tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89765064622300538312024-03-13T10:49:05.966-05:00An Uncommon to the Core TeacherAn "Uncommon-to-the-Core" Teacher in a Common Core World. . .Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-56591135367417400322020-06-06T17:08:00.002-05:002020-06-06T17:08:50.855-05:00Getting My Mojo On: How ClassDojo Transcended Time, Space and Buildings<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrlaDYGnzLVfSHrbZy5zz9_4rn1qt_yHUlc8CISjLHgyZqFA39yEZVxD_rSfSrHq6e4Sj7Xb6h_9HtyqZm4j0D1V19XO5x3XAj7gSAqJqWANNsB9KFYOkKoH313uWQLtamdf28xOmmYI4/s820/Mojo+Superhero.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="820" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrlaDYGnzLVfSHrbZy5zz9_4rn1qt_yHUlc8CISjLHgyZqFA39yEZVxD_rSfSrHq6e4Sj7Xb6h_9HtyqZm4j0D1V19XO5x3XAj7gSAqJqWANNsB9KFYOkKoH313uWQLtamdf28xOmmYI4/s320/Mojo+Superhero.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><span><!--more--></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times">The 2019-2020 school year has been full of surprises...some good...some...not so great. So, while COVID19 put an abrupt end to a year in "bricks and mortar," one small green superhero stepped in and saved the day!</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times">Our small school district was mandated to close on March 12th, and less than two weeks later, we were back up and online with all students in grades PreK-12! This small green guy and his crew of superheroes at ClassDojo were instrumental in keeping the communication between home and school rolling the entire time. And...quite frankly, I think that without this amazing and FREE resource, we wouldn't have had the success we experienced. Seriously.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times">You see...while this Tech Integrator worked with her fellow Tech Integrators and administration to pull together the resources needed to successfully launch a virtual learning platform, teachers throughout the school district were reaching out to families through ClassDojo to check in on students...to send out messages of love and support in a very unstable and unsettling time...to assign activities to keep our students busy...</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times">ClassDojo proved to be such a useful tool from the beginning. It wasn't hard to "sell" my colleagues and administrators on using this tool to leverage communication between home and school in order to form strong partnerships with our parents. The "texting-style" messaging system appealed to our parents and met them where they were from the very beginning. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times">Parkview Elementary has been using ClassDojo as a school for the last four years. Our teachers have grown along with Mojo and the gang. As Parkview launched new SEL (Social and Emotional Learning) standards, ClassDojo remained that "perfect fit" for us...with outstanding resources that fit "just right" from the very beginning!</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times">Our parents have, as a whole, appreciated the level of communication.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times">As a ClassDojo Ambassador, I felt that the time was right to advance Mojo and the gang on to the next level: Junior High School! </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times">Why junior high? Well...quite a few parents were out on social media, complaining about the level of communication coming from our junior high staff members.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times">What was missing? Why could parents count on great communication at the elementary level, but then find information short at the next level? Weren't we all working for the same school district? Why the discrepancies?</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times">The answer was clear. The elementary teachers were comfortable working with ClassDojo. At the junior high and even at the senior high, ClassDojo was viewed as a bit "elementary." Mojo, Katie and the rest of the Dojo characters were a bit too "cartoony." Would anyone actually take ClassDojo seriously at the junior high level?</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times">A couple of meetings with the principal and junior high staff answered our questions. Parents were already used to ClassDojo and welcomed information from the junior high staff. Teachers found it was easy to connect staff members to their classes and parents were responding. Connections were being made and the staff was enjoying the benefits of a higher level of communication and parent satisfaction.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times">Parents were commenting on how much easier it was to connect with staff. The staff was becoming comfortable with the ClassDojo platform. Even students were reacquainting themselves with familiar friends.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times">While ClassDojo's use had changed a bit...staff decided not to use the behavior point system at the onset...one thing remained the same: high-quality communication between home and school was once again "the norm."</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times">COVID19 brought our year to an early end...but ClassDojo did the "heavy lifting" and I remain optimistic that 2020-2021 will give all of our staff members the opportunity to continue to grow strong communication between school and home. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="times">Mojo would remind us all that "The Power of Yet" is important here. We may not be there "yet," but were are definitely on the path to awesome communication!</font></div>Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-53497596115299900842017-12-31T13:16:00.000-06:002018-06-13T08:58:08.176-05:00The Power of "The Buzz!"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Readers Workshop has been on my mind lately. <u>MY</u> Reader's Workshop in particular. <br />
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I'm thinking about the tools in MY arsenal...forms (both digital and paper), my GINORMOUS BINDER OF READERS, my "Conferring Apron," the fancy pens, my notebook, the numerous anchor charts plastered to my walls...just thinking about all of this makes my head want to explode!</div>
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But the best tools that I bring to my Reader's Workshop are the strategies I share with readers and the TEACHER'S MOVES that I use to build excitement around reading because, let's face it, without student engagement, you've got nothing. </div>
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This I know.</div>
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My well-worn copy of <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Book-Whisperer-Awakening-Inner-Reader/dp/0470372273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1514724995&sr=8-1&keywords=the+book+whisperer+by+donalyn+miller" target="_blank">The Book Whisperer</a></u> reminds me of the importance of passing my love of reading on to my students through my own personal enthusiasm about books and the magic that lies within them. </div>
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One of the most powerful Teacher Moves that I can possibly use to build excitement amongst my fourth grade readers is THE BOOK BUZZ. </div>
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This is one of those Teacher Moves that is so subtle at first but then snowballs into something that can really take on a life of its own in relatively quick fashion. </div>
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Don't believe me? Consider the hype that surrounded the Harry Potter books...or the excitement that Scholastic builds around its release of the newest Diary of a Wimpy Kid book...the energy that builds around reading takes on a life of its own. And "kid readers" fuel the fire!</div>
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So my question here is this: Why aren't we harnessing "The Power of the Book Buzz" more often in our own classrooms? </div>
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Here's a universal truth...If you "hype" a book with your readers and create THE BOOK BUZZ, you can create a book frenzy right in your own classroom.</div>
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Every time I read a book that I'm about to add to my classroom library, I share it as part of the day's mini-lesson. Inevitably, there's at least one student who wants to read the book before I shelve it. So the book is immediately passed on to the reader. There's always a kid who pipes up, "Can I have it after you finish it?" Here's where I post a Sticky Note to the back of the book and have students who wish to "have a kick at the cat" sign their names to the book. Now the book has a road map of where it's headed.</div>
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Over the summer, I picked up this sweet little read:<br />
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Elise Gravel's book is an interesting mix of sketches and creative writing, all rolled up into a neat little notebook package. I had fun picking through it, and I thought that my fourthies would enjoy her quirky sketches and amazing sense of humor.</div>
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I started by sharing this book during a minilesson about keeping a Reader's and Writer's Notebook. This is actually a fabulous example of what a notebook full of ideas could become!</div>
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My readers were intrigued. Fascinated. Enchanted. </div>
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Frenzied hands reached out for this book. Readers jostled one other as they reached out to put their names on the back of this book.</div>
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I intended to put <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Found-Please-Return-Elise-Gravel/dp/1770462783/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1514726041&sr=8-1&keywords=elise+gravel" target="_blank">If Found Please Return to Elise Gravel</a></u> in my "book gutter." So far, this book only makes it's way back to the gutter at the end of the day. It is the first book grabbed in the morning and it is passed about so often, I know that I'm going to need to replace it sooner or later.</div>
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If there is a cluster of students around a table, it is usually because groups of them are marveling at the illustrations or laughing at the notes that accompany them.</div>
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Taking a nod from Donalyn Miller, I have incorporated the "40 Book Challenge" into Reader's Workshop. To add a little excitement to this challenge, I reached out to a few different authors to ask if they could help me out by contributing a signed book to our competition.</div>
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The first author I reached out to was Elise Gravel...who is amazingly awesome by the way. She responded to my request within minutes and sent this my way:</div>
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Oh yeah...Elise Gravel rocks our world. This book has been situated in a place of honor, just waiting for the first round of 40 Book Challenge qualifiers to add their names to the drawing. There's so much excitement built around <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Smelly-Thing-Nowhere-Elise-Gravel/dp/0062351265/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1514726041&sr=8-2&keywords=elise+gravel" target="_blank">Olga and the Smelly Thing From Nowhere</a></u>...my kiddos just walk up to it and gaze adoringly at the book with its unknown treasures inside (including a great autograph and personalized note from Elise!)...sigh.</div>
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So...if you aren't creating a Book Buzz in your classroom, why aren't you? If you are looking for 3 reasons, here they are (in no particular order):</div>
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<li>Book Buzz costs you nothing but 5 minutes of class time to get the whole conversation started...so it's economical.</li>
<li>Book Buzz gets real kids excited about reading. (John Hattie ranks Student Engagement super-high his work, <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Visible-Learning-Teachers-Maximizing-Impact/dp/0415690153/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1514746882&sr=8-1&keywords=john+hattie" target="_blank">Visible Learning</a></u>!)</li>
<li>Book Buzz allows you to put HIGH QUALITY literature into the hands of students without them even realizing it! (Kind of like sneaking cauliflower into a tub of mashed potatoes!) Jack Gantos' book, <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dead-End-Norvelt-Jack-Gantos/dp/1250010233/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1514747215&sr=8-1&keywords=dead+end+in+norvelt+by+jack+gantos" target="_blank">Dead End in Norvelt</a></u> is a fabulous book that consistently is checked out more than any other book in my classroom. Why? Because I created a Book Buzz with the book. It's an awesome Newberry Award Winner that is so well-crafted and enormously funny...but it competes for shelf space with lesser quality books. Kids need to know about books like this. It's up to us to share them...often!</li>
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Never underestimate "The Power of The Buzz!" </div>
