tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35822575611683176522024-03-16T03:08:56.861-04:00 Pinkadots Elementary Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.comBlogger237125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-29053620469180308232021-08-04T19:33:00.001-04:002021-08-04T19:33:12.899-04:00Getting Ready for School T-22 Days! <div style="text-align: center;">Hi Friends, </div><div style="text-align: center;">I wanted to write about what I am doing to prep for school. Here in Connecticut, we don't start school until late August, but my mind is already spinning with school thoughts. When I went into school this week, some of my friends already have their rooms 100% ready to go! Me, it is in boxes. Tomorrow I am heading in (with my 9 & 11 year old) to rearrange and set up my welcoming door. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This year I used my cricut on Print and Cut to create a fun door decoration. My daughter was avocado obsessed this summer, most days making her own version of avocado toast for breakfast before swim team. Maybe that inspired my door decor, but here is my first part of room set up...my door. I will update tomorrow, when I put this up! Hopefully my class list doesn't change too much in the next 21 days, but either way, it's an easy fix with the cricut. </div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRiReb6hftnhi5FicHeTmOw_wPC5iKAS5OQOrOSFvwe2aLSmpTYKQaL3YdJHPwmlGU0EIvE1O661YK7v-5kLIELoxgskRMpG-2TEwbwNW2zItUe5kOkUqb5HM1yCR5DRtgqJVF8GJBgqEJ/s1762/image0+%25283%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1762" data-original-width="1502" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRiReb6hftnhi5FicHeTmOw_wPC5iKAS5OQOrOSFvwe2aLSmpTYKQaL3YdJHPwmlGU0EIvE1O661YK7v-5kLIELoxgskRMpG-2TEwbwNW2zItUe5kOkUqb5HM1yCR5DRtgqJVF8GJBgqEJ/w341-h400/image0+%25283%2529.jpeg" width="341" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Do you create a welcome door? If so what does yours say this fall? I'd love to know. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Follow us on IG & Facebook to watch us unpack and set up our rooms. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">(P.S. Robyn's room is done and ready to go... 😳...pictures coming soon!)</div>
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<br /></div>Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-3843711545001112502020-09-28T10:25:00.001-04:002020-09-28T10:33:59.032-04:00Sneaking Math Vocabulary into Notebooks for a Quick Game! <div style="text-align: left;">Hi Friends, </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It's been so long since I've blogged, but I am trying to bring my blog back and update my TPT store. I changed subjects AGAIN, so you will see more Math resources as well as Science and ELA (hopefully from Robyn). Together, we can cover it all. Our school has been going under major renovations and someday, when it is finished, it should look really nice. Right now, I am still getting used to it with the ever changing cohorts and plans. Tuesday, I am welcoming cohorts A and B into the classroom. It will be basically like a first day of school with 21 in class and 4 online until further notice. On the bright side, 4 online should be easier to manage than 13 online. </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/AVvXsEj3hPdmwHS3lbKR3sdcIXurOYatyAnXaUzy8pE5XZ46czhYy3KH2vadd-Bx1ifpQXVRr9Z9UOIYsDgwXKTi2GT7mMqBbKBcCM3ZkNH4unBCbY85MRuqVMGqCeCHD7cZ0klPQURkhLJqq4FP/s322/quick+game.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="322" data-original-width="318" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hPdmwHS3lbKR3sdcIXurOYatyAnXaUzy8pE5XZ46czhYy3KH2vadd-Bx1ifpQXVRr9Z9UOIYsDgwXKTi2GT7mMqBbKBcCM3ZkNH4unBCbY85MRuqVMGqCeCHD7cZ0klPQURkhLJqq4FP/s320/quick+game.png" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Anyways, I wanted to show off a little teacher hack that I just thought of and love. I created these really cute Math Vocabulary posters for my Unit 1 Math lessons. I wanted cards to match my curriculum, but have the vocabulary word, definition, and example picture all on the front. Once I created these, I thought they would be great for a student's math journal as well as be a great reference point on my bulletin board. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Math-Vocabulary-Posters-20-Half-Pages-w-example-definition-Unit-1-6073006" 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/AVvXsEhhbxS1Hu7MrDUD76yIICoKeffDMgHSPZoGMi3C2tK6cFqkRW1MDR4WlXBYmWmtVxmb9uH1HKpynO45MLhfACxMOCGA7cgFcja3GkHLlJVgTuUKgUnvKEqpBBrxSJsoE7s6NMtQeS3dTmp9/s320/original-6073006-1.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">I printed them as slides 9 to a page and had students cut them out. We added a small piece of tape to the tops, taped them upside down (so we could flip them up) and wrote the vocabulary word on the back. On the board I wrote some examples, students lift the mini poster, read the word and definition and find where my board examples go in their notebook. Basically I've created an interactive notebook game for a concept understand/vocabulary check. Pretty cool, right? It's perfect for the last few minutes of class when there isn't enough time to log into Xtramath or students need to reference vocabulary. I can leave my examples on the board all week and give the students the full week to finish before we do a quick share out check. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Math-Vocabulary-Posters-20-Half-Pages-w-example-definition-Unit-1-6073006" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_fDitCV_Zhv64eoICe6SFvxFHKA3yt-5oxVxphJV7_xO61w8yZNxoMiICg5HsyrjR_wt40b7YigRHO4eII7M4t5-oiqYN3zUmvR4QODI_SbjM7HHkRdgqtjAjxkZxP8Uz71DUC6YlB6_4/s0/0.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">So here is what the notebook looks like and so far the students have really enjoyed using it as a reference. I am definitely hearing an increase in math vocabulary during discussions as well! win/win! </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/AVvXsEjZOhAJADNGjocfULy6qmntGkqS-UJw_DqDuLi9Y3Zy9v2H4wCqwb6rbhz5w9M425V_U569bniZvo-M8-w4UDF4giLPqhT04YeF-z5y7V4ofaE8LnKYdp802nyGd1oJVdsnoMUy2XVmLvtK/s320/0-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZOhAJADNGjocfULy6qmntGkqS-UJw_DqDuLi9Y3Zy9v2H4wCqwb6rbhz5w9M425V_U569bniZvo-M8-w4UDF4giLPqhT04YeF-z5y7V4ofaE8LnKYdp802nyGd1oJVdsnoMUy2XVmLvtK/s0/0-2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9n9ACMPc9yJSCU5Os204mdSjKzxHSPVB3VlsBhEbKdtqW2ysWsXXupNpzxJSowg3E1g2QEtx0ZAxmim_ibNkj8_djBHezd-CIxZwA3oL4kecxhLHAfFb8aHoGodu6H0Jf8ZHk1BPy6OXN/s320/0.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9n9ACMPc9yJSCU5Os204mdSjKzxHSPVB3VlsBhEbKdtqW2ysWsXXupNpzxJSowg3E1g2QEtx0ZAxmim_ibNkj8_djBHezd-CIxZwA3oL4kecxhLHAfFb8aHoGodu6H0Jf8ZHk1BPy6OXN/s0/0.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigf6LTPDfMNHnooRsB6LsfCdGKQUER7y0ciPgT6jGIh6rziJphd178b9HYXHzBfwv7hyLVVBFuHyAHcCOIacemv8pl1GfpvfsKleO1LA32NvnKCas-HAf8Wh9qA9DnA4Tn0S0tMp0zhhoR/s320/0-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigf6LTPDfMNHnooRsB6LsfCdGKQUER7y0ciPgT6jGIh6rziJphd178b9HYXHzBfwv7hyLVVBFuHyAHcCOIacemv8pl1GfpvfsKleO1LA32NvnKCas-HAf8Wh9qA9DnA4Tn0S0tMp0zhhoR/s0/0-1.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">I will definitely be making these for future units, so keep an eye out! What math games are your favorite? Since it's my first year teaching math, I'd love to learn some fun activities! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-81775006944305614162019-07-26T15:28:00.002-04:002019-07-26T15:31:36.109-04:00Calling All Science Teachers! Do you teach science? If so, they you probably stumbled by our blog and realized I (Theresa) teach science and love it. Robyn teaches ELA and couldn't imagine teaching any other subject. I love being departmentalized in school and focusing on one subject matter. I am able to bring clarity to my students because focusing on planning one class (taught three times a day) is much easier than teaching every subject, every day. Props to you elementary school teachers who teach it all, I don't know how you do it.<br />
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Anyways, we have an amazing online science curriculum that I love, called StemScopes. We teach through inquiry and use Claim, Evidence, & Reasoning to write about our science learning. I'd love to hear about what you do in science class. I've written a few more blog posts about specific lessons I teach in science, so be sure to search the blog for ideas and lessons.<br />
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As I print out materials for my classroom since I moved rooms and our entire school is getting renovated (see my last post). I wanted to share these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/CER-Claim-Evidence-Reasoning-Posters-3883716" target="_blank">awesome posters</a> I will be hanging up in my classroom again.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/CER-Claim-Evidence-Reasoning-Posters-3883716" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="354" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9jEp2ycsXz-3nBHebw9SEXfCAo12rGRqwMu7e4O1Q2HNxWltjzjO4Bn7cRFpHK6aqs84KzulB_AGPpRfi30YpZCH7WMus34kMdJJoernb2XdvTeFOqJAkjBDHGEMCVBRTuDSRxOfqNDDV/s320/Screen+Shot+2019-07-26+at+3.19.06+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
My students come into 4th grade knowing what a claim is and how to talk about evidence, but they do not move into reasoning until the end of 4th/beginning of 5th. We use the same vocabulary in reading and math, so understanding what CER means is very important for success. My students find these posters so helpful and easy to understand.<br />
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Today there are over 41 *five star* ratings on this product and some feedback the feedback we have received is so positive:<br />
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I love knowing I've helped out other teachers and even better helped SO many students feel successful in science. Let me know what you use in science to help your students explain their understanding.<br />
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<br />Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-86184282903965591682019-07-18T06:00:00.000-04:002019-07-26T15:31:58.277-04:00**Freebie Inside** Cactus Flower Welcome Banner!Good morning!<br />
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If you liked the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-CactusLama-Themed-Name-TagsDesk-Tags-4706462" target="_blank">cute editable name tags</a> I created yesterday, you should check out this free welcome banner. I love hanging welcome banners above my classroom door. It's a great place to set the tone for your classroom before your students even enter.<br />
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My friend hangs a welcome banner on her bulletin board and takes student pictures below the banner on the first day of school. They always come out adorable and the parents really enjoy them.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cactus-Flower-Welcome-Banner-Freebie-4706853" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnsS_VLfij0Aye0JvUubusFB6mOXHIr2rW2Q8NbgMOJQsqX5CxspPWy5gb6SzwJDnGm1PRtPtItMjhhimzM4b4ivL6gotzDgYHJzcgZIeV0eW27e4O2UY6lz34XGzIXHTBL1eZUhUmuEMO/s400/Slide01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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However you decide to use this, I'm sure it will be great. If you like it, let me know!<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigu0ojPBVYE5R8HNXXrDG_nXoZK4XmeYsFFKjFSnpZUGCQoVEXAURDOQhyphenhyphen8yAbfEDzxeJYBCeqahLv2pETGdH01LEZsIw7xJBHzkyaKMNWSZM404jvOjwXGo06EqPY-2eqNZHakcfV3r2/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="56" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigu0ojPBVYE5R8HNXXrDG_nXoZK4XmeYsFFKjFSnpZUGCQoVEXAURDOQhyphenhyphen8yAbfEDzxeJYBCeqahLv2pETGdH01LEZsIw7xJBHzkyaKMNWSZM404jvOjwXGo06EqPY-2eqNZHakcfV3r2/s320/Signature.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-20302388703460415442019-07-17T18:24:00.000-04:002019-07-26T15:32:34.022-04:00Thinking Ahead...Hello Friends,<br />
