tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3409264327822804192024-03-13T22:35:15.351-04:00A Pirate's Life for Us!Arrgh Matey! So glad you found us!Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.comBlogger204125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-52174179726110079832014-11-22T15:55:00.000-05:002014-11-22T15:55:45.795-05:00So...I have a little news...<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I know it's been forever again since I've checked in with this blog. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Since my last post, life has been a little more crazy than the normal crazy I tend to live with.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here's why...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yep! I'm going to be a principal in the building I teach! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I know, maybe a little weird, right? But I wouldn't dream of being an administrator anywhere else in the world! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I love this school district.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I love my building. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I love the children who come every day for a new adventure. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I love my staff who have a true passion for doing what's best for children and do everything they can to make learning fun. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There is something special about my building...there's magic there. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's where I grew up and went to school. I still remember where my kindergarten, first, second and third grade classrooms are from when I was a student. I can sense the rich history of tradition and excellence from our past and I'm so looking forward to our future!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I will be teaching my children until Christmas. After our Christmas break, I will be shadowing our current principal until she retires at the end of the month. My first official day of being a principal will be February 2, 2015.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's so exciting!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hope all is well with everyone!</span></div>
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<br />Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-16289386341947848442014-08-29T12:11:00.000-04:002014-08-29T12:11:25.347-04:00Classroom Reveal!<span style="font-size: large;">Well! Here it is! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Actually these pictures are about a week old now, but I'm just having the chance to sit down and post them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My classroom is a revolving door this year with Intervention Specialists, Speech and Occupational Therapists, an Aide (Thank God) and eventually parent helpers. I needed to set my room up in a way that whoever walks in or near our classroom could see what we were up to and pitch in and help out without me always having to tell them what to do. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It all starts with my front door. I kept seeing all of these focus walls but I needed something that was going to be quick, easy and to the point. Therefore, I have my "We AARGH Learning About..." door. I used cheap picture frames (one already broke so I kind of wish I bought more sturdy ones) and made a page titled with each of our subject areas or topics. I put them in a frame and now can use a dry erase marker to write down what's happening in room #110! Easy peasy! Everyone knows what we're working on and I don't feel the need to change it every single day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is what it looks like on the inside.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm digging my moveable word wall below the chalkboard. Below each letter is a hook and a metal ring. I've attached our Kindergarten words to the rings so far, but as the year continues, we'll add our new words. When the children need a word, they'll just go find the ring and look for the word they need. Eventually I can use the words on the rings to teach my friends how to put the words in alphabetical order.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">See those 2 white shoe organizers? They're history now because I have a brand new 30-section organizer in it's place. I love that piece of furniture. It's sturdy. All of their extra supplies fit inside. It has a smooth surface to write on and it's on wheels! I'll share a picture of that with you in a future post.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Remember how I told you of all of the extra hands in my room this year? Well, I wanted spaces where there were activities that anyone could pull from to work on with individual children or small groups. Hence, my Math, Science and Social Studies shelves. My Science and Social Studies shelves look a little bare right now, but they'll grow. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: large;">The idea is to fill these shelves with items specific to what we're learning and/or interested in and let the children explore them on their own.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So...there it is! My home away from home this year. I'm pretty happy with it but I think it will look even better when it's been lived in for a few weeks. I can't wait to get some art projects hanging up around the room to make it even better!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hope you're all adjusting to your school routines! I have some blog stalking to catch up on and since the weather isn't cooperating with me right now for a pool day, I think I'm going to make use of the time and catch up on what you've been doing!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Take care,</span><br />
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<br />Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-67274898832390166292014-08-19T22:02:00.003-04:002014-08-19T22:02:57.550-04:00Needing a little Boost?<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I sure am!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Today was our first day back as teachers and staff in our district! It was great seeing my school family again...but then that overwhelming feeling set in and whoa...it's here. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">School is officially back in full swing!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm sure you're already aware, but just in case you missed the boat...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Teachers Pay Teachers is having one more big sale before school starts and it's perfect timing for me! I already have things in my cart and on my wish list that you all shared from the last big sale!</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/SitewideSales"><img alt="300 × 300" src="http://mcdn.teacherspayteachers.com/img/sale_banners/sale_300_300.jpg?rand=002278" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have fun shopping!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tomorrow night is our Open House, but I'm hoping to come home to my air conditioning afterwards and do a little shopping too!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So much to do! Hope all is well with you!</span></div>
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Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-17410897572372528002014-08-14T08:12:00.000-04:002014-08-14T22:42:31.104-04:00In a pinch...Needing Welcome Notes Quick!<span style="font-size: large;">Hello Friends!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I was in a pinch this past week. We received new MacBook Pros from our district this month...yeah! I love Apple products! One week-long training in Cupertino, California on Apple's Campus a few years ago and I was hooked! I'd love to be 1:1 in my first grade classroom someday. I keep asking my Superintendent but I'm thinking I need to take another route...Grant Writing 101. He sees the importance and is supportive, but I think the focus is on the bigger kids right now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway, about my pinch! Our new laptops aren't hooked up to our printers/copiers at school yet which is making my printer at home moan and groan. I feel like I'm behind in prepping for Open House and our first week back but it will come together. It always does.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Like you, I like to send home a welcome note around the middle of August that also informs my families of our Open House. Since I couldn't print to a copier at school and I'm all about convenience right now, I decided to try something new. I created a document in Keynote, exported it as an image and uploaded it to a one-hour photo place. That's all I did! I was kind of surprised it came together so quick and easy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is how my postcard looked when I created it using Keynote...</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AP6KIczrkxM/U-yhqkWJJTI/AAAAAAAACo4/RoWzrRWa8OQ/s1600/Welcome%2BPostcard%2B2014.001.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AP6KIczrkxM/U-yhqkWJJTI/AAAAAAAACo4/RoWzrRWa8OQ/s1600/Welcome%2BPostcard%2B2014.001.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here's what they looked like when I picked them up from the Photo Center...</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KQxdguRV0W8/U-yhnKt-LhI/AAAAAAAACoo/KqjWCT2CswE/s1600/IMG_7022.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KQxdguRV0W8/U-yhnKt-LhI/AAAAAAAACoo/KqjWCT2CswE/s1600/IMG_7022.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I lost the border on the top and bottom somehow but I still thought they looked pretty good! I picked up some bright envelopes, addressed them to my new First Graders and took them to the post office!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A5zh_ZY3Twg/U-yhnL4n1zI/AAAAAAAACos/xPu87pIblG4/s1600/IMG_7021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A5zh_ZY3Twg/U-yhnL4n1zI/AAAAAAAACos/xPu87pIblG4/s1600/IMG_7021.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">4" x 6" pictures and some bright 4 3/4" x 6 1/2" envelopes</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I purchased the clip-art from Niki @ MelonHeadz</span></div>
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<a href="http://melonheadzillustrating.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" src="http://honeybunchblogdesign2.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/MIbtn2mi.png" /></a></center>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Melonheadz/Search:pirates">Click here to see her Pirate clip-art in her Teachers Pay Teachers Shop.</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">All of her clip-art is adorable but I just realized that she has some pirate art that I don't own yet...starting to fill up my cart again!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">School is right around the corner...staff days next week and kiddos on the 25th!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Take care!</span></div>