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Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-18599499884623581552017-08-12T13:20:00.000-05:002017-08-12T13:20:23.675-05:00Osmo...And Why This Little Piece of Technology Matters So Danged Much!Ok, I'll admit it. I'm a total geek when it comes to technology. If there's a 12-Step program for this, I seriously do not want to know about it. Let me remain oblivious.<br />
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So much technology...so little time to sift through to find the best of the best. To choose what will matter to my students. To put technology in the hands of even the most tentative of teachers in order to allow them to see the magic that truly happens when kids really connect to technology. (Because, believe me, a student's reaction is what really "sells it" in terms of getting reluctant teachers to become active practitioners who really encourage their students to explore!)<br />
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When I think of all the great technology I regularly encourage students to use, I think of Osmo. I have a few of these babies in my classroom. I've written Donors Choose grants to get more. I've begged my administrators to purchase more so that entire grade levels have access to Osmos in their classrooms. (See 12-Step program, mentioned above.)<br />
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I'm a "soft starter" when it comes to the beginning of a school day. Here's how my day begins...</div>
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Kids enter the classroom, click on their avatar on the SmartBoard to announce their attendance...they may stop and drop off homework or make sure that I have their notes or important paperwork...stop and give their teacher a hug (for being so awesome, of course!) and then ease into their day by choosing a book to read quietly, a quiet game with a buddy, a Lego-build activity or Osmo (the coding games are a favorite!).</div>
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Jockeying for a position with Osmo (no more than 3 students at a time) has gotten pretty crazy, so I added a 2nd Osmo to the mix. Talk about exciting! Now at least 6 students are enthralled by technology with more interactivity...it's pretty amazing!</div>
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But even better...my students use Osmo and it's components throughout the day...Math, Reading, Financial Literacy, AND Word Work (Daily 5) time. Keeping 4th grade students happy isn't easy, but Osmo adds technology in places that I never even thought about!</div>
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Student empowerment is one of the best things to come out of my use of Osmo in the classroom. In the middle of last school year, my students met and decided that writing code really should be added to the list of possible activities that could be done during Writing time. They presented me with their proposal, and, I have to admit, it was pretty compelling. After all, isn't writing lines of code really a "How To?" </div>
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Osmo made that happen in my classroom...with real honest-to-goodness fourth graders.</div>
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Sheer magic.</div>
Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-84390094301397760462017-03-27T20:19:00.002-05:002017-03-27T20:19:34.625-05:00ClassDojo Chat on TwitterHello all! <br />
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I'm so excited to announce that I'll be moderating my first Twitter chat on Wednesday, March 29th.<br />
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As a ClassDojo Ambassador, I'll be hosting this chat from the comfort of my very own "embassy!" <br />
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I'd love to have you join me!<br />
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Here's hoping everything works out great...fingers crossed!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nikki</span></div>
Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-19159289653000458892017-03-26T11:57:00.000-05:002017-03-26T11:57:08.324-05:00The Tyler Factor...Why Our Reading Challenges Matter Most!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You know this kid. He's the one that showed up in your classroom, absolutely HATING reading. We all know this kid...we've all had these kids in our classes. They are our biggest challenges and the source of our greatest joy...that is, if we are successful.<br />
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Meet Tyler. He's a kiddo who's comfortable in his own skin, and has no problem telling you what he's thinking about. If he's hungry, he'll let you know. If your lesson is sub-par, he's got no problem telling you about that too.<br />
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We started our year with him jotting a note on my "Hello Board" that said, and I quote, "I hate reading."<br />
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Yep. "I hate reading." Just. Like. That.<br />
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But here's the thing: I LOVE THIS KID! Even better: I love being Tyler's teacher. He keeps it real. He challenges me. And he makes my days a heckuva lot more interesting. He's really fun.<br />
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Just the other day, Tyler was saying, "I'm hungry. A cheeseburger would be nice. What do you say Mrs. Lutzke? How about you and me go and get us some cheeseburgers? Knute's has a $5.00 special today!" Have I told you how much I love this kid? Who wouldn't, right?<br />
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But, I digress. <br />
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Tyler didn't like to read. That is true. So I needed to figure out why he wasn't enjoying reading. So I conferred with him. We talked. He shared. He debated. And, ultimately he shared a truth that needed to be explored. He didn't know what he liked in terms of books. He hadn't yet found out what kind of reader he was.<br />
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We had to find a common ground...and that was in humor. He's a funny guy. I'm a quirky adult. So I needed to dig into my stash o'humor in order to find a starting point. Thank goodness for Jeff Kinney and his Diary of a Wimpy Kid series! I encouraged Tyler to give one a try, and...SHAZAM! He liked the books. A lot. Tyler was plowing through this series the way the Tazmanian Devil decimates landscapes. So cool. So exciting as a teacher to watch this...and even more stunning...Tyler decided to join the school Book Club! <br />
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I ask my students to create "Reading Selfies." This was Tyler's from November:<br />
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You'll notice that Tyler's reading some great nonfiction texts and focusing in on noticing text features and how they add to his understanding of the topic. His goal of "read(ing) faster" is also included in on his selfie. By this time, I was really pretty proud of the both of us. </div>
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After the holidays, things changed a bit. Tyler didn't like being told what to read, so he quietly backed out of Book Club. </div>
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He became frustrated...he was tired of DWK and was ready to try something new. So we conferred. We debated. We talked. And he shared that he really liked history. A peek into Tyler's book basket gave me an idea...all that history in those books...why not combine that with some Historical Fiction?</div>
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So, that's the direction Tyler took. Starting with <u>Dead End in Norvelt </u>and it's sequel, <u>From Norvelt to Nowhere</u>...he loved Jack Gantos' style of writing! From there, we moved on to other amazing books like <u>The Enemy Above</u>...there was no stopping this guy.</div>
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Tyler's an avid archer, and he's learning about hunting and conservation from his dad. So, when Tyler ran out of material, I decided to introduce him to Gary Paulsen's character, Francis Tucket.</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Tuckets-Travels-Francis-Adventures-1847-1849/dp/0440419670/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1490547384&sr=8-1&keywords=tucket%27s+travels" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hYrqqeDe1Eslp9Mn9SEHjitFWk0wsnomHnzMi_sLGLTUw9GSGZ0YAHUkaNHbpZct7SAQEKxbam51ewXrD_MPKOsNwr8pabvXZDpdCnjao8reZuCJ_S9lfZK-S3BBDj-ykNgACU1xftQ/s1600/Tucket%2527s+Travels.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<u>Tucket's Travels</u> was the perfect collection of books for Tyler. So much adventure! So much excitement! So much...reading!</div>
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And then, the best part...the icing on the cake...talking with Tyler about the book! Whoa! We could have talked for hours about this book. (He finished this yesterday, by the way, and he's blogging about it at my side right now!)</div>
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There are conversations with kids that "stick." The conversation I had with Tyler will truly stick with me..."Mrs. Lutzke, I was thinking about this book last night." (That's always awesome...when a kid takes a book home and can't let it go, even as they are trying to go to sleep!)</div>
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Here's the rest of the conversation: "If I was Francis, and I had been living outside, on my own, and I had been my own boss for two years, I don't think I could live with my parents after that. I mean...I'd want to be close to them and live nearby, but if I had been making my own rules and living my own way, then being in someone else's house would be kinda bad."</div>
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Whoa...great conversation...great reader...GREAT KIDDO! I'd say that you have this down Tyler. </div>
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P.S. Tyler is moving this summer to a whole new town. I'm going to miss him terribly. So, to Tyler's wonderful mom Jen...you have my permission to share this blog post with his 5th grade teacher. Because he's a great kid...and he only deserves the best!</div>
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<br />Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-30686124513470405952017-03-22T00:00:00.000-05:002017-03-22T06:15:02.618-05:00The Reading Strategies Book Goal 6: Supporting Comprehension in Fiction (Thinking About Characters)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ooooh! Oooh! Is it my turn yet? </div>
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Hooray! I'm so excited to be joining a talented team of educator bloggers in this great conversation about THE BEST READING RESOURCE on the planet! </div>
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Recognize this guy? Recently, my 4th grade students and their 1st grade Book Buddies were sharing some of their favorite books, and Clifford the Big Red Dog was the topic of conversation amongst all of the readers. </div>
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If you think that getting to know the characters in the book you are reading doesn't matter...think again. My 4th graders reminisced with great fondness the adventures that Clifford and Emily Elizabeth had together...just like you'd remember the exploits you had with your very best friends.</div>
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That's why the reading work outlined in Goal 6 is important work...understanding the characters and how they feel...what makes them tick...feeling empathy towards their situations...these all converge together to not only engage the reader, but to enhance their understanding of the text.</div>
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So then there's this guy, Greg Heffley, and by the time my students begin their work with me in the 4th grade, they begin to put character traits together to name a theory about the character. One of my students recently shared with me this little nugget of wisdom..."Greg is pretty much all about himself. He doesn't know how to be a good friend to Rowley, and part of that is because you've got a lot to live up to in order to even be half as good as he is!" Interesting insight from a nine-year-old!</div>
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As our readers become more fluent and more sophisticated in their choice of texts, secondary characters come into play...and their storylines become much more important. Case in point...as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger all advance through Hogwarts, the layers that Ron and Hermione lend to Harry's story help to shape the character he ultimately becomes. Harry's dedication to his friends plays an important role in his decision-making process.</div>
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Goal 6 offers 24 fantabulous "Thinking About Characters" strategies. My three favorites, in no particular order, are:</div>
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<u>6.1: How's the Character Feeling?</u> </div>
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Jennifer reminds us of the importance of knowing our characters, and caring about how these characters feel. Empathizing with our characters helps us as readers connect deeply and personally.</div>
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When readers pay attention to the characters in their story, they notice how the character acts, how the character speaks, what the character says, and what the character thinks. </div>
