Back to School!

Well, it's that time again. The first day of school is just around the corner. I read on Facebook the other day that "For teachers, the month of August is like a very long Sunday". I, so, feel that way right now. Teachers in my county return to work tomorrow to prepare for the students who will start on the 26th.

This past week has been one of transition for me. My 5 month old twins just began daycare (OMG!!!). So now my days are spent providing PD for my county's newest teacher recruits, helping my fellow teachers set up their classrooms, and preparing my own room for the 1st day of school. I thought you guys would like to see my progress. I've posted some before and after photos below.

And Then...

 

Why Foldables?

Foldables are 3D graphic organizers that can be used in any content area classroom. They are a great way to show students how to record and organize data. Differentiation is key, and foldables can help with that too.  Oh, and did I mention that they are a wonderful alternative to worksheets? Here are some examples:

Four Square

Four Flaps

 Three Flaps

 
Invisible Layer (Transparency over Chart)

 Multi-Layer Flap Book

How to: Multi-Layer Flap Foldable

A special shout out to Dinah Zike: Queen of the Foldable

Brain-Based Learning

Sound familiar? I am sure it does. We hear it all the time. But, what does it mean? I hate going to workshops with presenters who drop a lot buzz words and assume that everyone in the room knows exactly what they are referring to.

So for all of my teachers out there, who may not have received a clear picture of what brain-based learning looks like in the classroom, this is for YOU!

Brain-Based Learning = engaging students with strategies that cater to way their mind works.

Below are some of the instructional strategies that you can use to reach all the learners in your class. But, you are so AWESOME, you are probably using these already!

--Storytelling--Mnemonic Devices--Manipulative--Music--Games--Movement--Visuals--Cooperative Learning--Discussion--Role Play--Graphic Organizers--Technology--Analogies--

Another great resource is Worksheets Don't Grow Dendrites by Marcia L. Tate. 

READ IT, LOVE IT

Click Here to visit this author's website

This is for my CCS Lateral Entry Teachers :-)

I am so excited to working with you all. I am posting the instructions for the magic book here. This way you will always know where to find it if you ever need it.

Click for Magic Book PDF

Cool Video!

Tablets in the Classroom

A colleague sent me this infographic that lists FREE app for education. Enjoy!

http://www.slideshare.net/gtoews/free-apps-list

26 Newcomers

Last week I had the opportunity to work the new lateral entry teachers that will be entering our county. I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed myself. It was a day of laughter and learning. I would like to say to all who attended: I truly believe that if you take heed and put into practice the information given during Mini-Camp you will have a very successful year. Remember to always seek wise counsel and be receptive to good guidance.