tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39870504954059268052024-03-13T15:07:39.612-04:00Live 2 LearnAshleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.comBlogger68125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-25880774159399520312015-12-30T17:26:00.000-05:002015-12-30T17:26:15.990-05:00New Blog!For those of you still hanging around, please follow me at my new blog <a href="http://currentlyinroom32.blogspot.com/">http://currentlyinroom32.blogspot.com/</a>. Same great content and writer, different name! I look forward to posting more frequently in the future! Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-34597912981915663162015-12-07T19:22:00.000-05:002015-12-07T19:22:31.782-05:00Alright y'all! I wanna be a blogger! I find myself so envious of those who have ideas to share! I have finally decided it is time to put myself out there as I have some ideas to share too! I also started my own Teachers Pay Teachers store. I worry a lot about lack of original thought. However, I have had some of those as of late too! I am excited to share! If you would like to check out my store, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Live-2-Learn-Ashley%C2%A0" target="_blank">click here</a>. I will be back soon!Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-43073272300270606312014-04-10T19:59:00.000-04:002014-04-10T19:59:14.937-04:00Classroom "Booknic"Have you ever been inspired by ideas that have nothing to do with the classroom, turning them into something completely classroom friendly? I'm sure it happens with so many fabulous ideas on the web. A few years ago, I was inspired by a pin that I now cannot find for the life of me. The idea? Hosting a "Booknic", celebrating two of my favorite things, books and food in a picnic format! I am not sure the idea was originally intended for classroom use, but as soon as I saw it, my wheels started spinning. After a year or two, I finally put my thoughts in motion. After celebrating daily with different activities for March Is Reading Month, I decided to host a "Booknic" for my kiddos to be our final celebration of the month! I sent home notes asking for food donations and had enough parents volunteer to cover all of the food. I added a little picnic fun with table cloths and a few ant elements. Put it all together and you get the celebration we had below. It was so much fun to celebrate books with food that matched! <br />
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On the top right, we have the <u>If You Give a Moose a Muffin</u> table. Each student got two mini muffins and, of course, listened to the story. The next table was<u> If You Give a Mouse a Cookie</u> and cookies for all. The banana and strawberries on a stick represented <u>The Cat In The Hat</u>. And lastly, a personal favorite from my childhood, <u>Chicka Chicka Boom Boom</u> represented by the tree. The bottom two food crafts were not originally my ideas. I found them online!</div>
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This is a close up of one table with the napkins, napkin holder, picnic plates, and though you cannot see it, a giant ant also sat on each table!</div>
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As I said, this is how we celebrated at the end of the month. We did other smaller activities each day of the month. It was so much fun! What do you do to celebrate March Is Reading Month with your kids?</div>
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Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-88701649882251870932014-04-07T20:12:00.000-04:002014-04-07T20:12:00.610-04:00Teaching WritingTeachers are constantly reflecting and altering their teaching to better reach and teach their students. One of the best ways, or the BEST way, I have found to learn new methods to reach my students is by reading and following blogs! Another tried and true way to reflect and learn new tips and tricks is through professional reading. I have more books stacked on my nightstand, both for professional reading and personal enjoyment, then I care to admit. Teachers want to learn and do their best, but there is not always the time. So I often see books I must read, but have to find the time. This week, I am finding the time! Enter spring break!<br />
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After my first year of teaching, I felt that I was not the most effective writing teacher. So during the summer, I read a book to help me really learn how to teach my littles to write. It helped for the next two years I spent in first grade. In fact, writing moved from the bottom of my list up to my new favorite subject to teach. Then, I was laid off and called back to teach second grade. Now that I have nearly completed my second year in second grade, I feel I have lost my writing mojo for multiple reasons. Time is limited and it seems writing is always the first subject in my room to go. Along with lack of time, we purchased a new reading series at my school this year, Wonders. While I like the series, it is quite cumbersome and takes up A LOT of time during language arts. Most of the writing students are asked to do is related to a text. Necessary? Absolutely. What I want my students' to write about all the time? Not really.<br />
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I miss having Writer's Workshop in my classroom. I miss allowing my students' to write and tell stories or small moments. Allowing students time to write, I believe makes them better readers, as well as better writers when it comes to writing across the content areas. Because I am on spring break this week, I am diving into a professional book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/No-More-Done-Fostering-Independent/dp/1571107843" target="_blank">No More "I'm Done!" Fostering Independent Writers in the Primary Grades</a>, that I believe will be one of my new favorites. Have you read it? Do you have any thoughts on the book? Do you have any tips on how to better fit writing in? Do you use a basal and feel you have the perfect balance? Leave me a comment below and let me know!<br />
