Finding treasure chest prizes for 6th graders can be a challenge. Many of the inexpensive toys are geared for younger children. I use a set of coupons for free items such as "Homework Pass" or "Sit at the Teacher's Desk for a Day". However, …
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Why Use Student Numbers to Organize Your Classroom?
I have spent the last few days at school getting set up for the new year. School starts next week for us. I was talking with a new teacher who asked me about assigning student numbers. Specifically, she asked what I use them for. My answer …
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Silent Hand Signals Enhance Instruction
I just found this on Pinterest (where else?) and had to share. It's a video from the Teaching Channel demonstrating silent hand signals in classroom. I've heard of using hand signals to communicate for things like sharpening a pencil, using …
Make It Easier for Parents to Connect Using QR Codes
I am getting things ready to head back to school. This year, I am going to add QR codes to my parent info packets. This way, they can simply scan the QR code and link directly to my class website. Wait, wait, wait. What's a QR code? QR …
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Time Saving Math Site
It's always nice to discover new ways to save a little time. Have you ever heard of Math-Aids.com? This site is a great time saver for teachers. Basically, you can choose a math topic, follow the prompts, and create a customized math …
Hurray for the Target Dollar Spot
I so love shopping at Target. I moved from the Midwest, where Target was everywhere, to the Southwest where it's a little harder to find one. Never fear, though, I made the 30 mile trek to Super Target (my favorite) this week and brought …
I’m on Facebook Now
Do you enjoy reading this blog? You can now follow me on Facebook. Setting it up was super easy. I was kind of dragging my feet because I thought it would be more complicated.If you are interested in making your own page, simply log onto …
Organizing with VolunteerSpot
Have you heard of VolunteerSpot? I didn't know about it until a teacher friend introduced me to it this past year. What a huge time saver! VolunteerSpot is a free online system for organizing and scheduling events with volunteers. I used it …
Getting Organized – Calendar Cards
One of my goals this summer was to organize and prepare my calendar pieces in advance. In the past, I often waited until the last minute and frantically searched for them the night before I needed them. I want to be more organized this …
My Very Own Mini Me
I am so excited about my new graphic "mini me". I saw that many other bloggers had cartoon characters of themselves. I love the idea. Over the past few days, I have been on the hunt for my own blog character. After pouring through tons and …
Teaching Patterns with Bugs
Patterns are everywhere in nature. Recognizing patterns is a fundamental math skill. One of my favorite books for teaching patterns is Pattern Bugs by Trudy Harris.Pattern Bugs by Trudy HarrisThis is such a cute book. It is a picture …
What’s Your Favorite Teaching Tool?
Although it is mid-July, many teachers are starting to think about heading back to school. Today, I met up with a teacher friend who is already getting her room set up. Yikes! That makes me feel like I am falling behind. I thought we were …