tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23185454975236753632024-03-15T06:01:08.868-04:005th Grade TomfooleryBy: Hippie Gypsy TeacherAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-14710153414763401772014-01-02T18:19:00.001-05:002014-01-02T18:21:37.846-05:00My New Love....Anchor Charts!!!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29sukDmMFL3g2MTefEH_qTGA2DgdTLypQrD-Wx0fxJvwLxaR97AwWNj2bN9khgNUxCQnNfkAMhtvV8VrN0CGQ9vxzT7KIRSt-wYFuCKupoJ_EH370afDTie-yxevjhpU22ETKdwsh1STd/s640/blogger-image--1780362073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29sukDmMFL3g2MTefEH_qTGA2DgdTLypQrD-Wx0fxJvwLxaR97AwWNj2bN9khgNUxCQnNfkAMhtvV8VrN0CGQ9vxzT7KIRSt-wYFuCKupoJ_EH370afDTie-yxevjhpU22ETKdwsh1STd/s640/blogger-image--1780362073.jpg"></a></div>I have discovered the wonderful world of anchor charts! I am probably last on the boat for this...but WOW...just...WOW! I only have a few made...but wanted to show them off :) please comment and let me know how you use the in your classroom! I'm so excited!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdzA3sB-I1yAAavwC77Qv1I4KX7zY4DKY7M9nzCRSaXrJnNR-XtyMpDhrt-Gcc2nsKQO8vwxBqoRiiHLmYLj6ubtNFfsplIzheDDl_qsdkU5gkglGt9dkDYSHQ2AtCG7gB5RtCWQXP2aCo/s640/blogger-image--1562191146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdzA3sB-I1yAAavwC77Qv1I4KX7zY4DKY7M9nzCRSaXrJnNR-XtyMpDhrt-Gcc2nsKQO8vwxBqoRiiHLmYLj6ubtNFfsplIzheDDl_qsdkU5gkglGt9dkDYSHQ2AtCG7gB5RtCWQXP2aCo/s640/blogger-image--1562191146.jpg"></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-77821687297662340452013-12-31T20:20:00.000-05:002013-12-31T20:21:09.784-05:00Tough Year...Hello All (or the two of you who have hung in here with me)! LOL<br />
I have been out of the loop for some time now...I didn't realize how long it had been until I finally logged back in to check on things! WOW! Time sure flies! I absolutely love blogging and vow to make it a priority (again). I hope everyone is having a good school year! Mine is...to say the least...challenging! I have a very unique group of students this year. They are a very sweet group, but I have never had an entire group of students that were so comfortable with apathy and dishonesty. I know that sounds awful...but it is the truth. I am struggling with this fact. I would appreciate advice and/or tips on dealing with this. I am trying to stay positive and really do believe we (teachers) have the best job in the world. I would love to hear your stories and how you have dealt with similar situations.<br />
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Thanks for hanging in here with me!<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-79545811830461493592013-06-21T20:32:00.000-04:002013-06-21T20:32:42.824-04:00Classroom Management Strategies 5-10Hello All!<br />
Another installment in my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Classroom-Management-Strategies-Practical-Productive/dp/0545195691/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1371858016&sr=8-1&keywords=classroom+management+24+strategies+every+teacher+needs+to+know"><u>Classroom Management: 24 Strategies Every Teacher Needs to Know</u></a> by David R. Adamson. Enjoy!<br />
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<u><span style="color: #cc0000;">Strategy 5</span></u>: Time Limits: Adamson says that time is our most important resource and I have to agree! My principle calls our school year "the mythical 180 days". Between testing dates, interruptions, meetings, assemblies, field trips, and more testing it is difficult to fit teaching in there! Adamson suggests posting the day's schedule, announcing a clear time limit for each activity, using a timer so that you stay on task, and incorporating "wait time" are a few methods of setting good time limits. As many requirements as we are under pressure to complete...we do not have a moment to spare!<br />
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<u><span style="color: #f1c232;">Strategy 6</span></u>: Seating Arrangements: Adamson says always assign seating! Your seating arrangement should facilitate your movement around the classroom. It should allow for good proximity control as well. We need to be a presence to those students who feel like they are able to "fly under the radar"and remain unseen. He says there is not one perfect arrangement. You must use your judgement and room restrictions (size, capacity, etc.) to determine your set-up. No student should have his or her back to the front of the room and the teacher's area/desk should be tucked away in an accessible yet out of the way area.<br />
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<u><span style="color: #674ea7;">Strategy 7</span></u>: Manage Your Transitions: Always be prepared! Have your lessons ready to go before you begin. Use your attention signal to signal an upcoming change. Give thorough instructions/explanations of the expected task with time limits and an opportunity to ask questions before you begin the activity. That way you do not cut into the activity time by repeating information or having slow-starters. Give a 5 second warning before beginning the next activity. Adamson also says to take some time to settle after recess or a special activity before attempting to begin another activity. He suggests you do this in a location other than your classroom such as outside before you come back inside or lined up in the hall. This sets the classroom up as a place for quiet learning and not chaos. (I like that idea).<br />
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<u><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Strategy 8</span></u>: Teach classroom rules and procedures: We all know this to be true! We must have clear expectations for how we expect our students to behave and how we expect certain tasks to get accomplished. He says we should stick to 5 or fewer classroom rules stated in positive terms (such as "keep our classroom clean" as opposed to "Don't throw trash on the floor". Also, we should explicitly teach them (explain, model, prompt, and review). Rumor has it that it takes at least a dozen (and maybe more) times of doing something before it becomes a habit. I tend to believe more. These directions need to be revisited after breaks in instruction (Christmas holidays, etc.) as well.<br />
