tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76645403726816161742024-03-05T04:48:17.559-05:00Simply Magical LearningSimply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-28584835516208123022016-07-25T09:28:00.002-04:002016-07-25T09:28:39.951-04:00Back to School Bash!Hey, friends! Summer break has been a blast, but it's time to wrap up this week and go back next week...sigh. haha But back to school time is really my favorite time of year, so I'm having a celebration!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqaJhFim4sU-Gymf1GVSBqoA-BdA7ShArPbBKZN16h1ctOUYtaUS8er5oqZck_2hpdDn5vDPnA0d9lBZ5yHvUtbf_Q3HsMzX0Xcm9xm8iPk5xbZovOA-zyFJP3JE-sUKCb3MJ6vxJYIKrH/s1600/Slide01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqaJhFim4sU-Gymf1GVSBqoA-BdA7ShArPbBKZN16h1ctOUYtaUS8er5oqZck_2hpdDn5vDPnA0d9lBZ5yHvUtbf_Q3HsMzX0Xcm9xm8iPk5xbZovOA-zyFJP3JE-sUKCb3MJ6vxJYIKrH/s320/Slide01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Every day I'll be posting a new dollar deal and a flash freebie! Be sure to follow me on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/simplymagicallearning" target="_blank">facebook</a> or <a href="http://www.instagram.com/simplymagicallearning" target="_blank">instagram</a> for updates when the new deals are posted.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-7319080996783712872016-03-20T20:52:00.000-04:002016-03-20T20:52:03.875-04:00Easter Eggs for the Win<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9DrP_H2ulBC0aNB1by-BjQnUkk-C0g9mVHjEhIoJtmzMkH23_g1Yz4aXWLjvs5A6Lstw0MhBDLMZKsJ2wj7DjHKGhg9gkPHnMXHNytBpmEK2W2pkYrRzbpgA8V77Rjzcc_1QE2WeeEib3/s1600/Slide1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9DrP_H2ulBC0aNB1by-BjQnUkk-C0g9mVHjEhIoJtmzMkH23_g1Yz4aXWLjvs5A6Lstw0MhBDLMZKsJ2wj7DjHKGhg9gkPHnMXHNytBpmEK2W2pkYrRzbpgA8V77Rjzcc_1QE2WeeEib3/s320/Slide1.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
So, Easter eggs. Who came up with them? I don't know, but I love whoever did. These plastic little toys are the best thing in my classroom each and every spring. Here's my favorite five ways to use them.<br />
<br />
1. Math Centers<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNUXBKxZj7gb8-l20z6NWdLj0QxbYHbjV1V1EutdyeakEAjC6GyvaZ8SONa8w6lQNOyxu_C8ItQc_D513l3gC-mNqAsJVQbccSyzZwFAgf60iLdRz4CTJ628BVZ6h4KoM5edw3gc90K16i/s1600/0320162023a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNUXBKxZj7gb8-l20z6NWdLj0QxbYHbjV1V1EutdyeakEAjC6GyvaZ8SONa8w6lQNOyxu_C8ItQc_D513l3gC-mNqAsJVQbccSyzZwFAgf60iLdRz4CTJ628BVZ6h4KoM5edw3gc90K16i/s320/0320162023a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This one is all over Pinterest, but it's really pure genius. The best part is this one can be used in so many different grade levels and for so many different math skills. Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division...even using them for ten frames, shape matching, coins, and time - the math possibilities never end.<br />
<br />
2. Behavior Management<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1L7w73ewnNkXZo-VDfp_xyBpk0jMf2cigUtLcM8jVs4hasy9lRbn9c8XUhseA_lZNJIoMzxicMqg5DB6d5_ZcI6ETiyuZpaMu49ARsfF5BPUlQ1ERwYE1mTpCbhKJ05yA5afEnRe5R8Z/s1600/0320162027a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1L7w73ewnNkXZo-VDfp_xyBpk0jMf2cigUtLcM8jVs4hasy9lRbn9c8XUhseA_lZNJIoMzxicMqg5DB6d5_ZcI6ETiyuZpaMu49ARsfF5BPUlQ1ERwYE1mTpCbhKJ05yA5afEnRe5R8Z/s320/0320162027a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is otherwise known as - my way to rid my classroom of junk after spring cleaning. So here's how it works. Throughout the day, I'll find something some of my students are doing well. Maybe walking in the hallway nicely, doing morning work quietly, etc. When I see them doing it well, I'll announce that so and so's name is going in the bucket. Then the rest of their classmates magically start doing what they're supposed to be doing - that positive reinforcement stuff, ya know? When we have extra time during the day, I'll draw a name from the bucket and that student will get to come open an egg. Some eggs have erasers inside, others have stickers or candy. The best ones have a slip that says "Pick a prize." If students pick this one, they get to choose something out of my magical pile of junk to take home! Hooray! So if its old books, posters, behavior charts - whatever - my students always love junk from the classroom to take home.<br />
<br />
3. Sight Words<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAQQZLoWtfJ7J4KIvCD7lipdw-wuHoyAmOVSUL6MpCNAu_PA8_gyypjKOyBJHMpWzooXvItFkKWA9ukVuLkcDFxNEcrlnY1amr6ma2N_84BlQloL7Pi7FHAL9DJ3qyWvyPWeMq4NCErAtL/s1600/0320162031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAQQZLoWtfJ7J4KIvCD7lipdw-wuHoyAmOVSUL6MpCNAu_PA8_gyypjKOyBJHMpWzooXvItFkKWA9ukVuLkcDFxNEcrlnY1amr6ma2N_84BlQloL7Pi7FHAL9DJ3qyWvyPWeMq4NCErAtL/s320/0320162031.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This one is super simple. I'll put sight words inside eggs for students to read. The problem words might get in more that one egg, while the gimme words (like "the" and "and") will definitely only get in one. Students can go to the eggs during a center and use the Trace, Cover, Write method. If the word is "was," students say the word, trace it with their finger, cover the word (or turn it over), and write it. This helps to build those dendrites in the brain that will keep words in their long term memory, which is the ultimate goal of sight words.<br />
<br />
4. Predicting/Inferring<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP27cG9JmJuSmwSmRoVBd1TQKc5mOTw5Cwm2eMDlEv4BkT7uqzfxbtKoIfhq60294Ee8jqzdUfvC69qrHVJwxDkiwWAex87fAmcvL8wgl180QuC8JXP2A7wDW6uZvyGi8qvnKRHFo2ucDE/s1600/0320162028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP27cG9JmJuSmwSmRoVBd1TQKc5mOTw5Cwm2eMDlEv4BkT7uqzfxbtKoIfhq60294Ee8jqzdUfvC69qrHVJwxDkiwWAex87fAmcvL8wgl180QuC8JXP2A7wDW6uZvyGi8qvnKRHFo2ucDE/s320/0320162028.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
This science skill is something students do naturally, but don't have a name to put with it sometimes. Since we also read many stories where we have to infer, this is a great activity for integration between reading and science. Fill those eggs with anything and everything. From syrup (if you don't mind getting gross), to rice, to coins, to rocks - really anything. Now, tape those suckers shut and put a number on each. Students can go around the room to different centers to use their senses to infer. For this activity, I typically would get the cheap Easter eggs that can be seen through when holding them up to the light. This allows them to use an extra sense for inferences. The students can record what they think is inside the egg and give reasons why. That's some higher order thinking right there. <br />
<br />
5. Creating Words<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-bM38BjI92PHEC6vrdd5kAAyCyYBedUxhg0Jba8uRWoP2f3AoZoZABxDSCB9xHFQiazd5i3FAkQePhx_vdfgJ0FkzZ0LxQRHIbSWLxtFwOzJM0-vdad2DeFWBxKG4M5_j9YylfK8lV_f/s1600/0320162024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-bM38BjI92PHEC6vrdd5kAAyCyYBedUxhg0Jba8uRWoP2f3AoZoZABxDSCB9xHFQiazd5i3FAkQePhx_vdfgJ0FkzZ0LxQRHIbSWLxtFwOzJM0-vdad2DeFWBxKG4M5_j9YylfK8lV_f/s320/0320162024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Put familiar word families on one side of the egg (like -ap, -et, -ig, etc.), and put beginning sounds on the other side. Students can twist the egg to make new words and record them. For your higher kiddos? Add suffixes or prefixes to one side and the base words on the other side. We're learning about -ful and -ly this week, so these eggs will be perfect!<br />
<br />
Happy Easter to all! Good luck this week!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-66825810364213746392016-01-15T20:05:00.003-05:002016-01-15T20:15:04.207-05:00MIASweet mercy! I haven't posted in (several) months! I just mainly came here to let you know where I was and what I was up to. A lot has happened since August that I'll be happy to share with you in the coming months, but today I'm just thankful.<br />
<br />
So where have I been? With my class. Engaged in their lives through smiles, stories, and huge bear hugs. The Lord has blessed me with 15 sweet, smiling faces that greet me daily. I can't tell you just how much they mean to me. I'm not typically a crier, but tears start to form when I realize they will be leaving me after May.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT0GOXvw5rlQGOQDTd8QEjsJgGMD8DV66gezGVMpWREC3tBkraDpSVkuyhyphenhyphenQf0bFyxGSrwMu03zVw3OaBXvuPD4GqhKWNEJAaPBV15-xLNXvwdOtQEJkz9G1s6HePRXVN6EvcSkfnBt09N/s1600/VZM.IMG_20160113_204918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT0GOXvw5rlQGOQDTd8QEjsJgGMD8DV66gezGVMpWREC3tBkraDpSVkuyhyphenhyphenQf0bFyxGSrwMu03zVw3OaBXvuPD4GqhKWNEJAaPBV15-xLNXvwdOtQEJkz9G1s6HePRXVN6EvcSkfnBt09N/s320/VZM.IMG_20160113_204918.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I got this cookie cake for my kids this week because of their AWESOME midyear test scores. I've never been so proud of anything in my entire life. I also got this cookie cake because I love cookie cake and that's sure enough a good excuse for me to get myself a VERY large piece of cookie cake.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Last year was a struggle for many reasons. I had some classroom issues to deal with and my kids weren't growing like I thought they should, but I was enjoying my blogging and TPT profits. My weekly goals centered more around "how many products I could get up" and "how/when I should post on my instagram, facebook, or blog to get myself out there" instead of how far I should be taking my students. This year I realized I had it all wrong. Teaching isn't about blogging or making products for other teachers to use, it's about being there for your students and letting them see that you love them daily (duh!!). Now, don't get me wrong. It's very possible to all of that at once! There's tons of teachers out there that do it! Most of them have a family too that they're able to manage, and blogging and TPT really benefits their teaching. I just haven't mastered all of that yet, and obviously I needed to get my priorities straight.<br />
<br />
This year, I haven't created a single TPT product since August (nor have I blogged obviously), and I don't regret it for a second. For the first time, I can tell that my students really see how much I love them. Their behavior and academics improve daily, simply because they know I love them and they know I'm proud of them no matter what. I'm not sure what I've missed the prior two years of teaching with my classes. I've always loved my students, but I've never had such a bond with them. It's fabulous, though! And I could seriously loop with this group of kids through 6th grade if that was realistic.<br />
<br />
So don't be ashamed to take a break from TPT. I realized I loved making resources for my students, but making them perfect for TPT and other teachers consumed my time. I had set TPT goals for myself, and believe it or not I still made profits. Did I reach all of my personal financial goals for 2015? No, sure didn't. But to me, the relationship I have with my students this year and their success in the classroom is worth more than my weight in gold.<br />
<br />
So hopefully I'll be blogging more here in the coming months about the amazing progress being made in my classroom, but if not, you'll know I'm living every glorious moment of bliss with my little ones through May.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-73094421250708760322015-08-31T21:35:00.001-04:002015-08-31T21:35:15.957-04:00You NEED these shirts!So let me tell you about <a href="http://www.aplusimages.com/" target="_blank">A+ Images</a>...<br />
<br />
They are FABULOUS. If you are needing shirts for your class, grade, school, or just for you - you should definitely check them out! <br />
<br />
