tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60201988462127350372024-03-13T06:26:16.275-05:00Hands-On Learning Hot SpotCool tips from WendyZ, teacher-marketer-momWendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-2479579142331592142011-04-02T16:47:00.034-05:002011-04-02T19:40:01.848-05:00Dynamic Data Displays with ManipulativesWe usually think of manipulatives as cool tools for gathering or computing data but not really for <span style="font-style:italic;">displaying</span> it. Instead, we skip the scaffolding and expect students to immediately draw a beautiful visual display.<br /><br />Make more use of your manipulatives! Have students use them to build graphs and charts as a transition to later using pencil and paper to represent data.<br /><br />There are lots of reasons to use your manipulatives for data display. Here are a few:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">● Quick</span><br />Students feel a sense of accomplishment when they quickly build a chart rather than having to draw and color in every bar, axis, line, etc.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">● Dynamic</span><br />Manipulatives can be <span style="font-style:italic;">manipulated</span> so easily (duh)—removed, swapped, flipped, or whatever—to change the display. This opens up more learning opportunities!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">● Focused on the Analysis</span><br />Kids can get so engrossed in the artistic aspect of creating a graphic display with colored pencils, crayons and paper that they miss the point. Sure, it can happen with manipulatives too. But, I’ve found that manipulatives cut down on this because they help students create displays in an instant so they can spend time analyzing the data—when the true critical thinking takes place.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">● Unique Materials</span><br />Let’s face it, data has a PR problem. It makes some kids zone out or shudder (like when they hear the word <span style="font-style:italic;">fractions</span>). Colorful, fun manipulatives aren’t the same old graph paper and are more likely to pique their interest.<br /><br /><br />Check out these examples:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/search/searchresults.do?search=basic&keyword=cuisenaire+rods&sortby=bestSellers&page=1&sortby=bestSellers&asc=false">Cuisenaire® Rods</a> Bar Graph</span><br /><br />Story Problem: Animals escaped from the zoo! Luckily, 3 elephants, 4 tigers, 2 lions and 5 zebras were already found. Help the zookeepers keep track of how many animals were found.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-im73ftUOufg/TZetKRGo7dI/AAAAAAAAAJU/2Ef8R0cg5zQ/s1600/0697_jungle%2B2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-im73ftUOufg/TZetKRGo7dI/AAAAAAAAAJU/2Ef8R0cg5zQ/s320/0697_jungle%2B2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591127854305308114" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br /><a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/teachers/shop+by+subject/square+color+tiles.do?search=basic&keyword=color+tiles&sortby=bestSellers&page=1&">Color Tiles</a> Histogram</span><br /><br />Story Problem: Mr. Witt’s class took a big science test last week. Help him record the grades in a graph. What conclusions can he draw from the data?<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yZd-N5rpmNA/TZete_XLz7I/AAAAAAAAAJc/UFCEah4fA1I/s1600/0203_color%2Btiles_MM.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yZd-N5rpmNA/TZete_XLz7I/AAAAAAAAAJc/UFCEah4fA1I/s320/0203_color%2Btiles_MM.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591128210320117682" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/search/searchresults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=fraction+circles&sortby=bestSellers&page=1">Fraction Circles</a> Pie Chart</span><br /><br />Story Problem: Mrs. Le must tell the cafeteria manager what kind of bag lunches your class needs for the field trip. Each student can have either a cheese or peanut butter sandwich. Ask your friends what they want to eat. Then, organize and display the answers.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LgLJeB3buFY/TZevTjou-_I/AAAAAAAAAJk/uhBKlUjzAfg/s1600/0115_circles.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 304px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LgLJeB3buFY/TZevTjou-_I/AAAAAAAAAJk/uhBKlUjzAfg/s320/0115_circles.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591130212922227698" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />*****<br />FULL DISCLOSURE<br />This blog is sponsored by <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/">Learning Resources®</a>. I am currently an employee of Learning Resources, Inc. I am also a former teacher and parent who uses their products on a regular basis. I often purchase Learning Resources products for my family's use, but sometimes I do receive free product samples to try out. My blog honestly reflects my personal and professional opinions and experiences.WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com49tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-89605797727119135252010-09-22T11:24:00.000-05:002010-09-22T11:24:45.993-05:00Waiting for Superman Official TrailerOkay, so who's going to go to the theater with me to see this Guggenheim film?<br /><br /><object style="background-image:url(http://i3.ytimg.com/vi/ZKTfaro96dg/hqdefault.jpg)" width="480" height="295"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZKTfaro96dg?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZKTfaro96dg?fs=1&hl=en_US" width="480" height="295" allowScriptAccess="never" allowFullScreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object>WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-18708725480249447492010-09-16T22:44:00.005-05:002010-09-16T22:52:48.760-05:00My Teacher Creed1. Engage them.<br /><br />2. Provide them predictable structure.<br /><br />3. Spend most of your time bent down at their level. Look them in the eyes.<br /><br />4. Always expect each child to do the most amazing things according to his/her potential.<br /><br />5. Praise and inspire them. Be genuine.<br /><br />6. Ensure they truly learn. Guide them but give them independence so they come to key conclusions on their own.<br /><br />7. Keep them safe.<br /><br />8. Care about them.<br /><br />9. Expect the unexpected.<br /><br />10. Be humbled by them.WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-88851898935141436882010-03-26T23:09:00.042-05:002010-03-27T00:05:11.039-05:00Sensory Water Play the Homemade WayHere in Chicago, we should just call March what it is--WINTER! I’ve got 3 words for ya…<span style="font-style:italic;">cabin. fever. conditions</span>. Parents and teachers of toddlers have to work especially hard to keep the little ones occupied.<br /><br />When playing in outdoor puddles and wading pools are not an option, get brave and try them indoors. No fancy sand and water table required. Spread out the thick towels, fill a big plastic tub with water, and toss in some kitchen utensils. Just expect a mess…and a TON of learning fun!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S62FofViqTI/AAAAAAAAAIU/deyNiDbc2bo/s1600/Abby+5.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S62FofViqTI/AAAAAAAAAIU/deyNiDbc2bo/s200/Abby+5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453161654468651314" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S62F2ihCbrI/AAAAAAAAAIc/YT7xcTtzIL8/s1600/Abby+1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S62F2ihCbrI/AAAAAAAAAIc/YT7xcTtzIL8/s200/Abby+1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453161895840345778" /></a><br />Explore science and math principles (motion, measurement, capacity). Get curious--check out some simple tools around the house to see how they work. Practice motor skills such as grabbing, dunking, lifting, pouring.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S62GBKhZkZI/AAAAAAAAAIk/h5AwQpyRi00/s1600/Abby+2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S62GBKhZkZI/AAAAAAAAAIk/h5AwQpyRi00/s200/Abby+2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453162078377972114" /></a><br />SPLASH!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S62GKdUuGyI/AAAAAAAAAIs/h0CeXEGojOw/s1600/Abby+3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S62GKdUuGyI/AAAAAAAAAIs/h0CeXEGojOw/s200/Abby+3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453162238043888418" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S62Gg2OhNSI/AAAAAAAAAI8/BlGT4K3xbm0/s1600/Abby+4.