tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37787973651511230792024-03-05T17:10:13.872-08:00The Real TeachrA blog for beginning to seasoned teachers. Helpful tips and freebies for any elementary classroom!Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comBlogger59125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-12873756888190894592021-05-05T20:07:00.002-07:002021-05-28T14:57:45.802-07:00The Real Teachr is @ Camp Partridge! <p>Hello all! </p><p>I started my blog, <i>The Real Teachr</i>, back in 2012 as a way to share what I had learned in my first six years as a teacher. </p><p>As someone who loves 🧡 technology 💻, innovation, deeper thinking 💭, STEM, and all things collaborative and creative, I wanted to share what I learned with the world! </p><p>But as we all know, life gets challenging, and maintaining a blog and teaching full time (while also 🌎moving to, and teaching in 2 different states) was challenging. </p><p>So I gave up on my blog. Left it in the great wide internet alone 😢. </p><p><br /></p><p><b>But something kind of amazing happened. 🙌</b></p><p><br /></p><p>Six years after my last post (and probably the last time I checked my blog), I came back to it, and realized that people are still reading my posts, years after I published them! 👍 So, I've decided to bring back the blog, and start posting more content here again for my fellow teachers! </p><p>The good news is, instead of 6 years of experience, I now have 14 years of experience, bringing you more of what you need in quick, easy-to-digest, usable pieces. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.camppartridge.com" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="photo of Ashley L. Stout and Camp Partridge Logo" border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjET2tZf5dHH8pB96esYt78mTkrY4TEbJLj0UJBLXbs2yNYOUjlhKMblePt0xFwta7_ro_TqT7xOrHlpZbcCCb5vxwHyH8nPsVwsA-bPVrqPLBSQYETZYMYKSi-0mcANdlVMDogmfoExNc/w320-h320/Copy+of+Explore+and+expand+your+child%2527s+creativity+to+help+them+make+their+impact+on+the+world+with+Camp+Partridge%2521.png" title="the best online summer camps for children and teens" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>👉 The most exciting piece of news I wanted to share with you is that within the last year, I started my own company, <a href="https://www.camppartridge.com" target="_blank">Camp Partridge</a>! </p><p>⛺️ Camp Partridge is a place for teachers who want easy-to-implement lesson ideas, inspiration for their classrooms, and strive to make their classroom a place of collaboration, communication and deeper thinking. </p><p>⛺️ Camp Partridge is also a place for parents who struggle with remote learning and want to learn ways to manage their children's learning at home with less stress and more organization. </p><p>⛺️ Camp Partridge is also a place for children and teens who want to be digital creators and authors. We have fully online summer and fall camps for ages 10-16. If you know someone who would fit our programs, send them our way!</p><p>👉<a href="https://courses.camppartridge.com/pages/summer-camps-2021" target="_blank"> Check out our summer camps here. </a></p><p><br /></p><p>So, did The Real Teachr go away? Nope! I'm still right here, 👋 just a bit of a name change to fit with my new company. You're still getting the same great content in an easy to find place! </p><p><br /></p><p>If you've been around the blog for awhile, thanks for sticking around! If you're new here, welcome! I look forward to seeing you all around the blog more often!!</p><p><br /></p><p>Welcome, </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz-IkSJ2ljJBHPsjpbnba3L9d8IP3hFau-kPkKQz_P1CCenNZ2uKw89_dW96gRiBLIEiysHe3JIkmsh9iz180pDdMBRbApfPCdOiIG3ebys6Ioxw575DdJTgYvu7EvTtJKmnUEdXNn5fw/s1247/Untitled_Artwork.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="989" data-original-width="1247" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz-IkSJ2ljJBHPsjpbnba3L9d8IP3hFau-kPkKQz_P1CCenNZ2uKw89_dW96gRiBLIEiysHe3JIkmsh9iz180pDdMBRbApfPCdOiIG3ebys6Ioxw575DdJTgYvu7EvTtJKmnUEdXNn5fw/w121-h96/Untitled_Artwork.png" width="121" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Ashley Stout </b></span></p><p>Owner & Instructor</p><p>Camp Partridge</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>P.S. Want to know the meaning behind the name, "The Real Teachr?" Drop a comment below to let me know you want to hear the story! 😉</p>Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-43855776479294971962015-10-28T06:09:00.002-07:002015-10-28T06:12:06.188-07:00Edmodo Teacher GuideHey all,<br />
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I have been using Edmodo for years now, and I do think that it is a good tool for students to be able to communicate with one another online. It is an important skill for students to have a firm grip of in today's technology saturated world.<br />
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When doing some research for a Digital Citizenship Unit I am doing with my classes right now, I came across a really good resource for those new to Edmodo. It is an Edmodo Teacher's Guide that shows you (with screenshots) how to set up and manage your Edmodo classes! <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://qacps.schoolwires.net/cms/lib02/MD01001006/Centricity/Domain/128/Edmodo_Teacher_Guide.pdf">Edmodo Teacher's Guide</a></span><br />
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Happy Wednesday,<br />
Ashley :)Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-79341406461663368992015-10-27T11:21:00.001-07:002015-10-28T05:42:55.708-07:00Peer Feedback StrategiesThis year, as an AIG teacher, I am going into my 3rd grade classes to teach a one-week unit to the entire class. During this unit, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Doodles-Creativity-Narrative-Writing-and-3D-Art-Adventure-684692">3D Doodles</a>, we create a doodle on paper, and then we turn it into a stuffed doodle (similar to a stuffed animal). The great part of this lesson is that it uses only materials found in a classroom- tape, kleenex, paper and colored pencils or crayons.<br />
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I love everything about this lesson. It is well worth the $3! When finishing up the 3D doodle creation portion of the unit, I wanted my students to give feedback to each other, but for it also to be fun. I came across a few different peer feedback ideas, so I thought I'd share them with you.<br />
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<a href="http://www.assessmentforlearning.edu.au/professional_learning/peer_feedback/peer_strategies_enhance.html"><span style="font-size: large;">Stars and Wishes</span></a><br />
I had students fold a piece of paper in half and write Stars on one side and Wishes on the other. They left their stuffed doodle on their desk with this paper. Then we had about 15 minutes where we walked around and wrote Stars (things students did well) and Wishes (improvements that could be made- use the statement "I wish...").<br />
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I did this with a 3rd grade class and it worked well! Before we did this peer feedback though, we discussed what types of specific feedback we could give to others about their doodle. We brainstormed a list and kept it up on the SMARTboard during the Gallery walk around the room. This way, students could use some of the ideas we brainstormed to help them give thoughtful, specific feedback. Also make sure to remind them to only add kind feedback.<br />
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Finally I modeled what a specific piece of feedback would be for one of the student's doodles for Stars and Wishes. This helped to cement the idea of written feedback.<br />
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<a href="http://beckermiddleart.blogspot.ca/2014/04/t-g-peer-review.html"><span style="font-size: large;">TAG (Tell something you like, Ask a question, Give a suggestion)</span></a><br />
This is a cool strategy I'd like to try with 4th and up- I think it is simple but also effective. I will still model what it should look like when commenting and also discuss specific feedback with students.<br />
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<a href="http://onestopteachershop.com/2015/04/how-to-give-effective-and-meaningful.html"><span style="font-size: large;">Comments and Questions & The Spectacular Now and Next Time</span></a> are also great feedback strategies I'd like to try.<br />
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What Peer Feedback Strategies do you use?<br />
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Happy Tuesday,<br />
Ashley :)<br />
<br />Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-51521340728302680592015-10-19T05:32:00.001-07:002015-10-19T05:33:13.889-07:00Encouraging Voracious Reading<div style="text-align: start;">
I love the term "voracious reader." It sounds almost like you are a rabid animal that loves to read. In fact, sometimes I feel like that when I have an amazing book that I just can't put down! :)<br />
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This is a long post, but worth the read if you want to help your students to read more. There are a couple of freebies at the end of the post! :)<br />
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So many times, I get told by parents, "My child really doesn't like reading," or "My child loves to read, but doesn't read very much." They always want to know how they can get their child to read more, and I love that they are involved in this part of their child's life.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">I think that there are several main reasons why kids (and adults) don't read very much:</span></b><br />
-Too much TV, video games, phone time, etc. There are simply too many distractions for us all these days and it's easy to get sucked into doing meaningless things for extended periods of time if we are not conscious about it.<br />
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-Busy schedules and excuses. I get it. You're busy. You're student is busy. We're all so stinking busy! But take the time to think about how much time you spend on social media sites and ask your students to do the same (every 5 minutes here and there is nickle and diming you to death!), video games, computer time,taking breaks from homework to hang around your room, or how much time your're spending doing things that aren't really necessary. Books are easy to carry anywhere- read while waiting at the doctor's office, for practice to begin, etc. Steal minutes back from your day to read!<br />
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-Your student doesn't know him/herself as a reader and/or does not know how to find good books they'd really enjoy to read.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">How to help your child or student choose a great book:</span></b><br />
Talk with your student about<br />
-what they like to think about, dream about, and play at recess and at home<br />
-what they like to do; sports, instruments, drama, clubs, etc.<br />
-what movies and TV shows they like to watch (are they funny, sad, action-packed, mystery, etc.).<br />
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From this information, even if you are not knowledgeable about children's literature, you should be able to do a Google search to find a book that your child will enjoy. Also, find other parents, teachers, or students who read A LOT. These people are going to be key in helping you to find the right book for this student.<br />
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Before you recommend a book to a student, make sure the book is on their approximate reading level. If you are not sure what their reading level is, try the 5 finger rule. (Have students read the first full page of the book. If they make 5 or more mistakes, the book is probably too difficult for them. After I do this test with them, I ask the student how he or she feels about the difficulty of the book. If they feel comfortable with it, I will usually let them try it. Use you best judgement.)<br />
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Many times, I will do a Goodreads search. Their lists are GREAT ways to find new books you might like. All I do is type in Google "books similar to (a book I really liked)" and usually a Goodreads book list will come up that will give you recommendations of other books similar to the book you liked.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Goal Setting</b></span><br />
I've taught many different things in my nine years of teaching, but one thing has remained constant, if you don't have a goal, you have nothing to reach toward, and you will not achieve as much as you could have.<br />
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This is especially true in regards to reading. I'll be honest with you, before this year, I never set a goal for myself in reading. I always read a few books a year (maybe 5-10 books) and I felt ok with that. But when I realized that my students (whom I was giving class time to read) were only finishing about that many a year or less as well, I got really frustrated with the situation.<br />
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Then I realized that it was my fault. (I hate when that happens!) I read a book, The Book Whisperer by Donalyn Miller, and she talked about having a goal for your reading each year. In 6th grade, she suggests 40 books- I think any grades 3-8 can read 40 books in one year, but their level of text difficulty will vary throughout the grades.<br />
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Over the summer, I set a goal for myself to read 30 books, and I did! I was so proud of myself, and I read some really great books! Not only that, but every book I read made me even hungrier for new books. So I decided to try it with my gifted and talented students this year.<br />
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I made a book log (and a genre requirement), and had my students fill out books whenever they finished them. They choose ALL of the books they read. I've found this to be key in helping them to enjoy reading. We also briefly talk about the books we are currently reading each week, and I record what book they are currently on, so that I can also help keep them accountable.<br />
