tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44984663903047907462024-03-13T22:25:18.094-07:00Lattes & LaughterFinding the Joy in Every School DayJuliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-48804268117476124752018-01-02T12:07:00.001-08:002018-01-02T12:07:13.787-08:00Hi (again!) <br />
This was a little project of mine during my second and third year of teaching. Somewhere along the way I fell off of the blogging wagon. But I have been craving a creative outlet and after creating a teaching instagram account in the Fall, I am feeling super energized and motivated by other teachers -- so I thought I'd try my hand at this blogging thing again.<br />
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My last post was January 1, 2014. So now, almost 4 years to the day...<br />
Since Jan of 2014 a lot has changed!<br />
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-I got married (Sept. 2014)<br />
-Switched school the same month (And NO, I don't suggest changing jobs and simultaneously throwing a wedding!)<br />
-I bought a house.<br />
-Got a dog.<br />
-Switched grade levels.<br />
-Took on a bunch of additional responsibilities at my new school.<br />
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I'm sure my life has changed in a million other ways too...<br />
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It's been fun (and a little cringy) to look back at my 2012-2013 self. At that point I was at the start of my career and I was so passionate and creative, something I hope to tap back into in 2018. At the time, teaching was my life and I was happy to spend countless hours prepping and creating on nights and weekends. But with all of that passion and zest I was lacking confidence in my own teaching abilities. I knew that I was doing my absolute darnedest for my kids but I always had this nagging feeling that I didn't have any idea what I was doing!<br />
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Today I am more experienced and more confident in my teaching. I have been teaching for 7 years and have gained so much content knowledge. I am more comfortable interacting with parents.I have a bag of teaching tricks and go-to activities. I can write a lesson plan in my sleep. But to be completely honest, I've also had an ebb in my energy level, my passion, my constant motivation to keep coming up with new and exciting things to do everyday.<br />
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I think I have a lot to share and know that I have a TON to still learn!<br />
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I hope that getting back to this blog, as well as continuing to follow other teachers on social media, will help me to connect, to reflect on my practices, to hold myself accountable, and, most of all, help me to continue to grow in my craft. <br />
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So let's see what happens with this little blog. Thanks for following along on this journey!<br />
<br />Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-8978650798784110002014-01-01T19:20:00.001-08:002014-01-01T19:23:52.545-08:00January Currently <div style="text-align: center;">
Happy New Year! </div>
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Let's celebrate with this month's <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2013/12/january-currently.html">Currently</a>. </div>
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<b>Listening to</b> Parks & Rec...not going to lie, we've pretty much had an all day marathon. Oops! But then what are vacations for if not to lounge around?!?!? </div>
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<b>Loving</b> this winter break! After traveling all over CA to visit family and friends during the first week of break, I am finally back in my cozy little apartment with my kitty and fiancee. Perfect day of relaxing and lounging today..... I <3 you, Winter Break! </div>
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<b>Thinking </b>about my never ending to do list. I spent the first half of my break traveling and you already know that I spent today relaxing away. Tomorrow is all about gettinng things done: lesson planning, grading, grocery shopping, oh my! </div>
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I am not <b>wanting</b> anything at the moment. Feeling blessed and content. </div>
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<b>Needing</b> to do a loooottt of laundry. Too much laundry!!! </div>
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<img alt="Ecard laundry breeds while I'm asleep" height="145" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/0e/cf/31/0ecf31cfc982a2b1525105a72b0cccde.jpg" width="200" /> <img alt="Should I do laundry or buy more clothes? #ecard" height="139" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/c1/f0/21/c1f021b6bb8162c7f778325de56ac9ad.jpg" width="200" /></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">My favorite </span><b style="text-align: left;">memory</b><span style="text-align: left;"> of the break was spending the day with my Mama and Grandma. A little coffee, a little lunch and a whole lotta shopping. Just a few of my favorite things! :) </span></div>
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Now if you haven't done it all ready...go link up with <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/">Farley</a>. </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">I hope you all are enjoying the start to 2014!</span></div>
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Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-72533737557304612332013-12-30T13:59:00.001-08:002013-12-30T14:04:47.913-08:00Fun with coordinate grids - 7 simple & engaging activities!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Before we left for the break we spend a lot of time learning about ordered pairs & the coordinate grid. This is one of my favorite math topics and my sweet kiddos loved it too!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Here are some of the activities and lessons we complete:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: magenta; font-family: inherit;">One: coordinate grids all around us...</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">I started with this chess demonstration board. Chess is big at my school. We have a big chess club and a lot of student involvement. (Such a wonderful thing--especially in an inner city school!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/27-Demonstration-Chess-Board-Black/dp/B00D8FQZCG/ref=sr_1_sc_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1388426634&sr=8-3-spell&keywords=chess+demonstartion+boards" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51h6XSg1sEL._SX425_.jpg" width="320" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">All of my kids were familiar with this board as the chess advisor uses daily. We started by placing chess pieces on the board and naming the coordinates. (I.e. g, 3). ( </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">I have to admit my kids were looking at me like I was crazy. They couldn't figure out why I was using the chess board during math time and they had a good laugh when I couldn't tell a pawn from a rook!) </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">This was an easy first step for my kiddos since they have all seen the chess board and many of them have used it.</span><br />
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Ujlvpb3fkPw/UsHqOSvpT5I/AAAAAAAAAvk/JKDFl_zxBcY/s640/blogger-image-1913387759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Ujlvpb3fkPw/UsHqOSvpT5I/AAAAAAAAAvk/JKDFl_zxBcY/s320/blogger-image-1913387759.jpg" width="296" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Later we labeled the x axis, y axis and origin.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">We also looked at a good old fashion map and the game<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hasbro-A3264-Battleship-Game/dp/B00C0ULS3G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1388426863&sr=8-1&keywords=battleship"> Battleship</a> for more examples of coordinate grids at work in our everyday life. The kids loved exploring this during center time.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: magenta; font-family: inherit;">TWO: Coordinate Grid Whiteboard</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">We went on to some direct instruction. I used this board by lakeshore. I love it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="Coordinate Grid Activity Chart" height="256" src="http://www.lakeshorelearning.com/media/images/products/large/ff714_l.jpg" width="320" /></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: inherit;">(Source:<a href="http://www.lakeshorelearning.com/seo/p%7CFF714~~.jsp"> Lakeshore Learning Website</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">This is such an easy and fun product and it comes with some fun task cards and static clings so the kids were able to practice graphing using the cards, static clings and a whiteboard marker. This is also great because the back side has all four quadrants. Great for my 5th graders and advanced 4th grader. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Because it is so hands on, I threw it in the center rotation after I was done using it for direct instruction. This was another favorite center time activity.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: magenta; font-family: inherit;">Three: Foldables</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"> We also completed these foldables.</span><br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LTc5VniC4L4/UsHrSg0_SXI/AAAAAAAAAv8/d_-U5NsoiHk/s640/blogger-image-689558816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="137" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LTc5VniC4L4/UsHrSg0_SXI/AAAAAAAAAv8/d_-U5NsoiHk/s320/blogger-image-689558816.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit; text-align: start;"> Perfect for introducing and reinforcing that academic vocabulary!</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-6gXhGZW1Kio/UsHqRJ7KBUI/AAAAAAAAAv0/dGwTEAXMYrI/s640/blogger-image-2138942623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-6gXhGZW1Kio/UsHqRJ7KBUI/AAAAAAAAAv0/dGwTEAXMYrI/s320/blogger-image-2138942623.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: magenta; font-family: inherit;">Four: Song</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">I taught my kids this little song to help them remember how to plot points:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">*to the tune of the wheels on the bus</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">The points on the grid go over and up,</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Over and up,</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Over and up.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">The points on the grid go over and up</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">All through the grid.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">I found this little guy a looonnngggg time ago so I'm not sure exactly where it originated. If you know let me know so I can give credit where credit is due. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Trust me this little trune gets stuck in your head (which is a good thing when it pertains to math!). We added hang motions too and I think that really helped my students to remember the way to graph ordered pairs. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: magenta;">Five: Riddle sheets</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">I love these little guys from Stephanie at <a href="http://teachinginroom6.blogspot.com/">Teaching in Room 6</a>. I bought these a couple of years ago and I don't see them in her store anymore so I'm glad a grabbed them when I did. </span><br />
