tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31466191094114098242024-02-21T06:03:40.543-08:00TeachingIdeas4U by Amy MezniHi, I'm Amy. I am a former middle grades teacher who now homeschools a child with a vision processing problem. Join me at TeachingIdeas4U!Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.comBlogger111125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-20706293643975648012018-06-05T01:30:00.000-07:002018-06-05T01:30:10.196-07:00Learn Geography While Planning A Trip Across the U.S.A.I love geography, I really do. Sadly, so many students (and adults) think geography is boring. When taught well, geography will engage your students and keep them interested! What's the secret? Make it <i>real</i>. One of my students' favorite projects is to plan a vacation. No matter what country or continent you are studying, you can plan a trip! Who doesn't enjoy going on vacation?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZWxJ0zXYvrF7azIoDusxvm6YeQaGxj1eP3BgjcmGj1e2yCaVR5nBENzeVa9NCeyBaifv7AmXHBfrdpNzYCdbizJRZWDbuNiXq3sqSW5phAGG910hIBGCAt9i-4XxBrR-h4GZc_2WMv9RX/s1600/Plan+A+Trip+Across+the+U.S..png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Learn Geography While Planning A Trip Across the U.S.A." border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZWxJ0zXYvrF7azIoDusxvm6YeQaGxj1eP3BgjcmGj1e2yCaVR5nBENzeVa9NCeyBaifv7AmXHBfrdpNzYCdbizJRZWDbuNiXq3sqSW5phAGG910hIBGCAt9i-4XxBrR-h4GZc_2WMv9RX/s640/Plan+A+Trip+Across+the+U.S..png" title="Learn Geography While Planning A Trip Across the U.S.A." width="640" /></a></div>
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Organizing a U.S. Regions Project</h3>
In Florida, we focus on the regions of the United States in fifth grade. I had my students plan a trip through the five regions in a class center, but it could also be done during research periods. Although this project takes time to complete, teachers can integrate a lot of skills in one project.<br />
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Social studies</h4>
Students research two states in each region (total of 10 states.) They learn basic facts for each state, as well as learn about two places of their choice in each state. At the end, students practice their map skills by plotting the locations of their places to visit and planning the route of their trip.<br />
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Reading</h4>
Research, research research. Students will need to use their reading skills to find the information they need.<br />
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Writing</h4>
I have my students create a journal entry for each place they "visit." The journal entries may be one paragraph of longer, but in the end they will have written ten entries.<br />
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Math/Economics</h4>
Depending on time and what math skills we need, I sometimes extend this project to include a budget. (If parents want to use this as a summer project or for homeschool, it is very easy to add in this real world math.) Students could have to research the entrance fees for the places they plan to visit. For food, gas, and hotel costs, I would probably provide a set amount in a classroom full of students or just have them total the admission fees. As a summer project, I would make my own kids work out the entire budget!<br />
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Art</h4>
Teachers can have students design illustrated maps, with symbols representing their places to visit.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_Oz6aTWjtZuC02ywb1UTBYsExL8dV10UUL4ownh8s4QPQf91fAyciuFNbVGeBlE8U3AxPvJOo-B41Ek_GiTmB3v2I60lH_t0MJmovchBrhOio3fSuGQ5xIt_5deHX5Z07hV3kP_ZjZxI/s1600/Plan+A+Trip+Across+the+U.S.+%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Learn Geography While Planning A Trip Across the U.S.A." border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_Oz6aTWjtZuC02ywb1UTBYsExL8dV10UUL4ownh8s4QPQf91fAyciuFNbVGeBlE8U3AxPvJOo-B41Ek_GiTmB3v2I60lH_t0MJmovchBrhOio3fSuGQ5xIt_5deHX5Z07hV3kP_ZjZxI/s640/Plan+A+Trip+Across+the+U.S.+%25282%2529.png" title="Learn Geography While Planning A Trip Across the U.S.A." width="426" /></a></div>
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Resources Needed</h3>
I broke my students into small groups so I only needed a few books. If students will all be researching at the same time, more resources will be needed. Teachers also need to find materials on every state, so A LOT of resources are needed. Sometimes there are great books that discuss all 50 states, so I looked for those in addition to books focusing on just one state. There are a few places to find resources for each state:<br />
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<li style="text-align: left;"><b>School Libraries</b> - I always took a crate down to the library and checked out books to keep in my classroom.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Public Libraries</b> - Same as the school library. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>State Tourism Websites</b> - If you have access to the internet, every single state has a website devoted to tourism! Some are easier to use than others, but they are good sources of information.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Brochures </b>- If you plan far enough in advance, you can go to all of those state tourism websites and request tourism booklets and brochures. They will send them to you for FREE. However, it takes up to two months for your requested materials to reach you. This is a great plan as long as you do it far enough in advance. If you know people who are traveling by car, you can also ask them to stop at the tourism centers when they cross state lines. They also have free brochures.</li>
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How to Differentiate the Project</h3>
This project is super easy to differentiate for students. Here are a few ideas:<br />
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<li style="text-align: left;">Have students research fewer states - perhaps one each in region instead of two.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Have students research less information on each state. (Fewer topics to find.)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Have students work with a partner to complete the project.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Break students into small groups, and have each group research one region. Then have the groups present their region to the class.</li>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/United-States-Geography-Regions-State-Research-Project-Unit-Grade-4-5-6-US-1448423?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=U.S.%20Regions"><img alt="U.S. Regions Geography Project: Plan a Trip Across the United States" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGfQjO6dmbo3-_dbSarRNEL4pvgf_KvEmTSrbA9wY4VmUvCKsMD4ujwPw6-cR6-K-pauf755LGzaRBWP_fEnQhaj24VSiDRqHimnsHTqpETMBThvhJzNt0LEu_fPnUcV7xhUjYLVE1l1jO/s400/Slide1.JPG" title="U.S. Regions Geography Project: Plan a Trip Across the United States" width="400" /></a></div>
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U.S. Geography States & Regions Research Project</h3>
If you'd like to purchase a research unit that is ready to use, check out my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/United-States-Geography-Regions-State-Research-Project-Unit-Grade-4-5-6-US-1448423?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=U.S.%20Regions">U.S. Geography States & Regions Research Project</a>. My students loved this project, and it is one of my best sellers! Teachers have enjoyed using it with their classes:<br />
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<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Kate S. said, </b>"This was by far one of the best unit plans I have bought from TPT. Everything is laid out so nicely and is easy to follow. With teaching 3 grade levels in one room, I always have a hard time finding something that all three grades will be interested in until the end. This did just that!"</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Amy H. said, </b>"My 4th and 5th grade children (homeschool) love, love, love this. I combined this with a little economics and they were able to plan and cost out our next summer road trip."</li>
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The resource includes:<br />
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<li style="text-align: left;">A research page for each region</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">A research page for each state (including a state map)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">A U.S. map for students to plot their trip</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">A student letter explaining the project</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">A project checklist</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Notes on how to write a bibliography </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">A rubric</li>
</ul>
Other than gathering the research materials, this project is ready to print and go! Teachers have used this project with a wide variety of grade levels, from 3rd grade to high school special education.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0CgDG8kp6ynAH8lAxcG0k8QxVVd_PcQY7p2DN8znvCuwvjYBJdJqh5r71k5nyiown4WLzOMH4TO-vllGD5VUChu3VL-eNipx_S2HUWTq5VVY5mJa0Rh5obMXzaBEtPJJx6AtGA45LFj8/s1600/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="26" data-original-width="1600" height="10" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0CgDG8kp6ynAH8lAxcG0k8QxVVd_PcQY7p2DN8znvCuwvjYBJdJqh5r71k5nyiown4WLzOMH4TO-vllGD5VUChu3VL-eNipx_S2HUWTq5VVY5mJa0Rh5obMXzaBEtPJJx6AtGA45LFj8/s640/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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How do you teach geography in your class? What do your student enjoy about geography?Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-3289501877640501612018-05-29T01:30:00.000-07:002018-05-29T01:30:07.958-07:00What To Teach When You Don't Have a TextbookIt seems like more and more teachers are having to find their own curriculum materials. In the past, post-testing always needed careful planning because teachers had often finished the materials provided by their school. That can still be a problem, but it's getting better as standardized tests are moved closer to the end of the year. However, many teachers have posted on social media that they do not have social studies materials or a reading program. So what materials can teachers use if they don't have a textbook?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid2RtZJrjs-fUUY-B1c3tBhHda2n1GphFen23f4pVjgJmRaMImPIFUMtqstHaBkPes2OcH7jbPbXreWRRsYwt9y5DMBToP9E1c4saq_t1k6L6upD8Y_BuGFY_WIYpCScC_E97skYosQEIv/s1600/What+To+Teach+When+You+Don%2527t+Have+a+Textbook.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="What To Teach When You Don't Have a Textbook" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid2RtZJrjs-fUUY-B1c3tBhHda2n1GphFen23f4pVjgJmRaMImPIFUMtqstHaBkPes2OcH7jbPbXreWRRsYwt9y5DMBToP9E1c4saq_t1k6L6upD8Y_BuGFY_WIYpCScC_E97skYosQEIv/s640/What+To+Teach+When+You+Don%2527t+Have+a+Textbook.png" title="What To Teach When You Don't Have a Textbook" width="640" /></a></div>
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1. Novels</h3>
I have always preferred reading books to basal readers. I remember being bored with basal stories as a kid - or irritated that the chapter ended and I never got to find out what happened next. Novels aren't just for language arts either! There are many great novels that social studies teachers can use for different topics. In my elementary classroom, I also used historical fiction books or nonfiction to integrate my standards.<br />
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Books can get very expensive to purchase. If teachers do buy books, I recommend using clear contact paper to cover them - the books last a lot longer. However, teachers can also gather sets of books from others sources.<br />
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<li style="text-align: left;">School Library - The librarian may also be able to borrow books from other schools in the district.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Public Library</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Parents donations</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">PTO </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Teacher Grants</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Donors Choose</li>
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It's important to read the books that students can select for their literature unit. Teachers can better address students' questions about the books and help steer students to books that best fit their interests if they are familiar with the novels before using them.</div>
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I also prefer to write my novel guides ahead of time. Having the questions and other standards already mapped out prevents me from stressing during the unit! I have a number of <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Amy-Mezni-Teaching-Ideas-4u/Category/ELA-Novel-Study-Literature-Guides-118395?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Novels%20Textbook">novel units</a> ready to use in my store. The books vary in reading level, but generally cover 3rd - 7th grade reading levels.<br />
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2. Projects</h3>
I loved using projects in my classroom. A well-organized project can really pique students' interest in a subject, and it gives teachers an opportunity to make a topic relevant to their class with a real world application. These projects are also a great way to integrate standards from multiple subjects.<br />
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One word of caution is that teachers need to coordinate with other teachers if they are teaming to make sure students are not overloaded with homework. I provided some class time to work on projects, as well as a recommended timeline for having pieces of the project completed. Many students need help with their executive function skills, and long-range planning is a weakness for a lot of kids in upper elementary and middle school.<br />
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For materials, teachers can again check out books to create a class "reference library." If teachers have access to the internet, websites can also be used as resources. Teachers should think outside the box and ask for resource from other places, too. For example, I received a lot of free resources from state tourism agencies and even embassies to use with my geography classes.<br />
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Some of my favorite projects (and my students') I published and are available in my TPT store:<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/United-States-Geography-Regions-State-Research-Project-Unit-Grade-4-5-6-US-1448423?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=US%20Regions%20Textbook">United States Geography: Regions & State Research Project</a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Analyzing-Florida-Industries-Integrated-Activity-Florida-History-2072180?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Analyze%20FL%20Textbook">Analyzing Florida's Industries</a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Floridas-Regions-Integrated-Unit-Plan-a-Trip-Around-the-State-2793462?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=FL%20Trip%20Textbook">Planning a Trip Through Florida's Regions</a></li>
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3. Poetry Units</h3>
Poetry is actually a lot of fun to teach. Students tend to moan and groan, but I allowed my students to work with a partner - and then suddenly everyone had a great time. They especially enjoyed sharing their poems (voluntarily, I never forced them to share.)<br />
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To teach poetry, I focused on both reading and writing poems. I checked out a lot of poetry books and anthologies from our school library and the public library. Each day, I read a few poems as our read aloud. I also gave students time to select a books and read poems on their own, and they had to select three poems to copy for their own anthology of poems.<br />
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Martha from The Owl Spot has wonderful poetry analysis units on well-known poets. My students enjoyed her <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Emily-Dickinson-Author-Study-and-Poetry-Analysis-Pack-1558463">Emily Dickinson Author Study</a>. We used that unit to analyze poems and discuss what made a poem interesting.<br />
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For writing poems, I would teach students how to write a particular style of poetry, then have them write a poem on their own or with a partner. We learned eight forms of poetry by the end of the unit and bound the poems in a book with the published poems they had selected. This works best if you select easier poetry forms for the first few poems and slowly increase the difficulty level.<br />
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My <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Poetry-Writing-Unit-Includes-8-Forms-of-Poetry-Templates-for-Book-of-Poems-1199587?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Poetry%20Textbook">Poetry Writing Unit</a> is available in my store if you are interested in a print and go resource.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKkt6gZL5dZ91mrrlmgl8B4vST9LhNPro86QKHtLt75isBsEC0xN-Gs2QqjIklGnshOFITBPJwgEleL8z8o5D6FIq1R2nX5AozoQEWl0M1QfYMPqixdLFv0gE7cPNQ-16-wcH7I8x9rLt9/s1600/What+To+Teach+When+You+Don%2527t+Have+a+Textbook+%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="What To Teach When You Don't Have a Textbook" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKkt6gZL5dZ91mrrlmgl8B4vST9LhNPro86QKHtLt75isBsEC0xN-Gs2QqjIklGnshOFITBPJwgEleL8z8o5D6FIq1R2nX5AozoQEWl0M1QfYMPqixdLFv0gE7cPNQ-16-wcH7I8x9rLt9/s640/What+To+Teach+When+You+Don%2527t+Have+a+Textbook+%25282%2529.png" title="What To Teach When You Don't Have a Textbook" width="425" /></a></div>
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4. Primary Sources</h3>
Primary sources are a wonderful way to teach students about a topic. Primary sources are not always formal government documents either - they can be diaries, works of art, newspaper articles, or photographs (to name just a few examples!)<br />
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If your school has access to DBQ units, I highly recommend them. They require students to dig deep and analyze primary documents. If you have not had training on using DBQ units, I recommend going to a session if you can.<br />
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Otherwise, there are many primary sources available on the internet. Teachers need to select a source or document that fits their students' ability levels. (Some documents are much more difficult than others.) An easy way to make primary document more accessible is to focus on an excerpt instead of reading the whole document.<br />
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The <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Rosetta-Stone-History-Translation-Primary-Source-Document-Analysis-3600942?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Rosetta%20Textbook">Rosetta Stone History and Translation resource</a> is available for free in my store.<br />
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5. Research </h3>
Research can focus on so many different topics - and it doesn't have to have a set final project expectation. Instead, the project can depend upon what the student chooses to research. This is also another great way to integrate your standards. Students might research a topic from any subject, but they practice their reading, writing, and speaking skills throughout the project.<br />
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Many teachers have discussed using a Genius Hour in their classrooms. Genius Hour allows students to research a topic of their choice. Teachers do need to provide well-defined expectations for behavior and academic goals. The Genius Hour might be held throughout the year, or held during a particular time frame. Students present what they have learned to the class at the end of the Genius Hour.<br />
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Another research idea is to have students investigate issues in their school and community (great way to integrate civics.) What problems or needs are there? Students research an issue/problem and brainstorm possible solutions, then select a one to develop into a formal idea. Students can formalize their findings in a written paper, or present it at a town council meeting or to the principal.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf_5kBejG3bMv1Rm0riOLQDlGQpJKTd4aGfkzZiAUjLFUuQQiNn-g67eod6-fGGbhOjbvlv5N6TeqhFHSH-2-ld21WCop0Orf21ZM2ixryyLIK4FF7pnIE_Ta33dZOODvy9xgy3ONNHGo/s1600/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="26" data-original-width="1600" height="10" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf_5kBejG3bMv1Rm0riOLQDlGQpJKTd4aGfkzZiAUjLFUuQQiNn-g67eod6-fGGbhOjbvlv5N6TeqhFHSH-2-ld21WCop0Orf21ZM2ixryyLIK4FF7pnIE_Ta33dZOODvy9xgy3ONNHGo/s640/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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What suggestion do you have for teaching without a textbook?Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-72098688235721101062018-05-21T01:30:00.000-07:002018-05-21T01:30:00.383-07:00Honor Your Students' Character with End of the Year AwardsAre you looking for a unique set of classroom awards? Honor your students unique character traits with these end of the year awards featuring famous people from history.<br />
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This set of <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/End-of-the-Year-Awards-40-Character-Traits-Historical-People-3139627?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=Historical%20Awards">40 Character Trait Awards</a> are named for different people. Each person represents a character trait related to their achievements. For example, Thurgood Marshall represents Citizenship, while the Julia Child award is for Enthusiasm. The historical people on the awards include both men and women and represent a variety of cultures.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6sc6hR1WMrC-S6BwIVn_rcLPeOGwrdr8VbsysAfHkX8UKsXgbqJ99iPBYyC6edHRcWGH0qpXBeNNjg_MHhhwcs3ruDWMXb0m_LnLy_OWuoLda7uLRK4pL1hdXKMbsJlakAbY-zghvTHdx/s1600/Honor+Your+Students+with.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="This year, celebrate your students character by giving end of the year awards that focus on positive character traits. Each trait is related to a historical person. Great for upper elementary, middle school, or high school students." border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6sc6hR1WMrC-S6BwIVn_rcLPeOGwrdr8VbsysAfHkX8UKsXgbqJ99iPBYyC6edHRcWGH0qpXBeNNjg_MHhhwcs3ruDWMXb0m_LnLy_OWuoLda7uLRK4pL1hdXKMbsJlakAbY-zghvTHdx/s640/Honor+Your+Students+with.png" title="Honor Your Students' Character with End of the Year Awards" width="640" /></a></div>
<a name='more'></a>Teachers are able to add a textbox and type the awards, or simply print them and write the names by hand.<br />
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The eye-catching design of the awards will appeal to all ages. These awards would be a perfect fit for social studies or language arts classrooms, as well as schools that focus on character education.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/End-of-the-Year-Awards-40-Character-Traits-Historical-People-3139627?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=Historical%20Awards"><img alt="This year, celebrate your students character by giving end of the year awards that focus on positive character traits. Each trait is related to a historical person. Great for upper elementary, middle school, or high school students." border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="1152" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGfLmiJBBQyqzjE6ZuZEtAzhbCaQnRnZAclKBqzNG7x6rhQKdG090xon_FhGQPkMJ_iD4NIWuyaI22JKPMIo0_hYifQYFvhnKKKd6JV98nQIpIC0n6AdvVBzfT309L1Cbn5siIorin8EO8/s320/square+cover.jpg" title="This year, celebrate your students character by giving end of the year awards that focus on positive character traits. Each trait is related to a historical person. Great for upper elementary, middle school, or high school students." width="320" /></a></div>
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As many of the character traits featured are higher level vocabulary words, these awards best fit upper elementary through high school students.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeAdbGrTrqAmHDeq9wDQ1rNOuAQBsxeDEok1DPoKtF_MaR3oFFnXy5TfxkI8vfItEGinfBhvJFIinHwel6rvpMKyKy3nRDyQOhfKBdzR19dfQAI6JB9ovOJ5qlEq0aP62W4DGcxsJd8U6f/s1600/Honor+Your+Students+with+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="This year, celebrate your students character by giving end of the year awards that focus on positive character traits. Each trait is related to a historical person. Great for upper elementary, middle school, or high school students." border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeAdbGrTrqAmHDeq9wDQ1rNOuAQBsxeDEok1DPoKtF_MaR3oFFnXy5TfxkI8vfItEGinfBhvJFIinHwel6rvpMKyKy3nRDyQOhfKBdzR19dfQAI6JB9ovOJ5qlEq0aP62W4DGcxsJd8U6f/s400/Honor+Your+Students+with+%25281%2529.png" title="Honor Your Students' Character with End of the Year Awards" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-33387837546272970612018-05-20T01:30:00.000-07:002018-05-20T01:30:14.539-07:00Fun - but Low Prep - End of the Year GamesThere are times in the school year when teachers really need a few go to activities that are high engagement but also integrate whatever the class is studying. The day before a big break, the day after the semester exam, and the end of the year are examples of these teaching dead zones. Teachers can't really start something new, but there is too much time to not do <i>something</i>. Those times are perfect for interactive games!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQkJHdJ2kEY-SKhsypNQHiLFgghRzKonBOl5T61Hs6jxYo3R3O98BsUa2SjvPfW0OtNYfZjakqcjcB327bEDSyC6VE5VfvjUwOYDg4FkxBt8qrTBIK0IO8wSlCzeq65moHDt3pq3G5sOe/s1600/Fun+-+but+Low+Prep+%25283%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Keep students learning at the end of the year but playing games! Read about five fun but low prep games that teachers could use in upper elementary, middle school, or even high school grades." border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQkJHdJ2kEY-SKhsypNQHiLFgghRzKonBOl5T61Hs6jxYo3R3O98BsUa2SjvPfW0OtNYfZjakqcjcB327bEDSyC6VE5VfvjUwOYDg4FkxBt8qrTBIK0IO8wSlCzeq65moHDt3pq3G5sOe/s640/Fun+-+but+Low+Prep+%25283%2529.png" title="Fun - but Low Prep - End of the Year Games" width="640" /></a></div>
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Some games require a lot of prep or purchasing manufactured games, but for those last minute days I recommend having a few games that are really simple and can be prepped early in the year to be used over and over. Or even better, they don't really need any prep. I advise teachers to pick a few games they enjoy using and train students on how to play them during the first month of school. If students are already familiar with the games, teachers won't need to spend time explaining the rules or expected behaviors - and prevents students from getting off task before they even begin playing.<br />
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These are five of my favorite easy to use classroom games. For my games, I gather review questions for whatever we are studying in one of these ways: have students write the questions (with answers), use quiz/test questions, write my own questions, or use task card sets.<br />
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If you would like to purchase prepared question sets, I have many <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Amy-Mezni-Teaching-Ideas-4u/Category/ELA-Games-323556?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=ELA%20Games">language arts games</a> for standards in 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th grade, as well as a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Civics-Test-Prep-Game-Show-Review-Sheets-Origins-Purposes-Law-Government-3133671?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Civics%20Game">Civics Game Show</a>.<br />
<h3>
1. Bell Review</h3>
<b>Supplies Needed:</b><br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">3 - 5 "Ring for Service" bells</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Review Questions</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">A way to track points (pen & paper, dry erase, chalkboard - whatever works)</li>
</ul>
<b>How to Play:</b><br />
I honestly don't know what the name of this is, but is basically just a simple "game show" with bells. I would count off my class into 3 - 4 teams, depending on how many students I had, and we would hold a review game. During game play, the front person on each team goes to the back after each question. I might pull a few harder questions out as bonus or final questions worth more points.<br />
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Each team lines up in "batting order" behind their bell, and the teacher asks questions. The first person to ring the bell gets to answer. If he or she answers correctly, the team gets one point. If the answer is incorrect, another team can "steal" the question and get the point. (Think Jeopardy.) We just kept rotating through teammates and answering questions.<br />
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<b>Tip:</b> When you have even teams, the same students always end up together on questions. This can be discouraging if there is a smarty who always answers the questions. Teachers may want to have uneven teams or mix up the line ups every so often.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7nFumqcQJScTOV8yYlgEmFscdZY3-wxhPCR_slesqiWJMPMjXZQRFSiHrPiVApxJEO3Zd4S80rmawkriHfqZENCtj_rnowiwiY4NMa-6c7Ir8O6FIEeTeNIYURetkarMzbW7ni1nlo8eT/s1600/End+of+the+Year+Games+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Keep students learning at the end of the year but playing games! Read about five fun but low prep games that teachers could use in upper elementary, middle school, or even high school grades." border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7nFumqcQJScTOV8yYlgEmFscdZY3-wxhPCR_slesqiWJMPMjXZQRFSiHrPiVApxJEO3Zd4S80rmawkriHfqZENCtj_rnowiwiY4NMa-6c7Ir8O6FIEeTeNIYURetkarMzbW7ni1nlo8eT/s640/End+of+the+Year+Games+2.jpg" title="Fun - but Low Prep - End of the Year Games" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
2. Jenga</h3>
<b>Supplies Needed:</b><br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">Jenga Games</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Review Questions</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">A way to track points (pen & paper, dry erase, chalkboard - whatever works)</li>
</ul>
<div>
Students seem to love Jenga - and one nice thing about this game is that it is portable. If it's a nice day and the school has outdoor tables, teachers could easily take the class outside! Giant Jenga is another way to mix up the game (although it does take a lot of storage space.)</div>
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<div>
<b>How to Play</b></div>
<div>
I color the ends of my Jenga blocks with 6 different colors. (Just divide the blocks into 6 piles and use markers.) I divide my review questions into those same color categories. For example, I either randomly divide the review questions into colors or divide them by topic, then assign each one a color. </div>
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To move a block, a student has to correctly answer a question in the same color category. However, all students need to answer the selected question, then students check their answers with each other. If the student is correct, he or she gets to move a block and gets a point for the question. The student who collects the most points wins. (I switched to points because my son pointed out that he simply would miss questions, because if he never had to move a block he wouldn't knock the tower over and lose.)</div>
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<b>Tip: </b>I recommend having at least 10 questions per color. I try to keep game play to 3 - 4 players.</div>
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<div>
If you would like to purchase questions that are ready to use for Jenga, I have language arts Jenga games for <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Grammar-Spelling-JENGA-Review-Game-3rd-Grade-FSA-AIR-3671817?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=3rd%20Jenga%20Game">3rd</a>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Grammar-Spelling-JENGA-Review-Game-4th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3691518?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=4th%20Jenga%20Game">4th</a>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Grammar-Spelling-JENGA-Review-Game-5th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3710262?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5th%20Jenga%20Game">5th</a>, and <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Grammar-Spelling-JENGA-Review-Game-6th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3725211?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6th%20Jenga%20Game">6th</a> grade standards.</div>
<h3>
3. "Baseball"</h3>
<div>
<b>Supplies:</b></div>
<div>
A Large Room or Field</div>
<div>
Review Questionsza</div>
<div>
A Scoreboard</div>
<div>
Microphone/Megaphone (if you are not very loud)</div>
<div>
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<div>
<b>How to Play:</b></div>
<div>
I play "baseball" when I have kids that need to get out and move. I don't actually use a ball, but we play by moving around the bases. It just allows the kids get the wiggles out while they review. Decide where the bases will be (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and a home plate). Each team needs to have a line up, in order to make sure all students participate. Ask each batter a review question. If they answer correctly, they go to 1st base (and anyone on base moves to the next base.) If someone gets "batted" home, the team scores a run. </div>