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<u><span style="color: #c27ba0;">Strategy 9</span></u>: Show That You Care: This section begins Adamson's portion on building positive relationships in your classroom. He feels that if you build a community of trust and respect...it is much less likely that a student will be disruptive or disrespectful. It makes sense to me! I have seen it at work in my classroom as well. I had a student last year that is THE STUDENT everyone warns you about wayyyy before you get him. I decided to perform an experiment. I found something immediately that the student did really well (he was extremely neat) and began commenting on that during the first week. I did not have one problem out of that student! Now...recess, bus duty, special areas...was a different story. He was his "normal" self in those areas...with the same reputation and expectations he came with. Go figure!<br />
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<u><span style="color: #bf9000;">Strategy 10</span></u>: Build Trust: I think this is extremely important! Sometimes we are the only "rock" that these students can count on. Sometimes there is no consistency to be found in their lives....from where they live, what they eat, what they are or are not allowed to do! We have to "say what we mean...and mean what we say". We have to follow through on the good and the bad. They need to know we are doing what we are doing for their sake. Like my dad always says...actions have consequences! Making exceptions just teaches that rules are made to be broken. (Dad's words) Part of this trust is being professional as well. We must not repeat confidential information or break the trust of a colleague because the info is incredibly juicy! We teach by example.<br />
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Let me know what you think....and what you do in your classrooms!<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-91719323151176892302013-06-14T20:37:00.000-04:002013-06-14T20:37:39.850-04:00Another WONDERFUL Linky!Another wonderful linky has come my way! It is sponsored by <a href="http://www.castlesandcrayons.blogspot.com/">Castles and Cupcakes</a>. Go check her out and join in this informative linky with us! It is all about our morning work and morning routines!<br />
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My daily routine begins when the students are dismissed from the library or cafeteria at 7:50 am. I try really hard to be at the door to greet them and welcome them to our room. I have a "bellringer"on their desks as they arrive. I try to make it something challenging but something they can do independently so that I may take attendance, attend to notes, get lunch count ready to deliver, and guide students who need extra attention. They are required to put their backpacks away, deliver homework to the appropriate turn-in location, sharpen pencils, and use the restroom. Once they complete those things...they know to begin working on the desk work. We take care of housekeeping and then (by about 8:30) we go over the bellringer together. We usually work on English afterward til about 9:15 am (which is time for our special classes). Lots of coffee...and I do mean lots...gets me through this first hour. My students are usually really well-behaved for this first hour because they quickly learn that I am <b><u><span style="color: #cc0000;">not</span></u></b> a morning person! LOL I can't wait to hear from everyone else!<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-23656510942289759982013-06-13T22:21:00.000-04:002013-06-13T22:21:29.388-04:00Book Talk Linky :) <a href="http://readerstars.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://i1144.photobucket.com/albums/o492/acrawfords2/3am_Abdrea_BooktalkButton.png" width="200" /></a><br />
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I'm linking up with <a href="http://readerstars.blogspot.com/">Reading Toward the Stars</a> for her Book Talk Thursday! I can't wait to hear about all the wonderful books people are reading! I've started reviewing a book already so this is perfect for me! Go check everyone's summer reads out!<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-1915954878285316492013-06-11T18:43:00.000-04:002013-06-11T18:43:33.577-04:00Classroom Management: Strategies 1-4Ok...so I started reading this awesome book and I've decided to post by strategies. The first section is <span style="color: #76a5af;">preventative management practices</span>. So many problems can be avoided if we think ahead. I totally believe in this! I am not the best at dealing harshly with situations when they arise...I would much prefer to prevent the situation from occurring and thus I do not have to deal with an uncomfortable situation! :)<br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><u>Strategy 1: Social Cues</u></span>: Social cues consist of stating your desired behavior through praise of someone who is doing that behavior. The premise is that other students desire our praise and will fall into line in order to get that praise. For example: a couple of students are chatting so you comment on how prepared to learn another student is (which gets the off-task student's attention). I try to do this as much as I can :)<br />
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<u><span style="color: #38761d;">Strategy 2: Attention Signals</span></u>: Adamson says that teachers should begin by moving to a central location in the room where they can be seen by all students. Choose a signal (such as a bell, gong, phrase, clap, etc.) that you can live with and that is portable. I chose the phrase "Spongebob"and had the kids follow with "Squarepants" one year and regretted it terribly! Next time...I will choose something I can deal with several times a day...every day! LOL Adamson says it is very important to take the time to make eye contact with EVERY student before moving on. Do not settle for less! They will not take you seriously or believe what you say is important enough to stop what they are doing. At this point, it is appropriate to use a social cue to let students know what is accepted behavior. Then, begin the lesson immediately! Nothing will hold their attention forever! :)<br />
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<u><span style="color: #f1c232;">Strategy 3: Self-Starters</span></u>: I call these "bell-ringers"and totally believe in them! I always have something on their desks when they come in in the morning. They must be well-aware of your expected routine for entering the classroom and then know they are to get immediately started on their seat work. Adamson suggests that these activities only take about 5-10 minutes to complete and they need to be on or a bit below level (or review) so that they can work independently of you to complete them. I prefer for them to take a bit longer because I have a terrible time getting anything done in 5-10 minutes...especially in the mornings! Adamson says make sure you take this assignment up...but he suggests rarely grading it. They do need to be accountable for it however.<br />
