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Simple & Engaging Math Game for Practicing Subtraction
Hi! Today I am going to share a really simple and easily differentiated subtraction game (could be adapted for addition, too!). I just love love love using games for learning. My math block usually looks something like this: Mini lesson: 15 minutes Whole group practice: 10 minutes Independent practice: 10-15
The First Day of 2nd Grade Free Downloadable Lesson Plans
The first day of school is always filled with anticipation, curiosity, and a little bit of nervousness. For teachers, it’s the perfect opportunity to set the tone for a year of learning and growth. To help you start the school year smoothly, we’ve created a comprehensive set of free downloadable
Why I’m Not Shopping for my Classroom this Summer
Choosing not to do any shopping for your classroom can be difficult. There are so many shiny objects in the form of cute classroom supplies, it’s really difficult to resist. I have been on a journey of trying to be more intentional with money decisions and giving up classroom shopping
Lesson Planning by the Day, Week, Month and Year
Let’s talk about lesson planning. There are all kinds of ways to do it: by the day, week, month or year. Reflecting and planning are two of my favorites (besides actual teaching) about being a teacher. I don’t know about you but I am pretty much always thinking about my
Favorite FREE Thanksgiving Activities for the Classroom
Are you counting down the days until Thanksgiving Break? Hang in there! In my district, we have parent-teacher conferences just before the big day. It’s a mix of excitement for a well-deserved break and a little stress about prepping and holding 20+ conferences in one day. But worry not! I’ve
Staying Sane Teaching until Thanksgiving Break
October is so Tough (with a capital T). It’s a long month. The honeymoon phase has been over for awhile. Full moon behavior is in full effect. 😱 You might have had conferences or are getting ready for them. “How will I make it another 4 weeks?” I’d often ask myself.
7 Easy Activities to Boost Vocabulary in Kids
Explicit vocabulary instruction and opportunities to practice using words are crucial. Vocabulary instruction profoundly impacts students’ language proficiency and cognitive development. It is one of the indicators of strong reading comprehension. But often vocabulary does not get the attention it deserves! With these easy-to-implement- vocabulary activities for kids, your students
Resources, Themes & Skills for 2nd grade in September
Lesson planning can feel daunting. Where to start? The year? Month? Week? Day? Minute? I have found I like a combination of all of the above. Sometimes, when I’m stuck, I think of the bigger picture. This brings me to the skills and themes I’m teaching for September. I have
Easy and Fun First Week Back to School Activities
Get ready for the new school year! Teachers will be starting tomorrow, and our first day with students is coming up on Monday. I can’t wait to show you my awesome first week lesson plans and the resources I’ll be using for the first week. Let’s make this school year
4 Student Gifts that Won’t Break the Bank
After 19 trips to Target, 11 to the Dollar Tree, and 3 checkouts during the TpT sale, I am about to pull a Michael Scott and declare bankruptcy. But seriously, why is being a teacher so expensive? It doesn’t have to be this way! You can still treat your students
