing etc...</li><li>(Student Name) has wonderful artistic talent! I love his/her drawings!</li><li>I appreciate how (Student Name) comes to school each day excited to learn!</li><li>(Student Name) is so organized and always uses his/her class time wisely.</li><li>I am so proud of the effort (Student Name) is putting forth to become a better reader!</li><li>(Student Name) has excellent critical thinking skills.</li><li>I appreciate how honest and trustworthy (Student Name) is!</li><li>I love hearing the dramatic way (Student Name) reads aloud!</li></ol><h3 style="text-align: left;">Needs Work Comments</h3></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>(Student Name) has difficulty staying focused in class.</li><li>(Student Name) has many missing assignments that have caused his/her grade to drop.</li><li>(Student Name) often comes to class unprepared.</li><li>(Student Name) can be very talkative during silent work time.</li><li>(Student Name) struggles to follow written and/or oral directions.</li><li>(Student Name) has difficulty completing assignments when given a time limit.</li><li>I find that (Student Name) seems very tired each morning and struggles to stay awake.</li><li>(Student Name) often relies on me or other students to help him/her complete his/her work.</li><li>(Student Name) struggles with working memory and retention of skills.</li><li>(Student Name) lacks confidence in his/her abilities which keeps him/her from giving her best effort.</li></ol></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Feeling Better about Writing Report Card Comments?</h2><div>I hope that these ideas, examples, and comments help you feel better about writing comments on your own report cards. Over the years, it does seem to get a bit easier with more practice. </div><div><br /></div><div>Simply keep in mind that the purpose of good report card comments is to help students and parents understand the child's strengths, and areas that need improvement, and give suggestions for how to help them grow. Providing constructive feedback is valuable feedback that keeps everyone on the same page as you work together for the benefit of their student. After all, that's what it is all about!</div><div><br /></div><div>These same tips apply to <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2019/10/how-to-have-successful-parent-teacher-conferences.html" target="_blank">parent-teacher conferences </a>as well. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlxbYT37phQkimfY_VDCw9D0YEg91PoRtMrGb0qbXGLEBUS9-3vigy8Ctl-v-5xTxD4BMSjYMfIqoaJawqjGk2D6SpUJmjguNsaxJjVocVEVoZbVm_GocHgj6BRXvUGOBSzoYnaYRuexH14dqsyhIbpBASrkx-KhLjzwOwT8L2t_A66JLlWVnJIIzR/s2000/10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Constructive and meaningful report card comments are beneficial for parents and students." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlxbYT37phQkimfY_VDCw9D0YEg91PoRtMrGb0qbXGLEBUS9-3vigy8Ctl-v-5xTxD4BMSjYMfIqoaJawqjGk2D6SpUJmjguNsaxJjVocVEVoZbVm_GocHgj6BRXvUGOBSzoYnaYRuexH14dqsyhIbpBASrkx-KhLjzwOwT8L2t_A66JLlWVnJIIzR/w640-h360/10.png" title="report card comments" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Pin these Report Card Comments!</h2><div>Save this post to your favorite Pinterest teaching board so that when Report Card time rolls around, you'll be ready! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjDQhdj5djAGtA045KAQqBdIGOeCCK_PDB4tyiJFnZ0f-u64GpkFeQNfyMTDl7kt97Emu-6dy5JeusVDpIsP8BplDdSQwUuPpV9t_3kvFQOM_D0YKmeKL6pnA9wPEMx6UBXuKwEPEMSPXcp0wqu3IA3-qSGr0ovc09mOd3o3qyRHmsxwF7S-DbeWNc/s1500/25%20Meaningful%20Report%20Card%20Comments%20Pin.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Writing meaningful report card comments for every one of your students doesn't have to repetitive or impersonal with these 25 helpful suggestions. Parents and students alike will appreciate helpful comments that show you know and care about each of your students as individual human beings. From compliments, areas of needed improvement, or making parents aware of academic or social issues, report card comments can help you have a smooth and successful year. #elementaryisland #reportcard #reportcardcomments #meaningfulreportcardcomments #writingreportcards #writingreportcardcomments" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjDQhdj5djAGtA045KAQqBdIGOeCCK_PDB4tyiJFnZ0f-u64GpkFeQNfyMTDl7kt97Emu-6dy5JeusVDpIsP8BplDdSQwUuPpV9t_3kvFQOM_D0YKmeKL6pnA9wPEMx6UBXuKwEPEMSPXcp0wqu3IA3-qSGr0ovc09mOd3o3qyRHmsxwF7S-DbeWNc/w246-h370/25%20Meaningful%20Report%20Card%20Comments%20Pin.png" title="25 Meaningful Report Card Comments" width="246" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-48187644214761761522022-12-21T13:21:00.001-08:002023-01-03T10:20:05.912-08:0010 Amazing Spring Activities For Your Classroom<p style="text-align: left;">Every Spring, we get to celebrate the end of winter and anticipate new leaves budding on the trees and flowers blooming! Students love looking forward to these changes too, so why not add some fun Spring activities to your teaching plans! Here are 10 amazing Spring activities to use in your classroom right now!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7uRzsEA6tHGWRgmrETRuqXoTkMZho_6nZcd_oDb8-up2YbFjIJQWYSeaZZJLrT6yrvXpuxwkTw3ygP7aM2mFAKkVGZgbaKMGzoH5tkrL7Tf45mECU1lh8nltAIGvSC6Sx20JSXkuuI1LXcymqFmgzxM3bdhzKKZgbR_lFrf5U9AO0vrfNIEDRyPba/s2240/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these 10 amazing spring activities for your classroom to keep your students engaged and learning throughout the spring months." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7uRzsEA6tHGWRgmrETRuqXoTkMZho_6nZcd_oDb8-up2YbFjIJQWYSeaZZJLrT6yrvXpuxwkTw3ygP7aM2mFAKkVGZgbaKMGzoH5tkrL7Tf45mECU1lh8nltAIGvSC6Sx20JSXkuuI1LXcymqFmgzxM3bdhzKKZgbR_lFrf5U9AO0vrfNIEDRyPba/w640-h360/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20header.png" title="10 Amazing Spring Activities for Your Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Spring Dots Drawing</h2><div>Students love brainstorming ideas together with friends! Begin your Spring activities by asking them what they already know about Spring. Make an anchor chart of their answers to hang in the classroom.</div><div>They may share answers such as:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>green leaves budding on trees</li><li>warmer temperatures</li><li>seasonal flowers blooming (ex-tulips, daffodils)</li><li>new animal babies (ex-bunnies, chicks)</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/c4w6d5" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use dot drawings like these to help students practice patterns and creativity in a fun way they will love." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHCbfw0iCtFGhmtY9SENtA19h8pKiG5YdH00O853pHL0Edkpkt9MzAo8yu5JQl5Ib0GXVWp3ux2J0iBOA2I4nhWTEN0S8dQSadNKd-ulURh6vvETXe1-atzoXC1YhvGxRZ8nWSpnQqmY2nCc_5oMqMy3hChqxtPXAWDW_ha9TsrAAVzJYRfZq5nuU8/w640-h360/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20images.png" title="10 Amazing Spring Activities for Your Classroom Spring Dots Drawing" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Ask students to choose their favorite thing about Spring and create a dot drawing! Simply give each student a piece of dot paper, and students will color the dots in a pattern to create a picture. If you would like the dot paper I use (plus some other spring activities), you can <a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/c4w6d5" target="_blank">grab mine here</a> for free!</div></div><div><br /></div><div>If you want to add a little writing to this dot-drawing activity, get your students to write a poem, riddle, or descriptive paragraph about the item they drew!</div><div><h2>2. Spring Math Crafts </h2><div>Crafts and coloring are so much fun, but we still have to get work done. Right? Why not do both with Spring themed Craftivities? </div><div><br /></div><div>A "craftivity" is the combination of an educational activity with a craft that involves cutting, coloring, and/or gluing. Students enjoy these because as they are working on reviewing important standards, they get to have the fun of being artistic!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Spring-Bulletin-Board-Math-Craft-with-Cross-Curricular-Writing-Options-7940676?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Spring%20Craftivity%20Flower%20and%20Caterpillar" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Combining crafts and math is one of my favorite things, and my students love it too. That's why this spring craftivity caterpillar is a huge success in my classroom every spring." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhce4ar9yg4wZByJaxuIn1pTCYBUwwh68c9yEa4dWsnBSw3_NoYtQ9dTu_JfM71mdrWzG3LfK97LColM8KnFVa9q4aOvSZ9ghS5Rs1tgy2JfqEF7RIFkedMeuEacK7LV9J2tFEezX_h2tf0lNEoW0vHWH7xwqOXNMDCXpwNXaZRGEY_8wDF56vPZ8f4/w640-h360/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20images%20(1)%20copy%205.png" title="10 Amazing Spring Activities for Your Classroom Spring Craftivities" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>If you are interested in using craftivities in your classroom, you've got to check out these amazing Spring themed math crafts! </div><div><ul><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Spring-Bulletin-Board-Math-Craft-with-Cross-Curricular-Writing-Options-7940676?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Spring%20Craftivity%20Flower%20and%20Caterpillar" target="_blank">Spring Caterpillar and Flower Craftivity</a> </li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Spring-Bulletin-Board-Craft-Easter-Bulletin-Board-Cross-Curricular-Writing-7875343?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Spring%20Craftivity%20Easter" target="_blank">Spring Bunny and Basket Craftivity</a></li></ul></div><div>Each of these craftivity sets includes math practice for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Simply choose the option that best meets the needs of your students. Not only will students get the chance to review important math standards, but they will create the most adorable spring crafts! These finished projects, along with the cross-curricular writing prompts included, make a sweet Spring bulletin board that your students will be proud to have helped make!</div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Spring Adjectives</h2><div>Remember that Spring Anchor chart you made earlier? It's time to put that chart to use in another activity! Read through all of the items that students added to the chart and ask students to think of adjectives that would describe how these items would look, feel, smell, sound, and taste.</div><div>Examples could include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>bunnies: soft, furry, cuddly</li><li>tulips: bright, colorful, slender</li><li>leaves: green, waxy, tender</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmbsP8CyO4O9BHj8rEFPpLPGWuVv38Kq2uj-bdIALfxEYbcVk6R5lTj8yCbA0q-uXS-eBICaoFvCEix-9DlBTY3fOcy3AhbsCOE9XMi1VCSTECgyne7vFFkSZzaHHR9-Nm_NMqXxoSW6arX7_W9gYweuXhI4TpVAlVnwI0-VdFgXqy-xR1V8bKC1i2/s2000/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20images%20copy.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="As a whole group activity, ask your students to use the anchor charts you have created to think of adjectives to describe the spring images included." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmbsP8CyO4O9BHj8rEFPpLPGWuVv38Kq2uj-bdIALfxEYbcVk6R5lTj8yCbA0q-uXS-eBICaoFvCEix-9DlBTY3fOcy3AhbsCOE9XMi1VCSTECgyne7vFFkSZzaHHR9-Nm_NMqXxoSW6arX7_W9gYweuXhI4TpVAlVnwI0-VdFgXqy-xR1V8bKC1i2/w640-h360/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20images%20copy.png" title="10 Amazing Spring Activities For Your Classroom Adjectives" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div></div><div>Give each student Spring themed paper shapes such as butterflies and flowers. On each shape, have students write one or more adjectives to describe the shape they have. </div><div><br /></div><div>Tape the adjectives on the anchor chart and wall around it and encourage students to use these words in their speaking and writing about Spring!</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Easter Egg Hunt</h2><div>Kids of all ages love novelty, so take an Easter egg hunt and turn it into a fun learning activity! </div><div><br /></div><div>Cut up any math worksheet and fold up each individual problem to place inside plastic eggs! You can also use task cards inside the eggs too. Just print the task cards at half their normal size and they will be just the right size to fit inside the plastic eggs. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhliLa8cbZeVYb71ixH8LsbwiKYSA43XUZJbj2_WMHLOFD9aLgqb-ZYZCyKc6zXegD6RR9u7notJkUT4b6owFFj4aKhx-6GdFz-PoV4w77vU23F1ON1tJ2BGEfvTONUsArJ3hfZov5mw9QYKygdj3exc6zlLYDQLNrJx9ks8iUQuzPnrxWjc09_eWH_/s2000/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20images%20(1).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="This fun game gets your students excited to solve math problems hidden inside easy to find plastic Easter eggs." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhliLa8cbZeVYb71ixH8LsbwiKYSA43XUZJbj2_WMHLOFD9aLgqb-ZYZCyKc6zXegD6RR9u7notJkUT4b6owFFj4aKhx-6GdFz-PoV4w77vU23F1ON1tJ2BGEfvTONUsArJ3hfZov5mw9QYKygdj3exc6zlLYDQLNrJx9ks8iUQuzPnrxWjc09_eWH_/w640-h360/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20images%20(1).png" title="10 Amazing Spring Activities For Your Classroom Easter Egg Math" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Hide the eggs around your classroom (or another room in the school if you really want to make this activity special!), and have students find the eggs. Each time they find an egg, they must work out the problem inside! When finished with the problem, place the paper back in the egg (hiding it in its original hiding space). Students should continue searching for eggs and working out problems until they have found all the eggs!</div><div><br /></div><div>If you'd like some <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Elementary-Island/Category/-Task-Cards-338222" target="_blank">Task Card resources</a> that are perfect for this Easter egg hunt activity, check out my TPT store! You'll find eggs-actly what you're looking for!</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Flower Graphic Organizer</h2><div>Show students how much easier writing a story can be when using a graphic organizer! A flower is the perfect shape for this graphic organizer activity! </div><div><br /></div><div>Students write the main idea in the center of the flower while one supporting piece of evidence is written on each petal. The graphic organizer will help students keep information in place until they are ready to add it to their story. Also, students will remember to begin a new paragraph each time they move on to a new petal. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/c4w6d5" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use the flower graphic organizer as one of your amazing spring activities for your classroom to help students organize information in a way that can also create a beautiful classroom display." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLSJH_Bl29Se5napOgi_8h_jrw5QJ8vZ8X3bvzYPrS5UtE8qX6mWeQLA_9V84BCGicyRSNhDwOcEXc1LFK0hN4SZ6V9e4Bt6HoHoL4ibhfbC4Oali6rThK3Bs2AXEtn-467fmVpUgtseM5ZiO6dOYxQB9trYGGxiA6LUDQE6o0_XSnpsmujjWDzzyr/w640-h360/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20images%20(1)%20copy.png" title="10 Amazing Spring Activities For Your Classroom Flower Graphic Organizer" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Why stop using this graphic organizer with writing? You can also use this as a fun spring reading comprehension activity. After students read a non-fiction text, simply have them fill in the main idea in the middle of the flower. Then they can add a supporting detail to each petal, citing directly from the text.</div><div><br /></div><div>There are so many ways to use this spring graphic organizer. Grab your free <a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/c4w6d5" target="_blank">Flower Graphic Organizer</a> here! </div><div><h2>6. Spring STEM Activities</h2><div>With Spring Fever in full swing as soon as the weather warms, every teacher needs some engaging activities to keep those restless bodies moving! The best way to allow students movement and chatter is to incorporate STEM activities!</div><div><br /></div><div>Students get to work in partners or groups, talk and share ideas, and think creatively while solving a problem! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Spring-STEM-Activities-for-April-Spring-Activities-3692875?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Spring%20STEM" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Peeps don't have to be just for eating with this super fun spring Peep Parachute STEM activity your students will love!" border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ezUOkleOY1aT0iaaw-nKmJDrin_EegFN07-1E8sTWNB0d2ycPIHgozGNanrC5v0g2B2yemawKSDNUj6-cGOVPtLAbRmKju8gWnOVCxHoZxGQjGqgNokNvXxISSIzdR8crZjDsjkKag2Rp1904NKwjbUwWVQDA3avWQ1z2o4_fhwSCW8sIaMWwRZc/w640-h360/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20images%20(1)%20copy%206.png" title="10 Amazing Spring Activities for Your Classroom Peep Parachutes" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Sounds amazing, I know! Check out these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Spring-STEM-Activities-for-April-Spring-Activities-3692875?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=Spring%20STEM" target="_blank">Spring themed STEM activities</a> which require only a few simple materials, most of which you already have, and very little prep!</div><div><br /></div><div>Your students are sure to be engaged with activities like:</div><div><ul><li>Creating the fastest Egg Race</li><li>Constructing a Peeps Parachute</li><li>Creating a nest to hold an egg</li><li>Constructing a Peeps Boat</li></ul><div>When students are engaged in STEM activities like these, they are much more likely to push through that Spring Fever that causes them to lose motivation to learn. </div></div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">7. Rainbow Clouds</h2><div>Use these cute (and free!) <a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/c4w6d5" target="_blank">Rainbow Cloud Templates</a> to help your students brainstorm ideas for activities they like to do in the Spring! Print out the templates on colored paper or white to allow students to color their rainbows. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/c4w6d5" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="In addition to becoming beautiful decoration for your classroom this spring, these rainbow clouds are the perfect way to get your students thinking about what they like best about spring and writing about it." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8A71l6gi42fMO_i2SNryHG0cdBE7gQxV-spknMooKgFrKCU32U1_MhHY4TknRW7SL4th6RhQABjNov2e4ovKi6kkYRu7btRIfe7iTQ-5StQD1r88w6nr1mBDSmqO9wIrHrchPJ5dpnv1CqtaCZqLzkYoXNdp97l6inGjTRznBhL1kruReol6z8Y4d/w640-h360/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20images%20(1)%20copy%202.png" title="10 Amazing Spring Activities for Your Classroom Rainbow Clouds" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Students write one activity on each strip (color the strips the colors of the rainbow if printed on white paper). The strips are then cut out and assembled in color order on the cloud!</div><div><br /></div><div>Allow students to share their ideas with the class. If it's a pretty day, take your students outside to do some of the activities they wrote about! </div><div><h2>8. Spring Mystery</h2><div>While Spring is a beautiful season, it can also be pretty hectic with everything going on this time of year. A print-and-go activity that requires virtually no prep is such a lifesaver for busy teachers!</div><div><br /></div><div>When dealing with Spring though, not just any old boring worksheet will do. Choose printable resources that are different from what you might typically do in class but also require students to review previously taught skills and think critically.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2022/11/spring-activities.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Add a little mystery to your amazing spring activities with this print-and-go activity students will love completing!" border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGPRLeBX48MKGiz_Xg-Tn7Xk-8dFZn_6hfJfFdU44sRXGf_JUXdj-a211aZqDiGxv_Ial1OG--BUEpoSe6-8YFclLeXF82M76sJaBXRkFOANv7gr4keTWTSuoPNRlUCLWA05_k7YVqILp43cnABf9S0alh202emmL-NZQGL-tO-LrUiVeCyfOUSHGy/w640-h360/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20images%20(1)%20copy%207.png" title="10 Amazing Spring Activities For Your Classroom Spring Mystery" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>It sounds like a lot to ask, but a solution is easier than you think! Try a <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2022/11/spring-activities.html" target="_blank">Spring "Who Done It?" Mystery</a>! Students work out math problems to crack codes to figure out which bunny stole the missing Easter eggs!</div><div><br /></div><div>Students will love the fact they have to solve a mystery, but you will love that they are actively engaged in reviewing important math standards!</div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">9. Grass Buddies</h2><div>Have students practice "How To" writing and make a fun Spring themed craft at the same time! Help students create Grass Buddies by giving oral directions in a step-by-step manner.</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Give students cups to decorate to look like a person. </li><li>Students should add soil, then poke holes in the soil. </li><li>Have students place seeds in the holes and cover them with soil. </li><li>Students should then add a little water to dampen the soil and leave their cups in the sun.