A Time to Share and Create

Spring Break

2012-02-26T15:20:00.001-06:00

We have spring break this week...it's really girls' basketball tournament time...so just 3 days of teaching.
Do any of you use Netflix in the classroom? I find their National Geographic movies are really good (sometime just a little long for 4th graders).

We can't get YouTube at school...but I'm able to use Netflix. Go figure!

Preparation for the Dreaded STATE TEST

2012-02-25T16:25:00.000-06:00

Thank you Stephanie at Teaching in Room 6 . You have made my weekend. She has put together a wonderful plan to help students prepare for the STATE TEST.

I'll be using the task cards from Proteacher, SRA labs, and prepdog.com.

PBS

2012-02-19T16:25:00.001-06:00

Most teachers are familiar with Pintrest...and love it...I do, and here's my latest find. This was an easy sign to make for the hallway...and it relays the rule in a way that's memorable.

This Time of the School Year

2012-02-19T15:58:00.002-06:00

This seems so appropriate for this time of the school year...

HERE is the original site.

Thursday and Friday, I'm off to Nebraska's Reading Conference

Aimee Buckner will be presenting Thursday. Looking forward to her workshop.

Testing

2012-02-12T14:38:00.000-06:00

This week we'll be MAPS testing. How do you use the results? What or how do you share results with parents? I would prefer testing at the end of January, because shortly we'll be taking the state assessments. It seems like all we do second semester is test...test...test.

Valentine for students

2012-02-05T19:39:00.002-06:00

I have these rock, paper, scissor candy for my students....

so I made this card using PrintShop and the post-it note option...

we'll be decorating Valentine bags this week. I have a Mystery Valentine (like secret santa) for my students if they decide to particpate.

Parent Communication

2012-02-04T12:56:00.000-06:00

What do other teachers do to communicate with parents?

1. I keep all papers and send them home on Friday with a coversheet. The coversheet lists items of interest pertaining to events coming up for just our class. Students are suppose to bring back the sheet on Monday---it needs to be signed by a parent. Every other week I send home grades which contains assignments and missing work.
2. I have a blog where I have a generic look at our upcoming week. I'm no sure how much this is visited...guess I could add a counter. Kristen designed the page. I have the skills to make a webpage, but I can't figure out what to do to make a blog site :(

Search and Research

2012-02-03T10:17:00.000-06:00

Oh Yes...I'm experiencing a snow day, so that's the reason for the mid-day post. (big smile)

I have both my 4th graders and 5th grade social studies students search for various topics on the internet. Lots of time when they do a google search they end up at wikipedia...so I've found wiki-summarizer. I'm excited to start using this. It should eliminate lost of wasted searching time...and going to unwanted sites. Has anyone else used this?

Tag and I'm It

2012-02-01T19:53:00.002-06:00

I was tickled to find out last weekend that I'd been tagged...here's my responses...sorry gals, but everyone else I follow has also been tagged.

Finding Joy in 6th Grade:

Here Are My Questions
1. What is your favorite Starbucks beverage ? venti mocha
2. What is your favorite way to enjoy a new book? ipad for traveling...reading in bed-a REAL book
3. If you weren't a teacher, what career would be your second choice? work for Halmark as a card designer
4. What is the first subject you plan for when you start your lesson plans for the upcoming day? reading
5. If you have traveled, what is your favorite country to visit? Israel
6. Have you been a principal? NO Would you ever want to be? NO
7. What dessert would you choose in a fancy restaurant? sundae
8. What's the most adventurous/daring/exciting thing you have ever done (that you can blog about!)? Travel to Venice with 4 other people who had never been there!!
9. If you slept in "late" one morning, what time would it be? 8:00am
10. Do you still read magazines? Only when I go to have my hair cut.
11. Do you prefer sunrises or sunsets? sunrises
12. What brings you JOY? My family (especially grandkids-we facetime on the computer since only one lives close) and my teaching.

From Rebecca at The teacher's chatterbox

1. What movie could you watch over and over again? Last Shrek movie/Rio/ Sex and the City

2. What would be your dream vacation? French Riviera

3. Do you like to cook? NO

4. Are you tech savvy? sort of

5. What is your guilty pleasure? chocolate/mochas

6. What is your favorite book to read aloud to your kiddos? Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane

7. Are you more crafty or sporty? like aerobics...but crafty and sporty-NO

8. Are you an early bird or a night owl? early bird

9. Facebook, Twitter, or Both? Both

10. If you were told you were going to be teaching abroad, where would you want to teach? Italy

11. Do you collect anything? dust/dirty dishes/laundry

12. What is your most memorable teaching moment? smiling faces of my students

Biography Project

2012-01-30T14:55:00.002-06:00

Read a biography...write a poem...make a timeline...present, as that person, why he/she was famous...

Fun!!

Here is a page that lists my other book projects.

