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What Is Equal?
2nd Grade
Objectives Students will recognize and define the equal sign. Students will demonstrate that both sides of an equation are equal in value. Materials Needed Whiteboard or chart paper Marker “What Is Equal?” work mat Dry beans “Three In a Row” game board “Three In a Row” playing cards “Three In a Row” game markers Introduction Write the following number sentences on the board or on chart paper: 7 + 6 = 13 13 = 13 12 = 2 + 10 5 + 5 = 7 + 3 10 - 2 = 4 + 4 2 + 1 + 3 = 2 + 4 Point to each expression and ask students to put their thumbs up if the equation is true or their thumbs down if the equation is false. Ask students to explain their choices. Students may be surprised to learn that all of the equations are true. Explain that the equal sign does not just mean “this is the answer.” It means that one side of the equation is equal to the other—the value on the right side is the same as the value on the left side.
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"I Am" Silhouette
3rd Grade
Objectives
- Bring awareness to one’s own uniqueness, including talents, strengths, and abilities.
- Foster a culture of belonging and inclusion.
It's Okay to Be Different
Pre-K
Objectives
- Understand that people have unique experiences, strengths, and ideas.
- Explore and incorporate people’s differences to enrich learning.
Which Objects Are Magnetic?
Pre-K
Objective Compare and classify objects by observable physical properties. Materials Needed Mickey’s Magnet by Franklyn M. Branley and Eleanor K. Vaughan or What Makes a Magnet? by Franklyn M. Branley Magnets or Magnetic Wands Pipe Stems (cut into 1-or 2-inch pieces) Pom-Poms Variety of small magnetic objects (e.g., paper clips, nuts or bolts, etc.) Variety of small nonmagnetic objects (e.g., rubber bands, plastic counters, feathers, etc.) Clear, empty 2-liter plastic bottles (at least two) Several plastic shoe box–sized containers (one for each small group of students) Sand or dried beans Magnetic/Not Magnetic sorting mat Introduction Read aloud Mickey’s Magnet or What Makes a Magnet?
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What Is a Reciprocal?
5th Grade
Objective
- Apply and extend understanding of division to divide unit fractions by whole numbers and whole numbers by unit fractions.
Which Is Greater?
Kindergarten
Objective CCSS Math: Counting & Cardinality K.CC.C.6: Identify whether the number of objects in one group is greater than, less than, or equal to the number of objects in another group, e.g., by using matching and counting strategies. Materials Needed Alfie the Alligator: A Teaching Rhyme About Comparing Numbers by Sandy Turley Greater Than/Less Than Alligators Counting Objects Picture Cards Number Match-Ups puzzles Introduction Read aloud Alfie the Alligator: A Teaching Rhyme About Comparing Numbers by Sandy Turley. Remind students that, in the story, Alfie always eats the larger number, or the number that is greater.
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What Are Evaporation & Condensation?Understand how a liquid can change to a gas and how a gas can change to a liquid.
3rd Grade
Objective
This Is Me! Song
Infant
Objective
• Infants will develop self-esteem and self-confidence.
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Send-A-Hug
Infant
Objectives
• Infants will be introduced to friendship and affection.
• Infants will build vocabulary.
Gingerbread Graphing
Pre-K
Objectives Students will create a picture graph and interpret the data on the graph. Students will use verbal clues and reasoning skills to solve riddles. Materials Needed The Gingerbread Man by Jim Aylesworth Gingerbread Man Hunt clues Gingerbread Man template Gingerbread Man Cookies reproducible Scissors Gingerbread Man cookies (one for each student) Cookie sheet Kitchen towel Tagboard or construction paper (brown) Tape Chart paper and marker Pom-Poms Peel & Stick Jewels Collage Buttons Glue Preparation: For the Gingerbread Man hunt: Work with other teachers and staff to set up a Gingerbread Man hunt around your school! Print out the Gingerbread Man Hunt clues. Distribute clues 2 - 6 to the teachers and staff in the clue locations. Explain that students will come to them for the clues, and they should pretend to have just seen the Gingerbread Man! Place the gingerbread cookies in the final location—the cafeteria or other eating area. (If you do not want to use real cookies, you can print and precut paper cookies using the Gingerbread Man Cookies reproducible.) Tape the first clue onto the cookie sheet and cover it with the kitchen towel. Set it aside. For the graphing activities: On chart paper, draw a graph with three columns. Along the bottom, label the columns from left to right: “Head,” “Arm,” and “Leg.” Title the graph “Which Part of the Gingerbread Man Did You Bite First?” Print copies of the Gingerbread Man Cookies reproducible. Cut out one paper cookie for each student. (If you decide to distribute paper cookies instead of real cookies at the end of the hunt, students can use those for the graphing activity.) Print the Gingerbread Man template and reproduce it onto brown tagboard or construction paper. You will need one for each student. Introduction Read aloud The Gingerbread Man by Jim Aylesworth. After the story, tell students that you have prepared a Gingerbread Man cookie for them to eat. (If you are not using real cookies, tell students you have made a paper cookie for them to use in a special math project.) Then take out the covered cookie sheet and pull off the towel. Act surprised as you announce, “Oh no, our Gingerbread Man has run away! Look, he left a note for us to read!” Read the clue aloud to students.
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Bubble Observations
Kindergarten
Objectives Experimenting with and discovering the properties of bubbles Describing and sharing their experiences with bubbles Materials Needed Bubble Observations reproducible Bubbles and bubble wands (one for teacher and each student) Bubble machine (optional) Cup of water Chart paper and marker Introduction Take students outside to teach them this fun bubble song (to the tune of “Are You Sleeping?”): Blowing bubbles, Blowing bubbles, In the air, In the air! Floating all around me, Floating all around me, Everywhere, Everywhere! As students sing, take out a bottle of bubbles and a wand, and blow bubbles over their heads. Or set up a bubble machine so that it blows bubbles around the children as they sing and dance.
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Waste or Save? Water Lesson
Kindergarten
Objectives Students will identify ways that water is wasted and conserved. Students will sort pictures and classify them into two categories. Materials Needed Water by Frank Asch Waste or Save? sorting game cards Waste or Save? sorting mats Scissors Best-Buy Crayons or Best-Buy Markers Best-Buy School Glue Water Song reproducible Before You Begin Copy a set of eight Waste or Save? sorting game cards and a set of two sorting mats for each pair of students in your classroom. Cut apart the sorting game cards and mats. Introduction Read aloud Water by Frank Asch. Help students understand that water is a precious resource that needs to be protected and conserved.
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Amazing Ocean Animals
3rd Grade
Objectives Understanding and explaining how blubber helps sea mammals adapt to cold temperatures in the ocean Identifying the mammals among a variety of ocean animals Materials Needed Ocean Animal Picture Cards Thin rubber gloves (one per student) Vegetable shortening Bowls of cold water Quart-size zip-close bag Pencils and paper Scissors Before You Begin Download, print and cut apart the set of Ocean Animal Picture Cards. Fill the zip-close bag with shortening. Introduction Hold up each ocean animal picture card, asking students to guess which animals are mammals (the whale, dolphin and walrus). Explain that whales, dolphins and walrus are not fish, but mammals that have adapted to live in the ocean. Tell students that mammals are warm-blooded and that their body temperatures must remain constant, even in the cold ocean environment. Explain that one important adaptation of ocean mammals is the blubber, or thick layer of fat, that these animals have beneath their skin.