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S62Gg2OhNSI/AAAAAAAAAI8/BlGT4K3xbm0/s200/Abby+4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453162622685885730" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Blow bubbles! Squirt in lots of dish soap. Teach a kid that straws aren’t just for drinking. Use canning jar rings to blow BIG bubbles.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S62GXV4XESI/AAAAAAAAAI0/OYcolgJluic/s1600/Abby+6.jpg"><img style="float:center; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S62GXV4XESI/AAAAAAAAAI0/OYcolgJluic/s200/Abby+6.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453162459384189218" /></a><br />Just a warning that toddlers don’t know to take a break and breathe in oxygen once in a while. My daughter got dizzy!WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-13272295074609835522010-03-14T16:29:00.053-05:002010-03-14T23:10:48.749-05:00Explore a Growing Pattern with Color TilesCreating, describing, identifying, and extending patterns are important early algebra skills! Manipulatives enable students to build and extend patterns with their own hands. Even better--<span style="font-style:italic;">color-coded</span> manipulatives help students actually SEE the patterns!<br /><br />A numerical sequence is a common type of pattern. When a constant is added within a pattern (such as adding a quantity of 2 in the sequence 1, 3, 5, 7), the numerical sequence is more specifically referred to as an <span style="font-style:italic;">arithmetic sequence</span>. And, the resulting pattern is known as a <span style="font-style:italic;">growing pattern</span>.<br /><br />Try this hands-on patterning activity, using <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/parents/shop+by+subject/square+color+tiles.do?search=basic&keyword=color+tiles&sortby=bestSellers&page=1&">color tiles</a>, with your grades 3-5 students:<br /><br />1. Have students begin with 1 center tile. Next, have them add 3 tiles of another color, 5 tiles of another color, and 7 tiles of yet another color--each time making a new square.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S52lw296nMI/AAAAAAAAAIE/uMK94Rf6YEM/s1600-h/1+color+tiles.jpg"><img style="float:center; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 145px; height: 155px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S52lw296nMI/AAAAAAAAAIE/uMK94Rf6YEM/s400/1+color+tiles.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448693382995680450" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />2. Ask students to write out the equations for each <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/parents/shop+by+subject/square+color+tiles.do?search=basic&keyword=color+tiles&sortby=bestSellers&page=1&">color-tile</a> square they built, compare the equations, look for patterns, and discuss what they find.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S51X9feYLvI/AAAAAAAAAHU/JqEe7L4gFkE/s1600-h/0203_ctiles2.jpg"><img style="float:center; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 265px; height: 215px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S51X9feYLvI/AAAAAAAAAHU/JqEe7L4gFkE/s200/0203_ctiles2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448607838120718066" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />3. Finally, have students predict the next equation, and use the <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/parents/shop+by+subject/square+color+tiles.do?search=basic&keyword=color+tiles&sortby=bestSellers&page=1&">color tiles</a> to see if their prediction was correct.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S52l9eLVYQI/AAAAAAAAAIM/OS9Hj_L9sQ4/s1600-h/3+color+tiles.jpg"><img style="float:center; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 350px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S52l9eLVYQI/AAAAAAAAAIM/OS9Hj_L9sQ4/s400/3+color+tiles.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448693599679373570" /></a><br /><br />Powerful stuff!<br /><br /><br />*****<br />FULL DISCLOSURE<br />This blog is sponsored by <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/">Learning Resources</a>. I am currently an employee of Learning Resources, Inc. I am also a former teacher and parent who uses their products on a regular basis. I often purchase Learning Resources products for my family's use, but sometimes I do receive free product samples to try out. My blog honestly reflects my personal and professional opinions and experiences.WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-77525670085088787012010-02-27T14:29:00.050-06:002010-03-03T15:57:13.035-06:00Teachers, Enter to Win WendyZ's Hot Picks Contest!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S46G7AK-29I/AAAAAAAAAG8/nrhN54TWA1o/s1600-h/WendyHOTPICKS.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 350px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/S46G7AK-29I/AAAAAAAAAG8/nrhN54TWA1o/s400/WendyHOTPICKS.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444437347753974738" /></a><br /><br />My daughter and I have so much fun playing and learning with Learning Resources products. So, we were thrilled when Learning Resources Direct asked us to appear in their catalog to talk about our favorites and hold a contest to give away some goodies!<br /><br />Wanna enter? Of course you do! Follow these 3 steps:<br /><br />1. Post a comment here on my blog to tell me which of my 5 "hot picks" is YOUR favorite and how you'd use it if you win. (Need more info on the products first? Visit the links below.)<br /><a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/parents/shop+by+category/early+skill+development/numbers+-+counting/smart+snacks--174-+counting+cookies-.do?search=basic&keyword=counting+cookies&sortby=bestSellers&page=1&"><br />Smart Snacks® Counting Cookies™</a><br /><a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/teachers/shop+by+subject/language+arts/product+type/pocket+charts/word+building+center+pocket+chart.do?search=basic&keyword=word+building+center&sortby=bestSellers&page=1&">Word Building Center Pocket Chart</a><br /><a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/teachers/shop+by+category/discovery+-+exploration/science+kits/primary+science+set.do?search=basic&keyword=primary+science+set&sortby=bestSellers&page=1&">Primary Science Set</a><br /><a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/teachers/shop+by+subject/math/nctm+standards/geometry/visualizations+-+spatial+relationships/folding+geometric+shapes--8482-.do?search=basic&keyword=folding+geometric+shapes&sortby=bestSellers&page=1&">Folding Geometric Shapes™</a><br /><a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/teachers/shop+by+subject/early+childhood/product+type/pocket+charts/helping+hands+pocket+chart.do?search=basic&keyword=helping+hands&sortby=bestSellers&page=1&">Helping Hands Pocket Chart</a><br /><br /><br />2. Complete the following survey: <a href="http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/WF72FQJ">http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/WF72FQJ</a><br /><br /><br />3. OPTIONAL: Follow my blog, follow me on <a href="http://twitter.com/wendyzzzzzzzzzz">Twitter</a>, or befriend me on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/WendyZLearningResources">Facebook</a>. I'd love to connect with you!<br /><br /><br />One winner will be selected randomly each month for the months of March, April, and May in 2010.<br /><br />Good luck!<br /><br /><br />*****<br />FULL DISCLOSURE<br />This blog is sponsored by Learning Resources. I am currently an employee of Learning Resources, Inc. I am also a former teacher and parent who uses their products on a regular basis. I often purchase Learning Resources products for my family's use, but sometimes I do receive free product samples to try out. My blog honestly reflects my personal and professional opinions and experiences.WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-1245388098293432332010-01-25T15:16:00.018-06:002010-01-25T15:58:22.489-06:00BURN the Box! Where is the True Math Instruction in Our Classrooms?True math instruction can be so powerful! How can we actually get there???