tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60640169381738295962024-03-08T13:12:20.710-06:00Science Teaching Junkie, Inc.Addicted to Teaching with a Preference for Middle School ScienceScience Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.comBlogger152125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-61604943431039386782017-03-13T13:09:00.000-05:002017-03-13T13:09:20.853-05:00<h3>
What Science Junkie, Kid-Loving, Education Nerd Wouldn't Love This Place?!?</h3>
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Science is a compilation of facts and evidence, but at the very basic core of each scientific endeavor lies imagination, exploration, discovery, and passion. All of this can be found at the Hill Country Science Mill.<br />
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When I first found out about the Hill Country Science Mill in Johnson City, Texas, my inner science nerd came out! To have a place where middle school and high school kids can go and get excited about the fields of science, technology, engineering, art, and math was a rare find. They are introduced to possible career opportunities and are able to find out what academic requirements are needed for those jobs and what internships and mentorships are available to them. They even have exhibits and Learning Labs that are appropriate for grades K-5.<br />
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Every nook and cranny of this restored 1880's grist mill property gives kids a sneak peek into areas of STEAM they may have never realized they were interested in. They "accidentally" discover that application of these concepts is where the magical part of science begins. Even some of my most hard-to-reach kiddos and reluctant learners were excited about many of the experiences they had while visiting the Science Mill on a field trip. <br />
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From the time you walk in and create your custom Avatar Passport to the Mindball challenge (one of my faves) and the Cell Phone disco that resides inside of one of the 40-foot-tall repurposed grain silos, kids (and adult-kids like myself) are immersed in a fascinating world of science. You really can't leave this place not loving science a little more. To check out an extensive <a href="http://www.sciencemill.org/exhibit" target="_blank">list of exhibits</a> at The Science Mill, <a href="http://www.sciencemill.org/exhibit" target="_blank">click here</a>.<br />
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I have visited The Science Mill on 4 different occasions- once with my teaching partner and principal, once with my own 2 children, and twice with our entire 8th grade as a field trip. Everytime I was there, I discovered something new and had a blast doing it. It is truly a gem in the Texas Hill Country that should be taken advantage of.<br />
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Interested in a Field Trip?</h3>
The best part about going to The Science Mill as a field trip is that I knew my students were going to be exposed to <a href="http://www.sciencemill.org/for-educators/field-trips/teks-alignment" target="_blank">TEKS-based experiences</a> that would reinforce what I was teaching in the classroom as well as igniting their interest in other areas. The staff at The Science Mill took care of organizing every little detail of our well-planned visit all the way down to lunch and our <a href="http://www.sciencemill.org/for-educators/field-trips/learning-labs" target="_blank">Learning Lab experience</a>. All I had to do was put my students into groups, ensure that we had the correct chaperone to student ratio, and turn in my lunch orders ahead of time. This handy <a href="http://www.sciencemill.org/static/sitefiles/educator_guide_090716.pdf" target="_blank">Educator Guide</a> will walk you through everything you need to know.<br />
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This year my campus is looking into the new cross-curricular field trip experience that is a partnership with The Science Mill and the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/lyjo/index.htm" target="_blank">Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park</a>.<br />
To learn more about the opportunities for field trips, <a href="http://www.sciencemill.org/for-educators/field-trips" target="_blank">click on this link</a>. <br />
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2017 Summer Camps</h3>
The 2017 Summer Camp Schedule is out! They have a variety of options for ages, interests, and abilities. If finances are an issue, they even have financial assistance available. <a href="http://www.sciencemill.org/summercamps" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to be taken directly to the summer camp page. </div>
Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-61205847296031321572017-02-22T08:57:00.002-06:002017-02-22T09:09:52.266-06:00Elements 4D App<br />
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I recently found out about a new FREE app that I think all middle school teachers and chemistry teachers would love- the Elements 4D app by Daqri. In addition to the free app, the site also provides free lesson plans for teachers of elementary students, middle school students, and high school students. It is an augmented reality app in which students discover the properties of various elements (available via interactive blocks that are printed and assembled into cubes by the teacher prior to the activity - also free to download from their site.) <a href="http://elements4d.daqri.com/#how" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to be taken directly to the site. </div>
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The video clip below shows 2 of the 6 blocks that are provided (36 different elements in all). By utilizing the app, the elements are brought to life. Students are able to see what the element looks like in its natural form - it's state of matter is shown inside the block as the element "comes to life." Students can also click on the element name to discover more factual information about the element. If two elements are able to combine to form a compound, the compound that is created will also "come to life" when the two element blocks are touching. Students see the chemical equation that is produced when the two elements combine to form a compound. If they do not form a compound, nothing will happen. <br />
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<a name='more'></a>In the video above, you can see that sodium is a silvery, solid metal. Chlorine is a poisonous, greenish gas. But when combined, they form a harmless compound called sodium chloride (table salt). I see great benefits to using this when teaching valence electrons, chemical reactions, chemical equations, and so much more!<br />
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Daqri also has an Anatomy 4D app that allows students to explore the human body and heart. Students can interact with one body system at a time and study it in intricate detail (for example, they can focus on just the skeletal, muscular, or respiratory system) or discover how they all function together at the same time. The teacher only has to print out one sheet of paper for the human body portion or one sheet of paper for the heart portion. To be taken directly to the Anatomy 4D site, <a href="http://elements4d.daqri.com/#intro" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>. A quick demo video of the heart and the human body are below. <br />
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Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-18434081210766429432016-11-06T17:23:00.002-06:002016-11-06T17:23:52.067-06:00The Assessment-Grading App That Changed My Classroom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For years, I have been using data to drive my instruction. Tests (summative assessments) were entered into a program (Eduphoria) that aggregated the data for me and I used it religiously to make adjustments in my teaching and lesson planning. This is how I discovered the concepts that my students were understanding, not understanding, and what teaching strategies and methods were most effective. If a particular lab or activity really seemed to drive the point across and the test data supported it, then I definitely made note of that and was sure to continue it in the following years (with minor tweaks, of course!). But most of the time, I was ready to move onto the next unit and the data I collected was only used for developing my lessons for the following year. I was missing out on the data that was probably most important in the moment - the quizzes. <br />
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Formative assessments are really where you have the chance to catch misconceptions and make interventions before it's too late. But for some reason, until last year, I never put as much emphasis or attention on my quiz data. If you aren't looking at assessment data, you are missing a HUGE component of what can make a difference in the success of your students and you as an educator. <b><u>Data should drive the instructional decisions you make.</u></b> We don't have the luxury of tons of extra time, so why waste your precious minutes on assumptions about what you think your students are struggling with and what they have mastered. <br />
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And speaking of not having time, well..... I just don't have much of it. So you can rest-assured that anything I recommend has been tried, tested, and approved in my middle school classroom. If it's not worth my time, effort, or money, it doesn't make the cut. But this app does it all!<br />
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6 Reasons I LOVE ZipGrade:<br />
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<li>I actually started using ZipGrade last year as sort of a trial run. I loved how easy it was to use and my students loved getting immediate feedback. As an educator, it allows me to immediately see who is understanding the material and who isn't. I am able to intervene immediately -- either by having the students gather their class materials (ISN, textbook, notes, etc...) and complete an <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Test-and-Assessment-Corrections-Forms-3-versions-197833" target="_blank">Assessment Correction Form</a> <u>on the spot</u> or by calling them into tutorials that same day or the next day (depending on when their class period falls in the daily schedule). I don't let these weaknesses or misunderstandings last for even 24 hours; they are clarified and corrected almost instantly. </li>
<li>I don't have to waste class time going over quizzes that the majority of the class did well on. I am able to address the small handful of students who need intervention and re-teaching. And because the app does instant "item analysis", I can see what topics need to be addressed as a whole class and thus adjusted next year when I teach this same topic. Or maybe, I need to work on creating a better quiz question if a majority of my students were confused by something. For example, on the Item Analysis below, I can quickly see that I need to take a closer look at question #4. Only 69% of students chose C, the correct answer. But 37 students chose D. Was this a misconception that needs to be addressed or a poor question? By having this data available to me instantly, I am able to spend a little extra time looking back at the quiz to figure out why so many chose D. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<li>It uses an app on my cell phone and who doesn't have that in their hand at all times?!?! Exactly - super convenient. </li>
<li>You don't have to collect all of the assessments, walk across campus hoping that there isn't a long line waiting to use the scantron grading machine. You simply take a picture of the student's answer document within the app and it grades it for you immediately. I quickly verify that the pic wasn't blurry and that the student didn't make any silly bubbling errors and then I show the student how they did. My students know that if they make below a 70, they must immediately do corrections. It goes without saying at this point in the year. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<li>This image is stored in the app in case I never need to look back at it. I've had several cases of dishonesty this year (with middle school students, who knew!?!?). Students would bring their quiz up to me, swearing that B was bubbled in and they didn't know why they got it wrong. I was able to pull up the scanned image and show them that they in fact bubbled A, but had since changed their answer - dishonesty...NOT COOL! But it was funny to see their face when they knew they didn't have a case to plead at that point. </li>
<li>There are many answer documents to choose from for free on the website. <a href="https://www.zipgrade.com/forms/" target="_blank">Click here to check them out</a>. But since the majority of the time, I am using ZipGrade for short quizzes, I created an answer document that has 4 to a page to save paper. You can <a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B8B5Rm--b9_XNk5JaTIxdjk1Ykk" target="_blank">download it for free by clicking here</a>. After I scan their answer document, students know to immediately staple it to the top left corner of their quiz. </li>
<li>The price can't be beat! Trust me... it is totally worth the $6.99 for the entire year with unlimited scanning. </li>
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Students who need intervention are no longer slipping through the cracks. My instruction is adjusted immediately. It saves me time because it grades the quizzes for me and aggregates the data, which frees me up to focus on ways to improve instruction in real time. <br />
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<i>If you have a strategy that has transformed your classroom and made you a more effective teacher, I'd love to hear about it in the comments below. </i><br />
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Here's a quick intro video for ZipGrade. If you need help on setting up ZipGrade for your classes, there are a bunch of helpful How-To videos on YouTube. Just type "ZipGrade" in the search box.<br />
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<br />Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-70532187245833955232016-08-02T21:07:00.000-05:002016-08-21T14:02:27.993-05:003 Smart Ways to Improve Parent-Teacher and Student-Teacher Communication This School Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As secondary educators, our list of responsibilities seems to grow exponentially every year. More paperwork, more tasks, more meetings...<br />
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Why do we view communication as such a daunting task? I believe it has a lot to do with the amount of time it can take. On several occasions, I've contacted a parent at the beginning of my conference period, only to have the BELL end the conversation! There went my entire conference period and I got none of the work completed that I really needed to. UGH! But what if there were quick and simple tools at our fingertips that made communication quick and simple? Well, guess what?!?! Those tools exist! Now you just have the difficult task of choosing which one is right for you. :)<br />
