Exit Slips and Assessing Student Understanding

Data has become a central theme in classrooms today. We have formative assessments, summative assessments, reading level assessments, MAP testing, STAAR tests, other standardized tests, istation, the list can go on forever. The last thing we need as teachers is another thing to grade or another assessment! We do need to check in with our … Continue reading Exit Slips and Assessing Student Understanding

Making Learning Fun with Science Concept Character

I started Science Concept Characters back in 2009 and they were such a hit that I kept the activity ready to go for any time I needed something extra. Students can pick a science word/concept, or you can assign a science word/concept to each student. Students will create a character for a science word or … Continue reading Making Learning Fun with Science Concept Character

Christmas Science and Literacy

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and maybe the most chaotic! I love making things fun around holidays because higher engagement equals fewer behavior issues. Plus, it’s just more fun! These are some of my favorite Christmas/ Winter Holiday activities. My absolute favorite part of these lesson units is the real world connection … Continue reading Christmas Science and Literacy

Ditching Behavior Charts for Better Behavior in the Classroom

I ditched behavior charts long, long ago, and I have never regretted it! (Don’t miss the FREE behavior toolkit download below!!) AND, I have had fewer behavior problems!! 😎 Not only was it more work to keep up with and more rewards to provide… I saw how it damaged a child’s view of themself and … Continue reading Ditching Behavior Charts for Better Behavior in the Classroom