<br /><br />Unfortunately, much of the math taught in our classrooms right now is "inside the box". Math should NOT be about finding the one correct answer, coloring in the answer bubble, or memorizing rules. Although memorizing math facts is a must for developing number fact fluency, this shouldn't dictate math instruction overall. Students need to learn that math is not cut and dried.<br /><br />How do we get teachers to realize that math instruction is much more than just teaching each math standard one by one? No more math skill isolation! And, THIS IS EQUALLY IMPORTANT FOR THE YOUNGEST LEARNERS!!!<br /><br />True mathematics is a nexus of order, patterns, and relationships between so many concepts. Critical thinking is key. Only through building, creating, problem solving, and exploring (with some guidance) do students really think and experience the "aha moments" necessary to tap out of the box and into the nexus. If students never tap into the nexus, how in the world do we expect to inspire and foster their potential for innovation?<br /><br />Why are we "dumbing down" the math in this country? Yes, it's much harder to teach when skills do not have a beginning and an end. Math skills all overlap and connect with one another (and with so many other skills in other subjects). But, if we teach math "in the box", we trap our students in that box too. As one of my teacher colleagues said, "not only do we need to teach outside the box, we need to BURN the box!"WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-65513516646724049422009-09-23T16:46:00.020-05:002009-09-23T17:31:42.576-05:00How Do Spring Scales Work?<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/SrqaoLhAgPI/AAAAAAAAAG0/7rlrR5T1t4c/s1600-h/spring+scale.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/SrqaoLhAgPI/AAAAAAAAAG0/7rlrR5T1t4c/s200/spring+scale.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384786319551529202" /></a>Did you know that the <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/searchResults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=spring+scales&sortby=bestSellers&page=1">spring scale</a> got its name because it uses actual <em>springs</em> to measure mass/weight?<br /><br />Okay, I'm not the most mechanically inclined person. Uh um...actually even the thought of visiting the furniture aisles at IKEA makes me shudder. But, I <em>am</em> interested in <em>learning</em> how things work. Chances are you and your kids are, too. ;)<br /><br /><strong>So, here's how the <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/searchResults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=spring+scales&sortby=bestSellers&page=1">spring scale</a> works:</strong><br />The more weight that is placed on the scale, the more the spring stretches. Up inside the scale's casing, a needle is attached to the spring. So, when the spring S-T-R-E-T-C-H-E-S, the needle also moves, and points to a particular weight reading. Basic mechanics that have served classroom science activities--and the whole world--well for ages!<br /><br />Teachers, in your next <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/searchResults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=2016%2C2015%2C2441%2C2003%2C0817%2C0824&sortby=bestSellers&page=1">simple machines </a>lesson, whip out your old <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/searchResults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=spring+scales&sortby=bestSellers&page=1">spring scale</a> and talk about how it works!WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-77023991442996879752009-09-11T16:49:00.008-05:002009-09-11T16:54:37.420-05:00Hands-On Problem Solving SkillsWithout hands-on problem solving skills, kids will never be able to get what they want in life.<br /><br /><object width="340" height="285"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/wAP2yVsgI6c&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/wAP2yVsgI6c&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="340" height="285"></embed></object>WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-10866588555314635012009-09-10T10:05:00.026-05:002009-09-10T11:08:53.670-05:00Everyday Science Inquiry: Ask HOW Things Work<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/SqkkTvafSmI/AAAAAAAAAGs/FWKC_PZ_Wus/s1600-h/Simple+Mach.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/SqkkTvafSmI/AAAAAAAAAGs/FWKC_PZ_Wus/s200/Simple+Mach.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379871151434451554" /></a> We don't need to be <span style="font-style:italic;">Einsteins</span> to teach science inquiry to our kids. And, it doesn't even take much time. We can teach children to think like scientists by simply building smart science questions into our everyday conversations.<br /><br />While shopping for a kitchen appliance at Target Saturday (yeah, that's how exciting my weekends are), I overheard something wonderful. A mom was pointing to each blender, slow cooker and food processor and asking her son <span style="font-weight:bold;">"...and how do you think this one works?"</span><br /><br />Wow, such a simple thing to do once in a while, and this question yields big benefits! It gets kids to wonder, think in terms of <span style="font-style:italic;">HOW</span> and <span style="font-style:italic;">WHY</span>, and get curious enough to figure out things for themselves. Plus, this is no ordinary thinking. It's the holy grail of thinking--that higher-order, critical thinking that all educators and parents dream they can inspire!<br /><br />Even very young children are capable of beginning to think critically. (They can definitely manipulate stuff strategically to see how it works, too). The boy answering his mom's questions at Target was probably only 4-years old.<br /><br />The same is true for my family. Like most toddlers, my 20-month old loves to take everything apart and try to put it back together. (This is why you should never visit my house unless you call ahead. We need time to shovel a path for you through the building blocks, bricks, Tupperware containers and unidentified objects.) And, believe it or not, my grandmother told us that when my dad was only 2-years old, he found a screwdriver and took off EVERY door knob in the house! (Hmm, insert family jokes here about screws being <span style="font-style:italic;">loose</span>.) <br /><br />Seriously though, kids of all ages are typically capable of more than you think they are. Keep your expectations <span style="font-style:italic;">lofty</span>. Teach them to constantly ask themselves <span style="font-style:italic;">HOW</span> and <span style="font-style:italic;">WHY</span>. Then, their curiosity will take over, and they'll be begging to do some hands-on learning!WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-52049602896699077552009-08-21T18:17:00.005-05:002009-08-21T18:27:49.068-05:00Mrs. P's "Be-a-Famous-Writer" Contest<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/So8s0GG1agI/AAAAAAAAAGU/LrOVG8NPI7c/s1600-h/mrsp.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 100px; height: 100px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/So8s0GG1agI/AAAAAAAAAGU/LrOVG8NPI7c/s320/mrsp.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372562153980389890" /></a><br />As school gets back in session, encourage children to brush up on their creative writing skills. Mrs. P is offering a great opportunity to motivate kids to write and maybe even make a name for themselves while doing just that!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.mrsp.com/">Mrsp.com</a> is holding a story-writing contest for ages 4 to 13. The grand prize winners will have their stories ready by Mrs. P on her site, and original illustrations will even be created to bring the child's book to life! Visit: <a href="http://www.contest.mrsp.com/">http://www.contest.mrsp.com/</a> for more details and the official rules. Entry dates are September 1 through October 15, so don't miss it.<br /><br />Check out Mrs. P's site while you're there! It offers read-alongs, interactive books, games, and more: <a href="http://www.mrsp.com/">http://www.mrsp.com/</a>WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-77052181868136607412009-08-21T16:51:00.014-05:002009-08-21T18:02:00.076-05:00What Teachers Wish They Could Buy in Their Local Teacher Stores<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5Cwlz%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p style="font-family: times new roman;" class="MsoNormal">I recently asked my Twitter followers what kinds of products they wished they had seen more of in their neighborhood teacher stores this back-to-school season. Their answers were right on the money! Here are a few:</p><ul style="font-family: times new roman;"><li>materials that make students truly think--which helps them understand, not just memorize.</li><li>no more "stuff" for the sake of providing kids with stuff--materials that really help kids build and use their imaginations.</li><li>no more rote flash cards and worksheets! Step. It. Up.</li><li>real professional development books, fewer "old school" fill-in-the-blank workbooks</li><li>tools that are compatible with interactive white boards</li></ul><span style="font-family: times new roman;">(About my Twitter followers: I have about 1075 followers--mostly classroom teachers and education-minded parents, but some are school administrators or technology specialists, employees of education organizations/non-profits, homeschoolers, and toy/education business owners.)</span>
