A Touch of Class

Resources & Inspiration for teachers

Back to School Activities

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Are you ready for back to school time? What should be the most exciting time of year can sometimes be the most stressful!  As teachers, we are required to get back into the swing of things, decorate and unpack our classrooms, plan exciting back to school lessons that engage as well as help us get to know how students.  Honestly, I could go on and on. Let’s face it, back to school time is tough! Here are some activities and ideas to make things run a little more smoothly in your classroom.

Practice Rules & Procedures

Rules Booklet It is not going to do much good just talking about the rules at the beginning of the year.  Students need to practice what following the rules will look like. I also have the students give non examples of following the rules.  At the beginning of the year, the students create their own rules booklet! They love writing about why each rule is important, and they also get to draw what following the rule looks like to them.  Their favorite part is sharing their illustrations with the class! This rules booklet, as well as rules posters and a corresponding think sheet, can be found in my teacher store. Oh, and they are all editable! Click here to download!

Set Expectations

VOICE LEVEL ACTIVITYDuring the first few days of school, I set expectations on almost everything! Now, this doesn’t mean the students can learn it all at once.  We practice all throughout the year.  I do however, expect them to learn the expectations of voice levels very quickly because I am not about trying to talk over a group of 30 fourth graders! Established voice level expectations is not only beneficial to you, it is good for all of the students to have boundaries to follow. I have created voice level posters, as well as a back to school activity that requires students to think about when they should use the voice levels and why it is important.  You can download this back to school activity here.

Getting To Know Your Students

Free!As I am teaching rules and procedures, I like to work some fun, getting to know you activities in the mix. Nobody wants to spend 7 hours listening to a teacher preach about rules and expectations, right?  These 12 activities are fun activities that allow students to share information about themselves.  It also allows the students to get to know one another.  It helps them get to know their teacher, too! These are all FREE. Yes.. FREE! To download these activities, please click HERE!

More Free Things

Each month, I send a newsletter to my awesome subscribers. I usually try to include a freebie in there for you! These are sometimes things that are from my teacher store that can’t be found free anywhere else!  I only send 1 – 2 emails per month, and it will always be something that can help you in your classroom!! To subscribe, enter your email below.

 



Classroom Tour With Freebies!

by Filed Under: All Subjects, back to school, classroom decor, Freebies Leave a Comment

Oh me, oh my! It is back to school time!  For the first time in about 5 years, I redid my classroom theme.  I decided on a Shiplap Shabby Chic design.  Credit must go to Mrs. Joanna Gaines since me and the fiancé spent countless hours watching the show this Summer.  Below, you will see the finished product.  I have placed almost all of the items in my TPT store, so if you see something you like, there is a link for you to purchase! There are also some freebies included here, too. 😉

My Classroom Runs on Smiles and Coffee…. Cans…

Teacher Desk Yes..coffee cans.  One of the first things I made was the little bins to store supplies in there on my shelf behind my desk.  I took some good old fashioned Folger’s cans, spray painted them, and made some really cute, shiplap shabby chic labels to add to them.  Viola! Matching storage containers for anything from clothes pins to cap erasers.

On my desk, you will see my teacher binder. This bad boy is a lifesaver that stays with me at school and travels home with me as well. It has all my important papers, forms, etc.. I love it!! You can love the labels I used in the photo, the teacher binder (which is fab) and the welcome banner because they are all included in my shiplap  bundle! You can find that here.

If you look closely, you can see my “HOME SWEET CLASSROOM” picture in the frame.  It is sitting on the shelf behind my desk. I have gotten so many compliments on this picture.  To download you FREE copy, click here.

Board

There is so much I can talk about this picture.  My favorite has to be the focus wall.  The students love knowing what we will be focusing on for the day, and this is a great way to anchor their learning. Under my focus wall is where I keep my classroom tickets.  As students volunteer answers, help others, or do something impressive, I hand out these little gems.  Before lunch, I will have a drawing. The ticket winner will receive anything from a chance to win a new book to a dojo point. They love it, and it definitely encourages them to participate! Also in this photo you will see my banner letters, and my table signs.  These are also include in the shiplap shabby chic download!

Happy  Birthday To You!

birthdayOne of my favorite things in my classroom is my birthday display.  I remember being a kid and seeing my birthday on the birthday chart. I wanted to tie in something cute with my shiplap shabby chic theme, so I came up with an idea to use mason jars and fireflies! Each month has its own mason jar, and each student has their own firefly.  This is included in my classroom decor bundle as well! 

Pictured to the left, you will see the mason jars in white.  They are also available in a blueish color.  Yes, the banner comes with it too!  I would love to see this on a bulletin board.  It would love great with a shiplap bulletin paper behind it! I just ran out of bulletin space, so I had to put it on my wall. I still love it, though!

