Edible Geometry

Before the break I decided to allow my students to have a "fun" period in math. We were discussing geometric 3D figures. What better way to practice counting sides, vertices, edges, etc. then to create standing figures.

I grouped the students by twos and gave each group 2 cards with the name of a geometric figure. Each group was given a pack of pretzels and the trick was, they had to ask for the specific number of vertices "marshmallows" to create their figures.

The students seemed to do well and they had a lot of fun.

Math Task Cards

Over the break I buckled down and created a set of 20 math task cards for my students to use for practice. I also used these cards for my first ever TpT store.

Click the link below to see my store

http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/5th-Grade-Math-Task-Cards



Good Morning Journals

What better way to give your students brain food in the morning, cover their journals with cereal box covers. Reflecting back to a childhood teacher, I remember him saying everyday "knowledge is food for the brain". So, I got the idea to have my students cover their morning journals with cereal box covers.

 

I started with a composition book.





 

The boxcover had to be cut to fit the book andtaped down. I used a couple staples also to ensure the cove was secure. ((((Put a piece of tape over the staples, so if it comes loose or lifts it won't scratch your students))))))

FUTURE CONSIDERATIONS
* Use heavy duty tape. It stays longer and is more secure

*Continuously remind the students that they have to measure the edges of the cereal box cover and the composition book. (Many of my students cut too much or not enough. I wound up fixing alot of them.)

*Ask for parent volunteers to (1) construct the covers or (2) assist students while they attempt to construct it. I know we are all super teachers and catch everything but there are always a kiddo or two that slip through and "mess up".

Respiratory Guy

During a Science Unit my students were having a hard time rememebering information about the Respiratory System. I found an idea from a book on Science projects and tweeked it for my class. I had the students include information on specific things on each page. Many students did pretty well. Before we started I gave the students an organizer for their information. The project took 2 class periods.

FUTURE CONSIDERATIONS:
* Have "Guy" template cut out ahead of time. Many students destroyed 2 or 3 "Guys" before we could get started.
* Create an organizer similar to the structure of the cut-out. Many students got confused about where to place information.
*Make colored pencils MANDATORY. Some students used crayon and it was extremely difficult for students to outline words to make them stand out.

2-5-8

This year I had a real challenging class. The students were reluctant to complete assignments, so I gave them a choice list. It seemed to work. Most students were happy because they got to choose what they wanted to do. I gave them the choice of 6 activities. 2 for 2points, 5points, and 8points. As long as the points totaled 10 points I was happy. Maybe next year I will give 3 activities for each category.
(Idea from a fellow teacher, I just tweaked it for my class)