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What do these things tell the reader about how the character is feeling? Is a feeling like this positive or negative? What leads you to think this way?</div>
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This strategy, while straightforward, has so much to offer readers at ALL levels. Early/Emergent readers can use cues in the illustrations to help them understand what the character is feeling. More fluent readers should be encouraged to "mine" their texts for clues as to what the character is feeling (dialogue, punctuation, body language, etc.).</div>
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<u>6.3: Put on the Character's Face</u> </div>
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I love how Jennifer talks about the idea of "putting yourself in the character's shoes." She shares how kids take that phrase so literally, and how the wording can really get in the way. She asks us to reconsider this language and urge students to "try to feel what the character's feeling." Why not "try on the character's face?" How are they feeling? What does disappointment look like on your face? Can you see disappointment in your body language? </div>
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I absolutely adore the anchor chart featured in this strategy! An excellent extension would be to have students create an anchor chart that features photos of your readers and the many emotions they show!</div>
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<u>6.17: Talk and Actions as Windows</u> </div>
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This strategy makes use of "dialogue tags" to infer what kind of person the character is. When we notice not just "what the character says," but "how they say it," we gain a better understanding of what kind of person the character is.</div>
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This also applies to the character's actions, because, as we know, we can "read" a character based on what they do!</div>
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This strategy has a great little visual that involves a window with curtains. This would make an awesome anchor chart or a great addition to an interactive Reader's Notebook!</div>
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I'd love to hear what's working for you when you and your students "Think About Characters." Are there any takeaways from Goal 6 that you are just itching to try out? Please check in and share in the comments section...each conversation is important and helps us all to grow our thinking!</div>
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With a nod towards Theresa's blog entry at <a href="http://triedandtruereading.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tried and True</a>, I echo the sentiment that our teacher bloggers who have contributed to this book study have completed and shared important work that benefits and elevates all educators. If you haven't visited these entries, what are you waiting for? </div>
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<a href="http://croftsclassroom.blogspot.com/2017/03/the-reading-strategies-book-getting.html" target="_blank">Getting Started</a></div>
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<a href="http://mcguireiscrazy.blogspot.com/2017/03/the-reading-strategies-book-goal-1.html" target="_blank">Goal 1</a></div>
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<a href="http://croftsclassroom.blogspot.com/2017/03/the-rsb-goal-2-teaching-reading.html" target="_blank">Goal 2</a></div>
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<a href="http://chocolate-covered-classroom.blogspot.ca/2017/03/the-reading-strategies-book-goal-3.html" target="_blank">Goal 3</a></div>
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<a href="http://croftsclassroom.blogspot.com/2017/03/the-reading-strategies-book-goal-4.html" target="_blank">Goal 4</a></div>
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<a href="http://triedandtruereading.blogspot.com/2017/03/the-reading-strategies-book-goal-5.html" target="_blank">Goal 5</a></div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nikki</span></div>
Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-35922662039079342792017-03-15T10:59:00.001-05:002017-03-15T10:59:33.884-05:00Mentor Text: Knucklehead<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today is one of those days when I'm going through my blog stats...and I actually found a blog post that I started about 3 years ago. What to do? Do I throw this one away, or do I resurrect this post and put it out there.<br />
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If it was anyone but Jon Scieszka, I might consider tossing it. But I have a soft spot for an author that makes me laugh so hard that milk comes out of my nose...well...who am I to withhold such a treasure?<br />
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Ok folks...if you haven't yet shared <u>Knucklehead</u> with your upper grade kiddos, then what the heck are you waiting for?<br />
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<u>Knucklehead</u> gives the reader the opportunity to see what makes the genius behind <u>The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales</u> tick. PLUS...it's an awesome mentor text for student narrative writing! Seriously. Awesome. Scieszka's "Car Trip" is worth the cost of the book. <br />
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Who doesn't love a station wagon full of 6 boys and a cat, traveling cross-country? <br />
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There are so many great books that can serve as mentor texts for writing. What books are YOU using as writing mentor texts?<br />
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<br />Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-63702916147544827842017-03-15T06:51:00.001-05:002017-03-15T06:53:26.288-05:00The Reading Strategies Book: Goal 2 ENGAGEMENT!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Wednesday all! Today's topic is ENGAGEMENT...and it's an important one at that! Join Tina over at <a href="http://croftsclassroom.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Crofts' Classroom</a> for <a href="https://croftsclassroom.blogspot.com/2017/03/the-rsb-goal-2-teaching-reading.html?showComment=1489578156764#c6298976225806419817" target="_blank">today's post</a>. This is one of those posts that's just full of ideas...not only from Tina herself. Check out that Comment Section! Great ideas abound! <br />
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My favorite from Goal 2 is Buzz Books. How do you create a "buzz" in your classroom surrounding books with your kids? In my class, we have a "Buzz Books" bin that students can add to. We check it out from time to time!<br />
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Another strategy I'm using in my classroom helps to keep some of my wanderers in one place so that they can stay focused and build reading stamina. I call it "Reading Spots." When my students find a place to read, the put a "Reading Spot" on the floor and sit down/lay down to read. My "Reading Spots" are actually brightly colored round placemats from IKEA. (The best $6.00 I've spent in a long time!)<br />
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Tina's post not only shares her faves from Goal 2, but she also asks great questions to stimulate the conversation.<br />
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So what are you waiting for? Stop on by to join i the conversation!Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-14704782385736997152017-03-13T06:00:00.000-05:002017-03-13T06:00:25.839-05:00Yeah for Monday! Here's What I'm Reading...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm always on pins and needles on Monday...waiting to see what some of my favorite bloggers are reading, because, as we all know, we get our best recommendations from the really great teachers out in "Blogland!"</div>
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One of my absolute faves is the incomparable Carrie Gelson over at <a href="http://thereisabookforthat.com/" target="_blank">There's a Book for That</a>. Carrie's posts tell me that she's a kindred spirit...one of those teachers who are passionate about literacy and who totally enjoy matching the children they care about with amazing literature!<br />
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It was through her blog that I was turned on to these two gems that I plan on sharing with my students today:<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Herman-Rosie-Gus-Gordon/dp/1596438568/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489367467&sr=8-1&keywords=herman+and+rosie" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgauDBXm99edm141MP8doYLizxJNxuLe7Z9fqHz0zHkAmi8I52jinX-azTuf5IFJnUI0K4a1R8-CW9fO8qyERYYZ5ScmS5xhduuuPwvFJn42LK3GgMsWi0ClwImyQ6pJnSv1aqM6bCeuiI/s1600/Herman+and+Rosie.jpeg" /></a></div>
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Gus Gordon's little gem of a book captures city life and has such a great musical vibe...couple that with a sweet story of friendship and you've got a winner! (Added bonus: The cover looks like a jacket for a classic vinyl album!) <br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Pete-Pickles-Berkeley-Breathed/dp/0399250824/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489367695&sr=8-1&keywords=pete+and+pickles" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWsmL0MBv0XGxWNwYP9Y-0k4JqRuaL84z16Q7Ms55OLul7e23AJdeE3gkXfFAQHY3PIJdXW8O29j4FEIznE5qklI9WnlfKSgE9uB8gVHA2aWF-yWVhRC7VMUnshZNNYIAok9bHYIxLpeo/s1600/Pete+and+Pickles.jpeg" /></a></div>
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Oh man! Where has this book been for the last nine years...and how come I've never heard of it? <u>Pete and Pickles</u> has the most whimsical illustrations PLUS the story. Have I told you about this story? It's been a long time since I cried while reading a children's book...yet here I am, admitting that this book had me sobbing. <br />
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Berkeley Breathed has created a magnificent story of friendship that is so clearly captivating...so beautiful...sigh.<br />
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This is one of those books that should be in every teacher's collection.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ida-Always-Caron-Levis/dp/1481426400/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489367981&sr=8-1&keywords=ida%2C+always" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlsABJGiKnp0jovcT1Zy5mCExPuTUOtsD0gl2VH1A3ldWAQDIoI5TsZy4Aas_r-S01ojlH7seKfP2VIk-XKIMdnTAh15yhHtjbvBo2IHq4foQoto8avjZn0pzlUa9slzWLsYIF2r-sQX0/s1600/Ida%252C+Always.jpeg" /></a></div>
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While were on the subject of great books about friendship, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention Caron Levis's book, <u>Ida, Always</u>. Such a heartwarming book about a friendship and the love between friends that never dies. Yet another book that can leave me in tears during a read aloud...but so so so very wonderful!</div>
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Even better...right now, this sweet book is selling in hardcover on <a href="http://amazon.com/">Amazon.com</a> for $6.74. This is a book that is perfect for picking up RIGHT NOW! Do it. You won't be sorry. (Disclaimer: I'm an Amazon.com junkie...if there's a 12-Step program for buying books, please keep this to yourself. I don't want or need a cure. Amazon.com...I love you!)</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Marvelous-Thing-That-Came-Spring/dp/1481450654/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489368468&sr=8-1&keywords=the+marvelous+thing+that+came+from+a+spring+gilbert+ford" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6fg4AvCt35YCEeNDv4MZM94sP_QY6EvvVwIhPGx3f7w0LBOen6UTPVolHrM-xXwRPhTSk62eDLlumoTC8iIheUbjFp0RjlC6HbqABhwzVXAB456szUA-Q7swAMmLfprleSh-N1e6NAH0/s1600/The+Marvelous+Thing.jpeg" /></a></div>
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I'm always on the lookout for great nonfiction texts...and <u>The Marvelous Thing That Came From a Spring: The Accidental Invention of the Toy That Swept the Nation</u>, by Gilbert Ford is just such a great book...super-interesting with some of the coolest illustrations I've ever seen. Why oh why didn't we have such fun nonfiction text when I was a kid? </div>
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Life's too short to not share amazing books with your students. So...what are you reading to your students this week?</div>
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Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-65970092885440087902017-03-12T20:59:00.000-05:002017-03-12T20:59:32.571-05:00The Reading Strategies Book Study: Goal 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Goal 1 is all about working with those Emergent and Early Readers, and there are 20 really great strategies to investigate and explore with our youngest readers. Join Kit over at <a href="https://mcguireiscrazy.blogspot.com/2017/03/the-reading-strategies-book-goal-1.html" target="_blank">My Crazy Teaching Ideas</a> to see some of Kit's favorite strategies that can even be modified to work with our more advanced readers.</div>
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Kit definitely doesn't disappoint! </div>
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Stay tuned for Goal 2 links on Tuesday.</div>
Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-64575210092150773152017-03-12T20:53:00.000-05:002017-03-12T20:53:43.061-05:00The Reading Strategies Book Book Study Getting Started<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yeah! <u>The Reading Strategies Book</u> Study has begun! Join Tina over at <a href="http://croftsclassroom.blogspot.com/2017/03/the-reading-strategies-book-getting.html" target="_blank">Croft's Classroom</a> to jump right into the study. Don't forget to share these posts with others who are also diving into this important work...after all, sharing is caring!Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-52624637182090307362017-03-09T19:47:00.000-06:002017-03-10T06:36:17.956-06:00Book Study Announcement: The Reading Strategies Book!Wow! Has it really been over two years since I last posted here? Time flies when you change positions and buildings. <br />
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I've been lovin' on Jennifer Serravallo's AMAZING teacher resource since it was released: <u>The Reading Strategies Book</u>. If you haven't joined up with the fabulous group of educators from around the world on Facebook, what the heck are you waiting for? Click <a href="https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=the%20reading%20and%20writing%20strategies%20book%20community" target="_blank">here</a> to mosey on over and join in the fun!<br />
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The great thing about Jen is that she is a part of this community as well...and she really does listen to educators! In fact, she loves us all so much that she wrote a second, and equally AMAZING teacher resource: <u>The Writing Strategies Book</u>! It is yet another resource that is chock full o' writing strategies...over 300 easy-to-integrate strategies for on-the-spot mini-lessons, student conferring supports and much, much more!<br />
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The wonderful Tina Crofts has given teacher bloggers an opportunity to join in the fun by sharing components of <u>The Reading Strategies Book</u> in a Book Study every two days.<br />
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I'm looking forward to joining in the great learning AND...I can't wait to share my thoughts on GOAL 6 on March 22nd right here!<br />
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Tina starts the ball rolling tomorrow (March 10) at her blog. Click <a href="http://croftsclassroom.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">here</a> to begin the journey with all of us! <br />
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Man...it's been way to long! I can't wait to join all of you in this AWESOME learning opportunity!Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-51600182912181356452014-03-04T16:07:00.003-06:002014-03-04T16:07:59.573-06:00Must Read (Super Fantastic Bubble Plastic) Mentor Text!<div style="text-align: center;">
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If you are using the Lucy Calkins Writing Workshop model like me, you know that mentor texts are the absolute heart-and-soul of the program.</div>
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My Sweet Thirdies and I have been writin' our little hearts out on everything from small moments narratives to informational/expert texts.</div>
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And then...cue the ominous music...we ran headfirst into...opinion essays! </div>
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It's that bad. 'Nuff said.</div>
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The most frustrating part is that there just aren't that many really great mentor texts that are written in the "full-on, in your face" opinion essay style. </div>
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And then the heavens opened up and a beam of light burst forth from the clouds...bearing...</div>
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A real opinion essay in an engaging book form!</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Pig-Parade-Terrible-Idea/dp/1416979220/ref=la_B001JS03G8_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51j75g9uU3L._SL160_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-dp,TopRight,12,-18_SH30_OU01_AA160_.jpg" /></a></div>
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Oh my stars! <u>A Pig Parade is a Terrible Idea</u> is such a remarkable book in that is written in ACTUAL OPINION WRITING FORMAT! It's true! My kiddos could pick out everything from the thesis to the supporting details PLUS the author uses a generous sprinkling of great transitional words (which we have been having a heckuva time with!). A strong grabbing lead and a terrific wrap-up closure make this book just that much more appealing!</div>
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It's about time. That's all I'm sayin'.</div>
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The author of this remarkable specimen is none other than this guy...Michael Ian Black. (You might recognize him from shows like "Ed.") He's a pretty funny guy and this book is just great!</div>
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UIiacmWk8HcvJR+OllnL3aFHPjaoqPBZhqRzGeIBm/Nx0A4LEN5qprV6tWINSo98cszyQPdC9Lb2VGYfBVSAGsYwkAWFhYe8rzTjGnujiBdb8eGnPyZ/JAPlEJUljcPy81HOCuxiKrXuFh81ZvLN8gq1/DGJNldOzZgzucfstJCWkcl6WfZuMDsdiWGJLGuH8jiCPiFPMaOJ/wB1jmM2vVpYl9Sk9zHwRIi8mSDI0Tqlv5jRrUY63Gkz32Auss8LbssJdNeyQOoXKrhxWRVN/MaQAKrW9RTpyfGQU7pdouJFMtLabn/ZqZYI8Wjun4ean8dVqrPvruv/ABLHVGCK7GnT/rAaNP4uRWmdmXsyvOj97Mbf/U1LjmPha3kvRfZl7MrXGWHHl1zibkyV0tjXVFslaVQAyRJ4K4ZbA4Rz6jGjVzmgeZF1r+JxLabHPqODWjUnh4dVj7cQ5rmu+00hw6ZTIUhtfefEYhpY8tDCZytaBoZFzdRnhbSsWfYGPp1Nol9MkseW3IIMxBsVXN6qDm13tuQCbciDqAkt1sV6Ou09QfcVYu0WgRi3ObDZ70AQCHAEW96uRnJrJUsPiwbOtAiR+qWpUBna4EAD4pvXoh12jKTw4Hw5FJ4UwSDIsVTUV9S5PNIkpVlAkpZmEEX1S1aDNKUqhbopD+AaRyKa4jBObcXCWrANVqTcEqR3cxpo1WVGgEscHZSAQ4A3aQeBEjzULTfCc4WrBlMRu22dzabqbcZs+9N7c/opMQb24iOSoG1cDin97ICxvAOGUeXHzVz7IN7gAcJVux0upn7rtXM8DqPNXXam7VOvHoCwNc7vjkDxA566rOzTr4+Xr+zPOy7ZjXOqPqNAiJm86zl5XhXbagx1R4OCYAKZjM5zWh8cDz5Qnuy9gCh/EMpMa0PyupvyghjQ0NczmSILvNWWhgmMYGgmANZ8yTy4lXfGdym9sv7Sd6fS4anQLDTrOdNemb5BT0EjUOdcdAssr0/MlWDtB21SrYyq+iS5tmh338kjMOhPyVYfjQwSdVWM1GeVm+ieMo92OKhy1rNe8emgRsRtBzugTTKUW/pBarXLz0V13DOWnVd+A/qqORCvewD6PBVT94AJVjy3pTNoUiSX8ymrGE6J+52aS6zW/Pif3zSNV4AgCCfgOARY1k1DUN+cLpZE9P3dGDriOH7lEJ/fNSYpXqXsz9mV5bcLL1J2Z+zKQeXEq0ZRPHgEmx0I9Pif9z4KoBmi99dT0XMQyD4rnP8AeqK92nRMFtnvioCrrv8A4g5qLyLmmyfdr8FRsOYcFe97r0MNVIkFkGfw/wC6TLLrKKoMU131wQDxAn5JriwBGU5hwPEdDzRnPp/ZLmeFwm1TXWfAQnWo4rEGUozEmEnTqDjdOTRaU4C1PECB1T+kQbKGfhCBZKU8Q5pE/BMHGN2XIJZ7lFNMG/Dgp+lig6RMFIYzCh4ki/3m/qOKVgF2djnMIcxxDhcRwI0K0jE9oj8L6F9GoKvpqeZ7SIfRe1wBY4jUG58Fk0Gm6/vGhVp3WoUKtam3EmKTzlJbq0nR08pS0qZXxeMH20VAfpKDQPwHroZ4JlvX2ovxNE0aLTTa72jpu5v3WxoDxRt9qWzsFTFHD4enUrvaZdUl5oCYzEGweeA6SstxOI4N4cVQtL18ZF1H1KpdqlsPg3P8OZT5uzWt+sZPyU6tSig2Z/cpelhHHWwTpoAJhoSzanduU5iDGrQy87q5E5cEBzd8gqc5+ZzddeKuG14bhqYPGXe6Eqw5fZFSqiABw4A/a6nomj3pxiTeOPA8gmhRW4IRYfuEFwX8eSkOFepezP2ZXnDBbt4mr9Wk4Dm7uj4r0f2ZezKQeXAjs1vdL4rZtamYfSe3xaY94skqeFqOPdY8no0p7ApJM/HoiFPauyK7PrUagn8JPyTnZ27tesR3CxvFzwQPIalK5QItgMyBMXMDQcytD2hFbZTCNabiI/MP7hOcHsZlLDVaLLl7HS4i7jFp6dFEbCxGbZ9dvFuRyWOW2earM2PXcMzaNSPylPdn7qYqrozJ1ecvwuVp5fYdb+RAQa5Z/kq9sWc2CQdRY9CNUpSqwVLb34P0WLqQLP74/n1+MqFC3xv2Z/TxNpS0tMSLplR0KeNaLTrCsDtaATCPTBixRw0TMJWmmZvUGb6zZ+BTR00j3HWOodw6qZDYSOIoy64B7v8A9krAhi6pVJzOJ5kyc3UnU+aksNstrbkZvknuGphgyiY5TME66pZo1RICQpeQ6JOswBOSka6oISuSTyCcUqAiTclJVnQSiPxHdEJEOxoNRoHNWnecgiiz7rRKrGxGZqwVg3kf9KejQFP2xvfJFTxjpKmdj7o167Q/u02HQuNyDxDR/hN939lfxOIDfsN7z/yjh5my1SiIiLDhyA4BZcmer01VzB7jYZkF7n1fE5R7h/dTeDwNGj7OkxnUNE+/VOCEaJWNtoHaSVcezH2ZVP6K4dmPsyr4/s1EZVtZdvzKRa6LBKh4IuFiQAxzBSVTVHeuPNiI6ygwoi462VX3YDfRYugR3pdHUNJEfBWhn+VV9jtP/EK7Bxe4e+/6rXiZ5+LJs52ajSM/Yb8BCXayI6qP3eP0IH3Hub7jP6qWLo4WtbqovqvYpXaVQJ9BVj7zD42cP1VIlafvvQz4R8/Yc1/uMGPIlZjlXRx3o4Upu1UjSqfVUZnujfxBstNmmZulqI4qFo4syZT/AAmKsqlCQlJ1faAfgP8AUEZh0SdYH0p6M+ZTMu0QUpzRaTYhI1sTBgaoBV74CZYmvARHVSZSFSkSEiMKr5JSzKNh0XG0bp8+A1IHG62HzYgADl8LpXeSvL6hPOE43JeW1HvHAEobKwH8ViznE06XfeOZnutPiQot12xn/RZNy9j+gw+dwPpasOd+Fv2W/EnzU8AuGt+s+9cBXJbuth3sn3IokJSm9de0XugELyrr2Y+zKprzdXLsx9mVrxkztmqVCK1wSoKxAOCEIpR5TJxnHoq5tPZFcYkV8NPf+vAvSygZqh/DCsmeEpSq919IzlxFMskGCC14eWg/iaD/ANqrG6p+m2zME6iHMe4Pfnc5zhZpOkjpZPGi+luPmjnC+jp0QCTmpzJ/O4a+QRQYPX9FN9Bpt3DZsNWbzpu+AlZDSYCBz5fqtrx9Mmm4c2O+LSsOa6OK24r0Icfw/vSlJlxZChWkf5Tmk0TquiG5VwgJkJsKDgCpIG6TFzCYEpYhwhLVcWJe4jRrRHiT/ZcgW4nlzSVSrkfmFrC/AOBt+qQPPS5wC17QHXie8OhHBdGGGpKiMPV1ygXN/wB8ko6o88UShK91sJHEYlt7qO9A8x10XW4N3ekgZdbpggcRC67EkthHrUWt1cJjQJqKkTGhU2haN0cXSY1+d4aY4q37u4IUqM8ahzu6z9UeQ+aaUd2MIxuFD2ziKmHD30wczQX2a8iPrRJ9yshZaOJv/ZYZ36Z/HV2bhsXSscV2F2BCxaD2sQuZpMI1M8UD70gTebq49mPsyqe4q4dmPsytuMkxt/dduJdJKh/V7T5oILQw9XlPmh6vKfNBBAD1eU+aHq8p80EEAPV5T5oerynzQQQA9XlPmh6vafNBBAd9XrOaHq9ZzXEEB31es5oer2nzXEEAPV6zmh6vafNBBAD1e0+aHq9p80EEAPV7T5oer2nzQQQHfV6zmuer2nzQQQA9XlPmh6vKfNBBAD1eU+aHq8p80EEAPV5T5oerynzQQQA9XlPmrHsDYowzYC6ggP/Z" 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Anywho...Those Collaboration Cuties, Amanda and Stacia, have put out this great linky partay and I've decided to join in on the fun. Go ahead...you know you want to go over there and get a little crazy! Get ready to start pulling more books into your Amazon.com wish list! It could get expensive! </div>
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<a href="http://collaborationcuties.blogspot.com/2014/03/great-language-arts-mentor-text.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQrd66S1D5iky-w7FuOq1xscRS5V901D-NaunW-tqKGbRJoY6Znh0XfametOVO85Oo2KwfQyU5CZ3C8sLlKI1EYrTEl0_dGOJaZPUM2YhOOqZjByNYNT-iaG4kQpqffr7UfkgAyXrJhyphenhyphenA/s1600/Mentor+Text+Linky.jpg" height="234" width="320" /></a></div>
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Happy Reading!</div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Nikki</span></div>
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<a href="http://uncommontothecore.blogspot.com/">uncommontothecore.blogspot.com</a></div>
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Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-60278726184115309712014-01-05T20:24:00.001-06:002014-01-05T20:24:56.756-06:00Monday Made It...January 2014 Edition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/2014/01/monday-made-it-january-little-early.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFLr-UUI9v7xFwclB_SuQPPgEIfuvau-a4RY8OLm3AeMU223Bclyt8B8WEr8Xhl47nY9SxxqZ-3yh3ReCUw8kfm1m2aZtK8Zt_FVP8TEXF6imZ3288JRSC2I65JSO4G14A8FQHvUTWfuGe/s320/instamondaymadeit.png" /></a></div>
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Wow! I wasn't sure that I would be able to join in the fun at Tara's Monday Made It, but a cold Arctic blast has basically closed every school in the state of Wisconsin and Minnesota, so, I felt like I could splurge a bit and take a few moments to expand on my "Word Snow Globe" idea that I put together before the holidays hit like a ton of bricks!</div>
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In my <a href="http://uncommontothecore.blogspot.com/2013/12/last-post-of-2013snow-globes-word-work.html" target="_blank">last post</a>, I shared some super cute and really fun snow globes that I made for word work in my holiday spelling unit. I thought about trying these little honeys out with colored rice instead of water, and so this is what I came up with:</div>
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Have I told you how much I. LOVE. THESE. Honestly...why haven't I made these sooner?</div>
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I started with these great little 6-packs of storage containers from Dollar Tree.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKswVs6qcYk9ASAb2F22nMDevSbEL75ED0KKzqq0Uo52BZvK496_YCY1Zam2M2BJzTmjOSpNuNtnVch3O4RJB7Um5JqlLgc08G4lyc4mqf81PBX3LtrE_l0cxGJ5xn6AANGhTn1P57u8/s1600/IMG_0399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKswVs6qcYk9ASAb2F22nMDevSbEL75ED0KKzqq0Uo52BZvK496_YCY1Zam2M2BJzTmjOSpNuNtnVch3O4RJB7Um5JqlLgc08G4lyc4mqf81PBX3LtrE_l0cxGJ5xn6AANGhTn1P57u8/s1600/IMG_0399.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Dollar Tree also carries an 8-pack of these containers, but they are just a "skooosh" smaller than the 6-pack and I'm not convinced these would work quite as nice as their larger cousins. The number on the back of these is 3927777607. One thing that I'm not in love with about Dollar Tree is that not every locale carries the same product, so I thought I'd include the SKU number for you...just in case.<br />
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I substituted out the water for colored rice and added a couple little pony beads to help move things around a bit in the little containers. (If you are ever wondering "why the pony beads?", put some of these together and see how much better stuff moves around with some heavier junk in the container!)<br />
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Each container includes one of this week's spelling words, spelled out in individual letter beads. Your students search for all of the letters in the container, write them on my <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BxagqJlbQJiQc2ZMa0lNYnRRbW8/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Snow Globe Sheet</a>, and then unscramble their letters to arrive at one of this week's spelling words. It's really pretty simple.<br />
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A simple number sticker or a reference number written in Sharpie marker makes for quick identification and corrections by the teacher or as a self-correct by your kiddos. (I always love it when I can reach into my scrapbook stash and use up some of those number stickers that I NEVER use!)<br />