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<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tGAaWmVrpV8/UsHrUTvH9xI/AAAAAAAAAwE/fVW0jjhMT3A/s640/blogger-image--1052957797.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tGAaWmVrpV8/UsHrUTvH9xI/AAAAAAAAAwE/fVW0jjhMT3A/s320/blogger-image--1052957797.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">I just threw these little guys into page protectors so that the kids could graph and wipe off their work for the next group. A couple copies, page protectors and white board pens = instant center. (Gotta save those copies where you can! :)) You can easily modify this for any ordered pair printable you have on hand. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">PS I just went over to check out Teaching in Room 6 and I saw that Stephanie most recent post is about another fun coordinate grid project. Check it out <a href="http://teachinginroom6.blogspot.com/2013/12/coordinate-grid-plotting-fun-find.html">here</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Six: Candy Coordinate Game</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">A few days later we played this easy game during small groups using that same little lakeshore whiteboard. It's so simple! (I modified my game from this</span><a href="http://www.lakeshorelearning.com/media/images/free_resources/teachers_corner/lesson_plans/3_4/lessonCandyGraphsFull.pdf"> idea</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"> on the Lakeshore website.) </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Just tape a handful of skittles to the whiteboard before small groups.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">(Opps! Please excuse the glare!) </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Write a variety of ordered red pairs on slips of paper and place in a jar. The slips of paper should include "skittle points" and "non-skittle points").</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Students take turns drawing an ordered pair from the jar and then plotting the ordered pairs on the coordinate grid. If the student plots a point where a skittle is located they remove the skittle and keep it (but don't eat it because its covered in sticky tape!).</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">After all of the ordered pairs have been plotted the students who have one or more skittles can choose a small prize from the prize basket.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">So easy, minimal prep and the kids were begging for more. Win- win!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">This was also easy to differentiated because the back of the whiteboard is has 4 quadrants to challenge even my most advanced little darlings and the front side has a single quadrant which is more appropriate for most of my fourth graders.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: magenta;"><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">Seven: Mystery Pictures</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">We wrapped up our mini unit with <a href="http://www.superteacherworksheets.com/winter/snowman-easy-graph_WQWQW.pdf">this</a> cute little mystery picture from <a href="http://www.superteacherworksheets.com/php_index2.html?ext=2">Super Teacher Worksheets</a>.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">This is the start of a snowman in case you couldn't tell. :)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Again this was an easy thing to differentiate because super teachers has graphing pictures at a basic, intermediate and advanced levels.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Thanks for hanging in on this looonnnggg post! i hope you found some helpful stuff!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">What do you do to teach/practice using coordinate grids????</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">I know my kiddos will need a refresher course when we get back from winter break so I am on the look out for more engaging activities. :)</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #222222;">If you found this helpful you might also might like this </span><a href="http://lattesnlaughter.blogspot.com/2013/07/5-diy-math-games-for-under-than-500.html"><span style="color: magenta;">post</span> </a><span style="color: #222222;">about some other math games centers we've been working with in class. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Enjoy your Monday! (It's so much easier to say this when I'm sitting in my PJ's and enjoying come vacation time....Hope you are enjoying your vacation time as well!) </span></div>
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Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-28666473349733976982013-12-25T18:05:00.001-08:002013-12-25T18:08:04.952-08:00Merry Christmas!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
Hope your spending this Christmas with your loved ones.<br />
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Sending you holiday greetings </div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> from (a much younger) teacher....in fact in this pic I'm the student! :) </span></div>
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-yvktymJ92FA/UruLdGThd4I/AAAAAAAAADg/UiFDpoUDG-M/s640/blogger-image--858014149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-yvktymJ92FA/UruLdGThd4I/AAAAAAAAADg/UiFDpoUDG-M/s640/blogger-image--858014149.jpg" style="max-width: 90%;" /></span></a></div>
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(My very first homemade ornament...circa 1987:) ) </div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">From my family to yours, </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!</span></div>
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- Julia </div>
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Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-18697966611689499112013-12-07T21:47:00.002-08:002013-12-07T21:52:59.983-08:00Five for Friday (A little late!) <br />
This week was kinda crazy! Lots going on but lots of fun too. I am linking up with <a href="http://doodlebugsteaching.blogspot.com/2013/12/five-for-friday-linky-party-december-6th.html">Doodle Bugs Teaching </a> for a little recap.<br />
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<a href="http://doodlebugsteaching.blogspot.com/2013/12/five-for-friday-linky-party-december-6th.html"><img height="227" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C5ipDPxNJ5w/UqD47FUW6hI/AAAAAAAAVfo/qnLm3yyCoOw/s320/fiveforfriday2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta; font-size: large;">One: New Book Love</span></b><br />
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I just ordered a bunch of books from the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=a9_sc_1?rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aenchantment+of+the+world&keywords=enchantment+of+the+world&ie=UTF8&qid=1386375084">Enchantment of the World</a> series by Scholastic.<br />
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<img alt="Displaying photo 2.JPG" height="295" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=c11a7c5415&view=fimg&th=142c04b6ff7d22bc&attid=0.3&disp=inline&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ-Emnr_XhNGooxBvSedLoKt7WpTVj-BkuHXK6Ois5r0cM9PNM_bY2M4xtFOtvICq4uPMXJ0am_HZDNZ1HAYTn7avqbMsbsiJiI6eRcVgQqhrMAeXjLoMjWvWEE&ats=1386374581461&rm=142c04b6ff7d22bc&zw&sz=w1254-h519" width="400" /></div>
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<a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=c11a7c5415&view=fimg&th=142c04b6ff7d22bc&attid=0.5&disp=inline&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ-ORDlJjQWZETsm0ihbHWHftjJSXzHEVmo5f9sau1KkpXVTqa0iTJrS2xMztxrWWyiJubhdVj5fvl1EXpxWXVa2upadNGKYD73K1v96ha1b3Qcqha1myYhBYR0&ats=1386374581461&rm=142c04b6ff7d22bc&zw&sz=w1254-h519" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Displaying photo 3.JPG" border="0" height="185" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=c11a7c5415&view=fimg&th=142c04b6ff7d22bc&attid=0.5&disp=inline&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ-ORDlJjQWZETsm0ihbHWHftjJSXzHEVmo5f9sau1KkpXVTqa0iTJrS2xMztxrWWyiJubhdVj5fvl1EXpxWXVa2upadNGKYD73K1v96ha1b3Qcqha1myYhBYR0&ats=1386374581461&rm=142c04b6ff7d22bc&zw&sz=w1254-h519" width="200" /></a>My kiddos LOVED these books! My class is VERY diverse and they really enjoyed learning about different cultures and also sharing books about their own cultures with the other students. So much fun! <br />
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<a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=c11a7c5415&view=fimg&th=142c04b6ff7d22bc&attid=0.9&disp=inline&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ9DXXq2t3aYPHZTY6eeDqc9gwTg4CltwT211ZEFo0J-1kJcsxH96tG-gGBnyWhgdBNYKOjie9CU_ubjmJbIRgWrKISBpFFyucuVbjp9d9KBu2UKrFEioz4pH_A&ats=1386375388867&rm=142c04b6ff7d22bc&zw&sz=w1254-h519" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Displaying photo 5.JPG" border="0" height="235" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=c11a7c5415&view=fimg&th=142c04b6ff7d22bc&attid=0.9&disp=inline&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ9DXXq2t3aYPHZTY6eeDqc9gwTg4CltwT211ZEFo0J-1kJcsxH96tG-gGBnyWhgdBNYKOjie9CU_ubjmJbIRgWrKISBpFFyucuVbjp9d9KBu2UKrFEioz4pH_A&ats=1386375388867&rm=142c04b6ff7d22bc&zw&sz=w1254-h519" width="320" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><b>TWO: Hanukkah</b></span><br />
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We spent some time learning about the traditions of Hanukkah. We researched the history of Hanukkah, completed a dreidel graphing project and did a lot of reading.<br />
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<img alt="Displaying photo 1.JPG" height="299" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=c11a7c5415&view=fimg&th=142c04b6ff7d22bc&attid=0.1&disp=inline&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ-vM2XxpqMey3pWYGUpRsWtgeVFjF2Kr-r0kNbm2hJysK1e5Zp8I_TpIhff9rdrvIfnfyqrLcFUOBAH2Q05bbXnhuiCmSJSsGQeZ9OY9YHbwTl8j6_XyPFLhzw&ats=1386374581461&rm=142c04b6ff7d22bc&zw&sz=w1254-h519" width="320" /></div>
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Two of our favorite books were <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Latkes-Good-Eat-Chanukah-Story/dp/061849295X/ref=sr_1_sc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1386375486&sr=8-1-spell&keywords=Lattkes+lattkes+good+to+eat">Latkes, Latkes, Good to Eat</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Too-Many-Latkes-Hanukkah-Tale/dp/0874418828/ref=sr_1_sc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1386375530&sr=8-1-spell&keywords=too+many+lattkes">Too Many Latkes</a>. We compared and contrasted the two stories. (EEK! Look at that dirty board.) :)<br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><b>Three: TpT Sale Goodies </b></span><br />
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I picked up a lot of good stuff on Monday night! We even used some of my new purchases this week....<br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reading-and-Math-Activities-for-Christmas-Hanukkah-and-Kwanzaa-171285"><img alt="Reading and Math Activities for Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa" border="0" height="200" src="http://mcdn1.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Reading-and-Math-Activities-for-Christmas-Hanukkah-and-Kwanzaa/original-171285-1.jpg" width="154" /></a> <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reindeer-Fraction-and-Decimal-Math-Tasks-Perfect-for-Holiday-Math-Centers-411662"><img alt="Reindeer Fraction and Decimal Math Tasks *Perfect for Holi" height="150" src="http://mcdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Reindeer-Fraction-and-Decimal-Math-Tasks-Perfect-for-Holiday-Math-Centers-1386144093/original-411662-1.jpg" width="200" /></a> <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Hanukkah-Thematic-Unit-Intermediate-For-Very-Busy-Teachers-457636"><img alt="Hanukkah Thematic Unit (Intermediate) For Very Busy Teachers" height="200" src="http://mcdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Hanukkah-Thematic-Unit-Intermediate-For-Very-Busy-Teachers-1386144089/original-457636-1.jpg" width="141" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><b>Four: Tater Tot Morning Muffins</b></span><br />
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<img alt="Displaying photo 1.JPG" height="320" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=c11a7c5415&view=fimg&th=142ca718618bb53d&attid=0.1&disp=inline&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ8nBYPgxIE65oV2ZowbiDR3EWkKwhbfMwbrl23n9qmqVKNVGRhkFddm_tAK-CahsCw1gLZPqS1lQ5gYCXUAgw7g53YbZvwX3Zfxm1RAAd0FV0xmzwHBeQHC0SA&ats=1386480332892&rm=142ca718618bb53d&zw&sz=w1250-h491" width="320" /></div>
Yup, there are tater tots in there. Basically a mini quiche with tater tot crust. So yummy and so easy!<br />
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I made a bunch of these over Thanksgiving break and threw them in the freezer. For the recipe check out the adorable <a href="http://www.ellaclaireinspired.com/2013/09/delicious-omelet-and-potato-breakfast.html">Ella Claire Inspired</a>. <br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><b>Five: It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! </b></span><br />
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Tree: Check!<br />
Shopping: Check!<br />
Cookies: Check! <br />
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Well, I think that is it for me. Here's<br />
to enjoying the rest of the weekend and kicking off the Christmas season! </div>
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Have a great one! </div>
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<br />Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-32025845763337585362013-11-02T14:33:00.002-07:002013-11-04T12:45:29.767-08:00November Currently <br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I'm alive!!! It's been awhile but I hope to get back to my blogging routine. Now what better way to catch up than with November's currently. (BTW, can you belive it's already November?!?!?) </span><br />
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<b>Listening</b></div>
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Between TLC, pintrest and planning my own wedding... I feel like I may have taken this whole wedding thing to an extreme. Bring it on! :) </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>Loving </b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Pretty self explanitory. Love a lazy fall day... </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>Thinking </b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Feeling lucky and blessed on my birthday weekend. Enjoying my day and anticipating a yummy early birthday dinner dinner with good friends, good friends and good wine. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>Wanting</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I'm ready for the eating and laughing to commence! Come on girlies, hurry up and get here! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Needing</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Why doesn't the cleaning fairy come on your birthday??? That would be the best present of all for this girlie. </span><br />