</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/c4w6d5" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="This hands on spring activity is a great addition to both your science and literacy lessons this spring." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM4z4RP0LEmsWSpP0yDtR7hhD_xkQBxWOBEOsdXW3GrEGhBRD4okINw_pOcIJi3TRZAFPDFuMPoQwPPFuBbEnWlayjbiP8AixKAtu9ZJfu6QTnhT_Qsk9jVTW5QI4MY3dlkK42YraGhmU4mMBo-2YRXCnKN2h0d6mao6d-BhPbRf18m4sU8LQR03M9/w640-h360/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20images%20(1)%20copy%203.png" title="10 Amazing Spring Activities For Your Classroom Grass Buddies" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Once students have created their Grass Buddies, they should write their own version of the directions and illustrate each step. Grab your free <a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/c4w6d5" target="_blank">"How To" paper here</a>!</div><div><br /></div><div>Be sure to give students time in class to check out their Grass Buddies over the next few days! It's the perfect science connection for life cycles and needs of a plant. Let them document their day-to-day observations in their science journal. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">10. Spring Observations</h2><div>Give your students the chance to observe and share what they think is important about Spring! On a nice day, take your students outside and let them choose a place to sit where they can focus and not be distracted. Tell them to sit quietly and focus on what they smell, hear, feel, taste, and see.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/c4w6d5" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Engage your student's five senses with this fun spring observations activity that can include a field trip to the outdoors." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2Ijz-0dymOaZqxmUl9mr4thYMpYDU3WqtpzSV5RY06YqufAm4378kyjL3O5DTQGtu-CyXxes86lM_Z7RJNhgiN2na6x5bcqZ5PLP0RSavFQDowrd-h0eJDiFuPtRLTCiyZDoaJ7a6T5mYijPc1PL9yMhvxNOP5HQQaBP4H-sp4kqlx6SBEulBz_8/w640-h360/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20images%20(1)%20copy%204.png" title="10 Amazing Spring Activities For Your Classroom Spring Observations" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Once back in the classroom, ask each student to fill out and color a <a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/c4w6d5" target="_blank">Spring Observation sheet</a>. Not only will students write information they found while they were outside, but they can use their prior knowledge about Spring as well.</div><div><br /></div><div>Allow students to share their finished pages with the class, then hang them in the hallway for a sweet reminder of why they love Spring!</div></div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Spring Activities for the Win!</h2><div>If you have been looking for ways to keep your students engaged in learning this Spring, then I hope you found plenty of new ideas and resources to do just that! If you haven't already, <a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/c4w6d5" target="_blank">grab the free resources</a> I mentioned in this post! They are sure to make your teacher life easier- and I'm pretty sure we could all use "easier" when teaching in Spring!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/c4w6d5" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab this engaging spring activities FREEBIE to use in your classroom today!" border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="1170" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY7BUa4TNWkZP0tNBcPWcrK3gB92jdsfn_E00lPNTTSIiCyZytvV_jxgkDHKOTHN2QTqIASrBOMKjEijVm-8rHgEEoZzmHcApkgHzJSfj9O9XvMc6ddxjM3KAznwNB77CL4QsWaYDnf1ZrAiGkeWgEjM5sXg51xJXgm2TIXznnABQGZHy0VV4WfkLW/w640-h210/Screen%20Shot%202022-12-01%20at%207.40.29%20AM.png" title="10 Amazing Spring Activities For Your Classroom FREEBIE" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Pin these Spring Activities for later!</h2><div>If these ideas have gotten you ready for Spring, then make sure you Pin this post to your favorite Teaching Pinterest Board!</div><div><br /></div><div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw_nH7NW9phZTM6AOzLaEkm5ie1pIeEmcHRJeencWZ7VZ00J8qNQRWGKsTNFvgJX6xmh4Rb1K1VPB3DtwqGgR71f2UIHWACmV8dZUMlqoMtPyEFDcXfLR-A7W93TIUB9Ib8OEVkor8EPcWWGU3w2dhg6tugSZEVXAqu3RJ7C4dMDaL1LbW73sNm-es/s1500/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20Pin.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="These 10 amazing spring activities for your classroom will keep your students excited about learning this spring. From math, to graphic organizers, to hands-on activities, spring learning is fun and engaging for you and your students. Whether you are focusing on math or literacy, these 10 activities are sure to be a huge hit in your classroom. Be sure to grab the Engaging Spring Activities FREEBIE to start using in your classroom today! #elementaryisland #springactivitiesforelementary #springmath #springliteracy" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw_nH7NW9phZTM6AOzLaEkm5ie1pIeEmcHRJeencWZ7VZ00J8qNQRWGKsTNFvgJX6xmh4Rb1K1VPB3DtwqGgR71f2UIHWACmV8dZUMlqoMtPyEFDcXfLR-A7W93TIUB9Ib8OEVkor8EPcWWGU3w2dhg6tugSZEVXAqu3RJ7C4dMDaL1LbW73sNm-es/w249-h374/10%20Amazing%20Spring%20Activities%20For%20Your%20Classroom%20Elementary%20Island%20Pin.png" title="10 Amazing Spring Activities for Your Classroom" width="249" /></a></div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-57885313156214379722022-11-13T09:27:00.001-08:002023-12-05T16:58:19.194-08:00How To Melt Cups into Ornaments: A Teacher's Simple, Cheap and Cute Christmas Craft<p>Year after year I search for new ideas I can use in my classroom for Christmas gifts to the parents. I basically narrow down ideas by 3 items: simple, cheap and cute. Simple because we are talking about kids here and we still have standards to cover. Cheap because well..... hello, we are teachers and have 20-30 kids in a class. And cute because why would you want to put time into something you don't enjoy???? I stumbled across these melted ornaments and I am in L-O-V-E! This will probably be my go-to activity every year now because it checks off all those boxes! I need to add this to my <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2018/11/easy-christmas-gifts-from-students.html" target="_blank">EASY Christmas Ideas that Parents Will LOVE</a> file. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyNSiANj9Enns4LE3gMolzIZZ5RwceOcx-bedsopiV2w24_L-u1uVOdQhXAD-9ufv4Jt_yXvzOjQpRE0TQNAM0DSPe8pYwDMafIM2roT85aSITalygPkfUI9vPk5yxZEc6mLAetUb-VMkS5o1dPYDWjPGaLDDaskqaRPk3g_EL3KFJroekdIWxKUELLg/s960/header.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use this fun and easy creative idea for your students this year to make personalized ornaments parents will LOVE!" border="0" data-original-height="623" data-original-width="960" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyNSiANj9Enns4LE3gMolzIZZ5RwceOcx-bedsopiV2w24_L-u1uVOdQhXAD-9ufv4Jt_yXvzOjQpRE0TQNAM0DSPe8pYwDMafIM2roT85aSITalygPkfUI9vPk5yxZEc6mLAetUb-VMkS5o1dPYDWjPGaLDDaskqaRPk3g_EL3KFJroekdIWxKUELLg/w640-h416/header.jpg" title="Plastic Cups to Christmas Ornaments" width="640" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Supplies for Melted Plastic Cup Ornaments</h3><div>These supplies fall into the "simple and cheap" category. </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Plastic Cups (7 oz preferably) - You will need to look for ones that have the recycle number 6 at the bottom. It took me a while to find these cups, but now that I have, I will spare you all the searching I did which will save you time! Go directly to any cheap dollar store. Seriously. Don't look for name brands. Your local <a href="https://www.dollartree.com/" target="_blank">Dollar Tree</a>, or <a href="https://www.dollargeneral.com/" target="_blank">Dollar General</a> should have these. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3WUDhzKbKv0x7KiICR-FHvuSJguhxg7m1uH5VGjlavyzEA0CZc7PPk6TVi_vCBlSKC4WvJ5bFa4Ou3KfKqwncnitnUIZDzezCYNMil3VGrvP5yypz749pNMlFVg9JW0Tu_9vvnh-sp5F7_C02XjZJzLlvb-j7niujvEQCVUmPVvWthdVY2JAiTASScQ/s1600/eZy_watermark_13-11-2022_08-29-09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Make sure to look for the recycle 6 number on the bottom of the plastic cups." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1198" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3WUDhzKbKv0x7KiICR-FHvuSJguhxg7m1uH5VGjlavyzEA0CZc7PPk6TVi_vCBlSKC4WvJ5bFa4Ou3KfKqwncnitnUIZDzezCYNMil3VGrvP5yypz749pNMlFVg9JW0Tu_9vvnh-sp5F7_C02XjZJzLlvb-j7niujvEQCVUmPVvWthdVY2JAiTASScQ/w300-h400/eZy_watermark_13-11-2022_08-29-09.jpg" title="How to melt cups into ornaments" width="300" /></a></div><br /></li><li>Sharpies or other permanent markers<br /><br /></li><li>Cookie Sheet<br /><br /></li><li>Foil or Parchment Paper<br /><br /></li><li>Ribbon or Yarn<br /><br /></li><li>Hole Punch<br /><br /></li><li>Oven<br /><br /></li><li>Spatula<br /><br /></li></ul><h3 style="text-align: left;">How To Melt Cups into Ornaments: Step-by-Step Instructions</h3></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Step 1: Prep</h4><div>Preheat your oven to 350°. Cover your cookie sheet with foil or parchment paper and have your non-stick spatula ready to go. </div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Step 2: Design your Ornament</h4><div>Take the time to decorate your ornament as nicely as possible! It's amazing how these melted cups show all the colored designs when they turn into flat ornaments - even writing can be seen! You may want students to add their names or the year somewhere in their design.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiezp4ZdjFZvS1lif1h8_r-BXBGB81bzz5gJn0ZbSbpq-YjujsSNPmbgLrb2froZXE5INrpwmmyS3vV7PalJqROcqW6Mno3xxaGUieVjk4a70y_g5rXdlagbVRtCcrOzBw8oWmwa8uymV2DKFYrDzjTw80SLlcFTvvCt2zM1VlYrFqd_hREAmHIbAFUNw/s1600/eZy_watermark_13-11-2022_08-25-45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Take the time to design a one of kind cup. Use different colors and designs for a unique look." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1198" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiezp4ZdjFZvS1lif1h8_r-BXBGB81bzz5gJn0ZbSbpq-YjujsSNPmbgLrb2froZXE5INrpwmmyS3vV7PalJqROcqW6Mno3xxaGUieVjk4a70y_g5rXdlagbVRtCcrOzBw8oWmwa8uymV2DKFYrDzjTw80SLlcFTvvCt2zM1VlYrFqd_hREAmHIbAFUNw/w240-h320/eZy_watermark_13-11-2022_08-25-45.jpg" title="How to melt cups into ornaments" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkZRiVt_IHitH38Yz1XnxekZ0_IdpdFEKHPmuH421HpOjMqTZjL2wFNHgHZ30reQUjSuPBkpJY7xUwmoZ32gWsDaKpFABdMNJzhfyspT4uGnyvT_Ned9-ZI3z5JzVl996clMXaaeY62U8mHZwgfD6OHY-kK_6w0T-oU31AOqb3zEYcmI0ozy4VbEsrQ/s1600/eZy_watermark_13-11-2022_08-24-34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Take the time to design a one of kind cup. Use different colors and designs for a unique look." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1197" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkZRiVt_IHitH38Yz1XnxekZ0_IdpdFEKHPmuH421HpOjMqTZjL2wFNHgHZ30reQUjSuPBkpJY7xUwmoZ32gWsDaKpFABdMNJzhfyspT4uGnyvT_Ned9-ZI3z5JzVl996clMXaaeY62U8mHZwgfD6OHY-kK_6w0T-oU31AOqb3zEYcmI0ozy4VbEsrQ/w238-h320/eZy_watermark_13-11-2022_08-24-34.jpg" title="How to melt plastic cups into ornaments" width="238" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Step 3: Melt the Ornament</h4><div>Place your plastic cup ornament open side down on your cookie sheet and place in oven. These will start to melt almost immediately! Our ornaments took about 30-45 seconds total. When they look to be almost flat, I open the door, take my spatula and flatten it down all the way before pulling them out of the oven. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFtILhW9gzCretDDiJ1qxB1-Xkwj19tsEvlrwg4GaehcAHnJzLcbqg0JKnkE8Zw3A9k6XJ3qm8GiMZj3rmqsSErXLEqtE5efIaKykiZK71El7VJb46IePVZLfMBUxt8j9ficYMYA3pPXf13YJawvzDQ09Ew7NLGlTRSaIWqP9YG923BN6555NRo9OYUg/s1600/eZy_watermark_13-11-2022_08-26-48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Place your designed cups onto a cookie sheet to place in the oven." border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFtILhW9gzCretDDiJ1qxB1-Xkwj19tsEvlrwg4GaehcAHnJzLcbqg0JKnkE8Zw3A9k6XJ3qm8GiMZj3rmqsSErXLEqtE5efIaKykiZK71El7VJb46IePVZLfMBUxt8j9ficYMYA3pPXf13YJawvzDQ09Ew7NLGlTRSaIWqP9YG923BN6555NRo9OYUg/w320-h240/eZy_watermark_13-11-2022_08-26-48.jpg" title="How to melt plastic cups into ornaments" width="320" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Step 4: Cool Down</h4><div>It literally takes about 10 seconds before you can touch them, but be careful, the pan is still HOT. </div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Step 5: Add the Extras!</h4><div>Depending on how messy you want to get, you can let the students add glitter. They can also add their name and year to the back of the ornament for that parent keepsake. </div><div><br /></div><div>These are also perfect items to add those student photos (that you never know what to do with) to the center of the ornament. However, if your intention is to add the photo, I would let the students know ahead of time so that they are not mad if you cover their center design. Or better yet, these are so cheap and easy, you can have them make TWO!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhitEHVHfQldlbYIQb9mXXnfOBCsschhUOU5TDNaADjyZaChBaWGr_EAHse5cChL0luSPjYh9agamd2hBFOC9k0SfcA3bagrV-IR5266SM8ohvH_6gc1vn3wFiILWTxdBZ0MrmJI-62k6SPxdGv6MfwBKHJrYR32GKg6Pn_e-Rbc19N4FAqxqQnetTOMQ/s1600/eZy_Watermark_13-11-2022_08-31-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="This is the final product to your ornament. Add student pictures to each ornament for a wonderful keepsake." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1198" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhitEHVHfQldlbYIQb9mXXnfOBCsschhUOU5TDNaADjyZaChBaWGr_EAHse5cChL0luSPjYh9agamd2hBFOC9k0SfcA3bagrV-IR5266SM8ohvH_6gc1vn3wFiILWTxdBZ0MrmJI-62k6SPxdGv6MfwBKHJrYR32GKg6Pn_e-Rbc19N4FAqxqQnetTOMQ/w240-h320/eZy_Watermark_13-11-2022_08-31-26.jpg" title="How to melt plastic cups into ornaments" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Fake student added! Haha! ;)</div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Step 6: Turn into an Ornament</h4><div>Use a hand held punch or a 3-ring punch to add that circle. Make sure the ornament is pushed all the way back to get an entire hole for the yarn to go through.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>That's it! Simple, cheap and BEAUTIFUL! These plastic cup ornaments will surely be a hit with parents and an ornament that will make its way onto the tree for years to come! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzd9Il_TUCPPoriw4KwmR33-ueJAjnvncHLXM6E9BtV846g4KSFEdI_c5hAX4oXOSmmqLK5SuGmdAI-DSKnwc7xMUvfDr7iwpw0Ae4y6CmQv8WPWvw30Kfec9f7zW1Yv4th7NEh-cuiLLJr-Zb6rhc1-80AcmNQHAdER1pIWizxb8ww1jB54yyv-FSQ/s1600/eZy_watermark_13-11-2022_08-29-48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The final product to a melted ornament. You can see how the designs melted down to exactly how it was designed." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1198" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzd9Il_TUCPPoriw4KwmR33-ueJAjnvncHLXM6E9BtV846g4KSFEdI_c5hAX4oXOSmmqLK5SuGmdAI-DSKnwc7xMUvfDr7iwpw0Ae4y6CmQv8WPWvw30Kfec9f7zW1Yv4th7NEh-cuiLLJr-Zb6rhc1-80AcmNQHAdER1pIWizxb8ww1jB54yyv-FSQ/w240-h320/eZy_watermark_13-11-2022_08-29-48.jpg" title="How to melt plastic cups into ornaments" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-Ci6lIaG020U36p8gHZXstixw9_U52MwqD3lZPOMrdJG4Qtpq2DH71qrCokDYZDdY8cf_RdfpJkD8GYzM72ic5HCrrFTjzgJQl3bGdfh-pICfVrgAzP4U-9tODDof5vlPJhmhbLvKA0HdWOX9oQ6n5q9WPVc4NPshAChRurRGrNz5CDx0NsnBUIB-g/s1600/eZy_Watermark_13-11-2022_08-31-26%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The final product to a melted ornament. You can see how the designs melted down to exactly how it was designed." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1198" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-Ci6lIaG020U36p8gHZXstixw9_U52MwqD3lZPOMrdJG4Qtpq2DH71qrCokDYZDdY8cf_RdfpJkD8GYzM72ic5HCrrFTjzgJQl3bGdfh-pICfVrgAzP4U-9tODDof5vlPJhmhbLvKA0HdWOX9oQ6n5q9WPVc4NPshAChRurRGrNz5CDx0NsnBUIB-g/w240-h320/eZy_Watermark_13-11-2022_08-31-26%20(1).jpg" title="How to melt plastic cups into ornaments" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAfxP0XuH7Ja18JvB3qlr3O8hAP9-YlV8m4X5NSxVYfaMIqP3DduqXDkMHr-xFsKF0-T3BNsO1lxU5mC1YTKoAs0SCUmbaJ0s-eLRKz8a6Rhum2N6KzO6WdbDhaOUPY7UTNAFWDws-06lfZ-kwlO1sda44JmwVvl6gBgb6WR4W28Tg08zjbR4Do_t0_w/s1600/eZy_Watermark_13-11-2022_08-31-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The final product to a melted ornament. You can see how the designs melted down to exactly how it was designed." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1198" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAfxP0XuH7Ja18JvB3qlr3O8hAP9-YlV8m4X5NSxVYfaMIqP3DduqXDkMHr-xFsKF0-T3BNsO1lxU5mC1YTKoAs0SCUmbaJ0s-eLRKz8a6Rhum2N6KzO6WdbDhaOUPY7UTNAFWDws-06lfZ-kwlO1sda44JmwVvl6gBgb6WR4W28Tg08zjbR4Do_t0_w/w240-h320/eZy_Watermark_13-11-2022_08-31-26.jpg" title="How to melt plastic cups into ornaments" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAf8TYhJPm39RdrdI3f-3vfp7YV2Gx6RI_fyGquwuzP5PdYx1vc348HxdyYL0cDOItEb7OP0t1bdoreLmp6rnH2FpI1HYC9XiH5UZOn6L-9nHhueMRAoHhs0wdv1R_uydjT9IM2EqgS-oJQfir0pwXJkMbJmobdt86eLmgq3BToHiZNwxV5D-Wqx8bvA/s1600/eZy_Watermark_13-11-2022_08-31-27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The final product to a melted ornament. You can see how the designs melted down to exactly how it was designed." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1198" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAf8TYhJPm39RdrdI3f-3vfp7YV2Gx6RI_fyGquwuzP5PdYx1vc348HxdyYL0cDOItEb7OP0t1bdoreLmp6rnH2FpI1HYC9XiH5UZOn6L-9nHhueMRAoHhs0wdv1R_uydjT9IM2EqgS-oJQfir0pwXJkMbJmobdt86eLmgq3BToHiZNwxV5D-Wqx8bvA/w240-h320/eZy_Watermark_13-11-2022_08-31-27.jpg" title="How to melt plastic cups into ornaments" width="240" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Looking for other Christmas activities to excite your students during the month of December? Look for these other blog posts:</div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2022/07/december-writing-prompts.html" target="_blank">Varied and Fun Daily Writing Prompts that are NOT about Christmas</a></li><li><a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2021/10/7-standards-based-christmas-activities-students-will-enjoy.html" target="_blank">Standards Based Christmas Activities Students will Enjoy</a></li><li><a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2018/12/easy-christmas-activities-to-excite-students.html" target="_blank">Easy Christmas Activities Students will LOVE in the Classroom</a><br /><br /></li></ol></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS AND QUESTIONS</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">My ornaments curled up some. What do I do?</h4><div>This happened to some of ours. Luckily a good cut with a sharp pair of scissors will do the trick! </div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Can I use bigger size cups?</h4><div>Well you can, but they won't turn out as pretty. The 16 oz cups are known to curl up more, so I would recommend not going over 9 oz. Plus, you don't want a HUGE ornament on your tree!</div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Do I need to use sharpies?</h4><div>While you do not need to use the brand Sharpie, you will need to use some type of permanent marker. Remember, you are drawing on plastic. If the markers are not permanent, you will smear your drawings. Even with the Sharpies, we needed to take a little time in between drawing for the marker to dry.</div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Does it really melt in under one minute?</h4><div>Yes, it actually does! So don't walk away and make sure you turn the light on to see the melting! It really is very cool. Of course, all ovens are different, but if set at 350, it should take less than a minute.</div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Do I need to flatten them with a spatula?</h4><div>This is just an option. If you like them bubbly looking, then don't flatten. It's all personal preference.</div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Did you melt all your students' ornaments at home?</h4><div>Yes, I did. But I took video of all the ornaments as they melted. I was able to fit about 9 on the cookie sheet at a time. If you are lucky enough to use the ovens at school, that is also an option!</div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Can I use a microwave?</h4><div>No, a microwave will not work to melt this type of plastic quickly and cleanly. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Would love for you to share! Spread the fun or save for later! </h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg12XS4LK-0xdUwLkwFo37MD5icav3TY433F3JFHz9v02W9VIwK9tV1RMf8TriAmNLEpuyFKS6wSnDgvmYKKdr9C8_U6tFbnZMP44uXLOPZefYHdIHNgCMIZkRWug8TN2Ay38NcBvhnIG2v9fZOFCxfYONyMs6qfEnZC8c_4pMxHaoZSyXUFNSJjqgH2Q/s1500/christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Step by Step Tutorial about how to turn plastic cups into keepsake ornaments. Perfect for a teacher's classroom." border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg12XS4LK-0xdUwLkwFo37MD5icav3TY433F3JFHz9v02W9VIwK9tV1RMf8TriAmNLEpuyFKS6wSnDgvmYKKdr9C8_U6tFbnZMP44uXLOPZefYHdIHNgCMIZkRWug8TN2Ay38NcBvhnIG2v9fZOFCxfYONyMs6qfEnZC8c_4pMxHaoZSyXUFNSJjqgH2Q/w266-h400/christmas.jpg" title="How to Melt Plastic Cups into Ornaments" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>Elementary Islandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656291891732526402noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-14409826946656577082022-11-09T10:35:00.001-08:002022-11-09T10:35:10.830-08:0010 Creative and Fun Ways to Celebrate Read Across America Day<p>Every year, I look forward to a special day on my calendar - Read Across America Day! This is a day where my students and I celebrate the joy of books and our love of reading! I like to make this day a little "extra" by planning creative reading activities for my students to enjoy! Here are 10 of my favorite ways to make Read Across America Day fun for your students... and honestly, fun for you too!