Multiple Intelligence Theory

I wanted to find new ways for my teachers to get to know their students and would also help them differentiate their instruction.  Multiple intelligence theory was the first thing that came to mind.  I researched the resources (blog posts, pinterest, Teachers Pay Teachers, etc.).

My favorite resource I found was from Stephanie at Falling into First - "Everyone is Smart."  Stephanie wrote a fabulous book that explains the multiple intelligence theory to younger elementary students and then provides a great writing activity to help them think through which "smart" they relate to the most. 

Visit Thinking Out Loud to learn more about multiple intelligence theory, how I used Stephanie's activity, other resources I found useful.

 

13 Ideas for 2013

I can't believe I've already reached the end of my holiday vacation!  I'd certainly love another week to catch up and relax!

But I don't have that luxury, so I've coming up with a list of 13 for 2013.  Be sure to come on over to Elementary Matters for some great ideas to start the new year with your kiddos, and to download this January calendar filled with interesting, unusual holidays to celebrate with the little ones!

Acts of Kindness Holiday Countdown

Ever notice that wonderful feeling that comes from doing something for others?  I suspect you know it well, since that's what teaching is all about!

I decided, instead of just a "Countdown to Christmas", I wanted to do a more special countdown.

I made this Acts of Kindness Holiday Countdown Set, which is a paper chain countdown with a twist - each link of the chain is an act of kindness to be done by the child, each day between now and Christmas!

Come on over to Elementary Matters to learn more about the Acts of Kindness Holiday Countdown!

I have to admit, I'm excited about my new product, and can't wait to put them together with the kids!

Can you tell I'm getting excited about the holidays?

I think I'm hearing VOICES!

Do you do use VOICES in your classroom?

There are some things that are important but become VERY monotonous to do, even for the kids!  For example: Rote counting during calendar.  Is it important?  Yes.  Is it fun. .  .ummmm not really.

So, we spice up our rote tasks by occasionally using a "fun" voice when doing them.  They perk right up when they know they'll get to use a "voice!"

This year I'm trying to put more choices into my students' hands. 

I use my Lucky Duck sticks to pick the student who gets to pick the voice we use.

Since I'm letting them pick this year I've made cards to remind the students what their "voice choices" are.  I'm going to put these cards on a ring for the Lucky Duck person to look at when they pick.

It makes rote things like counting, alphabet flashcards, sight word flashcards, etc just a little more exciting for everyone!

If you'd like a copy of our voices cards please click HERE.

I'd love it if you come visit my blog at:

Chalk Ink Markers from Creekside Teacher Tales

Good evening Bloggy Land!

Hope everyone is having a fabulous Monday!! 

It's Tracy from Creekside Teacher Tales!  

I am thrilled to be a collaborator for this blog with the MANY fantastic teacher/bloggers.

I just wanted to share a little tip with you.

I discovered these genius markers last year that I can't get enough of!

Chalk ink markers

Who would have thought?  

They come in a variety of colors and brands!  

I bought mine at Michael's with a 50% off coupon.. Yippee!! 

Last year I used them on desks, walls, dry-erase boards, 

chalkboards, and windows!

Here are some two ways I have used them in my classroom this year:

Names on their desks :)

Laminated posters that I want to be able to change as needed!

I will continue to share more ways but the possibilities are endless! 

Make sure you stop by and visit my blog for 

more tips, freebies, and fabulous products!