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My Gift to the World Opinion Writing
1st Grade - 2nd Grade
Objectives CCSS Reading: Writing W.1.1: Write opinion pieces in which they introduce the topic or name the book they are writing about, state an opinion, supply a reason for the opinion and provide some sense of closure. W.2.1: Write opinion pieces in which they introduce the topic or book they are writing about, state an opinion, supply reasons that support the opinion, use linking words (e.g., because, and, also) to connect opinion and reasons, and provide a concluding statement or section. Materials Needed The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein “My Gift to the World” writing frame Bow template Holiday wrapping paper (in a variety of styles) Best-Buy Crayons Construction Paper - 9" x 12" Lakeshore Glue Sticks Safety Scissors Chart paper or whiteboard Preparation: Cut the wrapping paper into 10" x 13" sheets. Introduction Read The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. Ask, “What are some of the gifts that the tree provides in the story?” (Possible answers include shade, apples and branches to swing on.) Then ask, “How does the tree feel when he sees the boy enjoying his gifts?” Discuss how giving gifts can often feel more rewarding than receiving gifts.
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Comparing Objects
Kindergarten
Objective CCSS Math: Counting & Cardinality K.CC.C.6: Identify whether the number of objects in one group is greater than, less than or equal to the number of objects in another group, e.g., by using matching and counting strategies. Materials Needed Document Camera Penguin counters reproducible Colorful winter scarves Paper Classroom Pencils Polar Bear Compare reproducible
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Pronoun Practice
1st Grade - 2nd Grade
Use personal, possessive and indefinite pronouns (e.g., I, me, my, they, them, their, anyone, everything). Materials Needed: pronoun cards, board, flip chart or document camera; The Fire Cat by Esther Averill; Pronoun Search practice page; pencils or highlighters; index cards. Introduction: Display the pronoun cards on a board or document camera. Tell students that you are going to read aloud The Fire Cat by Esther Averill. Before you read, ask students to help you identify different pronouns as they come up in the story. Explain that the names of the characters are proper nouns (e.g., Pickles and Mrs. Goodkind), but the author often refers to them again by using pronouns, such as he, she, her or him. The author also may use possessive pronouns, such as hers or his, to explain that something belongs to a character. In addition, Mrs. Goodkind refers to Pickles by using the pronoun you instead of always calling him by name.
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Our Wonderful Water Cycle
1st Grade - 2nd Grade
Objectives Students will identify and explain the stages of the water cycle. Students will understand evaporation, condensation and precipitation. Materials Needed Slow cooker with lid Water Posterboard or chart paper Marker Water Cycle Spinner Crayons Scissors Metal fasteners Introduction Set up a slow cooker in the front of the room (out of reach of students) and pour water into it. Set the temperature on high and ask students to observe what happens when the water heats up. (They will see steam rising.) Next, place a lid over the top and ask them what they think will happen to the water that is rising. (It will gather together on the lid.) Finally, ask students to predict what will happen to the water droplets on the inside of the lid when you lift the lid off of the pot. (They will drip downward.) Tell students that you have just demonstrated a process called the water cycle.
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Prefix Make-A-Match
1st Grade
Objective
- Determine the meaning of a new word formed when a known prefix is added to a known word.
Kindness Stones
Pre-K
Objectives
- Children will identify feelings and emotions.
- Children will receive emotional support.
- Children will be aware of the feelings of others.
- Children will build friendships.
Sight-Word Study
Pre-K - Kindergarten
Objective CCSS Language: Reading: Foundational Skills RF.K.3c: Read common high-frequency words by sight (e.g., the, of, to, you, she, my, is, are, do, does). Materials Needed Sight-word cards A New Pet Chalkboard or document camera Scissors Stapler Before You Begin Print out a copy of A New Pet for each student in your class. After printing them out, stack the full-page sheets in the following order, starting at the bottom of the stack: page 7/cover facedown page 1/page 6 faceup page 5/page 2 facedown page 3/page 4 faceup Then carefully fold the entire stack in half and make a crease. Keeping the pages together, unfold the stack and staple three staples along the length of the crease to make a spine. Be sure to staple through the top of the stack so that the tips of the staples are on the inside of the book. Introduction Display the sight-words can, have, I, not, that and you on a chalkboard or with a document camera. Explain to the class that there are many words you can “sound out” for the correct pronunciation, but there are some words that you should recognize by sight. These sight-words do not always follow the standard rules of letter sounds. As you point to each word, read the word aloud and have students repeat after you. Then point to each word again, calling on student volunteers to say the sight-word.
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What’s My Shape
Pre-K - Kindergarten
Objectives Students will identify shapes and their names. Students will identify the shapes of common objects. Materials Needed Mouse Shapes by Ellen Stoll Walsh Shape templates Construction Paper - 9" x 12" (variety of colors) “What’s My Shape?” reproducible Chart paper Scissors Marker glue Preparation: Print the shape templates and photocopy them onto different colors of construction paper. You will need one set of shapes for each student and an extra set for the lesson. Have an adult volunteer help you cut out the shapes. Introduction Read Mouse Shapes by Ellen Stoll Walsh. After you have read the story, ask students to name the shapes that the mice find in the story (square, triangle, rectangle, circle, oval and diamond). Explain to students that there is a mathematical name for the diamond. It is called a rhombus. List the shapes on chart paper, and then add “heart” and “star.” Tell students that they are going to learn about these shapes.
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Pick a Book Out of a Hat!
Toddler
Objectives
• Toddlers will be exposed to books and print.
• Toddlers will develop language skills.
Parts of a Plant
Kindergarten
Objectives Students will identify the parts of a plant and how plants grow. Students will determine what plants need to survive. Materials Needed Package of carrot seeds The Carrot Seed by Ruth Krauss Parts of a Plant Diagram Parts of a Plant Activity Sheet Scissors Crayons Glue Introduction Gather children together for circle time and give one carrot seed to each child. (Don’t tell them what kind of seed it is!) Ask them to share their thoughts on what the seed will turn into after it is planted. Encourage them to make as many guesses as they want to. Tell students you are going to read a story about a boy who has the same kind of seed they are holding. Invite them to pay close attention to how the seed changes throughout the story and what the boy does to help it grow. Encourage students to listen carefully as you read to find out what kind of seed it is!
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Exploring Nonfiction Text
1st Grade - 2nd Grade
Objective CCSS Reading: Informational Text RI.4.5: Describe the overall structure (e.g., chronology, comparison, cause/effect, problem/solution) of events, ideas, concepts or information in a text or part of a text. Materials Needed “Artful Architecture” nonfiction reading selection Construction Paper - 9" x 12" (cut into 9-inch squares) Safety Scissors Lakeshore Glue Sticks Pencils or markers Introduction Explain to students that they are going to learn about some different types of buildings and architecture by reading a nonfiction selection. Tell students, “Today we are going to see how the author uses the organizational strategy of comparing and contrasting.”
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Autumn Tree Sentence Building
3rd Grade - 4th Grade
Objectives Students will identify the subject and predicate of a sentence. Students will pair subjects with predicates to form sentences. Materials Needed Sentence parts reproducible Construction Paper - 9" x 12" or Fadeless Paper Rolls (brown, red, yellow and orange) Sentence strip Paper Pencils Preparation: Twist brown construction paper and staple it to a bulletin board to make a tree trunk and branches. Attach construction-paper leaves in red, yellow and orange to complete the autumn tree. Label the trunk “Subject” and the branches “Predicate.” Introduction Introduce the concept of subjects and predicates. Explain that the subject of the sentence tells who or what the sentence is about. The predicate of the sentence tells what happens. Write an example sentence on the sentence strip and hold it up for the class to see. For example, you could write, “The hungry horse ate all the hay in the barn.” Ask students, “Which part of this sentence is the subject? Who or what is the sentence about?” (The subject is the hungry horse.) Then ask, “Which part is the predicate? What did the horse do in the sentence?” (He ate all the hay in the barn.) Cut the sentence strip in two between the subject and predicate. Place the subject on the tree trunk and attach the predicate to one of the branches.
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What's on the Inside?