I got this fabulous shirt from them last month:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizbVBMZSWefx2JQD6IjfMtzmjeLAyfnWVFr6c85y8z-dAQ7i8gKTFIui1aSEFvEwuCw30qtA15w2NPcQiRkHY3CFb9fBeymB2FOZyjbhwPleXF68cgcFip-JnN7Gm0tCsqIffhQLQ9uCrT/s1600/0831152116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizbVBMZSWefx2JQD6IjfMtzmjeLAyfnWVFr6c85y8z-dAQ7i8gKTFIui1aSEFvEwuCw30qtA15w2NPcQiRkHY3CFb9fBeymB2FOZyjbhwPleXF68cgcFip-JnN7Gm0tCsqIffhQLQ9uCrT/s320/0831152116.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The quality is perfect, the design is on spot, and I can't tell you how much I love my shirt! I waited this long to tell you about it, cause I've had my eye on these adorable things:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2LjX-I99vOb-XUWb46gcB-SF8aQM0VznO2h9cfPNA4fAYKNQqAM71EW_LZUKe6UkaIQS-3ngCKC0eJhPCyhoP4UmxQMwQfvQVQ9zYZQYJnWjk7C07kW3WxZSTW_z4mUkpLG5bxs4nfPE3/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-08-31+at+9.22.32+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2LjX-I99vOb-XUWb46gcB-SF8aQM0VznO2h9cfPNA4fAYKNQqAM71EW_LZUKe6UkaIQS-3ngCKC0eJhPCyhoP4UmxQMwQfvQVQ9zYZQYJnWjk7C07kW3WxZSTW_z4mUkpLG5bxs4nfPE3/s320/Screen+Shot+2015-08-31+at+9.22.32+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Is that not the cutest thing you've ever seen? I would LOVE to get my class a set of these this school year! Now that school has started and things have slowed down a little bit, I have a chance to do the "fun stuff," like look around for cute shirts! This would definitely be a shirt to treasure for years to come! You can check them out at <a href="http://www.classroomfaces.com/" target="_blank">Classroom Faces</a>. <br />
<br />
Just a note about their customer service... I asked A+ Images for a free blogger shirt design the first week of July. They informed me that my graphic would be blurry. They said they would be more than happy to print it if that's how I wanted it, but added that if I could get a better quality image my shirt would look much better. Well, I tried to get a better quality image and it didn't work out, so I just gave up. Then, during the last few days of July, I received an email from them saying they had sharpened my image so that it was print quality! They shipped it just a few days later! This said so much to me about their company. Because my shirt was a free blogger shirt, they were losing nothing by letting my image fall into the back of their inbox. I know they had plenty of orders to do in July, but the fact that they reached back to a free order sent 25 days previously, found my image, and made it print quality says so much to me! They truly are an amazing company!!<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-23351247139411985062015-07-20T08:00:00.000-04:002015-07-20T08:00:00.747-04:00My New School Year's ResolutionsEvery year I have goals for myself to accomplish...just like New Year's Resolutions, only for the school year! So here are the things I'm going to work on this school year - for my students and myself.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNyymdKsz6wGxnqbKnSF9RPywu8nQb46Rc_g398h_4vEQltul4wG77UDi6bimlflJK469BjZLX6vXfN1zcKL-I33d43RYmfOVCXlIEKLH-AkcFGVgmAYzOH2weeCmyN91xbxJzIqA8847h/s1600/Slide2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNyymdKsz6wGxnqbKnSF9RPywu8nQb46Rc_g398h_4vEQltul4wG77UDi6bimlflJK469BjZLX6vXfN1zcKL-I33d43RYmfOVCXlIEKLH-AkcFGVgmAYzOH2weeCmyN91xbxJzIqA8847h/s320/Slide2.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>1. Show my students love</b><br />
This sounds like a no-brainer. Of course we show our students love, right? We're teachers! I always love my students, but sometimes I get a little caught up. Caught up in standards that aren't mastered yet, caught up in the fact that I need to be teaching every minute of every day, caught up in lessons that need to be taught before testing...just caught up. Sometimes I get so caught up I forget to give that extra hug, pat on the back, or reassuring smile. It's not that I don't love my students, I just get way too caught up! So this year, I don't want to make any excuses. There's never a good enough reason not to show my students the love they need and deserve from me!<br />
<br />
<b>2. Fully implement Daily 5</b><br />
I have been reading the Daily 5 book and it sounds wonderful!<br />
<br />
Centers have always been:<br />
A) A hassle to create every weekend<br />
B) A time for my high kids to work and my low kids to goof off<br />
C) A stressful time of day<br />
D) All of the above<br />
<br />
D! D! I pick D! So for my educational goals this year, I want to delve into Daily 5 so that all of my students are loving center time and actually getting something out of it. At the end of this school year, I honestly hope to have the best readers I've ever had leaving my classroom.<br />
<br />
<b>3. Make more "Me Time"</b><br />
Summer is awesome and wonderful! Why? Because every single day is jam-packed full of Me Time! Time for me to exercise, time for me to keep my house clean, time for me to cook, time for me to sleep...me time! I hate how during the school year I never get enough time for this. I'm always<b> </b>too exhausted when I get home from school to do any of it. I always feel like a failure at home if I feel successful at school. So this year, that's going to change. I'm going to make the most of every day. Grading papers during lunch, making copies during plan time - packing my day with all the work it can hold so that when 3:00 comes around, I'll be done! Does that mean I'll never stay late after school? Of course not! But if I can cram my day with work and not let interruptions (aka facebook, instagram, etc. during lunch and plan time) get in my way, I will have so much less to do after the bell rings and I'll have more time to take care of myself. <br />
<br />
Sooooo...what about you? What are a few things you'd like to improve on this school year for yourself or your classroom? Take the image below and add your blog post to the linkup! Don't forget to also post your image on instagram and add the hashtag #schoolyearresolutions. Have a magical school year!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDmZ85e87UTuTRTD_9QsW33CkADvu4TL85UA9ZQ39tOCaHJFbOSMZAoOqOL0ovdC8HxkDTxQ-R6Iei3CVmXrH4v3GbMQf5RlxL_cdD1on0zSvZn6GoFLdsMfI8L3Jr_Xn9YrYYGNCwHuHC/s1600/Slide1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDmZ85e87UTuTRTD_9QsW33CkADvu4TL85UA9ZQ39tOCaHJFbOSMZAoOqOL0ovdC8HxkDTxQ-R6Iei3CVmXrH4v3GbMQf5RlxL_cdD1on0zSvZn6GoFLdsMfI8L3Jr_Xn9YrYYGNCwHuHC/s320/Slide1.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<!-- start InLinkz script -->
<br />
<div class="InLinkzContainer" id="546423">
<a href="http://new.inlinkz.com/view.php?id=546423" rel="nofollow" title="click to view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div>
<script src="//static.inlinkz.com/cs2.js?v=116" type="text/javascript"></script>
<!-- end InLinkz script -->
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-3119533078675457402015-07-08T22:28:00.002-04:002015-07-08T22:28:49.760-04:00Follow Frenzy: Week 4Hooray for Week 4 of the TPT Seller Challenge! <br />
<br />
So I'm probably not the Mrs. Social Butterfly that bloggers are supposed to be, but I do follow a lot of blogs and I do read and learn from them like they are professional development books. I love, love, love that the TPT Seller Challenge has given me a chance to find new bloggers. Here's three of my faves I've found through this wonderful journey. Thanks for being an inspiration, ladies!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqXbCDG0L0kKJbWReh4pAm-fqTxkFkkBsRATdNi3ifrg5ngqG2899a0MqHQVLhOrHW5zCjMaZdUkUzjJfgLIOIQL_cCqrPij1Vux40F_iSQ_-c0fceo35wRfTPzzDpR47-Fm1SPrnxSrp/s1600/Slide1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqXbCDG0L0kKJbWReh4pAm-fqTxkFkkBsRATdNi3ifrg5ngqG2899a0MqHQVLhOrHW5zCjMaZdUkUzjJfgLIOIQL_cCqrPij1Vux40F_iSQ_-c0fceo35wRfTPzzDpR47-Fm1SPrnxSrp/s320/Slide1.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You can check out their blogs below:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://elementaryantics.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Elementary Antics</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://onceuponafirstgradeadventure.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Once Upon a First Grade Adventure</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://theprimarypineapple.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Primary Pineapple</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And check out their amazing TPT stores while you're at it!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-82218264556150933392015-07-01T16:14:00.000-04:002015-07-01T16:16:09.878-04:00Currently: JulySo maybe I'm behind the times, or maybe I just never find time to blog during the school year, but I'm finally linking up for Currently with <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Oh Boy 4th Grade</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYtiaUj2EgG2cRVkwDUSA9gHHPxR7qmHS_0rtl4D4X2XLKxIRBhVJBvJnliAhCX1LTurW6_DOAzUqwzFObFDjrUgjjPkIzxTCNz5b23kNsB4kXwNudpBbyPuD99J0Tdtly3JEAU5whlBcA/s1600/Slide1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYtiaUj2EgG2cRVkwDUSA9gHHPxR7qmHS_0rtl4D4X2XLKxIRBhVJBvJnliAhCX1LTurW6_DOAzUqwzFObFDjrUgjjPkIzxTCNz5b23kNsB4kXwNudpBbyPuD99J0Tdtly3JEAU5whlBcA/s320/Slide1.png" width="240" /></a></div>
Listening: My new cat makes bird noises. I don't know if this is common, if my cat is having an identity crisis, or if she's going to be the best cat hunter in the world. You can listen to her <a href="https://instagram.com/p/4mysr_JfUo/" target="_blank">here</a>. If you happen to know about this phenomenon, please let me know in the comments because I'm considering taking her to counseling...or letting her duel it out with a bird.<br />
<br />
Loving: That I still have a whole month of rejuvenation, relaxation, and loving on my pets and family! I love teaching, but it seems like I never get a minute to breathe during the school year. These two months I get are pure bliss.<br />
<br />
Thinking: Since I do only have a month of summer left, I need to start prepping for school. I have banished teaching pinterest posts for a month now, so I think I have to start pinning again. And I should probably start laying out my curriculum...nah.<br />
<br />
Wanting: It has stormed so much over the past few days at my house! This is crazy business! I feel like I'm in central Florida...but I'm not because I can't go to Disney World! Lightning struck so close to our house yesterday that the smoke alarms went of several times. Our pets had a little freak out attack in the meantime. Plus, the little bit of tan I have from this summer is slowly leaving, and we can't let that happen, now can we? Sun, please come back out! Yours truly.<br />
<br />
Needing: Summer is the only time I get to read. It probably shouldn't be, but I just can't find time during the school year to do it! And sadly, I've only finished one book this whole summer. It was a huge book, but nevertheless, just one. I have to get on it! The new Daily 5 book is calling my name!<br />
<br />
All Star: To Do List maker. I just got a new Erin Condren planner (YAY!) and if I wasn't a To Do List Queen before, I am now. I know I'll forget whatever I need to do if I rely on my own memory, so my lists are the way to go!<br />
<br />
Thanks for joining me on my first Currently post! Hopefully I can keep this up during the school year!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-33184472695721332242015-07-01T15:47:00.005-04:002015-07-01T15:47:44.940-04:00Work it Wednesday! Week 2I love these Work it Wednesday posts! They are so motivating! I'm not motivating because I'm too lazy to "work it"...but everyone else's posts are motivating! Anywhoo, here we are again for Week 2!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFr9fqK0YBAVY2R9xBTIfMLvUyTJX7NJtf4wrjTjtULuvc8w4BmsWs7r-r5DWjhwqNpVM6xa0O0PTOcEkUCyFaWlJDh02alRDDTfu2wvOrY1nMWgJy5wfgGAnsnPWkPOaABQ2lCgAj5vTV/s1600/Work+it.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFr9fqK0YBAVY2R9xBTIfMLvUyTJX7NJtf4wrjTjtULuvc8w4BmsWs7r-r5DWjhwqNpVM6xa0O0PTOcEkUCyFaWlJDh02alRDDTfu2wvOrY1nMWgJy5wfgGAnsnPWkPOaABQ2lCgAj5vTV/s320/Work+it.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
