Friend Friday #19...

Hi!  I’m Moustapha and I’m reading the book called Amulet #1  written by Kazu Kibuishi.

I think this book is great because there is a lot of action in it and I like that. 

My favorite part of the story is when Trellis came because there was a fight. 

The character that I liked best is Emily because she is the main character. 

I think the author wrote this book because he wanted the kids to see some action.  

I would recommend this book to my friends because it is a great book and I think they will enjoy.   

Reading to me is GREAT because I like it and really enjoy books like this.  

*Moustapha is a 4th grader in my class.
*He is a cool and laid back type of guy.  
*He is really into the graphic novels and has been making his way through many of the different graphic novel series.   

 

Trailer Thursday #19...

Gratitude HD - Moving Art

*This video is a "Moving Art Original Short."
*It was shared at the TED Conference.
*Filmmaker Louie Schwartzberg shows how happiness is revealed in everyday occurrences.
*As I watched it reminded me what is truly important in our lives.


Happy Thanksgiving!  Be grateful and show gratitude...

Wonder Wednesday #19...

Wonder Wednesday - First 58 Days

*It seems like I was just starting year 23 and today we wrapped up our first trimester and 58 days of fourth grade.

*Reflecting back on the first 58 days, I'm filled with joy and WONDER about this current year.

*That is the WONDERful thing about this profession.  Each year it brings "newness" and "differences".

*Today's blog post is dedicated to the top ten WONDER moments (so far)…

*These are in no particular order.  They are all equally WONDERS!

1st:  Skyping with Stephen McCranie about his Mal and Chad Series.  Everyone in my class has read all three books in the series.

2nd:  Establishing our "Club Book" bulletin boards where the readers JOIN clubs once they read a book!  This builds such a strong reading community.

3rd:  Skyping with Chris Grabenstein about The Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library.  This was our first read aloud of the year.

4th:  Promoting our Breakfast with Books book club.  Our first selection was The Sasquatch Escape, then we read Flora & Ulysses, and we are currently reading Treasure Hunters.

5th:  Skyping with Suzanne Selfors about her book The Sasquatch Escape.  We also were able to order copies of this book and the sequel The Lonely Lake Monster and have them personalized.

6th:  Savoring, honoring, and enjoying our read aloud time each and every day.  We began the year with The Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library, then read The Boy on the Porch, and are currently sharing the book The Daring Escape from the Misfit Menagerie.

7th:  Skyping with Sharon Creech about her latest book The Boy on the Porch.  It was truly an honor to be able to spend time with one of my favorite middle-grade authors.  She did not disappoint and will remain a highlight on my teaching career list for years to come.

8th:  Receiving my copy of Reading in the Wild by Donalyn Miller.  I read the entire book in about two/three days.  An extra bonus was reading a copy on Twitter from Mr. Schu.  I can't wait to share my "extra" copy with my co-workers.

9th:  Beginning our day with a picture book.  We have not missed a morning.  After our first 40 books, we held a quick "Mock Caldecott" award.  I was thrilled when Creepy Carrots won as their favorite picture book.  (So Far)

10th:  Watching each and every student in my room become more and more of a reader.  This brings me the most joy and WONDER to my life.

Treat Tuesday #19...

Thanksgiving Oreo Turkeys

*Just in time for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday.

*A parent in my class shared this recipe with me.  She made a batch for our class.  YUM!



Ingredients…
1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 
1/2 Tbsp vegetable oil 
12 fudge-covered Oreo cookies 
36 chocolate-covered pretzels 
24 candy eyeballs  
12 pieces candy corn 

Directions…

*Melt chocolate chips and vegetable oil 30 seconds in a small microwave-safe bowl.

*Remove and stir.

*Continue cooking in 30-second increments until chips are melted.

*Assemble cookies using chocolate like glue; spread on back of Oreo and attach 3 pretzels in a fan pattern to look like feathers.

*Dip backs of eyeballs and candy corn in chocolate and stick to the front of the “turkey” to make a face.

*Place finished turkeys on a plate and cool in refrigerator 1 hour to allow chocolate to set.

Yields: 12 cookies

Treat Tuesday:  Middle-Grade Novel

Savvy by Ingrid Law

Treat Tuesday:  Adult Novel

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

*I just started this book, but know it will be truly a treat.  Excellent start!  

Music Monday #12...

"Count on Me" by Bruno Mars

*It is hard to believe this was our 12th piece of music we have written about.

*I was filled with joy as I watched and listened to my students sing along with the song.