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If the batter misses the question, the other team gets a chance to "catch" it. The person at the front of the opposing line up gets one chance to answer the question. If he or she answers correctly, the ball is caught and counts as an out. Three outs and the teams switch sides. </div>
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<b>Tip:</b> Teachers can also make a rule that teams switch once the entire batting line up has been asked a question. That prevents one team from dominating the game.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKk3YrT-C2LuVWNViaTxcx87y-NBP3-wTxzf4sOYF_cruHxgflXVDDS8gUeHd-oHTTom3yWhJ_nDCC-tUukcbMRrC_-ytd50QKWh8i9Tz6Cewkk6nxeQtD-pSwDtyEVQyiZ0aM4xGAfU7R/s1600/End+of+the+Year+Games.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Keep students learning at the end of the year but playing games! Read about five fun but low prep games that teachers could use in upper elementary, middle school, or even high school grades." border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKk3YrT-C2LuVWNViaTxcx87y-NBP3-wTxzf4sOYF_cruHxgflXVDDS8gUeHd-oHTTom3yWhJ_nDCC-tUukcbMRrC_-ytd50QKWh8i9Tz6Cewkk6nxeQtD-pSwDtyEVQyiZ0aM4xGAfU7R/s640/End+of+the+Year+Games.jpg" title="Fun - but Low Prep - End of the Year Games" width="426" /></a></div>
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<h3>
4. Yahtzy Games</h3>
<div>
<b>Supplies:</b></div>
<div>
Yahtzy Games</div>
<div>
Pencils</div>
<div>
Surface to roll the dice</div>
<div>
If playing outdoors, I recommend having one of the following for each team:</div>
<div>
Hula Hoop </div>
<div>
Small Plastic Garbage Can as a shaker</div>
<div>
Clipboard (for each students)</div>
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<div>
<b>How to Play:</b></div>
<div>
I love, love, love Yahtzy. It is a really simple game to learn, but it forces kids to practice adding, multiplying, and probability. In addition to the manufactured game available in stores, I created Yahtzy games for other math skills (<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Order-of-Operations-Yahtzy-Dice-Game-Grades-4-5-2538491?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Order%20Yahtzy">Order of Operations</a>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Adding-Fractions-Yahtzy-Dice-Game-Grades-5-6-2538484?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Fractions%20Yahtzy">Fractions</a>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decimal-Yahtzy-Dice-Game-Grades-4-5-2534782?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Decimals%20Yahtzy">Decimals</a>, and <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Exponents-Yahtzy-Dice-Game-Grades-5-6-2538517?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Exponents%20Yahtzy">Exponents</a>), as well as a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Grammar-Yahtzy-Word-Dice-Game-Grades-3-8-2534892?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Grammar%20Yahtzy">Grammar Yahtzy</a>. If you'd like to test a Yahtzy game, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Place-Value-Yahtzy-Dice-Game-Grades-3-4-2534696?utm_source=My%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Place%20Value%20Yahtzy">Place Value</a> is available as a free download. </div>
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<div>
Teachers can buy large wooden dice or large foam dice to play the regular Yahtzy game outside, or simply use the regular game. For my games, teachers will need to prep the Yahtzy dice. I printed them on card stock and taped them around foam dice from a dollar store. The foam die adds weight to the dice so they don't blow away - and helps prevent them from getting crushed. Teachers can also put a layer of packing tape on the dice to seal them.</div>
<div>
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<div>
To play, students simply need a score sheet, pencil, and a group of 2-4 players. </div>
<div>
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<div>
<b>Tip:</b> If playing outside, have students use a hula hoop to define the game play area. Any die landing outside of the hoop needs to be rolled again. (This prevents students from getting wild with their rolls.) I also purchased cheap little garbage cans so it was easier for students to shake the large dice.</div>
<h3>
5. Minute to Win It </h3>
<div>
<b>Supplies:</b></div>
<div>
Varies according to the challenges </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>How to Play:</b></div>
<div>
When you want to have a class reward or simply need a day of fun, Minute to Win really rocks! We used to challenge another class to a Minute to Win It hour - and it doesn't necessarily have to be the same grade level. Minute to Win It really levels the playing field, and older kids are not necessarily better at the events! </div>
<div>
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<div>
For my classroom, I researched the Minute to Win It challenges and selected about 10 that worked well in a school setting (and didn't need a lot of supplies.) I purchased the supplies needed for those activities and kept them in a plastic tote, along with a print out of the directions for each challenge. Having them ready made it easy to quickly plan a challenge with a teacher buddy or pull them out for a rainy day recess.</div>
<div>
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<div>
<b>Tip:</b> Here are a three great blog posts on Minute to Win It Games.</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.happinessishomemade.net/awesome-minute-to-win-it-birthday-party-games/">Happiness is Homemade</a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.thechaosandtheclutter.com/archives/family-fun-night-minute-to-win-it">The Chaos and the Clutter</a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://babydotdot.com/minute-to-win-it-games-for-kids/">BabyDotDot</a></li>
</ul>
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<div>
What are you favorite classroom game to play throughout the school year?</div>
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Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-10200443814347761762018-05-17T02:00:00.000-07:002018-05-17T02:00:09.686-07:00Celebrate Your Students with a Memory BookAs the end of the year draws near, teachers often find themselves out of curriculum. Everything had to be covered before testing - plus students and teachers are just out of gas. What can teachers plan that is both educational and engaging? Instead of boring kids with a bunch of movies, spend a few periods having them record their memories of this year! Teachers and students can celebrate each other's successes, as well as reflect on the memories that were made.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHj21-aHGvflKajFqgj12LN55eAfZTC2clJKWu71k6iPFTRtn1AK-bPpr1lhMWSwaedEQWmt6UT38CNDPlU-T9Nk3BVDuTFNNVJfjQ1wQqG5VUoisDF3uH4XzFQ_cUc-f-VszScuKzXF_m/s1600/Celebrate+Your+Students+with+a.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Class Memory Books are a great way to end the school year! Students have a change to reflect on their growth as they work together to complete a keepsake of their school year. Stop by the blog to learn more about this end of the year activity. Great for 3rd, 4th, 5th, or 6th grade." border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHj21-aHGvflKajFqgj12LN55eAfZTC2clJKWu71k6iPFTRtn1AK-bPpr1lhMWSwaedEQWmt6UT38CNDPlU-T9Nk3BVDuTFNNVJfjQ1wQqG5VUoisDF3uH4XzFQ_cUc-f-VszScuKzXF_m/s640/Celebrate+Your+Students+with+a.png" title="Celebrate Your Students with a Memory Book" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
<h3>
Why Make a Memory Book?</h3>
Class memory books are a fantastic way to end the year. They can be made either as a book or digitally. I used a printed book for a few reasons.<br />
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<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;">The last week of school any tech we had was already checked in and unable to be used. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Copying the book pages was a lot less prep for me - I could either copy it or ask a parent helper to prep it, while I spent my time on report cards.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Autographs. It is really easy for students to sign each other's memory book when it's a print out.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">If your school has a binding machine, the books look very nice with a card stock covers and a binding - and make a great keepsake.</li>
</ol>
<div>
This is the perfect keepsake to send home with students. Forget the candy or cheap toys, give them something they will pull out for years to come.</div>
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</div>
<h3>
Creating the Memory Book</h3>
<div>
A memory book sounds great, but how will my class get it finished? The end of the year can be really crazy and getting student buy-in is sometimes difficult. Memory books are personal, and students have full control over what they write in their book. Students are more excited about writing even if they usually don't enjoy it - because this is writing for a personal purpose.</div>
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<div>
Teachers have flexibility in how the book is made as well. Some pages could be completed with student partners while others are done individually. Using partners can also cut down on the time it takes to finish the book. One student pair might complete the Field Trip page, while another works on the Class Pet page. Your artistic students might work on the "Class Photo" page and sketch in head shots of each student. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitF7CSuo64k7AT0WS7mluiFBUgsnIRezGih5D46pDeqa1NEI5ejq683OUN01Sg00i93-EMZchEz3g4s_Xm8BdyIv51aP46cXEOUBd0Cw-PcidDYB3OiLzuMx41qTORDJN8iDi3foQPEPfO/s1600/Celebrate+Your+Students.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Class Memory Books are a great way to end the school year! Students have a change to reflect on their growth as they work together to complete a keepsake of their school year. Stop by the blog to learn more about this end of the year activity. Great for 3rd, 4th, 5th, or 6th grade." border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitF7CSuo64k7AT0WS7mluiFBUgsnIRezGih5D46pDeqa1NEI5ejq683OUN01Sg00i93-EMZchEz3g4s_Xm8BdyIv51aP46cXEOUBd0Cw-PcidDYB3OiLzuMx41qTORDJN8iDi3foQPEPfO/s640/Celebrate+Your+Students.png" title="Celebrate Your Students with a Memory Book" width="426" /></a></div>
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<div>
Individual reflection pages, such as Math, Language Arts, or All About Me, should be done alone. This is a great way for students to focus on growth mindset and goal setting. If teachers have kept portfolios, students could review their work to see just have much they have learned this year! </div>
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<div>
Once all of the pages are finished, teachers can spend a class period assembling the books. If students complete every page individually, then it is easier to bind the books before starting. Group memory books need to be assembled after the pages are finished:</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;">Have students keep their individual pages in a folder. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Copy a set of the group pages for each student, then have students add those pages to the others. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">For more durability, copy the cover on a piece of card stock and use a blank piece for the back cover. (I use whichever color I have gobs of - I always seem to have one color that is hard to print on!)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Staple or bind.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Give them time to autograph each other's books.</li>
</ol>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Class-Memory-Book-End-of-the-Year-3rd-4th-5th-6th-Grades-Editable-1213978?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=Memory%20Book"><img alt="End of the Year Class Memory Book - Ready to print!" border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="1152" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8rAT9A9TCjSZipgIIkUYb86-Mzoy1ozRhoPyCWFbXcuyXYQHZoLZY288GjmEExYMkCRpuWWQK8PoDT52AjAtK4zUuUZOWf4X64WP9mLIKPn5icqX1YPraxoZSsLGJo872D4peBysTQguN/s400/square+cover+Memory+Book.jpg" title="End of the Year Class Memory Book - Ready to print!" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<h3>
End of the Year Class Memory Book</h3>
<div>
If you'd like to purchase a ready to use resource, I have a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Class-Memory-Book-End-of-the-Year-3rd-4th-5th-6th-Grades-Editable-1213978?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=Memory%20Book">Memory Book</a> in my TPT Store. The resource includes cover pages that specifically state 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th grade - simply print the one for your grade or have students design their own cover.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There are 17 different pages to use plus a Table of Contents page. Simply select the ones that fit your school year. A few pages are available with different titles. For example, in our school we had Field Day, but other schools hold Junior Olympics. Both titles are included to better fit a variety of school cultures.</div>
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<div>
Two pages without headings are also included. Teachers could use these for special events that happen in their school or to write their own reflection of the year and copy it into the students' memory books.</div>
<div>
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<div>
The Memory Book is in color, but prints nicely in grayscale. Again, I did this on purpose. Some children do not like to color - or have fine motor issues that make it difficult for them to color an entire book. </div>
<div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/27-End-of-the-Year-Superlative-Award-Certificates-2-Nomination-Sheets-1183378?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=Superlatives"><img alt="Superlative Awards - Awards Coordinate with the Memory Book" border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="1152" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCCFIuEDGxWleecRJ0LMH5JoLMXIBJWnkmFL3dOCQgr8ftC0osvJw-tu-RObwYOdp0O03LAsFVXDyxr5nZHeCOYsIgu8zWc7oJEglM44E5tcvjWra1hk-pCEdXeWgQZEnQBjVI7FgaV946/s400/square+cover+Superlatives.jpg" title="Superlative Awards - Awards Coordinate with the Memory Book" width="400" /></a></div>
<h3>
Superlative Award Certificates</h3>
<div>
In addition, matching <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/27-End-of-the-Year-Superlative-Award-Certificates-2-Nomination-Sheets-1183378?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=Superlatives">Superlative Awards Certificates </a>are available. There are 27 different awards in the resource, plus nomination sheets for students to vote for the awards. Teachers can either type the student names on the certificates or write the names by hand. (To type the names, simply add a text box and type.)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The Memory Book includes matching pages for students (or the teacher) to fill in the award winners.</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhausoZwnFlZyROONmmPnLx3Ze1mN7qFbT9eQlAPSbqYCq3qN_ZtunY6pDbe1IeNiABHy8pbkyrTbhYJs16bPvwfkUggQD6NPltg7a7z5_cHybOW02r7T1ud6M1RcQcElePeKZp9Ds83-YJ/s1600/Celebrate+Your+Students+with+a+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Class Memory Books are a great way to end the school year! Students have a change to reflect on their growth as they work together to complete a keepsake of their school year. Stop by the blog to learn more about this end of the year activity. Great for 3rd, 4th, 5th, or 6th grade." border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhausoZwnFlZyROONmmPnLx3Ze1mN7qFbT9eQlAPSbqYCq3qN_ZtunY6pDbe1IeNiABHy8pbkyrTbhYJs16bPvwfkUggQD6NPltg7a7z5_cHybOW02r7T1ud6M1RcQcElePeKZp9Ds83-YJ/s640/Celebrate+Your+Students+with+a+%25281%2529.png" title="Celebrate Your Students with a Memory Book" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
The Memory Book and Superlative Awards are also available in a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Class-Superlatives-Award-Certificates-Memory-Book-End-of-the-Year-BUNDLE-1214097?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=Awards%20Bundle">discounted bundle</a>. </div>
Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-29917162044980161372018-05-01T01:30:00.000-07:002018-05-01T01:30:02.206-07:00How to Make Magnetic Boards for Your ClassroomOne of the challenges of using magnets in the classroom is having a magnetic surface. Some cookie sheets are magnetic and make a nice surface, but they do take room to store. If you are short on space, making your own magnetic boards might be a better option. It is super easy to make a magnetic surface - and you can customize the size of the surface.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsUwLzR9N2jAVBM-_AbmMZ0f_MtB_wDrgfxfBCrZjKbLGi6cBFjBoXeQYsJT9S7BDAPBzfGbv30krQ5E6Umw3lXBo8ZbNzXgl02SmTZonOAmMcOB7jA_T7RSuDHP69OcCm797cV88c9ngC/s1600/How+to+Make+Magnetic+Boards.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Would you like to use magnets in a center in your classroom? Make your own magnetic boards to fit your storage space! This magnetic primer project is easy to make and can be personalized with paint on top to add a pop of color to your classroom." border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsUwLzR9N2jAVBM-_AbmMZ0f_MtB_wDrgfxfBCrZjKbLGi6cBFjBoXeQYsJT9S7BDAPBzfGbv30krQ5E6Umw3lXBo8ZbNzXgl02SmTZonOAmMcOB7jA_T7RSuDHP69OcCm797cV88c9ngC/s640/How+to+Make+Magnetic+Boards.png" title="How to Make Magnetic Boards for Your Classroom" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div>
Here's how to make your own boards in six easy steps!</div>
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<h3>
Supplies</h3>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Thin Plywood</b> - have the store cut it to the size you desire. (They only do straight cuts.) I purchased one board and had it cut into 3 large panels. At my store a 4.5 ft x 2 ft board was about $7.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Rust-Oleum Magnetic Primer 30 oz can</b> - This was about $20, but it is actually enough to paint several boards. I put 2 coats on my 2 large pieces of plywood and easily have half the can or more left. Other users have recommended 3 - 4 coats for the best magnetic hold.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Foam Roller</b> - use a small one and get a foam roller for each coat you plan to do.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Small Paint Pan</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Rope or Ribbon for board handle</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Drill</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Ruler </b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Pencil</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Plastic Sheet or a Plastic Picnic Tablecloth</b></li>
</ul>
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpmcEOm3x_QX_pN4azxuUXugfZWKwQTWy82GLIRYUfJDezEMZQHHQgqnehGKlGpZ5Rs8IK9j0uIDolhHSFL8AQWo1K9wbMue14tjrcHR8k9Rtozd-EsMAk1PGx0kVc_m3Sm-iu1WQXJvE5/s1600/How+to+Make+Magnetic+Boards+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Would you like to use magnets in a center in your classroom? Make your own magnetic boards to fit your storage space! This magnetic primer project is easy to make and can be personalized with paint on top to add a pop of color to your classroom." border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpmcEOm3x_QX_pN4azxuUXugfZWKwQTWy82GLIRYUfJDezEMZQHHQgqnehGKlGpZ5Rs8IK9j0uIDolhHSFL8AQWo1K9wbMue14tjrcHR8k9Rtozd-EsMAk1PGx0kVc_m3Sm-iu1WQXJvE5/s640/How+to+Make+Magnetic+Boards+2.png" title="How to Make Magnetic Boards for Your Classroom" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
How to Make Magnetic Boards</h3>
<div>
I recommend starting early in the morning so you have time to dry one coat and do the next all in one day. The roller will absolutely not come clean, and you either need to use a new one for each coat or wrap it in a baggie really well so the roller doesn't get hard. The bag will work for a short time (such as between coats done on one day), but it won't keep for more than one day.<br />
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<div>
<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;">Measure and drill holes for a rope handle (if you want to have a handle).</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Put down a drop cloth - I recommend something vinyl or plastic. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Shake and stir the magnetic primer can really well - otherwise all the steel bits will be on the bottom.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Pour some primer into a small plastic paint tray, then begin rolling the primer onto the board.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Allow the primer to dry, then add the next coat. Repeat until you have 3 - 4 coats.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Allow the boards to dry. If you are adding handles, cut your rope to the length you'd like plus about 5 inches. Put the rope through the holes and knot in the back. </li>
</ol>
</div>
<div>
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Enjoy your magnetic boards!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf_5kBejG3bMv1Rm0riOLQDlGQpJKTd4aGfkzZiAUjLFUuQQiNn-g67eod6-fGGbhOjbvlv5N6TeqhFHSH-2-ld21WCop0Orf21ZM2ixryyLIK4FF7pnIE_Ta33dZOODvy9xgy3ONNHGo/s1600/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="26" data-original-width="1600" height="10" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf_5kBejG3bMv1Rm0riOLQDlGQpJKTd4aGfkzZiAUjLFUuQQiNn-g67eod6-fGGbhOjbvlv5N6TeqhFHSH-2-ld21WCop0Orf21ZM2ixryyLIK4FF7pnIE_Ta33dZOODvy9xgy3ONNHGo/s640/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div>
How would you use magnets in your classroom?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
If you'd like to use poetry magnets, read <a href="https://amymezni.blogspot.com/2018/04/how-to-make-your-own-magnetic-poetry.html">my other post</a> to learn how to make your own.</div>
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Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-70168417919193758552018-04-22T07:23:00.000-07:002018-04-22T07:23:20.847-07:00How To Make Your Own Magnetic Poetry ActivityBack when I first began teaching, magnetic poetry kits were all the rage - but they were pretty pricey. Today, they are still pricey - and harder to find.<br />
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Teachers can make their own magnetic poetry kits for just a fraction of the cost of store bought kits! By making their own word sets, teachers can also adapt the activity to their students and subject matter. Magnetic poetry could easily be used in elementary, middle, and high school classrooms simply by integrating vocabulary words into a personalized set.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihaQXOLNveK-lNoTN0Id_sm3ucWo1CfFM0fFfRRiR6Dfvm7YBkNFxfx64BsSt2KbeurxsAUaup1bM6RF7xTQ_i2PDtMMfXlRGE5XVYuLriJmsRc2nhHbhU6NKD03OtEv0GDBKAmksna0Fo/s1600/How+to+Make+Magnetic+Poetry.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Do you like using word magnets for poetry and other writing activities? Making your own magnets is much more affordable and easy to do. Learn ways to use magnets in your classroom centers, as well as how to make your own. Free word list available to download to make your own magnets. " border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihaQXOLNveK-lNoTN0Id_sm3ucWo1CfFM0fFfRRiR6Dfvm7YBkNFxfx64BsSt2KbeurxsAUaup1bM6RF7xTQ_i2PDtMMfXlRGE5XVYuLriJmsRc2nhHbhU6NKD03OtEv0GDBKAmksna0Fo/s640/How+to+Make+Magnetic+Poetry.png" title="How To Make Your Own Magnetic Poetry Activity" width="640" /></a></div>
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By the end of this post, you will have a few ideas for using magnets in your classroom, as well as know how to easily create your own magnets. I also have a free basic word set available for you to download at the end of the post.<br />
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<h3>
Ideas for Magnetic Poetry</h3>
Magnetic Poetry can be used for more than just free verse poems! I recommend using the kits as word work or a center activity. Check the local Dollar store for magnetic cookie sheets to use as "tablets." (Be sure to test them with a magnet - not all pans are magnetic.)<br />
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Here are a few ways you can use the magnetic words in your classroom:<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Spelling & Vocabulary Words</b> - Students can use the magnets to write sentences using their word lists.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Content Poetry</b> - Looking for a Choice Board or writing activity? Add your content words and make magnetic poetry a writing choice. Students would write a poem that shows what they learned about the subject (math, science, or social studies.)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Rough Drafts</b> - Do you have students that struggle with writing or need differentiation? Instead of handwriting poetry drafts, allow those students to use the magnets to help them write their drafts.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Portable Activity</b> - Do you ever get kicked out of your room for testing, maintenance, etc? Have magnetic poetry boxed up in a small tub so you can grab it and go!</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Prewriting </b>- Do you ever have students get stuck starting a story because they don't have an idea? Have them use the magnetic words to help them generate ideas.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Picture Magnets</b> - If you have Autistic students or perhaps ELLs, you could also print pictures or images of words. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Alphabet </b>- Teachers could even simply make alphabet magnets to create a spelling center.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<h3>
Supplies Needed</h3>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Magnetic Sheets</b> - Self Adhesive 8.5" x 11" - I purchased 30 mil sheets because the magnet is stronger.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Copy Paper</b> - White or Colored - I used Astrobrights.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Heavy Duty Scissor</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Rotary Cutter</b> (optional)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Ruler </b>(optional)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Cutting Mat </b>or <b>Foam Board</b> (optional)</li>
</ul>
<br /><ul>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPqDG8bH3XZsaz3ODFyebmF2h2H2x3rtAiDuHebbkjHhRycnXamBc_fEOPmF_OXpeamGVop2lJPeahuXJkmgfwSGs4R4cR2Al1hMeEb_c8uumbvcJwiBXltYm7ptr0mwScxD3UbA6UVhJl/s1600/How+to+Make+Magnetic+Poetry+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Do you like using word magnets for poetry and other writing activities? Making your own magnets is much more affordable and easy to do. Learn ways to use magnets in your classroom centers, as well as how to make your own. Free word list available to download to make your own magnets. " border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPqDG8bH3XZsaz3ODFyebmF2h2H2x3rtAiDuHebbkjHhRycnXamBc_fEOPmF_OXpeamGVop2lJPeahuXJkmgfwSGs4R4cR2Al1hMeEb_c8uumbvcJwiBXltYm7ptr0mwScxD3UbA6UVhJl/s640/How+to+Make+Magnetic+Poetry+2.png" title="How To Make Your Own Magnetic Poetry Activity" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Create Your Word Lists</h3>
A good kit will have a large supply of basic words. These can be purchased in poetry magnet kits, or you can make your own. My free word lists are linked at the end of this post.<br />
<br />
If desired, create another page of words using spelling, vocabulary, or content specific words. Grab your word list(s) and then follow the following steps:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;">Open a word processing program and create an 8.5" x 11" blank page. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Select an 18 point font that is easy to read. Arial, Century Gothic, and Helvetica are all nice choices, but any easy to read font would work. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Set the line spacing to 1.5.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Type your word list.</li>
</ol>
<br />
You can make your list using columns, but I find columns create a lot of dead space. I make my lists by typing a column of words down, then tabbing over on each line and doing the next column. To save room, I type all the three letter words, then the four letter words, etc. (Be sure to have a copy of your word list so you can cross off words as you use them.) It's not the fastest, but it makes it easy for me to fit more words on each sheet, as well as cut out the words when I am done.<br />
<br />
Each page can fit a lot of words. I had 23 rows on each page with 6 - 7 words in each row. A good estimate for a page word count is about 140 - 150 words. Just be sure to completely fill in your page so that you aren't wasting your magnet page.<br />
<br />
Teacher teams could share by copying the word list multiple times on the page, then giving each person one set. This would also allow teams to color code unit words by copying each unit onto a different color paper.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXG1nosx3aJfixvCr5uE6uMkzonLdF_Go-Lz8gzoMF4tZKWzd5fFQotFLogxrpa-tOtClYFETA_pOjwfN4tZ6AbdTLq-N2g-R1P7_7A8ashQrfb6KJRbjI5o4lLomhUBM1zjvS8GiC82_c/s1600/How+to+Make+Magnetic+Poetry+%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Do you like using word magnets for poetry and other writing activities? Making your own magnets is much more affordable and easy to do. Learn ways to use magnets in your classroom centers, as well as how to make your own. Free word list available to download to make your own magnets. " border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXG1nosx3aJfixvCr5uE6uMkzonLdF_Go-Lz8gzoMF4tZKWzd5fFQotFLogxrpa-tOtClYFETA_pOjwfN4tZ6AbdTLq-N2g-R1P7_7A8ashQrfb6KJRbjI5o4lLomhUBM1zjvS8GiC82_c/s640/How+to+Make+Magnetic+Poetry+%25282%2529.png" title="How To Make Your Own Magnetic Poetry Activity" width="640" /></a></div>
<h3>
Create the Magnets</h3>
If you have self adhesive magnet sheets, it is super simple to make the magnets.<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;">Print your word list(s).</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Peel about two inches of the paper backing off the magnet. (Don't pull the whole thing off unless you are amazingly crafty. The magnet adhesive is really sticky, and if you get the paper on crooked it's very hard to pull up.)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Line up your word list paper with the edge of the magnet. Lay the paper down slowly, rubbing out any air bubbles. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Carefully pull back more of the paper backing on the magnet, then smooth your word list down. Continue doing this until the paper is completely stuck to the magnet.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Cut the words apart. You can either use a heavy duty scissor or a rotary blade. I had a hard time keeping the rotary blade straight, so I used a ruler edge to keep the blade straight. Be sure to have a cutting mat or foam board under the blade as you cut. </li>
</ol>
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<b>TIP</b>: I have to admit, I find cutting a bit tedious. If you teach upper elementary or higher, you probably have a crafty student that wouldn't mind cutting a few words out for you.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Poetry-Word-Magnet-Basic-Word-Templates-for-Writing-Center-3775046?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=Free%20Poetry%20Magnets"><img alt="Free word list templates to make your own poetry magnets." border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2v-joJ93yq7mE7uoa0uTy-FO11sY75_jJPoVBIz4iA9grwdif9LzzJ46GEHCBP2SIeaZK0a4i_kgy7q2ojv6FKVrLo71XDPC5ZyTDHME4cEw2Cw28cczbA6QUayWCU36GnUAX8NL8QWnW/s320/Slide1.JPG" title="Free word list templates to make your own poetry magnets." width="320" /></a></div>
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My free word magnet templates are available <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Poetry-Word-Magnet-Basic-Word-Templates-for-Writing-Center-3775046?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=Free%20Poetry%20Magnets">here</a>. If you'd like to expand your word choices and integrate American history, I also have a set of <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/American-History-Poetry-Word-Magnet-Templates-US-Geography-Westward-3775014?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=AH%20Poetry%20Magnets">American history word templates</a> in my store.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/American-History-Poetry-Word-Magnet-Templates-US-Geography-Westward-3775014?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=AH%20Poetry%20Magnets"><img alt="American history word list templates to make your own poetry magnets." border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQSRq9UL0OK7lZO1u4IASx-dQ3ebOhAd4qYEm7xNMBi8_H2LqcW9LfZcLe1taq6m6cGYG7iZshtBXgmFJ8djVA3W40CyrdRYkHbwMsbW0n_BJ79cYcJJYdTZs4s348L5e4-D_s8YWFjOL3/s320/Slide1.JPG" title="American history word list templates to make your own poetry magnets." width="320" /></a></div>