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Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-18245102353929306932014-04-04T21:09:00.003-04:002014-04-04T21:09:46.548-04:00Can I?Hello all. I have spent my time since my last post being an avid blog reader and stalker, as per usual. I am obsessed with TPT and feel like I may have more purchases than anyone ever. It has taken me this long, but I finally feel like it is time to give this blogging thing another try. The question is can I do all that is required to be a good blogger? Not only that, but does anyone care what I have to say? I see all the great friends people make via blogging, and I have to say, I'm jealous. I want to be a part of this great world! I think it is time to give it another try. Can I?Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-75028663132414941452013-06-09T18:36:00.002-04:002013-06-09T18:36:14.419-04:00I'm Baaaack!It has been months since I posted on this poor blog. I was back in the classroom, teaching second grade, this past year. Somehow, my fourth year was more exhausting than any other year before. Does anyone else feel like this year was just exhausting? I had a great group of kiddos, but they just tuckered me right out!! <br />
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Anyhow, now it is summer and I am looking forward to spending next year in second grade! I feel blessed that I am not moving grade levels after moving three times in five years, as well as being laid off for a year. I am excited to be more organized and delve deeper into subject matter as now I know what is to come!<br />
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I hope you all had a great year and are enjoying your summer vacation or those last few days with your kiddos in school! I have been off since Thursday and have already finished one project on my TO DO list. I know, WOOHOO! So really all I did was make a few purchases, a frame and a touching saying, and put them together. But doing it two days after break started is something I consider to be a great accomplishment! Not the most centered picture, but I think it will look great behind my teaching table and serve as a great reminder each day! <br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/151251105/instant-dl-8x10-digital-file-printable?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">Sweetpress Studio</a></div>
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Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-42654003688565587342012-10-05T23:03:00.000-04:002012-10-05T23:03:21.546-04:00Using Donors ChooseHello to all. It has been months since I have posted a new update. I am back to my old teaching stomping ground. This year, I am teaching 2nd grade. It is very exciting. However, I am absolutely exhausted. So I will make this post short and sweet. I have just submitted my first project to Donors Choose. I would like to know if you have been successful using it or if there are any tips that I should consider when posting projects. Thanks:)! Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-32123742694935472892012-07-09T01:15:00.003-04:002012-07-09T12:29:13.722-04:00Manic Monday at Classroom Freebies and Made It Monday at 4th Grade FrolicsHowdy all! I haven't blogged in forever! I am still waiting for news on next year. But I have started some projects that I can use next year should I ever find out I have a job. Today my freebie is crayon jar labels. I was inspired by Pinterest, of course, to make a jar for each basic crayon color. Then, should a student need a crayon in a specific color, they can go to that particular jar and grab that color. Easy peasy right? Below is a somewhat blurry photo of my jars. They are half pint canning jars. I spray painted the lids with a flat black, grabbed some ribbon, attached my freebie label, and voila! Feel free to use the labels in any way you like!<br />
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I am also linking up with Made It Monday over at 4th Grade Frolics. This is one of the first projects, my crayon jars, that I have actually finished in the hopes of having a job next year. I am trying to complete projects that can work in multiple grade levels because I have no idea where I will end up. Next on my long list of to dos is creating a teacher binder, completing my teacher toolbox, and painting all of my bookshelves flat black. Wish me luck and go link up with your back to school projects. Oh and by the way, I went to my local Walmart today. School supplies are beginning to appear where summer stuff used to be! Is summer almost over? <br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/99518912/Crayon-Jar-Labels" style="-x-system-font: none; display: block; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 14px/normal Helvetica, Arial, Sans-serif; margin: 12px auto 6px; text-decoration: underline;" title="View Crayon Jar Labels on Scribd">Crayon Jar Labels</a><iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="0.772727272727273" data-auto-height="true" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_65823" scrolling="no" src="http://www.scribd.com/embeds/99518912/content?start_page=1&view_mode=list&access_key=key-cjh8pr5jc16nc3dsa6q" width="100%"></iframe><br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-82793442979064715212012-06-17T17:18:00.001-04:002012-06-17T17:18:15.261-04:00Gorgeous!For those of you who read my blog, I am still playing the waiting game as far as next year. I hope to have details by the end of this week. We shall see!<br />
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And I just had to share this beautiful photo of the Mackinaw Bridge. It is a gorgeous Father's Day in Northern Michigan. <br />