*A discussion was had about people we count on and what it means to be able to count on people.

*You know writers are motivated when their pencil hits the paper as soon as the music ends. 

Music Monday Selections 2013-2014 (so far)...

Week Number One:  What I Am by Will.i.am

Week Number Two:  Proud by Heather Small

Week Number Three:  Roar by Katy Perry
Week Number Four:  Dreamer by Chris Brown 
Week Number Five:  What Does the Fox Say? by Ylvis 
Week Number Six:  The Rainbow Connection by The Muppets 
Week Number Seven:  Good Time by Owl City & Carly Rae Jepsen 
Week Number Eight:  Thriller by Michael Jackson 
Week Number Nine:  Hall of Fame by The Script and Will.i.am 
Week Number Ten:  Pure Imagination from Willy Wonka & Glee 
Week Number Eleven:  One Day by Matisyahu

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? (11/25/13)...

Thanks to Jen and Kellee for hosting this idea on their site.  Here is a link to their site...

                

                 http://www.teachmentortexts.com/

Books I Read this Past Week...

Reading in the Wild by Donalyn Miller

5+++ STARS out of 5 Stars











Bomb by Steve Sheinkin

4 STARS out of 5 Stars

 The Mouse with the Question Mark Tail by Richard Peck

3 STARS out of 5 Stars 









Books I Will (continue to) Read this Week...

  
The Girl You Left Behind by JoJo Moyes

The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

Bomb by Steve Sheinkin...

How I Heard About It:  It was about a year ago when I learned of this book.  My class and I were watching the announcement of the Newbery winners and this title kept coming up over and over.  I knew it was something I had to read.  Of course it took me almost a year to actually get to it, but I finally did.

What It Is About:   After the discovery of an atom splitting in two in Germany 1938, a world race began to create and build the atomic bomb.  The race took place on many of the continents and involved quite a cast of "characters".  The players were scientists, spies, military leaders, political leaders (both positive and negative), and a variety of other people.  The book follows the events in history that took place in order to build the bomb and how it came about.  The chapters are told in chronological order switching back and forth between the different "players" and the "locations".  Obviously this is a work of non-fiction, but was written in a fiction type manner.

What I Thought Of It:  This was quite a story.  I'm not a fan of non-fiction, and as Donalyn would call it, this is my "gap" reading.  This was the perfect book to start with because it was a great combination of a non-fiction topic written in a fiction type format.  As I read the story I began to get a bit bogged down with all the names, dates, places, and facts.  I soon realized I didn't need to worry about some of these "small" details, but just read the book as a whole and take it in.  The story was fascinating and hard to believe at times that these events actually happened and not so long ago.

Who Should Read It:  One of the reasons I wanted to read this book now was because I'm going to be teaching a nonfiction unit to my fourth graders.  Thinking this might be a good read aloud during this unit, lead me to reading it now.  Having finished the book, I don't think I will use it as a read aloud based on the students in my present class.  The book will still be introduced to the readers, and I have a few students in mind that will eat it up.  The text is definitely geared toward readers in fifth grade or higher.  I'm thinking it would actually be perfect for middle-school and/or high school readers.  Now that I have finished, I certainly have a better understanding of the events that took place in building the atomic bomb.

Rating:  4 STARS out of 5 Stars

The Mouse with the Question Mark Tail by Richard Peck...

How I Heard About It:  Looking back I remember seeing this book on the book shelf in the local book store and also hearing about it on Twitter.  I purchased it, but it sat by my bedside for quite a bit of time.  After creating a post of "must-reads" for fourth graders, this book title was mentioned again.  It was time to read it.

What It Is About:   "Mouse Minor" is a tiny mouse that lives in Buckingham Palace during the Queen's Jubilee.  He can't seem to find his spot in the world, he can't seem to fit in with the rest of the mice, and he can't seem to know where he is headed in life.  All of these questions lead him on an adventure through the castle, through the grounds, and through life.  He meets other animals and people along his journey that each teach him a thing or two about himself, his life, and what is truly important in life.

What I Thought Of It:   To be honest this book wasn't for me.  I struggled during parts of it and found myself wondering if young readers would enjoy this story.  The book has many pages of description and some pretty "deep" thoughts.  I definitely thought the story was written on a high level that all readers might not be able to relate to.  Personally, I love animal stories and sharing them with my students, but I'm just not sure this book will appeal to my readers.  I'm always glad to read a book no matter how much I enjoy it because I know I always get something out of it.