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Stop back next week to learn how to make your own magnetic boards!Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-91291005333193930922018-04-18T02:00:00.000-07:002018-04-18T02:00:43.289-07:00Poetry to Use in Your American History ClassUnderstanding poetry is an important skill for students to learn, but if your students are like mine many of them "hate" poetry. From experience I can tell you most of the groans come from students who don't really know what poetry <i>is</i>. In addition, a lot of poetry is taught in isolation - a once a year poetry unit, and then kids never see it again. Instead of the once a year unit, try integrating poetry into your American history units!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXDNC5a6ooBKnDHhrlhR0Nyz6T6xcF3dLELKZMirx-LCFW6XdESyniPMtlSORODoLqK4_wQeOuI6HBtN1lV9d8V_JAnPfmCY6yDAgs-SbxDuAnLlVwLoewbjXh6PfzEN29vCniai4X-haT/s1600/Poetry+to+Use+in+Your+American+History+Class.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Integrating poetry into your American history unit helps to bring both subject to life! Poems are often written about specific time periods, or provide a glimpse into the life during that time. This post lists and links poems to use during specific American History units in elementary, middle, or high school classes." border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXDNC5a6ooBKnDHhrlhR0Nyz6T6xcF3dLELKZMirx-LCFW6XdESyniPMtlSORODoLqK4_wQeOuI6HBtN1lV9d8V_JAnPfmCY6yDAgs-SbxDuAnLlVwLoewbjXh6PfzEN29vCniai4X-haT/s640/Poetry+to+Use+in+Your+American+History+Class.png" title="Poetry to Use in Your American History Class" width="640" /></a></div>
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Throughout history, people have used poems for a variety of reasons. Some poems have been written to commemorate an important event (such as a war), as protests, to honor religious beliefs, and to reflect people's thoughts. All of these could be used to better understand historical time periods. </div>
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To help you integrate poetry into your units, here is a collection of poems and poets by American History time period. As always, please read the poems and make sure they are appropriate for your students.</div>
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Colonial Times</h3>
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Anne Bradstreet - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/43705/prologue-56d22283c12e1">Prologue</a>" and "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/43706/to-my-dear-and-loving-husband">To My Dear and Loving Husband</a>"</div>
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Revolutionary War</h3>
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Ralph Waldo Emerson - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45870/concord-hymn">Concord Hymn</a>"</div>
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Henry Wadsworth Longfellow - "<a href="https://www.poets.org/poetsorg/poem/paul-reveres-ride">Paul Revere's Ride</a>"</div>
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Phillis Wheatley - "<a href="https://www.poets.org/poetsorg/poem/his-excellency-general-washington">His Excellency General Washington</a>"</div>
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War of 1812</h3>
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Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr. - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/46547/old-ironsides">Old Ironsides</a>"<br />
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Mid-Nineteenth Century</h3>
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Ralph Waldo Emerson - "<a href="https://www.poets.org/poetsorg/poem/sphinx">The </a><a href="https://www.poets.org/poetsorg/poem/sphinx">Sphinx</a>"<br />Emily Dickinson - "<a href="https://www.poets.org/poetsorg/poem/because-i-could-not-stop-death-479">Because I Could Not Stop for Death</a>"<h3>
Civil War</h3>
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Walt Whitman - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45474/o-captain-my-captain">O Captain, My Captain</a>" and "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45480/when-lilacs-last-in-the-dooryard-bloomd">When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom'd</a>"<div>
Herman Melville - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/51929/misgivings-56d230036693f">Misgivings</a>" and "<a href="https://www.poemhunter.com/best-poems/herman-melville/ball-s-bluff-a-reverie/">Ball's Bluff: A Reverie</a>"</div>
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Hanford L. Gordon - "<a href="https://www.gilderlehrman.org/content/poem-civil-war-death-only-private-killed-1861">Only a Private Killed</a>"</div>
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Camp Meeting Poetry - veterans would gather and share their poems. A good example of this is by Adjutant Byers 5th Iowa Cavalry - "<a href="http://www.bartleby.com/360/8/193.html">Sherman's March to the Sea</a>"</div>
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A book of these poems is <a href="https://archive.org/details/odeshymnssongsof00kyne"><i>From Odes, Hymns, and Songs of the GAR</i></a> collected by James Henry Kyner.</div>
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For a Confederate viewpoint, try <a href="http://docsouth.unc.edu/southlit/timrod/timrod.html">Henry Timrod</a>, who is often called the poet laureate of the Confederacy. "<a href="https://www.britannica.com/topic/Remembering-the-American-Civil-War-1763580/Fighting-the-war#ref1109897">Ethnogenesis</a>," "<a href="https://www.poemhunter.com/poem/a-cry-to-arms/">A Cry to Arms</a>," "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/55911/the-two-armies">The Two Armies</a>," and "<a href="https://allpoetry.com/poem/8537425-Carolina-by-Henry-Timrod">Carolina</a>"</div>
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Late Nineteenth Century</h3>
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Walt Whitman - "<a href="https://www.poets.org/poetsorg/poem/i-hear-america-singing">I Hear America Singing</a>"</div>
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Emma Lazarus - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/46550/the-new-colossus">The New Colossus</a>" </div>
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Cowboy Poetry - Cowboy Poetry is still written today, so there are historical poems as well as contemporary ones. Here are two poems from the early 20th century:</div>
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Arthur Chapman - "<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Out_Where_the_West_Begins">Out Where West Begins</a>"</div>
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Bruce Kiskaddon - "<a href="https://blog.cowboypoetry.com/2017/10/02/shippingcattle/">When They've Finished Shipping Cattle in the Fall</a>"</div>
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This website has a collection of classic cowboy poems: <a href="http://www.cowboypoetry.com/yours.htm#Classic">Cowboy Poetry</a> </div>
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World War I</h3>
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Wilfred Owen - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/47394/arms-and-the-boy">Arms and the Boy</a>" and "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/46560/dulce-et-decorum-est">Dulce et Decorum Est</a>"</div>
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Irving Berlin - (lyrical songs) - "<a href="https://www.scoutsongs.com/lyrics/hatetogetup.html">Reveille: Oh How I Hate to Get Up in the Morning</a>"<br />
TS Eliot - "<a href="https://www.poets.org/poetsorg/poem/waste-land">The Waste Land</a>"</div>
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Alan Seeger - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45077/i-have-a-rendezvous-with-death">I Have a Rendezvous with Death</a>"<br />
<a href="http://warpoets.org.uk/">WarPoets.org.uk</a> is an excellent resource for poetry from WWI.</div>
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Early 20th Century</h3>
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Robert Frost - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/44272/the-road-not-taken">The Road Not Taken</a>"</div>
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Carl Sandburg (Chicago Poet) - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45032/fog-56d2245d7b36c">Fog</a>"</div>
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Woody Guthrie (Great Depression) - "<a href="https://www.poemhunter.com/poem/all-you-fascists/">All You Fascists</a>"</div>
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Edna St. Vincent Millay - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/53241/the-ballad-of-the-harp-weaver">The Ballad of the Harp-Weaver</a>" and "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poetrymagazine/poems/14404/recuerdo">Recuerdo</a>"</div>
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Harlem Renaissance</h3>
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James Weldone Johnson - "<a href="https://allpoetry.com/Lift-Ev%27ry-Voice-and-Sing">Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing</a>"</div>
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Langston Hughes - "<a href="https://www.poets.org/poetsorg/poem/dreams">Dreams</a>," "<a href="https://www.poets.org/poetsorg/poem/negro-speaks-rivers">The Negro Speaks of Rivers</a>" and "<a href="https://www.poets.org/poetsorg/poem/i-too">I,Too</a>" "I, Too" is often paired with Whitman's "I Hear America Singing" for analysis.<br />
Claude McKay - "<a href="https://allpoetry.com/If-We-Must-Die">If We Must Die</a>"<br />
W.E.B. Du Bois - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/43026/my-country-tis-of-thee">My Country 'Tis of Thee</a>"</div>
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World War II</h3>
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Richard Wilbur - "<a href="https://www.naic.edu/~gibson/poems/wilbur1.html">First Snow in Alsace</a>"</div>
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Randall Jarrell - "<a href="https://www.poets.org/poetsorg/poem/death-ball-turret-gunner">The Death of a Ball Turret Gunner</a>"</div>
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Gwendolyn Brooks - "<a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=1038456172850240&id=125416780820855">Negro Hero</a>"<br />
<a href="http://warpoets.org.uk/">WarPoets.org.uk </a>is an excellent resource for poetry about WWII.</div>
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Holocaust Poetry</h3>
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Sudeep Padegar - "<a href="http://www.auschwitz.dk/id6.htm">Tale of a Sprinter, in the Winter of 1938</a>"</div>
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Barbara Sonek - "<a href="http://www.auschwitz.dk/id6.htm">Holocaust</a>"</div>
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Cold War/1950s & 1960s</h3>
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This was the time of the Beat Poets and Protest Singers.</div>
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Jack Keroauc - "<a href="https://www.poets.org/poetsorg/poem/mexico-city-blues-113th-chorus">Mexico City Blues (113th Chorus)</a>"<br />
Allen Ginsberg - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/47660/a-supermarket-in-california">A Supermarket in California</a>"</div>
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LeRoi Jones (Amiri Baraka) - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/42557/legacy-56d221281526a">Legacy</a>" and "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poetrymagazine/poems/29577/valery-as-dictator">Valery as Dictator</a>"<br />
Mary Oliver - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poetrymagazine/browse?contentId=38385">Hummingbird</a>" and "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poetrymagazine/browse?contentId=37955">This Morning Again It Was in the Dusty Pines</a>"</div>
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Civil Rights</h3>
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Dudley Randall - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/46562/ballad-of-birmingham">Ballad of Birmingham</a>"</div>
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Sam Bradley - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poetrymagazine/browse?contentId=29948">African in this Different Land</a>"</div>
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Etheridge Knight - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/51370/for-malcolm-a-year-after">For Malcolm, A Year After</a>"</div>
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Nikky Finney - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/55992/dancing-with-strom">Dancing with Strom</a>"</div>
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Natasha Trethewey - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/47538/history-lesson-56d2280d442a7">History Lesson</a>"</div>
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Angela Jackson - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/56156/miz-rosa-rides-the-bus">Miz Rosa Rides the Bus</a>"</div>
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Nikki Giovanni - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/90180/rosa-parks">Rosa Parks</a>"</div>
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Jacqueline Woodson - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/92335/february-12th-1963">February 12, 1963</a>"</div>
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Vietnam</h3>
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<a href="https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=19mSVwwMnZYC&pg=PP1&dq=Michael+Casey+poet&lr=&redir_esc=y&hl=en#v=onepage&q&f=false">Mike Casey</a></div>
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<a href="http://warpoets.org.uk/">WarPoets.org.uk</a><span id="goog_263774484"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_263774485"></span><span id="goog_263774479"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_263774480"></span> is an excellent resource for poetry about the Vietnam War.</div>
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<h3>
9/11/Terrorism</h3>
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Wislawa Szymborska - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/48799/photograph-from-september-11">Photograph from September 11</a>"</div>
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Rachel Zucker - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/53358/saturday-sunday-monday-tuesday">Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday</a>"</div>
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Stephen Dunn - "<a href="http://carriemesrobian.com/2011/09/grudges-by-stephen-dunn/">Grudges</a>"</div>
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Deborah Garrison - "<a href="https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2003/09/15/september-poems">I Saw You Walking</a>"</div>
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David Lehman - "<a href="https://cpb-us-w2.wpmucdn.com/blogs.cofc.edu/dist/d/609/files/2014/03/9.11-Poetry-.pdf">World Trade Center</a>"</div>
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Iraq/Afghanistan</h3>
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Brian Turner - "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/54143/2000-lbs">2000 lbs</a>" and "<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/54140/what-every-soldier-should-know">What Every Soldier Should Know</a>"<br />
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Do you use any poets in your history lessons? If so, leave a comment and let me know what your favorite poems are! Thanks!</div>
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Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-2257025187910021192018-04-02T01:30:00.000-07:002018-04-02T07:16:12.806-07:00Save Valuable Time with Printable LabelsOrganizing your classroom can be fun if you enjoy decorating - but it can also be very stressful during the school year. When you have a million things to do, printing, laminating cutting, taping, etc. eats up a lot of precious time. Instead of making card stock labels for everything, try printing sticker labels! Stickers are easy to print and easy to remove - making it easy to change labels as needed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiquuP950MaR47Z85FVIClXxW7DN2jG1ojvTbEjtZB20zSa4xCNNmbZx0-heKr6MAfshDIw37C-IKKU2r3oOxMU-fM4TnQE9IP0133H34WVES5EZcjk-yFAzs2wQYYw6sXFbVqMmn4ibzR9/s1600/Save+Time+with.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Save Valuable Time with Printable Sticker Labels" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiquuP950MaR47Z85FVIClXxW7DN2jG1ojvTbEjtZB20zSa4xCNNmbZx0-heKr6MAfshDIw37C-IKKU2r3oOxMU-fM4TnQE9IP0133H34WVES5EZcjk-yFAzs2wQYYw6sXFbVqMmn4ibzR9/s640/Save+Time+with.png" title="Save Valuable Time with Printable Sticker Labels " width="640" /></a></div>
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Avery is now making printable labels using Astrobrights colors. These labels are also available in packs of white, but the Astrobrights pack comes with bright pink, yellow, orange, blue, and green label pages. They come in either <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Avery-4330-Astrobrights-Color-Labels/dp/B0757YQ1JP/ref=pd_bxgy_229_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0757YQ1JP&pd_rd_r=2N3YB41YC1R89VFRZFYP&pd_rd_w=Ildbh&pd_rd_wg=FfzmZ&psc=1&refRID=2N3YB41YC1R89VFRZFYP">1 2/3" round labels</a> or <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0757TSFM7/ref=asc_df_B0757TSFM75422998/?tag=hyprod-20&creative=394997&creativeASIN=B0757TSFM7&linkCode=df0&hvadid=228814572210&hvpos=1o3&hvnetw=g&hvrand=12557203281734669302&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9011776&hvtargid=pla-392483195189">2" x 2 5/8" rectangles</a>. The labels are available on Amazon, but I found them for less money at my local Target. For teachers who enjoy having bright labels, these sticker labels are a great alternative to printing card stock.<br />
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Stickers can be used for many classroom uses. Just think about all of the labels teachers make for their class. I know I made labels for student desks, supply labels so I could remember what was in each cabinet, and group labels. In addition, I labeled my turn in baskets, to be copied file, and weekday files.<br />
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When I taught elementary school, I also liked to color-coordinated student notebooks but that gets difficult when students don't bring in items on the supply list. Using colored labels to help identify notebooks would be so much easier - especially if I also printed student numbers!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv0X3WSnUVTZpYesUqu6ZRYZQ-UWc-R236WmjnjOJ12wnKXx6hJlUfzMm912lGnnbi-b8bWh9XtjkAoatynXEqrqTg8KUP6FmhE-peIjqb0RcnoZYOjbQNR8HsCQX_KvQSwyEC-fqPXZ3x/s1600/Teacher+Avery+Sticker+Label+Templates+Long+Pins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Classroom Label Templates for Avery Printable Stickers" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="826" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv0X3WSnUVTZpYesUqu6ZRYZQ-UWc-R236WmjnjOJ12wnKXx6hJlUfzMm912lGnnbi-b8bWh9XtjkAoatynXEqrqTg8KUP6FmhE-peIjqb0RcnoZYOjbQNR8HsCQX_KvQSwyEC-fqPXZ3x/s640/Teacher+Avery+Sticker+Label+Templates+Long+Pins.jpg" title="Classroom Label Templates for Avery Printable Stickers" width="330" /></a></div>
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At the beginning of the school year, elementary teachers could also use bright stickers for many things. I know younger students often need help remembering where to go for dismissal, so stickers could be printed for car riders/bus riders/walker/bikers. Sometimes (okay, frequently) teachers have to send multiple copies of important papers home, so a bright colored sign and return sticker could be placed on important paperwork.<br />
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Avery has online templates available for each of its printable label sets. They do have a lot of nice designs that teachers can use, and the templates are also downloadable.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf_5kBejG3bMv1Rm0riOLQDlGQpJKTd4aGfkzZiAUjLFUuQQiNn-g67eod6-fGGbhOjbvlv5N6TeqhFHSH-2-ld21WCop0Orf21ZM2ixryyLIK4FF7pnIE_Ta33dZOODvy9xgy3ONNHGo/s1600/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="26" data-original-width="1600" height="10" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf_5kBejG3bMv1Rm0riOLQDlGQpJKTd4aGfkzZiAUjLFUuQQiNn-g67eod6-fGGbhOjbvlv5N6TeqhFHSH-2-ld21WCop0Orf21ZM2ixryyLIK4FF7pnIE_Ta33dZOODvy9xgy3ONNHGo/s640/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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For teachers who like the labels but prefer to use premade templates, I created a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Classroom-Label-Templates-for-Avery-Printable-Stickers-3736606?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Avery%20Label%20Templates">set of teacher classroom templates</a> to fit the Avery printable circular labels. There are over 20 pages of premade templates for the classroom, including numbers 1 - 100, A-Z, library genres, and classroom supplies.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Classroom-Label-Templates-for-Avery-Printable-Stickers-3736606?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Avery%20Label%20Templates"><img alt="Classroom Label Templates for Avery Printable Stickers" border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHjI8m02uG0HiCnZzllU5PMxjFNjTdbcvfB9P_UTkgO5PAK4akCB-rVC10S5Vz0oQHUfJGdZnWuVbJFiq39XXlhOX6Hsyf5hKTFAzRMwmN4Z-dETY8E7RR9popAovUcOf4MqX5cFBWui59/s640/Teacher+Avery+Sticker+Label+Templates+Pins.jpg" title="Classroom Label Templates for Avery Printable Stickers" width="426" /></a></div>
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What label stickers would you use in your classroom?Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-85788288853289227922018-03-26T02:00:00.000-07:002018-03-26T02:00:43.369-07:00Complete Practice for 6th Grade ELA State TestingAs ELA state testing draws closer, many teachers begin to worry if their students are ready for the test. Instead of worrying, try reviewing with engaging test prep activities that allow you to see where your students need more support!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiuEjcJiNt0GWHynSca-HV_EXDdWZMSTtEETNAQ_NqaPv1y8zfwXEDoBcFsxNINW_TSIe5inKw7iCVBghYWh9UQiD1SYHlu3fH0yeVm05857m9-aFMWagaj3M26NMSpn94fuW21up36Omo/s1600/6th+Grade+ELA+Test+Prep+Blog+Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for sixth grade ELA test prep resources that are both engaging and comprehensive? Use these reading and grammar test review activities to help prepare your students for testing, as well as to determine which learning standards need more support." border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="960" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiuEjcJiNt0GWHynSca-HV_EXDdWZMSTtEETNAQ_NqaPv1y8zfwXEDoBcFsxNINW_TSIe5inKw7iCVBghYWh9UQiD1SYHlu3fH0yeVm05857m9-aFMWagaj3M26NMSpn94fuW21up36Omo/s640/6th+Grade+ELA+Test+Prep+Blog+Image.jpg" title="Are you looking for sixth grade ELA test prep resources that are both engaging and comprehensive? Use these reading and grammar test review activities to help prepare your students for testing, as well as to determine which learning standards need more support." width="640" /></a></div>
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So many of the practice activities we were provided were dull or took weeks to complete. The students who didn't need to review were highly engaged, while those that really needed more support often just went through the motions. By combining test review with games, students practice in smaller groups and are more engaged. Teachers can collect the review sheets to do error analysis. This would show teachers which topics need more lessons or practice.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>To help language arts teachers, I created a set of test prep resources specifically written to meet sixth grade Common Core or Florida State Standards. These resources can be used individually or as center or small group rotations.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Reading-Practice-Test-Fiction-Nonfiction-Grammar-6th-Grade-FSA-3725231?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=6th%20Gr%20ELA%20Practice%20Test"><img alt="6th Grade Practice ELA Standardized Test" border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSECG7RIMomCt98gPLHARocpMTMbvbxjUBdtNjjFAaDV8UWN6XEr4azQEXI5f4xtfGRW8Iub7B53FiTrCWY_vt1Y4qTJjlEwbk31-liaxnNh4Dql6Mdj76qdUT4tWbJGj68u6OlmFMvylP/s640/6th+Grade+Test+Prep+ELA+Practice+Reading+Test.JPG" title="6th Grade Practice ELA Standardized Test" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Practice ELA Standardized Test</h3>
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This <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Reading-Practice-Test-Fiction-Nonfiction-Grammar-6th-Grade-FSA-3725231?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=6th%20Gr%20ELA%20Practice%20Test">Practice Reading Test</a> is designed in a similar style to the FSA reading test. It includes <b>two paired literature passages </b>and <b>2 informational (nonfiction) passages</b> <b>paired with an audio passage</b>. The passages have paired topics or themes written on a sixth grade reading level (estimated.)<br />
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Also included are <b>16 multiple choice reading comprehension questions</b> written in test style, as well as 4<b> grammar questions</b>. These questions meet the 6th grade Common Core State Standards or Florida State Standards.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/6th-Grade-ELA-Test-Prep-Set-Paired-Reading-Passages-Game-Show-Practice-Test-3088244?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=6th%20Gr%20ELA%20Game%20Show"><img alt="6th Grade ELA Test Prep Game Show & Practice Test" border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghC_BAskneMMbhMjnMLDZSJrDcdjkt9gKef_wN9zFB6R_EJGCnuWanuSInVoDEg4KU9ISJehQtCLMmNFrBe1uTF6qFsQ3w5-zBOfcPAeGiYRB8FfjGtJPzzRIgN25O0KYa3o-PoCvsTsiW/s640/Jeopardy+Game+Show+Test+Review.JPG" title="6th Grade ELA Test Prep Game Show & Practice Test" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Test Prep Game Show & Practice Test</h3>
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This interactive <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/6th-Grade-ELA-Test-Prep-Set-Paired-Reading-Passages-Game-Show-Practice-Test-3088244?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=6th%20Gr%20ELA%20Game%20Show">ELA Test Prep Game Show</a> has five categories. The questions are set up as question/answer - not the TV show style questions. This is a general review that hits on many standards quickly. To help teachers prepare students for the multimedia questions, there are five questions that cover a different types of multimedia.</div>
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The Game Show categories are:<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Vocab</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Grammar</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Spelling</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Reading</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Multimedia</b></li>
</ul>
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All of the questions are also included in a printable pdf. Teachers could use the pages at the same time as the game to help keep students focused on the review. Another idea is to save the pages and hold a "practice test" another day. Finally, teachers could print the review pages for students that were absent during the review. </div>
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Please note: the Game Show will ONLY work in PowerPoint.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Grammar-Spelling-JENGA-Review-Game-6th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3725211?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=6th%20Gr%20ELA%20Jenga"><img alt="6th Grade Grammar & Spelling Jenga" border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvHXGYbTpfDfETIwW4vh1lkNXpCH7SZbtj4x5epgH-zBwFATRPa_VSiCXG7Zn5qLpEYflz4ifUwSTjVgjTwFfuojCN9nMX2DS2hIpfnuAk_4QHsYSX5Jk3K8bA1tsN9uAwQi4mSs4v4HdM/s640/6th+Grade+Test+Prep+Grammar+%2526+Spelling+Jenga.JPG" title="6th Grade Grammar & Spelling Jenga" width="426" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Grammar & Spelling Jenga</h3>
This <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Grammar-Spelling-JENGA-Review-Game-6th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3725211?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=6th%20Gr%20ELA%20Jenga">Grammar & Spelling Jenga</a> review includes six categories with ten questions in each (60 questions total.) The category topics are:<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Pronoun Cases</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Intensive Pronouns</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Antecedents</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Editing Review</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Spelling</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Parenthetical Elements</b></li>
</ul>
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The questions are written in test format. Each category has its own page, and teachers can use the worksheets either with a Jenga game or on their own. </div>
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If the review is used with Jenga, teachers will need to color the ends of a Jenga game using permanent markers. During the game, players have to correctly answer a question in the category that coordinates with the block they want to move.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Vocabulary-Kerplunk-Review-Game-6th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3725218?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=6th%20Gr%20ELA%20Kerplunk"><img alt="6th Grade Vocabulary Kerplunk" border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ-cnChfEOO0QSwzbF71tz_uZbCdtv6MqZ3oz-pCTGKZLQloqrr-ZVd-H_X3eOeCVJYG1JmerT2bNhG85izxvsgFgw5ATvM1lIiIPQlVoE8tf-LhR_x4hEdbgwd_Jxjn5eNRrjdI32SxdI/s640/6th+Grade+ELA+Test+Prep+Vocabulary+Kerplunk.JPG" title="6th Grade Vocabulary Kerplunk" width="426" /></a></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Vocabulary Kerplunk</h3>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Vocabulary-Kerplunk-Review-Game-6th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3725218?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=6th%20Gr%20ELA%20Kerplunk">Vocabulary Kerplunk</a> is played much like the Jenga game. There are three categories:</div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Affixes</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Context Clues - connotations & denotations</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Figures of Speech - personification, hyperbole, similes, & metaphors</b></li>
</ul>
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Each category has ten questions. Because the game can go pretty quickly, two sets of 30 question games are included in the resource.</div>
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Kerplunk has three categories that coordinate with the colors of the sticks in the game. To pull a stick, players have to answer a question in the coordinating category.</div>
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=<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-ANALOGY-MATCH-Card-Game-6th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3725223?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=6th%20Gr%20Analogy%20Match"><img alt="Analogy Match Card Game" border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0zo3orYOV3WigDOPfNdzcJ20FA8TYDvElg6QNrvr-_gUkUPd3VGp1sCfBANChTuibLC7xZFU71yLkF05RgJ3olS3uBPsJhWn7AO8e3L9rBnGRXptNjqagJioLspzzWOeQ-hd_peJV8cf/s640/Analogy+Match+Card+Game+Test+Prep+6th+Grade.JPG" title="Analogy Match Card Game" width="426" /></a></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Analogy Match Card Game</h3>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-ANALOGY-MATCH-Card-Game-6th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3725223?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=6th%20Gr%20Analogy%20Match">Analogy Match</a> is an introductory game that helps kids practice making analogies. The card game focuses on five analogy types:</div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Synonyms</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Antonyms</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Class</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Part to Whole</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Object to Function</b></li>
</ul>
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The game includes nine cards in each category. Players make analogies throughout the game, carefully examining the matches to make sure they can create an analogy sentence. </div>
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To help support students, word wall cards are included with examples of each analogy type and an example sentence.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Bundle-6th-Grade-4-Games-1-Reading-Practice-Test-FSA-3725236?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=6th%20Gr%20ELA%20Test%20Prep%20Bundle"><img alt="6th Grade ELA Test Prep Bundle" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="682" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7szbhAoqHdaD9u05v3t1fMaIugZO8QbtV1IJnbvo-SvKNCF0WvR33voagO4IjMy361FNB9CJ0Ah_UxKWG5FuyZHbA3ysU79O-3YGtfsztKccsBlEwTgm7ATnlWnDpQyaDGMCUD9-A4o8D/s640/Reading+Test+Prep+Bundle+6th+Pinterest+Image.jpg" title="6th Grade ELA Test Prep Bundle" width="272" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Money-Saving Bundle</h3>
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These five resources are also available in a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Bundle-6th-Grade-4-Games-1-Reading-Practice-Test-FSA-3725236?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=6th%20Gr%20ELA%20Test%20Prep%20Bundle">money-saving bundle</a>! If you have already purchased a resource in the bundle, TPT will refund the cost of the individual resource after buyers purchase a bundle. Simply submit a ticket to TPT.<br />
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If you have any questions, please ask. Also, I always appreciate feedback on the resources. I read every single feedback and use it to see what students enjoy and how to improve resources.</div>
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If you are looking for some test prep ideas, check out <a href="https://amymezni.blogspot.com/2018/02/5-fun-ways-to-use-test-prep-in-classroom.html">5 Fun Ways to Use Test Prep in the Classroom</a>.</div>
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Florida teachers may also be interested in reading <a href="https://amymezni.blogspot.com/2017/03/how-to-prep-for-fsa-valuable-tips-for_30.html">How to Prep for FSA ELA: 6th Grade</a>.</div>