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My thirdies love this activity, but they did find it a bit challenging, so this is a really great Word Work station of intermediate grades (3-5). I can't wait to try these out this week!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbPdWQ-1-HQcC5bsTEDhL5vmAPU_egdKOiwZ3UjMmxmlTYJhcsEfuFLM-h9TnwK4zwy8_sDi54WbUScicraTWvSqUm0ELzEVVAeK1hmDvdr34Wglc5RoOUSWmuRaTjNKPorzBzeBH3vI/s1600/IMG_0401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbPdWQ-1-HQcC5bsTEDhL5vmAPU_egdKOiwZ3UjMmxmlTYJhcsEfuFLM-h9TnwK4zwy8_sDi54WbUScicraTWvSqUm0ELzEVVAeK1hmDvdr34Wglc5RoOUSWmuRaTjNKPorzBzeBH3vI/s1600/IMG_0401.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Remember, "sharing is caring," so why not make a second set for your partner-in-crime? If you aren't feeling that lovey dovey, at least share my post with a colleague, a new teacher, or your grade level buddies...I'd love to have you stop by my blog sometime!</div>
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Stay warm!</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Nikki</span></div>
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<a href="http://uncommontothecore.blogspot.com/">uncommontothecore.blogspot.com</a></div>
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<br />Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-74366456544674421022013-12-31T10:50:00.001-06:002013-12-31T11:09:00.491-06:00Last Post of 2013...Snow Globes Word Work!I ran into my friend Kelly over the holidays and she told me that she wished like crazy that I would post again since it has really been ages since I've posted anything of substance on this blog.<br />
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She's right, of course.<br />
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The start of the school year really kicked my behind...new grade level, new partner, lots of changes at my school and in the district...I'm still not sure about my bearings, but I was able to pull myself together at least enough to fool the masses into believing that my head was screwed on straight.<br />
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So here's to 2013...and here's to Word Work and what you can do with your Word Work in 2014!<br />
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Enter...Snow Globes Word Work Stations!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBV94sxEVuYnRGP_MKPF1b_7hNcWT8AJG8UStK2GILF6J38MoZpBIFoQlhAeODZZgsTyzha9XjhEVTa7YTfPmeNheKurpSEd7ZOq42gdmNYcBXEaILrLWSxLFV-gWX3QzN_4hztlC4YQ/s1600/Shayna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBV94sxEVuYnRGP_MKPF1b_7hNcWT8AJG8UStK2GILF6J38MoZpBIFoQlhAeODZZgsTyzha9XjhEVTa7YTfPmeNheKurpSEd7ZOq42gdmNYcBXEaILrLWSxLFV-gWX3QzN_4hztlC4YQ/s320/Shayna.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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These were super fun to make and share with my kiddos...and they turned out to be much tougher to work with than I thought. (For the students that is. For me, not so much!)<br />
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Finally, a Word Work station that can challenge your intermediates! (Seriously, my kids had a great time with this, but they did find it challenging and it does require a medium-level attention span, so this would be a great station for your 3rd-5th graders.)<br />
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Dollar Tree had some of these great "craft organizers" hanging at the end of the craft aisle. The larger containers have 6 in a package and the smaller ones have 8. I purchased a gob of the 6-packs because I figured I might do something with these. (After filling these up, I think that the smaller containers might not work well if you go the snow globe route...if you don't fill these with water, who knows?)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbSrDnAVU1ubXsqJZ5cHc4Tn5XfyFdee51tDNYcTF-86q4XRYZohi_KBQEQLJ_-xD9PEV9Npuevbg1Itb2jlYTCAavTO99_QAOgmrchuX9I3FtegCfe-s1ITvvfnnml9PioYbfziwkPY4/s1600/IMG_2021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbSrDnAVU1ubXsqJZ5cHc4Tn5XfyFdee51tDNYcTF-86q4XRYZohi_KBQEQLJ_-xD9PEV9Npuevbg1Itb2jlYTCAavTO99_QAOgmrchuX9I3FtegCfe-s1ITvvfnnml9PioYbfziwkPY4/s320/IMG_2021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Anywho...I filled the containers with small letter beads that spelled out each word (i.e. r-e-i-n-d-e-e-r) and added some Dollar Tree Glitter and some holiday confetti that I picked up at Michaels. Then I added water. I numbered the top of the container so that I knew which word I had put in the Snow Globe so that I could create an answer key for the activity.<br />
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Storing the Snow Globes is really easy. I picked up a small container (also at Dollar Tree) and was able to fit 12 Snow Globes in quite nicely. (A little over $3.00 per kit. Not a bad investment!)<br />
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I can totally see "pimping" these babies out to match your theme...winter...summer...spring...fall...holidays...ANY days! There's always great metallic confetti, tons of different colors of glitter...lots of flotsam and jetsam...<br />
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I can also see possibilities for doing these with colored rice instead of water. You'll just have to play with how much space you'll need in order to move the beads around in such tiny containers.<br />
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Baby food jars would also work, but I'm always a bit nervous when glass is handled by my kiddos. <a href="http://www.stevespanglerscience.com/" target="_blank">Steve Spangler</a> has these great little plastic test tubes (Baby Soda Bottles) that are a bit more spendy, but would also work well. You can check these out on Steve's site by clicking <a href="http://www.stevespanglerscience.com/baby-soda-bottles-giant-test-tubes.html" target="_blank">here</a>. (Note: I have a major "teacher crush" on Steve, so for me to even share him is, well, a little tough! Be good to him...buy his stuff!)<br />
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I'm also including the Snow Globe Word Work sheet <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BxagqJlbQJiQc2ZMa0lNYnRRbW8/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">here</a>. Run copies for your kiddos and make sure to have them available at the station. The kids can write the letters they find in the small snow globes on the page and then unscramble them to find the correct words. (I use spelling words for this station. You could use vocabulary from something you are reading, science words, math words, etc.)<br />
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I made two sets of the Snow Globes, one for me and one for my new partner, the Marvelous Megan. Remember, sharing is caring, so why not make a set for you and one to share with your teaching partner, a new teacher, or someone who just needs a lift? If you aren't feeling that lovey dovey, than why not send a link to this entry on to a colleague or friend and inspire them? (I'd totally love you forever if you did that!)<br />
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Have fun playing in the "snow" with your kiddos and let me know how you plan to use these! I love hearing from you!<br />
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Happy New Year to Kelly in Sheboygan and to all!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">Nikki</span>Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-85014369277198065402013-12-29T17:18:00.001-06:002013-12-29T17:21:14.864-06:00Favorite Winter Mentor Text Link Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.collaborationcuties.blogspot.com/2013/12/comparing-goldilocks-and-three-bears.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlFKSUdCtTxL1eEB4uNaYOwJq_lmW-8NkuLf9lOh8QURE9WSUQHPXiPdZTmgn7Vso6TE0igOfLI_2pUEwOdRaI0gWHrYuojqIs8b_JLlUmJLzz1j1cAk7u9TXsjxNpGKgqfzIOZWaE8uc/s320/Mentor+Text+Linky+Button+2.png" /></a></div>
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Oh...those Collaboration Cuties Amanda and Stacia don't disappoint, even over the holidays! They are having a linky partay where everyone shares their favorite "winter book."<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tracks-Snow-Wong-Herbert-Yee/dp/0312371349/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1388358825&sr=8-1&keywords=tracks+in+the+snow" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51WxuDJ3DsL._SX258_PJlook-inside-v2,TopRight,1,0_SH20_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" /></a></div>
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From the onset of my Readers Workshop, I share a book entitled <u>Tracks in the Snow</u>, by Wong Herbert Yee. While this book isn't phenomenally engaging for my thirdies, it does serve as the foundation for my students to leave their own "tracks in the snow" while reading. <br />
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I teach my students how to question the text, make notes on unfamiliar words, and take general notes using sticky notes and placing these notes inside the text. These "tracks" allow students to return back to important places in their reading and get the answers they need to make sense of the text.<br />
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We also use the "tracks in the snow" strategy with our Anchor Texts. Each child receives a book that they can mark up by leaving their own tracks directly inside the text. The "snow" is actually the white spaces on the pages. We are currently reading <u>Frindle</u> by Andrew Clements and the kids are lovin' how many tracks they've made so far!<br />
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Why not check this book out and make your own "tracks?"<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">Nikki</span><br />
<a href="http://uncommontothecore.blogspot.com/">uncommontothecore.blogspot.com</a>Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-63978042535994927092013-12-29T11:16:00.001-06:002013-12-29T12:48:52.065-06:00Gifts of Literature<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Right before the holidays, my students and I had so much to celebrate...Christmas (of course!), the completion of our Writers Workshop Unit of Study (Informational Texts) and having four of my little honeys exiting their Tier Two intervention for reading.<br />
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Now, the exiting part might not seem really big to you, but to a kiddo who has always been considered "low" in terms of reading, this is a pretty ginormous thing!</div>
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So...when we return from the holidays, where do we go from here in terms of these readers who are finally considered "at level?"</div>
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We are continuing our journey together in the Readers Workshop, utilizing Anchor Texts, Mentor Texts, Mini Lessons, Into the Book Strategies and Independent Reading as the foundation of our reading program. We are diligently adding to our BLBs (Book Lovers Books). </div>
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It's time for the teacher to "up the ante" by pushing her readers towards more rigorous book choices for independent reading time. No more gentle nudges and courteous nods for this girl...my strongest readers and my newly fluent "on level" kiddos deserve better.</div>
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It's time for...GIFTS OF LITERATURE!</div>
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I've been using this strategy in my classroom for quite some time actually. </div>
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Call me what you will...Book Queen, Hoarder of All Things Bookish, Collector, Bibliophile...I LOVE BOOKS! I have tons of them...much to the disappointment of my hubby and my librarian sister-in-law!</div>
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There's a part of me that enjoys sharing them immensely...and a part of me that gets pretty stinkin' ornery when they don't come back.</div>
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I have a smallish collection of my own personal books that never make it to my classroom library, but they are so good that I can't NOT share them. So I've created a small book basket of personal loaners that are "by invite only." These are the books that I "gift" my students with.</div>
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How do I do this? </div>
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I start by writing out a short letter to the reader and then leaving the book on his/her table in the morning. When they come into the room, they find the gift book and the note ( no pressure, just a vote of confidence that I have matched a good reader to a great book that will certainly challenge them and help them to grow!) </div>
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If the student chooses to accept this gift, they keep it to put in their book baskets and read it during Independent Reading Time. Since these are books I have personally read and enjoyed, the conversations we have in regards to these books are pretty great! I'm better able to guide these readers through the challenges that each text presents to the individual and hopefully expose these readers to a higher level of quality in terms of text and book choices. </div>
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Imagine the power this strategy has in terms of guiding your readers! Think of the kids in your class who are strong and solid readers, but continuously go to the same "stuff." In my room, kids have a difficult time moving away from Captain Underpants, Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Goosebumps. And while these three series are great for bringing reluctant readers to the Readers Table, they aren't enough to sustain a reader for long periods of time and move them forward in their reading.</div>
