LESter's Teacher Talk
Lawrenceville Elementary School Staff Newsletter
The Book Study Teaser
We will begin our book study January 19 in lieu of a data meeting. We will read together for the first 20-25 minutes and then take part in some discussion activities. If anyone would like to lead a discussion activity, please let me know. If you didn't pick up your book, stop by soon. Almost out of the Mindset book.
Think, Think, Think...
The focus of this book is to help create a community of thinkers by implementing specific "Thinking Routines" which assist in the introduction, exploration, organization, and discussion of ideas with your students.
Inquiry
The authors of this book walk you through the rationale behind utilizing Inquiry Circles to maximize student understanding. Specific lessons are offered to enhance your practice.
Theory to Practice
Building upon Carol Dweck's work, these authors share habits and "stances" that will engage and help build a happier, more successful student.
The "Day of" Series
Up Next...Day of Play!
Since the Day of Code was such a huge success and ideas for other types of events have been offered, LES will take part in what will turn out to be a "series" of special event days this year. Since it is the first year, we will only have 4. It all started with the Day of Code. Our next one will take place on February 3, 2016-The Day of Play. Ms. Pileggi and I will be sharing more about this event at the faculty meeting on Monday. Later this year, we will take part in the final two; "Day of Making" and "Day of Reflection." If you have ideas for more "Day of" events, please let me know. In the future, we could try to make this a monthly series.
Lesson Plans & Artifacts
Lesson Plans: In your lesson plan folders in Dropbox, please add a separate document entitled "Feedback." When I check your lesson plans, I will write the date and provide specific feedback for you. Please have this done by January 15 at the latest.
Artifacts: I will do a quick check of artifacts the week of February 1. This is not the last time to upload but will provide a check point so you do not have to do it all at the end of the year.
Fun stuff to try in your class...
Have your students self assess their exit slips...
Flashlight Friday Fun!
Reading or Math by Flashlight
Reading-Just have independent reading time with flashlights and they will have so much fun.
Math-Use the 100 chart to find numbers and patterns with the flashlight.
Find the sight words stars with your flashlights
Have a sky full of sight word stars to find.
Flashlight Alphabet 0r Number Hunt
Alphabet-Shine your light on the designated letter or beginning letter of a word. Or-take turns spelling out words using your flashlight.
Numbers-Shine your light on numbers or math facts.