I didn't post yesterday because I was exhausted and in a "why am I a teacher?" mood. It was just not a fun day yesterday but I came back with vigor and today was much better...aside from the pile of puke.
Let's rewind. On day 1 I told my kids about my bathroom policy. They can go as long as no one else is gone and we're not doing a whole group thing (i.e. I'm talking). But if you have to puke, "grab the trash can and run to the bathroom."
Today a boy comes up to me looking completely fine and says in a normal voice, "I'm not feeling well, can I go to the nurse?" Because he looked fine, had gone through the day without incident and we were doing math (which he hates) I told him to get a drink and go to the bathroom to see if he felt better. As he's walking to the back of the room he pukes all over. Oh, gosh. I thought my run to the bathroom rule would keep this from happening.
I also thought that 11-year-olds could tell when they had to throw up. Maybe not.
Luckily, we have a fantastic janitor that responds to distressed first year teachers very quickly and he cleaned it up and made our classroom fresh and clean...Thanks, Dan!
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
New day, new 6th graders
Day two was so much more fun! Actually teaching is awesome.
I spent so much time yesterday just going over rules and practicing EVERYTHING that I was bored out of my mind by lunch...my kiddos probably were too. I know I've talked about Tim way too much lately but honestly, classroom management is the key. Anyway, he always says to practice, practice, practice and that many teachers don't do enough. I can see why they don't. It's ridiculously boring and monotonous. But I'm being a good little teacher and still practicing daily.
And this is why I'm practicing daily...4 new kids today...not kids that were registered originally, kids that are new to the school as of today. We reviewed every rule and procedure all day today. It annoys me but I think it's good for the kids. Sounds like I'm going to have to really go with the flow this year.
I'm also already loving so many of my kids. They're just so stinking cute and have such cute personalities. I like 6th graders a lot.
I also realized today why I like teaching older kids. I've always said it's because you can do so much more with them and you can talk to them like real people. Here is another reason...I don't want to have to spend 30 minutes teaching how to pick up your lunch or how to use the toilet, flush and wash your hands. Those of you that love kindergarten, bless you. I'm just glad my kids know those things already.
I also let my kids color a map (because we needed to stretch a bit). They were so quiet. It was amazing. I probably could have let them color til the end of the day and they wouldn't have made another peep. So there's your teacher tip of the day. Need some quiet time? Bring out a coloring page.
I spent so much time yesterday just going over rules and practicing EVERYTHING that I was bored out of my mind by lunch...my kiddos probably were too. I know I've talked about Tim way too much lately but honestly, classroom management is the key. Anyway, he always says to practice, practice, practice and that many teachers don't do enough. I can see why they don't. It's ridiculously boring and monotonous. But I'm being a good little teacher and still practicing daily.
And this is why I'm practicing daily...4 new kids today...not kids that were registered originally, kids that are new to the school as of today. We reviewed every rule and procedure all day today. It annoys me but I think it's good for the kids. Sounds like I'm going to have to really go with the flow this year.
I'm also already loving so many of my kids. They're just so stinking cute and have such cute personalities. I like 6th graders a lot.
I also realized today why I like teaching older kids. I've always said it's because you can do so much more with them and you can talk to them like real people. Here is another reason...I don't want to have to spend 30 minutes teaching how to pick up your lunch or how to use the toilet, flush and wash your hands. Those of you that love kindergarten, bless you. I'm just glad my kids know those things already.
I also let my kids color a map (because we needed to stretch a bit). They were so quiet. It was amazing. I probably could have let them color til the end of the day and they wouldn't have made another peep. So there's your teacher tip of the day. Need some quiet time? Bring out a coloring page.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Who misses the first day?
I got to school super early today because I was still freaking out about all the stuff I needed to do. Most of it didn't get done and my students would ask me "What about (insert something that's not finished yet)." and I'd say, "We'll talk about that tomorrow." Great way to divert their attention, right?
All in all the day went pretty easily. I didn't have any problems with anyone, yet. But this may be the reason...10 of my 24 students missed the first day. What!?!? Who does that? Who says to their kid, "Yeah, first day of school = no big deal." Let me correct you...first day of school = huge deal. Close to as big of a deal as end of the year tests and picture day. Geesh. I hope I have more students soon because I would hate to loose my job due to the lack of kids actually coming to school.
FYI to all of you who have kids that are school aged or will one day in the future go to school: There are certain days that your child should be in school unless he/she has explosive diarrhea and projectile vomit. These days include end of the year tests, picture day and THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL.
Other than the fact that I'm kind of annoyed that many students missed this first day, I think I have a pretty good class. They're for sure having seating assignments tomorrow, but a good class. We had to practice walking in the halls about 400 times but they're good kids. I'm going to like them a lot. Also, because of the attendance problem, we'll probably be doing procedures and rules everyday for the rest of the school year. Tim should be proud.
All in all the day went pretty easily. I didn't have any problems with anyone, yet. But this may be the reason...10 of my 24 students missed the first day. What!?!? Who does that? Who says to their kid, "Yeah, first day of school = no big deal." Let me correct you...first day of school = huge deal. Close to as big of a deal as end of the year tests and picture day. Geesh. I hope I have more students soon because I would hate to loose my job due to the lack of kids actually coming to school.
FYI to all of you who have kids that are school aged or will one day in the future go to school: There are certain days that your child should be in school unless he/she has explosive diarrhea and projectile vomit. These days include end of the year tests, picture day and THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL.
Other than the fact that I'm kind of annoyed that many students missed this first day, I think I have a pretty good class. They're for sure having seating assignments tomorrow, but a good class. We had to practice walking in the halls about 400 times but they're good kids. I'm going to like them a lot. Also, because of the attendance problem, we'll probably be doing procedures and rules everyday for the rest of the school year. Tim should be proud.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Nauseous Excitement
Tomorrow is the big day. I know I've said this A LOT lately but...I can't believe this day is really here. I'm so super excited and a little nauseous.
I'm at that point where I have planned for everything but I know that as soon as I get there in the morning I'll be freaking out because there was something I overlooked.
And I have bus duty in the morning so I have to be out on the playground from 8am to 8:30 when school starts. There's half an hour of prep time I don't get on the first day.
And I was looking at the recommended book list for elementary and middle school today. If a book is on the middle school list I cannot read it to my class or have them read it. Almost every book I wanted to read was on the middle school list...so annoyed.
Like I said, I'm really excited for this first day but at the same time I want it to be over. It's like a first date...a first blind date. I know the name and little bits about him but that's it. I don't have a face or any interactions yet. I don't know what to expect. That's exactly like my class. I know their names and I'm being set up by the 5th grade teacher who has told me a little bit about all the students. We just need to have a short lunch date to get to know each other. Then decide if we want to see each other again. Of course, I can't do that with my students but who would want to? I think the first day should be a half day. Just get out all your expectations and meet the kiddos then go home and figure out the next day. I'm a bit nervous about actually teaching on the first day because I don't know my kids. I don't know who needs extra help, who is so far ahead that they have stopped listening...nothing.