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One of my readers, Brody, is so stuck in Junie B. Jones books. Again, great series and well written books, but not enough to feed the mind of a kiddo with a 600+ Lexile level. Brody is definitely a candidate for my "gift" basket. I have a book with his name on it too! (Brody is going to get a big push from me...period!)</div>
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What about the student who brings the book back to me and says, "Not interested."? That's ok. I'll keep offering different choices. Eventually, I'll come up with a winner. (I'm an optimist!)</div>
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Another terrific byproduct of this strategy...once other kids see these books, they ask if they can be the next person on my list to get the book. It's really pretty cool! (Note: For the students on the waiting list, the next time we go into the school library, I find the book and share it with them.)</div>
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I've just read three AMAZING books over the holidays that definitely fit the criteria of "gift" books. They are as follows:</div>
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1. <u>Fortunately the Milk</u>, by Neil Gaiman. This quick read is one that your fantasy readers and "tellers of tall tales" will certainly embrace. Enough pictures to provide a nice segue between the world of picture books and the intense world of chapter books, the text is rigorous and imaginative and would be a great fit for those creative readers and writers in your classroom. (I have Olivia in mind...how about you?)</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fortunately-Milk-Neil-Gaiman/dp/0062224077/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1388337334&sr=8-1&keywords=fortunately+the+milk" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51yrqYzVazL._SY344_PJlook-inside-v2,TopRight,1,0_SH20_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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2. <u>The Year of Billy Miller</u>, by Kevin Henkes. This is a sweet little read that is split among the four individuals that are most important to Billy (Teacher, Mom, Dad and Little Sis). Billy is a second grader with a ton of heart who is worried that he won't be successful in second grade. This isn't a complicated text, but it is a bit beyond the world of leveled readers and it has a ton of HEART! I think boys and girls would enjoy this read as it isn't overly "boyish." (I'm thinking of Matthew who just exited from Tier 2.)</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Year-Billy-Miller-Kevin-Henkes/dp/0062268120/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1388337273&sr=8-1&keywords=the+year+of+billy+miller" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51uYO5GnXDL._SY344_PJlook-inside-v2,TopRight,1,0_SH20_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="215" /></a></div>
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3. <u>Flora and Ulysses</u>, by Kate DiCamillo. Ok...say what you will, but in my opinion, this is DiCamillo's BEST BY FAR! She definitely has the "people and animal formula" down to a science, but each time, it's just a bit different...unpredictable...This book is a spectacular read! Your animal book lovers will think it is terrific. and it has great dialogue between the characters with a little mix of comic book format. I love, love, love it! (Note that this would be a terrific classroom read aloud and it is certainly going to make its' way into my Mentor Texts in reading AND writing! Yup...it's that good!) I'm thinking of my friend Mallory and what a good match this book will be for her.</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Flora-Ulysses-The-Illuminated-Adventures/dp/076366040X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1388337231&sr=8-1&keywords=flora+and+ulysses" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Mlf84prUL._SY344_PJlook-inside-v2,TopRight,1,0_SH20_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="237" /></a></div>
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Using the "Gifts of Literature" strategy, I'm able to point kids out to books that have the potential to be award winners and that they will certainly be exposed to along the way.</div>
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Other books that are in my "gift" basket are:</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Only-Ivan-Katherine-Applegate/dp/0061992259/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1388337186&sr=8-1&keywords=the+one+and+only+ivan" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51LL67oVNOL._SY344_PJlook-inside-v2,TopRight,1,0_SH20_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Underneath-Kathi-Appelt/dp/1416950591/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1388337131&sr=8-1&keywords=the+underneath" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/515M8s3mmqL._SX258_PJlook-inside-v2,TopRight,1,0_SH20_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Miss-Peregrines-Home-Peculiar-Children/dp/1594746036/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1388337088&sr=8-1&keywords=miss+peregrine%27s+home+for+peculiar+children" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51xgGEKd6oL._SY344_PJlook-inside-v2,TopRight,1,0_SH20_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="203" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dead-End-Norvelt-Jack-Gantos/dp/1250010233/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1388337046&sr=8-1&keywords=dead+end+in+norvelt" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Mk5u+fx+L._SY344_PJlook-inside-v2,TopRight,1,0_SH20_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="218" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wonder-R-J-Palacio/dp/0375869026/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1388336982&sr=8-1&keywords=wonder" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41pYDvMI1ZL._SY344_PJlook-inside-v2,TopRight,1,0_SH20_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="222" /></a></div>
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I highly recommend each and every book on this list, although not every one of these is appropriate for every reader. The books in my "gift" basket are thoroughly read by me so that I truly know what the readability is and what the reader needs to have "emotionally" in order to tackle the content.</div>
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Here's your challenge: What books would you put in your "gift" basket? Which students would be your first lucky recipients? I challenge you to go through your personal stash of books and find those books that should be matched up with readers. Maybe you've changed grades, like me, and found that the books you used to read aloud aren't a great fit for your current grade level, but maybe there is a student who could use a push and the confidence instilled by having a teacher recommend a great book for them...</div>
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Oh, the possibilities!</div>
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Have fun learning and laughing with your kiddos!</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">Nikki</span></div>
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Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-16753120536394028212013-11-02T11:46:00.000-05:002013-11-02T11:46:03.142-05:00Code Squad<br />
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I'm always on the lookout for great apps...and great apps that allow four kiddos to play and learn at the same time...KILLER!</div>
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I've been a huge fan of Operation Math. With a secret agent code-cracking format, Operation Math is an awesome and engaging place to practice math facts for students at the elementary level.</div>
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Just when it couldn't get any better, the same folks at Spinlight come out with a new app, Code Squad!</div>
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The format is a bit different. We're still practicing our facts, but with four agents seated around a single iPad, more kids are touched and the practice becomes a bit more competitive...in an interesting way!</div>
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Each agent is allowed up to 5 errors in computation. A fact is flashed in the center and each agent gets the opportunity to answer it. All four agents are really working together to keep facts flying and crack the code, but agents are "cut off" of play when they reach those 5 errors. If at least one agent can keep rolling with the facts, play continues and a round can still be won.</div>
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With 20 secret agents and only 5 iPads in my classroom, you'd be amazed at the level of engagement and excitement in my classroom! </div>
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Differentiation, engagement, and hands-on play for everyone...even with a minimal amount of iPads! </div>
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If you are a teacher with 1-to-1 mentality but a 1-to-5 reality, Code Squad is the game for you!</div>
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I'm so hoping more developers/designers jump on board with a similar format!</div>
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Check out Spinlight <a href="http://www.spinlight.com/apps/operationmath.html" target="_blank">here</a>. This app is also available for purchase on Nook and Android devices, so it opens up a whole great world of high-quality learning beyond the iPad! Spinlight's site has great info and is also a place to purchase these apps. You can also purchase the apps at the App Store!</div>
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It's the best $2.99 I've ever forked over for an app.</div>
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Give it a try...and share your feedback! I'd love to hear what you think!</div>
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Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-4250405276838425232013-08-30T20:07:00.002-05:002013-08-30T20:07:35.802-05:00Got Levels? Try Level It!<br />
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Got levels? For those of us who level books in our classrooms to best meet the needs of our readers at their independent and instructional levels, we tend to rely on a few sources to help us level the trade books found in our classrooms and school libraries. As a fourth grade teacher, I was constantly running to <a href="http://www.lexile.com/">www.lexile.com</a> in order to find Lexile levels for the chapter books that I was using in my book clubs and guided reading groups.</div>
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Lucky for me (and for those of you who level), the Level It app has made a solid and very useful appearance! This app was designed for the iPhone and iPod touch devices, but it also works pretty well on my iPad. </div>
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Not only am I able to find Lexile levels for a book, but a simple scan of the barcode also allows me to get Guided Reading levels (GR), DRA, and Grade Level Equivalency (GLE) levels.</div>
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I can also maintain my classroom library collection digitally and also check books out to students. </div>
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There is a teacher feature that also allows me to recommend books to my students and their parents. Again...very cool!</div>
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The app retails at the App Store for $3.99. More information can be found at <a href="http://levelitbooks.com/">http://levelitbooks.com</a></div>
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So what are you waiting for? Try Level It for yourself today! </div>
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Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-71471627768146898122013-08-11T22:07:00.001-05:002013-08-11T22:08:33.612-05:00Must Read Math Mentor Text Linky Partay!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.collaborationcuties.blogspot.com/2013/08/sir-cumference-and-great-knight-of.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB6HLvoHPWcdY7mRvLxpdEDOHpqU64PxvLHJaKb5q2nrM0-ysZjg3mlfz4623355ixltqgsshL6Y5w9bfHAMviI9SzLzyIj5AtPsOWAj4AiiQ08F-DMdmkEwjqjoinXn3xCaTzrQrLshyphenhyphenX/s320/Mentor+Text+Linky+Button+2.png" width="308" /></a></div>
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Oh yeah...I love this linky party. It usually results in me amblin' on over to Amazon to get me a book or ten, but...no apologies...I. LOVE. BOOKS. Period.<br />
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Amanda and Stacia over at Collaboration Cuties have been giving us all a great spot to check out new books and I am fresh off of a Lucy Calkins Reading and Writing Project week in NYC, so I am inspired. On fire even.<br />
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The question is...which book do I share out? There are just so danged many! <br />
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After much thought and deliberation, I decided on this beaut:<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/A-Million-Dots-Andrew-Clements/dp/0689858248/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1376253903&sr=8-1&keywords=a+million+dots+by+andrew+clements" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51CC5E0T5BL._SX260_.jpg" /></a></div>