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<br />Wanna follow me on Twitter, too? </span><a style="font-family: times new roman;" href="http://twitter.com/WendyZZZZZZZZZZ">http://twitter.com/WendyZZZZZZZZZZ</a>
<br /> WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-28190192893525120292009-07-24T17:01:00.004-05:002009-07-24T17:15:08.584-05:00Break All the Rules Sometimes...Let Students Take Risks!Think about how you feel when you're watching this video and take a professional development lesson from it:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-94JhLEiN0">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-94JhLEiN0</a><br /><br />Go ahead! Throw out some boring traditional instruction in favor of creating learning environments and lessons that truly inspire and innovate. Encourage kids to let their hair down once in a while. They'll actually learn and enjoy themselves while doing it.<br /><br />Don't let kids get obsessed with just getting the "correct answer". Learning happens when kids feel comfortable enough to take risks!WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-85503719484111976842009-07-17T13:50:00.010-05:002009-08-18T10:52:21.679-05:005 Funnest Things I Did with My Daughter Today<ol><li>Tickled a toad with a stick to make him hop.</li><li>Quietly watched a butterfly for 20 seconds when it landed on my knee.</li><li>Picked cookie dough out of ice cream so she could have plain vanilla.</li><li>Took the new Cozy Coupe toy car for a spin in the driveway.</li><li>Clapped at dinner when the ketchup made its appearance.</li></ol>18-month olds are so much fun!WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-27159453821341907102009-07-03T18:11:00.105-05:002009-07-10T00:52:58.386-05:0010 Tips for Building Your Classroom Library<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/SlbXFMOsBdI/AAAAAAAAAGE/jz19AmWbF44/s1600-h/journal.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356705290985932242" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/SlbXFMOsBdI/AAAAAAAAAGE/jz19AmWbF44/s200/journal.jpg" border="0" /></a> <strong>1. Don't Only Include <em>Books</em><br /></strong>Research says that it doesn't matter what kids read--they just need to read a lot and on the right level. Books are great, but so are magazines, comic books, online text, postcards, catalogs, text on cereal boxes--whatever!<br /><br /><strong>2. Select Books at Correct Reading Level</strong><br />Cater to students' diverse reading levels. For independent reading, each child should read books right on, or a little below, her reading level. Plus, you'll want books at a slightly higher level for guided reading groups. Aim even higher and also make sure to have books on hand that advanced peers (or you) will read to other students. Kids may progress rapidly, so ensure your collection is large enough to "grow" with your class.<br /><br /><strong>3. Find Books on All Kinds of Topics</strong><br />Book topics can make or break a child's love of reading. You may be able to anticipate some topic preferences based on age, but better yet, survey kids at the beginning of the year to find out what they like!<br /><br /><strong>4. Explore the World of Non-fiction</strong><br />Many children gravitate toward factual books, especially ones with beautiful, real-life photography rather than illustrations. Animal fact books are almost always a sure bet. Don't forget books that are functional and hands-on (cookbooks, how-to crafting books, and more).<br /><br /><strong>5. Consult Online Booksellers' "Favorites"</strong><br />Internet bookstores like Amazon and Barnes & Noble provide favorites lists created by customers--many of whom are experienced parents and teachers. Search these sites to find lists of books recommended for children who are the same age as your students.<br /><br /><strong>6. Let 'em Make Their Own Books</strong><br />Students love to read books that they, or peers, make! Kids can write stories and then draw pictures for each page. They can even personalize their homemade books with family photos. Collate the books using construction paper, a hole-punch, and yarn. Or, reduce required prep time by purchasing sets of <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/make+a+story+writing+journal,+set+of+10.do?search=basic&keyword=make+a+story&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">Make a Story Journals</a>. Hey, <em>you</em> join in and make a book for your classroom too! Your lil' admirers will clamor to read it. :)<br /><br /><strong>7. Ask for Recommendations</strong><br />Tap into friends and colleagues for suggestions. Ask other teachers, your librarian, parents, neighbors, and anyone else willing to give their 2 cents.<br /><br /><strong>8. Think Big!</strong><br />Add giant-size books to your collection. Big books are just a little more fun, and children are captivated by their jumbo nature. Of course, these "giants" make it easier for children to see pages during shared reading, but please let kids read them during independent reading time as well!<br /><br /><strong>9. Cater to Special Needs</strong><br />Simply put, all kids have special needs. Anticipate common issues like attention difficulties. Select some books that have very simple page backgrounds, a lot of empty (and preferably white) space around the words, and words that are printed in the same, predictable location on every page.<br /><br /><strong>10. Give Easy Access</strong><br />Squat down at your students' height and make sure you can reach books safely and easily. Many teachers store books (grouped by reading level) in milk crates or on low bookshelves. I'm a big fan of sling bookshelves for really young children. These shelves display books with the covers, rather than spines, facing out. It's almost as if the covers scream, "Read me!"WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-28522046193852858202009-07-03T18:05:00.003-05:002009-07-03T18:09:58.902-05:00How to Keep Kids' Minds Sharp This Summer6 Simple, inexpensive solutions to prevent kids from losing academic ground over the summer:<br /><a href="http://www.cardiffconnect.com/tls/?action=article&itemId=3231">http://www.cardiffconnect.com/tls/?action=article&itemId=3231</a>WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-67068891451464496402009-06-25T16:54:00.003-05:002009-06-25T16:58:33.485-05:00Video of Fun Room FILLED with Hands-On Learning Tools!Do I have a fun job or what? Get an inside look at Learning Resources headquarters!<br /><br /><a href="http://tinyurl.com/ns6od8">http://tinyurl.com/ns6od8</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><a id="video-url-0xBCAnuPiGI" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xBCAnuPiGI" rel="nofollow"></a>WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-42060470691979065822009-06-18T23:07:00.002-05:002009-06-18T23:14:50.212-05:00Help Your Kids KNOW They are Capable of GreatnessLift them up. Make them feel they can do anything. Video: <a href="http://tinyurl.com/ptjmjo">http://tinyurl.com/ptjmjo</a><br /><br />Oh, and please look past the fact that the video is from Budweiser, who also makes non-alcoholic beer, BTW. ;)WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-42153469719683621272009-06-16T12:12:00.039-05:002009-06-16T14:32:33.729-05:0010 Ways to Improve a Child's Handwriting<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/Sjfuw2GcsHI/AAAAAAAAAF0/1ucd_eu4x0I/s1600-h/prod3800_2_th.