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Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-20714209510925892312018-03-20T14:10:00.000-07:002018-03-24T17:22:15.833-07:005 Fast Ways to Review for 5th Grade ELA State TestsAre you looking for some fun ways to engage students in test prep activities? Try using games to get students involved in test review! Having a set of games is best, because students can be broken into small groups to rotate through the activities. Limiting students to groups of 3 or 4 is best, because fewer students actively participate in larger groups.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4DuYxt6Ydyjd-aAWHWvUHS2-olEh00T2_KUGfxoE_002rE0vMKdK4gjcNhcMZH8hp9qn8qrHICzOxnR3uHLbQpA_VfKNMbOWbOI5iLTDP_FXOWDyYZUDrUCKWNyaqA2DUqsdpIlsYVx7N/s1600/5th+Grade+ELA+Test+Prep+Blog+Post.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="960" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4DuYxt6Ydyjd-aAWHWvUHS2-olEh00T2_KUGfxoE_002rE0vMKdK4gjcNhcMZH8hp9qn8qrHICzOxnR3uHLbQpA_VfKNMbOWbOI5iLTDP_FXOWDyYZUDrUCKWNyaqA2DUqsdpIlsYVx7N/s640/5th+Grade+ELA+Test+Prep+Blog+Post.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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How can teachers get data on student knowledge from games? Integrate test review questions with easy to play games! Students complete the review as they play the game, then turn in their review packets. Teachers can then analyze the errors to see where more lessons and review are needed.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
I created a set of test prep activities specifically for 5th grade reading and language standards. Each game has a different focus with specific categories. In addition, there is a practice test written in FSA ELA style. This set of test prep resources covers nearly all the standards for fifth grade.<br />
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FSA was developed from the AIR test. It isn't exactly the same, but it's similar. Florida Standards are based on Common Core standards, so these review activities would work for any CCSS- based state standards.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Reading-Practice-Test-Fiction-Nonfiction-Grammar-5th-Grade-FSA-3710291?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=5th%20Gr%20Reading%20Test"><img border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnysQTeHMGZODRvc4Yloijsm7JgiofMXzSIqf8fBmNRN6GfdV1iV29xtgW9MUj6vgMA_vsv5mdTbt0u3Aqrh2Y54IP9wpFcrlHnhn0-rwzuhNmoBH7ggDfHd_FpJPc4Fp4OXXqzez7Xq_f/s640/FSA+Practice+Reading+Test+Prep+5th+Grade.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Practice ELA Standardized Test</h3>
This <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Reading-Practice-Test-Fiction-Nonfiction-Grammar-5th-Grade-FSA-3710291?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=5th%20Gr%20Reading%20Test">Practice Reading Test</a> is designed in a similar style to the FSA reading test. It includes <b>two paired literature passages </b>and <b>2 informational (nonfiction) passages</b> <b>paired with an audio passage</b>. The passages have paired topics or themes written on a fifth grade reading level (estimated.)<br />
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Also included are <b>17 multiple choice reading comprehension questions</b> written in test style, as well as <b>3 grammar questions</b>. These questions meet the fifth grade Common Core State Standards or Florida State Standards.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/5th-Grade-ELA-Test-Prep-Set-Paired-Reading-Passages-Game-Show-Practice-Test-3075612?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=5th%20Gr%20Game%20Show"><img border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi3zQXo7J5UKzPYPleZanV5B2-sxkQfsOMs7x8nc_s7g8c6k0ousqapuwZCEfWL7SLpIy7w4qMYBF0Gkk0EZJuMvCNXosLB-7kLaDoiseoQ2pQ6YZbI13RuTVeOKbT1kVj7oeaDpEyo85i/s640/Jeopardy+Game+Show+Test+Review.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Test Prep Game Show & Practice Test</h3>
This interactive <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/5th-Grade-ELA-Test-Prep-Set-Paired-Reading-Passages-Game-Show-Practice-Test-3075612?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=5th%20Gr%20Game%20Show">ELA Test Prep Game Show</a> includes five categories:<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Vocab</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Grammar</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Spelling</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Reading</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Multimedia</b></li>
</ul>
There are five questions in each category. The questions are set up as questions and answers - not in the TV game show style. This game is a general review of the fifth grade standards.<br />
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All of the questions are also included in a printable pdf. Teachers could use the pages at the same time as the game to help keep students focused on the review. Another idea is to save the pages and hold a "practice test" another day. Finally, teachers could print the review pages for students that were absent during the review.<br />
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Please note: this game show will only work in PowerPoint.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Grammar-Spelling-JENGA-Review-Game-5th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3710262?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=5th%20Gr%20Jenga"><img border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhje8AkJn-qX3kC6wu97gKCMK0TlIMNmVEHq2_u6lYybzhNUSVud-_ZayRaWZpXUgjo_pHjtdgKhFuGYxqwS9k0Bv6NckC5ovPv1bDjaKaz2BKaUOm2cLt1T0ZRuDwmZbMkjXeT6IT4Q_La/s640/ELA+Test+Prep+Jenga+5th+Grade.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Grammar & Spelling Jenga</h3>
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Grammar-Spelling-JENGA-Review-Game-5th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3710262?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=5th%20Gr%20Jenga">Grammar & Spelling Jenga</a> includes six different categories with ten questions in each. The six categories are:<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Conjunctions, Prepositions, & Interjections</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Perfect Verbs</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Correlative Conjunctions</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Punctuation</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Spelling</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Titles of Works</b></li>
</ul>
The practice questions are written in test format.<br />
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Grammar & Spelling Jenga is a test review that is meant to be used with a traditional Jenga game set (not included). To prepare my Jenga game, I used six permanent markers to color the ends of a Jenga game. I matched those colors to the game categories. To move a block, students have to correctly answer a question in the coordinating category. Teachers could also use the review sheets as worksheets.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Vocabulary-Kerplunk-Review-Game-5th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3710285?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=5th%20Gr%20Kerplunk"><img border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqTqtD05l7WgHKY8Fi-IFWf-ev0vfwqnC6JMXCszN1xdk9-ti9ciDccZKC3ct7UZDHV9-hVLkJSUmwbkug68Z_DMXS-BJwHjQ1sbqPSaAydHhD82A4O-z42_ubLPM65odimb65JzZ4Kvm_/s640/ELA+Test+Prep+Kerplunk+Vocabulary+5th+Grade.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Vocabulary Kerplunk</h3>
This <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Vocabulary-Kerplunk-Review-Game-5th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3710285?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=5th%20Gr%20Kerplunk">Vocabulary Kerplunk</a> game is played similar to the Jenga game. Before students can remove a stick, they need to answer a question in the coordinating color category.<br />
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This review game has three categories:<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Context Clues (homophones & words relating to their synonyms and antonyms)</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Affixes</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Figurative Language (Idioms, Similes & Metaphors, Adages & Proverbs)</b></li>
</ul>
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There are 10 questions for each category. Because Kerplunk can sometimes be played pretty quickly, I included two sets of game sheets in the resource for a total of 60 questions.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Greek-Latin-Roots-Card-Game-Build-A-Word-Prefixes-Root-Words-Suffixes-2459384?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=5th%20Gr%20Build%20A%20Word"><img border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL0GFb2_-yd6ScshYeRdXj64wdNg2BTF-IoN_f0SE3wl7rloWPiiElKDzOIruY8Pqxxm2JGnTleNzlhGZAPJskviXZBegYJWEaaE_GxOc8pCM5ESSbb5mrryg6nxEJcTFXcctGUShH3YlH/s640/Build+A+Word+Greek+%2526+Latin+Roots+Affixes+Card+Game.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Build A Word Affixes Card Game</h3>
In this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Greek-Latin-Roots-Card-Game-Build-A-Word-Prefixes-Root-Words-Suffixes-2459384?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=5th%20Gr%20Build%20A%20Word">Build A Word card game</a>, players collect prefixes, suffixes, and root words to build longer words. There are eight prefixes, eight roots, and eight suffixes. They were carefully selected to ensure that they would be easy to combine. Wild cards are also included in the deck.<br />
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Word Family cards are also included to help students that need more support.<br />
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This game is recommended for students 10 and older.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Bundle-5th-Grade-4-Games-1-Reading-Practice-Test-FSA-3710307?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=5th%20Gr%20Test%20Prep%20Bundle"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="682" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_KFCgdkar560dS75bjVYGXuClaAr9cewW9dVzL-gIzN0j4e5ClEdOKLzc8vhrcAUrb_o-M9Plmun2FKfHCGVv_0DdnzAvd2kdylynGZTto9AHbbzjtjPEF898rwDsqUegr7REqX1g7Y4p/s640/Reading+Test+Prep+Bundle+5th+Pinterest+Image.jpg" width="272" /></a></div>
<h3>
Money-Saving Bundle</h3>
All of these resources are available in a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Bundle-5th-Grade-4-Games-1-Reading-Practice-Test-FSA-3710307?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=5th%20Gr%20Test%20Prep%20Bundle">money-saving bundle</a>. If you have already purchased a resource in the bundle, TPT will refund the cost of the individual resource after buyers purchase a bundle. Simply submit a ticket to TPT.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf_5kBejG3bMv1Rm0riOLQDlGQpJKTd4aGfkzZiAUjLFUuQQiNn-g67eod6-fGGbhOjbvlv5N6TeqhFHSH-2-ld21WCop0Orf21ZM2ixryyLIK4FF7pnIE_Ta33dZOODvy9xgy3ONNHGo/s1600/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="26" data-original-width="1600" height="10" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf_5kBejG3bMv1Rm0riOLQDlGQpJKTd4aGfkzZiAUjLFUuQQiNn-g67eod6-fGGbhOjbvlv5N6TeqhFHSH-2-ld21WCop0Orf21ZM2ixryyLIK4FF7pnIE_Ta33dZOODvy9xgy3ONNHGo/s640/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you have any questions, please ask. Also, I always appreciate feedback on the resources. I read every single feedback and use it to see what students enjoy and how to improve resources.</div>
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If you are looking for some test prep ideas, check out <a href="https://amymezni.blogspot.com/2018/02/5-fun-ways-to-use-test-prep-in-classroom.html">5 Fun Ways to Use Test Prep in the Classroom</a>.</div>
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Florida teachers may also be interested in reading <a href="https://amymezni.blogspot.com/2017/03/how-to-prep-for-fsa-valuable-tips-for_23.html">How to Prep for FSA ELA: 5th Grade</a>.</div>
Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-30639703077337084082018-03-08T16:51:00.000-08:002018-03-20T12:48:23.582-07:00Complete Review Practice for 4th Grade ELA State TestsAs state testing sneaks up on us, teachers start to wonder what else they can do to prepare their students. There are so many reading and language standards to cover before testing! 4th grade Florida teachers also have to make sure students are prepared for the writing test. With so much to cover, how do teachers know where to put more effort?<br />
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Many teachers wait until a week or two before testing to start their test prep practice. Instead of waiting til the bitter end, start test review about 4 - 6 weeks earlier. With a comprehensive set of test prep activities, teachers could analyze student work and determine where they need more support.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEeZuNNDn6GbFFZXbryzl4rbOE-C2b4BjFLR_UFpT1WK91RX92QgdnmhKslvrxpohcnv2qb_dut8MMlh-rBWkn37VauIiXa1aTLFjDqFT-f1EET4EdOwEj7pMJO8zZJKijv5win6zihcZT/s1600/Test+prep+Blog+Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Complete Review Practice For 4th Grade ELA State Test" border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="960" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEeZuNNDn6GbFFZXbryzl4rbOE-C2b4BjFLR_UFpT1WK91RX92QgdnmhKslvrxpohcnv2qb_dut8MMlh-rBWkn37VauIiXa1aTLFjDqFT-f1EET4EdOwEj7pMJO8zZJKijv5win6zihcZT/s640/Test+prep+Blog+Image.jpg" title="Complete Review Practice For 4th Grade ELA State Test" width="640" /></a></div>
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Test review can be hard to find. In our district we would get packets that we could use, but they often were very time consuming or were meant to be used daily. It's not particularly easy to get data from that type of activity. We also had test prep on the computer, but you had to be able to get into the computer lab.<br />
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To make it easier to review and analyze where students need more support, I created a set of test prep activities specifically for 4th grade reading and language standards. Each game has a different focus with specific categories. In addition, there is a practice test written in FSA ELA style. Altogether, this set of test review resources covers nearly all the standards for the grade level. Teachers could simply analyze the students' review sheets to see which standards need more practice.<br />
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FSA was developed from the AIR test. It isn't exactly the same, but it's similar. Florida Standards are based on Common Core standards, so these review activities would work for any CCSS- based state standards.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Reading-Practice-Test-Fiction-Nonfiction-Grammar-4th-Grade-FSA-3691467?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=4th%20Gr%20Practice%20Test"><img alt="4th Grade Reading Practice Test Literature, Informational, Grammar" border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI1aTYpUwtfLOxQ_ch7tfGRyoqnYdAyK7Zg_3Mth5TWFUgL0KglYFMQtsZ1nhY4zLBLaxnt-57cQGfy16H3qxHAijTALnOH0DMpUGdLl2StaDVGBZeVuG1ogoC5myPJDKWxScxRpW21YR2/s640/Practice+FSA+Test+ELA+4th+Grade.JPG" title="4th Grade Reading Practice Test Literature, Informational, Grammar" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Practice ELA Standardized Test</h3>
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In order to help students prepare for testing, I created a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Reading-Practice-Test-Fiction-Nonfiction-Grammar-4th-Grade-FSA-3691467?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=4th%20Gr%20Practice%20Test">4th Grade ELA Practice Test</a>. As I am in Florida, I formatted my practice reading and grammar questions like the FSA test. </div>
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The fourth grade test includes two literature passages and one informational text plus a link to a nonfiction auditory passage. Each set is paired to have similar themes or topics. </div>
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Comprehension and grammar questions are also included in testing format. I recommend using the practice test as a whole class activity, so that students have an idea of what to expect on testing day.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/4th-Grade-ELA-Test-Prep-Game-Show-Practice-Review-Test-FSA-AIR-3062953?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=4th%20Gr%20Game%20Show"><img alt="4th Grade ELA Test Prep Game Show & Practice Review Test " border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdELJjUGMChIws306XhwiRE2ujEBRln0W2Y3ijKVLEzcEuc0dkzsaL79oMV54uBusMzqK6SO7xS8d9E4b2ZkXtW5NH004v773lS9dHdllsV_17YqNgzxodkE-TFM-Vckgz_L1zcBkWAn4M/s640/Jeopardy+Game+Show+Test+Review.JPG" title="4th Grade ELA Test Prep Game Show & Practice Review Test " width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Test Prep Game Show & Practice Test</h3>
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This interactive <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/4th-Grade-ELA-Test-Prep-Game-Show-Practice-Review-Test-FSA-AIR-3062953?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=4th%20Gr%20Game%20Show">ELA Test Prep Game Show</a> has five categories. The questions are set up as question/answer - not the TV show style questions. This is a general review that hits on many standards quickly. To help teachers prepare students for the multimedia questions, there are five questions that cover a different types of multimedia.</div>
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The Game Show categories are:<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Vocab</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Grammar</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Spelling</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Reading</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Multimedia</b></li>
</ul>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
All of the questions are also included in a printable pdf. Teachers could use the pages at the same time as the game to help keep students focused on the review. Another idea is to save the pages and hold a "practice test" another day. Finally, teachers could print the review pages for students that were absent during the review. </div>
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Please note: the Game Show will ONLY work in PowerPoint.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Grammar-Spelling-JENGA-Review-Game-4th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3691518?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=4th%20Gr%20Jenga"><img alt="Grammar & Spelling JENGA Review Game 4th Grade" border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiey6z2Ro9JfhCwkNov1Ks0AthSCu2cBO42nIV94cJEre7HmuIAVNRI4wnB-kUZV5SYlIizQc9saUabqYN3RBIiAeVZLkGkcn7bihx9H3KaS5kYo8U4YKvYGX3MNCwup4Jid91K65OoJMOc/s640/Grammar+%2526+Spelling+Jenga+4th+Grade.JPG" title="Grammar & Spelling JENGA Review Game 4th Grade" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Grammar & Spelling Jenga</h3>
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This <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Grammar-Spelling-JENGA-Review-Game-4th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3691518?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=4th%20Gr%20Jenga">Grammar & Spelling Jenga</a> review has six color categories with 10 questions each. Instead of having teachers glue questions onto the block, I organized each category onto a printable page. The title tells both the category topic and the color (in case color printing is not available.) To move a block, students must answer a question in that color category. When I play tested this game, we were able to play more than one game without running out of questions.</div>
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The six play categories are:<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Relative Pronouns & Adverbs</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Progressive Verbs</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Ordering Adjectives</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Punctuation</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Spelling</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Prepositions</b></li>
</ul>
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Again, I wrote the practice questions in a similar style to the actual test format. </div>
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There are colored Jenga games out there for sale, but I think it took me 30 minutes to use permanent markers and just color the ends of the blocks. I used black instead of orange, because it was very difficult to tell orange and yellow apart.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Vocabulary-Kerplunk-Review-Game-4th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3691500?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=4th%20Gr%20Kerplunk"><img alt=" Vocabulary Kerplunk Review Game 4th Grade " border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzcYuhVp9Wyf3vEm0IVNqjpcaXFFjoNIj5LFijGF7l6KfwsEz-7GcjSrvxx9ytNecq8dDsDj9Clo8arj95kOacWcXjRdV8cs52oRqS6_hV4LuGnd-ZBWEUtofDfzcnfBdCq4Pj1KL5pp3z/s640/Vocabulary+Kerplunk+4th+Grade.JPG" title=" Vocabulary Kerplunk Review Game 4th Grade " width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Vocabulary Kerplunk</h3>
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This game is set up similar to Jenga. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Vocabulary-Kerplunk-Review-Game-4th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3691500?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=4th%20Gr%20Kerplunk">Vocabulary Kerplunk</a> has three different colors of sticks that players pull out, so the game has three color categories. The resource includes two sets of game sheets with 30 questions (10 in each category.)</div>
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The three categories are:<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Context Clues (homophones and relating words to their synonyms & antonyms)</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Affixes</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Figurative Language (Idioms, Adages & Proverbs, and Similes & Metaphors)</b></li>
</ul>
</div>
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Kerplunk is available in stores. I found mine at Target.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-IDIOMS-Go-Fish-Card-Game-3rd-4th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3691478?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Idioms%20Go%20Fish"><img alt=" Idioms Go Fish Card Game" border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8hANyhhLLJBYXCQN0CYVR5VJ3iDQlGXvGSvvaAIN3-lQkOmSmP8yW5XNcwvnFDN8c6GovTsjoxzN6IlmEz9pAPRCRp7sOKVz55iYvXBHmUwY-SQeYekeJvQmnUoljZoT9RPQkxyANuyXV/s640/Idioms+Go+Fish+Game.JPG" title=" Idioms Go Fish Card Game" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Idioms Go Fish</h3>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-IDIOMS-Go-Fish-Card-Game-3rd-4th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3691478?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=Idioms%20Go%20Fish">Idioms Go Fish</a> is an easy to play game that helps students become familiar with common idioms. The game includes the following 11 idioms:<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>A Stone’s Throw</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>On the Fence</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Out on a Limb</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Catch One’s Eye</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>At the End of One’s Rope</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Twist One’s Arm</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Foaming at the Mouth</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Sitting on Top of the World</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Head in the Clouds</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Skating on Thin Ice</b></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Losing One’s Marbles</b></li>
</ul>
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Players try to collect pairs of the idiom cards. It is a fairly simple game that can be played with 3 - 5 players.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Bundle-4th-Grade-4-Games-1-Reading-Practice-Test-FSA-3691535?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=4th%20Gr%20Test%20Prep%20Bundle"><img alt="ELA Test Prep Bundle 4th Grade: 4 Games & 1 Reading Practice Test " border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="682" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYUvae3fLALRvtw3RnqRq7TNiu9dCr3kl0pHaVt4c3TgTtC5N7S0ztJ1m83rBGVJFEHoG4dnK6_GhLp7l_KENj9iaR8ODeOKVQpdtWhOY02bwmeyMZjj4xrRGi2wAvlELCANnjzWi32DP/s640/Reading+Test+Prep+Bundle+4th+Pinterest+Image.jpg" title="ELA Test Prep Bundle 4th Grade: 4 Games & 1 Reading Practice Test " width="272" /></a></div>
<h3>
Money-Saving Bundle</h3>
<div>
These five resources are also available in a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Bundle-4th-Grade-4-Games-1-Reading-Practice-Test-FSA-3691535?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=4th%20Gr%20Test%20Prep%20Bundle">money-saving bundle</a>! If you have already purchased a resource in the bundle, TPT will refund the cost of the individual resource after buyers purchase a bundle. Simply submit a ticket to TPT.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf_5kBejG3bMv1Rm0riOLQDlGQpJKTd4aGfkzZiAUjLFUuQQiNn-g67eod6-fGGbhOjbvlv5N6TeqhFHSH-2-ld21WCop0Orf21ZM2ixryyLIK4FF7pnIE_Ta33dZOODvy9xgy3ONNHGo/s1600/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="26" data-original-width="1600" height="10" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf_5kBejG3bMv1Rm0riOLQDlGQpJKTd4aGfkzZiAUjLFUuQQiNn-g67eod6-fGGbhOjbvlv5N6TeqhFHSH-2-ld21WCop0Orf21ZM2ixryyLIK4FF7pnIE_Ta33dZOODvy9xgy3ONNHGo/s640/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you have any questions, please ask. Also, I always appreciate feedback on the resources. I read every single feedback and use it to see what students enjoy and how to improve resources.</div>
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If you are looking for some test prep ideas, check out <a href="https://amymezni.blogspot.com/2018/02/5-fun-ways-to-use-test-prep-in-classroom.html">5 Fun Ways to Use Test Prep in the Classroom</a>.</div>
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Florida teachers may also be interested in reading <a href="https://amymezni.blogspot.com/2017/03/how-to-prep-for-fsa-valuable-tips-for_15.html">How to Prep for FSA ELA: 4th Grade</a>.</div>
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Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-88222820627907983672018-03-07T10:41:00.003-08:002018-03-07T10:41:35.353-08:00Comprehensive Practice for 3rd Grade ELA Test Prep Every year, I dreaded the countdown to FSA state testing. There was never enough time to fit everything in - or at least teach all concepts to mastery. In addition, cramming in test prep just seemed rushed and, well, not very effective. <div>
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It occurred to me that I did test prep practice like this <i>every single year</i>. Then one time I had this thought: Instead of reviewing at the last minute, why not review a few weeks earlier? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisBk5_cwZxRmHihg5U6G6s9XhBqlY2C04T2zAiiMZYMJaffEGNWfKlle_BihJNmY8Dw96OZD5Q89MTG_Jrk4x7Zdw_gEjj1zKDL-guP1QcWBmC5NurSFuX4Kw2jnUBEb0A8UKeThUqaEW7/s1600/3rd+Grade+Test+Prep+Practice+Blog+Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Comprehensive Practice for 3rd Grade ELA Test Prep " border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="960" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisBk5_cwZxRmHihg5U6G6s9XhBqlY2C04T2zAiiMZYMJaffEGNWfKlle_BihJNmY8Dw96OZD5Q89MTG_Jrk4x7Zdw_gEjj1zKDL-guP1QcWBmC5NurSFuX4Kw2jnUBEb0A8UKeThUqaEW7/s640/3rd+Grade+Test+Prep+Practice+Blog+Image.jpg" title="Comprehensive Practice for 3rd Grade ELA Test Prep " width="640" /></a></div>
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By practicing earlier, teachers have enough time to analyze students' review pages and really focus on just the concepts the class needs. With so many language arts standards covered on the standardized tests, how can teachers get a good idea of what those weaknesses are?</div>
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To solve this problem, I created a bundle of games and practice tests that cover the ELA standards for third grade. Many of these resources could be used as small group activities or in centers. I created a few to accompany game play of store purchased games, but the reviews could also be used alone. Resource games have specific categories, so it is clear which standards are being practiced. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Reading-Practice-Test-Fiction-Nonfiction-Grammar-3rd-Grade-FSA-3671848?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=3rd%20Gr%20Practice%20Test"><img alt="Reading Practice Test Literature, Informational, Grammar 3rd Grade" border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlItpHNqNUuniAI2fIsG6C4fvpyUtZ752505hB5sCfE8wuY21eAAA_MjrvTRFmsWjci92AsTKPVh8wzAmZ6BftGNjMKbSFk1On5Ch9kXVJPV_CHWoygIgqph-EOTRj3s4oW1sr4XN2Vix-/s640/Reading+Practice+Test+3rd+Pinterest+Image.jpg" title="Reading Practice Test Literature, Informational, Grammar 3rd Grade" width="425" /></a></div>
<h3>
Practice ELA Standardized Test</h3>
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In order to help students prepare for testing, I created a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Reading-Practice-Test-Fiction-Nonfiction-Grammar-3rd-Grade-FSA-3671848?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=3rd%20Gr%20Practice%20Test">3rd Grade ELA Practice Test</a>. As I am in Florida, I formatted my practice reading and grammar questions like the FSA test. The FSA test was developed from the AIR test. Teachers have told me the test layout is similar but not exactly the same.</div>
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The third grade test includes two literature passages and two informational texts. Each set is paired to have similar themes or topics. </div>
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Comprehension and grammar questions are also included in testing format. I recommend using the practice test as a whole class activity, so that students have an idea of what to expect on testing day. Nerves are always a concern during testing, especially in third grade.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/3rd-Grade-ELA-Test-Prep-Game-Show-Practice-Review-Test-FSA-AIR-3051179?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=3rd%20Gr%20Game%20Show"><img alt="ELA Game Show & Practice Review Test 3rd Grade" border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSVjdKO1tGQzeCHxdHVVNFgSHOQBklIqBotz5g_wHrYW6f-57eSc5HGj0tihrcGgSwVysOtZNEZxb6Zhkcf-dTbwHyom-f1Y2DUuapG0K48F7NiMFe1K9iosVWPgq4QiD3Jxy_vWtDXzvX/s640/Jeopardy+Game+Show+Test+Review.JPG" title="ELA Game Show & Practice Review Test 3rd Grade" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Game Show & Practice Test </h3>
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This interactive <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/3rd-Grade-ELA-Test-Prep-Game-Show-Practice-Review-Test-FSA-AIR-3051179?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=3rd%20Gr%20Game%20Show">ELA Test Prep Game Show</a> has five categories. The questions are set up as question/answer - not the TV show style questions. This is a general review that hits on many standards quickly. To help teachers prepare students for the multimedia questions, there are five questions that cover a different types of multimedia.</div>
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The Game Show categories are: <b>Vocab</b>, <b>Grammar</b>, <b>Spelling</b>, <b>Reading</b>, and <b>Multimedia</b>.</div>
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All of the questions are also included in a printable pdf. Teachers could use the pages at the same time as the game to help keep students focused on the review. Another idea is to save the pages and hold a "practice test" another day. Finally, teachers could print the review pages for students that were absent during the review. </div>
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Please note: the Game Show will ONLY work in PowerPoint.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Grammar-Spelling-JENGA-Review-Game-3rd-Grade-FSA-AIR-3671817?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=3rd%20Gr%20Jenga"><img alt="Grammar & Spelling JENGA Review Game 3rd Grade" border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyJ7wU-cQ1CkqQXLZn5ohk9wDIHj_UJWy5gsp-sYN6DNV-rXFkFzkDcJuQivCVFjb8FwVu91r3iIpgOOQMH1tzv6cWy671KKILRSn49pSXm8B0lzDhZbi_lVY6vQBbvIAPnv5pG-oT6Qd/s640/Jenga+Test+Prep+Review+3rd+Grade+Pin.jpg" title="Grammar & Spelling JENGA Review Game 3rd Grade" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Grammar & Spelling Jenga</h3>
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This <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Grammar-Spelling-JENGA-Review-Game-3rd-Grade-FSA-AIR-3671817?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=3rd%20Gr%20Jenga">Grammar & Spelling Jenga</a> review has six color categories with 10 questions each. Instead of having teachers glue questions onto the block, I organized each category onto a printable page. The title tells both the category topic and the color (in case color printing is not available.) To move a block, students must answer a question in that color category. When I play tested this game, we were able to play more than one game without running out of questions.</div>
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The six play categories are: <b>Nouns & Verbs</b>, <b>(Comparative & Superlative) Adjectives</b>, <b>Conjunctions</b>, <b>Punctuation</b>, <b>Spelling</b>, and <b>Sentence (Agreement)</b>. Again, I wrote the practice questions in a similar style to the actual test format. </div>