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I present you with Celly, Class Messenger, and Parent Contact Cards...<br />
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My go-to method of staying in contact with both students and parents is <a href="https://cel.ly/" target="_blank">Celly</a>.<br />
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For Celly to be most effective, I have found that you need to have everything set-up BEFORE the school year starts. If you're reading this and the year has already started, FEAR NOT! Celly can still work for you.<br />
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Essentially, it works by you setting up what they call "cells". A cell is like a social network for your classroom or for your school. Cells can be any size and will work on any device. Once the cell is created, the members can communicate and collaborate. The reason they work best for schools is that they are totally private. No one in the cell knows your phone number or contact information and you don't know theirs. Members can use a variety of platforms to join, such as messaging, email, app, or web.<br />
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It has been a huge time-saver for me because I can schedule messages to go out whenever I want. For example, I have a weekly homework assignment that the students receive on Monday that is due no later than Friday. I have an automatic message to go out every Thursday afternoon that reminds students and parents that their homework is due the following day. I create a "cell" for each class which allows me the flexibility in sending messages to only specific classes, instead of all of my students. <br />
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Parents love it because it keeps them informed on what's happening in my class and it stimulates conversations at home between parents and their children. "Did you turn in your weekly homework yet?" Did you get a study guide for Tuesday's test? Let's review together!" <br />
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Side Note: I got a notice that some things will be changing with Celly on July 28, 2016. Not exactly sure how this will effect what I do (or if I even use it still), so just wanted to give you a heads up. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcbVhtqtlNdKmaantlA8Y5QLY7v2EXaD8LbQ_ouHjYFQDDJI606RKfaRh1Ro5BdQSLI3nUcZ7mwYYHampUIv3ssA_s7Y9qp9HWlfkkMDufYeuf4HzfsJXhLuPMxSXrTxqc5qp-fifrdxxT/s1600/class+messenger.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcbVhtqtlNdKmaantlA8Y5QLY7v2EXaD8LbQ_ouHjYFQDDJI606RKfaRh1Ro5BdQSLI3nUcZ7mwYYHampUIv3ssA_s7Y9qp9HWlfkkMDufYeuf4HzfsJXhLuPMxSXrTxqc5qp-fifrdxxT/s320/class+messenger.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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But just in case things go awry with Celly, this is my new fave! <a href="https://www.classmessenger.com/" target="_blank">Class Messenger</a> looks awesome. I might just switch to it because of its pure awesomeness. It allows for private 2-way messaging for grades K-12. It is available online, iOS app, and Android app, sending messages to mobile apps and email. I just set up my account and it was super simple- it even gave me the option of setting up a temporary "fake class" so that I could play around with the app as both a teacher and a parent. It gave me a good idea of how it works for everyone involved. <br />
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Class Messenger gives more communication options, allowing teachers to message parents or students, parents to message parents (great for class parties, volunteers, and other activities), and teachers to teachers and administrators (there are special groups you can set up that are called "staffrooms"). Students CANNOT message anyone but the teachers. And all communications take place without sharing emails or phone numbers. And just in case you are worried about people "bothering" you at home or during certain hours, Class Messenger has a Do Not Disturb feature which gives you the freedom to decide when you don't want to be bothered. For example, you could set it to turn off the push notifications and email from 5:30 pm - 7:20 am each day, as well as having the weekends off. <br />
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You can send out surveys (no more SurveyMonkey, my friends), order forms, ask for donations, volunteers, and meeting notifications. They have a really neat, time-saving feature called "Intelligent Messaging" that can follow up ONLY with people who haven't responded, RSVP'd, or submitted something that you needed by the due date. <br />
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Multiple pictures and documents can be attached to the messages you send out and messages can be scheduled and repeated. The mobile apps come with Dropbox and Google Drive integration. I can see great benefit to using this feature with my middle school students. It would be so simple to attach the homework assignment or study guide to a message that I sent out to get greater participation and help students meet due dates. So often I get the excuse that a student didn't do their homework because they forgot it at school or lost it. NO MORE EXCUSES! <br />
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In most cases, individuals will sign-up up on their own, but you have the option, as the teacher, to add people. This is obviously a little more time consuming for you since you would have to type in all of their info, but we all know that there always a handful who just don't "get the memo." If you don't have 100% coverage, the communication just won't be as effective. <br />
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If you are an elementary teacher or you set up teacher conferences each year, the Timeslot Meeting feature will do all of the work for you. Simply create up to 60 timeslots with different days, start times, and meeting lengths and send out the notification to certain groups. Parents, students, or teachers can pick the time that's right for them. Once the slot is picked, no one else can choose it. And if you have any non-responders, the "Intelligent Messaging" will take care of following up with them, so that you don't have to. <br />
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To check out their Prezi, <a href="https://prezi.com/7kclz_zxnmrv/what-is-class-messenger/" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> or if you'd rather see this as a PDF, <a href="https://blog-admin.classmessenger.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/What-is-Class-Messenger.pdf" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>.<br />
To get your entire school on Class Messenger, <a href="https://blog-admin.classmessenger.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/3StepstoGettingyourEntireSchoolSyncedonClassMessenger2015.pdf" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for more info. Access the Quick Reference Guide for Parents <a href="https://d1yyrlxiackgih.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Class-Messenger-Quick-Reference-Guide-for-Parents-2014.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> and a Parent Handout <a href="https://d1yyrlxiackgih.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/parent_handout.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiknUrxx1wz3so3Kyi77zCFOCSxEyn6aHEdv8Gkib1yyV_X8XZS6fUuLWFD-JL4aozoMJJTqwrGUAdeq5R2L3MGYiX4eaAdj31UXw8ytBehYIowAoXPSpMd1kkmgCAQXwI4f-9VtXe1KBtm/s1600/contact+cards.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiknUrxx1wz3so3Kyi77zCFOCSxEyn6aHEdv8Gkib1yyV_X8XZS6fUuLWFD-JL4aozoMJJTqwrGUAdeq5R2L3MGYiX4eaAdj31UXw8ytBehYIowAoXPSpMd1kkmgCAQXwI4f-9VtXe1KBtm/s320/contact+cards.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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All of this new technology is great, but sometimes you just can't beat regular ole' pen and paper. If there is a system that is more efficient, then I say "USE IT!" The <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Parent-Contact-Cards-English-and-Spanish-305785" target="_blank">Parent Contact Cards</a> are just that for me. During the first few days of school, I have each of my students take home a blank parent contact card for their parent or guardian to fill out and return to me. I punch a hole in the top corner and attach them to a binder ring. I make a different ring for each class period and keep them right behind my teacher desk, which is also near my telephone. Anytime I need to make quick parent contact, I just grab the cards and I'm ready to go. It can't get simpler or more efficient. <br />
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What are some tips you have for improving communication?Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-3913321644149455712016-07-26T15:19:00.001-05:002016-07-26T15:19:45.482-05:00Task Card Storage & Organizational System (plus a FREEBIE)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Task-Card-Storage-and-Organizational-System-2685126" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQUoCoy_OXuKQ_ADKi0Vqg6g4ByNGqm3G8ctnS6rzRQNcFnoAQhzruYNx50N2Ig_-wSzmS5p2TlFkCCFhMUKM7dlHkYSBSeUKgbdg-QUDHCoIhrEM12tSkPmu7TfImJOIlj_d9kZsiGWN1/s640/task+card+storage.png" width="496" /></a></div>
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The days of organizing my task cards in these little plastic file folders from the Target Dollar Spot (or was it Dollar Tree?...I can't remember) are over! Bottom line... they cost a dollar and I'm so glad I didn't spend much more than that. Whew! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEdLryZW-pR8SB8dxS6chxyWpyMX4OS2-A4chUxWs_Lpkp-t75Hc5o-8vBb-rqzif2BGArFiXTCYGznFKXVAYdxlNWnoEPRSwQgSsl_zxmWbg5LN7tOQ9PXrozvmbOF4vj4dGd8CfiufFx/s1600/task+card1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEdLryZW-pR8SB8dxS6chxyWpyMX4OS2-A4chUxWs_Lpkp-t75Hc5o-8vBb-rqzif2BGArFiXTCYGznFKXVAYdxlNWnoEPRSwQgSsl_zxmWbg5LN7tOQ9PXrozvmbOF4vj4dGd8CfiufFx/s400/task+card1.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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They got so bulky and I was constantly having to go through them all to find the cards I was looking for. <br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Task-Card-Storage-and-Organizational-System-2685126" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAAGxnp2mu9FvjniTMBKazGJ6Y7NcIjqNBR4GPDpaq1SFEMmCjLrAL2e3b6Dt2kHeo2nUpOeP_cDKYGKjoWE7oY1aGMSOi96aIKemaJzMqlflVR8jUqxs8gRH5R-U-BlsGbZV6faVAfCMY/s320/task+card+storage+3.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now they are so organized! I love the rainbow colors that coordinate with everything in my classroom and for the first time, I can quickly glance at the boxes and find the set of cards I am looking for...heaven for this organizational freak!<br />
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For those of you who own my task cards, I have decided to share the Task Card Storage box labels with you as a FREEBIE! And each time I add a task card set to my TpT store, I'll update the signs so that you will have everything you need to complete the job.<br />
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Items you will need:<br />
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.michaels.com/iris-photo-box-16-cases/10174559.html" target="_blank">Iris Photo Storage box (available at Michaels</a>) or a pretty <a href="http://www.michaels.com/iris-color-photo-craft-keeper/10468242.html#q=iris&start=1" target="_blank">Colored Version (also available at Michaels)</a></li>
<li>Cardstock</li>
<li>double-sided tape or hot glue gun</li>
<li>color printer</li>
<li>scissors or paper cutter</li>
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Directions for assembling your task card storage & organizational system box:<br />
1.) <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Task-Card-Storage-and-Organizational-System-2685126" target="_blank">Print out the FREEBIE in my TpT store</a> on card stock and laminate (optional).<br />
2.) Cut out and place signs inside of each box, using double-sided tape or hot glue to attach to plastic.<br />
3.) DONE!<br />
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<br />Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-51031320187937804102016-04-10T21:06:00.000-05:002016-07-18T06:12:22.836-05:00Survival Tips for the Last Weeks of SchoolAs most teachers around the country head down the final stretch, this is the time when you are tempted to "check it in, "let things slide," or "just sit back and relax." But now, more than ever, I encourage you NOT to do that. Just like the end of a race, this is the time that you must dig deep and work hard until the end. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjT46E-2NBLJAKfBqC1TdRzpM0FeQi2VfnYvaxmV2fy1j4e06FvyiLEI3YM6FjPh3EJzcptq1SNPswY2ZDE-C-E341rhkuQI4Do0QQoFcSDbhwFCpBQsybqOiKrIDJxRCObup_tFwXF3kx/s1600/If+you%2527re+not+dead%252C+you%2527re+not+done.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjT46E-2NBLJAKfBqC1TdRzpM0FeQi2VfnYvaxmV2fy1j4e06FvyiLEI3YM6FjPh3EJzcptq1SNPswY2ZDE-C-E341rhkuQI4Do0QQoFcSDbhwFCpBQsybqOiKrIDJxRCObup_tFwXF3kx/s320/If+you%2527re+not+dead%252C+you%2527re+not+done.png" width="320" /></a>Yes, you are worn out. <br />
For some of you the state assessments are complete. <br />
The kids are ready to quit.<br />
But who said that this job was easy?<br />
Who said the end-goal was some state assessment?<br />
And since when do lazy students drive what we do in the classroom?<br />
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We are educators and our job is to educate. From the first day of school to the very last.<br />
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A wise pastor once said, "If you're not dead, you're not done." We got into this profession because we love kids, we want to and can make a difference, and we have knowledge that we want to share. And until we take our last breath, we won't be done with our life's mission.<br />
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There is still so much to do, but who says you have to do it the way it's always been done? <br />
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So, here are some tips to help you make it to the finish line:<br />
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<li><b>Keep teaching!</b> That's right. You may think that you are done teaching your content, but why not dig deeper? Incorporate projects that allow students to learn more about a topic they really found interesting in your class this year. Or ask the teacher in the next grade level up what his/her students struggle with the most. Help out by pre-teaching that material or at least giving them exposure to it. Do something hands on, project based, and fun. My students absolutely love my end-of-year project. In fact, my incoming 8th graders always ask at the beginning of the year if they are going to get to do the BrainPop Project. In this project, students get to pick their own groups and they create their own BrainPop movie based on a topic they learned in science that year. They dress up like Tim and Moby, have props, and record their movies all over campus. It is meant to be an educational movie, so kids are still learning/reviewing material and at the same time learning important life skills, like how to work in a group, complete assigned tasks on time, use MovieMaker to edit and create movies, and finally present it to the class. </li>