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<b>Yummy Pin </b><br />
How cute are these pumpkin spice latte cupcakes from the <a href="http://notsosimplehousewife.blogspot/">Not So Simple Housewife</a>?!?!? Love them!<br />
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<img alt="Starbucks inspired Pumpkin Spice latte cupcakes by Not So Simple Housewife!" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/b7/89/38/b789386437511d2839446576501a6bca.jpg" /></div>
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<a href="http://notsosimplehousewife.blogspot.ca/2011/09/pumpkin-spice-latte-cupcakes.html">Click here for the recipe</a>! </div>
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If you don't already follow me on pintrest <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/juliagulia5th/boards/">click here</a> for all things school, wedding and fashion</div>
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Don't forget to link up with<a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2013/11/november-currently.html"> Farley</a>. </div>
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<img alt="Oh' boy fourth grade" src="http://i1185.photobucket.com/albums/z343/ladybugteacher/new%20album/farleybutton.png" /></div>
Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-35623997549341398672013-09-01T12:53:00.000-07:002013-09-01T12:53:25.573-07:00Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites (Book Review) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Life has been busy! About a week befoe school started I was switched from 5th grade to a 4th/5th combo class. EKKK! So far things have been going well and I have been working my booty off to make sure that everybody's needs are met. Boy am I glad that I atteneded lots of PD this summer! It's really paid off. </div>
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I wanted to share one of the resources I have been using to help me with my planning....</div>
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I attended an amazing local conference this summer with a focus on brain research and learning. It was so fascinating and also a bit overwhelming! So much new information for this little lady's head! </div>
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A presenter at the conference commented that it is a teachers job to mold young minds and facilitate learning, yet most of us are doing this without understanding how a brain really works. Wow! That really stuck with me! </div>
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This realization led me to do my own research and eventually led me to the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Worksheets-Dont-Grow-Dendrites-Instructional/dp/1412978505/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1377375637&sr=8-1&keywords=worksheets+don%27t+grow+dendrites">Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites</a> by Marcia L. Tate. </div>
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<img height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51q9a2klxFL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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What I LOVE about this book is that it is really teacher friendly! Marcia outlines 20 research based strategies and EXPLAINS <u>how</u> and <u>why</u> each strategy is effective.<br />
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The book is divided into 20 manageable chapters (one chapeter for each staretgy). Each chapter is conciese but still packed with information. Tate begins each chapter by defining the staretgy. She goes on to explain the reserach and exactltly why the startegy works. Tate also gives examples of several lesson plans using the particular staregy. She even leaves room for the teacher reader to reflect and apply the startegy in a workbook format. <br />
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<b style="text-align: center;"><u>The 20 strategies include:</u></b><b style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"> </b><br />
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>1) Brainstorming & Discussion </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>2) Drawing and Art Work </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>3) Field Trips </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>4) Games</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>5) Graphic Organizers</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>6) Humor </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>7) Manipulatives, Experiments and Models </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>8) Metaphors & Analogies </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>9) Mnemonic Devices </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>10) Movement </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>11) Music, Rhythm, Rhyme & Rap </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>12) Project Based/Problem Based Learning </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>13) Reciprocal Teaching & Cooperative Learning </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>14) Role Play & Drama</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>15) Storytelling </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>16) Technology </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>17) Visualization </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>18) Visuals </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>19) Work Study </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>20) Writing and Journals </b></span></div>
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It is not that these are brand new, never before heard of strategies. Using these strategies is just good teaching but what this book does an excellent job doing is explaining <b>why</b> these strategies work based on brain research.<br />
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I love this video from Marcia Tate because it really explains the reasons she wrote the book and how it came to be.<br />
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This <b><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b58ofU_SVO8"><span style="color: magenta;">video</span></a></b> is actually a preview of an online course but it also has a great explanations of the brain research that backs up these strategies, as well as, clips of strategies in use in the classroom.<br />
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I really found this to be an easy and fascinating read. As I read, I kept finding myself thinking, "Oh, so that's why such and such works!" I loved the acceability of this book. Although it is researched based it does not read like a textbook.<br />
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As we begin the first weeks of school, I find myslef refering to my copy of the book. I even printed a list of the 20 startegies to keep in my plan book. Now that I have a multigrade class, I feel like having a variety of activities and teaching startegies is even more imparitive to effective teaching. So glad I found this book! : )<br />
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Have you read Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites?</div>
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What were your thoughts???? </div>
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Do you have any other resources for teachers and brain research????</div>
Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-52618155467217714242013-08-13T12:53:00.002-07:002013-08-13T13:00:26.689-07:00Back to School Blogger Exchange <div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://coveredinglitterandglue.blogspot.com/2013/08/back-to-school-blogger-exchange-linky.html"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GhUcZSDGvOE/UgWaRyzY-zI/AAAAAAAAA9M/aF2tairVL-0/s320/Blogger+Exchange+Round.png" /></a></div>
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I hooked up with <a href="http://adventuresofmssmith.blogspot.com/">Adventures of Ms. Smith</a> and <a href="http://coveredinglitterandglue.blogspot.com/">Covered in Glitter and Glue</a> for a little back to school cheer secret Santa style. Each participant was matched up with a fellow teacher. Such a fun idea! </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZbNqdIZ4q0/UVNxvHmar4I/AAAAAAAAD_k/KNC6bAbSjaM/s1600/Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Joy in the Journey" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZbNqdIZ4q0/UVNxvHmar4I/AAAAAAAAD_k/KNC6bAbSjaM/s1600/Button.png" /></a>I was matched with the lovely Jessica from <a href="http://lawlerjoyinthejourney.blogspot.com/">Joy in the Journey</a>! I was super excited to be matched with her because I already follow her<a href="http://lawlerjoyinthejourney.blogspot.com/"> blog</a> and <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Jessica-Lawler">TpT</a> store and I am always impressed with her stuff. (If you don't already, start following her, too! :) )<br />
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Jessica is great! I wasn't surprised at all when I received a super fun package from her. She def did her homework. She sent me a tone of supplies (including a folder with a dolphin....how'd she know dolphins are my favorite????) I also LOVE the the thumbs up post-its.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EJtRkcAtO8U/UgqPecfBmyI/AAAAAAAAAso/PtIjoi50lWs/s1600/dolphin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EJtRkcAtO8U/UgqPecfBmyI/AAAAAAAAAso/PtIjoi50lWs/s320/dolphin.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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She also sent me this adorable cupcake cookbook: </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4tJBYe2Jv-Q/UgqPZMa6V4I/AAAAAAAAAsg/Ohk_mGAHYLY/s1600/Cupcakes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4tJBYe2Jv-Q/UgqPZMa6V4I/AAAAAAAAAsg/Ohk_mGAHYLY/s320/Cupcakes.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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So perfect for a sweet tooth like me! </div>
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Thank you, thank you, thank you, <a href="http://lawlerjoyinthejourney.blogspot.com/">Jessica</a>!!! And a big thank you to <a href="http://adventuresofmssmith.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: left;">Adventures of Ms. Smith</a><span style="text-align: left;"> and </span><a href="http://coveredinglitterandglue.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: left;">Covered in Glitter and Glue</a><span style="text-align: left;"> for setting up this fun Back to School Exchange! </span></div>
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Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-57906234598522621202013-08-01T12:19:00.002-07:002013-08-13T12:59:58.798-07:00August Currently <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Can it really already by August????? Nooo!!!! </div>
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But August does mean it is time for a new <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2013/08/currently-august.html">currently</a>! I L-O-V-E the lined paper layout <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/">Farley</a> came up with.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g7vSeEIZS2I/Ufqt9jzzrqI/AAAAAAAAAsA/Xmx8XliZ9Wg/s1600/Currently+August+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g7vSeEIZS2I/Ufqt9jzzrqI/AAAAAAAAAsA/Xmx8XliZ9Wg/s640/Currently+August+.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>Listening....</b></span></div>
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Catching up on my shows after I have been gone for the week. </div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>Loving...</b></span></div>
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After having a busy July, its nice to have a morning of catching up on my shows, prepping some school stuff and relaxing. I love feeling productive but still staying in my jammies. :) </div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta;">Thinking...</span></b></div>
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I got engaged last week!!!! So, so excited!</div>
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<img alt="photo.JPG" height="239" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=c11a7c5415&view=att&th=1403b2e1a8b38b43&attid=0.1&disp=thd&zw" width="320" /></div>
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I spent the last few days in my hometown. Of course my mom, grandma and I have wasted no time and have started planning. So much to do....</div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta;">Wanting...</span></b></div>
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Dang! Weddings are expensive. I need some mula to throw this wedding. $$$$$ hahaha</div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta;">Needing...</span></b></div>
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With July being so busy, I am feeling a little bit behind with school stuff. 19 days and counting until the first day....I can do this, right??? </div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta;">Back to School Must Haves....</span></b></div>
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Speaking of back to school, my must haves include </div>
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<b>Astrobrights Paper </b></div>
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<b>Binders</b></div>
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I'm trying to get organized!</div>
