Today we are chatting about math facts. Math fact games to be more specific. You know that getting students to practice math facts is essential. But so many math fact strategies are tedious, boring, and ineffective. So today, I’m sharing two brand new math fact games with you to help students master fact fluency. What is Fact ... Continue Reading
Easy Ways to Differentiate Spelling Lessons
One question I get all the time in my Facebook groups is, “Do I really have to differentiate all my lessons?” And I get it. Differentiation can feel overwhelming. But the truth is you do have to differentiate all your lessons. So, today we are talking about easy ways to differentiate spelling lessons. Often, when teachers think of ... Continue Reading
Why I Stopped Using Writing Journals (And What to Do Instead)
Do you remember learning how to write when you were in school? If you’re like me (and most other teachers of a, ahem, certain age), the answer is probably a resounding, “No. Not one bit.” That’s because we didn’t actually have writing lessons back then. At least not in elementary school. Instead we had writing journals. Usually these were black ... Continue Reading
5 Ways to Use Task Cards at the Beginning of the Year
Task cards are one of my favorite teaching tools. And students love them too! I suggest you introduce this fun and versatile learning activity early on in the school year. It will give your students a chance to get to know one another and let them know right away that your classroom is a fun place to be. Try these 5 ways to use task cards at the ... Continue Reading
3 Important Truths about Teaching You Need To Hear
Happy Labor Day! I know Labor Day wasn’t designed exclusively for teachers, but it sure feels like it could have been. Teaching is definitely a labor of love. #amiright? Teaching has always required a little “extra” something, and in recent years, it’s required a heck of a lot more than that. You teachers are one amazing group! So, whether you are ... Continue Reading
7 Must-Have Manipulatives to Make Your Math Class Awesome!
I love manipulatives! They are the best way to help kids understand new math concepts. And while there are lots of great number of options out there. Today, I am sharing my 7 must-have manipulatives and how I use them in the classroom. How to use math manipulatives I like to use manipulatives when I am introducing a new concept. Using ... Continue Reading
Plan Your Most Successful Writing Workshop with these 5 Tips
I get a lot of questions about teaching writing. How do you find time in your schedule to teach writing? How can you set up a successful writing workshop? What can you do to encourage kids to write more? How can you help students grow as writers? Can teaching writing be fun? A new school year is the perfect time to set up a strong writing ... Continue Reading
How to Make Back to School Fun (for Students and Teachers)
Students and teachers can both feel a mix of emotions on the first day of school. Excitement, happiness, anxiety, sadness, fear . . . Having some fun activities planned for those first few days can help kids transition back to school and show them that your classroom is a fun place to learn. Here are some ways to make back to school fun for ... Continue Reading
Make Back to School Easy with these 5 Simple Tips
It’s back to school season! The first day of school is right around the corner, and that can be a stressful time for teachers. You might be feeling a little sad that summer vacation is over. And even though you are excited to meet your new students, it can be overwhelming to get back into the swing of things. Here are five tips to help make back to ... Continue Reading
How to Organize Your Math Materials
Teaching math can be a lot of fun, especially when you use math workshop. Manipulatives, centers, games, project based learning . . . there are so many great ways to engage students and help them understand math concepts. But figuring out how to store all those math materials can be overwhelming. So, today I’m sharing my best tips for how to ... Continue Reading
Want to beat burnout and LOVE teaching again? Pre-order How to Love Teaching Again today!