Pre-K
Objectives
- Understand that even though people are different, they also have a lot in common.
- Foster a culture of belonging and inclusion.
Racing for Fractions
3rd Grade
Objectives CCSS Math: Number & Operations—Fractions 3.NF.A.2: Understand a fraction as a number on the number line; represent fractions on a number line diagram. 3.NF.A.3.C: Express whole numbers as fractions, and recognize fractions that are equivalent to whole numbers. Examples: Express 3 in the form 3 = 3/1; recognize that 6/1 = 6; locate 4/4 and 1 at the same point of a number line diagram. Materials Needed Whiteboard or chart paper Racing for Fractions worksheet and answer key Introduction Write the following story on the board or chart paper, or tell it aloud: Three friends were running a race. Jack ran 1/3 of a mile, Sue ran 1/2 of a mile and Tam ran 1/4 of a mile. Who ran the farthest?
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Literal vs. Nonliteral Meanings
3rd Grade - 4th Grade
Objective CCSS Language/Vocabulary Acquisition and Use: L.3.5.a, L.4.5.b Demonstrate understanding of word relationships and nuances in word meanings: a. Distinguish the literal and nonliteral meanings of words and phrases in context (e.g., take steps). Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships and nuances in word meanings: b. Recognize and explain the meaning of common idioms. Materials Needed Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish Chart paper and marker or chalkboard and chalk or document camera Illustrating Idioms page Wrap-Around Language Idiom cards and answer key Markers or Crayons Best-Buy Scissors Before You Begin Explain to students that words or phrases can have literal or nonliteral meanings. Tell them that a nonliteral meaning is when a phrase means something other than the exact words in it. Explain that authors sometimes use nonliteral meanings in their writing as a way to make a comparison or an exaggerated statement about something. For example, an author writing that someone is a “night owl” is really saying that this person is awake and active at night (nonliteral meaning) rather than stating that the person turns into an animal at night (literal meaning). Tell students that you are going to read the story Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish. Ask students to actively listen for the idioms, or nonliteral phrases, that are used in the story. Introduction Begin reading aloud to the class Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish. As you read, pause to point out one or two forms of figurative language (e.g., “change the towels” on p. 16 or “draw the drapes” on p. 25) that cause confusion for Amelia. Ask students to explain and describe what they really mean, as opposed to Amelia’s literal interpretation of the phrases. Before you continue with the story, ask students to pay special attention to some of the other forms of figurative language in the story as Amelia encounters them.
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Talking Stick
Kindergarten
Objectives
- Create a safe, collaborative learning environment where thoughts and ideas are valued.
- Foster a culture of kindness and respect.
Different Types of Nouns
1st Grade
Objectives CCSS Language L.1.1.B: Use common, proper, and possessive nouns. L.1.2.A: Capitalize dates and names of people. L.2.2.A: Capitalize holidays, product names, and geographic names. Materials Needed Whiteboard or chart paper Blank writing paper Noun sorting mat and answer key Noun list Scissors Glue Pencils Introduction Write the following two sentences on the board or chart paper: The girl walked her dog. Lucy walked her dog Rufus. Ask students, “What is the difference between these two sentences?” Allow them to give various answers (one is more specific than the other, one uses names, etc.). Explain that nouns can be either common nouns (people, places, things or ideas) or proper nouns (the names of specific people, places, things or ideas), and that we typically capitalize proper nouns. That’s why the names “Lucy” and “Rufus” are capitalized.
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Community Model
2nd Grade
Objective
- Learn about different types of communities and be able to describe your community.
Menu Math
3rd Grade - 4th Grade
Objectives CCSS Math: Operations & Algebraic Thinking 3.OA.D.8: Solve two-step word problems using the four operations. Represent these problems using equations with a letter standing for the unknown quantity. Assess the reasonableness of answers using mental computation and estimation strategies including rounding. 4.OA.A.3: Solve multistep word problems posed with whole numbers and having whole-number answers using the four operations, including problems in which remainders must be
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"How Many Bones Long?" Math Measurement
1st Grade - 2nd Grade
Objectives CCSS Math/Measurement & Data 1.MD.A.1: Order three objects by length; compare the lengths of two objects indirectly by using a third object. 1.MD.A.2: Express the length of an object as a whole number of length units, by laying multiple copies of a shorter object (the length unit) end to end; understand that the length measurement of an object is the number of same-size length units that span it with no gaps or overlaps. Limit to contexts where the object being measured is spanned by a whole number of length units with no gaps or overlaps. 2.MD.A.1: Measure the length of an object by selecting and using appropriate tools such as rulers, yardsticks, meter sticks, and measuring tapes. Materials Needed How Big Is a Foot? by Rolf Myller Area Tiles 12-inch ruler Measuring Bones template “How Many Bones Long?” record sheet “Big Fish” file folder game Introduction Read aloud How Big Is a Foot? by Rolf Myller. Point out that in the story, they measured “feet” to find out what size to make the bed for the queen. Explain that there is a difference between the length of one person’s foot and a foot-long standard unit of measurement. Hold up a 12-inch ruler and say, “In standard measurement, a foot is the same as 12 inches. Do you think your foot is longer or shorter than this ruler?” Invite a few students to compare their feet to the ruler so that they can see that the ruler is longer. Explain that unlike a foot in standard measurement, people’s feet are different sizes. This is why the king had trouble getting a bed that was the correct size for the queen. Finally, tell students that they are going to practice measuring things using nonstandard units of measurement.
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The Wonder of Word Meanings
Kindergarten
Objective Distinguishing shades of meaning among verbs describing the same general action Materials Needed Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear? by Bill Martin Jr. 1½" Ruled Chart Tablet Best-Buy Washable Fine-Tip Markers Chalk Shades of Meaning reproducible and answer key Introduction Read aloud Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear? by Bill Martin Jr. As you are reading, have students notice the different ways animals make sounds.
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Mystery Coins
1st Grade - 2nd Grade
Objectives Number & Operations in Base Ten Understanding 10 as a bundle of ten ones Skip-counting by 5s, 10s, and 100s Measurement & Data Solving word problems involving dollar bills, quarters, dimes, nickels, and pennies, using $ and ¢ symbols Materials Needed Plastic coins (or paper coins reproducible and scissors) Coin Values reproducible Mystery Coins reproducible Chart paper Marker Introduction Hold up each coin and review its name and value. You may want to print out and display the Coin Values reproducible for students to use as a reference. Be sure to show students both sides of each coin, and remind them that larger coins do not necessarily have greater values.
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Parts of a Whole
2nd Grade
Objectives Students will understand that fractions are equal parts of a whole. Students will identify the numerator and denominator of a fraction. Students will match fractions to shaded parts of a circle. Materials Needed Apple Fractions by Jerry Pallotta Apple Knife Fraction match-up puzzles Fiskars Classroom Scissors Introduction Read aloud Apple Fractions by Jerry Pallotta to introduce fractions as parts of a whole.
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Exploring Nonfiction Text
4th Grade
Objectives CCSS Reading: Reading Informational Text RI.1.7: Use the illustrations and details in a text to describe its key ideas. RI.2.7: Explain how specific images (e.g., a diagram showing how a machine works) contribute to and clarify a text. Materials Needed Ah, Music! by Aliki Selection of one or two fiction read-alouds “The Venus Flytrap” reading selection Chart paper Introduction Ask students to tell you what the difference is between fiction and nonfiction text. (Help students understand that fiction is not real or not a true story that happened in real life, and nonfiction is factual or real.) Show students a sample of fiction (e.g., a fiction read-aloud, such as Corduroy by Don Freeman; The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister; or Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst). Ask, “When we read a fiction story like this one, what do the pictures show us?” (Encourage students to share their responses, guiding them to understand that the illustrations usually give a snapshot or visual image of what is happening in the story.) Then hold up the book Ah, Music! by Aliki, and tell students, “In nonfiction texts, you might find pictures, too! These pictures will help us understand what the words are telling us. There might also be a diagram that shows us more details about the information.”