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<img height="179" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcROwbV-pxwwSN2p5gVX8Ws_31YrD14KvazRi8PFD0tCkerd4kbi" width="320" /></div>
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<b>Caffeine </b></div>
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In any form...diet coke, chai tea, coffee!!! </div>
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I am off to check out the other currently. <span id="goog_368450316"></span><a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2013/08/currently-august.html">Go link up too</a><span id="goog_368450317"></span><span id="goog_1155292475"></span><span id="goog_1155292476"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a>! </div>
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<a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2013/08/currently-august.html"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lbPTuZrsLW8/UYHNkAslsPI/AAAAAAAAMkE/-V1smZC4haM/s320/currentlyall.jpg" /></a></div>
Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-38435189850024955442013-07-25T13:10:00.001-07:002013-07-25T13:15:08.353-07:00Throwback Thursday: Edmodo & Book Clubs <br />
Time for a little Throwback Thursday....<br />
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This originally "aired" back in October of 2012 but I was reminded of Edmodo at<a href="https://sites.google.com/site/urbanbootcampforeducators/2013-urban-boot-camp-for-educators"> Urban Boot Camp For Educators,</a> a wonderful professional development that I have been attending this week. (Seriously, such a great and affordable conference. If you are in the Bay Area check it out!) <br />
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Anyway, I thought it would be fun to share again. Edmodo is such an engaging website for students and really creates communities for students to share, discuss and interact. (So Common Core!) Have you used Edmodo????<br />
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I wanted to share s fun little resource that kids L-O-V-E. It's called <a href="http://www.edmodo.com/">Edmodo</a>. Have you heard of it????<br />
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I actually first heard about <a href="http://www.edmodo.com/">Edmodo</a> at a technology conference over the summer. It is basically like Facebook but can be used for communicating with your students online. If you check out the image below you can REALLY see the similarities to fb!<br />
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<img height="300" src="http://www.boxoftricks.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/edmodo-screenshot.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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It is a secure site, password protected and nobody else sees the info posted so there is a lot less to worry about than some other sites. To be honest, I don't remember all of the security details because the conference was in July but I do know that it was approved for our school and we are kinda strict about all that stuff!<br />
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Anyway, our 7th grade teachers have been using <a href="http://www.edmodo.com/">Edmodo </a>with great success. They even post assignments online and the students turn them in via <a href="http://www.edmodo.com/">Edmodo</a>. Since it's just like Facebook, you can use it to facilitate peer to peer discussions as well....<br />
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Which brings me to the book club. Our teeny tiny school is filled with some reluctant readers. We are using this fun <a href="http://www.edmodo.com/">Edmodo </a>site to get them excited about reading. The 6th grade teacher and myself are hosting an all girls book club for 6th, 7th and 8th graders.<br />
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The sixth grade teacher picked our first book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ninth-Ward-Jewell-Parker-Rhodes/dp/0316043087/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1349546316&sr=8-1&keywords=9th+ward+books"><u>Ninth Ward</u> by Jewell Parker</a>. It tells the story of a 12-year-old girl during Hurricane Katrina. Our shipment hasn't come in yet, but I really can't wait to start reading it next week!<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ninth-Ward-Jewell-Parker-Rhodes/dp/0316043087/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1349546316&sr=8-1&keywords=9th+ward+books"><img height="320" src="http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1267819800l/7118768.jpg" width="219" /></a></div>
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And the best part: the girls are super excited, too! We weren't sure how much interest this book club would generate since it requires the girls to do a lot of extra reading outside of school. They also have to post and discuss each chapter in addition to their normal nightly homework for school but so far the response has been great! </div>
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We've already had more than half of the middle school girls at our school join our group on Edmodo. They've all commented on the authors introduction which was posted on our Edmodo page and watched a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ah6Ys51qHOg&feature=player_embedded">video clip from youtube</a>.</div>
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The girls are already using strategies (predicting, building their schema), searching out their own info (several have commented on googling the events of Hurricane Katrina) and chit chatting about the books with their peers. </div>
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I can't wait to see where it goes from here! I am all for any tool that has our students excited about reading and discussing books --even on this three day weekend! Love, love, love! </div>
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<a href="http://novelnovice.files.wordpress.com/2011/09/city-of-orphans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://novelnovice.files.wordpress.com/2011/09/city-of-orphans.jpg" width="211" /></a>If you would like to here more about our school's use of Edmodo for book clubs, <span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://lattesnlaughter.blogspot.com/2012/12/edmoto-book-club-city-of-orphans.html">CLICK HERE</a></b></span>! :) This post discusses our experience using Edmodo when reading<u> City of Orphans</u> by Avi.<br />
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I am looking forward incorporating more technology, including Edmodo into my classroom this year! Especially after attending this conference for a second time.<br />
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How 'bout you??? How will you be using technology in your classroom this year? I'm hunting for more ideas. :) </div>
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Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-57536866572759011102013-07-19T12:02:00.002-07:002013-07-19T12:09:01.427-07:00Favorite Pins Friday <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This was the first full week of my summer vacation that I have been in town. I thought it would be my week to catch up on housework and organizing....turns out it was actually my week to catch up on all things pintrest and Target. So much pinning going on in my house this week. (Also, a little to much shopping!)<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xd3LV3oYLFc/UdOqs85EOFI/AAAAAAAAgWE/dgeHFyJtiTw/s1600/FavoritePinsButton.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xd3LV3oYLFc/UdOqs85EOFI/AAAAAAAAgWE/dgeHFyJtiTw/s200/FavoritePinsButton.png" style="text-align: center;" width="200" /></a></div>
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I am linking up with <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/">First Grade Parad</a>e to share my favorite pins of the week. Such a fun linky idea, by the way!<br />
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First up...</div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/58406126390661546/"><img alt="Siracha, honey, Lime Chicken Skewers Ingredients 3 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons honey 1 tablespoon vegetable oil juice of one lime 2 garlic cloves, minced 1-2 teaspoon Siracha red pepper flakes, to taste 2 tablespoon cilantro 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breasts Instructions In a small bowl, combine your ingredients," height="320" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a3/e8/6f/a3e86f7f70035e37afb151cf0efa0672.jpg" width="238" /></a><br />
(<a href="http://www.pincookie.com/siracha-honey-lime-chicken-skewers/">Source</a>)<br />
<b style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: magenta;">Siracha, Honey, Lime Chicken Skewers</span></b><br />
These are so yummy! I made them last night with some grilled veggies and rice. Perfect summer meal! </div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/58406126390125738/"><img alt="Love this idea!!! build a library for a new baby!" height="400" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinimg.com/736x/86/42/2b/86422b7ac83e5ff4d0d9859efdbd700d.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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(<a href="http://www.peanutblossom.com/blog/2011/07/building-a-childrens-home-library.html/">Source</a>) </div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>Adorable Baby Shower gift idea! </b></span></div>
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Now I just need some of my friends to start popin' out babies! :) </div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/58406126390662982/"><img alt="Alternative to putting down name tags! So LOVE this! @Stephanie Close Close Swims @Jennifer Milsaps L Baker" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinimg.com/736x/0d/08/3b/0d083bb94a977c33b24f6f0652bbf2d7.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://timeoutsandtootsierolls.blogspot.ca/2012/11/no-more-name-plates.html">(Source) </a></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta;">Paint Pens instead of Name Plates </span></b></div>
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Love this idea from <a href="http://timeoutsandtootsierolls.blogspot.ca/2012/11/no-more-name-plates.html">Timeouts and Tootsie Rolls</a>! I too, despise name plates....they always seem to be more trouble than their worth.<br />
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<img alt="If You Cant be Kind...." height="320" src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinimg.com/736x/e8/bb/a1/e8bba12850c3649498c89b5a39472ce3.jpg" width="240" /></div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://www.swtblessings.com/2013/05/if-you-cant-be-kind.html">(Source) </a></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta;">Direct...but still sweet. </span></b></div>
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Love this! I will definitely be hanging up this signage in my classroom!<br />
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I also really love this: </div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/58406126390582875/"><img alt="be a leader, not a boss" height="400" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/94/75/a7/9475a744c47f67ffc6758bc768b26ff5.jpg" width="292" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta;">Leader Vs. Boss </span></b></div>
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I couldn't find the original source but I think that it is brilliant! Such a tricky concept to learn how to be a true leader. I plan on using this as a lesson starter the first week of school. Just gotta pretty it up a bit! :)<br />
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And finally...</div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>I can relate, Sista! </b></span></div>
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<b>If you don't already follow me on Pintrest click <a href="http://pinterest.com/juliagulia5th/boards/">HERE</a> and follow along! Leave the link to your pintrest in the comment section and I'll follow you too. You can never have enough boards to follow! </b></div>
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<b>Have a great weekend! :) </b></div>
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Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-41792494783587726252013-07-18T12:57:00.000-07:002013-07-18T12:57:58.351-07:00Throw Back Thursday w/FREE Back 2 School Forms! :) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm linking up with <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2013/07/throwback-thursday_18.html">The First Grade Parade</a> for Throw Back Thursday. </div>
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<a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2013/07/throwback-thursday_18.html"><img height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S7HnW_C0SpM/UeeNqdnSMTI/AAAAAAAAgts/azyBNb5lVzg/s200/throwbackthursdaybutton.jpg" style="text-align: center;" width="200" /></a><br />
Time to REWIND......Since back to school has really been on my mind, here's a post from last September at the very beginning of this little old blog.<br />
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Hi all! And happy Friday!!! So glad it's the weekend. That being said, this is the first Friday that I am not completely EXHAUSTED. I feel like I am starting to find my stride (and I am hoping I didn't just jinx myself!).<br />
