Free Text for Summary and Analysis: Flood Warning

 The nonfiction reading standards for sixth and seventh grade are tough for kids, especially those who don't have much experience with academic reading and writing. At the same time, however, kids report that they really like reading nonfiction! 

In my classroom, I always like to start the year with some informational texts. Not only do these texts help me to see where my students are (and what challenges I have ahead of me!), but they also capture students' interests!

One of my favorite texts sets is the Summary and Analysis set that I started around 2015. I wrote the texts to go along with our earth science standards, and formatted them to be weekly homework assignments. I can get so much mileage out of these texts! With one reading packet we could do repeated readings, write summaries, and talk about analysis responses.

A key piece of this Summary and Analysis: Flood Warning is the scaffolded summary. This writing frame shows students exactly what is needed in a successful summary. I have found it a vital resource for helping students to get a feel for the academic style writing that is needed in a summary. It's a great way to start the year!

Classroom Organization Tips for the Start of the School Year

 

     Right now my classroom sits hooded in a mishmash of sheets and tablecloths covering boxes of books and other supplies. It is probably as organized as it will be all year! As I pull items out of the boxes and bring the room back to life, this is the time to think about my processes and try to streamline organization systems. 

      Recently a teacher on a Facebook group asked about the barest of essentials for classroom organization.  I don't like organization systems that take lots of money to buy and many hours to create. All too often I find that I don't end up sticking with them! Instead, I use a few easy to find items and customize them to my needs. Here are the three things that I find right away in the boxes to set my room up for success.

File crate with most needed files

     I have trouble with large paper sorters because papers go in and they don't come out. Instead, I like file folders in a paper crate. I use broad categories for the kinds of papers that I use again and again--for example, vocabulary progress pages. When I need specific packets or worksheets, I can rotate those folders out from my filing cabinet. (For example, I have folders made for each of my Summary and Analysis packets--I end up using them every year!)

Labeled drawers

    I love this little drawer unit! It helps me to put things back where they belong. The labels are just laminated Astro-Bright paper trimmed to fit, and written on with a wet erase marker. I change my mind about where to put things a lot! You will see the other classroom essentials on top: a Zenergy chime, perfect for getting students' attention, my red Swingline stapler, and two kinds of tape.

Beautiful succulents

Ok, while these are not strictly necessary, I do like having them in the classroom! They add to the general ambiance. Every year I find at least one student who really likes taking care of them. And sometimes students just like to go and stand by them! 

Just published: Bump Out puzzles for enrichment students in grades 1-2! These puzzles challenge students to find the item that doesn't belong. Kids love them and they lead to such great discussions.