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh66C-Vo_0McgZAtolkRYdQIqd5yQzZxTBivxGixlnTfqpqbsH3zx0TZ0a9fLX87z45s5eDMw3d9q_NN9h9IT8QI2ca2RU0JXdgJkjabzEtTbirgYzwh3SU2VzSAyPh2TTEij98ug7vDM-6GqI-2iAffdHZwxZJHP0UrxeR61l4MRxzeHClnijp8TKS/s2240/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these fun and easy activities to celebrate Read Across America Day with your students this year." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh66C-Vo_0McgZAtolkRYdQIqd5yQzZxTBivxGixlnTfqpqbsH3zx0TZ0a9fLX87z45s5eDMw3d9q_NN9h9IT8QI2ca2RU0JXdgJkjabzEtTbirgYzwh3SU2VzSAyPh2TTEij98ug7vDM-6GqI-2iAffdHZwxZJHP0UrxeR61l4MRxzeHClnijp8TKS/w640-h360/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20Header.png" title="10 Fun Ways to Celebrate Read Across America Day" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Invite Guest Readers</h2><div>Having fresh faces coming into my classroom to read to my students is a really easy way to celebrate this day! Since Read Across America Day is on March 2nd, I always start scouting around in mid-February to find people who would love to read to my students.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivB7EqUlAE5LBxkAF6fTfanOfyhF2T7Nbrp3d4LlVJ_TFl_c-GXxv6NrCbpDvN0HHlPCUDQJmeA7EhsF9UireLzOvrLegrpj4j9K1PJ-wMAwLgisgLep0MP-0hsw4H9EM9fhxSTgkn-Fefz4k0tcLuliITOHGbA6PURMmmB13IhNjb9ubW56a73dlO/s1080/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy%204.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Inviting a guest reader to your classroom like a principal or parent is a great way to build excitement for Read Across America Day!" border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivB7EqUlAE5LBxkAF6fTfanOfyhF2T7Nbrp3d4LlVJ_TFl_c-GXxv6NrCbpDvN0HHlPCUDQJmeA7EhsF9UireLzOvrLegrpj4j9K1PJ-wMAwLgisgLep0MP-0hsw4H9EM9fhxSTgkn-Fefz4k0tcLuliITOHGbA6PURMmmB13IhNjb9ubW56a73dlO/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy%204.png" title="10 Fun Ways to Celebrate Read Across America Day Guest Reader" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Who could you invite to come read?</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Your Principal or Vice Principal</li><li>Other teachers such as Music or Art</li><li>Bus Drivers or Cafeteria Staff</li><li>Parents of your students</li><li>Other community members</li></ul>Pretty much anyone your students would be excited to see in your room would be perfect! Special Guest Readers could bring their own favorite book to read, but also have a basket of books handy just in case they don't. </div><div><br /></div><div>Want to work in some real-life writing experience as well? After your Guest Reader has left, ask students to draw a picture or write a letter as a "Thank You" to your Special Guest! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Have a Picture Book Scavenger Hunt</h2><div>Get your students excited about reading lots of books on this day by having a Picture Book Scavenger Hunt! Give students access to a large number of picture books (organized in baskets, on tops of tables, etc...) and a Scavenger Hunt Recording Page. </div><div><br /></div><div>On the Recording Page, students are given items to find in the books. For example, students might be asked to "Find a book with an animal". Students would look through books trying to find a page that contains an animal. If they find an animal, write the name of the book on their Recording Page. If they don't, put that book down and try another!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOk9ydJPyRGbcrzEDGx7Aqe1V97rMaa5FDFm1Wny23C2C0ohEL77xSKirOZsVp0hPfOBJc8PjZLE872P0RVybMavwwyOyFeOmOd73fc9w15_JB5iHudZwOR9Q_07D171gB7h21x7nme0tvB3qo3zYfvyFdnoS_Z5pIRWN-MKUyIuhsEbuU-IcKQPH_/s1080/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy%207.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="A picture book scavenger hunt is a great way to build excitement for Read Across America Day." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOk9ydJPyRGbcrzEDGx7Aqe1V97rMaa5FDFm1Wny23C2C0ohEL77xSKirOZsVp0hPfOBJc8PjZLE872P0RVybMavwwyOyFeOmOd73fc9w15_JB5iHudZwOR9Q_07D171gB7h21x7nme0tvB3qo3zYfvyFdnoS_Z5pIRWN-MKUyIuhsEbuU-IcKQPH_/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy%207.png" title="10 Fun Ways to Celebrate Read Across America Day Picture Book Scavenger Hunt" width="320" /></a></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>Students will continue working through the page until they have found a book for each item. <a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/e4v2m2" target="_blank">Grab my free Recording Page</a> to help you easily implement this fun activity!</div><div><br /></div><div>This Picture Book Scavenger Hunt is a great way to get kids looking at books they might not normally choose to read themselves! In fact, they might be surprised to find a new favorite during all that searching!</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Track Books Read with a Sticker Chart</h2><div>Keeping kids motivated to do something is often as simple as a sticker! Show students how they can keep track of how many books they have read with a cute sticker chart!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzbjszJ254UjopWfkTXB0sScDz_53RP8Dmwfvv3ig8egjA5AiA4omjWTVDgpbOOTpBj6Egm3XuKe_irI9tMZQ69sneW-6Wmg6gQNofxspObhHZaATEmBLHWbDrNp3yH0lth7hRjrJYhUfCoA2-jf4brOY4-C78kBcDo0JD8TD5covsxFjT3HtjjF5C/s1080/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy%206.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use sticker charts like these to help students keep track of their reading during Read Across America Day celebrations." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzbjszJ254UjopWfkTXB0sScDz_53RP8Dmwfvv3ig8egjA5AiA4omjWTVDgpbOOTpBj6Egm3XuKe_irI9tMZQ69sneW-6Wmg6gQNofxspObhHZaATEmBLHWbDrNp3yH0lth7hRjrJYhUfCoA2-jf4brOY4-C78kBcDo0JD8TD5covsxFjT3HtjjF5C/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy%206.png" title="10 Fun Ways to Celebrate Read Across America Day Sticker Chart" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Let your students know that this will be a whole class chart where everyone works together as a team to achieve the goal of reading 120 books! Students will feel so much pride as they get to "help the class" by putting up one sticker for each book they read (books read by you to the whole class count too)!</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Hold a Book Character Dress Up Day</h2><div>Ok, I have to admit... Dressing up as a book character I love is definitely my favorite activity for Read Across America Day! What could infuse more fun into your school day than dressing up?!</div><div><br /></div><div>I always give my students a heads up the week before to give them time to choose a character and plan their outfits. Remind your students that their outfit doesn't need to require money, just some creativity, and imagination!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRzOB_G4fA-1oG4ksZd5mN-9gTUaELGNPzrr1i4-33D_Q5yEIizwvIwPOpQptPxWZ2m61qwuG8FB_bmzhl-Yc2OwblPo2mBcBL5wGQDRYsNclQwxJV-W0y46Xcavxcfor3CrtofLuNTrkezRUzvGSHz7chfbAVeIBj4NMvqicRoQhgm18bBvbj8Gqu/s1080/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="One of my favorite ways to celebrate Read Across America Day is with a book character dress up day." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRzOB_G4fA-1oG4ksZd5mN-9gTUaELGNPzrr1i4-33D_Q5yEIizwvIwPOpQptPxWZ2m61qwuG8FB_bmzhl-Yc2OwblPo2mBcBL5wGQDRYsNclQwxJV-W0y46Xcavxcfor3CrtofLuNTrkezRUzvGSHz7chfbAVeIBj4NMvqicRoQhgm18bBvbj8Gqu/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template.png" title="10 Fun Ways to Celebrate Read Across America Day" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Encourage students to bring an actual copy of the book in which their character appears. If they can bring the book, allow students to read it to the class (for short picture books) or simply read their favorite page or two (for longer chapter books).</div><div><br /></div><div>And don't forget <i>your</i> outfit! It's more fun when the teacher dresses up too! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Play Book Bingo</h2><div>Since the purpose of Read Across America Day is to celebrate reading, it makes sense to read as many amazing books as possible that day! One easy way to do that is with a little game of Book Bingo. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/e4v2m2" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="A BINGO book board is a great way to get your students excited to read a ton of books while celebrating Read Across America Day." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKopBuH0ItHm-T-TVGGOmtq8fh2XUXk1_Lyn2N2CTAJMeT6I_Altb014iRzRPRkPmGKMR-XYvGFX-c4OLBYA4FGTRbrSYSvtYdRPuSV5yZsNhQm-DIysWAHCDSIDS2cSadcJBYlr1DOrTLWzjv9YorMH7Zg0qLtM7fTjDfa98_YFH8k5FAUVur6cox/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy%205.png" title="10 Fun Ways to Celebrate Read Across America Day Book BINGO" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Make up your own Bingo card by using an empty template and adding different genres of books or certain characteristics in each square. Ideas could include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>talking animals</li><li>mystery</li><li>nonfiction</li><li>fairy tale</li><li>funny book</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div>If you are pressed for time and can't make your own, <a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/e4v2m2" target="_blank">grab the free Bingo Card I use in my classroom</a> and get started!</div><div><br /></div><div>Students will read and mark the coordinating space as they finish each book. Students who complete BINGO could get a prize like a pencil, bookmark, or a little extra recess time.</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6. Have a Bookmark-Making Contest</h2><div style="text-align: left;">Read Across America Day should definitely have reading activities, but also consider ideas that don't involve reading but still relate to your theme. A great way to let your students be creative without text is to hold a Bookmark-making contest! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGV1oRUq7iEAI0EG5pK1zE-2bHf5bBMM2ZHJZay_78lEMkBEC6J8AqBVZzTadqYoswQHWMaI7HD95rVSdqvdl6t0cy3xIR6WiI1jamq1JtCcJuaP18IWP5N0Y_UZJmesNR0RHhUpqF8-mzdfp4l0S8ohDQNhYy7Fa8WgLYvkUOBaaWoxanDee1kTZ3/s1080/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="What better way to celebrate Read Across America Day than with a bookmark like these? I turn our bookmark making activity into a friendly class competition my students absolutely love!" border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGV1oRUq7iEAI0EG5pK1zE-2bHf5bBMM2ZHJZay_78lEMkBEC6J8AqBVZzTadqYoswQHWMaI7HD95rVSdqvdl6t0cy3xIR6WiI1jamq1JtCcJuaP18IWP5N0Y_UZJmesNR0RHhUpqF8-mzdfp4l0S8ohDQNhYy7Fa8WgLYvkUOBaaWoxanDee1kTZ3/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy.png" title="10 Fun Ways to Celebrate Read Across America Day Bookmark Contest" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Give students strips of cardstock/construction paper, crayons, and stickers, and let them create reading/book-inspired bookmarks! They can draw and color pictures about reading or write fun sayings to inspire others to read more. It's totally up to your students how they want to design their bookmarks.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">When finished, laminate the bookmarks (packing tape also works) and allow students to vote on which one is their favorite! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Think students creating from scratch may take a little too much time? Print out these <a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/e4v2m2" target="_blank">adorable bookmarks</a> and have a coloring contest instead! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">7. Hold a Book Tournament</h2><div>For those who are fans of college basketball, the beginning of March is synonymous with March Madness, so why not hold a Book Tournament for your students? </div><div><br /></div><div>Choose 12 picture books to read to your class. Ask students to fill out their brackets to see which book they think will win the title of "Book of the Year". Then get to reading!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2EVoT9w7kuhq4xntSlCguOH-W1TqWAiPH3FOECKXFovxOjpUp-W2eCANE2ub49zn6VZPIOicPwz0ztU1ADnGlmbRe3h_nm8JZbGUoanYl-1mFhzu3iLb6xwHIjpJFvSu_6i6e--80L2S0OkCXR2As4yQ_n0Mm7an0utbytse9t1DdMdzWvEyWYUet/s1080/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy%202.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Think March Madness, but with Books! This book bracket is a great visual way to get your students pumped about Read Across America Day this year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2EVoT9w7kuhq4xntSlCguOH-W1TqWAiPH3FOECKXFovxOjpUp-W2eCANE2ub49zn6VZPIOicPwz0ztU1ADnGlmbRe3h_nm8JZbGUoanYl-1mFhzu3iLb6xwHIjpJFvSu_6i6e--80L2S0OkCXR2As4yQ_n0Mm7an0utbytse9t1DdMdzWvEyWYUet/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy%202.png" title="10 Fun Ways to Celebrate Read Across America Day Book Bracket" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>After reading each set of 2 books, have the class vote on which book they liked better. The book with the most votes moves on to the next bracket. Continue reading until you have finished all 12 books, but feel free to take breaks in between sets of books so students don't sit for too long. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once all the books have been read and a winner picked, have students share their brackets with the class. Choose a fun prize for any student who had the winner picked on their bracket! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">8. Make a Book Buddies Date</h2><div>Reading isn't just a silent activity. Books are better with a buddy! Schedule time with a teacher in another grade level to read to their students. </div><div><br /></div><div>Allow your students to choose a picture book they want to read to their Book Buddy. Give them a few minutes to practice and even come up with a few questions to ask their buddy while reading.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih4u1fEX4IWXjfDzQoOWTQPm34mSq6kuUQJluJEqKQTxUS74tuypetE7BeeH77Cv4dGuyEu659yF9F6rRoVK-9oI90AmA6KrpvCst6wJ08T04qpMcafJW1Kgpua66Aoa3jUacdcoFh_EJQZKwWuZP25lpfrEZI76JbeRN_ks1ICYkeBXNJ83--nrkc/s1080/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy%208.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Partnering with older or younger students for a book buddies activity helps students practice reading outloud to each other." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih4u1fEX4IWXjfDzQoOWTQPm34mSq6kuUQJluJEqKQTxUS74tuypetE7BeeH77Cv4dGuyEu659yF9F6rRoVK-9oI90AmA6KrpvCst6wJ08T04qpMcafJW1Kgpua66Aoa3jUacdcoFh_EJQZKwWuZP25lpfrEZI76JbeRN_ks1ICYkeBXNJ83--nrkc/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy%208.png" title="10 Fun Ways to Celebrate Read Across America Day Book Buddies" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Older students benefit from reading to younger students as they get the chance to show off their reading skills and help mentor them. Younger students benefit as they want to work hard to do their best reading and listening to their older "cool" Book Buddy.</div><div><br /></div><div>It truly is a win/win situation and the sweet way your students treat their Book Buddy is worth the effort in getting them together!</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">9. Use Special Reading Accessories</h2><div>A little something out of the ordinary is just the ticket for making Read Across America Day a special memory for your students! So why not give your students the chance to read in a different way?</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPTuY_nDArVLz4zWBY74tE-OBkhof6xbNlyZIM6Kmb_9s6tr3xjmhQ-TlcYwM88XshOfEGt-Myf0XYx2B60kofHs13vuE3TOj3R5vtDXj2p9v2R8YVCBBRs6oU5zk5tY1NCdnIv7NDBtiQUNwQoNRuC_Uk7v1Bo0o1rwZp_LUBDeYza51ubAdf3Hhr/s1080/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy%209.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A reading accessory like a stuffed animal, flashlight, pillow, or silly glasses can help students get excited about reading during Read Across America Day celebrations" border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPTuY_nDArVLz4zWBY74tE-OBkhof6xbNlyZIM6Kmb_9s6tr3xjmhQ-TlcYwM88XshOfEGt-Myf0XYx2B60kofHs13vuE3TOj3R5vtDXj2p9v2R8YVCBBRs6oU5zk5tY1NCdnIv7NDBtiQUNwQoNRuC_Uk7v1Bo0o1rwZp_LUBDeYza51ubAdf3Hhr/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy%209.png" title="10 Fun Ways to Celebrate Read Across America Day Reading Accessories" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Let your students bring items from home (or you could provide them) and read around the classroom! Items could include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>flashlight and a pillow (with the lights turned down!)</li><li>a favorite stuffed animal to read to</li><li>a fun pair of silly sunglasses</li><li>a magnifying glass</li></ul>Curling up with a good book instead of sitting at a desk is a simple way to show students that reading can be an enjoyable experience!</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">10. Create Interest in Reading with a Book Tasting</h2><div style="text-align: left;">With a few red tablecloths from the Dollar Store and a stack of amazing books, students can participate in a Book Tasting that just may lead them to discover their next favorite book!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Set up your desks/tables to resemble a table at a nice restaurant. Have different books out on each table and encourage students to "taste" each one by looking at the front cover, reading the back cover, and reading the first few pages of the book. Students can move to different tables to get exposure to as many books as possible.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaB8DM6Pq5FICQVHvPd2l7uJ-TUE6Uh3k7MYJurBgZYL2Q9ogI3BQWD3g1DLnsl8lQWi93zFU4cSEEw1--w-DSxQCFN_R8j0KlGcXlx_gpv5GWXoxe3jtX7YhO1TNqrkOtA3c4hg_lakgGolBq2iNTIrXo_dR7VTrck7Rhv4J5sMxDLWBYlgksDuv1/s1080/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy%203.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Set up tables with tablecloths and placemats for a "book tasting" adventure your students will love. It gives students the opportunity to sample books they may end up wanting to read." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaB8DM6Pq5FICQVHvPd2l7uJ-TUE6Uh3k7MYJurBgZYL2Q9ogI3BQWD3g1DLnsl8lQWi93zFU4cSEEw1--w-DSxQCFN_R8j0KlGcXlx_gpv5GWXoxe3jtX7YhO1TNqrkOtA3c4hg_lakgGolBq2iNTIrXo_dR7VTrck7Rhv4J5sMxDLWBYlgksDuv1/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20template%20copy%203.png" title="10 Fun Ways to Celebrate Read Across America Day Book Tasting" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Students should write down the book's title and a few notes about how they feel about the book. Feelings like:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Does this book interest me?</li><li>Would I be able to read this on my own and understand it?</li><li>Did the first few pages "hook" me?</li><li>Is this a book I would normally read or am I trying something new?</li></ul><div style="text-align: left;">If you would like the actual Tasting Menu that I use with my students, you can <a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/e4v2m2" target="_blank">grab this amazing freebie here</a>!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Once students have "tasted" several books, ask them to choose 3 books they want to put on their "Reading Wish List" and allow them time to share with friends the books they are excited to read in the future!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Are You Ready for Read Across America Day?</h2><div>I hope these ideas have gotten your wheels spinning for all the fun ways you can celebrate reading in your classroom! If you feel a bit overwhelmed, grab your Free packet that contains the printables I mentioned in this post to help you implement these ideas! I want you to enjoy Read Across America Day without the planning stress! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Pin These Read Across America Ideas for Later</h2><div>If these ideas have gotten you excited to make this Read Across America Day the best one yet, then make sure you Pin this post to your favorite Teaching Pinterest Board!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQNFnP3g9doYtK2IoN896PEyDaFgZW8TERxzFu8xNiqj_fVCb-h1OaXVbZUSNB6-Ww46jEV2wb_fAgdTu_7KYIEBPz3uUheJZ8JR-w1SqZs9s8VZVILKTtWXGokqyMYKDEEWSPkPCibAW3At2LXKaYapfQ4ka4836Jyh-DxbRbzLN6aSjZrMSFPTFS/s1500/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20-%20Pin%20.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Read Across America Day is just around the corner. Build excitement with fun and engaging activities your students will love. These 10 fun ways to celebrate Read Across America Day will keep everyone in the mood for reading during this special celebration. #readacrossamericaday #celebratingreadacrossamericaday #readacrossamericaday2022" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQNFnP3g9doYtK2IoN896PEyDaFgZW8TERxzFu8xNiqj_fVCb-h1OaXVbZUSNB6-Ww46jEV2wb_fAgdTu_7KYIEBPz3uUheJZ8JR-w1SqZs9s8VZVILKTtWXGokqyMYKDEEWSPkPCibAW3At2LXKaYapfQ4ka4836Jyh-DxbRbzLN6aSjZrMSFPTFS/w213-h320/10%20Fun%20Ways%20to%20Celebrate%20Read%20Across%20America%20Day%20%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20-%20Pin%20.png" title="10 Fun Ways to Celebrate Read Across America Day" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-614858988085971372022-11-09T10:33:00.003-08:002022-11-09T10:33:59.969-08:007 Engaging and Fun St. Patrick's Day Books For The Elementary Classroom<p>If you love celebrating St. Patrick's Day in your classroom, then this is your lucky today - pun intended! While I love incorporating shamrocks and little green leprechauns into my school day, the thing I love most is reading St. Patrick's Day books to my students! With a few pages of fantasy, my students easily get their imaginations going and excitedly jump into the creative activities I have planned to go along with each book! Here are my (lucky number) 7 favorite St. Patrick's Day books to read in the classroom!