You may have heard a lot about close reading over the last few years as the Common Core State Standards have been implemented throughout much of the country. Or, the idea of close reading may still be new to you. Through trial and error in our own classrooms, we have come to an … [Read more...] about What is Close Reading?
Unique Columbus Day Lesson Plans Each year, we have a goal to teach meaningful and educational lessons about different holidays. Don't get us wrong, we love giving kids holiday-themed activities (like making those oh-so-cute holiday crafts) but we were ready for a change. We … [Read more...] about Christopher Columbus: A 1492 Lesson Kids Will Remember
This pack integrates ELA, science, writing, and hands-on experiments. It is a close reading and writing unit designed for young learners. The lessons carefully scaffold from teacher modeling to guided practice, to partner practice, then to independent student practice. Each rock … [Read more...] about All About Rocks
Partner talk is a popular speaking and listening strategy for many teachers. It is often referred to as “turn and talk” or “think-pair-share.” It's a well-loved strategy that never loses its effectiveness if managed well. While using this strategy and observing this in … [Read more...] about Speaking and Listening Strategy: Partner Talk
It's the end of the year and we are all likely feeling teacher burnout. We still have a couple of weeks before we can stack the chairs on the tables, cover up the bulletin boards, and turn in our keys. Our students are starting to get summer fever and we are trying ANYTHING … [Read more...] about End of Year: Interactive Drama