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Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-22667874122974445802014-08-07T16:18:00.000-04:002014-08-07T16:19:12.956-04:00August Currently<span style="font-size: large;">Hi Friends!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm a few days behind but I still wanted to make sure I linked up with <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2014/08/august-currently.html">Farley's Linky</a> before it was too late!</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZrQRY1uNtfQ/U-PWfeMmRgI/AAAAAAAACoQ/T1OgkjzRJgM/s1600/August+Currently.001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZrQRY1uNtfQ/U-PWfeMmRgI/AAAAAAAACoQ/T1OgkjzRJgM/s1600/August+Currently.001.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My sister went back to school today so I get to spend the last bit of my summer with my two nieces! Today they helped me finish a few things in my classroom...and they were a huge help! They're playing house right now and as I wrote above, they're married...and now one just had a baby! Have you ever just listened to kids play house? I should really have started recording this! It's like a really bad soap opera!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">While we were at school today I finished putting away all of my piles. MOST of them are where they need to be but some were just stashed in my supply closet. I'll admit it. That closet needs a total make-over anyway and if there's time before school starts I'll do it but for right now everything is tucked inside....out of sight to everyone but me!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now that my room is mostly set up I have list a mile long of labels I need to make for my classroom...our library, journals, supplies, cubbies, etc. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm wanting a personal assistant. I think we all should have one...for obvious reasons.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm really needing my achilles tendon to heal. I started to push myself to run further distances this summer just to see if I could do it. I got up to 5 miles for a couple of runs and that's when things started to hurt a bit. I swear I hobble around like an old lady until things get moving and then it doesn't hurt as bad but whew! It's a doozie right now. Of course all of the climbing up and down ladders, chairs and tables to set up my room hasn't probably been the best for me either. Ugh!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My first official day of school is Tuesday, August 19. We have one day of district meetings, one day of building level meetings and the third day is our day to spend in our rooms. Our Open House is Wednesday, August 20. My new first graders come on Monday, August 25! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It will be here before I know it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Take care!</span></div>
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Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-15274220610694999192014-08-06T09:54:00.000-04:002014-08-06T09:54:07.687-04:00Here's What I Bought...and WON!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Hi Friends!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Did you shop 'til you dropped? I thought I made all of my purchases until I started reading your blog posts from this linky party...</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://imbloghoppin.blogspot.com/2014/08/show-us-what-you-bought-linky.html#">Hosted by Blog Hoppin'</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">and then I had to go back and shop a little more!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So now I'm joining in on the linky fun!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here's what I bought for this year (I linked all of the titles to their product @ TPT):</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1KXYXOmJFPQ/U-Iknz4UYPI/AAAAAAAACnw/XokRpvmlGJQ/s1600/What+I+Bought.001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1KXYXOmJFPQ/U-Iknz4UYPI/AAAAAAAACnw/XokRpvmlGJQ/s1600/What+I+Bought.001.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Beginning-of-the-Year-Activities-1st-Grade-268495"><span style="font-size: large;">Beginning of the Year Activities (1st Grade)~Friends in First by Lyndsey Kuster</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Beginning-of-the-Year-Assessments-758150"><span style="font-size: large;">Beginning of the Year Assessments~Let's Start at the Very Beginning by Lyndsey Kuster</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lyndsey is face behind the blog, "A Year of Many Firsts"...one of my many favorites!</span></div>
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<a href="http://ayearofmanyfirsts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" title="A Year of many Firsts"><img alt="A Year of many Firsts" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/AYearofManyFirstsButton_zpsd64aeff0.png" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Charlottes-Web-A-Book-Companion-Craft-1029378"><span style="font-size: large;">Charlotte's Web~A Book Companion and Craft by Funky Fresh Firsties</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She's another one of my favorite bloggers...</span></div>
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<a href="http://funkyfreshfirsties.blogspot.com/" title="Funky Fresh Firsties"><img alt="Funky Fresh Firsties" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jma-z6HLKU8/UUpmkQlccrI/AAAAAAAAArM/YxW7BoThuCc/s1600/Button+2.png" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And then there are these diddys...</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Alphabet-Banner-black-red-and-white-756291"><span style="font-size: large;">Alphabet Banner by Kelly McHaffie</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-Blasters-by-Kim-Adsit-1362349"><span style="font-size: large;">Science Blasters! By Kim Adsit</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She blogs with her daughter at:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/My-Data-and-Learning-Portfolio-827117">My Data and Learning Portfolio by Reagan Tunstall</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/PUT%20YOUR%20SITE%20URL%20HERE"><img src="http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h260/toonybug/CBOTB%20ALBUM%203/button2fw_zps9644d99f.png~original" /></a></center>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Maps-Mateys-and-Mischief-A-pirate-map-skills-unit-638581"><span style="font-size: large;">Maps, Mateys and Mischief~A Pirate Mini Unit by Michelle Oakes</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Michelle blogs at:</span></div>
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<a href="http://fabulousinfirst.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j140/shelley123_2006/blog%20designs/fabulousinfirstbutton.png~original" /></a></center>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And finally, a few more...</span></center>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Quick-Check-Common-Core-Assessments-for-1st-Grade-1308350"><span style="font-size: large;">Quick Checks~1st Grade Common Core Assessments! By Susan Jones</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Susan blogs at Thank God It's First Grade!</span></div>
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<a href="http://thankgoditsfirstgrade.blogspot.com/" title="Thank God It's First Grade!"><img alt="Thank God It's First
Grade!" src="http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag77/pljones05/button_zpsc298ea59.png~original" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-Literacy-Pack-803630">Back to School Literacy Pack~Back to Business by Sarah Paul</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Readers-Theater-Partner-Plays-for-Beginning-Readers-Back-to-School-728393"><span style="font-size: large;">Reader's Theatre~Partner Plays for Beginning Readers (Back to School) by A Teeny Tiny Teacher</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Everyone knows Kristin, right? Pretty amazing teacher!</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.ateenytinyteacher.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VXNlY_2zbsU/U1_9zmNWAYI/AAAAAAAAHac/8UKW4BnBvgg/s1600/teeny+tiny+teacher+button.jpg" /></a></center>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Math-Printables-Assessments-1347412"><span style="font-size: large;">Math Printables and Assessments by All Students Can Shine</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here's her fantastic blog so you can start following her...</span></div>
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<a href="http://allstudentscanshine.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii580/vayoung/blog%20designs/allstudentscanshinebutton_zpsab0136f1.jpg~original" /></a></center>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Listening-Activities-for-Common-Core-Listen-Up-1-2-THE-BUNDLE-1356790">Listening Activities for the Common Core: Listen Up~the Bundle by Fluttering Through First Grade</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here's their awesome blog...</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.flutteringthroughfirstgrade.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://imageshack.com/a/img849/3540/r47m.png" /></a></center>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 441px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 441px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Whew! That was some fun shopping! I can't wait to use these in my classroom this year!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Oh! I almost forgot! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">I won something! I actually WON!</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Kathy @ First Grade a la Carte is throwing her annual Back to School Bash! You should check her out if you don't follow her already! She is one of the first bloggers I started following and she just seems so real, genuine and down to earth! </span></div>
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<a href="http://firstgradealacarte.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E_pCpbs0RQg/U7MPBm3MD2I/AAAAAAAAIqI/peNepwxf3AY/s1600/first+grade+a+la+carte+button.jpg" /></a></center>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She's giving away freebies each day! I won her Back to School Bundle that has 6 beginning of the year activities and 2 new activities! I'm super excited!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So! There you go! I'm busy juggling classroom time with pool time and trying to get everything finished...or at least make it look like I'm ready for the kids by the middle of next week. That's my goal at least. I'll post pictures once I'm presentable! :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have a great day!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1534px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1534px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1534px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1534px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 253px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2118px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 253px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2118px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 253px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 4019px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 253px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 4019px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 253px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 4019px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 253px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 4019px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-75914101972642468622014-08-01T09:56:00.002-04:002014-08-01T09:56:57.163-04:005---4---3---2---1---BLAST-OFF!<span style="font-size: large;">Are you ready?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The big Teachers Pay Teachers Sale is right around the corner! </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/SitewideSales"><img alt="300 × 250" src="http://mcdn.teacherspayteachers.com/img/sale_banners/sale_300_250.jpg?rand=002272" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Time to start filling our carts with some amazing products from our favorite sellers! I know my Wish List is a mile long so I'm looking forward to doing a little shopping!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've put all of my products on sale for the big sale. Here's a few of my newest products that might interest you!</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CqnthuGo96g/U9uX5XK9uHI/AAAAAAAACm0/SGpVhDccVAk/s1600/TPT+Sale.001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CqnthuGo96g/U9uX5XK9uHI/AAAAAAAACm0/SGpVhDccVAk/s1600/TPT+Sale.001.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fundations-Word-Work-Workout-Level-12nd-Edition-1290060">Word of the Day Workout</a><br /><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fundations-Trick-Word-Workout-Level-12nd-Edition-1290058">Trick Word Workout</a><br /><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fundations-Handwriting-Practice-Level-12nd-Edition-1290057">Fundations Handwriting Practice w/ Trick Words and Words of the Day</a><br /><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fundations-Unit-Review-Level-12nd-Edition-1290062">Fundations Unit Review-Flashcards and Assessments</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YwB0E2xhsVg/U9uX557FdBI/AAAAAAAACm8/ZCV94jC1ucE/s1600/TPT+Sale.002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YwB0E2xhsVg/U9uX557FdBI/AAAAAAAACm8/ZCV94jC1ucE/s1600/TPT+Sale.002.