<li><b>Be energetic. Stay pepped up.</b> I have found that even if you're teaching the most boring material, if YOU have energy and excitement, the kids will enjoy what they are doing. So have that morning coffee, chug that Red Bull; do whatever it takes to keep your energy up in these last few weeks. </li>
<li><b>Don't loosen up on your expectations or rules.</b> Trust me. If you do, you will regret it. Students still need to be held to the high standards you have expected of them all year. They still need the consistency of the routines and structure you've alwawys had. If they know that they can take an inch, they'll take a mile the next day. Be firm and consistent, even though you don't want to and it would be easier to let things slide. </li>
<li><b>Infuse your passion into everything you do.</b> What are you especially passionate about? Maybe there is a connection between that passion and the content area you teach. Teach your students about it. Design a lesson, project, or service project around it. Or let your students research and present something they are passionate about. All learners should find their passion and often, due to state requirements, we rob our students of their personal creativity and passion. Bring back the passion!</li>
<li><b>Stay positive.</b> Trust me, everyone wants to complain and count down the days, but why not count up? "I get to spend 23 more days with you guys!" It's all about your mind set. If your co-workers are dragging you down, try some random acts of kindness. Stock the fridge in your workroom, decorate the workroom with positive, motivational messages, bake some cookies to share, fill the teacher restroom with some special necessities. Doing something great for others will also make you feel great about yourself. </li>
<li><b>Show movies (or shorter movie clips). </b> What?!?! Did she just say that?!?! Yes, I did. But here's the catch. Make them educational. Find a way to tie it to your curriculum. I've been known to include short clips from Disney movies such as "The Lion King" to allow students to identify biotic/abiotic factors, identify producer/consumer relationships, etc. I've even used a "Finding Nemo" clip to introduce ocean currents (the East Australian Current is mentioned). I personally <u>never</u> show any video or movie without some sort of assessment or check for understanding. Even my quick Bill Nye videos, BrainPop videos, and StudyJams videos include either a fill-in-the-blank fact sheet to fill out while they watch or is followed with a quick quiz to make sure they were paying attention. I never show videos as time-fillers and I want my students to understand that everything I do will always have educational value and is important. I love showing movies like "The Core" or "October Sky." Documentaries like "Blackfish" inspire wonderful debates and discussions. </li>
<li><b>Be humorous.</b> By this time, your students know you. You've spent practically everyday with them for the past 8-9 months. Humor goes a long way. If you haven't already, let them see your humorous side. Be silly. As teachers, one of the <u>many</u> roles we fulfill is entertainer. Everyday you stand up in front of a group of teenagers and are expected to captivate their attention for at least 30 minutes. If your students never know what to expect from you and are constantly wondering what crazy, off-the-wall thing you're going to do next, I promise you will have their attention. I never have students sleep in my class - who would want to miss the show!? </li>
<li><b>Change it up.</b> Four years ago, after attending the NSTA Conference and tasting my first delicious bite of cricket, I created a <a href="http://www.scienceteachingjunkie.com/2014/05/cricket-crunch-club.html" target="_blank">Cricket Crunch Club</a>. I wait to do this until after our STAAR testing is complete. I order a bunch of crickets, cook them up, and let my students (who are brave enough to try) eat a cricket. I take a picture of each student and staff member who completes the challenge and I put them all on a posterboard that is prminently displayed in my classroom. I'm shocked every year at how many people actually eat one. Peer pressure and a unique opportunity like this, make it irresistable, I guess. And it doesn't hurt that I bake up some crazy-good crickets. ☺ </li>
<li><b>Have your students critique you.</b> I get some of the most valuable feedback about my class and myself, as a teacher, when I have my students fill out an end-of-the-year questionnaire. I want to know how my students perceive me, how challenging they thought my class was, what their most/least favorite activity was, what advice they would give to my new students next year. You can't ever become stagnant and it's so important to listen and reflect on the honest feedback you get from your students. If you don't want to read it now, save it for a day this summer. It could be some great reading by the pool or at the beach. </li>
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<br />Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-45212949395336779202016-04-04T17:47:00.001-05:002017-04-06T16:53:22.701-05:008th grade Science STAAR Review<span class="fullpost">
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Since I can never seem to be content with what I already have created and have ready to go, in typical "Shayna fashion", I've completely re-vamped my STAAR review. In the past, my school has always implemented a "STAAR Boot Camp" in which we stopped all regular classes for 2 days, pulled in all of our science and social studies teachers (in addition to some generous math and elective teachers) and held intense, focused cram sessions based upon our weaker TEKS as a whole grade level. Students would rotate from a science room to a social studies room doing fun, interactive activities in hopes that they may retain some of the info a few days later on the STAAR Test.<br />
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But this year, things are very different...<br />
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There will be no cram sessions as an entire 8th grade. Any and all interventions/reviews, etc... will be held during the class period with only our 2 science teachers. This has been a game changer. <br />
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More than ever, I decided that I must make the reviews that I do with my students, thorough and TEKS centered. I have to make sure that all of the 6th and 7th grade Supporting Standards are reviewed in addition to the 8th grade Readiness and Supporting Standards. No pressure, right?!?!?<br />
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So, I started doing A LOT of studying and organizing the resources that I had. And the final product is something that I am super-excited about. There are 4 review packets- one for each of the Reporting Categories. Each review packet provides students with a variety of ways to recall and review information that may be covered on the 8th grade STAAR Science Test. In addition, I've included a modified version that has reduced problems (when possible), reduced answer choices, and word banks (when possible). Students taking the modified version will still end up with all of the same answers as the regular version, so no additional answer key is needed. Oh, and did I mention...the teacher answer key is included as well. :)<br />
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Just in case you are thinking about purchasing all 4, go ahead and purchase the bundle at a reduced price and save some cash!<br />
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I have seen dramatic results in the performance of my students. They also go into the test feeling more prepared and confident, which in invaluable. For years, our passing percentage was in the mid to upper 70s. After using these reviews (and yes, I realize the population of students changes each year along with the test itself), we had 91% passing!! That's incredible. I've also had some great feedback from other teachers:<br />
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On <span class="date">February 27, 2017</span>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Abigail-Martinez" style="color: #67753b; text-decoration: none;">Abigail Martinez</a> (TpT Seller) said:</div>
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Used this to review for the 2016 STAAR test and I ended up being one of the top 10 in my district for student growth. 84% of my 121 students in an innercity school in Houston passed.<br />Great review of EVERYTHING that could possibly be on the STAAR! Well worth it! Thank you!</div>
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On <span class="date">May 4, 2016</span>, Buyer said:</div>
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This is one of the best STAAR review products I've seen. It is thorough enough to review, but concise enough to work through during the time before the test. I've gone back and bought the other 3 reviews. Just wish I had purchased them as a bundle, now. :) I am now officially addicted to Teaching Science Junkies products.</div>
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On <span class="date">April 25, 2016</span>, Jennifer H. said:</div>
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Fabulous review for state test- very comprehensive for all TEKS tested- 6th, 7th, & 8th<br />Thank you!</div>
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On <span class="date">April 8, 2016</span>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Mitchell-5226" style="color: #67753b; text-decoration: none;">Carol Mitchell</a> (TpT Seller) said:</div>
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This is SO AWESOME! Our state follows the same content<br />and this is the answer to my prayers! My kids LOVE IT, also.<br />THANKS SO MUCH FOR THE HARDWORK AND TIME YOU<br />PUT IN THIS RESOURCE.</div>
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On <span class="date">May 25, 2016</span>, Buyer said:</div>
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Great review tool! Got a couple. Went back and got the rest.</div>
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On <span class="date">April 18, 2016</span>, Cher J. said:</div>
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All the review I need in one place. And I didn't have to spend hours doing it myself. Thanks!</div>
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Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-7598502504458137912016-03-29T21:35:00.000-05:002016-04-10T21:12:41.746-05:00FREEBIE!! 2015 Released STAAR Test- Student Analysis Page & Goal Setting<span class="fullpost">
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<span class="fullpost">Next Monday and Tuesday, my students will be taking the 2015 Grade 8 Released Science STAAR Test. The data collected from this test will be used to focus my review sessions and decide how I can best help each student be successful.</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">But I feel that this cannot be a task that only I take on....I must give ownership and responsibility of the test to my students. They need to understand how the test is laid out, what the state of Texas says they should know at this point, and what they need to work on before the testing date in May.</span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span class="fullpost">I have created an updated Student Analysis page with additional goal setting for the 2015 Released Test. This document gives students the opportunity to understand the type of questions they are successful with and the areas where they need a little more work.</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">Each question provides the TEKS and a student friendly description of what the TEKS means. As you go over the test, students will mark/highlight the questions they got wrong and will quickly see the TEKS that need more work. Students graph their score and determine where they lie on the scale. Are they "almost there" or are they a "total rock star"? Graphing the score has really been beneficial for my "bubble students" because they can see that if they had worked a little harder on just another question or two, they probably would have passed. </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">One thing to keep in mind is that the passing standard is raising this year. This document still has the standard set to what it was in 2015, but your students need to know that the bar is rising in 2016.</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">To get this FREEBIE, visit my Teachers Pay Teachers store by <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Science-Teaching-Junkie-Inc/Category/State-Standardized-Assessments/Order:Most-Recently-Posted#seller_details_tabs" target="_blank">clicking HERE</a>!</span><br />
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Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-19709548083067925642016-02-08T19:26:00.001-06:002016-04-10T21:08:05.237-05:00February Fun- Nerdy Science Pick-up Lines<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilaFGZvboJoRS-kVLa8_CjCvrDX1ML3JfqWm5OodHEKzSGg1rzAACctdLN6itsvgm9azle2ViOETGuTzvmq2ojy6gIz_LxcufNRDm8e47vuISi0wETnlTVstY5di_-N5m8LG6hRymvCx0H/s1600/Photo+Feb+03%252C+6+53+58+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilaFGZvboJoRS-kVLa8_CjCvrDX1ML3JfqWm5OodHEKzSGg1rzAACctdLN6itsvgm9azle2ViOETGuTzvmq2ojy6gIz_LxcufNRDm8e47vuISi0wETnlTVstY5di_-N5m8LG6hRymvCx0H/s320/Photo+Feb+03%252C+6+53+58+PM.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnc475DvYbhHnIQ2l_aXVAyqS7kLSeQ6v-tIEgdnp3f2hdQ_0IoFuGQawzZYeiLIt9DPTrrHAkn537iEXkuPmR3LvoeRCMjcL8pMQvKavhPsyNirOni0SE1l84GppGF8vFjL2Z-AnfiXsQ/s1600/Photo+Feb+04%252C+6+12+20+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnc475DvYbhHnIQ2l_aXVAyqS7kLSeQ6v-tIEgdnp3f2hdQ_0IoFuGQawzZYeiLIt9DPTrrHAkn537iEXkuPmR3LvoeRCMjcL8pMQvKavhPsyNirOni0SE1l84GppGF8vFjL2Z-AnfiXsQ/s320/Photo+Feb+04%252C+6+12+20+AM.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Are you a total science nerd like me? Do you love totally cheesy pick up lines? Then you've got to check out my Instagram account and join in on the February Fun!<br />
