Book Reviews

This semester I read, Through The Crack, by Carolyn Sollman. This book helped me gain a tremoundous awareness to those students who "slip through the cracks." This book was an "ah ha" moment for me and helped me truly understand which students fall through the cracks through their lives. It is my duty to ensure I help these students understand the importance of learning and provide differentiation strategies in order to ensrue all students are learning. This book is an easy read with colorful photos. A must read for all educators!

Another helpful book I read during the semester was, Shouting Won't Grow Dendrites, by Marcia Tate. This book provided several techniques to utilize in the classroom. The book suggested several techniques such as; using color on marker boards instead of black, using color to grade tests, providing humor in the classroom to engage students, and making learning relevant. This book is full of helpful techniques to improve as an educator. Every tip suggested I have taken back to my room and implemented.

Observation

This semester I have been blessed with a very understanding and helpful mentor, Stacey Huggins. I could not ask for a better "lean" on and "go to" person. She has provided outstanding suggestions, tips, and advice on classroom management, teaching strategies, and time management. I am thankful to have her advice and opinions.

The Semester Is Coming To An End...

I can't believe how fast this semester has gone. Friday, my students will take a Chunk Test that covers all material taught for the semester. I feel they are prepared for this exam and am anxious to see the results! Today, we had an excellent review game, which all students enjoyed.

Alice in Wonderland

On Tuesday, the 6th grade students and teachers walked to a local church to view a play. The play was sponsered by the Children's Art Museum. The students were very well behaved during the play and have been excited all week to go. Our school is very proud of the outside resources we have.

Outdoor Adventure

On Monday I took a group of students outside for the days lesson. The students planted there own plants and we held a discussion on plants. The students were engaged during the lesson and enjoyed being in the outdoors, as well as I!

Canned Food Drive

Last week our school hosted a canned food drive for our community. It was very rewarding to see the enthuastism from our students to support the cause. The students understod the importance of giving and were pleased to bring canned food items. The drive was a success.

Science Job Alike

I have the great opportunity to attend Sciecne Job Alike. I am proud my school allows me to attend. We meet one day every month. At the workshop I obtain resources for my classroom and ideas to incorporate hands on learning in my classroom. The picture below displays last months meeting and the Solar Bag experiment. I gain a lot of knowledge from the workshops and am excited to go every month.