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Monthly-Reading-Challenges-262438">Monthly Reading Challenges</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yHtkH47l2XA/U9uX5vUKS7I/AAAAAAAACm4/pmTtDbd-z0o/s1600/TPT+Sale.003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yHtkH47l2XA/U9uX5vUKS7I/AAAAAAAACm4/pmTtDbd-z0o/s1600/TPT+Sale.003.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Wizard-of-Oz-Comprehension-Questions-1275231">The Wizard of Oz Comprehension Questions</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Gcx4LSa0W4/U9uX6eZBOVI/AAAAAAAACnI/9D-mFauBY8U/s1600/TPT+Sale.004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Gcx4LSa0W4/U9uX6eZBOVI/AAAAAAAACnI/9D-mFauBY8U/s1600/TPT+Sale.004.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Parking-Lot-Sight-Words-with-Dolch-Pre-Primer-and-Primer-Sight-Words-1322631">Dolch Pre-Primer and Primer Parking Lots</a><br /><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Parking-Lot-Sight-Words-with-1st-2nd-and-3rd-Grade-Dolch-Sight-Words-1336914">Dolch First, Second and Third Grade Parking Lots</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There are a few other freebies that I've added throughout the year too, so help yourself! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/A-Pirates-Life-For-Us">Click here to visit my Teachers Pay Teachers Shop!</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Don't forget to add the special Promo Code when you check out to get additional savings!</span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><u>BTS14</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have fun shopping!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-45902378648813952622014-07-27T16:58:00.000-04:002014-07-27T16:58:04.440-04:00Monthly Reading Challenges<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hi Friends!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I did some updates this morning on my Monthly Reading Challenges! It was one of my very first products that I created for my Teachers Pay Teachers Shop and it needed a bit of a polishing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I use my Monthly Reading Challenges throughout the year as a fun way for my families to explore new books with their children.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bm5-ByFYTOQ/U9Vb_2jifdI/AAAAAAAACmQ/09K9UTByICQ/s1600/Monthly+Reading+Challenges+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bm5-ByFYTOQ/U9Vb_2jifdI/AAAAAAAACmQ/09K9UTByICQ/s1600/Monthly+Reading+Challenges+1.jpg" height="282" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">At the beginning of each month I send home the monthly challenge and have it due by the last day of the month. Anyone who completes the challenge gets a small reward like a certificate, a pencil, a treat or anything I might find that the children may like as a prize. In the packet, you'll find a parent letter as well as tips on where your families can find the books they need to read for each challenge. </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-blumgz30D5s/U9Vb_mQF2SI/AAAAAAAACmM/qHNMtBGNJzo/s1600/Monthly+Reading+Challenges+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-blumgz30D5s/U9Vb_mQF2SI/AAAAAAAACmM/qHNMtBGNJzo/s1600/Monthly+Reading+Challenges+2.jpg" height="282" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TamMVvwHrQc/U9VcAK4AaAI/AAAAAAAACmU/KNZ1lAXqpmY/s1600/Monthly+Reading+Challenges+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TamMVvwHrQc/U9VcAK4AaAI/AAAAAAAACmU/KNZ1lAXqpmY/s1600/Monthly+Reading+Challenges+3.jpg" height="282" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here's a peek at what each month's challenge looks like:</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_6zABuJQZi0/U9VcA1nu73I/AAAAAAAACmk/t5GHbKfZcMU/s1600/Monthly+Reading+Challenges+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_6zABuJQZi0/U9VcA1nu73I/AAAAAAAACmk/t5GHbKfZcMU/s1600/Monthly+Reading+Challenges+4.jpg" height="640" width="452" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I added a black and white version of each month's challenge for those of us who do not have color copiers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">These challenges are an easy way to have our families spend some quality time with their kiddos. Now. I do sometimes get the challenge returned to me the next day with all 10 books found and read. I do raise my eyebrow...and think "How could that happen?" But it's just not a battle I want to have...so I usually write a comment on the top like, "Wow! That was quick!" and then move on. :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Summer is winding down so I hope you're sucking up every minute you have left! School is right around the corner! Actually...less than a month for me!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Take Care!</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0y3TUsSD9nA/T0j6ghRK9WI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/O4Klj3RbflE/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0y3TUsSD9nA/T0j6ghRK9WI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/O4Klj3RbflE/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
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Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-76560690801899088522014-07-24T21:30:00.001-04:002014-07-24T21:31:20.295-04:00Merry Christmas!<span style="font-size: large;">'Tis the Season for a sale!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Everything in my TPT Shop is 20% off from now until Saturday!</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3zwEHmdmIZk/U9GxO9AyvpI/AAAAAAAACl0/lvPn82-MTNk/s1600/336812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3zwEHmdmIZk/U9GxO9AyvpI/AAAAAAAACl0/lvPn82-MTNk/s1600/336812.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/A-Pirates-Life-For-Us">Click here to visit my shop!</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">On a side note, I stopped by school for my first visit and snapped some pictures. I posted this picture on my classroom blog, <a href="http://shivermefirsties.blogspot.com/">Shiver Me Firsties</a>!</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Szpu71wdYY/U9GyG1H7bPI/AAAAAAAACl8/VWjbBLVDyvQ/s1600/A+Sneak+Peek+into+Room+%23110!.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Szpu71wdYY/U9GyG1H7bPI/AAAAAAAACl8/VWjbBLVDyvQ/s1600/A+Sneak+Peek+into+Room+%23110!.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let the fun begin!</span></div>
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<br />Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-12376039523084858502014-07-22T10:15:00.002-04:002014-07-22T10:15:55.905-04:00Magnetic Letter Mayhem<span style="font-size: large;">Hello again!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I've had something on my "To-Do List" that might seem a little compulsive to some of you...maybe not...at least I hope it's not too OCD on my part, but it just might be.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I sorted all of my magnetic letters last night. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Like. All. Of. Them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yep...there it is. You should see my living room floor! It's glittered with magnetic letters sorted by upper and lower case letters, style of magnetic letter, some styles put in ABC order, etc. Okay...I might have a slight issue...but that's no surprise to some of you!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As you may remember from earlier posts, I will have an aide in my classroom this year and I've been busy creating and gathering "Go-To Activities" for us to grab and use with our kiddos in small groups or one-on-one. I felt it was necessary to see what letters I had so that I can pre-bag them and have them ready for us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When I sorted them I realized that my vowels were missing. Now where did they go? Then I remembered that I saw an idea on Pinterest where the teacher spray painted all of her vowels a bright red so that the children could find them easier. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hey! I did that too! But where did they go? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm in the midst of sorting and organizing every nook and cranny of my classroom so they'll turn up eventually, but I kind of need a plan now. I found some cute Magnetic Letter Digital Art from Poppydreamz Digital Art!</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nR5gZssIIOM/U85sDraMI6I/AAAAAAAAClI/2Xkr8Eiu7y0/s1600/PoppydreamzDigitalArt_IconLogo_transparent.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nR5gZssIIOM/U85sDraMI6I/AAAAAAAAClI/2Xkr8Eiu7y0/s1600/PoppydreamzDigitalArt_IconLogo_transparent.png" height="135" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Poppydreamz-Digital-Art">Poppydreamz Digital Art</a><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p2gbeKa5mmg/U85srKIQJaI/AAAAAAAAClQ/6yXfJ0b-j5w/s1600/original-798653-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: x-large; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p2gbeKa5mmg/U85srKIQJaI/AAAAAAAAClQ/6yXfJ0b-j5w/s1600/original-798653-1.jpg" height="156" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Magnet-Letters-Alphabet-and-Number-Clipart-by-Poppydreamz-798653">Magnet Letters Alphabet and Number Clipart</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I was just going to create some vowels, but one thing led to another (again) and I made a complete set...with Fundations in mind.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6j2C1ZPufq0/U85vTKSY36I/AAAAAAAAClc/wahy5v22jcw/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-07-22+at+10.03.19+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6j2C1ZPufq0/U85vTKSY36I/AAAAAAAAClc/wahy5v22jcw/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-07-22+at+10.03.19+AM.png" height="320" width="277" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FREEBIEMagnetic-Letters-with-Fundations-in-Mind-1338599">You can download it for FREE in my Teachers Pay Teachers Shop by clicking here!</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Included in the packet is:</span></div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">a full alphabet in black and white</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">a set of red vowels (5 of each vowel)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">a set of blue glued sounds (3 of each glued sound)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">a set of yellow blends and digraphs (3 of each blend and digraph)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">a set of green bonus letters (3 of each bonus letter)</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'll be printing, cutting, laminating and attaching a small magnet to the back of each tile so that my children can practice building their words. Hope it's something that you can use too!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Off to take care of the magnetic letters scattered all over my floor!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have a great day!</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 32px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 864px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 32px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 864px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-58482241147425350782014-07-21T11:10:00.001-04:002014-07-24T21:31:55.107-04:00Parking Lot Sight Words<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Hello Friends!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I am busy researching and creating new activities for my first graders this year. My new batch of kiddos have some children with language issues and therefore are struggling with reading and writing too. Due to my class make-up and IEP goals, etc. I will have an aide/para-professional in our classroom this year. I am so grateful to have an extra set of adult hands in the room! Although her number one priority is the one student whose IEP mandates an aide, it's been past practice in our school that our aides can pitch in wherever needed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I'm trying to create and gather "go-to" materials that we can grab and use with our struggling students whenever we have the chance. One of the activities I made are my Parking Lot Sight Word Mats! </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kZF6akiv8wI/U80iWsI_w-I/AAAAAAAACkg/G5jSi1tn4uw/s1600/Parking+Lot+Samples.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jr3qRKd_GJs/U80iWv3Yl6I/AAAAAAAACkk/dx7aHyEIoNA/s1600/Parking+Lot+Sight+Words.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jr3qRKd_GJs/U80iWv3Yl6I/AAAAAAAACkk/dx7aHyEIoNA/s1600/Parking+Lot+Sight+Words.jpg" height="640" width="452" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kZF6akiv8wI/U80iWsI_w-I/AAAAAAAACkg/G5jSi1tn4uw/s1600/Parking+Lot+Samples.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kZF6akiv8wI/U80iWsI_w-I/AAAAAAAACkg/G5jSi1tn4uw/s1600/Parking+Lot+Samples.jpg" height="640" width="452" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I broke the parking lots into two sets and you can find them in my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/A-Pirates-Life-For-Us">Teachers Pay Teachers Shop</a> if you're interested.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Parking-Lot-Sight-Words-with-Dolch-Pre-Primer-and-Primer-Sight-Words-1322631">Parking Lot Sight Words~Dolch Pre-Primer and Primer Sight Words</a></span><br />