<a name='more'></a><span class="fullpost">Each day, until Valentines Day, I will be posting a nerdy pick up line that is science related. My 8th graders really love them and look forward to what completely off-the-wall thing I will post next. And who knows... this might be just what you "single folks" have been missing! You're welcome (in advance). :)</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">Click on my image below to be taken directly to my Instagram page. Join me and stay connected to all things teaching and science.</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/scienceteachingjunkie/" target="_blank"><img alt="Change profile photo" src="https://scontent-dfw1-1.cdninstagram.com/t51.2885-19/11821157_1617947955154193_1747632519_a.jpg" /></a><br />
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</span>Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-67379800732439627762015-12-31T22:41:00.001-06:002016-04-10T21:08:17.284-05:00Output Ideas for Interactive Notebooks<div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-3">
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<span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Interactive-Notebook-Output-Ideas-2279526" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0c4ullbsyJPquhj1VlDRmO36xtbhu-k8xrPA4ybNj24eznkMwZVermsHbivMmcYYxNt3ESyPs5rX_VOdOOJbvI_5EsnQDjXmZP8BtNF_vi1S5E-PTg50jbA5IKEQy1SSzWlBP9Li3FcTB/s640/ISN+Output_PREVIEW_ScienceTeachingJunkieInc_Page_1.jpg" width="512" /></a></u></span></span></h4>
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<span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>INPUT vs. OUPUT</u></span></span></h4>
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<span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Interactive Notebook has become a large part of many classrooms around the country. It is typically divided into two sides (left side and right side). <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;">•</span><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;">The right side of the notebook is used for INPUT. This side is for the student to record notes and “testable” information. It is typically information that is provided by the teacher, such as class notes. But it can also be diagrams or maps, vocabulary, graphic organizers, handouts, etc. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;">•</span><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;">The left side of the notebook is used for OUTPUT. This side is for students to process new ideas. It can be a review of what they already know or thinking about new information. It is also a place for students to show their understanding of the information learned in class. It can include creative drawings, ideas, or writing. It is simply a way to wrap up the lesson or summarize.</span><span lang="en-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<u style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 119%;">The Struggle is Real</u></h4>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;">The OUPUT side of the Interactive Notebook is something that I am constantly struggling with in my own classroom. I either run out of time or forget to allow my students the opportunity to reflect and process their learning. I know — </span><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%; text-decoration: underline;">worst</span><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;"> </span><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%; text-decoration: underline;">teacher</span><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;"> </span><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%; text-decoration: underline;">ever</span><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;">, right?!? But, I know I am not alone. (Simply typing this makes me feel less guilty somehow.</span><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;">) I get a lot of questions from teachers around the country about how to do this or what method(s) I suggest. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;">Honestly, I haven’t had just one method. Sometimes I will have students complete a related Exit Ticket or warm-up. I use my </span><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Daily-Science-Starters-for-Middle-School-The-WHOLE-Bundle-1659057"><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;">Daily Science Starters</span></a><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;"> for this along with my </span><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Admit-and-Exit-Tickets-Exit-Slips-1173831"><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;">Admit and Exit Tickets</span></a><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;"> which are not subject specific and give teachers more creative ways to formatively assess students, while still allowing them to reflect and process information. Other times, I may have them answer conclusion/reflection questions for a lab investigation we just completed. While I still believe that the students need to be given variety in the ways they can reflect, I wanted to create something that would be easy for teachers to implement into their classrooms, whether they were already masters at having students complete the output (left) side of the Interactive Notebook, or if they were just starting to incorporate notebooks into their classroom routine. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> The two most important things that I consider before implementing something new into my classroom are: 1) is it what is best for my students? and 2) will it be extra/unnecessary work for me? With this product I truly believe that it will make it easier for you <span style="font-family: inherit;">to begin implementing meaningful interactive notebook output opportunities for students. And because most of the work has already been done for you (and no copies need to be made and no handouts need to be passed out), your precious time is not taken up by yet another thing. </span></span></span><span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span lang="en-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>My Solution</u></span></span></h4>
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<span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I have created an EDITABLE PowerPoint that includes 42 different output activities for you to easily incorporate into your classroom notebooking routine. It has a clean design with icons that are used for quickly accessing pages and easy recognition of topics. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Interactive-Notebook-Output-Ideas-2279526" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="507" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21ZHPGofPaPWP17v50KD_nqazfhrVjyHta4lsnM3QTbrkR4m_H99Uhw5Lo-W0xM-Ts3S7K8Zh0dE909ojrLM4VzlOzO2D2OHcRymT9D_lit6SEw5RtoMbAmo7GmwMbeSldElKoOQNuorO/s640/quick+guide1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Each page already includes a text box with some ideas for using it, but you can easily replace the text in the text box, add another text box, insert an image, or insert a video. The possibilities are endless!</span></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Interactive-Notebook-Output-Ideas-2279526" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSAKbRDAwj7S7-zWPd77qkrcnh-IQBDudrXrM-cpnXioFIobm9gAwbB1Wqw3_UFBofnZeDlIna0u03P9bZtcWiGi6rVtZRLcGhQQRtNztxk7C06gOQaPHf8i9rrHB7jRvBh6RpFvlOuKv/s400/cd+label.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Interactive-Notebook-Output-Ideas-2279526" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3bLu6_y7_ul5Bso3jVeHK10KST25C79QB8ZY3Xpwr3VhbCm5jgABAZy5ngDRq4FuaA00BGX9FaMD_FnbbmyHg472p6jdXB9O5LfPO_UBmE5LEDXwyugOJ1bmt3k9C9TiuC8v3VH1dh6S/s400/word+splash.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;">To check out the full product on sale for the first 7 days of the new year, click on any of the images above to be taken directly to it. Or visit my Teachers Pay Teachers store. </span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="line-height: 119%;">Happy 2016!</span></div>
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Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-82690108375301277432015-08-23T19:42:00.000-05:002016-04-10T21:08:24.778-05:00Back to School Jitters<div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-3">
Tomorrow I'm heading back to school. And even though it's my 15th year of teaching, I still get a little nervous and excited and I NEVER sleep well the night before (this is probably why I have a big glass of wine on my desk as I type this blog post). <br />
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I have 2 really cool things to share with you today. First of all, I'm really excited about a new activity I created yesterday. My husband came home and announced that he was going to do something fun for his upperclassmen in Algebra II. This is a monumental announcement at my house. Typically I am the one creating exciting, fun activities for my students, while my husband puts most of his efforts into his athletes (in addition to Algebra II, he is the head coach for both cross country and track & field). So, I was immediately on-board to help him out. He wanted to do a Mad Libs style Get To Know You activity. That sounded really fun to me too, so I created one for him, one for me, and five generic ones for all teachers. And <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Crazy-Libs-A-Mad-Libs-Style-Activity-for-the-Classroom-2051475" target="_blank">Crazy Libs is available for purchase</a> just in time for back to school! <br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Crazy-Libs-A-Mad-Libs-Style-Activity-for-the-Classroom-2051475" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkW0kGJ2V5OCcOiFVTtJMSrQRh-b8UQArQDD2YlPfgxo8QyuDfWn_By90ALqTh9FWaJNfCyALsFseStmiRk_fqD3L_PJJKEy2C1EahrSuaLbWS5_hA6JSDcU_5hhq_UZQAg9PLdiqUrCVz/s400/1.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
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There are five different Crazy Libs stories:<br />
Successful Student<br />
Science<br />
Letter to Next Year's Student<br />
My New Teacher (female version)<br />
My New Teacher (male version)<br />
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The product also includes a How-To Guide for teachers and a quick review for students. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Crazy-Libs-A-Mad-Libs-Style-Activity-for-the-Classroom-2051475" target="_blank">Crazy Libs</a> can be played with one, two, three, or thirty people.<br />
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This is a fun way for your students to get to know you at the beginning of the year. It's also great for days when you have a little free time in class, days before a holiday where there's just no way kids are going to learn new content, the end of the year, and just because it's fun! <br />
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Here's a sneak peek:<br />
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The second thing I wanted to share w<span style="font-family: inherit;">ith you is a great book I've been reading. It's based on the quote <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">“Everybody is smart in different ways. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its life believing it is stupid.” It really is a must-read for all teachers. Go grab it (or download it on your e-reader)....NOW! Seriously....it's a real eye opener and an easy read. Click on the cover below to be taken directly to it on Amazon. </span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fish-Tree-Lynda-Mullaly-Hunt/dp/0399162593" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Wv2G5S8ZB-nDktLQKJWxE5c0s9uOTg8Y708VKbRNX45ddxwJCJRGHj1ANtGbBLGOFrHoPorapxipWIYAOmOWLVHzCPXpMKyC60B2sR_qA65cyAljeu3WGNvJS8ifgf9vZ5jD8C6f0uuj/s320/fish+in+a+tree.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">I hope everyone is either having a great year so far or is about to. It's gonna be a great 2015 school year!</span></span><br />
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Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-58082835030210671212015-08-02T08:00:00.000-05:002016-04-10T21:08:35.028-05:00Guess What Time It Is? <div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-3">
It's the HUGE Teachers Pay Teachers Love Back-To-School SALE!<br />
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<a href="https://mcdn.teacherspayteachers.com/static/bts15stage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Back to School Sale" border="0" class="em_full_img" data-ms-imgsrc="https://mcdn.teacherspayteachers.com/static/bts15stage1.jpg" height="214" src="https://mcdn.teacherspayteachers.com/static/bts15stage1.jpg" style="display: block; max-width: 600px;" tabindex="-1" width="400" /></a></div>
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Seriously, people! How can you NOT be excited!?!? Not only am I offering 15% off all of my products, but if you enter the special TPT promo code at checkout (BTS15), you save an additional 10% off your entire purchase. <br />
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So start your pre-shopping now (it's kind of like window shopping for new clothes, but better because you can still use these products year after year, even if you eat a ton of cake and gain a few pounds.) See? The gift that keeps on giving. Tons of dedicated, talented teachers have put countless hours into creating quality products for your classrooms that work (so you have more free time).<br />
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A few schools have already started, but just in case you haven't, I thought I'd get your eyes watering with a new Back-to-School activity. (Get it... instead of your mouth watering? Maybe not.... I just had Lasik surgery so my eyes really ARE watering!) It's called the "Science Lab Coat First Day of School Activity." It provides you with a way to get to know your new students, your students to get to know each other, and some really cute, science-related decorations for your science classroom. It's a 3-in-1 special!<br />
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Check it out by clicking on the image below.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Science-Lab-Coat-First-Day-of-School-Activity-1965907" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6gyrik8kQ7AGX47XU0cnw4HvdiTIMaIByWw-ZlABhgyjPVg880-D2NlhuSirtmrGulxwK00NfoVjk_WJ1UVE1lbjIg7bpdjZNGNEBVK1SzlSqTS6Bluwei2ogkV7J0kEUFfsjcAiHbxL/s320/IMG_3268.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is also a great opportunity for you to snag one of my most popular new products (if you don't already have it). If you haven't made the switch to editable teacher planners, you are missing out. Not only were they designed by teachers for teachers, they cost a fraction of the price of those fancy ones you can purchase online. Many of my buyers have mentioned that they won't spend the $$ on an Erin Condren planner ever again. Wow! What a complement! <br />
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Click on the picture below to be taken directly to it in my store.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Simplicity-Teacher-PlannerBinder-2015-2016-1821582" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkkyokERi0Brw3TFGfJRQ7TMab8SNXY3kF-qhrDVKKM3wQVvTKjtKRCJmQjd1jwvTfVNjWDM_ZxaT9ds74FoBOhxaIa1JpRgDfGtcbZHZPV4hqKHiIu9UqO41mXp5Gatdc1Uuugrp5SfPi/s320/Simplicity+cover_TPT.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-60575297829982924012015-06-25T06:00:00.000-05:002016-04-10T21:08:44.223-05:00Prepare in Advance for Sick Days - Editable Sub Binder<div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-3">
