You know those pesky words that don’t follow conventional spelling rules…often referred to as sight words? Have you ever found yourself wondering what all the fuss is about? Well, mastering sight words is very helpful for beginning and striving readers. Students mastering sight words with automaticity drastically cut down on brain power needed to accurately read a passage. This means… Read More
Hot Tips for Teaching Sight Words
Syllable Success Creates Successful Readers
Its true- daily, systematic phonics instruction in early grades is highly recommended by the National Institute for Literacy. I think it goes without saying that students also benefit from daily practice with connected text– which means the student is reading passages containing the current phonics skills. So, what is next? The value of teaching syllable types My Orton-Gillingham training and… Read More
Goal Setting Makes Teaching Easy
When is the perfect time for kids to reflect on accomplishments and goals for the future? After celebrating the New Year or when heading Back to School. WHY, you may be asking, is it important for students to set goals? Well, goal-setting with kids improves motivation and self-management, teaches dedication and determination, develops focus and self-accountability and ultimately, improves self-esteem… Read More
8 Reasons to Use Boom Cards with Students
If you use task cards in your classroom, you will LOVE digital task cards, specifically, Boom Cards! Digital, self-checking task cards are my favorite way to differentiate learning and engage learners. These are the top 8 reasons I’m a fan (in no particular order): 1) DIGITAL No printing, laminating, and cutting out sets of paper task cards. Less prep = more… Read More
5 Reasons to use Google Classroom
Have you used Google Slides or Google Classroom, yet? It is really easy- and in the event you are wondering how to do something, answers abound at your fingertips! Here are some of my favorite reasons for using Google Classroom. These reasons are so great, you don’t need anymore! 1) Easy to setup Teachers can set up a class, invite… Read More
8 Back to School Picture Books and Activities (plus 2 books for you)
I can’t believe Back to School is so close! It really seems like we just started summer break. One of my summer goals has been to re-organize my teaching materials and picture books (in a more efficient manner), and well…basically put some “piles” away. In doing this, I have been sidetracked so many times! As you might guess, this classroom… Read More