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348005605449445490" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 145px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 145px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/Sjfuw2GcsHI/AAAAAAAAAF0/1ucd_eu4x0I/s320/prod3800_2_th.jpg" border="0" /></a> Many educators no longer consider handwriting a crucial skill because technology has changed our world. (When’s the last time you wrote a letter by hand? So, keep this skill in perspective.) Most of us, even kids, can communicate faster using a keyboard/keypad rather than with handwriting. (My cousin’s 12-year old scored 88 WPM on one of those just-for-fun typing quizzes on Facebook!)<br /><br />Nonetheless, the skill of handwriting is still somewhat important. There’s evidence that children who write better and faster get better grades. However, remember that good handwriting is not an indicator of success. Look at your doctor’s handwriting!<br /><br />Before trying to help a child who’s experiencing handwriting difficulties, determine if the issue’s physical or cognitive. If the child struggles with fine motor skills or forming letters, the problem is likely physical. If the child can’t remember how to form a letter of the alphabet or takes too long deciding what to write, there could be a cognitive issue.<br /><br />Most handwriting problems are physical. Fine motor practice helps, but gross motor play is equally important. After all, many experts believe the increase in handwriting problems (1 in 3 kids struggle now) is tied to the decreased physical activity of today’s children. Handwriting involves body posture, and proper use of hands, arms, head, and eyes! If you suspect your child is having physical difficulties, try these activities:<br /><br /><strong>1. Bilateral, outdoor play activities<br /></strong>Reduce time in front of the computer and video games in favor of outdoor play! Playing “human wheelbarrow”, crawling, and climbing help connect the motor-neural pathways needed for handwriting.<br /><br /><strong>2. Game time & clap songs!<br /></strong>Engage kids in games that require hand-eye coordination such as Operation (tweezer games), <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/skeletons+in+the+closet--8482-+game.do?search=basic&keyword=skeletons+in+the+closet&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">Skeletons in the Closet</a>, badminton, tennis, baseball, or go “old-school” with pick-up sticks, jacks, and marbles. Betcha your little ones know these fun clap songs too: Miss Mary Mack and Down, Down Baby (…down by the rollercoaster…)<br /><br /><strong>3. Lil’ “Iron Chefs”</strong><br />Cook with your kids. Let them knead dough, roll it out, cut it with cookie cutters, and pick up food with tongs. On days when you don’t want to deal with the mess, kids can use a <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/pretend+-amp-+play--174-+bakery+set.do?search=basic&keyword=baking&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">pretend baking set</a>.<br /><br /><strong>4. Artsy fartsy</strong><br />Creative activities that involve paper cutting, folding (origami), gluing, and drawing hardly feel like fine motor practice! Give them lots of opportunities to draw with various instruments—pencils, colored pencils, markers, gel pens, crayons, pastels, and calligraphy pens. Sculpting with play dough or clay is also good (kneading, pushing, pulling, and cutting).<br /><br /><strong>5. Civilized diners</strong><br />Make it a house rule to use silverware at every meal. Yes, the family will look very sophisticated on pizza or burger night. ;) Also try chopsticks some nights!<br /><br /><strong>6. Dressing skills<br /></strong>Lacing, tying, buttoning and snapping are important life skills that can help strengthen some of the same muscles used for handwriting. Use clothes, shoes, or doll clothes for these activities, or entice kids with <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/searchResults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=9046%2C9053%2C0564%2C6401%2C7204%2C7317&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">fun toys </a>that teach the same skills.<br /><br /><strong>7. Finger writing</strong><br />Have kids practice writing with their fingers in, or on, different textures—shaving cream smeared on the table, play dough, clay, or sand. (For extra help, they can use <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/searchResults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=1450%2C1451&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">letter molds </a>as a starting point or trace their fingers over <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/searchResults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=6304%2C1455%2C0451%2C0450&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">magnetic letters</a>.)<br /><br /><strong>8. The “write” environment</strong><br />Make sure your child has a good chair and table at the right height for comfortable writing. Demonstrate how to sit with correct posture, rest your arms on the table, hold the writing instrument, and keep your torso in the right position.<br /><br /><strong>9. “Uh, thank ya, thank ya very much.” (Elvis voice)</strong><br />Get kids into a habit of writing handwritten thank you cards for gifts they receive.<br /><br /><strong>10. Explicit handwriting practice<br /></strong>Help kids learn to write both legibly and quickly (handwriting fluency) with repeated practice using different kinds of pencils (different thicknesses and grips). <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/searchResults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=alphabet+stamp&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">Letter stamps</a> and line-ruled paper, <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/searchResults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=3467%2C3469&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">journals</a>, or <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/searchResults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=1489%2C3801%2C3802%2C3803%2C3804&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">dry-erase boards </a>can offer even more support.<br /><br />If you try these techniques without success, consult a professional—your child’s teacher, school reading specialist, and/or an occupational therapist. Your child may need physical therapy or help overcoming a learning disability which is causing cognitive difficulties.<br /><br />Just remember that not all cognitive issues indicate a learning disability. Sometimes kids simply have trouble remembering letter shapes, deciding what to write about, or taking too long to include too many details when they write. Your child’s teacher can give you some simple ways to tackle these cognitive issues.<br /><br />Whatever your child’s struggles with handwriting, help her to not be self-conscious about it. People tend to think of handwriting as reflections of themselves. Help your child realize that she will get better with practice (and probably with age), and that it’s okay that her writing isn’t a masterpiece now!WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com54tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-17120909311460150032009-06-02T10:17:00.059-05:002009-06-02T15:17:54.857-05:005 Recycled Multisensory Learning Games<strong>1. Talk Box (ages 2-6)<br /></strong><em>Make It:</em> Get crafty and glam up the outside of an old tissue box. Then, make picture cards by pasting magazine photos on index cards cut in half. Use a mix of photos--some objects and some activities (a family eating dinner, kids playing ball, girl brushing her teeth, etc.) Place one photo on each side of the cards. (Hint: make them double sided for even more game possibilities.)<br /><br /><em>Play It:</em> Kids draw 2-3 pics from the box and must tell a story using them all. The idea is to get kids to develop oral language skills (talking and listening), but they could write their stories instead. Award points for originality and inclusion of all objects into the story. The highest-scoring storyteller wins! Younger children or low-profiency English language learners can practice vocabulary by identifying pictures or matching like objects. Students with special needs, such as autism, can use the cards for communication purposes. (You can lay out the pictures and allow a child to point to what he/she is trying to tell you rather than vocalizing it.)