Science Fair Fun

In my class we've been studying weather.  Last week, we made water cycle bracelets.  My kiddos said I was the best teacher ever!  {They're so easy!}

Water Cycle Bracelet Materials {per child}:
1 white pipe cleaner
1 yellow bead
1 clear bead
1 white bead
1 blue bead
1 green bead

On my Smart Board I displayed an image of the water cycle with each step labeled.  I used the Whimsical Weather unit from A Cupcake for the Teacher.  As we discussed each process of the water cycle we added the appropriate bead to our pipe cleaner.  To finish, I rushed around and twisted the ends of the pipe cleaner to make a bracelet.  It's a good hands-on visual for the little ones.

This week we watched the water cycle video on Brain Pop Jr. and checked out all of the information on our science fair display.  {Again, I used elements from the Whimsical Weather unit.}  We also completed our rain in a cup experiment.

Rain in a Cup Materials {per group}:
1 clear plastic cup
water
Barbasol shaving cream
food coloring
straw
*In my test experiment at home I first used a Dollar Tree brand shaving cream... let's just say it didn't work so well.  The Barbasol brand worked much better.

Directions:  Add water to each cup {about 3/4 full}.  Next, add shaving cream to the top.  {To help move the process along, use a straw to make a thin spot in the shaving cream.}  Last, add food coloring to the shaving cream.  Within a few minutes, the food coloring will break through from the shaving cream and fall into the water.  {Like when clouds get so heavy they have to release the weight as rain.}

Our weather study experiment will be on display at our school's science night.  Along with all of the displays from other classes, there will be hands-on science activities for the students to do with their families.  It should be a fun night!

Next up, plants!  Here is my latest little kindergarten unit available in my TPT store.

Tomorrow I get to attend a professional development with Dr. Jean!  So excited!  :)

Get cracking... comparing numbers

Today we worked on comparing numbers.  Each table of students got a basket full of plastic Easter eggs.  Inside the eggs were numbers.  They also each had a supply of connecting cubes.  The directions were to pull two eggs out of the basket, open one, write the number, build it with cubes, and repeat for the second egg.  Then, they compared the two numbers by looking at their cube towers.  I was amazed at how well the lesson went.  Kiddos who normally struggle with math skills were rocking it out!

Here's a quick freebie for you to get cracking with your kids!

Directions:  Write the first number in the first egg and the second number in the second egg.

Then, make your symbol in the circle between the eggs.

Apologies for the blurry pictures.  I didn't have either of my cameras or my iPod with me so I used my old school phone to snap a few pictures.

Only 2 more days until Spring Break!  WOOHOO!  How about you?  When's your break?

I've been busy....

We're about to hit the beginning of the end at my school... the final nine weeks of school until my firsties become second graders!  I just love seeing them grow through the year.  During this most recent round of testing {audible sigh}, there were some struggles that stuck out to me for different kids.  So, I've spent my day making some things to help get me through the end of the school year and focus on the skills they need more practice with.  I've uploaded all of these items to my TPT and Teachers Notebook stores.  Check it out!

I also uploaded a little {freebie} to share with you all!

--Mrs. Pollard

How I Store My Stations

With so many amazing literacy and math stations available to teachers today I think it's very important to store them safely and in an organized way so I can always find them when I need them!  I've spent so much money on paper, ink, and laminate alone that I want to protect my investment.  {I know you're all with me on that!}

Here's how I prepare and store my stations....
First, I begin by printing all of the pages needed.  I glue the cover page on the front of a 9x12 envelope.  If the directions are seperate, I glue them onto the back of the envelope.  I laminate the envelope {with the flap open} and all of the station pieces.  I cut out the envelope and carefully slice open the opening.  Then, I cut out all of the station pieces.  I put these pieces inside of a Ziploc bag.  I put the Ziploc bag inside of the laminated envelope along with the copies of the recording sheets.  I use a small circular Velcro piece to keep the envelope closed.*

Right now I have all of these beautiful envelopes stored in a cupboard in my classroom.  The problem is that the shelves are narrow so I can't quickly locate a station I need.  I just purchased a medium sized storage tub and plan to store the envelopes inside it standing up with tall dividers for different catergories and subjects.

This is the best way I've found to keep my stations safe and sound.  How do you store your stations?

*Please note, the 9x12 envelopes come with or without the little metal brads {the ones with brads are cheaper}.  I have put both types through the big laminator.  I hear you're not supposed to put the brads through the laminator... I've never had a problem, but this is my disclaimer!  :)

--Mrs. Pollard