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1, 2, Bee, Sing with Me
Infant
Objectives
• Infants will explore numbers through music and rhyme.
• Infants will be introduced to rhythm, sound, and timing.
Reading Reflections
5th Grade
Objectives CCSS Reading/Literature: RL.4.2, RL.5.2, RL.5.6 Determine a theme of a story, drama or poem from details in the text; summarize the text. Determine a theme of a story, drama or poem from details in the text, including how characters in a story or drama respond to challenges or how the speaker in a poem reflects upon a topic; summarize the text. Describe how a narrator’s or speaker’s point of view influences how events are described. Materials Needed Document camera or whiteboard “Arithmetic” by Carl Sandburg Read and Respond record Introduction Explain to students that, just as an author expresses ideas in the form of a story, a poet expresses thoughts and ideas in the form of a poem. Point out that, while a poem does not always have to rhyme, it consistently expresses a poet’s ideas or thoughts about a topic—often using very little space. Challenge students to listen carefully as you read aloud a poem by Carl Sandburg called “Arithmetic.” Remind students that “arithmetic” is another word for “math.” Ask students to think about what the poet is trying to say and what theme, or “big idea,” he is trying to share about arithmetic/math.
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What’s the Weather?
Kindergarten
Objectives Students will observe and describe the weather. Students will compare and contrast weather conditions from one day to the next. Materials Needed Groundhog Weather School by Joan Holub Weather cards Weather Report sheet Indoor/outdoor thermometer Preparation Make five copies of the Weather Report sheet for each student and staple each set together. Introduction Tell students that February 2 is Groundhog Day. Explain the legend that goes along with this funny holiday. Every year on this date, a famous groundhog called Punxsutawney Phil emerges from the ground to “predict” the weather. If the groundhog sees his shadow, he is frightened and runs back underground. This means there will be six more weeks of winter. However, if the groundhog does not see his shadow, we will have an early spring! Next, read aloud Groundhog Weather School by Joan Holub.
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Pumpkin Measurement
3rd Grade
Objectives Students will listen to a story about pumpkins and learn more about them. Students will learn and understand measurement vocabulary words. Students will estimate—and then measure—the weight, height, circumference, radius and diameter of a pumpkin. Materials Needed Pumpkins by Ken Robbins Small- to medium-sized pumpkins (one for each small group of three to four students and one medium pumpkin for the class) Pumpkins should vary in size as much as possible. Scale Sharp knife (for teacher or adult use only) Rulers String or yarn Pencils Pumpkin Measurement Record Sheet Introduction Read aloud Pumpkins by Ken Robbins. Hold up a medium-sized pumpkin and ask students to estimate, or guess, how much the pumpkin weighs. (Students’ estimates will probably vary widely.) Explain to students that having a starting point of knowledge before estimating will help estimates be more accurate. For example, if students know how much the pumpkin in your hands weighs, this knowledge will help them estimate the weight of smaller or larger pumpkins. Weigh your pumpkin on a scale and tell students the weight. Explain that you’ll be using this measurement in the next activity.
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Comparing and Ordering Fractions
4th Grade
Objective CCSS Math/Number and Operations-Fractions: 4.NF.2 Extend understanding of fraction equivalence and ordering. 2. Compare two fractions with different numerators and different denominators (e.g., by creating common denominators or numerators, or by comparing to a benchmark fraction such as 1/2). Recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two fractions refer to the same whole. Record the results of comparisons with symbols >, = or <, and justify the conclusions (e.g., by using a visual fraction model). Materials Needed Pizza Fractions by Jerry Pallotta Chalkboard, whiteboard or document camera Fraction Pizza templates Comparing Fractions practice page and answer sheet Comparing Fractions activity card and recording sheet Comparing Fractions spinners and answer key Paper clips Pencils Pennies or other small objects (to use as game markers) Preparation Before teaching this lesson, you may want to introduce students to the concept of equivalent fractions. (Please visit Equivalent Fraction Activities for a sample lesson.) Introduction Read aloud Pizza Fractions by Jerry Pallotta to give students a visual representation of fractions.
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Counting Flowers
Pre-K
Objectives Students will count objects using one-to-one correspondence. Students will write numerals from 1 to 20 as an expression of quantity. Materials Needed Flowers and Showers: A Spring Counting Book by Rebecca Fjelland Davis Vase template Counting Flowers reproducible Flowers template Number cards template Cardstock Scissors Crayons Glue Preparation: Before the lesson, print out and cut apart the number cards template. Then print the flowers template and make four copies of the flowers with stems. Color the flowers and cut them out. Next print the vase template and copy it onto heavy cardstock. Cut along the dotted line at the top of the vase so that you can slide the stems through the slit as you add flowers to the vase. If desired, laminate these for repeated use. Introduction Read Flowers and Showers: A Spring Counting Book by Rebecca Fjelland Davis. Before reading the verse on each page, have students take turns identifying the number that is shown and counting the objects on the page. Then encourage students to listen as you read the verse that relates these objects to spring. Next teach children this simple counting song (to the tune of “Are You Sleeping?”). We love counting, We love counting, One, two, three, Four, five, six! Let’s count all the flowers In the pretty vases. Count with me, Count with me!
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Poems for Peace
5th Grade
Objectives Students will listen to an oral reading about the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Students will identify key words that describe his work and values. Students will create their own poems that promote peace in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday. Materials Needed Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport Chart paper or chalkboard Markers or chalk Martin Luther King Jr. poem Peace Poem template Introduction Show students the picture of Martin Luther King Jr. on the front cover of the book and ask them to identify him. Explain that Dr. King’s birthday is celebrated as a national holiday in the United States to honor him and his contribution to society. Read aloud Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport.
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Comparing Living Things
1st Grade
Objectives Students will listen to a story that is read aloud and recall events from the story. Students will understand that trees and other living things have patterns that they follow from one season to the next. Students will learn about hibernation. Students will research different types of animals and compare and contrast the animals. Students will extend their learning by creating a book that illustrates the differences between two animals. Materials Needed Fletcher and the Falling Leaves by Julia Rawlinson Tree Squirrels and Ground Squirrels graphic organizer Bears and Bats graphic organizer Foxes and Rabbits graphic organizer Hamsters and Mice graphic organizer Construction paper (white) Stapler Best-Buy Crayons or Best-Buy Colored Pencils Scissors Preparation Cut the white construction paper into 4.5" x 6.5" rectangles. Staple six to eight rectangles together to make booklets for the class. (You will need four booklets for four groups of student researchers.) Make several copies of each graphic organizer. Introduction Invite students to gather on the floor in front of you as you read aloud Fletcher and the Falling Leaves by Julia Rawlinson. Ask students the following questions: What is Fletcher’s problem in the story? (Answer: Fletcher was sad that the leaves were disappearing from the tree. He did not understand that the leaves were falling off the tree in preparation for winter.) What does Fletcher discover when he goes to visit the tree at the end of the story? (Answer: It is covered with shimmering icicles and is just as beautiful as it was before.)
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Fall Skip-Counting Fun
1st Grade - 2nd Grade
Objectives Using strategies to add and subtract fluently within 20 Skip-counting by 2s, 5s, 10s and 100s Understanding that skip-counting is a faster way to count objects in a group Materials Needed Christopher Counting by Valeri Gorbachev Acorn Number Cards Counting by 2s Number Line Pumpkin Number Cards Counting by 5s Number Line Lakeshore Glue Sticks Fall Skip-Counting Fun Addition Practice Pointer or yardstick Scissors Introduction Read Christopher Counting by Valeri Gorbachev. Talk to the students about how excited the main character is about counting. Ask, “What are some objects that Christopher counted?” Then ask, “What are some objects that you can count?” Point out that Christopher was counting by 1s. Explain that students can count objects faster by skip-counting.
