MobyMax Anyone?

WOW!  Two days of blogging in a row?!  The snow days are definitely helping to free up some time for blogging.  ;)  I've been meaning to write this post for quite some time; however, like I mentioned yesterday, time hasn't been on my side.  

Have you heard of MobyMax?  It's one of my favorite research based tools I use daily in my classroom.  I use it in several ways and I will tell you more about how in just a minute.  One of the first things I do at the beginning of every school year is set up accounts on MobyMax for my students to take an online placement test.  The results of the placement test provide data to remediate and guide my instruction each year in Math.  MobyMax also provides these same services and data points in several other areas.  I took a screen shot of what is offered for you to see the awesome options you have using MobyMax in your classroom. 

This is a screenshot of options/subjects offered by MobyMax.

I've only used MobyMax for math, but plan on beginning the Language lessons/assessments when we return from the snow days.  My students will begin by taking the placement test for Language just like they did for Math.  After the placement tests are complete, they will visit MobyMax Language as a workstation rotation during our literacy block to practice grammar.  Having students visit MobyMax during our literacy block allows them exposure and practice with grammar that otherwise wouldn't get the attention it needs. It's also a clever way to incorporate the Common Core and technology daily in Reading Workshop/Daily 5.

Now back to how I use MobyMax Math in my classroom~

Like I said earlier, I use it in several ways. I've listed my "Top 5" ways I use MobyMax; however, I use it in more than 5 ways and hope to have a follow up post on more ways to use it in the classroom at a later date.  First, I use it to learn more about my student's strengths. Second, I have students visit MobyMax Math as a workstation in math workshop twice a week for 20 minutes each session.  Third, I have students practice online at home twice a week for part of their homework.  If students don't have access to the internet at home, they complete it for morning work the following day at school. Fourth, I use it for progress monitoring of students I'm concerned with and are considering for RTI paperwork and EC/Special Ed referrals.  Fifth, I use it to help my EC/Special Ed students get more practice in math in hopes of making progress towards IEP goals.  Below are some screen shots to help you visualize what I'm talking about.  

Now for the gist of this post....MobyMax is an AMAZING research based tool!  If you don't use it, you should start..like tomorrow!  ;)  Thanks for hanging in there!  Until next time...

Measuring Student Growth

Assign Assessments

Progress Monitoring Graph

2nd Quarter (another 9 weeks of fractions) Now Available at my TPT store!

Happy Tuesday Night!

My first blog hop was a success.  I'm looking forward to future hops/linky parties this school year. I was so inspired by the response of the blog hop that I FINALLY completed the 2nd volume of my newest TPT product "Fraction of the Day"!  Honestly, I had no idea creating fraction problems would be such a time consuming task!  I'm super proud of the product I'm creating and hope it's something you can use as well.  If you missed grabbing your freebie version of this monster, you can grab it by clicking here.  If you like what you see, consider purchasing the first two quarters by clicking the picture below.  Thanks so much for all of the support!  I'm beginning the 3rd quarter pack later this week.  Stay tuned...

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Weekly Common Core Spiraling Review Freebie in one download!

Happy Monday almost Tuesday!

I've been truly enjoying summer break and have been slack on all things school related!  I LOVE being a teacher, but really think I needed a mental break for a few weeks before considering looking at anything school related!  Over the past couple of weeks I've been a workout machine, pool regular, Pinterest chef/baker, and household organizing fanatic!  While doing everything mentioned above, I've been enjoying our little nugget and ALL the extra time I get with her in the summer months!  There's still tons to do and play dates to host; however, I'm ready to look at and think about school again a few days a week!  

Several people have requested the morning work spiraling review be located in one central spot for an easier download....your wishes are my command! ;)  You can download weeks 1-12 by clicking the picture below.  I don't have past week 12 because I ran out of time this past year.  I'm also not sure how I plan to use them this upcoming year or if I want to try something a little different...more to come on this!  Leave a comment if you like my work or have suggestions for other items you would like to see. Until next time....