Who Should Read It:  At first I thought this would be a good read aloud, but I'm not sure it would hold the listener's attention.  I'm sure there are readers out there who would enjoy the story of "Mouse Minor".  I definitely think this book is geared toward fifth and sixth grade readers.  Give it a shot!  The story might be just what you are looking for.  Happy reading...

Rating:  3 STARS out of 5 Stars

Life Lessons #1 - #10 (In Fourth Grade)...

Life Lessons in Room 113 - Writing

*Each Thursday we watch a short video clip that I title "Life Lesson".

*After the video we have a class discussion about the content.

*My students then spend time writing about the video which could include their reactions, thoughts, feelings, or connections.

*Here are the first ten weeks of lessons we have covered...

Lesson #1 - Be Brave

Lesson #2 - Be Kind

Lesson #3 - Be Courageous

Lesson #4 - Be Motivated

Lesson #5 - Be a Buddy, Not a Bully

Lesson #6 - Be Inspired

Lesson #7 - Be Spooky

Lesson #8 - Be Kind (Part Two)

Lesson #9 - Be Happy

Lesson #10 - Be a Reader

Friend Friday #18...

Hi!  I’m Avery and I’m reading the book called Babymouse:  Beach Babe  written by Jennifer and Matthew Holm.

I think this book is weird because her dreams are really weird. 

My favorite part of the story is when she is surfing and then a wave crashes on her because its funny and strange. 

The character that I liked best is Babymouse because she is funny and different. 

I think the author wrote this book because she wanted to make people laugh.  

I would recommend this book to my friends because it is a fun book.  

Reading to me is AWESOME because it is fun and it is my favorite thing to do.  

*Avery is a 4th grader in my class.
*She is a great student and loves to read.
*She has moved beyond graphic novels that she started reading in the fall and has been reading books like Wonder and Out of my Mind.  

Trailer Thursday #18...

 

 Enemy Pie by Derek Munson

*This is one of my favorite picture books.

*I usual share it right at the beginning of the school year.

*For various reasons I didn't get to it until this week.

*As always, it was a HUGE hit with my students.  

 

 

  

The Ant Bully by John Nickle

*This was another picture book I shared with my class.

*I always know if they are enjoying a story when they are completely quiet.  They were!

*I never saw the movie to go with the book, but looks interesting.  

 

Pickle by Kim Baker

*This is a chapter book that has been making the rounds in my room.

*I know you can find Kim Baker on Twitter.

*The story is engaging, funny, and quite the page turner.

Reading in the Wild by Donalyn Miller...

How I Heard About It:   One book that completely validated me as a teacher and my passion for bringing the love of reading and books to my students was Donalyn Miller's The Book Whisperer.  Before reading the book I always felt "alone" as far as my goals, wishes, and dreams for my students went.  After reading The Book Whisperer I realized there was a whole community out there who believed as I did.  One of the most refreshing and "life changing" events in my career.  Since reading Donalyn's first book, I became Twitter pals with her, met her in person, and had the honor and privilege of reading her new book Reading in the Wild.  

What It Is About:  As I type this, I realize I don't have to tell my blog audience what the book is about because I'm sure most of you have already read the book.  If you haven't, then you need to as soon as possible.  Each year after my students leave my classroom and I would chat with them in the following years, I realized they hadn't kept up the reading they did in my classroom.  When I heard the new book was addressing this exact issue, I couldn't have been more pleased.  Reflecting on the book, what I found most helpful was how Donalyn broke the "lessons/tips" into sections...

*Wild Readers Dedicate Time to Read
*Wild Readers Self-Select Reading Material
*Wild Readers Share Books and Reading with Other Readers
*Wild Readers Have Reading Plans
*Wild Readers Show Preferences 

What I Thought Of It:  Well, what can I say that I haven't already said.  I absolutely LOVED this book and was so worth the wait.  The ideas, thoughts, and tips offered in the book were just what I needed at this point in my twenty-three year teaching career.  Every page brought me information that I can directly use with my own wild readers.  Donalyn hit it on the head when she discusses the fact that teachers can "create" an environment for our students to read in, but what happens to them when they leave our classroom.  I know this resource will become a staple for me and my teaching.  It will guide me in helping me ensure that the students that cross my classroom door, will definitely become WILD READERS!  