Being organized and prepared for whatever may come my way is pretty important to me. If you're anything like me, you think you've got it all together and ready to teach tomorrow's lesson, until the WORST THING POSSIBLE HAPPENS....your child wakes up in the middle of the night SICK! <br />
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At my house, since my husband and I are both teachers, as soon as we clean up the vomit from the carpet, the clothes, the bed-sheets, the walls, etc... we immediately start discussing who can take off the next day to stay home with the sick child. My husband usually loses that battle after I explain that there's no way a sub could teach this rockin' lesson I have planned or conduct the dangerous lab with chemicals... I mean, really?!?!? Can you imagine what would happen if I wasn't there?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7bUXqmpAfhQNlIwkXn8NCVdur2Tr-Z0JTtu2RbplQmT4UsrNfkaFD5YuFA5b9uBsxPZd1ge712Dn9eajL9RVRkXdoITcFWVKYnDMVHgIHo9gpO_gGi5cmgg6PcNJk4XsUvRTpQwHLFWF/s1600/mad+scientist_Dollarphotoclub_70109123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7bUXqmpAfhQNlIwkXn8NCVdur2Tr-Z0JTtu2RbplQmT4UsrNfkaFD5YuFA5b9uBsxPZd1ge712Dn9eajL9RVRkXdoITcFWVKYnDMVHgIHo9gpO_gGi5cmgg6PcNJk4XsUvRTpQwHLFWF/s320/mad+scientist_Dollarphotoclub_70109123.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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But on those rare occasions, I lose the battle and go into panic mode at 3 a.m. I rush up to the school in my pajamas, (yes, I've done it. The night janitor has seen things I'm sure he'd like to block out of his memory) and start gathering up everything my sub will need. I type up detailed directions, I try to think of everything the sub will need to know to make things run as smoothly as possible.<br />
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But wouldn't things be that much easier if most of the work was done in advance? Yes! That's where the EDITABLE Sub Binder comes in. I just finished creating it and have posted it in my TPT store at a 50% discount for a short time. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Sub-Binder-1922332" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwmq_I8IDkOPRV4TZxQpYho9F5F7NinrNNV2OriiwGkN7jHjrx-CQkJOBgyxnLC7Vun7GD9y5U1NvYAjFqIzTNa5_3W99SaeO3bsQAxC6rv0U__fk5zmkx7XnSBk9l-zjqeTI6ewY8AIWA/s640/instagram.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Sub-Binder-1922332" target="_blank"></a><br />
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The idea is to have the binder assembled with everything the sub may need to know, so that you can take a day off at a moments notice. You could include a generic emergency sub lesson plan or quickly type up the specific lesson plan you need when the time comes. But you won't have to think of all of the tiny details that a sub needs to know at 3 a.m. This information will already be included in your <span style="font-family: inherit;">sub binder. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sections include: </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; line-height: 14.5481815338135px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3 cover options</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; line-height: 14.5481815338135px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">general info</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">schedule</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">special schedule</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">centers & small groups schedule</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">behavior plan</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">drills/emergencies</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">general procedures</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">help & feedback</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">feedback form for sub to fill out</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">extra work</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">class list</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">seating chart</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">special needs</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">extras</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">medical info</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">today's plan</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">daily plan pages for the following subjects (science, language arts, social studies, reading, & math)</span><span style="line-height: 14.5481815338135px;">back cover (with optional contact info)</span><br />
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REMEMBER: The Editable Sub Binder will be in my TPT store at a 50% discount for a short time, so hurry and check it out! <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Sub-Binder-1922332" target="_blank">CLICK HERE to be taken directly to the Sub Binder</a>.<br />
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Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-27624511984624219702015-06-08T18:02:00.000-05:002016-04-10T21:08:56.915-05:00If You Fail to Plan...<div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-3">
Well you know the rest...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG6jZa5MqjZ3UZLN0RrZMh75PPCXpGZkwtgqtHStDfR4d9i_bJ0bnkPexEocZRPR1DC1oe2DAHrvoa8Sq1tMuKZJ2ZVdMgV8yb7Eem4EJ4kX1VQL0m2zy53g1iutI0ypXEWYKMoXAY1j_F/s1600/plan+to+fail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG6jZa5MqjZ3UZLN0RrZMh75PPCXpGZkwtgqtHStDfR4d9i_bJ0bnkPexEocZRPR1DC1oe2DAHrvoa8Sq1tMuKZJ2ZVdMgV8yb7Eem4EJ4kX1VQL0m2zy53g1iutI0ypXEWYKMoXAY1j_F/s400/plan+to+fail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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As many classrooms around the country are taking a break for the summer, it's time for teachers to reflect on the previous year and start planning for next year.</div>
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My science department is meeting this week (before we get into full vacay mode) to start planning for the new school year. While many people are ready to flee the campus and not step foot into their classrooms until the fall, it really is a good time to do some reflecting on what worked and what didn't while it's still on your mind. The only way to improve upon your craft and stay relevant is to constantly revisit and rethink what you do in the classroom and how you do it. The lessons that were successful might be things you want to keep in your repertoire, while those that flopped, should be tossed or rethought. </div>
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I am so pumped about the new Teacher Planners I've created this year. While I use Planbook.com for a lot of my daily plans because it easily links to my class blog for my students, I still need to do my planning with paper and pencil. These planners are all you will need! I have 3 different design options to choose from, with each design offering many different options for layout, etc... They are customizable, editable, and flexible in how you use them. They are great for both primary and secondary teachers and don't break the wallet. </div>
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What I love most about my planner is the ability to look at things from year to year and the planner provides a place for me to record feedback in real-time. Not only does reflecting after a lesson make me a better teacher, but it also greatly reduces my work load for the next year. </div>
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And the feedback has been great:</div>
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On <span class="date">May 9, 2015</span>, Denise K. said:</div>
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Wonderful!! I love how easy it is to edit! I can keep everything digital, and it looks nice.<br />
Thanks!!</div>
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On <span class="date">May 6, 2015</span>, Caitlin M. said:</div>
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I love the layout, the design and the ease of use of this planner! No more expensive planners for me!! :) Thank you!</div>
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On <span class="date">May 20, 2015</span>, Katie K. said:</div>
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I have bought the expensive planners before but I cannot wait to use this!!! I know many of my fellow teachers are going to be drooling over it!!!</div>
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Here are some pics of what's included:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiobbvBAoUy7JlFXIYKNqKqytnh2jCR1uTJRG610rq6fAxELWHbsrlTDXJ-0irQ7xAWBz7fn6tIuh__jq2WFghVyg-29Iy1qjragpRWQAhSUBGhcWUTN_mBnVICYlKmDXKYFWBHjoq9nViy/s1600/BW+2015-2016+preview_Page_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiobbvBAoUy7JlFXIYKNqKqytnh2jCR1uTJRG610rq6fAxELWHbsrlTDXJ-0irQ7xAWBz7fn6tIuh__jq2WFghVyg-29Iy1qjragpRWQAhSUBGhcWUTN_mBnVICYlKmDXKYFWBHjoq9nViy/s320/BW+2015-2016+preview_Page_01.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiejJkJABbTs8bTko2AXP1EypJJ96zrxS7fvhkpYoJ1cgzRyHWbAbQL8P4JwLnQGBzRN_hyPjEOM10gtpFXHrpjoMC0oRvPoufejuIEo8McQ2XsEglTtVnzLMpjKUt-WzQlsvBTsXm41Gu0/s1600/BW+2015-2016+preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiejJkJABbTs8bTko2AXP1EypJJ96zrxS7fvhkpYoJ1cgzRyHWbAbQL8P4JwLnQGBzRN_hyPjEOM10gtpFXHrpjoMC0oRvPoufejuIEo8McQ2XsEglTtVnzLMpjKUt-WzQlsvBTsXm41Gu0/s320/BW+2015-2016+preview.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBzIGnxvdeSEqZVouBL7TCUlK2jlx6JNSrK4i3FX1NHhVwCgu0xHs5fIu1BkAFhJGhb2Bqb3Z0oNWPEKuNzDqMg7AiCbAkO10_7ey82XLrkZ1bSm30cxSIClQXTO7P2vM5cuK7XKctPFiW/s1600/BW+2015-2016+preview_Page_02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBzIGnxvdeSEqZVouBL7TCUlK2jlx6JNSrK4i3FX1NHhVwCgu0xHs5fIu1BkAFhJGhb2Bqb3Z0oNWPEKuNzDqMg7AiCbAkO10_7ey82XLrkZ1bSm30cxSIClQXTO7P2vM5cuK7XKctPFiW/s320/BW+2015-2016+preview_Page_02.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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To check out my Black and White with Pops of Color Teacher Planner, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Black-and-White-with-Bright-Pops-of-Color-Teacher-Planner-2015-2016-1827440" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>. To check out my other designs, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Science-Teaching-Junkie-Inc/Category/Teacher-Planner" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>. <br />
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I am in the process of adding some features to my planners that were requested by buyers. And as always, any additions or revisions are free to buyers. Each year, I offer a re-fill planner to update the dated sections of the planner. <br />
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Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-12379579204735200462015-03-01T08:00:00.000-06:002016-04-10T21:09:06.398-05:00Preparing for the 8th grade Science STAAR Test (Review & Plans)<div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-3">
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This past week, my students took the <a href="http://tea.texas.gov/Student_Testing_and_Accountability/Testing/State_of_Texas_Assessments_of_Academic_Readiness_(STAAR)/STAAR_Released_Test_Questions/" target="_blank">2014 Released Science STAAR Test</a> as a tool for us to measure their progress and help assess what concepts need to be reviewed before the actual STAAR administration in April. For more info on the test visit the <a href="http://tea.texas.gov/student.assessment/staar/science/" target="_blank">TEA website</a>. <br />
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Last year, I spent time going over the released test and I had a form for students to fill out showing them what TEKS and concepts they were strong in and which ones were weakness. <a href="http://thesciencepenguin.com/" target="_blank">Ari from The Science Penguin</a> had a great idea for the 5th grade test that I borrowed and adapted for the 8th grade test. On one side it lists the question number along with the TEKS and a student-friendly explanation about that TEKS. On the other side, students graph their raw score so they can get a visual of where they are at this point (have they met the minimum standard, are they just above/below it, or are they well within the Advanced Academic Performance zone?) Then students have a chance to write down 5 strengths and 5 weakness and reflect on the test. <br />
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8B5Rm--b9_XYU1FUlozT1VtOFU/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Download the document here!</a><br />
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I can't say enough about how important I think it is for you to educate your students about the STAAR Test itself. They should understand the 4 Reporting Categories, the Readiness and Supporting standards, and the TEKS. They should know how the test is laid out, how many questions from each reporting category to expect, etc...<br />
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At the beginning of March I will send home a <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8B5Rm--b9_XYUxNMmR5aFJyY2M/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Parent Letter</a> with each student, informing the students and parents about the plan for upcoming review. My full review typically takes 3-4 weeks prior to the test. During this time, my students complete the following 4 review packets:<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/8th-Grade-Science-STAAR-Review-Reporting-Category-1-Matter-and-Energy-2466343" target="_blank">Reporting Category 1 Review Packet</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/8th-Grade-Science-STAAR-Review-Reporting-Category-2-Force-Motion-and-Energy-2467400" target="_blank">Reporting Category 2 Review Packet</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/8th-Grade-Science-STAAR-Review-Reporting-Category-3-Earth-Space-2473004" target="_blank">Reporting Category 3 Review Packet</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/8th-Grade-Science-STAAR-Review-BUNDLE-2481550" target="_blank">Reporting Category 4 Review Packet</a><br />
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I use data that I've collected all year from the district benchmark assessments using Eduphoria. I am still using the tracking method that <a href="http://teachingjunkie.blogspot.com/2013/10/tracking-individual-successes-in-middle.html" target="_blank">I posted about in this blog post</a>. Students have been eager to earn their stickers this year and it's become quite a competition. They know which TEKS they've mastered and which TEKS need a little more attention and hard work. <br />