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It's been quite a while since I've blogged, but I'm excited to have a minute to do so now. So guess what? Our school is getting renovated! Basically torn down to the studs, and built back up again. I won't have a new classroom this year, but next fall (2020) I'll have an amazingly clean room with AC! I am thinking ahead and excited about what's to come. Check out the pictures we received in an update today. We are starting school right after Labor Day, so a lot has to happen before it is safe for students. We do however have to teach and work through a year of crazy renovations. Has anyone else gone through something like this before?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieLOBPalNCSv3FHP2Jt6IuOazhGCMnce3i_pwycuvurWBYOYfOiopy7f5ZNTxQr5yxdXk9T0m3A5JL1W_0b9XGTcXYTnolePTmWRlmDAwgAc-Z_oBfQOBGmB_s54wHT3msPf-Kmo7RRiu1/s1600/66852883_2362841567265295_1621211345191960576_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieLOBPalNCSv3FHP2Jt6IuOazhGCMnce3i_pwycuvurWBYOYfOiopy7f5ZNTxQr5yxdXk9T0m3A5JL1W_0b9XGTcXYTnolePTmWRlmDAwgAc-Z_oBfQOBGmB_s54wHT3msPf-Kmo7RRiu1/s320/66852883_2362841567265295_1621211345191960576_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf3beiKzmvuRYfh8xQrOI95C35iGgpexNRPLjA8k52nCohnwNtrhzTkpu_L245ufg2Eue2OxaeYs8EtD_5Xi5-9fjtZkdIslv4qmfpWikOOK2VbQH1uXztAdQ4Wr3_7bjrziCSHYUi7-bV/s1600/67030142_2362841623931956_1886307674572718080_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="716" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf3beiKzmvuRYfh8xQrOI95C35iGgpexNRPLjA8k52nCohnwNtrhzTkpu_L245ufg2Eue2OxaeYs8EtD_5Xi5-9fjtZkdIslv4qmfpWikOOK2VbQH1uXztAdQ4Wr3_7bjrziCSHYUi7-bV/s320/67030142_2362841623931956_1886307674572718080_n.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
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Crazy, isn't it?<br />
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Anyways I am starting to think ahead to what my classroom is going to look like. I don't think we will have floors, but will there even be bulletin boards or will the walls be studs? I still want to make my classroom feel like home for my fourth grade students, so I have to be creative in decor. I LOVE the lama, cactus, succulent ideas I am seeing, so I started creating today. I love these cute lama/cactus name tags I whipped up.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-CactusLama-Themed-Name-TagsDesk-Tags-4706462" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="872" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgGnx_kn7o10d3Ld0ZEYCMLIe4G-yJHr7tx00gwbvQe2w0kkkAxwJMtp4-qSC5XdV5QHb9bCDi9PwFi4oNcgVU6BK2oEXhlE6sgXN0EZADZz5XkSox9pzWkitmD6X4Bp6q9Ebh4ZC6ptPH/s640/1.png" width="440" /></a></div>
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They are perfect for any grade because they aren't too babyish, gender neutral, and bright/fun.<br />
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<b>**Teacher Hack**</b> I teach 75 students, so three classes of 25. Name tags are a must at the beginning of the year. Don't want to take up too much room on a desk? These name tags will open up into Power Point. This will allow you to print them as slides, four or even six slides to a page. This will leave you with smaller name tags.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-CactusLama-Themed-Name-TagsDesk-Tags-4706462" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="744" data-original-width="666" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm5Fs_JWwpm94u0hDve8USe8Pr_AWoYjqbi9VI-xghpOeZ7f3bYUiG07m5tGLBxi4fVJlZ0STQETOIlB-WBbHcXiZmYmmUyRJjgwJYdib-FLI-HmBLNnT5we4h2cTX_3_QZbOd6EYm6B7-/s320/Untitled.png" width="286" /></a></div>
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Check them out on <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-CactusLama-Themed-Name-TagsDesk-Tags-4706462" target="_blank">my TPT page</a>, for just $2, you can download, type directly onto them, and print them out.<br />
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Stay tuned for some more fun creations!<br />
Enjoy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigu0ojPBVYE5R8HNXXrDG_nXoZK4XmeYsFFKjFSnpZUGCQoVEXAURDOQhyphenhyphen8yAbfEDzxeJYBCeqahLv2pETGdH01LEZsIw7xJBHzkyaKMNWSZM404jvOjwXGo06EqPY-2eqNZHakcfV3r2/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="56" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigu0ojPBVYE5R8HNXXrDG_nXoZK4XmeYsFFKjFSnpZUGCQoVEXAURDOQhyphenhyphen8yAbfEDzxeJYBCeqahLv2pETGdH01LEZsIw7xJBHzkyaKMNWSZM404jvOjwXGo06EqPY-2eqNZHakcfV3r2/s320/Signature.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-40286090394417323102018-08-08T16:56:00.000-04:002019-07-26T15:33:25.023-04:00Classroom Themes & Decor <div style="text-align: center;">
Classroom themes may seem like a trend, but sometimes as teachers, we spend more time in the classroom than in our houses. I love to decorate my classroom and make it fun, bright, and comfortable for my students. </div>
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For the past few years, I've had a camping themed classroom. I still love it and haven't changed it much, just added to it. I picked a few of my favorite colors to accent the decor and used wood backgrounds. </div>
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I actually put all of my decorations into a bundle, in case you wanted a camping or woodland themed room. Check it out by clicking on the pictures below. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Camping-Outdoors-Woodland-Themed-Classroom-Decor-Jobs-Table-Numbers-etc-1965554" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="354" data-original-width="354" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv8t501bLDUQxfX0vLIpeA6kilSJYxjPCWG8UWlKE7k-UKsJ26E5grC1DuuAU17jdWECXzGJgYhkxCPZ0XxEyLuO689mlJ8e8c64sM_tCkr1f4VS9rj7McnDrWAFPx0Kkmc0QDY0smei7c/s320/Screen+Shot+2018-08-08+at+4.23.51+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Camping-Outdoors-Woodland-Themed-Classroom-Decor-Jobs-Table-Numbers-etc-1965554" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="356" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1VkhTbMlo3eGunq9cCrUZAqF7e7yKHeVyW2qLqn3XmxpfgvHQCaP5H_kQEUleXx8zyH_FufygGCvaFD2VzYTgL2msvcA0Bs8tKTuQHGiIbcJKo4e-QRMSQqRYbYriE_ZcFpudCGcSrRJ0/s320/Screen+Shot+2018-08-08+at+4.23.58+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Camping-Outdoors-Woodland-Themed-Classroom-Decor-Jobs-Table-Numbers-etc-1965554" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="312" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifuU3O8E4WoqfBGBzp1tta738BnSWLJH17KPHLSxFcqafpw5mHxAmen1sFjBwQ4BC3vTh27pJPXD8kRcjazNKCCrMyVCnfy7fQuPrwE_gBGukdyTrGT4Fq-XleBZtjKod5R2gPrSxrNLLK/s320/Screen+Shot+2018-08-08+at+4.24.04+PM.png" width="285" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Camping-Outdoors-Woodland-Themed-Classroom-Decor-Jobs-Table-Numbers-etc-1965554" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="353" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Yi9IO2yxboWam99699ZgzmhnC-rfGucWCsLunLpLYpmejQH4C6JXbCH8fNLQmkgxP8pT_nCYXOgxqo5yc4co_HtygilWc8iB8CrQbMmiL2SxpSbnrd1Hq8aTEoZmnHZ-9OgIRj0R7orb/s320/Screen+Shot+2018-08-08+at+4.24.11+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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I also just created adorable cactus name tags. I know many people have cactus themed classrooms and I find this clipart so fun and bright! </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cactus-Editable-Name-Tags-3983740" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="355" data-original-width="357" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMUnQyJdcnLQOE4PtdFOzGSiXR2fjAuq3CdJd0SgM93ThvsSpqRnVgKp9KQzi6ESD5QudwUsReV9LnpZ7q5Y0eY7QX2JLbtNZV7aowDVnUBlEfndDWmqZtp25nBBOBg1I5HX8oOJFLwBQP/s320/Screen+Shot+2018-08-08+at+4.54.09+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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What theme do you have or plan to have in your classroom? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigu0ojPBVYE5R8HNXXrDG_nXoZK4XmeYsFFKjFSnpZUGCQoVEXAURDOQhyphenhyphen8yAbfEDzxeJYBCeqahLv2pETGdH01LEZsIw7xJBHzkyaKMNWSZM404jvOjwXGo06EqPY-2eqNZHakcfV3r2/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="56" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigu0ojPBVYE5R8HNXXrDG_nXoZK4XmeYsFFKjFSnpZUGCQoVEXAURDOQhyphenhyphen8yAbfEDzxeJYBCeqahLv2pETGdH01LEZsIw7xJBHzkyaKMNWSZM404jvOjwXGo06EqPY-2eqNZHakcfV3r2/s320/Signature.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-61049666029284023852018-07-25T18:19:00.000-04:002018-07-25T18:19:35.551-04:003 Ways to Kick the End of Summer Blues! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2I4IC6qkKxdBi8xp2idNTegKmNI4ZnJLzxBG0lDJT7tVbTx6-Y8UFlzq5f6hdcvIOeBBQ3o_R7AyCWl4qDEt_j2Ng0IPquVALLPewOor4YmwZuD56woMsyBFGt2NplOjDwHGA8GOf8V1L/s1600/Slide2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2I4IC6qkKxdBi8xp2idNTegKmNI4ZnJLzxBG0lDJT7tVbTx6-Y8UFlzq5f6hdcvIOeBBQ3o_R7AyCWl4qDEt_j2Ng0IPquVALLPewOor4YmwZuD56woMsyBFGt2NplOjDwHGA8GOf8V1L/s320/Slide2.jpg" width="320" /></a>Raise your hand if you can see the end of your summer in sight? Do you see your sweet freedom slowly slipping out of your reach? Have you been training your bladder to only explode every six hours? Are you ready to get up at dawn? Here in Connecticut, most school districts start after Labor Day, but my school starts PD, August 23rd. We are starting early due to renovations next summer, they are trying to give us a longer summer next year. This year we had a short summer due to twelve snow days and a TORNADO in May! Nobody was expecting that surprise that led to an extended school year! </div>
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Anyways how can you fight the back to school blues? Here are three simple tips that help me look forward to getting back to school. </div>
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#1. Buy school supplies that makes you excited! This year I have purchased an awesome Happy Planner, a bunch of fun flair pens in mouth watering colors, florescent expo markers, and really cute smiley face binder clips. I really am looking forward to using it all. Does any teacher NOT have a school supply addiction? What are some of your favorites? </div>
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#2. Pamper Yourself! Before I start school, I always schedule a hair cut/color, mani/pedi, and massage. Why? Well, why not!? It is a great way to unwind and mentally prepare yourself for a new year and fresh start. </div>
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#3. Sleep! I plan on sleeping in and being lazy for a day or two before school starts. For the next eight months I will have to get my kids up at 5:30, make lunches, pack backpacks, shove breakfast down everyone's throat, and fight about outfits daily ... so I deserve some rest time now. </div>
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Will these ideas help? Hopefully, because it is my plan! If you have a routine you follow before the start of school, we'd love to hear your ideas! </div>
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Have a wonderful rest of summer teacher friends, we know you will kick butt in the 2018-2019 year! </div>
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<br />Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-63692460745030699412017-11-10T08:19:00.001-05:002017-11-10T09:38:24.450-05:008 Books to Teach Empathy & Acceptance While Helping Students Gain an Understanding of the World<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We are so excited to be working together for our new unit. Since I am back in ELA this year, Robyn and I brainstorm constantly about how we can make the units more effective, engaging, and fun. We want the students to understand WHY they are learning what we are teaching and we want to teach the WHOLE CHILD, while teaching the standards. This year we have a high focus of social/emotional students and because of that we are very excited for this unit.<br />
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Our focus question is, "How can literature teach us about empathy and acceptance while helping us gain an understanding of the world?"<br />
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Not only are we teaching the students about empathy, but we wanted a highly engaging unit. There is nothing worse than listening to the same book every year for a lesson. Some great books are read every year from K-4, but we wanted something new for the surprise factor. We looked for new books and books that aren't hugely popular and this is what we found.<br />
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We are going to read Wonder as a class and constantly refer back to the novel. Stay tuned for more information on our plans for this book! I was able to get a whole class set for $36 through bookshare.org, so be sure to check that website out for book deals.<br />
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We found the best prices on Amazon and ordered them all with Prime! :) The other books we are
using in this unit are (affiliate links provided):
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Check back tomorrow for our first lesson inferring using <i>The Invisible Boy</i>!
