Saturday, March 31, 2012

You are one of my favorite PEEPS!

Need a fast, cute Easter gift idea to give to your students or friends? 

I created this goody bag topper template to print and staple.  All you need are peeps, of course.  I chose purple bunnies because they are too cute!  Also, you will need snack size ziploc bags.  Just cut in half and use a lighter to seal the edges.  Don't forget to use card-stock (any color) to print the template on.  I bought some pastel card-stock at Staples.  Card-stock is so much more durable than copy paper, but if you only have copy paper on hand it should work too. And whatever saves you money, right?

I can't wait to share this Easter treat with my students.  I am sure they are going to love it!  Hope yours do too!




Thursday, March 29, 2012

Mimio and Math Tubs- 21st Century Learning at its Best!

We've been doing so much 21st Century Learning in my class this week.  My class was very blessed to be awarded with another Donor's Choose Grant.  If you haven't written one, you really should!  We have had 6 grants funded this year alone.  It is AMAZING!  We were finally funded for a Mimio and we love it! Click to learn more about a Mimio.  We've used it everyday and my students have never been as attentive as they are with the Mimio.  What a world of difference!


Here is a picture of a Venn that my students created comparing a story character to themselves.  I had them work in groups and then we collaborated.


We've also been working in small groups with measurement.  We used nonstandard and standard units of measurement to explore objects inside the classroom.  I picked up some great measurement activities through other blogs and TpT that are completely FREE!  I made them into a book.  There are 4 tubs and the groups complete 1 tub a day.  Sometime next week, the students will compete in the Measurement Olympics which you can pick up at Classroom Magic for FREE as well!




Free Math Measurement Activities:


Measuring Objects Using Inches
Measuring Scavenger Hunt
Measuring Paths
Area and Perimeter
Measurement Olympics


Today, I worked on the new 2nd Grade Math Pacing Guide for the county with a team of wonderful teachers.  I finally met Randi from Teach It With Class.  We actually teach in the same county.  I can't wait to catch up with her, share more ideas and pick her brain. 


I have a super cute PEEPS goody bag topper for you to print and attach to a ziploc bag to give to your students with a PEEP, of course.  I will post it very soon! 

Sunday, March 25, 2012

Spring Fever TpT and Teachers Notebook Sale Tomorrow

I can't believe spring has finally sprung!  It makes me want to stay outside all day, except when it is raining, of course.  It has been raining all weekend.  Today it has just been overcast with a little chill, but I predict the rain will be here any minute.

In honor of mother nature, I am throwing a TpT and Teachers Notebook Sale for 15% off all of my products for tomorrow only.  Pick up all of your favorite things from my shop while they are on sale.  Thank you for all that continue to support me on sharing my ideas.  I am so lucky to be able to collaborate with other teachers.  It is very inspiring!




Friday, March 23, 2012

Freebie Friday- Vowel Digraph Short /u/ or "oo"

My students have been working very hard on vowel digraphs since January.  I made this freebie for the short /u/  or "oo" vowel digraph.  I am using it in my word work center with a pocket chart so that my students can manipulate the words.  Then, I have them complete the printables that I have included.  Happy Friday Friends!



Saturday, March 17, 2012

I Think I Can and Thanks-a-Bunch

I think I can, I think I can, I think I can....Will Spring Break please hurry up and get here already?  My students are so very anxious (or maybe it's something going on with the moon).  I am anxious because I am taking a much needed trip to the happiest place on earth DW!  Fun times ahead!

Today, I am busy creating some new printables and activities for our basal story this week which is "Max Found Two Sticks".  I'm excited about the lessons and am trying to integrate some music and dance which will be a good 'ole time.  Pictures to come!

On a very generous note,  I want to thank Barb at It's About Time Teachers for giving me this award....

Check her blog out.  She is a very experienced and talented teacher with lots of activities for differentiating learning.  Thanks so MUCH for all you do Barb!




Lastly, I had one of my file folder games featured in the Teachers Notebook Newsletter.  I was so thrilled beyond belief!  YEA!  Thanks KPM Doodles for the most awesome artwork!




Wednesday, March 14, 2012

St. Patrick's Day Freebie- Jamie O'Rourke

I love, love, love Tomie dePaola books!  Who doesn't?  One of my favorites that I read every year is Jamie O'Rourke and the Big Potato.  If you haven't read it then you must DEAR! Okay, so maybe not DEAR (drop everything and read) right now, but definitely check it out.  

Have you visited Ireland?   I actually traveled to Ireland in 2000 for the St. Patrick's Day Parade.  I was in it with my college dance team.  It was the most AMAZING experience I ever had.  I also performed for the Lord Mayor's Ball in Dublin, which was an honor.  I spent many days shopping and eating lots of Cadbury Chocolate.  Oh, how I miss those days!  But, I do want to go back.

In honor of St. Patrick's Day and my longing to be in that far away land, here is a freebie for you (or a few).  I created some comprehension related thinking maps for summarizing and comparing and contrasting.  Also, a writing activity for comparing and contrasting and a little Jamie O'Rourke Craftivity.  Enjoy my friends!


Tuesday, March 6, 2012

March- Currently and FINALLY!

Yes, currently and FINALLY!  This year has flown by!  I have a great group of kiddos, so I will definitely miss them.  But, I am over lots of other things.  You are a teacher, so I'll leave the guessing up to you.  

Here is what my class has been up to.  We've been studying meal worms!!!


And now for Currently.... Thanks Farley!!!



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