BE-goals

2012-01-29T16:16:00.001-06:00

Thank you pinterest..or was it another blogger...BUT this was a fun activity. My fourth graders had a fun time showing their 2nd grade PBS buddies how to cut out hearts. Then we decorated the hearts and added a goal of how we could to be better...BE - a listener; BE-helpful; BE- a hand raiser, etc. I liked the way it turned out :)

We had a yummy time eating conversation hearts while we worked!

Heroes

2012-01-22T14:01:00.000-06:00

My school participates in a program called PBS (positive behavior solutions). We have buddies with another class to review procedures, etc. This week we'll be reading a story about George Washington and talking about the trait of honesty.

Are there other schools in this program? What projects do you do?

Social Studies for 5th

2012-01-21T10:41:00.000-06:00

My core group of students are 4th graders...but I switch classes with the 5th grade teacher...she teaches science to my 4th graders and I teach social studies to her 5th graders. THUS today's post. I'm beginning the section of American history I like best...the American Revolution. The next few weeks we'll be talking about the 13 original colonies and what caused our country to rebel against the British. One resource I use is from reading A-Z. This company has a lot of nonfiction stories I really like.

So for the next few weeks...GO COLONISTS!!

Dropbox

2012-01-16T20:33:00.001-06:00

Does anyone out there use dropbox? I like it, but I also use google for storage. Here's the big question. Has anyone upgraded to the pro package?

Printing Dilemma

2012-01-14T12:06:00.003-06:00

Here's the problem...my school won't let us print from the computer lab. I guess it's their way of saving $$ on ink. BUT when I have projects that I need to review and grade...how do I do that?

Solution:

Students post their projects here...and it lets their parents see what others are doing.

Thank you kidblog.com I love you!

How do others deal with this...or do your administrators let you print when and where ever?

Kerpoof/Kidblog

2012-01-11T19:50:00.002-06:00

Today in technology my students went into Kerpoof and drew. They saved their drawings and then posted it on kidbog.com so everyone could see. Lots more talent out there than you realize.

Panic!

2012-01-08T16:18:00.001-06:00

I may not have a project lurking in the near future...but we have the state writing assessment at the end of the month...and then in March it's state assessments! Panic is setting in!

Apple Users...It's Nice to Know

2012-01-08T11:27:00.000-06:00

I've been a Mac user, for what seems like forever. I tried a pc (it was the only laptop that was wireless at the time), a netbook, but 98% of my computer purchases have been Apples...I have two-but who's counting-months until I get an iphone ( I've been a Blackberry user since it was one of the first phones with browser capabilities and my cell provider didn't carry iphones).

OK..enough of the gibberish. Here are a few keyboard shortcuts for all Apple users...I can never remember how to make the cents sign!

Movies of Your Classes

2012-01-06T17:06:00.002-06:00

Where do you host movies you've taken of your class. I tried putting a video on my classroom blog and it was blocked since blogger must store movies that are posted on a blog at youtube.

Does anyone use iweb? How much space will I have? I have 4 videos at this time to publish...but hope to have at least that many by the end of the year. I think I've posted these before but here are two...

My Subway Art

2012-01-02T09:37:00.001-06:00

Subway Art

2012-01-02T06:07:00.000-06:00

Direction here on making subway art using Picnik.
Thanks Miss T ...now I know how I'll be using the rest of my break.

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T07:22:00.002-06:00

Ready to get back to work...Monday is my last day at home...workday on Tuesday...kids on Wednesday.

Scoop.it!

2011-12-29T15:01:00.001-06:00

Does anyone out there use Scoop.it!?
I have one link I've made for my 5th graders since we're studying early colonial settlements.

1. Guess I'm looking for suggestions on using this web site.
2. Anyone have files?

2012

2011-12-28T18:49:00.003-06:00

1. Drink more water...which should be easy to do, since I don't drink much now.
2. Don't sweat the small stuff.
3. Organize and de-clutter my classroom.
4. Become an expert in the area of.... (I'll get back to you when I decide)

Happy New Year,

Pat

Fa La La...it's Christmas Break

2011-12-22T17:08:00.001-06:00

To do list...
1. quizes on quia .com for both 4 grade reading & my 5th graders in social studies
2. Prepare writing lessons for every day...our state assessment is the end of January
3. Prepare reading passages every day... to get ready for the state testing at the end of April

Merry Christmas

2011-12-17T15:11:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas from the midwest...the picture is Pinterest inspired :)

Book Report...the powerpoint way

2011-12-04T19:32:00.001-06:00

If I were more organized...I'd keep project directions from previous years. BUT I find each class different and thus when I have kept projects from previous years they don't seem to be exactly what I want. My class loves to make powerpoint projects (thank you microsoft for this program).

Merry Christmas

2011-12-04T18:44:00.001-06:00

No, I'm not too early. My husband's family celebrated Christmas on the farm...(HERE) this weekend....and we had 6" of snow for the event. Then next weekend I'll be celebrating with my children, so on Christmas day they will be able to stay home instead of coming to the farm. So after next weekend all my Christmas shopping will be done (big smile) , and I'll be able to be serious about blogging. SO
Merry Christmas to all...