In this Parking Lot set you'll find 6 parking lots for the Pre-Primer Sight Words, 8 parking lots for the Primer Sight Words and an additional 4 "Empty" parking lots for you or a student to handwrite their own words for practice.<br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Parking-Lot-Sight-Words-with-1st-2nd-and-3rd-Grade-Dolch-Sight-Words-1336914"><span style="font-size: large;">Parking Lot Sight Words~First, Second and Third Grade Sight Words</span></a><br />
In this Parking Lot set you'll find 6 parking lots for the 1st grade sight words, 7 parking lots for the 2nd grade sight words, 7 parking lots for the 3rd grade sight words and 4 "Empty" parking lots for you or a student to handwrite their own words for practice.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We will be able to use these to help the children review and master their Dolch Sight Words by using a matchbox car to park in the correct spot. So for example, we can say, "Maggie, can you park your car in the <u>after</u> spot?" We could even say, "Park your car in the spot that completes this sentence: I need a bandaid because I _______ my finger." I think there are several ways to play and learn with these Parking Lot Mats! What do you think?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;"><u>The first 3 people to leave a comment will receive both sets for FREE!</u></span> Please leave your e-mail address in your comment and I'll send them as soon as I can!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Have a great day!</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NtpHYAD1dwY/TzalXT85_PI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/CefT64WkKX4/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NtpHYAD1dwY/TzalXT85_PI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/CefT64WkKX4/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 119px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 474px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 119px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 474px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-48569505704236606062014-07-13T08:10:00.003-04:002014-07-13T08:10:56.760-04:00Book Share!<span style="font-size: large;">Do you ever come across a book or two that you read and it just sticks with you? Like it moves into a place in your heart and there's something that reminds you about it every day? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I found three of those books earlier this year thanks to some amazing bloggers, Mr. Schu who is a teacher/librarian in a K-5 school and Colby Sharp who is a 3rd grade teacher in Michigan. You can click on the links below to visit their blogs:</span><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NGDAVKPGN8c/U8JtQnOLGRI/AAAAAAAACjg/OjOtrqUsPag/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-07-13+at+7.27.05+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NGDAVKPGN8c/U8JtQnOLGRI/AAAAAAAACjg/OjOtrqUsPag/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-07-13+at+7.27.05+AM.png" height="41" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://mrschureads.blogspot.com</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f-BUIxK5SuA/U8JtQYnxqZI/AAAAAAAACjc/mxhL250bqdk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-07-13+at+7.27.17+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f-BUIxK5SuA/U8JtQYnxqZI/AAAAAAAACjc/mxhL250bqdk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-07-13+at+7.27.17+AM.png" height="41" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://mrcolbysharp.com</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When you visit their blogs, you're probably going to want to start following them on Twitter too. They are always, always, ALWAYS sharing new books for kids of all ages! So let me share the books they introduced to me! I've linked each book to a site for you to get more information.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My first share is the 2014 Newberry Award Winner, <u>Flora and Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures</u> by Kate DiCamillo. Holy bagumba! Every time I see a squirrel I think of this adorable book!</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W2vAVTR1G1k/U8JvdPIpilI/AAAAAAAACjw/Ol4o2QFbcuQ/s1600/bk_flora.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W2vAVTR1G1k/U8JvdPIpilI/AAAAAAAACjw/Ol4o2QFbcuQ/s1600/bk_flora.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://www.katedicamillo.com/books/flora.html</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u>A Snicker of Magic</u> by Natalie Lloyd. Talk about MAGIC! Another story full of friendship and imagination. It's just a great read!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GU3GN79ID40/U8JvdHG6qrI/AAAAAAAACj8/zNiG0w8WNnk/s1600/snicker+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GU3GN79ID40/U8JvdHG6qrI/AAAAAAAACj8/zNiG0w8WNnk/s1600/snicker+cover.jpg" height="320" width="209" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://natalielloyd.blogspot.com/p/fiction.html</td></tr>
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<u> </u><span style="font-size: large;"><u>The One and Only Ivan</u> by Katherine Applegate...oh. my. gosh. I read this story in one sitting on one of our deep freeze days this past winter. Every time I see an elephant or a gorilla, I'm reminded of this story. This one really tugged at my heart strings. A picture book version of this story is coming out this fall and I can't wait! It's just an amazing story.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4nJ45kwm8E0/U8JvdGZxygI/AAAAAAAACj0/t9rSPeY3H2c/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4nJ45kwm8E0/U8JvdGZxygI/AAAAAAAACj0/t9rSPeY3H2c/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://theoneandonlyivan.com</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I would love to read these books to my first graders this year but I need to meet them first to see if they'll be able to handle them. If I were teaching 3rd grade though, these books would definitely be a part of our year together. Don't take my recommendation alone though, read them yourself first and make your own decision.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's a gloomy, rainy morning and I overslept and won't be making it to church in time so I plan on starting this one next:</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k_6fLtbYN-w/U8J0haDNeYI/AAAAAAAACkQ/xwgFefqkWds/s1600/Magic-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k_6fLtbYN-w/U8J0haDNeYI/AAAAAAAACkQ/xwgFefqkWds/s1600/Magic-1.jpg" height="320" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://carolinecarlsonbooks.com/books/</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm on the hunt for some new chapter books for read alouds this year! If you know of anything new that would work for little ears, please let me know!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hope all is well!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-24975514198642166322014-07-07T08:55:00.000-04:002014-07-07T08:55:07.685-04:00Look What I Made~Story Stones!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">I finally had time to make something I pinned a long time ago...and it actually turned out!</span><br />
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<span style="clear: left; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SAPzo7c1gyc/U7qNfxW3x8I/AAAAAAAACjM/OQAwVPhZFCs/s1600/Story+Stones.jpg" height="283" width="400" /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">They were so fun to make and a little addicting too!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I went to Pat Catans (it's a craft store here in Ohio) and picked up a few bags of "River Rocks" for $2.00 a bag. Each bag weighed about 2 pounds and when I opened them up, there were about 20 rocks. The amount of rocks depend on the size of the rocks. I then picked up a ton of random stickers, some Mod Podge and a can of Krylon Crystal Clear Acrylic Coating.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I stuck the stickers on the rocks, took them outside in a box and sprayed them 3 times with the acrylic coating. One thing I realized is that you're going to want to use "typical" stickers. The thicker stickers were a little tougher to stick. I also took some old magazines, cut out small pictures and Mod Podged them to the rocks. Once the Mod Podge was dried, I gave them 3 coats of the acrylic coating too. Once the third coat of acrylic coating was applied, I forgot about them and let them dry for a day or two.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I think they'll be a great addition to the writing corner in my classroom! They can be used in so many ways! At the beginning of the year, they'll be used to help write random sentences when we can't think of something to write about. As the year continues, they can use them to help them write stories. The children could even pick 3 rocks and use them to write an interesting story. I'm so excited! The only downfall...they're going to be heavy! I am going to put our Story Stones in a bucket so that the children can dig through to find the stones they want. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now I'm off to find some seasonal stickers (Halloween, Christmas, etc.) so I'll have some Story Stones to add to the bucket during the holidays.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have a great day!</span><br />
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<br />Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-21131822868154062014-07-05T09:06:00.005-04:002014-07-05T09:11:01.375-04:00A New Blog!<span style="font-size: large;">Hello Friends!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Last year I created a website to use in my classroom but I don't think it was really used by my families. My students used it when they were on our iPads to look at our pictures and access their favorite websites, but I wanted something more collaborative for this year. This year I'm going to try using a blog to keep my families updated on everything that we're doing in our classroom. I'm hoping to post on a daily basis and as the year progresses I'd also like to delegate some of the posts to my students.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I needed to find a blog designer so I was checking out all of your blog layouts and finally came across Christi Fultz @ Design by Christi.</span><br />
<div class="Design by Christi" style="margin: 0 auto; width: 200px;">
<a href="http://www.designbychristi.com/"> <img src="http://www.msfultz.com/designbychristi.png" /> </a> </div>
