We called this day "The Third" first day of school

Tuesday... much much much better than the previous (thank goodness)! The reason for the title of this post is because we felt like we really missed the mark this year on what the first day few days of school should look like.... leave it up to the veterans in front of the student teach to mess this one up :)

Today we decided we would take about 15 steps backwards and go back to basics. The basics one should always start the school year with, procedures, rules, routines, team builders, etc.... We were so head strong to start academics we failed in the area of building a solid community we ALL (45 of us) could live with for the year. So, today on our third first day of school, we made it like a first day should always be.... I guess third time really is a charm!

In between the routines, rules and expectations we did focus on academics. Math was WAY more successful than Katy, Mr. O or I anticipated it being. Yesterday we were all WIPED and figured nothing we did sunk in... Oh boy were we wrong. Our students did listen and picked up on factors and multiples. By the end of today they were solving puzzles and finding the LCM with the best of em' :) tomorrow we shall continue on in small groups and see how it progresses!

Science was full of fun with Vocabulary, the kids got to use the Smartboard for the first time this year, and all and all are pumped for our current unit of Earth Sciences. They were VERY bummed that they couldn't put their sundials to the test today though. We had no sun for most of the day by our school. Tomorrow however, is the day we tell time with sundials!

Reading was all about character actions, feelings and expectations! We read part of a mentor text called "Chato's Kitchen," the kids got a kick out of it and were completely bummed when we stopped half way.... gotta keep them in suspense ;) We then continued with daily 5, which is amazing to me how well the 5th graders are picking up the routines... we did however, learn that reading under the desk isn't much of an option for independent time. We had to ring that bell a few times before we decided that the under the desk reading just may not be the best option for us.

(Photo from Del Sol Books Site)

The most refreshing part of the day was our team builder, "Find someone who" with a twist of course! In our classroom we are going green and with this initiative iPads are simply imperative. Thanks to dropbox, being able to screen shot and the free app Doodle Buddy our kids paired up with their clock partners and reacquainted with their classmates. It was so fabulous to see the kiddos up, mingling and just having a great get to know you moment.

The one thing I learned today is that we got more done just taking our time rather than rushing like we had the day before. Actually, we had time today to fit more in than we had planned. Funny how that all works out sometimes.

Tomorrow a new day, we breath, look at the big picture and make sure what we are doing is focused and on point for what is best for our kiddos!

HOORAY FOR A GOOD DAY!

Lisa :)