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After completing the packets, and going over the released test in detail, students are ready to begin their individualized review catered to their specific needs. I have gathered and created a variety of activities for my students to complete based on each of the TEKS. Students will only work on their weaknesses. This has proven to be most effective because they are no longer wasting their time reviewing material that they have mastered. Reviewing for a test like this can't be "one size fits all."<br />
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Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-85332847507652651062015-02-28T13:00:00.000-06:002017-02-22T22:02:03.110-06:00All of the Moon Phases in Less Than a Week <div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-3">
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I absolutely love teaching moon phases and after 14 years, I feel like I've almost perfected the art of teaching this concept. I've created a lot of new things, come up with tips and tricks that will stick with my students, and created some pretty awesome hands-on activities for my students to be able to interact and experience the lunar cycle. And because I only use activities that give me 'a lot of bang for my buck,' I'm able to shorten the amount of time I need to teach the concept and students are mastering the material in less time than ever. </div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzIAyOiKen-tkqyaVQxA5Ro0SLBy4-eSZ6bAsZ8AUsAQfGKo0W2fJyAIQ0ANqY1ckfo2NFWs9kgsSQ7Up1CnQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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I begin on the first day with an engagement activity in which students receive a baggie full of moon phases and they are simply asked to place them in a logical sequence on their table. When they are done with the task, they raise their hand for me to come check it. Over 90% of the time, students will place the pictures in the correct sequence, but they will have the moon pictures laid out in a straight line. So I ask, "What comes after this last picture?" And they usually grab the first picture in the sequence and drag it to the end. Then I ask the exact same question again, followed by another card moving from the beginning of the sequence to the end AGAIN. So I ask, "Is there a better way you could lay these pictures out on your desk?" They very quickly realize that a circle is more appropriate because the moon phases are a never-ending cycle. There is no beginning and no end. </div>
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After this engagement activity, I begin the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Lunar-Lollipop-Lab-Discovering-Moon-Phases-1097600" target="_blank">"Lunar Lollipop Investigation"</a> in which each student gets to experience and discover for themselves what causes us to see various moon phases from earth and why the moon appears to be lit in the sky.</div>
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<u>Day 2</u> involves some note-taking, diagram drawing/labeling, and tips and tricks. I created some large magnets with my Silhouette machine of the 8 moon phases, the Sun and the Earth. This allows me to model on the front board while students add information to their Interactive Science Notebooks. I have narrowed down learning moon phases into a few basic rules to memorize. And because a lot of my students struggle with drawing and labeling the moon phases if the location of the Sun varies on the diagram they are observing, I have also created 5 simple steps for students to follow to get the drawing and labeling of moon phases right every time.</div>
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In 8th grade, my students not only need to be able to identify the phase, but they need to be able to predict moon phases, so teaching the various time increments that pass between phases is crucial to them being able to master predicting. Day 2 ends with us drawing arrows (using 4 different colored pencils) to show the amount of time that passes from a new moon to new moon, new moon to full moon, new moon to first quarter, new moon to waxing crescent, etc...</div>
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<u>On Day 3</u> students get to practice all of the information they've learned by "playing" with my moon phase cardboard circles and my <a href="http://teachingjunkie.blogspot.com/2013/03/clearest-way-to-teach-moon-phasesever.html" target="_blank">moon phase boards</a>. A few years ago, I went to a local bakery in town to ask if I could purchase some of her cardboard circles that she used under cakes. I happened to have taught all 3 of her daughters, so she graciously donated them to me. Score! I made 6 complete sets for my classes (6 sets of the moon as seen from Earth and 6 sets of the moon as seen from space - I call it the Gods-eye view). I do both of these sets because the view from space is often included in models and students don't quite understand the meaning or significance. </div>
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The students use Post-its to label the phases in both models and I come by to quickly check their answers when they are done. Once I've verified that everything is correct, I have them move to the other side of the model and lay the moons out again (with the Sun on the opposite side - once with the Sun on the left, once with the Sun on the right). </div>
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<u>On Day 4 (and maybe a little on Day 5 if needed)</u>, my students have pretty much mastered the moon phases and they are ready to start predicting the sequence of events in the lunar cycle. TEKS 8.7B states that students should be able to demonstrate and predict the sequence of events in the lunar cycle. Using my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Predicting-the-Sequence-of-Events-in-the-Lunar-Cycle-Activity-679660" target="_blank">"Predicting the Sequence of Events in the Lunar Cycle Activity" product</a>, students work with a partner to roll the dice and predict various moon phases before and after the rolled moon phase. They have to draw the rolled phase, label it, show its location on a Sun-Earth-Moon diagram, and then draw and label the phase that comes a designated time before and after the rolled phase. Each roll of the dice requires them to predict a different amount of time before and after (so there's no need to worry about students rolling the same phase. The answers will always be different!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguBYwksAEyxaPu81Hc0EmMO6EvHLJQ3Ivm4BLugjC3niq3WbZDCt5ozw4Z-xo_ZP_dSfgBWUC73SAQZgBPpgJbJ8FNS3B5n2kcvwdG_1lg4i5Pwbf7rIV1j06pIoQbesfRNCAuy6ozr3sP/s1600/IMG_0694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguBYwksAEyxaPu81Hc0EmMO6EvHLJQ3Ivm4BLugjC3niq3WbZDCt5ozw4Z-xo_ZP_dSfgBWUC73SAQZgBPpgJbJ8FNS3B5n2kcvwdG_1lg4i5Pwbf7rIV1j06pIoQbesfRNCAuy6ozr3sP/s1600/IMG_0694.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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And that, my friends, is how you teach (and have your students master) moon phases in under one week!</div>
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For more great lessons, labs, and activities that related to moon phases, check out these products in my Teachers Pay Teachers store:</div>
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<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Space-Science-for-Interactive-Notebooks-539141" target="_blank">Space Science for Interactive Notebooks</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Moon-Phases-and-Seasons-Task-Cards-1065855" target="_blank">Moon Phases and Seasons Task Cards</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Daily-Science-Starters-for-Middle-School-Earth-and-Space-1507475" target="_blank">Daily Science Starters for Middle School - Earth and Space</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Predicting-the-Sequence-of-Events-in-the-Lunar-Cycle-Activity-679660" target="_blank">Predicting the Sequence of Events in the Lunar Cycle Activity</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Thats-a-Fact-Jack-Fact-or-Fiction-Science-Sorting-Motions-of-Earth-Moon-1022716" target="_blank">That's a Fact, Jack! Fact or Fiction Science Sorting: Motions of Earth and Moon</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/DayNight-Seasons-Moon-Phases-Tides-Review-Circuit-1898552" target="_blank">Day/Night, Seasons, Moon Phases, & Tides Review Circuit</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Predicting-Moon-Phases-Color-by-Number-2426541" target="_blank">Predicting Moon Phases Color-by-Number</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/8th-Grade-Science-STAAR-Review-Reporting-Category-3-Earth-Space-2473004" target="_blank">8th Grade Science STAAR Review- Reporting Category 3 (Earth & Space)</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Moon-Phases-Reciprocal-Learning-Activity-2939028" target="_blank">Moon Phases Reciprocal Learning Activity</a></li>
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Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-900904826490610362015-02-27T17:10:00.000-06:002016-04-10T21:09:26.085-05:00Color-by-Number Activities for Middle School Science<div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-3">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Science-Teaching-Junkie/Category/Color-by-Number" target="_blank">Click HERE to check out all of my Color-by-Number products</a></td></tr>
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What do you like to do on your days off? Me?... Well I have issues... I took the last 2 days off to stay at home and work on creating more products for my Teachers Pay Teachers store. Lately, my color-by-number activities have been a big hit. I'm starting to add more to the growing list of available topics, so stop by my store and see if there's something you could incorporate into your lessons this week.<br />
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Students love the change of pace and teachers are thrilled that their students are getting a good review of concepts or additional practice in specific content. <br />
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And the second best part... all you have to do to grade this (if you choose to), is check to make sure their final picture matches the included answer key. Each numbered area that is colored incorrectly means that the student needs a quick direct teach or review of the concept.<br />
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Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-40496798906822651622015-02-07T16:01:00.003-06:002016-04-10T21:09:35.566-05:00Can't Live Without It eBooks - Get to Know TPT Sellers and Grab a Ton of FREEBIES<div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-3">
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There are two things we know for sure…<br />
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1 -Teachers are busy!<br />
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2 -Teacher-Authors at Teachers Pay Teachers are working hard to make teachers’ lives easier!<br />
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And here’s the proof…<br />
Brain Waves Instruction, Literary Sherri, Getting Nerdy with Mel and Gerdy, and Lindsay Perro have worked to compile 4 FREE ‘Can’t Live Without It’ eBooks filled with 120 instant print-and-teach resources for all you busy teachers out there! And I am so excited to be a part of this special FREEBIE for teachers of all content areas.<br />
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The eBooks profile middle school and high school teacher-authors and include printable teaching resources from 30 TpT stores in each eBook. The eBooks are categorized for ELA, Math, Science, and Humanities (Social Studies, Art, Foreign Language, and more ELA).<br />
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In them you’ll learn things that each TpT teacher-author can’t live without and you’ll receive a 1-page resource they think YOU can’t live without!<br />
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Who knows...You may learn something new about me... :)<br />
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They’re made especially for you and you can check them all out here by clicking below on the category title of the ebook you want to look at:<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cant-Live-Without-It-eBook-ELA-Grades-6-12-Free-1678055" target="_blank">ELA</a><br />
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Coming-Soon-Free-Humanities-eBook-1684365" target="_blank">Humanities</a><br />
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cant-Live-Without-It-eBook-Math-Grades-6-12-FREE-1685377" target="_blank">Math</a><br />
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cant-Live-Without-It-eBook-Secondary-Science-FREE-1678878" target="_blank">Science</a><br />
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Click on my picture above to be taken directly to me free product in my Teachers Pay Teachers store and don't forget to check out the goodies from all of the contributors. <br />
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<br />Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-27014640670148913192015-01-28T07:00:00.000-06:002016-08-10T07:02:58.427-05:00Science in Your Own Backyard<div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-3">
This weekend, on my family's road trip to eat some delicious BBQ at The Salt Lick, we happened to be driving by my old Alma Mater (I was the last graduating class of Southwest Texas State University, now called Texas State University) and I made my husband quickly pull off the interstate so that I could take my girls to see Aquarena Springs and ride on the glass-bottom boats. <br />
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We had a great time and the girls were amazed to see all of the life that was going on beneath the surface of the river. Thousands of springs were bubbling up from the Edwards Aquifer. Spring Lake is also home to one of the most dense turtle populations ever studied in the United States, so they saw their fair share of several different turtle species (up close). <br />
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But the part that really got the science teacher in me thinking was when we visited their indoor discovery hall and aquarium exhibit. We were able to see several Endangered Species, such as the Texas Blind Salamander, San Marcos Salamanders, and Fountain Darters. I started thinking how simple it would be to take a local (well...semi-local for me) spot like this, with so many educational opportunities and bring them into my classroom, or other classrooms across the state. <br />
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In 8th grade, we teach concepts, such as biodiversity, symbiotic relationships, and human impact on the environment. In 7th grade, students model the effects of human activity on groundwater and surface water in a watershed. All of these things could easily be tied in with a lesson about the local rivers in your area. Science is right outside the 4 walls of your classroom, if you just look for it. <br />