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I have students who hadn't finished a book in over a quarter, who've now read 4-5 books in the last two quarters, because I am helping to keep them accountable, and because they have a goal. Talk about your goals every couple of weeks. Tell your students where you are at with your goals. Ask them about theirs. These conversations will be invaluable to their reading lives.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>If you want your child to read more during the year, try these strategies:</b></span><br />
1. Set a goal with your child. Choose a number of books that they should read during the year. Allow your child to be a part of the process. Ask them how many books they think they can read during the year. (4th grade and up should be able to read 40 books during the school year. 3rd grade may be able to as well, but you may need to back that down to 25 or 30.)</div>
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2. Have your child keep track of the books they read throughout the year. Keep the list in a prominent place in your home. (ie: on the fridge, on a bulletin board, etc.)</div>
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3. Encourage your child to read different genres. Have a checklist- try to get them to read at least 2 books from each genre. This will help them understand different cultures, time periods, concepts, vocabulary, etc. This builds their background knowledge in huge ways.</div>
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4. <b> Most importantly, you (the parent or teacher) need to read.</b> Your students (or children) should see you reading and see that it is important to you as well. If you've never been much of a reader, admit that to your students. Tell them that you are taking this reading journey with them. Set a realistic but high goal for yourself. Keep track of the books you read and put your reading log in a prominent place, next to theirs.</div>
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One of the most important things in a child's reading life is for them to see that adults around them, parents, grandparents, teachers, etc. value reading. Talk about books with your students- this will go with them for the rest of their lives!</div>
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Happy reading,</div>
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Ashley :) </div>
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<img alt="40 Book Challenge Bundle" src="https://mcdn1.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/40-Book-Challenge-Bundle-1980680-1444761571/original-1980680-1.jpg" /></div>
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Want to try the 40 Book Challenge with your classroom or a small group of students? Check out my 40 Book Challenge Bundle below. It has everything you'll need to get started with the 40 Book Challenge! You can start this challenge at any time of the year. The first year I did the challenge with my students, we started in December, and we set our own goals.... the cool thing was, most of us read 40 books between December and June! There's no time like the present to start! :)</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/40-Book-Challenge-Bundle-1980680"><span style="font-size: x-large;">40 Book Challenge Bundle</span></a></div>
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Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-78083360099240634602015-10-19T05:28:00.002-07:002015-10-19T05:28:55.003-07:00Wide Reading<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Good morning! :)</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">I wanted to post something today on a very important topic, Wide Reading. To me, Wide Reading is the new term for someone who is "well read."</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Wide reading is basically reading a lot of texts throughout the year in many different genres. If you only read mainly one or two genres, you are missing out on a lot! Wide reading is challenging yourself to read stories, books, articles and texts from genres you would not normally choose to read.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">When you do this, you will gain much more knowledge than you would by reading books or texts from the same genre. Some of the main things you will learn from reading widely are:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">-building your vocabulary, background and academic knowledge on a wider variety of topics</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">-helps you understand life experiences better</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">-stretches your imagination further</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">-helps you to understand different genres- text structures, plots, characters, etc.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Below is a link to a handout I created for my students about Wide Reading. You can also find a basic genre list for fiction and non-fiction.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">If you are a teacher reading this, challenge your students and yourself to read outside your favorite genres. I used to have trouble doing this- I never would have thought I'd enjoy a book about vampires- I have never had a desire to read about them. But when I opened my mind to reading other genres, I decided to read Twilight, and I LOVED it. This has happened so many times with books and genres I never thought I'd read. Keep an open mind, and find a great book from a different genre. Challenge yourself- you never know what might come of it.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">If you are a parent reading this, encourage your child to read more widely- help them find books that are interesting to them in different genres. Also, if possible, let them see you reading different genres and texts. This modeling will help encourage them to do the same.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9nCkbGxuL81T25SdUJ6NFJXWjg/view?usp=sharing">Wide Reading Handout</a></span></div>
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Happy Reading,<br />
Ashley :)Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-75645627718281743592014-09-16T09:07:00.001-07:002014-09-16T09:07:19.402-07:00No Name WorkHow do you handle wor being turned in with no name on it? <div><br></div><div>I've tried a number of different things over the years, some more complicated and time consuming than others. </div><div><br></div><div>A teacher at my school has a simple way of handling no name work- and I love the simplicity of it! </div><div><br></div><div>She has a file folder (stapled shut along 3 edges) taped to her classroom door. This is where she puts all no name work for students to look through. Simple, but effective! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSM-5PPtuN-QxyzM72hye_LudBDaaE0qZ_pwLGk_bTBly6-VjtVha4b9jRoOJKJsJMYj8ituHhRk8JM0H9WpH2aCl5pDRDajAtCxXYayzTCDiH8RPNiPoxhyNQL__1qaWKupIa06VHNVU/s640/blogger-image-1309636769.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSM-5PPtuN-QxyzM72hye_LudBDaaE0qZ_pwLGk_bTBly6-VjtVha4b9jRoOJKJsJMYj8ituHhRk8JM0H9WpH2aCl5pDRDajAtCxXYayzTCDiH8RPNiPoxhyNQL__1qaWKupIa06VHNVU/s640/blogger-image-1309636769.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Do you have a great way to keep up with no name work in your classroom? If so, post a link in the comments below!</div><div><br></div><div>Have a great day!</div><div>:) Ashley</div>Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-14953229616836227322014-09-11T16:13:00.002-07:002014-09-11T16:13:45.763-07:00Websites & Apps I Use to Stay OrganizedHey Everyone :)<br />
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I wanted to share a couple of great websites and apps that I use to stay organized at school.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcfsUrMSumKYGxAg8A8TivieQJeK_bk1LNkeSATsC0jibT2DNpnzpnthGELbH6mwYJyOYZmFpnH4qG-AR5LF6FMGZrY0uuM6l31XGRAdi368LxnxsdoNN3er-kWdw_1fqRAzgABiKNb_A/s1600/evernote_ipad_wallpaper.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcfsUrMSumKYGxAg8A8TivieQJeK_bk1LNkeSATsC0jibT2DNpnzpnthGELbH6mwYJyOYZmFpnH4qG-AR5LF6FMGZrY0uuM6l31XGRAdi368LxnxsdoNN3er-kWdw_1fqRAzgABiKNb_A/s1600/evernote_ipad_wallpaper.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.evernote.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Evernote </span></a><br />
I cannot say enough good things about this app & website! I used to be one of those people who had about a thousand sticky notes all over my desk and wall, and at home, all over my nightstand. My sticky notes contain to-do lists, info I will need soon, etc. With Evernote, I pretty much rarely use sticky notes any more!<br />
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This makes me happy for 2 reasons: 1. I felt really bad for using all of that paper just to throw it away later when my to-do list was completed. Totally not sustainable. 2. This year I am at two different schools, and I would have to carry all of those sticky notes with me. Not sustainable either!<br />
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Another reason Evernote is so great is because I keep a tab open on my browser all day on my work computer next to my email tab. This way I can add to my to-do lists or delete from them when an item is done quickly.<br />
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The final reason I love Evernote is because they have an app! Anytime I am at home and I remember something I need to add to my school to-do list, I can add it right then and there from my smartphone or iPad! I used to either text it to my email or write it on my notes app and email it to myself. This saves time and is way easier!<br />
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You can organize Evernote in a lot of great ways. I have one "notebook" for school lists, and one "notebook" for home lists. I use this app & website daily! Want to be more organized easier and go paperless for those to-do lists? Get Evernote!<br />
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<a href="https://www.planbook.com/planbook.html"><span style="font-size: large;">2. PlanBook</span></a><br />
I came across Planbook a few years back, but was broke beyond broke and couldn't even afford the $12 per year for the membership. I ended up creating an Excel Lesson Plan sheet (and a couple of other variations on Excel) that kind of mimic the idea of Planbook. <br />
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This year I finally purchased a year subscription to Planbook for $12, and could not be happier! You can create your own customized schedule, type up lesson plans, add in Common Core Standards (from a drop down list!), and assign homework all from the website or app! <br />
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The amazing thing about the homework portion is that you can put the link to that class' homework on your website, and whatever you put in your Planbook for homework will show up when the student clicks on it. No double work for assigning homework!<br />
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It also saves your lessons from year to year, and if you are out and have a sub, all you have to do is print the day's plans! :)<br />
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Another great thing about Planbook is that they have an app! You can write lesson plans and assign homework from your smartphone or iPad! That rocks!<br />
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You can get a 1 month FREE trial of Planbook. I really liked that even though I purchased it halfway through the trial month, they still gave me the free month- so I didn't lose any of my free month by purchasing it early- I like that :)<br />
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Let me know what you think about these websites. What other websites & apps do you use to stay organized?<br />
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:) Ashley<br />
<br />Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-30147295071621342552014-08-25T07:25:00.001-07:002014-08-25T10:35:33.557-07:00Classroom Job Applications- Online!I love having Classroom Jobs! They are a great way for students to take responsibility and ownership in the classroom while helping you with tedious tasks that eat up a lot of time. <br />
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One of my favorite classroom jobs I have is the Classroom Librarian. I actually have 3 Librarian Positions. 1 Head Librarian, and 2 Classroom Librarians. The Head Librarian is the person who helps me check books back in once a week before or after school and shelves them. The other two librarians help students check out books once a week during class on our library day. <br />
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I used to have a paper Job Application form that I would have students fill out, but then I figured out an easier way to do that in a paperless way with Google Docs. Basically, I created a Form and then embedded it into my website. They fill out the online form and then the answers are sent directly to me! :) Super easy! <br />
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I am sharing the form below so that you can edit it as you need. Please note that I create a different form for each position. Each month when students would apply for new jobs, I would just delete all of the old information on the forms spreadsheet and use the same Forms again. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AtnCkbGxuL81dExLd0J2SkIweTZKREpjNXQwUzBvZ0E&usp=sharing">Online Classroom Job Application Form </a></span><br />
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Here's what the live version looks like:<br />
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If you are old-school (as I sometimes am as well ;) and like the paper version, you can visit my Teachers Pay Teachers store for a <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FREE-Classroom-Job-Applications-1413622">FREE copy</a> of the form I used. </div>
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If you'd like an EDITABLE version of the form, you are welcome to purchase it from my Teachers Pay Teachers Store<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Classroom-Job-Application-EDITABLE-1413626"> HERE</a>. :) </div>