That was such a rambling paragraph. Sorry if it makes no sense but I needed to get everything out and I don't feel like editing today.
I'm at that point where I have planned for everything but I know that as soon as I get there in the morning I'll be freaking out because there was something I overlooked.
And I have bus duty in the morning so I have to be out on the playground from 8am to 8:30 when school starts. There's half an hour of prep time I don't get on the first day.
And I was looking at the recommended book list for elementary and middle school today. If a book is on the middle school list I cannot read it to my class or have them read it. Almost every book I wanted to read was on the middle school list...so annoyed.
Like I said, I'm really excited for this first day but at the same time I want it to be over. It's like a first date...a first blind date. I know the name and little bits about him but that's it. I don't have a face or any interactions yet. I don't know what to expect. That's exactly like my class. I know their names and I'm being set up by the 5th grade teacher who has told me a little bit about all the students. We just need to have a short lunch date to get to know each other. Then decide if we want to see each other again. Of course, I can't do that with my students but who would want to? I think the first day should be a half day. Just get out all your expectations and meet the kiddos then go home and figure out the next day. I'm a bit nervous about actually teaching on the first day because I don't know my kids. I don't know who needs extra help, who is so far ahead that they have stopped listening...nothing.
That was such a rambling paragraph. Sorry if it makes no sense but I needed to get everything out and I don't feel like editing today.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
Book #35: The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman AlexieThis book is based on Alexie's actual life experiences.
Junior was born with water on the brain which gives him many difficulties to overcome--a studder and seizures. He is very bright and artistic though. When he receives his math book, he reads the front and sees his mom's name written in the front cover. This angers him and he decided to go to the high school in Reardon--an all white small-town school. While there he is able to overcome many difficult life situations and find people who have things in common with him.
This book was emotional and uplifting. It shows the resiliency of people in the face of adversity. Alexie writes with the wit and humor of a freshman in high school. With that in mind, this is not a book for elementary students. You may be able to bring it out in 8th grade but beware: sex and violence rear their ugly heads as much as deep and unabiding sorrow and words of encouragement.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who can accept that boys will be boys and they talk about sex and violence. It was a great book. Funny, encouraging, sad, hopeful. Everything you want in a good book.
Shooting the Moon
Book #34: Shooting the Moon by Frances O'Roark Dowell
This book is set during the time of the Vietnam War (Conflict? I don't know what we call it now but it was a war in my mind so I'm sticking with it.). Jamie Dexter's brother TJ joins the army and Jamie is thrilled. She has grown up with a Colonel father and she and her family live and breath army life. Jamie can't wait to get letters from her brother describing battles and the sights and smells of Vietnam. But the first letter isn't a letter. It's a roll of film and Jamie learns to develop the film for her brother. As more rolls of film come to Jamie, the shiny exterior of the army begins to fade for her.
I liked this book but it wasn't one that grabbed me and made me keep reading. I think it's appropriate for grades 3+. The reading level is about a middle of 5th grade level though.
This book is set during the time of the Vietnam War (Conflict? I don't know what we call it now but it was a war in my mind so I'm sticking with it.). Jamie Dexter's brother TJ joins the army and Jamie is thrilled. She has grown up with a Colonel father and she and her family live and breath army life. Jamie can't wait to get letters from her brother describing battles and the sights and smells of Vietnam. But the first letter isn't a letter. It's a roll of film and Jamie learns to develop the film for her brother. As more rolls of film come to Jamie, the shiny exterior of the army begins to fade for her.
I liked this book but it wasn't one that grabbed me and made me keep reading. I think it's appropriate for grades 3+. The reading level is about a middle of 5th grade level though.
Friday, July 24, 2009
The Phantom Tollbooth
Book #33: The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster Milo is a boy who just doesn't know what to do with himself. When he's in school he wants to be out and when he's out he wants to be in. One day, a tollbooth appears in his bedroom and because he has nothing better to do, he uses it and is transported to a magical land of letters, numbers and nonsense. He embarks on a quest with a watchdog named Tock to rescue Rhyme and Reason. During his adventure, he finds that life is far from boring.
For me, this was a middle of the road book. Good at some parts, lost my interest at others. I ended up just reading beginnings and endings of paragraphs at some parts and completely skipping chapters because I just wanted to be done. Probably not something I should say when I talk about this book to my class.
"'I can't see the point in learning to solve useless problems, or subtracting turnips from turnips, or knowing where Ethiopia is or how to spell February.' And, since no one bothered to explain otherwise, he regarded the process of seeking knowledge as the greatest waste of time of all." (p. 9).
This quote made me think a lot about how many people are taught in school. It's just a "learn this because you'll need it for next year" approach. If the things we're teaching our students are not more important than that, why do they need to know them? I try my hardest to give my students reasons to learn things other than "you'll need it next year." Which brings me to my first difficulty in teaching math this year. The 6th grade curriculum says 6th graders need to know how to find the prime factorization of numbers. Other than being helpful in other math operations, do you ever prime factor a number in real life? I can't think of anyone who uses this in their daily life except for math teachers. Do you know of a way I could make this part of the curriculum more realistic for my students?
Thursday, July 23, 2009
I really like ellipses...
Ok...I finished my room today and planned the first week...wahoo!
Here's some pictures of my almost completed room...I took them early in the morning then forgot to take more when I really finished...Oh well...you get the point.
This is my view of the classroom...standing at the white board looking back at the kiddos. Don't hate me Tim...I know! Groups of 6? More like parties of 6 but it's very temporary...I promise!
These pictures are taken from the back of the room...to the left are the hooks for backpacks and coats and such and there is really nothing there right now so no pictures.
This is my guided reading table and I don't know what else right now. I'm thinking I'll have the kids move their desks and we'll have mini-lessons there also with the kiddos on the floor.
Here is my "library." It looks so big when it's at my house on my super tiny bookshelf...not so much on the monster bookshelf at school.
And last but not least...my desk...the best part is that mug...you obviously can't read it but it says "WHINING." Freaking awesome for $1 at Target.
Really this is not exciting at all except for the fact that it's done. I'm sure with every track change, the room will look better. I can't believe the day I've been working toward for the past 3 years is really here. I'm officially a teacher and I have students. Holy cow! I'm so stinking excited!
Wait! I forgot to mention this yesterday. I sent letters home to my students on Monday with a little introduction to me and a questionnaire for my students. I asked them to bring it to back to school night (12 of my kids showed, 9 brought their questionnaires). I had forgotten about the questionnaire so I was really surprised and excited when I got the first ones back. Anyway, that's not what this is about. One dad, ONE dad, said, "I'm really impressed with you. I thought that letter was a really good idea. And the form for the kids to fill out was a great idea too." Thanks, you're my new favorite dad...A++ for your kiddo. Big thanks to Tim for pounding into my head how important letters home are! At least I made a good impression on one dad.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Ity Bity Students and a Carnival
My classroom is mostly put together. Decorated and everything. But if my classroom management teacher saw it, he would probably crap his pants...sorry Tim but I had no choice but to have parties (aka groups of 5 or more) instead of groups. My room is ity bity and there's just no room for 30 desks without it. At least I know it's not smart and have admitted it.