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-zo9YQRKBvtnMvQc0W8iK6mSvN5hWibvW5rfMis1_Uom0ktiqfm_Mt1CnPbeAzLgCUtI4R4aJBM66K2f-3efgrPMcQF_nAXqPaxQILV4ewGxo-6nuLEnEGGiJLNlJAmr4ymofnNhHp4TvmABQmcxM0L6ty4v4VsEfQgexd9igy0Apiq3JxtTSEled/s2240/My%207%20Favorite%20St.%20Patrick's%20Day%20Books%20For%20The%20Classroom%20%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20Header%20Templates.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Whether you are using these books for read alouds, centers, or independent reading, your kiddos will stay engaged and even learn a little something about St. Patrick's Day in the process." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-zo9YQRKBvtnMvQc0W8iK6mSvN5hWibvW5rfMis1_Uom0ktiqfm_Mt1CnPbeAzLgCUtI4R4aJBM66K2f-3efgrPMcQF_nAXqPaxQILV4ewGxo-6nuLEnEGGiJLNlJAmr4ymofnNhHp4TvmABQmcxM0L6ty4v4VsEfQgexd9igy0Apiq3JxtTSEled/w640-h360/My%207%20Favorite%20St.%20Patrick's%20Day%20Books%20For%20The%20Classroom%20%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20Header%20Templates.png" title="My 7 Favorite St. Patrick's Day Books for the Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. The Night Before St. Patrick's Day</h2><div>The first book I have for you today can actually be read a day or so before St. Patrick's Day to set up the accompanying activity to complete after reading. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Night-Before-St-Patricks-Day/dp/0448448521/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3N99YHX16XOWH&keywords=the+night+before+st.+patrick%27s+day&qid=1666620093&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjcwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4zOSIsInFzcCI6IjAuMzcifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=the+night+before+s%2Cstripbooks%2C268&sr=1-1" target="_blank">The Night Before St. Patrick's Day by Natasha Wing</a> is an adorable rhyming story about a brother and sister who set up a variety of leprechaun traps around their house in order to catch a "wee Irishman"! The children do in fact catch a leprechaun, and your students will love seeing what happens when they do!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Night-Before-St-Patricks-Day/dp/0448448521/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3N99YHX16XOWH&keywords=the+night+before+st.+patrick%27s+day&qid=1666620093&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjcwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4zOSIsInFzcCI6IjAuMzcifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=the+night+before+s%2Cstripbooks%2C268&sr=1-1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="The Night Before St. Patrick's Day is the perfect book for kicking off your classroom St. Patrick's Day celebrations this year." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi84jQlpydACl2KWSpfYtuTLGFqYoVw1mCeuWKhXMxD9Me5Lj5NyXHlYPHjgHXM-ES_w3FWhNt032qBwmXyjrF2nuE7VQA9vhG8v6swyhKWCrPZUIcIkzTCOzUUTc7vXiXUkjCtl2JYRxFiqtLlZuhhfz74VFGxPuZB-mYEm5-UKNP_EU-53j1YIrwq/w640-h360/My%207%20Favorite%20St.%20Patrick's%20Day%20Books%20For%20The%20Classroom%20%20-%20Elementary%20Island.png" title="My 7 Favorite St. Patrick's Day Books for the Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The illustrations of the children's traps are a perfect springboard for your students to envision their own leprechaun trap! Gather old cereal boxes, oatmeal containers, construction paper, scissors, and glue, then let those kids build the trap of their dreams! When they are finished, allow students to present their traps to the class and then display them around the room (to see if they catch anything...).</div><div><br /></div><div>Whether you choose to complete this project in your classroom or send it home as a parent project, your students will love constructing their own leprechaun traps! And if you aren't able to create an actual trap, students can design/draw a trap, color it, and label the important pieces. Mess-free!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Lucky Tucker</h2><div style="text-align: left;">In the book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lucky-Tucker-Leslie-McGuirk/dp/0763633895/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1PENB7XN39U1S&keywords=lucky+tucker&qid=1666621358&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjAzIiwicXNhIjoiMS4wMyIsInFzcCI6IjEuMDMifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=lucky+tucker%2Cstripbooks%2C113&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Lucky Tucker by Leslie McGuirk</a>, Lucky Tucker is a funny little dog who runs away from the unlucky things in his life. When a leprechaun suggests he roll around in a patch of four-leaf clovers, Tucker's day changes, and everything good (and super lucky!) begins to happen to him!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lucky-Tucker-Leslie-McGuirk/dp/0763633895/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1PENB7XN39U1S&keywords=lucky+tucker&qid=1666621358&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjAzIiwicXNhIjoiMS4wMyIsInFzcCI6IjEuMDMifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=lucky+tucker%2Cstripbooks%2C113&sr=1-1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Lucky Tucker is a great book for your classroom library because it encourages students to persevere even when things seem to be at their worst." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Khh9GFapkzPtmFEM2uFh-9saBNP-yQk4AQOLAdsnGJes0QlxxWryL4qsyamFlEd8mw9OHAasEdkipCe0VRrfzoNPq7Nxn4Qqb-BganrYtR5DuF9tlUmEQrW5rw3wr5UCA4u5cWTJArszmaEedWAGLRbR8dUrJJBipP78VHFVI2bqskRClZ4FVwck/w640-h360/My%207%20Favorite%20St.%20Patrick's%20Day%20Books%20For%20The%20Classroom%20%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20copy.png" title="My 7 Favorite St. Patrick's Day Books for the Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">For a quick and simple after-reading activity, give each student a large four-leaf clover. On each leaf of the clover, students must write one thing that would make their day the luckiest day ever! Hang these cute clovers in the hallway or (if you want to extend the activity further) use it as a brainstorming sheet for a writing activity with the prompt "My Luckiest Day!"</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Ten Lucky Leprechauns</h2><div style="text-align: left;">If you want to add a bit of counting to your story time, try the book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ten-Lucky-Leprechauns-Kathryn-Heling/dp/0545436486/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=10+lucky+leprechauns&qid=1666621967&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjI0IiwicXNhIjoiMC45NCIsInFzcCI6IjEuMDQifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=10+lucky+l%2Cstripbooks%2C123&sr=1-1" target="_blank">10 Lucky Leprechauns by Kathryn Heling and Deborah Hembrook</a>. The book is similar in style to songs such as "The Ants Go Marching" where the story starts out with one character and (through rhyming patterns) picks up another character on each page until they get to 10. Your students will enjoy the cute illustrations and catching the rhyming words on each page! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ten-Lucky-Leprechauns-Kathryn-Heling/dp/0545436486/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=10+lucky+leprechauns&qid=1666621967&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjI0IiwicXNhIjoiMC45NCIsInFzcCI6IjEuMDQifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=10+lucky+l%2Cstripbooks%2C123&sr=1-1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="This 10 Lucky Leprechauns book is perfect for math as well as reading because your kiddos will get in some fun counting practice while reading." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRoBzDEqWcLHZrJu0IHf_qJ5zkpAaMHuuAKPx9aWvhWvZkLL2we9AjWZA6KVUyt1KkueMdHRHktTSDJA552xzOjBRhqSJHJ2l7rUJYDsFyAxHgtz9vB-Hd3VXaFwPim9LfbeoGy_DSlRydPJTl8c8zb_XGj3WaBC66zXNbwx_krEJ2HUqfm9zrx4kP/w640-h360/My%207%20Favorite%20St.%20Patrick's%20Day%20Books%20For%20The%20Classroom%20%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20copy%202.png" title="My 7 Favorite St. Patrick's Day Books for the Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And speaking of rhyming words, this book is the perfect partner for a Rhyming Rainbow activity! Give students a black-and-white rainbow template. On each of the colors of the rainbow, students will write two words that rhyme. Once the rainbow has two rhyming words in each space, color the rainbow!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. How To Catch A Leprechaun</h2><div>If your students love a good, silly trick, then you have to read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/How-Catch-Leprechaun-Adam-Wallace/dp/1492632910/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1TQO6KFE6ZUL1&keywords=how+to+catch+a+leprechaun+book&qid=1666623549&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjgwIiwicXNhIjoiMS4wOCIsInFzcCI6IjAuODgifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=how+to+catch+leprechauns%2Cstripbooks%2C102&sr=1-1" target="_blank">How To Catch A Leprechaun by Adam Wallace</a>! Students are treated to a story about a very sneaky leprechaun who brags about not being caught by a variety of traps that have been laid out for him! He boasts that each trap is not enough to catch him because he is too smart to be ensnared by such contraptions. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/How-Catch-Leprechaun-Adam-Wallace/dp/1492632910/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1TQO6KFE6ZUL1&keywords=how+to+catch+a+leprechaun+book&qid=1666623549&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjgwIiwicXNhIjoiMS4wOCIsInFzcCI6IjAuODgifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=how+to+catch+leprechauns%2Cstripbooks%2C102&sr=1-1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="How to Catch a Leprechaun is another engaging "How to Catch..." story your students will love reading before creating their very own leprechaun traps." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpE82C6YiV64HLEIdA9sIJtPudKOqs2VaFNZhNYjWoOn_2XEXeD43BHVg4WXDoMXE7SIOx2IIdHEM6Zb1PwPm_-C1Qp5WrBeuMMldbKiDc6yNjAmXIE3hbFrOPSKUxmLHkck4waCTNbvM9FkUVF3b9yMO1Wqo0tCr1cC_2yLSYHrA6wC43IlIG44go/w640-h360/My%207%20Favorite%20St.%20Patrick's%20Day%20Books%20For%20The%20Classroom%20%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20copy%203.png" title="My 7 Favorite St. Patrick's Day Books for the Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>This book is not only very clever with the way it uses words, but the illustrations play a very important role in the story as well! While you are reading to your students, be sure to ask questions like: </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>What is wrong with the bathroom? Do you want your bathroom to look like that? Why not?</li><li>Why did the leprechaun say the first trap was "a snap"?</li><li>What did the leprechaun mean when he said he "fixed their shoes"? </li><li>Why was the man so dizzy? What could have happened to him?</li><li>Do you think the leprechaun will ever be caught? Why or Why not?</li></ul></div><div>Students should use their prior knowledge and the pictures as clues to better understand the text and make inferences about what is happening. </div><div><br /></div><div>A fun post-story activity would be to write a class letter to the leprechaun in the book either inviting him to visit your room or asking him not to visit (depending on the consensus of your students). Allow students to give you the words to say while you write them down on a large poster or chart paper. Hang the letter in the hallway or on the outside of your classroom door. Students could even draw mini-posters that echo the sentiments in the class letter!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. St. Patrick's Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">There are so many silly and funny leprechaun books, but there are also excellent books that teach true facts about the history of St. Patrick's Day. In the book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/St-Patricks-Day-Gail-Gibbons/dp/0823411737/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2JLLSM3OC8V03&keywords=st+patrick%27s+day+by+gail+gibbons&qid=1666625642&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjAwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=st+patrick%27s+day+by+gail+gibbons%2Cstripbooks%2C216&sr=1-1" target="_blank">St. Patrick's Day by Gail Gibbons</a>, students learn about the real Saint Patrick, his life, how the holiday came to be, and how the holiday is celebrated. This book is so jam-packed with interesting, new information that it may be difficult for students to remember it all!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/St-Patricks-Day-Gail-Gibbons/dp/0823411737/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2JLLSM3OC8V03&keywords=st+patrick%27s+day+by+gail+gibbons&qid=1666625642&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjAwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=st+patrick%27s+day+by+gail+gibbons%2Cstripbooks%2C216&sr=1-1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Teaching the history of St. Patrick's Day is fun and engaging with this beautifully illustrated St. Patrick's Day book." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVOJE_SMkAGZyn1bKAQhAt_Cb0z66U3uBmAaLF6vkqv3weQ9VHsMaxAvSkKeR-CJPK02I81LKfngPD88bfTKjqQXWMKV6vqgOcPCpMuJpdbxpRBhEQXFGMxxpM-Fxjyf3onSh7bQPM7CxjPmJbIhN3F4Z7oUj5k91vz44UH6VAsoeUolh7zi1iSQl/w640-h360/My%207%20Favorite%20St.%20Patrick's%20Day%20Books%20For%20The%20Classroom%20%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20copy%204.png" title="My 7 Favorite St. Patrick's Day Books for the Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Create a "clover patch" of St. Patrick facts by giving students 3 paper clovers. Ask them to write one fact in a complete sentence on each clover. After they are finished, students should choose their favorite fact and teach it to at least three other students in the class. When everyone has finished "teaching", allow students to add their clovers to the patch (on a bulletin board or taped to an area on the wall) where everyone can be reminded of the cool facts they learned about St. Patrick!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6. The Leprechaun's Gold </h2><div style="text-align: left;">A less-silly, but very engaging St. Patrick's Day book is <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Leprechauns-Gold-Pamela-Duncan-Edwards/dp/0064438783/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=the+leprechauns+gold&qid=1666626339&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjMzIiwicXNhIjoiMC4zMyIsInFzcCI6IjAuMzcifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=the+leprechauns+go%2Cstripbooks%2C98&sr=1-1" target="_blank">The Leprechaun's Gold by Pamela Duncan Edwards</a>. In this Irish legend, two men, Pat and Tom, are heading to compete against each other in a contest to be named the best harpist in the land. The two men show their true selves to the reader as Tom purposely ruins Pat's harp and Pat helps a leprechaun when he's in trouble. Pat's good deed does not go unrewarded, and students will love that Tom gets his comeuppance at the end of the story!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Leprechauns-Gold-Pamela-Duncan-Edwards/dp/0064438783/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=the+leprechauns+gold&qid=1666626339&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjMzIiwicXNhIjoiMC4zMyIsInFzcCI6IjAuMzcifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=the+leprechauns+go%2Cstripbooks%2C98&sr=1-1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="The Leprechaun's Gold is great for teaching students about legends and how stories are passed down through generations." border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9OwgDkt1RIaaMuYN2-MsZB5EU7D_1mHK5Qi0bezKPfXMsmsIjpLnvb6BxvTZirqlCP7-B01d50IWeIS1TCdK54aSOgjNVMnHasxP5-ve88BYUWp0uzTh1Ls9MqQc3Boy2S9Y1JYsf0WtfDlt7gNR52YYecMy6LGCsy7JNWL_WQIj_RiptPLWgT5PN/w640-h360/My%207%20Favorite%20St.%20Patrick's%20Day%20Books%20For%20The%20Classroom%20%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20copy%205.png" title="My 7 Favorite St. Patrick's Day Books for the Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This book is perfect for reviewing character traits! Simply take a blank piece of white paper and fold it in half (like a greeting card). Open the "card" and have students draw a picture of Old Pat on the left-hand side of the paper. Students will write one adjective that describes his character (helpful, kind, caring, etc...) and an example of something he did or said in the book that proves this is true about him. On the right side of the paper, follow the same directions for Young Tom. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Once finished, have your students fold their paper closed and use the "front" to recreate a brand new book cover complete with a new title as well! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">7. The Luckiest Leprechaun</h2><div style="text-align: left;">This sweet story shares the tale of a grumpy leprechaun finding a friend! In <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Luckiest-Leprechaun-Tail-Wagging-Tail-Friendship/dp/0439740819/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3B77GR4NC95FN&keywords=the+luckiest+leprechaun&qid=1666627969&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIyLjI2IiwicXNhIjoiMi42OCIsInFzcCI6IjIuODIifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=the+luckiest+leprechaun%2Cstripbooks%2C95&sr=1-1" target="_blank">The Luckiest Leprechaun by Justine Korman</a>, MacKenzie O'Shamrock doesn't believe he needs friends and spends his days living a quiet life in the park. One day, a digging dog accidentally destroys his home and she promises to fix her mistake by taking care of MacKenzie. Throughout the story, you see the two slowly become friends as Lucky the dog refuses to give up on grumpy MacKenzie.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Luckiest-Leprechaun-Tail-Wagging-Tail-Friendship/dp/0439740819/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3B77GR4NC95FN&keywords=the+luckiest+leprechaun&qid=1666627969&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIyLjI2IiwicXNhIjoiMi42OCIsInFzcCI6IjIuODIifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=the+luckiest+leprechaun%2Cstripbooks%2C95&sr=1-1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Not surprisingly this The Luckiest Leprechaun book is one of my favorite St. Patrick's Day books because it teaches the value of friendship in a way all students can relate to" border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhchkqWn-1Kdsq_qb3SNm-SYW-DfBlfWYky9y-fR965FThh2O6lHT0bxbVl9fWx3Tqiw3wONV2J9BD0t_pPnzXHjbFnTm1NFcuYdC8QGagjluOXPMnmaXusB7Zbsxxatsk6GBJ4_8YImLP9OHQJEdV7uU_9TsGuuMUx9-mNpaPsspphPslTmYn9ukZu/w640-h360/My%207%20Favorite%20St.%20Patrick's%20Day%20Books%20For%20The%20Classroom%20%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20copy%206.png" title="My 7 Favorite St. Patrick's Day Books for the Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The happy ending will warm your students' hearts, but the whole story just might inspire them to imagine themselves as a leprechaun! As a class, brainstorm ideas of what leprechauns do all day! Where do they sleep? What do they eat? What do they do for fun?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">When students have really given leprechauns a lot of thought, tell them that they will become a leprechaun! Allow students to draw themselves as a leprechaun and write a story about a day in their leprechaun life! The book you read and the class brainstorming session will help even the most reluctant writers come up with a fun story! Once everyone is finished with drawing and writing, allow them to read their stories to the class. Leprechaun accents can be optional!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">So Many Fun St. Patrick's Day Books!</h2><div>I just knew that 7 was your lucky number! I hope you found a few new favorites to share in your classroom this year! With a little luck, these books and activities will keep your students engaged and learning through all of the excitement of St. Patrick's Day! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h2>Pin These St. Patrick's Day Books for Later</h2></div><div style="text-align: left;">If these books and activities have gotten you excited to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with your students, then make sure you Pin this post to your favorite Teaching Pinterest Board!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX2NhJdKktkiCy5hmHB_W_WJ9acChV3PZSlSPlERWo-yHi1pPix8amEXPDiC1Rq_-1-aJdnZBO0EiI0cz8Gh0JLy-sdhy0DzgaArDxP3KAcuzDF4QHj3eWvIHubkGwcLB3Feniri673Xb5fh2zDMBDeCBghTI5aoddd2Zu52Hvw32e9iNkPXCvJ0Qt/s1500/My%207%20Favorite%20St.%20Patrick's%20Day%20Books%20For%20The%20Classroom%20%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20Pin%20.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX2NhJdKktkiCy5hmHB_W_WJ9acChV3PZSlSPlERWo-yHi1pPix8amEXPDiC1Rq_-1-aJdnZBO0EiI0cz8Gh0JLy-sdhy0DzgaArDxP3KAcuzDF4QHj3eWvIHubkGwcLB3Feniri673Xb5fh2zDMBDeCBghTI5aoddd2Zu52Hvw32e9iNkPXCvJ0Qt/w257-h386/My%207%20Favorite%20St.