So last week I told you about my "exercise routine" with a disclaimer that if you really want to get fit, my rules aren't the best. But if you're a lazy gal and you want to <i>slowly</i> work your way into fitness, that's right where I am on my journey. Since my stubbornness has the best of me, here's my second rule to fitness that probably isn't a good rule, but I'll never break it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLYLIk-rOFgg2IPZhwfhyphenhyphenX_6AB1286V6B90ZesAFuQmf1quAcr9Dq9l8_mgN-glVWtbsGXKDAYEormyNKONllGuvyxgjxUdkdoeT1S7WWkjBio4449w_-pM91uTrCkhnQdjULci3nXVkx9/s1600/Slide2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLYLIk-rOFgg2IPZhwfhyphenhyphenX_6AB1286V6B90ZesAFuQmf1quAcr9Dq9l8_mgN-glVWtbsGXKDAYEormyNKONllGuvyxgjxUdkdoeT1S7WWkjBio4449w_-pM91uTrCkhnQdjULci3nXVkx9/s320/Slide2.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Isn't that terrible? I mean I'm kind of blasting my weight loss goals with that one, but dieting is no fun! I've tried it, and let me tell you it makes me hate life! My students probably think I'm Viola Swamp when I have attempted dieting. The only thing it does is make me crave more food. which makes me miserable and pouty.<br />
<br />
Instead, my life plan goes more like this: Drink a lot of water. Eat all of the fruits and veggies you want (My husband says this is not a good idea...because binge eating on baby carrots isn't really great for you either. Like I said, my advice might not be the best.). Try not to eat fast food. But never ever diet.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx730ySjkiwB_5R8KMz0mLrA4xxwMkiv_BJW9iWE0y7mVvfKwldy-SxyvlRajwesFEx5aISXqi6EQpuOpOJM0oMbP7d3rOzF7wGPE0LNp_UdZe7cbtZqZbTXem6wN3DybVbzNtxJcwPwOX/s1600/0701151523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx730ySjkiwB_5R8KMz0mLrA4xxwMkiv_BJW9iWE0y7mVvfKwldy-SxyvlRajwesFEx5aISXqi6EQpuOpOJM0oMbP7d3rOzF7wGPE0LNp_UdZe7cbtZqZbTXem6wN3DybVbzNtxJcwPwOX/s320/0701151523.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
Here's my super amazing Camelbak. It's my appetite lifesaver. Did you know if you drink through a straw, you'll drink more? It's
true! I was lucky to drink my 24 oz. Tervis in a day's time, but with
this water bottle with a straw I'm drinking almost a gallon some days. When your belly is full of a gallon of water, you don't have much more room for cupcakes.<br />
*NOTE* As tempting as it may be, don't fill your Camelbak with Coke. I have considered it many times, but just don't do it. As wonderful and miraculous as Coke may be, 33 oz. of Coke isn't good for anybody. <br />
<br />
I also try not to snack. It's hard, because I'm a grazer. No joke, I'm like a sheep. I'll get a plate at say...O'Charley's and I won't be able to finish it. In 2 hours I'm starving. I just have to keep eating! Some people say it's better to eat smaller meals more often, but when you're a teacher that's close to impossible. A few years ago, I cut out unhealthy afternoon snacks. That's it. No going on a diet, just cutting out one mini meal that I didn't really need. After a few months, I lost 20 pounds and went down two pant sizes. It was awesome! I am completely serious when I say that's the ONLY change I made in my life. No exercise, just cutting out unhealthy snacking. Now, I do allow myself to snack on fruits and veggies (remember my "you can eat as many as you want" idea), but just not Little Debbie Cakes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9255crJ7eW7ysk50i9cDdgznu2VR5Wl7dE5XbsD0yyleCRoPzmtEr30pKqAbU8L63gYF8XxtN20o7B3qwWU5Nvo6QJDCgZgmTujYVvCawFYsgXTubLYeBMvLMjjvWZ9uYiu1cGGFrxg2U/s1600/0630151840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9255crJ7eW7ysk50i9cDdgznu2VR5Wl7dE5XbsD0yyleCRoPzmtEr30pKqAbU8L63gYF8XxtN20o7B3qwWU5Nvo6QJDCgZgmTujYVvCawFYsgXTubLYeBMvLMjjvWZ9uYiu1cGGFrxg2U/s320/0630151840.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Speaking of Little Debbie Cakes, I splurge. Sometimes you go to a blackberry farm and pick blackberries to eat them. Other times you just make a cobbler (...or 3...yes, 3 cobblers) out of the blackberries. This is not a good choice by any means, but I don't believe in cutting it out. When I cut things like this out, I go crazy (see Viola Swamp). In moderation, I splurge a couple times a week...because remember, I'm not on a diet. Anyways, if you've got a gallon of water and a whole big bunch of baby carrots in your belly, you might just be too full for blackberry cobbler, and that's okay too.<br /><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-62482107899181559942015-06-30T10:51:00.000-04:002015-06-30T10:53:19.223-04:00Make your Masterpiece: Week 3This week for the TPT Seller Challenge, the theme is Make your Masterpiece! While I wouldn't call this my masterpiece, it's something I've been needing to finish because I think it will be a great routine for my firsties this year!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwYAHd4MWa83WQ0QVSuctzBqhuYJKoa3tFh7MkwiX_dwMt5Zm9h1lMb7Jy-vgUpIhvqQUJQqvMisI61mx3ZrTSu-bQ_uOR-3kAXozkyXY8Y59DFx_UFk4HDUsIkYoVAoDVQJBTdYNLuCQq/s1600/Slide1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwYAHd4MWa83WQ0QVSuctzBqhuYJKoa3tFh7MkwiX_dwMt5Zm9h1lMb7Jy-vgUpIhvqQUJQqvMisI61mx3ZrTSu-bQ_uOR-3kAXozkyXY8Y59DFx_UFk4HDUsIkYoVAoDVQJBTdYNLuCQq/s320/Slide1.png" width="320" /></a></div>
This resource has 20 prompts for every month of the year! It also has 40 extra prompts for anytime, for a grand total of 280 prompts. I love giving students a chance to choose what they write about, so I created this to give them a structured choice. I plan on using this in centers, but you could use it for early finishers, homework, morning work, and honestly anywhere else you like! In celebration of finishing a product, this is just a dollar for today only so snatch it if you'd like it right <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/A-Year-of-Writing-Prompts-1931193" target="_blank">here</a>! The prompts do contain holiday and culture references specific to the US, so if you don't teach in the US you might not get such a great benefit from this product.<br />
<br />
What's your masterpiece? Or an awesome product I should check out? Let me know in the comments below!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-41434416586938246872015-06-24T21:11:00.004-04:002015-06-24T21:11:58.027-04:00Work it Wednesday!Hey, friends! Today I'm linking up with <a href="http://queenofthefirstgradejungle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Katie King</a> for Work it Wednesday!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFOgnPQyJzspsF25OFxCRnX-8-9istinI4x_IUctKM4ip9KeF9bOPZ395wbcmGIJ_ED5jIZD-KmZ2FCpid3SH004ZmIOEbfPN76isD17ufFb9QcEUS-5MOVxktgzzRgMavNwyaRiwlggdn/s1600/Work+it.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFOgnPQyJzspsF25OFxCRnX-8-9istinI4x_IUctKM4ip9KeF9bOPZ395wbcmGIJ_ED5jIZD-KmZ2FCpid3SH004ZmIOEbfPN76isD17ufFb9QcEUS-5MOVxktgzzRgMavNwyaRiwlggdn/s320/Work+it.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
First, you have to know something about me. I don't like getting fit. I don't exercise, I don't sweat, and I ESPECIALLY don't diet. But for some CRAZY reason, my husband decided to do all of that at the beginning of this year. And he lost A LOT of weight. Meaning right now, I weigh more than him. Sometime in my life I'll probably be okay with that fact, but right now I feel like a giant when we're out together. Soooooo...I decided to get fit in attempts of not feeling like the Jolly Green Giant. Sigh...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So if you're looking for great advice for how to get fit, you will probably want to just hop onto another blog. If you HATE everything you possibly have to do to get fit and want to know how you might not hate it so much, then go ahead and keep reading.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have some inner rules for myself. They're probably not good rules, but I'm pretty stubborn about them so here's the first one.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEvibxiiuJdke56x5nE5frn00H7JfcOi0Yla0evgJctfON6aWsX5HFx7KBSx6eleWENO5QOKhqH5xzhMjF6DXUYlMlPpcbgXQq-R2sIhEQ5bKWJkBk2XpspJ7v8aIg09tADF17pHLSeTf7/s1600/Slide1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEvibxiiuJdke56x5nE5frn00H7JfcOi0Yla0evgJctfON6aWsX5HFx7KBSx6eleWENO5QOKhqH5xzhMjF6DXUYlMlPpcbgXQq-R2sIhEQ5bKWJkBk2XpspJ7v8aIg09tADF17pHLSeTf7/s320/Slide1.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That's it! Never. I can't stand paying that much money for something I may or may not use. A gym is great if you really want to get in shape, but it costs you every single month. I know myself well enough to guarantee that if I have to leave my house to go work out, I will never work out.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Instead, this is what I did...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8sjeGn96q6cqfBs2DwtVpoWQaaOL2vD05VDYkzE5LGjAqbtf0f5tO60JsqvS7847_HLQgE7GJbcOmZI1e0-1L6mt5FDBghyKcNf3-hgZsg-lsg9e3ugR285l7J-CoRuGx5XIwHCGOSDgN/s1600/0619151739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8sjeGn96q6cqfBs2DwtVpoWQaaOL2vD05VDYkzE5LGjAqbtf0f5tO60JsqvS7847_HLQgE7GJbcOmZI1e0-1L6mt5FDBghyKcNf3-hgZsg-lsg9e3ugR285l7J-CoRuGx5XIwHCGOSDgN/s320/0619151739.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I got this for my husband for Christmas a few years ago. I think it was $200, but I know there are many even cheaper than that (less than $100). In my eyes, $200 for my husband and I to work out for as long as the machine works is a lot better than paying $30+ a month, every single month, for both of us to have a membership at a gym.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I don't like this machine just like I don't like working out. The seat is probably the most uncomfortable thing I've ever sat on, and it makes me love my fat-padded booty even more.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But, as much as I hate it, it's getting me fit because of this little tray right here.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TGYVCN29UfT8vhaMiVwA5wtCcfLB_hLxDd_sDUGSvqMqx0uTyShez8Pb8maeOR_h6sxAVSbVuXos98eyTEbx8TR4G1LUpfOBTaKiH-43M-r5uKQWV0tbgK8AP5MHDPs6ndaPGx9xO6x2/s1600/0619151740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TGYVCN29UfT8vhaMiVwA5wtCcfLB_hLxDd_sDUGSvqMqx0uTyShez8Pb8maeOR_h6sxAVSbVuXos98eyTEbx8TR4G1LUpfOBTaKiH-43M-r5uKQWV0tbgK8AP5MHDPs6ndaPGx9xO6x2/s320/0619151740.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
See that thing? Right above the silver part is a glorious tray. You know what can sit right there? MY PHONE! YES!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm working on reading the Bible through in a year on my Bible app. Let's just say that I'm way behind...as in May's readings may or may not be done yet. Every time I work out, I multitask. I'll start reading my Bible and sometimes I get so interested in what I'm reading, I'll forget I'm pedaling while sitting on a rock! It's fabulous!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Other times if I'm having a rough day, I'll watch Ellen while I cycle. That woman is so funny, I have cycled for 40 minutes before without even noticing (and that's a BIG step for this girl right here).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'll even get on a Teacher Blog binge sometimes and start reading those until I forget I'm cycling. It's amazing. PD and fitness at the same time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So if you hate working out just as much as I do, find a hobby to do while you work out so that you don't realize you're working out. If you like bird watching, go take a hike to watch the birds. If you like listening to your Pandora station, put some headphones in and walk to the beat. If you have kids, spend time with them by playing tag or other outdoor games. If you like reading and watching TV, invest in a cycle for a lifetime of fitness.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-48060955551893099052015-06-22T17:20:00.001-04:002015-06-30T10:32:34.937-04:00Dare to Dream: Week 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