We also had Back to School Night tonight. We had a little opening meeting thing then the parents and students were supposed to go to visit their teacher and classroom along with tables for the literacy specialist, math specialist, BYU interns, nurse...when they visited these stations they got a ticket which was good to get a snocone, popcorn or go on one of the inflatable bounce house things. Apparently it was a really good turn out even though I just barely had half my kids show up.
But now that I've met half of my kids and have faces for the names, I AM SO EXCITED!! They are still really tiny. For some reason I pictured them all as giants who would tower over me from day one. They didn't. They all still had to look up at me, though I was wearing 4 inch heels so I was 5'8" not 5'4" like normal. So we'll see if they still have to look up on Monday.
I'll take pictures tomorrow so ya'll can see my decorating genius. I like to refer to it as the slap and staple decorating plan. Actually, there's no plan. I just slap things up where there is space and presto...room decorated.
We also had Back to School Night tonight. We had a little opening meeting thing then the parents and students were supposed to go to visit their teacher and classroom along with tables for the literacy specialist, math specialist, BYU interns, nurse...when they visited these stations they got a ticket which was good to get a snocone, popcorn or go on one of the inflatable bounce house things. Apparently it was a really good turn out even though I just barely had half my kids show up.
But now that I've met half of my kids and have faces for the names, I AM SO EXCITED!! They are still really tiny. For some reason I pictured them all as giants who would tower over me from day one. They didn't. They all still had to look up at me, though I was wearing 4 inch heels so I was 5'8" not 5'4" like normal. So we'll see if they still have to look up on Monday.
I'll take pictures tomorrow so ya'll can see my decorating genius. I like to refer to it as the slap and staple decorating plan. Actually, there's no plan. I just slap things up where there is space and presto...room decorated.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Sweat and Dust
It's official.
I'm a teacher...I have the ID badge to prove it.
I spent yesterday in meetings and today sweatily decorating and dusting my room.
The room is not nearly ready for Back to School Night (tomorrow night!) so I'm recruiting my sister for some free labor.
At this point, I feel like I'm just slapping things on walls. Maybe I should be a bit more selective about where I put things.
I'm a teacher...I have the ID badge to prove it.
I spent yesterday in meetings and today sweatily decorating and dusting my room.
The room is not nearly ready for Back to School Night (tomorrow night!) so I'm recruiting my sister for some free labor.
At this point, I feel like I'm just slapping things on walls. Maybe I should be a bit more selective about where I put things.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Insomnia: The Best Thing Since a Kick in the Face
Ok. It's 3:32 AM and I'm still awake. What the heck! I've been lying here since 10:30...that's 5 hours people. I've tried everything...I even resorted to counting sheep...does that work for anyone?
I'm supposed to be to school at 7am today. Maybe it's nerves, anxiety, excitement? I don't know. All I know is I'm super annoyed with whatever is causing the awakeness right now and I know this professional development is going to be agonizing no matter how fantastic (I hope) it is.
So to pass the time, I'm checking out blogs...
I'm supposed to be to school at 7am today. Maybe it's nerves, anxiety, excitement? I don't know. All I know is I'm super annoyed with whatever is causing the awakeness right now and I know this professional development is going to be agonizing no matter how fantastic (I hope) it is.
So to pass the time, I'm checking out blogs...
I'm not a mean person but I like to laugh at things like this and think about saying them to really mean people.
PostSecret...so awesome.
This is one of my favorite websites for a good laugh.
By the way...my alarm just went off...here's to an absolutely lovely day.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Why didn't anyone tell me how hard this would be?
I spent today trying to figure out my writers' workshop. Originally, I wanted to combine all the great things I learned from all the great people I learned from in my Writing class this summer. That was WAY too much work. I decided to full on copy Nancie Atwell and her fantastic book Lessons that Change Writers.
In the book, Atwell gives her year long writing curriculum and a chronology of her mini-lessons. So I think she wants us to copy her, right? It's not illegal if I give credit where credit is due, right? So here it is...Nancie Atwell = genius writing teacher. I only hope I can teach these lessons as well as she has.
So week one in writers' workshop is done. Now all I need to do is finish social studies, math, science, put my room together, and stop freaking out.
Why were we never taught how to plan and get ready for the first days and weeks of school? That should be a class you take during student teaching. Instead of the large group sessions, I'd have a class called The First Weeks of School: What the Heck Should I Do? and Complaining 302: The Art of Grumbling About Teaching.
In the book, Atwell gives her year long writing curriculum and a chronology of her mini-lessons. So I think she wants us to copy her, right? It's not illegal if I give credit where credit is due, right? So here it is...Nancie Atwell = genius writing teacher. I only hope I can teach these lessons as well as she has.
So week one in writers' workshop is done. Now all I need to do is finish social studies, math, science, put my room together, and stop freaking out.
Why were we never taught how to plan and get ready for the first days and weeks of school? That should be a class you take during student teaching. Instead of the large group sessions, I'd have a class called The First Weeks of School: What the Heck Should I Do? and Complaining 302: The Art of Grumbling About Teaching.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Weekends
Oh man!
I should be writing lessons and preparing for my first day and week of school...
instead I went to see Harry Potter. It was fantastic but as with every Harry Potter movie I was disappointed because of things that were left out or not exactly how I saw them in my mind. But it was fantastic. I recommend seeing it.
Other than that, I've spent this weekend going through all the stuff I've accumulated over the years, put them in boxes and loaded them into my car. 7 boxes full. Ugh. I don't know if it's going to be a ton of stuff to move every 9 weeks but I think my students deserve the best, most inviting classroom I can give them...even if it means packing up for days and unpacking for days.
To top off a most productive Saturday, I burned my arm while making delicious food. Ouch! I hardly even touched it but it is killing me. I'm a whining baby.
I should be writing lessons and preparing for my first day and week of school...
instead I went to see Harry Potter. It was fantastic but as with every Harry Potter movie I was disappointed because of things that were left out or not exactly how I saw them in my mind. But it was fantastic. I recommend seeing it.
Other than that, I've spent this weekend going through all the stuff I've accumulated over the years, put them in boxes and loaded them into my car. 7 boxes full. Ugh. I don't know if it's going to be a ton of stuff to move every 9 weeks but I think my students deserve the best, most inviting classroom I can give them...even if it means packing up for days and unpacking for days.