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<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-3e1sNMlUneg/T95JlW7GwaI/AAAAAAAAAIM/dAXOBPf8PnQ/s640/blogger-image-500238270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-3e1sNMlUneg/T95JlW7GwaI/AAAAAAAAAIM/dAXOBPf8PnQ/s640/blogger-image-500238270.jpg" /></a></div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-90863612376241638322012-05-28T19:36:00.002-04:002012-05-28T19:45:00.871-04:00Mrs. Stanford's First Linky: Good Reads!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://mrsstanfordsclass.blogspot.com/2012/05/mrs-stanfords-first-linky-summer-reads.html">Mrs. Stanford</a> is having her first linky party and I am joining up! I am a little late to the party. But I still wanted to join because maybe someone is looking for good reads for the summer or books to read in their classroom. Because I was laid off this year, I don't really have any recommendations as far as teachers books, but I have written down a ton of them from the other linky party participants. So if you haven't read through all the other links, go do so now!<br />
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Before I get started, I have a tip to share from my favorite retired teacher friend. She keeps a small spiral bound notebook in her purse with all of the books she wants to read. She has pages dedicated to her favorite authors or authors with more than one book she would like to read. Once she reads them, she crosses them off carefully so you can still see the title. That way she never rereads accidentally! I have recently started my own notebook, which by the way says Keep Calm and Have a Cupcake! I have dedicated the front half to specific author pages and the back half to stand alone books that I want to read. Just had to share in case you were looking for a way to organize and remember!<br />
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Onto my good reads that I have read before:>! Aside from these, I love James Patterson, Nicholas Sparks, Jodi Picoult, and the Detective D.D. Warren series from Lisa Gardner. <br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Room-A-Novel-Emma-Donoghue/dp/0316098329/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1338246806&sr=1-1"><img alt="Product Details" class="productImage" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41zGJ8k52tL._SL160_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-dp,TopRight,12,-18_SH30_OU01_AA160_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I read this book earlier this year and it was a great read. Be sure to read the specific details to know if it would right for you. I loved it. It is unlike anything I read before.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Fabulous book that talks about slavery from two different viewpoints with a story of love laced in between.</span></div>
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I am part of a book club with some other teacher friends where I used to work and hope to go back to next year. Most of the books on my want to read list below come from there. I am currently in the middle of the second book in the Fifty Shades Trilogy too. Very interesting to say the least!</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/B007SRWC72/ref=sib_dp_pt#reader-link"><img alt="Walking Back to Happiness" border="0" height="300" id="prodImage" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/418h7QLqdLL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">This is our book club book pick for June. Who doesn't love dogs?! This is a story about a woman's journey through life and those that helped her along the way. Can't wait to get started!</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/0593060830/ref=sib_dp_kd#reader-link"><img alt="The Boy Who Fell to Earth" border="0" height="300" id="prodImage" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51M7FlEmelL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">This is one of the books I hope we pick this year during book club. If not, I will read it anyways. It is a tale of an Autistic boy, Merlin, and his mother, who makes Merlin the center of her life, leaving no room for another man. However, as Merlin grows, she tries dating again and meets a wonderful man for both her and her son. Then, Merlin's father shows up begging for a second chance. Does Lucy need a real father for Merlin-or a real man for herself? That is the books description, leaving me wanting to know how it all ends! Sounds like a must read to me!</span></div>
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And one more before I end the longest post ever! One of my favorite picture book read alouds.</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Jungle-Drums-Graeme-Base/dp/0810950448/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1338248037&sr=1-1"><img alt="Product Details" class="productImage" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61WWZRY8XFL._AA160_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A teacher read this book to my class in college. I have been in love ever since. It is a wonderful story about loving yourself the way you are and the I love the illustrations. Be sure to check it out if you haven't before!</span></div>