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There are colored Jenga games out there for sale, but I think it took me 30 minutes to use permanent markers and just color the ends of the blocks. I used black instead of orange, because it was very difficult to tell orange and yellow apart.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Vocabulary-Kerplunk-Review-Game-3rd-Grade-FSA-AIR-3671825?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=3rd%20Gr%20Kerplunk"><img alt="3rd Grade ELA Test Prep Vocabulary Kerplunk Review Game" border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs6pNyT3Wml3wyAP1jSw85svef_V7StIIIlzBEuhyphenhyphenSvgZiLUSZ8bzuEru9NZuU9vebWCLt4maCapdLYvuH-iAvlKb43uI6Hb0TP1K-W7eg55BPFtlJNCBPa9DaIloRnTnfU_LpZaC36DKO/s640/Kerplunk+Test+Prep+Review+Game+3rd+Grade+Pin.png" title="3rd Grade ELA Test Prep Vocabulary Kerplunk Review Game" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Vocabulary Kerplunk</h3>
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This game is set up similar to Jenga. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Vocabulary-Kerplunk-Review-Game-3rd-Grade-FSA-AIR-3671825?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=3rd%20Gr%20Kerplunk">Vocabulary Kerplunk</a> has three different colors of sticks that players pull out, so the game has three color categories. The resource includes two sets of game sheets with 30 questions (10 in each category.)</div>
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The three categories are: <b>Shades of Meaning</b>, <b>Affixes</b>, and <b>Literal & Nonliteral Words (Idioms, Homographs, & Homophones)</b>.</div>
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Kerplunk is available in stores. I found mine at Target.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Shades-of-Meaning-Review-Card-Game-3rd-4th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3671835?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=3rd%20Gr%20Shades%20Card%20Game"><img alt="Shades of Meaning Review Card Game" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP9UEkNypwEXcuVBH_6DhpWgJbmuRZtmr2vfaa-0mf1mbUD4NSV4SJ9TKmov9YqE_NRSLfDd0ckWyB4IHYxyMmryyZal7UEl2ja0KsqJXU9Siyq9M-HY753IfcKAYWO3n0OFFD7UuHMoZj/s640/Shades+of+Meaning+PIN.png" title="Shades of Meaning Review Card Game" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
Shades of Meaning Card Game</h3>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Shades-of-Meaning-Review-Card-Game-3rd-4th-Grade-FSA-AIR-3671835?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=3rd%20Gr%20Shades%20Card%20Game">Shades of Meaning</a> is played like the card game Authors, which is similar to Go Fish. This game includes 11 shades of meaning word families: <b>Easy</b>, <b>Hard</b>, <b>Like</b>, <b>Dislike</b>, <b>Loud</b>, <b>Quiet</b>, <b>Look</b>, <b>Run</b>, <b>Jump</b>, <b>Say</b>, and <b>Sit</b>. Each family has four different related word cards.</div>
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Players try to collect the four words within the word family. It is a fairly simple game that can be played with 3 - 5 players.</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Bundle-3rd-Grade-4-Games-1-Reading-Practice-Test-FSA-3671885?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=3rd%20Gr%20Test%20Prep%20Bundle"><img alt="ELA Test Prep Bundle 3rd Grade: 4 Games & 1 Reading Practice Test " border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="682" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX1ePESkGPUacITba0Pvffg1VGfZmVHsv2_znJqLWeqj8MVvcYqJJKO8Fvq-B8P1ixkp6dy91cDVjsvvNNsa378b9VmD0nNGjbxAT1Jnm9d1l8rv-vrQGptTwtQynAZn5oxs8WWrPDg8LD/s640/Reading+Test+Prep+Bundle+3rd+Pinterest+Image.jpg" title="ELA Test Prep Bundle 3rd Grade: 4 Games & 1 Reading Practice Test " width="272" /></a></div>
<h3>
Money-Saving Bundle</h3>
<div>
These five resources are also available in a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Bundle-3rd-Grade-4-Games-1-Reading-Practice-Test-FSA-3671885?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=3rd%20Gr%20Test%20Prep%20Bundle">money-saving bundle</a>! If you have already purchased a resource in the bundle, TPT will refund the cost of the individual resource after buyers purchase a bundle. Simply submit a ticket to TPT.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf_5kBejG3bMv1Rm0riOLQDlGQpJKTd4aGfkzZiAUjLFUuQQiNn-g67eod6-fGGbhOjbvlv5N6TeqhFHSH-2-ld21WCop0Orf21ZM2ixryyLIK4FF7pnIE_Ta33dZOODvy9xgy3ONNHGo/s1600/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="26" data-original-width="1600" height="10" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf_5kBejG3bMv1Rm0riOLQDlGQpJKTd4aGfkzZiAUjLFUuQQiNn-g67eod6-fGGbhOjbvlv5N6TeqhFHSH-2-ld21WCop0Orf21ZM2ixryyLIK4FF7pnIE_Ta33dZOODvy9xgy3ONNHGo/s640/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you have any questions, please ask. Also, I always appreciate feedback on the resources. I read every single feedback and use it to see what students enjoy and how to improve resources.</div>
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If you are looking for some test prep ideas, check out <a href="https://amymezni.blogspot.com/2018/02/5-fun-ways-to-use-test-prep-in-classroom.html">5 Fun Ways to Use Test Prep in the Classroom</a>.</div>
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Florida teachers may also be interested in reading <a href="https://amymezni.blogspot.com/2017/03/how-to-prep-for-fsa-valuable-tips-for.html">How to Prep for FSA ELA: 3rd Grade</a>.</div>
Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-76608437588302647162018-02-28T01:30:00.000-08:002018-03-07T10:42:30.714-08:005 Fun Ways to Use Test Prep in the ClassroomWhether you teach upper elementary, middle grades, or high school, test prep can either be fun - or a total bore. If you want students to really be engaged, test review needs to be fun and involve as many students as possible. Especially in upper grades, when students are less likely to attempt an answer because they don't want to look "dumb," teachers needs to use test review that involves smaller groups. There are so many games out there that teachers can use - and many of them take very little prep. So how can teachers divide up their class into manageable groups?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9stBVYzNSoXeyiCeNvifeEvdtpBZ2t7RUzYLmpXN6ivMFziEjaCe3WB3FsqCNHrNdfV8Za7QexLc5xpHIt4SOSnvl6Pffw3YGExFvGt7-YNyvQwFFxdx8U4aKINGzwhozbdV4UxWaT9fl/s1600/5+Fun+Ways+to+Use+Test+Prep+in+the+Classroom+Blog+Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for some fun, low prep ideas for test prep in your classroom? Learn about 5 engaging test review game ideas for your classroom. These test review games would work in any classroom - upper elementary, middle school, or high school. They are also adaptable to different subject areas." border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="960" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9stBVYzNSoXeyiCeNvifeEvdtpBZ2t7RUzYLmpXN6ivMFziEjaCe3WB3FsqCNHrNdfV8Za7QexLc5xpHIt4SOSnvl6Pffw3YGExFvGt7-YNyvQwFFxdx8U4aKINGzwhozbdV4UxWaT9fl/s640/5+Fun+Ways+to+Use+Test+Prep+in+the+Classroom+Blog+Image.jpg" title="5 Fun Ways to Use Test Prep in the Classroom" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's how to get started planning your test prep:<br />
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<li style="text-align: left;">First determine how many different review games you want to have.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Create on your student groups. Keep individual game play to 3 kids if possible - no more than I have found that more means some kids are just sitting around. If you need to have more than 4, just break the group into two and have two sets of games at each station.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">If you teach language arts and want to do a practice test, I would plan to do that before the review games. (Fun stuff last.) However, if you are reviewing for social studies, math, or science, you would review first so you could see which areas the class still needs to review. It just doesn't work as well in reading, because they need to read longer passages.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Plan about 30 minutes for each review game session</li>
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Personally, I recommend having four or five test prep games. Teachers could rotate groups through that many activities in a week. 30 minutes is a nice chunk of time to set aside. It's enough time to play a game but short enough that most kids will stay on task.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjxrPgGHIq7PhSxqbIryMuV2vfx2-h1dPbGgjIEjJ7nv8j-7jDmXCjibK3Vowz9mtOoKZdYpK_AD52fK0IhHjet65H_YfVHT9BkmJp_XpN6FrbEngmJXgXRipikDkG6gXQ4GwRfTDjJ9k7/s1600/Jeopardy+Game+Show+Test+Review.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for some fun, low prep ideas for test prep in your classroom? Learn about 5 engaging test review game ideas for your classroom. These test review games would work in any classroom - upper elementary, middle school, or high school. They are also adaptable to different subject areas." border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjxrPgGHIq7PhSxqbIryMuV2vfx2-h1dPbGgjIEjJ7nv8j-7jDmXCjibK3Vowz9mtOoKZdYpK_AD52fK0IhHjet65H_YfVHT9BkmJp_XpN6FrbEngmJXgXRipikDkG6gXQ4GwRfTDjJ9k7/s640/Jeopardy+Game+Show+Test+Review.JPG" title="5 Fun Ways to Use Test Prep in the Classroom" width="425" /></a></div>
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<h3>
1. Jeopardy</h3>
Most kids know how to play Jeopardy, so that makes this an easy game to use in the classroom. To keep all kids engaged, teachers can take the game questions and write them up as a review sheet. As the class answers the questions, students have to fill in their sheets.<br />
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If teachers have the technology, they could switch this up by using this in a group of maybe 3 - 5 students. Assign a reluctant student to be "Alex" and host the game - that way they have to read all of the questions and answers. (Just be sure that the student is not reluctant to read aloud first.) Another way to make Jeopardy more accessible (at least for me) is to simply use a regular question format. It's not the normal way to play, but it makes it a lot easier.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTb1yvKK5BAn7_YQH4inQft2Q_DtO53SIhKgJMpFlrJQT_CFPY4YcqrPoDk0snPAQ6dQD7oqH-Q1UhwINvE-hmtMIlqGbXfsQTBswYiALfHLM9q7myrxti1Q-kHabiV05Nm9KinfTV3qO/s1600/Jenga+Test+Prep+Review+Game.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for some fun, low prep ideas for test prep in your classroom? Learn about 5 engaging test review game ideas for your classroom. These test review games would work in any classroom - upper elementary, middle school, or high school. They are also adaptable to different subject areas." border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTb1yvKK5BAn7_YQH4inQft2Q_DtO53SIhKgJMpFlrJQT_CFPY4YcqrPoDk0snPAQ6dQD7oqH-Q1UhwINvE-hmtMIlqGbXfsQTBswYiALfHLM9q7myrxti1Q-kHabiV05Nm9KinfTV3qO/s640/Jenga+Test+Prep+Review+Game.JPG" title="5 Fun Ways to Use Test Prep in the Classroom" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
2. Jenga</h3>
Another well-known review game is Jenga. There are many ways people use Jenga to review. I have seen people glue the questions right on the blocks, but I didn't want to do that. That means I would need different Jenga game sets for every review - not to mention cutting and gluing all those papers. Instead, some people buy colored blocks or simply use permanent markers to color the ends. I find this to be more efficient. I divided my blocks into six colors and colored each group a different color. (Tip - Red and orange look very similar, so I switch orange out and used black instead.)<br />
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No matter what subject you teach, create six categories and then write ten questions in each. For example, if you teach history, you could divide the categories by eras or civilizations. For language arts, you could use grammar, spelling, vocabulary, etc. Even better, have students write the questions (with answers.) In order to move a block, students have to first answer a question in that category. Just be sure to say that all students have to answer and agree on the correct answer - otherwise students will be standing around. If you will be work in with a group, be sure to provide a way for students to check disputed answers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-BEmSMCdhsmMTuMdfZQIKY2Gx7JvUY0uAqZ-skm4Xl8hAe4JANBF-0LFhAYedEyXRcwQAJT2dDcTQ3jmY4i2xRVzJKo4szZR9Lq_LCIjh6A1F2kl29GUU-WCtSPJ4HjUWEihb8FsXy7K/s1600/Kerplunk+Test+Prep+Review+Game.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for some fun, low prep ideas for test prep in your classroom? Learn about 5 engaging test review game ideas for your classroom. These test review games would work in any classroom - upper elementary, middle school, or high school. They are also adaptable to different subject areas." border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-BEmSMCdhsmMTuMdfZQIKY2Gx7JvUY0uAqZ-skm4Xl8hAe4JANBF-0LFhAYedEyXRcwQAJT2dDcTQ3jmY4i2xRVzJKo4szZR9Lq_LCIjh6A1F2kl29GUU-WCtSPJ4HjUWEihb8FsXy7K/s640/Kerplunk+Test+Prep+Review+Game.JPG" title="5 Fun Ways to Use Test Prep in the Classroom" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
3. Kerplunk</h3>
Apparently, Kerplunk is a well-loved game. My own middle-schooler will pull it out to play! Kerplunk works a lot like Jenga. Teachers would have to provide the actual game, but instead of six categories, there are only three. (The sticks come in three colors.) Again, write at least ten questions for each category.<br />
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Personally, I double the Kerplunk questions by creating two games of 30 questions each. Kerplunk goes pretty fast, and you want students to be able to play as long as the other games.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_8Mq1r2TRA-jAyhVmDo8Bp8yiUNyxHyCqPw7F6reuMQpvXG8s35CK1TFqDisHtfmqWOktdNju_qIWOMVvvy2gl61ltN12gCRJEQE_4a7eAKfflsMX22Z3tb_MGPKcrhA-vQ4xrQKdVQ0s/s1600/Shades+of+Meaning+Game+Test+Prep+PIN.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for some fun, low prep ideas for test prep in your classroom? Learn about 5 engaging test review game ideas for your classroom. These test review games would work in any classroom - upper elementary, middle school, or high school. They are also adaptable to different subject areas." border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_8Mq1r2TRA-jAyhVmDo8Bp8yiUNyxHyCqPw7F6reuMQpvXG8s35CK1TFqDisHtfmqWOktdNju_qIWOMVvvy2gl61ltN12gCRJEQE_4a7eAKfflsMX22Z3tb_MGPKcrhA-vQ4xrQKdVQ0s/s640/Shades+of+Meaning+Game+Test+Prep+PIN.png" title="5 Fun Ways to Use Test Prep in the Classroom" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
4. Card Games</h3>
Card games can be more work to create, but if you use cardstock and laminate them, they can last for years.There are also some games you can purchase that might work for test review as well, such as Timelines for American History.<br />
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If you model your review game on a popular one, it is easier to teach it to students: Go Fish, Rummy, and Uno are three popular examples. Many of these cards can also be used to play Memory, which can easily be played with one or two student.<br />
<h3>
<br />5. Connect Four or Tic-Tac-Toe</h3>
If you want something with little prep needed, use premade questions and have students play tic-tac-toe or Connect Four. Teachers could use a set of task cards, have students make questions, use a review sheet from their school/county, etc. On Instagram, Kaitlin Smith (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/mrs.smithin5th/?hl=en">@mrs.smithin5th</a>) showed how her students played Connect Four using the whiteboard and sticky notes. Instead of dropping pieces, each team had four sticky notes and could post or move them if they answered a question correctly. Tic-Tac-Toe could be played in a similar way or just using a piece of paper. Kaitlin said this idea originally came from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/miss5th/?hl=en">Miss Fifth</a>.<br />
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If you have board games in your classroom, you could really use this same concept with a simple board game like Chutes and Ladders. (Have to answer a question to move.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwh0VxXGeHM7D7MW53pIMRFLAaPnnZJQ20WBQPGiq7b2uomh6-08jUUIXs6cesrxxT36LCbjqo20ukNZ5ZutfWTEtR92DPiBmiYWKpv-8DAn0WlcwSzuneyucn_1bAGbEa4_I5lll7mC36/s1600/FSA+Practice+Test+Prep+Pinterest+Images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for some fun, low prep ideas for test prep in your classroom? Learn about 5 engaging test review game ideas for your classroom. These test review games would work in any classroom - upper elementary, middle school, or high school. They are also adaptable to different subject areas." border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwh0VxXGeHM7D7MW53pIMRFLAaPnnZJQ20WBQPGiq7b2uomh6-08jUUIXs6cesrxxT36LCbjqo20ukNZ5ZutfWTEtR92DPiBmiYWKpv-8DAn0WlcwSzuneyucn_1bAGbEa4_I5lll7mC36/s640/FSA+Practice+Test+Prep+Pinterest+Images.jpg" title="5 Fun Ways to Use Test Prep in the Classroom" width="426" /></a></div>
<h3>
6. Practice Review Test</h3>
It isn't fun or a game, but holding an actual practice test is also helpful for some kids. In Florida, the FSA test is written in a way that can be visually confusing for students. Having them complete a test during which they can ask for help might prevent some confusion. It also allows language arts teachers to use longer, grade level passages for reading.<br />
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I tried to find a way to practice long reading passages in a game, but decided against it. On our state sample tests, there are two sets of paired passages. Each sets can be three or more pages long. Trying to turn that into a game could teach kids some bad habits - like rushing through the text to get finished.<br />
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Instead of using a practice test as a center, I would use it as a whole class activity before the review game days. That way you start with the least exciting option and get it finished. I think it's harder to get the students back into focus mode after a few days of games.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf_5kBejG3bMv1Rm0riOLQDlGQpJKTd4aGfkzZiAUjLFUuQQiNn-g67eod6-fGGbhOjbvlv5N6TeqhFHSH-2-ld21WCop0Orf21ZM2ixryyLIK4FF7pnIE_Ta33dZOODvy9xgy3ONNHGo/s1600/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="26" data-original-width="1600" height="10" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf_5kBejG3bMv1Rm0riOLQDlGQpJKTd4aGfkzZiAUjLFUuQQiNn-g67eod6-fGGbhOjbvlv5N6TeqhFHSH-2-ld21WCop0Orf21ZM2ixryyLIK4FF7pnIE_Ta33dZOODvy9xgy3ONNHGo/s640/AmyMezniBranding-Divider.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you would prefer to have premade games, I have test prep review games in my store. I have ELA Game Shows, like Jeopardy, for grades 3 - 6. Each one also has the questions included in a printable format.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Bundle-3rd-Grade-4-Games-1-Reading-Practice-Test-FSA-3671885?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=3rd%20Gr%20Test%20Prep%20Bundle"><img alt="Third Grade Test Prep Bundle - 4 Review Game & 1 Practice Test - Help students review their skills with these fun activities! Included are: Grammar & Spelling Jenga, Vocabulary Kerplunk, Shades of Meaning Card Game, ELA Game Show, FSA ELA Practice Test with Reading Passages & Test Questions Use these games in centers or as class review sheets. " border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="682" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj16SWbUpMCNGykW9T2CKFxo4twyWWywh_Uw08T-4FfMxwaE5JZAEGluMUye84DPx6rqI6peOXR_Y0s3u22CI51pP2vjJj5YsExQ19dp2hQG6uxtF0y3fkn_ugmRlrG34JIvd8P3smzeUlJ/s640/Reading+Test+Prep+Bundle+3rd+Pinterest+Image.jpg" title="3rd Grade Test Prep Review Game Bundle" width="272" /></a></div>
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This year, I am adding four more resources for each grade level: Grammar & Spelling Jenga, Vocabulary Kerplunk, a card game involving vocabulary, and a practice English language arts test in FSA style. These resources will also be available in a money-saving bundle. If you have already purchased the game show, TPT will refund the cost of the individual resource if you buy the bundle - you just need to contact them.<br />
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All <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Bundle-3rd-Grade-4-Games-1-Reading-Practice-Test-FSA-3671885?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=3rd%20Gr%20Test%20Prep%20Bundle">third grade test prep resources</a> are currently available in my TPT store. Estimated release dates for the other grade levels are:<br />
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ELA-Test-Prep-Bundle-3rd-Grade-4-Games-1-Reading-Practice-Test-FSA-3671885?utm_source=Blog%20Post&utm_campaign=3rd%20Gr%20Test%20Prep%20Bundle">Fourth Grade</a> - Available Now</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Fifth Grade - March 16</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Sixth Grade - March 28</li>
</ul>
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I am trying to get them done as fast as possible, so they may be available earlier. If you follow my TPT store, you will receive notices of new products as they are added.<br />
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If you are interested in having social studies review games, please send me an email. I would be interested in hearing more about your resource needs.<br />
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If you are a Florida teacher, you may be interested in these posts.<br />
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amymezni.blogspot.com/2017/03/how-to-prep-for-fsa-valuable-tips-for.html">How to Prep for FSA ELA 3rd Grade</a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amymezni.blogspot.com/2017/03/how-to-prep-for-fsa-valuable-tips-for_15.html">How to Prep for FSA ELA 4th Grade</a><span id="goog_1361984800"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1361984801"></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amymezni.blogspot.com/2017/03/how-to-prep-for-fsa-valuable-tips-for_23.html">How to Prep for FSA ELA 5th Grade</a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amymezni.blogspot.com/2017/03/how-to-prep-for-fsa-valuable-tips-for_30.html">How to Prep for FSA ELA 6th Grade</a></li>
</ul>
Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-52378725329398188752018-02-21T09:22:00.000-08:002018-02-21T09:22:35.671-08:00How to Write Multiple Choice Questions that Make the GradeTeachers have a variety of options for summative assessments. Students could create a project designed by the teacher to assess learning, but sometimes teachers just want to give a test to determine which concepts students have mastered. However, to really get a clear picture of student learning, multiple choice questions need to be well-constructed and require higher level thinking.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJ13a4_irB7s-ufTznkk3s6eW3ryeCdaGhJJZV5K8p7kJ83p__lluLr6KFyzhDFlhYXI5UbISP9hyFlmLWWh3pKTmI4RGQRFayrh8KZJpFkmrrv-0VXZkaClH-h9_sMMmfNK39zTD_zwA/s1600/How+to+write+Multiple+Choice+Questions+that+Make+the+Grade.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to Write Multiple Choice Questions that Make the Grade" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJ13a4_irB7s-ufTznkk3s6eW3ryeCdaGhJJZV5K8p7kJ83p__lluLr6KFyzhDFlhYXI5UbISP9hyFlmLWWh3pKTmI4RGQRFayrh8KZJpFkmrrv-0VXZkaClH-h9_sMMmfNK39zTD_zwA/s640/How+to+write+Multiple+Choice+Questions+that+Make+the+Grade.png" title="How to Write Multiple Choice Questions that Make the Grade" width="640" /></a></div>
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So what makes a good multiple choice question?</div>
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Parts of a Multiple Choice Question</h3>
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There are three key parts to every multiple choice question:</div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Stem </b>- the question being asked. The stem should be written either as a question or a partial statement.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Correct Response</b> - The easiest way to write a multiple choice question is to create the correct answer after the stem.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>Distractors </b>- These are the incorrect options given in the problem.</li>
</ul>
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To create a unit test, teachers should determine what key concepts were in the unit being tested. The multiple choice questions should focus on those ideas. When I create a test for an interactive notebook unit, I first create my teacher notebook, then I use my notes to determine which concepts were stressed in the unit and the depth of knowledge expected for them. From those key concepts, I narrow down the topics I want to use in multiple choice and short response questions.</div>
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Questions on the test should require prior knowledge to determine the correct answer. For example, true/false questions are really a 50/50 chance. The teacher wouldn't really know if the student understood the material or just guessed. A better test would have questions that used a variety of levels from <a href="http://www.nwlink.com/~donclark/hrd/bloom.html">Bloom's Taxonomy</a>. For example, questions should ask students to do more than simply recall information. Other higher level thinking options require application, analysis, or evaluation. Teachers get a much better sense of student understanding from these types of questions. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHrqq1NU60GLsC63ToKdjyZy2gTAPuq1Md1n1jBnSZXpQClaxZkCz-EkwIFZYfWGWXJgP5gioFTR-23JhOWCeKHBwnrZ6BeeTTkdp-b2Qbv58j_hz2ngYbXol7GCbn84hPlGDdgXouCCP1/s1600/How+to+write+Multiple+Choice+Questions+that+Make+the+Grade+%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to Write Multiple Choice Questions that Make the Grade" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHrqq1NU60GLsC63ToKdjyZy2gTAPuq1Md1n1jBnSZXpQClaxZkCz-EkwIFZYfWGWXJgP5gioFTR-23JhOWCeKHBwnrZ6BeeTTkdp-b2Qbv58j_hz2ngYbXol7GCbn84hPlGDdgXouCCP1/s640/How+to+write+Multiple+Choice+Questions+that+Make+the+Grade+%25282%2529.png" title="How to Write Multiple Choice Questions that Make the Grade" width="426" /></a></div>
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The goal of a test is to get an accurate picture of what students learned. Sometimes, test questions seem set up to "trick" students. These questions are not really effective and should be avoided. </div>
<h3>
Writing an Effective Stem</h3>
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The questions are very important. If they are not written clearly, students may select the incorrect answers simply because they didn't understand the question. For example, I play a trivia game, and I frequently miss the questions because they are ambiguous. A question might say that a product was the most popular for four years. However, it will be false because it was popular for 7 years. As four is less than 7, why is it wrong? The question wasn't clear enough.</div>
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What traits help question stems be clearly understood?</div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">Questions or partial sentences are the most effective types of questions. Avoid leaving a blank in the middle of a stem - if possible, turn it into a question instead.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">A good stem be clearly written without irrelevant information. Meaning, don't add extra facts that aren't needed in the question.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">If any information repeats in the response choices, try to move it to the question stem. It isn't always possible to do, but it makes the answer choices clearer.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Avoid unclear language such as idioms and absolutes (always, never, only).</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Avoid negatives. However, students will often see these on standardized tests, so I usually include one or two. If a negative question is used, the negative should be emphasized with capital letters, bold, or italicized letters. ex. Which of the following was <b>NOT </b>a cause of World War II?</li>
</ul>
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Once you are done, it helps to have someone else read the test questions. I have found that it's best to ask someone outside of the subject area. For example, another history teacher probably knows the subject well and might easily identify the correct answer. However, the question may not be clear - he or she just had the background knowledge to understand it.</div>
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Creating Answers & Distractors</h3>
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This is really where writing multiple choice questions gets tricky. There are a few general guidelines that should be applied across the entire test.</div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">3 - 5 responses per question is recommended, but this should be consistent throughout the test. Select the number of options to use, and then stick with that number.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Try to eliminate clues to correct answers in other questions. This is one that gets missed frequently. If a student can answer a question correctly just by figuring out the answer to another question, the question distractors should be edited. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Be sure to vary the location of the correct answers. I always double check this, because otherwise half your correct responses could be option C.</li>
</ul>
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For individual problems, here are some recommendations for creating a well-written response set.</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">The responses should grammatically match the stem. If the question is past tense, the answer choices should be past tense. A or an at the end of a partial statement stem can be a dead giveaway to the correct answer as well.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">The answers should be homogenous. For example, if three choices mention the Union and one the Confederacy, most students will pick the odd one because it seems correct.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Avoid double negatives. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">All answers should be plausible. (Okay, yes sometimes it is fine to slip in a giveaway, such as "Mrs. Mezni invented the telegraph." However, if the goal is to assess student learning, keep it to once per test or less.)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Make sure only one response option is correct or "best" (if that is how the stem is phrased.)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">The length of the answer choices should be about the same. It's easy to give more explain in the correct response, but that gives away the answer. </li>
</ul>
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In my research, there were a few recommendations that I want to mention but I don't necessarily agree with avoiding them. </div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">Avoid responses such as "none of the above" or "all of the above."</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Avoid overly complex options. For example, choice sets such as A, B, C, A and C, B and C.</li>
</ul>
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Now, do I think those are the best questions? No, they really aren't. However, if students will see those types of questions on the standardized tests used by your state, it would really be a disservice to not expose them to those types of choices. Teachers should try to get a copy of practice tests or at least testing guidelines to have a better idea of what students need to understand. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGrPE2Y83hOHRISxPpfupffz95JQCfhM4_lohfS-WcVhTOkT6rfn3JGN3byDyDSWv6DiN05C3kUvyTajv9vJ9kkSPWi3qu_vNgneyioKq-dabdNEU-_JOw_XstmcuboTzFlw1KnMJtSO5Z/s1600/How+to+write+Multiple+Choice+Questions+that+Make+the+Grade+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to Write Multiple Choice Questions that Make the Grade" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGrPE2Y83hOHRISxPpfupffz95JQCfhM4_lohfS-WcVhTOkT6rfn3JGN3byDyDSWv6DiN05C3kUvyTajv9vJ9kkSPWi3qu_vNgneyioKq-dabdNEU-_JOw_XstmcuboTzFlw1KnMJtSO5Z/s640/How+to+write+Multiple+Choice+Questions+that+Make+the+Grade+%25281%2529.png" title="How to Write Multiple Choice Questions that Make the Grade" width="426" /></a></div>
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I hope this helped you understand how to write multiple test questions. If you have any questions or tips, please leave a comment.</div>
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Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-17902865249774173272018-02-14T01:30:00.000-08:002018-02-14T01:30:49.761-08:008 Diverse Books for Middle School<div>
For middle school teachers, it can be difficult to find books to add to a classroom library. Some books are too mature for grades 6, 7, and 8, while others seem too babyish. This post features eight books that are perfect for middle grades.</div>
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All of these books feature characters dealing with multicultural issues or disabilities. All of the settings are in the United States, although some stories are set in other time periods. For teachers looking to expand their range of books, here are eight new books featuring a diverse set of characters. </div>
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Amina's Voice by Hena Khan</h3>
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Amina Khokar is a Pakastani-American who loves to sing, but is afraid to perform in public. She wants to enter a singing Now that she is in middle school, her life seems more complicated. As things in her life change, she feels lost and unsure. Her best friend, Soojin, decides to change her Korean name to something more American and isn't sure they are best friends anymore when Soojin becomes friends with someone else. At home, Amina is facing parental pressure to compete in a Quran reciting competition, and then her mosque suffers a hate crime.</div>