Tis the Season

2011-11-25T09:47:00.001-06:00

I've found it very hard in the past to give my students something they will really enjoy without breaking my checkbook.

My students are not to use mechanical pencils until second semester...so of course they're going to get one from me plus a homework pass--good only for the month of January. I make the passes using PrintShop and use the business card format.

What are some other ideas for students during this time?

Word Work

2011-11-24T19:55:00.001-06:00

Beginning next week there will be a rotation to either work on spelling words or vocabulary words. We've been keeping spelling words in a composition notebook...but vocabulary words are now going onto a ring instead of in the reading journal. I've made a beginning card for the ring and then the vocabulary words will be added. The cards will have the word, either a definition or sentence, and a simple drawing. They may use their ring of words while working at the work with word tubs.

Loving my time away from school...I'm feeling creative and relaxed. With only one Thanksgiving guest that means there will be a lot of leftovers for the rest of the week...no extra cooking YEA!!

Three Day Week

2011-11-19T15:52:00.001-06:00

Even though it sounds great...I do not like 3 day weeks. It's really hard to get anything accomplished with regards to a story/vocabulary/focus lesson...so here's what we're doing for technology...thank you Jennifer for the suggestion of the wallwisher.

Happy Thanksgiving to all.

Skill builder

2011-11-13T06:04:00.001-06:00

Academic Skill Builders has some great games for all areas of academics. I need a lot of practice with parts of speech...or I guess it's really using the arrows to move to the correct answer.

Weekend Time

2011-11-12T13:56:00.001-06:00

My 4th grader grandson needed to take pictures of a historical site not far from here...so we spent an hour snapping pictures and then time composing and creating a ppt (here's a snapshot of the first slide). 'It's a good thing'.

Google...

2011-11-05T14:11:00.001-05:00

Just went to a google docs workshop. Isn't it amazing what you can do and then share? How is everyone out there using google docs?

Onward!!!

2011-10-31T21:13:00.001-05:00

With Halloween over, it's now time to move on...seems like there's a lot of holidays in the next 2 months. We're reading a great booklet from readinga-z.com on Veterans' Day. It gives background information about why we celebrate the day. We have a school program for veterans, so this is very helpful and I'm hoping it makes the day more meaningful.

Halloween Fact/Opinion

2011-10-30T13:08:00.000-05:00

This past week we read a narrative nonfiction selection from our reading series. Since Halloween is tomorrow...and I'm not sure how much learning will take place (we are having a Halloween party in the pm...and we can wear costumes), we're going to google and blog Halloween facts and opinions.

oops! I scanned the sheet, but it was upside down...so I put it in a word document and rotated it...then just took a screenshot!

Mad as a wet hen

2011-10-21T19:59:00.001-05:00

This coming week....there will be no computer class because we

are assessing (MAP), and they will be no math (since I teach 6th grade English/spelling) and the 6th grade teacher teaches math...and the 6th grade will be assessing...

SO the 4th grade is going to study idioms. We'll partner complete the idiom sheet as seen. The top part is for the idiom, the middle is a drawing of what it says, and the bottom is for the definition/use it in a sentence. I have a few books I'll share...the Chocolate Mousse & The king Who Reigned.

Now I can be as made as a wet hen, on those days that homework is not returned!

Conferences Monday and Thursday evenings...but I'm off Friday. With a day off you'd think I'd stay home. But, NO, I'm going to school with the grandsons & 'enjoying' a school lunch!

Enjoy the weekend. It's suppose to be lovely here in Nebraska.

Poetry Day

2011-10-19T06:06:00.002-05:00

Thursday will be poetry day in my room.
1. this week- everyone will read a poem to the class
2. next week- everyone will have a poem memorized
3. following week- (or so- I hate to have a rigid schedule because with 24 students it's tough to give everyone an equal chance on the same day) choose a poem...illustrate it...record it for an imovie...check back in 3 weeks and see how my schedule is unfolding. I've found my camera takes ok videos.

To blog or not....

2011-10-16T16:36:00.003-05:00

Too funny!

Homecoming Banner

2011-10-15T16:45:00.000-05:00

The second graders and 4th graders worked very hard on coloring and cutting sport graphics for the homecoming parade and skits. The freshman were the lucky class that ran through the banner.

WHEW!!!!

2011-10-14T17:16:00.001-05:00

WHEW!!! is my only comment for this week...it was homecoming at the high school and we also showed our spirit.

Today was a pep rally. Each class and their buddies made a banner...we marched in the parade...yelled a cheer, & had a good time.

PLEASE...PLEASE, let next week be normal. OH! I forgot, we're MAPS testing!

Took the Plunge

2011-10-07T19:58:00.001-05:00

Ordered an ipad2. Love the one I have...but I'm excited about icloud and the camera included in the upgrade...

imovie

2011-10-06T20:39:00.000-05:00

Anyone know how to post an imovie to a blog?? My imovies are better quality than animoto (too cheap to upgrade).

