5 Ways to Avoid the Time Trap of Preparing Daily Early Finisher Activities

Picture this. You've just finished teaching a super math lesson, and your students are engaged in an independent task. Ten minutes later, you've got a couple of students who are already finished, while most have lots to do. Are you prepared? Are you spending unnecessary planning time preparing for these students or constantly telling them to pull out a book? Here are five ways to avoid the time trap of preparing daily early finisher activities.

7+ Things You Can Accomplish While Students Complete Hands-On Morning Work

Having a soft start is one of the best things I ever decided to do in my classroom. When students are engaged with learning from the moment they enter your classroom, you have time to Do. All. The. Things. If you've considered a soft start but aren't yet happy with how it is going, consider these many things you can accomplish while students complete hands-on morning work!

Why I Stopped Building a Word Wall And What I Actually Do Instead

If you've been in a primary classroom recently, chances are you've seen a word wall. While I believe they are an essential part of an early primary classroom, they may not be the best choice when students get to second and third grade. Here's why I stopped building a word wall and what I actually do instead.

3 Powerful Reasons to Avoid Using Worksheets in Math

There are a lot of math programs available out there to choose from. All have some great qualities, but if you're choosing something based solely on worksheets, you might be shortchanging yourself. Here are three powerful reasons to avoid using worksheets in math.

How to Set Up Effective Math Centers Quickly and Easily This Year

Math centers can be a powerful tool in your classroom, but teachers shy away from them because they can be a lot of work to set up. While this is true, there are a few things you can do to set up effective math centers quickly and easily this year!

Making Plans to Help Improve Your Teaching in the Next School Year

You made it! Another school year, not just completed, but survived! Every school year coming to an end provides us with an opportunity to grow as professionals. It is essential to celebrate the end and use your experiences to make plans to help improve teaching in the next school year.