Week 11 CCSS Morning Work Spiral Review Freebie

Happy Sunday Everyone!  

I've finally created week 11 of the 5th grade spiral review common core morning work freebie.  You can grab your copy by clicking the picture below.  Oh, and if you ever see a typo or something needing to be corrected, please reach out to me.  

I'm a busy mom of a two year old with a traveling husband (basically I'm not perfect) so errors can happen.  I do triple check the work before posting, but after a while everything becomes a blur. ;)  Have a fabulous week until next time! :)))

Spiraling CCSS Morning Work Volume 10 Freebie

Happy Monday Night Everyone!

Since I last blogged I have completed my first half marathon.  I actually ran 13.27 miles and really enjoyed the experience.  We went to Charleston, SC for our half marathon and it's an indescribable experience I think everyone should have.  We enjoyed it so much that we are going back next year to complete the full 26.2 miles.  Any who, below you can grab volume 10 of the morning work series.  Please leave me a comment if you download it.  Have a great week!  Until next time... :))

Pre race photo.  I'm the one in the white shirt.

Our medal :)))

Click the picture to grab your freebie

Common Core Spiraling Morning Work Volume 9

Happy Saturday Night!

I finally have volume 9 for you to download and use in the classroom.  Click on the picture below to grab your free copy.  I should be back in a few days with a post/idea for Reading instruction.  I'm headed to bed for my final run before our half marathon next weekend in Charleston!  Stay tuned! :))  

Spiraling Common Core Morning Work Volume 7 Freebie

Happy Sunday!  Clearly I don't need to set goals for posting, because I have a trend of breaking them.  I've created Daily Dozen Week 7 for everyone.  Click on the picture below to grab your copy for free.  The analogies found in this pack come from Rachel-Lynette at Minds in Bloom.  The thanksgiving analogies are a freebie in her TPT store.  I hope you are enjoying the spiraling review.  I know my kids look forward to them each day.  Have a great week and check back later in the week for volume 8. :)

Common Core Morning Work Volume 6 Freebie

Happy Tuesday?! 

Wow!  This week has already gotten away from me!  I had super lofty goals of bringing you Volumes 6 & 7 of the morning work; however, I ran out of time.  I do bring to the table Volume 6 for you.  Click on the picture to grab your next copy!  I hope to have more volumes later this week and/or early next week.  Sorry, you're having to come back and get one week at a time. :(  Have a great week and let me know if you download it, like it, find it useful, or none of the above.  :))

Inference QR Code Freebie

Happy Friday Everyone!

Unfortunately, I wasn't able to post volume 6 of my morning work spiral review last week.  I hope to have it out by Monday with volume 7 as well.  I had every intention of doing so; however, my week took a frustrating turn.  On Thursday we found out our student growth data from state testing...needless to say, it wasn't what I had hoped for.  The proficiency was evident, but the overall growth was minimal.  I spent the rest of the week and weekend trying to figure out how student growth is calculated and how I could do a better job with this group of children.  I was very distracted, but feel better now.  Basically, I did the very best I could do with the circumstances I was in.  I was a Kindergarten teacher and moved to 5th grade in a new county, at a new school, and with new team members.  Everything was new and overwhelming.  I didn't fully become the teacher I wanted to be for 5th graders until late last school year and definitely this year.  I spent the summer reflecting, researching, and refining my teaching craft to make a better difference this year.  Cross your fingers my hard work is reflected in student growth after this school year.  Anyway, I'm back on track and more driven than ever.

Now, onto the freebie mentioned.  Today I made inference task cards with self checking QR codes.  We've been working diligently on inferences and evidence based writing to support our thoughts; therefore, the inspiration to my creation.  You can grab your free copy by clicking the picture above.  If you like what you see, consider following my blog. :)  Have a great weekend and please leave a comment if you download it. 

Happy Sunday with a Freebie!

