5 Helpful Activities for Creating a Positive Classroom Community
Getting back to school is an adjustment. This year, it might be even tougher to get back into the swing of school. AND, kids will need a lot of support…
Ideas for After Winter Break
Well, it's been about 2 weeks of not knowing the day of the week and not putting on real pants unless absolutely necessary. But, winter break is almost over and…
Thanksgiving Activities for Upper Elementary
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday! I love sharing it with my family and my students. Over the years, I've found or created a few Thanksgiving activities for upper elementary students…
Labeling the Library: A First Day Activity
One of the best things about 5th graders is their ability to adapt to a new situation and make it theirs in a heartbeat. AND I love using that to…
Using Sorts to Improve Sentence Writing
If you know me, you know that a good sort is one of my favorite instructional strategies. I actually think my grade level colleagues get sick of me saying, "Let's…
Asking Questions for Mathematical Thinking
Getting 5th graders to think deeply about the mathematics they are learning is a constant challenge. Truthfully? Teaching elementary math is more of a challenge that anyone gets credit for!…