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Thanks and have a great week! :) Ashley</div>
Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-74195272250599866702014-08-19T08:34:00.001-07:002014-08-19T08:35:23.296-07:00Back-to-School Sale!<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Browse/Search:ashley%20stout"><img alt="120 × 125" src="http://mcdn.teacherspayteachers.com/img/sale_banners/sale_120_125.jpg?rand=002278" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm participating in the Back-to-School Sale! Get 20% off ALL of my items in my Teachers Pay Teachers Store!! :) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Happy new school year! :) Ashley</div>Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-47642965609546092222014-08-12T05:54:00.003-07:002014-08-12T05:55:02.350-07:00Strategy Grouping Planning PagesAwhile back, I did a post on <a href="http://therealteachr.blogspot.com/2012/06/strategy-grouping-template-for-reading.html">Strategy Grouping Templates</a>. I love using any kind of organizational tool that will help me with keeping track of everything- sometimes it gets a little overwhelming!<br />
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So, I created these Strategy Grouping Templates to be used for organizing my Reader's Workshop, Math Workshop and Writer's Workshop small group and individual conference meetings for the week. I wanted something that wouldn't take forever to fill out, and something that would be easy for me to read at a quick glance. <br />
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I have the FREE templates for download <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FREE-Strategy-Grouping-Planning-Pages-for-Readers-Workshop-More-1388174">HERE </a>at my Teachers Pay Teachers Store. After uploading these to my blog awhile back, I've had many people ask for editable versions- my templates may not work seamlessly with each different classroom. I finally was able to add an editable version to my Teachers Pay Teachers store <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Strategy-Grouping-Planning-Pages-Editable-for-Readers-Workshop-More-1388160">HERE</a>. Check it out- hopefully they will be as useful to you as they have been to me! :)<br />
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<br />Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-80594008199131429072014-08-09T06:50:00.001-07:002014-08-09T06:51:03.531-07:00Tidy Tubs- Help with Managing Paper Scraps!I LOVE classroom organization! :) <br />
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I am forever searching the Internet to see what other organizational gems I can glean from other teachers. Today I came across something AMAZING! They are called Tidy Tubs! <br />
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Basically, whenever you have students doing a project where they are cutting any kind of paper (like for Interactive Notebooks, projects with magazines, etc), you give each group a tub of some sort that will be used for them to place their scraps in as they are cutting. This way, they keep their work area from getting cluttered and they are not going back and forth from the two trash cans in your room the entire time. <br />
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This is GENIUS! I've always struggled with how to keep from going insane with the mess during these projects, but now I feel like I have a real solution! :)<br />
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Check out the original post on Tidy Tubs <a href="http://rowdyinroom300.blogspot.com/2012/08/tidy-tubs.html">HERE</a> from Rowdy in Room 300. I teach older students and will still use the idea with them, but I probably won't make the baskets as cutesy :) <a href="http://whattheteacherwants.blogspot.com/2014/08/rachelles-classroom-reveal.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+WhatTheTeacherWants+%28What+The+Teacher+Wants%21%29">HERE </a>is another great example of the Tidy Tubs from another teacher over at What the Teacher Wants. (ps- her classroom photos are awesome!)<br />
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Hope this helps you-all as much as it did me!<br />
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Have a great day,<br />
Ashley :)Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-8355586114053021202014-04-15T14:20:00.002-07:002021-05-05T20:14:11.639-07:00Lesson Planning PagesHey everyone! :)<br />
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Today I thought I'd share a little bit about how I plan my week's lessons. I talked a little bit about it on <a href="http://therealteachr.blogspot.com/2012/06/creating-lesson-plan-book.html">this post </a>a while back, but I wanted to share my updated planning templates with you. <br />
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I liked the old template I used, however, I feel like the easiest way to plan lessons is to type them out- not handwrite them! That way, if I ever want to reference a lesson, reuse the same lesson plans, or tweak them, it is very easy to find them on the computer and it is also easy to tweak them to reuse them later if you are typing them out. <br />
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I've also found that Excel is a sweet way to create a lesson planning page- it is way easier to create a customized table to put all of your day's lessons in- so much easier than using Microsoft Word for the same task. <br />
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Here is the lesson planning page I currently use for teaching 5th grade- keep in mind that we are departmentalized here at my school in 5th grade, so I only teach ELA and Social Studies. This planning page would be perfect for middle school and high school as well.<br />
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Here is the lesson planning page I would use if I were teaching elementary (and not departmentalized)- just so that everything could be typed and fit on one page-- for me, keeping everything on one page is the easiest for planning and for keeping track of my lesson each day and what we accomplished! :)</div>
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Creating Lesson Planning Pages on Excel are fairly easy, but if you'd like to take the hassle and time right out of it, you can hop on over to my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Weekly-Lesson-Planning-Pages-Fully-Editable-909350">Teachers Pay Teachers Store </a>and purchase both plans on Excel (fully editable and customizable) for only $3! :) </div>
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If you have any great lesson plan organizational tips, please leave a comment below! </div>
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Thanks and have a great day,</div>
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Ashley :)</div>
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<div>-------------------------------------</div><br /><div><b>P.S. Did you know that I started my own company, <a href="https://www.camppartridge.com" target="_blank">Camp Partridge</a>? </b></div><div><br /></div><div>⛺️ Camp Partridge offers online camps for children and teens ages 10-16 who want to be <a href="https://courses.camppartridge.com/pages/summer-camps-2021" target="_blank">digital creators</a> and <a href="https://courses.camppartridge.com/pages/fall-camps-2021" target="_blank">authors</a>! </div><div><br /></div><div>⛺️ Camp Partridge offers online courses for <a href="https://courses.camppartridge.com/pages/parent-courses" target="_blank">parents struggling with remote learning</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>⛺️ Camp Partridge offers <a href="https://www.camppartridge.com/teachers" target="_blank">resources for your classroom</a>!</div><div><br /></div><div>I would be honored if you would share Camp Partridge with people you know who need or would enjoy our camps and courses! 🧡</div><div><br /></div>Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-26690886054716802172014-04-15T14:10:00.002-07:002014-04-15T14:10:52.365-07:00How I Stay Organized- A Peek at My Organizational Binders<div class="MsoNormal">
I love to be organized!! I think that without organization,
there’s no way I’d be able to teach. </div>
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Some people keep everything on their computers- and while I
do keep all of my files on my computer- I also like to have a hard copy of
things as well- I think this stems from my deep mistrust of computers. I always think back to Skynet and the
Terminator movies ;) </div>
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But in all seriousness, I do love to keep a hard copy- this
way I don’t have to be logged in to my computer to access all of my data. And until our school systems and teachers are
all doing everything online, there will be hard copies of things you will have
to keep track of. </div>
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I do love to create my own binder covers and make them fun-
I’m going to have to look at them daily for the next 9 months, so I need them
to make me happy! I created several
binder covers (and the matching spine labels- you can’t have a cover without a
matching spine label!) that have helped me IMMENSELY throughout the last few
years, and now I want to share with you how I organize my teaching life. </div>
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<b>Binder #1- The
Teacher Organization Binder<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioqu0arrJ7pDJaKqLxISJEIOLgcxXqVJUp7QyoU6CK1DmQ1YVbFjAcBqlW5M7HLWo2cEeo5VpH9I-tzDhC3tGFNYYgb6El1QSY2vRV_Wz9cqptJtZGn43_-LuqjYhEomR-7LPomje2Z9U/s1600/IMG_9033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioqu0arrJ7pDJaKqLxISJEIOLgcxXqVJUp7QyoU6CK1DmQ1YVbFjAcBqlW5M7HLWo2cEeo5VpH9I-tzDhC3tGFNYYgb6El1QSY2vRV_Wz9cqptJtZGn43_-LuqjYhEomR-7LPomje2Z9U/s1600/IMG_9033.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b></div>
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I could not live my day-to-day life without this
binder. I literally use it every
day! The sections in this binder are:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>To Do Lists</b>- A
page for my sticky-notes of my to-dos</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Info Lists-</b> Class
Lists, Photo Release Lists, Approved Parent Volunteer Lists, etc.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Calendar-</b> A copy
of the school calendar- where I write all important dates and meetings down.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Year Long Plans</b>-
A copy of our district’s year long plans, broken down by quarter.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Common Core Checklist</b>-
A list of all of the year’s Common Core objectives.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>IEP Info</b>- A quick
reference list of my IEP student’s modifications and needs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Lesson Plans</b>- A
copy of each week’s lesson plans. (I have these templates in my TPT store!)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Meeting Notes</b>- A
place to put any notes from school or parent meeting notes- I always know where
my notes are- it has come in handy more than a few times!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>PLT Meeting Notes-</b>
A place to keep notes and records of PLT meetings.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Student Info</b>- I
keep a list of my student’s parent contact info here and any allergy info as
well.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Lent & Borrowed
Items List-</b> A place to keep track of who you’ve lent things to- and who you
borrowed stuff from… trust me, you’ll forget if you don’t write it down!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Binder #2- The
Gradebook<o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKKN4I2cTFnaXL2XiRPSaKhXAVNXAoAgEkVnDVaXjabvbgrp67mFKcv2FoIbszhSnD7B-C8WnAF4TNfaNUZf9O81rWIwKclWUWdaZqGNTp__xM_RkWUBWVAEEqRtjx5iSZFjEip54uwqQ/s1600/gradebook1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKKN4I2cTFnaXL2XiRPSaKhXAVNXAoAgEkVnDVaXjabvbgrp67mFKcv2FoIbszhSnD7B-C8WnAF4TNfaNUZf9O81rWIwKclWUWdaZqGNTp__xM_RkWUBWVAEEqRtjx5iSZFjEip54uwqQ/s1600/gradebook1.JPG" height="320" width="248" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b></div>
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Now I know many of you, like myself have an online gradebook
that you use for all of your grading during the quarter. However, as wonderful as online gradebooks
are, there is always the risk that the data you inputted may not be there
later. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Each quarter, I print my final gradebook so that I have a
printed record of each student’s grades throughout the quarter, and this also
makes it so much easier when speaking with a parent in a conference to be able
to show them their child’s grades in print.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I also keep track of homework and morning work in a separate
section of my gradebook.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Binder #3- Parent
Contact Log<o:p></o:p></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiyjFJ6ZMXNDZdvjxsQ7dxdwk7n7Lp23gOTZ0FVT9sSp8RchFGmVNoExsHNX4KcbM45mHeAq4YJ8EniFhsEvkrcItHvPatfKaGrclLPx7_lymwzO3sH5mD0hkY9vaEsT2t1ohX-2jIoUU/s1600/parent+communication.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiyjFJ6ZMXNDZdvjxsQ7dxdwk7n7Lp23gOTZ0FVT9sSp8RchFGmVNoExsHNX4KcbM45mHeAq4YJ8EniFhsEvkrcItHvPatfKaGrclLPx7_lymwzO3sH5mD0hkY9vaEsT2t1ohX-2jIoUU/s1600/parent+communication.JPG" height="320" width="248" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHelQoQq7xchvtR3Aa_CDnIOsr4L-LcRLKUGRtV6822ff9kmLrbBwcIXvMD_BHpTogzSDC-ljcqzJHOBOHVjXN8_aTqtQ_1DChxY3w661FQdHiXTV4oh5sgje_rnneGEF8ateMVkhH2n8/s1600/parent+contact+form.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHelQoQq7xchvtR3Aa_CDnIOsr4L-LcRLKUGRtV6822ff9kmLrbBwcIXvMD_BHpTogzSDC-ljcqzJHOBOHVjXN8_aTqtQ_1DChxY3w661FQdHiXTV4oh5sgje_rnneGEF8ateMVkhH2n8/s1600/parent+contact+form.JPG" height="248" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b></div>
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This binder is essential.