OH yea!!that's me...Mrs. Baker (ha ha)

Fitness Day

2011-10-05T21:15:00.002-05:00

Kids' Fitness Day was today...boy am I tired!!! I must not be fit.

Genre Study

2011-09-30T19:25:00.003-05:00

Our first project was realistic fiction...find my monthly projects here. Students bring a bag full of items found at home that remind them of the story...here's a sample for a Fancy Nancy book.

FaceTime

2011-09-28T19:31:00.001-05:00

Grandson called 5 times during our religion class after school. Needless to say I was concerned when I saw the missed calls that there was a family emergency. Turns out my grandson, 2.5 hours away, wants me to chat with him online. He asked about my ipad...sadly I informed him it's the an ipad2 without a camera...BUT I can use my laptop. (I think this is a good excuse to upgrade to an ipad2)

Now we just need to find a time when we're both on the computer.

Happy chatting

Snappy Words

2011-09-26T20:44:00.000-05:00

Snappy Words is a visual online dictionary...here's a vocabulary word for the week- sassy. Blue circles are nouns, peach circles are adjectives...

It changes everything

2011-09-25T09:52:00.002-05:00

It changes everything great video about technology and great teachers.

David Warlick, who is featured in this blog post (w/video) will be speaking at the Educational Admin Tech Conference in Kearney in October.

Compare/Contrast

2011-09-24T13:57:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite Disney movie is...

SO get excited when we ready Horned Toad Prince in our Scott Foresman series...
It's such a great chance to compare themes/characters/resolutions...

Treat

2011-09-19T20:22:00.001-05:00

I have a treat basket for times when I want to say thanks to my students for doing a great job. I keep candy, pencils, notepads, and special tickets like the picture. This is something I pinned over a pinterest.com. Thank you bloggers for letting me use your great creations. You're making my year so enjoyable with your creativeness.

Happy, Sunny Day

2011-09-14T20:52:00.001-05:00

Rowdy in First
is spreading sunshine...and we need it here...cloudy & cooler than normal.

Happy Day
1. thank you cloudy day...I can show a movie in my room and we can see it. I have glass blocks along my south wall so the cloudy day helped...
2. I wasn't blocked from Netflix at school (BIG SMILE). I have a Netflix account online and there was a great Lewis and Clark movie from National Geographic that went really well with this week's reading story.
3. First day we've had work on writing & we've all 'started working right away'--another BIG SMILE
4. I teach religion class after school and Wednesday...and the other teachers said there quite a few students who were really excited about coming--our first meeting since last spring and we had pizza & pop!!
5. Our room won the golden dustpan award for being the cleanest room in the building for the week! We were served sherbert ice cream by the janitor the last 30 minutes of the day.

All in all...it was a very good day! (even without the sunshine)

Girls' Weekend!!

2011-09-11T18:59:00.001-05:00

My weekend involved attending the musical...Jersey Boys. What a treat. It was so good, I'd see it again. Now back to reality and work tomorrow :)

SF Reading Street '08 -- 4th Grade

2011-09-10T10:36:00.001-05:00

Looking for any 4th grades that use SF reading street. I have a few ppts that I've downloaded and or made but missing a few. Has anyone done the same to help review for selection tests?

Here's a link to the ones I've completed and borrowed.

WOW! I seem to be busy, busy busy this year.

Pat

Window Decal

2011-09-04T15:46:00.002-05:00

I have a lot of windows in my room...so here's my latest discovery. There are three 8x11 sheets for about $8. When printing you need to make sure you mirror print. If you try or have tried this printing project I'd like to know about it.

WOW

2011-09-03T15:43:00.000-05:00

Thanks Tara at 4th grade Frolic for celebrating my blog!

Diigo in Education

2011-09-02T21:32:00.001-05:00

Are you aware that Diigo has a resource for teachers that lists current websites that deal with education? This past week there was a site that showed how to speak basic mandarin Chinese. My 6th graders loved it...and my point was that it's a lot easier to learn English (correctly) than a language like Chinese. Enjoy!!

Picture Day

2011-08-31T20:53:00.001-05:00

I can't believe that tomorrow is September. School has been going on since Aug. 17!! The class is beginning to realize there's a rhyme and reason for all the procedures...although I do think some behaviors will be impossible to break.

Today was picture day. WOW! that must mean we're really in school. Do you get your photos free? I get 4 small pics and one 5x7. This year it won't be enough to share with grandkids...but I guess I could copy (shhh-don't tell anyone).

It's been in the high 90's this week and uncomfortable, if you're not in a classroom (only the rooms are air conditioned)...come on 80's.

I'm having a hard time fitting any read aloud time into my day. I guess it might have to come at the end of the day.