This week for the Teachers Pay Teachers Seller Challenge, the theme is Dare to Dream. I'm sharing with you the reason I make products for Teachers Pay Teachers and what I plan to do with my life...besides teach.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsUKA-RssHJa8Fhtq2BtyYznagMePMrOplmBbnoStgN1QNAn0VC1V4nVRLT2KcJam_4636IMmNEigkspypjoPP9Wnf6NM5AbbRdxjhgA-YDpunyIeeeRQBzS9Pmj8B2LOhDmcJII1diyV5/s1600/Slide1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsUKA-RssHJa8Fhtq2BtyYznagMePMrOplmBbnoStgN1QNAn0VC1V4nVRLT2KcJam_4636IMmNEigkspypjoPP9Wnf6NM5AbbRdxjhgA-YDpunyIeeeRQBzS9Pmj8B2LOhDmcJII1diyV5/s320/Slide1.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I love everything Disney. I especially love Disney World. I don't think I can really express how much I love it, so just believe me when I tell you I do. It is really my happiest place on earth. I have so much fun acting like a kid again with my husband! I love seeing his goofy side, and when they say "Show us your Disney Side" on those commercials, they aren't kidding! My husband has a Disney Side! And it's so attractive! Okay, back to dreams...<br />
<br />
I learn so much as a teacher in Walt Disney World. Just watch a child carry on a conversation with a character. They're completely engaged, completely engrossed, and soaking in everything that character is saying. Perhaps it's because they've watched Frozen 2,934,123 times and they are obsessed with Elsa - so every word out of Elsa's mouth is sacred. Or perhaps it's also the magic that Walt Disney World creates in itself. I think it's some of the first, but a lot of the second. That's the whole reason I called my blog "Simply Magical Learning." I want learning in my classroom to be like Walt Disney World every single day. All smiles and excitement, soaking up words and making learning fun.<br />
<br />
So right there is my main reason for selling products on TPT - trips to Walt Disney World. They're rejuvenating for myself as well as next year's classroom environment. <br />
<br />
If I really go far on TPT (or grow up and have kids someday), I would love to go to Grad School. I LOVE LIBRARIES. In my list of favorite places to be, it goes like this: 1. Disney World, 2. Anywhere that sells ice cream, 3. Libraries. I would love to be able to return to school to get my Master's in Library Science to become a librarian. I'd still be teaching lessons on books, but I'd be able to range from picture books to young adult novels. I don't know if this is a practical goal, or a reachable one, but I'm daring to dream it anyways.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-62639013619399038872015-06-16T20:57:00.001-04:002015-06-16T20:57:08.585-04:00Makeover Madness: Week 1For this week's Makeover Madness, I had to pick a product from my TPT Store and redo something about it. This has been on my to-do list FOR-EVER, but I have absolutely zero motivation to do it. I'm so happy this got me pumped up for it!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIpBTpRfUICzuoHVS7xTagd1kiJEOl8NA03vJFrA_jYwEPprx0Tc2POt8xz4mbecHCpE7AdKhvSk0uIsfOc9se7HNb5qvWAnHvEjKdPvpwjAqfHhLOfkYkXXwcYflIJQUmwMaMbTIoqoZb/s1600/Slide1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIpBTpRfUICzuoHVS7xTagd1kiJEOl8NA03vJFrA_jYwEPprx0Tc2POt8xz4mbecHCpE7AdKhvSk0uIsfOc9se7HNb5qvWAnHvEjKdPvpwjAqfHhLOfkYkXXwcYflIJQUmwMaMbTIoqoZb/s320/Slide1.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
So here's one of my first products from last year, My Word Wall
Book. There wasn't too much content-wise I wanted to change, but the
cover, clip art, and borders definitely needed some updating. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3qvKP0sPZr0cO4gpAQ-LL3j-PRCHOzyXSfPYi7Ba1TSY2qFDG4X26TI1cP4ZuHNtVjg9ota1MsbEMGMgyHcCzaAw0xZhcN5riynDKHOxtyXqHWTt4rxKJoPEeTNnQFqKheuULnLKOiC_/s1600/Slide2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3qvKP0sPZr0cO4gpAQ-LL3j-PRCHOzyXSfPYi7Ba1TSY2qFDG4X26TI1cP4ZuHNtVjg9ota1MsbEMGMgyHcCzaAw0xZhcN5riynDKHOxtyXqHWTt4rxKJoPEeTNnQFqKheuULnLKOiC_/s320/Slide2.png" width="320" /></a></div>
So now it's a whole lot prettier! My kids loved this last year and I know my kids this year will love it even more. And because I want you to experience the prettiness and wonderfulness of it, it's on sale for $2 (regularly $3) through Friday. Just click <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/My-Word-Wall-Book-1277569" target="_blank">here</a> to go visit my shop.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-77175950558475855742015-05-29T17:24:00.001-04:002015-05-29T17:32:48.134-04:00Where, oh where is my hair?<div style="text-align: left;">
Hooray for finally posting something on here! You know it's summertime when I have time to blog!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So this week I FINALLY got to do something I've been working on for months, but first you have to read my story.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
One day, a precious student of mine came in with the most adorable haircut. She came to the back and handed me a Ziplock bag filled with all the hair she had cut off. As a teacher, kids bring you all sorts of homemade trinkets and treats as presents, but I have never been given a bag of hair. I know my facial expression wasn't exactly what she was hoping for, but really - who gives you a bag of hair?!?! Then she explained to me that her mom wanted me to get a wig made of it for a child who didn't have any hair...and that made a lot more sense. So I sent it off and got it done!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Right around this time it was about time for my usual haircut and I decided to do what my sweet little girl did. I grew out my hair for another 2-3 months and finally ended with enough to donate!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Here's what I looked like a few days ago:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmH5F9xW5OIeu_PxejozYXXmMMfHx3HQANTIVupltSldWOmlqs7ciYCMODFbby3S62WopLO5Y6JDsI5Rojp3qU7yaedY5tPMhzFRymb_VZVHhE3l8sdMg0NVZkZ3Xg0HkUam3REAJemmf0/s1600/0527151742.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmH5F9xW5OIeu_PxejozYXXmMMfHx3HQANTIVupltSldWOmlqs7ciYCMODFbby3S62WopLO5Y6JDsI5Rojp3qU7yaedY5tPMhzFRymb_VZVHhE3l8sdMg0NVZkZ3Xg0HkUam3REAJemmf0/s320/0527151742.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
I must admit, somedays I got attached to my long hair. I almost chickened out and got a trim instead. Luckily on the day of my haircut, it was super annoying so AWAY IT WENT!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJWKhkjN2pMdA38siUPnVTqYrms9KcOpzteYNdgeR3xrx2Ba7x6GB1TzxWuIamz0vzQYjKLzKMjaB-sfEbvHVK8mB10yBzH-uOmg8CqOF_bDLpBpBvPccZB_zK_60_7DZwYWmHDZ29F7tj/s1600/0529151712a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJWKhkjN2pMdA38siUPnVTqYrms9KcOpzteYNdgeR3xrx2Ba7x6GB1TzxWuIamz0vzQYjKLzKMjaB-sfEbvHVK8mB10yBzH-uOmg8CqOF_bDLpBpBvPccZB_zK_60_7DZwYWmHDZ29F7tj/s320/0529151712a.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And this is me, right now writing this blog post.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I LOVE how this little girl in my class inspired me to do something way out of my comfort zone. Her cute haircut and sweet heart just did me in! That's one of the best parts of teaching - learning from your students.<br />
<br />
FYI: If you're thinking of donating your hair, I'm donating mine to <a href="http://pantene.com/en-us/experience-main-section2/beautiful-lengths" target="_blank">Pantene Beautiful Lengths</a>. My childhood neighbor and second mother was diagnosed with cancer around Thanksgiving last year. When she started chemo and lost her hair, Pantene gave her a wig for free. She's an amazing high school English teacher who kept teaching through her treatment, and I was so impressed with a company that would provide her with a wig free of charge!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-87346386913217147202015-05-03T06:00:00.000-04:002015-05-03T07:47:13.793-04:00May Pinterest Linky<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLyqbp4m2wK2JQJLnuxW1BxZAe5jrwzq_jiWW0thetqcMGC3yRnXKlgUG64JHUHXIYmhTJyKabuX_OWXowAsnHsBWuS332Iz7UAwATVddF5_BZwMt0TLInIyUGFINdmn43qCWF1XBivqp/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLyqbp4m2wK2JQJLnuxW1BxZAe5jrwzq_jiWW0thetqcMGC3yRnXKlgUG64JHUHXIYmhTJyKabuX_OWXowAsnHsBWuS332Iz7UAwATVddF5_BZwMt0TLInIyUGFINdmn43qCWF1XBivqp/s1600/Slide1.JPG" height="247" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Can you believe it's May already? The countdown has begun! And here's some pins to help you make it though the next few days! The end of the year is my favorite time of year because all of the stress of testing is gone and we get to have fun while learning! The worst part is coming up with engaging activities so your students don't go absolutely bonkers. Here are three ideas to keep your end of the year somewhat sane. :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiICGjg3dcn-Xnj36iNOL2dIJ0qbacS7CjzPc0Ki7TCD5CQbNNzhMtcJAMY_fkQbiCupei9r9jPtkaQyIk3Ur9pbsFbKv7ziIDFDjaOM8rLJFFJBl_AXsoBOf3RvrJ3lOZucgPyvAXgx6sh/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiICGjg3dcn-Xnj36iNOL2dIJ0qbacS7CjzPc0Ki7TCD5CQbNNzhMtcJAMY_fkQbiCupei9r9jPtkaQyIk3Ur9pbsFbKv7ziIDFDjaOM8rLJFFJBl_AXsoBOf3RvrJ3lOZucgPyvAXgx6sh/s1600/Slide2.JPG" height="247" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431118058131/" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431118058131/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhglgE_Aw6X6Svt9iJmT2qIA4M_DG_iqwqONRs_3Bk_aiV-yR-MKRHZclNIzRfAPNpOsbGXMMfNNu15djkWfxTRjFRpn58CxdaX8GqrEUE73Obd3Lp_Qv78VH-ETd76ckAWb6nYsXvWLX0W/s1600/Pint.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love this first idea! It's the CUTEST craft, a great bulletin board, and a good self-reflection activity. I'm loving the idea of a graduation cap, too! I'll be making this next week with my littles to keep their antsy hands busy. :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqDy7_0as6TMMmi5uu7syVLWm3pik3o2XRjgbJqfi8C7yMmjNqK-X7mxz6GEpGy0dl41qgElvMszgHHq4X9gqYdE28skit0sNSTxSljwvCQuDURGy9LrF7voc5SQHgHHyImPFLWG7ZdiS/s1600/Slide3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqDy7_0as6TMMmi5uu7syVLWm3pik3o2XRjgbJqfi8C7yMmjNqK-X7mxz6GEpGy0dl41qgElvMszgHHq4X9gqYdE28skit0sNSTxSljwvCQuDURGy9LrF7voc5SQHgHHyImPFLWG7ZdiS/s1600/Slide3.JPG" height="247" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431118089659/" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431118089659/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvsZWS6Bt_KsljAQh1FxfGte4cuFCRiOT5UyBRRCb5PfrpaIzvXMFTuC5YWOPQ1ROfRor85Lm2yRAKzUIEaGmQVINiT5EpzKWV9Nka0pstF5rC3GjK1yGt-5LvWeh_dTJlevl8ZNDpbyEs/s1600/Bird.jpeg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Peanut Butter Bird Feeders are a mess, but the kids will absolutely love them! Last year I did these at the end of the year. I made a few to hang outside our windows at school and the kids made some to take home. We really spent way too long watching out our windows. I'm not joking...I turned out the lights and we got quiet and we counted how many different birds came to our bird feeder...for a lonnnng time. We honestly might have counted more squirrels than birds, but the kids were still totally engaged!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha0BubNJk06nh2cg3fFBp9Jene4r_r5Ecr8EZTK7PtqQUU7OY_y7deMJJGP8t6k5eh9aKDZG2yW59_3TKdF1aMVzMChVEs9nhEwEyZY7VnkLtsbPci_GRcMkwNmkXRyJ1FAX6ctmqgQmRw/s1600/Slide4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha0BubNJk06nh2cg3fFBp9Jene4r_r5Ecr8EZTK7PtqQUU7OY_y7deMJJGP8t6k5eh9aKDZG2yW59_3TKdF1aMVzMChVEs9nhEwEyZY7VnkLtsbPci_GRcMkwNmkXRyJ1FAX6ctmqgQmRw/s1600/Slide4.JPG" height="247" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431118089668/" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431118089668/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2pg45R65Gg0eLGJXt-W1NvYQ9RYMHksP0CpSKkeF9RfgAO3YPhxTCFliWMWAjgRlNbC25eM0Wd-0Ybp_t_dM1Z__kpW5_RSxLW5q71TJFDvkrdFPUBz9i04XkptehDEqtxf5YQ1UAEIx4/s1600/Cook.jpeg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You just HAVE to click the Pinterest link for this one. This blogger did her child's birthday party with snacks from various books. At our school, we are only allowed to watch one movie between now and the end of school...which leaves a lot of activities to be planned between now and then. This made me think, why not have a book themed snack party? I am super psyched! If your students are allowed to bring homemade snacks, you could have them bring in their favorite book with a matching snack. If they're not allowed to bring homemade snacks, make your own snacks! Now I am no Betty Crocker, but I can do break and bake cookies and goldfish. I'd LOVE, LOVE, LOVE to have my kids read the books to their class while they eat their snacks! Oh, what a nerdy teacher's dream party!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hoping you have a magical end of the year filled with fun!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<!-- start InLinkz script -->