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This story really captures the awkward transition kids face when they leave elementary and begin middle school. Just like many students, Amine tries to figure out how to fit in yet still be true to herself.</div>
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The First Rule of Punk by Celia C. Perez</h3>
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Malu (Maria Luisa) is a seventh grader who wants to do well - but also follows her heart to do what she believes is right. Her mother recently moved them to Chicago, away from her record store-owning father in Gainesville, Florida. Malu is not interested in connecting with her Mexican roots (she thinks.) Instead she loves punk and making Zines, which are featured throughout the book. </div>
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Malu is forced to figure out who she is and what she stands for when her punk attitude and style aren't accepted by the principal at her new school. Malu is a true preteen, figuring out who she is throughout the story. This character will appeal to a lot of students!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj13QRIPyiA7M2s8lmDCRsDL5BKgtm0VzZtoZ-OhT9i6JEWaNunZv8Jd_NDut2XILo2INy3gsEI3h9HnHyG7d9nkYDpticllIFE7grESJ_5Wca0awdPs9Kt4T3E6m2omqBkLrkoomjj5g5u/s1600/It%2527s+Aint%2527s+So+Awful+Falafel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="8 Diverse Books for Middle School" border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj13QRIPyiA7M2s8lmDCRsDL5BKgtm0VzZtoZ-OhT9i6JEWaNunZv8Jd_NDut2XILo2INy3gsEI3h9HnHyG7d9nkYDpticllIFE7grESJ_5Wca0awdPs9Kt4T3E6m2omqBkLrkoomjj5g5u/s400/It%2527s+Aint%2527s+So+Awful+Falafel.jpg" title="8 Diverse Books for Middle School" width="263" /></a></div>
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It Ain't So Awful Falafel by Firoozeh Dumas</h3>
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It's the late 1970s, and Zomorod (Cindy) Yousefzadeh is the new kid in Newport Beach, California. No longer wanting to be the smart loner kid, Cindy is determined to start fresh and become more American with her family's latest move. However, her attempts to fit in become even harder when the Iran Hostage Crisis occurs. Cindy is now asked to explain her culture at school and is shunned by some students simply for being Iranian.</div>
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This protagonist stands out because she struggles through phases that many immigrant children go through: being embarrassed by her parents, deciding if she wants to be more American, having to speak for her entire culture, etc. Cindy's story may also help students to see events from an immigrant's perspective - such as understanding how the international news affects her family personally, although they themselves had nothing to do with what was happening in Iran. Another great story about fitting in and finding yourself.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg51qMgHkbFZIqiG1pxZXsfpgd6S0HmHTslVOynCaFrSdjnLnB8GaCiJ8mD3KdfhqLgMOCnKBPP2_fgZ3dpxBDh4_m8Abd0Zq_BybASrzzQ6Sf4nL7B9PAYxSESpdPNBeCygTJ1YAe6Avrz/s1600/Anything+but+Typical.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="8 Diverse Books for Middle School" border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="183" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg51qMgHkbFZIqiG1pxZXsfpgd6S0HmHTslVOynCaFrSdjnLnB8GaCiJ8mD3KdfhqLgMOCnKBPP2_fgZ3dpxBDh4_m8Abd0Zq_BybASrzzQ6Sf4nL7B9PAYxSESpdPNBeCygTJ1YAe6Avrz/s400/Anything+but+Typical.jpg" title="8 Diverse Books for Middle School" width="266" /></a></div>
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Anything But Typical by Nora Raleigh Baskin</h3>
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Jason, a 12 year old with autism, tells this story in a first person narrative, As many people with autism, he struggles to connect with people and is frequently bullied at school. Jason is loved and supported by his family, although they don't always understand him. </div>
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Because of his struggles, he goes to an online website, Storyboard, to write stories and be himself. There, he becomes friends with Phoenixbird (Rebecca). Although he would love to go to the Storyboard convention to meet Rebecca in person, Jason is afraid he will be rejected once she knows he has autism. Again, this book focuses on discovering who you are and accepting yourself. </div>
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Piecing Me Together by Renee Watson</h3>
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Jade comes from a poor neighborhood and is determined to get out in order to succeed. When she is offered a scholarship to a mostly-white private high school, she accepts. There, Jade struggles to feel understood. Opportunities feel like put-downs, like the mentorship program. It's for "at-risk" girls, but the girls are all Black from "bad" neighborhoods. Even her mentor, a successful Black woman, doesn't really understand her.</div>
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This book explores identity and self-worth, as well as how race and class affects relationships. Jade makes collages throughout the story, and they serve as an analogy for her "piecing" her identity together.</div>
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Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling</h3>
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Aven's family moves from Kansas to Arizona, where her family has been hired to manage a run-down Western theme park. Starting over is a challenge for Aven, because she was born without arms. Meeting new people can be awkward, because they don't always know how to interact with her.</div>
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She meets Connor while eating in the school library (to avoid staring eyes watching her eat with her feet.) He has been barking at her, because he has Tourette's Syndrome. They soon become friends and end up exploring a mystery at the theme park. A great book about acceptance.</div>
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This is Just a Test by Madelyn Rosenberg and Wendy Wan-Long Shang</h3>
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Set in the 1980s, David is trying to plan his bar-mitzvah while trying to please his Jewish and Chinese grandmothers, who argue about everything. He also has to police his friends who don't get along, and all David really wants is for everyone to be happy. They are on a trivia team together, but Scott doesn't like his best friend, Hector. Scott talk him into digging a bomb shelter after they see The Day After on television. To complicate matters even more, David has a crush on Kelli Ann, but doesn't know how to talk to her.</div>
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This book portrays the kids in a realistic way, with normal problems and not knowing how to deal with things. At the same time, the book is pretty funny, with the warring grandmas added an extra dimension!</div>
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My Basmati Bat Mitzvah by Paula J. Freedman</h3>
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Growing up in a multicultural home can be difficult. Although Tara Feinstein's mom converted to Judaism, she grew up a Hindu. As Tara begins planning her Bat Mitzvah, she worries that it will make her lose her Indian roots. Does she really want to have a Bat Mitzvah? Does embracing one part of her family mean she has to let go of the other?</div>
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At the same time, she is also dealing with coming-of-age issues, such as wondering if her best friend Ben-o might really <i>like </i>her. Her other best friend, Sheila, seems to have made a new friend. Tara has to deal with these issues and other middle school problems all while trying to figure out who <i>she </i>is.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkzzafzQGWyEqIay1chtU3kC2PzVi7XMsx9pvwbxkcjVolAWQs7iAhL35ngXjKo_M3fBuHIsXkeTu97qNATcVC0ncgXobsfhJczpXuEj4JSxq4ui1d8lDP3DpjxoaKhWS4HHIkQrNTmFZ9/s1600/8+Diverse+Books+for+Middle+School+%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="8 Diverse Books for Middle School" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkzzafzQGWyEqIay1chtU3kC2PzVi7XMsx9pvwbxkcjVolAWQs7iAhL35ngXjKo_M3fBuHIsXkeTu97qNATcVC0ncgXobsfhJczpXuEj4JSxq4ui1d8lDP3DpjxoaKhWS4HHIkQrNTmFZ9/s640/8+Diverse+Books+for+Middle+School+%25282%2529.png" title="8 Diverse Books for Middle School" width="256" /></a></div>
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Do you have any must-have diverse books for middle school?</div>
Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-43918403281578738852018-02-08T06:19:00.000-08:002018-02-08T06:20:24.968-08:00Hidden Gems: A Wrinkle in Time<i>A Wrinkle in Time</i> by Madeleine L'Engle is a classic novel that really stands the test of time. I recently read this science fiction/fantasy book again and enjoyed it as much as I did when I read it as a kid. Although younger students may be able to read A Wrinkle in Time, I feel it is better suited to 5th, 6th, or 7th grade because readers can really dig deep into text structure and characterization. In addition, teachers and students could compare the book with the movie, discussing how (and why) they differ from each other.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN32L8jQCXF81CxeQKFPEhsxY2__QEr843Og8dVgF-eMrsPM-Qeh6jL2wFRYDPAIX-De7jN0daFZZdvT-3HXUrbvHbs3lziISlwdPh8EoPBGkzAF-l9v-gI3PHKdZ8ztwkS__DojG6YIjT/s1600/Hidden+Gems+A+Wrinkle+in+Time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A Wrinkle in Time is a classic story that is as loved today as it was in the past. This scifi fantasy book is a wonderful novel to use to teach characterization and text structure in middle school language arts classes (grades 5, 6, & 7.) Learn more about how to teach the novel in the blog post, as well as download free activities for chapter one." border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1056" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN32L8jQCXF81CxeQKFPEhsxY2__QEr843Og8dVgF-eMrsPM-Qeh6jL2wFRYDPAIX-De7jN0daFZZdvT-3HXUrbvHbs3lziISlwdPh8EoPBGkzAF-l9v-gI3PHKdZ8ztwkS__DojG6YIjT/s640/Hidden+Gems+A+Wrinkle+in+Time.jpg" title="Hidden Gems: A Wrinkle in time" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a name='more'></a>A Summary of <i>A Wrinkle in Time</i><br />
In the opening scene of <i>A Wrinkle in Time</i>, the reader is introduced to Meg Murry, who is in her attic bedroom afraid of the fierce storm. Meg tells herself she isn't afraid of the weather - "it's the weather on top of everything else." That line sets up the entire story.<br />
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Meg, although brilliant at math, gets in trouble at school and no longer fits in with the other students. One of four children, two of her brothers are perfectly normal, in Meg's eyes, and fit in so well. Her youngest brother, Charles Wallace, is more like her - a social outcast and a bit odd. Charles has always been different, and his family accepts him as such. The local people think he is a moron, but he actually has just decided to let them believe that so that they have "something to feel smug about." Not only do the locals gossip about Meg and Charles, the also spread nasty rumors about Meg's father, who has been missing for a year.<br />
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Mrs. Whatsit ends up at the Murrys' doorstep that stormy night. Charles Wallace has met her and her two lady friends before, when he discovered they were living in the abandoned home nearby. As Mrs. Whatsit speaks with the family, she seems able to know things she shouldn't - like what Meg is thinking. Not long afterwards, Meg and Charles meet Calvin O'Keefe, who felt drawn to the abandoned home but isn't sure why.<br />
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These three children will eventually travel with Mrs. Whatsit and her friends to try to rescue Mr. Murry, who is trapped on a planet far away. In order to rescue him, Meg will have to face her fears and self-doubt.<br />
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Teaching with <i>A Wrinkle in Time</i>: Text Structure in Literature & Characters</h2>
There are so many ways <i>A Wrinkle in Time</i> could be used in the classroom! The plot has an overarching conflict (or two), as well as many smaller conflicts. Also, it features a lot of dialogue, and for teachers who are tired of reading student essays that say "he said" and "she said" over and over again, this book could be used as a mentor text for writing dialogue.<br />
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Students in sixth and seventh grades are also expected to start analyzing text structure and how sentences, scenes, and chapters fit together. The chapter titles in A Wrinkle in Time are short and to the point. The plot has some very distinct sections: introducing the characters, "wrinkling" and learning about Mr. Murry's battle, rescuing Mr. Murry, and the finale (I don't want to spoil it.) In addition, individual chapters could be analyzed to discuss how L'Engle builds interest and conflict in the plot.<br />
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In addition, characterization is strong in <i>A Wrinkle in Time</i>. The three ladies, Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which, all have very different speaking styles. Why? How does that add to the plot? What was the author's purpose in creating the characters that way? For example, Mrs. Which mainly speaks in quotations from multiple languages, then explains them in English. It's explained to the children that she finds it difficult to express herself, but often those quotes are important for the reader to understand. By having the character speak in quotes, the author emphasizes them.<br />
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Although Calvin and Charles Wallace have strong personalities, they really stay the same throughout the story. Even the three ladies' personalities, although different from each other, remain the same. These static characters are a terrific foil for Meg's dynamic character. Meg struggles with liking herself, and her missing father really sends her character into turmoil. Meg adores her father, and when he disappears she really loses her anchor. However, in order to save her family, Meg will have to look inward and realize that what she believes are her weaknesses might actually strengths.<br />
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I hope you read <i>A Wrinkle in Time</i> with your middle school students. This book has something for everyone - a character that struggles with self-acceptance, a misunderstood sibling, and a theme of Good vs. Evil. to name a few.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/A-Wrinkle-in-Time-Novel-Unit-Chapter-1-FREEBIE-3639421?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=Wrinkle%20Freebie"><img alt="Grab these free reading comprehension and vocabulary activities for chapter one of A Wrinkle in Time!" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0MpYgpjQB3LaCgXXo_chxa51eOT8ouVPr46TvUzubpOG8ZbOe6sfiBATBPhBM9oa3dlKN-W3pzOvw1sGqP-_t_iBXpXyFPUDXJk4UwhDypFk_02GlX8eBbnpjzyw9ttVRlcNmj_GNRype/s640/A+Wrinkle+in+Time+Novel+Unit+FREEBIE.png" title="A Wrinkle In time Free Activities" width="426" /></a></div>
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If you would like to use a print and go literature guide, I have a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/A-Wrinkle-in-Time-Complete-Novel-Study-for-5th-6th-7th-Grade-3639457?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=Wrinkle%20Unit">complete literature guide</a> available in my store. The chapter one activities are available for FREE - simply download them from <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/A-Wrinkle-in-Time-Novel-Unit-Chapter-1-FREEBIE-3639421?utm_source=My%20Blog&utm_campaign=Wrinkle%20Freebie">my TPT store</a>.<br />
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Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-6326374854623961722018-01-31T01:30:00.000-08:002018-01-31T01:30:11.392-08:008 Diverse Books for Upper Elementary StudentsThere are so many great books for upper elementary students, but many teachers are purposefully searching for books featuring multicultural and diverse characters. There are many wonderful books for grades 3, 4, and 5, but many of these diverse stories take place in historical settings. Recently, there have been a lot of stories published with characters in more modern situations. It is important for classroom libraries to include some of these stories, so all students can picture themselves in the books they read.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2jy5w-veKbTjdZqPhlSmfx9qAid-M0lCN53upapORgQprKa4EoIOt1IuKhCzx3wIxiKvKbEqtT5kS7XtVK1fBNWPPFwXiHb61f1-N3kxIjpUfaFqFTuAWVaz8poD2xnv7zkZj1u7apPkl/s1600/Diverse+Books+for+Elementary+Students.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="8 Diverse Books for Upper Elementary Students" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2jy5w-veKbTjdZqPhlSmfx9qAid-M0lCN53upapORgQprKa4EoIOt1IuKhCzx3wIxiKvKbEqtT5kS7XtVK1fBNWPPFwXiHb61f1-N3kxIjpUfaFqFTuAWVaz8poD2xnv7zkZj1u7apPkl/s640/Diverse+Books+for+Elementary+Students.png" title="8 Diverse Books for Upper Elementary Students" width="640" /></a></div>
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Keep reading to learn about eight books featuring diverse characters in modern settings.<br />
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<h3>
Finding Mighty by Sheela Chari</h3>
Myla is an Indian-American girl who feels like no one notices her. She buys an Om necklace, hoping it will help her stand out. Peter, a mixed race son of a single mother, wants to find his older brother Randall. It turns out that Myla's necklace is an important clue to finding Peter's brother. Peter and Myla eventually team up to solve the mystery and end up tangling with diamond smugglers.<br />
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Set in New York City, this urban mystery alternates points of view, which helps the reader to understand the characters in more depth. Although the characters are 12 years old, the book is not violent and appropriate for high fourth and fifth grades.<br />
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Mango Delight by Fracaswell Hyman</h3>
Mango Delight Fuller lives in Brooklyn and loves Beyonce and running. However, seventh grade becomes much harder when she beats her best friend, Brooklyn, on the track. Brooklyn decides to get a cell phone and hang out with cooler kids. Mango accidentally breaks the new phone, causing a chain reaction of events - including her dad losing his job.<br />
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As revenge, Brooklyn signs up Mango to audition for the school musical. The plan backfires when Mango wins the lead role - and becomes a Youtube star! Suddenly Mango has new "friends" - and has to decide what kind of friends she wants to have as well as what kind of friend she wants to be.<br />
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<h3>
The Hero Two Doors Down by Sharon Robinson</h3>
I have talked about this book before, and it is worth a mention on this list. Set in 1948, this book is actually based on a true story. This story is about a young Jewish boy, Stephen, who befriends baseball great Jackie Robinson. Stephen wants to be good, but he always seems to end up in trouble. His dream is to attend the Brooklyn Dodgers' Opening Day - but he knows it won't happen until he gets his act together. When rumors spread that Jackie Robinson is moving into his all-Jewish neighborhood, Stephen is thrilled - even if some of his neighbors aren't.<br />
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After Jackie and his family move in down the street, Stephen becomes a frequent visitor in the Robinson household. Stephen grows up and changes as Jackie becomes his friend and mentor to him.<br />
The story deftly weaves in facts about the discrimination and prejudice Robinson faced while playing ball. In addition, cultural misunderstanding happen between Stephen's Jewish family and the Robinsons, but are resolved in an understanding and caring way.<br />
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Ghost by Jason Reynolds</h3>
Ghost, the first book in Reynolds' Track series, has been on many book lists, and deservedly so. Castle Crenshaw, who has called himself Ghost since he was little, is a runner. He has always been a runner, but never for a track team. One day, he takes a disliking to an elite sprinter on the team and challenges him. When Ghost wins, the Olympic medalist track coach begs and gets him to join the team.<br />
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This book subtly addresses many issues that students face, including class conflicts, anger, and race issues. However, Reynolds skillfully weaves in humor, making the book and its characters accessible to readers.<br />
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<h3>
Clayton Byrd Goes Underground by Rita Williams-Garcia</h3>
Although this book has received mixed reviews, it is an excellent book to add to your classroom library, especially if you have students dealing with grief.<br />
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Clayton idolizes his grandpa and wants to join his blues group, The Bluesmen, as soon as he can. When his grandpa suddenly passes away, Clayton struggles with his grief, getting in trouble at school and butting heads with his mother when she forbids him to play the blues. He runs away in search of The Bluesmen, hoping to join them. As he makes his journey, he learns some surprising things about himself.<br />
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<h3>
Save Me A Seat by Sarah Weeks and Gita Varadarajan</h3>
The book is one of my recent favorites. Ravi recently moved from India to New Jersey with his parents and grandparents. A star student back home, he can't wait to start fifth grade in his new school. However, when he meets his teachers, he is disappointed to find that she not only cannot say his name correctly, but she can't understand him either! To add insult to injury, she suggests that he goes with the special teacher for help.<br />
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Joe has an auditory processing problem, and although he is a big kid, he is frequently bullied b the other students. He thinks Ravi seems nice, but gives up hope on being friends when Ravi insults him when they both go to Mrs. Frost's room. Ravi slowly realizes that some things about himself and learns that things aren't always what they seem.<br />
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<h3>
The Misadventures of the Family Fletcher by Dana Alison Levy</h3>
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This book is about a non-traditional family, the Fletchers, which includes two dads and their four adopted sons. The boys have very different personalities, and comes from a different cultural background. Twelve year old Sam struggles with wanting to be in the school play when he is a popular jock. Ten year old Jax deals with changing friendship and a Vietnam project that forces him to deal with the unfriendly Vet next door. Eli, also ten, is struggling to adjust to his new academically oriented school. Finally, the family is convinced six year old Frog has an imaginary friend.</div>
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The Fletcher family is a normal, stable family with its share of ups and downs. The story focuses on the boys and their trials of childhood, and students will relate easily to the boys and their sibling bickering. </div>
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<h3>
Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett</h3>
Although this is a mystery and not a recent book, I wanted to include it because it showcases diverse characters becoming and getting along - without their diversity being the focal point of the story.<br />
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Petra Andalee comes from a large family, and sometimes just wishes for some peace and quiet. Her family had relatives in North Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, and they really didn't consider themselves to be from any one culture. Calder Pillay also came from a multicultural family, Indian-Canadian transplanted to Canada. Calder has a well-loved set of pentominoes that he uses to help him think. Calder's best friend recently moved away, and he has been a bit lonely. On the surface, Petra and Calder seem like unlikely friends, but they slowly realize they have a lot in common. When they hear a Vermeer painting has been stolen, they work together to solve the mystery.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnbOU_Rtqw5U2N15nrGb9hAep7PgfHObhO4vWy17BHTir6aRkem6Nz15_w4K-e3ieR4VStpbgAH34mIFXxD5pr9Lz6LWEe_7E_wOq5fskLAeTj0ccY-L2ZYm5pxa6F1QTktN2gLqazs_b4/s1600/Diverse+Books+for+Elementary+Students+%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="8 Diverse Books for Upper Elementary Students" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnbOU_Rtqw5U2N15nrGb9hAep7PgfHObhO4vWy17BHTir6aRkem6Nz15_w4K-e3ieR4VStpbgAH34mIFXxD5pr9Lz6LWEe_7E_wOq5fskLAeTj0ccY-L2ZYm5pxa6F1QTktN2gLqazs_b4/s640/Diverse+Books+for+Elementary+Students+%25282%2529.png" title="8 Diverse Books for Upper Elementary Students" width="256" /></a></div>
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I hope you found a few new books! Oddly enough, I found it easier to find a wide variety of elementary books with African American students, but did not have much luck with characters from other cultures. (I found the opposite issue in middle school books.) If you know of great stories for upper elementary students that feature characters with Asian, Latino, or Arabic backgrounds, please leave me a comment so I can add them to this list.<br />
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What are your favorite books with diverse characters for upper elementary students?<br />
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<br />Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-56220759390866055232018-01-24T02:00:00.000-08:002018-01-24T02:00:48.505-08:00Hidden Gems: Save Me A SeatIf you liked <i>Fish in a Tree </i>or <i>Wonder</i>, run and get a copy of <i>Save Me A Seat</i> by Sarah Weeks and Gita Varadarajan. <i>Save Me A Seat </i>integrates cultural informational with themes of acceptance and friendship. The story will resonate with both popular students and those who are on the fringe. Honestly, this book has so many excellent qualities, both students and teachers will love it!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO2vL5wAVst6HH3XS_RDTMi18N7DeKI54lpnT9u-OKJjqnW0TfBq_Ae4kgaMlZJnJBNvI2tR4dO158YrnlIGlai2pIZMJDcZD0tyQjqD6ALvOzyW9ZWynLZZBCMEKhUbZ4WDs3PJYiiuMF/s1600/Hidden+Gems+Save+Me+A+Seat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Save Me A Seat is a terrific book for grades 3, 4, and 5. Told from two boys' points of view, this story makes students think about how easy it is to misunderstand a situation. The story is broken into five daily sections, and a lot of things change for both characters in that time. Great book to read during a unit on culture or anti-bullying. Learn more about how to teach this book on the blog." border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1056" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO2vL5wAVst6HH3XS_RDTMi18N7DeKI54lpnT9u-OKJjqnW0TfBq_Ae4kgaMlZJnJBNvI2tR4dO158YrnlIGlai2pIZMJDcZD0tyQjqD6ALvOzyW9ZWynLZZBCMEKhUbZ4WDs3PJYiiuMF/s640/Hidden+Gems+Save+Me+A+Seat.jpg" title="Save Me A Seat is a terrific book for grades 3, 4, and 5. Told from two boys' points of view, this story makes students think about how easy it is to misunderstand a situation. The story is broken into five daily sections, and a lot of things change for both characters in that time. Great book to read during a unit on culture or anti-bullying. Learn more about how to teach this book on the blog." width="640" /></a></div>
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A Summary of <i>Save Me a Seat</i></h3>
Ravi has recently moved to New Jersey from India. His dad was transferred there, and his grandparents moved with his family. A popular student back home, Ravi is eager to start fifth grade and impress both his teacher and other students. Imagine his disappointment when not only does his teacher mispronounce his name, but she also assumes English is not his first language - and recommends he go with the support teacher. Another Indian student, Dillon, is in his class. Although Ravi can tell Dillon is an "American-born Confused Desi," as his grandfather would say, he decides they will be best friends.<br />
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Joe is a nice guy who is awfully big for his age - and constantly hungry. He is growing so fast that he never fills up! Joe has an auditory processing problem and noise easily overwhelms him - making him an easy target for the class bullies. Joe is super nice, but doesn't really have a true friend. He is just trying to stay off the bully's radar. Imagine how embarrassed he is when his mother takes a job in the school's cafeteria - and blows him a kiss.<br />
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As their names are in order alphabetically, Ravi and Joe sit next to each other. Joe thinks Ravi seems nice, but Ravi assumes Joe has been picking on him in class - in part because he doesn't see very well, but also because the bullies make it seem like Joe is the culprit. When Ravi is sent with Joe to the pull-out teacher, Joe realizes that their chance of becoming friends is zero.<br />
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By the end of the first week of school, a lot of changed. The reader learns a lot about Joe and Ravi, and the boys discover that sometimes first impressions are wrong.<br />
<h3>
Teaching with <i>Save Me A Seat</i>: Character, Point of View, & Theme</h3>
The title really grabbed my attention, but I wasn't sure about <i>Save Me A Seat</i> until I read a few chapters - then I was hooked. Although Ravi can sometimes come off as a bit snotty, there are times his vulnerabilities show through and the reader can see his character is a lot more complicated then what he shows on the surface. In the beginning, I found myself really wanting them to be friends, then I was mad at how Ravi so easily dismissed Joe. In the space of one week a lot of things will change - for both boys.<br />
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The authors have organized the book in five sections - one for each day of the week - so students can track the plot day by day. Within these sections, the chapters switch points of view - some are told by Ravi, while others are told by Joe. It is interesting to compare classroom events from the eyes of different students. Teachers could easily have students compare how the point of view affects the way an event is explained. Students could also be organized in groups and asked to track events as told by either Ravi or Joe. These events could be hung up in a multilayered timeline and compared.<br />
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The themes in <i>Save Me A Seat</i> will really resonate with students and generate great class discussions. Every student will be able to relate to one of the characters. I believe a lot of students feel misunderstood, and it is clear that both characters are by the people around them - and not just people at school. A real turning point is when Ravi realizes that he is the "dumb" kid at his new school - and he was being treated the same way he treated that kid in his old school. That is really an a-ha moment in the book. Students and teachers will be able to discuss and support many themes in this story, including friendship, don't judge a book by its cover/don't assume things, and treat others as you want to be treated.<br />
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I really like that the authors sprinkled Indian culture into the story without making it seem like the book was about culture. Teachers will also find a glossary of both the Indian terms and the American terms used in the book.<br />
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This book does an excellent job of showing bullying in school. I would be surprised if some of these things aren't happening in most schools around the country! Students will really relate to these characters and the setting. What I especially liked was that the story was appropriate for a lower age range than some of the other books that deal with bullying. I also appreciated that Joe had auditory processing issues. So many students have invisible issues that I believe it is important to introduce students to characters with these problems. This book could easily be read with third, fourth, and fifth graders.<br />
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What book with anti-bullying themes do you read with students?<br />
<br />Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-51434260517062619792018-01-18T01:30:00.000-08:002018-01-21T10:21:10.844-08:0010 Simple Ways to Integrate Writing in Social StudiesAre you trying to integrate more writing into your social studies classroom? There are many simple ways teachers can integrate writing activities into their social studies lessons. Many teachers are already using a few of these, but this post may give you some new ideas!<br />
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One way teachers can find the time to include more writing is to replace an exam with a writing project. On <a href="https://www.fractuslearning.com/2016/01/25/blooms-taxonomy-verbs-free-chart/">Bloom's Taxonomy</a>, Knowledge and Comprehension are the lowest order thinking skills. While exams can include higher order thinking skills (HOTS), a writing project can easily require students to use those skills, including Analysis, Synthesis, and Evaluation.<br />
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<h3>
1. Short Response</h3>
Short response is used by many teachers and is fairly easy to integrate into social studies instruction. I have used short response questions as exit tickets and bell ringers. I also include them on my tests and quizzes.<br />
