Collaborative classroom centers can get hairy if they are not properly executed, and if students have idle time or don't have clear directions/expectations, you will soon find yourself spending most of the centers time reprimanding and redirecting rather than working with students. Kind of misses the point, right? Student Centered Classroom Well, after having my center signs and supplies all laid about the room, I will take 5-10 minutes to quickly verbally explain the directions to ... Read More about Managing Your Center Time
Free Video Notebook for Basic Operations in Math
I use this FREE video notebook for basic operations in math within my classroom, and kids love it. Video notebooks provide a highly effective means for children to learn mathematical concepts. I use video notebooks within my class, and my students have show significant improvement in their understanding as well as on their exams. This great success comes from the simple fact that children learn more effectively when they get to see the math in ... Read More about Free Video Notebook for Basic Operations in Math
Camping Equals Summer Learning!
Since when can’t learning and camping go hand-in-hand? I thought it would be a blast to list several ideas for keeping kids physically AND mentally engaged this summer! What child doesn’t love going on a camping adventure with his or her family? Let’s get the learning started! As a child, I loved camping, tent and all. I could spend hours and hours just sitting around the campsite. When I was older and in middle school, I was a regular plus one in my best friend's family when they ... Read More about Camping Equals Summer Learning!
Vocabulary Activities for Upper Elementary
I incorporate Greek and Latin roots into my vocabulary activities in my upper elementary language arts classes. When students know common roots, their comprehension in all academic areas improves, and vocabulary explodes. I have a handful of vocabulary activities that promote recall. My favorite activity is something I call word trains. Students need to build up a bank of roots vocabulary before we can play. Once the group has a base knowledge of words, I introduce the word trains to them. Word ... Read More about Vocabulary Activities for Upper Elementary
Sorting and Classifying Activities Roundup
Sorting and classifying activities are important in a child's learning. They help children to organize their thoughts and ideas, and they make visualization of concepts easier. They are useful for all age levels from preschoolers to adults. What Types of Activities Should I Choose? The type of activities chosen need to match the age and ability level of the group using it. Young children need activities that involve play and manipulating objects. Older students can also use ... Read More about Sorting and Classifying Activities Roundup