<br />
<div class="InLinkzContainer" id="516637">
<a href="http://new.inlinkz.com/view.php?id=516637" rel="nofollow" title="click to view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div>
<script src="//static.inlinkz.com/cs2.js?v=116" type="text/javascript"></script>
<!-- end InLinkz script -->
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-74768006970596897112015-05-01T08:00:00.000-04:002015-05-01T21:50:22.833-04:00The Teacher AnchorI am all about organization and planning. I may not always be organized or planned, but believe me - I'm all about it. This year I decided to invest in a Teacher Anchor. It was definitely one of the best choices I've made all year! Here is the (beautiful) new and improved Teacher Anchor!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPhABe0MS4kDH-Lmspn7O6AtMeH79RpgJeqjxAxGuKLCwCsF_R5t7eNedGyy5dJQOhJh8HsLjHtK3Qjw5iCwWo2xkRDGLzMm826HFkmXqa-OcJ1pvKut4ZP_mhJFlXso4X-u4nxvqW-fJD/s1600/SpecialImageforBloggers.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPhABe0MS4kDH-Lmspn7O6AtMeH79RpgJeqjxAxGuKLCwCsF_R5t7eNedGyy5dJQOhJh8HsLjHtK3Qjw5iCwWo2xkRDGLzMm826HFkmXqa-OcJ1pvKut4ZP_mhJFlXso4X-u4nxvqW-fJD/s1600/SpecialImageforBloggers.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
What do I love about this year's Teacher Anchor? EVERYTHING. But here's the three things I love the most.<br />
<br />
1. The Forms: I've used these nonstop all year long. I bought the Complete Teacher Anchor last year (and you should get one this year...). My favorite part has been the sheets that came with it. They are so useful and practical. I use a sheet for each week's small group reading time. I can easily plan, track, and modify three different reading groups with these amazing sheets! Now I am able to look back at records through August to see what I have taught each child in my room, what they have mastered, and what I still need to teach them before second grade.<br />
<br />
2. The Flexibility: About halfway through the year, I was asked by my school to use an online planbook through which I was required to submit my plans weekly. I firmly believe a planbook is like a teacher's diary - you just don't mess with it. :) But I also try to be flexible. Even while using the online system to submit my plans, I can easily change the headings of my Teacher Anchor. Instead of using Math, Reading, Writing, etc., I've been using headings of "To Do at School" and "Activities to Create." I LOVE that although my situation changed during the year, I can still use my Teacher Anchor for planning what I need to plan - even if it isn't subject areas!<br />
<br />
3. The Little Things: I love the little extras in the Teacher Anchor that you won't always find in other planbooks. I am crazy about the little stickers that say "Grades Due" and "Early Dismissal." I love the useful Substitute Sheets that are added in the planner. The Birthday Calendar has kept me on top of my kids' birthdays throughout the year (because I am really bad about remembering birthdays). This year...are you ready?...this year you can also get your Teacher Anchor Binder PERSONALIZED! Is that not the best thing ever? You can choose between 12 different colors and get your fabulous name printed on the front. It's these little things that has me DYING for a Teacher Anchor this year!<br />
<br />
So please, go quickly to <a href="http://cjayneteach.com/teacheranchor.html" target="_blank">C. Jayne Teach's Shop</a> to view more about this fabulous product for the upcoming school year!<br />
<br />
EDIT: So I wrote this blog post, and then I watched this video. Everything I loved about last year is here AND EVEN MORE! My absolute favorite thing from last year, the forms, are now in the Teacher Anchor! I can't hold in my excitement! Please, please, please watch this video! It's the best thing you'll do all day!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/124164516" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe> <br />
<a href="https://vimeo.com/124164516">2015-16 Teacher Anchorâ„¢</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/user19717193">Chandra Verbic</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-48736450632140253532015-04-03T06:00:00.000-04:002015-04-03T06:00:01.729-04:00April Pinterest Linky<div style="text-align: center;">
I can't tell you how much I love this linky. Really.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3nn57FvL7eylraUu6eljdRvruEDoZjzgYC80ODfQbdhbs3Yj_cY9z7SIX6h8Bk-O_N-BfVLb7jdGic5UEoSLlxUTg0UvDdvJZxfZ7XjTglq4-N4todb03AZTayY4brkjrQ_5R1JZ0GkpU/s1600/Pick+3+Header+Graphic+April.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3nn57FvL7eylraUu6eljdRvruEDoZjzgYC80ODfQbdhbs3Yj_cY9z7SIX6h8Bk-O_N-BfVLb7jdGic5UEoSLlxUTg0UvDdvJZxfZ7XjTglq4-N4todb03AZTayY4brkjrQ_5R1JZ0GkpU/s1600/Pick+3+Header+Graphic+April.jpg" height="247" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So here's my 3 Pinterest Picks for April!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2PYVnMmVx3GhWHsX8ObhxOYTCeQ2c6JN5TTXTZHSqAVk_S3TdZooxaInsNw_O_LL6YuV3hfC3Yeb-xj0Df4OkNlcuolqJ5UVbxfxTnMoJTM8kFpoo-XuXsQ09PSiFSlEmDadDSBM6dXd/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2PYVnMmVx3GhWHsX8ObhxOYTCeQ2c6JN5TTXTZHSqAVk_S3TdZooxaInsNw_O_LL6YuV3hfC3Yeb-xj0Df4OkNlcuolqJ5UVbxfxTnMoJTM8kFpoo-XuXsQ09PSiFSlEmDadDSBM6dXd/s1600/Slide1.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431117906909/" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431117906909/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj13dunSbYUKHsOCyGqjPOHTwtDCdu0jzY5K8ER2RadlGZyqTYqGeq8POFYaot6-HkciRnbe5i8BW43CfK6Zo6g4pusKsjcIBu_VuQFeccURKf8LOEoaAxaZjsPR0err7Cdfabcr48FXRqS/s1600/1.jpeg" height="320" width="191" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Isn't this just adorable? I mean, I'm all about teaching - really. But if there's anything I love more in life, I promise it's food. With our Scholastic Bonus Points, I bought this see-through veggie grower.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://clubs2.scholastic.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=11151&catalogId=10001&productId=85088798" target="_blank"><img alt="https://clubs2.scholastic.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=11151&catalogId=10001&productId=85088798" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmz90Bv2PaPqIVLL9KqBx9hooMFrlpQqVpd-zYhrapu56S7ZqttKMYhDNGRicYxYlHI-IVlK8-NXc_iThDFbG7oqUPCeGc7K7Rct_zeVMxa4eIqrIdr_rIsJ44fSQWjLR87IA7F9-s0XEb/s1600/4.gif" height="320" width="299" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When we get to studying plants this month, it would be awesome to incorporate the vegetables we're growing in class with this activity!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPfHnnaLkFv0oaM-r5WjN9IudPqgFvJX9SpErAGmyS7zOazTbWmwKMPwAnd32DrBnLLAIqEiyhyIcQKpeaDnELfNidSSwJVw-GpMHFqGLpEGu151ZtPUyC2mI4YovazEkWNwXzUWO3y6Ff/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPfHnnaLkFv0oaM-r5WjN9IudPqgFvJX9SpErAGmyS7zOazTbWmwKMPwAnd32DrBnLLAIqEiyhyIcQKpeaDnELfNidSSwJVw-GpMHFqGLpEGu151ZtPUyC2mI4YovazEkWNwXzUWO3y6Ff/s1600/Slide2.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431117906935/" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431117906935/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiubruVSoLx7To88EA0wW3EVBR6irGoPqInrUSsK_qVTc_rX2bVVqibwTjM9V1Vj1FcxSrWk21CNhNRvrOx6piSaH8x9NDjwUF7YcpOTIs59O2wdxy6Qe65r5acXDl6BEQafdHDAX1NR52o/s1600/2.jpeg" height="320" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I might be obsessed with rainbows. Roy G. Biv is my BFF - for realz. So do you think I will be decorating my room with these? YES, MA'AM.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You could use this for everything! Cloud as main idea, rainbow as details. Cloud as sum, rainbow as different ways to make that sum. Personally, I think I'll use the cloud as a topic sentence and the rainbow as details in a paragraph. I love this pin because it's just so flexible!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-fFNDTXRmeFf5y3jq1tYHUqqC-B-45SVUl_faPGRsimaQAkyGyoM0lHYwmE93UU1Kry6_6xrETHgZyx7z-aViV_Dg2qGY3mOrefWEsqqUyJ-dA5fGq2kI1bzwbVtbXqhgA6krvuk3NcG2/s1600/Slide3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-fFNDTXRmeFf5y3jq1tYHUqqC-B-45SVUl_faPGRsimaQAkyGyoM0lHYwmE93UU1Kry6_6xrETHgZyx7z-aViV_Dg2qGY3mOrefWEsqqUyJ-dA5fGq2kI1bzwbVtbXqhgA6krvuk3NcG2/s1600/Slide3.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431117906966/" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431117906966/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghiypqBCVs0IcBeMVN423fPFnPJEILNKc6qmbl_9Bbqx1njE1Ywho-LG7gd1QzfMqNMpyFA1voAUmlbPCSOljYn6ZNvwQY8_WJW8WOVWFdaNkiYG_hHIU4XQMlSpOLUdyyMTlhtkBXVlDY/s1600/3.jpeg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Back to the planting, aren't these cute? They look like regular ole classroom plants...but they aren't entirely! See those cute white cups? I use one just about every morning. They're K-Cups! What a genius idea! The worst thing about plants in the classroom is that they're a mess. But with this, you can put a K-Cup in a pan and viola! No mess - and hopefully not as many tip-overs. Plus, you're recycling which equal bonus points for Earth Day. Go you, Teach, go you!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have a Happy April, everyone! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
P.S. I know you love your job so much you would never count down to summer...but in case you wanted to know, we have 34 days left. Hoping you are almost ready for vacation, warm days, and having time for yourself!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<!-- start InLinkz script -->
<br />
<div class="InLinkzContainer" id="509621">
<a href="http://new.inlinkz.com/luwpview.php?id=509621" rel="nofollow" title="click to view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div>
<script src="//static.inlinkz.com/cs2.js?v=116" type="text/javascript"></script>
<!-- end InLinkz script -->
<br />
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-83585552237264914562015-03-03T06:00:00.000-05:002015-03-03T06:00:08.688-05:00March's Pinterest Picks<div style="text-align: center;">