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I went to a professional development meeting yesterday and the presenter was great. We were discussing starting the year off and the importance of creating strong relationships with our students and their families in order to have a year that runs smoothly.<br />
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It got me thinking about how my own approach to creating relationships with parents has evolved over time. I am still new-ish to teaching (this will be my third year) and the longer I teach the more time I spend reaching out to parents.<br />
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I have such a great respect for my parents! I teach at a charter school in a very urban community in a low income neighborhood. All of my parents work very hard to provide for their children and for most their child's education is a BIG priority. I am lucky in that regard! I want them to know how much I care about their students and want to keep them informed in regards to their child's progress academically, behaviorally and socially. But with all of the other demands I face as a teacher coupled with the language barriers and crazy work schedules of my parents, building a relationship takes a conscious effort on my part. I do not work at a school where students are walked on to the schoolyard and parents are waiting after school to speak with the teacher. That is just not reality for me.<br />
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Anyway, I just wanted to share a few ways that I found to build a relationship with the parents...<br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Getting-to-know-your-child-Parent-Form-for-the-Beginning-of-the-Year-778351"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H8n-hkaYyZg/UFK2nxPXXfI/AAAAAAAAAVc/gaJliOrs7cA/s320/Getting+to+know+your+child.jpg" width="240" /></a><span id="goog_1426004694"></span><span id="goog_1426004695"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
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<b>1) "Getting To Know Your Child"</b><br />
Along with the traditional parent letter, I send home this form at the beginning of the year. I was really touched by the thoughtful words from many of the parents. I was truly able to get to know a different side of each student and it really opened the lines of communication with parents. <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Getting-to-know-your-child-Parent-Form-for-the-Beginning-of-the-Year-778351"><span style="color: magenta;"><b>Click HERE to get your own copy! </b></span></a><br />
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<b>2) Weekly Reports</b><br />
I send home these quick little reports every Friday. This little check-in totally prevents any big surprises when grades come out/parent conference time. I love, love this resource from Stephanie at <a href="http://teachinginroom6.blogspot.com/">Teaching in Room 6.</a> You can find this freebie in her TpT store <b><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Weekly-Report-Form" style="color: magenta;"><span style="color: magenta;">here</span></a>.</b> Added bonus---Stephanie has a Spanish version as well! Really helps me since at least half of my parents speak Spanish and I do not.<br />
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<b>3) Good Notes Home</b><br />
I am sure there is a cuter name for these little guys but in my class we call them good notes and you would be surprised at how hard my big bad 5th graders will work to earn one of these little things!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PmsK8-QnziE/UFO7tx6NEpI/AAAAAAAAAWI/wrquZDW3QrQ/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PmsK8-QnziE/UFO7tx6NEpI/AAAAAAAAAWI/wrquZDW3QrQ/s320/Slide1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I use a clip chart for behavior management and when I child has an excellent day and makes it to the top of the behavior chart they receive a note to take home to their families. About half way through last year...after 6 months of scrambling to complete notes before the 3 o'clock bell, I came up with these little guys. I usually try to add a little more of a personal note on the back but this little template is a huge time saver. :<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2FWeKRjubR4/UFO7uWuZ2VI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/DajW6eh74GE/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2FWeKRjubR4/UFO7uWuZ2VI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/DajW6eh74GE/s320/Slide2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Of course, if they have a hard day they also have a note that they take home for their parents, too. I have designed this "Think About It" form as a reflection for poor choices.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;"><b><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Free-notes-to-be-used-with-any-behaviorclip-chart-778425">To get a copy of the notes click here.</a></b></span><br />
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These little notes will work with any behavior chart but if you are shopping for a new behavior chart you may be interested in this little guy in my store. Only $2.00!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1n2dWApbtow/UehD4cJ6RcI/AAAAAAAAArY/IccOtHEUTFA/s1600/polkadot+2+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1n2dWApbtow/UehD4cJ6RcI/AAAAAAAAArY/IccOtHEUTFA/s320/polkadot+2+.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">What do you do to make contact with parents and families at the beginning of the year????</span></b></div>
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Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-83720397359799271562013-07-17T11:49:00.001-07:002013-07-17T19:26:18.645-07:005 DIY Math Games for Under $5I was lucky enough to "preview" my next years' class by teaching summer school. At our little charter school summer school is HIGHLY encouraged and about 90% of my new students attended. They are seriously the sweetest bunch of kids! I can't wait to have them in my class for real.<br />
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Over the course of our month long summer school session, I was able to get a pretty good idea of my new students' skills. They are smart little boogers and their 4th grade teacher is <u>amazing</u> so they are pretty well prepared for 5th grade but some students are still struggling with mastering their multiplication and division facts.<br />
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As far as I am concerned multiplication and division fluency are nonnegotiable for 5th grade. Without fluency in these facts fractions, long division and all things fifth grade are way harder than they need to be.<br />
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During summer school I also noticed that they were <u>highly </u>motivated by games and any hands on activity. (No big surprise there!) So a I set forth on a mission yesterday to create a few new games and activities that I can use in small groups, during centers or during after school tutoring to help build fact fluency with my students.<br />
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I'm on a budget (aren't we all!) so I used a lot of what I had on hand and got the rest at the Dollar Tree and the Dollar Spot @ Target.<br />
<span style="color: magenta;"><b><br /></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">1: Multiplication Beach Ball </span></b></span><br />
An oldie but a goodie! I have used a variation of this game for many different subjects and skills<b>. </b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qKNftmh3Zyc/UebjN1aI3JI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/rzqr-_gvXFE/s1600/photo+(61).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qKNftmh3Zyc/UebjN1aI3JI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/rzqr-_gvXFE/s320/photo+(61).JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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<b>Variation 1: Silent Ball </b><br />
Perfect for rainy day recess!<br />
Students have to be silent (duh! Silent Ball!) and toss the ball to classmates. When a classmate catches the ball they find the equation closest to each thumb. That way the students will have two multiplication sentences to read and solve. For example, a student may catch the beach ball and find 12x2 closest to his right thumb and 7x9 closest to his left thumb. He reads each number sentence and tells the answer<b>. </b><br />
If the student is incorrect or if he speaks, laughs, make any noise while he does not have the ball he must sit down. The last man standing wins.<br />
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<b>Variation 2: Rolling Beach Ball</b><br />
Same scenario as silent ball but students sit on the floor in a circle and take turns rolling the ball across the circle to one another.<br />
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<b>Variation 3: Hot Potato </b><br />
Play like a regular Hot Potato Game but the student holding the ball when the music stops, must read two of the multiplication problems and tell the answers.<br />
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<b>Bonus:</b> I also sometimes use this as a different way to excuse my students for lunch. I toss that ball to students who are ready for lunch and sitting quietly. They catch the ball, read and answer their two problems and go to lunch. It's amazing how quickly this quiets the rest of the kids down and encourages them to be ready to be excused too! :)<br />
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<b>Total cost: 0.99 </b><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><b>2. Multiplication Memory </b></span><br />
Such an easy DIY and a familiar game to all.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RXrb1hTFzOc/UebjUlWqQrI/AAAAAAAAAqs/POatcXLHLN8/s1600/photo+%252864%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RXrb1hTFzOc/UebjUlWqQrI/AAAAAAAAAqs/POatcXLHLN8/s320/photo+%252864%2529.JPG" width="238" /></a></div>
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I found these memory cards in Targets dollar spot a couple of weeks ago. In order to make them 5th grade friendly I just used a sharpie to add a math fact to half of the deck and the product to the other half. So simple!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MrhF4BPO8Lk/UebjQbpcshI/AAAAAAAAAqc/lKlGIACNAWU/s1600/photo+%252862%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MrhF4BPO8Lk/UebjQbpcshI/AAAAAAAAAqc/lKlGIACNAWU/s200/photo+%252862%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
This activity is a little easier because the pictures give a big hint but it will be the perfect game for a couple of my struggling kiddos who are really lacking confidence in their ability to be successful in math. These self -correcting matching cards will be great for these students and provide the challenge of memorizing the location of the cards on the board.<br />
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41yGmaCYRsL._SY300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41yGmaCYRsL._SY300_.jpg" width="133" /></a><b>Total cost: $1.00</b><br />
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<b><br /></b><b><span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">3. Multiplication War </span></b><br />
I have the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Math-War-Multiplication-Game-Cards/dp/0887432875">store bought version of Math War </a>and my students were slightly obsessed with it over the summer. At under $3.00, it's definitely worth the money to pick up a couple of sets for your classroom. My own sets have lasted for at least 2 years.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aYfifaJRMf0/UebjV8jZ38I/AAAAAAAAAq4/pwECLWCPbyI/s1600/photo+%252866%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aYfifaJRMf0/UebjV8jZ38I/AAAAAAAAAq4/pwECLWCPbyI/s200/photo+%252866%2529.JPG" width="149" /></a>If you are looking for an even more economical way to play Math War make your own cards! At the end of summer school my students were still crazy about Math War so we set out to create our own war cards. Each student made their own set to take home for the summer. ----------><br />
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Each set required 50-75 index cards depending on the number of facts that needed practice. There favorite part was creating the Wild Cards. Not sure what is so exciting about that, but if it gets them excited for practicing multiplication facts I am all for it! Hopefully they are practicing as we speak!<br />
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I made my own back up set with these fun neon cards I found at the Dollar Tree.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cBJdju-9HyA/UebjX8iDZxI/AAAAAAAAArE/lzsaRhSIfTE/s1600/photo+%252867%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cBJdju-9HyA/UebjX8iDZxI/AAAAAAAAArE/lzsaRhSIfTE/s200/photo+%252867%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">4. Zap It! </span></b><br />
I found this fun game via pintrest. <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/58406126390582812/">Here</a> is the original pin.<br />
