Welcome to the 2011-2012 School Year

A new school year has begun! I am so excited! I know I have about 3 weeks before the school year starts, but that will not stop me from preparing for the year. I cannot wait until the first day of school! Right now I am working on our first newsletter of the year. I am also preparing to start working in my classroom. Stay tuned for pic and plans! (Sorry for the excessive use of exclamation points, I am really EXCITED)

Carousel Feedback/Gallery Walk

During Math, students completed a page independently. They then got the chance to walk around and look at the work of thier peers. They either left a note of encouragement or a note of congratulations. Sutdents really enjoyed helping and supporting each other.

More Arts Partners Pics

How cute are the puppets they made? Can you will which ones I made? I wish you could hear the stories too!

Pics from Arts Partners I

Thanks to Ms. Watkins, these pics are wonderful and the kids loved it.

100% Engagement

In a classroom it is important to keep students engaged. Sometimes, this is difficult. But with cooperative learning, its easy and fun.

Today we worked on spelling words that end with es, ed, and ing. I gave students the assignment and they worked in small groups. Each child had a different colored marker and the assignment had to show all four colors to encourage participation. I looked around and lo and behold, all twenty students in the classroom were working and learning. I couldn't help it, I took a couple of pictures.

Day 2 - MAP Testing

Today is day 2 of MAP testing. We are still taking Communication Arts. This portion of the test is timed. Students really did a good job on Tuesday and I am excited to see how they do today! Go Room 5!

PALS

Each day, twice a day, students in Room 5 participate in an activity called PALS. PALS stands for peer assisted learning. Students divide up into two teams, players and coaches. Coaches coach thier player through basic math practice. Then two team switches roles. They continue switching between coaching and playing until times is up.Meanwhile, I assign points to groups who are working well and speaking politely. Students then complete an independent practice sheet. The parnter then awards a point for every correct problem.

I am so encouraged by the progress I see being made by students. They are getting extra practice and enjoying themselves in the process. I love moving around and hearing them encourage and congratulate one another. It's a beautiful sight to see! Check out the picture of students working together on PALS.