I have a page for each student in this binder (pictured above) with their name at the
top. Any time I have to contact their
parent (with the exception of email), I make a quick note of the date and time
I spoke with them or sent them a letter or a discipline referral. I also write down if they’ve contacted me
with a note or a phone call, and will insert the note in the binder behind that
child’s paper. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This helps out so much if you need to go back and check your
records if a parent has a concern. I do
not keep track of emails sent and received from parents, because I send and
receive about 20-30 parent emails each day.
And I save every email I send and receive so that I have a record of
those. There is no need to write these
down, in my opinion. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Binder #4- <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Reading</st1:place></st1:city> Assessment Binder<o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi28RNTibEwromqCBWPFgBz1J_adt6Bz0EOBI4TC-N8NWLbkiWaKeDqentUaXdVkdH8lRdUZhmPHCdmQXO3TiVat4yayztCwVQf5Lu5bNEYnipPgJTscFYES2pB8hOF4g3akQA8xFqN69Q/s1600/IMG_4102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi28RNTibEwromqCBWPFgBz1J_adt6Bz0EOBI4TC-N8NWLbkiWaKeDqentUaXdVkdH8lRdUZhmPHCdmQXO3TiVat4yayztCwVQf5Lu5bNEYnipPgJTscFYES2pB8hOF4g3akQA8xFqN69Q/s1600/IMG_4102.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b></div>
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I am mainly a reading teacher, so I like to keep good
records on my students. Here are the
tabs in my Reading Binder:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Assessment Info</b>-
Benchmark testing data (ie: mClass scores, DRA scores, etc)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Reading Levels- </b>A
list of the reading levels of the students in my classroom.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Meeting and
Conference Planning-</b> a monthly calendar where I write which students I will
be meeting with on what days.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Conference Ideas</b>-
Ideas for individual meetings with students and what they need to work on.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Book Clubs</b>- a
place to keep the meeting checklists and work from student book clubs I’ve met
with each week.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Student Data</b>- any
other info or data on my students that I feel is important.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Anecdotal Notes and
Labels</b>- a place to keep address labels so that I can jot down something
quickly about the student and put it on their conference sheet.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Binder #5- Notes for
my Teacher</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82LKeyztJ61WUSjOpW9vZaAV4kZ3hf6UMsT5eI6OJfoihC9OHeDogzZepG_yYFJra4BBdxNNR5JS99b29ZhxI4sLtSA6Uqrt1Bsg4jDpESku5ndRqzRleyBU8vpdpVQXsDwp86UPY_4A/s1600/Notesforteacher1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82LKeyztJ61WUSjOpW9vZaAV4kZ3hf6UMsT5eI6OJfoihC9OHeDogzZepG_yYFJra4BBdxNNR5JS99b29ZhxI4sLtSA6Uqrt1Bsg4jDpESku5ndRqzRleyBU8vpdpVQXsDwp86UPY_4A/s1600/Notesforteacher1.JPG" height="320" width="244" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsuHB3OgVJnCAnxmINN3YiQ2szh36TaMr0NdEkElZVe8wc1kvWSi3K5oW0KnNg-mUQuUCjWOFw_i0_6jT-iAxwirrqB2kfh0BFmGcjlwZkeDrIgYOpMLS_kBCNg9UQOtOa2YwkMIwcIDQ/s1600/teacher+binder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsuHB3OgVJnCAnxmINN3YiQ2szh36TaMr0NdEkElZVe8wc1kvWSi3K5oW0KnNg-mUQuUCjWOFw_i0_6jT-iAxwirrqB2kfh0BFmGcjlwZkeDrIgYOpMLS_kBCNg9UQOtOa2YwkMIwcIDQ/s1600/teacher+binder.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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I love when my students are thoughtful enough to take the
time to write me a note or draw me a picture.
But if you’re like me, once you put one drawing up, 10 more students
have drawn you something to put up as well.
As sweet as this is, after awhile, your wall is littered with
drawings. When do you take them down? Do
you throw them away after you have? </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I saw this idea and I put it into place last year- and I
LOVE IT!! I made a “Notes for My
Teacher” binder, and put clear plastic protector sheets in it. Any time a student draws me a picture or
writes me a note, I make a big deal about it, thank them for it and tell them I
am putting it in my special notes binder.
I do it in front of them so that they know I am keeping it. It still makes them feel special, and you do
not have a wall of drawings falling off every day.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Also, at the end of the year, you can go through and clean
out that binder and use it again next year.
If a student spent a lot of time on something or you have something
sentimental in the binder you can keep it instead of wondering where it
went. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I hope this peek into my organizational binders has
helped! I urge you to create your own
binders (or revamp the ones you currently have) to help keep yourself
organized. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have all of the above mentioned binder covers will be for sale soon in
my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Ashley-Stout">Teachers Pay Teachers Store</a> individually and I am selling them as a pack
together (for a discounted price). Visit
my store if you’d like to see these guys! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Have a great day,</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ashley <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></div>
Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-26816263504048010082014-03-20T13:51:00.002-07:002014-03-20T13:51:41.507-07:00Making Your Own Digital Designs (and Binder Covers) is Easier than You Think!<div class="MsoNormal">
Have you ever looked at another teacher’s organized binders
(in person or online) and thought, “they must be so creative- their stuff
always looks put together and so cute!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some of you know that a lot of people purchase these items
on Teachers Pay Teachers, Teacher’s Notebook, or another site that sells
digital items. It is also possible to
find some items for free on these sites or directly on teacher blogs, just like
mine. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A lot of these digital goodies are designed using Photoshop
and other Adobe design programs.
Although these are wonderful (and I do own some Adobe programs,
including Photoshop myself), they are also extremely expensive. Most of the creating I do is done in Photoshop, but occasionally I do dabble with Microsoft Word. :)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today, I’d like to show you how to create your own really
cute, customized binders, labels, etc. for a relatively low cost- and best of
all, it will be just what YOU want, not what someone else has designed. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Microsoft Word is a very versatile program- you can do SO
many things with it! At first it may be
weird to use it to design graphic items if all you’ve ever done is type on it-
but once you get used to it, you will find your freedom and be able to create
some amazing things!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In today’s post, I’d like to show you how to create an easy
binder cover. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Creating a Custom Binder Cover:</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. First, you will
need a digital paper. Think of it as a
cute scrapbooking paper for your page.
You can Google Free Digital Papers to find some to download, go to TPT
and do the same, or your can download the papers from my store for free
today. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. Open up a blank
Word Document. Go to Insert, then
Picture (from file). Find wherever you
just saved the digital paper and click “open.”
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. You should now see
the digital paper in the middle of your Word Document. It should look something like this: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600"
o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f"
stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:405pt;
height:245.25pt'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\DOCUME~1\astout\LOCALS~1\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image001.png"
o:title="" cropbottom="2185f"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFfGshLtFw-y8JCa5NIZwtnwQFiqOEmCJCB3fF-zanqOaWH8i-ycn2QuGd9Qdw9AwwMiLnN03Y6SpN4a9lmVnYbKyVPoFsXZ9ELruzOfMPBVZrUxaUnx8Da27ZqdCBfVKh1WLc1_oMkgE/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFfGshLtFw-y8JCa5NIZwtnwQFiqOEmCJCB3fF-zanqOaWH8i-ycn2QuGd9Qdw9AwwMiLnN03Y6SpN4a9lmVnYbKyVPoFsXZ9ELruzOfMPBVZrUxaUnx8Da27ZqdCBfVKh1WLc1_oMkgE/s1600/1.JPG" height="193" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
4. This is
important: make sure your digital paper
is highlighted (the dots are on the corners of it), and then find your Picture
Tools. You should see a picture of a dog
with some lines through it. Click on that-
a drop-down box should pop up. Now click
“in front of text.” This will allow you
to move and enlarge the paper.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5. Next, drag the
corners of your digital paper until it fills all of the white part of your
paper. It should look like this:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcSdTh2sKNxtybY5eDwQWuwzSUNDZBH7td0F0iN9IWGpEiIW3IV3u8LVTunBtMOBdmK8E_tTzNFVvvPs3V3KXU0QYQTHiK35XXxsfCI4pSnGzBqja760ylyVAVoS_RRALfAfCJBQYhGJ4/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcSdTh2sKNxtybY5eDwQWuwzSUNDZBH7td0F0iN9IWGpEiIW3IV3u8LVTunBtMOBdmK8E_tTzNFVvvPs3V3KXU0QYQTHiK35XXxsfCI4pSnGzBqja760ylyVAVoS_RRALfAfCJBQYhGJ4/s1600/2.JPG" height="193" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1026" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:378pt;height:228pt'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\DOCUME~1\astout\LOCALS~1\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image003.png"
o:title="" cropbottom="2185f"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6. At this point, to
create something cute, but basic, go to your AutoShapes (under the Insert
tab). Under Basic Shapes, choose the
“sticker” you’d like to put your title on.