%20Patrick's%20Day%20Books%20For%20The%20Classroom%20%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20Pin%20.png" width="257" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-81354120371369359462022-10-11T12:06:00.001-07:002022-10-11T12:06:37.087-07:00Halloween and fall spelling activities that are perfect for word work centers<div style="text-align: left;">Looking for some fun <b>Fall and Halloween spelling activities</b>? Then I've got you covered with these 12 Halloween Spelling practice activities! They can be used with ANY word list, are engaging, and are perfect to add the season into your word work. You can use these during centers, for homework, with partners, for whole groups, or even for virtual learning. Just change the words each week for easy and low prep spelling activities! And the best part is, you can use these worksheets with differentiated word lists! </div><div> </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7t2QOZW8F7A8nEdKJmBSsgFJ2iCR8vyCO_L31RocFlyVoCalU6vJ-zSz3QjmM-82W9sAF3DqlS4e2hKyN3_dT3pg4TOZQJsucthPLLElr5HR2hSwJ1GGflEljkrJu1nhMYFEzl3vSPmTu/s550/100kb.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="357" data-original-width="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7t2QOZW8F7A8nEdKJmBSsgFJ2iCR8vyCO_L31RocFlyVoCalU6vJ-zSz3QjmM-82W9sAF3DqlS4e2hKyN3_dT3pg4TOZQJsucthPLLElr5HR2hSwJ1GGflEljkrJu1nhMYFEzl3vSPmTu/s16000/100kb.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">1. Sunflower Words</h3><p>On this cute sunflower page, students will write each spelling word 7 times on each petal. On the center of the sunflower, they will write the number of syllables.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">2. Pumpkin Patch</h3><p>Your students will love practicing their spelling words as they add one letter at a time to each of the adorable pumpkins. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">3. Spider Spelling</h3><p>On these silly spiders, students will write the spelling word 4 times on the spider legs.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1uMO_qSB7fGYZciLoeV5L4ZPyA2a58-cZAJw9hhFU4ja8Q8U3iOLCDL8IXDCAa7_I5lwh1twGy8lhob14eLQ5bp3NuFHVAv04iTTKjMvUbp9sbpVqKAp01SYtnMNWmcYnP1SOjbMQO2k/s2048/IMG_7665.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Spider Spelling page for Fall and Halloween Spelling Activities" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1uMO_qSB7fGYZciLoeV5L4ZPyA2a58-cZAJw9hhFU4ja8Q8U3iOLCDL8IXDCAa7_I5lwh1twGy8lhob14eLQ5bp3NuFHVAv04iTTKjMvUbp9sbpVqKAp01SYtnMNWmcYnP1SOjbMQO2k/w270-h360/IMG_7665.JPG" title="Spider Spelling page for Fall and Halloween Spelling Activities" width="270" /></a></div><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">4. Web Writing</h3><p>For this spelling page, your students get to write their spelling words repeatedly in each section of the creepy web. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">5. Bat Syllables</h3><div>On this Bat Syllables page, students separate their spelling words into syllables. Students write each segment into the batwing, then the body, then the next bat wing. If the word is more than 3 syllables, students add the word to the spooky ghost at the bottom of the page. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">6. Candy Corn Spelling</h3><div>In this <b>Fall and Halloween spelling activity,</b> students write their spelling words in the candy corn. Each candy corn is split into 3 sections. Students will write their spelling words 3 times in each of the candy corn sections. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGuYN8OS9gOSrGccLkFhEgxdUICzo18HafY3kf2hsD2kUypcFvqLB0oOPRHBuzKcT-fUrrVhaPQjQywa-n2zYll3kwuEFDcM46dtOR7-FEhY_oXiMYyOmMWCZ48T0LNM7Am6R4tNq8Omo/s2048/IMG_7657.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Candy Corn Spelling Page of Fall and Halloween Spelling Activities" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1535" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGuYN8OS9gOSrGccLkFhEgxdUICzo18HafY3kf2hsD2kUypcFvqLB0oOPRHBuzKcT-fUrrVhaPQjQywa-n2zYll3kwuEFDcM46dtOR7-FEhY_oXiMYyOmMWCZ48T0LNM7Am6R4tNq8Omo/w300-h400/IMG_7657.JPG" title="Candy Corn Spelling" width="300" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">7. Acorn Spelling</h3><div>Each of these cute acorns is split into 3 sections. Students write their spelling words at the top of the acorn. In the bottom 2 sections students write the number of vowels and the number of consonants. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickLTjCrAlQnSuTr6mXOjWoTPvg6eReYvNOqJn2wgH0hvgnB2TGVEZKvwo89EWa-8VOqgPBfX3JDwMSXF-fv_1mQkAnMrdHzFVDDzu665Fj45CnC10rJS3P2xBK2-YknUXuH15VNTqvuw/s2048/IMG_7659.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Acorn Spelling Fall and Halloween Spelling Activity" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickLTjCrAlQnSuTr6mXOjWoTPvg6eReYvNOqJn2wgH0hvgnB2TGVEZKvwo89EWa-8VOqgPBfX3JDwMSXF-fv_1mQkAnMrdHzFVDDzu665Fj45CnC10rJS3P2xBK2-YknUXuH15VNTqvuw/w400-h400/IMG_7659.JPG" title="Acorn Spelling" width="400" /></a></div><div></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">8. Fallicious Writing</h3><div>For this fall page, students use their creativity and use the words from the box and their spelling words to write a fun fall story. Students underline their spelling words as they use them. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">9. Spooky Roll and Spell</h3><div>Your students will have so much fun with this Spooky Roll and Spell! For this page, they will roll the dice and then write their words according to the number that they rolled. Some of the fun options include; writing the words in marker, writing the letters in ghosts, and writing the words in fancy letters. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXPzP4DtlxStKLpwrR5OpmPjeRz1yN7d9gPie1777TAz3uwdSdPZDbzpO3lk2VWCtJfuGZNEC9hkXiKWE7k6RSxFBrPxnuHNM3jjvI3iZBOZsKLP43oLoAltfdL7w7GvCwuO4bLP1T4-2-/s2048/IMG_7667+%25281%2529.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXPzP4DtlxStKLpwrR5OpmPjeRz1yN7d9gPie1777TAz3uwdSdPZDbzpO3lk2VWCtJfuGZNEC9hkXiKWE7k6RSxFBrPxnuHNM3jjvI3iZBOZsKLP43oLoAltfdL7w7GvCwuO4bLP1T4-2-/s320/IMG_7667+%25281%2529.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">10. Pumpkin Shape Spelling</h3><div>For this Fall and Halloween spelling activity, students write their spelling words along the inside of the different sized pumpkins once. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">11. Spelling Sentences</h3><div>For this spelling sentences page, students write their spelling word in the box and then write a complete sentence with the word on the line. Then students circle the spelling word in the sentence. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">12. Spelling Codes</h3><div>Your students will LOVE cracking these spelling codes! First, they will write their spelling word on the line. Next, they use the scary Halloween symbol that matches the letter to write their spelling word. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv2QRX7GC5GFSciiKocy7fYL_H1ZFEZJmM5q5elBLz9SzUFQaYChG1_thRG_X9KyrJyJ05zNYkk2Gg3_QdnTrCDQ03gocXQDC0py8HhHAF9SUOZ8ehc271FBl-5cFsgL9z7VhkUWJqAwk/s2048/IMG_7669.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fall and Halloween Spelling Activities" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv2QRX7GC5GFSciiKocy7fYL_H1ZFEZJmM5q5elBLz9SzUFQaYChG1_thRG_X9KyrJyJ05zNYkk2Gg3_QdnTrCDQ03gocXQDC0py8HhHAF9SUOZ8ehc271FBl-5cFsgL9z7VhkUWJqAwk/w400-h300/IMG_7669.JPG" title="Halloween Spelling Pages" width="400" /></a></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Looking for a DIGITAL option? </h3><div>These same worksheets make great practice for the computer as well! Google slides compatible.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39BYKIJWSgoGWmtYNV5w18hIlnL15AqT8bHF77DoP-nk5CBHoGMgKubiHTAuTdvi6eygyMhyUjhP5BL2VwYF4Jq71yWhgsWpg0oaKhTAtKjwWXNVcYA4SHPLDK4e1sLkmQvzfmdAtrFpY/s2048/Page+07.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1317" data-original-width="2048" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39BYKIJWSgoGWmtYNV5w18hIlnL15AqT8bHF77DoP-nk5CBHoGMgKubiHTAuTdvi6eygyMhyUjhP5BL2VwYF4Jq71yWhgsWpg0oaKhTAtKjwWXNVcYA4SHPLDK4e1sLkmQvzfmdAtrFpY/s320/Page+07.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM9elg2KsMBD0R7vxuAsRMVlH8QV3q5EFcM2hD_teRWHN7ypPxEygc9ks6BK9MF_QCw1SmJ0rlmKwk2Ol-b-yTU5wZ9p91jCd7Tj3MIifO8Fx-0kMaD8U5RJNTobTbc3loCC7tRvRMj32u/s2048/Page+08.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1317" data-original-width="2048" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM9elg2KsMBD0R7vxuAsRMVlH8QV3q5EFcM2hD_teRWHN7ypPxEygc9ks6BK9MF_QCw1SmJ0rlmKwk2Ol-b-yTU5wZ9p91jCd7Tj3MIifO8Fx-0kMaD8U5RJNTobTbc3loCC7tRvRMj32u/s320/Page+08.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCjxEQsg7PlmdMeYSJEeFEa5cS9xfT7PH6_d91GpYmTpFz-9vbalDtGXFLZYm_h-0KgIerIk-k3vXLes_APqL1aqi4PSVfhI2VRFZrWG6pO1WT20cwuGp6aBCWcLg5S2kxC_tFMTBHdcSA/s2048/Page+06.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1317" data-original-width="2048" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCjxEQsg7PlmdMeYSJEeFEa5cS9xfT7PH6_d91GpYmTpFz-9vbalDtGXFLZYm_h-0KgIerIk-k3vXLes_APqL1aqi4PSVfhI2VRFZrWG6pO1WT20cwuGp6aBCWcLg5S2kxC_tFMTBHdcSA/s320/Page+06.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>I know that these <b>Fall and Halloween spelling activities</b> will help you incorporate the season into your word work time! It's a great way for students to feel like they are enjoying the season without the thought of doing actual work! Sometimes we need to be tricky as teachers...</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>I'd love to see how you use them in your classroom, so don't forget to tag me in your pictures on Facebook and Instagram! </div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWLy6CCayTY8L7xkuI1BrNggCXvSYquPe8XrDljlmnZwLhIQMfbTQK2idl5xwIAOT2TgjQQ2Xng2MtndO4FVHvHrU4FRzXRVWSfrWmMjBvcA7QLnc8u3peSg4tKQRQL1p93W4zhNV_oWl/s1533/halloween+spelling+pin.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1533" data-original-width="1022" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWLy6CCayTY8L7xkuI1BrNggCXvSYquPe8XrDljlmnZwLhIQMfbTQK2idl5xwIAOT2TgjQQ2Xng2MtndO4FVHvHrU4FRzXRVWSfrWmMjBvcA7QLnc8u3peSg4tKQRQL1p93W4zhNV_oWl/s320/halloween+spelling+pin.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-80745626620672535032022-09-07T15:01:00.001-07:002022-09-07T15:02:46.714-07:008 Awesome Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Videos for your Classroom<p>It is so important that we teach our students about the brave men and women who helped shape the history of our nation. Men and women who overcame incredible obstacles to accomplish things that made our country a better place! One such man is Martin Luther King Jr. His huge leading role in fighting for equality for all is not only inspiring but he quite literally changed people's lives. Read on to see how I use 8 awesome activities and videos to teach my students about Martin Luther King Jr. in ways they will never forget!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC6ZGaN_BCA3Bdd0H4MQPD3C8mTOW7zqJMcr0U6h92_WnAM_V-16IjVosdWtw21Ga4FPiB-ISyR5iUoTkQ2Ix3gsJiuSRTcvOMutdTBlF0EDi6zsRZdrPLs8tClbAgIdXyXlViRbTUqrfu3IwbG0Ge2WttZ5Q9T59Xx1Fh3qx2Xe0e7dYtjZgKuVHt/s2240/8%20Awesome%20Martin%20Luther%20King%20Jr%20Activities%20and%20Videos%20for%20Your%20Classroom%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20Header%20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these 8 awesome Martin Luther King Jr. activities in your classroom to help students understand the importance of love and peace." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC6ZGaN_BCA3Bdd0H4MQPD3C8mTOW7zqJMcr0U6h92_WnAM_V-16IjVosdWtw21Ga4FPiB-ISyR5iUoTkQ2Ix3gsJiuSRTcvOMutdTBlF0EDi6zsRZdrPLs8tClbAgIdXyXlViRbTUqrfu3IwbG0Ge2WttZ5Q9T59Xx1Fh3qx2Xe0e7dYtjZgKuVHt/w640-h360/8%20Awesome%20Martin%20Luther%20King%20Jr%20Activities%20and%20Videos%20for%20Your%20Classroom%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20Header%20.png" title="8 Awesome Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Videos for Your Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Teaching our young students about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. can be tricky. The themes associated with his life can be hard to put into words and activities that our kids can not only understand, but grasp the seriousness of. Whether you are teaching this for the first time or looking for some new MLK Day activities, you've come to the right place.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you find yourself asking questions like "How do I celebrate MLK Day at school?" or "What are some kid appropriate activities for MLK Day?" then you keep reading. These 8 activities are just what you need for teaching your students about Dr. King and all he stood for.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">MLK Day Activities for Kids</h2><div>These 8 activities have been used again and again in my classroom with great success. They take some deep concepts and teach them in a way that kids can understand. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you are looking for a great way to introduce Martin Luther King Jr. to your kids - why not let another kid do it. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xXZhXTFWnE&t=16s" target="_blank">Kid President</a> has this great video about Dr. King and his life. It's a great way to set the stage for the learning to come.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="321" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4xXZhXTFWnE" width="489" youtube-src-id="4xXZhXTFWnE"></iframe></div><div><br /></div>Once you introduce Dr. King you are ready to dive into these fun and engaging MLK Day activities for kids.<br /><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Read Inspirational Books</h2><div>I love a great picture book to introduce my kids to any topic I'm teaching. Books are a great way to build interest and share background knowledge for students to connect to as I teach. So of course, I have my three favorite picture books on Martin Luther King Jr. to help you get started.</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">National Geographic Readers: Martin Luther King Jr.</h3><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3Biumqj" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use books like this National Geographic Readers Martin Luther King, Jr. book to introduce your students to the messages of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="231" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8fWW1WJh_egus9R3Kmz4xg96faMr0rCwDgAo5D02B1mAJzjXFMqxYLfYIoM2qvqkLv0v1oC_pCbVIAGoj5SR-clMsMK5QnZFh4NS7pTs7wDhmmxVv8GvsI6U2mu1QOScb6CNyHBj3AmoMEYq0RGb0Gpp-sqF6dFr3KKm46Nn3fYgSuCNkOnzkYh5/w214-h320/51wgJQ+uY6L._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" title="8 Awesome Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Videos for Your Classroom" width="214" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://amzn.to/3Biumqj" target="_blank">National Geographic Readers: Martin Luther King Jr.</a> by Kitson Jazynka is an in-depth, but not intimidating, biography of Dr. King. </div><div><br /></div><div>It shares difficult-to-understand historical information in such a way that kids can easily comprehend. Brightly colored photographs and illustrations will draw in your students and bring to life the interesting facts on each page. </div><div><br /></div><div>I also love the book's use of Text Features such as timetables, captions, sidebars, and fact boxes. They organize information and serve as an excellent real-world example to show your students why text features are important in non-fiction texts. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.</h3><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3x0zey1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use books like this Martin's Big Words Book to introduce your students to the messages of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." border="0" data-original-height="242" data-original-width="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJx9vMfpMsKwlFuwrcts68NBQteF7MJ6KPreu8-ZHfTdedKDXSplweXdtq1S5KT3ijX6rQZzllgteJIzhgdFWXuMuAqj33Y3TXlJl5H_ECruR7Qd1gDXxoSVFiwkdhh5Gvzpxfs832jVR--gWusKiw3Hs6P8tZsGkflvfuPv-KZZWQVPzP1c15F61H/s16000/514187i6YkS._SX218_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_FMwebp_.webp" title="8 Awesome Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Videos for Your Classroom" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><a href="https://amzn.to/3x0zey1" target="_blank">Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.</a> by Doreen Rappaport takes a different approach as it tells the story of things that happened in Dr. King Jr.'s life as a story rather than a grouping of facts. Throughout the story, students get to hear firsthand the actual words of Martin Luther King Jr. as he spoke them! Combine that with gorgeous illustrations, and your students will be spellbound by the emotional depth of this story!</div><h3 style="text-align: left;">The Story of Martin Luther King Jr.: A Biography Book for New Readers</h3><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3esUxS8" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use books like this The Story of Martin Luther King Jr.Book to introduce your students to the messages of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." border="0" data-original-height="293" data-original-width="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ZqW4hZdHzbPy-WKu0-ulw1521GBW4SFHto2qbD8KkzwX4WTzRaNWpARb0P5LCY6ouG-g8CELYqf_fAsc9XszdrrNzu1Z-eoxblGt6Gspdm9yal0yWrmWnqz-w9sCD1rolW_po57IjN58yTiCxYg1i_H2LshFhUwTsV92o86Cm3Ev0HOyJjEjddRS/s16000/512lP6rwX5L._SY291_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_FMwebp_.webp" title="8 Awesome Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Videos for Your Classroom" /></a></div><br /></div><div><a href="https://amzn.to/3esUxS8" target="_blank">The Story of Martin Luther King Jr.: A Biography Book for New Readers</a> by Christine Platt is another excellent biographical offering that includes a wealth of information in short, easy-to-read chapters. </div><div><br /></div><div>Black text on a white background with simple (yet effective) illustrations, makes the pages just right for readers who don't like busy backgrounds. </div><div><br /></div><div>The use of bold text on vocabulary words helps students to zero in on important facts. This book also does an excellent job of showing the effects of certain events in Dr. King's life, while a visual timeline helps students to understand the sequence of events and cause-and-effect relationships. </div><div><br /></div><div>If building interest in Martin Luther King Jr.'s life is your goal, you truly can't go wrong with any of these 3 books! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Listen to Martin Luther King Jr. Speak</h2><div>After reading a book or two to your class, let your students witness Martin Luther King Jr.'s life for themselves! In this video <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pG8X0vOvi7Q&t=9s" target="_blank">Meet the Civil Rights Leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.</a>, students get to see a collection of pictures that show Dr. King's early life, historic moments in his later years, and what life in America was like for African Americans before and during the Civil Rights Movement.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pG8X0vOvi7Q" width="483" youtube-src-id="pG8X0vOvi7Q"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>Students even get to experience Martin Luther King Jr. with their very own ears as they hear snippets of his famous "I Have a Dream" speech spoken straight from his lips. This audio combined with beautiful photography makes everything you have already discussed come to life for your students!</div><div><br /></div><div>When the video is over, ask your students to share what stood out to them as they watched. </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Did they learn anything new from what they saw?</li><li>Did the pictures give them any new ideas or help them better understand Dr. King's life?</li><li>Did they connect any information from the video to the books you read? </li></ul></div><div>As students become more excited about what they are learning about the life of Martin Luther King Jr., now is the time to let them continue their research on their own!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Martin Luther King Jr. Biography Research Project</h2><div>Now armed with so much prior knowledge about Martin Luther King Jr.'s life, students will excitedly start coming up with their own questions about him! Let your students create a project based on information they have learned from class and researched through books or the internet!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Biography-Report-Templates-and-Research-Activities-Biography-Anchor-Charts-2363307?utm_source=MLK%20Jr.%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Biography%20Reports" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Using biography reports like this one help students learn about the life and messages of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in fun and engaging ways your students will love." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0qLYHipg-ig4b5GsYh-lAmTBat7-gHsl0BWbGOZW7EzS6NzF-c4j-IXeySNj4cD6dmSCfwCUZ3xrcTccYZ-Ci-LMpy5Y8Z0jWYrvx245DzZ-AOWPdKKzAL3LE1dbiSAyTqpdBHN1DCEmtpnmEOIJVVg_qnA5ykVUluO2plCi-1vYUlGmvfvK8emos/w320-h320/8%20Awesome%20Martin%20Luther%20King%20Jr%20Activities%20and%20Videos%20for%20Your%20ClassroomJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog.png" title="8 Awesome Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Videos for Your Classroom" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Students can create posters about Dr. King by writing interesting facts about his life, making a timeline of important events, and even drawing a picture of Martin Luther King Jr.! </div><div><br /></div><div>If the idea of a Research Project appeals to you but want a little more guidance on how to make one work for your students, check out my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Biography-Report-Templates-and-Research-Activities-Biography-Anchor-Charts-2363307?utm_source=MLK%20Jr.