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It's so simple and I know my kids are going to love it! You only need popsicle sticks and a jar to make this one. You can find the adorable label at<a href="http://mrsyoungsexplorers.blogspot.com/2012/07/zap-it-math-game.html"> Mrs. Young's Explorer</a>s. So cute!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--OG7G6un_GQ/UebjRqA9qnI/AAAAAAAAAqk/vyqQvCHyWec/s1600/photo+%252863%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--OG7G6un_GQ/UebjRqA9qnI/AAAAAAAAAqk/vyqQvCHyWec/s320/photo+%252863%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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She also has a great explanation of the game on her blog as well. Basically students take turns pulling sticks and reading and answering each multiplication fact. If they get the answer wrong the stick goes back in the jar. If they are correct they keep the stick. But watch out! If a "Zap It!" stick is pulled, all of the sticks must be returned to the jar. </div>
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<b> Total Cost: Free </b></div>
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<b>(I had all of the supplies!)</b><br />
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<b><span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">5. Multiplication Checkers </span></b><br />
Another pin-inspired game...<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/58406126390431357/">Here </a>is the original pin. Obviously I modified it to use multiplication facts.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6MCWEPO2ZyM/UebjV8WaCkI/AAAAAAAAAq8/qRw_tyLSZ9c/s1600/photo+%252865%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6MCWEPO2ZyM/UebjV8WaCkI/AAAAAAAAAq8/qRw_tyLSZ9c/s400/photo+%252865%2529.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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Same rules as regular checkers for this one, except that each time a player makes a move they must read and answer a multiplication problem.<br />
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I used a dollar store checkers board. Not gonna lie, it's not that sturdy but I think if I cover it with contact paper it will last through the year. </div>
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<b>Total Cost: $1.00</b><br />
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So there you have it! Five multiplication games/centers for under 5 bucks ($3.99 to be exact!). Now that I have my activities set up, I am planning on making variations of each game. I'll be making division games and maybe finding ways to adapt these games for other math concepts too. Oh the possibilities.....</div>
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Now that was a long blog post! I hope that you found something useful here. What do you do to improve math fact fluency in your own classroom???? Please share in a comment below. I am <u>always</u> looking for new ideas! </div>
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Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com49tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-49776179940850724972013-07-15T09:32:00.002-07:002013-07-15T09:34:10.433-07:00Summer Days & Monday Made It <div>
Hope your summer has been going well. Mine has been excellent! :) After teaching summer school for the first month of summer, I took a physical and mental break from all things teacher and spent a week doing a whole lotta nothing. </div>
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I spent my relaxing time in this beautiful place with my beautiful family. </div>
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My grandparents, mom and uncles have been coming to Clear Lake, CA since they were babies and now the fourth generation of our family is enjoying this special place. We spent a week in cabins lakeside with 25 of our closest family members. Lots of time floating, boating, talking and laughing. </div>
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And with my family, lots of wine drinking is also a given......Of course we also had to find a lakeside winery to visit. (Pretty sure this is one of the ONLY wineries you can boat to!). </div>
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We just docked our boat down on the lake and walked up to amazing wine and a great view! Gotta love that! :) </div>
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We also did a whole lotta eating too. Take a look at what my uncle whipped up: </div>
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These were amazing grilled chicken sandwiches with Saracha sauce and avocados with a side of grilled corn on the cob and grilled nectarines for dessert. He even grilled lemons and limes to squeeze over the top. Delish! Obviously we don't mess around when it comes to food! :) </div>
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Speaking of food.....Time for my Monday Made It! I'm linking up with<a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/"> Tara</a> <a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/">from Fourth Grade Frolics</a> for her adorable linky! :) </div>
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Today, I want to share my favorite salads. Now, I am NOT creative or even skilled when it comes to cooking, but I can slice and dice and I do know what flavors I like. And I L-O-V-E this salad. </div>
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It is a standby in my kitchen. I made it last week to share at the lake. I also love to make a big version and keep it in the fridge for a quick work lunch. Being as I am not a fancy-smancy cook, I don't really have a recipe but still wanted to share. I hope my directions make sense! :) </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Quinoa & Veggie Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Here's what you'll need: </span></b></div>
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1 cup uncooked <b>quinoa</b> </div>
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1 can <b>black beans</b> (rinsed and drained) </div>
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1 bunch of <b>cilantro</b></div>
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A generous helping of a variety of <b>veggies</b> (I have used red peppers, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions and what ever else I have laying in the fridge that day.) </div>
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<b>Cook the quinoa </b>according for the directions on the package and let cool in fridge. </div>
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<b>Rinse and drain the black beans. Defrost corn if using frozen. </b></div>
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<b>Slice and dice the veggies</b>. I used 1/4 of a red pepper, a couple tablespoons of red onion, a handful of cherry tomatoes tomatoes, 1/2 a cucumber and chopped the cilantro for the dressing. You can add or sub any vegetables you have on hand. </div>
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<b>Mix</b> the dressing using olive oil, salt and lime. I do all of this to taste. Then I throw in the cilantro at the last minute. </div>
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<b>Toss the salad</b>. Combine the quinoa, beans, corn and veggies in a large bowl. Add the dressing.</div>
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***PS sorry for the poor quality photos. I am definetly NOT a food blogger. Hahaha***</div>
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Now that I am back from my teacher break, I am eager to get busy and start dreaming about my classroom. I am off to Target and Michael's to get the creative teacher side of me revved up again.<a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/"> I'll be stopping by some of the other Monday Made It posts for some inspiration too</a>. </div>
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Have a great day! :) </div>
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Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-40665505800270773772013-07-02T12:19:00.004-07:002013-07-02T12:19:45.760-07:00Blog Lovin'So apparently I have been living under a rock (or just spending all of my time locked in my summer school classroom) and didn't know much about <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/">Blog Lovin'</a>. I had heard it mentioned here and there but had not yet investigated or jumped on the <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/">Blog Lovin' </a>bandwagon.<br />
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That is until this morning! I just signed up with <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/">Blog Lovin' </a>and am already seeing such value in this feature. So nice to have all my favs at my finger tips. I am also loving the app! This is perfect for summer travel. I will be hanging at the lake next week and thanks to the app, I will now be able to access my favorite blogs with my ipad and won't have to lug around my laptop to do some blog reading in the evenings.<br />
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To follow my blog on Blog Lovin', click below.<br />
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/5208359/lattes-amp-laughter"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" height="320" src="http://i1280.photobucket.com/albums/a481/melclem7/ScreenShot2013-06-19at94405AM_zpsd2f1d8b3.png?t=1371660635" width="256" /></a></div>
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I'm linking up with<a href="http://corkboardconnections.blogspot.com/2013/07/bloghunt.html"> Laura Candler's Corkboard Connections </a> as she hosts a blog hunt! Such a fun idea and a great way to find new blogs. Don't forget to follow your new blog finds with Blog Lovin'!<br />
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<a href="http://corkboardconnections.blogspot.com/2013/07/bloghunt.html"><img height="400" src="http://www.lauracandler.com/images/bloghunt.png" width="328" /></a></div>
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Let the blog hunt begin! :) </div>
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Click on this cute little bear to link up too! </div>
Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-87237072591878781922013-07-01T15:48:00.001-07:002013-07-01T20:30:57.852-07:00Made it Monday (And a FREEBIE!) I'm finally linking up with Tara from <a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/">Fourth Grade Frolic</a>s for my first Made it Monday of the summer.<br />
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Is it just me or is the summer flying by???? I have a feeling that teaching summer school has something to do with my feelings! But now summer school is now officially over. I t was a fast and furious three weeks! I really had a sweet, sweet class though, and we were busy every hour of the day.<br />
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Now that it is over, I am finally getting a chance to pretty-up some of my activities from our quick three weeks. Although I have about 3 million products in the works, I only finished one in time for this linky and its FREE!!! :) </div>
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Clickity-Clack on the image and download a way! </div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Lets-get-acquainted-Icebreakers-Get-to-Know-You-Games-751853"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ey6rF4OhX38/UdIGeecK7-I/AAAAAAAAAoM/jhFcbREAjgM/s400/Slide1.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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I hope you can enjoy using it in the fall! </div>
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Until then enjoy your summer, teacher friends! </div>
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PS Don't forget to link up with <a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/">Tara</a>, too! </div>
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<br />Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-32593710947855181662013-06-04T15:54:00.000-07:002013-06-05T12:45:50.128-07:00Disney & Social Studies??? Since I've been away for awhile, I wanted to rewind a bit and share some of my lessons that I meant to blog about but never quite got around to during the school year.<br />
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In the mix of testing we also started our Colonial Times Unit. (One of my favs!) We spent a lot of time talking about Jamestown (partially because I visited Jamestown last summer and had some fun resources that I brought home with me!)<br />
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Let me first preface this in saying that I completely understand that Disney's Pocahontas<br />
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To start of the discussion about Jamestown I started off by using this movie clip form Disney's Pocahontas<br />
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(Yes, again, I know this movie is NOT historically accurate, but it was a great hook!): </div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyhTnPVvmktS0OxJLV-IdEcHLByuVw8Q2CeoVv3YRPhv0gFj4RjTLxYwjxu-YvEjTmyPc9uMB10A9ueerw1ZQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
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The clip is only about two minutes long so we actually watched it several times. </div>
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<b>Round 1: </b></div>
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The first time we watched just to watch it no expectations. The students then pair-shared with there neighbors and discussed what the video clip was about. Lost of students recognized the clip. "I've seen this before!" </div>
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<b>Round 2: </b></div>
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Before playing the video for a second time I asked the kids to focus on making OBSERVATIONS. I was clear that these should be observations and NOT inferences. The students were supposed to look for the who and what when and where and why of the video. Some observations: "They're are getting on a boat", "I see mostly men", "They are in a city". </div>