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<br />Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-74313512699323418292017-08-11T10:49:00.001-04:002017-08-11T10:59:48.495-04:00THREE ways to make students feel SPECIAL before they meet you! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_LaQImdZ0DeW4eYQkSiEsmO5wp6YVYnTqXOKzpzqRw-6kUUicUgd8obHCfTN-cgwHgXfHk8Yf7r6rtsLrtl7CeRKrxFFrDfCTFUd7vy8bJncH42J90ERAGLzUeSdC4iHAync9r2uA341/s1600/20750663_10100414361049512_1539419867_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="717" data-original-width="720" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_LaQImdZ0DeW4eYQkSiEsmO5wp6YVYnTqXOKzpzqRw-6kUUicUgd8obHCfTN-cgwHgXfHk8Yf7r6rtsLrtl7CeRKrxFFrDfCTFUd7vy8bJncH42J90ERAGLzUeSdC4iHAync9r2uA341/s320/20750663_10100414361049512_1539419867_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>I'm sure all of your are in the back-to-school rush and have either already started school or will be in just a few short weeks. Here in Connecticut, we start the last week of August. So while my kids are finishing up their last day of camp today, I am sitting in Starbucks, crossing a bunch off my to-do list. Unfortunately, I cannot get into my classroom this week because the floors are being waxed, but I know early next week students and parents will be wandering around eager to take a peek at where they will be learning for the next year. So I am going to explain some tricks I have to make me look supper prepared because let's face it, are we ever ready for the year to start?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_loW6_4_6UJsGwGgJ3ZSBkXt6ofRn4WLgbgEdg0WB3wGe01Gd7zksxT8cmRfXuXwKE14gcJa9sNoRLS6qhjkSzo90YI8LBVNuaDnSxdE2OBE5Ss9rKu4sFfv_RofQeeKbbIjS8HZLNO76/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-08-11+at+10.14.15+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="182" data-original-width="134" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_loW6_4_6UJsGwGgJ3ZSBkXt6ofRn4WLgbgEdg0WB3wGe01Gd7zksxT8cmRfXuXwKE14gcJa9sNoRLS6qhjkSzo90YI8LBVNuaDnSxdE2OBE5Ss9rKu4sFfv_RofQeeKbbIjS8HZLNO76/s320/Screen+Shot+2017-08-11+at+10.14.15+AM.png" width="235" /></a>#1. Send home a welcome letter. This year I have a new partner teacher who I am excited to work with. I wanted to send something home to our new classes to introduce ourselves. I made this letter quickly in Power Point and added pictures from our personal Facebook pages (don't worry, my partner sent me some he approved of). I'm just going to print these (thank you insta-ink) and mail them home. The kids will surely get a kick out of seeing their teachers "in real life" as well as receiving snail mail! (Don't worry, I only made it blurry here for privacy reasons, it printed out crisp and clear.)<br />
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#2. The Classroom Door! I haven't completed my door yet, but it is on my to-do list. I've seen such amazing designs floating around on social media, but since the door normally the first part of the room seen, it should be a great reflection of your classroom. It would be extra special if you had student names on it, welcoming your new students. A little hint is to go on Instagram and search the hashtag #classroomdoor - there are some great ideas to spark your creativity. The hard part is picking out which one you want to create! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZjH8ukR8goxvnT8ppI7OZ82kIQM0sL-b2C3l-EY_cfp9rlYNERH2pL8wNM2ltrmifdhbhri0PBsgYGp3kVix7q4lZpF3mIu-_Xqlgdkuhia9tbp1Qomzsq4MGSQmv1SEImrE94YNg9TX/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZjH8ukR8goxvnT8ppI7OZ82kIQM0sL-b2C3l-EY_cfp9rlYNERH2pL8wNM2ltrmifdhbhri0PBsgYGp3kVix7q4lZpF3mIu-_Xqlgdkuhia9tbp1Qomzsq4MGSQmv1SEImrE94YNg9TX/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25281%2529.jpg" /></a>#3. My favorite classroom trick is really special. Since my school allows parents and children to walk around and look at classrooms during the summer, I like to leave my room presentable. One of the first things I do is make a personalized birthday lollipop bouquet. When students see these jumbo rainbow lollipops with their names on them, they seriously get excited. Little do they know they will not get one until their birthday, but they still look awesome all year long. Since these lollipops are so large, I love sticking them in a tall vase. If you think it will fall over, try adding some of the green foam you stick flowers in. I even had thank you notes from parents with pictures of their child enjoying the giant pop! What I like about these pops is that they are packaged carefully and never arrive broken. Plus they are at a price on <a href="http://www.orientaltrading.com/party-supplies/candy-a1-551289.fltr" target="_blank">Oriental Trading</a>, that even a teacher can afford. To make them personal, I just create a circle in Power Point and decorate it with clip art and color. I then print, cut, and tape to the pop. If lollipops don't interest you, check out the other assortment of candy on Oriental Trading, it will surely arrive in great shape and is at a price you can afford. This will be a great focal point in your classroom, and even if the rest of the room is a mess, eyes will surely be drawn this vibrant display of yumminess! </div>
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Best of luck on setting up your room. If you want to make the lollipop labels and cannot figure out how, email me and I will gladly send you my template! </div>
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<br />Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-61974789871376003672017-07-13T10:42:00.000-04:002017-07-13T15:22:51.970-04:00A Mentor Text Must Read: Historical Fiction<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5pc4G_p1IEuBLTSfSsX0GLGMGyA_Skd9adtSCwLGOO1pERJAGU88AlTT9EKv4E8M09_VOhKf5evqYIqWrdLEjWIUx4IrLd4nMP5XaVLrWLRMOJ5m8ArlVDXutSOSvq9sHGLstJvQi2kk/s1600/Slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5pc4G_p1IEuBLTSfSsX0GLGMGyA_Skd9adtSCwLGOO1pERJAGU88AlTT9EKv4E8M09_VOhKf5evqYIqWrdLEjWIUx4IrLd4nMP5XaVLrWLRMOJ5m8ArlVDXutSOSvq9sHGLstJvQi2kk/s320/Slide1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
During the summer I spend a lot of time reflecting. I'm a busy mom of three little ones and am constantly on the go, but whenever I get a chance, I sit down and think about the read alouds I did during the year and which ones were <i><u>amazing</u></i> and which ones <i>don't need an encore</i>. <br />
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I'd love to hear some suggestions from you too! Please let us know your favorite historical fiction mentor texts in the comments below!<br />
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One <i>I HAVE</i> to share with you is the book, Rose Blanche, by Christophe Gallaz. <br />
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This past school year was the first time I picked up this book and I COULD NOT put it down! If you teach historical fiction, this is the perfect picture book for you. The author takes you on a journey through the injustices of the Holocaust in Germany. The character notices the horrific changes around her which lead to a dramatic ending! In order for my students to get anything out of the book, I had to build their background knowledge. We spent numerous days completing a Think-Puzzle-Explore (more to come about that soon!) activity where students where in charge of their own questions and exploration about the time period. Once I felt they had a deep grasp on the time period, I started my read aloud. The reading strategy I was focusing on was inferential thinking (if you don't teach historical fiction, this book leads itself perfectly to inferring). I was blown away with the inferences my students were making! It was imperative for them to build their background knowledge before reading the story because it dramatically increased their understanding of the story (just something to think about if you do choose to use it). <i>Every single page</i> lead to a deep discussion- my students were intrigued, fascinated, engaged, and outraged about the <i>TRUE</i> events within the story. This book is filled with drama, distinct tone, emotions, and will leave your students begging for more. I won't spoil it for you, but the end will leave your class in an uproar and they will be begging to discuss, question, and read it again! </div>
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Don't forget to let us know your favorite historical fictions mentor texts in the comments below! Thanks for reading! :)<br />
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<br />Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-12568816656639365612017-07-02T20:16:00.001-04:002017-07-03T16:37:31.983-04:00How I Brought Geography into 21st Century Learning! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidETCvNr8kNg-CYlMtLSjZOQFG1-D81autRxnSilk9HFbtFmQgihyphenhyphenKh2Uh1yQZV3PB1pu1eGxHxzm-Jz1YxupcX5lXQQG4ZsmgLRHgaQmhq5C5LVQDJaeEbUyqQvdkuWeVy-XRMrvbDK4U/s1600/Slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidETCvNr8kNg-CYlMtLSjZOQFG1-D81autRxnSilk9HFbtFmQgihyphenhyphenKh2Uh1yQZV3PB1pu1eGxHxzm-Jz1YxupcX5lXQQG4ZsmgLRHgaQmhq5C5LVQDJaeEbUyqQvdkuWeVy-XRMrvbDK4U/s320/Slide1.jpg" width="320" /></a>Social Studies used to be a small subject that was put on the back burner during the year. Since we <br />
are now much better at integrating subjects together and teaching social studies content through language arts standards, it seems like there is more of a chance to get some learning in.<br />
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In fourth grade, our social studies curriculum revolves around geography. Plain and simple...Regions of the United States and Geography. Pretty bland. Not memorizing states and capitols anymore, but actually understanding that Connecticut is on one side of the United States and California is on the other side. The climate for those two states are different, that there might be reasons why people choose to live in those states, and the culture is also diverse throughout the United States. Just teaching those skills to students does not leave a lot of integration into content or inquiry based learning.<br />
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Nobody knows more than teachers, how to whip a boring topic into something fascinating, but it does take a lot of work and research. Kids tend to get bored with anything they can simply ask Seri about, so why not use it to our advantage? In an age when maps are becoming alive on smartphone screens, it is important to make full use of these devices’ capabilities. Check out some ides below.<br />