To top off a most productive Saturday, I burned my arm while making delicious food. Ouch! I hardly even touched it but it is killing me. I'm a whining baby.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
A Bit Overwhelmed
WHEW! I made it through day two of induction. Today was much more useful and much more fun...no talking about boring adult stuff (boo insurance!) just math, p.e., social studies, science, reading, language arts, and fine arts.
Most things were pretty useful and fun but the fine arts section reminded me a little too much of my HORRIBLE creative arts class in college. I've decided I need to give art teachers one more shot because 2 examples are too small of a sample size but if the next class I take is anything like today's or the 16 agonizing weeks I spent in the fall I am ostracizing all art teachers. I don't care who you are, how long I've known you, or how great you are...obviously you're all from the same mold and you're crazy.
Other than that, I'm onlyreally slightly freaking out about how much I have to do before July 27th. That's only 11 days away. UGH!
On a brighter note, Leisl from Utah gave to my donorschoose.org account. Only $176 left to go...that's only 3 people giving $50 or 7 giving $25 or 18 giving $10 or 36 giving $5. If you want to donate, visit my site. Thanks in advance, my students will be fantastic writers!
Most things were pretty useful and fun but the fine arts section reminded me a little too much of my HORRIBLE creative arts class in college. I've decided I need to give art teachers one more shot because 2 examples are too small of a sample size but if the next class I take is anything like today's or the 16 agonizing weeks I spent in the fall I am ostracizing all art teachers. I don't care who you are, how long I've known you, or how great you are...obviously you're all from the same mold and you're crazy.
Other than that, I'm only
On a brighter note, Leisl from Utah gave to my donorschoose.org account. Only $176 left to go...that's only 3 people giving $50 or 7 giving $25 or 18 giving $10 or 36 giving $5. If you want to donate, visit my site. Thanks in advance, my students will be fantastic writers!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
I've been inducted
Today was the first day of new teacher induction.
I feel like such an adult now. We talked about insurance and 401Ks. Wow. I'm all grown up.
I also got to spin a wheel and win a water bottle and listen to a man tell me not to grow up so it was a day of mixed messages.
I feel like such an adult now. We talked about insurance and 401Ks. Wow. I'm all grown up.
I also got to spin a wheel and win a water bottle and listen to a man tell me not to grow up so it was a day of mixed messages.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Clutter
I hate to admit this but I don't know if any of you have noticed, but I am not opposed to clutter in my living spaces. If I've ever given you a ride anywhere, you've had to wait a few minutes to get in while I throw all the crap from my front seat to my back seat.
My bedroom looks a lot like my car. My bed is like the the front of my car, enough room for me but if anyone else wants in they have to wait a minute while I rearrange. Well, it ends today. I cleaned everything for the past 2 hours. And by everything, I mean I vacuumed, dusted, washed sheets, it was crazy busy in here today. Now it's all nice and inviting and people can come over at any time and sit on my bed without advanced notice. Woot. Let's hope it stays this way!
My bedroom looks a lot like my car. My bed is like the the front of my car, enough room for me but if anyone else wants in they have to wait a minute while I rearrange. Well, it ends today. I cleaned everything for the past 2 hours. And by everything, I mean I vacuumed, dusted, washed sheets, it was crazy busy in here today. Now it's all nice and inviting and people can come over at any time and sit on my bed without advanced notice. Woot. Let's hope it stays this way!
Monday, July 13, 2009
Philanthropy
Ok. I've realized there is so much I need for my classroom and though I'd really like to spend all of my savings in less than a month to buy all I need, I can't feasibly do that. With that in mind, I joined donorschoose.org to help me meet the vast needs.
If you haven't heard, there are huge budget cuts this year and us first-year teachers will most likely not get as much money as in the past. That super sucks because I want the best for my students and there are things that I know would make a huge impact on my classroom and the learning they'd be able to do but without the money I'll be unable to provide these little extras.
I want my students to leave 6th grade as confident and proficient writers and the best way to accomplish this goal is to have a writers' workshop. I could do this with cheap spiral bound notebooks (which is what I will do if this project isn't funded) but there are more professional ways that will show my students that I mean business when I ask them to write. I consider them authors, not just kids who write. They have so much to say and have great stories but many times they do not understand this. Along with helping them to become proficient writers, I want them to enjoy writing, to look at themselves as authors, to be able to explain things in writing, to know that they have amazing stories to tell.
If you haven't heard, there are huge budget cuts this year and us first-year teachers will most likely not get as much money as in the past. That super sucks because I want the best for my students and there are things that I know would make a huge impact on my classroom and the learning they'd be able to do but without the money I'll be unable to provide these little extras.
I want my students to leave 6th grade as confident and proficient writers and the best way to accomplish this goal is to have a writers' workshop. I could do this with cheap spiral bound notebooks (which is what I will do if this project isn't funded) but there are more professional ways that will show my students that I mean business when I ask them to write. I consider them authors, not just kids who write. They have so much to say and have great stories but many times they do not understand this. Along with helping them to become proficient writers, I want them to enjoy writing, to look at themselves as authors, to be able to explain things in writing, to know that they have amazing stories to tell.
I know times are tough but if you can give anything, it would be appreciated. Just click here to go to my page. On the right side, you'll see a green box that says "give $" and you fill in the amount you want to give then click the green arrow. From there you fill in your information and you contribute to me having an amazing bunch a writers. How philanthropic of you!
Here is the form letter donorschoose.org sent to me to send to all my friends:
Dear friends,
I want my students to have as many great learning opportunities as possible, but sometimes I just can't get the funding I need. To address this issue, I turned to DonorsChoose.org.
Here's the scoop. At this nonprofit website, public school teachers (like me!) submit projects for materials or experiences their students need to learn. These ideas become a reality when concerned individuals (like you!) choose projects to fund. Donors who complete project funding or give more than $100 receive photos and personal thank-you notes from the students they helped. It's easy - and very rewarding.
The great news is that my project, Writing is like Ice Skating, is now posted at DonorsChoose.org! Check it out at:http://www.donorschoose.org/donors/proposal.html?id=292533&utm_source=teachers&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=TeacherMarketing
Take a look. Also, please consider supporting me and my students by forwarding this message to others who may be interested in improving education.
Best regards,
Ashley 
Sunday, July 12, 2009
On Dating
I have been really boring the last few days just trying to figure out my first week of school (and trying to avoid thinking about it at the same time) and I found this article. I have been on some pretty boring, monotonous dates and thought this may help some of you. I have also added my own comments on some of the very important issues.
So you went out with somebody and thought they were absolutely amazing. She was the hottest, sexiest woman of the moment. So, how do you capitalize on the success of a great first date?
Here are 10 sure-fire ways to get that second date:
1. Ask her out again at the end of the first date. Invite her to do something she told you she finds exciting. For example, if she likes Mexican food, tell her you know the best Mexican restaurant in town and you want to bring her there Tuesday night. Set up that second date so she doesn't have time to think about the first date, and so she has something to look forward to.