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After discussing the observations they could make inferences: "I think they are leaving England because of the flag on the ship and also because of their accents." Some students also made predictions: "It looks like the mean are the only ones going because they are kissing the women and children goodbye. I think they might be going to work for the Virginia Company." </div>
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<b>Round 3: </b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vmc7xW1AWBg/Ua5vfcgMFfI/AAAAAAAAAns/qgiw_DmcR7Q/s1600/photo+(13).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vmc7xW1AWBg/Ua5vfcgMFfI/AAAAAAAAAns/qgiw_DmcR7Q/s320/photo+(13).jpg" width="238" /></a>This time as we played the movie they were given the lyrics and told to highlight anything that was repeated. From this they gathered lots of information: gold, Virginia Company, New World. Again, they had time to discuss this with their neighbors. </div>
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After 3 rounds of the video clip and discussions (all of which took about 15 minutes) we were ready to dive into our social studies books. My students were deeply engaged (which is not usually the case when we open up our textbooks). </div>
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As we read the information about Jamestown, the students filled out a graphic organizer. They did an excellent job comprehending the information in the textbook and were quick to point out the historical inaccuracies in Disney's version. </div>
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<b>Round 4:</b> </div>
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After the reading, I had them watch the video one final time, this time looking for specifics like the date of the voyage. </div>
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After this initial lesson, the students completed <a href="http://www.readworks.org/sites/default/files/720_colonization_and_revolutionary_war_jamestown--passage.pdf"><b>this</b></a> reading comprehension sheet from<b> <a href="http://redworks.org/">Redworks.org</a></b>. I love double dipping with reading comprehension in the content areas and this site is great for that! </div>
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We also spent time working on some of the Jamestown computer lab activities I blogged about <<a href="http://www.lattesnlaughter.blogspot.com/2013/03/jamestown.html"><b>HERE</b></a>>. </div>
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We completed Jamestown back in Mid March and April but the students were still talking about it as we wrapped up the year last week. I will call that a success!</div>
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Hope you are all on summer break and enjoying yourselves! If your still in school I hope you can see the light at the end of the tunnel! :) </div>
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<a href="//pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fkentbrew%2F6851755809%2F&media=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm8.staticflickr.com%2F7027%2F6851755809_df5b2051c9_z.jpg&description=Next%20stop%3A%20Pinterest" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="above"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a>Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-25783223387567280272013-06-02T20:24:00.001-07:002013-06-05T12:49:08.229-07:00June Currently <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been a little MIA lately but summer is (finally!) here so I am BACK! :) I'm linking up with the ever popular <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/">Farley</a> for the <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2013/06/june-currently.html">June Currently</a>. </div>
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<b><i>Explanations:</i></b> </div>
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Listening to Arrest & Development...and have been since Monday. :) </div>
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Loving that I am officially on summer break. Our last day was Friday and I have been living it up (and sleeping a lot) since the final bell rang. :) </div>
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BUT...</div>
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I'm thinking about Summer School which starts in just a week. EEEK!!!! </div>
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This should help with my want: <b>more funds</b>. Who am I kidding, I always want more funds but with all of the quick trips and mini vacays I have planned the extra funds are really a necessity. Work hard, play hard, right??? (And don't feel too bad for me because summer school is only 3 weeks.)</div>
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Bringing me to my 3 vacay essentials.....</div>
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1) <span style="color: magenta;"><b>Us Weekly</b></span> --A guilty pleasure of mine which I enjoy so much more if read by a lake, pool, beach or other body of water. </div>
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2) A <b><span style="color: magenta;">floatie</span></b> for said lake, pool, beach or other body of water. This one is my fav. It's from Target and super cheap, too! </div>
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<a href="http://www.target.com/p/intex-pink-floating-seat-47-x38-x11/-/A-13748792#guest-reviews"><img alt="Intex Pink Floating Seat 47"x38"x11" " height="320" src="http://img2.targetimg2.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/13/74/13748792.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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3) <b><span style="color: magenta;">AC </span></b> If I'm inside I want to be cool....too bad my summer school classroom does not have AC. Seriously! No, AC. I do live in the SF Bay Area so it doesn't get hotter than 80 degrees but still....a little cool air would be nice! </div>
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Hope you are all enjoying your first days of summer or your last days of school! </div>
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<br />Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-32934021839799515722013-05-06T17:51:00.002-07:002013-06-05T12:49:33.811-07:00Cards for Hospitalized Children Today my kids and I spent about an hour of our time making cards for children who are hospitalized. The cards my kiddos made will be sent to <a href="http://www.cardsforhospitalizedkids.com/">Cards for Hospitalized Kids</a>. They will then distribute the cards to hospitals like St. Jude's and Shriner's. This is a great organization that was started by a high school student!<br />
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It always breaks my heart to hear about sick children and makes me feel a bit helpless. How can I help???? Although these cards might not seem like much, I hope that we brighten these children's day. It reminds me of this quote:<br />
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<img alt="Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love. #Quote http://www.facebook.com/sharethehappyfeeling" height="400" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinimg.com/550x/2b/51/7d/2b517dbabc1b332b21ee8d8255190021.jpg" width="296" /></div>
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It made my heart happy to see my students working so hard on their cards and really thinking about the child who would be receiving it. \<br />
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This would be a great activity to do with your students, church group, girl scouts, etc. Pass the word along. :)<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">For more info about sending cards, check <a href="http://www.cardsforhospitalizedkids.com/"> <span style="color: magenta;">here</span></a>! </span></b></div>
Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-65871276509269241412013-05-05T11:25:00.002-07:002013-05-05T11:26:13.879-07:00Currently <div>
Happy Cinco de Mayo, all! </div>
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Well, I'm a little late to the fiesta but here's my May Currently:<br />
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Anyone else feeling that end of the year crunch?!?!?</div>
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I am so ready for summer but I have about a million and one activities I want to throw in over the next few weeks. (Were outta school in 25 days....) Not to mention the fact that I still need to plan the end of the year field trip and figure out the end of the year party stuff. So I sit here with my coffee cup (ready for a refill) and my laptop planning away....</div>
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Good thing I will be relaxing next weekend in one of my favorite places, Chico, California. </div>
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I will be here: </div>
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<img alt="An early spring scene at the pool at One Mile in Bidwell Park, Chico." src="http://sacramentovalleyphotos.com/gallery/images/2010_0407_027.jpg" /></div>
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<a href="http://sacramentovalleyphotos.com/gallery/image.asp?image=2010_0407_027"><b><span style="color: magenta;">SOURCE </span></b></a></div>
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And Here: </div>
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<img height="266" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7028/6408222491_08dfc7ddca_b.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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(See more gorgeous shots of the market from <a href="http://waywardspark.com/">Wayward Spark</a> <a href="http://waywardspark.com/chico-farmers-market/"><span style="color: magenta;"><b> HERE</b></span></a>) </div>
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And no trip to Chico would be complete with out a stop here: </div>
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<a href="http://www.5thstreetsteakhouse.com/menu"><img alt="5th Street Menu" src="http://www.5thstreetsteakhouse.com/images/menu.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://www.5thstreetsteakhouse.com/menu">SOURCE</a></span></div>
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I'm excited!! Can you tell?!?!? :) Our annual May Chico trip always makes it feel like summer is truly here! So nice to take a break from the foggy Bay Area weather and head to my college home for a littlle R&R and summer sun! </div>
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What do you have up your sleeves these last weeks of school???</div>
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Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-59089869463779712582013-04-29T19:59:00.000-07:002013-04-29T20:00:44.508-07:00Noodles & Marshmallows<div>
Now, that testing is officially done, we are having lots of fun and getting excited about learning again.</div>
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*Sigh* </div>
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All is right in the world. </div>
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With the testing season Social Studies has been pushed to the side. We were too busy prepping and reviewing and prepping some more. But now we are back in the game and diving head first into the American Revolution. (My favorite!) </div>
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I have a couple of group projects in mind for our new SS unit and thought that we needed some review with group expectations so I've planned a couple of activities for the week. I'm hoping these will refresh our expectations when working in a group and give us some time to reconnect with classmates. </div>
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Today's focus: <b><span style="color: magenta;">TEAMWORK </span></b></div>
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We defined teamwork (working cooperatively to meet a common goal) and completed a graphic organizer that detailed what teamwork, looks like and sounds like. </div>
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Then the kiddos got to work! In groups they worked towards a common goal: building towers using spaghetti noodles, mini-marshmallows and play dough. I got this idea from<a href="http://www.schcounselor.com/2009/10/spaghetti-marshmallows-and-cooperation.html"> Danielle</a> @ <a href="http://www.schcounselor.com/2009/10/spaghetti-marshmallows-and-cooperation.html">School Counselor Blog</a>.</div>
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It was so nice to see the kids working together and problem solving. As a class they set a goal of building towers that were @ least 15 inches high. Which is pretty tricky with the delicate noodles! </div>
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The tower below ended up being a windmill. So creative! :) </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pgUhDobZQHk/UX8qOAHHIkI/AAAAAAAAAl8/Sxk3XgYJavw/s1600/playdough.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pgUhDobZQHk/UX8qOAHHIkI/AAAAAAAAAl8/Sxk3XgYJavw/s320/playdough.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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When we got back to class we reflected on how our groups showed teamwork. </div>
