After attending a PD workshop last week on balanced literacy, I was inspired! I was particularly motivated by a session about conferring with readers (and writers). It was based on this book, which - by the way - is easy to read and fabulous! After attending the session, I realized I needed to get organized and make a binder to hold all of my materials and records for my student ... Read More about A Peek Inside My Conferring Binder
The Giving Tree: Teachable Moments
If you know me at all, you know my favorite children's book is The Giving Tree. I'm in love. I have a hardback copy that I displayed on a shelf in my classroom last year as one of my favorites. However, that copy is going on the shelf this year for the kids to love on as it is being replaced with this 50th anniversary METALLIC special edition! Yes, I know all teachers have heard of The ... Read More about The Giving Tree: Teachable Moments
Reading Superstar { & freebie! }
I've finally given in to the fact that it's almost time to go back to school, so I've been hard at work on my (never-ending) teacher to-do list. Tonight I decided to update my reading superstar sign! When I started implementing my reading superstar reward system, I whipped up a sign real quick, stuck it in a sheet protector, and taped it to the board. Somehow, I never got around to making a real ... Read More about Reading Superstar { & freebie! }
Back to School Goals
I've only been out of school for 4 weeks so I'm not going to pretend like I'm ready to go back to school yet. Although I have not started working, planning, or preparing yet, I have been thinking about the upcoming year daily. Of course, I have also been exercising that "Pin It" button! (Side note: My school boards are getting a little out of control. Too many incredible ideas!) I'm linking up ... Read More about Back to School Goals
Scholastic Warehouse Sale: Do’s and Don’ts
I just had my first - but definitely not last - Scholastic Book Fair Warehouse Sale experience. It was completely overwhelming and completely FABULOUS.I didn't go for anything in particular, so I forced myself to use a basket instead of a buggy. I ended up with 44 books for $70! My score included 10 Magic Tree House books, which would have cost $70 on their own at a regular Book Fair or ... Read More about Scholastic Warehouse Sale: Do’s and Don’ts
Bookmarks with a Purpose
I totally cannot take credit for this bookmark idea. This fabulous strategy was shared with me by a coworker who learned about it at a balanced literacy workshop. Shoutout to whoever started this - you are incredible! During my conferences with students during our reading block, I have been using neon index cards to make personalized bookmarks for my kiddos. I write down a reading strategy or ... Read More about Bookmarks with a Purpose