Upper Elementary
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Teaching Rhythms
When teaching rhythms to primary students, I heard of this great idea a while back that my students enjoy and understand. I call a quarter note a “walk” and an ... Read this tip
Literature Circle Resources
Here are some excellent resources for teachers who need help with implementing literature circles in their classrooms. by Harvey Daniels is … by Jeni Pollack Day is … by Amy ... Read this tip
Thanksgiving Acrostic Poem Lesson Idea
If you are looking for a quick lesson for the Thanksgiving holiday, you may want to consider an acrostic poem. Introduce students to the format of an acrostic poem – ... Read this tip
Classroom Door Decorations Idea: Student Questions
Fourth graders are very inquisitive and can always come up with some great questions but at inopportune times. I have sticky notes on the side of my door for students to write down questions of an educational nature (you need to define “educational nature” with your students ahead of time) and stick up for later.
Columbus Day Writing Activity
With Columbus Day ahead, we have been studying Christopher Columbus and what life was like back then. We have done several activities and have also read various books about Columbus, his crew, and the hardships involved.
What if Journal Questions
Here’s an activity that will get your students’ imaginations flowing. Either as a whole group or as a journal writing activity, have students respond to what if questions. Here are ... Read this tip
Learning Centers
There is a wonderful book out there called “Practice with Purpose: Literacy Work Stations for Grades 3-6” by Debbie Diller. When you think of centers, you often think the primary ... Read this tip
Silhouettes
I help my 5th graders with tracing silhouettes. After they have cut them out they find words and phrases in magazines to add to their silhouettes representing their thoughts and ... Read this tip
First Day Bingo
As an icebreaker on the first day of school I have played Name Bingo with my second graders. I give each student a blank bingo card and have them wander ... Read this tip
Cozy Classroom
To give my classroom a more comfortable feel, I recently replaced all of my plastic book bins with baskets found at yard sales and flea markets. I also hung curtains, ... Read this tip