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If you are already using short-response questions and want to do more with them, consider varying the questions to hit the different levels of Bloom's Taxonomy. A few examples of questions that use HOTS are:<br />
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">Rewrite the Preamble to the Constitution in your own words. (Synthesize)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Create a model of the social classes during the Middle Ages in Europe. (Analysis)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Justify Parliament raising taxes on the Thirteen Colonies. (Evaluation)</li>
</ul>
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It can take time to think of questions that meet a wide variety of skill levels. However, this could be worked on as a team of teachers. If that isn't an option, brainstorm a list of possible question topics, then try to develop specific question using different Bloom's verbs.<br />
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<h3>
2. AP Style News Article</h3>
Teachers may not have time to publish an entire newspaper, but writing news articles are an excellent way to help students synthesize the key points of a topic. A news article is really a summarize of the main idea and supporting details. Students should act as reporters, finding the answers to the question words (who, what, why, where, when, and how) and citing multiple sources. Teachers could assign a topic or have students pick a topic from a list. If you have enough time, students could also share their news articles.<br />
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If the topic is from the age of radio or television, teachers could extend the activity to include an auditory piece such as a radio recording or a TV news broadcast (if the technology is available.)<br />
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For more specific information on AP Writing Style, the <a href="https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/735/02/">Purdue Online Writing Lab</a> has a great summary.<br />
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<h3>
3. Journal/Diary</h3>
Writing a journal or diary from the point of view of a historical person or fictional character can also be an effective way to see what students have learned. If you have used texts from historical journals in your unit, this activity would really tie the unit together. A few requirements of the journal could be that it is:<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">written in first person.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">uses period appropriate language (as much as possible).</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">includes references to events of the time period. </li>
</ul>
Teacher might also want to specify who many journal entries are required.<br />
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An example assignment could be a journal the Colonial time period written by a Loyalist, a Patriot, or someone who is neutral. Students could also choose to write from a Colonial woman's point of view. There are many ways teachers can build in student choice to provide more ownership (and enthusiasm) for the project.<br />
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<h3>
4. Letter</h3>
Letters are another easy way integrate writing into social studies. Although I was taught how to write letters in elementary school, it is becoming a lost art in the age of emails and texts. Teachers may want to find some examples of primary document letters to show students during the unit of study. For example, John and Abigail Adams wrote many letters to each other, and teachers could have students read and discuss one or two of their letters.<br />
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Teachers could assign specific characters for the letter activity, such as a soldier writing to a wife/girlfriend/mother. Teachers could also make a list of options from the time period.<br />
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<h3>
5. Point of View/Perspective Writing</h3>
A great way to really make students dig into the content is to make them interpret an event from multiple points of view. Having to examine how different people would view the same event really forces students to analyze and evaluate its different causes and effects. For example, students may have to write two letters: one as a settler to the Americas and one as a Native American. Teachers can also use point of view writing in Civics. For example, students could have to pretend to be arguing a case before the Supreme Court and have to summarize the arguments of both sides.<br />
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<h3>
6. Research Paper </h3>
Many teachers are already familiar with research papers, but I didn't want to overlook it in this list. There is a lot of value in teaching students to research a topic, evaluate sources, organize the information, and properly cite their sources. Students who go to college will need these skills to be successful, but even students who are going into trade or other careers can benefit from knowing how to find factual information.<br />
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TIP: At my brother's high school, different departments prefer different styles, so it is better to double check what your department prefers to use before you start!<br />
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<h3>
7. Persuasive & Argumentative Writing</h3>
Although these types of writing are similar, they are not exactly the same. In a persuasive piece, the author uses emotion is to convince the reader to agree with him or her. Think about advertising - ads often use persuasive language to get you to buy a product. "Coke is it!" leads buyers to believe that cool people drink Coke and that other colas are inferior. Here is a <a href="https://ed.ted.com/on/wSFdOjAG">Ted-Ed video</a> that explains persuasive writing to students. (The ad-on links are broken but the video is well-done.)<br />
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In contrast, an argumentative piece is more academic, citing quotations, studies, and statistics. The writer of an argumentative paper needs to research his or her topic and establish a position. Throughout the piece, he or she provides evidence and support for the chosen position. The <a href="https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/685/05/">Purdue Online Writing Lab</a> has an excellent explanation of argumentative essays if you would like more information.<br />
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<a href="https://empoweringwriters.com/argumentative-and-persuasive-writing/">Here </a>is another short comparison of argumentative and persuasive writing.<br />
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<h3>
8. Debate</h3>
Another popular writing style used in social studies is to hold a debate. Granted, students may not be required to write a formal piece in a debate, but they will still need to research their topic and understand it from multiple points of view. Students may only be taking specific notes, but they are learning to support their research with facts and work on a team.<br />
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<a href="http://busyteacher.org/7245-conducting-class-debate-essential-tips.html">Busy Teacher</a> has an article that explains how to run a debate. It is written toward ESL teachers, but the steps used in social studies would be the same.<br />
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<a href="http://www.teachhub.com/classroom-activities-how-hold-classroom-debate">TeachHub.com </a>has a debate page that outlines a variety of debate styles for teachers who would like to integrate debates more informally into their teaching.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMRQT7ik7emvzyjmoGdCnkNShCHNLnPMvmj5TJQjq3-2BBofKo9eM89McNsab6gw3-kJgnEu41XKG5D6gQ1EDceOYrVYTjoWZHCXYQI4beOlGZjUvlkcGBpIZKONHC75voOYnITo6btDEk/s1600/Improve+Student+Learning+%25285%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="10 Simple Ways to Integrate Writing in Social Studies - Learn about 10 ideas for adding more writing into your social studies units. Ideas for assignments are included, as well as links for more support." border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMRQT7ik7emvzyjmoGdCnkNShCHNLnPMvmj5TJQjq3-2BBofKo9eM89McNsab6gw3-kJgnEu41XKG5D6gQ1EDceOYrVYTjoWZHCXYQI4beOlGZjUvlkcGBpIZKONHC75voOYnITo6btDEk/s400/Improve+Student+Learning+%25285%2529.png" title="10 Simple Ways to Integrate Writing in Social Studies - Learn about 10 ideas for adding more writing into your social studies units. Ideas for assignments are included, as well as links for more support." width="400" /></a></div>
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9. Poetry</h3>
Although many students complain when teachers bring out the poetry, it can be an excellent way to have students process what they have learned. In addition, poetry can fit really well into certain time periods or cultures. For example, lyric and epic poetry was very popular during Medieval times. Teachers could integrate both reading poems and writing one during that unit of study. Another example might be reading and writing haiku when studying Japanese culture.<br />
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Teachers should not be afraid to ask students to write poems - especially if it can be written in free verse. A lot of popular music is really just poetry put to music and beats. My own son likes to develop his own rhymes - and he doesn't like to write otherwise. He <i>complained a lot </i>when his teacher had a poetry unit, but his teacher told me he enjoyed it so much that he was helping the other students! Some of the complaining may just be bravado - it isn't cool to like poetry. (My son also commented that he thought all poems had to follow a rhyme or syllable pattern. Knowing that poetry could take many forms made it more interesting. That might be something to review if you choose to do poetry.)<br />
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Teachers may be pleasantly surprised at the written results they get from a poetry assignment.<br />
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10. Propaganda Piece</h3>
Again, writing does not need to be a full-fledged essay. Creating a piece of propaganda might require students to mix visuals and words to create a convincing piece of propaganda. However, a successful project will demonstrate a high level of understanding of the time period.<br />
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From my Google search, propaganda assignments are popular with social studies teachers. A quick search of your time period may bring up assignments created by other teachers. Just use propaganda assignment and your time period as key words.<br />
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Also, <a href="http://www.storyboardthat.com/articles/e/propaganda">Storyboard </a>has an excellent lesson that not only explains what propaganda is, but also has examples from U.S. history, and an assignment rubric (just change the topic).<br />
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A word of caution, please be careful to avoid very controversial assignments. One teacher ended up in the news after assigning students to create a propaganda poster for ISIS. Although the assignment was well-intentioned, it struck a raw nerve with parents. When in doubt, run your idea by other teachers in your department or your administration.<br />
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These writing activities could also be used as interdisciplinary activities, if the social studies and English departments are able to plan together. Many of the writing activities could be graded for content (social studies) and writing skills (English).<br />
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If you are unable to work with an English teacher, then you could focus on grading students on their writing content. Granted, social studies teachers can also ask students to edit their work if it is clearly not their ability level.<br />
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I hope you gained some new ideas from this post! Do you use another writing activity in your social studies classroom? Tell us about it!Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-3160729626733080972018-01-10T02:30:00.000-08:002018-01-21T10:13:10.262-08:006 Reading Strategies You Need to Teach Social StudiesIntegrating language arts skills into social studies can be tricky. There is already a lot of subject matter to cover without having to teach reading and writing skills as well! If a social studies teacher did not receive much language arts training within his or her certification program, integrating these skills can be even more difficult. However, within the Common Core framework, social studies teachers are expected to integrate reading and writing skills. In addition, it can be difficult to know which skills students need. The good news is many social studies teachers already use some of the most important reading skills. Adding reading to your social studies lessons may not be as difficult as it may seem.<br />
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In this post, I am going to discuss six key reading skills that will build literacy within a social studies classroom.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSkHZW59Bs5zP7No2Of7LVGdalDyz3PkxRvfD3kiepDU3L4FPGcwsWC4nYgS2orU6UldKkLvKcgmcRSdH5L4URer6JGF5yeBRRK44GY1CeTGNUh-a74i6GUcrW49uzaAkndqyi9bPv0_EV/s1600/ReadingStrategies+to+Teach+in+Social+Studies++%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Teach Vocab and Vernacularisms in Social Studies" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSkHZW59Bs5zP7No2Of7LVGdalDyz3PkxRvfD3kiepDU3L4FPGcwsWC4nYgS2orU6UldKkLvKcgmcRSdH5L4URer6JGF5yeBRRK44GY1CeTGNUh-a74i6GUcrW49uzaAkndqyi9bPv0_EV/s640/ReadingStrategies+to+Teach+in+Social+Studies++%25282%2529.png" title="Teach Vocab and Vernacularisms" width="640" /></a></div>
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1. Vocab and Vernacularisms</h3>
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For many students, a poor vocabulary really holds them back from a deep understanding of social studies content. Students with processing issues or dyslexia have a difficult time sounding out words or breaking them apart, so reading large chunks of text can be overwhelming. Knowing the vocabulary words before reading can make the textbook or documents less intimidating. The more teachers can do to make new words memorable, the better.</div>
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One way to tackle vocabulary is to encourage students to use new terms. The more they see and use a word, the better chance they have of remembering it. Students should be expected to use vocabulary words in their writing (but also be allowed to use their notes while they are still learning the words.)</div>
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Another strategy is to connect new words to other words or to a mnemonic devices. For example, any time I have a vocab word with a common Greek or Latin root, I take a minute to point out the root, its meaning, and other words in that family. For example, <i>aqueduct </i>can be related to so many other words. Many students have studied Spanish and can see that aqueduct is similar to <i>agua </i>(water). It also looks a lot like <i>aqua </i>- the color of water. An <i>aquarium </i>is a water tank for fish. So an aqueduct probably has something to do with water. Giving students multiple connections to other words will help them retain and recall the new word.</div>
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An example of a mnemonic device is something like latitude is a ladder. Now, that one never really worked for me - neither does lat is fat - but I have had many students that used it. Personally, I always teach that latitude has an A for Around, while longitude has an O for Over. </div>
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In addition, vernacularisms are important to understand primary documents. Students need to understand the language of a time period in order to really comprehend the stated and implied meanings in a document. Teachers could identify any words or sayings in a social studies text that might affect student comprehension and preteach their meanings.<br />
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<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/8o4l7jeg4i44rr8/Vocab%20Strategies%20Freebie%20%281%29.pdf?dl=0"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="816" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTycACMT4mJAEveEaK1hhI_usQRLde5WVjseX_2EDowMwFrqEpguFXpOuPEmO8Jnj9IjiVgdimmA2sv30321F4xw3Xz_sMmyLy8N4L2gG61IgwTbzeIaTQ_3ci_jXqCGA1ksrVODKIum5R/s400/Slide1.JPG" width="308" /></a></div>
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Here is a <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/8o4l7jeg4i44rr8/Vocab%20Strategies%20Freebie%20%281%29.pdf?dl=0">free Vocabulary Strategies resource</a> with five different ideas and printables for teaching vocab words in any subject.<br />
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2. Identifying Bias and Propaganda</h3>
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Being able to determine if information is based on fact or is biased has become even more important in the digital age. Tech-savvy groups are getting better at making emails and websites that really look legitimate! </div>
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Although propaganda and bias are not new, they have recently been brought to the forefront in many classes. When studying history, students can examine propaganda or analyze documents and drawings for bias. At the same time, students also need to learn how to consume information digitally, including how to tell whether or not the site author has a bias. </div>
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Social studies teachers could coordinate these lessons with the English department. For example, English teachers could perhaps cover identifying bias, propaganda, and fake news from modern sources, while the social studies teachers could weave it into their historical discussions. As this skill is cross-disciplinary, teachers should make sure they are not unnecessarily duplicating content.</div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.gcflearnfree.org/searchbetter/">GCF LearnFree.org</a> has a some excellent digital lessons available for free, including How to Judge Online Information and Evaluating a Webpage. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">If you are looking for lesson on Fake News, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Detect-Dismiss-How-to-Spot-Fake-News-5-Lesson-Plans-2927129">Angie Kratzer</a> sells a unit on TPT.</li>
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3. Close Reading</h3>
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Over the past few years, close reading has been given a lot of attention in upper elementary grades. In close reading, students are really determining the main idea and key details, as well as reacting to the text. Students are taught that multiple readings are required to truly comprehend the text. Of course, without specific instructions, you and I both know many students will read the text one time and keep on going! </div>
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Social studies teachers can easily continue to model this in older grades as texts become increasingly complex. It sounds like a lot of extra instruction, but many teachers may already be doing this. For example, if the class is reading and analyze a document or passage, teachers can simply "think aloud." In other words, the teacher can show how he or she understood a chunk of the text saying out loud the thinking process. (If you are like me, you already talk to yourself when thinking through something, so you just need to say it louder!) </div>
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Another part of close reading is taking notes in the margins. I know many teachers already do this on copies of documents, so just modeling this to students will help integrate this skill. </div>
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For more information on close reading, here are two well-written articles on using the strategy:</div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/articles/teaching-content/common-core-close-reading-0/">Scholastic </a>- A great overview of the reasoning and steps in close reading.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://writingcenter.fas.harvard.edu/pages/how-do-close-reading">Harvard Writing Center </a>- this article models close reading with a higher level text.</li>
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4. Author's Purpose</h3>
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Author's Purpose is especially important in social studies. As students read and analyze historical documents, political cartoons, posters, diaries, etc, they need to determine the author's purpose in creating the piece. Did the author want to persuade or inform the reader? Is the author simply entertaining or describing something to the reader? Understanding the author's intent of a piece may affect how the text or image is interpreted.</div>
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Students should come to middle school with a good understanding of the types of author's purpose. By sixth grade, this is <i>not </i>a new skill. Social studies teachers may need to do a basic review of the types of author's purpose, but really, teachers just should try to make a point to ask and explore author's purpose when examining historical texts or images.</div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.weareteachers.com/going-beyond-pie-5-ways-to-teach-students-how-to-find-the-authors-purpose/">We Are Teachers</a> has a good article on teaching Author's Purpose if you would like more information.</li>
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5. Cause & Effect</h3>
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Although students have studied cause and effect multiple times before middle school, this is a skill social studies teachers should continue to review. When students begin learning this skill, they only have one cause and one effect. By fifth and sixth grade, they will begin to see multiple causes or multiple effects. However, historical events often have multiple causes <i>and </i>multiple effects - which can be much more difficult for students to understand. (Keep in mind that many students confuse which things are causes and which are effects.)</div>
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Using graphic organizers may help students understand more complex relationships. Some students will start to see the "big picture" of the content with a visual organizer. Teachers can just add a cause and effect graphic organizer to their note-taking system to help students comprehend the cause and effect relationships.</div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">Within PowerPoint, there are a few graphic organizers in the SmartArt section. SmartArt can be found on the Insert tab. To find cause and effect, click SmartArt and then Relationships. Once selected, you can add or subtract pieces to fit your needs.</li>
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6. Historical Perspective</h3>
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<i>Historical perspective</i> has been defined as "attempting to see through the eyes of the people who lived in times and circumstances far removed from our present-day lives." (<a href="http://www.nelson.com/thebigsix/components.html">Seixas and Morton 2013</a>) As social studies teachers, we need to teach students to understand historical perspective. For many students, this may be a new concept. </div>
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If you teach upper elementary or middle school, you have probably had students declare a past action to be "wrong" or 'racist". This is called <i>presentism</i>, or looking at history from a modern day perspective. From a modern point of view, the beliefs, values, and practices of the past may indeed be considered wrong. However, what students need to ask themselves is how would people of the time period interpret the event? By interpreting events in the context of the time period, students will have a better understanding of how the event, document, etc. would have been interpreted by and affected people.</div>
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Teachers can introduce students to the time period they are studying with images, quotes, songs, or other cultural artifacts. Using these items as bell ringers can help give students a better understanding of the time period. Discussing the culture and values of a time period will help students form a deeper understanding of the past. </div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://historicalthinking.ca/historical-perspectives">The Historical Thinking Project</a>, based on Seixas and Morton's <i>The Big Six Historical Thinking Concepts</i>, has a good description of historical perspective, as well as teacher resources. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Teachers can also find resources on the <a href="https://www.mydigitalchalkboard.org/portal/default/Content/Viewer/Content?action=2&scId=508656&sciId=18082">Digital Chalkboard</a>, created by the California Department of Education.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDUfdq4tOCQKt7rrFjx7nHR-z5V72nxy4bBdU1u8YVYdmjpGuAZNptU9Wzw8RBUHBG6t_OEPTS2Mw4Q_hdAoEo7yePaVr9JxFkWmBcJQZftkOerJWaVQbYcTexnJIX1U-NtFtX1wOZIQDn/s1600/ReadingStrategies+to+Teach+in+Social+Studies.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Reading Strategies to Teach in Social Studies" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDUfdq4tOCQKt7rrFjx7nHR-z5V72nxy4bBdU1u8YVYdmjpGuAZNptU9Wzw8RBUHBG6t_OEPTS2Mw4Q_hdAoEo7yePaVr9JxFkWmBcJQZftkOerJWaVQbYcTexnJIX1U-NtFtX1wOZIQDn/s640/ReadingStrategies+to+Teach+in+Social+Studies.png" title="Reading Strategies to Teach in Social Studies" width="426" /></a></div>
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I hope these explanations and tips have been helpful. If you are a social studies trying to integrate reading skills, don't despair! It seems really overwhelming at first, but there are so many things social studies teachers do that <i>already </i>support reading. Start with one reading skill at a time. Integrate it in a few lessons, and keep doing it until you are comfortable with it. Once that skill becomes a normal part of your routine, add another. Before you know it, you will be seamlessly integrating reading into your content lessons!</div>
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Do you have questions? Need help? I would be glad to help! You can reach me by email or just leave a comment.</div>
Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-28292245112096797602018-01-03T19:48:00.001-08:002018-01-05T11:33:46.428-08:00How to Improve Student Learning with Interactive NotebooksOver the past few years, many teachers have begun using interactive notebooks. Like all classroom strategies, interactive notebooks have their pros and cons. They can be tricky to work into an already packed classroom schedule, but if used correctly they can be completely worth it. In my own classroom, I have found them to be a useful tool that supports student learning.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNrOBzVtFo_Ub24-cT3niR1i4cVYuv0CKbNz-E-OfzeExWcaK0Fczc61biofQnbaBhosPz-3-ZRI9m0oT8A73TfbmZNaIeRvYlEy3mEyUcl6s94Qu84AgQcSluqH-CYSKgKppoobLrl8gP/s1600/3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to Improve Student Learning with Interactive Notebooks - Interactive notebooks can be powerful tools to improve students reading comprehension and note-taking skills, as well as support students' recall of class concepts. Stop by the blog to learn different ways to use interactive notebooks in your classroom to increase student learning!" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNrOBzVtFo_Ub24-cT3niR1i4cVYuv0CKbNz-E-OfzeExWcaK0Fczc61biofQnbaBhosPz-3-ZRI9m0oT8A73TfbmZNaIeRvYlEy3mEyUcl6s94Qu84AgQcSluqH-CYSKgKppoobLrl8gP/s640/3.png" title="How to Improve Student Learning with Interactive Notebooks - Interactive notebooks can be powerful tools to improve students reading comprehension and note-taking skills, as well as support students' recall of class concepts. Stop by the blog to learn different ways to use interactive notebooks in your classroom to increase student learning!" width="640" /></a></div>
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There are many ways to increase the usefulness of interactive notebooks. Keep reading to learn more about the many ways I have used interactive notebooks to improve my students' learning.<br />
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1. Student Choice</h3>
One of the first things I learned about interactive notebooks was that students colored the images and that would help them remember the information. As a very creative person, I thought that was just PERFECT. Then I tried to get my own kids to do that. <i>My two math-oriented children who won't even color if I pay them. </i><br />
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Interactive notebooks should support students' learning - not force them into a study method that doesn't work for them. (My daughter complained nonstop about cutting out the interactive pieces, but that was nonnegotiable.) She had to complete the notes, but coloring was optional. In the end, she ended up with the highest score on her end-of-course exam - and she knew next to nothing before we started studying together. Taking notes works - not everyone will need to color in order to retain the information.<br />
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In other words, you are already setting aside class time to cut and glue the pieces. Coloring in and of itself will not increase student learning. Use the notebooks to write down important information in class, but allow students choose whether or not they want to color their notes (at home!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH0qN6z74RCc-SBW9rip1MFHmzo_6-E-n132wfNwNRsyRKLNqXhe3eHVQvaWTmZQMP7Zy3XM4gvq0cVpviMLRDUL9WrR0FPn5BsS8dtp1LqaYh13KE2AKtI92aiwnrQVJqg_1O74tIkMTH/s1600/Improve+Student+Learning+w+Interactive+Notebooks.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to Improve Student Learning with Interactive Notebooks - Interactive notebooks can be powerful tools to improve students reading comprehension and note-taking skills, as well as support students' recall of class concepts. Stop by the blog to learn different ways to use interactive notebooks in your classroom to increase student learning!" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH0qN6z74RCc-SBW9rip1MFHmzo_6-E-n132wfNwNRsyRKLNqXhe3eHVQvaWTmZQMP7Zy3XM4gvq0cVpviMLRDUL9WrR0FPn5BsS8dtp1LqaYh13KE2AKtI92aiwnrQVJqg_1O74tIkMTH/s640/Improve+Student+Learning+w+Interactive+Notebooks.png" title="How to Improve Student Learning with Interactive Notebooks - Interactive notebooks can be powerful tools to improve students reading comprehension and note-taking skills, as well as support students' recall of class concepts. Stop by the blog to learn different ways to use interactive notebooks in your classroom to increase student learning!" width="640" /></a></div>
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2. Reading & Note-Taking Support</h3>
The sage on the stage style of teaching is long gone, but we all know there are times that students need to take notes. Perhaps you do a presentation on key information. Another day students might need to take notes on key details from their reading. In addition, a recent <a href="http://www.psychologicalscience.org/news/were-only-human/ink-on-paper-some-notes-on-note-taking.html#.WHg9CrYrKV4">scientific study</a> found that writing information by hand helps move it into long-term memory. However, few students - especially in elementary and middle school - are natural note-takers. Students' reading and note-taking skills receive valuable support by using an interactive notebook to organize their <i>input </i>(notes).<br />
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Teachers can easily build in more support by writing specific questions on the flaps. This helps students to understand exactly what is important in the text and should be added to their notes. Providing students a framework for taking notes can improve their reading comprehension and retention of the material.<br />
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3. Reflection</h3>
Although it can be difficult to find the time for reflection, this <i>output </i>is an integral part of the learning process. Students should be given 3 - 5 minutes to reflect upon and process the information they learned. It is often recommended that teachers leave 5 minutes at the end of class for this, but I find that difficult to do. One, I just forget. Two, students pack up and get ready to go to their next class.<br />
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Instead, save the output for your bell ringer. Teachers can use a variety of activities for this, including short response questions, exit (entrance) tickets, a graphic organizer, or even an opinion response. All of these activities can be done right next to the previous day's notes - where students can easily review what they learned while writing their response.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigTA7t5NwT6y3PSUOiDZ_d-EoFHNF3J3Qt5fOKfWUiIbPzx_dnUxdHrYR85y1K8_C_ZyF-cfY3_wW0Jv57mGLSVFrq7HxF3ldVpXTxkdMY1fE9wwogX69RHl6q48fM7P_bwGOm9sjrVYpF/s1600/Improve+Student+Learning+w+Interactive+Notebooks+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to Improve Student Learning with Interactive Notebooks - Interactive notebooks can be powerful tools to improve students reading comprehension and note-taking skills, as well as support students' recall of class concepts. Stop by the blog to learn different ways to use interactive notebooks in your classroom to increase student learning!" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigTA7t5NwT6y3PSUOiDZ_d-EoFHNF3J3Qt5fOKfWUiIbPzx_dnUxdHrYR85y1K8_C_ZyF-cfY3_wW0Jv57mGLSVFrq7HxF3ldVpXTxkdMY1fE9wwogX69RHl6q48fM7P_bwGOm9sjrVYpF/s640/Improve+Student+Learning+w+Interactive+Notebooks+%25281%2529.png" title="How to Improve Student Learning with Interactive Notebooks - Interactive notebooks can be powerful tools to improve students reading comprehension and note-taking skills, as well as support students' recall of class concepts. Stop by the blog to learn different ways to use interactive notebooks in your classroom to increase student learning!" width="640" /></a></div>