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And I suppose that is all for now. Have you read any of these books? Do you recommend them? Feel free to leave a comment and let me know. And thanks to Mrs.Stanford for hosting this great party!</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-4210257260502102332012-05-27T20:02:00.002-04:002012-05-27T20:02:51.085-04:00Waiting...That is what I am doing at this point. Waiting. My state has changed teachers retirement something or other once again. I should probably know more about it, but I will not be retiring for about 30 years, so at this point, it doesn't affect me as far as my retirement. The school district I worked at for three years offered a buyout this year. At this point, there are TEN takers! I am third on the list to be called back as far as elementary teachers go, so I am hoping to get the call in mid June saying I get to come back and my grade level. But until then, once again, just waiting. Cross your fingers and toes for me if you would. I am dying to be back in a classroom again! Being a teacher without a classroom for one year is long enough!Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-47907852685006448832012-05-07T16:57:00.001-04:002012-05-07T17:01:56.544-04:00Manic Monday FreebieI am linking up with Charity at Classroom Freebies once more to share a fun freebie!<br />
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Last week, I shared my Crafty Cupcake Mystery Message. This week, I am sharing my Pajama Day Mystery Message. Mystery Messages are a great management strategy, helping your students working together to earn a fabulous surprise. And what student, and teacher, doesn't love pajama day!?!? I use it as an excuse to buy new pajamas usually, which is always fun too:). Enjoy. And if you love great freebies, be sure to click on the Manic Monday button above and it will bring you to a bunch of great ones!<br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/92744827/Pajama-Day-Mystery-Message" style="-x-system-font: none; display: block; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 14px/normal Helvetica, Arial, Sans-serif; margin: 12px auto 6px; text-decoration: underline;" title="View Pajama Day Mystery Message on Scribd">Pajama Day Mystery Message</a><iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="1.2938689217759" data-auto-height="true" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_32636" scrolling="no" src="http://www.scribd.com/embeds/92744827/content?start_page=1&view_mode=list&access_key=key-1ut3aq9rknw6nss23gla" width="100%"></iframe>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-28136171786848774022012-05-05T15:11:00.000-04:002012-05-05T21:13:37.729-04:00Winner & A FreebieHey all. Sorry I didn't share my giveaway winner yesterday. However, it was an extremely busy day and it left me all kinds of exhausting. But without further ado, the winner of my $20 gift card to Amazon.com or Teachers Pay Teachers is Jennifer at Keys4Education! Congrats:>! Jennifer, I will send you an email so we can get the details nailed down!<br />
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And for those of you that didn't win, I am sharing a freebie! It is a Summer Fun Word Search, ideal for any of the primary grades. When doing word searches in my classroom, I had students work independently for a bit, then for those who struggled, they got to ask their friends for help during the last few minutes. This really allows everyone to be successful! And I found my students love word searches, especially this way! Enjoy the freebie, as well as the rest of the weekend. It is 55 degrees and beautiful in Northern Michigan! We are grilling out tonight and I can't wait!<br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/92523429/Summer-Fun-Word-Search" style="-x-system-font: none; display: block; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 14px/normal Helvetica, Arial, Sans-serif; margin: 12px auto 6px; text-decoration: underline;" title="View Summer Fun Word Search on Scribd">Summer Fun Word Search</a><iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="0.772727272727273" data-auto-height="true" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_59896" scrolling="no" src="http://www.scribd.com/embeds/92523429/content?start_page=1&view_mode=list&access_key=key-1c7ea9kv54fcf4tlmoa3" width="100%"></iframe>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-34225210385661097792012-05-03T22:02:00.001-04:002012-05-03T22:14:03.048-04:00Rule Breaker!Today, I am being a rule breaker, posting twice in one day. <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2012/05/may-currently.html">Farley</a> posted her Currently Linky Party and I just had to join. So here's what I am doing, thinking, and feeling currently!<br />
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As far as my pageant title, when I was laid off from my previous district, along with 19 others, my school gave out awards to everyone at a little ceremony. I was given sparklers for being the "spark" that got things going at my school. I still remember the day and the nickname so fondly. I hope and pray that I get to go back to my friends and my fabulous school family!<br />
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Oh and be sure to enter my giveaway for the chance to win a $20 gift card to either Teachers Pay Teachers or Amazon.com. It is the last night to enter!Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-11644534401224773692012-05-03T16:19:00.001-04:002012-05-03T16:39:35.569-04:00A Reminder...Plus a CutieJust wanted to remind all of my fabulous followers that today is the last day to enter my 20 dollar giveaway. It's just a few posts down!<br />
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Also, if you loved the Otter Creek recognition idea from my last post so much you pinned it, there's been a little change. If you could delete that pin and replace it with the one where the child's face is covered, both the handsome young mans teacher and I would appreciate it. I kind of wondered when I posted, but I just loved the idea so much, I had to pin it right away! Please and thank you bunches! Also, in Patty's email, she mentioned that when a student passes an individual test, they get to stand on their chair while the class cheers on. She calls them Chair Cheers. LOVE that idea too! I will definitely implement all of this should I be in a district with Otter Creek or a program like it!<br />