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<u><span style="color: #cc0000;">Strategy 4: Proximity Control</span></u>: This is simply making yourself available/visible during all times. As we all know...students will usually stop doing whatever it is they do not need to be doing if they think the teacher is nearby. It is very important (as a preventative) to make it known that you could be anywhere...at anytime! There should not be "blind spots" or "safe areas" for students to misbehave.<br />
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Well...these are the first 4 strategies! Let me know what you think and if you want to know more!<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-10592502057170294262013-06-10T16:09:00.001-04:002013-06-10T16:09:38.665-04:00Classroom Management :)Well...just about a week out of school and I'm feeling a bit antsy! Sad...but true! My desire to catch up on belated housework is waning fast! So...I have decided to catch up on some much overdue professional reading. I pulled a few books off my shelf and decided to hone my teaching skills :) I am going to start with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Classroom-Management-Strategies-Practical-Productive/dp/0545195691/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1370894741&sr=8-1&keywords=classroom+management+david+r+adamson"><u>Classroom Management: 24 Strategies Every Teacher Needs to Know</u></a> by David R. Adamson. I figure we can all use some refreshing classroom management pointers. This year I will be going from a self-contained 5th grade classroom to departmentalization where I will have to organize for 60+ students (as opposed to my 20-25). I need to re-think things. I will post by chapter or by revolutionary idea....whatever comes first!<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-34552717333754291332013-06-06T22:30:00.000-04:002013-06-06T22:30:31.290-04:00Yay! Summertime!!!Hello Long Lost Blogger Friends! You guys probably thought I had dropped off the planet! (Some days I felt as though I had -- or would have liked to)! It was a tough year. No one I have talked to can quite put their finger on why either... My guess is that it is a combination of things. Most of us have had to deal with new responsibilities/standards/curriculum changes and so forth. I had a GREAT class this year and the year seemed to fly...but it was also one of the most difficult for me. I would love to hear others' perspectives and thoughts on this. So far my summer is consisting of working on (gutting) a new (to us) camper! My family was lucky enough to run upon a really good deal on a 20 ft pull-behind camper. It needs some work but we are all really excited about the possibilities. My daughter and I have busied ourselves repainting. My husband is ripping out carpet and laying laminate (very nicely...I might add...even though he has never attempted this before.) This is turning out to be a much larger endeavor than we planned. I will keep you updated :) I would love to hear from you all again!<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-84916182638565730642013-01-31T18:18:00.000-05:002013-01-31T18:18:07.330-05:00Confusion in the Classroom!Well...I do not know if I am alone in this or not....but...I feel totally confused in my classroom right now! With our unexpected days out for flooding and a bit of snowfall here and there...I do not know which end is up! We read a lot of novels together in class and I feel so disjointed with the absences! I feel like I am taking one step up and three steps back! Am I alone in this??? My math lessons feel like I have to review before I go on (as usual)...but...I do not feel like I am going very far forward for all the backing up I have to do! I guess I just need to know I have some brothers and sisters "in arms" out there! LOL How are you guys dealing with these things? I could use some advice! We have our 5th grade State-Mandated Writing Assessment next week and I feel very lost with the new format. Basically...I am not feeling very effective this year but I am working with the same (if not greater) "vigor" that I have always put into it. Just looking for some friendly feedback :) Thanks so much!!<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-91164416444990647232013-01-21T20:02:00.000-05:002013-01-21T20:02:37.211-05:00My Birthday Boards :)Yes....today is my birthday! Yay, me! It has been a good, quiet, lazy day. They are rare and I am thankful for the opportunity to lay around, read, and just be with my kids. My mom made me a cheesecake, my husband got me a Wonder Woman coffee mug and a new mystery/crime novel, and my crafty daughters made me some cool stuff! I can't wait to share it with you :) I am waiting on permission to share a book with you. It is the best "teaching manual" I have ever run across. I have been teaching almost 10 years and it is stuff I wish someone had told me! It is a good source for renewing procedures, practicing new ones, and reorganizing (something most of us have on our New Year's list of to-do's.) Please stay tuned and i'll let you know something as soon as I do!<br />
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My girls made these cool cork/black boards for me! Also, a calendar behind glass :) I love the vintage frames they put them in! My children are a true blessing!</div>
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-54752206078705261062013-01-16T19:32:00.000-05:002013-01-16T19:35:59.890-05:00Weekly Homework Sheet FreebieThanks to some awesome bloggy buddies...I am going to attempt to share my first freebie! It is a simple homework sheet that I created to help me keep up with student work. Let me know if it is editable...I sure hope it is! The names in there are my wonderful kids this year! I got soooo lucky! I have some of <a href="http://mskerriandherkrazykindergarten.blogspot.com/">Ms. Kerri's Krazy Class</a> (from her first year of teaching!!) I am honored! Well, let me try to share! Here Goes!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0u1bbMsOeL0rIHBIacKQJkL7vgXU3hBZfT_Ywg5KkqZmFYEuegv5Jbs6RVBPy2ReF4ih3yN0S4_quvRdzyosu5MohErP-yI5TjqC8Kt8xrZ0L-Ylm9FDzWTIWj55haiKyBQfHuXVeaZms/s1600/photo(39).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0u1bbMsOeL0rIHBIacKQJkL7vgXU3hBZfT_Ywg5KkqZmFYEuegv5Jbs6RVBPy2ReF4ih3yN0S4_quvRdzyosu5MohErP-yI5TjqC8Kt8xrZ0L-Ylm9FDzWTIWj55haiKyBQfHuXVeaZms/s320/photo(39).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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(sorry there is such a bad pic of it!)</div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B1Fu6XYLtImbTmlqOWFJay00dnM/edit">Weekly Homework Sheet</a><br />