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Hide-And-Seek
Toddler
Playing hide-and-seek is a simple, fun game for everyone—and a great way to get the whole family up and moving!
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Match & Drop Color Sorting
Infant
Objectives
• Infants will be introduced to colors.
• Infants will practice sorting by color.
Getting to Know Each Other
Pre-K - Kindergarten
Objectives Students will listen to a story about a raccoon that is anxious about the first day of school. Students will identify matching objects. Students will introduce themselves and answer a question about themselves. Students will recall another child’s name and state one fact about this child to the class. Materials Needed The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn Picture cards Plain white envelopes (one per student) Best-Buy Crayons My New Friend reproducible Scissors Before You Begin Download and print out two copies of each picture card for pairs of students in your class. Cut out the pictures so each has a match. (For classrooms with an odd number of students, make two additional copies of one picture to make a group of three identical picture pairs.) Introduction Read The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn. Reassure children that it is okay to miss home or feel a little nervous about starting school with a new teacher and some unfamiliar faces. Remind students that they will soon make new friends and learn what to expect in the classroom, telling them that you will have a great year together!
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My Winter Acrostic
3rd Grade - 5th Grade
Objectives Reading: Literature Reading and comprehending grade-appropriate literature, including stories, dramas, and poetry Writing Writing an acrostic poem Materials Needed Animal Acrostics by David Hummon or Autumn: An Alphabet Acrostic by Steven Schnur My Winter Acrostic template Winter Acrostic Organizer template Dark-blue construction paper - 9" x 12" Crayons or colored pencils Pencil Chalk or write & wipe marker Chalkboard or write & wipe board Introduction Hold up the book Animal Acrostics by David Hummon or Autumn: An Alphabet Acrostic by Steven Schnur. Then explain that the first letter of each line in an acrostic poem spells out a “topic” word that ties all the lines of the poem together. (It’s helpful to demonstrate the concept on a chalkboard or write & wipe board.) Read a few examples from the book and show students how acrostic poems are arranged on a page. (You may want to reproduce one on the board or a large poster so students can refer to it throughout the lesson.)
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Scavenger Hunt
2nd Grade
Objective
- Participate in physical activities that are enjoyable and challenging, while practicing observation skills.
Building Vocabulary: Prefixes
3rd Grade - 4th Grade
Objectives Identifying and knowing the meaning of the most common prefixes and derivational suffixes Determining the meaning of the new word formed when a known affix is added to a known word Using common, grade-appropriate Greek and Latin affixes and roots as clues to the meaning of a word Materials Needed Prefix title cards Index cards Prefix die template Root-word die template Word meanings game mat Marker Tape or glue Scissors Paper Pocket chart or whiteboard Introduction Print and cut apart the prefix title cards. Hold up the cards one at a time for students to read. Tell students the meaning of each prefix: bi- = two im- = not un- = not mis- = wrong pre- = before re- = again Explain that knowing the meaning of the prefix can help them determine the meanings of words that have the prefix.
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If You're Happy and You Know It
Infant
Objectives
• Infants will be introduced to vocabulary related to feelings and emotions.
• Infants will develop social-emotional skills.
• Infants will develop language skills.
Air as Matter
5th Grade
Objectives
- Plan and carry out an investigation.
- Understand that matter is anything that takes up space, and since air takes up space, it is matter.
Class Spotlight
5th Grade
Objectives
- Create a safe, collaborative learning environment where thoughts and ideas are valued.
- Understand that people have unique experiences, strengths, and backgrounds.
Writing a Persuasive Brochure
3rd Grade - 5th Grade
Objectives Using reference materials to research for their writing Introducing the topic or text they are writing about, stating an opinion and creating an organizational structure that lists reasons Providing reasons that support the opinion Reporting on a topic or text, telling a story, or recounting an experience in an organized manner, using appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details to support main ideas or themes; speaking clearly at an understandable pace Materials Needed Sample tourist pamphlets for exotic vacation destinations (available from local travel agents or hotels) Reference materials Travel Brochure reproducible Crayons or markers Glue (optional) Scissors (optional) Introduction Ask students, “If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go? What would you do there?” Invite students to share their responses. Encourage them to talk about places they have never been but would like to see. Prompt students to point out their destinations on a map.
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Graph Your Heart Out
1st Grade - 2nd Grade
Objectives Operations & Algebraic Thinking Making estimates about the number of objects in a group and comparing the estimate to the actual amount Measurement & Data Organizing, representing, and interpreting data with up to three categories; asking and answering questions about the data points Drawing a picture graph and a bar graph to represent a data set with up to four categories; solving simple put-together, take-apart, and compare problems using information from a bar graph Materials Needed Read-aloud math picture book, such as Betcha! by Stuart J. Murphy or Math Curse by Jon Scieszka Small box of candy conversation hearts for each student Graph Your Heart Out worksheet Hearts Graph pencils Introduction Capture students’ interest in estimation, counting and thinking about math by reading aloud Betcha! by Stuart J. Murphy or Math Curse by Jon Scieszka. Ask students, “What is the difference between counting and estimating?” Guide them in understanding that estimating involves making a reasonable guess, and counting is reaching an exact answer. Explain that counting sometimes takes longer than estimating, but both methods can be used to help you figure out answers to math questions.
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Reading Strategies: Asking Questions
3rd Grade - 4th Grade
Objectives Reading Informational Text Asking and answering questions to demonstrate understanding of a text, referring to the text as the basis for the answers Referring to details and examples in a text when explaining what the text says and when drawing inferences from it Materials Needed “Shooting to Win” reading passage “Ask Questions” graphic organizer Projector or document camera (optional) Introduction Tell students that good readers ask questions as they read. Explain that this helps readers interact with the text and process new information—so they understand what they are reading. Students can practice using this strategy to become better readers!
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Pumpkin Seed Count and Compare
1st Grade - 2nd Grade
Objectives Students will estimate how many seeds are in a pumpkin and compare their estimates to the actual results. Students will count by twos, fives, and tens. Students will use the greater than, less than and equal symbols to compare numbers. Materials Needed How Many Seeds in a Pumpkin? by Margaret McNamara Pumpkin Knife (for teacher use only) Newspaper 3 index cards Comparing Seeds reproducible Preparation: Purchase a pumpkin from a local grocery store or pumpkin patch. Bring it to school, along with a sharp knife and some old newspaper. Spread out the newspaper to protect your workspace. Then cut out the top of the pumpkin. Leave the top on until instructed to remove it during the lesson. Finally, take the index cards and write the greater than symbol on the first card, the less than symbol on the second card, and the equal sign on the third card. Introduction Display the pumpkin and ask students to tell you what’s inside (seeds). Ask students if they can estimate, or guess, how many seeds there are. Write their guesses on the board or on chart paper. Tell students that you are going to read a story about a class that does the same activity that you will do with students today. Ask students to listen for ideas on how to count the pumpkin seeds. Then read aloud How Many Seeds in a Pumpkin? When you have finished reading, ask students to share their observations about the book, including ways to count the pumpkin seeds.
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The Sea and Me: A Measurement Lesson
3rd Grade
Objective Students will use measurement skills to compare the relative size of sea animals. Materials Needed Is a Blue Whale the Biggest Thing There Is? by Robert E. Wells Adding machine paper roll Tape measure 6 rocks (as paperweights) Butcher paper sheets (large enough for students to lie down on) “The Sea and Me” Record Sheet Rulers Pencils Scissors Preparation: Cut a strip of adding machine paper to match the average length of each sea animal below: Blue Whale: 94 ft. Orca: 32 ft. Bottlenose Dolphin: 12 ft. Label each strip with the name of the animal. (Do not write the length of the animal on the strip.) Introduction Tell students that they are going to learn about measurement and relative size. Then read Is a Blue Whale the Biggest Thing There Is? by Robert E. Wells. After you have finished the book, ask students to share examples of relative size that are given in the book (e.g., a blue whale is big compared to other animals but small compared to Mount Everest). Finally, tell students that they are going to compare the sizes of three sea animals. Then they will compare their own size to the three animals.