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And now I leave you with this little cutie. This is my nine and a half month old niece, Miss Emma. While being Stay At Home Auntie yesterday, I helped her create this masterpiece to give her mom for Mother's Day. Her first art project! It was messy but I think it turned out absolutely adorable. <br />
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One more day until the weekend. Enjoy my friends!Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-66967416797492388702012-05-02T14:23:00.001-04:002012-05-03T16:39:58.481-04:00What I'm Pinning Wednesday<div align="center">
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Today I am linking up with Laura from Kinder Kraziness for <a href="http://kinderkraziness.blogspot.com/2012/05/what-im-pinning-wednesday.html">What I'm Pinning Wednesday</a>! Who doesn't love a little Pinterest linky?! Here's what I am pinning lately!</div>
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This is the new and improved playroom from Jen over at <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/05/playroom-progress-bunch-of-baskets.html">IHeart Organizing</a>. I absolutely love every single thing she posts! And if I had her skills, I would do this in my home someday too! But what I really fell in love with is the shelving unit from Ikea. I think these would be perfect for classroom library shelves. They come in bigger units as well. They are a little pricey, but I hope they would be a forever investment for the classroom.<br />
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This pin comes from Patty at <a href="http://2ndinline.blogspot.com/2012/04/rocket-math-drills-and-celebrations.html?showComment=1335915090023#c4035374919690388417">Second in Line</a>. And no, your eyes are not fooling you. That is a child standing on the teacher's desk! As a reward for passing Otter Creek, a math facts program, students get the coolest rewards. If they pass the addition tests, they get to stand on their desk and have their picture taken. If they pass the subtraction tests, they get to stand on the teacher's desk and have their picture taken. If they pass the multiplication tests, Patty has a window ledge students get to stand on as their classmates cheer for them. And if they pass the division tests, they get to stand on the same ledge and cover their friends in silly string. Each time they reach one of these goals, their picture goes on a wall of fame too! How easy and FREE is that!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2-oQ--FoOgY/T5yOJ8j6YGI/AAAAAAAAA6U/XJzUoHNIOSs/s1600/Word+Wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2-oQ--FoOgY/T5yOJ8j6YGI/AAAAAAAAA6U/XJzUoHNIOSs/s320/Word+Wall.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This colorful pin comes from Kylie at <a href="http://downunderteacher.blogspot.com.au/2012/04/word-wall-linky.html">Down Under Teacher</a>. She did not have room for a word wall so she utilized her windows. I doubt I will ever have a classroom with such a large wall of windows, but I was still greatly inspired by this photo. Next year, I want to have a carnival/circus theme classroom. I think, using a bulletin board, and covering it with a background color, then adding the individual colored paper for each letter would be adorable. It may also help students distinguish where the words belong. Plus I think it would add a lot to the theme. Cuh-ute!</div>
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<img alt="Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes" height="225" src="http://kevinandamanda.com/whatsnew/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-cupcakes-1.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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So this last pin has absolutely nothing to do with being a teacher, but I would love to find these <a href="http://www.kevinandamanda.com/whatsnew/new-recipes/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-cupcakes.html">Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes</a>, from Kevin & Amanda, on the teachers lounge table.</div>
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Be sure to link up with your Pin loves! And don't forget to enter my giveaway if you want a chance to win a $20 gift card to Amazon or Teachers Pay Teachers!</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-51716278616486960782012-05-01T21:03:00.001-04:002012-05-03T16:42:12.558-04:00Tippy Tuesday-Candy In The Classroom?!My first year of teaching, after trying many other ideas, candy became my go to behavior management tool. The behavior challenges I faced that year were hopefully the most difficult I will ever face in my teaching career. I know how awful that sounds, but the challenges I faced that year in kindergarten were nothing short of super stressful. I was a happy first year teacher, happy to go to work everyday, but near the end it was difficult.<br />
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This brings me to today's Tippy Tuesday post. I am challenging myself to use candy as less of a reward when I get back in the classroom, fingers crossed, next year. I want to choose more positive, healthier rewards for my students. Plus, if it is not in my room, I won't eat it, and hopefully next time at the dentist, I won't have 10 cavities! Of course, for those special occasions and holidays, bring out the candy! But other than that, I want to limit it! <br />
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So here is today's tip. Use positive notes to let students know you are proud of them or that they are on the right track. I know this is nothing new, but it is definitely something I could of done more of that first year I taught. The example below is test week homework. It comes from the blog <a href="http://teachinspireprepare.blogspot.com/2012/04/smartie-test-homework.html">TIPS (Teach, Inspire, and Prepare Students)</a> and I love the message it sends:>! Head over to Mrs. Jordan's blog to check it out!<br />