I usually opt for the rounded square- kinda classy, but not crazy and
not boring. Drag that shape onto the
middle of the page. Move it around to
wherever you like it. Here’s what mine
looks like: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1027" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:405pt;height:245.25pt'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\DOCUME~1\astout\LOCALS~1\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image005.png"
o:title="" cropbottom="2185f"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-RIZHXO6xGgEbXwQFJFeb52sYlDcLZOEt6gZyw0yZu6CWWc8GkCST11ITKUZ-PsFTuaXcGilQpiK4ZTEgT5EjBfullaarqeIOmQXxIl_9ybnyoRy-_eAFXU8_A5r_GGeZuyDh3PgaKE/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-RIZHXO6xGgEbXwQFJFeb52sYlDcLZOEt6gZyw0yZu6CWWc8GkCST11ITKUZ-PsFTuaXcGilQpiK4ZTEgT5EjBfullaarqeIOmQXxIl_9ybnyoRy-_eAFXU8_A5r_GGeZuyDh3PgaKE/s1600/3.JPG" height="193" width="320" /></a></div>
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7. Next, you can play
with the border line of the sticker you just put down and even the middle of
the sticker color. You can also layer
another sticker on the page to give you some depth. Here are some ideas: </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5YvwpvcvGNTBzYm3ZDS1k2buRFurwgEmPJM3sU0iNieB2ua-inhwJFXU9JgtidKe2MyAM3Dmv6PPRGc0epM-AvGJYn4uP5jQwb3KZQ0l5j1JyfSGrBZgQ6QtDivmanpLCBwvnir8U5Ts/s1600/4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5YvwpvcvGNTBzYm3ZDS1k2buRFurwgEmPJM3sU0iNieB2ua-inhwJFXU9JgtidKe2MyAM3Dmv6PPRGc0epM-AvGJYn4uP5jQwb3KZQ0l5j1JyfSGrBZgQ6QtDivmanpLCBwvnir8U5Ts/s1600/4.JPG" height="193" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Top Left corner I just increased the border
thickness. The one below it I changed
the border color and the fill color. For
the two on the right, I actually created another sticker and put it on top of
the other sticker already there. Then I
changed the fill and border colors of each.
Pick whichever style you like best.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
8. To add a title to
the cover, click “Insert” then “Text Box.”
Type in your text. You may then need
to make the Text box have “no fill” and the border have “no fill” as well. Play around with the text until you have it
to your liking and drag it into the exact center of the sticker box. Here’s what my final binder cover looks
like:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3JqGT8qwqUYxHItOUu88mZPl0I4cu8HbJDbcAl3HXU5OIddL2XVOr7E0CFAPQ61z-MsDR27lRHlNFH4uV9YxlK8P_JmVpOvoGTokalAN-8v7w1J8nb_L5jYNmmYjxgQAFFI1bZE63jc/s1600/5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3JqGT8qwqUYxHItOUu88mZPl0I4cu8HbJDbcAl3HXU5OIddL2XVOr7E0CFAPQ61z-MsDR27lRHlNFH4uV9YxlK8P_JmVpOvoGTokalAN-8v7w1J8nb_L5jYNmmYjxgQAFFI1bZE63jc/s1600/5.JPG" height="193" width="320" /></a></div>
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style='width:6in;height:260.25pt'>
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10. Print it out in
color, and you’re ready to go! </div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Note: If you’re like
me and have to have a matching spine label to go with it, no problem, just
repeat the process, but this time, turn the new document to “landscape” and
your paper will be read for the spine label.
Just remember that you will need to make it very thin. Here is my example below: </div>
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<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1030" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:6in;height:262.5pt'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\DOCUME~1\astout\LOCALS~1\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image011.png"
o:title="" cropbottom="1748f"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmeemXulmUvieNjt5WwGMfbKXv4b3zFzlUBoxGtixLwIBAjThZ1nfThITgKz8KZibOAMaqaiVus-NOH3ft8OxLYUZa6Y1QNn9hsIvJAn4Wwp2pSQHvQmdPitFTOOJMuNYaYL7BfypoQvQ/s1600/6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmeemXulmUvieNjt5WwGMfbKXv4b3zFzlUBoxGtixLwIBAjThZ1nfThITgKz8KZibOAMaqaiVus-NOH3ft8OxLYUZa6Y1QNn9hsIvJAn4Wwp2pSQHvQmdPitFTOOJMuNYaYL7BfypoQvQ/s1600/6.JPG" height="195" width="320" /></a></div>
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I just used the green dot on the top of the image to rotate
it around, then used the cropping tool to crop the paper image. </div>
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You can use this same technique to create anything! Hope this gives you lots of new ideas and
inspiration! Happy creating! <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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PS- I have lots of fun papers in my Teachers Pay Teachers
Store- check them out! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Neon-Dots-BW-Dots-Digital-Paper-1154134">Neon & B&W Dots</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Four-Leaf-Clover-Dots-Digital-Papers-1154140">Four Leaf Clover Dots (7 Colors!)</a></div>
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<br /></div>
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PS- To get some really awesome fonts, check out <a href="http://kevinandamanda.com/fonts/fontsforpeas/">Fonts for Peas</a> and <a href="http://misstiina.com/fonts/go/freefonts/">Miss Tiina's Free Fonts</a>.</div>
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If you are not really the creative type, please see my store for a set of pre-made binder covers!! :)</div>
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Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-61651994265222615562014-03-10T13:22:00.000-07:002014-03-10T13:22:02.900-07:00Digital Papers Now for Sale!<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve just uploaded some awesome polka-dot digital papers to
my Teachers Pay Teachers store. These
are perfect for any of your digital designs- including creating your very own
notebook covers! </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first set is a colorful set with seven different dot papers (including the yellow in the background):</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihvSFdvejs7E1ANfPyFJOW_HYu6FzyiPbxAsWTdZz_ReOlixNtnIgl_dCJ21SAZVlOrmjverQ4CKcjt1GCjiqoh280z7nPsjroWVuNnEGboKVEi_z80DsC9iaW0v0uDTO2j0R20vtFrp0/s1600/dot+papers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihvSFdvejs7E1ANfPyFJOW_HYu6FzyiPbxAsWTdZz_ReOlixNtnIgl_dCJ21SAZVlOrmjverQ4CKcjt1GCjiqoh280z7nPsjroWVuNnEGboKVEi_z80DsC9iaW0v0uDTO2j0R20vtFrp0/s1600/dot+papers.JPG" height="320" width="265" /></a></div>
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<o:p> The second set is a neon dot on white and a black and white polka dot paper as well- they coordinate well! :) The pictures below did not turn out as well- the papers you get are crisp and clear! :) </o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO9C-aKfn9f4mskShWTzJ9qiPiwhzb1xvRaw2927divftvVQ7VxLuRcq2447hU-2hlxPEtDoen_coOMUoPrODiz14UdP64hB5bQ8_J-nm6h4_3PMNR_P9CeQwkpIReAy5Suirzl8ZB0zE/s1600/preview+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO9C-aKfn9f4mskShWTzJ9qiPiwhzb1xvRaw2927divftvVQ7VxLuRcq2447hU-2hlxPEtDoen_coOMUoPrODiz14UdP64hB5bQ8_J-nm6h4_3PMNR_P9CeQwkpIReAy5Suirzl8ZB0zE/s1600/preview+1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNdzEty88UQ5mQtQTdE434zt1BOBVRsUyJxI06IkdDb8n0-vOZLiE1dNDGh_9xwTnrKbHkGSc4EgNLywT6xyZ8TOMCpWTTe5Z5IWvu7fJLlM95_WnwdaDiWL9zVLoZmJoJ5dfpXFEfNXQ/s1600/preview+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNdzEty88UQ5mQtQTdE434zt1BOBVRsUyJxI06IkdDb8n0-vOZLiE1dNDGh_9xwTnrKbHkGSc4EgNLywT6xyZ8TOMCpWTTe5Z5IWvu7fJLlM95_WnwdaDiWL9zVLoZmJoJ5dfpXFEfNXQ/s1600/preview+2.jpg" /></a></div>
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They are a great deal at only a few dollars per set- so
check them out! </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Four-Leaf-Clover-Dots-Digital-Papers-1154140">Four Leaf Clover Set on TPT</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Neon-Dots-BW-Dots-Digital-Paper-1154134">Neon Dots Set on TPT</a></div>
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Ps- stay tuned for a future post about how to create your
own Binder Covers to help you stay organized!</div>
Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-44488495751275715282014-02-26T13:08:00.000-08:002014-02-26T13:29:41.886-08:00STEM Economy Simulation Unit <div class="MsoNormal">
This year, I’ve challenged myself to make Social Studies more
fun. There are so many wonderful things
you can do to breathe life into a subject that many just pull out a textbook
for!</div>
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During first quarter, according to North Carolina Essential
Standards, we were to teach a unit on Economy.
Being in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Wake</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">County</st1:placetype></st1:place>, we have access to
online curriculum that is already developed for us. While the Social Studies curriculum is
becoming better and better, I still like to put my own spin on it and be
creative to help my students truly enjoy learning. </div>
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I created a short Economy Simulation Unit for my students-
to meet all of the standards, along with teaching them real-life skills and we
also had a little fun along the way!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QL3wOl2Wl6OGWHHvZLPZx6i8eE48ga7IAg34nLjB_PxlJQvB4HHaJ_w_XGPDFTjnctSR2B07wu0oYZqZim0SiAHcck02thEG0zNz0dBZQ7mjTrBx456bKPxU1-ycr_ML5HbTzdqHaKo/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QL3wOl2Wl6OGWHHvZLPZx6i8eE48ga7IAg34nLjB_PxlJQvB4HHaJ_w_XGPDFTjnctSR2B07wu0oYZqZim0SiAHcck02thEG0zNz0dBZQ7mjTrBx456bKPxU1-ycr_ML5HbTzdqHaKo/s1600/4.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcTbT-qw8ekRW1HjkxTFoGpeR4cSURBjgHwrY94gKEQ4FPxhxyHZm75wN6HtOE0S4UPIUeqWIvK3uGXqhnfPT2Zhh5vE6gqjbMlxvqMY5qNB11Rc-oQgLwljlrFH7KOew0FLybifgRK0U/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcTbT-qw8ekRW1HjkxTFoGpeR4cSURBjgHwrY94gKEQ4FPxhxyHZm75wN6HtOE0S4UPIUeqWIvK3uGXqhnfPT2Zhh5vE6gqjbMlxvqMY5qNB11Rc-oQgLwljlrFH7KOew0FLybifgRK0U/s1600/1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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First, we talked about all of the different bills and
payments that their parents pay each month.