I am so excited to be linking up with <a href="http://pawsitivelyteaching.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Pawsitively Teaching</a> and <a href="http://inspiredowlscorner.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Inspired Owl's Corner</a> for my top 3 Pinterest Picks!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitbOGg67oUY39GePpvvHnOdD846-6fSlTQMQNRhcbElwKZJPe4uug_ztmP9NWkF0ATMECmt6yqFVa7I6y3ae2luz4DonRe9c34ReW3CQHHCq8EpRQsdoLy-6pU8g0xgRx_IaiRRBFZZVlZ/s1600/Pick+3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitbOGg67oUY39GePpvvHnOdD846-6fSlTQMQNRhcbElwKZJPe4uug_ztmP9NWkF0ATMECmt6yqFVa7I6y3ae2luz4DonRe9c34ReW3CQHHCq8EpRQsdoLy-6pU8g0xgRx_IaiRRBFZZVlZ/s1600/Pick+3.jpeg" height="247" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm all about Pinterest. It's by far my favorite teaching and decorating resource, so let's get started! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCbuo-CCiuVlsf8FnM7T9hH4_uELSBWOfLL5al5ei9g17GQaKCvmmdSCWiKpcL-o2dtPcUaZoMCP3rrmQhdlKmV1f2a7lhVkwV2MUHvO86AWWnyYd5HpOpoiXfL1JjQtNK-xKBHX4P-OHM/s1600/Uno.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCbuo-CCiuVlsf8FnM7T9hH4_uELSBWOfLL5al5ei9g17GQaKCvmmdSCWiKpcL-o2dtPcUaZoMCP3rrmQhdlKmV1f2a7lhVkwV2MUHvO86AWWnyYd5HpOpoiXfL1JjQtNK-xKBHX4P-OHM/s1600/Uno.jpeg" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431117752404/" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431117752404/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaB7RXfo847CG10kFbnLDRhfCgX64tEX37bxPqy8obi4iZ976D8GFimd8JMMvik2YwKwxFd2bLK1sxvQbjDw5kj57Q7m4mbXSEWOwCqZ5zdzkMAm-0BK63oyMz45Ajig18HgA_ktKsOS8j/s1600/Cat.jpeg" height="320" width="209" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I know Read Across America Day was yesterday, but for me March is Read Across America Month. We just don't stop. This is a super cute and EASY way to get your kids motivated about reading!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You must also know that I'm a strong advocate of door decorations. It's tough work and my doors are always full of mistakes, but the kids get SO excited when there is anything on their door. So this pin, although simple, is everything I'm about. And you should try it too!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's my finished product! Definitely not as cute as the Pinterest one, but hey, it's there.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVAFV7dfFjD6n5BhUr6xXBgB9nX3mIj6LY5DwfTdkiTyrU3r2HOS1mwCqpqCwmh1nS1UtDT-6QNOBhHfYPsp0zdda2popqCFEmtl838sYqeWsMOSH27N0k0HRTHAeceqS8QO2FnIodB0Z/s1600/Slide1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVAFV7dfFjD6n5BhUr6xXBgB9nX3mIj6LY5DwfTdkiTyrU3r2HOS1mwCqpqCwmh1nS1UtDT-6QNOBhHfYPsp0zdda2popqCFEmtl838sYqeWsMOSH27N0k0HRTHAeceqS8QO2FnIodB0Z/s1600/Slide1.png" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTB7_qAG4KQFpr_jh-Fe5DbQ4NMLpsNO5TpW8393p2vvAVNGmk1zzuuxmbJf7NlhqeYk-e0t4WQoTmhp5W6sqJ-Egilce5sFFtBAb6uCLcneMAF7aGqNKK16daf1iB989wZXFS67L9PzS/s1600/Dos.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTB7_qAG4KQFpr_jh-Fe5DbQ4NMLpsNO5TpW8393p2vvAVNGmk1zzuuxmbJf7NlhqeYk-e0t4WQoTmhp5W6sqJ-Egilce5sFFtBAb6uCLcneMAF7aGqNKK16daf1iB989wZXFS67L9PzS/s1600/Dos.jpeg" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431117764873/" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431117764873/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYbJq8QiqDwnsMKEhbLKFbog9I4Q0CK2a03nR1YEPvkOcW0B6mNLpTCLyyfA0Kky8G32bk4mbgZxuIxZ3rBG68AeDrbvAB7aWNHDaDhbBUS6bb_MZPv21gBshx_BqNTtVcPwMjVmzCVpm/s1600/Reading+Board.jpeg" height="223" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To go along with Read Across America Day (or Week...or Month), I did this bulletin board last year and I'm doing it again this year. I take a lined sheet of paper and a blank sheet and staple them together. The kids draw their favorite book on one side and write what they love about the book on the lined side. I take pictures of kids looking at a book and print them off of my home computer. The kid's pictures will take a TON of ink when you print them off, but it's so worth it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just some tips if you'd like to make this bulletin board, put each picture as a slide in a powerpoint presentation. Then cover all of the background you can with white shapes to save on ink. If you've taken pictures at a close enough depth, they should turn out perfect!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCiQFO040KmM3xADeOupQH4xBPAJhEd7myHqkYnacTZSkfog5kP1aaI5lACkg3Bk8qIzXHTDvF6ynrEEQDn6MeHek6QMcBFldHiljkThRCWI7v7jceg7MzhWKF3y6Ihz99vP8xwuu3LO1_/s1600/Tres.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCiQFO040KmM3xADeOupQH4xBPAJhEd7myHqkYnacTZSkfog5kP1aaI5lACkg3Bk8qIzXHTDvF6ynrEEQDn6MeHek6QMcBFldHiljkThRCWI7v7jceg7MzhWKF3y6Ihz99vP8xwuu3LO1_/s1600/Tres.jpeg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431117764850/" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431117764850/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9vB3jIbtoiTc79S17iFIAhCCgZ2XBJzcJjx9loCDu7kdEmK12Upr017Qq8ddK3VqiWaXvV1_HBF-1UdGSOj8uvFQFSyzLIL7jvHpAWOSgKRWCR-1BscvsFkfOVw9YvVg4986sJlTVuVPC/s1600/Leprechaun.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Last, OH MY GOODNESS. This is so cute! I found this leprechaun trap on Pinterest and the link was dead, but it was enough to spark my interest. I can honestly say I've never done a send home project with my kids. The school I am at has little family participation, so I always assumed it wouldn't work. After seeing this, though, all I can ask is why not? If parents help, they help. If not, at least I tried! If you search "Leprechaun Trap" on Pinterest, there's so much more. Like this letter, for example:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431117764975/" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/227924431117764975/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpQPS_uEPawyM1-ZpVS2ldZjs_wKJLgJ9j_UOdRpkxN5txsRWvHSi0n6xvBiCe6fyaJon12E_S1jRbgeCiGxuqWzDPZFIFfItR2h7yuouzRx0OwQs9oE-DYhPK9Dudvsf72CgRjG6pQV2_/s1600/Leprechaun+Letter.jpeg" height="320" width="246" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There are so many writing templates to go along with it as well. I plan on asking my kids to make the Leprechaun Trap and then have them write about it the next week after they turn in their traps. Crossing my fingers that it will work out, but it sure looks like fun!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<!-- start InLinkz script -->
<br />
<div class="InLinkzContainer" id="498855">
<a href="http://new.inlinkz.com/luwpview.php?id=498855" rel="nofollow" title="click to view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div>
<script src="//static.inlinkz.com/cs2.js?v=116" type="text/javascript"></script>
<!-- end InLinkz script -->Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-89173432353082091482015-02-21T08:00:00.000-05:002015-02-21T08:00:03.657-05:00You Oughta Know About...<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm super dooper excited to be linking up for my first blog hop with <a href="http://buzzingwithmrsmcclain.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jasmine from Buzzing with Mrs. McClain</a>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5IJMEFoDxK6cV-Y0CjStaJGKRmvOTRzhQBu35z54PSeou_hR-0rSYqEKUdAlhXjIr2jYSswrtYpDLEEtvXMi2E9d8fatTYh2NOmrziMQdGzxW8NY2ese9bOXB_ga43ado0fz6QNCUJ5R2/s1600/yououghtaknowbloghopbanner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5IJMEFoDxK6cV-Y0CjStaJGKRmvOTRzhQBu35z54PSeou_hR-0rSYqEKUdAlhXjIr2jYSswrtYpDLEEtvXMi2E9d8fatTYh2NOmrziMQdGzxW8NY2ese9bOXB_ga43ado0fz6QNCUJ5R2/s1600/yououghtaknowbloghopbanner.png" height="241" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
You Oughta Know About Think Sheets! This isn't a new idea by any means, but I can honestly say I have never been in a classroom and seen these used once. They sounded a little ridiculous to me when I first thought about using them. I was quite certain no six year old child would sit and fill these out responsibly. Plus, every Think Sheet I found was full of large words and extensive writing lines. When I'm mad or sad, I don't feel like writing an essay, so I'm pretty sure six year olds don't either.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But, I was out of options. I was at my wit's end. I had tried every single behavior management idea from the clip chart to a time out chair to a Kindness Cat that brought around suckers. I've tried behavior meters, individual behavior plans, and a stinking awesome treasure box <strike>that I sometimes steal chocolate out of</strike>. Yeah. I've been through all of the options. So I tried the Think Sheets. And believe it or not, they actually worked!<br />
<br />
So here's the process in my classroom:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Think-Sheet-1716117" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Think-Sheet-1716117" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY6mQdhIKZFkkX6oNx9zYuddvAqb61O08M8L_TuC57eln7aukCb7C8KXKtb0VtS2LNORGhcflZdZFYDzgNYWP7XdM8mE300a0HjqtREp2i9lX2sCJ2_vGsIrv5RGpCdSv9P0Zxp0GeOdZr/s1600/Slide1.png" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. A child may or may not be given a warning (depending on the action). Once they've passed "the point of no return," I send them to the "thinking" chair with a lovely paper in hand.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. They fill it out. Most kids can read the words themselves, some need help with just a couple words. By about Number 3, the child's behavior has already turned calmer and more reflective.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3. They hit the dreaded "Do I need to apologize?" question and realize the choices they made might have hurt someone. They sign the paper, apologize to the other student(s), and return the paper to me...<b>completely transformed</b>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4. If it needs to be sent home, I add teacher notes for parents to see. If not, I just keep the paper for myself.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's not foolproof by any means, but so far it has <u>revolutionized</u> the behavior in my classroom. I deal with less conflicts and the students actively make better choices. Magnifico!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Want one for yourself? Click the picture below to get the freebie on TPT. If your kiddos are further along, I encourage you to find or make your own Think Sheet! You Oughta Know that if you implement them right, they can really be a lifesaver!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Think-Sheet-1716117" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Think-Sheet-1716117" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8LB3BSMc8-phj26yQyGxYTasHB0ZzDEo7JTSmWlR7wzhnJW7FSA85O8aIRP7b7BiHmlBWS0d-x5h2Wi343keEu8t3lKOXAucDewVkl5Liq_P_x2WM9gL9mWiXBceE5RSMf_HqAsdJMZxo/s1600/Slide1.gif" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<!-- start InLinkz script -->
<br />
<div class="InLinkzContainer" id="497603">
<a href="http://new.inlinkz.com/luwpview.php?id=497603" rel="nofollow" title="click to
view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div>
<script src="//static.inlinkz.com/cs2.js?v=116" type="text/javascript"></script>
<!-- end InLinkz script -->Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-37994832915435612892015-01-18T21:43:00.001-05:002015-01-18T21:43:33.784-05:00Fast Track to Fast Facts<br />So I'm not really sure how to say this, but my kids love math. Really. They love it.<br />
<br />Want to know a secret? Before Christmas break, they didn't. I didn't hear one kid talk about how they loved math or how it was fun. Nope, not even one.<br />
<br />