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<b>Combine interactive maps with multimedia </b><br />
An easy way to provide rich information on a given location is to incorporate audio and video to a landmark. Multimedia is highly engaging with students, and can give context to what is otherwise little more than a name or dot on a map. The ability to access the material individually at any given time makes mobile learning suitable for both work in class and revision at home. Kids can easily use Google Maps for this idea. Google Maps can be used on an I-pad, I-pod, or even Chrome Book!<br />
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<b>Competition</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnAcjKpUfpLGvgyOYQ33rc1LmxQg1eNlAzE06L5wRvnJaWx6T_Oudijf4jhFxxlClIiASKjU-UoYG4YQqKC004LSVvc-Ff7Zkuh_K-WQzleX6hxSH75pgd_HL1zpeL5xhNA0GwsxYnBqgT/s1600/Scavenger-Hunt-687x1024.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="687" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnAcjKpUfpLGvgyOYQ33rc1LmxQg1eNlAzE06L5wRvnJaWx6T_Oudijf4jhFxxlClIiASKjU-UoYG4YQqKC004LSVvc-Ff7Zkuh_K-WQzleX6hxSH75pgd_HL1zpeL5xhNA0GwsxYnBqgT/s200/Scavenger-Hunt-687x1024.png" width="133" /></a>If your students are like mine, nothing sparks their interest like the word "competition". Here's a great idea, divide a class into teams and let them compete for points in a landmark scavenger hunt. Once students learn map skills, take them outside on the playground for a fun scavenger hunt. Before school mark some "landmarks" with spray paint (can simply be an X on the grass). Clues can be given from one spot to the other and the first team to finish, wins! They can use the compass app on the ipad for extra map skill practice. It's even more fun part to make a rule that at each landmark they have to snap a picture with their group at the spot. This might take some prep, but it will be something the students remember forever, not to mention put those map skills to use!<br />
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<b>Summer Postcards</b><br />
When you send a "Welcome" letter to students during the summer, ask them to send you a postcard <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG9cUWZbDZb1SoKJTZUzx9Cl-gVp4Us_5xelnTPJBz2jW2LamSYRhQUjbZ7qSwch1awArazXOBCJjRlEwz2reLYcdxsBi1jpyU0Oi8zYf-uHeSBTLQnA3Uy3qyS910bdXiQN76tPIUo1PA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-02+at+7.52.24+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="142" data-original-width="154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG9cUWZbDZb1SoKJTZUzx9Cl-gVp4Us_5xelnTPJBz2jW2LamSYRhQUjbZ7qSwch1awArazXOBCJjRlEwz2reLYcdxsBi1jpyU0Oi8zYf-uHeSBTLQnA3Uy3qyS910bdXiQN76tPIUo1PA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-02+at+7.52.24+PM.png" /></a>from where ever they travel over the summer. Create an easy bulletin board with these postcards and the students will be excited to see that they contributed to the classroom without even knowing! Let students point out what landmarks they find fascinating and create a buket-list of important places they'd like to research or visit someday. Active participation in the learning process is proven to increase academic success, and now students can take part in shaping the study material, both for themselves as well as for their classmates.<br />
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<b>Music</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo7F75E08jPmQAruTKDP8PtfWRE9kXZy8fd4gvB9lDi5IsKdoIzn7jrhlWk3eIwRVwPTyC-GKq4NpeVyGRbNARtxYIZUE9CdlNUhS3ovKZsDrOvwDsfzAqGjCwPC6NHfgzgwQvfYDtbbgm/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-02+at+7.03.51+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="728" data-original-width="1255" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo7F75E08jPmQAruTKDP8PtfWRE9kXZy8fd4gvB9lDi5IsKdoIzn7jrhlWk3eIwRVwPTyC-GKq4NpeVyGRbNARtxYIZUE9CdlNUhS3ovKZsDrOvwDsfzAqGjCwPC6NHfgzgwQvfYDtbbgm/s320/Screen+Shot+2017-07-02+at+7.03.51+PM.png" width="320" /></a>My students LOVE music in the classroom and so do I. I use it for transitions, rewards, brain breaks, background noise, and learning. There are so many different geography songs on youtube, but my favorite it the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_E2CNZIlVIg" target="_blank">Tour of the States</a>, where the man draws as the song plays. We also put the CC on and sing along and before long the students know all the states and capitols. They also get the visual of where each state is located in the United States.<br />
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<b>Engaging Work</b><br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Map-Skills-I-II-Units-1-7-No-Prep-Scales-Grids-Longitude-Latitude-2032533" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="809" data-original-width="1096" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI9Kal27fJTIktYKZW4hPRMhnLmoX_EBpQsBs62Q7qfN_s_iwm7RGaGe1Z4K-qnnb4IqMceCKx_n7aHZ-TvcrtDGZxxl6J9OEKnn8iCLC0yaL-5v1HByOD03dzkrxBBx90XWQby_yR9uwW/s320/a.png" width="320" /></a>Sure there might be some worksheets and ideas online, but I put together my own curriculum for Geography that is great completed in order. Let's face it, I LOVE hands on activities, but sometimes students need to learn or be refreshed on the skills before they can successfully attempt the hands on activities listed above. These are the PERFECT Map Skills Units. They are excellent for sub plans, homework, morning work, or a reinforcement worksheet. I like to have fun with my students so I incorporated a lot of crayon/color work, fun clip art, and visual aids to help my students master geography skills. Not confident in teaching map skills and geography? No worries, my units are teacher friendly and explain EVERYTHING. There are extensions and technology ideas for each unit as well as answer keys too. I have heard this works well with grades 2-5 and students and teachers love how organized it is. I have. Of course word wall words are provided for each unit and <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Map-Skills-Social-Studies-Cardinal-Directions-Symbols-No-PREP-Units-1-4-1944046" target="_blank">Geography 1</a>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Map-Skills-II-Social-Studies-Map-Scales-Grid-Systems-Longitude-Latitude-2032303" target="_blank">Geography 2</a>, and a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Map-Skills-I-II-Units-1-7-No-Prep-Scales-Grids-Longitude-Latitude-2032533" target="_blank">bundle deal containing both</a>!<br />
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So what are your go to plans for teaching Geography? Let me know in the comments!<br />
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<br />Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-91564790044698592302017-07-01T19:57:00.000-04:002017-07-01T20:00:32.288-04:00I Finally Own a Plant I Can't Kill! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sadly, I was not born with a green thumb, but luckily my husband has an awesome love of anything having to do with the outdoors. He has an amazing vegetable garden and usually plants and mulches our gardens surrounding our house. My parents and brother are the same way...me on the other hand...I hate flowers. I have no luck with growing them, keeping them alive, or even remembering to water them.<br />
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For example, my husband bought me a gorgeous planter filled with succulents. I was shocked it survived THREE months, now it is a pot of dirt. :(<br />
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Don't get me wrong, I love the look of flowers, especially hanging plants, but I just don't have luck with them. If I don't forget to water them and the constant sun on our always sunny front porch will toast them.<br />
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In fact, just last week I hung a new flower basket and when we came home from a visit to the in-laws, we noticed the GIANT tree across the street fell and landed on our front porch...knocking down everything in its path. Power lines were all over our front yard and our yard was literally branches, sticks, and leaves. It took almost two days for crews to clean that mess up and now our front garden, grass, and my poor hanging basket is ruined.<br />
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That was the final straw...over the ten years we have lived in this house, we have tried a wide variety of hanging baskets. I spend a ton of money each season (and sometimes multiple times per season) replenishing my dead flowers throughout the summer, but I am now D.O.N.E.<br />
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I recently found out about silk baskets. I figured it wouldn't hurt to try one, at least I knew it wouldn't burn in the sun or die from lack of water. I chose a pretty orange/yellow plant from a new website called <a href="http://www.permaleaf.com/" target="_blank">PermaLeaf®.</a> It arrived very quickly and all I had to do was open the box and hang it up.<br />
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I absolutely love it. The leaves are shiny, the basket is adorable, the plant swings in the wind, and the flowers are vibrant. (My husband laughed at me because I probably shouldn't have picked a Hawaiian looking plant if I wanted it to look real, since I do live in Connecticut!) Overall, it makes me happy. Every time I go out the front door I smile because it is still flowering. I have a feeling it will be full of flowers all summer and my neighbors will probably be impressed (haha).<br />
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The only thing I need now is four other matching baskets because my front porch has hanging hooks surrounding it. Check out my plant and let me know what you think!<br />
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<br />Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-53258456060684927802017-01-13T06:00:00.000-05:002017-07-01T10:39:54.955-04:003 Ways NOT to FAIL When Introducing Book Clubs <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Participating in a book club CAN and SHOULD be an amazing experience for ALL kids. I have read all about it, watched videos, and consulted with colleagues, BUT they were never successful in my classroom. I struggled with how to get students involved in their book without ME. I couldn't figure out how to get students to dive into their "roles" and take ownership of their club.