Then, I had them choose (from a list I created) education, a job, a
place to live, car, bills, extras, etc.
Basically, having them choose what their life could look like. However, attached to these choices were
dollar amounts. Whichever job they chose
gave them a certain income per month.
They then would have to pay bills from this amount. Almost like a way more realistic MASH
(Mansion, Apartment, Shack, House- who remembers that game?!? ;)</div>
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My kiddos had so much fun choosing these “grown up” things
and then we talked about the hard part- making sure you have enough money to
cover all of your bills, and then paying the bills themselves. I gave them a Transaction Register Sheet
(just like in a checkbook) and had them fill it out as they filled out their
checks. They would make a payment to the
company by placing a filled-out check in an envelope with the company’s name on
it. </div>
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Of course I modeled (several times) how to properly fill out
a check and a Transaction Register Sheet.
I was worried that it might be too difficult for my 5<sup>th</sup>
graders to do all of this, but the really rose to the occasion! <br />
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But of course, what would life be without a curve ball or
two? To make this simulation a little
more interesting, I also allowed each student to choose 2-3 Entertainment Cards
after all of their bills were paid. I
had anything from free entertainment (hanging out with friends) to expensive
entertainment (going to a concert). </div>
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I also then made them choose 2 Fate Cards. These Fate Cards were to help simulate real
life situations- anything from a friend being able to fix your car for free,
having to buy a new tire for your car, or your car breaking down and having to
spend over $300 to get it fixed. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaN6IpiBiNMeYLJiYguYmeV2v7tn70fhtSJjT3HyklxNCTK0gUkhyphenhyphenItCNynsoBc-rQUnnfXuhyphenhyphenfgHmJyGZVbZ7Polppjq4GvExd-vIDWICl2JYj8oXnov2qQIeb5KWYOmb2ZNhxqsBWU/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaN6IpiBiNMeYLJiYguYmeV2v7tn70fhtSJjT3HyklxNCTK0gUkhyphenhyphenItCNynsoBc-rQUnnfXuhyphenhyphenfgHmJyGZVbZ7Polppjq4GvExd-vIDWICl2JYj8oXnov2qQIeb5KWYOmb2ZNhxqsBWU/s1600/8.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I think the most interesting thing to me was how the
students chose the entertainment cards and how they made their original choices
for cars, homes, etc. Some students
chose the most expensive of everything, but quickly saw that wasn’t going to
work on their smaller income. Some
students were more conservative with their choices and chose the cheapest of
each choice. And surprisingly, many
students chose the free Entertainment Cards- when there were many really good
choices for fun entertainment! </div>
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I also included a reflection portion on the back of the
foldable- I wanted my students to think about the simulation as a whole, their
choices and how that relates to real-life.
I used the Icons of Depth and Complexity to guide my questions and I
love how they turned out! (If you are
not familiar with the Icons of Depth and Complexity, please visit JTaylor
Education to find out more- they are life changing!)<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-s7Z1ou30eqb-F7n9p2bgPLJ-ZzLr-qw-glXXxW8gK7Jnd-fv-7u-ZRIU_IZXoe4w0qBNeo3alisWMKk2fTjPmbeiWTfmxHT84PzFNTSo8IHLf0dITYnXhjVPaSONMELm1Bf707KEO8/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-s7Z1ou30eqb-F7n9p2bgPLJ-ZzLr-qw-glXXxW8gK7Jnd-fv-7u-ZRIU_IZXoe4w0qBNeo3alisWMKk2fTjPmbeiWTfmxHT84PzFNTSo8IHLf0dITYnXhjVPaSONMELm1Bf707KEO8/s1600/7.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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This was such a fun Simulation Unit for me and for my
students. One of my girls told me that
she didn’t really like Social Studies until this year- a really cool
compliment, and who knows, maybe it will inspire her to realize a passion for
something!</div>
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I’ve put my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/STEM-Economy-Simulation-Unit-1135015">Economy Simulation Unit for sale in my TeachersPay Teachers Store</a>- it’s full of ALL of the documents you’ll need to do this
simulation in your classroom. Enjoy!</div>
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<br />
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<span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span> Ashley</div>
Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-22355784471301902252013-10-26T14:54:00.000-07:002013-10-26T14:54:49.306-07:00I have created a Teachers Pay Teachers store!! To access my paid and FREE items quickly, you can save it to your favorites! :)<br />
<br />
Thanks and have a great weekend,<br />
Ashley :)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Ashley-Stout">Ashley Stout's Teachers Pay Teachers Store</a></span></div>
Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-24439933940160356902012-12-04T14:30:00.001-08:002013-10-26T14:53:02.346-07:00Opinion Essay UnitFor a class that I took recently with a coworker and friend of mine, we had to come up with a way to incorporate more technology (specifically iPads) into our classroom. We then had to come up with a final project that uses the iPads.<br />
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Of course we decided to go crazy and revamp a unit I had already done and change it into the 7E lesson plan model. We are a STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Mathmatics) School and our lessons are mainly inquiry-based (that is our goal at this time). I love inquiry-based learning and have become a big fan of the 7E lesson plan model. If you are not familiar with it, you can view the framework for a 7E lesson <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1v35IfbO_H3ZqmRRgL8ykyGVo99AExy4LfQnsS8YI228/preview">HERE</a>.<br />
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So, with that said, my friend and I put together our project. I thought I would share it with you-all too! :)<br />
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This is a 5th grade Unit for an Opinion Essay, aligned to Common Core Standards. Start with the first link (which is the unit plan) and then you can find all of the handouts and teacher and student examples below. Thanks for reading! :)<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Unit Plan & Printables:</span></b></div>
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Everything can now be found on my new <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FREE-STEM-Opinion-EssayPersuasive-Essay-Unit-909289">Teachers Pay Teachers </a>store for FREE!</div>
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Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-60405351053487607472012-12-04T14:23:00.000-08:002012-12-04T14:23:19.377-08:00It's Been a LONG time!!Hey Everyone!!<br />
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I AM BACK!! This year has proven to be a lot more work than I anticipated. This is my 7th year of teaching and I thought I knew what to expect, however, it has been a lot more work than I thought (as always!) <br />
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But it has been a really good year so far- and I am blessed to be in a good school with wonderful co-workers! Thanks for your patience and not abandoning my blog! Check back soon for some freebies!!<br />
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Thanks and have a wonderful rest of your day!<br />
:) AshleyAshley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-23633658598067562642012-08-08T08:44:00.000-07:002012-08-08T08:49:00.286-07:00Math Facts Fluency Program {Online Free 1 Year Trial}Hey everyone! :)<br />
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Sorry I've been a little MIA lately. I finally was able to get into my classroom on Monday! It is a new school and a new classroom to me...so you know what that means-lots and LOTS of organizing and de-cluttering! (although that is one of my favorite parts about setting up my classroom is the organizing!)<br />
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Anywho, I wanted to share with you an opportunity that was shared with me via email. A company, Explore Learning, sent me an email about an opportunity for teachers to use their Internet-based Math Facts program for <a href="http://news.reflexmath.com/educatorgrant/">ONE YEAR for FREE</a>! They have a grant available now for teachers (you must apply before September 30th of this year). On their website, it says that the cost of the program for one year is $1,625. So getting this program for one year free is a pretty good deal!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">What is the program?</span></b><br />
From everything I've read, the program is a game-based Math Facts Fluency program, called <a href="http://www.reflexmath.com/home">Reflex: Math Fact Fluency</a>, that helps students to be able to practice and recall basic math facts in addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. <br />
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It also has an awesome-looking feature for teachers with a break-down of each student's data from each time they've been on the website!<br />
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And the other cool thing is that it individualizes instruction for each student automatically based upon a "pre-test" taken by the student at the beginning of each session.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Thoughts</b></span><br />
First of all, I want to say that I have never actually used this site. All information provided above is meant to be a quick snapshot of what the program offers. If you are in the least bit interested in what this program has to offer, PLEASE check it out for yourself! I simply wanted to let you-all know of a FREE opportunity that exists.<br />
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I am not a math teacher, however, when I did teach Math last year, I had the stinkin hardest time with my students in 4th grade not knowing their basic math facts. As any of you know who teach upper grade elementary students, this is a HUGE problem when you are trying to build upon the basic math skills! If I was teaching math today, I would definitely try this program out! It looks like it would be fun for students, give me some good data on them (knowing where they need the most help in regards to their basic math facts) and it seems like it would be great practice! Which is what they need. I mean, it's FREE, people! What have you got to lose? :)<br />
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I also saw on the grant page that if you fulfill the grant requirements, they will let you renew your subscription for one year for $99. Pretty sweet! Just make sure before you sign up that there is no fine print about requirements that you have to meet that you won't be able to meet.<br />
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If you missed the links above for the grant page and the main website, check out the links below:<br />
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<a href="http://news.reflexmath.com/educatorgrant/">Explore Learning Teacher's Grant</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.reflexmath.com/">Reflex: Math Fact Fluency Overview</a><br />
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What about you? Have you tried this program in your classroom?<br />
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<br />Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-74302433931831280832012-08-03T11:00:00.001-07:002021-05-05T20:14:58.017-07:00Absent StudentsWhat do you do when a student is absent from your class? There are lots of different ways of dealing with this. Last year, whenever I had a hand out, I would place one on the absent student's desk, and at the end of the day, I would paperclip all of the work together. <br />
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That wasn't organized enough for me, so I created a word document that I saved on my computer and would type out any day a student was missing. This is what it looked like:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmpji2dy45PhqCpkROdgNXJn7Ss4X_CLQC6Dkh3QrmtHRrF5iuAYJY_Jglo_Pp80jwRK85eFA7jjyQ8pqS4vt0KJOolg7ohVCHp3thOBlqkKJAZspvnvQ67_Z3ri2xsz487zDCJV6z85Q/s1600/Absent+Student+Sheet.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmpji2dy45PhqCpkROdgNXJn7Ss4X_CLQC6Dkh3QrmtHRrF5iuAYJY_Jglo_Pp80jwRK85eFA7jjyQ8pqS4vt0KJOolg7ohVCHp3thOBlqkKJAZspvnvQ67_Z3ri2xsz487zDCJV6z85Q/s400/Absent+Student+Sheet.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B9nCkbGxuL81UG9oRVIycElGN0k"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Absentee Make-Up Work Form</span></a></div>
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(I've uploaded both of the forms onto Google Drive as "Word" forms so that you can save and edit them for your personal use :)</div>
