Thursday, February 28, 2019

Two Hoots and A Holler

Hoot #1
As everyone knows, Fortnite is all the rage. If you have not used Phonicsman's Fortnite sight word song, you are missing out! My kids love it and beg to do it everyday.  You should definitely try it. He also has a great counting song to 100 song to the "Shoe."
Here is the link to Fortnite sight words.
Here is the like for counting to 100.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Ldilsh4_Gk 


 You are able to see the videos of the counting and sight words on our Facebook page.

Hoot #2
 For Christmas this past year, I asked for a karaoke machine with disco lights!  Of course, my parents thought I was crazy to ask for such a thing...but I knew 22 kinders who would absolutely LOVE it!  My favorite feature of this is that is syncs with my phone through bluetooth, and all of my alarms are loud.  Now transitions are easy because they know what the alarms mean.  My students love the microphone!  We sing and dance a lot in my class, so I ask students to lead the class in the songs that are being sung on the PowerPoint.  It may be leading the class to sing and spell sight words or count to 100.  What I have found by using this silly machine is that students are on their best behavior because they WANT to use the microphone.  I also have found that students focus and learn more so they can perform for their peers.  For instance, if a student is struggling to count to 100, then I will let them know that their turn will be coming up in the next few days.  They begin to listen and participate more eagerly, and when it is their turn to use the mic...they can do it!!!  
This just may be one of the best things I have ever bought for my class!! 


 
This Week's Holler...
This week's holler goes out to Phonicsman! You have made sight words, counting, and so many more things that we learn fun for students AND teachers!! Yes, we do the moves too!

Wednesday, February 13, 2019

Two Hoots and A Holler

Hoot #1
My class got to do an escape room at school!  With the help of our Title I teacher, it was a HUGE success!  The students were all engaged and had a blast!  It all started when the mad scientist hid clues to keep them from escaping and getting their prizes.  Students had to count objects and search for clues around the room as they worked in teams.  It was hilarious to watch their faces and hear the conversations that took place!  Before we began, I told them that they would be like detectives who had clues to find and a mystery to solve.  They insisted on bringing "spy glasses" with them on this adventure!  I was so proud of how well they worked together!  And every team escaped with 10 minutes to spare!!!  We can't wait to do another escape room!! 


















 
Hoot #2
We are 100 days smarter! We created stations for the students to do. They each were given an exit ticket. As they finished one they simply moved on to the next.  We had an awesome day! These students have worked had and have really grown. You can see a video of all of the centers on our Facebook page.
Making a 100 Day snack
 Walking 100 steps
 Making 100 day trail mix
 building a tower with 100 cups
 Making our hat
We are 100 days smarter!!!

This Week's Holler...
This week's holler goes out to all of the teachers out there!! Everyone know that there is a teacher shortage. It is understandable. Daily, it seems, there are more and more demands being put on us on top of teaching our children. At times it can seem impossible, but you get up every morning and give it 100%. You make it happen for these kids. You stand strong for their rights as well as yours. You are a fighter. Keep fighting the good fight.