Words Their Way

With every new school year comes changes to curriculum.  This year that change comes to our school in the form of Words Their Way.  From what I have learned so far, this program is primarily used for spelling, but can also benefit younger students with phonics.  Most teachers from my school have administered the spelling inventory and have graded them.  Thanks to the expertise of my fellow blogger, Emily, some of us are ready to move on to the next step; lists and word work.  We are beginning with sorting practice and developing a menu in which the students can choose various spelling activities. This is where we would like to ask for suggestions and ideas from other experts.  How do you organize your word work and lists?  What are some ways you use Words Their Way in your classrooms?

Here are the links to the spelling menu:

Spelling Menu Blank

Spelling Menu with Ideas

Antoinette & Emily

Organizing student log-ins

      I was just visiting Thoughts of a Third Grade Teacher .  She inspired me to share my way of organizing student log ins and passwords.  I like using a Computer License. 
      At my school we have mini laptops in each classroom. (Nice I know!)  It is imperative that kids follow internet safety rules and be able to log in on their own.  The computer license is "issued" to each student.  They must follow the rules or their license can be suspended.  I am yet to do it, but I did tell the kids it could be revoked. I also have them sign it.  Then it is laminated, so hopefully it will last all year!

I keep trying to attach it and GoogleDocs, I hope it works!!
Click here
If not email me and I will send it to you @ 4321teach@gmail.com

Enjoy!
Emily

4321...Blast off with a good read aloud book

As the school year begins, we find ourselves hunting for great books to share with our students.  For fifth grade, it might be a book with a catchy title like Niagra Falls, or does it? by Henry Winkler. For third grade it might be something like Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Hanks or The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes.  No matter the title these books are meant to inspire our students to read and establish a learning community.  What are some great books you have started out the year reading to your students?