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Being able to truly conceptualize large numbers is very difficult for young learners. Heck...it's also pretty tough for much more sophisticated learners!</div>
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Andrew Clements (<u>Frindle</u>, <u>The Janitor's Boy</u>, and many many other fine texts) and Mike Reed team up to create a book that addresses numeracy is such a concrete way.</div>
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<b>It's a long way to a </b></div>
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<b>million, right?</b></div>
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<b>Of course it is.</b></div>
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<b>But do you really know</b></div>
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<b>what a million looks like?</b></div>
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This book truly shows a million dots with a ton of other really great facts that are provocative enough to get even your most skeptical critics thinking and learning!</div>
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One word...MILLION!</div>
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Check it out!</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Nikki</span></div>
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uncommontothecore.blogspot.com</div>
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<br />Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-51527940578354560952013-08-05T00:00:00.000-05:002013-08-05T00:00:00.782-05:00Monday Made It...Live from NYC!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSa8NQJyEaeHfIbx1dDWwNi7tB22phvt9QD61Ok37l1_K16B_bHh2IwP5TpUs42VgYKNcgcT-gwOZ3yRwFG9H4kX7h3s4LHXugEZpHTIV3TKD3764oiFyz9wHAlil22rzsxRlxMkH4wO6m/s320/3am_tara_madeitmonday_2013.png" /></a></div>
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Woo hoo! It's Monday Made It time and I'm in NYC! Holy cow! Can't believe it! Really. I. Can't. Believe. It.<br />
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I have the fabulous opportunity to learn from the best of the best...Lucy Calkins...at Teachers College. The August Writer's Institute looks like it is going to be the bomb-diggity! I'm looking forward to so much new learning...my head is swimming already!<br />
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(In honor of the wonderliscious time that I am sure to have in NYC , I plan on putting out a boatload of ideas that I have for mentor texts. Do check back throughout August to see what I've posted, won't you?)<br />
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Anywho...thought I'd pull all of the stuff I've been working on together so that I don't experience the backup of projects. I tend to feel that my posts have been a tad overwhelming being that I just shifted gears and am starting to panic about everything...new grade level, new teaching partner, new room, new Writers Workshop Units of Study...everything is just so danged bright, shiny, and new...I'm totally blinded by it all!<br />
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So...here's what I've been working on the last few days. <br />
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The Customary Catsups and Metric Mustards for my Footlong Measurement Center/Station. I put these together and a while back. Click <a href="http://uncommontothecore.blogspot.com/2013/07/monday-made-itjust-ketchin-up.html" target="_blank">here</a> to see the original post. I've been asked by quite a few folks where I got this idea from. I can tell you...it's my idea. I've never seen these before...they were just something that came out of my warped mind.<br />
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I put together a few extra to give to my new teaching partner and my "favoritest" teaching buddy, The Wonderful Linda!<br />
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A new "Random Facts of Weirdness" for 2013-2014. My enthusiastic 12-year-old put this baby together for me. He did, however, spell Weirdness incorrectly. I took the picture and am posting it, but do rest assured that this is now spelled correctly. You can find out more about how I use this by checking out my link to last year's volume <a href="http://uncommontothecore.blogspot.com/2012/07/monday-made-it-6.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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I finished up my "Pop Your Top" station with QR codes for Perimeter and Area practice. The original link to the FREE coaster templates can be found <a href="http://uncommontothecore.blogspot.com/2013/05/made-it-monday-may-edition.html" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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Here's something new...and either a real low point or a definite high point in my creative life, depending on how you look at things...<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;">SENTENCE KABOBS!</span></div>
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I know...great idea, but your kids are sure to poke their eyes out! (I'm envisioning Christmas Story dialogue here!)</div>
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Well, I am picturing that this will need a great deal of instruction on the front-end as to expectations at a station such as this. (Note that I am also taking the bamboo skewers and cutting the sharp ends off.) However, you're the teacher. It's your call. You don't need the skewer to make great learning and potential danger happen in your classroom. This could be done with unsharpened pencils, shoelaces or anything else really. The sky's the limit!</div>
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It really just started with a few empty Pringles cans and these great foam blocks that have been in my stash for a couple of years. The blocks came from Michaels and were only a couple of bucks. I covered the cans with some scrapbook paper and these funky labels. You can access them here: </div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uHj3ECfR1XcN1quPpwrbzoroZCDxaxxUp7WZg601gmY/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">RED</a> <a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0BxagqJlbQJiQZHhSMkFUUjJGYnM/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">BLUE</a> <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OGJqTJ2cas-WIZYLQkoywPyR5JNq6yQrE1tKvqqPkG8/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">GREEN</a></div>
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Then I put two bamboo skewers in each can.</div>
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Using one of the skewers, I "drilled" holes into each block and used a Sharpie marker to write words on each block. The red blocks have assorted nouns on them, the yellow blocks have assorted verbs on them and the blue blocks have a combination of adjectives and adverbs on them. My suggestion is to build your own word list using the words you want your students to access and be accountable for. (I'm low budget here. I want to be able to help put an idea in your head by sharing some of my creative process, but I want you to build in what your students need. I'm funny that way...I don't want to sell you anything...I just want to give away a little inspiration!)</div>
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By throwing a handful of these blocks into the can, my students now have a portable sentence creation station. I want them to grab a yellow, blue, and red block and then skewer them onto the kabobs in an order that makes sense. From there, I'd ask students what other words are necessary in order to have their "Sentence Kabob" make sense. This would be a great opportunity to talk about pronouns, conjunctions, or any other part of speech that is appropriate to your situation. </div>
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I see lots of possibilities here. How about you?</div>
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I'd have the students write these down in their word play notebooks or on a whiteboard...your call. You know what works best for you!</div>
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As always, remember that "Sharing is Caring" and that your willingness to make and give a set of these to a treasured colleague, wonderful teaching partner or "brand-new-fresh-out-of-the-box" teacher is always appreciated!</div>
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I'd love to hear what you do with any of these ideas! </div>
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Have a terrific week!</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Nikki</span></div>
Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-68279103208892792682013-07-30T00:00:00.000-05:002013-07-30T00:00:02.600-05:00Have You Grokked Lately?<br />
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What a weird question, right? If you've used instaGrok, then you know the answer to this and you can Grok with the best of them.</div>
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If this sounds as foreign to you as Klingon, then you have to join us in the world of <a href="http://www.instagrok.com/" target="_blank">instaGrok</a>.</div>
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This web delivered app is an AMAZING way to help your students get a clearer view of what their research could/should look like.</div>
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CCSS plainly states that we are no longer teaching our students to write long, drawn out research papers. The focus has now changed to "research on the fly." instaGrok supports such standards and provides students with graphic and well-organized ways to pull research together.</div>
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instaGrok has "regular" and "classroom" settings available. Might I suggest that you try these out to see what works best for you? </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">All your students need to do is type in their "big idea." I chose "cheese." Then I hit return and instaGrok did all of the "grokking" for me. My big idea now became the center of a brilliant graphic organizer that I can work with in...editing as needed. There is also a nifty little "slider" that allows me to choose the level of difficulty/sophistication that I wish to conduct my research. The great thing about this slider is that, if one of my students is struggling with way too many choices, a single slide allows the teacher AND student to customize the research. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;">instaGrok helps provide plenty of ideas for narrowing research down...cheese has subheading of rennet, cheesemaking, curds, gouda and many others. For less experienced researchers, this feature makes instaGrok especially appealing!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">The Grok also brings up photos, videos and other web-based resources and puts them in an easy-to-use format along the left-hand side of the page. The student can save his/her Grok and can send the teacher or a parent or classmate a link so as to share what they come up with.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I started using this with 4th and 5th grade students last year and my students loved the ease of use and the format. Organization of research was never easier! And, as a classroom teacher, conferring with my researchers was a breeze! Really!</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I'm moving my way to 3rd grade in a couple of weeks and I still believe that instaGrok is the way to go. I can't wait to try it out with my new Minions!</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Give instaGrok a try this fall! You won't be sorry!</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Nikki</span></span></div>
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<br />Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-43682459599976549852013-07-29T07:45:00.002-05:002013-07-29T07:51:27.681-05:00Monday Made It...Whew!Happy last Monday in July y'all! I just spent the last week in New Orleans, Nashville and Memphis and I noticed a ton of signs that advertised school starting on August 1st. HOLY COW! I would definitely not be ready for that! (For all of my southern friends who are starting school on Thursday, my hat's off to you!)<br />
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While I'm at it, here's a picture of my son down in the French Quarter. He's painting a door that is being sent to Nelson Mandela:<br />
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It's time to link up with Tara over at 4th Grade Frolics for her...<br />
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Yeah...I've been a slacker...but I'm up and running again and wanted to get something done. I got home from the most AMAZING vacay with my hubs and son on Friday night and then kicked things into high gear just so that I could post today. (It wasn't too tough being that I could do things in between the MOUNTAINS of laundry!)<br />
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Here's what's been happening in my Monday...<br />
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<b>Pop Star Reward Bingo</b><br />