 

The Power of Yet!

growth mindset posters

We love learning about having a growth mindset.  We used Class Dojo quite a bit last year, and it really helped spark conversation and thought about how to think to best benefit our lives, moods and learning. I created these growth mindset posters to match my theme this year, and they have been a big hit in my teacher store!! These, too, are included in the bundle!

 

There are so many other components to the “SHIPLAP SHABBY CHIC”  theme that I want to show you, but instead of writing you a book, I will just include some photos instead! If you have any questions, feel free to comment below! Don’t forget to grab the “HOME SWEET CLASSROOM” freebie!

 

Establishing and Maintaining Classroom Rules

by Filed Under: All Subjects, Behavior Management, Classroom Forms, Classroom management Leave a Comment

It is almost that time of year again! Do you have all your posters printed and laminated? Have you thought about classroom rules and procedures?

Rules and procedures are one of the most important components of a well ran classroom.  I love having the students create their own rules, but I also find it is necessary to bring some rules to the table on the very first day! I have saved the creating process for specific activities such as group work rules, playground rules, etc… It is important to allow students to feel they have control over their learning. Having them create the rules for certain activities does just that!

Keep Your Rules Posted

It is crucial that you keep these rules posted throughout the year, so you can refer back to them.  If you haven’t already created your class rules posters, I have some you can download in my TPT store.  These are EDITABLE <– YES! You can use the rules I have made, or you can create your own using the blank background included.  CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THIS FILE FOR YOUR CLASSROOM. 

Practice The Rules & Procedures

Rules BookletIt is not going to do much good just talking about the rules at the beginning of the year.  Students need to practice what following the rules will look like. I also have the students give non examples of following the rules.  At the beginning of the year, the students create their own rules booklet! They love writing about why each rule is important, and they also get to draw what following the rule looks like to them.  Their favorite part is sharing their illustrations with the class! This rules booklet is also included in the editable rules packet!

Stay Consistent!

If a student doesn’t follow a rule, what will you do? You must communicate this to the class. Consistency in your expectations is so important in maintaining a well ran classroom. This doesn’t mean you have to scream and yell when a student doesn’t follow a rule.  I simply speak with the student and have them fill out a think sheet. I can do it with a smile. It does not require me being upset with the child.  Teaching them how to behave is a process just like teaching them how to add and subtract. In the rules packet, I have included an editable think sheet that I use throughout the year.  Students and parents are required to sign this, too. It is great for documentation!

 

I hope these tips have helped you think about how you will introduce and enforce classroom rules in your class.  To download this product, please click here! 

CLICK HERE

CLICK THE PHOTO TO DOWNLOAD

3 Ways to Stay Organized in the Classroom

by Filed Under: back to school, classroom decor, Classroom Forms, Classroom Tools Leave a Comment

As back to school time approaches, I find myself, once again, taking steps to become more organized in my classroom. It is important to me to have a structured, clean, organized environment. Things seems to run so much more smoothly when there is a place for everything, and everything has a place!  This is why I have decided to share my top 3 tips for creating and maintaining an organized classroom.

Tip #1: Get a Teacher Binder!

Teacher Binder

As teachers, we gather a bazillion papers throughout the year.  Something I noticed, however, is that most of these gems can easily be placed into categories. Since we can categorize them, we can organize them! This is why you need a place to keep the forms and papers that you use on a regular or even not so regular basis. I have downloaded some free teacher binders on TPT, but nothing really covered everything I needed.  Since I redid my theme this year, I decided to create my own.  In this binder, I have section covers, binder spines, and TONS of forms! You will be reading about forms in a minute.  If you would like to check this out and get one for your classroom, CLICK HERE!

Tip #2: Forms

I’m sure you have a million forms already, but I really want to focus on how to use these forms.  Previous, my forms were kept in a file cabinet where I would have to go digging around to find them. Then there were the ones that I never had copies of, so I would have to take the extra time to go to the copier.  I had to stop all that!  Now I keep the forms that I use the most right beside my desk. I keep multiple copies, so I never have to waste precious time running to the copier.  In the teacher binder download, you will see many useful forms.  This system is a life saver!

Keep copies of most used forms!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tip #3: Label Everything

And I mean everything!  When I say, “There is a place for everything, and everything has a place” I mean it.  When things are labeled, you know where they are, and so do the students.  If you are looking for a quick way to create labels, download my product! I have 200 pre-made labels that cover almost everything. For the ones that aren’t covered, I have blank labels included, so you can  make your own! Trust me, you will love these.  They also match the “shiplap, shabby chic” teacher binder design! Click the image below to download your file.

I hope these tips brought some inspiration and ideas to you for your classroom.  Please let me know if you have any questions about the products mentioned, and I will be happy to assist!