(a special thanks to Marcia for e-mailing me her wonderful directions for how to do this!) </div>
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-20881035056008279622013-01-16T11:27:00.000-05:002013-01-16T11:27:02.953-05:00In need of some "bloggy" help :)Hello all,<br />
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I spend about 90 percent (or at least it feels like 90 %) of my "free" time creating stuff to use with my students. Since I have become a small part of this fantastic blogging community with all of its wonderful, sharing, inspiring teachers, I feel the need to share things too. One problem: I need someone to show/tell me how. Most of my stuff is PowerPoint, Promethean Board Flipcharts, or Word documents. I have no idea how to give others access to those things. I am fairly "techy" but I still have lots to learn (young grasshopper!). I created a sheet to keep up with completed homework and it turned out pretty worthy. I would love to share it with anyone interested. If you have a kind heart and a few minutes to spare....I would welcome a tutorial on sharing. :)<br />
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Thanks so much!<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-41626547882948798682013-01-07T05:48:00.000-05:002013-01-07T05:48:20.953-05:00Check out this AWESOME Giveaway!!Hello all...<br />
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I want you to be sure to check out this AWESOME giveaway going on over at <a href="http://rockinteachermaterials.blogspot.com/">Rockin'Teacher Materials</a>!!! Put your name in the hat for some awesome teaching materials tailored to your exact grade level! <br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-38573633206209653522013-01-01T13:32:00.000-05:002013-01-01T13:33:44.689-05:00January "Currently"Ok...it's been a while since I've attempted a "Currently"....but here goes :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit4XL_d12m7s5GIGUmJ1eLS7J4dFmz5WTgPcPmGUyWweeUTRIpwf4dNxf6dRmr-Jpq_MKnfCJtbkQoAVL7WKymorRIccpa5-O6mTC3RMlebpCft3nnIwgjNo5pzDTWFzQHDKTHgXgjOarq/s1600/Picture2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit4XL_d12m7s5GIGUmJ1eLS7J4dFmz5WTgPcPmGUyWweeUTRIpwf4dNxf6dRmr-Jpq_MKnfCJtbkQoAVL7WKymorRIccpa5-O6mTC3RMlebpCft3nnIwgjNo5pzDTWFzQHDKTHgXgjOarq/s320/Picture2.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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O.K......because it is microscopic and the best I could do....I will elaborate slightly :)<br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><u><b>Listening</b></u></span>: to my awesome wood fire crackle.....need I say more????<br />
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<u><span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>Loving</b></span>:</u> spending time with my own children and reading! I love having my kids around! My daughter is building a house and staying with me through the holidays! Her husband is trying to get transferred to our area. This is such a special time for us! <br />
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<b><span style="color: #a64d79;"><u>Thinking</u></span></b>: about ways to better organize my classroom and teaching. I have too many piles and great ideas that are just stagnating! I need to organize and have a better system! Great ideas and plans are nothing if not implemented!! Wish me luck!<br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><u><b>Wanting</b></u></span>: to find a better balance between home and school. Most of my waking hours are spent focused on something "school" related. I can't go to an interstate rest area without looking at travel brochures and wondering how I can incorporate them into my teaching! It has to be a diagnosable sickness!!! I have got to find a better balance!<br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><u><b>Needing</b></u></span>: to take better care of myself - mentally and physically! I am feeling more like Jabba the Hut every day! I have got to start eating better and getting more exercise! I believe my general attitude would improve if I felt better physically!!<br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><u><b>OWL</b></u></span>: kindness...we need more of it in the world :)<br />
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Here is a link to <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2012/12/currently-january.html">Farley's Currently stuff</a>...you can get a better idea of what this is supposed to look like there! LOL And also blank templates to carry on this good work :)<br />
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Enjoy your New Year!!<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-45108331868402236302012-12-31T16:18:00.000-05:002012-12-31T16:18:46.408-05:00Class List from Pinterest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkhuaJ3xeTO_sX0qc07MmuPEvLQFb8ZkNSpYsfSGvdr_JQm7KRQHMr2pmZvR9tUfKgXceu0pq7BfXKt2mQWpPxmgyQp81ms71FWQrGB4x614HKR7mNeKg014WqSXryg4tOSLEqyA7vRSCo/s1600/pic+list.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkhuaJ3xeTO_sX0qc07MmuPEvLQFb8ZkNSpYsfSGvdr_JQm7KRQHMr2pmZvR9tUfKgXceu0pq7BfXKt2mQWpPxmgyQp81ms71FWQrGB4x614HKR7mNeKg014WqSXryg4tOSLEqyA7vRSCo/s320/pic+list.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I have been wanting to do this since I first saw this on Pinterest. I finally did it! I am hoping it will help with everyday "housekeeping" duties! My thoughts are: keeping up with returned progress reports, transportation forms, report cards, daily stuff in general. I would love to know your ideas! My plan is to use Visa-a-vie wet erase markers on it. I hope everyone has a safe and wonderful New Year's Eve!!!!<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-86422894854654969172012-12-29T13:41:00.000-05:002012-12-29T13:41:53.259-05:00Semi-finished Podium :)O.k.....so here's the low-down on the podium: I'm officially obsessed with it! I was running around like a crazy woman looking for book jackets of books I really liked to include on it! I didn't stop last night until I looked down and saw that I had almost covered (a bit exaggerated) my fav yoga pants with Mod Podge!!! LOL I knew it was time for bed! I woke up to my daughter (a teacher as well...who is staying with me while her house is being built) hunting and gathering all the Christmas "stuff" into piles to pack away. I had to divert my attention temporarily to help her with that endeavor! I finally got a sec to post my new pics....so here goes:<br />