<strong><br /></strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>2. Mystery Reading Treasure Chest (ages 3-10)<br /></strong><em>Make It:</em> Secretly select a book you'd like to read with your children. Familiarize yourself with it and collect clues (objects) you feel represent the story well. For example, for <em>Charlotte's Web</em>, you might gather a plastic spider ring, plush pig and a picture of a farm cut out of a magazine. Place the objects in a shoe box with the lid shut tight until it's time to play! For added effect, decorate the "treasure chest" beforehand with paint, glitter and jewels.<br /><br /><em>Play It:</em> Let children remove one clue from the treasure chest without peeking at the other contents. Discuss what everyone already knows about the object (prior experiences, etc.) Repeat this for all clues, one by one. Next, see if kids can predict which title they're about to read or what the story will be about. (If a child guesses the book's title, he/she can select the book to read next time and bring in some clues from home to put in the treasure chest.) Only one thing left to do now--reveal the mystery title and read it together! Variation: have kids write their own stories to be featured.<br /><br /><strong><br />3. Shake the Can Math Game</strong> (ages 5-12)<br /><em>Make It:</em> Using construction paper and markers, decorate an empty oatmeal container. Wipe out the inside and toss in some dominoes (or dice).<br /><br /><em>Play It:</em> Kids shake the can, dump out some dominoes and do math problems with the numbers they toss. Advanced kids can multiply and divide, while younger kids can add, subtract or simply count! For added reinforcement and challenge, have children write their equations on paper or see how many equations they can create and solve in only 2 minutes (get out a kitchen timer). This is a great way to make otherwise boring math drills much more multisensory!<br /><br /><br /><strong>4. Tater Toss Word Game</strong> (ages 5-12)<br /><em>Make It:</em> Use a slightly damp and soapy cloth to gently clean the inside of an empty potato chip cannister (the cylindrical ones that hold evil tasty taters you should enjoy only in moderation). After you've wiped off the greasiness, run around the block 8 times to remove the grease from inside <em>your</em> arteries! Now back to the game...use craft paint and stickers to decorate the cannister. Throw in word tiles from a game you already have (Scrabble, Upwords) or even magnetic letters.<br /><br /><em>Play It:</em> Kids take turns tossing the "taters" and making words with the letters they roll. Many ability-levels can play together since each individual child can build words at his/her own level. Pre-readers can simply say aloud the names of the letters or pronounce the sounds each letter makes instead. So you see, this spud game teaches the alphabet, phonics, word building and spelling all in one!<br /><br /><br /><strong>5. Touchy Feely Box</strong> (ages 3-8)<br /><em>Make It:</em> Decorate an empty tissue box any way you'd like. Go on an exploration and gather nature souveniers from your trip--leaves, rocks, pine cones, wild flowers, etc. Place all your souveniers in the box.<br /><br /><em>Play It:</em> This one is real simple. Kids reach in and try to guess what the object is that they grab. They can describe what they feel first or ask you 20 questions and hope that the answers they get help them make a more educated guess! Sensory activities are beneficial and fun for all kids but especially for early learners and those who may have special needs.WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-80836026384576484432009-05-28T12:46:00.048-05:002009-05-28T15:49:11.109-05:0010 Ways to Boost Your Preschooler's Literacy<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/Sh72yAeSA8I/AAAAAAAAAFM/zR1LoV72u_0/s1600-h/Picture1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340977547088888770" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 133px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/Sh72yAeSA8I/AAAAAAAAAFM/zR1LoV72u_0/s200/Picture1.jpg" border="0" /></a>Did you know researchers have linked early literacy with high school graduation rates? Here are 10 simple ways to invest in your child's future by jump starting their literacy potential:<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/Sh71X_Fd0SI/AAAAAAAAAFE/48xbJyxP6WI/s1600-h/Picture1.jpg"></a>1. Think of pretend play as your young child's job! Role play fosters language development, a precursor to becoming a successful reader. Encourage kids to play house, school, store, dolls, cars, or doctor. Their imagination is the only limit!<br /><br />2. Talk, talk, talk and listen. Silence is NOT golden! Help your kids develop key language skills by getting them to describe objects, their feelings, etc. Show them you're very interested in what they have to say, too. This not only builds their confidence but also models how to focus attention and be a good listener.<br /><br />3. Give babytalk the boot. Don't "dumb down" things when you talk to your kids. They can handle tough vocabulary. Case in point: when talking with one another about dinosaurs, kids have no problem using terms such as <em>tyrannosaurus rex, brontosaurus</em> or <em>triceratops</em>!<br /><br />4. Sing a ling and chime a rhyme together. Let your hair down and belt out your favorite songs, chant nursery rhymes, or make silly animal sounds. Create goofy lyrics, smooth jazz scats, or cool hip hop tunes. Add fun dance moves to boost the learning--seriously, research supports a connection between kinesthetic movement and cognition!<br /><br />5. Let your child see you read on your own frequently. Notice I didn't say you need to read <em>books</em>. Read whatever you like--magazines, newspapers, online articles, or the TV Guide--it really doesn't matter!<br /><br />6. Post words throughout your house! Hang posters in your child's bedroom, frame a poem for the foyer, put a funny note on the fridge, place a wooden cutout of the word <em>family</em> on the mantle--whatever. Exposing kids to lots of examples of print in their environment is beneficial.<br /><br />7. Let 'em scribble. Pretend writing develops fine motor skills needed for handwriting but also helps kids understand a very basic concept--that they can convey messages with written marks. If scribbling on paper is a struggle, have kids use their index fingers to practice "writing" in sand or fingerpaint. Teach kids to recognize letter shapes by name, too. Show your child a page with only a few words on it, and ask her to point out a specific letter.<br /><br />8. Teach every letter individually. Many parents think that learning the alphabet is mostly about the <em>Alphabet Song</em>. While that song's great, kids also need to begin learning the sound(s) each letter makes. Chant all the vowel sounds together or pick a letter of the day and go around the house pointing to objects whose names start with that letter. Help your child practice making each letter sound repeatedly.<br /><br />9. Read to your child regularly, of course. But again, it doesn't have to always be books. You can even read aloud <em>everyday non-fiction</em> like postcards and catalogs that come in the mail, cereal boxes, etc.<br /><br />10. Do some Q & A. Before reading aloud, peak through the book with your child and talk about the pictures. Can they predict what will happen? While reading, stop on some pages and ask your child questions about the story. At the end, ask what your child's favorite part was, why he liked it, and how he'd describe the book to a friend. Predicting and summarizing are critical thinking skills!WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-34895681782891391842009-05-26T21:46:00.040-05:002009-05-27T00:12:22.994-05:005 Make-Your-Own Outdoor Learning Games<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Georgia"><b>1. Phonics Limbo</b></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Georgia">Make a limbo stick out of an old cardboard wrapping paper tube, 5 paper towel tubes taped together, or a broomstick. When limboing under the stick, each kid has to say a word that starts with a letter (or sound) announced by the last child who just finished limboing. For their answers to count, children must say them aloud while they're still bent backwards but before their bodies finish clearing the stick.