Pat

Free Choice Writing

2011-08-28T15:49:00.001-05:00

I've made composition notebooks into various topic...Fun in the Rain...Summer Fun...Best Day Ever...My Family. (Thank you blogger friends for this idea)

In order to keep my 4th graders on task there is a checklist on the inside to help make this a pleasant experience for them and me.

Not only is there the checklist...there is also the rules for Work with Writing from The Daily Five.

Just Right Book choice

2011-08-26T20:45:00.000-05:00

I know there's a lot of pros and cons for accelerated reader and the quizzes, but I've found their STAR reading assessment helps students find their independent reading level and helps curb a constant trip to the library (& wasting time precious reading time). We've been in school 7 days, so after administering the new STAR reading test , I've come up with the picture, to the right, to help students when they head to the library. If they know their reading level, the 'I know all the words', portion of 'I PICK' should be met.

What do other teachers do when attempting to help students who always want to read books that are too hard?

Sorry I can't remember which blogger had the 'read to self' poster as a freebie...but THANKS, I love the polka-dots!
Pat

Spelling

2011-08-24T17:16:00.000-05:00

I'm wondering if there are any 4th grade teachers who group their students into different spelling lists? I just completed an elementary upper level spelling inventory and out of 25 words...22 was the most spelled correctly and least was 5. Quite a wide gap. If you do group...what words do you use?

First Week

2011-08-20T10:35:00.000-05:00

I don't consider the first days (Wednesday-Friday) as the first week...these are just the first days! What do you do to start your first week? I'm not ready to start full-throttle with the assigned curriculum, so I'm sharing the site I love for text that's best for the beginning of the year before everyone is assessed and assigned...

I realize this is a subscription site, but for me it's well worth it. There nonfiction selection has a wealth of choices. I uses many of their stories for my 5th grade social studies units (we study American History).

I hope everyone's school year is off to a great start. This year I have permission from EVERYONE to use their pictures and projects...so watch out...
Pat

First Read-Aloud

2011-08-18T20:56:00.000-05:00

What do you do when your new best buddy has been designated a scourge by the community and marked for imminent extermination? Just ask Kenny Rabbit. When the simple folks in the sleepy little village of Roundbrook catch wind that there's a dragon running loose in the countryside, they get the wrong idea and the stage is set for a fight to the death. So it's up to Kenny to give his neighbors front-row seats to one of the best-known battles in history -- the legendary showdown between St. George and the dragon -- without losing a friend in the fray.(from Amazon)

This is a golden sower nominee for 2011-2012 school year.

Rules & Contracts

2011-08-18T18:03:00.002-05:00

First full day of school in the books. Our school is a PBSI school so there are a few specific rules for the building...but I choose just to have 5 rules. I'm not sure where I 'borrowed' these rules, but they work for me. The contract is signed by the students when they draw their faces and attach it near the rules that are posted in the hall.

Lunch Time

2011-08-16T17:40:00.001-05:00

Here's a question for all my blogger friends...
1. How long do your students have for lunch...some days my students will have as long a 40 minutes...yikes!
2. How many of you rotate noon recess supervision? In my 20+ years of teaching this is the first year I've had the extra assignment of noon recess supervision.

This lovely bombshell was presented to us today...1 day before students arrive. For some reason the aides,that usually cover noon recess, are now in charge of the salad bar in the cafeteria and checking names for lunch...at least I don't have to eat with my students...so this may be a good trade-off.

Teacher Day--First Day

2011-08-15T19:20:00.003-05:00

Some teachers are ready and excited about the beginning of school...others...need I say more? I ran across this poster and thought I need to post it in our teachers' lounge. If you'd like a copy it's from:

kindovermatter.com

Why I Love Blogging

2011-08-13T08:48:00.002-05:00

Background...I've been teaching for 20+ ( I could probably tell you exactly, but I don't want you to think I'm old!). I've always taught in a district where I'm the only grade level teacher. Having been in this situation I've become very self-sufficient. But along comes blogging...it's like having a grade level teacher to bounce ideas, besides soaking up & using ideas.

Blogging teachers are willing to share not only their creations (& I know this takes a lot of time-I've tried) but resources.

Thank You blogging friends. My only hope is that I have the 'stamina' (first vocabulary word 4th graders will encounter on Wednesday-1st day of school) to keep all my followers following.

Narrative Format

2011-08-12T09:43:00.000-05:00

In Nebraska, the 4th grade writing assessment is narrative. I have as yet to find a 'program' that addresses the needs of my students. So in my years of teaching I've come upon the following format, which lucky for me, Really Good Stuff now has posters that I use for the majority of teaching.

I start the year out by reading narratives...being sure to point out that narratives are in first person. We make anchor charts of such characteristics...AND in Nebraska, using dialogue is a biggy along with 'bold beginnings'.

Books I read at the beginning of the year:
Enemy Pie
Fireflies
Red Light, Green Light
Many Cynthia Rylant books...
and there are more, but I'm at home and my books are at school.

Hope this post is helpful.

