As we all finish up our winter breaks, it's time to face the harsh reality that not only do we need to head back to class after the new year, but we need January activities for our classroom that will engage our students. We weren't the only ones "on vacation", but we can help our students ease back into the routines of school life. Students need to "relearn" how to focus on academic ... Read the Post
Monday Made It! Grad parties and more!
Happy Summer, everyone! It has been the BUSIEST spring of my life with my baseball playing son finishing his senior year of high school! I thought I'd share a little bit of what I have been working on in June in my few spare moments so I have hooked up with Tara at 4th Grade Frolics for my first "Monday Made It" of the summer! Make sure to click the image below to take you to the ... Read the Post
What does “equal” mean and other algebraic thinking ideas
Algebraic Thinking in Elementary School? YES! One thing that I have discovered over the years is that students can be very trained to "fill in the box". The more focus we put on our math series and workbooks, the more true this is. In my mind, it is our obligation as elementary math teachers to develop mathematical thinking in our classrooms--and there are so many ways to nurture ... Read the Post
Playing math games…they aren’t just for fun (even though they ARE!)
Why do we play games in math class? Tons of reasons! If you have followed me for any length of time, you know that games are an important part of my math class--not every day, but often. As I watched my students last week, I noticed a few things that weren't going as well as I wanted them to--and I realized that I haven't spent enough time talking to them about WHY we play games and what their ... Read the Post
Monday Made It–Brownies, Posters, and Math Games!
Disclaimer: I had this entire post written, photos loaded, links made--and EVERYTHING WENT BLANK. This is my SECOND attempt! Wallowing in self-pity... Well the first week of school is underway and I already feel stressed. You too? The good news is that the first Monday Made It of the year is up and ready! Make sure to stop and check out all the cool ... Read the Post