We started this:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fast-Track-to-Fast-Facts-Addition-1612959" target="_blank"><img alt="h" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi8whV-4pnxc4ZFeB93Wb6nuggdmfnz-SuT0tepCPr0-Docrb4HkNmZ1vRVWQ3zV6G9QxmCmUEMuvjZPmwaG4SBHNTTePZMrUtMRIBPzp0MXzH1Zt4b9m6TNrmGdPglhimvb-J5EpF56MA/s1600/Slide01.png" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
My kids are super pumped, super motivated, and they're even STUDYING ON THEIR OWN TIME! Crazy, I know.<br />
<br />
Here's how it all works:<br />
<br />
1. I printed out all the pieces included and laminated flags, banners, and racecars. Instead of laminating the track included, my first grade partner and I used construction paper for a bigger track so both classes could fit.<br />
<br />
2. I stuck it all up on a wall so it looked like this:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJM4mnBwowwZCNh1asYRxxrwCTqJMYjV5bm5ucyZcC7ZVfInBBSk2Gh0aCTtpcL_-I4DYYIerUWoLKao5dWIjXXh8OOIYiGYE6uVR6atO85neALxi0IsMSuXJFL-nsrhZI2xRh6Q04Zxy4/s1600/Slide2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJM4mnBwowwZCNh1asYRxxrwCTqJMYjV5bm5ucyZcC7ZVfInBBSk2Gh0aCTtpcL_-I4DYYIerUWoLKao5dWIjXXh8OOIYiGYE6uVR6atO85neALxi0IsMSuXJFL-nsrhZI2xRh6Q04Zxy4/s1600/Slide2.png" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
3. I printed off multiple copies of the facts timed tests and organized them as shown:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBcgR-b_k8Q6T6y9S2vAO-9kaz6TBateD3myFWo1UjOJYXACRHU-V9d9V4flv4Yyppo7szPB0GWGHqBKj6DeCGzTqaOrx7zDXlTyuQit9j6Z1gHHPoCUY1xscKc26336icPaV7TzJQKwx6/s1600/Slide1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBcgR-b_k8Q6T6y9S2vAO-9kaz6TBateD3myFWo1UjOJYXACRHU-V9d9V4flv4Yyppo7szPB0GWGHqBKj6DeCGzTqaOrx7zDXlTyuQit9j6Z1gHHPoCUY1xscKc26336icPaV7TzJQKwx6/s1600/Slide1.png" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
Copying the tests on colored paper helps me keep them separate...and it looks like a rainbow.<br /><br />
4. Daily, I grab the tests needed for each student. They all start at Test 1 and when they answer 10 questions correctly in one minute, they move on to the following test. I use the handy table included in the file to help me remember how many kids need Test 1 and Test 2 and so on. I give them one minute, and they put their math facts to the test!<br />
<br />
5. If students meet their goal, I move them up! If not, I keep them in the same place and let them know their progress (and how close they were).<br />
<br />
It seems simple, but my students have completely turned around. When their mental math skills increase, their overall math skills increase. My high kids are obviously loving to be in front, but my low kids are SO happy when they get to move past another flag. It's awesome to see each kid progressing at their own rate and being proud of themselves.<br />
<br />
If you want to try this in your own room, you can get the Addition Facts listed above, or grab the Addition & Subtraction Bundle here for just $1.50 more!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fast-Track-to-Fast-Facts-Addition-Subtraction-Bundle-1588885" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fast-Track-to-Fast-Facts-Addition-Subtraction-Bundle-1588885" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJxkxfQ7UGW0zhECloNc6MRX7I1dbLzVhs2JlZfG-vNo_2CwRPIpn5hkeMvGZlLE0Sgh1c0TbFtqR4So3EbIeAldklO0qhUZq_HwvrRGToS9WVOYRq2v75fI_x0vj571icd0EnVBuINm_/s1600/Slide1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-25532618510469731282014-12-31T11:11:00.003-05:002014-12-31T11:11:40.111-05:00One Word ResolutionI'm big on New Year's Resolutions. Super big. I start thinking about my resolutions before Christmas even starts. So I'm linking up with <a href="http://primarypowers.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Primary Powers</a> to give you my one word resolution!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyAfMCEk951iIMs4WLloYTfbG0_RQs0y7XgdvzbAo0yPGnvJHC2ckHe3vd3NkxfvUnJ_9s9hGp0asiQdJy261np3chafJo80nloxifzum4Dw410C0-ZqtlB1Tr2gBPMQNyaDqQV3-KyTXM/s1600/oneword.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyAfMCEk951iIMs4WLloYTfbG0_RQs0y7XgdvzbAo0yPGnvJHC2ckHe3vd3NkxfvUnJ_9s9hGp0asiQdJy261np3chafJo80nloxifzum4Dw410C0-ZqtlB1Tr2gBPMQNyaDqQV3-KyTXM/s1600/oneword.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I seriously have like 15 resolutions, but they all revolve around time. I think time is my most important resource, and many days I spend that time reading about other people's lives on facebook or looking at their lives on instagram. Don't get me wrong, both of these can be awesome ways to connect with others, but is that really the best way I can use my time? Shoot no.<br />
<br />
So I'm spending my time doing more this year for me...to improve my life and stop reading about the lives of other people.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
More time with the people that matter</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
More time reading my Bible</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
More time forming relationships with my kids</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
More time blogging</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
More time exercising</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
More time doing things I love</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
What's your one word resolution? Feel free to link up or comment below! Have a magical start to 2015!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-73452675675654239102014-10-31T20:57:00.001-04:002014-10-31T20:57:56.953-04:00Halloween: How to Trick your Tattletales for a TreatHappy Halloween...or the craziest day of the school year. Either one.<br />
<br />
I was Max today from <u>Where the Wild Things Are</u>. Most kids thought I was a "Bunny King." But it's amazing how much better students listen when you act like a bossy 6 year old in a funny outfit. Maybe I'll wear fuzzy slippers and a tall crown everyday.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJdDVdKfGqjuYUF1HgZ6dO7DmxhB6jZ5L4XUm-Anfrcxtmq5FI0kG8bBGHAg8oyFGgaTlTzqSSITXWLt_KIvJGvPGUpl3LeF5GAc4ntxw5I_qfR0xNnMjd5_mr_k-trDE7jyIB860ZcQT/s1600/IMG_20141031_152712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJdDVdKfGqjuYUF1HgZ6dO7DmxhB6jZ5L4XUm-Anfrcxtmq5FI0kG8bBGHAg8oyFGgaTlTzqSSITXWLt_KIvJGvPGUpl3LeF5GAc4ntxw5I_qfR0xNnMjd5_mr_k-trDE7jyIB860ZcQT/s1600/IMG_20141031_152712.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Besides dressing up like a Bunny King, the best thing I've done in the past month was come up with a Tattle Meter. It's like the famed Tattle Monster, but just a little more advanced.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUJS6kzMMYC66ogTeYw2kPAfT9DeHNKCdVig-TYsF2LdweqKlP3TVlbMInD4mvy3WrTb7GO-Mod_oESkAtjSSiWyoid4UqoJFUFU6b93c1mqhG3Q9Xp9bmJlNF58r9q3j0XMWL177gyjR1/s1600/DSCN4920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUJS6kzMMYC66ogTeYw2kPAfT9DeHNKCdVig-TYsF2LdweqKlP3TVlbMInD4mvy3WrTb7GO-Mod_oESkAtjSSiWyoid4UqoJFUFU6b93c1mqhG3Q9Xp9bmJlNF58r9q3j0XMWL177gyjR1/s1600/DSCN4920.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I've never used a Tattle Monster before, mainly because I'm too lazy to decorate a Kleenex box, but I imagine my kids would think it was silly and make fun of the idea of talking to a Kleenex box.<br />
<br />
Tattle Meters are serious business. Here's the deal:<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b><br /></b></u></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>1. I explained Tattle vs. Telling in my classroom. </b></u></span><br />
<b>tattle (v) [tat-tle] :</b> <br />
1. When someone is not getting hurt. <br />
2. If someone steps on your foot, bumps into you, says something rude, etc. let them know the problem: i.e. "You stepped on my foot," "That hurt my feelings." If the other person apologizes, there is usually no need to tattle. If the other person refuses to apologize <b>see telling</b>.<br />
<br />
<b>telling (v) [tel-ing] :</b><br />
1. When someone is hurt, getting hurt, or could get hurt. <br />
2. When someone does not apologize for their actions after you let them know it hurt you or your feelings.<br />
<br />
There are always gray areas in every tattling vs. telling speech like when someone says a bad word or when two children are constantly having the "That Hurt My Feelings" Talk. My students have picked up on it pretty quickly, though, and it seems to be going well.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>2. I set a goal.</b></u></span><br />
Right now our goal is Less than 10 Tattles in a Week = Cookies for the Class!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>3. I implement it.</u></b></span><br />
Every time I hear a tattle, I go to the board and fill in up to the next number. I use a dry erase marker on my laminated meter so we can restart each week. <br />
<br />
Last week: We hit ten tattles on Wednesday. :(<br />
<br />
This week: I ran around like a chicken with my head cut off this morning because I forgot to bake my AWESOME class cookies! Eight tattles ALL week, ladies and gents! 8!<br />
<br />
I hear so many problems getting resolved from one student to another. Students will come up to me often and start to tell me a tattle but then they'll quickly remember, cover their mouth, and walk away.<br />
<br />
We aren't absolutely great at conflict resolution in class, but we're getting there. Once we get the tattles down consistently, we'll work on making better apologies instead of, "Sorry." Baby steps.<br />
<br />
Anyhow, that's enough talk for a Friday night. Here's some Tattle Meters for you to have for free! Happy Halloween!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Tattle-Meter-1528801" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Tattle-Meter-1528801" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkksCElys-zq0-n001BpLQsInt0CswZlqobb6jggLjxeHPeo6Y8gdTddBHphNKGnwaIW8ORueCvs_dgR_FJFU0PgyMeYpiZ6K9FCNqnGoK_zE9Z0ldRz8Z5FXi1nc0XRlplcm0Tq7bCNxo/s1600/Slide1.png" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-3789303294607363092014-09-29T21:07:00.001-04:002014-09-29T21:07:50.608-04:00Reading Center Groups<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh, hello there! It's been what...a month since I blogged last? Gee willies. I'm terrible.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In other news - Reading Centers. Reading centers are AWESOME!! But they're a whole ton of work. Really. You can find me just about every Sunday night slaving away over laminating and cutting up cutesy little activities for the following week. But that's not what I'm posting about today. I'm writing about this:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD1FeFE64dY1-W24qdnSKW7Q2211BYKLzjQp-07FHmtvxtDVLXsokeOPhyX3y09a0Yv4MeKhr50uEBkRXB0HQbr9pyqr8LL-jsuSiYafSpCkUh2sIZpOdFgsCq8W13AjTCe_4wmwHW4Aqe/s1600/Slide5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD1FeFE64dY1-W24qdnSKW7Q2211BYKLzjQp-07FHmtvxtDVLXsokeOPhyX3y09a0Yv4MeKhr50uEBkRXB0HQbr9pyqr8LL-jsuSiYafSpCkUh2sIZpOdFgsCq8W13AjTCe_4wmwHW4Aqe/s1600/Slide5.png" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
How I organize my groups for centers.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I learned this from an awesome teacher I student taught with (thanks, Mrs. Lee! :)). I've seen lots of teachers do this different ways, but this way works BEST for me. I usually have one student of each reading ability level at each group (green, yellow, and blue). This way, I call back one color (green for example), and the yellows and blues are working together at centers.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