<span style="font-size: large;">She's also a third grade teacher and blogs about her classroom happenings @ Ms. Fultz's Corner.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.msfultzscorner.com/"><img alt="Ms. Fultz's corner" src="http://www.msfultz.com/fultzbutton.png" /></a></center>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you're looking for a new blog design I highly recommend that you checkout Christi's amazing talents! She was so easy to work with and each of her blog designs had a different look to them.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Our school mascot is a Pirate, so of course I needed my new blog to have a pirate feel to it and since our school colors are red, black and white, I wanted to include that too. I think I've said it before, but I think it's so important for my children to have pride in our school and I think it's easy by incorporating our school colors and mascot into my classroom design and instruction each day. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">After I contacted Christi about designing my new blog, she sent me a document filled with questions so that she could get an idea about what I was looking for. I made a deposit into her PayPal account to secure the date she was going to begin her work. A couple of days later she sent me some digital art to pick from and within a week, ta-da!! I have a blog!</span><br />
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<div class=" http://shivermefirsties.blogspot.com/" style="margin: 0 auto; width: 200px;">
<a href="http://shivermefirsties.blogspot.com/"> <img src=" http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u378/designbychristi/blogs/jpbutton.png" /> </a> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When I say, "She was so easy to work with," I totally mean it! She sent me the first proof of my blog design and I was able to make any suggestions I wanted and she tweaked it to meet my needs immediately.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm so excited to share my new classroom blog with my families this year! If you have a classroom blog that you use to share things with your families, we'd love to connect with you. I don't want to post a lot on the new blog quite yet but I will once the school year nears and my new families are aware of it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hope everyone had a great 4th!</span><br />
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<br />Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-58811017051546189152014-07-01T11:33:00.003-04:002014-07-01T11:33:31.987-04:00July Currently<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Happy July! I'm linking up with <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Farley's monthly linky</a>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I think a new washer and dryer are in my future. They both are making a sound that I haven't heard before.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am loving these slow summer mornings. I actually cherish them. During the school year, it's always rush, rush, rush for me in the mornings. During the summer my sister and I wake up before the sun and go for a run, and although I don't love rolling out of bed that early...and it's not always pretty, I do feel like I get a ton accomplished in the morning before we head to the pool or Soak City.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am not a TV Talk Show kind of girl, but I have started catching a few episodes of Oprah's Super Soul Sunday series after church on Sunday mornings. Sometimes, it's just background noise for me while I'm reading the paper, but sometimes the people she has on kind of inspire me. I love how she can sit under an enormous oak tree with beautiful furniture...and not one bird, bug or other living thing makes their presence known in an inappropriate manner during the whole episode! Anyway, there was an episode on with a husband and wife who lost their child in the Sandy Hook shooting...broke my heart, but their strength and faith astounded me. Last week I caught an episode where Oprah interviewed Steven Pressfield who was talking about his book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-War-Art-Through-Creative/dp/1936891026/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1404227686&sr=8-1&keywords=the+war+of+art" target="_blank"><u>The War of Art~ Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles</u>.</a> I just started reading it but it's already making me think differently. I love when that happens.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm wanting a home makeover...wouldn't that be fun?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My need...has a little to do with Steven Pressfield's book...a little to do with my community...a little to do with my future...and a lot to do with life in general. Ha! I bet that cleared some things up!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Plans for the 4th...a good old family picnic with some relatives I haven't seen in awhile and taking my 94 year old grandmother to <a href="https://www.cedarpoint.com/" target="_blank">Cedar Point</a> to see the fireworks with the family.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm off to link up and meet some new blogging friends! I've been a little out of the loop during the school year as far as blogging goes...thank God for summer and extra time to catch up!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-67668695167773765792014-06-28T09:50:00.000-04:002014-06-28T09:51:26.265-04:00We're Off to See the Wizard...<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Hello again!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I wanted to share another unit I created earlier this year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I read <u>The Wizard of Oz</u> with my children each year. I love reading it aloud to my first graders and they always seem to be glued to it. Thanks to some amazing teachers, I've been able to purchase several of their units and it's always fun to pick and choose from each of them. I don't like doing the same exact thing each year so it's nice to have a "stash" to pull from. I love being able to do all of the different activities they develop, but I wanted to have more of a comprehension based unit for my students. This way, we could read a chapter and then complete the complementing comprehension page(s). Here's a little peek at what I created:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Wizard-of-Oz-Comprehension-Questions-1275231" target="_blank">You can click here to see it in my TPT shop too.</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am so grateful to all of those teachers that have created Wizard of Oz units that I included a "Shout Outs!" page that shows each unit I've purchased as well as the link for you to purchase it too. The unit includes a cover page and then additional pages that complement each chapter in the book. There are also a few writing activities for the children to complete at the end of the unit too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I read Frank L. Baum's original version of <u>The Wizard of Oz</u> to my students. I chose this version, published by Penguin (Penguin has a whole line of classical literature called Puffin Chalk...the covers look like they were created on a blackboard with colored chalk.) </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I just love the look and feel of this version.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I love exposing my first graders to classical literature but I was also reminded the hard way that it's very important to read the entire book first. I know...that was rule #1 in our undergrad courses but I was on a time crunch at this particular moment during the year. We started reading the original <u>Peter Pan</u> during the winter but I had to make a quick switch to a different version after we started reading a few chapters...that Tinker Bell has a real attitude in the original version! :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, I'm trying to change and update what I'm using as read alouds in my classroom this year. I've read a few great books that I've fallen in love with but I think they have parts that might be a little too heavy for my first graders. I'll post about those later...because they were amazing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have you read any new chapter books that would be a good fit for first graders? I'd love to hear what you're reading!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have a great weekend!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-27386225011287115852014-06-25T09:09:00.000-04:002014-06-25T09:09:14.075-04:00Well, hello again...finally!<span style="font-size: large;">I'm blowing off the dust again on this little blog! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Geesh! What a year! Like a GREAT year! I had a super group of kiddos and got to teach with 2 amazing teachers and their students. We departmentalized this past year again and it was a really good thing for our children. Unfortunately we won't be able to departmentalize next year for a few reasons and I'm okay with that, but I'm already busy planning for next year. I've been the Reading/Writing teacher for the past two years so I need to brush up on Math, Science and Social Studies for my first graders.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our school used Fundations this year in Kindergarten and First Grade. Second grade will start it this coming year. The program was originally presented to us as a scripted program that you read directly from the manual to teach your class. I am <u>so</u> not a scripted teacher...and I believe that there's not just one way to teach children as they aren't little robots either but...a year in and a few sessions and words of encouragement from a representative from Fundations, I feel a little more comfortable entering our second year in Fundations and tweaking it a little bit as needed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A few things I learned...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. My children who didn't receive Fundations in Kindergarten were behind the 8-ball from day one. I really think that there should be an intensive Kindergarten Review for those who didn't have Fundations prior to first grade. There was a huge discrepancy in ability right from the get-go.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. Some of the children who were new to our district and didn't have Fundations in Kindergarten at their previous school qualified for Title I/Special Reading. They received a second dose of Fundations daily in a small group setting which helped, but by the end of the year, they were still the ones who were struggling. Again, they made progress through the year but it wasn't enough to make them confident readers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. I wish there was a handwriting component for the first grade version of Fundations. I feel like my new first graders (who had Fundations the previous year) came to me with impressive handwriting, but as the year continued, it regressed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. I wish there was a little more practice with the words introduced. All of the words were on our word wall and in their notebooks, but I would still see them struggle reading and spelling them in their daily work.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. The pace (as scripted in the manual) didn't meet the needs of all of my children. My top readers had a hard time staying on task during the lessons because they were ready for more. I also feel that the words learned weren't as intensive as years past.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So...I created a few packets to go along with Fundations this year and thought I'd share them with you. I plan on using them with everyone at the beginning of the year but as the year continues, I might use them to help differentiate with my struggling students. I've linked all of the the titles to the units in <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Jennifer-Long" target="_blank">my TPT shop</a>.</span><br />