Happy Sunday!  I had every intention of posting on Friday, but I fell asleep in the living room before 9:00pm!!!  Clearly I was tired!  When I finally made it upstairs to go to sleep I woke my husband up with more snoring!  School is definitely keeping me busy this year!  Any who, I've finally gotten around to creating volume 3 of my spiraling morning work freebie series.  Click the picture below to download your free copy.  

I had planned to get them all out during the summer months, but I didn't so now I'm just creating them a week at a time.  I hope you're able to use them and have experienced success with them.  They are a combination of several teaching resources that I like.  I've changed some of the names, directions, or problems to best fit what I need.  Stay tuned next week for volume 4 to come your way!  Have a fantastic week! :))))

A Few of My Favorite Common Core (Free) Resources :)

Happy Tuesday!

As I dread plan for returning to work I thought I should share some of my favorite free resources that have helped me tackle 5th grade common core.  I LOVE being a teacher, but I am IN LOVE with being Lillian's mom.  I wish we could provide her the fantastic life she has without me working.  Wishful thinking I know.  

Back to the subject at hand...These resources are also available in other grade levels as well for my fabulous followers in other grades. :))

Resource #1:  LakeShore Printable Lesson Plans (A variety of subjects)

This site is not only my favorite teaching store, but they also have wonderful and free resources online to share as well.  The resources are not always spelled out with how they align to the CCSS, but you can pick and choose the resources that align with your objectives.  Click the picture below to visit the site and please let me know your thoughts if you choose to use any of the plans. :)

Resource #2: Utah Education Network (Language Arts Resource)

I love this resource because it does spell out the CCSS by grade level.  It also provides a laundry list of lesson plans to teach each language arts standard by grade level.  It's a FABULOUS and hidden resource on the internet!  Below is a screen shot of the website.  Click the picture below to visit the site!

Resource #3:  Common Core Warwick (Math Resource)

I love this resource because it provides math links/technology for each of the 5th grade CCSS.  Again, this site has other grade levels as well.  I highly recommend you checking it out when you get the curriculum pacing guides for the school year.  :)    Click the picture below to visit the site!

Well, that's it for now.  I will share more of my favorite free CCSS resources later this month.  These are great to get you started with the new school year!  Please let me know if you like the resources and/or have other resources that are free that you would like to share with all of us.  Have a great Tuesday!

                                          

August Currently and a Freebie-Morning Work Volume 2

Happy Friday Night!  I'm so happy to link up with Farley over at oh boy 4th grade for a long over due currently!  I can't believe August is here ALREADY!  It doesn't seem possible for summer to be coming to an end so soon. :(

Listening~My husband is obsessed with the Show 'Shameless' and we watch a few episodes at night after the baby goes to sleep.  I can't just watch TV.  I have to be doing something else....maybe ADD?!  I'm not sure, but I just cant sit and watch TV unless it's Grey's Anatomy.

Loving~ Our new back to school purchases!  It's tax free weekend here in NC and what a fantastic excuse to go shopping!  I went to Kohls this afternoon and got 3 new dresses, 2 fall outfits for our baby, 2 new 'right now' baby outfits, and a bridal shower gift for a grand total of $117!!!  I had so many coupons and things were on sale!  I love a great deal!

Thinking~When school is ending it seems like you have all the time in the world during the summer months to conquer the moon!  Clearly, I spent the majority of my time with  our baby, hubby, and friends.   The summer list may just turn into a Fall list.  I've accomplished some of the items on each list, just not as much as I thought!  Oh Well!!

Wanting~More time off of work!  I love the time I get with our little girl in the summers.  We go to the pool, gym, play dates, strolling dates, lunches, and just play!  I just wish we could have this life ALL. THE. TIME.!  She's 19 1/2 months old and so much fun to be with!  

Needing~I need to finish my Social Studies WebQuests BEFORE I go back to work because I will be working on my National Board Certification this school year.  The more leg work I can get done now, the better it will be this school year.  