%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Biography%20Reports" target="_blank">Biography Report Templates and Research Activities</a>!</div><div><br /></div><div>This resource gives you 3 different leveled templates for students of all abilities to complete, 3 different print-and-go timelines, an adorable craftivity, writing pages, and more! Research reports have never been easier (or more fun!) than with this pack! Your students will love writing about and illustrating the information they have learned about Dr. King and you will love that all the resources you needed to complete the activities were right at your fingertips!</div><div><br /></div><div>And the best part is, that when you are finished creating biographies for Martin Luther King Jr., you can use these same resources again and again to research and create biographies for other important people!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Biography-Report-Templates-and-Research-Activities-Biography-Anchor-Charts-2363307?utm_source=MLK%20Jr.%20Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Biography%20Reports" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Using biography reports like this one help students learn about the life and messages of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in fun and engaging ways your students will love." border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ3G0jhp3IiFkqH4QeaSrj3ilMwdthjrDoviCvV3hR_B0OP_cDd_TAM4RxeUSf7FtPX5DCE1UYEYtXS9KITNDJE1QmesQgF8hgqJzFP5zxLct_JswRGucbpMOs808LZQObKhGklJbF7lvgzviEjMX_R28S1vbw_qx9Bxp_JLf2QM1_wE5dZ0NiKCoG/w320-h320/original-2363307-1.jpeg" title="8 Awesome Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Videos for Your Classroom" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Fair or Unfair Discussion</h2><div>Kids can often learn new facts, but it may take a while before they start to "see" what they've learned. Help your students connect what they learned about Martin Luther King Jr. to their daily lives by playing Fair or Unfair.</div><div><br /></div><div>Give your students a series of real-life scenarios. Students are to give a thumbs up if they think the situation is "Fair" and a thumbs down if they think it's "Unfair". </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMR9WHZekoVrsGF63_mo107wwFqlM_A5r3aQFTPmoQS8kqHNtc-wt36Ul-Ytrt5HQKs8ifeZ7E2lRGB7fuT2NKbBjIoIuzAk7ZG4ZwWTdrtKsIxWuPq3paQfZZAl72-xQx89HS5HfjiLcHhM5VGujPgroQw7g23vaqFlPmzvybR_8dXsDG5J_wZNzp/s1080/8%20Awesome%20Martin%20Luther%20King%20Jr%20Activities%20and%20Videos%20for%20Your%20ClassroomJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20copy%202.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Discuss the concepts of "fair" and "unfair" with your students as a whole class." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMR9WHZekoVrsGF63_mo107wwFqlM_A5r3aQFTPmoQS8kqHNtc-wt36Ul-Ytrt5HQKs8ifeZ7E2lRGB7fuT2NKbBjIoIuzAk7ZG4ZwWTdrtKsIxWuPq3paQfZZAl72-xQx89HS5HfjiLcHhM5VGujPgroQw7g23vaqFlPmzvybR_8dXsDG5J_wZNzp/w320-h320/8%20Awesome%20Martin%20Luther%20King%20Jr%20Activities%20and%20Videos%20for%20Your%20ClassroomJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20copy%202.png" title="8 Awesome Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Videos for Your Classroom" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Some scenarios could include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>A student gets in trouble because they couldn't afford school supplies.</li><li>The principal gives prizes to students for getting all A's on their Report Card.</li><li>The basketball coach only plays the kids on the team if he's friends with their parents.</li><li>A student yells at the teacher and has to go to the Principal's Office.</li><li>The teacher gives snacks to students who don't bring one to school but doesn't give one to the students who bring one from home.</li><li>A student wins an Art contest and gets their picture in the newspaper.</li><li>Two students get caught cheating on a test. One gets a zero because it's her third time being caught cheating, while the other gets to retake the test because it's her first offense.</li></ul><div>Some of these situations might seem pretty straightforward, but some may require thinking from a different perspective! It's definitely important for students to be able to explain why things are fair or not, but also to see that some situations may seem fair until they look at it from the other person's point of view!</div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. On the Inside, We're All the Same</h2><div>Dr. King always shared the message that no matter what your skin color is, we are all the same! </div><div><br /></div><div>One way for students to realize this for themselves is to show students a physical example of this. All you need for this simple yet effective visual aid is to grab two eggs- one brown and one white!</div><div><br /></div><div>First, ask students to describe the two eggs. Students will probably notice they are the same shape. When they touch the eggs, both the brown and white eggs even feel the same. But very obviously, their colors are different. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitxPLWs9KoIN-JBC5F6MMYiVFo2op68m-S5HPxScgWVGgnrgg7x7Us9J9pfDpaKimuNJ_uOx-bx90F__sEDrJj7j1tGe1KRid9-0SU0sWa9oJj2BBeizRYWzGrUp8AvIaTf1Bazer3SnLfgyh45ifxdtSwGvM226eo9hLYd5CnCmjUEc6XmltDpt7V/s1080/8%20Awesome%20Martin%20Luther%20King%20Jr%20Activities%20and%20Videos%20for%20Your%20ClassroomJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20copy.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use this simple egg activity to help students visually understand how we as humans may be different on the outside, but the same on the inside." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitxPLWs9KoIN-JBC5F6MMYiVFo2op68m-S5HPxScgWVGgnrgg7x7Us9J9pfDpaKimuNJ_uOx-bx90F__sEDrJj7j1tGe1KRid9-0SU0sWa9oJj2BBeizRYWzGrUp8AvIaTf1Bazer3SnLfgyh45ifxdtSwGvM226eo9hLYd5CnCmjUEc6XmltDpt7V/w320-h320/8%20Awesome%20Martin%20Luther%20King%20Jr%20Activities%20and%20Videos%20for%20Your%20ClassroomJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20copy.png" title="8 Awesome Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Videos for Your Classroom" width="320" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Now crack the brown egg into a bowl, then crack the white egg into the same bowl right next to the brown egg. </div><div><br /></div><div>Ask your students what they see, and they will tell you that once the shell was cracked and thrown away, they can't tell the difference between the two.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ask students if it matters that they had different colored shells and see what they say. Then ask them several questions:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>What will happen if you drop a brown egg? What will happen if you drop a white egg? </li><li>How would cookies taste if I use brown eggs in the recipe? Would the cookies taste the same if I use white eggs? Why?</li><li>If I leave a brown egg out of the refrigerator for several days, what will happen? If I do the same thing to a white egg, what will happen?</li></ul><div>Once students have discussed these questions and answers, explain to your class that people are just like these eggs! Their outside "shell" (skin color) has nothing to do with who they are as a person on the inside. </div><div><br /></div><div>People of different skin colors have the same fears and the same dreams, and we shouldn't treat people differently because they don't look like us. Then allow time for students to add their thoughts and feelings about how this activity connects to what they have learned about Martin Luther King Jr.</div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6. Peace Circle Whole Group Activity</h2><div>Once students realize that all skin colors are amazing and should be celebrated, use this idea to bring your students together to create a display for your classroom or hallway! Give students construction paper (or some other type of craft paper) in colors that replicate various skin tones. If you do not have colored paper, students can use white paper. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglnqiZ6kUxv7J98vDYVGHqX52KvsBzW9FLqjWluoktws9BnFFzbGxHOAi_kGIozuR-tn_nTpNdSfoT3tBunIkuew4nELVJx3wN5cWXDRdBXbPNwcuFLUGs7pHXgncIes0QDEwnPxll20g-G44AijcVRgbeJqGCh3ub0NRlq1C9vRxF6jFaFUxF70y8/s1080/8%20Awesome%20Martin%20Luther%20King%20Jr%20Activities%20and%20Videos%20for%20Your%20ClassroomJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20copy%204.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Help your students visualize how everyone can work together to make a better world for everyone with a fun handprint craft." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglnqiZ6kUxv7J98vDYVGHqX52KvsBzW9FLqjWluoktws9BnFFzbGxHOAi_kGIozuR-tn_nTpNdSfoT3tBunIkuew4nELVJx3wN5cWXDRdBXbPNwcuFLUGs7pHXgncIes0QDEwnPxll20g-G44AijcVRgbeJqGCh3ub0NRlq1C9vRxF6jFaFUxF70y8/w320-h320/8%20Awesome%20Martin%20Luther%20King%20Jr%20Activities%20and%20Videos%20for%20Your%20ClassroomJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20copy%204.png" title="8 Awesome Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Videos for Your Classroom" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Ask students to trace their handprints several times on the paper and cut out each handprint. If using white paper, ask students to color their handprints to replicate various skin tones or let them make handprints using paint. Once you have a fairly large quantity of different colored handprints, give students a large piece of butcher paper or an area on the wall in which must work together as a team to create a peace sign out of their handprints. </div><div><br /></div><div>If using butcher paper or a paper-covered bulletin board, you may want to draw an outline of a peace sign so that students can tape or glue their hands inside the outline.</div><div><br /></div><div>Add a quote from Dr. King to go along with your peace sign and have students write about what that quote means to them or what it means to "live in peace".</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">7. Peace and Love Craft</h2><div><br /></div><div>Art is the perfect way for students to get creative after such an emotionally powerful activity! This simple Peace and Love Craft only takes black, white, and red construction paper to make a visual to help students remember the lessons they are learning.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsSFl3vjBit1gF9prTNzwD8279Dy62fgSHHG54XbRUwlBB1ioTnkdyTpT8Qqf8XMIIcdPdvIsaslJzOC7fwuCeiu27kKzY4TLTvoD9su-M2G1J42rehrsWJ8m1smwPPQ0Kaio-KLV7VqmnWF4JWCrD5HY5yh3cGPvVBopFD9MkHCWNwGgWwlFDXnQ_/s1080/8%20Awesome%20Martin%20Luther%20King%20Jr%20Activities%20and%20Videos%20for%20Your%20ClassroomJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20copy%203.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use this peace and love craft to help students visually demonstrate how they share peace and kindness with everyone." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsSFl3vjBit1gF9prTNzwD8279Dy62fgSHHG54XbRUwlBB1ioTnkdyTpT8Qqf8XMIIcdPdvIsaslJzOC7fwuCeiu27kKzY4TLTvoD9su-M2G1J42rehrsWJ8m1smwPPQ0Kaio-KLV7VqmnWF4JWCrD5HY5yh3cGPvVBopFD9MkHCWNwGgWwlFDXnQ_/w320-h320/8%20Awesome%20Martin%20Luther%20King%20Jr%20Activities%20and%20Videos%20for%20Your%20ClassroomJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20copy%203.png" title="8 Awesome Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Videos for Your Classroom" width="320" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Have each student trace their handprint on a piece of black paper using a white crayon and again on a white paper using a black crayon. Place each paper touching end to end and glue a red paper heart directly in the middle of the two papers. Write the phrase "peace and love" on the red heart.</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">8. Share Kindness to Everyone Around You</h2><div>Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was an inspiration to others! He used peaceful ways to get his message across and helped as many people as he could to have a better life. What better way for students to show what they have learned than to put it into practice in their daily lives?</div><div><br /></div><div>Tell your students a few days ahead of time that you will hold a Day of Service in order to do kind things for people! Brainstorm a list of "act of kindness" ideas as a class and type up that list to send home with your students or message to their parents.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGZu31VNBsVkYFXWX0Apuz9wIqwiR-2Lxw46x7XxSrMG-xqtB3hsOcaeuB5vsqjie9HrU-UQvx3RniQgYmh1Lwzq57R3-Y6a7B0NlrUI12fHGIl7ba10tvedDUK43SnjCAHe-G6Q_IcVIuK97_FCYyZVLGhRvKZqqN9TBkqPEgOPtkavx6N7Wj9XB/s1080/8%20Awesome%20Martin%20Luther%20King%20Jr%20Activities%20and%20Videos%20for%20Your%20ClassroomJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20copy%205.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. believed in peace and love between all people. Take time to talk to your students about ways they can spread kindness around the world." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGZu31VNBsVkYFXWX0Apuz9wIqwiR-2Lxw46x7XxSrMG-xqtB3hsOcaeuB5vsqjie9HrU-UQvx3RniQgYmh1Lwzq57R3-Y6a7B0NlrUI12fHGIl7ba10tvedDUK43SnjCAHe-G6Q_IcVIuK97_FCYyZVLGhRvKZqqN9TBkqPEgOPtkavx6N7Wj9XB/w320-h320/8%20Awesome%20Martin%20Luther%20King%20Jr%20Activities%20and%20Videos%20for%20Your%20ClassroomJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20copy%205.png" title="8 Awesome Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Videos for Your Classroom" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Acts of Kindness do not need to be big or cost money, they just simply need to be ways to help those around you! Ideas could include, but are not limited to:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>smile and say "Hi!" to everyone you see today</li><li>holding doors for other people</li><li>writing a note of thanks to your bus driver or the cafeteria staff</li><li>picking up trash off the playground or in a park</li><li>baking cookies for your principal and school secretary</li><li>sweeping the classroom floor so the janitor doesn't have to</li><li>telling 5 other students a kind compliment </li></ul><div>On your Day of Service, have precut construction paper hearts set out where students can access them. Ask students to write each kind deed on a heart throughout the day and tape it to a specific area on the wall where everyone can see all the kindness being spread around the school!</div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Pin These MLK Day Activities for Kids!</h2><div>I hope this post has inspired you to teach about Martin Luther King Jr. to your students! If you found some awesome ideas that you would like to use, then Pin this post to your favorite classroom Pinterest Board so you will always have them when you need them!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKUevJApmWtWLDOgk-r0uP5sloY-Pwc-2he2GU5CvkJYsbIj3oB2ALA1y0GiMPrt8LxwDxPePGYxfPe0wz-qbc2alRTLSMOk5HiCdQJDPZhVIRkd615CIeGA62f4un3d22KfK8RXJXHXR3N08ijyN5dUCs4OOiFtLCe1HHzkV_D8rw5Fb6QAZRvucg/s1500/8%20Awesome%20Martin%20Luther%20King%20Jr%20Activities%20and%20Videos%20for%20Your%20Classroom%20%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20-%20Pin%20%20(1).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these 8 awesome Martin Luther King, Jr. activities in your classroom this year to help your students understand the importance of spreading peace and kindness. Your students will love learning about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life as well as discovering ways they can spread kindness. #drmartinlutherkingjr #martinlutherking # martinlutherkingactivities" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="383" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKUevJApmWtWLDOgk-r0uP5sloY-Pwc-2he2GU5CvkJYsbIj3oB2ALA1y0GiMPrt8LxwDxPePGYxfPe0wz-qbc2alRTLSMOk5HiCdQJDPZhVIRkd615CIeGA62f4un3d22KfK8RXJXHXR3N08ijyN5dUCs4OOiFtLCe1HHzkV_D8rw5Fb6QAZRvucg/w255-h383/8%20Awesome%20Martin%20Luther%20King%20Jr%20Activities%20and%20Videos%20for%20Your%20Classroom%20%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20-%20Pin%20%20(1).png" title="8 Awesome Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Videos for Your Classroom" width="255" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-81730303687514204312022-08-11T13:37:00.001-07:002022-09-07T15:07:48.378-07:0010 Immediate Actions to do NOW to Prepare for a Substitute Teacher<p style="text-align: left;">Whether you woke up feeling like you were hit by a truck or stayed up all night taking care of your sick child, we have all been there. . . in desperate need of a Substitute Teacher! I have always heard it said that for teachers, it's more work to be out of school for a day than it is to actually come in and teach. But what if I told you there was a better way to plan for a Substitute Teacher? Well, there is! Read on for easy ways that you can prepare for a Substitute Teacher. And the best part? You can do these <i>right now</i>!</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdBr0vlBDp6bWe4iUAbgPJW0RkGw7x6a-GkTPTT-n2yl5P0HZqrHxIUk_Jv4yGPlWGct0kejnGic0rLBwk1p1pz9aQxBCEKQLSUECnmhvNKWTJN2VAE2F6_o6IqiVdgS6nrCO8vGEGJb2gICrHgq5RPaGdmrPUwfaQOCSlZtORPUac9Ccbi3n48FkA/s2240/Easy%20Ways%20to%20Prepare%20for%20a%20Substitute%20Teacher%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these helpful tips and tricks to easily prepare for your substitute teacher." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdBr0vlBDp6bWe4iUAbgPJW0RkGw7x6a-GkTPTT-n2yl5P0HZqrHxIUk_Jv4yGPlWGct0kejnGic0rLBwk1p1pz9aQxBCEKQLSUECnmhvNKWTJN2VAE2F6_o6IqiVdgS6nrCO8vGEGJb2gICrHgq5RPaGdmrPUwfaQOCSlZtORPUac9Ccbi3n48FkA/w640-h360/Easy%20Ways%20to%20Prepare%20for%20a%20Substitute%20Teacher%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20Header.png" title="Easy Ways to Prepare for a Substitute Teacher" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h2 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Organize Your Substitute Materials</h2><div style="text-align: left;">First, choose a binder or a file box that will be used solely for your substitute plans. I actually like to use both!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwzsc8hKh4htEAk7TEsAZ70NX0csvyE0YNTqu-vYQhHt1PsTklNyi-EV7mlgIrJQ95q_GvaI_3Sb2IJx7kClQoThqiMNdBec4jAXoKqpKltuaqOajHLO2YBI5SUgU634AgLXmEKknQO763h1OSpIkUUM1YlOBwt6pmeyp55hOgh9yWf0p2f7jE2Pq/s1080/Easy%20Ways%20to%20Prepare%20for%20a%20Substitute%20Teacher%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20.png" style="background-color: white; clear: left; float: left; font-weight: 700; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="Keeping your supplies, papers, and check lists organized in a substitute binder will be a life saver for you and your substitute teacher." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwzsc8hKh4htEAk7TEsAZ70NX0csvyE0YNTqu-vYQhHt1PsTklNyi-EV7mlgIrJQ95q_GvaI_3Sb2IJx7kClQoThqiMNdBec4jAXoKqpKltuaqOajHLO2YBI5SUgU634AgLXmEKknQO763h1OSpIkUUM1YlOBwt6pmeyp55hOgh9yWf0p2f7jE2Pq/w378-h378/Easy%20Ways%20to%20Prepare%20for%20a%20Substitute%20Teacher%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20.png" title="Easy Ways to Prepare for a Substitute Teacher Organization" width="378" /></a>In my experience, using a binder works well for planned absences. You can use tabs to separate sections of information from the work you leave. It also makes it easy to further categorize the work by subject or class. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">A file box works well for unplanned absences because you have room to include printed-out activities, books, and manipulatives your sub may need to complete lessons. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I like to organize my substitute materials at the very beginning of the year. This way, I am prepared as soon as possible and I can forget about it until I need it. Knowing that I am ready for a sub takes some of the stress off of being sick or an emergency situation. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">However, since our student needs change during the year, this isn't a one-and-done activity. I do check periodically to see if I need to update the materials in my sub-box. Not even a sub wants to complete an apple activity in January. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I have found that checking in once a month or once a quarter allows me to keep the sub materials timely and make any changes to the information. But don't worry, this is a quick check and is usually done in 5-10 minutes.
