Sometimes teachers just need a quick running record sheet to see if a student has moved up in their reading level. Normally we don’t DRA a child but twice a year. When I am short on time and want to check a students reading level, I simply use a running record. I have created a quick sheet to refer to and use when testing reading levels. Download it here.
The beginning of the school year is nearing. As teachers we need to become prepared. I found a great website that has printable sight words for the students. You can print them out and laminate them for durability. The best part is, they meet the curriculum. These words are the very same words I noticed in the reading series. I don’t have to make them up, type them myself, or even think about them. Check them out and print them for yourself. We all may teach in different states or counties, but words a first grader needs to know won’t change.
I like to think of myself as a very organized person. This has it’s pros and cons. I know where everything is and can get to it quickly. However, I tend to drive my co-teacher crazy at times.
One way I stay organized is by keeping my desk clutter free. One way I achieve that is by having file folders with labels for loose papers. I have a file folder labeled “Copies to Be Made” and another that says “Papers to Go Home.” There is no excuse for any papers to be laying on my desk when there is a place for everything. I bought cute file folders at the Container Store and a file holder or letter bin at Target.
As a teachers we are always looking for things to help us in the classroom. I have come across this book and just love it. The best part is, I use it in all subject areas. It has the best graphic organizers for 1-3 grade. There are graphic organizers I give to my students for just about everything. I’ve used it in science, reading response, and writing. It’s one of those teacher must haves. Click on the book to learn more about it!
Money can be one of the most difficult skills to teach first graders. The curriculum is not supposed to be introduced until the middle of the year, however, I introduce it from day one. I find that the large print out coins, like the ones below, are very helpful when teaching coin recognition. I always start with the penny, hold it up and ask students what they notice about the penny. We then talk about how much money it’s worth, what’s on the front and back, etc. We will discuss the penny for about a month. When I feel students understand it’s value and recognize the coin, I introduce the nickel next and so forth. The large cut-outs of the coins make it easy to hold up and for the students to see. I’m not sure what I would do without them.
Lakeshore Learning
Last year my students had difficulty with telling time. This year it’s been a breeze. I bought this pocket chart clock which is easy to see, user friendly, and the hands don’t fall or move when you walk away. The hands are different colors so the children can learn the difference between the hour and minute hands. The chart has been great! It’s one of my teacher “must haves.” Check it out!
This weekly organizer bin is great for all teachers. I was having a hard time keeping my materials for my weekly lessons in order. Although many of these bins (like the one below) can be pricey, there are some affordable options. I bought five plastic bins and labeled them Monday through Friday. All my materials, books, and lessons for the week go in the corresponding bin. I love it, it saves me so much time!