B2s~  The first must have is new clothes!  ALL of my B2s memories involve new clothes and I couldn't imagine starting the school year any other way!  The second must have are new markers and pens.  I LOVE  Mr. Sketch markers, Sharpies, and ANY fun/colorful pen!  I'm not particular with the pens because I LOVE all pens!  My final B2S item is new Seuss decorations for the classroom.  I can't afford to do everything at once so I add a little to the classroom each year!  This year's additions are the Truffula Trees, painted shelves, calender, and chalk board table.

Thanks for hanging in there with me and now my newest freebie!  It's the second issue of my morning work freebie.  You can grab yours by clicking here.  There will be a total of 40 issues of this (1 for each week of the school year) so come back next week to get the 3rd issue.  Until next time!!

Daily Dozen Week 1 Common Core Freebie

Happy Friday!

I've linked up with TBA and the Friday Freebie Back to School Themes today for my first edition of Daily Dozen Common Core.  Basically, this is morning work that will spiral review concepts throughout the school year.  I didn't fully get my head around 5th grade until after Christmas; therefore, putting me behind in spiral review for my kiddos.  I was able to catch up some, but now that I know what to expect in 5th grade I want to start the school year out with review from Day 1.  

I plan to use these Monday-Thursday as morning work.  On Fridays, my students write a friendly letter home for the week to their parents talking about what they did during the week.  

Click on the picture above to download your free copy of this first edition of Common Core Morning Work.  Please don't forget to rate my product and leave feedback if you download. :)

I'm not going to make copies (unless I have an IEP specification or notice some students needing the scaffold).  The daily dozen will be projected on my SMART board for students to copy in a morning work journal.  The expectation will be that they copy the problem (unless it's a word problem) and then solve showing ALL work in the process.  After our morning meeting each day we will go over the problems and have students self check their answers.  I don't use morning work as a grade, just another opportunity to practice skills.  

I think that's all for now.  I'm super tired from my first ever Stroller Strides class this morning.  Now it's time to work on my project for the Monday Made It linky party.

Have a fantastic weekend!

5.NF.3 Task Cards Freebie

Happy Saturday!  I hope everyone is enjoying the weekend.  Last night I created these task cards to use in the classroom on Monday.  I tried to use the borders, but nothing seemed to cooperate with me late last night.  That being said, they are simple task cards I plan to dress up with colored card stock and of course a laminator!  You can grab your copy here.  I really like the calculator task card recording sheet inspired by Traci Bender over at the benderbunch.  You can grab my version here.  They're labeled calculator task cards; however you could use them without a calculator.  They have QR codes on them, but leave a comment with contact information if you need task cards without QR codes.  After our practice EOG last week I've reflected on things and decided we need lots of practice with calculators!  Our state test is divided into calculator inactive (paper/pencil only) and calculator active (students have the option to use a calculator).  I realized there's no point in having the calculator as a resource unless the children know how to use them.  This week we are going to be calculator maniacs to make sure they are comfortable and ready to use them on the state tests.  I hope you enjoy the task cards and can use them in your classroom.  Have a great weekend! :))

~Amanda

Metric Review Picture Freebie! CCSS MD.1

Hi All,

I'm back...had a sick baby with the stomach bug from Thursday-Sunday last week.  Now, I think the hubby has what our baby had.  All I can say is, it better stay clear of me!  I've thrown up more this school year than I have my entire life!!  No exaggeration!!  I'm definitely good on anything related to throw up for the next few school years.  

This is a picture of the completed product if students answer all questions accurately and follow the directions.  

Anyway...back on the topic of the freebie.  I had an idea the other night while getting ready for bed.  How about having a fun quick way to assess student knowledge and application of measurement conversions through art?  I was so excited about this idea that I quickly went downstairs to draft this idea.  On Thursday last week my children tested it out for me.  To my delight they had a BLAST!  Basically, I adapted math problems from mathdrills.com for measurement conversion.  Students had to solve the problem and follow the directions for each problem to create a picture.  It was a fun way to practice measurement problems while adding some crayons to the mix.  You can grab your freebie here.  It was super simple, no prep work, and very engaging for the children.  I actually had the children use the iPads to scan the QR code to get to the questions.  They solved the problems on one side of the paper and created the illustrations on the other side of the paper.  The QR codes were fun too, but not required for the task.  Let me know if you want the QR code/directions for the activity.  I have it saved on my school computer and can send it to you if interested.  Please let me know what you think!  Have a great rest of your week!