<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Sub Binder</h2><div>When preparing for a sub, there are many important pieces of information you will want to leave them. Here are ten items that your sub will NEED to have a successful day in the classroom. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-92063cc0-7fff-4bad-32b2-794b4e109b53"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1. A list of names of several responsible student helpers</span></span></h3><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Your student helpers should be students you can trust to answer questions and help your sub with class routines. Also, leave names of teammates or other staff members that can help the sub if needed. Make sure to let the sub know where to find them, or leave a phone number, in case your sub has questions before students arrive.</span></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">2. A list of procedures for the classroom</h3><div style="text-align: left;"><b></b>This is a must for a smooth day in the classroom. We all know that kids do best with consistency. If we add a new teacher to the mix, the best chance for a great day is to keep everything else as consistent as possible. Here are some of the daily classroom procedures your substitute will need to know.<b> <span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span></b></div></div><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/s6r2l5" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;" target="_blank"><img alt="Filling out an Important Information sheet will help your substitute teacher easily find all of the information they need quickly." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg94sRqx95cXQrcv96ESgLYmahuvN2YfmpZ46iGZWTIQL2dfKe0bDnYUtzi2wH8IkTxo3qa1zf4Imjw1zcNsSACS36xqsoPBkXf9Y5gOCFagolgr3ZYlPOuM5NEvrvyTKLNQfi3N_-jOImX7h_HniSi30t-iYolqhmREJXzVCWQQeLMX0d4YDzb3LwP/w395-h395/Easy%20Ways%20to%20Prepare%20for%20a%20Substitute%20Teacher%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20%20copy.png" title="Easy Ways to Prepare for a Substitute Teacher Important Information" width="395" /></a><li>how to take attendance</li><li>making lunch choices</li><li>expectations for lining up</li><li>how to take bathroom breaks</li><li>how to ask questions during class</li><li>snack time expectations</li><li>how to handle dismissal</li></ul>and anything else your sub needs to know to get through the day. Think about all those procedures you teach at the beginning of the year and jot them down for the sub. <h3 style="text-align: left;">3. Classroom Rules / Behavior Plan</h3><div>It helps a sub to know how you expect your students to behave. When the sub knows and understands the class rules and expectations they are better able to keep the day as normal as possible. </div><div><br /></div><div>In addition to the rules, don't be afraid to jot down some notes on what you expect from your students when it comes to behavior. Provide details on your classroom behavior plan so that they can use it just like you would. </div><div><br /></div><div>I also like to leave a visual incentive so my students know their good behavior will earn them a reward! I (or the sub) will write "FREE TIME" on the board, and the sub can remove a letter anytime they see whole group behavior is not acceptable. If there is at least one letter left when I return, my students get free time! </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">4. Class List and Seating Chart</h3><div>A sub’s life is so much easier when you leave this! They need to know the names of those they are talking to. If students have assigned seats or places in the classroom, leaving the sub a seating chart is also very helpful. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">5. Schedule </h3><div>For the day to run smoothly, your sub needs to know how long each subject should last and at what times they should take your class to other places. Also, give them the heads up when staff members will come in or pull students out (such as a Speech Therapist, Counselor, etc…). And if any special activities are going on, be sure to leave the sub all the important details.</div><div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">6. A list of all medical issues they need to know about (asthma, food allergies, etc…)</h3></div><div>Subs should be trained on how to handle this information, but always copy this page on colored paper and mark “CONFIDENTIAL” at the top. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>7. Important Safety Procedures</b></h3><div> Fire Drill, Tornado Drill, and Lockdown Drill procedures should be very explicitly written. Include a note to speak to a Team Teacher who would know this information if they have even the tiniest question about these procedures!</div><div><br /><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWYOjwrBtzWYSe-NAnKELIGRSleIFpmfvq7Xcl0TIOtumRswfiQ0SxAzf-bVW1eiFtIFjQCgLM3Cufi0YijvsWhbHKxPwfOggfB-HcYQ9s8oFVULeWKmLCeIeb080TCaxKodZVi9X41cMEs03nDuIuvUF-41NO0mzDSiylir_Y7IIIuS_o3-AOgrSM/s1080/Easy%20Ways%20to%20Prepare%20for%20a%20Substitute%20Teacher%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20%20copy%202.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Leaving a list of students who may need extra support or have important medical conditions your substitute should be aware of is important for your substitute and your students while you are away." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="373" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWYOjwrBtzWYSe-NAnKELIGRSleIFpmfvq7Xcl0TIOtumRswfiQ0SxAzf-bVW1eiFtIFjQCgLM3Cufi0YijvsWhbHKxPwfOggfB-HcYQ9s8oFVULeWKmLCeIeb080TCaxKodZVi9X41cMEs03nDuIuvUF-41NO0mzDSiylir_Y7IIIuS_o3-AOgrSM/w373-h373/Easy%20Ways%20to%20Prepare%20for%20a%20Substitute%20Teacher%20Jz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20%20copy%202.png" title="Easy Ways to Prepare for a Substitute Teacher Student Names" width="373" /></a></span></div></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>8. The names of students who may need extra support</b></h3><div><span>Many students need support in different ways during the day. This may include things like repeated directions, help focusing, assistance with transitions, and more. Letting your sub know this information before they happen prevents misunderstandings and possible behavior issues.</span> </div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>9. Directions for using classroom technology</b></h3><div>There's nothing worse for a sub than not being able to access the classroom technology. This includes how to turn on and use equipment and any passwords they may need to complete the day's activities. I would suggest keeping things very simple or leaving a trusted “Student Tech Helper” tasked with helping the sub. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>10. Lesson Plans (planned absence)</b></h3><div>Leave as thoroughly DETAILED lesson plans as possible. Don’t assume subs “just know” what they should be doing when it comes to the work you have left. If applicable, copy teacher textbook pages and highlight what should be completed. Save your plans so that you can use them as a template for your next substitute lesson plan. Since the format and times are already there, you can simply change the text as needed. </div><div><br /></div><div>When I know I will be out, I leave the binder out on my desk so my substitute can easily find it. Right next to the binder, I leave any copies or supplies the sub will need and I make sure to label everything!</div><div><br />
<h2 style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;">The Sub Tub</h2><div><br /></div>While it would be great to have advance notice of all absences, we all know that is just not the case. In fact, more often than not, our need for a substitute teacher arises at the last minute. By preparing in advance, you can have some ready-to-go sub plans at a moment's notice.</div><div><br /></div><div>When leaving lesson plans and student work for an unplanned absence, a file box or basket is a great way to organize your resources. Simply fill your box with plenty of ready-to-go printed-off worksheets/activities that will review grade-level skills. I do not differentiate the work I leave as I don’t know what my students' levels will be when I’m out and I also want to keep things easy for my sub.</div><div> <div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;">
Because I don't know how long I’ll be out in an emergency, I leave 3-5 days' worth of these activities. Leaving a good number of assignment options also gives my sub the freedom to choose the work they give for the day. </div></div><div><br /></div>In the lesson plan or on a sticky note, I will say: “Choose one of the following Math activities”, “Complete one of the following Reading Pages together as a whole group”, etc… </div><div><br /></div><div>Having this amount of work already prepared not only means that my sub has plenty to choose from, but also keeps me from having to replenish activities as soon as I return.<br /><br /></div><div>My “Sub Tub” stays in a prominent area of my room where it is easy to find. But just in case, I have gotten into the habit of leaving a note on my desk at the end of every day that shares the location of the tub.
Here are some essential resources and activities to keep in your Sub Tub.<h3 style="text-align: left;">1. A read aloud</h3>A picture book along with a reading graphic organizer makes a great activity any time of the year. On the back, they can draw and write about their favorite part of the book. As a whole group, students can make a list of character traits on the board. Time Frame: 30-45 min<br /><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Place-Value-Worksheets-Place-Value-Color-by-Code-Differentiated-5645378?utm_source=Substitute%20Blog%20Optin&utm_campaign=Seasonal%20Place%20Value%20CbC%20Bundle" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja1hVanq0xPE2l6NbtBn1UuVryqziUgie5g_23vMCJ0u8INQHbJi51RdMcW8wj-OaXxxKOBjGmI6Om-zflYgtNbW5Heunx7xBWfKn7jDj4byLO52PkUx3c1X6yIwDzaefrW9T_Z4eRqo2LWmaPfwpKzBzg0GNf9cP0trx9dGc3aOCYwHaMKV87mCZg/s320/8.png" width="320" /></a>2. No Prep Skills Review</h3><div>A no prep activity that reviews a skill you have already taught is the perfect addition to your sub tub. Review is an important part of the learning process, and a great activity for students to complete without needing a lot of assistance. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Place-Value-Worksheets-Place-Value-Color-by-Code-Differentiated-5645378?utm_source=Substitute%20Blog%20Optin&utm_campaign=Seasonal%20Place%20Value%20CbC%20Bundle" target="_blank">Color by Code activities</a> make students think and review important skills, but allow coloring which makes it fun for students to complete. Time Frame: 30-45 min<br /><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">3. Spelling Practice for Any List</h3><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Seasonal-Spelling-Activities-for-any-list-of-words-Generic-Spelling-Activities-3652029?utm_source=Substitute%20Blog%20Optin&utm_campaign=SEASONAL%20SPELLING%20BUNDLE" target="_blank">Spelling activities and worksheets</a> allow students to practice spelling correctly and writing neatly. And since this is often a skill that gets cheated out on time, adding them to the sub tub is perfect. Check out these <a href="https://www.elementaryislandblog.com/2022/05/18-ways-to-practice-spelling-words.html" target="_blank">creative spelling ideas</a> that are perfect for a sub! With versatile activities that can be used with any spelling list, the sub can use these any time of the year! Time Frame: 20 min</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-Spelling-Activities-for-ANY-List-of-words-3804650?utm_source=Substitute%20Blog%20Optin&utm_campaign=B2S%20spelling" style="font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;" target="_blank"><img alt="Leaving fun and engaging activities like this Crayon Spelling worksheet will help your students keep occupied and learning while you are away." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIfOCOqNKGhFvwdIGFTSMXe5F_zserD_n8b18cGWlHg_U77QSl3RRjx1pmRzgGLTcPO1VncnKHpFdKrhDs5cHZvdu-I9zNOwJbCjdZUimWX9_eAB0jThdOwMgJ-eLy2PjiUsOBcgj4JJ5DIUau8C6XzUyL955Po1__kVPmZrE43gk-eD37s71HNm9_/w378-h378/4.png" title="Easy Ways to Prepare for a Substitute Teacher Crayon Spelling Activities" width="378" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">4. Journal Writing</h3><div>Journal writing is a great way for a sub to provide some dedicated writing time without the need for an extensive writing lesson. Students can write a journal entry about their day, something funny that happened to them, or anything they want the teacher to know and illustrate their story. If you don't use writing journals, simply provide the sub with a list of writing prompts they can choose from. Time Frame: 30 min<br /><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-Math-Mystery-Crack-the-Code-math-skills-review-4676945?utm_source=Substitute%20Blog%20Optin&utm_campaign=B2S%20Math%20Mystery%20" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;" target="_blank"><img alt="Leaving fun worksheets like this math mystery activity will be easy for your substitute to assign to your students while you are away." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinlPFz2AMkZ4SJWzwPoz4Uyq_KdAw7NJ50JV0mqHMgJ9OOu5YvKwgWWVgy45RUBz3LcCZxTJbizYweh2bEZ7ov4yZYKGm16yQgDqkrg2GwwrFahLygD6oGLKgUnkuYOOvpc8qv_iXN2LSutYX_xZo8l-tCUdLIRLBTlUXbcy3cjH5zTFnHbqdBdPq5/w372-h372/5.png" title="Easy Ways to Prepare for a Substitute Teacher Student Activities" width="372" /></a>5. Math Mystery</h3><div>Looking for a super engaging and academic activity that will make the sub's life a breeze? Look no further than <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Seasonal-Math-Activities-Math-Mystery-2nd-grade-math-skills-review-BUNDLE-4937201?utm_source=Substitute%20Blog%20Optin&utm_campaign=Seasonal%20Math%20Mystery%20Bundle" target="_blank">Math Mysteries</a>! These math activities include lots of critical thinking and math review, but working in partners allows students to feel like it’s just a normal school day. These math mysteries take a little longer than your typical math lesson, but students love them! Time Frame: 1-1.5 hours<br /><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">6. Word Search</h3><div>Word Searches are a fun way to keep students busy, but are also good for critical thinking and focus! Easy and low stress for students and substitutes alike! Time Frame: 20-30 min<br /><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">7. Craftivities</h3><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-Growing-Bundle-7684964?utm_source=Substitute%20Blog%20Optin&utm_campaign=Seasonal%20Math%20Craftivities%20Bundle" target="_blank">Craftivities</a> that ask students to color, cut, and glue while reviewing important skills are perfect for sub-work! They are more fun than a typical worksheet and students love them. Anything that engages students means they are more focused on work and are less likely to cause disruptions or have behavior issues. And . . . the demands placed on teachers and time, these "fun" activities sometimes get pushed to the back burner. Time Frame: 1 hour</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Math-Activities-or-Centers-Craft-Cross-Curricular-Writing-Growing-Bundle-7684964?utm_source=Substitute%20Blog%20Optin&utm_campaign=Seasonal%20Math%20Craftivities%20Bundle" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjatqj75ROTVsDkI8ZsvTDWWqOx5rz2vdYdCtfY8s09SPBup2AYR62NqisPjphyhi_jG5zYf6UbLR0Z7uauZ-1lJgHwC-KheSH-RaF5meIOKFiHK4CHGEj7wD-d_IxhTL5bg5ZHd0nrrdU6bqB2pV4u56BeJRmLb5yxkdcUmsqcir9oKf54vD0NiTsV/w375-h375/7.png" width="375" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">8. Games</h3><div>Games such as bingo, Scoot, or game boards with task cards are a great way for your students to have a break from worksheets! Grab a bingo set or task card set that reviews a skill and let students have some gamified learning time. Games are great for small groups or the whole class! Time Frame: 30-45 min <br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Free Resources for Planning for Your Sub</h2>Planning for a sub does take some time, but by getting this set up and ready before you need it, you can save yourself a lot of time and stress. Grab this <a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/s6r2l5" target="_blank">free Substitute Information pack</a>! This resource is exactly what you need to get your Sub Binder or Box in tip-top shape!<br /><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/s6r2l5" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use this substitute teacher information pack to help you quickly and easily prepare for a substitute teacher this year." border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="894" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfT-_6-7j5LA7YqYI020brz9NWri5nBGtfd0fOlDw_YqM8oNPhyQExEj8N1DYp9nwOtqzvvCALE5m8S1zJE-c1_s-E3JrMpEc-IZPGcfGedvgjFwatdE2lv3xVKLJXI_g-AwPApw_APiS3sk2NeiWGsJnxrxlIAiOQHabZrBIgk5BM5b-yl-10etzj/w315-h406/Screen%20Shot%202022-06-25%20at%203.36.11%20PM.png" title="Easy Ways to Prepare for a Substitute Teacher" width="315" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Pin this Substitute Prep Plan!</h2><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;">I hope this Blog Post was super helpful in getting you prepared for a Substitute Teacher- whether you planned to be out or your absence was an unwelcome surprise! There is a lot of information to retain, so be sure to Pin this post to your favorite Teacher Pinterest Board so that you can come back when you're ready to prep!</div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH70JvWyO33l87sWfKBamPppFPlsnS5hiPI7ZvsoPBzEUdr5Yf7yu2i8_Ru9pi8mN1EtuDq3MMHbr2gsFgOcnvZkJz7PvugCST72fAAAh3rQLA3bt-FxEyoVYVBzLBtAfDaief7Jdd6BLB6QsYVL4XAU3eBrncZZ0MgQWflNhGdOjCuDU5hDUAjb8Z/s1500/Easy%20Ways%20to%20Prepare%20for%20a%20Substitute%20Teacher%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20-%20Pin%20.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these helpful tips and tricks to easily prepare for your substitute teacher. From coloring sheets, to activity sheets, to leaving a super organized binder, you can prepare for an emergency situation requiring a substitute on short notice. Once you have your substitute teacher binder prepped and ready to go, all you have to do is periodically update student info. That's it! How easy is that? Use these helpful tips and tricks to get organized and prepared for a substitute teacher this year. #subfolder #substituteteacher #subplans #substituteteacherplans #emergencysubplans" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="409" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH70JvWyO33l87sWfKBamPppFPlsnS5hiPI7ZvsoPBzEUdr5Yf7yu2i8_Ru9pi8mN1EtuDq3MMHbr2gsFgOcnvZkJz7PvugCST72fAAAh3rQLA3bt-FxEyoVYVBzLBtAfDaief7Jdd6BLB6QsYVL4XAU3eBrncZZ0MgQWflNhGdOjCuDU5hDUAjb8Z/w272-h409/Easy%20Ways%20to%20Prepare%20for%20a%20Substitute%20Teacher%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20-%20Pin%20.png" title="Easy Ways to Prepare for a Substitute Teacher" width="272" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b></span></span></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074176109458276245.post-1568806662912506542022-08-06T08:40:00.000-07:002022-09-06T11:37:21.031-07:0020 Varied and Fun December Writing Prompts That Aren't About Christmas<div style="text-align: left;">Christmas activities can add some fun to your classroom, but there's only so much Rudolph and Frosty a teacher can take over the course of a few weeks. Add that to the fact that many families don't celebrate Christmas, and that can lead you on a lengthy search for high-quality (yet fun!) activities that still bring some December cheer. The perfect solution to this problem? Writing prompts that capture student interest by featuring special days in December! Keep reading to find 20 fun December writing prompts that will keep your students happily writing till break!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpvW917g_RsAcudcl4xZKCiJk8HD9VkZNr1mGneSfmhRR2tLaYiyFp8mWUFUsSpwuobOYC_bFpRL55qgoexsgeD2kzxXnzhKSURkTQ_yi4-xHwj5j-sNY0X2nQxZZXSICyQ_ShK_hJtlNj90PUpxhZV7h3ZR2db1r78m3kekZVy9oUQsOrmCjGG8dS/s2240/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20Christmas%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for writing prompts to use with your students during the month of December? These fun writing prompts include all the joy of the month plus fun prompts kids will love using for writing practice." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpvW917g_RsAcudcl4xZKCiJk8HD9VkZNr1mGneSfmhRR2tLaYiyFp8mWUFUsSpwuobOYC_bFpRL55qgoexsgeD2kzxXnzhKSURkTQ_yi4-xHwj5j-sNY0X2nQxZZXSICyQ_ShK_hJtlNj90PUpxhZV7h3ZR2db1r78m3kekZVy9oUQsOrmCjGG8dS/w640-h360/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20Christmas%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20Header.png" title="20 Varied and Fun December Writing Prompts That Aren't About Christmas" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Eat a Red Apple Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">Encourage your students to eat healthily as they explore Expository Writing by sharing reasons why they should eat fruit every day. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Bring red apples to class and allow your kids to experience eating one for themselves!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/December-Daily-Writing-Prompts-December-Writing-Centers-7460694?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=December%20Daily%20Writing%20Prompts" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use the days of the month as inspiration for writing prompts. National Eat a Red Apple Day is the perfect opportunity to spark your student's imaginations as they start creative writing." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAtA4r3kiNMmwGJ5o9U2qNJOKgM_ASizHtn1ottvvfcPDevowoKOqsb_W1oGrLUWZcdcKhOGU-GhUG3KONp8YncqcQ5LXwT-OlltKuvb9jbyFxEkERAcj4QOIL_YBjoIQrcFUtoKpefA0pxnaMN2FkVbMqapO1iWFYyiXPa-ZGUJ4mB1717Ll3StA6/w320-h320/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20ChristmasJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog.png" title="20 Varied and Fun December Writing Prompts That Aren't About Christmas Eat a Red Apple" width="320" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Popcorn Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">Buttery, salty, sweet, and crunchy - students will sharpen their Descriptive Writing skills as they describe their favorite type of popcorn.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Pop some popcorn and share it with your students as a pre-writing snack! That's one way to inspire creative thinking that I could really get behind!