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This is the front view. I have a few that wrap around to the sides a bit and my plan is to cover my sides as well. But I started thinking (ut-oh!!!).......I am going to ask my kids if they have any book jackets from their favorite stories that they might be willing to sacrifice for "the cause"...I thought they might feel a sense of pride seeing their favs on it!!??? What do you all think??? If they don't...I will continue as planned and just add at school. If they do....wow! What a treasure for me! Below I will add a couple of pics (close ups) so you can see a bit more detail on the books I have chosen. The beauty of it is.....I can cover up anything at any time with new ones if I so desire! My teacher daughter is considering doing this with classics (she teaches high school). I was honored that she liked it enough to consider it :)<br />
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Top part (of the front)</div>
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Bottom part (of the front)</div>
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Please let me know what you think! Include your blog address so I can visit!!!</div>
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-40315034443025207092012-12-28T17:32:00.000-05:002012-12-28T17:32:59.424-05:00Back in the Proverbial Saddle! :)Hello all,<br />
I am back and ready to get serious about my blog again! (About time...huh?) <b><u>Number 1</u></b>: I have realized that the most important thing in life is not to have a million followers...it is to share and learn from fellow bloggers and visitors and make the most out of it! <u><b>Number 2</b></u>: Good blogs...or really good blogs take time. That is something that is scarce and precious to me! I am going to do the best I can but with so many obligations....I may never compare to some of you that are simply AMAZING! I will learn from you and stop putting so much pressure on myself! (Who needs that???) <u><b>Number 3:</b></u> Blogging is an INCREDIBLE experience that I treasure and have made a pledge to myself to post at least once a week. It may not be much...but I need to touch base with the people who do follow me and that I follow. This is an amazing community!<br />
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Ok...enough rambling...I am getting crafty again! I bought a new (to me) podium on Craigslist today. I absolutely love it! It is exactly what I have been looking for! It is a great height...the shelves are awesome....and it is solid wood! Hard to find solid wood anymore! It has a few scratches but that's ok because I have a plan!!! My friend, the art teacher, gave me a box of old book jackets that someone gave her. (thoughtful, huh??!!) My plan is to cover the back and sides with these covers. I am known as the "Mod-Podge Queen" in certain circles and far be it for me to let my kingdom down!! LOL Seriously, I have put a few of them on already and I am going to post what I have so far. It is still a work in progress and I will post as I work on it. I don't think I have taken a picture of the shelving (which I am not messing with) but its nice and I will show you that as well.<br />
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As Purchased:</div>
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Another View:</div>
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My Work so far....</div>
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It's kinda hard to tell...the lighting is off...but I am please so far! I love the idea of displaying book covers! If I get tired of any of these I can just Mod Podge another over the top of it! I would love to know your thoughts or suggestions! <br /><div style="text-align: center;">
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-4319880941528087442012-12-25T23:53:00.000-05:002012-12-25T23:53:14.311-05:00I am soooo sorry!Wow! How did this happen? Has it really been 3-4 months since i've posted???? To say things have been hectic is an understatement!! I appreciate anyone who hasn't given up on me! Let me just start by saying I have the most wonderful class of my 5th grade career! They are the best behaved, most adorable, sweetest (and at times...the most pitiful) class I have ever had! I was a bit worried about this year because there was a possibility that I was going to get an autistic boy with quite a reputation in my class. Well....I DID and he is the biggest blessing in my life! My class is amazing and he leads the pack in the amazing department! Don't get me wrong....he has his moments! But overall...I wouldn't change places with anyone in my school! I can't wait to post more and tell you soooo much about my wonderful students! But this is Christmas night and my hubby has to work in the morning! LOL I can't wait to catch up on everybody's classrooms and lives in general! God Bless you all and Merry Christmas! It feels good to be back!!!<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-24795452851337331772012-09-13T20:07:00.000-04:002012-09-13T20:07:05.265-04:00Wow! It's been a while :) AKA Shamless PlugFirst...I am very sorry! It has been FOREVER since I have posted! I hope that one or two of you are still with me! I am sure we are all in the same boat, so I will not bore you with how busy I have been :) It has been a crazy time, though! We have added a large deck onto our house, had some interior home repairs, and school starting all in one huge swoop! I am not sure we have had time to come up for air! Let me also say....I LOVE my new 5th graders! They are awesome (even the stinkers). I have a clearly divided class. I have about 5 students who are higher than any 5th graders I have ever taught...and then I have students about as low as I have ever taught. I can see that this year will really be a challenge! I hope I am up to it! It excites me to think about such a challenge! I would appreciate any and all comments/suggestions that you guys have! I have also been making myself crazy with Pinterest projects! I see sooooo many things I want to do/make/cook/post/try... I have really got to limit myself! But this stuff is sooooo cool! I have done a couple of things that I have pictures of (posted below). I also wanted to give you guys a look at my new deck. I am really excited about that as well! It has opened up a whole new world to our home! Please keep in touch and keep me motivated! Thank you all!<br />
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I found this awesome use for paint chips on Pinterest. I used it to keep usernames and passwords for my students' programs. We grab these on the way to the computer lab and hang them beside the computer (on a plastic hook) when we are in the room (in case of brain freeze :)...<br />
