I remember the shift from multiple choice reading assessments to constructed response reading questions like it was yesterday. When we first made the shift, we got everything from blank stares (because they didn't understand the question), to single-word answers, simple phrases, off-topic answers, and let's not even talk about grammar and spelling. Hint: It was rough. … [Read more...] about Tips for Teaching RACE Constructed Response Strategy
Archives for February 2018
Reading Centers Management in 4th and 5th Grade
Imagine this: You spend all weekend (or summer) prepping engaging reading centers. You are excited to introduce them to your students to supplement their independent reading and help them master the skills in new, engaging ways. But, how do you make sure your students actually do the work instead of goofing off? And then those who do the work, how do you make sure … [Read more...] about Reading Centers Management in 4th and 5th Grade
Multiplying Fractions and Whole Numbers: Two Types of Problems
Confession: I had to relearn 4th and 5th grade math conceptually in order to best teach and support my students. I learned that when I taught algorithms and tricks without the foundation of a conceptual understanding, it really affected my students' mathematical understandings and how they solved word problems. When my students didn't have a conceptual understanding of … [Read more...] about Multiplying Fractions and Whole Numbers: Two Types of Problems
Fraction Mats: Adding and Subtracting Fractions and Mixed Numbers
Fractions...otherwise known as the trickiest math concept known to man. Well, I may be exaggerating, but fractions certainly are not your average 5th grader's favorite math concept. Nor are they typically a teacher's favorite unit to teach. However, armed with some activities, tools, and tricks, fractions really don't have to be all that bad. This post will share … [Read more...] about Fraction Mats: Adding and Subtracting Fractions and Mixed Numbers
Valentine’s Day Science Activity: Chocolate States of Matter
One of my favorite parts of teaching is bringing in something totally unrelated to normal teaching, like candy, styrofoam balls, or even whipped cream, and telling the students that it is part of their lesson for the day. Their eyes light up. Some of them don't believe it. Some of them cheer. No matter what the response, they are instantly hooked, and a great lesson … [Read more...] about Valentine’s Day Science Activity: Chocolate States of Matter