I think the saying goes, "better late, than never!"

Clearly, it has been awhile since I have made a post, but that doesn't mean great things and ideas are not on my mind for the New Year! Before moving forward though, I must close the chapters I opened during November and December with my second graders. I also must announce that I have been hired to be a long-term substitute teacher for 6th grade!! Yes, that is correct, 6th grade and low and behold, they too have won my heart.

Without further ado, here is a cute Turkey we made during Thanksgiving. It's simple, sweet, and to the point. Most importantly, it is not an all day project. To enhance the academics of this project, the kids had to write what they are thankful for on each feather.

Another great idea, I got from friend is to make Indian Headdresses. The kids earn feathers for their headdress depending on different skills they can perform and information they know. For example, students earned feathers for being able to tie their shoes, say their telephone number, address, spell their name correctly, give answers to math problems, write a simple sentence...etc. It's all about re-teaching those life skills while meeting the standards :)

Now, moving onto December. On the second week of the month, I entered a room full of 30 6th graders. With changing hormones and plenty to talk about, the world of "little kids" was gone. Quickly adjusting my talk, discipline plan, and teaching style, my own thinking had to take a big leap into "how to teach upper grade". Within a few weeks, my lesson plans developed more challenging content and the grading increased x10. The time I have to now devote to planning has also increased. I have learned to embrace this challenge before me. From teaching them how to write a research report to finding the sales tax of an item, I have met my match! I am grateful and appreciative of this opportunity and loving their independence! I am anticipating the future and enjoying every minute of what 2011 has bring! So bring it on! Cheers to 2011 and a productive trimester ahead! Stay tuned :)