Saturday, June 2, 2012

FREE Project-Based Apps

Thanks to TechChef for teaching me, once again!

Digital Storytelling

I came across this amazing wiki full of "how-to's" using many free Web 2.0 tools for digital storytelling. The video below, is created using the tools. Watch the video and check out the wiki by clicking HERE.
Thanks to Alan Levine for collecting these ideas and compiling them into a useful resource!

A Turn to Learn: How to Print on Sentence Strips

A Turn to Learn: How to Print on Sentence Strips: Here it is... the long awaited post... How to print on sentence strips!  I have to say, ever since I figured out how to do this, I have not ...

I didn't even think of doing this!  It would look a lot nicer to have text printed on sentence strips, than my handwriting looks! ;)

This blog has TONS of great tech. tips!

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Stop Summer Learning Loss

Click below to read a great list of activities to keep your child learning all summer!

I also created a page on my class wiki for parents to learn about WHY their child needs to read and learn over the summer, and HOW they can do this: http://colwell2011-12.wikispaces.com/Summer+Learning

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Book Exchange!

Would you like to get 36 books for the price of 1?! I need 6 people to continue this book exchange that a co-worker of mine passed on to me. If you agree to join this book exchange, then you'll mail one book to my kinder friend, Erika, and then you will pass my address on to 6 of your friends, who will then each mail me a book. 6x6=36 books!!! But you have to commit and follow through so that it works! :) If you're in, please leave a comment with your email address, and I'll be in touch with you to get you the addresses. See the letter below for more of the details!

New Classroom Theme?!

I have had a western, Texas theme for the past 3 years, and I think I'm ready for a change. I would love a calming environment with lots of natural colors and a somewhat earthy feel. What better way to do that than with a cute owl theme! The owl trend has been out for awhile now, so I should be able to find many cute things! Check out these cute and FREE owl printables! Owl Themepack Accents

Sunday, May 27, 2012

Math Coach's Corner: Addition & Subtraction Structures

Math Coach's Corner: Addition & Subtraction Structures, Part 2:  addition and subtraction in word problems.

The are the kinds of problems that confuse many math students.
Part-Part-Whole thinking is an important foundational understanding for kids to master!

Check out this post with a good explanation of the types of problems for first grade.
 Might be good info for parents!

Saturday, May 26, 2012

Celebrating Volunteer Week with VolunteerSpot

Celebrating Volunteer Week with VolunteerSpot

Learn about a website where you can create free sign-up sheets online!
Looks similar to Sign-Up Genius, which is FANTASTIC!!!

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Timez Attack - Fact Fluency Video Game

Check out this video about Timez Attack. It looks like a great way for kids to practice addition, subtraction, and multiplication facts. The math facts are in the video game! It's free to use flashcards and one video game. The website also tracks student progress.

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

On Our Minds @ Scholastic | The official blog of Scholastic Inc.

On Our Minds @ Scholastic | The official blog of Scholastic Inc.: Book and education enthusiasts sharing breaking book and media news, stories of education and technology, and reflections on literacy. Join us!

Sunday, May 13, 2012

Summer Bucket List!

Here's my...
I want to make these for myself and my teammates to carry around ketchup and napkins and spoons for our forgetful friends in the cafeteria. ;) It's something I need, but I also want to prove to myself that I can be crafty and sew! Oh, I guess I better get that sewing machine I've been wanting too. ;)
I want to make a frame like this for the first day of first grade.
I want to try new recipes and cook for my family a lot!
I want to buy a new grill and make use of our patio, that I want to work on, and have BBQs with friends!
I cannot wait for the beach house trip with my family!!!! I want to MAKE MEMORIES with my family and especially for my boys!
I want to READ FOR FUN!!! :)
Teach my son the letters and sounds, by making it fun.
Workout and eat healthier!
This is starting to sound more like a new year's resolution list... Road trip with my hubby.
Visit my sister!