Instagram and What I have been up to...

I am so excited to announce that I am finally on Instagram! I was already on it for personal use, but thought I would join Instagram for my teaching blog.  I can't wait to share pics of items that I have made or share experiences in the classroom! If you aren't following me already, please do! I would love to follow you and get inspirations!  Click on the link below... or go to your Instagram app and find me @bits_of_firstgrade .

Are any of you on Instagram...if so let me know so I can follow you!

Also, has anyone heard of...

If so can you let me know if you have used this?!?! Thanks!

Here are some items I have been working on and will soon be adding to my TPT store...

Back to School Packet (iPad theme)

I Know My ABC's Packet (letter recognition)

Behavior Management Packet (clip chart, editable)

Colors Packet

Voice Level

Star of the Week

Classroom Jobs

Close Reading

Subtraction Story Problems

Whew! I am busy and need to start sticking to one thing at a time! LOL!

Hope you all have a great THURSDAY!

-Brigid

The end of the year...

Can you believe this school year has come to a close?

I am looking forward to a fresh new chapter in my "book" of teaching.  Boy this book could tell a lot of stories! A long time ago someone actually told me to keep a book of things my students have said or done...kinda like "Kids Say the Darndest Things".  Has anyone done that?  

Anyways moving on, I thought I would share a few things my class and I did for the last few weeks of school.  It ended up being a wonderful ending to their first grade year.  Individually they were all so unique and sweet.  It was hard to send them off to second grade.

Here is a look at what we did...

At the end of the school year I always make a first grade memory book for each student.  Below you will find a page that I include within this book.

Another activity I have my students do is a writing activity to show their growth.  They write a story about themselves and draw a self portrait in the beginning of the school year and at the end of the school year.  I love seeing their development in writing!

Click on the picture to check out the booklet for students...

Click on the picture to check out the booklet for students...

Another activity we do the last week of school is our Nature Journal. First my students gather toilet paper rolls to create binoculars.  Then they received their journals. I paired my students off so they can work with someone and enjoy walking around the field together.  They are able to work on these journals independently, but obviously I am their to supervise and answer questions.  Students love filling out this journal and then sharing with the class what they observed in nature. Not only are they making observations, but using their map skills, writing skills, and weather knowledge.

Click on the pictures to check out the nature journal...

These are just a few ideas to use at the end of your school year within your classroom.  I hope you all enjoy your summer break!

End of the year...

June Currently

I can't believe it is already June! I love it!  This is my favorite time of year.  Summer break has started, the weather is warm and sunny, I can go to the pool...I could go on and on!  I thought linking up with Farley would be a great way to start my summer blogging.  I could not find the time to blog this school year.  All of my time and energy were spent in my classroom...busiest school year ever!  I am so thankful summer break has started and plan on enjoying it every day.  There are so many things I want to accomplish before summer break ends.  Before I go on about my summer plans, here is my June Currently.

Listening:  I keep switching through channels but am not paying attention...it's just background noise.

Loving: Did I mention how happy and thankful I am that summer break has started?!?!

Thinking: I LOVE to shop, especially online!  It was time to update my wardrobe and buy the basics, which was much needed!  

Wanting:  I want the clouds to let the sun shine.  Bring on the sun!

Needing:  My family and I are planning a trip somewhere warm and to the beach.  This will give me another reason to shop! ;)

The last one is my summer bucket list:

1. Take a break and enjoy my summer...much needed!

2. Create more or my classroom and Teachers Pay Teachers store. I have a lot planned on my to-do list!

3. Exercise more! Mmmmmhmmm this is much needed as well. I need to get back in the routine.  I started today with my friend.  I woke up early and we walked...good start!  I may join the gym so I can swim laps.  I miss swimming!

4. Enjoy the sun and water.  I will definitely make plans to go to the pool and lake!  The lake is the most relaxing place to go...I just got a paddle board that needs to be used.  I think that is a perfect excuse to get to the lake.  We will also go to the beach!

5.  I plan to read more.  I bought a few new books to read over break...I heard from a few bloggers about these books and thought I'd check them out!

I hope you all enjoy your summer break!  Now go and link up with Farley at "Oh Boy Fourth Grade".

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