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Make a Gift Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">Practice Narrative Writing (as well as encourage kindness) by asking students to write about their favorite gift they have ever made for someone. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Students can't remember ever making a gift? Tell them to think of a gift they <i>could </i>make instead! Then encourage them to really create what they wrote about and give that gift to a loved one.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This writing prompt could also be used to work on How To writing. Instead of having students write about a personal experience, encourage them to use that experience to teach someone else how to make the same gift. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h2>4. National Sock Day</h2><div>Get students in the mood by declaring National Sock Day as a no shoes day in the classroom. Let students and parents know a couple days in advance of this special day to make sure everyone has a pair of socks to wear.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once students are in the mood for all things socks, celebrate this funky day (and their powers of persuasion) by writing about why toe socks are better than regular socks! Once they have finished, students could illustrate their writing by drawing and coloring their own pair of crazy toe socks!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/December-Daily-Writing-Prompts-December-Writing-Centers-7460694?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=December%20Daily%20Writing%20Prompts" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Get your students excited to write persuasive text with this fun National Sock Day writing prompt." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7fkh6dRVIOIikxGymVMEpNIWyvZoo6B8PEj-xD7cDzNMMSezhL6T3NS5j8D-ISpXa-k2UH4S4oFKgcY6Ojm8fl-QY4HJe5MN1szDfZDhphciVNAjr8Kl5WXdwLNzDa-Ay6MNKB9mxTlsIVyb-8S8urluBo_zqYhCYQboHqv1vtAbb4DgRhnox3xdn/w320-h320/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20ChristmasJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20(3).png" title="20 December writing prompts not about Christmas" width="320" /></a></div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. International Ninja Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">How could a day get any cooler than this one? Sneak in some Narrative Writing practice by asking your students to imagine they are ninjas for the day then write a story of their adventures! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Another sneaky "Teacher Trick"? Watch their hallway behavior improve 100% by pretending to be ninjas as they stealthily creep to the library, cafeteria, or gym!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6. National Microwave Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">Don't let this Expository paragraph fry your brain! Ask students to think about the benefits of using a microwave instead of a conventional oven and then explain them. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Want to make this day memorable? After writing, do a mini science experiment by microwaving different types of candy and see what happens! Then let them document their findings in their science journal.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDTbqnyaMZVFMp37S2Ln_TvNfz18vifhOG12NmItSPFbl_SB-W7M25QZBihCJQjjY-OYNbnGbxdO-S-K5sDRezHeNt_HgaqLTmXUCTo-UmPxot1tlMyUnwRoKGkXMudVK8ByEW_gjAoTJui82v67mYqlAlcqPS5jg3-hdhOEZsEetMU4hjNbvR4dWV/s1080/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20ChristmasJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20(2).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDTbqnyaMZVFMp37S2Ln_TvNfz18vifhOG12NmItSPFbl_SB-W7M25QZBihCJQjjY-OYNbnGbxdO-S-K5sDRezHeNt_HgaqLTmXUCTo-UmPxot1tlMyUnwRoKGkXMudVK8ByEW_gjAoTJui82v67mYqlAlcqPS5jg3-hdhOEZsEetMU4hjNbvR4dWV/s320/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20ChristmasJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20(2).png" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">7. Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day </h2><div style="text-align: left;">Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is a day to remember the thousands of lives lost on December 7, 1941, during the bombing of Pearl Harbor. This day has an obvious connection to history and social studies. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">But don't stop there. Teacher your students about remembrance in general and open their eyes and understanding to many special days we celebrate during year. Connect this idea to having students remember someone important to them. This Descriptive writing prompt asks students to describe someone important to them. Once students have finished writing, encourage them to draw a picture for or of that special person!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">8. Pretend to be a Time Traveler Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">This prompt will propel students into the future! The year 2144 to be exact! Students will use their imaginations to pretend they are now in the future, then flex those Persuasive powers of theirs to convince someone from that time that they are from the past!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Do not pass up the opportunity to show your students that you are from the past too! Pull out old kitchen gadgets, tools, or tech devices and explain their uses! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghEC-_22GpbC5u95KGHqYtKzpfoq2OZU0Fj-IGnz5HQTDoWQz0R1HGUW9s9Jaohye4xSt-Sb0PD-tcLajzVkmYdrfNAzWqbc6axy7NL8BvRC3CoJgCqjBS7jQkWTx7VuAYOeonjsaS6tnQkxVEPl0khRw_x8iK_UtCf1hetz2rkSJoDdq9mk5LO-3B/s1080/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20ChristmasJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20copy%202.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Creative writing prompts are great any time of year, but when paired with fun and silly national holidays your students will have even more fun writing." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghEC-_22GpbC5u95KGHqYtKzpfoq2OZU0Fj-IGnz5HQTDoWQz0R1HGUW9s9Jaohye4xSt-Sb0PD-tcLajzVkmYdrfNAzWqbc6axy7NL8BvRC3CoJgCqjBS7jQkWTx7VuAYOeonjsaS6tnQkxVEPl0khRw_x8iK_UtCf1hetz2rkSJoDdq9mk5LO-3B/w320-h320/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20ChristmasJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20copy%202.png" title="20 Varied and Fun December Writing Prompts That Aren't About Christmas" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>9. National Llama Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">Llamas sure are interesting creatures, and in this prompt, students get to describe just how interesting they really are by telling important details like what they are, where they live, and other cool facts.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">To get the ball rolling on this prompt, perhaps show a quick YouTube video clip of llamas on a farm before asking students to write. If you'd like to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxwuXng9jOg" target="_blank">teach your students 10 interesting facts about llamas</a> check out this video that was made for kids! And . . . a silly picture like this one will get your students excited to start writing!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0x7ncC7TaIDvxm6aPYU45kyFnDmE8yHosNuNbmFnDBoeQiT4_GPhmga0RHSnRZH2ZfvWJCfBLznhmOxclv3V-f-8FaI90epgUzSQiHK68sFk5DRr_hLOzEL8o7loZiajvEACBoGdQnTqgMtFarNVnFZZNgSUCTaw2zOaVutw8-YuXZvQbRyBMAVZP/s1080/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20ChristmasJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0x7ncC7TaIDvxm6aPYU45kyFnDmE8yHosNuNbmFnDBoeQiT4_GPhmga0RHSnRZH2ZfvWJCfBLznhmOxclv3V-f-8FaI90epgUzSQiHK68sFk5DRr_hLOzEL8o7loZiajvEACBoGdQnTqgMtFarNVnFZZNgSUCTaw2zOaVutw8-YuXZvQbRyBMAVZP/s320/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20ChristmasJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog.png" width="320" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">10. Nobel Prize Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">When writing a Narrative story, students naturally write better when the topic is themselves! Have students imagine they won a Nobel Prize! Students can share what they won the prize for and how. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">For a little inspiration, show pictures of past Nobel Prize winners and explain what important contributions they made to the world that earned them this prestigious award!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">11. Noodle Ring Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">Linguine, rotini, spaghetti, or orzo - students will need to use their noodles to decide on their favorite pasta and write reasons as to why it's better than any other type of pasta!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Give students practice making evidence-based arguments by holding a class discussion where students try to convince you that their favorite pasta is better than yours!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjURUiBDrDGYo_IJqnczrMpfPHWsIUjVDvZGBTrl0xaQG77BfYkuzyeJ2XU-t5WNjhiPSfvuHcrD0UFbTL6FV80JJPcRWUDGIlqpzrikpISd4t8QdRExtmMQauKdSqM6kDO_vXcirE4_jOV6qZcLBhWBaN8hx9D5FJHUeAU6FUdcEBu92PscaNLV1zF/s1080/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20ChristmasJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjURUiBDrDGYo_IJqnczrMpfPHWsIUjVDvZGBTrl0xaQG77BfYkuzyeJ2XU-t5WNjhiPSfvuHcrD0UFbTL6FV80JJPcRWUDGIlqpzrikpISd4t8QdRExtmMQauKdSqM6kDO_vXcirE4_jOV6qZcLBhWBaN8hx9D5FJHUeAU6FUdcEBu92PscaNLV1zF/s320/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20ChristmasJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20(1).png" width="320" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">12. Gingerbread House Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">No matter what you think about the taste of gingerbread, there's no denying that a well-made gingerbread house is simply adorable! Let your students pretend they are gingerbread men and describe the gingerbread house they live in (down to the tiniest detail!).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Have students who don't have experience with gingerbread houses? Build some background knowledge before they write by showing a quick YouTube video of the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMvYjfLUw1M" target="_blank">Gingerbread House Competition at the Grove Park Inn</a>! These incredible (and edible!) works of art are sure to inspire even the most reluctant writer!</div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>13. National Violin Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">In this Narrative prompt, students will imagine they are a musician performing in front of a large crowd. They must write a short story that tells how they are feeling and what they are doing through this experience. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">To really set the mood, play orchestral music before or during your students writing time.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWhTdXDnlw9TzvWDE2SCqE1kLNIEFHySdan8eUZcJpws7HFDPKmiYLd1x9GXLImQ37Eo0YJpEwXfH6XxrzyEOoQNBUCckCRCQD_9vNA6EXTMhMMQXZzAzrvuJdWN1iO3xpCRpcZE-xwmdMbep4b62YCiGy89IOjFhLzAAvzRlYCofC9i7zd_amSYki/s1080/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20ChristmasJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20copy%203.png" style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Asking students to write with empathy is an important skill for them to learn." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWhTdXDnlw9TzvWDE2SCqE1kLNIEFHySdan8eUZcJpws7HFDPKmiYLd1x9GXLImQ37Eo0YJpEwXfH6XxrzyEOoQNBUCckCRCQD_9vNA6EXTMhMMQXZzAzrvuJdWN1iO3xpCRpcZE-xwmdMbep4b62YCiGy89IOjFhLzAAvzRlYCofC9i7zd_amSYki/w320-h320/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20ChristmasJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20copy%203.png" title="20 Varied and Fun December Writing Prompts That Aren't About Christmas National Violin Day" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">14. Monkey Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">Yes, there really is a Monkey Day, and what better way to celebrate it than to allow students to choose their favorite primate and write a Descriptive paragraph about it? You could also have students write about whether they would like to have a monkey as a pet.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Once students have written about their animals, allow them to share famous primates they know from movies or tv (ex. Curious George, Ivan, King Kong, etc...) and compare/contrast them with real primates.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">15. National Cupcake Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">There is not much that captures the interest of a kid quicker than the word "cupcake"! Capitalize on that by asking students to write a Descriptive paragraph about their favorite cupcake. Remind them that they should use all 5 senses in their description. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you're feeling super festive, grab a platter of tiny cupcakes from your local bakery! Have a class discussion where everyone describes the cupcakes as they are eating them! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4JSjqG9D4TkuxevjTRbSSvAoSJvDG6cq-4CFEVwtDNgUjrF84cxWxkcsaPKPLyfJMsgdV2bXl8Hkg3n6EJ3xgx_iLtdRK2RwM4wbcZIVNEQrxEBZz9vwgF6NF3kc9EmWh54YdmBZU9oqZmnRVnGjFfJ3zWM4gsh9VVEr4pZnYTlV2t69MsyVKjjJ/s1080/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20ChristmasJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20(4).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4JSjqG9D4TkuxevjTRbSSvAoSJvDG6cq-4CFEVwtDNgUjrF84cxWxkcsaPKPLyfJMsgdV2bXl8Hkg3n6EJ3xgx_iLtdRK2RwM4wbcZIVNEQrxEBZz9vwgF6NF3kc9EmWh54YdmBZU9oqZmnRVnGjFfJ3zWM4gsh9VVEr4pZnYTlV2t69MsyVKjjJ/s320/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20ChristmasJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20(4).png" width="320" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">16. National Chocolate-Covered ANYTHING Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">This Narrative prompt may just be a class favorite as students are asked to write a story where they forgot to turn off a chocolate fountain and chocolate has splattered everywhere! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Not only will this silly prompt inspire some giggles, but the pictures they create in their minds as they write will definitely need to be drawn! Give your students extra time to illustrate and share their stories with the class!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">17. Wright Brothers Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">Introduce your students to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w1zDmlIGDWk" target="_blank">Orville and Wilbur Wright</a> and their invention to kick off this special day. Airplanes are arguably one of the most important inventions in history. In this Expository prompt, ask students to give examples of how airplanes have changed the world (a class brainstorming session before writing may be helpful if some kids seem unsure about what to write). </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">When you are finished, have a paper airplane-making competition! Design, color, and fly those paper airplanes to see which one can fly the farthest, make loops, or be the tiniest but can still fly, etc.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">18. Answer the Phone Like Buddy the Elf</h2><div style="text-align: left;">Buddy the Elf brings cheer to everyone around so why not have your students spread a little cheer just like him? Students will pretend to be Buddy the Elf and write a descriptive paragraph detailing what they would say when answering the phone like Buddy. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">After writing, have students read their paragraphs aloud to the class using their very best "elf voices"! Encourage your students to spend the rest of the day doing kind deeds for other people as a way to spread cheer (they can drop the "elf voice" though!).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/December-Daily-Writing-Prompts-December-Writing-Centers-7460694?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=December%20Daily%20Writing%20Prompts" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Ask your students to imagine how they would answer the phone with this super silly writing prompt they are sure to love." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNEt_85Lx1Qd_rcukkfZi_y2PWaH2rO44kw0q0JJU55toamaUAn9ci0R8Uq997ygArWyqAS_NdKv2jAtf3QxZjR_hfxcqpYbMrkIXiybINudlL3bvw93oO82N9kHwuvIUDYNeS5Dmwslrr27Njqqfi3ZGfd6b-aV3m3mWW-25MMvfOmq3NKRJ1JHX/w320-h320/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20ChristmasJz%20Elementary%20Island%20blog%20copy%204.png" title="20 Varied and Fun December Writing Prompts That Aren't About Christmas Answer the Phone Like Buddy The Elf" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">19. National Oatmeal Muffin Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">Muffins make breakfast just a bit sweeter, and this Persuasive prompt asks students to make a choice- which muffin tastes better: oatmeal or blueberry? Students must decide and write reasons for why others should agree with them.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And you know what goes well with a choice like this? A taste test! If you're able to, cut 2-3 blueberry and oatmeal muffins into bite-sized pieces so students can make an informed decision! If not, a picture of each item may help students to get a better idea of what they are choosing between if they have never eaten them before.<br /><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">20. Go Caroling Day</h2><div style="text-align: left;">A little class discussion about what caroling is, sharing past experiences, and perhaps singing a song or two together will help students connect to this Narrative prompt. Ask students to write a story about a time they went caroling. Many students may not have been caroling before, so ask them to imagine where they would go, who they would sing to, and what they would sing to help create an imaginary story of what they would hope their caroling experience would be. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">If your school allows it, practice singing a song together several times, then take your students to the principal, the cafeteria staff, or other classrooms and carol to them!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What do you think of these December Writing Prompts?</h2><div style="text-align: left;">These writing prompts are so much fun, and I hope you can use them in your classroom! You can find all of these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/December-Daily-Writing-Prompts-December-Writing-Centers-7460694?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=December%20Daily%20Writing%20Prompts" target="_blank">December Daily Writing Prompts</a> on Teachers Pay Teachers! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">You will find beautiful prompt pages (in both printable and digital formats) and student writing pages that are themed to go along with the day's prompt. You can even add your own prompts on the editable Prompt card and student page! This resource will truly make the weeks leading up to break so much easier for you and fun for your students! And . . . by the end of the 20 days they just might love writing a little more!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/December-Daily-Writing-Prompts-December-Writing-Centers-7460694?utm_source=EI%20Blog&utm_campaign=December%20Daily%20Writing%20Prompts" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Looking for writing prompts to use with your students during the month of December? These fun writing prompts include all the joy of the month plus fun prompts kids will love using for writing practice." border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0HlMF4hys5a8U_CL9aoLJaausnRiBgP1zbbfKFt8l6nmpQKLSnl_ZOM5dlr5jrqcROS1WUVHM8KRP_xhIhwGEDnDP6c0n322ETF3h6WxM6ebNdAIQ3LNZLo4klq2eIvWKYNhSdhone8Jjxn6GAW3XjzEdKFg4g-4O3Il9SlL6LrdvASBEBJnInW3/w320-h320/original-7460694-1.jpeg" title="December Writing Prompts" width="320" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Pin These Writing Prompts for Later!</h2><div style="text-align: left;">Not ready for December planning just yet? Pin this post to your favorite December Activities Pinterest Board! These ideas will be right where you left them, ready for when you need them! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJIn43SVz9Q1ootUlEGqh1RdiOYR3evcEawkkVamGyAu7mh1_PzlZKZB8WGHaBF7HKYF-qLnI4ll8UNX9SVvdDXWshq-JnGo7QQCVkA2T_JHXFRQgKjJVxVrgs148oWGQeIQl15SdH8UkGzElEUqqiVz5sUrHAtSHuqZQqLwbESDmhSSfoRTiPzt_h/s1500/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20Christmas%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20-%20Pin%20.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for writing prompts to use with your students during the month of December? These fun writing prompts include all the joy of the month plus fun prompts kids will love using for writing practice. Asking students to use empathy, persuasive writing, and creative thinking are all included in these 20 December writing prompts great for any classroom. #Decemberwritingprompts #writingprompts #winterwritingprompts" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJIn43SVz9Q1ootUlEGqh1RdiOYR3evcEawkkVamGyAu7mh1_PzlZKZB8WGHaBF7HKYF-qLnI4ll8UNX9SVvdDXWshq-JnGo7QQCVkA2T_JHXFRQgKjJVxVrgs148oWGQeIQl15SdH8UkGzElEUqqiVz5sUrHAtSHuqZQqLwbESDmhSSfoRTiPzt_h/w254-h382/20%20Varied%20and%20Fun%20December%20Writing%20Prompts%20That%20Aren't%20About%20Christmas%20Jordana%20Zachara%20-%20Elementary%20Island%20-%20Pin%20.png" title="20 Varied and Fun December Writing Prompts That Aren't About Christmas" width="254" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0