Welcome to Ms. Black's Classroom
Empowering Student Creativity: The Benefits of Letting Kids Design Their Own Binder Covers
As we prepare for another school year, many of us are busy organizing supplies, setting up classrooms, and planning lessons. One simple yet powerful way to kick off the year is by allowing students to design their own binder covers. While this might seem like a small, decorative task, it carries significant educational and emotional benefits, especially for 6th graders transitioning into middle school.
1. Fostering Creativity and Self-Expression
At the heart of designing a binder cover is the opportunity for self-expression. Sixth graders are at an age where they’re beginning to explore their identities and personal interests. Allowing them to create a binder cover that reflects their individuality gives them a safe space to express themselves. Whether they choose to showcase their favorite hobbies, sports, or even the subjects they’re excited about, this activity encourages students to think about who they are and what’s important to them.
Helping Students with Math Signal Words in the Classroom
As a 5th grade math teacher, I understand the unique challenges that students with language-based learning differences face. One effective strategy I've implemented in my classroom is the use of a Math Signal Words Anchor Chart. This simple yet powerful tool has significantly improved my students' ability to understand and solve math problems by providing them with clear cues for different mathematical operations.
What is a Math Signal Words Anchor Chart?
A Math Signal Words Anchor Chart is a visual aid that lists key words and phrases associated with each of the four basic mathematical operations: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. By organizing these signal words into categories, students can quickly identify the operation needed to solve a given problem.
How I Use Morning Meetings in My 6th Grade Classroom
As a 6th grade teacher in a small classroom of students with learning differences such as dyslexia and ADHD, I’ve found that morning meetings are an essential part of our daily routine. They help set a positive tone for the day, build a strong sense of community, and provide structure and consistency that my students thrive on. Our morning meetings last 20 minutes and are packed with various engaging activities. Here’s how I structure them:
Welcome and daily reminders
Daily Quote
Question of the Day
Daily Riddle
Daily Poem
Game
Empowering Middle School Success: iReady and Data Tracking in the Classroom
If your students are anything like mine, they love to know how they're doing in class and on assessments. There's been tons of research that's come out about the importance of goal setting for middle schoolers, and in order for students to master that skill, they need to practice it in school.
As the school year sets sail, it's crucial for educators to steer their middle school students towards success through intentional goal setting. In the dynamic world of education, goal setting is not just a task but a transformative process that empowers students to take charge of their learning journey.