I am ELATED that after spending YEARS of <i>failing,</i> or we can call it <i>"experimenting,"</i> I finally have book clubs that have turned into collaborative groups where ALL students are engaged, on task, and EAGER to share their thinking!!! Here are three tips I've learned along the way that helped me NOT FAIL when introducing book clubs.<br />
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#1 COLLABORATION!! What I think made a HUGE difference was having students work through <br />
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their understanding of working collaboratively together. Let's be serious, a book club is a collaborative group, so it's really important for students to know and understand what one is. I put students in their clubs and on easel paper I wrote out the following 5 questions (each group had their own):<br />
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<li>What does the word “collaborate”mean? </li>
</ul>
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<li>What makes a discussion collaborative?</li>
</ul>
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<li>What does it mean to “build on others’ ideas”? </li>
<li>What words or phrases can you use to link your ideas to your classmates’ ideas in collaborative discussion? </li>
</ul>
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<li>What are some positive way to contribute to a meaningful discussion? </li>
</ul>
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Once each group completed the questions, they spent time sharing their ideas. We discussed each question in depth and came to the realization... Building on others' ideas helps create collaborative groups. We watched a video of a collaborative group (I found one online) and we discussed and charted how each member was contributing to the collaborative group. This was important for students to see what it actually looked like too.<br />
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# 2 ROLES! ROLES! ROLES! Students LOVE to have a role. I created a bunch of different book club roles and then let each student pick their own role. Some of the roles were: Word Whiz, (this person kept track of words that they or others may find confusing) Summarizer, (this person summarizes the most important part of the chapter) Character Reporter, (this person reports on the character, anything knew they noticed, character traits, character change, etc.) and many more. I simply checked out Pinterest and created a bunch that would fit my classroom. I also picked ONE student from each group to be the teacher. I picked someone who I knew would be serious and help the group to remain I task. I also let my class know that the teacher can change, but you have to earn it. This was HUGE! Each student begged to be the teacher and therefore I noticed how many of my students who are usually off task, started to become engaged and participating in their group! WOOHOOO!!<br />
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#3 MODEL! MODEL! MODEL! Once my students were ready to dive into their book club, I made a <br />
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point to model as much as possible. I would share my thinking and how I was able to keep the conversation going by building on others' ideas (when I would pop in and out of different groups)! I was not only the model, but I let other groups model as well. I also videotaped each group, I simply grabbed my I-phone and while they were submerged in their groups, I videotaped their collaborative conversations. This was eye-opening to my students. When they were able to see themselves and critique one another, they were able to see how productive or unproductive their group was! This was a game changer!! After viewing themselves against other groups, they really uped their game and implemented things they noticed other groups were doing successfully! I felt like a ROCK STAR seeing how each student strived to be an active participant in their collaborative group!<br />
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Getting Book Clubs started is the hardest part. I went very VERY slow because I wanted to make sure they had the fundamentals. If I didn't ease into the clubs slowly, it would have been a disaster because students wouldn't truly understand the collaboration aspect and their expectations. I used to rush into clubs and then become frustrated because they weren't working collaboratively and were off task. I realized that SLOW and steady wins the RACE! Going slow made the world of difference! I'm honestly in awe when I sit back and simply listen to the discussions going on during club time.<br />
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<b>#teachersuccess :)</b> Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-83946163352505100682017-01-11T05:30:00.000-05:002017-01-11T05:30:06.632-05:00Manageable Flexible Seating Options That Work!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am very blessed because my classroom has awesome seating options. No, they weren't cheap, but some I made and purchased myself and others I wrote and received grants for this year. I have three rotating classes of 24 students each, so these seats get used by 72 students a day. Plus, my teacher friends and I love them during meetings in my classroom.<br />
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My classroom is not the only room that has moved to flexible seating, in fact two awesome teachers at my school just received a grant to give each classroom a few more hokki stools, so now all classrooms will have options.<br />
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I am always being asking about what is in my classroom, so I thought I'd list the items below. I can't tell you what my students like the best because each student finds what works best for them. During the week, options rotate so it is fair for everyone, but I am finding more and more students know what they need (as far as seating) to produce their best work.<br />
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Today I snapped some pictures in the classroom and it made me laugh at all the different options kids had and used. I loved that some of them are even just standing to get work done. I have two rugs in my classroom, yet some students still like the cold, hard tile floor. lol<br />
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I find flexible seating options are actually manageable as long as you set your expectations and norms in the classroom. I've seen a huge decrease in stress, negative behavior, and anxiety due to flexible seating options as well. <br />
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I hope this post has inspired you to try out some flexible seating options. If you are already trying out flexible seating in your classroom, I'd love to hear about it. What works for you? What is your favorite? Personally, I sit on a Gaiam Balance Ball Chair when I am at my desk and LOVE it. Let me know what you use in the comments below! <br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Big-Joe-Dorm-Chair-Flaming/dp/B00DPO1AN4/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1484061223&sr=1-1-fkmr0&keywords=joe+boxer+dorm+chair" target="_blank">Joe Boxer College Foam Filled Chairs</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinkadotselementary.com/2014/08/monda-made-it-picture-tutorial-of.html" target="_blank">2 Crate Benches</a><br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Norwood-Commercial-Furniture-NOR-1101AC-SO-Assorted/dp/B01EVPHICC/ref=sr_1_4?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1484061261&sr=1-4&keywords=stools" target="_blank">Stools</a> <br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Inflated-Stability-Cushion-Exercise-diameter/dp/B00IUNL24M/ref=sr_1_2?s=exercise-and-fitness&ie=UTF8&qid=1484061104&sr=1-2&keywords=wobble+stools" target="_blank">Wobble Cushions</a><br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Hokki-Stool-20-Blue/dp/B005JZ81NE/ref=sr_1_cc_3?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1484061121&sr=1-3-catcorr&keywords=wobble+stools" target="_blank">Hokki Stools</a><br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Gaiam-Balance-Ball-Chair-Black/dp/B0007VB4NE/ref=sr_1_1?s=exercise-and-fitness&ie=UTF8&qid=1484061011&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=balance+ball+chair&psc=1" target="_blank">Gaiam Balance Ball Chairs</a><br />
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<br />Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-32219674447853054172017-01-07T05:00:00.000-05:002017-01-07T15:34:34.950-05:004 Simple Ways to Integrate Science into Language Arts! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We all know teaching has a lot to do with time management and honestly that can be one of the hardest things teachers face.<br />
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<b>"How am I supposed to teach everything in this little amount of time?"</b><br />
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When you factor in band lessons, trips to the bathrooms, nurse visits, absences, weather delays/cancellations, vacations, professional development days, meetings teachers are pulled out of the classroom for, speech therapy, counseling, resource/intervention time, and the list could definitely go on....how much time do you really have for teaching?<br />
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#1. My first suggestion is to get the Scholastic magazine, <a href="http://classroommagazines.scholastic.com/products/science-spin-grades-k-1" target="_blank">Science Spin</a>. It is SO worth it. It is connected to grade level NGSS standards, is full of nonfiction reading passages, graphs, charts, color pictures, and is really popular with all of my students. They cheer when new magazines come in the mail and honestly so do I. I love the included Teacher's Guide that has everything you need to teach content and reading all in one. It even comes with close reading questions! This will cost you $0.99 /per student for 8 issues throughout the year, but honestly parents could send their child in with a dollar for this monthly magazine! It is SO worth it! <br />
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#2. Book Clubs! Do you use book clubs in your classroom? They are great for promoting student questioning, group discussion, responsibility, and accountability. How about throwing in some nonfiction science books once in a while? Obviously the questions students come up with might be a little different other than the normal character development and plot predicting, but nonfiction books do allow for higher level thinking and really ALL students LOVE nonfiction!<br />
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One of the best ways to face this challenge is through subject integration. I am not talking about just teaching science by reading articles, but you CAN pre-teach a topic by reading articles in class, which will give you more hands on time when it comes to the actually allotted science block. <br />
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The books below are for five different leveled groups going on in my classroom. Don't think you have time for this? Make it morning work for book clubs to meet, end the day with book clubs, or replace independent reading time with group reading time a few times a week.<br />
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#3. Our <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-Articles-10-Pack-Bundle-Deal-Paired-Text-Comprehension-Questions-2319724" target="_blank">science packets</a> offer an AMAZING opportunity for students to learn science through reading, answering comprehension questions, and using text evidence to support paired text responses. We have science packets for over twenty different topics covered in 4th and 5th grade science. Each unit provides five opportunities for a student to read about the topic while organizing their thoughts in illustrations, vocabulary boxes, and summary writing. </div>
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I've used these for homework, intervention, pre-teaching, sub-plans, extensions, and even guided reading opportunities. Students love the short/readable passages and teachers love that their class has the opportunity to independently understand difficult topics. When making these, I broke down hard topics into five sections so my students find success in reading and comprehension. The best part is the students actually enjoy the new learning and when I send it home for homework, the parents enjoy hearing the interesting passages.</div>
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Check out what some teachers have to say about these reading passages. I really appreciate all the positive feedback I receive from other teachers, it motivates me to create more! Thank you all! :) </div>
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#4. Have a few minutes? This Nonfiction kit is awesome for grades 4-6. I purchased it through <a href="http://www.lakeshorelearning.com/product/productDet.jsp?productItemID=1%2C689%2C949%2C371%2C929%2C129&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395181113&bmUID=1483724780859" target="_blank">Lakeshore Learning </a>and I've got a ton of use out of them. I've scanned them onto the smartboard for whole a class lesson. I've used them for more information on a topic. I've given these to my students to complete in partnerships and (my favorite idea) I've blown then up on giant paper and hung it up in the room for students to read when they finish work. After leaving it up for a week or so everyone was able to read it at some point and then we worked on the comprehension questions. They definitely inspired the students to investigate the topics more. They are pricey, but if you have curriculum money or want to write a www.DonorsChoose.org grant, this would be a great purchase!</div>
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FYI: I was not paid to promote any of these companies, I just love science! :) </div>