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Counting Clovers: Number Matching
Pre-K
Objectives Students will use one-to-one correspondence to count objects. Students will match numerals to the correct number of objects. Materials Needed The Luckiest St. Patrick’s Day Ever by Teddy Slater, That’s What Leprechauns Do by Eve Bunting, or another storybook about leprechauns Leprechaun cards reproducible Number cards reproducible Clover cards reproducible Scissors Crayons or markers (optional) Before You Begin Print the leprechaun cards reproducible and cut out the cards. (If desired, color the leprechauns and laminate the cards so you can use them again in the future.) Before class, photocopy 12 leprechaun cards and hide them around your classroom so they are relatively easy for your students to find. Print the number cards reproducible and clover cards reproducible. You will need one copy of each reproducible for each pair of students in your class. Print an additional copy of the number cards for your lesson. Cut out the cards in advance, or ask a parent volunteer to cut them out. Introduction Read aloud a storybook about leprechauns as an introduction to leprechauns and Saint Patrick’s Day!
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Alphabet Name Game
Pre-K - Kindergarten
Objectives Students will identify the letters of the alphabet. Students will understand that letters are combined to form words. Students will spell their own names. Materials Needed Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault Large magnetic whiteboard Magnetic Letters Coconut Tree template Construction Paper - 9" x 12" (green, brown and white) Safety Scissors Help-Yourself Glue Tubes Alphabet stickers or alphabet stamps and ink Preparation: Draw large coconut trees on a magnetic whiteboard. Place magnetic letters on the board as though they are hanging from the palm fronds. Put the letters in alphabetical order. Introduction Read Chicka Chicka Boom Boom to your class. After reading, ask children, “What did you notice about the order of the letters in the story?” (The letters are in ABC order.) Then invite students to recite the alphabet as you point to each letter on the board.
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Reading for Details
1st Grade - 2nd Grade
Objectives CCSS Reading/Informational Text: Key Ideas and Details (RI.1.1, RI.1.2, RI.2.1, RI.2.2) Ask and answer questions about key details in a text. Identify the main topic and retell key details of a text. Ask and answer such questions as who, what, where, when, why and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text. Identify the main topic of a multiparagraph text as well as the focus of specific paragraphs within the text. Integration of Knowledge and Ideas (RI.1.7, RI.2.7) Use the illustrations and details in a text to describe its key ideas. Explain how specific images (e.g., a diagram showing how a machine works) contribute to and clarify a text. Materials Needed “Animal Homes” reading passage Reading for Details graphic organizer Document camera or whiteboard (optional) “Our Closest Star” reading passage Question frames Scissors Highlighters Introduction Explain to students that as they read about the ways animals build their homes, they can be “reading detectives” who discover the main topic and important details! To do this, they must read carefully, examine the text and pay close attention to illustrations that will help them find the answer to the following important questions: Where? When? How? Why?
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Teaching Tangrams
2nd Grade
Objectives Students will identify and compare 2-D shapes. Students will understand the difference between congruent and similar shapes. Students will create and extend patterns. Students will combine shapes to create new shapes. Materials Needed Grandfather Tang’s Story: A Tale Told with Tangrams by Ann Tompert Tangrams template or Tangrams Tangram picture-matching cards or Tangram Picture Matching Cards Pattern blocks template or Pattern Blocks “Shapes Gallery” activity mat Scissors Paper & pencils Preparation: Print and copy the tangrams template, tangram picture-matching cards, pattern blocks template and “Shapes Gallery” activity mat. You will need one copy of each for each student. You can cut out the tangram shapes and pattern blocks in advance, or have students cut them out during the lesson. (You also can use the Pattern Blocks, Tangrams and Tangram Picture Matching Cards for this lesson.) Introduction Read aloud Grandfather Tang’s Story: A Tale Told with Tangrams. Show students the seven tangram shapes (two small triangles, two large triangles, one medium triangle, one square and one parallelogram). Tell students that tangrams originated in China. The story introduced only a few of the many shapes and figures that can be made with tangrams.
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100th Day Activity
Kindergarten
Objectives Students will be able to estimate quantities to 100. Students will be able to count to 100 with one-to-one correspondence. Students will be able to demonstrate that ten groups of ten equal 100. Materials Needed Transparent jar of 100 jelly beans (or other small treats such as marshmallows, chocolate-coated candies, or sour candies) Hundreds Chart Reproducible Crayons (ten colors for each student) String Colored O’s cereal Introduction Show students a jar of 100 jelly beans. Ask them to guess how many jelly beans are in the jar. You may want to prompt them to think about how reasonable their guesses are by asking: Are there more than two jelly beans? Are there more than 10 jelly beans? Estimate how many jelly beans you think there might be. Have volunteers call out their guesses. Record their guesses on chart paper.
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Earth Day Every Day
3rd Grade - 5th Grade
Objectives Students will analyze the characters and events in The Lorax by Dr. Seuss, drawing comparisons between the fictitious environment and our own environment. Students will discuss ways to positively impact the environment. Materials Needed The Lorax by Dr. Seuss Small-Group Discussion Questions Colored pencils, pens or markers Introduction Discuss the meaning of Earth Day, and introduce the book to students. Explain that aside from being an enjoyable children’s story, The Lorax is a metaphor to make us think about the world around us and the impact we have on our environment. Invite students to listen carefully to the story and see if they can draw comparisons between the characters and events in the story and our own planet.
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Everyday Learning Activities
3rd Grade
Book Journal Start a journal with your child in which you write letters back and forth to each other about the books you are reading. Ask questions about the characters or things you’ve learned from the books, or describe how the books remind you of other books you’ve read.
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What Makes a Shadow?
1st Grade
Objectives Understanding that shadows are formed when an object blocks a light source, such as the sun Explaining how their own shadows change shape and size Materials Needed Moonbear’s Shadow by Frank Asch What Makes a Shadow? reproducible Chalk Introduction Tell students that you are going to read a book about a bear and his shadow. Encourage them to pay close attention to what the bear’s shadow does in the story. Read aloud the book Moonbear’s Shadow by Frank Asch. Then ask students the following questions: What makes Moonbear’s shadow? Why does Moonbear want to get rid of his shadow? How does he try to get rid of his shadow? Why doesn’t it work? What happens to Moonbear’s shadow when he hides behind a tree? Why? Why does Moonbear’s shadow disappear when he buries it? Why does Moonbear’s shadow appear larger during certain times of the day and smaller during other times?
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Bundles of Tens: Place Value Lesson
1st Grade - 2nd Grade
Objective CCSS Math/Number and Operations in Base 10/Understand Place Value: 1.NBT.2: Understand that the two digits of a two-digit number represent amounts of tens and ones. Understand the following as special cases: 10 can be thought of as a bundle of ten ones—called a “ten.” The numbers from 11 to 19 are composed of a ten and one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight or nine ones. The numbers 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 refer to one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight or nine tens (and 0 ones). Materials Needed A Fair Bear Share by Stuart J. Murphy Double-Sided Counters Colored Craft Sticks Craft Sticks (plain) Bundles of 10 recording sheet Place Value Match-Up cards Document camera or chart paper Rubber bands Best-Buy Scissors Introduction Read aloud A Fair Bear Share by Stuart J. Murphy. Pause to point out how the bears count nuts, seeds and berries by putting them in groups of tens with the “extras,” or ones, left over. As you point out the bears’ process, model the way they group nuts, seeds and berries: Use double-sided counters on a document camera or chart to show how the bundling of tens and ones takes place. (For example, on page 13, show how the first cub has 21—two piles of 10 with 1 left over.)
