Seriously, the temps on Monday reached 70 (at one point, I changed into shorts). Then it snowed the next day non-stop from 8-5ish. We ended up with about 5 inches of snow and our 8th/9th snow day for teachers (10th and 11th for kids). Eek!! I'm so grateful that our 5th grade students aren't taking the writing SOL until April because some schools have it next week. Yes, they should be prepared already, but it's a little stressful to be out unexpectedly right before a big test like that.
Anyway, I wanted to share about a few picture books that I've bought recently and can't wait to use!
The Wreck of the Zephyr by Chris Van Allsburg has been a book I've had my eye on for about 3 years now. When I was in my Master's program, one of our teachers did a lesson using this book, and I was mesmerized! It's great for predicting and questioning, and, as usual, the pictures are BEAUTIFUL! I've become a huge fan of his books, and this one may possibly be my favorite!
I laughed about this book because I found it through amazon suggestions and was drawn in by the description alone. Then just after I got it in the mail, Collaboration Cuties blogged about how they use the book during one of their Mentor Text linkies! I've already bought their resource and can't wait to use it. Redcoats and Petticoats is based on a true story about a family on Long Island who served as spies for the Revolutionary Army. VERY fun!
I've been reading about this book on SO many blogs and finally caved in. Too cute! I read it to Keagan, and he was completely taken in. Usually he gets really fidgety and wants to turn the pages before I finish. Not this one! He loved the beautiful pictures, and the language was perfect! I could see this being great for teaching a lesson on word choice in writing.
And for a little fun, go check out my friend, Courtney, and her blogiversary giveaway. Erin Condren? Yes, please!! I can't afford it on my own!
It's crazy what 24 hours can do! I am so over this winter!!
ReplyDeleteIn East Tn we got ice.. We've missed way too much this year. Ditto on the so over winter!
ReplyDeleteMrs. Brown Loves Bookworms
That is just NUTS that you got that much snow because I remember looking at your picture outside! I need to check these books out! I soooo want to win Courtney's gift card for the Life Planner!!!
ReplyDeleteAlison
Rockin' and Lovin' Learnin'
Melissa, thanks for the shout out!! We've had our fair share of crazy weather in my part of VA too!! I am so ready for the warm temps! Our 5th graders will take the writing SOL sometime this month...if I was teaching it I'd be sweatin' it!
ReplyDeleteCourtney
Snow days really do make a difference - today my kids took the ISAT test and there was a huge extended response question about area and perimeter. Due to snow days earlier this season, I am now teaching area and perimeter on Monday instead of last week before the tests. AHH! I wanted to cry. And two of my kids did. Hope the weather starts to cooperate with you!!
ReplyDeleteJen @ Cupcakes & Curriculum