The first time I taught at a school that used standards based grading, I was a little worried... okay a lot worried. I was so used to giving percentage grades and I worried this would be more difficult and time consuming. However, I quickly realized that that was not the case. In fact, standards based grading has made my job easier. Before standards based grading, I had … [Read more...] about Tips for Standards Based Grading
Archives for May 2016
5th Grade ELA Pacing Guide {Free}
Last year, I shared my 5th grade math pacing guide and several requested an ELA one. On this post, I will share a printable download of my 5th Grade ELA pacing guide using the common core state standards. The post will also include some general information and rationale behind my specific pacing decisions. This guide includes how I pace reading standards, language … [Read more...] about 5th Grade ELA Pacing Guide {Free}
5 Ways to Prevent Summer Slide in Upper Elementary
Any experienced teacher knows that the summer slide is a definite reality for many students. I personally like for my own children to take a break over the summer and be kids; however, I know the importance of ensuring they maintain their reading level and math skills for the next grade level. I want to share with you five ways that you can help prevent summer slide with … [Read more...] about 5 Ways to Prevent Summer Slide in Upper Elementary
End of Year Activities to Prepare Students for the Next Grade Level
Each year, I like to spend the last month of school preparing students for the next grade level and getting them excited about the next year. A lot of times, students tend to "check out" after state testing is over. To combat this, I like to mix things up and incorporate some activities that help prepare them for their next grade and also engage them. For more end of the … [Read more...] about End of Year Activities to Prepare Students for the Next Grade Level
End of Year Literacy Activities and Ideas
One of the toughest parts about the end of the year is keeping students engaged in all subjects up into the very end. I have found that it is often the most difficult to keep students engaged in normal literacy activities. They often have more energy and are more talkative at this point in the year. Since I have always taught literacy at the end of the day, and this makes … [Read more...] about End of Year Literacy Activities and Ideas