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I happen to be fortunate to be located just a few miles down the road from Enchanted Rock State Park. We have been able to partner up with the rangers on several occasions to have them speak to the students about the importance of conservation and keeping walking trails to a minimum. Students discover what vernal pools are (and the tiny creatures that are a part of this fragile habitat) and see primary succession occurring on the giant granite dome with lichens. <br />
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This year, I am having another Star Party for my 8th graders and their families. It is hosted by our local Hill Country Astronomers group and it gives my students a chance to look through some high-powered telescopes at the celestial objects we are studying in class. Talk about making learning tangible and real! Most students have never had the chance to look at these things up close. There's a big difference in looking at the moon in a textbook vs. seeing the craters up close with your own eyes. <br />
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Today I am going with some co-workers to check out a new science center that is coming to Johnson City, Texas called the <a href="http://www.sciencemill.org/" target="_blank">Science Mill</a>. They will be offering many different exciting and interactive exhibits and programs. With a special focus on middle and high schools students, the Science Mill hopes to help expand students' understanding of science and spark their curiosity and inspire them towards an interest in STEM careers. <br />
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The great part about working with these groups and organizations is that they really try and incorporate the concepts that are required by the state for each grade level into their activities and presentations. This is a constant concern of mine, since I teach 8th grade and have the stress and pressure of the STAAR test looming over my head at all times. It's difficult to give up precious instructional time, but when you know that your students are being exposed to the material in different ways, you can relax and know that it will all work out (and in a lot of cases, these experiences will have a much greater effect than anything you could have done within the confines of the 4 walls of your classroom.)<br />
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Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-29206478856310951952015-01-25T12:04:00.000-06:002016-08-10T07:07:02.699-05:00Chemistry DIY for Your Classroom<div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-3">
In today's post, I'm going to share with you some simple DIY for your chemistry unit. This is something my teaching buddy and I created this previous school year for our STAAR Review Camp, but I think it's definitely something we will be using during our chemistry unit for years to come. <br />
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It's an Atom Building Model that's magnetic. And the best part is, most of the materials we used were things we already had around the classroom.<br />
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In my classroom, I have 2 different atom model sets. The first one shown below cost somewhere in the $50 range and the second model pictures runs much higher, in the $70 range. I like both of them for different reasons, but buying more of these for my students just wasn't going to happen. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOfkKI-8A5eQNyzx8D98kzevVAfusvxGb5eCKTXN1A5Pi2_DsULTqjFdy0duM9ALHSF3XEtheuncP-lzpQhWb6x6hT32wZRKLIF-LlcWLd4YedKZbS6fyQBcNOQM7fCGe1cmqQwPAYt-q1/s1600/W19901_01_Interactive-atomic-model-according-to-Bohr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOfkKI-8A5eQNyzx8D98kzevVAfusvxGb5eCKTXN1A5Pi2_DsULTqjFdy0duM9ALHSF3XEtheuncP-lzpQhWb6x6hT32wZRKLIF-LlcWLd4YedKZbS6fyQBcNOQM7fCGe1cmqQwPAYt-q1/s1600/W19901_01_Interactive-atomic-model-according-to-Bohr.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I wanted some magnetic atom models that had a nucleus, 3 energy levels, and plenty of protons, neutrons, and electrons to allow my students to build atoms for atomic numbers 1-20. I've noticed that in order for my students to master the structure of an atom and retain this information all year long, the key is to practice, practice, practice.<br />
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So, with all of the creative geniuses in my science department, we came up with a much cheaper version, that I actually ended up liking even more. <br />
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Many teachers have small dry erase boards in their classrooms to allow students to record an answer and hold it up to show the teacher. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAY91mcMUmcQKYI4Ve-F84I8YLwzfU4-_Wo3vIK3byFIC1mGthUlKXRqzvY0oL_wphl1Z5ZHvqcslZZhG0q54jeZmI7vwpP7nsyA9-932E5UpBtjdZFFifyxT7r0RTLKZi0Ib9YCIQ2Sl5/s1600/lapboard-case.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAY91mcMUmcQKYI4Ve-F84I8YLwzfU4-_Wo3vIK3byFIC1mGthUlKXRqzvY0oL_wphl1Z5ZHvqcslZZhG0q54jeZmI7vwpP7nsyA9-932E5UpBtjdZFFifyxT7r0RTLKZi0Ib9YCIQ2Sl5/s1600/lapboard-case.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The boards we have are one-sided....until now! On the back side of each board, we lightly hand sanded, then painted on some magnetic paint.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWp3o74j7L0RJm-a8VebejOPkVMMn-k27I38LMRLkqWqnIyLX09hUNkW9IoM9JRox2NHL5fNyobf4o1a6WcT_t-AL2U4J4w7r36GLF00jC54VcJ5u0AyKtxOTNsvZ4Jn6MNbVR9ADZdQjv/s1600/image+%25283%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWp3o74j7L0RJm-a8VebejOPkVMMn-k27I38LMRLkqWqnIyLX09hUNkW9IoM9JRox2NHL5fNyobf4o1a6WcT_t-AL2U4J4w7r36GLF00jC54VcJ5u0AyKtxOTNsvZ4Jn6MNbVR9ADZdQjv/s1600/image+%25283%2529.jpeg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSNb2P0Am7BjNwhme6buuk5BdK7ATp5c1q6VQCLUFoOPC2qEsDR0ghmUmsIeCiFx9fTphy0SsUgyM_KkSIovAJdTO_KhYul5-m9-klJQSP_mWIKS1egvcke8BtZ7AYcp-CULFK-7W2qAsq/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSNb2P0Am7BjNwhme6buuk5BdK7ATp5c1q6VQCLUFoOPC2qEsDR0ghmUmsIeCiFx9fTphy0SsUgyM_KkSIovAJdTO_KhYul5-m9-klJQSP_mWIKS1egvcke8BtZ7AYcp-CULFK-7W2qAsq/s1600/image.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr1iaMonbQUgOMSMkHF_sSDGMrcZ_nRytl_suyemVs28HcI5Xi-odzD6H9JxM0qO_gG8m6vQJp99zk7RzbHguo4psln_ViYRWvkU1IOhfaKf0SVTKfuHjUraQKYn-Z-aurlRozB0EB6ZIx/s1600/image+%25284%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr1iaMonbQUgOMSMkHF_sSDGMrcZ_nRytl_suyemVs28HcI5Xi-odzD6H9JxM0qO_gG8m6vQJp99zk7RzbHguo4psln_ViYRWvkU1IOhfaKf0SVTKfuHjUraQKYn-Z-aurlRozB0EB6ZIx/s1600/image+%25284%2529.jpeg" width="320" /> </a><br />
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After allowing these to completely dry overnight, we finished it up with a few light coats of the white spray paint.</div>
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The next steps were done with my favorite crafting tool, the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Silhouette-Electronic-Cutting-Starter-Bundle/dp/B00NAX7H78/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422208956&sr=8-1&keywords=silhouette+cameo" target="_blank">Silhouette Cameo</a>. I used it to create an energy level template out of cardstock. All we had to do was lay it on the painted side of the board and lightly spray paint it with black paint. I also purchased some <a href="http://www.amazon.com/ProMAG-Inches-Inkjet-Printable-Magnetic/dp/B008U2S0H0/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1422208892&sr=8-4&keywords=printable+magnet+paper" target="_blank">printable magnetic pages from Amazon</a> and created all of the magnetic subatomic particles. And I used the Silhouette to cut them all out. You could also use a small circle punch to speed up the process (but I couldn't imagine cutting them out by hand - I made a lot!) <br />
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I've a had a few teachers email me asking about how to begin to use stations in the science classroom, so I thought a quick How-To Post was in order.<br />
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My students are doing stations this week (4 out of the 5 days), so I will refer to those stations throughout this post, in addition to adding some pictures I snapped in class today.<br />
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First and foremost, I've discovered that not all content easily lends itself to stations. And not all students are 100% ready for this different way of doing things. This year, I teach five 8th grade Pre-AP classes and one 7th grade regular science class. I do stations a lot with my 8th graders because I have spent time (since the start of the school year) introducing more and more stations and I feel comfortable knowing that they will take the stations seriously and be more responsible for their own learning. If you teach lower grades, you may have to ease them into it or start with some stations that are typically easier content to comprehend. <br />
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My 8th graders are beginning their weather unit. Weather tends to be a unit that is quite challenging and fairly unfamiliar to most of my students. Last week we did several labs to remind the students how density and temperature are related. I also provided them with some simple models that would help them remember more difficult concepts. For example, I blew up a balloon and we discussed where the pressure was greater (inside the balloon). Then I released my fingers from the neck of the balloon and allowed the air to escape. The students were able to verbalize that this created wind. So, we discussed that wind is simply moving air. Then, we took it a step further and got to the big idea of the whole demonstration which was ... Air moves from high to low pressure. They've all experienced letting air out of a balloon, so to have this simple model/memorization tool to help them remember a more difficult concept (how air moves in relation to pressure), was priceless. They even remembered it today (after a 3 day weekend)! Woo Hoo!<br />
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Today my students did stations on wind and air pressure. There were a total of 5 stations (I always set up two of each station, so that there is always somewhere for my students to go). That is pretty important in my opinion. You don't want students to be standing around, so make enough stations to always have an empty one. It's also good to consider the amount of time that each station may take. If all of your stations take 10 minutes, but you have one station that is taking them 15-20 minutes, you are going to have a major traffic jam at that "longer" station. Have a plan.<br />
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At station 1, they were doing a card sort in which they identified different tools used to measure both wind speed and/or wind direction. Each station has a sign with directions and all of the handouts, tools, and resources needed to complete that station. I even have directions telling them where to glue it into their Interactive Science Notebook (ISN).<br />
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<a name='more'></a>At station 2, students were modeling high and low pressure systems. They had a booklet at this station that led them through a mini-lab, had a short passage to read, and conclusion questions to check for understanding. With a little thought and discussion with their partner(s), they discovered that much like when you use a screwdriver to put a screw into wood and remove it, pressure systems behave in a similar fashion. It is more difficult (requires more force and more pressure) to put a screw into the wood than it is to remove it. High pressure systems rotate clockwise and sink (just like putting the screw into the wood) and low pressure systems rotate counter-clockwise and rise (just like removing the screw). I also provided additional images and explanation at this station (for students who needed it). Basically, I believe that the content is more memorable when they are able to experience it and come to the conclusions on their own versus me just direct teaching it. But, I am always moving around the room checking for understanding or answering questions. I never just give my students an answer. I will help guide them to a helpful resource or I will ask them a series of questions that will lead them to the answer, but they know better than to expect an answer to be given to them (And yes, it frustrates the living daylights out of them, but oh well....DEAL WITH IT!)<br />
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Station 3 was a booklet with a short reading passage about the movement of air in Earth's atmosphere in addition to some questions that check for understanding. This station was pretty quick (sorry no pics).<br />
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At station 4, students learned about land and sea breezes. They had a booklet to read a short passage from that included images and some questions to check for understanding. It also included a Venn Diagram to force them to think about the similarities and differences between land and sea breezes. They had the Dell tablets to watch an animation about land and sea breezes (for those who are more visual learners). <a href="http://www.classzone.com/books/earth_science/terc/content/visualizations/es1903/es1903page01.cfm" target="_blank">Click here for the animation</a>. After completing the booklet and watching the animation, students added information to a sea and land breeze diagram, such as the convection current created, labeling the areas of high and low pressure, and drawing an arrow representing wind direction. This flippable can be found in my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Weather-for-Interactive-Notebooks-521916" target="_blank">Weather for Interactive Notebooks product in my TPT store</a>. <br />
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Station 5 was about Jet Streams and how they compare to Land and Sea Breezes. Since this station required prior knowledge of land and sea breezes, students were instructed to complete station 4 before moving onto station 5. At this final station, they had a very short passage to read about jet streams, then they watched a YouTube video that talked more about them. At this point they were able to compare and contrast jet streams to land/sea breezes. <br />
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Our class periods this year are about 50 minutes, so most of the students completed all but 1 or 2 stations today. They will finish up the stations tomorrow and then we can start going over the answers and checking for understanding, etc... <br />
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You can take material that seems somewhat "dry" to you and spice it up simply by putting the material in stations format. Add in videos and animations where possible. Keep the kids moving and engaged - that's the key!<br />