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This is the small side of our new deck! It's rough and unfinished but we love it! This is the small side (about 6 x 24)...if you round the corner, it goes around a dogwood tree and then expands to 24 x 24! We opted for 4 feet wide stairs on both ends (I would highly recommend!!) BTW....we've only lived here 12 years without anything on the back or side of the house!<br />
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Thanks for letting me boast :)</div>
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-19775573581812878652012-08-05T21:55:00.000-04:002012-08-05T22:04:04.423-04:00The Together Teacher - Chapter 5First...I am soooo sorry for taking so long to get back to my book talk! Shame on me! I have been very caught up in back-to-school preparations and crafty projects that my mind has drifted from this awesome book!<br />
Without further ado....<br />
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<li><u><b>Chapter 5 - A Week's Worth of Readiness...How to Look Ahead</b></u></li>
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In this chapter, Maia goes through the steps of creating a Weekly or Daily Worksheet. She begins by making a connection that I bet we can all relate to: the totebag that comes home Friday evening and sits in one place until sometime Sunday when we go in to panic mode! It sure rings true to me! I have such good intentions. But life tends to get in the way and my tote full of "good intentions" sits patiently in the corner until I can put it off no more! This chapter's worksheet helps us schedule our time and is more of an hour to hour schedule of our day. This list needs to be portable and constantly reviewed. It is not a to-do list but rather a schedule of your time.<br />
The <u>weekly or daily worksheet</u> should allow you to do:<br />
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<li>Capture incoming to-do's and thoughts...</li>
<li>Do the work that needs to be done... </li>
<li>Look ahead and review what still needs to be done...</li>
<li>Plan how you will spend your upcoming time...</li>
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Maia gives several very cool <a href="http://www.thetogetherteacher.com/resources/weekly-worksheets/">examples of worksheets</a> on her accompanying CD...<strike>I will try my hand at showing you in PDF form one of her examples... </strike>o.k. so I can't figure out how to attach ANYTHING but a picture to my blog! I tried....give me brownie points for trying please :P If anyone out there would care to teach me how to add PDFs or Word Document to my blog...I would follow you forever!!! LOL Seriously...I could use some help from one of you awesome blogging buddies!<br />
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Basically you need to make sure you cover: Priorities, Deadlines, Upcoming to-dos, Phone calls/e-mails, personal duties, copies to make, and next week. (These are only a few examples).<br />
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You can check Maia's website for more examples: <a href="http://www.thetogetherteacher.com/">The Together Teacher</a> <br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-38526167713858754532012-07-29T00:22:00.001-04:002012-07-29T00:22:22.831-04:00My "Prize" Box :)O.k....I have been secretly working on a project for some time now! A couple of my besties are aware...but no more than that. This project has been top-secret for one major reason: I am dipping my toe into the crafty pool! I do not normally consider myself very crafty, but I have been testing my oh-so-new skills. I absolutely LOVE crafty things. One of my biggest inspirations has been my friend and colleague, Kerri, from <a href="http://mskerriandherkrazykindergarten.blogspot.com/2012/07/blogiversary-winner-flash-freebie-and.html">Ms. Kerri's and her Krazy Klass</a>. She is VERY crafty. She has motivated me to at least try. I decided to try my hand at making a new "prize box" for my classroom. I love to give out prizes! I have tried all kinds of containers and was not satisfied. Kerri pointed me in the direction of a plastic treasure chest-type bin in the home decor section of Wal-Mart. They had 2 colors: blue and red. I decided on the blue (not really sure why because I was going to cover it totally anyway!) This is what it looked like when I bought it:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEI8GBNkB5YKIhXYVmj5HZkD3d71ZuEOYPAwwS1X0EEFKeE-JW-2HkRfzelG7X8kRQSr7GbEsAD8U8KUfM7rpFxdoce32n0YMQ6r07YTlc51ybDI_n3Oz-WoKQC6eB4w02rcYuIJ7qqSpq/s1600/supplies+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEI8GBNkB5YKIhXYVmj5HZkD3d71ZuEOYPAwwS1X0EEFKeE-JW-2HkRfzelG7X8kRQSr7GbEsAD8U8KUfM7rpFxdoce32n0YMQ6r07YTlc51ybDI_n3Oz-WoKQC6eB4w02rcYuIJ7qqSpq/s320/supplies+4.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgENhTYT2uOYsX3zRNkmtPrJ8_9URiDBO4Z-R0qHtXs58JYKb7RkgzlttGivzV6Bdmbu17H9LpywlXiR0nzS-Hb1fIEsMcBdZRfur8W59ZR1Ljr7b6L4nzRB7HKlhDgInXKGeRo_oxo6yd6/s1600/supplies+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgENhTYT2uOYsX3zRNkmtPrJ8_9URiDBO4Z-R0qHtXs58JYKb7RkgzlttGivzV6Bdmbu17H9LpywlXiR0nzS-Hb1fIEsMcBdZRfur8W59ZR1Ljr7b6L4nzRB7HKlhDgInXKGeRo_oxo6yd6/s320/supplies+3.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I began this project with the thought of turning this box into a true treasure chest. I went immediately to the local craft store and the scrapbook superstore to look for paper and do-dads to make my new blue box into a gorgeous treasure chest. Well....that didn't happen! I couldn't find anything! Plan B...I began looking around and decided to go another route. I found some stickers, paper, and paint to turn my box into a steam chest that had the look of one that had been well-traveled. Here are a few things I picked up for it:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIAHflPuCQLLMePAI2AANlIxWiQAy8ujpgPhpmtNhrAiwCJ8C0ekEI8ftu2hiDIixsn2vOq6ncYakwtudtgbO_543WZV4mjC2_Eij1oyJE5EX7f1maGn8MkUZMX7_Fcumr8Jl0nOUzdSOj/s1600/supplies+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIAHflPuCQLLMePAI2AANlIxWiQAy8ujpgPhpmtNhrAiwCJ8C0ekEI8ftu2hiDIixsn2vOq6ncYakwtudtgbO_543WZV4mjC2_Eij1oyJE5EX7f1maGn8MkUZMX7_Fcumr8Jl0nOUzdSOj/s320/supplies+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgffXht7CsMQecfnMehDDnV8GiDXVztbBEURZo9T_XlGDS60ZVUTCfqsxitCxbvwqOnFeO2ZLRSe5kFAz4wsQNPxsONIFym8Im7u4RhKivNZPKs0OqGutCYu0C9u0YtmNZxFcRObvmGvBjy/s1600/supplies+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgffXht7CsMQecfnMehDDnV8GiDXVztbBEURZo9T_XlGDS60ZVUTCfqsxitCxbvwqOnFeO2ZLRSe5kFAz4wsQNPxsONIFym8Im7u4RhKivNZPKs0OqGutCYu0C9u0YtmNZxFcRObvmGvBjy/s320/supplies+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