</p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Georgia; min-height: 19.0px"><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Georgia"><b>2. Word Families Ring Toss</b></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Georgia">Collect 5 cardboard paper towel tubes and 15 heavy-duty paper plates. Use scissors to cut an <i>X</i> in the center of 5 plates. Then, push a paper towel tube up through each <i>X</i>, making the plate the base of a ring toss stand. Write a common word family on the top part of the base of each stand (-<i>at, -an, -it, -en, -op</i>.) Cut out the centers of 10 paper plates to create rings, and write a consonant on each ring. Kids toss the rings on the stands and get a point for each real word they create. (For example, if the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">m</span> consonant ring lands on the<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> -at</span> stand, they earn a point for building <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">mat</span>.) Tip: to get the stands to stay upright in grass, poke large sticks in the ground first and place the stands, through the paper towel tubes, over the sticks.</p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Georgia; min-height: 19.0px"><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Georgia"><b>3. States & Capitals Tag</b></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Georgia">To be considered <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">safe</span>, a child must yell out the name of a state and its capital before getting tagged. Each state/capital can only be used once during a game. For even more of a challenge, the child who's <i>It</i> yells out the state, and the child in danger of being tagged must say the correct corresponding capital. Otherwise, tag, you're it!</p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Georgia; min-height: 19.0px"><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Georgia"><b>4. Jump Rope Math</b></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Georgia">Challenge kids to jump rope and say aloud the right numbers while keeping with the rhythm. Cater this game to each child's level. Kids can simply count up or down as they jump, or yell out all the fact families for any equation (<i>4 + 5 = 9</i>, <i>5 + 4 = 9</i>, <i>9 - 4 = 5</i>, and <i>9 - 5 = 4</i>). Ramp up the difficulty by having them say aloud their times tables or even 5-7 fractions (of their choice) in ascending or descending order--phew, a toughie!</p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Georgia; min-height: 19.0px"><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Georgia"><b>5. Rhyming Chalk Talk</b></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Georgia">Draw 10 chalk pictures representing 5 rhyming pairs of words (such as <i>man</i> and<i> fan</i> or <i>mop</i> and <i>top</i>) on the sidewalk. Then, kids take turns saying aloud the rhyming pairs as they use a watering can to pour water on pictures (to identify the rhyming matches). Water makes it more fun, helps children see which pictures have been matched already (each picture can only be used once), and cleans the sidewalk! (On a hot day, use the hose instead! If water conservation is a concern in your area, save rainwater to use in the watering can.)</p></span>WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-67553271362754465592009-05-11T16:23:00.041-05:002009-05-11T17:16:53.454-05:00Quick Assessment Tip for CentersAs the busy end of the school year approaches, it's easy to get caught up in trying to fit in the most important lessons before you run out of time. (Yes, this time of year is enough to make you feel like you have a bobble head.) Just remember that you're also winding down the school year as a whole. (Whew!) It's even more important to take a big-picture view of the year's successes for each individual child.<br /><br />When you're looking over each child's accomplishments, include in their portfolios some informal anectodal assessment notes from the very end of the year. That's when kids really shine and show all they've learned! One easy way to do informal assessment is to use your centers.<br /><br />First, you can pull students aside during center time and do one-on-one assessments. Another option is to just observe students doing center activities. (The observation option is SUPER SIMPLE yet still tells a true story of what the child knows! So if you're out of energy this time of year, don't feel guilty about taking the observation route.) Take anecdotal notes on index cards, sticky notes or a notepad during observations or one-on-one meetings.<br /><br />Many teachers prefer to use a notepad with line-ruled or grid pages. Then, you can just dedicate each page to a different student. On each line of the notepad, note the date and what the student knows. Sample entry: “5/21/09: While using magnetic letters, Megan knows letter names and initial sounds for <em>a</em>, <em>n</em>, <em>p</em>, <em>b</em>, <em>r</em> and <em>t</em>. She can also build a C-V-C word and track simple words with her finger as she tries to read them.” (Wow! Yes, you can observe all this and more during just one activity!)<br /><br />For quick reference, keep these notes alphabetized by the child’s last name within the notepad. Then, specific notes will be easy to find when you're ready to place them into each child's portfolio in the next couple of weeks. (Easy, easy, easy--oh, yeah!)WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-25796074372856545652009-04-30T21:39:00.042-05:002009-04-30T23:17:58.747-05:005 Hands-On Word Families Activities<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/Sfp0wyMER4I/AAAAAAAAAE8/_lrAxouUX_c/s1600-h/prod2299_1_th.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330701490401331074" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 145px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 145px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/Sfp0wyMER4I/AAAAAAAAAE8/_lrAxouUX_c/s320/prod2299_1_th.jpg" border="0" /></a>Learning word families is so powerful. Once kids learn even one common rime (word ending), they're suddenly able to build many new words. They simply add a different consonant or blend onset (word beginning) and then swap it out with another and another--voila! How motivating for beginning readers!<br /><div></div><br /><div>Because they are highly motivating and rely on the use of consistent patterns, word families activities are also ideal for English language learners or kids with special needs. Increase the engagement and effectiveness even more by making the activities tactile and kinesthetic. Here are a few ways to do just that:</div><ol><li><strong>Word Family Bug Swat</strong>--Cut large bugs out of construction paper. (Better yet, have your students do this as part of an insect-themed unit.) Then, print various words on the bugs or just the rimes. Have students use a <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/word+-+number+swatters--8482-.do?search=basic&keyword=word+swatter&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">Word Swatter</a> to hit the words that belong in a word family that another student calls out. Or, you can tape a consonant on the opposite side of the swatter and have kids swat a rime that makes a word when combined with the letter on the swatter. Don't have a fancy <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/word+-+number+swatters--8482-.do?search=basic&keyword=word+swatter&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">Word Swatter</a>? Just take a pair of scissors to any old (but very clean!) fly swatter.</li><br /><li><strong>Carnival Toss</strong>--Same as #3 except use <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/rainbow--8482-+bean+bags.do?search=basic&keyword=bean+bags&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">bean bags</a> that kids toss into hula hoops that are placed on the floor. (A great way to recycle hula hoops--seriously, have you ever tried to cram one into a recycling bin? BOING...ouch!!!)