Mini-Lesson… Maxi-Topic

In my college days a “mini-lesson” was defined to me as a part of a Writers Workshop as follows: Mini-Lesson The mini-lesson is part of Writers’ Workshop and provides a short (5- to 10- minute), structured lesson on a topic related to writing. Topics are selected by the teacher and based on student need or…

Quote of the Week #11

Today J. was sent to my room with the direction to show me evidence of his most recent misbehavior. Had he used profanity?  No.  Had he harmed someone?  Nope.  Did he have an illegal substance?  Nein.  He had… Wait for it…. …drawn with Mr.Sketch smelly markers all over his face.  ALL over.  What did he say…

Tables and Cabinets

I must admit that much of what I do is not based on research.  Well, it might be.  I don’t know.  I wasn’t good at paying attention to specifics.  I’m more of a whole-picture kind of super hero.  I don’t take credit for my thoughts or ideas since I’m never quite sure if they are…

Super Boss

If there was any doubt that I a.) have super powers (such as lightening bolts coming from my neck, eyes, and knee) and b.) am the Boss (with a trusty sidekick), here is some proof.  Really, what more do you need?  Note the cocky stance–that’s how you stand when you are electric. I am the…

My Darling Clementine

All of my classrooms have a ghost.  Either I have a strong link to the Other Side, or I need a patsy for the odd things that happen in my room… you can guess which one.  In this classroom her name is Clementine. Way back in the olden days of yore, my aforementioned amazing cousin-friend (here and…

Quote of the Week #10

Two boys are doing what middle school boys do–slapping at each other and running about.  One of the boys is the instigator and has been doing this quite a bit for a few days.  I call him over… Me: This whole hitty-mchitterton and punchy-mcpuncherton thing you’ve got going is very typical for your age, but…

Artsy Fartsy 2–Electric Boogaloo

And THEN we played with color!!!!  What fun was that?  First, color wheels.  Spiced up the typical color wheel lessons by using magazine cut-out mosaics to create the colors (Thanks to the awesome classroom staff person with awesome ideas and awesome artistic talent.  Did I mention awesome?).  Then a review of ROY G. BIV, and…