Fancy File

2011-08-11T08:50:00.000-05:00

Accordion Files (8 pockets) are on sale at Hobby Lobby ( $7.99 now $4.79). I plan on using mine to story lettering for bulletin boards. Seems I spend more time sorting and looking when I do decide to use letters for a bulletin board. I have been known to quickly print a title... Also, paper packs are 1/2 price. I'm working on a READ sign...will post when done.

New Teacher

2011-08-10T20:44:00.002-05:00

This year there is just one new teacher in my building. In the past I've given baskets with markers, post-it notes, etc. BUT the other day I was in the local Hallmark store and ran across this cute polka dot bag plus a note pad & post-it notes. I also decided to throw in a bag of misc. jelly-belly beans. I think a little 'welcome' gift is always a nice and considerate thought. When I saw the polka dots, I thought of my blogging friends who are creative and colorful!

Supplies checkin list

2011-08-09T19:27:00.002-05:00

On the first day of school I have a check-off list to see who needs supplies from the office. Here's a screen shot of the list. 7 days and students. My room is ready but the rest of the week I need to think about first day procedures, etc. this year we're just starting with a 1/2 day, and then two full days.

Calling all 4th Grade Teachers

2011-08-09T10:53:00.005-05:00

Educational Leadership has a wonderful article about teaching 4th grade.

Ready or not

2011-08-08T21:00:00.001-05:00

Here's my imovie of my room this morning...the countdown in on...6 days & counting....

permission to publish

2011-08-08T16:19:00.002-05:00

I think it best to get permission to publish pictures, names, and projects of my students. Here's a very simple permission sheet that I use. Sorry it's in pdf and not changeable. It was easy to create and hopefully will help. This is one sheet the students bring back to me before they can work in the computer lab.

Webquests

2011-08-07T14:11:00.001-05:00

I have a site that lists a few webquests I've found over the years. Is there anyone who uses this for classroom learning? A couple years ago I took a class where we had to made one. Mine is the Langston Hughes webquest. At that time we had a basal story about him. The only problem I see is keeping the pages and links current.

2011-08-03T10:17:00.002-05:00

First Day Powerpoint Here's what I show my students on the first day of school. It gives the schedule, some expectations, and supplies. I usually copy it and send home. I have another one for the next day that lists some of the procedures.

Does anyone else do something similar?

Unlucky Arithmetic

2011-08-02T20:11:00.003-05:00

I like to send home communication on the importance of various topics I think are important...and here's a great one Unlucky Arithmetic. It boils down to why parents need to encourage their children to read. If the link doesn't work...let me know. I'm still experimenting with google docs.

New Assessment

2011-08-01T21:01:00.002-05:00

Anyone in blogging cyperspace use this instead of achievement testing?

I'd be interested in your thoughts, comments, good or bad. We have an all school training on the first teacher day back.

MAP®

Measures of Academic Progress®

Understanding each student’s academic level gives teachers the power to help them excel. MAP computerized adaptive assessments are the tools that make it possible – providing educators with the detailed information they need to build curriculum and meet their students’ needs, one child at a time.

Comprehension

2011-07-30T15:55:00.002-05:00

The mailman just delivered this handbook for middle school teachers.

From IRA website...
Middle school is a crucial time to develop the sophisticated reading skills students need to analyze literature and challenging informational texts. This handbook offers 77 simple yet effective strategies to help students develop, refine, and strengthen key comprehension skills they can apply across subject areas.

Another book I need to review before school starts is...

Google Docs Question

2011-07-29T15:58:00.001-05:00

I just saved a word document in google docs and it didn't save the graphics....so I saved it as a pdf file and all is fine...Is there anyone else who has experienced this problem? I'm not sure why I happened to check!

Newest Addiction

2011-07-28T11:52:00.002-05:00

As if blogging weren't addicting enough...throw in Pinterest . But I've come to justify it by pinning ideas, blogs, websites that I can always find whether at home, school, or on the road.

Happy pinning!

Writing Sites

2011-07-27T09:34:00.000-05:00

HELP! I have a writing site on my class web pages, but there is not much there. I'm looking for web sites that involve writing that my 4th grade students might find helpful...

Just leave a comment and the site address...thanks in advance.

The graphic below is what I chose for Vista Prints...I sure hope I like them. Those of you who have used them-does it take awhile for the order to arrive?

Techy Blog

2011-07-25T20:28:00.000-05:00

Free Technology for Teachers may seem a little overwhelming, but sometimes we need something to push us in the technology direction. Author of the blog, Richard Byrne, was a speaking at NETA (Nebraska's technology conference) and for such a young man (don't forget I've been teaching for 25+ years) he gave out a lot of technology information. He's a google certified teacher-darn I tried but didn't get accepted- so he teaches using technology every day. Check it out...you won't be disappointed, if you're the least bit into technology as a teaching tool.