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<br />Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-31861534114437024932016-10-25T13:46:00.000-04:002016-10-25T14:18:41.548-04:00Energy Can be Moved from Place to Place: Creating a Whole Class Circuit!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Have you ever seen one of these little Energy Balls? They can be picked up online at any science retailer, but I had never played with one until my sweet science partner purchased me one this week for me as a gift. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgecyNBFXruwfmsBPZ4BtmXoUty0HS-Jx5OR05KbYT4WwTsBUPuSBC4qZ8jumrrC6zP0glw0-SlT8QHFth0zFWkQDQHkzQvVoRVGcjZP2l8iEffz-XW15wFtB8ul2imF6B30-4d-5ZfSiVZ/s640/blogger-image--1659501719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgecyNBFXruwfmsBPZ4BtmXoUty0HS-Jx5OR05KbYT4WwTsBUPuSBC4qZ8jumrrC6zP0glw0-SlT8QHFth0zFWkQDQHkzQvVoRVGcjZP2l8iEffz-XW15wFtB8ul2imF6B30-4d-5ZfSiVZ/s200/blogger-image--1659501719.jpg" width="171" /></a>My fourth graders have been learning about the transfer of energy for the past few months and we have been trying very hard to focus on making observations and using our observations as evidence to prove a claim on a scientific phenomenon. Pretty cool for 4th grade, right!? <br />
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Today we had a few extra minutes and <b>I gave the class the challenge of working together, using this energy ball, and proving the scientific principle: energy can be moved from place to place.</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0xj7MTPGCGWO-DkjGjBrOUflf48XBIy4_tCDoct6YVJyJyBzFh_ICttmBVzV9enQR3xU5TB0eUDysbHzCzdOkYp_VbPrVMcDvqtDUONuzjXMAolz31AxuOftIwE-FTNwDgbaoTNIDET5y/s640/blogger-image-1095703755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0xj7MTPGCGWO-DkjGjBrOUflf48XBIy4_tCDoct6YVJyJyBzFh_ICttmBVzV9enQR3xU5TB0eUDysbHzCzdOkYp_VbPrVMcDvqtDUONuzjXMAolz31AxuOftIwE-FTNwDgbaoTNIDET5y/s200/blogger-image-1095703755.jpg" width="181" /></a>They quickly figured out how to work the ball (both metal pieces need to be covered), but a few students started to form a circle and tested to see if their arms could act like wires in a circle. They were SO EXCITED to see that it worked.<br />
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Before long, the whole class formed a circle and one boy practiced being a "switch" letting go and grabbing the hand next to him.<br />
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I loved that I gave my class a challenge and not only were they able to use their knowledge from the unit and communication skills to figure it out, but they also extended the idea and went above and beyond.<br />
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Check out my recent Instagram post for a GIF of this energy ball in action! <br />
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This quick energy transfer investigation really solidified the idea of an open and closed circuit and definitely blew the minds of my fourth graders. <br />
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<br />Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-8183279865391734782016-10-20T10:08:00.002-04:002016-10-20T10:08:50.706-04:00{Freebies} Simple Ways to Motivate Students in the Classroom! <div style="text-align: center;">
We've hit that time of year where the start of school has passed and the end isn't in the direct future. Honeymoon period is now over and we are starting to see the true colors of many of our little gems. Don't get me wrong, we still love each and every one of time, but some of our friends need a little extra motivating. I thought I'd share a few SIMPLE ways to make your students want to be ready to learn in your classroom, but I'd also love to hear about your tricks in the comments below!</div>
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Class Coupons! Seriously, there couldn't be an easier behavior incentive. Have you seen our awesome teacher friendly <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reward-Coupons-60-Coupons-PERFECT-for-Classroom-Management-542106" target="_blank">Classroom Reward Coupons</a>? The packet comes with over 60 options and each coupon is printed on a page 6 times! One print of the bundle and you should be set for the year! The best part about using these coupons is that the rewards are mostly free and require no prep! </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reward-Coupons-60-Coupons-PERFECT-for-Classroom-Management-542106" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reward-Coupons-60-Coupons-PERFECT-for-Classroom-Management-542106" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJDM4zEwCNYcEH-qraM-dLRL9snD7ko-hsampXgkSU8wE2kpRbouU8Au9Ja-B0_LbxMecEabxbPPHPbAQsocojCDGEobC0fQuG4YtF1_IWmrkNAarrRUopvMBjTM6wu9eC1lToSSfPNRc/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-10-19+at+1.39.13+PM.png" width="295" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reward-Coupons-60-Coupons-PERFECT-for-Classroom-Management-542106" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reward-Coupons-60-Coupons-PERFECT-for-Classroom-Management-542106" border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2D7dvDZ0te68M8p9J3_CdiXNBRhubGR1K7N-VNFZGAE8wMijqtuAS5wXNXue8s088Q3zXRqfoK6aH_NYJiJ3zdg_ci9ymzuSsjq5i4xqnN-9bvDdVYUnpFVdkG8_WW015l-R2iLjTtBx/s640/coupons.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I simply print, laminate, pass out, and collect to redistribute when the student cashes their ticket in. </div>
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Students go nuts over these little tickets, especially "Lunch with the Teacher" and "Show and Tell" because lets face it, who ever has time set aside for a class show and tell.</div>
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Other tickets that have been known to popup in my classroom are <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Leprechaun-Desk-Cards-Freebie-Positive-reinforcement-for-clean-desks-595268" target="_blank">Leprechaun Tickets </a>and <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/g4a0fo60inu5dj5/desk%20fairy.pdf?dl=0" target="_blank">Desk Fairy Tickets</a>. (Get them BOTH for free by clicking on the links or pictures!) My students love visits from leprechauns in March. Sometimes our secret leprechaun even brings treats, just like our mystery desk fairy! The Dollar Tree is a great place to pick up little trinkets. One of my favorites are the round glass stones. The kids love these because they think they are leprechaun treasures. I also love getting a dozen pencils here for $1.00. Really anything at the Dollar Tree is gold to students. </div>
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<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/g4a0fo60inu5dj5/desk%20fairy.pdf?dl=0" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.dropbox.com/s/g4a0fo60inu5dj5/desk%20fairy.pdf?dl=0" border="0" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSv4CLtYZosjE638onz1sRFL-ybKDeM6ONylycPlWZdN5sVXCLUrUnMU8cwgDI000fS86ZYicg9Gd77bSbpKGB2XEl03NN_NQ6vOLVzHc4eMrs_zMjKzxpPEyjlTG7Cs1-55fdMc0yRa9p/s640/desk+fairy.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Leprechaun-Desk-Cards-Freebie-Positive-reinforcement-for-clean-desks-595268" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Leprechaun-Desk-Cards-Freebie-Positive-reinforcement-for-clean-desks-595268" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvgsBJOC8K5m1Fd0rUcGzJ_nMV7GuUn7PyKCJwMGPxfZgHp0R68CyEOfI41eCugw1vUFVSJ7zr65CllOXPrjflq5WSxKcAXNtULH2VHyn2ZXo_WVvheDdSnW9HXJZbhRptT5Ysxjq8XHz1/s320/lep.png" width="363" /></a></div>
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These are only a few motivating ticket ideas, but I am sure you have others. Check back for more ways to motivate students through recess, not extra recess, but organized teacher/student games at recess. I mean what student doesn't want to dominate their teacher at a game of four square? </div>
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Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-73153526686291660652016-10-18T10:35:00.001-04:002016-10-18T10:35:09.014-04:00Sharing My Love for My Oriental Trading Goodies! <div style="text-align: center;">
Early in the school year, I was lucky enough to test out some products from <a href="http://www.orientaltrading.com/teaching-supplies-and-stationery-a1-551419.fltr.">Oriental Trading Company.</a> Honestly, I never really thought to look through their website for back to school supplies before, and never even knew it was something they carried. When browsing the selection I was blown away by the products I <strike>wanted</strike> needed in my classroom. As a ten-year teacher, I didn't think I needed too much, but to my surprise, my cart filled up quickly. I am always up for trying something new and in all honesty, if I can do something fun and positive to motivate my fourth graders, I am all for it!</div>
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A few of my favorite items I chose were jumbo lollipops, mini stamp pens, owl magnets, and planet stress balls. </div>
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I love the planet stress balls as much as my students do! Believe it or not it is mid-October and they are holding up great. I allow my students to borrow a planet if they feel the need to use one, but they must return it before leaving my classroom. Sometimes, students just need to have something in their hands to fidget with while they listen or read and I found these planets perfect for this occasion. Not only are they the perfect size for a child's hand, but are adorable. I can see these being used to create a model of the solar system or even being hung with string from the ceiling for a decoration. Next year, I will order these again, but get a class set. </div>
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The stampers are super fun for correcting papers. At first I was going to use them for Valentine gifts, but I decided to whip them out for motivation on quizzes. The students are allowed to stamp their paper if they score a 3 (standardized grading over here) and they LOVE these stamps. They look like the little conversation hearts that are eaten as candy and even have fun sayings. The stamps come in green, orange, purple, blue, and yellow and are self inking. We have used them A LOT and they are not even running low. I love the ease of these stamps, but do wish they were a little larger!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUNw3a8HPBDyzTM_M-wtPsL4hTUxezfWb8vITrG6A_uHBlzJ-fw03mN2n7E9et4tsg9VQNEehd-pqwGlznbg2riFnXnU9q2Hx6f9q7S2TigR9To6gsqLtzmxefpPD7zNeRPNwsGYEuPcIO/s1600/IMG_5673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUNw3a8HPBDyzTM_M-wtPsL4hTUxezfWb8vITrG6A_uHBlzJ-fw03mN2n7E9et4tsg9VQNEehd-pqwGlznbg2riFnXnU9q2Hx6f9q7S2TigR9To6gsqLtzmxefpPD7zNeRPNwsGYEuPcIO/s320/IMG_5673.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Have you seen these magnet owls? They are AMAZING for graphing opinions on a white board. Sometimes for morning work I ask the students a survey question and they have to decide, choose, and vote. Most of the time the first students create the graph and work as a team to make it make sense to the rest of the class (like in our current vote pictured below). Sometimes, I have the students use dry erase markers to write their names on the owl, but other times, I like them to vote autonomously so I can get honest answers. I've had LOADS of compliments on these adorable owls and many teachers have also ordered them for similar ideas. My fourth graders love them and I love that they are working on their graphing skills and interpreting data while having fun! </div>
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My favorite item ordered were the JUMBO lollipops. Look at the smile on this sweet face and that alone could sell the product. I made rainbow birthday tags for each of my students and taped them onto the lollipops. The students receive this lollipop on their birthday or in June (if they have a summer bday). I did get enough for everyone and believe it or not they were all in perfect shape when they arrived. Not ONE crack! I originally wanted to make a giant lollipop bouquet for a decoration, but our school is mouse infested and I didn't think that was a good idea. I have them in a box, in a plastic sealed container, in a closet and they seem to be safe! I will definitely be purchasing these again next year. I love giving away a special birthday treat and the students really look forward to it! </div>
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So these are some of my great items from <a href="http://www.orientaltrading.com/teaching-supplies-and-stationery-a1-551419.fltr">Oriental Trading Educator's Catalog</a> and like I said, everything arrived fast and in perfect condition. I will definitely be ordering from them again in the future! I am already scouting out the Thanksgiving and Christmas crafts and gifts for my students! </div>
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Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-47743355343291570192016-06-23T21:17:00.001-04:002016-06-23T21:17:26.724-04:00DIY Name Sign Tutorial! Perfect in the Classroom or as a Gift! <div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYyf7SdgY_n9iL51edVbqHbNAPSWtO1757pCqUodMmxWCaUDRZl2kIRKM8TGrsLNLwrT7c59UNKQluLijqoGse7sC0NQq5uuw8U8Y6pG-ZHMEzDeqGrM1LQjatvUi4MC1W5PzmLKh7Qek/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYyf7SdgY_n9iL51edVbqHbNAPSWtO1757pCqUodMmxWCaUDRZl2kIRKM8TGrsLNLwrT7c59UNKQluLijqoGse7sC0NQq5uuw8U8Y6pG-ZHMEzDeqGrM1LQjatvUi4MC1W5PzmLKh7Qek/s400/FullSizeRender.jpg" /></a>If you check out my Instagram, which I am always posting to, you will see that I finally have time to craft this summer. I have lots of projects for my TPT store and crafts for my classroom I want to create and I am slowly checking them off my list. This summer I have three weddings and besides money, I always love to give a homemade gift. Especially if they are close friends, something homemade definitely comes from the heart and adds a personal touch. What is better than a personalized sign with your new last name? I know I'd love one, and maybe someday soon, I'll have time to make myself one. haha</div>
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So on Instagram, a few people asked me to create a tutorial on how to make wooden signs...</div>
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1. Obtain wood. I was lucky and found a few scraps in the garage that were about 14in X 5in X 1in each. If the wood isn't perfect, don't worry, it adds character to the sign. </div>