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<u><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fundations-Handwriting-Practice-Level-12nd-Edition-1290057" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Handwriting Practice for Level 1: Trick Words and Words of the Day</span></a></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We'll be using these all year to hopefully keep our handwriting neat and tidy.</span></div>
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<u><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fundations-Word-Work-Workout-Level-12nd-Edition-1290060" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Word of the Day Workout for Level 1</span></a></u></div>
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<u><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fundations-Trick-Word-Workout-Level-12nd-Edition-1290058" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Trick Word Workout for Level 1</span></a></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Each day a new Word of the Day or Trick Word is introduced, we'll use the complementing page from this packet for further practice.</span></div>
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<u><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fundations-Unit-Review-Level-12nd-Edition-1290062" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Trick Words and Words of the Day Unit Review-Level 1</span></a></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This packet includes word cards for each unit as well as a small assessment piece. The word cards will be copied and sent home for extra practice throughout the year and the assessment piece will be used to help me document who is mastering the words and who is struggling.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If only I could learn how to code...I could develop a quality tech component to Fundations! I would love some apps or software that would offer a "Fundations focused" practice for my children.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, that's what I've been up to since school let out! Hope your summers are off to a great start!</span></div>
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Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-77636961797386113642014-02-25T07:01:00.001-05:002014-02-25T07:01:41.445-05:00Start Filling Up Your TPT Carts!<span style="font-size: large;">Hello Friends!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm sure you've heard about the big Teachers Pay Teachers sale on February 27 and 28! All you have to do is enter the code, TPT3 when you checkout and you'll get 28% off! I just emptied my cart the other day because I needed a few things right away, but my wish list is always growing, so I'll be purchasing some things I've had my eye on for the spring and end of the year!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Meredith-Anderson" target="_blank">Thanks to Meredith Anderson for the sale button!</a></td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: large;">My little shop will be on sale too, so if you haven't stopped by, go and take a peek! I don't have a ton in there, but thanks to our snow days the past few months, it has grown a bit! Here's a link to my shop:</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Jennifer-Long" target="_blank">My TPT Shop</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have fun shopping!</span></div>
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<br />Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-81089123737995605732014-02-20T06:31:00.001-05:002014-02-20T06:31:32.214-05:00Book Bargains!<span style="font-size: large;">Hello friends!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm sure you've seen this, but just in case you missed it, I found some $1 STEALS at Scholastic's Teacher Store recently!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our school mascot is a pirate, so I picked up a class set of Corinne Demas's <u>Pirates Go To School</u> to use as my "Welcome to First Grade" treat for next year's class at my Open House. Now I just have to make sure I don't lose them or forget I bought them between now and August!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bM-Fmbos8cA/UwOwarSeHxI/AAAAAAAACeo/Xf0OM4-2YNM/s1600/Pirates+Go+To+School.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bM-Fmbos8cA/UwOwarSeHxI/AAAAAAAACeo/Xf0OM4-2YNM/s1600/Pirates+Go+To+School.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://shop.scholastic.com/shop/en/teacherstore/product/pirates-go-to-school-9780545206303" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">Pirates Go to School</span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For literature circles next year I purchased a set of Felicia Bond's <u>The Day It Rained Hearts</u>:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ezo9gH1EQ3w/UwOwaEjuZvI/AAAAAAAACeg/DWlLSnFJalU/s1600/The+Day+it+Rained+Hearts.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://shop.scholastic.com/shop/en/teacherstore/product/the-day-it-rained-hearts-9780439455701" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">The Day It Rained Hearts by Felicia Bond</span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And, then I found Robert Munsch's <u>The Sand Castle Contest</u>:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_d9lFhYyhhY/UwOyMbRZrsI/AAAAAAAACe4/MlCC3LICEms/s1600/The+Sand+Castle+Contest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_d9lFhYyhhY/UwOyMbRZrsI/AAAAAAAACe4/MlCC3LICEms/s1600/The+Sand+Castle+Contest.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://shop.scholastic.com/shop/en/teacherstore/product/the-sandcastle-contest-9780439748650" target="_blank">The Sand Castle Contest by Robert Munsch</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Don't tell, but this is going to be the book I'll give to my children at the end of this year. We usually do a Beach Day and this will be a perfect gift! I actually bought several more copies to have on hand to use as literature circle books at the end of the year too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I had to have a little self control (which is not my best quality when it comes to children's books)! I picked up a few more $1 books for our classroom library too...the books are only priced like this until February 28 so go and take a peek!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have a great day!</span><br />
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Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-4249185120571973642014-02-18T13:34:00.004-05:002014-02-18T13:35:33.719-05:00Valentine's Day Recap and a Freebie!Hello Friends!<br />
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Well...we're home with another snow day today! I believe this is #9 for my district. We haven't had a normal full week of school since before Christmas! It's hard to believe, but it's true! No wonder we're all a little "off" lately! Hopefully winter is just about done and we can try to get back to normal. There's so much to do before our year end assessments (which are scheduled for the first week of April...)<br />
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I know it's late, but go ahead and file this for next year...I did Valentine's Day in my classroom a little different this year...and it was fun for all of us!<br />
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The first thing I found was Natasha Wing's <i>The Night Before Valentine's Day</i> for $1.00 at a discount store in my town called Ollie's. I thought, why not and purchased a book for each of my kiddos. They were so excited! There's something about giving everyone the same book...it's their own, but they can still work with a friend and not have to argue over who holds the book or turns the pages. :) <br />
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I then decided to make up a few activities to go along with the story. To be honest, I had fluency checks and progress monitoring to do and needed a few things that my children could work on quietly while I was doing 1:1 assessments. Even though I developed these activities for my children to do with their own copy of the book, they would work well as a whole group activity too.<br />
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At the end of the book, the principal arrives to the classroom dressed as Cupid with a surprise for the class. I made up a worksheet that the children could create a Cupid costume for our principal and draw what kind of surprise they would want from her. Their drawings were super cute!<br />
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If you're interested, I uploaded a FREEBIE in my TPT shop that includes all of the activities we used to go along with <u>The Night Before Valentine's Day</u>!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Valentine-FREEBIE-The-Night-Before-Valentines-Day-1120944" target="_blank">A Little Fun with Natasha Wing's <u>The Night Before Valentine's Day</u>!</a></td></tr>
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I also found some fun "Minute To Win It" games with a little Valentine flair on Pinterest! These were so much fun! You can just search for "Valentine Games" and a ton come up.<br />
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<span style="color: red;">Heart-a-Stack</span>...we used the Heart Marshmallows to see how many we could stack. Definitely harder than what we thought!<br />
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<span style="color: red;">Valentine Shoot-Out.</span>..We used the Heart Marshmallows and tried to toss as many as we could into a small bowl. (I love this first picture...true teamwork...if you could have only heard them helping each other.)<br />
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<span style="color: red;">The Cookie Shimmy</span>...the children had to start with a cookie on their foreheads and shimmy it down to their mouths without using their hands...too fun!<br />
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<span style="color: red;">And of course, our Valentines.</span>..I love watching them open their Valentines.</div>
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Hope you all survived your Valentine's Day!<br />
Take care!<br />
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Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-90935249949635493572014-01-25T17:42:00.001-05:002014-01-25T17:43:32.966-05:00Pirate Literacy Centers and Snowy Ice Cream<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Hi Friends!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We're in another deep freeze in my neck of the woods. School was canceled again this past Friday and the weather isn't looking too promising for the beginning of this week. I like snow, I love a white Christmas but I'm kind of over it…bring on the spring! A nice warm spring!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A few weeks ago I posted my Pirate Literacy Centers in my TPT shop. I was in need of some simple activities that my children could do in small groups while I was testing so I whipped a few up for us. We were supposed to work on them this past week, but we only had 1 3/4 days of school…so they're now laminated and ready to go for this week. I thought I'd give you a close up look at them so you know what we'll be working on.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pirate Punctuation</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The children will match the sentence to the correct punctuation.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QOcqWtKA3C8/UuQf8dMUR5I/AAAAAAAACa0/1--Xyx0Fns0/s1600/IMG_6634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QOcqWtKA3C8/UuQf8dMUR5I/AAAAAAAACa0/1--Xyx0Fns0/s1600/IMG_6634.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pirate Contractions</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The children will match the cards to build contractions.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cjxqs92DYFA/UuQf7YXpNJI/AAAAAAAACao/c_NXDhW95yo/s1600/IMG_6635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cjxqs92DYFA/UuQf7YXpNJI/AAAAAAAACao/c_NXDhW95yo/s1600/IMG_6635.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pirate ABC Order</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The children will will use the three sets of cards and put them in ABC order.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H6eByBovOzk/UuQgLYHwgRI/AAAAAAAACbE/nd7Q58ZBurI/s1600/IMG_6636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H6eByBovOzk/UuQgLYHwgRI/AAAAAAAACbE/nd7Q58ZBurI/s1600/IMG_6636.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">A Treasure of Compound Words</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The children will match the cards to build compound words.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcoaYLoyzds/UuQgD-Nd6GI/AAAAAAAACa8/4GTBUQNM53k/s1600/IMG_6637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcoaYLoyzds/UuQgD-Nd6GI/AAAAAAAACa8/4GTBUQNM53k/s1600/IMG_6637.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pirate Rhymes</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The children will match the words that rhyme.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_5nb70WOBZk/UuQgNVEiGYI/AAAAAAAACbU/2B3ecrqpm18/s1600/IMG_6638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_5nb70WOBZk/UuQgNVEiGYI/AAAAAAAACbU/2B3ecrqpm18/s1600/IMG_6638.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Noun and Verb Sort</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The children will sort the cards by nouns and verbs.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> They're pretty basic because I wanted the children to be able complete them with little help from me since I'll be testing each of them 1:1. Each activity has a worksheet for the children to record their answers…and I can hold them accountable for their work. </span><br />