Pat

Web Site Subscription

2011-07-23T19:00:00.000-05:00

1. Spelling City I have two spelling groups so each group has their words to practice. I put vocabulary words on my page also and all games, tests, etc are recorded for me to see.
2. Reading A-Z I like this site for guided reading books AND it has a lot of choices for me when I'm teaching 5th grade social studies. I like the quick check quizzes.
3. Scott Foresman -reading series- this was a one time purchase and I like it because I have access to all worksheets online, and tests are either from the basal or I can decide on which strategy and make a test. Results from the tests lets me know areas of concern.
4. Quia- I can make quizzes of my choice and with a subscription I can keep track of students. Their matching/word search/cloze games are great on the smartboard. This site takes the most time, but I can save quizzes, games, etc. and not let them be visible until needed. I used this for vocabulary until I started using Spelling City.

I'd love to have BrainPop but my school would never spring for the cost :(

I also liked IXL Math, but I'm not teaching math this upcoming school year.

Table organization

2011-07-22T09:47:00.004-05:00

I really like this pencil caddy from Really Good Stuff. I have 4-5 students at a table, so each student gets their own container & the last container is for community sharing of scissors, rulers, etc.

Do you have an organizational tool you REALLY love?

Each week we read a certain genre. I purchased this rack to display other books in the weekly genre study. Is there someone out there that does something similar? Is there something special you do?

Leadership Training in Nebraska (NSRA)

2011-07-20T18:35:00.001-05:00

Just back from NSRA (Nebraska State Reading Association) leadership training.

The IRA rep presented the following book...Three Hens and a Peacock

There is nothing new about the moral of this story—it is better to do your best at what you are best at than make a bad job of trying to be someone else.

It was the perfect book for reading councils to enjoy...since members all have their own special jobs when it comes to making councils successful.

I'm planning on using it in my room.

The illustrator, Henry Cole, will be a featured speaker at our annual state conference in February...When it gets closer to the date I'll let you know others(Aimee Buckner, Julia Cook)...how about a road trip to Nebraska in the winter-HA HA!

Pat

Book Tub

2011-07-18T20:46:00.003-05:00

Stopped by my room this afternoon--HOT! HOT!--second floor, on the south side and the wall is mostly glass brick! But I did stay long enough to change my book tubs. Book tubs are magazine metal file holders from Target ($6). I order my students with numbers and thus the numbers on the tubs (I can reuse the numbers next year). The tag is a badge holder from WalMart, the inside is a mini picture I made from Print Shop...and the part I like best is that I've used colored brads (I've used them in card making) to attach them to the file folder. In the past I used colored mini clips...but I love the brads so much more...isn't it amazing what little things make us happy--sun shining, a smiling face, a thank you...

Summer Time Jobs

2011-07-18T12:47:00.000-05:00

Today I am scheduled for an eye appointment. I've decided not to take the eye insurance this next year, so I want a new pair of glasses. I found that the insurance was great if you wore glasses...but most of the time I wear contacts. My last summer job is getting my teeth cleaned...oh how I hate to go to the dentist.

I'm going to school before my appointment...I have my summer purchases piling up and they need a home.

Post again on Thursday when I'm back from our state's reading councils summer meetings.

Pat

QR Codes

2011-07-17T21:29:00.002-05:00

Ok is anyone using QR codes? I need to get an electronic device that reads them first...just testing...guess my day must be pretty slow if I'm worried about this!

Printer

2011-07-16T16:22:00.001-05:00

I have an artisan 810 from Epson for the following reasons:

wireless- I print from my mac book, ipad, & imac
all in one ( use the scanner more than I thought I would)
ink cartridges are individual, but rather pricey--but then what ink isn't?
I've had Epson in the past and when they've printed a certain amount of copies they are programed to quit...but just find a repair place to reset the number ;-)

Happy Printing

Door Sign

2011-07-16T15:18:00.000-05:00

It's HOT here...and what better way to stay cool than to stay inside on the computer!! I've made a sign for my door. The letters are pre-painted from Michael's (I think-I bought them last year). I attached them with sticky, dimensional dots I use for card making. Then I set it off with bulletin board border.

My other goal for today (it's already 3:15 pm) is to print off and stuff, back-to-school letters. We begin with students (all day) on the 17th of Aug. My letter is a gentle nudge to read, a list of school supplies, and that thoughtful reminder that summer vacation is coming to an end.

Happy Weekend...blogging again on Monday.

Pat

Books for the ipad

2011-07-15T09:23:00.001-05:00

At this point in time I don't have ipads to be used in school, but I have grandkids that love to use mine. Most of the stories on it are from the app store...until now. Nook now has a kids' nook app for the ipad. Now I can get real books-and in color. There are a few that are 'read to me', and these I'll get for my preschooler grandson.

Finally...books I know and can enjoy!

Writing Journal-Homework

2011-07-14T11:10:00.001-05:00

My district uses SF Reading Street '08 for reading, spelling, & grammar. The suggestion for writing is a homework assignment since I prefer to teach writing on a workshop format. When we're finally writing on our own...students may use the writing suggestions from the reading series.