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2. I use my cricut explore to cut the saying or name out of vinyl. I use letters or words from this vinyl as a stencil, so it does not matter what kind or color vinyl you use. </div>
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3. Paint the wood with one color. In both of my pictures, these signs were first painted with a navy blue acrylic paint. It dried super fast. </div>
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4. Lay the vinyl down on the wood. I use transfer tape to get my vinyl from the backing to the wood and it works great. </div>
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5. I don't know why, but I read somewhere to paint another layer of the original color after the vinyl is stuck down. So I painted another layer of the blue and let it dry. </div>
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6. Next I used a cream colored chalk paint (randomly bought it at Walmart and loved how the color turned out). It is important in this step to start the paint at one side and drag the brush to the other side. Try not to stop in the middle or you will get marks...like in the 2nd picture. Those two signs were actually my first try. If you notice in the top picture, the white paint was much more even when applied. I also added a 2nd coat of white paint to those signs and love the contrast between navy and white. </div>
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7. No need to wait for the top coat to dry, grab tweezers or a Cricut weeding tool and pull the vinyl up now. Be sure you grab all the vinyl, in the top picture I forgot to pull up the . after EST, but it was an easy fix. </div>
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8. Once the vinyl is up and the top coat of paint is dry, grab some sand paper and sand the sides and front. Don't worry about over sanding, the wood lines gives the sign character and depth. </div>
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9. Clean off the board with a damp paper towel and allow the board to dry nicely. </div>
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10. Time to seal the sign. I use a super light coat of Triple Thick Gloss Glaze. It basically dries as you put it on. </div>
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Tadaaa.... you are done! I do love my Cricut because the design and crafting possibilities are endless! I hope I did a good job explaining, if you have any questions, please let me know in the comments below. I am making two more signs tomorrow, so pictures will be added with each step! :) </div>
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Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-9861373772335296842016-03-29T14:34:00.001-04:002016-07-07T15:13:13.966-04:00Five Tips to Managing an INQUIRY Based Classroom!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Nxz15EJosYN7UHRqaRb82P2UAvBJ6wtjS4J3SFMayOEIrMUKtXl0yQ_nO-b9Hs54bjyWXsXvgAEu5-uCoBJJIJ5RJPMQYU6tBtJ1-thWNcR6qxKOWhDOwCK6804mdcnnBRB3VP9NYvrH/s1600/heads.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Nxz15EJosYN7UHRqaRb82P2UAvBJ6wtjS4J3SFMayOEIrMUKtXl0yQ_nO-b9Hs54bjyWXsXvgAEu5-uCoBJJIJ5RJPMQYU6tBtJ1-thWNcR6qxKOWhDOwCK6804mdcnnBRB3VP9NYvrH/s320/heads.png" width="319" /></a>If you haven't heard of inquiry, then you haven't been listening at your staff meetings. Inquiry and inquiry based teaching seem like the new buzz word/phrases in education this year. Now I've been teaching for nine years and lots of words come and go, is this one here to stay? Who knows, but I can tell you I absolutely love this model of teaching. My students are thinking for themselves, engaged in their work, proud of their accomplishments, and have become better communicators! Want to try it out in your classroom? Below are FIVE tips to get started. Please note, I am not an expert, but as a newbie, I am happy to share what I learned this year! <br />
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#1. Student independence is a huge piece of inquiry. This not only refers to independent actions, but it also refers
to independent thoughts. When we encourage students to think on their
own, we really are encouraging them to wonder and inquire about the
world around them without worrying about the right answer or what the
teacher will say. When students express and explore their own thoughts,
their learning takes place at a much deeper level. Creating an independent classroom environment empowers
the learner, allowing them to extend their learning beyond the given
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#2. The teacher is still involved. Keep the lesson short, don't give everything away. Allow the</div>
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students to want to create and explore questions in their heads and out loud. Let me start by saying an inquiry based independent classroom is NOT a free for all. The teacher doesn't sit behind the desk and browse Facebook all day, but instead the teacher learns with the students and checks in on groups at all times. Sometimes, during scientific investigations, I like to sit a student desk and see learning through the students' eyes. Do I stay in that one space? No, but it is a great place to blend in and really listen to student discussions.<br />
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#3. Be ready for NOISE. Self discovery is great, but students communicating and problem solving TOGETHER is even better. After all, aren't we trying to teach students content as well as life skills. So much can come from a student verbally explaining his/her thinking. Through trial and error this year, I've found out that a strong inquiry
based classroom works cooperatively, understanding that two heads are
better than
one. Often, the teacher is the last resort
resources, due to the fact that independent students enjoy seeking and
finding answers on their own. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy0x6QSZfxWzwKGtcKxVJGmnQeGIPYxo1ZWA-sHtMsEog0VFedAKfY5I8n3w_rKNUQl5vbcv8NwTq_hXsm7TqWi7b79z2I6jDiNPSNg2VIWKXJBdggVg7tm_HU11iBYLtwwX1aTe7uxoI1/s1600/organ.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy0x6QSZfxWzwKGtcKxVJGmnQeGIPYxo1ZWA-sHtMsEog0VFedAKfY5I8n3w_rKNUQl5vbcv8NwTq_hXsm7TqWi7b79z2I6jDiNPSNg2VIWKXJBdggVg7tm_HU11iBYLtwwX1aTe7uxoI1/s320/organ.png" width="320" /></a>#4. Get organized! Students will be using classroom materials and the cooperation of
their peers to solve problems. When puzzled or stumped, students are
able to direct themselves to a resource that will help them to solve
their problem or answer their question. Accessing books or information
on computers or tablets is a part of everyday life in an independent
classroom. These materials should be in a consistent locations that is accessible to all students. Getting students in the routine to get their own materials is a huge step to independence. It may take double the time, but it will be worth it in the long run. </div>
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#5. Model, model, and model again! In fact, even try to role play a scenario. Some students may think it is silly, but before long, you will notice students mimicking your actions and dialogue. Getting students to speak academically to each other to find answers
and gain perspective from their classmates, is a HUGE goal of mine. Seriously though, if I hear, "Can you help me get the thingy to work, my group is stuck?" one more time, I will fall over. Academic vocabulary comes from modeling everyday. Turn it into a game, have students copy down vocabulary words, role play scenarios, do anything to get the student to start speaking like a student.<br />
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Still need some more guidance? Check out my science unit on <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-Force-Motion-How-Does-Force-Affect-Motion-5-Investigations-2234133">Force & Motion</a>. It contains specific directions, print outs, examples of anchor charts, and student samples for FIVE different investigations. I've been so happy reading feedback from other science teachers that said this unit has helped with inquiry and making science fun and hands on for their students.<br />
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I know that seems like a dream, and it won't happen over night, but don't give up. Try, try, and try again. If it doesn't work the first time, refocus yourself and your class and model some more. Just this year I stopped being so Type A, and let go of some of the control in my classroom. It is the most I've ever seen my students grow and we still have TEN weeks of school left. My fourth graders will make their fifth graders teachers proud next year! :) </div>
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Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-5453399727086795912016-03-19T08:26:00.001-04:002016-03-19T10:47:17.799-04:00Leprechaun traps were ready and set!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLt35O4-6xvUOIwp2fb7-p4OElu6u_ikMIi2gKkP7wGsWVWLI6N5JUc65XZUg3yzNE7IMeHRUa6zLHY3mdFKu57cIwb0JwvlGeuHckHhrN-N4a5bZzsdhvDLmmcCWnyFLiMaHvalhBTwQB/s640/blogger-image--1876843871.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLt35O4-6xvUOIwp2fb7-p4OElu6u_ikMIi2gKkP7wGsWVWLI6N5JUc65XZUg3yzNE7IMeHRUa6zLHY3mdFKu57cIwb0JwvlGeuHckHhrN-N4a5bZzsdhvDLmmcCWnyFLiMaHvalhBTwQB/s640/blogger-image--1876843871.jpg" /></a>My fourth graders couldn't have been more excited to receive the take home STEM optional assignment. Believe it or not, I heard a ton of positive feedback from the parents too! I have around 75 students and over 30 completed traps. On St. Patrick's Day, we all met together for a triad meeting and each student presented their trap, told about the simple machine they incorporated, and showed how a magnet would help catch a leprechaun. Each student showed amazing engineering skills and so much pride in their invention. Check out some of their projects! </div>
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And guess what? The next day every single trap was set off, but no leprechaun was in sight! However, we guessed the leprechaun was impressed with all the creativity he saw because he left candy, stickers, tattoos, pencils, gold coins, and jewels! </div>
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We even spotted some footprints! 😂</div>
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Overall, this project was a huge success and the students will remember it for years to come! The way they incorporated magnets and simple machines truly amazed me! </div>
Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-80034961527188681502016-03-16T11:36:00.001-04:002016-03-16T12:13:42.306-04:00Science, Stem, and lots of Magnets! <div style="text-align: center;">
My class is just finishing up our magnet unit and I have to say the learning that has been going on in this classroom amazes me! I am so proud of my students, and lets face it, myself too! I can honestly say now that the change from eight years of ELA to Science/Social Studies this year, might have been just the refresher I needed in my educational career. I am excited to come to work, excited to see my students wonder, learn, and discover, and am blown away by the expectations of the new <a href="http://www.nextgenscience.org/">NGSS</a>! </div>
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We've been drawing diagrams, collecting and analyzing data, explaining our thinking, and proving our answers. Check out this gorgeous diagram below explaining what the student learned in the static electricity center.</div>
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Some examples of our magnet centers. I will post more about them soon, I promise! </div>
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Have you heard of <a href="https://www.explorelearning.com/">Gizmos</a>? They are interactive stimulation lab activities that are awesome! They work from 4th grade all the way up through middle/high school and are math/science focused. </div>
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Luckily <a href="https://www.explorelearning.com/">Gizmos</a> work on Chrome Books and our students love them. In one half of the picture below students are learning about materials that are attracted to magnets and other materials that are repelled by magnets. In the other half of the picture, students are discovering how to use field lines to tell if magnets will be attracted or repelled. Pretty high tech four fourth grade, isn't it! ;) </div>
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So that's what we've been up to in the classroom over the past few weeks. I have so much more to blog about and share with you. Do you teach about magnets? My students also really enjoyed working on homework that applies directly to our current unit. I also feel that it is a great home/school connection and I received a ton of positive feedback from parents on the quick, meaningful, reading passages assigned. Check out the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Magnets-Science-Articles-w-Comprehension-Paired-Text-Questions-2413773">packet on magnets</a>. Not only are these packets created with short passages, but also ELA standards are addressed when the student has to create a one-two sentence summary, diagram, and find choice vocabulary to help them remember the content. </div>
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Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-46534473247135680182015-12-13T07:00:00.000-05:002015-12-13T10:14:27.024-05:00May your Days Be Merrrrrrry and Briiiiighhhht!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTKG9ICSh-D7eH7bZp7xxem67BO7TqiCn_c85gUHgY9mOTWvj2d7PGv7gBO9VcRQ4tWEa4OE0Pa9_t64M6qjKVBINKwf6OSkuXBMf8o7fDIB1lbofVvPfAlgy3rwuH6aUXX4AmmPgJStdn/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-12-13+at+9.25.32+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTKG9ICSh-D7eH7bZp7xxem67BO7TqiCn_c85gUHgY9mOTWvj2d7PGv7gBO9VcRQ4tWEa4OE0Pa9_t64M6qjKVBINKwf6OSkuXBMf8o7fDIB1lbofVvPfAlgy3rwuH6aUXX4AmmPgJStdn/s320/Screen+Shot+2015-12-13+at+9.25.32+AM.png" width="320"></a></div>
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I am so excited to join in on this fun giveaway. I'm sure this time is hectic for everyone, but being a full time teacher and a parent to two (three if you count my husband) needy children, half of the time, I don't know if I am coming or going.