Vocabulary Headbands – Vocabulary Game

by Filed Under: Teaching Tips, Vocabulary 2 Comments

Have you ever played the game “Hedbanz”?  If not, you’re missing out!! Go check it out here: http://www.hedbanz.com/. Anywho.. I have implemented a similar game in my classroom that I use to review vocabulary. (Notice the word REVIEW).  I wouldn’t suggest using this to teach vocabulary because the students would have no idea what they are doing.

Steps to Play:

Materials:

  • Vocabulary Cards (teacher made)
  • Headbands for students
  • Timer

1. First, place students into groups of 4 or more.
2. Next, provide students with vocabulary cards (make these ahead of time). They only need the vocabulary words you would like to use. No definitions. Place them face down.
3. A student picks a card and places it on their head. (They can’t see it, but their group can)
4. Another person in their group has 30 seconds to act out the word on their head. (NO speaking, NO props) To pick the ‘other person’ that does the acting, I either partner the students up from the beginning, or give each student a number and I use a die. 
5. The person with the vocabulary card on their head must guess the vocabulary word within the 30 seconds.  If they get it correct, both players get a point.
6. Object of the game – be the player (or partners) in your team with the most points.

You’re probably wondering….
How do the vocabulary cards stick to the kids’ heads?

Well, here is where the whole “headbanz” thing comes in.  You can either purchase the actual game, and use the ones that come in there.  Otherwise, you can get super creative and make your own.  I made some out of ribbon and paperclips!! (See below)

Why this works: 
The kids are super motivated during this activity! They want to WIN, and they want to learn these words, so they are able to act/guess them.  Furthermore, the entire group is involved and engaged!

I hope this helps give you some ideas for your vocabulary instruction. Feel free to contact me with any questions!

Summary Writing – The Easy Way

by Filed Under: All Subjects, graphic organizer, Reading - Literature, Writing Leave a Comment

Do you struggle teaching kids to write summaries?

I’m embarrassed to admit it, but I have always struggled with teaching students exactly how to write a summary. I either received summaries that were too short, or they turned in summaries that were 3 pages long. (Longer than the actual text they were referencing!)

Anchor Chart

After a much needed search of the internet, I found a technique that many other teachers recommend after using it in their classrooms.

A few weeks ago, I began implementing this little trick in my class. I am happy to announce the “light bulbs” are finally on and shining during summary writing in fourth grade!! I created a graphic organizer I wanted to share with you for free. Hopefully, this helps you too!! To the left, you will see the anchor chart I created to help kids remember the 5 words.  I plan on keeping this up all year. It has been so helpful! It is very important that students realize this technique works best with literature. I had many students try to this method when summarizing informational text, and they quickly discovered it didn’t work out so well.

Get this graphic organizer for free!

I would love to share this with you, as I can definitely say it has worked very well in my class. In order to get this awesome resource for free, please sign up for our monthly newsletter, and I will send you an immediate link to download this resource.  Signing up for the newsletter also grants you access to monthly freebies  just like this delivered right to your inbox! You may opt out anytime, of course! Oh.. and I’m just a normal 4th grade teacher, so I won’t be sending you crazy emails and spam all the time.. I promise! 🙂

 



 

Writing a summary

Daily Welcome Message & Bellringers

by Filed Under: All Subjects, Classroom management Leave a Comment

Does it take your students entirely too long to get situated when coming in to class??

I teach 4th grade reading to 3 different classes.  The students switch classes between three teachers. (Math, Science, and Reading)  Because of this, I constantly feel pressed for time!  At the beginning of the year, I was easily spending 10-15 minutes simply giving directions at beginning of class.  Something had to give!

Bellringer InstructionsAt my previous school, I taught 6th grade to three different classes, so I was no stranger to pressed time.  I remembered how effective my bellringers were in getting students in class, situated, and working, so I began using them this year in my fourth grade class. 
 
It has worked wonders!  As soon as the students come in, I hand them their bellringer at the door, and they begin working. I sometimes set a timer, so they know exactly how much time they have. There is a great, online version you can project on your smart board here.   We will often self assess the bellringer together, and sometimes I take it up.  If you are experiencing lost time due to transitions, I highly recommend this technique!
 

Students Love These Fake Text Messages

Instead of repeating directions over and over, I like to display my message on the smart board, so each student can read it on their own.  I recently discovered a really cool tool to use to motivate students to read directions when coming in to class.  I can create fake text messages to send to students.  This simple technique has motivated even my reluctant readers to read the daily message on the board, so they can get started on their bellringers/morning work for the day!  You can create your very own fake text message using the website here.  
 
I hope these tips help you save some time in class.  For more helpful tips like this delivered right to your inbox, please subscribe to the newsletter at the bottom of the page. What are some things you do to use your time wisely in your classroom?
Daily Welcome Message

Teaching Theme to Grades 3-5

by Filed Under: All Subjects, Reading - Literature, task cards Leave a Comment

Teaching theme is one of my most favorite skills because students are not only learning how to deconstruct and understand text, but they are also learning valuable life lessons.