After covering the chest with brown tissue paper (which actually really worked out well...ended up really adding to the leather look)...and covering it with about a gallon (not really) of Mod Podge...I was able to paint the nobby things to look like brass buttons and the straps to look like leather carry straps. I added the state and country stickers and another coat of Mod Podge. I am pleased with the way it turned out! I would love to hear what you think of it! Remember....I am a newbie crafter...Be nice :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIx1A3E0lZPKeS9ESl0NFAVzlDG8B_rRxItswUi7yqVKODLt-9NvN2wJH9-tJvJLiPEohhxMgGKvWvT8d2NwHL3U6ExxURCiIOvMwWkjzr2Ex_0cBDt1ASlOAKBuriO1qvzcidvevY8Il7/s1600/F+Chest+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIx1A3E0lZPKeS9ESl0NFAVzlDG8B_rRxItswUi7yqVKODLt-9NvN2wJH9-tJvJLiPEohhxMgGKvWvT8d2NwHL3U6ExxURCiIOvMwWkjzr2Ex_0cBDt1ASlOAKBuriO1qvzcidvevY8Il7/s320/F+Chest+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTGkVmWBfZzfQc-UaGQ7izn2s16nlrzi0N7QeBP9XzeDyYhkkrD3kP96vxAZd0P9X0-Y_aTsO9kNE-WqEgoWYQgWVokxHGssXMeOvn69xMjgoRLijJc-j_S93mwvVNwaQexbBiMnyDI54W/s1600/F+Chest+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTGkVmWBfZzfQc-UaGQ7izn2s16nlrzi0N7QeBP9XzeDyYhkkrD3kP96vxAZd0P9X0-Y_aTsO9kNE-WqEgoWYQgWVokxHGssXMeOvn69xMjgoRLijJc-j_S93mwvVNwaQexbBiMnyDI54W/s320/F+Chest+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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My New Prize Box</div>
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-68388946941528686332012-07-27T14:09:00.000-04:002012-07-27T14:10:46.865-04:00"Preparing for School" Linky Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://crouseallstars.blogspot.com/2012/07/preparing-for-school-linky-party.html"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4YgaGUDVb9_0Bp_tfe_QDOmu_JA2l0BT652hSOL5m15B46pDGAtl9xIA_xonwu-pzxYvPH0a0GubZQOmjC-NaUUDpQKt42WwEfTAL0uF1CZPIC2Fy2MTqj42GNFuUFS5ky2j8vhC82BQ1/s200/preparing+for+school+linky.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Join me at <a href="http://crouseallstars.blogspot.com/2012/07/preparing-for-school-linky-party.html">6th Grade All-Stars</a> for this GREAT linky!</div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">1. Post about this linky party on your blog<br />2. Follow my blog (<a href="http://5thgradetomfoolery.blogspot.com/">5th Grade Tomfoolery</a><a href="http://crouseallstars.blogspot.com/"></a>)<br />3. Answer the following 5 questions (include documents if you have them):</span></div>
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<b>- What grade do you teach?</b></div>
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<b>- What is the greatest advice you received during your 1st year of teaching?</b></div>
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<b>- Do you have a checklist that you follow when preparing your classroom (include the checklist)?</b></div>
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<b>- What are some must haves in your classroom that you cannot live without (ex. items, books, posters, management strategies)?</b></div>
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<b>- What is something that all teachers should have in their classroom?</b></div>
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Don't forget to add your link and put your answers in a comment!! :)</div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">MY ANSWERS:</span> </div>
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<ol>
<li style="color: magenta;">I teach 5th grade (this is my 3rd year, before that I taught 6th, 7th, and 8th - Literature) </li>
<li style="color: blue;">I didn't receive too much advice....kinda felt like a fish out of water! That is one reason I love blogging sooooo much! It is such a sharing/caring opportunity!</li>
<li style="color: #6aa84f;">I do have a checklist I follow....I add to it every year as I see things I can improve for the next. I will add it as soon as I convert it to PDF....check back with me later!</li>
<li style="color: #990000;">Must-haves....lots of extra supplies....soooo many kids come unprepared! I have had them show up with no pencil! What are they expecting???? Jumping Jacks all day???? Also, lots of coffee and anxiety meds! Most of all....a sense of humor and love in your heart! You may be the only hug they get!!!</li>
<li style="color: #f1c232;">The feeling that their classroom is a safe and secure environment! Make it so that they feel like they can be open, honest, and free to make mistakes and learn from them!</li>
</ol>
I can't wait to read everyone else's (more intelligent) answers :) </div>
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-56074459554420976592012-07-23T00:19:00.001-04:002012-07-23T00:19:15.833-04:00"To-Do" Linky :)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzV1oqnue-grExCZj4ViNBsYb-CEWSpvNLoVi7JIzJH2iNAxMy07DkcGeMhwlSiLzAKoYxUjOo30qly4KrG2PreyYlj6WB-pc2vTaUbXO-UlOdMQEhjdOVXnsq3SAnkIMN27anOGbRJnIw/s1600/Linkypartypic-to+do.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzV1oqnue-grExCZj4ViNBsYb-CEWSpvNLoVi7JIzJH2iNAxMy07DkcGeMhwlSiLzAKoYxUjOo30qly4KrG2PreyYlj6WB-pc2vTaUbXO-UlOdMQEhjdOVXnsq3SAnkIMN27anOGbRJnIw/s320/Linkypartypic-to+do.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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This should be an ongoing linky! LOL Thanks to <a href="http://mrsbsbest.blogspot.com/2012/07/to-do-list-linky-party.html?showComment=1343014644677#c6482663424451707545">Mrs. B's Best</a> for hosting this! I ALWAYS have a to-do list going and most times there's more school "to-do"s on it than anything else! I will make this brief, though. I have tried to work on a bit at a time...minus the fact between blogging and Pinterest I am over-extended :) ...I have already begun more than I can possibly complete before school begins! I have gotten quite crafty this summer and I'm in over my head! LOL O.K...<span style="color: magenta;">.</span><br />
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<u><span style="color: magenta;"><b>H</b><b>ere's my top 10</b></span>:</u></div>
<ol>
<li>Finish "<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Mod Podging</span>" my new treasure box project (<u>Check back with me</u> because it is almost finished and I can't wait for feedback on it!!!)</li>
<li>Organize my <span style="color: #cc0000;">"Back-to-School</span>" first week activities! What a mess! I have some new things to spice it up a bit this year! :)</li>
<li>Get my hands on 3 more <span style="color: yellow;">beanbags</span> so that I have a class set!</li>
<li><span style="color: #76a5af;">Weed-eat</span> at my mom's house for her...it is starting to look like a Honduran Jungle over there!!</li>