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Everyday Learning Activities
4th Grade
Everyone’s a Critic After you read a book or watch a movie, invite your child to pretend to be a newspaper critic! Have your child summarize the book or movie and then analyze it. What did he or she like about it and why? Would he or she recommend it? Make sure your child uses examples from the book or movie to support his or her opinion.
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Snowman Stories
1st Grade
Objectives Students will narrate events of a story based on illustrations. Students will write an imaginative story about a friendship with a snowman. Materials Needed The Snowman by Raymond Briggs Snowman Writing Frame Construction Paper - 9" x 12" (blue) Scissors Glue Introduction Ask students if they have ever made a snowman. (For students in warmer climates, ask if they have seen pictures of snowmen or if they have seen a snowman on vacation.) Have volunteers describe the snowmen they have made or seen. Ask questions to encourage creative and imaginative thinking, such as, “Would you be surprised if you made a snowman that came to life and wanted to play with you? What would you do with the snowman? What would you want to show the snowman? What might the snowman be curious about?”
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Beginning, Middle and End
Pre-K - Kindergarten
Objectives Students will identify the beginning, middle and end of a story. Students will recall events of a story in the correct order. Materials Needed The book The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister Chart paper and marker (or chalkboard and chalk) Construction Paper (12" x 18") Scissors Crayons Aluminum Foil Glue The Rainbow Fish Reproducible Introduction Ask students to raise their hands if they like it when their friends share things with them. Then ask them to raise their hands if they have ever owned something so special that they didn’t want to share it with others. Invite a few volunteers to talk about their prized possession. Finally, ask students, “How do you think your friends would feel if you never shared with them?” and, “How do you think you would feel if your friends didn?t share with you?” Tell students that you are going to read a book called The Rainbow Fish. Explain how the Rainbow Fish in the story has something special that he is not sure he wants to share. Invite students to pay close attention to the sequence of events in the story as you read it aloud. Ask them to think about what happens in the beginning, in the middle and at the end of the story.
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Muffin Tin Math
Toddler
Objectives
• Toddlers will be introduced to one-to-one correspondence.
• Toddlers will count quantities.
• Toddlers will develop fine motor skills.
Author’s Purpose PIE
1st Grade
Objectives Reading Literature Explain major differences between books that tell stories and books that give information, drawing on a wide reading of a range of text types. Reading Informational Text Identify the main purpose of a text, including what the author wants to answer, explain or describe. Materials Needed Author’s Purpose PIE chart Interactive whiteboard or chart paper Various informational, persuasive and entertaining texts Sticky notes (enough for each small group) PIE reading passage cards PIE sorting mat and answer key Glue (optional) Introduction Explain to students that authors have many different reasons for writing. For example, an author might write to inform or explain something to the reader about a topic, to persuade someone to think about an idea or convince them to do something, or simply to tell an entertaining story. Tell students that these varied reasons for writing are called the author’s purpose. Students can recall the three main purposes by remembering the acronym PIE—Persuade, Inform, Entertain. Emphasize that being able to identify the author’s purpose in writing helps us connect with the text and understand what the author wants us to know.
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Winter Bear Warm-Up
Pre-K - Kindergarten
Objectives Reading: Foundational Skills Demonstrating understanding of the organization and basic features of print Following words from left to right, top to bottom, and page by page Language Spelling simple words phonetically Materials Needed Winter Clothing Word Cards Winter Bear Warm-Up template Winter clothing cut-aparts Crayons Scissors Glue sticks Pencil Introduction Before you begin, print the downloadable Winter Clothing Word Cards. Ask students to think of clothing that people wear when it’s cold in winter. Tell them you are going to show them pictures of winter clothing, and you would like them to name the item in each picture. As volunteers name the items, point to the written word on the card and repeat it. Then place the word card in a pocket chart or attach it to a bulletin board for reference.
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Story Sequencing and Writing
1st Grade - 2nd Grade
Objectives CCSS Language: Writing W.1.3: Write narratives in which they recount two or more appropriately sequenced events, include some details regarding what happened, use temporal words to signal event order, and provide some sense of closure. W.2.3: Write narratives in which they recount a well-elaborated event or short sequence of events, include details to describe actions, thoughts, and feelings, use temporal words to signal event order, and provide a sense of closure. Materials Needed Story Sequencing graphic organizer Storytelling picture cards Scissors Chart paper Introduction Write the words first, then, next and last on chart paper. Point out to the class that these are words that writers often use to indicate the order, or sequence, of events in a story. Within the story, writers will then elaborate on the actions, feelings or thoughts of the characters and provide details about the events.
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Place Value Riddles
2nd Grade
Objectives CCSS Math: Number & Operations in Base Ten 2.NBT.A.1: Understand that the three digits of a three-digit number represent amounts of hundreds, tens, and ones. 2.NBT.A.3: Read and write numbers to 1000 using base-ten numerals, number names, and expanded form. Materials Needed Whiteboard or chart paper Base 10 blocks (optional) Place Value Math Riddles reproducible and answer key Introduction Tell students you are going to write a number riddle and ask them to solve it. Try these riddles: “I am 200 + 30 + 6. What number am I?” (236) “I have 5 hundreds, 7 tens and 9 ones. What number am I?” (579) “I am 400 + 8. What number am I?” (408) “I have 3 tens, 4 hundreds and 1 one. What number am I?” (431) Note: Point out that the last two riddles were a bit tricky since one number didn’t have any tens, and the other one named the number of tens before naming the number of hundreds!
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Can You Change the Direction of Light?
3rd Grade
Objective
- Investigate the properties of light and understand that light moves in straight lines that can be redirected.
Water Drop Experiment
4th Grade
Objectives Exploring the concept of surface tension Making and testing a hypothesis by estimating the number of water drops that can fit on a penny and testing their predictions Analyzing data by averaging and comparing figures Materials Needed Water Drop Record Sheet Pennies (one for each student) Eyedroppers Cups of water Introduction Ask students if they have ever seen a mosquito or other small bug sitting on the surface of a body of water. Explain that the surface of the water acts as “skin.” It tends to hold together because the water molecules are attracted to each other. This is called surface tension. Tell students that they are going to conduct an experiment that demonstrates how water molecules stick together to create surface tension.
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Multiplication Mania
3rd Grade
Objectives Students will find the product of a single-digit number and a double-digit number. Students will understand how rearranging the numerals affects the product of a single-digit number and a double-digit number. Materials Needed Baseball number cards template Multiplication Mania reproducible Scissors Introduction Write the problems 23 x 9 and 93 x 2 on the board. Ask students, “Do you notice anything similar about these two problems? Yes, they both use the same numerals but in different places.” Invite students to make a guess as to which product will be greater. Give them time to find the answers (23 x 9 = 207 and 93 x 2 = 186). Then ask students if they can think of different ways to arrange the three numerals so that the product would be greater than 207 or less than 186. Invite students to use a pencil and paper to work out some possible problems and their answers (such as 39 x 2 = 78, 29 x 3 = 87, 92 x 3 = 276 and 32 x 9 = 288).
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Candy Coordinate Graphs
3rd Grade
Objectives Students will form an ordered pair using two numbers. Students will use ordered pairs to locate points on a graph. Materials Needed Candy Coordinate Graph reproducible Dice (one pair per student) Mini candy bars Small candy pieces (such as candy corn or candy-coated chocolate) Tape Preparation: Draw a large version of the Candy Coordinate Graph reproducible on posterboard or the whiteboard. Use tape to attach mini candy bars to various points on the graph. Introduction Discuss with students that grids and graphs have a variety of uses in architecture, geography, and geometry. Explain that coordinates are used to indicate where a certain object or place is located on a graph. Draw a simple coordinate graph on the board and write the ordered pair (1, 4). Then demonstrate how to plot that point on the grid.