</li><br /><li><strong>Realia Sort</strong>--For practice of multiple word families, bring to class several objects whose names are in the same word family. For example, for the <em>AT </em>word family, bring in a plush cat, plastic mat, baseball bat, rubber rat, and an old hat. For <em>AN</em>, bring in a can of food, paper fan, saute pan, and an action figure man. (Hey, this is where you put to use those little garage sale purchases. Yeah, there really was a good reason why you dug through all those "anything for $.25" boxes of junk over the years!) Have kids work together to sort the objects by word family. Kids love trying to figure out the name of each item, and they really have to put their oral skills to use when listening for the rhymes. They can also practice writing the words to label the objects.</li><br /><li><strong>Pocket Chart Word Sort</strong>--Kids love pretending to be the teacher! Once in a while, let them use the tools, like pocket charts, that YOU usually use at the front of the class for demonstration purposes. Have them sort (by rime) words written on pocket chart cards. Consider color coding the words at first for any kid who's really struggling. Use any pocket chart you already have on hand, or go all out and get this really cool one already filled with all the right word and picture cards: <em><a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/word+families+-amp-+rhyming+center+pocket+chart.do?search=basic&keyword=word+families+%26+rhyming&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">Word Families & Rhyming Center Pocket Chart</a></em>.</li><br /><li><strong>Spinner and/or Consonant Dice Games</strong>--Print onsets on a <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/searchResults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=4324%2C+4322%2C+22111&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">blank spinner</a>. Kids can spin it and combine the onset they spun, with the word family rime they're studying, to build a word. For the more advanced, print multiple rimes on the spinner. Have one student spin while the other rolls a <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/searchResults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=6300%2C+0586&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">consonant die</a>. Together, they can see how many words they can build.</li></ol>WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6020198846212735037.post-85152923003004666952009-04-24T13:24:00.032-05:002009-04-24T15:39:57.243-05:00Making Science Cross Curricular--10 Tips<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/SfIiE3HTmlI/AAAAAAAAAE0/Wo9xgh7l9qc/s1600-h/simp+mach.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328358776042134098" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 145px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 145px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_x2T_LaMQHcg/SfIiE3HTmlI/AAAAAAAAAE0/Wo9xgh7l9qc/s320/simp+mach.jpg" border="0" /></a>When I was a <em>young</em> teacher (so, not too long ago!), I had a "Eureka" moment (vroom, vroom). I realized that in life, we don't use each subject area skill in a VACUUM. For example, if I have a problem with my bank statement, I gather some information (science), crunch some numbers (math) , and prepare an arguement (language arts) to present to the bank. Real-world issues require you to think and work in cross-curricular ways.<br /><br /><div><div>So, if school is really about preparing kids for life, why do we often teach each subject independent of the others?</div><br /><div>Cross-curricular instruction is an efficient way to cover all that you need to teach. (Sign me up for anything that makes my life as a teacher easier!) Plus, it helps students build some synapses between topics--critical thinking that improves comprehension and retention of information taught. (Ooh, when my students actually LEARN a lot too, that's a win-win for both the "teach" and the kid!)</div><br /><div>A couple of years ago for a popular teacher publication, we created this list of tips on how to make science cross-curricular. I thought there might be a nugget or two here that you could find helpful...</div><br /><div><strong>1. Science is the perfect vehicle to teach writing.</strong></div><div>Keeping a <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/product/science+journals,+set+of+10.do?search=basic&keyword=science+journal&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">science journal</a> can help students build daily practice and encourage descriptive as well as expository skills, like compare and contrast, process, and cause and effect.</div><br /><div><strong>2. Use graphic organizers every day.</strong></div><div>For example, you can do a lot with a simple Venn diagram--compare math formulas, events or people in history, story elements or scientific observations. Children build key critical thinking skills when they find and explore relationships in any subject. Use graphic organizers in a variety of formats including <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/searchResults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=5399%2C+7322%2C+7323%2C+7325%2C+7327&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">books</a> and <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/searchResults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=2959%2C+1951%2C+2291%2C+2382&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1">pocket charts</a>.</div><br /><div><strong>3. Get students in the habit of reading informational text.</strong></div><div>But, don't assume that kids come with built-in strategies in their brains for understanding this kind of text. Explicitly teach them the structure of expository text and how to pick out main ideas and details.</div><br /><div><strong>4. Embed math in science inquiry/experiments.</strong></div><div>When math solves a real-world problem, children apply what they know and gain deeper understanding. Operations, data and measurement are three topics that are usually easy to mix into science inquiry activities.</div><br /><div><strong>5. Make science come to life with biographies.</strong></div><div>Have students read true stories about great scientists and their discoveries. Then, read some science fiction on a similar topic. Compare how the real stands up to the imaginary.<br /><br /><strong>6. Turn kids into social scientists.</strong></div><div>Once students are comfortable collecting data, encourage civic responsibility by studying an environmental issue in your neighborhood. Have them write to local governments and businesses and see if they can make a positive change in their community.<br /><br /><strong>7. Teach science inquiry from a creative perspective.</strong></div><div>The digestive system is more fun when students travel through it from the perspective of a piece of food. (Kids are always soooo grossed out by the way that lesson ENDS!) Or, when students have to persuade you to live on one planet over another, you’ll see how much they really know about the solar system.<br /><br /><strong>8. Reinforce science themes early with </strong><a href="http://www.learningresources.com/p2p/searchResults.do?method=view&search=basic&keyword=0780%2C+0190%2C+0180%2C+0710%2C+0457&sortby=best&asc=true&page=1"><strong>theme-based counters</strong></a><strong>.</strong></div><div>Bright and engaging, they encourage sorting, classifying, patterning and counting skills that can transfer to math, social studies and language arts.<br /><br /><strong>9. Play a pocket chart game with artifacts.</strong></div><div>Hide artifacts inside <a href="http://www.learningresources.com/category/teachers/shop+by+category/teacher+resources/pocket+charts.do">pocket charts</a>. Leave written clues in the outside pockets and play 20 questions until students guess the identity of the artifacts. It’s never too early to teach inference and investigation skills with clue words like <em>who</em>, <em>what</em> or <em>how</em>.<br /><br /><strong>10. Let students invent their own games!</strong></div><div>Some kids think scientific thinkers are so stiff and serious. Prove them wrong! Mix up the pieces of any science game to make them laugh and show them it’s okay to throw out the rules once in a while. Have them write new game rules that can be placed in a center with the game compoments so their classmates can enjoy their new creation.</div></div>WendyZ - Learning Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04432098535023598259noreply@blogger.com0