<li>Work on <span style="color: #ea9999;">Promethean lessons</span>....something I have been putting off for some time now!</li>
<li>Continue to <span style="color: orange;">organize my computer files</span>...a bit worse looking than my mom's yard!!</li>
<li>Have <span style="color: blue;">lunch with friends</span> before the craziness starts back!</li>
<li><span style="color: lime;">Read</span> up <span style="color: lime;">on</span> successful <span style="color: lime;">grouping</span>...sorry for the language but...I <strike>suck</strike>/stink at it! I hate doing it and feel like a failure when I try. I need to observe someone who does it well!</li>
<li>Read something for pleasure...preferably a <span style="background-color: magenta; color: magenta;"><span style="background-color: white;"></span><span style="background-color: #f4cccc;"><span style="background-color: white;">J.D. Robb</span><span style="background-color: white;"> novel</span></span></span>...(I'm secretly in love with Roarke...please don't tell my hubby! LOL)</li>
<li><span style="color: red;">Go swimming</span>....as many times as I can!</li>
</ol>
O.K....I could have easily kept going...but you get the idea! I can't wait to read everyone else's list! <br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-8743074804225400532012-07-19T20:32:00.001-04:002012-07-19T20:32:22.625-04:00Guilty Pleasures Linky<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-EfFTWS_MnZ0XJ1pQXqqfJj9wA-3Q4SWxElMIgRfAZdykTVg5GZdgWGMgmttLQpVJUyiHcYe-_lVlHYm6oLP0CZAVfaCedtMljUPfWB3iXHxvd3dsH-aOe-1ZN658I8ZXe4rB6DNKEjCQ/s1600/GuiltyPleasureLinkyPic-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-EfFTWS_MnZ0XJ1pQXqqfJj9wA-3Q4SWxElMIgRfAZdykTVg5GZdgWGMgmttLQpVJUyiHcYe-_lVlHYm6oLP0CZAVfaCedtMljUPfWB3iXHxvd3dsH-aOe-1ZN658I8ZXe4rB6DNKEjCQ/s320/GuiltyPleasureLinkyPic-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://missashleysresourceroom.blogspot.com/2012/07/whats-your-guilty-pleasure-linky-party.html">The Resource Room Teacher </a></div>
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I am pleased to join this linky! We all have guilty pleasures....here are a few of mine:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxRXKpsf7xOrXjicE9N569lQNOYmt0Tk8a2mntCk6a4s44NpwlgyfoKog3FVWix2Pi0WTlXTbW5TMsLGbrzA3Mp8pIE9gaikJm-n_cmQO4n4Wlhm30sblycrOljLaGkxYQw5VFeSdUXeQ/s1600/iced+coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxRXKpsf7xOrXjicE9N569lQNOYmt0Tk8a2mntCk6a4s44NpwlgyfoKog3FVWix2Pi0WTlXTbW5TMsLGbrzA3Mp8pIE9gaikJm-n_cmQO4n4Wlhm30sblycrOljLaGkxYQw5VFeSdUXeQ/s1600/iced+coffee.jpg" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>Iced Coffee...addiction doesn't even begin to cover it! </li>
<li>The ID Channel....I'm pretty sure my husband is on his best behavior because I am quite capable of forensic trickery! LOL (Stay away from the red carpet fibers! They will do you in every time!!! LOL)</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33HuCNAvj767VJH0CCNgC96P8pUr0aO9eo9nNMCGC1cun1FQn5_k1bVmeMu9sxtUR0ClXQ5NQkDYcC7xXb43mK_2RfT_qQW-kSew6JqjcwpGrlUC180TtLrjilPq9VPXbRPtcqqQxre4b/s1600/ID+channel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33HuCNAvj767VJH0CCNgC96P8pUr0aO9eo9nNMCGC1cun1FQn5_k1bVmeMu9sxtUR0ClXQ5NQkDYcC7xXb43mK_2RfT_qQW-kSew6JqjcwpGrlUC180TtLrjilPq9VPXbRPtcqqQxre4b/s1600/ID+channel.jpg" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>Samoas...I could eat my weight in them! Darn those Girl Scouts!!!! :)</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDyb6-_gPPpmm_S8Cu2IEKM-yrgcoHpN3pmmJ6Ybwoqy3fEmGo3hfMNGJRYQmqD-Nu4-palOvx3VokU5HmJhrG8dO4fpZ6ItEGXgtTC4_RIa_cYPXw8_IjATTNQ8J4LGLKe7VDMjh6QKK/s1600/samoa+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDyb6-_gPPpmm_S8Cu2IEKM-yrgcoHpN3pmmJ6Ybwoqy3fEmGo3hfMNGJRYQmqD-Nu4-palOvx3VokU5HmJhrG8dO4fpZ6ItEGXgtTC4_RIa_cYPXw8_IjATTNQ8J4LGLKe7VDMjh6QKK/s1600/samoa+cookies.jpg" /></a></div>
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O.K....that's probably enough!! LOL Now I'm hungry and thirsty! <a href="http://missashleysresourceroom.blogspot.com/2012/07/whats-your-guilty-pleasure-linky-party.html">Link up and join us</a>!!!</div>
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2318545497523675363.post-843201681514886252012-07-19T08:50:00.002-04:002012-07-20T10:39:36.702-04:00Leibster Award!Just a quick post to say "Thank You" to <a href="http://insidethisbookblog.blogspot.com/">Inside the Book Blog</a> for the new award! It means more than you know! I want to nominate awesome blogs as well!<br />
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<a href="http://insidethisbookblog.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG3vGJhV0gIFxrCHzjYmbenYyxbzNrdgqLeUZg-8zJ-35Dcl-zMXNkUjeOxcLXsea24T_qj4ow7F6b6A5gSLgyjOIOSW4OaT_uIy7t6b9A01giPXW9brvpjJWjQf0S0iq8hI7ulOozdZuF/s1600/Liebster+Blog+Award.png" /></a></div>
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(feel free to choose the button above or the pretty pink one on the right...thanks to Tamara at <a href="http://www.teachingwithtlc.com/">Teaching with TLC</a>!!) <br />
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Nominees: </div>
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<a href="http://trefz.blogspot.com/">Mrs. Trefz's 5th Grade Blog</a></div>
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<a href="http://mesmrswhitesclass.blogspot.com/">Mrs. White's 5th Grade Class</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teachingwithtlc.com/">Teaching with TLC</a></div>
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<a href="http://willgradeforcoffee.blogspot.com/">Will Grade for Coffee</a></div>
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<a href="http://coderstalk.blogspot.com/">Coder's Talk</a> (super site for the "tech nerd" in you)</div>
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Check out these AWESOME Blogs!! Congrats, guys!</div>
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<b>OK ladies, it's your turn! Here are the rules:</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: small;">1. Link back to the person who gave it to you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: small;">2. Post the award to your blog.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: small;">3. Give the award to at least 5 bloggers with less than 200 followers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: small;">4. Leave a comment on the 5 blogs to let them know that they have been offered this award.</span></div>
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<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/Tomfoolery/sgn1.png" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04774099990159526536noreply@blogger.com2