<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Pirate-Literacy-Centers-1068953" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here to find my Pirate Literacy Centers in my TPT shop.</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Being snowed in, has given my plenty of time to get lost on Pinterest…did you see this one?</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-goUs1xBYa14/UuQk5XFWMqI/AAAAAAAACbc/FUY9GVplo2s/s1600/b9af8defcbef60f2b8220987da450445.jpg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-goUs1xBYa14/UuQk5XFWMqI/AAAAAAAACbc/FUY9GVplo2s/s1600/b9af8defcbef60f2b8220987da450445.jpg.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I thought I better try it out on my own first...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">and it's pretty tasty! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The recipe above made about 2 cups of ice cream. If we ever get back to school, I think I want to make this with my first graders. They'll love making their own snow ice ream!</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--NJMddr5uVc/Tzj7FQxjZNI/AAAAAAAAARs/rj3qCHGgbeo/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--NJMddr5uVc/Tzj7FQxjZNI/AAAAAAAAARs/rj3qCHGgbeo/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
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Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-68429742814422982062014-01-20T11:38:00.000-05:002014-01-20T11:39:14.593-05:00Well, hello! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I know</span>…<span style="font-family: inherit;">I've been missing in action again! I'd love to promise you that I'll be more consistent</span>…<span style="font-family: inherit;">but I think I just get so wrapped up in school life that my little blog gets put on the back burner. I've not even had time to blog stalk like I used to</span>…<span style="font-family: inherit;">ugh! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I'll try to be a better blogger though</span>…<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'll really, really try!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I have been creating a few things for my little old TPT shop in the past few weeks. If you follow me there, you've probably "felt" me </span>blowing<span style="font-family: inherit;"> the dust off of it recently and opening up the doors again.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our Student-Led Conferences will be in a few short weeks and I wanted a book study that my children could complete on their own and then share it with their families at conferences. A few years ago I purchased a class set of Jan Brett's <u>The Mitten</u> from Scholastic. They were like $1 a piece at the time…wish I could find that deal again! We'll use this book for a whole class read aloud and then the children will each have their own copy to use to help them complete the book study.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h6lx4S4b3Rk/Ut1JtCsULVI/AAAAAAAACaE/6Ekm3cI7haA/s1600/original-1035794-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h6lx4S4b3Rk/Ut1JtCsULVI/AAAAAAAACaE/6Ekm3cI7haA/s1600/original-1035794-1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Mitten-A-Winter-Book-Study-1035794" target="_blank">Click here to see this unit in my TPT shop!</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We're in need of a little extra help with contractions, so I created a simple matching activity for the children to use to practice on their own or with a friend or two.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2mEC8WyVUWU/Ut1JtHyOdjI/AAAAAAAACaA/rDuyZjN63Ig/s1600/original-1037301-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2mEC8WyVUWU/Ut1JtHyOdjI/AAAAAAAACaA/rDuyZjN63Ig/s1600/original-1037301-1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Lets-Build-a-Contraction-1037301" target="_blank">Click here to see this unit in my TPT shop!</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our school mascot is a pirate and it's our annual Pride Week this week. It's a week that we celebrate the pride we have in our school, district-wide. We've been reading <u>Peter Pan</u> but we're also going to be reading a few more fun pirate stories. One of my favorites is <u>Tough Boris</u> by Mem Fox. I like to use this book to introduce adjectives to my children so I whipped up a little activity for us to complete together.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4sftSilRcwA/Ut1JtC2zvWI/AAAAAAAACZ8/aJj9Bow6TMg/s1600/original-1055182-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4sftSilRcwA/Ut1JtC2zvWI/AAAAAAAACZ8/aJj9Bow6TMg/s1600/original-1055182-1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/A-Little-Pirate-Fun-with-Tough-Boris-by-Mem-Fox-1055182" target="_blank">Click here to see this unit in my TPT shop!</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's also "testing season" for us and I'm in need of some literacy activities that the children can complete independently while I'm doing one-on-one assessments. There are 6 literacy centers in this packet that will serve as a review and/or extra practice for us!</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ib6ey8AAon4/Ut1Jt1VSnRI/AAAAAAAACaQ/Bwi-rcXi71g/s1600/original-1068953-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ib6ey8AAon4/Ut1Jt1VSnRI/AAAAAAAACaQ/Bwi-rcXi71g/s1600/original-1068953-1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Pirate-Literacy-Centers-1068953" target="_blank">Click here to see this unit in my TPT shop!</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And since I've been MIA for several months, I'm going to hold a quick </span>flash sale in my shop for today, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day! Everything is 20% off for the rest of today!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here's hoping your 2014 is off to a wonderful start and that hopefully, I can get back into the swing of things again in blogland!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Take care!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-25838225432622891482013-09-03T06:51:00.001-04:002013-09-03T06:51:03.305-04:00September Currently<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Confession...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I actually typed this up yesterday morning, but because I already posted about my color activities, I decided to save this post until today. AND...because it's already done, all I had to do was publish it this morning before I left for school!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, I'm joining in on the fun of <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2013/09/currently-september.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2Fjtmhg+%28Oh%27+Boy+4th+Grade%29" target="_blank">Farley's September Currently</a>!</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rZJ-w7WiRGU/UiS3adGUMYI/AAAAAAAACY0/R3jgspV1QUc/s1600/Slide13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rZJ-w7WiRGU/UiS3adGUMYI/AAAAAAAACY0/R3jgspV1QUc/s640/Slide13.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I don't know if I really have to explain too much, but here it goes....</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Pirates of the Carribbean</u> was on TBS and I couldn't help but wish there was a G-Rated Pirates movie made by Disney (that wasn't animated). <u>Jake and the Neverland Pirates</u> is too young for us but I think they would like <u>Peter Pan</u>...but remember <u>Blackbeard's Ghost</u>? I wonder if that's still available somewhere??</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm loving my extra day off this week! A full week of school for the first week can be a bit of a shock to our systems...especially with the heat and humidity. Several grade levels in our district have staggered starts which would really help, but whenever we ask for First Grade to have a staggered start, we're denied. It would be so much easier to get all of those assessments done if I only worried about 6 or so kiddos a day!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We're doing "After Hours Social Hour" this year for our families. We're inviting our families into our classrooms just once a month to showcase the learning that's happening. Our first one has a Superhero theme so I'm reading some books and trying to sketch out some ideas. (Is Super Hero one or two words? Every time I type it, I think differently.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Due to this...I am wanting some superpowers (again...a compound word?) to help me get everything done...or maybe just the power to clone myself to be in more than one place at a time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm needing this humid weather to depart for good! I'm really tired of feeling the drips of sweat down my back and trying not to stick to my new kiddos when they come in for a hug!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Things I would love to accomplish this month...</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">I need to get myself back to where/what I was before summer. I'm feeling funky...and I know what I need to do to fix it...I'm just lacking that motivation.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">I need to start running again...we've been walking, but I think I've secretly been craving my early morning runs with my </span><span style="font-size: large;">sister...although she's always ahead of me. And...it's not pretty at. all. I'm definitely not the one that jumps out of bed @ 5:30 to go and run. I have to sometimes talk myself through those three miles..."Okay Jenn, go to the next stop sign, okay, the next light post, the next mailbox, the next driveway, one more step..." but when I'm done I do feel kind of proud of myself and my head is always more in "the game". </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">I'm feeling a little uncertain about everything lately...I'm needing to pick myself up and really be an advocate for my students...and myself.</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ready to bring on this 4 day week?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have a good one!</span></div>