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I'll call this one a success! What team building activities do you use in your class???</div>
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Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-35957008495985810492013-03-30T13:37:00.002-07:002013-04-29T20:01:14.822-07:00Five on Friday <div>
This week was a short one for me...only 4 days. Woohoo! But somehow we crammed a TON into those 4 little days. I'm linking up with Teaching Doodle Bugs for a recap. </div>
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<a href="http://doodlebugsteaching.blogspot.com/"><img alt="fiveforfriday" height="263" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gWBBeANJew8/UVW9lOLD15I/AAAAAAAAR8Y/_6tQnnINlvw/fiveforfriday_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>1) Fun with Easter Eggs</b></span></div>
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<img height="236" src="https://mail-attachment.googleusercontent.com/attachment/u/0/?ui=2&ik=c11a7c5415&view=att&th=13dbce3ddb91ddaa&attid=0.1&disp=inline&safe=1&zw&saduie=AG9B_P9xZmYbsLHBRYfjWTjOZwrJ&sadet=1364674379885&sads=X0zqYl_MIrVNeX-9n2Z23M_vt2c&sadssc=1" width="320" /></div>
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Did you see <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Easter-Egg-Math-Freebie?utm_campaign=NL142March&utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=email">this </a>super fun freebie from <a href="http://thehappyteachertpt.blogspot.com/">The Happy Teacher</a> in the teachers pay teachers newsletter last Sunday??? </div>
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I love that it it is truly a product that can be used with any grade level. The example shows the activity as away to practice adding whole numbers. My students worked on adding decimals and had a great time. </div>
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Earlier in the week we also used the plastic eggs for test prep. I filled the eggs with test questions and they answered the questions with partners. Much more fun than traditional test prep. </div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>2) Peeps</b></span> </div>
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I sent my kids home with this sweet treat:</div>
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(<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/187392034467373136/">pintrest inspired of course</a>!)</div>
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<img src="http://distilleryimage11.instagram.com/284b67fa997511e2af9822000a1f9331_6.jpg" /></div>
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Of course mine aren't as beautiful as the pintrest version (especially with the glare!) but my kiddos were still thrilled with the sugary goodness. :) </div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>3) Observation</b></span> </div>
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I had a formal observation this week. We were told that they would be looking for our use differentiated instruction which was one of the things I've been trying to work on using more this year. </div>
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By the way, I ordered this book a few weeks ago and I'm loving it! Lots of great stuff...</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Differentiation-Action-Research-Supported-Differentiated-Instruction/dp/0439650917/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1364675377&sr=8-1&keywords=Differentiation+in+Action%3A+A+Complete+Resource+With+Research-Supported+Strategies+to+Help+You+Plan+and+Organize+Differentiated+Instruction+and+Achieve+...+All+Learners+%28Scholastic+Teaching+Strategies%29"><img src="http://img2.imagesbn.com/p/9780439650915_p0_v1_s260x420.jpg" /></a></div>
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My lesson seemed to go well but I won't get the formal evaluation/meet with my admin until I return from Spring Break. It's always a relief to just have it DONE. :)</div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>4) Parent Game Day </b></span></div>
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This week we had parent game day. Parents could come after school and play board games in each classroom. We played chess (my boys are obsessed) and Headbandz (I'm obsessed with this one. So fun!). </div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b>5) Spring Break </b></span></div>
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I am officially on Spring Break...enough. said. </div>
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Now, I'm off to blog stalk. Enjoy your weekend and have a great Easter! :) </div>
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Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-51917015950345880052013-03-17T11:46:00.005-07:002013-06-05T12:54:35.521-07:00Linky Love I've been wanting to blog all weekend but things have been crazy busy. Now that it's Sunday I am catching up on all things school (report cards, benchmark tests and lesson plans), but before I really get started with all that I think a little blog time is order. I think I have my priorities in the right place, right? :)<br />
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Time to link up with a couple of my favorite linky parties.....<br />
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First up, I'm linking up with <a href="http://doodlebugsteaching.blogspot.com/">Doodle Bugs Teaching</a> for Five on Friday.<br />
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1) <b style="color: magenta;">Girl Scout Cookies</b><br />
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<img height="219" src="http://cdn.sheknows.com/articles/2011/01/GirlScoutCookies.jpg" width="320" /></div>
Five boxes might be a little excessive for my little household of two but they are just so yummy!!!<br />
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2)<span style="color: magenta;"><b> College Week = New Sweatshirts </b> </span><br />
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We are celebrating college week at the end of March. I loved Chico State!! And I think that college week justifies a shopping spree on my alma mater's website. I picked up a new sweatshirt, a t-shirt and cute little onesie for my friend's sweet new baby. </div>
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3) <span style="color: magenta;"><b>Colonial America Unit </b></span><br />
I am loving our Colonial America Unit and have used this book a lot! It's a good one!<br />
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4) <span style="color: magenta;"><b>Planet Rap </b></span></div>
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Our art teacher takes over one unit in Science or Social Studies each year and teaches it through art integration. She is amazing! This year she is teaching our space unit. Here is one of the resources she is using. The kids LOVE it. :) </div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/l-o2oBL8EtE?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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5) <span style="color: magenta;"><b>Task Card Scavenger Hunt</b></span><br />
Time to start the major test prepping! I've been trying to spice things up a bit since it can be sooo boring. One way I've done this is by creating test prep task cards and taping them to the walls and windows around the classroom. Then the kiddos wonder around the room and answer the questions on there answer sheets. It is nice to get them up and moving!<br />
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I'm also linking up with Latoya from <a href="http://flyingintofirst.blogspot.com/">Flying into First Grade</a>.<br />
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This week's topic: 2 Truths and a Lie </div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta;"><u>2 Truths and a Lie</u> </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta;">1) I have three sisters (Jo, Jennifer and Megan). </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta;">2) My favorite ice cream is Thrifty's Chocolate Brownie. </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta;">3) My car has 150,000 miles on it. </span></b></div>
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Well, there are my 3 random "facts". </div>
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Can you guess which one is a lie?????</div>
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I hope you all are having a fabulous weekend! Enjoy your Sunday! :) </div>
Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-24896553163899488462013-03-13T20:11:00.002-07:002013-06-04T13:30:00.701-07:00Jamestown Resources We're learning about Jamestown and I found this super fun, quick game. Its similar to Oregon Trail (so of course my inner 90's child loves it!). The good news is that my kiddos loved it too!<br />
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<a href="http://www.historyglobe.com/jamestown/"><img height="137" src="http://www.historyglobe.com/jamestown/images/joa_title.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
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It's super simple and can be played in about 10 minutes but it is also full of lots of info. </div>
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Today we played as a class. I projected the game onto the board and pulled sticks every time we had to make a decision. My kids loved having the power! </div>
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They are super excited to play by themselves tomorrow and make all of the decisions.</div>
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Super fun resource (just don't forget to disable your pop up blocker). </div>
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<b>UPDATE:</b><br />
<b></b><a href="http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/kids/games/interactiveadventures/john-smith/">Here</a> is another fun resource that <a href="http://hokieteach.blogspot.com/">Donna</a> from <a href="http://hokieteach.blogspot.com/">Hokie Teach</a> shared.<br />
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<a href="http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/kids/games/interactiveadventures/john-smith/"><img height="150" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTGCkwnxeXaMaWn20TBVuXSsJs6WrNXcF63k1FNOei2zA-k1bV1" width="200" /></a></div>
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My kids loved this one too! It has lots of info-- especially about John Smith. :)<br />
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<b>What resources to you use when you teach Jamestown/Colonial Times?</b></div>
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And a little funny before I go...<br />
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<img height="640" src="http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/63072_566238810064147_1600182364_n.jpg" width="468" /></div>
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Have you seen this flow chart floating around facebook?!?!? It's too funny! </div>
Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4498466390304790746.post-76451423513333068702013-03-12T21:37:00.002-07:002013-06-05T12:55:00.044-07:00Let's Get Acquainted! I'm linking up with Latoya from <a href="http://flyingintofirst.blogspot.com/2013/03/join-my-first-linky-party.html">Flying into First Grade</a> for her fun little get-to-know-you linky. Your're supposed to use your initials and share three things about yourself....although you've probably already seen this particular linky all over blogland. <br />
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<a href="http://flyingintofirst.blogspot.com/2013/03/join-my-first-linky-party.html?showComment=1363058256144#c1798777800121883425"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0MowWP74lfs/UT0jGh7oMsI/AAAAAAAABWI/TW1P4IV-4TY/s400/linky+party2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><b>J </b></span><br /><span style="color: magenta;">Jolly Ranchers</span><br />
My all time fave candy!<br />
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And<br />
<span style="color: magenta;">Jerky </span><br />
As in beef or turkey.<br />
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I dunno why but I love this stuff.<br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><b>L</b></span><br />
Hmmm...lattes and would be to easy......same with laughter.....<br />
Let's go with<br />
<span style="color: magenta;">LOVE ACTUALLY</span> my favorite movie. If you haven't seen it, do so ASAP<br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><b>T </b></span><br />
<span style="color: magenta;">Tulips</span> have been my favorite flowers wince I was a little girl....<br />
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<img height="180" src="http://khongthe.com/wallpapers/nature/windmill-tulips-64908.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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I've always wanted tulips at my wedding....but I've also always wanted to get married in July ....on a beach.... not sure the tulips are a realistic part of my fantasy wedding. :)<br />
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Now its your turn! Link up<a href="http://flyingintofirst.blogspot.com/2013/03/join-my-first-linky-party.html"> HERE</a>.<br />
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Have a great hump day...we're half way to the weekend. :)<br />
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<br />Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07515315219584443561noreply@blogger.com2