A Teacher’s Journey to Fitness

John told me years ago that he considered me “The Pied Piper” of exercise. I earned this lovely nickname a long time ago, at the beginning of my teaching career. Early on, I had to move to different schools because elementary classroom teaching positions were scarce. It was so hard to move each time, but I now cherish those years because I met so many amazing teacher friends along the way. I still stay in touch with all of those friends to this day. read more

Got Math Vocabulary?  A Quick Sale For You!

Got Math Vocabulary? A Quick Sale For You!

Sometimes its difficult to do vocabulary work in relation to Math.  We thought we could give you an assist if you’re looking for some math vocabulary help or just something for early finishers to work on while you help other groups that need it. read more

Small Groups- “How Do I Organize Them?” (Part 5)

Small Groups- “How Do I Organize Them?” (Part 5)

What do teachers need to teach in small groups?How do I organize them? When talking with teachers, the major reason I’ve heard as to why they do not pull small groups or struggle with them is how to “choreograph” them. Who goes where? How do I remember? Well, I have a solution for you! read more

Small Groups- “Technology Rotation” (Part 4)

Small Groups- “Technology Rotation” (Part 4)

One of my very favorite parts of incorporating small groups in a Language Arts block using a Daily 5 framework is the variety if offers students. I have yet to meet a student that has not LOVED Daily 5. I think their absolute favorite rotation within Daily 5 is what we call the “Technology” rotation. You can incorporate “Listening” (which is what many teachers call this rotation), but if you call it “Technology” there are so many more fun things you can do with this rotation. read more

Small Groups- “Word Work” (Part 3)

Congratulations! You’ve finally got your small group framework nailed down (see blog post Part 1) and now it’s time to focus on the rotation of “Word Work”. This the time when a group is working on things such as grammar, vocabulary, spelling, mechanics, or conventions while you are pulling your small group and working with them. read more