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It sure seems like my students have been eating candy canes for breakfast and pure sugar at lunch because everyday is a crazy day in my classroom. Besides everyone being sick and spreading germs, we have been trying to cruise through our curriculum. We are onto Social Studies now and having fun learning about the different cultures in the United States. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOYMbX5vmLN8lcGi9LgyHhrfAXpYMlt57TmzI8Wrcd-m70XoqLx_dalcbrSngj6lL70tha5GNmhrSEYNheCanZW5aht-5Au0P9munWH-Pgsu5AcDGApAdWCU61P32b75H2M0pyX05d4ix/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-12-13+at+9.25.23+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOYMbX5vmLN8lcGi9LgyHhrfAXpYMlt57TmzI8Wrcd-m70XoqLx_dalcbrSngj6lL70tha5GNmhrSEYNheCanZW5aht-5Au0P9munWH-Pgsu5AcDGApAdWCU61P32b75H2M0pyX05d4ix/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-12-13+at+9.25.23+AM.png"></a></div>
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I will talk more about that in a later post, but for now I wanted to share with you the miracle going on in my classroom. How am I keeping sane? Well let me tell you about the amazing Dollar Tree.<br>
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Do you have a Dollar Tree around you? Well if not, you can order online and in BULK!<br>
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The best thing about this store is it is a true dollar store. Everything is actually one dollar. This really helps me out when it comes to prizes. I love that I can get 12 pencils for $1. It makes buying for 75 students much more manageable. I am all for fun celebrations, but it is just unrealistic for me to fill gift bags for 75 students or buy them all presents, but I do love surprising my students every few days with a new pencil, a fun eraser, a finger flashlight, or even a gel pen. Something so little can make a huge impact on behavior, appreciation, and attitude.<br>
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My students know I have the prizes and they have to work together as a class to earn them. Of course it's extrinsic motivation, and probably not the best idea of bribery...but it is getting me through December...alive! Plus, let's face it, by this time of the year, everyone could use some more pencils! </div>
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Do you know what else would be great? How about coming back from Christmas break and having everything planned out for you? I am happily donating a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Traditions-History-of-Gingerbread-ELA-mini-unit-Research-Project-1581751">Gingerbread themed ELA Unit</a> to this raffle below. It is one of my best sellers, great for sub plans, or an easy no-prep lesson, and the students LOVE the new information!<br>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Traditions-History-of-Gingerbread-ELA-mini-unit-Research-Project-1581751"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Traditions-History-of-Gingerbread-ELA-mini-unit-Research-Project-1581751" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnvI2QssllSSqyhafvn4O_LMVcgiEu_2TxA-9xbC3FNd3bUr1hQqfFrYvKQkNkciuEVJNUM4AaSdLo9OqTWBjW-507KVlS2hWOs26t5SbSwgaPcepnhaT8XA3DQFB30d1lMxpmQGinz_-r/s320/Screen+Shot+2015-12-13+at+9.34.12+AM.png" width="243"></a></div>
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Fill out the raffle copter below and be sure to check out the other tips for staying "Merry and Bright" around the holiday season!<br>
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This contest runs from December 13-15! Enter below: <br>
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Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-39866485913339936292015-11-24T09:14:00.001-05:002015-11-29T12:52:03.338-05:00Scientific Explanations: The NEW Lab Report!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggaNGXXLyMWjXqCMhssOKXdOQgnrkxtO5V_lLQqJ_dEd8w5g3N96lWcft-7V0fDgdOgW-33mWntag2Xp_mGkXwwYe5h6HEXMz-u80bQ6DbOPqJT7P6eUxFhJxnTrOLznkU5P1ZbiBwkwCx/s1600/cahr.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggaNGXXLyMWjXqCMhssOKXdOQgnrkxtO5V_lLQqJ_dEd8w5g3N96lWcft-7V0fDgdOgW-33mWntag2Xp_mGkXwwYe5h6HEXMz-u80bQ6DbOPqJT7P6eUxFhJxnTrOLznkU5P1ZbiBwkwCx/s320/cahr.png" width="240" /></a>Are you still using the scientific method? Do your students create daunting lab reports that are carbon copies of each other? Sure some of those skills are important, but with times changing, technology taking over the world, and students being forced to think harder and deeper, we need to prepare them for more. You are probably wondering, how is this possible? Well, let me tell how science has changed this year for me. If you missed my past few post, go check them out in order here:</div>
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<li><a href="http://pinkadotselementary.blogspot.com/2015/11/force-motion-using-gradual-release-to.html">Force & Motion: Using Gradual Release to Foster Independence: Writing Scientific Claims </a></li>
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<li><a href="http://pinkadotselementary.blogspot.com/2015/11/using-gradual-release-to-foster.html">Force & Motion: Using Gradual Release to Foster Independence: Analyzing Data/Evidence </a>
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Force & Motion: Using Gradual Release to Foster Independence: Analyzing Data/Evidence
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<li><a href="http://pinkadotselementary.blogspot.com/2015/11/force-motion-using-gradual-release-to_23.html">Force & Motion: Using Gradual Release to Foster Independence: Choosing and Understanding Scientific Principles</a></li>
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I've learned a few things over the past month of school</div>
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<li>Students love to be challenged, no matter their level</li>
<li>All students love Science class</li>
<li>The more time and work you put into a lesson or concept, the better the outcome</li>
<li>If you have high expectations for your students, they will reach them </li>
<li>Collaboration and discussion are powerful tools for all students </li>
<li>You can combine math, reading, and writing into Science without even trying</li>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-Force-Motion-How-Does-Force-Affect-Motion-Scientific-Explanations-2234133" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-Force-Motion-How-Does-Force-Affect-Motion-Scientific-Explanations-2234133" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhukcQOYf8SsxvHCVYLJgQs9vLGb6h4uOGRIvkk9eFXNnHlYsgjCi11MMLrlvIijQZ9Fw55F3jtPIR3_hL644jodUpG4JFNpiMNNGbWjF-sxdFE1viqabttN-6ozpTOa0mJVBB5r0bdLmuR/s320/title.png" width="241" /></a>My students and I have grown so much in the past month by using the claim, evidence, and reasoning writing. They love doing scientific investigations as it is, but now it makes sense to them how they can explain their thinking. They are also excited to step away from the "lab report" technique and have a chance create graphs and collaborate with peers while showing their thinking. Our district is using this response format throughout high school, so students will have a solid start on the process after fourth grade. I'm exciting to watch them grow in their writing and science throughout the year.</div>
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Does this sound like something you'd like to try? Check out my<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-Force-Motion-How-Does-Force-Affect-Motion-Scientific-Explanations-2234133"> new produc</a>t! This version focuses on Force and Motion, but others will be available shortly. In this product you will find everything you need to get your students completing scientific investigations collaboratively in groups, thinking of scientific principles, and explaining their thoughts like true scientists.</div>
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Force & Motion: Using Gradual Release to Foster Independence: Analyzing Data/Evidence
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Force & Motion: Using Gradual Release to Foster Independence: Analyzing Data/Evidence
- See more at: http://pinkadotselementary.blogspot.com/2015/11/using-gradual-release-to-foster.html#sthash.XJpPcHYh.dpuf</div>
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<br />Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3582257561168317652.post-62131055474359011432015-11-23T11:28:00.003-05:002015-11-29T12:53:00.879-05:00Force & Motion: Using Gradual Release to Foster Independence: Choosingand Understanding Scientific Principles<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirRiDsgUdM0sNY1qyEAM9hAA5fdXa8x_jhjWfyQBuVWhQth8w3_fYg4dtl-8XPWAZaJEz6NEvJki8z3X9EianoBQnu1ETvmWrB3aMRgMT7P4cuik5WX9jwt6UeSkDEaqYxqOAYEsV0guCU/s1600/card3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirRiDsgUdM0sNY1qyEAM9hAA5fdXa8x_jhjWfyQBuVWhQth8w3_fYg4dtl-8XPWAZaJEz6NEvJki8z3X9EianoBQnu1ETvmWrB3aMRgMT7P4cuik5WX9jwt6UeSkDEaqYxqOAYEsV0guCU/s320/card3.png" width="320" /></a>If you have been keeping up with our blog you've seen my progress in writing scientific explanations. This is post #3, be sure to check out <a href="http://pinkadotselementary.blogspot.com/2015/11/force-motion-using-gradual-release-to.html">post 1</a> and <a href="http://pinkadotselementary.blogspot.com/2015/11/using-gradual-release-to-foster.html">post 2</a>, before reading below.<br />
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The reasoning section on the scientific explanation is my favorite section. It allows me to see if the students can make sense of the information presented or not.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN89vPdYBl_Ht5qprkBl0AC9uZhljZkwr0jXWz7fajZOsW-BkZ3u6fJ7XXQwEeB9NjP0P7oUNh0l1D8enRlvhhAcBqM4NNQVGy9Mm_BY_u-3QwRI3qGatoRO0In8enzSGJYLMFGqUz6uHi/s1600/card1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN89vPdYBl_Ht5qprkBl0AC9uZhljZkwr0jXWz7fajZOsW-BkZ3u6fJ7XXQwEeB9NjP0P7oUNh0l1D8enRlvhhAcBqM4NNQVGy9Mm_BY_u-3QwRI3qGatoRO0In8enzSGJYLMFGqUz6uHi/s320/card1.png" width="241" /></a>One way that we have had success discussing principles is by working together in collaborative groups to illustrate the principles. One of my PLC members actually came up with this idea on a whim and it was brilliant! We gave each group a small white board and a dry erase marker. As we referred to our “Scientific Principles” anchor chart, I challenged each group to come up with an illustration displaying the principle. The creativity and collaboration was amazing! I set the timer for three minutes and was completely impressed with the results. (I wish I took pictures, but I was living in the
moment and completely forgot!) After the timer went off, each group showed off their illustration and a member presented and explained to the class. There were definitely some “ah hah” moments created during this quick lesson.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxEV1WQX647FIFMhcGLn7O66rqL_D7Yb07gLbaSM-wcwLxPI0f5GcgWNV4zUg8BvxnEMyKYiB7dEwWQ0vK_VBX7-wposo-pZNEMnfyKulHuWuyoSOA1TpF33VoE1xmC7BuAe7sg5j8F08T/s1600/card2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxEV1WQX647FIFMhcGLn7O66rqL_D7Yb07gLbaSM-wcwLxPI0f5GcgWNV4zUg8BvxnEMyKYiB7dEwWQ0vK_VBX7-wposo-pZNEMnfyKulHuWuyoSOA1TpF33VoE1xmC7BuAe7sg5j8F08T/s320/card2.png" width="320" /></a> Another activity that we completed that worked out great was using The Owl Teacher’s <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Force-and-Motion-Causation-Cards-1631680">Causation Cards for Force and Motion</a>. These fit into my scientific principle section perfectly and the students had a blast while working. These task cards are almost like playing an “I have, who has” activity, but combined with a drama, humor, and learning. They discuss scientific ideas, definitions, give examples, and are full of fun. My fourth graders enjoyed this activity so much, we ended up switching cards and repeating the activity at least three times per class!<br />
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When having the students choose a principle that relates to their claim and investigation, the students have been able to pick one out pretty independently. I think they developed a deeper understanding of principles because we took time to read them, discuss them and even illustrate them. This <br />
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-Force-Motion-How-Does-Force-Affect-Motion-Scientific-Explanations-2234133" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-Force-Motion-How-Does-Force-Affect-Motion-Scientific-Explanations-2234133" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiApyX0stznVmgH2g3jJ6YDv7WyA38jMMQ91ZIFHhbbmf-nEGXafbI0bLBgG8vza08OZtrRSsFFYHaeF_a2cB4fN_1cUpS8HYtx5lmwGfdDEPe5vWvLecCN_2MG0uicNssM1dp5RvIWeP2Y/s400/title.png" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggp2PbTNubpmk5mwNFeVTvZMGoJt88-6HzKIHsCDGRO7Dg3AKtgm6aJ8_Q1F-V2M_c9psMSU75zh4kkBqFAI7TR5mvrhVZl7s_QrVDMrVjGpb7IuFJHoCH0XlpudjtpmWurbiHuQFC-8UI/s1600/reas.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="117" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggp2PbTNubpmk5mwNFeVTvZMGoJt88-6HzKIHsCDGRO7Dg3AKtgm6aJ8_Q1F-V2M_c9psMSU75zh4kkBqFAI7TR5mvrhVZl7s_QrVDMrVjGpb7IuFJHoCH0XlpudjtpmWurbiHuQFC-8UI/s320/reas.png" width="320" /></a>section in the scientific explanation can be pretty “gray” because sometimes students tend to add fluff or overlap the information they already stated in the evidence section. Sometimes my students feel so relieved that they are making sense of the investigation, they tend to write and write. I keep the space small on our worksheet to keep their answers concise. If you look at the picture of student work, you will see the student referred to our anchor chart and copied a principle down. I have the students start with a sentence starter: “This happened because in science, _______” and then state the principle. Sometimes students go a step further and explain more information or make a connection to the experiment. For example, on the reasoning section for the Box Push investigation, a student wrote, “This happened because in science, the greater the force, the greater the change in motion. The more hands that created force during the investigation, the father the box went in the given amount of time." I thought that was a great response and really showed student understanding by actually connecting the principle chosen to the investigation. Sound interesting? Check out all of this and MORE in my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-Force-Motion-How-Does-Force-Affect-Motion-Scientific-Explanations-2234133">new product</a>! <br />
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Thanks for stopping by! Come back tomorrow to see how all three pieces piece together into a complete scientific explanation! <br />
<br />Pinkadots Elementaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121284692243814692noreply@blogger.com0