As every new school year approaches, I begin to get my mind ready for a new year of students. This always includes thinking of my classroom management approach. I like to try new things each year because each group of students is entirely unique and has a different set of needs than the classroom before.

Diphthongs! What in the world is a diphthong!? I remember very clearly asking myself that question in my Foundations of Literacy class in college. Diphthongs can be tricky to read since the letters shown in these words don’t make their usual sounds – the sound is an entirely new one that isn’t necessarily represented at all in the word.

At the end of the year we always created a memory book of some sort. I love to reminisce with my students. 180 days together is no joke and should be celebrated before they head off to their next teacher! Instead of just filling in a memory book on the last week of school, I […]

Writing in the primary grades can be a bit scary at times! Many of my first grade students are just learning to read and simultaneously I would like them to write a 3 page personal narrative with an opening, three details and a catchy closing. It isn’t always easy, but writer’s workshop is one of my favorite things to teach in first grade because the difference made in a year is remarkable.

Creating an All About book is honestly my favorite writing project for the entire year. My students just get so into it. Mostly, I think it has to do with the fact that they feel like real researchers and they get to share their fun facts and findings with the rest of the class. I also […]

When it comes to St. Patrick’s Day, Jamie O’Rourke is one of my favorite characters! Jamie O’Rourke and the Big Potato to focus on cause and effect.   CLICK BELOW TO GRAB YOUR FREE LESSON: I thought I would offer a free read aloud lesson for this St. Patrick’s Day favorite. Just click above to […]

Having your first graders dive into writing poetry can be a tricky thing, but it is so much fun if you really give them plenty of freedom! During poetry month it is nice to take a break from our very structured writing units and let loose with a little poetry! I created a writing poetry […]

I am so happy to share some brand new, silent e fluency passages I made… and they are FREE! These phonics “read & illustrate” passages are the perfect way to assess students understanding of what they are reading.   There are 2 activities for each of the following phonics skills: a_e i_e o_e u_e   […]

I am always interested in what other teachers are doing over in their classrooms around the world?! What does their mini lesson look like? What does their guided practice look like? What about small groups?!I thought I would share today what my first grade math centers look like and when I use them! We do […]