Every couple months I will see an Instagram post from a teacher I'm following offering activities for common exception words. Many school districts require common exception rules to be taught. So, whether you agree with it or not, this may need to be done. What is this list and how is it used? Define Common Exception … [Read more...]
Spelling Rules – Do You Teach Them
Recently a teacher I follow posted a Teachers Pay Teachers Product focusing on the "Common Exception Words". I stopped scrolling. I saw words on the lists that I knew didn't belong on there because there are spelling rules to support the spelling of those words. Spelling is a thing for me. It always has been (except during high … [Read more...]
Day Plans for Teachers – Effectively Use Them
How do you organize your teaching day? Are you a planner or do you wing it? I shared some day plans (templates) with a colleague a couple years ago and was recently asked to elaborate on how I use them. I have used the same set of day plans for years, but now with blended learning, I've had to tweak them. Let me share with you … [Read more...]
Unit Plans Vs Lesson Plans – What’s the Difference
After writing reports, I start re-thinking my unit plans and lesson plans. What has been working? What needs an overhaul? Maybe you are about to get your first teaching position and will be writing your first lesson plans and unit plans over the Christmas break. What is the difference between them? Keep reading! Unless you want … [Read more...]
Literacy and Research For Primary Students
This past Friday I attended an Early Literacy workshop and the presenter gave a lot of research to support her talk. Most of her ideas I completely agreed yet one still stands in my face. Let's start with the excellent stuff she said. My Promise to You I love this quote she provided from Valerie Welk. Isn't this so true? I … [Read more...]
Teaching Handwriting in the Primary Grades
(There is a Method to My Madness) Years ago I taught at a small private school that had all the teachers from K-7 teaching the same handwriting and spelling program. When I arrived I thought it was nuts. When I left, I thought it was brilliant. I still teach handwriting they way they showed me, with a few … [Read more...]
