We had an assessment today on conjunctions and interjections. I was pleased to see some awesome growth on their test but I was more pleased with their comments.
For my students who finish early, I have them write me a note on the back of their tests. It could be about their clicks and clunks, it could be about the book they're reading, it could be about their spring break plans. It's a simple way for them to communicate with me privately about their learning, share information and not disturb others who are still testing (a solid win-win).
While I was grading, I found these gems:
(Her task was to write a sentence with correlative conjunctions. I'd say she nailed it!)
Yes, she wrote about shoes and shopping. I think I'm proud? Maybe I talk about my love of shoe shopping too often?
Second gem:
Yes, he gets it. I understand that sometimes, you simply can't put a book down. Our rule is not to spoil the reading for others.
Third:
Sometimes you can't pick a book to talk about...so you pick two.
Lastly:
I love that they love reading. I love that their little notes to me are a glimpse for me to see what's going on inside their brains. I love that reading is occupying most of their thoughts!
As I wrote yesterday, my students are
I found two more:
Yes, grammar is tricky. At least my students have not only grasped, but internalized the growth mindset. He'll get there!
And here is just a heartwarming one about the importance of college and perseverance.
Good job fifth graders, you made me proud.
In the spirit of the holidays, I've decided to compile a list of some of my favorite free things, all from TpT.
I did not make these products but love using them in my classroom!
Item 1: Schedule Cards
These adorable cards were made by Cara Carroll and available free here! She's included so many subjects and they're perfect for almost any classroom.
Here's a snapshot of them in my classroom:
When combined with green marker and a funky polka dot border, our schedule gets a lot more fun in fifth grade! Since they have different specials each day, I just use a magnetic clip to keep them organized.
Item two: Star Wars fluency posters
I'm a nerd, I'll embrace it. There are superhero and Star Wars things all over my classroom. I'm not ashamed of it :)
So when I found these adorable freebies:
I literally squealed in delight! Then of course, forwarded the link to my grade level because who wouldn't want R2D2 helping out their students?
This gem was made by Jane Loretz and is available here on TpT. Use the force to go snag yours.
Item 3: Grammar Cheat Sheet
I struggle with teaching grammar, especially to my second language learners and inclusion students. Maybe that's why I love this cheat sheet:
Created by Jen of Hello Literacy and available here, this cheat sheet is a great reference. I have students place a copy in their writing binders as a resource.
Item 4: Bookmarks
While Carly Rae's song may be a little dated at this point, I still love these free bookmarks:
Available here and made by Kathryn, my students get a kick out of these. Anything to encourage reading, right?
Item 5: Author's Craft
Another great freebie from Jen at helloliteracy!
It goes great in our reader notebooks :)
What freebies would you add to the list?