First, this cuts down on chit chat. Every teacher knows the more students you have in a center, the more talking and misbehaving is going to happen. Second, this makes sure I (generally) don't have two kids who have no clue what they're doing at a center. If my low students need help reading directions or completing an activity, they always have a middle or high student there to help them.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's not always fool proof, but it works for me!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now, we are doing some AWESOME things in Science this week, so hopefully I'll have something much more interesting to blog about soon! Thanks for hanging with me!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-78132126776942261832014-08-31T20:05:00.000-04:002014-08-31T20:05:42.095-04:00My Simply Magical Classroom<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh my goodness! I forgot how hectic the beginning of the school year was! We started school...oh about...a month ago? And I'm FINALLY getting this posted! Whew. I'm still not done with my room - it's a work in progress. :) But here's what the Simply Magical Classroom looks like for now!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's my Pinterest inspired UP bulletin board. I couldn't find one exactly like what I had imagined, so I improvised. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgey66tHnXVrPmY3gMMgGbd219UKqd76uKaQnl-ZuLJTwzRIOl0ka1M42XhT4c2_z3jJYcYuN-LzypONe0t2qpkrBcd-8vnZ0Wkb2wt5Zxf9YG8G0AtlFFfeIQiqKFCBoFvHGQyxqcbYYGw/s1600/Slide1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgey66tHnXVrPmY3gMMgGbd219UKqd76uKaQnl-ZuLJTwzRIOl0ka1M42XhT4c2_z3jJYcYuN-LzypONe0t2qpkrBcd-8vnZ0Wkb2wt5Zxf9YG8G0AtlFFfeIQiqKFCBoFvHGQyxqcbYYGw/s1600/Slide1.png" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's my door! I love Krista Wallden's work at <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Krista-Wallden" target="_blank">Creative Clips Graphics</a>. Almost everything I make has something in it from her - like these chevron papers. Hopefully I'll have these pennant banners on TPT soon for you!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgy2O3HABzhDLCnwre35jLAybebMuq1WDVGjskEcTiqgBT9-Q3wFVdEGGtHIEllXAdUevIUm2J9LJU15LPVDj9mJBZc70ckdkhuDtr4I01rw_diqUqX4UjLxAJmplg695Q-ckfI33GV1T_/s1600/Slide1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgy2O3HABzhDLCnwre35jLAybebMuq1WDVGjskEcTiqgBT9-Q3wFVdEGGtHIEllXAdUevIUm2J9LJU15LPVDj9mJBZc70ckdkhuDtr4I01rw_diqUqX4UjLxAJmplg695Q-ckfI33GV1T_/s1600/Slide1.png" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's my behavior chart in action! I give tickets according to what color the students are on at the end of the day. One for yellow, two for orange, and three for red. The kids LOVE it! You can snatch up my Behavior Chart <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Simply-Magical-Learning/Category/Behavior-Charts" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyc4WIsRF2nKHNnwBdsUb6U9RK8Kfv9XtjDTZbOjPy0SnlOaHHSP0dg8vh2HpqrkjtMN8nBKB_jRywS-sEki8ykGhXBkdA1TkK2-kkG99gSChFJQK0JKg8uLQUBaxLD0hz211gjUh8HCKo/s1600/Slide2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyc4WIsRF2nKHNnwBdsUb6U9RK8Kfv9XtjDTZbOjPy0SnlOaHHSP0dg8vh2HpqrkjtMN8nBKB_jRywS-sEki8ykGhXBkdA1TkK2-kkG99gSChFJQK0JKg8uLQUBaxLD0hz211gjUh8HCKo/s1600/Slide2.png" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's our daily schedule - again with Krista's papers!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAldPgqB1nMIPkXEVcxR8bv34K7xUoD9fOpZ4t5rxaALvSFF0uijBu5BA75pX4kVE5LFdJW_Ch-CtaUcQL8EUQ92Xo8Uv9GLu7ZWhdGWJWo6fcFJvo1wWODddhjmL2b7EHyBifni6IV0iI/s1600/Slide3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAldPgqB1nMIPkXEVcxR8bv34K7xUoD9fOpZ4t5rxaALvSFF0uijBu5BA75pX4kVE5LFdJW_Ch-CtaUcQL8EUQ92Xo8Uv9GLu7ZWhdGWJWo6fcFJvo1wWODddhjmL2b7EHyBifni6IV0iI/s1600/Slide3.png" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
ALL year long last year I tried to think of a way to hide our closet. I tried everything imaginable to get these curtains to stay up. My mom walked in this summer and within 5 minutes, she came up with this marvelous solution - bike hangers and a PVC pipe. She's a genius.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1oqrC7u1y4dG2OeWa9pvYuFRV735B-eqzqWXQDhpfBHsmO6t0_kIwK40ntb41jx-MGs6xu_5jZDUPNvyQfuu5u1Q9RC7NhZsq1rK40n1ial0ElPZlNqjhOQg1c-zm1sgNt-o1PDnGYgry/s1600/Slide2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1oqrC7u1y4dG2OeWa9pvYuFRV735B-eqzqWXQDhpfBHsmO6t0_kIwK40ntb41jx-MGs6xu_5jZDUPNvyQfuu5u1Q9RC7NhZsq1rK40n1ial0ElPZlNqjhOQg1c-zm1sgNt-o1PDnGYgry/s1600/Slide2.png" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Remember when I <a href="http://simplymagicallearning.blogspot.com/2014/07/new-school-year-new-bookshelves.html" target="_blank">made those bookshelves</a> this summer? Here they are in action! With an amazing library organizing system from Maria Monore at <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/EDITABLE-Classroom-Library-Labels-for-Bins-Books-White-Series-1237265" target="_blank">Kinder-Craze</a>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSrQpuPfKHFZS7A47dirY4hWDJHNcKLGslNkxtFjcOf6CDwGrCJaPo9JoksA_9cx0kCtWibatKf7itvdb2xirallYgPFABJ3OhHqFL_tD_qDI1FsdPmByb3sK6kzjnsaPUbW6CnsQtKvko/s1600/Slide3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSrQpuPfKHFZS7A47dirY4hWDJHNcKLGslNkxtFjcOf6CDwGrCJaPo9JoksA_9cx0kCtWibatKf7itvdb2xirallYgPFABJ3OhHqFL_tD_qDI1FsdPmByb3sK6kzjnsaPUbW6CnsQtKvko/s1600/Slide3.png" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibUUbQdQcOiDkBAviEqtIRBhyphenhypheng8ykHK31YfAFiwSjNkTeaN77gIvv4aBWHYqY9z6C9ORn1byLov7aCSd8P_B3DbCZVAOPA4sTe2-jofpcabdQqhX-CoM6Xr0NXvfpZugv5PGzM38b5R0g1/s1600/Slide4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibUUbQdQcOiDkBAviEqtIRBhyphenhypheng8ykHK31YfAFiwSjNkTeaN77gIvv4aBWHYqY9z6C9ORn1byLov7aCSd8P_B3DbCZVAOPA4sTe2-jofpcabdQqhX-CoM6Xr0NXvfpZugv5PGzM38b5R0g1/s1600/Slide4.png" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's the only Reading Centers organization chart that I think will ever work for me. I'll post more on this later. :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgStnp5GrTXeRycWyWT7XkXu4AxhQy_-hrFQeJ_2GbcbwdSRvoGbaBNbx5JwxvTU9FqvHtdGGrU8SUFiP2AvpkY3OfCpXVKVbfh8Lw5Ragy2ohF25tSn-15kPUDyxXgIfszaM8hzqvtqlmK/s1600/Slide5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgStnp5GrTXeRycWyWT7XkXu4AxhQy_-hrFQeJ_2GbcbwdSRvoGbaBNbx5JwxvTU9FqvHtdGGrU8SUFiP2AvpkY3OfCpXVKVbfh8Lw5Ragy2ohF25tSn-15kPUDyxXgIfszaM8hzqvtqlmK/s1600/Slide5.png" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My Birthday Chart with adorable cupcakes by...guess who! Krista again! And my Teacher's Pet puppy - the best (and simplest) Classroom Jobs Chart imaginable created by <a href="http://www.ateenytinyteacher.com/" target="_blank">A Teeny Tiny Teacher</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJwGAj4UGCi7io1mV1T-leRkGjDJAD_fwBsVU2EXTL5o2pkOk_33ePH_mw7vig3veNHKzorGa9buZ1Q9Hje9kITE7NqU42T6mpQDFma2WuNWkqJvzcI2Lc4CRW-CdqWkIK0595eIRuYq7C/s1600/Slide4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJwGAj4UGCi7io1mV1T-leRkGjDJAD_fwBsVU2EXTL5o2pkOk_33ePH_mw7vig3veNHKzorGa9buZ1Q9Hje9kITE7NqU42T6mpQDFma2WuNWkqJvzcI2Lc4CRW-CdqWkIK0595eIRuYq7C/s1600/Slide4.png" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And last, but not least, my hanging lanterns. It's hard to describe how much this adds to my classroom. I can't even take a good picture to describe it. If you are allowed to hang things in your classroom, DO! It makes life so much happier!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhswSLQ8fHFIK55XrO7RdykcQkrH6FoG9g3u9rLcrYgUDW3rtzCWgI5G7GKWVHgJ8llvXRr3GGfmeb2hMCrDWF9WMhlfMuTXd4FKLlXN9k23nrZptNjjBtzdPlRcpJjq9vbLGH9w3uCR4xO/s1600/Slide5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhswSLQ8fHFIK55XrO7RdykcQkrH6FoG9g3u9rLcrYgUDW3rtzCWgI5G7GKWVHgJ8llvXRr3GGfmeb2hMCrDWF9WMhlfMuTXd4FKLlXN9k23nrZptNjjBtzdPlRcpJjq9vbLGH9w3uCR4xO/s1600/Slide5.png" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I still have A LOT more work to do to get my classroom where I want it. But just like learning, it's a work in progress the whole year through. :)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-45879084693690790642014-08-02T10:12:00.000-04:002014-08-02T10:32:48.975-04:00Back to School Sale<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">If you buy many things on TPT, I'd say you've heard about the Back to School Sale by now. For the sellers who participate, many of their products will be the lowest they will <b>ever </b>be on sale. And I really, really like sales. So I'm giving you a warning here of insider info...you ready? <span style="font-size: x-small;">I'm participating in the sale. </span> Woohoo! Exciting, right? Get those products wishlisted and ready because the sale is Aug 4-5!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Here's a cute little graphic to get you excited. If you're having your own sale, feel free to borrow for your own site!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS5exJqgcGPsJmhPQRJsIctey-mMSqwlr003zWGjiTz4c8Xy1jaoB-2t0OmlREx5vMqmF5whas1qyq_zg3dBNpYpI6y8BZQf71HAgl6RzF0D583kOkgmRMIu6fGoNGLf4NH4oU8Hz9Zo6O/s1600/Slide1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS5exJqgcGPsJmhPQRJsIctey-mMSqwlr003zWGjiTz4c8Xy1jaoB-2t0OmlREx5vMqmF5whas1qyq_zg3dBNpYpI6y8BZQf71HAgl6RzF0D583kOkgmRMIu6fGoNGLf4NH4oU8Hz9Zo6O/s1600/Slide1.png" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">And I created a banner just the right size for your TPT store.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOlUJD3_2QnxH3w531Maze4PdBagh0X00V-ejNfmKxg_zUHA_POnavIat4hlGqq8L3aXeraltwQ4qkgq2Col9JfY0_lUssyAQ1SLRLy9VQsXEZ9s5veza_pynX2OGO_SEQ9b-Mu4NoUCIv/s1600/Slide4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOlUJD3_2QnxH3w531Maze4PdBagh0X00V-ejNfmKxg_zUHA_POnavIat4hlGqq8L3aXeraltwQ4qkgq2Col9JfY0_lUssyAQ1SLRLy9VQsXEZ9s5veza_pynX2OGO_SEQ9b-Mu4NoUCIv/s1600/Slide4.png" height="40" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have fun shopping!</span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7664540372681616174.post-46909801387926281492014-07-25T14:42:00.001-04:002014-07-25T14:42:30.658-04:00Happy (Freebie) Friday!<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's Freebie Friday again! I love having ways to connect to my students outside of school - even before they're my students. That's why I created postcards to send to my students right before school begins. Just handwriting them a short note that tells them how happy you are to be their teacher will get them pumped up to come back and learn! I can remember one summer that a teacher of mine wrote me a postcard and sent it in the mail. I was SO excited to get mail. Guess what - kids today still get SO excited when they get mail!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Even if you don't get your class roll early, you can send your students a note just after school begins. It'll still create the same excitement for learning even if they receive it after they're in your classroom!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
These postcards are created for grades PreK-5. Just click on the picture and snatch them up! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fish-Back-to-School-Postcards-1346118" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLVAZOP6KPUuwL1zXcjTKHxx20jZ4qa6_gx4kl8SEPwy2jnEoitlLPpouiMJb3M3rOAbR-WTZTnIsBR1tzEtcEvDTe3cGyMqTIzaM-hQ1v9rfOS3NJGXJ4aiOtlSxuHAlisowTdRMMCbL5/s1600/Slide01.png" height="200" width="150" /></a> <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Zoo-Back-to-School-Postcards-1334656" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaXNVvtPZdVVbv8fKju4HgXaAfUrIQTHQeWimKO4aPBfzi8fcDK7O1SNfPCLYRRCEaUHApz-2cBNLD-_QYBXQiiWzKZiKK0o0M_jWUMoxKon-1oq_-LiFJK9YPbXpUfs93b_aeH-OwYai9/s1600/Slide01.png" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0nZFp1lLbkJ0BFwCR6X0jltAtYX21p5Ro9EhCy3iuEojr5ySKi_Bm8wv7neVtKJpH7jsEr4lYTl7JAfTmgrF5UJ3kVSK-35w6sPHAmlBROLiUWnEILVgiQzkK5_gHDqGZEelMI7FRpMu/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Simply Magical Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308178615885348576noreply@blogger.com0