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4. Writing</h3>
I use interactive notebooks for more than just notes. I like to add all activities for the subject right in the notebook. For example, if we practice time lines or time zones, I copy the student page so that it can be cut and glued right into the notebook. We take the notes, complete the practice, and check the practice. Students have these activities and notes to refer to - and parents can also look at the information at home (a real plus in lower grades.)<br />
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I also teach reading and writing strategies right in the notebook. If we do a lesson on close reading using a primary source passage, the text is glued right in the notebook. For a longer writing assignment, all prewriting, notes, and drafting is done in the notebook. (We do the final copy on separate paper so it can be turned in.)<br />
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Why complicate things by having multiple notebooks? We usually have to get a new notebook at the beginning of each semester, but that is better than having students grab the wrong notebook, take notes on whatever paper they have - and invariably lose it by the next day.<br />
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5. Organization</h3>
How many students are very organized? If your classes are like mine, maybe a handful. Some maybe in the middle, and a few are organizational disasters.<br />
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For me, I want my interactive notebook to be "one-stop shopping." Now, when I taught elementary grades, we did have separate notebooks for social studies, science, reading, writing, and math. However, anything for that topic went in the same notebook. In middle school, I am only teaching one subject so we just have one notebook. However, anything that can be glued in the notebook, is glued as soon as possible. I train kids to always use the next clean page (sometimes we save the left side for output), so the work is in the order we complete it.<br />
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Yes, I can already hear you - some kids will never glue the stuff down correctly. It's true. There is always one (or more) students who really struggles with organization. As a teacher, it is important for you to proactively identify them. Students with ADD or processing disorders will most likely struggle with organization, so frequently pass by their desks when you start using the notebooks to make sure they are getting the pieces in their notebook. After a few days, ask students to spot check their notebooks. In elementary, I had them leave the notebooks out when they went to activity. In middle school, I have students check them with a partner. As the kids are checking, I go around and see who is missing work or who has it glued in the templates willy nilly.<br />
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Once you identify who needs more support, provide it. While giving instructions, I often cut out a set of templates and give it to the student who struggles to cut or is absent that day. Sometimes I assign buddies to help struggling students prep their book in a timely manner. I will also assign my "crafty kids" to be notebook helpers, and they walk around after they finish gluing to help anyone who is behind. These are just a few ideas for supporting your organizationally-challenged students.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvitUAJNT3cu667asZIYYdjXbJ4pxo_itscbh11s62qoNIfZphSDBQxhJ8iQlKafC0w3LzT_vfmyDcg25PJ2xLBa9rm99p7-49IWwRA-7mB_AjPSebI5F6hsikvM7KANyBCdoJflsoD_9n/s1600/Improve+Student+Learning+w+Interactive+Notebooks+%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to Improve Student Learning with Interactive Notebooks - Interactive notebooks can be powerful tools to improve students reading comprehension and note-taking skills, as well as support students' recall of class concepts. Stop by the blog to learn different ways to use interactive notebooks in your classroom to increase student learning!" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvitUAJNT3cu667asZIYYdjXbJ4pxo_itscbh11s62qoNIfZphSDBQxhJ8iQlKafC0w3LzT_vfmyDcg25PJ2xLBa9rm99p7-49IWwRA-7mB_AjPSebI5F6hsikvM7KANyBCdoJflsoD_9n/s640/Improve+Student+Learning+w+Interactive+Notebooks+%25282%2529.png" title="How to Improve Student Learning with Interactive Notebooks - Interactive notebooks can be powerful tools to improve students reading comprehension and note-taking skills, as well as support students' recall of class concepts. Stop by the blog to learn different ways to use interactive notebooks in your classroom to increase student learning!" width="640" /></a></div>
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6. Study Guides</h3>
My brother teaches high school, and he recently commented that kids expect a study guide to just be a copy of the test questions that they have to answer- many of the kids just want to have a list of things to learn handed to them. To me, that isn't a study guide - that is giving the kids the test.<br />
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If the students have kept an interactive notebook throughout the year, they have a resource of all the key concepts at their fingertips! Instead of handing students test questions, teachers can quickly take facts from the notes and make review games. Even better, teachers can have students write review questions from their interactive notebook. An easy way to do this is to assign the first two students chapter 1, then next two chapter 2, and so on. This is a lot more engaging - and discourages kids from copying all the answers from someone.<br />
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7. Student Ownership</h3>
Using class time to teach students how to set up their notebooks and for cutting and gluing has been challenged by some principals and parents. My response is that any organizational system takes some set up time.<br />
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However, most other systems do not keep all of the work together in one place. At the end of the semester, students will be really happy to have all of their notes - rather than frantically searching for them in multiple notebooks or the bottom of their bookbag. In addition, some of my former students were so proud of their giant notebooks - more than they were of random copies they threw in the recycle bin. I actually have had students measure and weigh their notebooks!<br />
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You and I both know that students who are proud of their work are more likely to be invested in the class. Invested = Increased Learning<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW5dEoPhb4glXzazt3K-aaeu2zcu8GnTkGFLYgU_Ee6TqNOadM05aAUY_uUSSkapcDgf_MI6mIYh1KInVedeNRnRC1WWjOsnIzAVN5AwdJ540WK801MAfDVkH-75C3lmUATLER-Z80Eu9f/s1600/Improve+Student+Learning+with+Interactive+Notebooks+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to Improve Student Learning with Interactive Notebooks - Interactive notebooks can be powerful tools to improve students reading comprehension and note-taking skills, as well as support students' recall of class concepts. Stop by the blog to learn different ways to use interactive notebooks in your classroom to increase student learning!" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW5dEoPhb4glXzazt3K-aaeu2zcu8GnTkGFLYgU_Ee6TqNOadM05aAUY_uUSSkapcDgf_MI6mIYh1KInVedeNRnRC1WWjOsnIzAVN5AwdJ540WK801MAfDVkH-75C3lmUATLER-Z80Eu9f/s640/Improve+Student+Learning+with+Interactive+Notebooks+%25281%2529.png" title="How to Improve Student Learning with Interactive Notebooks - Interactive notebooks can be powerful tools to improve students reading comprehension and note-taking skills, as well as support students' recall of class concepts. Stop by the blog to learn different ways to use interactive notebooks in your classroom to increase student learning!" width="426" /></a></div>
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Do interactive notebooks take time to set up? Absolutely. However, by using a few simple strategies, they can become invaluable tools that support and increase student learning.<br />
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All of the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Amy-Mezni-Teaching-Ideas-4u/Category/Interactive-Notebooks-153462">interactive notebooks</a> shown are from different units in my TPT store.<br />
<br />Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-34746823002546365132017-12-28T02:00:00.000-08:002018-01-09T20:03:17.992-08:00How to Write Successful Teacher Grant ApplicationsThere are so many grants for educators that it is really a shame so few teachers apply for them. Some colleagues told me they don't have time, while others said that it was too complicated. The ones that had applied often said that they hadn't been awarded the grants, so they didn't want to try again.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0j2DSiut2yIbimHf6nASbWXMIY-kPy71Dt4gbRTfBWMLuoROKavvl-r0sXKBCaX778P1z3Ks4RyatVVve74nObnt38B9VwptbD3lmSgpCcEM3HnOWfb-KnZHI2A8OGNTqI57YHKjEwBq_/s1600/How+I+Applied+ForGrants+for+Teachers.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to Write Successful Teacher Grant Applications - Read about five proven strategies used by a teacher winner of numerous grants at local, state, and national levels! " border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0j2DSiut2yIbimHf6nASbWXMIY-kPy71Dt4gbRTfBWMLuoROKavvl-r0sXKBCaX778P1z3Ks4RyatVVve74nObnt38B9VwptbD3lmSgpCcEM3HnOWfb-KnZHI2A8OGNTqI57YHKjEwBq_/s640/How+I+Applied+ForGrants+for+Teachers.png" title="How to Write Successful Teacher Grant Applications - Read about five proven strategies used by a teacher winner of numerous grants at local, state, and national levels! " width="640" /></a></div>
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During my teaching career I wrote many grant applications and won numerous grants for educators at local, state, and national levels, including a Fulbright Memorial Fund grant. When submitting a grant application, following a few simple steps will improve your application.<br />
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1. Check & Double Check the Rules</h3>
This sounds silly, but you have to make sure that you meet the qualifications for the grant and that you can fulfill any requirements. There are a few sure-fire ways to have your application eliminated.<br />
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<li style="text-align: left;">Apply for one without meeting the requirements.</li>
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Some grants are specifically for new teachers, while others might be for teachers in a certain area. There are so many grants available, keep looking to you find one that fits your teaching situation.<br />
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<li style="text-align: left;">Not submit all parts of the application.</li>
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If it asks for a principal reference or a teacher recommendation, be sure to check off all pieces of the application before sending. When I applied for National Board certification, I forgot to rewind my video to the beginning - and it almost cost me the certification. Double and triple check your application.<br />
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<li style="text-align: left;">Missing deadlines.</li>
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A late application is a denied application. Period.<br />
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2. Author's Purpose</h3>
Remember way back when you told your students to consider why an author wrote an article? Use that same idea and apply it to the grant you want to win. Someone established that grant for a reason - and you need to understand why.<br />
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Think of it like this: if you were given a large amount of money to establish a grant fund, what would you do? Why? Personally, I would establish a grant to help fund teacher training on dyslexia and other sensory disorders, because we struggle to have my son identified. As I received applications, I would be looking for teachers who also share my goals of training more educators in identifying and helping students with these problems. Once I narrowed down the applications to the ones I liked best, I would next look for who would have the most impact on my goal. Teacher A wants training for their own classroom. Teacher B plans to train other teachers in her district. The winner would be pretty easy - Teacher B most aligns with my goal for establishing the grant.<br />
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<b>TIP:</b> Before you begin your application, research the person or organization that founded the grant. What are their long-term goals? How can your project help them further that goal? If you can figure that out and make that clear in your application, you will have a much better chance at being selected.<br />
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3. Audience</h3>
Yes, I sound a lot like English 101, but the next tip is to remember your audience when you write your application. From helping fellow teachers, I have the impression that many people believe they need to use impressive language. Trust me, you don't.<br />
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What you do need to accomplish is making sure that your plan is clear to whomever is judging your application. If you are applying for a teacher travel grant, the readers may not be teachers. Be sure to explain any teacher language in your application. If you use any teacher acronyms, explain them. These vary widely from district to district, and your reader will probably not understand them.<br />
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At the same time, write to a professional. You are speaking to another educated adult, so don't write as if you are speaking to students. At the same time, be careful to keep a professional and friendly tone to your writing. You don't want to send the wrong impression to the reader. It's a lot like social media - the original intent can easily be lost in written words.<br />
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<b>TIP:</b> To be sure your application has the right tone, ask someone in education to read it and someone outside the field. I usually asked my teammate, my teacher brother, and my mom.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhms4XCc_XxsobUrwShxZIhhy8nhhkqB-ugfN6NOMZk1VNGRTmxQZNt04gXOgebI8PQsRJg5cg4YhjqxciQED3j0o91V_KxjgWAgfLU5PBguqJOFLQDJj1pZ7qOCm7AP5qvm2PX7DNa4eM5/s1600/How+I+Applied+ForGrants+for+Teachers+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to Write Successful Teacher Grant Applications - Read about five proven strategies used by a teacher winner of numerous grants at local, state, and national levels! " border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhms4XCc_XxsobUrwShxZIhhy8nhhkqB-ugfN6NOMZk1VNGRTmxQZNt04gXOgebI8PQsRJg5cg4YhjqxciQED3j0o91V_KxjgWAgfLU5PBguqJOFLQDJj1pZ7qOCm7AP5qvm2PX7DNa4eM5/s400/How+I+Applied+ForGrants+for+Teachers+%25281%2529.png" title="How to Write Successful Teacher Grant Applications - Read about five proven strategies used by a teacher winner of numerous grants at local, state, and national levels! " width="266" /></a></div>
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4. Details, Details, Details</h3>
In grant applications, details count. Applications have limited words, so make them count. An application that has a specific plan for how they will use the grant will always be ranked higher than one that isn't. For example, if you write that you need $50 for books, it sounds like you really haven't thought out what you want to do. On the other hand, a list of specific titles with prices and a short description of how you will use those books sounds like you have a plan that can be implemented!<br />
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Another way to check your details is to go back and look at what you are asked to explain. In some applications, I was asked how I would use the money in my classroom. A few of the travel grants not only wanted to know how I would apply my travels to my own classroom, but also how I would also involve the community and other teachers. Be sure to explain in detail how your plan would meet each part of their question.<br />
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<b>TIP:</b> Skip the fluff. It is perfectly fine not to reach the word limit. Never pad your application with unnecessary words just to increase your word count. Remember that the readers are going through a lot of grant applications - you want yours to stand out. Writing a specific plan, with detailed supplies, educational standards, and time lines for implementation will be remembered much longer than one that has a lot of extra unnecessary information.<br />
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5. Edit & Revise</h3>
You want to be taken seriously as an educator. If you submit an application full of spelling and grammatical errors, you may not be considered if other applicants seem more professional. Some grants are more competitive than others. Because of that, you want your application to be flawless. Everyone applying wants to win - so make sure your application is your very best effort.<br />
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<b>TIP: </b>Not everyone is a natural writer. If you know this is not an area of strength, ask someone to read it for you. If you plan ahead and give the editor time, most people will gladly help.<br />
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Good grant writing is really just good writing. Remember to consider the organization's purpose for the grant, the audience of your application, and to make your application error free. Double and triple check the rule, then submit your application!<br />
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If you are not picked, don't give up! Many grants receive far more applications than they can fulfill. Your application may have been fantastic - they just might have had a lot of excellent applications. Have someone read your application and give you feedback, make any necessary changes, and try again next year.<br />
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If you win any grants, I would love to know!Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-40638699666509565052017-12-21T09:04:00.001-08:002017-12-21T09:05:19.187-08:00Hidden Gems: The Hero Two Doors Down<i>The Hero Two Door Down </i>made the Sunshine State Readers book list for grades 3 - 5 - for good reason. This book is based on a true friendship between Jackie Robinson and a Brooklyn neighbor. The story of the baseball legend's friendship with this boy is told by Sharon Robinson, Jackie's daughter. Keep reading to learn how teachers could use this book in the classroom.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp_PANbvJu3oh5BCPy8LaVBOj5hFSDKSln0NKzFMyRDVb39ffyj3tToIKBm0bgF45q21RInQRgEQK7r864986qKQPX-y9M5cjaWAa5hOm7sh2UWyOAWNLfjNX5Asq_1v4OuGiOPTc2fPPm/s1600/Hidden+Gems+Hero+Two+Doors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Hero Two Doors Down is based on a true friendship between baseball legend Jackie Robinson and a Brooklyn boy. Told by Jackie's daughter, Sharon, this book could be integrated into a unit on civil rights or culture, as well as used as a mentor text for character development." border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1056" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp_PANbvJu3oh5BCPy8LaVBOj5hFSDKSln0NKzFMyRDVb39ffyj3tToIKBm0bgF45q21RInQRgEQK7r864986qKQPX-y9M5cjaWAa5hOm7sh2UWyOAWNLfjNX5Asq_1v4OuGiOPTc2fPPm/s640/Hidden+Gems+Hero+Two+Doors.jpg" title="The Hero Two Doors Down is based on a true friendship between baseball legend Jackie Robinson and a Brooklyn boy. Told by Jackie's daughter, Sharon, this book could be integrated into a unit on civil rights or culture, as well as used as a mentor text for character development." width="640" /></a></div>
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<h3>
A Summary of <i>The Hero Two Doors Down</i></h3>
Steve lives in an all-Jewish neighborhood in Brooklyn in 1959. Like many of his neighbors, he is a passionate fan of the Brooklyn Dodgers. He and his dad bond over their discussions of their favorite team, and their conversations usually revolve around Jackie Robinson - the team's star player.<br />
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Steve's biggest wish is that they would get tickets to Opening Day. Unfortunately, Steve tends to be a little impulsive and often gets notes sent home from school. Steve knows that he won't be rewarded with tickets unless his behavior improves.<br />
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Imagine Steve's reaction when he hears rumors that his hero will actually be moving into a house in his neighborhood! Although many in his community are unhappy that a non-Jew would be moving into their area, Steve's family believes that everyone should be treated fairly. They quickly welcome the Robinsons into the neighborhood, and Steve slowly develops a close relationship with the family.<br />
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Teaching with <i>The Hero Two Doors Down</i>: Character, Culture, & Civil Rights</h3>
The book actually opens with the passing of Steve's dad, and the main story is his reflection on he and his dad's relationship - and how they loved baseball.<br />
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After the initial introduction of the characters, the main story discusses the relationship between Steve and Jackie Robinson. Steve is portrayed as a good kid who often makes bad choices. He wants to do well and he doesn't mean to get in trouble - it just happens. Having his hero move in next door is a dream come true, and Jackie becomes his mentor. Steve's behavior improves noticeably - until he hears the Robinsons are moving. Students could use this book in a study of character development, tracking how his new friendship affects Steve.<br />
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This book would also be an excellent read aloud or book club novel when a class studies different cultures or civil rights. Themes of acceptance and friendship are woven throughout the story. The author shows how sometimes people from different cultures can misunderstand each other yet still respect one another - like when Jackie sent a Christmas tree to Steve's family not realizing they were Jewish. Steve and his dad discuss how Jackie is treated by other baseball teams and hotel owners, noting that Jackie is often forced to find separate accommodations from his teammates. These true facts are seamlessly woven into the tale and can be used as a springboard into deep discussions.<br />
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I really enjoyed this book, and your students will, too! I hope you check it out! What other books on culture and civil rights would recommend for grades 3-5?<br />
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<br />Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3146619109411409824.post-30093421585698098102017-12-13T02:00:00.000-08:002017-12-13T02:00:40.819-08:006 Easy Ways to Use Gingerbread in your ClassroomHolding a thematic day (<i>or two</i>) before the winter break is a lot of fun! Both teachers and students are ready for break, so doing something out of the ordinary can help keep everyone motivated. Gingerbread is a great theme for upper elementary - and teachers have so many activities they can use. By the end of this post, you will have ideas for using gingerbread in reading, writing, math, and STEM.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwHRGnECzFo2W25LB2mhXvX0un3iGzc9fB0WDpiGSToGPmnFDHtsQXQux7B_k194zto0Q4vBp6DH0lRYF5H3vxZvxTB3jhVaYKE487OF2VRlGBbnbzVhLACfKtDtptw3ZLdSMrJaON9tOi/s1600/Gingerbread+Blog+%25283%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="6 Easy Ways to Use Gingerbread in your Classroom - Holding a thematic day (or two) before the winter break is a lot of fun! Both teachers and students are ready for break, so doing something out of the ordinary can help keep everyone motivated. Gingerbread is a great theme for upper elementary - and teachers have so many activities they can use. By the end of this post, you will have ideas for using gingerbread in reading, writing, math, and STEM. " border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwHRGnECzFo2W25LB2mhXvX0un3iGzc9fB0WDpiGSToGPmnFDHtsQXQux7B_k194zto0Q4vBp6DH0lRYF5H3vxZvxTB3jhVaYKE487OF2VRlGBbnbzVhLACfKtDtptw3ZLdSMrJaON9tOi/s640/Gingerbread+Blog+%25283%2529.png" title="6 Easy Ways to Use Gingerbread in your Classroom - Holding a thematic day (or two) before the winter break is a lot of fun! Both teachers and students are ready for break, so doing something out of the ordinary can help keep everyone motivated. Gingerbread is a great theme for upper elementary - and teachers have so many activities they can use. By the end of this post, you will have ideas for using gingerbread in reading, writing, math, and STEM. " width="640" /></a></div>
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Math</h3>
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Fractions</h4>
Teachers can easily incorporate gingerbread into math. If teachers plan to build gingerbread houses, they could have students write fraction problems using the decorations they have. (Example: 2/5 of my decorations are gumdrops.) Another fraction activity could be doubling or tripling a gingerbread recipe - just make copies of a recipe and have kids do the math.<br />
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Division</h4>
Again, if making gingerbread cookies or houses, teachers could ask students to answer division problems based on the decorations. (Example: if the bag of gumdrops has 75 pieces, how many can each student have if the class has 25 students?)<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Division-Task-Card-Math-Center-Gingerbread-House-Art-Activity-4th-Grade-2904553?utm_source=Amy%20Blog&utm_campaign=Ginger%20Math%204th"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="816" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHSgRhnq28CtkV7iotytrcGd42ZW84oC9iY-mhrN7LCXSNHB7wTM7lDkjQGu1cIyUDp-HFHNURFZxOr06xDXK2zzZ_yjGmiujCnkKa5-gWKA6sHObwFs-FrEs4Hx-Jq3B_I_IdME1o1YrS/s400/Slide1.JPG" width="308" /></a></div>
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I also made gingerbread-themed task cards activities for my teacher friends in <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Division-Task-Card-Math-Center-Gingerbread-House-Art-Activity-3rd-Grade-2903012?utm_source=Amy%20Blog&utm_campaign=Ginger%20Math%203rd">3rd</a> and <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Division-Task-Card-Math-Center-Gingerbread-House-Art-Activity-4th-Grade-2904553?utm_source=Amy%20Blog&utm_campaign=Ginger%20Math%204th">4th grade</a>. Both grades focus on division skills. Students build a gingerbread house as they complete the task card. It is a bit like the game Cootie - as students finish a problem, they earn another piece to their house. This activity keeps students motivated to finish their math because they want to finish their house!<br />
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Language Arts</h3>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Gingerbread-House-Non-fiction-Craftivity-Book-Report-Project-Use-With-Any-Book-1565864?utm_source=Amy%20Blog&utm_campaign=Ginger%20Book%20Report"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcgN-5f9ymoM_81jYxz4p1aBPo8TKURetRo4V-tdWrx9ac1jQKZqFqY6GQAV8Z0-SBi7WK5pq4Hf4LhWphAZt5EadqpCNWLmRUHeHVZrWzMae-Y6zm5DxHqtvsUtZmziHZRWqQpIINeubs/s320/Non-Fiction+IG+%25281%2529.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Nonfiction Book Report</h4>
With my fourth and fifth grade students, I used this<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Gingerbread-House-Non-fiction-Craftivity-Book-Report-Project-Use-With-Any-Book-1565864?utm_source=Amy%20Blog&utm_campaign=Ginger%20Book%20Report"> Gingerbread House book report</a>. It can be used with any non-fiction book. It is a great way to wrap up a science or social studies unit before the holidays. Students design and arrange their gingerbread house, adding the details about their book under the flaps. The projects also make a nice hallway display!<br />
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<h4>
Gingerbread Picture Books</h4>
There are so many good picture books featuring the Gingerbread Man or some variation of his character. Upper grade teachers can use these books during instruction to compare characters. It is interesting to see how different authors put a their own twist on such a well-known character. 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students could do a mini-unit on character development. How do writers "tell" or "show" a character's personality? How does a reader infer information about a character?<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Gingerbread-Man-Character-Development-Writing-Unit-Anchor-Chart-3530155?utm_source=Amy%20Blog&utm_campaign=Ginger%20Character%20Unit"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJBTuMrszRTSzN3Yis3W8yUvCCTa1dXJjAahTWseCZbiHJFiNw8ot2Syy8H9hnQc5dFLoaC9wTw4p1H5HCyAo1dT4GsCbpxOb0pCupbbjkklBc2GdqkBNBHE3waNnYr0sUJYqZelFiT6NC/s320/Slide1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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If there is enough time, teachers can extend this reading unit into writing. Once students have analyzed how authors create a character, they can develop a Gingerbread character of their own. Teachers can use their own planning sheets, or if they prefer a print-ready resource, a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Gingerbread-Man-Character-Development-Writing-Unit-Anchor-Chart-3530155?utm_source=Amy%20Blog&utm_campaign=Ginger%20Character%20Unit">Gingerbread Man writing unit</a> is available in my TPT store.<br />
<h3>
STEM</h3>
Making gingerbread houses can be costly because you need to buy kits (unless you are a great baker!) Building a gingerbread house is a STEM challenge of its own! As stated above, there are a lot of ways teachers can incorporate skills into building the house. Teachers can even hold an investigation into the icing used: 'Does the type of icing used to build the house matter?" Many people use royal icing, but I watched this <a href="http://www.hallmarkchannel.com/home-and-family/videos/the-science-of-gingerbread-home-family">Hallmark video</a> that talks about how the type of icing can make a huge difference. If you are on a budget and want to incorporate math or STEM concepts into building gingerbread houses, considering asking for parent donations or help from your PTO.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Gingerbread-Man-STEM-Activites-Choose-Your-Own-STEMventure-3509634?utm_source=Amy%20Blog&utm_campaign=Ginger%20Stemventure" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTBSo1p96ugIdIXI-YJGc2eDEjEFaNz7RginfsI6OXG9Ohm8HVqNyObFMHFr_zdCiQePVFHyAAVgmQI_WU2HYGyOq1dj6rRqeoSda39uFGvrC6iBCYEGs7kOGXtSfWyJO1RLzonYJuGUV_/s640/25286033_10159813449305066_1506675217_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Meredith Anderson created a fun <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Gingerbread-Man-STEM-Activites-Choose-Your-Own-STEMventure-3509634?utm_source=Amy%20Blog&utm_campaign=Ginger%20Stemventure">Gingerbread Man STEMventure resource</a>. This activity is like a <i>Choose Your Own Adventure</i> book - students have to pick the path of the Gingerbread Man - and help him avoid being eaten! The STEM activities will vary depending upon the students' choices. A few of the possible student challenges are to build a bridge, tent, zip line, and ramp.<br />
<h3>
Crafts & Snack</h3>
Don't forget to buy gingerbread cookies or make gingerbread for snack! A few of my own children's teachers had students create a gingerbread cookie. If you want to decorate cookies, it is important to divide the icing ahead of time and hand each child his or her own bag of icing. When I was the parent helper for this activity, <i>every single kid</i> wanted to lick the icing bottles. A teacher friend said she divides the icing into storage bags and then cuts a corner. This worked well with her students.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3baHUWCKRofNwMaX5G7Tfai1SAcDHBZqbVih7z9Isq7Z0t_HrN9gNCdyF6dHVH4MQ4oDamP6ydTfwf3jFYEwToTDPT1rKnZIBN-l5Cv486Hm-6Z3a6djal4TIKXB6hRQtFaoBHkn6a8j4/s1600/Gingerbread+Blog+%25284%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="6 Easy Ways to Use Gingerbread in your Classroom - Holding a thematic day (or two) before the winter break is a lot of fun! Both teachers and students are ready for break, so doing something out of the ordinary can help keep everyone motivated. Gingerbread is a great theme for upper elementary - and teachers have so many activities they can use. By the end of this post, you will have ideas for using gingerbread in reading, writing, math, and STEM. " border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3baHUWCKRofNwMaX5G7Tfai1SAcDHBZqbVih7z9Isq7Z0t_HrN9gNCdyF6dHVH4MQ4oDamP6ydTfwf3jFYEwToTDPT1rKnZIBN-l5Cv486Hm-6Z3a6djal4TIKXB6hRQtFaoBHkn6a8j4/s400/Gingerbread+Blog+%25284%2529.png" title="6 Easy Ways to Use Gingerbread in your Classroom - Holding a thematic day (or two) before the winter break is a lot of fun! Both teachers and students are ready for break, so doing something out of the ordinary can help keep everyone motivated. Gingerbread is a great theme for upper elementary - and teachers have so many activities they can use. By the end of this post, you will have ideas for using gingerbread in reading, writing, math, and STEM. " width="266" /></a></div>
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I hope you found some ideas to use in your classroom! What is your favorite gingerbread activity to use with your students?Amy Meznihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04037574090054367472noreply@blogger.com0