*If you ask her on a date that involves something she mentioned in passing, she will know that you really listened to her. That is so important. I hate when I feel like I've been talking to a brick wall all night or when I say something for the 14th time and he says something to the effect of, "What?! You never told me that before." Yes. I did. Fourteen times to be exact. But that was a tangent. Just listen to her, be interested in her and this comes up later so keep reading.
2. Text her or call her the very next day. Either text her a simple message that says "Had a great time last night...Looking forward to the next time." Or, call her and leave a message and tell her the same thing over the phone.
*And if you do leave a message, make sure you sound up beat. There is nothing worse than a phone message that sounds like someone is giving you bad news when in fact he is telling you he had a great time. If you had a great time, sound like it! Even if you have to fake that enthusiastic voice, do it. If you sound bored/tired/disinterested, chances are we will become bored/tired/disinterested in you.
3. Don't agree with everything she says. Challenge her mind. If you agree with everything she says, she'll look at you as being weak. If she sees you as being weak, she will no longer be attracted to you, and you will no longer get a second look or a second date. I'm not telling you to be confrontational. I'm telling you to be open, honest and real.
*I want to be challenged in my opinions. I like to hear other's points of view. It makes me a better, well-rounded person. I've been on dates where I realized quite quickly that he was just saying things to make me happy. Guess what, it made me angry. This is how the conversations went:
Me: "And I hate babies. I like to punch them when no one is looking. Do you hate babies too?"
Him:"YES. Despise them."
Me: "And puppies too. I kick them and pull their tails. I mean who wants a puppy anyway?"
Him: "Yeah puppies suck."
This horrible display of annoying weakness did not lead to a 2nd date.
4. Don't expect sex or force the issue of sex until it's right for both parties. Take things slow and enjoy getting to know each other. There are no rules about when to have sex for the first time with a new potential partner. You're both adults, and if a woman decides that she doesn't want to have sex with you for a month, respect her! Or, if a woman decides she wants to have sex with you on the first date, respect that decision too! When you do have sex, make sure that the two of you handle it like adults and not like children.
*Ok, I don't have experience with this but let's relate it to kissing. Some girls are fine with kissing asap, some are not. Just respect it and let it happen naturally. Read her cues. If she is avoiding eye contact, she probably doesn't want to kiss you. If she is licking her lips, looking at your lips, making lots of eye contact, etc. go for it. If she turns her head, no worries, you read the clues wrong. Dust yourself off and try again on a later date.
5. Be positive and fun when you're out with her on a date. Don't bash your ex. Don't complain about all the things that are wrong in your life. Spend time getting to know each other's good sides.
*Rants about how much you hate work should also not be mentioned on date one. Or date four…you know what…keep it to yourself. Complain to your mom, your roommate, your dog, your coworker that hates your stupid boss as much as you do because your boss has no social skills, treats you like you and your opinion don't matter because you don't have a degree, makes racist remarks and is incompetent. Keep it positive with the girl you want to impress. When you get further into the relationship, she will want to hear what's wrong at work and she will probably help you find an answer to your problem. But the first few dates are not the place or the time to complain about your horrible boss (even if he is the biggest LDB who ever lived).
6. Listen to your date. Question things that don't sound right. Have a two-sided conversation instead of talking at her. Most men tend to want to impress women with their accomplishments. Women enjoy getting to know a man based on what's inside. So spend time listening and having a conversation instead of bragging about yourself. The less you brag, the more interested she will be!
*Ugh! Bragging = huge turn off! Don't do it. Again, ask your date questions. Ask follow up questions. Use good listening strategies—look at her, nod your head, etc. If she is interested in you (and not completely self absorbed) she will also ask questions of you. This is a time when you can do a little bragging (Good="Yeah, own my own business." BAD= "Yeah, at 24 I had saved enough money to buy a business. Within 2 years I turned it into a multimillion dollar cash machine. Then at 27 I expanded my empire globally…BLAH BLAH BLAH...").
7. When out with your date, do not check out other women in front of her. Do this, and you'll never get another date with her again.
*Why would this ever be acceptable? And don't ask your date if she thinks another guy is cute. First, why would you want to know if she saw him? Second, were you also checking him out? Is he more your type then she is? Just don't do it. It's annoying and immature.
8. Compliment her once about the way she looks. Don't tell her all night long how beautiful she is, because she will start to think that you've never before been out with a woman as beautiful as her, and you'll start to lose your power.
*I thought I was alone in this but have recently talked to many friends and realized they all hate it as much as I do. If you are constantly saying "You're beautiful/gorgeous/amazing/(insert any adjective to describe a girl's appearance here)" it makes me think that (a) you've never been out with anyone as beautiful/gorgeous/amazing as me and I'm obviously dating way down (b) you want something more from me and you think that complimenting me like a broken record will get you what you want, or (c) you've forgotten my name and think saying "Hey Beautiful." will trick me. It won't. I've had my name for my entire life and have grown to really like people using it to get my attention. This is a bit tangential but use her name. Call her by her name or maybe a shortened version of her name, if she is okay with that. In my case, I love it when people call me "Ash" I hate it when people replace my name with "Beautiful" "Angel" "Buttercup" "Kissy Face" "Honey Bunches of Oats" "Good Lookin'" I have a name, please use it.
9. Compliment her mind. Compliment her once about the way she looks. Bond with her mentally and emotionally and physically, and she will bond with you in ways that you've never experienced before!
*I have never been able to connect with people that don't respect me or my mind. I am a smart person and have worked very hard developing my mind and I appreciate being acknowledged for that. If you want to win a girl's heart, do it by bonding mentally, emotionally and physically. You can only get so far on half-assed one-liners about her beauty.
10. Once you've secured the second date, and the second date is successful, you need to set up an "activity date" for date number three -- take her to the park, go to the beach, or take your dogs for a long walk. Do things that cause her to picture the two of you as a couple. Dates should be creative, not boring. Sitting there and swapping stories over dinner tends to get monotonous after date number one, so start creatively planning different dates.
*Seriously, how many times can you get dinner, see a movie and make out? It gets really boring, really fast. Think of things to do with her. Use your brain for crying out loud! And, if you asked her out, it is YOUR responsibility to have the date planned. Do not, under any circumstance, pick her up and ask what she wants to do. Say "I was thinking we would do ___________. Does that sound good?" If she's not a total pushover, she will let you know that she doesn't want to do said activity and will then help you think of another activity. But it is your responsibility to plan the date you asked her out on.
That's my new dating philosophy, you asked you plan. I'll wait here until you have a plan.
Dating Coach, Blogger and Author David Wygant has been featured on more than 2,000 radio and television shows including Dateline, CBS Good Morning, and MTV. Get more sex and dating tips on David's interactive blog at davidwygant.com
So you went out with somebody and thought they were absolutely amazing. She was the hottest, sexiest woman of the moment. So, how do you capitalize on the success of a great first date?