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It may sound like a ton of work, but once I had the template created, it was really very simple just to plug in the info for that student. And if you had two students missing on the same day, I just changed the name at the top of the page and printed another copy. This way, I had a copy saved in my computer of what the student had to do in case there were any problems with the parents having concerns about what was due. I also put a line on the bottom of the paper for a parent signature. The student was responsible for returning this paper with their work so that I knew the parents at least knew what their student's responsibilities were from the days they missed.<br />
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After I printed this page out, I would paperclip it to the papers and I would collect any materials that they needed to complete their assignments. <br />
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Even though this was an ok system, it wasn't great. Sometimes papers would get lost or crumpled in their backpacks, or I would accidentally forget to give them one of the things they needed to complete their assignments. <br />
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So this year, inspired by the <a href="http://www.lauracandler.com/backtoschool.php">Paper Drop System</a> by Laura Candler, I decided to make a directions/checklist sheet that I will glue on the front of a 9x13 envelope. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5UOZ0zp7DumemNjTVYqmyhZ6W1uwTzzcbwfrfWXftaLJKSi-8lIjmZndJYV9L9AiMJoTIzdSHsSCfp7n0j2iqnlmqvUAmPzbWksX-LcuziHmXWGnzOCTSiOwhVVncfUDvb7GEOQB1BAg/s1600/Absentee+folder+cover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5UOZ0zp7DumemNjTVYqmyhZ6W1uwTzzcbwfrfWXftaLJKSi-8lIjmZndJYV9L9AiMJoTIzdSHsSCfp7n0j2iqnlmqvUAmPzbWksX-LcuziHmXWGnzOCTSiOwhVVncfUDvb7GEOQB1BAg/s400/Absentee+folder+cover.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B9nCkbGxuL81bS00YzdFS05XeG8"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Absent Folder Cover</span></a></div>
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(For some reason it wouldn't accept the clip art... so you can download your own clipart for the top of the page. Also the font I used for the title is called "A Truer Blue" from <a href="http://www.kevinandamanda.com/fonts/">Kevin and Amanda Fonts</a>. The other font I used was Century Gothic.)<br />
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Then, after gluing this on the envelope, I will laminate the entire envelope to make it more sturdy. All of their paper, materials and the sheet above will be put into the envelope. The checklist will show all of the materials needed so that they won't forget any if they are gathering the materials, and so that I won't forget any if I have to gather the materials. Because the envelope will be laminated, I will use a wet-erase marker to check the supplies on the folder. <br />
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I plan on making several so that I will have enough if I have several students out at one time. <br />
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How do you handle absent students in your classroom? Your thoughts & ideas are always appreciated!! :)<br />
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<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>-------------------------------------</div><br /><div><b>P.S. Did you know that I started my own company, <a href="https://www.camppartridge.com" target="_blank">Camp Partridge</a>? </b></div><div><br /></div><div>⛺️ Camp Partridge offers online camps for children and teens ages 10-16 who want to be <a href="https://courses.camppartridge.com/pages/summer-camps-2021" target="_blank">digital creators</a> and <a href="https://courses.camppartridge.com/pages/fall-camps-2021" target="_blank">authors</a>! </div><div><br /></div><div>⛺️ Camp Partridge offers online courses for <a href="https://courses.camppartridge.com/pages/parent-courses" target="_blank">parents struggling with remote learning</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>⛺️ Camp Partridge offers <a href="https://www.camppartridge.com/teachers" target="_blank">resources for your classroom</a>!</div><div><br /></div><div>I would be honored if you would share Camp Partridge with people you know who need or would enjoy our camps and courses! 🧡</div>
<br />Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-56429723728384865032012-07-31T06:16:00.001-07:002021-05-05T20:14:40.499-07:00Classroom JobsClassroom Jobs are a great way to give your students more responsibility, help them to take ownership in the classroom, and to free you up from easy tasks that take up too much time. I am totally a fan of classroom jobs!<br />
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Last year was the first year I was a classroom teacher- I had never had students in my classroom all day or even for a long enough time period to make classroom jobs worthwhile. When I was able to use them, however, they rocked! It was wonderful to have students help me do the jobs that take up so much of our precious time! <br />
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<b>So here's what I did: </b><br />
I thought of all of the jobs I wanted students to take care of in my classroom. Then I got some Library Pockets from the local teacher store and created a little chart area under my SMARTboard. I labeled each Pocket with a specific job title. Then, I wrote all of my student's names on index cards. I let them keep their job for one week, then I would rotate all of the cards down the list one spot each, and I had an extra pocket for the extra students who didn't have jobs. I would pull a card from the front of the extra pocket to put in the very first spot on the list after I'd moved all the cards down one spot. <br />
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Looking back on this system, it was ok...it worked fine... but it wasn't GREAT. So I researched what other teachers did. I really liked the idea I found on one blog where the teacher had a job for EVERY student. This way no one feels left out AND it gives them a sense of purpose when everyone is doing a classroom job.<br />
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Another thing that didn't work GREAT for me was having to switch out the jobs every week. You would think that it takes seconds (which it doesn't take long), however, at the end of the week sometimes I would forget or just think I would do it Monday morning.... it kind of became a thorn in my side... and it was annoying. Several teachers blogs I've read use a Classroom Job Application. Students apply for the job they want (and add 2 back up choices) and tell WHY they want that job. Then the teacher decides which student would be best for that job. The students keep this job for a whole MONTH. No switching of cards every week- just once a month. Then the next month they apply again for another job. I really like this idea because it gives them more choice in the matter and I feel like they would take it more seriously if they actually had a say in what job they got. If you are doing this type of system with your class, I would suggest having jobs for EVERYONE- just because it would be a whole month before a student could get a job if they didn't have one.<br />
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This year I will be teaching 5th Grade Language Arts... so I will see 3 classes of 5th grade instead of just having one class all day. I still plan to have classroom jobs, but I think I am going to just split the jobs up between the classes. That means not all students will have jobs. I am also going to use the Classroom Job application system, and only change out the jobs once a month. I wish I could have jobs for everyone- but sometimes it just doesn't work out that way. (I mean, I could probably create jobs for everyone, but I don't want to keep track of 90 jobs!! ;)<br />
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Also, instead of just writing names on index cards, this year I am going to use my classroom numbers- I picked up an awesome set from <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/BLACKLINE-DESIGN-NUMBER-CARDS-for-CLASSROOM-MANAGEMENT">Clutter Free Classroom's Flash Freebie</a> one day... and they rock!! If you have the money, I would definitely suggest getting them! If not, check out the links below for some other great FREE classroom numbers!<br />
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I couldn't find any Classroom Job Applications that I liked for my older students, so I ended up creating one... you can download it for FREE below! :)<br />
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<span style="color: red;">**Update 8/25/14- I have uploaded an EDITABLE version of this Classroom Job Application at my Teachers Pay Teachers store.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FREE-Classroom-Job-Applications-1413622">FREE Version</a></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Classroom-Job-Application-EDITABLE-1413626">EDITABLE Version</a></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Below are some awesome links to FREE Classroom Job Applications and Job Posters & Cards for your classroom:</span></b><br />
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B_KFkXp61byuLXZQbWFlNFIwclE/edit">Cute & Customizable Classroom Jobs AND Classroom Job Application </a> (from <a href="http://ayearofmanyfirsts.blogspot.com/2012/07/classroom-job-display-cards-free-and.html">A Year of Many Firsts</a>)<br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Owl-Themed-Classroom-Jobs">Owl Themed Classroom Jobs</a> (from <a href="http://middlegradesmaven.blogspot.com/2012/06/new-position-and-freebie.html">Middle Grades Maven</a>)<br />
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6zC45cAimWuZTI5OGUxMTAtYWFjZS00Mzg5LWJkYTYtOGZmNWEzMzBhODU1/edit?hl=en">Hollywood Themed Classroom Jobs</a> (from <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2011/08/free-for-all-friday.html">First Grade Parade</a>)<br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Classroom-Job-Labels-AtHomeInFirst">Red & Light Blue Background Classroom Job Labels</a><br />
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B1Nqou3fOm91YzhjYWE4YmQtM2I4Yi00NzA5LThmNDgtYzUxZmJlY2Q1NWNj/edit?hl=en">Plain Background Classroom Jobs</a> (from <a href="http://whattheteacherwants.blogspot.com/2011/08/management-monday-classroom-jobs.html">What the Teacher Wants</a>)<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">FREE Classroom Numbers for your Library Pockets (simply print and then glue on an index card & laminate)</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/classroom-numbers-free-printables">Brightly Colored Class Number Circles</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Hollywood-Student-Number-Cards">Yellow Stars w/ Red Background Class Number Circles</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Zebra-Number-Circles-Freebie">Zebra & Lime Green Class Number Circles</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Dot-Number-Labels">Dr. Seuss-like Red and Teal Blue Class Number Circles</a><br />
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Do you have any tips or suggestions for classroom jobs? What works in your classroom?<br />
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Rawr,<br />
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<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>-------------------------------------</div><br /><div><b>P.S. Did you know that I started my own company, <a href="https://www.camppartridge.com" target="_blank">Camp Partridge</a>? </b></div><div><br /></div><div>⛺️ Camp Partridge offers online camps for children and teens ages 10-16 who want to be <a href="https://courses.camppartridge.com/pages/summer-camps-2021" target="_blank">digital creators</a> and <a href="https://courses.camppartridge.com/pages/fall-camps-2021" target="_blank">authors</a>! </div><div><br /></div><div>⛺️ Camp Partridge offers online courses for <a href="https://courses.camppartridge.com/pages/parent-courses" target="_blank">parents struggling with remote learning</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>⛺️ Camp Partridge offers <a href="https://www.camppartridge.com/teachers" target="_blank">resources for your classroom</a>!</div><div><br /></div><div>I would be honored if you would share Camp Partridge with people you know who need or would enjoy our camps and courses! 🧡</div>
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<br />Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-22992649574239849512012-07-30T08:54:00.001-07:002012-07-31T12:24:50.494-07:00Advice for New TeachersToday's post is inspired by Stephanie over at <a href="http://teachinginroom6.blogspot.com/">Teaching in Room 6 </a>(one of my most favorite blogs!). Today she shared a really encouraging post about when she was a first year teacher. I think that every teacher remembers their first year of teaching. Lots of difficulties and stress and things you aren't prepared for. (Hopefully that isn't discouraging to you- I just want to let you know that it is normal to feel that way and that others feel that way too! :)<br />
