The Brain, Baseball, and Geography

I read a lot about the brain because I find it absolutely fascinating.  I also want my students to learn, so I'm always searching for ways to help them remember what I've taught.

I've found that kids learn best when they get a little bit at a time, frequently, rather than one big lesson all at once, then never to see it again.  (Unfortunately, our present Math program does the latter.)

There's plenty of evidence out there to prove that frequent review and practice is the best way for children to remember what they're learning.

There's also plenty of evidence to prove that connecting the learning to the passions of the children help the learning process as well.

So, what does this have to do with baseball?  Come check out my blog at Elementary Matters to find out!

How NOT to Read Fluently

Today, my students spent some of our reading time practicing fluency.  Especially at this time of year, I go out of my way to make it fun.  (Brain research shows us that "fun" is a big motivator, but I think teachers knew that before the research was done!)

Click image to download freebie.

There are 4 important parts to fluency:

1. automaticity in word recognition 
2. accurate word recognition
3. rate (speed) of reading
4. prosody, or expression

I thought this activity would be perfect to put into my emergency sub plans.  It's got limited materials and is a skill that needs to be practiced frequently.  I've typed up the directions for you to download and put into your own emergency plans.  Come on over to Elementary Matters to learn more!

Enjoy!

Illustrating to Build Reading Skills

I often have my students do some illustrating when I want to make sure they really "get" a concept.  It forces them to visualize what they're learning.  Brain research tells us that visualizing helps the memory.  Brain research also tells us that adding an element of fun helps them remember as well... and don't kids love to draw?  Add some classical music in the background, and the brain is more activated! Want to add a little more assurance that the kids are learning?  Let them talk about what they're drawing and why!

These sheets for illustrating are great for centers, or great for the Sub Tub!

I have several items in my Teachers Pay Teachers store that involve children illustrating.  Come on over to Elementary Matters to see some of these items that will help make learning permanent!

Of course, any illustrating is enhanced by music.  May I suggest this one?  (Click image for a link to Amazon!)