Here are 10 sure-fire ways to get that second date:
1. Ask her out again at the end of the first date. Invite her to do something she told you she finds exciting. For example, if she likes Mexican food, tell her you know the best Mexican restaurant in town and you want to bring her there Tuesday night. Set up that second date so she doesn't have time to think about the first date, and so she has something to look forward to.
*If you ask her on a date that involves something she mentioned in passing, she will know that you really listened to her. That is so important. I hate when I feel like I've been talking to a brick wall all night or when I say something for the 14th time and he says something to the effect of, "What?! You never told me that before." Yes. I did. Fourteen times to be exact. But that was a tangent. Just listen to her, be interested in her and this comes up later so keep reading.
2. Text her or call her the very next day. Either text her a simple message that says "Had a great time last night...Looking forward to the next time." Or, call her and leave a message and tell her the same thing over the phone.
*And if you do leave a message, make sure you sound up beat. There is nothing worse than a phone message that sounds like someone is giving you bad news when in fact he is telling you he had a great time. If you had a great time, sound like it! Even if you have to fake that enthusiastic voice, do it. If you sound bored/tired/disinterested, chances are we will become bored/tired/disinterested in you.
3. Don't agree with everything she says. Challenge her mind. If you agree with everything she says, she'll look at you as being weak. If she sees you as being weak, she will no longer be attracted to you, and you will no longer get a second look or a second date. I'm not telling you to be confrontational. I'm telling you to be open, honest and real.
*I want to be challenged in my opinions. I like to hear other's points of view. It makes me a better, well-rounded person. I've been on dates where I realized quite quickly that he was just saying things to make me happy. Guess what, it made me angry. This is how the conversations went:
Me: "And I hate babies. I like to punch them when no one is looking. Do you hate babies too?"
Him:"YES. Despise them."
Me: "And puppies too. I kick them and pull their tails. I mean who wants a puppy anyway?"
Him: "Yeah puppies suck."
This horrible display of annoying weakness did not lead to a 2nd date.
4. Don't expect sex or force the issue of sex until it's right for both parties. Take things slow and enjoy getting to know each other. There are no rules about when to have sex for the first time with a new potential partner. You're both adults, and if a woman decides that she doesn't want to have sex with you for a month, respect her! Or, if a woman decides she wants to have sex with you on the first date, respect that decision too! When you do have sex, make sure that the two of you handle it like adults and not like children.
*Ok, I don't have experience with this but let's relate it to kissing. Some girls are fine with kissing asap, some are not. Just respect it and let it happen naturally. Read her cues. If she is avoiding eye contact, she probably doesn't want to kiss you. If she is licking her lips, looking at your lips, making lots of eye contact, etc. go for it. If she turns her head, no worries, you read the clues wrong. Dust yourself off and try again on a later date.
5. Be positive and fun when you're out with her on a date. Don't bash your ex. Don't complain about all the things that are wrong in your life. Spend time getting to know each other's good sides.
*Rants about how much you hate work should also not be mentioned on date one. Or date four…you know what…keep it to yourself. Complain to your mom, your roommate, your dog, your coworker that hates your stupid boss as much as you do because your boss has no social skills, treats you like you and your opinion don't matter because you don't have a degree, makes racist remarks and is incompetent. Keep it positive with the girl you want to impress. When you get further into the relationship, she will want to hear what's wrong at work and she will probably help you find an answer to your problem. But the first few dates are not the place or the time to complain about your horrible boss (even if he is the biggest LDB who ever lived).
6. Listen to your date. Question things that don't sound right. Have a two-sided conversation instead of talking at her. Most men tend to want to impress women with their accomplishments. Women enjoy getting to know a man based on what's inside. So spend time listening and having a conversation instead of bragging about yourself. The less you brag, the more interested she will be!
*Ugh! Bragging = huge turn off! Don't do it. Again, ask your date questions. Ask follow up questions. Use good listening strategies—look at her, nod your head, etc. If she is interested in you (and not completely self absorbed) she will also ask questions of you. This is a time when you can do a little bragging (Good="Yeah, own my own business." BAD= "Yeah, at 24 I had saved enough money to buy a business. Within 2 years I turned it into a multimillion dollar cash machine. Then at 27 I expanded my empire globally…BLAH BLAH BLAH...").
7. When out with your date, do not check out other women in front of her. Do this, and you'll never get another date with her again.
*Why would this ever be acceptable? And don't ask your date if she thinks another guy is cute. First, why would you want to know if she saw him? Second, were you also checking him out? Is he more your type then she is? Just don't do it. It's annoying and immature.
8. Compliment her once about the way she looks. Don't tell her all night long how beautiful she is, because she will start to think that you've never before been out with a woman as beautiful as her, and you'll start to lose your power.
*I thought I was alone in this but have recently talked to many friends and realized they all hate it as much as I do. If you are constantly saying "You're beautiful/gorgeous/amazing/(insert any adjective to describe a girl's appearance here)" it makes me think that (a) you've never been out with anyone as beautiful/gorgeous/amazing as me and I'm obviously dating way down (b) you want something more from me and you think that complimenting me like a broken record will get you what you want, or (c) you've forgotten my name and think saying "Hey Beautiful." will trick me. It won't. I've had my name for my entire life and have grown to really like people using it to get my attention. This is a bit tangential but use her name. Call her by her name or maybe a shortened version of her name, if she is okay with that. In my case, I love it when people call me "Ash" I hate it when people replace my name with "Beautiful" "Angel" "Buttercup" "Kissy Face" "Honey Bunches of Oats" "Good Lookin'" I have a name, please use it.
9. Compliment her mind. Compliment her once about the way she looks. Bond with her mentally and emotionally and physically, and she will bond with you in ways that you've never experienced before!
*I have never been able to connect with people that don't respect me or my mind. I am a smart person and have worked very hard developing my mind and I appreciate being acknowledged for that. If you want to win a girl's heart, do it by bonding mentally, emotionally and physically. You can only get so far on half-assed one-liners about her beauty.
10. Once you've secured the second date, and the second date is successful, you need to set up an "activity date" for date number three -- take her to the park, go to the beach, or take your dogs for a long walk. Do things that cause her to picture the two of you as a couple. Dates should be creative, not boring. Sitting there and swapping stories over dinner tends to get monotonous after date number one, so start creatively planning different dates.
*Seriously, how many times can you get dinner, see a movie and make out? It gets really boring, really fast. Think of things to do with her. Use your brain for crying out loud! And, if you asked her out, it is YOUR responsibility to have the date planned. Do not, under any circumstance, pick her up and ask what she wants to do. Say "I was thinking we would do ___________. Does that sound good?" If she's not a total pushover, she will let you know that she doesn't want to do said activity and will then help you think of another activity. But it is your responsibility to plan the date you asked her out on.
That's my new dating philosophy, you asked you plan. I'll wait here until you have a plan.