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Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-42867768670851325512013-09-02T10:07:00.002-04:002013-09-02T10:07:19.968-04:00Colorful Week Ahead!<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Labor Day!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hope you're enjoying your 3-day weekend! We're back at it tomorrow...and it's full steam ahead! I always feel like that first week back to school is the honeymoon period of our year! My three classes are pretty amazing and I think we're going to have a great year! I don't really plan a lot because so much of that week is spent on rules and procedures and getting my new kiddos acclimated to life as a First Grader. Now it's time to get down to business! :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This week we'll be reviewing our color words with a few activities that I've found while catching up on my blog stalking this weekend! I'll share them as we do them...there will be a little of Pete, some naked crayons, and some opportunities to get my kiddos working together in a splash of color!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I wanted to create a few activities that my kiddos could work on with their friends at their tables...because we're still establishing our community! I uploaded them as FREEBIES to my TPT shop last night. Feel free to click on the links below to download them!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Color-Word-Wordsearch-856139" target="_blank">Free Download @ TPT</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QzT0qepECuU/UiSX4UL07_I/AAAAAAAACYY/s7Nf8BZOTRo/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-09-02+at+9.48.47+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QzT0qepECuU/UiSX4UL07_I/AAAAAAAACYY/s7Nf8BZOTRo/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-09-02+at+9.48.47+AM.png" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/I-HaveWho-HasColor-Words-856155" target="_blank">Free Download @ TPT</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vggWKti4X4w/UiSX4SbMO0I/AAAAAAAACYg/zsOCpiBztD0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-09-02+at+9.49.19+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vggWKti4X4w/UiSX4SbMO0I/AAAAAAAACYg/zsOCpiBztD0/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-09-02+at+9.49.19+AM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Color-Word-Scramble-856123" target="_blank">Free Download @ TPT</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy your day!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340926432782280419.post-21624893476607901152013-08-31T10:32:00.002-04:002013-08-31T10:32:58.439-04:00Open House...Departmentalization Style!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hello Friends!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Anyone else thankful for this 3-day weekend like me? This was our first week...first FULL week, as in 5 full days of school! It was hot, humid, and sticky...and therefore, a little long, but we made it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In case you didn't know, there are three of us who departmentalize in first grade at our building. I am responsible for English Language Arts, another teacher is responsible for Math, and another is responsible for the Science and Social Studies standards. In one of my past posts, I shared that our district was on the ballot to pass a levy and if it didn't pass, our building would lose art, music, and gym instruction for our children. The levy failed, I accepted that I would be teaching art, music and gym...and then those specials appeared on our schedules. So our children now receive art, music, and gym instruction but it made the schedule a bit of a nightmare on our end because we weren't sure if we were going to be able departmentalize. Thankfully, our teacher who is responsible for math saw through the schedule and she figured out a way where we can still switch for 80 minute blocks throughout the day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So...I thought I'd share how we structured our Open House today!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We sent home a summer letter welcoming our students and families to first grade and included our supply lists so that they could take advantage of those back-to-school sales. We also enclosed an invitation to our Open House.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-or8yM6I3Npg/UiHtQMblFWI/AAAAAAAACWw/SqdLRZixrMM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-08-31+at+9.18.42+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-or8yM6I3Npg/UiHtQMblFWI/AAAAAAAACWw/SqdLRZixrMM/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-08-31+at+9.18.42+AM.png" width="332" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B1-YvqDEvePxWXpENGxXRmZXWGM/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Click here to see it up close and personal.</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our grade level has their Open House at 4:45 but because we wanted the opportunity to meet all of our children and their families, we chose to schedule ours so that all three teachers would present to each group. It was great, because we did get to meet everyone and it wasn't congested with 65 or so children and their families all at once. We also have a family with twins in first grade, so they were able to attend one Open House at the regular first grade time, and then they attended one of our sessions. There was a little bit of confusion amongst some of our families. They thought they had to come for 3 full hours of Open House and were grateful once we clarified that they only were being asked to come for one hour. Next year we'll be even more explicit! :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">During each session, we did a little powerpoint presentation all about how we departmentalize and shared a few of the fun things we have planned for the near future. Here's a few of our handouts...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We send home a Classroom Directory/Non-Custodial Parent note as well as a Technology Note. We use our Classroom Directory note as a courtesy for our families. If they would like to have their name and home addresses or email included in a directory to schedule play-dates or to send birthday invites throughout the year, we put a little directory together for them. It's completely optional and only shared with those who share their information. At the bottom of this note is a small section where the families can give me names and addresses of non-custodial parents who want to keep informed of their child's progress in first grade. We could probably hunt through the school records for this information, but it's so much easier to just ask our families for the information. We also send home a Tech Note asking permission to take pictures of the children and publish them on our websites and blogs. The district has a section on the back of our Emergecy Medical Authorization form requesting this type of permission, but we want something in addition to that, just to cover ourselves! I've linked both of these handouts so that you can view them and/or tweak them for yourselves.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o6u_M2JgZBU/UiHwFAoK2jI/AAAAAAAACXE/bKZ9angFNCg/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-08-31+at+9.29.23+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o6u_M2JgZBU/UiHwFAoK2jI/AAAAAAAACXE/bKZ9angFNCg/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-08-31+at+9.29.23+AM.png" width="249" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B1-YvqDEvePxMzVKclgzWE5neVE/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Classroom Directory/Non-Custodial Parent</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B1-YvqDEvePxaEVoOWxLTENha3M/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Tech Note</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We also are going to send home a quarterly newsletter called, "The Proud Pirate" that gives our families information on what we're working on in the classroom. We provide them with the actual standards that we'll be covering during that quarter. Although sharing the exact standards with the families might be a little overwhelming for them, we felt the need to do so since there's such a push for these standards and First Grade is <u>SO</u> different from Kindergarten. We also explained to our families that a lot of these standards will be built upon as the year continues...and no one can say that they don't know what their child is learning in first grade!</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iTyWDBasUx0/UiHwGz2SKuI/AAAAAAAACXU/WGHkYNA68IE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-08-31+at+9.30.31+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iTyWDBasUx0/UiHwGz2SKuI/AAAAAAAACXU/WGHkYNA68IE/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-08-31+at+9.30.31+AM.png" width="310" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B1-YvqDEvePxLVEyVU9xS2E2NFk/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Click here to see our First Edition!</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In our summer welcome letters, we asked the children to write us a letter about their summer, but at Open House, we gave our parents a homework assignment. We asked them to write a note about their child! Here's the handout we provided...</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B1-YvqDEvePxTDdWQUZiTjlheG8/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Parent Homework Assignment</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We also decided that we needed to reach out to our families a little more. Actually, I feel that our district as a whole needs to do a better job of inviting our families into our buildings so that they can see what our children have been learning. I think the junior high and high school are filled families for their athletic events, but I often feel that the primary buildings are neglected a bit in showing off their efforts....and let's be honest...there's some pretty amazing things happening in our buildings too! Our building does an amazing job of displaying student work...you can't help but smile as you walk through our building! I feel that our community should be invited to visit and see what our little friends are learning. Due to this, we decided to start "After Hours Social Hour" this year. Each month our families will be invited into our classrooms to see what we've been doing. Our first event will have a "Superhero" theme. We're tying in community helpers with super heroes. I've been searching Pinterest, Teachers Pay Teachers, and blogs to get my ideas flowing. I also purchased a few books and will be reading them this weekend and creating some fun to go along with them! Here's the Save the Date we sent home at our Open House:</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kyls06sj0hA/UiHwIWoyJyI/AAAAAAAACXY/6_pltOxNDDU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-08-31+at+9.30.10+AM.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kyls06sj0hA/UiHwIWoyJyI/AAAAAAAACXY/6_pltOxNDDU/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-08-31+at+9.30.10+AM.png" width="248" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'll be sharing more about our Superhero night and what we're planning as they develop! :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We also tied balloons onto our classroom doors so that our families would know which three rooms their children would be traveling to and from throughout the day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After our presentation, we invited our families to visit all three classrooms and meet us personally if they chose to do so!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I think that covers everything we did during Open House! OH SHOOT! One more thing...at the beginning of every session, we called all of our new Firsties to the carpet and read this book to them:</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SpqDesoVbzM/UiH9dqbwgSI/AAAAAAAACYE/cTYfssv5q6M/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SpqDesoVbzM/UiH9dqbwgSI/AAAAAAAACYE/cTYfssv5q6M/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's a cute story...about how a child wonders if his teacher will be an alligator, a kangaroo, a boa constrictor, etc. In the end his teacher is a real live person! We packaged animal crackers as our welcome back treat for our students. Starting our sessions with a story for our kiddos was the perfect way to settle everyone down so that they would listen to our presentation too! :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ok...now I think I've shared everything! Sorry about the long post!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hope everyone is off to a great start with their year!</span></div>
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Jenn Longhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07864125489633011814noreply@blogger.com0