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<b><u>Worried about how you should teach the "big ideas"?</u></b><br />
If you still feel like students won't be understanding the "big ideas" in this format, you could always pre-teach before the stations or make yourself a station. Meet with small groups. As a middle school teacher, I was rarely able to sit down with a small group of kiddos (like I imagine the elementary teachers doing), because I knew all hell would be breaking loose with the rest of the class, until I started doing stations. Now, I sit at my big lab demo table at the front of the room looking out, and students come to me. I am able to teach/talk in a 2:1 or 3:1 situation, while still monitoring the rest of the class. I love that time, because I can really get to know my students and find out what they know. It's a much more unique experience this way.<br />
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<b><u>Need ways to supplement what is happening in the classroom?</u></b> <br />
I have a weekly homework assignment that my students receive on Monday and have until Friday at the latest to turn in. We call it the "DL Homework", which stands for "due later". This assignment always supplements what we are learning in class and/or reinforces material from the previous week that I felt needed a little more attention. I don't believe in piling on the homework, but this weekly homework has become routine for all of my classes. It's part of their week and they've become used to it. There is also some flexibility built into it. If there are certain nights that are busy because of extra-curricular activities or church, they still have opportunities within their school week to get it done. I even allow early finishers to work on their DL Homework - as long as they are working alone. My rate of homework not being turned in has significantly decreased since moving to this method.<br />
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There are several teacher authors that sell pre-made stations for various topics that you may want to try before creating your own. The pre-work is a bit more for you, but I think the benefits far outweigh the work you will have to put in ahead of time. And after doing it once, you are ready to go for future years. Just keep everything organized, so that all you have to the next year is pull out the materials. The kids will almost teach themselves!<br />
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Some science teacher sellers I would recommend if you are interested in science stations:<br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Science-Teaching-Junkie/Category/Stations-Learning-Centers" target="_blank">Science Teaching Junkie Science Stations and Learning Centers</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mad-Science-Lessons/Category/Mad-Science-Station-Labs" target="_blank">Mad Science Station Labs</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Science-Teaching-Junkie/Category/Stations-Learning-Centers" target="_blank">The Science Penguin BIG Science Stations Units</a> (upper elementary)<br />
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To be honest, I don't make New Years Resolutions, mainly because I know I'll drop them after a week or two. But there are a few on my Nerd Lib that I might be able to keep up with. I'll let you guess which ones! Hee, hee!<br />
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- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhoneScience Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-48274871814722388152015-01-08T21:35:00.000-06:002016-08-10T07:09:38.918-05:00Top 5 Reasons YOU Should Be Using Stations in Middle School<div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-3">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's like David Lettermen's Top Ten List, but better! Only 5!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">5. It gets middle school students moving around the room, completing several organized tasks. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Let's face it - their attention spans are short and they learn best when they are able to communicate with their peers. Instead of completing a boring packet of work or completing a series of practice worksheets, try making stations out of the activities. Simply breaking the tasks into smaller chunks makes it seem more manageable to the students and isn't so overwhelming. Varying the types of activities at each station allows you to reach all of the different types of learners within your classroom - try a quick lab, a reading passage with questions, a card sort, a video or other online activity, a station with the teacher to do a quick direct teach, etc... Differentiation happens naturally. I rarely have my students complete a typical worksheet anymore. I find ways to incorporate them into station activities or questions on task cards that can be found around my room, building, or school campus. You would be amazed at how hard the most unmotivated student will work, when you make it more of a competitive activity. The most important thing is to keep them moving and don't let them spend more than 10-15 minutes on any one activity. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">4. It saves time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In one day, the students will complete more work in a stations setting than they would if working individually or simply sitting in their chair. There is something about getting a list of tasks completed by the end of the period that motivates students for some reason. As soon as they finish what they are working on, they know they have the "reward" of being able to move to something else. Now, to be honest, the prep work for YOU is a bit more, but once it's set up, you aren't busy at all.... Which leads me to #3...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">3. It frees you up.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Depending on the groups you create, you may simply become a facilitator. If you have well-balanced ability groups, your top student in each group takes on more of the teacher role and that leaves you to simply make sure that students are on task and aren't struggling with concepts. Take the time to catch up on paperwork, grading, planning, etc..., but every 5-10 minutes, make a quick trip around to each group and do a quick check for understanding. Ask them some questions that they should be able to answer from the stations they've completed. Address any misconceptions immediately. <i>Note:</i> You MUST stay available and visible at all times (not only because you legally have to, but students need to know that they can come to you at any time, if they aren't understanding something.) This classroom model does put a lot of the responsibility of learning into the students' hands, so until they are comfortable with that and they know what resources to use when they encounter something that is confusing or difficult, you will have to consistently check in with them and make sure they are meeting the objectives that you (and the state) have set for them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">2. You have the ability to do small group instruction or meet with individuals who need targeted interventions. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I often set up "Meet With the Teacher" as a station. I use this time for a lot of different things. I have gone over recent test or quiz questions that the students got incorrect, which allows me to quickly find out where the misconceptions or gaps in knowledge are and I can also discuss test-taking strategies. If one of your stations needs more of a direct teach component, this is a great time to do it. And because the groups only have 3-4 students, you could easily do more targeted individual interventions. It's much easier to handle 3-4 students than a full class of 30 who all have different needs at the same time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. Middle school students love it! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Enough said. Try stations if you haven't already. It's definitely a different classroom atmosphere that takes a little getting used to (for both the teacher and the students), but soon, you will all be working like a well-oiled machine. And as you move around the room, doing quick checks for understanding, you will realize that real learning is taking place. You aren't having to sacrifice anything by moving your teaching style and classroom in this direction. In fact, I think stations in middle school, if done right, can be a happy marriage between the unique demands of the typical middle school student and the management of elementary school centers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Leave me a comment! I'd love to hear about your experiences with stations in middle school, concerns you have about implementing them, etc...</span><br />
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Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-21223359442436756862014-12-31T19:04:00.000-06:002016-04-10T21:11:11.479-05:00What's the Story Behind the Logo? A Link-Up<div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-3">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhisEFoh_ikOq3qLligblyDJSYfwVzsleq9x0wTNv08bV0tCtSyxWjQqUWPTObGy1NptYT6ZYVRP670Um8A7nA1mIKA-kg-HPHHjqby_l0B4LctE2EKFRN_QM7O6JF0TGtXIw9RFWSGUXVM/s1600/the+story+behind+the+logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhisEFoh_ikOq3qLligblyDJSYfwVzsleq9x0wTNv08bV0tCtSyxWjQqUWPTObGy1NptYT6ZYVRP670Um8A7nA1mIKA-kg-HPHHjqby_l0B4LctE2EKFRN_QM7O6JF0TGtXIw9RFWSGUXVM/s1600/the+story+behind+the+logo.png" width="400" /></a></div>
I'm linking up with <a href="http://www.jennyknappenberger.com/2014/12/30/whats-the-story-behind-the-logo/" target="_blank">Art with Jenny K.</a> for a very unique topic...The story behind the logo. <br />
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I really wish that I had a more interesting story to tell. Bottom line...I love Bill Nye! I tell my students that he is my hero and my boyfriend (and yes, my husband is well aware of this situation. Unfortunately, Bill is not.)<br />
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I have been the science department head at my school for several years now and one summer during inservice I thought it would be great to get the entire science department to take goofy/nerdy science pictures to hang outside of their classrooms in the hallway. We blew them up and created poster sized signs with our names and crazy pics. This logo pic was one of the crazy pictures that was taken that day, but didn't make it to the final poster. I tried finding some of the pics that were poster-worthy, but this was all I could find. :( My co-workers are likely to hunt me down and injure me over this!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBRX4T7Bz6_TbhKh8NfVbrEb5cyiEYr53cUj_ELHKlrbY5DPcBlW9hUGvdZZP83U0rD6yxu17sHEtv9izwhNIFDl-3yC44J0VP6oH0U6gEmbsMiGFpSXoQQepvcrRHTJsTSmesCUIGNDgl/s1600/IMG_2734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBRX4T7Bz6_TbhKh8NfVbrEb5cyiEYr53cUj_ELHKlrbY5DPcBlW9hUGvdZZP83U0rD6yxu17sHEtv9izwhNIFDl-3yC44J0VP6oH0U6gEmbsMiGFpSXoQQepvcrRHTJsTSmesCUIGNDgl/s1600/IMG_2734.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVVwvdv9FciloyHj662x2VY6LgPJv530uqIQVuY1WN6QxwfVIzasOrDlPQQ5lb4lsNhmx5Tr6z8RDnMSxC3ruIY6eoMW6t14l9o0ExQy8kvcw0rQtswTAuPOIimWWuBk6UopshT3WE0MOz/s1600/IMG_2735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVVwvdv9FciloyHj662x2VY6LgPJv530uqIQVuY1WN6QxwfVIzasOrDlPQQ5lb4lsNhmx5Tr6z8RDnMSxC3ruIY6eoMW6t14l9o0ExQy8kvcw0rQtswTAuPOIimWWuBk6UopshT3WE0MOz/s1600/IMG_2735.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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I had the privilege of <strike>stalking</strike> meeting Bill Nye 2 years ago and listening to him speak (totally awesome!) This really was the only time in my life that I thought I was acting like a total creeper, but luckily my friend knew about my obsession and was willing to do just about anything to help me. <br />
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So, there you have it. The story behind my logo.<br />
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Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6064016938173829596.post-27085866787777247952014-12-31T11:18:00.000-06:002016-04-10T21:10:43.019-05:00Uh Oh! Guess What Day It Is? Hump Day!<div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-3">
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">I'm very excited about a new vocabulary game I'm working on! It's called Hump Day Hedbanz and is inspired by this commercial:</span><br />
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<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://swf.tubechop.com/tubechop.swf?vurl=6Fa7dI2TyDc&start=0&end=18.94&cid=4419812"></param>
<embed src="http://swf.tubechop.com/tubechop.swf?vurl=6Fa7dI2TyDc&start=0&end=18.94&cid=4419812" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">Get your students excited about vocabulary review and bring your word walls to life. Keep your eyes out - it's coming soon! You can really "sell this" to your students by incorporating it into your weekly or biweekly routine on Wednesdays. As your students enter your classroom just say "Uh Oh! Guess what day it is? Guess...what...day...it...is? Hump Day!" </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 20px;">The idea came about after several factors: </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 20px;">1) My principal encouraged us as a campus to do a better job of bringing our word walls to life. So many of the teachers on my campus have word walls posted (simply to comply with the expectations of administration), but when the principals do walk through's, they don't see the word walls being utilized. In fact, many of the students don't realize the terms are even posted in the classroom. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 20px;">2) My 6 year old daughter received the game "Hedbanz" for Christmas. It was fun for all family members of all ages. It really makes you think and ask specific questions. You really have to know everything about the object that is on your head that you are trying to guess (both for the guesser and the other players). </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">3) I am always looking for a way to make science vocabulary </span><span style="line-height: 20px;">acquisition more interesting for my students. No matter what I do, it always seems to be like a boring chore I am forcing them to do. Most of them simply go through the motions and if I ask them questions the next day, they can't tell me a darn thing about the vocabulary term. Obviously, what I'm doing isn't doing the trick. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">4) Who doesn't love a game?!? E-nuff said!</span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Enter to win your own free copy of Hump Day Hedbanz!</span></span></span><br />
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Science Teaching Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07464856440476441516noreply@blogger.com3