Dating Coach, Blogger and Author David Wygant has been featured on more than 2,000 radio and television shows including Dateline, CBS Good Morning, and MTV. Get more sex and dating tips on David's interactive blog at davidwygant.com
Saturday, July 11, 2009
I Now Drive an INVISIBLE Mobile Library
I don't understand when or how it happend but obviously my car is invisible. I defy death while driving EVERYDAY! Not my fault though, I'm just driving around and out of no where there's a huge car in front of me.
I have to slam on my brakes, swerve into oncoming traffic, and say swears under my breath all the while Mr. I-own-a-huge-truck-so-common-driving-curtosy-does-not-apply-to-me is chewing on his Slim Jim and listening to his favorite hill-billy comedian ('Git 'er done!')
AAARRGGHH! All I'm saying is please watch out for gold Saturns. We don't take up much room, we're fuel efficient and we are not equipped with off-roading abilities. That's all. Please don't pull in front of me from a complete stop 5 seconds before I get to where you are. My breaks can't take it any more and my horn isn't fierce enough to make a difference. I think I'll install a profanity machine into my horn...one with a mean, scary, huge man voice. And it will be very creative in it's choice of profane words. Then you'll think twice about cutting in front of me next time.
I have to slam on my brakes, swerve into oncoming traffic, and say swears under my breath all the while Mr. I-own-a-huge-truck-so-common-driving-curtosy-does-not-apply-to-me is chewing on his Slim Jim and listening to his favorite hill-billy comedian ('Git 'er done!')
AAARRGGHH! All I'm saying is please watch out for gold Saturns. We don't take up much room, we're fuel efficient and we are not equipped with off-roading abilities. That's all. Please don't pull in front of me from a complete stop 5 seconds before I get to where you are. My breaks can't take it any more and my horn isn't fierce enough to make a difference. I think I'll install a profanity machine into my horn...one with a mean, scary, huge man voice. And it will be very creative in it's choice of profane words. Then you'll think twice about cutting in front of me next time.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Boys, you're not a bed of roses and you're no friend to those with noses
Oh, I forgot to mention that my class list was up in the window at school.
16 boys, 9 girls. It is going to be a smelly, smelly year.
If anyone would like to sponsor the personal hygiene of my classroom that would be great.
16 boys, 9 girls. It is going to be a smelly, smelly year.
If anyone would like to sponsor the personal hygiene of my classroom that would be great.
I drive a mobile library
I went to take my books to my school this morning.
It was closed. The one day this summer that the school is closed and I choose that day to pack up all my crap and drive it over there. Ugh. Now I have to drive with a car of books and posters until Monday because there is no way I'm unpacking it all.
It was closed. The one day this summer that the school is closed and I choose that day to pack up all my crap and drive it over there. Ugh. Now I have to drive with a car of books and posters until Monday because there is no way I'm unpacking it all.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Organize Books. Check!
Oh, wow. Had I known organizing my books would take days, I would have started long ago. But it is now done. I decided against putting the levels on the books. I figure 6th graders are smart enough to figure out if a book is too hard or too easy and if they can't I'll teach them.
All I did was put them in the categories that I mentioned in the last post and put them in bins. That doesn't sound like it should have taken me 2 days but it did. But now they're all pretty and organized like I have OCD or something. I'm a bit worried about letting my students read them because they'll mess up my system. Procedure #1 to be taught: How to take care of books and put them back in the right spot.
I'm hauling all my stuff over to the school tomorrow. I'm also bringing my little sister who has been hounding me to let her help me. Free labor. I like it. Maybe I'll even start decorating. I'll take pictures of whatever I do because I know you're all dying to see my creativeness in action.
All I did was put them in the categories that I mentioned in the last post and put them in bins. That doesn't sound like it should have taken me 2 days but it did. But now they're all pretty and organized like I have OCD or something. I'm a bit worried about letting my students read them because they'll mess up my system. Procedure #1 to be taught: How to take care of books and put them back in the right spot.
I'm hauling all my stuff over to the school tomorrow. I'm also bringing my little sister who has been hounding me to let her help me. Free labor. I like it. Maybe I'll even start decorating. I'll take pictures of whatever I do because I know you're all dying to see my creativeness in action.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Out of the Dust
Book #32 Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse"Dust
piles up like snow
across the prairie,
dunes leaning against fences,
mountains of dust pushing over barns."
This book is written in free verse/journal which makes for a very quick read. It follows 14-year-old Billie Jo Kelby and her family from the winter of 1934 to the winter of 1935 on a farm in Oklahoma. Life on the farm is difficult for the Kelbys due to the dust storms and drought. Many people pack up and head for California but Pa thinks things will get better. Ma becomes pregnant and the family is excited. There is some tragedy in the family's lives which pulls them apart.
I loved Hesse's poetic writing. She was able to paint such vivid pictures with so few words. This was another book that I couldn't put down and I had to finish it today. It's a great book for 4th grade on up. You could even use portions of the book to teach poetry.
"The way I see it, hard times aren't onlyabout money,
or drought,
or dust.
Hard times are about losing spirit,
and hope,
and what happens when dreams dry up." (p. 225)
"I'm getting to know the music again.
And it's getting to know me.
We sniff each other's armpits,
and inside each other's ears,
and behind each other's necks.
We are both confident, and a little sassy." (p. 222)
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Projects
Whenever I begin a new project, I always think it will take no time at all. I am always wrong.
Today I began getting all my books ready to take to my classroom. My plan is to have bins to put my books in (each labeled with one of the following: Fantasy/Science Fiction, Historical Fiction, Realistic Fiction, Poetry, Informational, Biography/Autobiography, Mystery/Horror, Picture Books, Legends/Myths/Fairytale/Fables) and also label them according to level so my students will be able to find books that are appropriate for their reading level.
I plan on making some sort of chart that just simply will be different colored dots for each approximate reading level. My students will be trained that if the book they are reading is too hard or too easy they should find a book with a different colored dot. This explanation really makes no sense at all. I'll post a picture when I get it done. I'll be shopping for supplies tomorrow so hopefully I'll be able to get it up asap.
Anyway, I have all these great ideas but they're all still pretty much in my head. It took me about 5 hours to just get all my books along with their levels in a spreadsheet. Ugh. Who knew? If I hadn't wanted levels for my books I probably could have busted this out in an hour or two but no, I had to go the extra mile. Ugh again.
Also, who knew 4 years of collecting books could lead to me having so many of them? Geesh! 4 huge boxes in all and I'm still not sure if I have more scattered around my house.
As I was arranging these books I had them in huge mountains of books all over my bed. I felt like a huge book nerd but I loved it. I thought about taking a picture but couldn't get out of my bed to get my camera because I was booked in.
I'm thinking about hitting up a grocery store to see if they'll just give me some of those milk crates so I don't have to buy any. Someone probably will if I just say I'm a teacher, right? People are usually pretty generous when it comes to teachers. I just have to say I'm a teacher and I need something for my class. It usually works well.