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What do you think about candy in the classroom? Leave me a comment with your opinion.</div>
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Once again, I am linking up with Charity over at Classroom Freebies. I am so excited to see what everyone else has to offer, as well as get more blog exposure. If you have a freebie you want to share, click on the button below to head over.</div>
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Today I am sharing a freebie that is great for the end of the year! It is coming to the time where the children no longer have shining halos. Instead, their little heads may begin to sprout horns. Enter the Mystery Message. That is what I call my version of this behavior management tool. I have seen these on Pinterest as well. They could be called other things too, but I call my version the Mystery Message. All you have to do is print these cards, cut, glue them to pretty paper (or leave them as white cards), laminate, and arrange them on the board or wall space to say CrAfTy CuPcAkEs! When students are all on their best behavior, walking in the hall quietly, or doing something that makes you PROUD, flip over a letter. In my room, the rules are once you figure out the message, you cannot say it aloud. If someone tells the secret mystery message, then it will disappear. When all of the letters are exposed, the students can read/shout it out together. Then, the very next day, the students get the reward. Crafty Cupcakes is not one that I came up with on my own. I was inspired by Teri at <a href="http://acupcakefortheteacher.blogspot.com/2012/04/good-things-and-little-freebie.html">A Cupcake for the Teacher</a> for this Mystery Message idea. Be sure to check out her post to see all the great toppings the children got to use to craft their cupcakes! Here's the Mystery Message letters for you! I promise they are cuter when you download!</div>
<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/91874813/Crafty-Cupcakes" style="display: block; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 14px/normal Helvetica, Arial, Sans-serif; margin: 12px auto 6px; text-decoration: underline;" title="View Crafty Cupcakes on Scribd">Crafty Cupcakes</a><iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="1.2938689217759" data-auto-height="true" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_30440" scrolling="no" src="http://www.scribd.com/embeds/91874813/content?start_page=1&view_mode=list&access_key=key-1iyqvi7n9t17gutc72cm" width="100%"></iframe>
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And be sure to go to my last post and follow my blog and leave a comment to be entered to win a $20 gift card to Teachers Pay Teachers or Amazon.com! Until next time:>!</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-72214396792663576562012-04-26T18:13:00.001-04:002012-04-26T19:25:28.101-04:00Wacky War Math Center & A GiveawayHappy Thursday! Only one more day until the weekend and I am sure you all, like me, are super excited! Today I am linking up with Laura at <a href="http://corkboardconnections.blogspot.com/2012/04/super-math-centers-link-up.html">Corkboard Connections: Super Math Centers Linky Party</a>. This game is something I shared over at Klinger Cafe as a guest blogger and I wanted the chance to share it on my own blog too. Now is the perfect opportunity. <br />
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The game is called Wacky War. It is played exactly like the card game war, but with an added twist. <span style="font-family: inherit;"> Instead of having the person with the higher number keep the cards, the
person who can give the sum or product first, depending on grade level, gets to
keep the cards! There are two versions, one for addition and one for addition or multiplication. The first set I created, for addition only, has my own version of a tens frame for those kindergarten and first grade friends who may need a visual to help them add the two numbers together. This set goes to ten. The second set can be used for addition or multiplication because they have a star in the middle of the card that has nothing to do with the number on the actual card. They just add a little fancy. This set goes to twelve.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><br />
<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/88513269/Cards" style="-x-system-font: none; display: block; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 14px/normal Helvetica, Arial, Sans-serif; margin: 12px auto 6px; text-decoration: underline;" title="View Cards on Scribd">Cards</a><iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="0.772727272727273" data-auto-height="true" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_74300" scrolling="no" src="http://www.scribd.com/embeds/88513269/content?start_page=1&view_mode=list&access_key=key-16mxkmkgs28z2dug73rh" width="100%"></iframe>
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/88513273/Multiplication-Cards" style="-x-system-font: none; display: block; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 14px/normal Helvetica, Arial, Sans-serif; margin: 12px auto 6px; text-decoration: underline;" title="View Multiplication Cards on Scribd">Multiplication Cards</a><iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="0.772727272727273" data-auto-height="true" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_4865" scrolling="no" src="http://www.scribd.com/embeds/88513273/content?start_page=1&view_mode=list&access_key=key-28or36rwogkh4lmvyg3j" width="100%"></iframe>
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Hopefully you can use one of these versions of Wacky War! <br />