Who Should Read It:  Of course everyone should read this book.  I'm pretty sure most of you have.  Be sure to spread the word about the wonderful resource.  I truly believe that anyone that works with young readers and wants to instill a passion for books and reading, has to read the book.  Not only should they get Reading in the Wild, but also the first book The Book Whisperer.  Happy Reading and thanks Donalyn for bringing me this gem of a book...

Rating:  5+++ STARS out of 5 Stars

Wonder Wednesday #18...

The Wonder of a Reading Community

*Each year I know that I get better and better at creating a community of readers.

*I must thank Donalyn Miller and her two books, The Book Whisperer and Reading in the Wild, because she and the books have had a tremendous impact on my teaching, my love of reading, and my goal to create WILD readers.

*In the last few years, book talks have become a major element of my reading workshop.  It is amazing to see the power we have as teachers when we promote a book.

*After I present (book talk) a new book to my class, I post a club sheet on our bulletin boards.  The book is listed and then enough spots for all the kids to sign their name on the club sheet.

*Once a reader has completed the book, they sign their name to the club sheet.

*It is such a simple thing, but amazing how a simple sheet posted on the bulletin board can create motivation to read a book, share conversations about the book, and encourage other readers to read the book.

*I always get such a kick out of my students when they can walk into the classroom in the morning and notice if a new club sheet has been posted.  

*Here are some pictures of our club book bulletin boards...

The Quirks: Welcome to Normal by Erin Soderberg...

How I Heard About It:   My school librarian brought this book to me a few weeks ago.  The author is a local author for us.  We have also been working together to bring "transitional" chapter books for our third and fourth graders and thought this might fit that category.  

What It Is About:  The Quirk family has just moved to "Normal."  This family is as opposite as you can get from normal.  Each member of the Quirk family has a special talent, quirk, or magic.  When things get too complicated for the family, they have to move to a new town where people don't know them.  This time they hope they can actually stay and live in their new town.  As the members of the family get acclimated to new schools, new jobs, and new friends; they find new adventures, problems, and quirks.  All events in the story lead up to the annual "Normal" day in town where the Quirk family will surely make their presence known.  

What I Thought Of It:  I found this story quite enjoyable.  The book makes a great first book in a new series for kids.  While reading it, I enjoyed the characters and their unusual quirks.  I also thought that the pictures in the book were fun to look at and definitely added to the story.  There was enough action that kept my interest until the very end so I know it will do the same for young readers.  I'm glad that my school librarian shared this book with me and look forward to sharing it with my students.  

Who Should Read It:  This is the perfect book for our third and fourth grader readers.  It would make an excellent read aloud for students in grades three through five.  I think that readers looking for a transitional chapter book will find this to be a delightful read.  

Rating:  4 STARS out of 5 Stars!

Treat Tuesday #18...

 Treat Tuesday -  A Slice of Heaven

*Such an easy, but delicious treat to enjoy.

*This is one of my kids favorite "treats" that we make at home.

*If you like cookies, candy, and brownies; this is for you!   




Directions and Instructions...

*Preheat oven to 350
*Smoosh refrigerated cookie dough into the bottom of each well. 
*Place Reese cup upside down on top of cookie dough (or an Oreo!)
*Top with prepared box brownie mix, filling 3/4 full.
*Bake for 18 minutes! HEAVEN!



Treat Tuesday - Middle-Grade Novel

Nightmare at the Book Fair by Dan Gutman












Treat Tuesday - Adult Novel   

Buffalo Soldier by Chris Bohjalian

Music Monday #11...

"One Day" by Matisyahu

*Mondays are one of my favorite days of our writing workshop.

*Today's song/video is one that truly moves me each time I listen/watch it.

*While sharing the video with my class today, I could tell they were touched by it also.

*After viewing the video, the writers spent five minutes writing in their notebooks.

*Several students shared their writing with the class.  I was impressed with the content.

*It is rewarding to bring music with a message to my students each Monday!

  

Music Monday Selections 2013-2014 (so far)...

Week Number One:  What I Am by Will.i.am

Week Number Two:  Proud by Heather Small

Week Number Three:  Roar by Katy Perry
Week Number Four:  Dreamer by Chris Brown 
Week Number Five:  What Does the Fox Say? by Ylvis 
Week Number Six:  The Rainbow Connection by The Muppets 
Week Number Seven:  Good Time by Owl City & Carly Rae Jepsen 
Week Number Eight:  Thriller by Michael Jackson 
Week Number Nine:  Hall of Fame by The Script and Will.i.am 
Week Number Ten:  Pure Imagination from Willy Wonka & Glee