Teaching Theme Can Be Challenging

Students practicing theme use task cards

Students practice identifying theme

Some teachers teach theme as the moral or lesson. You will sometimes see it called “author‘s message” as well.  Some teachers teach using the “universal theme” concept which uses only one word such as “honestly” or “perseverance”. I like to make students aware of BOTH ideas.

 

 

Tips on Teaching Theme

This past week, I taught theme using fables. I LOVE using fables to teach theme because there are so many valuable life lessons that are pretty evident in most texts.  The students are super pumped to read fables too!  
A technique that I find really works in teaching students to understand theme includes looking at the main characters.  Usually the character/characters have some sort of problem they face that they end up overcoming.  The character/characters usually learn some sort of lesson from overcoming this problem.  If the students can identify what the character learned, they can most likely identify the author’s message or theme of the story.  
 

Quick & Easy Way to Assess Theme

Task Cards

Theme taskcards and recording sheet

On Friday, I wanted to formatively assess my students to see if they could relate theme to real word texts and not just fables.  I let them use tasks cards to practice identifying theme.  

 
I created two sets of task cards.  The first set provides a passage and the students must provide a theme statement on their own.  I only let my higher students practice using these cards since this was their first encounter with theme this year.  For the rest of the students, I gave them my set of task cards that gives the passage and 3 multiple choice options.  They read the passage, then record their answer on their recording sheet.  
 
*You can also project each task card on the board one at a time and have students write the answer on a white board then “show you” together as a class! 
 
I was very pleased with the progress my students have been making, and I am looking forward to seeing how they do next week with comparing themes in text!
 
How do you teach theme?? Do you have any tips or tricks that you have found works for your students? 
 
Theme Task Cards
 
 

 

Editable Classroom Banners

by Filed Under: All Subjects, back to school, classroom decor, Classroom Tools Leave a Comment

I have spent a ton of money purchasing those little punch out letters for my classroom.  They look much nicer than the kind I can cut out using construction paper. The only downfall, is once you use them a couple times, you have to throw them away.  Finally, I decided to save some money and create some simple, black and white letters that I can print over and over whenever I needed them. I can’t tell you have useful they have been! I have decided to upload these, so other teachers can use them too.

What Exactly Do I Get?

I have included both black and white banners, and large and small banners.  This means that you will get a full alphabet, numbers and some symbols with a black background, and you will get the same with a white background. Pre-made banners, such as “MATH”,  “WRITING”, “READING”, etc.. are also included that will save you some time. Feel free to mix and match the letters, however, to meet your needs.  There is also a PPT file, so you can change the font face/size/color if that is what floats your boat.  Here are some photos I have taken in my classroom showcasing the use of these banners. I simply printed, cut, and laminated the letters I wanted to use.  Then, I used a hole puncher to make holes in the laminated pages, so I could weave string through them to create a banner. I would love to see photos of these banners being used in your classroom!

Consider a regular piece of white printing paper, the large letters can fit 2 on a page, and the small letters can fit 8 on a page.  Hopefully that gives you a better idea of the size of these letters.



Symmetry Selfies

by Filed Under: All Subjects, Freebies, Math 2 Comments

One of the final things we study in 4th grade math is Geometry. By this point in the year, students brains are tired, folks. It’s about that time when we begin prepping students for the lovely end of the year tests, and we are all just.. well… TIRED.

But hey.. the show must go on, right?

 

Symmetry Selfie

Student Sample

A Fun & Creative Way to Teach Symmetry

So.. SYMMETRY. There are lots of super cool ways to teach symmetry in the classroom: Geoboards, mirrors, finish the picture, etc… One of the more engaging ways, from what I have found, however, is this cool little thing I came up with during my student teaching… SYMMETRY SELFIES!! (Although… I didn’t actually call them selfies way back then.)

So basically, I took photos of each of my students, had them developed, cut them in half, and taped them onto a “symmetry selfie” template. (I have also seen a fellow teacher friend print her photos straight to our copier, and it looked great!) I introduced symmetry to the kiddos, showed them some examples using some cut out letters of the alphabet (the old folding technique), and revealed their pictures. They LOVED this. I had them working on their selfies during a center. It doesn’t teach them everything they need to know about symmetry, of course. The standard actually says,


CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.G.A.3
Recognize a line of symmetry for a two-dimensional figure as a line across the figure such that the figure can be folded along the line into matching parts. Identify line-symmetric figures and draw lines of symmetry.

 

But hey.. it’s a great introductory lesson to get them engaged, motivated, and creates some positive geometry neuroassociations!

(Thank you to my parents for giving me special permission to use their child’s photo. You guys are the best!) 

Symmetry Selfies

 

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