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Equivalent Fractions
4th Grade
Objectives
- Explain why fractions are equivalent (i.e., 1/2 = 2/4).
- Recognize and generate equivalent fractions.
Multistep Word Problems
3rd Grade
Objectives CCSS Math: Operations & Algebraic Thinking 3.OA.D.8: Solve two-step word problems using the four operations. Represent these problems using equations with a letter standing for the unknown quantity. Assess the reasonableness of answers using mental computation and estimation strategies including rounding. 4.OA.A.3: Solve multistep word problems posed with whole numbers and having whole-number answers using the four operations, including problems in which remainders must be interpreted. Represent these problems using equations with a letter standing for the unknown quantity. Assess the reasonableness of answers using mental computation and estimation strategies including rounding. Materials Needed Cardboard box or posterboard, cut into an outline of a bus (optional) Whiteboard or chart paper Tim’s Yard Work flyer Neighborhood Jobs reproducible Neighborhood Jobs Answer Key Preparation Print out a copy of the Tim’s Yard Work flyer and the Neighborhood Jobs reproducible for each student in your class. (You can also display the flyer on a document camera.) Introduction Instruct students to listen very carefully to the following story problem: Mr. Smith is driving a bus. At first, the bus has no passengers. At the first stop, 10 passengers get onto the bus. At the second stop, 2 passengers get off the bus. Then 4 passengers board the bus. At the third stop, half the passengers get off the bus. Pause for a few seconds. Then ask, “Now...what is the name of the bus driver?” Most students will likely react with surprise at this question, but a few will remember that you stated who was driving the bus at the beginning of the story problem. Affirm that the name of the bus driver is Mr. Smith. Ask students to raise their hands if they were calculating the number of passengers getting on and off the bus. Explain that, although this story problem was a riddle with a surprising twist at the end, those with their hands raised were actually calculating a multistep math problem that involved addition, subtraction and even division. Point out that this exercise is also a good example of why it is helpful to read the whole problem first in order to find out what information is needed to answer the question.
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Introduction to Idioms and Multiple Meanings
1st Grade
Objectives Students will discuss and decode the meaning of idioms and figures of speech from the book Amelia Bedelia. Students will demonstrate an understanding of figures of speech by interpreting their meanings. Materials Needed The book Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish Whiteboard and dry-erase marker (or chalkboard and chalk) Interpreting Idioms Reproducible Scissors Box or hat Introduction Ask students if they have ever heard a joke that made them laugh their heads off! Ask volunteers to share the joke with the class. Then ask students, “When we say ‘I laughed my head off,’ do we really mean that we laughed so hard that our heads fall off our bodies?” Once students have responded—and giggled a little—tell them that this kind of expression is called an idiom, or a common phrase that means something different than what it says. Hold up the book Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish. Explain that Amelia Bedelia is a character who often gets confused by idioms or words that have more than one meaning. Before you begin reading the story aloud, tell students to listen for Amelia’s misunderstandings and try to figure out what Amelia Bedelia should really be doing.
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All Kinds of Children
2nd Grade
Objectives
- Understand that people are more alike than they are different.
- Celebrate and embrace people’s cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
Drawing Conclusions: Detecting Character Traits
3rd Grade - 4th Grade
Objectives Students will draw conclusions about a person’s character traits based on information in a reading passage. Students will identify character traits and provide evidence to support their conclusions. Materials Needed “Phone Plan” reading passage Chart paper Blue ribbon reproducible Novel or selection the class is currently reading
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Vocabulary Building: Animal Alliteration
3rd Grade - 4th Grade
Objectives Students will identify alliteration as a literary tool. Students will build their vocabulary by listing descriptive words that begin with each letter of the alphabet. Materials Needed Animalia by Graeme Base “Alphabet Alliteration” pre-writing sheet Construction paper Markers or crayons Dictionaries Introduction Introduce students to the concept of alliteration by realing aloud Animalia by Graeme Base. Ask, “What did you notice about the animal names and the words that the author is using to describe them?” (The words begin with the same letter.) Explain that this is called alliteration. Tell students that alliteration is a literary tool that writers use to add emphasis to words or create a certain mood or rhythm in their writing.
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Make-Your-Own "Spilt Milk"
Toddler
Objectives
• Toddlers will build vocabulary through word repetition.
• Toddlers will build oral language skills.
• Toddlers will be exposed to books and print.
Safe Space Conversations
2nd Grade
Objectives
- Create a safe, collaborative learning environment where thoughts and ideas are valued.
- Foster a culture of kindness and respect.
Everyday Learning Activities
5th Grade
It’s important to provide at-home activities that reinforce what your child is learning in school. You’ll find it’s fun and easy to incorporate learning opportunities into your everyday routines—whether it’s during the summer or the school year. Here are some ideas to get you started!
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Silly Faces
Infant
Objectives
• Infants will be exposed to expressions of emotions.
• Infants will develop social-emotional and visual skills.
• Infants will be introduced to vocabulary related to feelings and emotions.
New Year’s Resolution
1st Grade
Objectives Reading Literature Asking and answering questions about key details in a text Language Producing and expanding complete simple and compound declarative, interrogative, imperative, and exclamatory sentences Defining “New Year’s resolution” and helping to make appropriate class resolutions Writing Creating individual New Year’s resolutions Materials Needed Squirrel’s New Year’s Resolution by Pat Miller Chart paper or whiteboard New Year’s Resolution reproducible Tagboard Self-adhesive magnetic strips Safety Scissors Crayons or markers Glue Introduction Ask students to raise their hands if they have heard of making a New Year’s resolution. Invite them to share what they think a resolution is. Explain that you are going to read aloud a make-believe story about a squirrel who makes a New Year’s resolution. Ask students to pay special attention to the story to find out what a resolution is and why people might make them at the beginning of each year.
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Float Your Boat
Kindergarten - 1st Grade
Objectives Students will predict how many pennies an aluminum foil boat will hold before it sinks. Students will test their predictions and record the results. Materials Needed Float Your Boat Record Sheet Aluminum foil Small plastic tubs Pennies Introduction Prompt students to raise their hands if they have ever traveled aboard a boat. Invite students to share what kind of boat it was (such as a rowboat, sailboat, canoe or cruise ship) and about how many passengers were on board. Ask students, “Can you ever have too many people aboard a boat? How do you know? What might happen?” Invite students to hypothesize and share their reasoning. Guide them to the conclusion that too much weight may cause a boat to sink.
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Make a Pout Pout Face
Pre-K
Objectives
- Children will be aware of the feelings of others.
- Children will identify feelings and emotions.
- Children will recognize facial characteristics associated with emotions.
First Day, Last Day Friendly Letter
1st Grade - 2nd Grade
Objectives Students will identify the parts of a letter. Students will write a friendly letter. Materials Needed The Jolly Postman by Janet and Allan Ahlberg Letter template Chart paper and marker Preparation: Using the template below, write a letter to yourself on chart paper. Sign your name at the bottom and fold the piece of chart paper in thirds. August ____, _________ Dear ___________________________, I am so excited about teaching _____ grade this year. The students in my class are great! I can’t wait to teach them ______________________________________________________. It is going to be a fantastic year! Sincerely, _________________________ Introduction Read aloud The Jolly Postman. Be sure to read all the hidden letters in the book. Ask students if they have ever written a letter. Who did they write to? What was the occasion? (Was it a thank-you note, an invitation or a friendly letter to a distant relative?)
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