Mr. Dictionary

So, the school year has started and is off to a fantastic start. I've been inspired already by one of my students. Mr. Dictionary is now his moniker; one of the reasons is because he walks around with a dictionary and tries to learn a word a day. One cool website I found that could help him and other "wordsmiths" is a site called podictionary.com .
Another reason why I really enjoy having this student in my class is because the first day I asked him why he was so quite; he replied, "My dad taught me that it is better to say something that has quality rather than stuff in quantity."

Back to School

Summer has come and gone. Now it is time to start the school year, and I can't wait. I always enjoy the beginning of the year, because I get to meet a whole new group of great kids. I thoroughly look forward to creating new memories with the students and sharing knowledge.

On a side note- the first student from my homeroom, and the first from Mrs. Pitzer's homeroom to comment on my blog will receive extra credit in English! (I can't wait to start blogging with both classes!)

End of the School Year

Wow! I can't believe the school year is over after today. It always goes so fast, and I never get to everything I planned. Each year I revamp my lessons and activities in order to create a better classroom environment. It will be sad to see this group of students leave; they've all become important people in my life. That is probably the best part of being a teacher; being able to create memories with so many different kids. I hope that some will remember me and come back to visit.
The other day one of my students from the past came back to say hello. She decided after her 8th grade graduation she wanted to stop by to say hi. I could not believe how much this student grew and matured. It was absolutely wonderful being able to see her again and wish her luck in the big leagues (high school). She told me she really enjoyed 5th grade and being in my class (things like this make teaching worthwhile).
I know I'll miss the kids, but summer will be a much needed rest. Also, I know next year I'll meet a whole new crop of students and create new memories.

Movies

I'll be succinct. I love movies (all different types). If you share the same thoughts, you should check out this really cool movie search engine I just found called nanocrowd. I think I'll use it to help me pick a flick to watch this weekend!

Music

Right now I'm listening to my ipod and doing school work. It's amazing how music can aid in the speed at which I accomplish my work. Occasionally I will play music using pandora.com or grooveshark.com for my students. Sometimes I will play "Kagan's Music for the Mind" when my students are reading & writing.
Personally, my music taste is quite eclectic. I'll listen to anything, and normally it depends what type of mood I'm in; I listen to everything from Jack Johnson, Green Day, Less than Jake, the Beatles, Metallica, Nickelback, Dave Matthews, and so many more artists. The world would be bleak without music.

Fun with Poetry

Recently I had my students rewrite songs using their own words, but keep the rhythm of the music.  The class was really excited and the lesson turned into a huge success.  Students created some humorous parodies, and I've posted some below.

May is here!!

           Hooray, May is here!  I don't know about you, but the month of May sure is busy.  My calendar is filled with so many things: weddings, baby showers, birthdays (mine), etc... How do I keep track of it all?  I use the website www.rememberthemilk.com .  For gift ideas I often search using google shopping or worio.com.
           The school year is finishing up and there are so many things I still have to accomplish.  But, it is also imperative that I take a moment to sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful weather.  You should stop and smell the roses too!