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Now, onto the giveaway! I am very excited because I recently hit 100 followers! To celebrate, I am giving away a $20 gift card. The winner will have their choice of a gift certificate from either<br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Gift-Certificate/View"><img alt="Buy a Gift Certificate" border="0" height="100" src="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/images/gift-certificate.png" width="256" /></a></div>
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Teachers Pay Teachers</div>
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<input alt="Thank You (Typography)" class="gcThumbnailImage" id="appreciation_male_09_us" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/G/01/gc/designs/email/appreciation_male_09_us/appreciation_male_09_us-thumb._V174712931_.gif" type="image" /><br />
Amazon.com</div>
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There are two ways to enter. Follow my blog and leave a comment and/or blog about this giveaway on your blog and leave a comment. Totally easy right?! And who couldn't use a gift certificate to one of these two awesome places?! The giveaway will end one week from today, Thursday, May 3rd. Good luck to all who enter!</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-39519704917826147972012-04-24T18:08:00.001-04:002012-04-24T18:53:09.147-04:00Pinterest Blogger Exchange Treasures & Tippy Tuesday!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hello bloggy friends! Before I share this weeks Tippy Tuesday Tip, I wanted to share the crafts I sent to my Pinterest Blogger Exchange partner, as well as the treasures that were sent to me. First, this is what I sent to Ms Jennifer White from <a href="http://firstgradeblueskies.blogspot.com/">First Grade Blue Skies</a>.</div>
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This is a photo frame used as a Post-It holder. I absolutely love the colors!</div>
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This is a picture frame that I spray painted. I added the scrapbook paper to make a pretty background and spray painted the magnetic clip as well. I added the clip with a little hot glue and voila! An easy to update photo frame! </div>
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These are the 3 (yes 3!) treasures that I got today from Sharon McBee over at <a href="http://www.msmcbeeskinderbugs.blogspot.com/">Ms. McBee's Kinderbugs</a>. She sent me a Post-It note holder which is perfect for me because I can never find them when I need them. She also sent me a picture frame and a crayon pencil holder. I have always wanted to make a crayon craft like this, but was a little chicken. I love the one she sent! And they all have rainbow ribbon on them. That is perfect for me because I love bright colors and patterns! Thanks Ms. McBee!</div>
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And this is today's Tippy Tuesday Tip. I have taught kindergarten and first grade. Sometimes students in these grades have trouble with finger spacing. There are so many options of how to help students make finger spaces, but these are a few of mine. The first is a wiggly eye hot glued to a popsicle stick. I like to call this the wiggly eye that helps see where finger spaces are needed. The second is a bingo dobber. Once taught the proper procedure for using bingo dobbers, students can use a bingo dot for their space marker. The last idea in the picture is a fake fingernail hot glued to a popsicle stick. It may look a little silly, but students love using these to help them make finger spaces. Sometimes just having these tools on their desk can help students remember finger spaces without needing to actually use them. </div>
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And that is all for today. I made another trip to the dentist today and got two more cavities filled. Nine down, one to go!</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-31689475091466532602012-04-23T21:31:00.002-04:002012-04-23T21:56:51.676-04:00Manic Monday Freebie!Tonight I am linking up with Charity Preston's <a href="http://www.classroomfreebies.com/2012/04/welcome-to-manic-monday-at-classroom.html">Manic Monday at Classroom Freebies</a>. What an awesome way to share freebies with so many! So if you have a fab freebie be sure to go link up!<br />
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<center><a href="http://www.classroomfreebies.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Classroom Freebies Manic Monday" src="http://www.theorganizedclassroomblog.com/images/stories/classroom-freebies/manicMondayOrangebutton.png" /></a> </center><br />
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This freebie was inspired by two things. First, I was inspired by the book called <u>Maybe A Bear Ate It!</u> by Robie H. Harris. I just purchased it from Scholastic Book Clubs, but it is also available at Amazon.com. It's cute and inspires a love for books!</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/043992961X/ref=sib_dp_pt#reader-link"><img alt="Maybe A Bear Ate It!" border="0" height="200" id="prodImage" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Km7jDKlxL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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My second inspiration came from, of course, Pinterest. I found a Mad Lib today and had an AHA moment. I used to love to do Mad Libs and thought maybe children today would like to as well. So without further ado here's what you all are here for! I have yet to figure out GoogleDocs, so Scribd is what I am using for now. If you have any tips for using GoogleDocs, feel free to leave a comment!</div>
