Teacher talk time.
I love following other teaching blogs because I get some of the best lesson plans, games ideas, and management and organizational tools. But then other days it just makes me depressed. My classroom is not even 1/10 as cute as theirs are. They cut things out with the cricket, make handmade posters, create giant things like volcanoes or trees, and basically go all out. Then I look at my own classroom and imagine all the wonderful possibilities. (It is more functional than decorative.) And then I remember how much I get paid. And how much I have to do in my allotted time for the day. And how much I still have to do after my contract time is up. And realize that although my classroom could look fifteen times more exciting, it is good enough for me. For now. I do gradually add more things to my decor, but until I get a handle on my current curriculum, it will have to stay looking the way it currently does.
I changed up my writing bulletin board the other day. I went online a few weeks ago and found some third grade writing samples. As a class we looked at each sample and rated them low to high. I placed them on my bulletin board and am having each student rate their drafted story against the sample stories. Now, when the kids finish writing their story, they can go to the board, decide which sample it compares to, and then add to the piece to bring it up to the next level. It has really improved my student's writing. Actually seeing other third grade stories and realizing how lacking their own stories are, kids are striving to make improvements. I hope it keeps working!
2 comments:
I like that idea of the writing comparison board. I wouldn't worry so much about your decor- what matters is curriculum. Plus my fav class decorations were always kid made. How's 3rd grade treatin' ya?
I'm with Lesly...the curriculum is what matters and you are one of the best teachers I know when it comes to keeping up with an amazing curriculum. Not to mention, I think your room always looks cute!
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