Cheers!  ~Amanda

Another Fabulous Math Freebie...OA.3 QR Code Task Cards

Happy Friday Eve!

This is a picture of the file before you cut them out and glue them as task cards.

Completed Product
I've created another small set of task cards to enrich students when practicing the OA.3 objective in math.  The actual objective is to create expressions; however, why not teach them how to solve for the variable?  I think it will help them be better prepared for the math in middle school.  If you're interested in this freebie, you can download your copy here.  I cut them up, glued them on card stock, laminated the cards, and put them on a ring for students.  The students folded a piece of copy paper into 6 equal boxes.  They numbered each box, solved the expression, and then checked their answers by scanning the QR code.  If you don't have an iPad or way to scan the QR codes, but are interested in the task cards please leave a comment with a way to send the non QR code task cards. I will be happy to send them your way.  I would love any suggestions you guys have for teaching or practicing the OA.3 objective.  Have a great weekend!  :-)

~Amanda :)))

Vocabulary Idea for 5th Grade Common Core RL5.4 Objective

Okay, so I just recently realized I haven't posted many ideas about literacy lately.  Honestly, I've been so wrapped up with making sure I cover everything in math before our state testing next month; my creative juices haven't been focused on literacy. Something that I've been doing the past few months that has helped tremendously with student achievement is with the use of QR codes, thinking maps, and padlet.com.  Obviously, every teacher and school uses a different basal series, news magazine, or novel study to teach Literacy with.  I choose to use StoryWorks Magazine by Scholastic.  You can check it out here.  I enjoy this publication because it's aligned with the common core and has a variety of genres with each magazine.  The children really seem to enjoy it as well.  I don't use the worksheets very much, but turn what the worksheets are asking into different thinking maps.  My reading scores have jumped significantly after transitioning to this as my primary resource for whole group mini lessons.  I do still keep a variety of novel studies going on within my different reading groups each week.  

Vocabulary QR Code Examples

Now, back to the QR codes.  I randomly group students each week to look at the vocabulary before reading the article, play, poem, or story for the week.  Each group is given a sheet of quotes with the bolded vocabulary words.  The students look at how the word is used in the quote and discuss what it could possibly mean using context clues.  After an agreed upon word meaning has been established with the group they scan the QR code to check and see if they were correct with the word meaning.  After checking the word they add the word to a tree map of vocabulary words and list the definition below the word.  After all vocabulary words have been discussed, checked, and written on the tree map; students make a prediction with the information they have on the tree map as their frame of reference.  Next, the group members share their predictions and decide upon the strongest prediction.  Students then go on www.padlet.com to post their groups prediction for the story.  After all groups have posted we meet together to review predictions.  Finally, students read the story within their groups and discuss what they've read.  Groups are given specific questions to discuss and post their answers on padlet.com.  It's fun, engaging, and an interactive way to kick off a new story for the week.    Below are screen shots of a set of QR codes and www.padlet.com.  

Example of Groups Posting Predictions After Vocabulary QR Codes

Examples of Groups Posting Answers to Discussion Questions

2ndEdition Math CCSS Review Morning Work Freebie

Happy Friday!

I hope you all have had a great week.  It's been an exhausting one on my end, but am thankful for the weekend.  Great News!!!  I've created the second addition of 5th Common Core Math Review Practice Sheets.  Like I've mentioned in a previous post, I suggest printing two sheets to a page to save paper/copies.  We're using them in my classroom to build a review book for each student before the state testing (EOG's) at the end of May.  I give these for morning work a few days a week to keep skills fresh on the minds of my students.  I hope you can use them and will continue to build packs of these review sheets for us.  Download your freebie here .  Have a great weekend!

~Amanda :))))