Organization: Last year was the first year I really used task cards, so I have been trying to figure out how to store them. I'm going to try storing them by unit in coupon holders. I'm hoping that will help me to remember which units I have task cards for! I also need to completely reorganize my math files. They are broken down by chapter, but I am creating new units that align with CCSS so I need to adjust my files accordingly.
Planning: I am still working on aligning my math to CCSS. My current curriculum is aligned to PA state standards, so I will need to create all new tests, tic-tac-toe boards, and assignments for my kiddos. I have some great items that I plan to buy from TPT, but there are some things I want to make myself (like my assessments.) I have three weeks to finish them before school starts!
Professional: I'm in the midst of preparing for a two day workshop that I am co-teaching next week. It's all about implementing the CCSS in a Reading Workshop. I'm really excited to teach it, but also nervous! This will be my first time teaching my peers for an all day workshop. (Never-mind the fact that this one is two days!) The other times I've presented it was a "break-out session," which only lasted 75 min. I am thankful that I am co-teaching! Starting at the end of August I am taking a graduate course, so I am trying to wrap my brain around that as well.
Students: My goal is to get to know my students early in the year. I think its so important to take the time to create a solid community at the start of the school year. It is exhausting, but so worth it.
Motto: This quote is something that always runs through my head at the start of a school year. These kids are new to me, and they need to know that I care about them. It all fits into creating a caring classroom community.
What are your goals for the start of the school year?
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I understand the nervous feeling you have about leading staff development. I get that way too, and I've been doing it for a few years- I think it's because kids are much less judgmental of us than our fellow teachers. :-P
ReplyDeleteJivey
ideas by jivey
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Building a classroom community is very important. It is one of the keys to a successful school year. I do a lot of community building the first two weeks of school and then I make sure to through in an activity or two every Friday.
ReplyDeleteForeman Teaches
Love that quote! I actually had it typed and hung up in my classroom the last 4 years as a reminder to myself. :)
ReplyDeleteMandy
The 4th Grade Journey
Wow! Best of luck at the workshop! I'm sure you will be great. I hope you share some of the things from the workshop with us on the blog!!
ReplyDeleteKerry
I get nervous too! I can sing (and can't hold a tune to save my life) and dance in front of the kids but as soon as you put me in front of colleagues, I freeze up!
ReplyDeletePam
Rockin Resources
I have the same problem with task cards! I love them, but they can take up a lot of space. Have you tried the small manilla envelopes? I use them for my math task cards...I think I use the 6x9 size. Good luck with your courses!
ReplyDelete:) Kaitlyn
Smiles and Sunshine