Any suggestions for very nice grocery stores or any other things I could get for free if I ask nicely enough?
Today I began getting all my books ready to take to my classroom. My plan is to have bins to put my books in (each labeled with one of the following: Fantasy/Science Fiction, Historical Fiction, Realistic Fiction, Poetry, Informational, Biography/Autobiography, Mystery/Horror, Picture Books, Legends/Myths/Fairytale/Fables) and also label them according to level so my students will be able to find books that are appropriate for their reading level.
I plan on making some sort of chart that just simply will be different colored dots for each approximate reading level. My students will be trained that if the book they are reading is too hard or too easy they should find a book with a different colored dot. This explanation really makes no sense at all. I'll post a picture when I get it done. I'll be shopping for supplies tomorrow so hopefully I'll be able to get it up asap.
Anyway, I have all these great ideas but they're all still pretty much in my head. It took me about 5 hours to just get all my books along with their levels in a spreadsheet. Ugh. Who knew? If I hadn't wanted levels for my books I probably could have busted this out in an hour or two but no, I had to go the extra mile. Ugh again.
Also, who knew 4 years of collecting books could lead to me having so many of them? Geesh! 4 huge boxes in all and I'm still not sure if I have more scattered around my house.
As I was arranging these books I had them in huge mountains of books all over my bed. I felt like a huge book nerd but I loved it. I thought about taking a picture but couldn't get out of my bed to get my camera because I was booked in.
I'm thinking about hitting up a grocery store to see if they'll just give me some of those milk crates so I don't have to buy any. Someone probably will if I just say I'm a teacher, right? People are usually pretty generous when it comes to teachers. I just have to say I'm a teacher and I need something for my class. It usually works well.
Any suggestions for very nice grocery stores or any other things I could get for free if I ask nicely enough?
Not Quite Meeting My Goals
Today is the day that I said I would stop my goal of reading 45 books. Obviously, I didn't make it but I did read 31 more books than I would have read had I not made the goal. I plan on continuing to read but it won't be nearly as frequent as it has been. I need to concentrate on getting ready to teach and begin planning lessons and such.
Maybe by the time the first date arrives (which was August 17th) I'll be able to read the 45 books.
Maybe by the time the first date arrives (which was August 17th) I'll be able to read the 45 books.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Unicorns
Book #31 Into the Land of the Unicorns by Bruce CovilleCara lives with her grandmother because her parents left her when she was a child. One day while Cara and her Grandma are out shopping a strange man starts following them. Trying to escape they run into a church and start climbing the bell tower. As the man pursues them Cara's grandmother hands her an amulet and tells her to jump off the bell tower at the 12th toll. When Cara does she finds herself in Luster, the land of the unicorns. There she befriends Lightfoot, a unicorn, the Squijum, a small squirrel like creature, and the Dimblethum, a wookie type animal. They journey through Luster in search of the Old One, pursued by the strange man and the Delvers. Along the way they meet Thomas the Tinker, a dwarf, and a dragon. Before the end Cara must face the truth about who she is and find out who the strange man is that looks familiar.
I enjoyed this book though it was pretty predictable. I would recommend it for 4-6th grades. The reading level is middle of 5th grade.
I enjoyed this book though it was pretty predictable. I would recommend it for 4-6th grades. The reading level is middle of 5th grade.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Talking Cats and Other Mothers
Book #30 Corline by Neil GaimanHaving recently moved into a new apartment with her loving but preoccupied parents, Coraline finds herself bored one rainy day and, upon her father's suggestions, decides to explore the flat. She finds a locked door in the drawing room, which her mother opens and explains that once it led to the flat next door but was bricked up when the building (which was once a single house) was separated into apartments. That night, Coraline hears a strange noise and sees a small black shadow slip down the hall outside her bedroom and into the drawing room. When Coraline turns on the light, it has vanished, but the door which was previously closed by her mother, is slightly cracked. When she opens the door she is able to go to another apartment which is essentially the same as hers, there is even another mother and father. While there she learns to value her real parents even more.
As a elementary student, I loved being scared. This book is just scary enough to keep kids like me reading.
This is another book that many people have had a problem with. I'm not sure it it's on the censored list but people have complained. The book begins with this quote by G.K. Chesterton: "Fairy tales are more than true: not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten." Even though this book is creepy, it tells kids that scary things can be overcome. Why wouldn't we want our children to get that message from a book? It's something safe. Geesh! Stupid people annoy me!
Thursday, July 2, 2009
The Great Gilly Hopkins
Book #29 The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Paterson
Galadriel "Gilly" Hopkins is eleven-years-old and is "nobody's kid." She wants to find and live with her beautiful mother Courtney but instead has to live with a foster family--Maime Trotter (the mom), William Ernest (freaky foster brother) and the poetry-loving black man who lives next door and is considered part of the family. Gilly hates them all at first but soon she is drawn into their circle of love. She is determined not to care about them and devises a plan to be rescued. She learns too late that she didn't want to be rescued, she just wanted to be wanted.
This is another censored book by Katherine Paterson (way to go Katherine!). I think censoring books is ridiculous. What is this? Nazi Germany? Granted, there are books that are inappropriate for certain ages (i.e. The Book Thief for 2nd graders? I think not!) but no one has the right to say no one should read a certain book. Anyway, I read an article written by her about censoring books once and she mentioned this book and the swearing that Gilly does. She said if she had had Gilly say something like "Fiddle sticks!" when she was mad Gilly would not be a believable character. Gilly is a foster kid. She's mad about things, she's going to say it like she sees it.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Censoring imagination and the real world?
Book #28 Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine PatersonJess Aarons is the fastest runner at his school until a new girl (Leslie Burke) challenges him at the begging of the year. Leslie and her parents are new to the rural town and are bit odd (they don't own a TV!!). Leslie and Jess soon become friends. Leslie is imaginative in her play and it's her idea to create Terabithia, their make-believe kingdom.
I love this book! I read it because it's on the banned book list so I assumed that it would be full of vulgar comments, racism, profanity, instructions on making pipe bombs...something horrible. It wasn't. As far as I can tell is it was banned/censored because people are idiots. Leslie's family doesn't believe in God and thinks of the Bible as a fictional story. There is some mild cussing but nothing that most kids haven't heard yet--most of the "cussing" are things like this: "Next a string of cuss words..." "Billy yelled a cuss word..." . Leslie calls her parents by their first names. At the end something does happen that is difficult to deal with but I think books are a great way for children to deal with difficult issues and figure out how they will deal with that issue when it comes up in their life because it will happen.
July 1st Video
I love things like this! I so want to do it! Maybe I need to move to California.
"A crack going out of business sale." "Toucan Sam is a crack dealer!"
Holy cow! I love dance shows.
Mia Michaels is a genious!
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