<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/90907239/Maybe-A-Bear-Ate-It" style="-x-system-font: none; display: block; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 14px/normal Helvetica, Arial, Sans-serif; margin: 12px auto 6px; text-decoration: underline;" title="View Maybe A Bear Ate It! on Scribd">Maybe A Bear Ate It!</a><iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="0.772727272727273" data-auto-height="true" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_99662" scrolling="no" src="http://www.scribd.com/embeds/90907239/content?start_page=1&view_mode=list&access_key=key-225tpcbihofrmbev3ear" width="100%"></iframe>
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Happy Manic Monday!</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-440036644964309702012-04-22T22:55:00.000-04:002012-04-22T22:55:43.229-04:00Field Day Fun IdeasHey everybody. Happy Sunday! Blogger has officially changed, making it seem so complicated:>! Hopefully I can get it all figured out! Anywho, I would love to make a Field Day Fun packet full of ideas for field day. I like to have field day at the end of the year when everybody needs a break. I plan to do some Internet research to find ideas. Just curious, do any of you, my bloggy friends, have any ideas to add to the book? I will make sure to give the creator credit! Leave a comment with any ideas! I will hopefully post it by the end of this week. Have a great week!Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-81269384066692996972012-04-16T20:15:00.002-04:002012-04-16T20:33:56.285-04:00Pinterest Project<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9qFH1c64Pc4/T4y2NvR4coI/AAAAAAAAAFw/q9Duio0m4yc/s640/blogger-image--219996152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9qFH1c64Pc4/T4y2NvR4coI/AAAAAAAAAFw/q9Duio0m4yc/s320/blogger-image--219996152.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Isn't it fantastic?!?! I am participating in A Very Pinteresting Spring Exchange through the <a href="http://teacherbloggerexchange.blogspot.com/">Teacher Blogger Exchange</a> and this is one of the two crafts I am making for my exchange partner. This is actually the one I made for me. The one I made for her I will have to share after the exchange. But I think it is even cuter than mine!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And what do a wiggly eye, a meatball, a bingo dobber, and a fake fingernail have in common? Check back tomorrow to find out:>!</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-83992760974489697712012-04-14T23:47:00.001-04:002012-04-15T18:38:20.625-04:00Pinterest ExchangeDoes anyone else get really stressed about participating in the Teacher Blogger Exchange? I love participating, giving and receiving a gift. However, I get super duper stressed about finding the perfect gift for my partner. And then, after I figure it out, I have to make sure every detail is perfect. Well this time around is even more stressful because it has to be created by me! Deep breaths. Super nervous. I know I should pick something already, but I want it to be just perfect. Does anyone else have such issues or am I all alone?! Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15811970219700829017noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987050495405926805.post-10354166339195738282012-04-11T22:42:00.000-04:002012-04-11T22:42:37.775-04:00What I'm Pinning Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EPIChJ5xBSM/T4Ts0gezlkI/AAAAAAAABws/RRY445akrUI/s1600/WIPW.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EPIChJ5xBSM/T4Ts0gezlkI/AAAAAAAABws/RRY445akrUI/s320/WIPW.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Today I am linking up with Laura at Kinder Kraziness to share some of my favorite pins from this week!<br />
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First up is a great anchor chart from Abby at <a href="http://theinspiredapple.blogspot.com/">The Inspired Apple</a>! I know you all know about her fantabulous artistic abilities! Where does she (and all you others out there) get the artsy fartsy ability?! Most importantly, where can I pick some up? What store? Because I need them ASAP! <br />
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</div><div align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CzMhTagNHFI/T4T1XqwZAUI/AAAAAAAABYM/z4mThHNrAIM/s1600-h/099%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="099" border="0" height="320" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nkYfwKs3oEU/T4T1YG0_QSI/AAAAAAAABYU/2-v-_NYY_ic/099_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="099" width="241" /></a></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="left"></div>Next up is the perfect solution for not having carpet squares! In my last classroom, I had one of those fabulous carpets with the rows and boxes, so each student got their own square. In my next classroom, I fear I won't have that carpet for management. So I love these ViveVita My Spot spots. I think students could put these in their cubbies and grab them when it is time to sit together as a class. Plus, they are cute and colorful. What's not to like?!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="ViveVita Label Itz My Spot Place Marker" border="0" class="prod_image_selector" height="300" jquery1334197945840="59" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41b1GaNE6gL._AA300_.jpg" width="300" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">And lastly is a great organizational pin from <a href="http://fern-smith.blogspot.com/2011/08/organization-read-alouds-by-month.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+FernSmith+%28Fern+Smith%29">Fern Smith's Classroom Ideas</a>! It is a way to organize read alouds by author and month. I have wondered many times about how other teachers organize their read alouds. This is just one example. Does anyone else have a great way to organize read alouds? I would love more ideas for organizing these books!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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And that's all for today! If you have some great pins to share, be sure to link up with Laura!<br />
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