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Note...this has been floating around out there for a bit on other blogs and on Pinterest and I've seen a few people try this out. I'm not sure who to credit for this amazing idea...so whoever you are...thanks! By the way...I subscribe to the idea that a good teacher is a great thief!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GuGjc4zj1Zg/UfZanrE93TI/AAAAAAAAExA/m68iC9gC_MU/w306-h408-no/Monday+MADE+IT+-+3" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GuGjc4zj1Zg/UfZanrE93TI/AAAAAAAAExA/m68iC9gC_MU/w306-h408-no/Monday+MADE+IT+-+3" width="240" /></a></div>
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I fell in love with this idea the first time I saw it, so I had to try it! I've seen it in neon with a black background and with lots of jazzy graphics, but that doesn't fit my "Road Trip" theme this year, so I went with black, white, and blue with some colorful pop bottle caps. I want to do something else with it to add the "pop," but nothing's jumping out at me just yet, so here is my version. (You can't see this in the corner, but I also built in my own dice for this!)<br />
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Shout out to my son, Noah: He totally wanted to help out here and used some scrapbook rub ons to number these PLUS he wielded the hot glue gun to put the magnets on the back of the bottle caps. Thanks buddy!<br />
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As for rewards...there are some really cute ideas out there and some sweet rewards cards that so many lovely folks have put together and I love love love them. However, I'm the kind of gal that likes to ask my peeps what they'd like to earn...so I'll put my reward system together after the start of the school year.<br />
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<b>Writers Notebook</b><br />
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And yes...it's time once again to put together a brand new Writers Notebook. I like to have this ready to go for "Meet Your Teacher Night." That way, my students can see what they could do to "trick out" their Writers Notebook. (This also gives parents a great visual so that they can help their honeys put this together!) </div>
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I hand the basic composition notebook out when they walk into our classroom and ask the students to personalize their notebook and bring it back to school with them on the first day. I can't wait to see what my kiddos bring back with them!</div>
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<b>An "Eggcellent" Word Sort</b></div>
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Ok...this is another great idea from another terrific teacher out there. I know I saw this out there in Blogland but alas...I have no specific person to name. I've seen this printed out, but I did this one by hand and am not planning on marketing this with cute graphics. This is just me and I'm just sayin.'<br />
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What you can see in the picture: EGGS! 4 dozen mini eggs to be "eggsact!" Each egg has two slips of paper in it. These are word pairs. For instance, one egg has black and white in it. The student reads these two words and decides whether it goes into the "Synonym" basket, the "Antonym" basket or the "Homophone" basket. (Note: In the photo it's hard to see, but there are 4 baskets. The first basket is filled with eggs. The second basket has a "Homophone" mini file folder in it. The third has a "Synonym" mini file folder and the fourth has an "Antonym" file folder in it.)<br />
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The students at this center then decide which basket the egg belongs in. At the end of the activity, they can check their work against the answer key in the file folder. (Oh how I love a self-checking learning center!)<br />
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I'm leaving this wide open since I can see possibilities for math (primes/composites, factors of even numbers/factors of odd numbers)...<br />
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Instead of creating a list of words, I chose words that my third graders might encounter in their reading. I'd highly recommend personalizing your choices as well.<br />
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BTW...all eggs and baskets came from my favorite place: the Dollar Tree! I had a few mini file folders laying around, so I added those to the mix.<br />
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<b>Word Boxes</b><br />
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I've been working on these a bit and BIG PUFFY HEART LOVE how they turned out! It's a different take on "Making Big Words" which I adore. I just don't like the time it takes to cut out all of those squares...even if the kids are doing it. <br />
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Anywho...I made 5 boxes in each color so that the entire class can use these in small groups. If you've never used Making Words or Making Big Words before, it's really quite simple...letters are placed on individual cards so that students can manipulate words and explore "words within words" on their own or in small groups. There is really one giant word in each box, and the students try to figure out as many small words as they can while working to determine the big word. My kiddos have journals for this and they love it!<br />
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I also put together the first 13 weeks worth of these boxes...I can't wait to use them.<br />
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The boxes came from a favorite place of mine: The Container Store. Each box meaures 2 x 2 x 3/4" and costs 69 cents. I bought mine online, but if you are lucky enough to have a Container Store close by, they can be found in the gift wrap aisle.<br />
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I picked up 12 x 12" scrapbook paper in coordinating colors and just cut each square into a 1 1/2" ...if you do this, you'll get 64 squares per sheet of paper and you won't have to waste any by punching these out!<br />
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I have lots of other things I've worked on and my phone cam isn't cooperating, so I'll just have to wait until next time to share the rest.<br />
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Don't forget to share the love with your colleagues...some of these were a little pricey and a little more time consuming, so if you don't want to put these together for everyone, don't sweat it. Do share when you can! You'll be glad you did!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Nikki</span><br />
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<br />Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-57820558646612918942013-07-18T08:36:00.002-05:002013-07-18T09:05:18.168-05:00Bloglovin!Finally...I'm on Bloglovin! And I must say, I'm lovin' it! Special thanks to Melissa at <a href="http://www.commoncoreandsomuchmore.com/" target="_blank">Common Core and So Much More</a> for her wonderful tutorial on how to change the basic button over to her super-cute button! I love it! <br />
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If you are looking at changing up your Bloglovin' button, I'd highly recommend checking this out:<br />
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Hope you are having a wonderful day! And if you aren't following my blog on Bloglovin', WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? Get on board already!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Nikki</span>Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8976506462230053831.post-86056845925245479352013-07-01T15:41:00.000-05:002013-07-01T16:34:08.507-05:00Monday Made It...Just Ketchin' Up!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ok...I'll admit it...I haven't been inspired as of late. But this morning, I took a sneaky peek at all of the great posts out there and I must admit that I was quite inspired to put a seed of an idea into play.<br />
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I bought these goofy little ketchup and mustard bottles at the Dollar Tree last summer and thought that maybe these might make an interesting addition to some sort of learning center. I shelved them for a bit and then ran across them as I was putting my room in order and...well something clicked. Literally. I actually felt the lightbulb snap on and so...<br />
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These goofy things were born!<br />
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It's the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">FOOTLONG MEASUREMENT STATION! </span><br />
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I had a feeling that if I put some light string into the bottles and tied the ends that I would get a bottle that "shoots" the string out when it is squeezed. My little brain tied itself around this idea and it really worked!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><b>HOLY HOT DOG BATMAN!</b></span><br />
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Here's the scoop as to how to make these babies: <br />
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<li>Cut a 15" length of lightweight string. I used kite string. (Note: Kite string can be "colored" using spray ink that you would use in scrapbooking/papercrafting. I used Heidi Swapp's Cherry Red Spray Ink and October Afternoon's Lemon Drop Sprinkler to get these colors. They also do a great job coloring hair...in case anyone is interested!)</li>
<li>Tie many many many knots into the end of your string to keep "ketchup" or "mustard" from shooting out of the cap. </li>
<li>Thread the end of a needle and drop other end of string into the cap and out the top of the nozzle. </li>
<li>Tie many many many knots into the end of the string that is coming out of the top of the nozzle and fray the ends...for giggles mainly.</li>
<li>Create labels for each of the bottles. I used "Customary Catsup" and "Metric Mustard."</li>
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Note: While I am a HUGE FAN of funky spellings, I simply cannot endorse spelling words that students need in testing and in other places incorrectly. That is why I went with "Customary Catsup" instead of "Kustomary Ketchup." My kids need to see these words spelled correctly.</div>
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Your students can use the Customary Catsup to practice their customary measurement and the Metric Mustard to practice their metric measurement.</div>
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I also included a spot on the recording sheet to extend students thinking...mean, median and mode. I may just add range...again...for giggles. It's great practice either way.</div>
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I am always on the lookout for great concept stations that allow students to practice those skills and strategies that are taught at the very end of the year. In the math series my district uses, that means measurement and probability. However, our state tests are administered in November, so that means that these concepts usually test a bit low. MAP testing also has quite a bit of probability and measurement...again...if these concepts aren't covered early on, it's a bust. <br />
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So I just thought that I'd put together an engaging (technical meaning: fun!) way for my third graders to practice their measurement skills. I've never been a big fan of giving a kid a ruler and then sending them out to measure arbitrary objects or practicing on drawings on a math worksheet...so this little station will fit the bill nicely.<br />
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Not only that...it's actually fun! I tested it on my soon-to-be-seventh-grader and he couldn't keep his hands off of it! His comment: "Why don't we get to do cool stuff like this in algebra?" (That's a challenge, by the way!)<br />
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Noah came up with a ton of great game ideas that could be played after completing the center sheet that you'll find <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1yCkCbqrzdqwsXjXVHSVWlE-UtkUijN2P7_-kBRU0ks8/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">here</a>. My suggestion would be to run this sheet as a 2-sided paper or laminate one of these and use with a Vis-a-Vis marker or dry erase. <br />
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As for Noah's game ideas: why not try to have 2 students "duel" and see who comes closest to 6 inches? Noah also suggests have students try to come up with the shortest measurement squeeze or the longest. I'm sure there are plenty more where this came from. If you have any ideas, I'd love to hear them!<br />
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Thanks for checking out my blog and this goofy goofy post! And remember...if you are taking the time to make one of these for yourself, why not take time to make a second for your teaching partner? (My new third grade partner, Megan, has no idea what's coming her way!) And while you are at it...make a third for a wonderful teaching buddy...like the Wonderful Linda (my mentor and fourth grade partner!).<br />
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This was actually super-cheap and really easy to do...so why not make a few extra? I'm sure your teaching pals will <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #6aa84f;">RELISH</span> the opportunity to use a center like this in their classrooms too! (Sorry...had to do that!)<br />
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Happy Happy Monday!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Nikki</span>Nikki Lutzkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12378273183837087341noreply@blogger.com8