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So, I am linking up with her blog today to share a few pieces of advice from things that I've learned in my 6 years of teaching. Hopefully it will help you :) And after you're done reading my post, click on the picture below to check out the post on Stephanie's page to find lots more good advice for new teachers!<br />
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<a href="http://teachinginroom6.blogspot.com/2012/07/a-story-of-my-first-year.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TeachingInRoom6+%28Teaching+in+Room+6%29"><img alt="teachinginroom6.blogspot.com, education, upper grade, 5th grade, 4th grade" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxrjxgafQUC-pt60whmnmIuAYEqx7QOz9kGNhkn2iNDU5qf_UGuZIwn7HQeTaZb8OS9-L041I1Xk6m40ETE4DhWM8MgBSFI9ngswtGUWso686ipvZWP4Kd6wH3rmL2sU9WDf0VFQORROE/s320/Slide1.jpg" /></a>
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<b>1. Whatever you go through in your first year of teaching, know that you are NOT ALONE.</b> </div>
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Believe me when I say that new teachers all over the world are dealing with some of the same feelings and issues you are dealing with. It's ok! It's normal!</div>
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<b>2. Find another teacher that you can talk to on a personal level. </b> </div>
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I was blessed to have 4 good friends who were also teachers and we all taught our first year at the same time! We would get together once a month just to hang out. We would talk about everything going on at school and help each other out with ideas and things that worked for us. But I think the best thing about having 4 friends who were first year teachers was that I realized that they were dealing with the same things I was going through. It made me feel less stressed and more normal... and helped me to realize that even though I wasn't a great teacher, that I wasn't a failure either.</div>
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<b>3.</b> <b> Read the book, <u>The First Days</u> <u>of School </u>by Harry and Rosemarry Wong & take their advice to heart. Follow what they say to do in the book! </b> </div>
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My college professors told us to read that book... and I didn't listen. I actually just recently read it- MAN! I totally wish I would have read this BEFORE I first started teaching. It's funny, because I actually do most of the things that they suggest in the book- only I learned that I needed to do that stuff the hard way. There are SO MANY great ideas. It is definitely worth a read. </div>
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<b>4. Classroom Management is KEY. </b></div>
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If you can't keep your students in order, you will not get much teaching done. Spend your first week mostly going over your classroom and school procedures and routines. (If you are not sure what procedures and routines you should have in your classroom, The First Days of School has a GREAT list on page 193 to get you started. You may not need all of these procedures, but I think it is a great list for ANY teacher.) Don't worry too much about curriculum the first week. And after the first week, continue having your students practice your procedures and routines for at least the first month of school. If they can learn your procedures and routines, then your class will flow more smoothly the rest of the year!</div>
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<b>5. Make sure to ask for help.</b></div>
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I know this is a repeat of advice from Stephanie's blog, however, it is SO important. Before the school year starts (I'd even say before your teacher's meetings start), make a list of questions to ask your mentor teacher, principal or the office ladies about the school's expectations, procedures, etc. This way you will not be going through your day and a question comes up and you have no idea what to do. (For example: field trips- how far in advance do your lunch ladies need a lunch count in order to order food for sack lunches for your field trip? If you don't know the answer to this in advance, this might cause a problem for you being able to get sack lunches for your field trip or if you can get them, it could cause frustration between you and the lunch ladies for not getting the order to them soon enough.) Now don't let this stress you out- there is no way you can ask EVERY question before you will need the answer. However, if you have a good list of questions to start off with, then it will reduce the number of times situations like the one above will occur. </div>
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Also, don't be afraid to ask. (I know some of you look at that statement and laugh, because you are not afraid to ask anything to anyone! :) But for some of you, you might be afraid to ask because you don't want to seem like a bad teacher or you don't want to bother someone with your questions. Please know that you ARE NOT a bother! And no one has it all together! I'm sure I asked the office ladies 5 questions a day (at least) for the first semester I taught during my first year of teaching. They always were polite and answered all of my questions! <a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B9nCkbGxuL81cEtwaWV2OVJhYWM/edit#">HERE </a>is a list of questions that I've come up with to ask when you are new to a school district to get you started.</div>
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Hope this is helpful! If you have taught and would like to share some advice for new teachers, you can link up with Stephanie's blog by clicking the link above, or you may leave a comment below! Thanks so much for reading!</div>
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Marking my spot, </div>
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<br /></div>Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-72026783844800384532012-07-28T11:10:00.002-07:002012-07-28T11:10:31.840-07:00Brain BucksOne of the blogs I follow, Corkbord Connections, written by the WONDERFUL Laura Candler has a really cool post on "Brain Bucks," which are tickets that are handed out to students for a variety of reasons (such as creative thinking, etc). I LOVE this idea! <br />
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Check out the post on Brain Bucks <a href="http://corkboardconnections.blogspot.com/2012/07/motivate-with-brain-bucks.html">HERE</a>. Grab the FREE copy of her Brain Bucks template <a href="http://www.lauracandler.com/filecabinet/misc/brainbucks.pdf">HERE</a>.<br />
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Hope you are having a wonderful weekend! :) AshleyAshley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3778797365151123079.post-82248230411456629082012-07-27T08:18:00.001-07:002021-05-05T20:15:37.516-07:00Lost Tooth EnvelopesHappy Friday!! Only a few more Fridays of summer left! I have been busy working on stuff for my classroom and I want to share with you one of my new favorite projects I've created! <br />
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I've always had the problem of students loosing teeth in my classroom. It doesn't happen all of the time, but it occasionally does. Then I have to send them to the nurse to get an envelope so they can take their tooth home. <br />
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I dislike the interruption and the fact that the student is missing out on class time. What if the nurse is busy and can't see my student for a few minutes? So this year, I've decided to have some "Lost Tooth" envelopes to keep in my classroom in case this situation arises. (Now, of course I will let them go to the restroom to rinse out their mouth, etc.) But I will no longer have to send them to the nurse to get something to hold their tooth in!<br />
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I searched and searched the internet for a "cool" tooth envelope (due to the fact that my kids are in 5th grade), but couldn't find one.... so I decided to make some of my own! :) I really dig these and think they are pretty cool!! :) Plus, they are small, so that the older kids can just slip them in their pocket and not have to worry about carrying something around all day.<br />
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I am sharing my lost tooth packets with you today! :) Just click on the link below to grab the freebie! I also have posted a tutorial below on how to put them together... you may not need it... I just hate following directions and would rather see pictures! :) Enjoy!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B9nCkbGxuL81dUpqUzNPYlhwRHM/edit#">Lost Tooth Envelopes</a></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;">(for some reason when you view the file in Google Docs, some of the envelopes look messed up... but when you download the PDF, they are fine! I have no idea why they look messed up on Google Docs!)</span></b></div>
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<b>Tutorial:</b></div>
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<b>Step 1:</b></div>
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Print desired Lost Tooth envelopes & cut out. (Note: Printing the black & white ones on colored paper gives it a little more panache :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv-AMUjR_2OJBMBB30qzX-badWrcfD5eJWBqCbnGwyjrTglImrhyphenhypheno9JUBYF98IGTBBynMfmbYqYUinkwEQFfRGMkvTi1A5KmB5C0hDRw96ga94S4hek-Bkn_hmsP2hxMaBsJlBZ6quD3A/s1600/1w.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv-AMUjR_2OJBMBB30qzX-badWrcfD5eJWBqCbnGwyjrTglImrhyphenhypheno9JUBYF98IGTBBynMfmbYqYUinkwEQFfRGMkvTi1A5KmB5C0hDRw96ga94S4hek-Bkn_hmsP2hxMaBsJlBZ6quD3A/s400/1w.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Step 2:</b></div>
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Flip the envelope over and fold all of the tabs toward the back side.</div>
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Step 3:</div>
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Put one dot of glue on the bottom tab right next to the small right tab (if you are looking at it from the back side).</div>
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<b>Step 4:</b></div>
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Fold the small right side tab over the bottom tab and press where you put the dot of glue.</div>
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<b>Step 5: </b></div>
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Put small dots of glue along the bottom and right side tabs. (careful! do not over-glue!)</div>
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<b>Step 6:</b></div>
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Press the large left-side tab down onto the dots of glue. Press and hold for about 20 seconds where all of the glue spots were.</div>
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<b>Finished Product: </b>(the picture is poor quality, but it's pretty cool, eh?!)</div>
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<b>Names:</b></div>
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I left all of the top tabs of the envelopes blank with no graphics so that you or your students could write their name on it in that space. That way if the envelope gets lost somewhere in the school, they will know who to send it to! :) P.S. I plan to tape mine shut after they put in their tooth.</div>
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<b>For Younger Students:</b></div>
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If you are afraid of your little ones loosing their tooth envelopes, you might want to put in the tooth, tape it shut and then put a hole punch through the top and attach a piece of yarn so that they can wear it as a necklace. Just make sure they are a student that can handle that and won't get into trouble or hurt themselves (or someone else) with it ;)</div>
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Hope you enjoy these! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">:) Ashley</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div>-------------------------------------</div><br /><div><b>P.S. Did you know that I started my own company, <a href="https://www.camppartridge.com" target="_blank">Camp Partridge</a>? </b></div><div><br /></div><div>⛺️ Camp Partridge offers online camps for children and teens ages 10-16 who want to be <a href="https://courses.camppartridge.com/pages/summer-camps-2021" target="_blank">digital creators</a> and <a href="https://courses.camppartridge.com/pages/fall-camps-2021" target="_blank">authors</a>! </div><div><br /></div><div>⛺️ Camp Partridge offers online courses for <a href="https://courses.camppartridge.com/pages/parent-courses" target="_blank">parents struggling with remote learning</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>⛺️ Camp Partridge offers <a href="https://www.camppartridge.com/teachers" target="_blank">resources for your classroom</a>!</div><div><br /></div><div>I would be honored if you would share Camp Partridge with people you know who need or would enjoy our camps and courses! 🧡</div></div>
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<br />Ashley Stouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01612699204143591035noreply@blogger.com