Students use a composition notebook for their writing homework...thus the journal label that goes on the inside their notebook. If you'd like a sample (4 per page)...please email (patbaker67@gmail.com)and I'll send it as a pdf file.

Next is a partial example of the writing from Reading Street that the students put in their notebooks to show what the writing should resemble.

♬ MY WEBSITE

Fabulous 4th Grade

Grade Level Linky Party

2011-07-13T10:15:00.000-05:00

join Kim at Teacher's Lane to find your grade level. I enjoy reading the lower elementary blogs...but 4th grade it just different...we're beginning to focus on getting ready for junior and senior high!

Edmodo or Wiki??

2011-07-12T15:01:00.000-05:00

Is there anyone social networking with Edmodo? Did anyone get an invitation to Google Circles? Does anyone use wiki pages?

edmodo-I like the idea of blogging and I'm not sure I want to belong to another social network...either this one or google circle. I have a twitter account, but fb is just enough networking for me.

Wiki- in the past when we tried to use wiki pages in the computer lab, it only let so many on to edit the page...With kidblog.com, each student has their own username/password and they can all be on.

There is just so much 'stuff' out there in cyberspace...what is everyone using?

Schedule

2011-07-11T14:05:00.003-05:00

2011-2012 Schedule, I hope!! We're always thrown surprises the first week into school, so here's hoping!

Word Work-Wooden Tiles

2011-07-11T12:57:00.001-05:00

Here's wooden tiles-Scrabble version...for use during word work...
from fuzziomo.com

Daily 5 (in reality- Daily 3)

2011-07-10T20:14:00.001-05:00

Here's my website with my cafe strategies... and here are picture of my board partially filled (I used a cricut to cut out the letters). I mostly use Daily 5 (3) as a management tool, where we read to self every day, write every day, and work on words during spelling.

I like the cafe menu to help align expectations of student strategies and give students a visual. I use the strategies in our basal and confer with students when we READ to SELF every day from their selected books. We're always using the word STAMINA & VORACIOUS when we talk about being good readers.

Before...

2011-07-09T14:53:00.001-05:00

I worked at school yesterday and took pictures...made me wonder if I'd be ready in less than a month!! I can't seem to get it just right and I keep changing, rearranging...get the picture? I hope you don't enjoy the video...come back when there has been an EXTREME MAKEOVER!!

Pat

Reading/interest Survey grades 3-5

2011-07-09T08:52:00.001-05:00

Here's the interest/reading survey that I've used in the past. It's geared more for 3-5 grades. I hope someone will find this helpful.

Have a good weekend.
Pat
I hope this works at google docs...if not please email me & I'll email it.

Postcard Exchange

2011-07-07T06:05:00.000-05:00

Join the postcard exchange here. Get all the details, dates, etc. I've done a similar exchange in the past & it's always fun getting mail!!

Pat

A Time to Share and Create

Spring Break

Preparation for the Dreaded STATE TEST

PBS

This Time of the School Year

Testing

Valentine for students

Parent Communication

Search and Research

Tag and I'm It

Biography Project

BE-goals

Heroes

Social Studies for 5th

Dropbox

Printing Dilemma

Kerpoof/Kidblog

Panic!

Apple Users...It's Nice to Know

Movies of Your Classes

My Subway Art

Subway Art

Happy New Year

Scoop.it!

2012

1. Drink more water...which should be easy to do, since I don't drink much now. 2. Don't sweat the small stuff. 3. Organize and de-clutter my classroom. 4. Become an expert in the area of.... (I'll get back to you when I decide)

Happy New Year,

Pat

Fa La La...it's Christmas Break

Merry Christmas

Book Report...the powerpoint way

Merry Christmas

Tis the Season

Word Work

Three Day Week

Skill builder

Weekend Time

Google...

Onward!!!

Halloween Fact/Opinion

Mad as a wet hen

Poetry Day

To blog or not....

Homecoming Banner

WHEW!!!!

Took the Plunge

imovie

Fitness Day

Genre Study

FaceTime

Snappy Words

It changes everything

David Warlick, who is featured in this blog post (w/video) will be speaking at the Educational Admin Tech Conference in Kearney in October.

Compare/Contrast

Treat

Happy, Sunny Day

Girls' Weekend!!

SF Reading Street '08 -- 4th Grade

Window Decal

WOW

Diigo in Education

Picture Day

Free Choice Writing

Just Right Book choice

Spelling

First Week

First Read-Aloud

Rules & Contracts

Lunch Time

Teacher Day--First Day

Why I Love Blogging

Narrative Format

Fancy File

New Teacher

Supplies checkin list

Calling all 4th Grade Teachers

Ready or not

permission to publish

Webquests

Unlucky Arithmetic

1. Drink more water...which should be easy to do, since I don't drink much now.
2. Don't sweat the small stuff.
3. Organize and de-clutter my classroom.
4. Become an expert in the area of.... (I'll get back to you when I decide)