Black History Month, Math Problem Solving

BLACK HISTORY MONTH
For those who still need material to introduce famous African-Americans, I suggest this printable:
Mini-Book of Famous African Americans, suggested for 2nd-4th grades, from TeacherVision.com

MATH PROBLEM-SOLVING
I've had a request from a 3rd grade teacher/friend of mine here in Texas for multi-step math problem-solving tips and tools. I know you don't have much time to go back to the basics during what I call "Testing Season," (you know, like hunting season?) but this link will take you to some great practice in demonstrating understanding of the problem/question by restating it another way.
John Rickey's Better Answer Game
Mr. Rickey's site is a self-proclaimed source of materials for special needs students, but I think you'll find many, many useful ideas and downloadables for a wide variety of students.

Please remember that I welcome your comments and suggestions, so feel free to click the envelope below if you'd like to post your thoughts!

Free Literacy Assessments

ASCI  
Scroll past the introductory paragraphs on the ACSI website to go to a selection of free, downloadable reading and writing assessment tools.
Examples:
If you teach writing in grades 1-6, or even beyond, you may be interested in printing out these editing checklists the students can use at their desks
For teachers of beginning readers, Patti's Electronic Classroom, a great resource for K-3 reading, has provided a phonics inventory.
ASCI, Association of Christian Schools International, does not endorse these links, but has kindly provided these and many more links to tools, articles, and teaching ideas.
Next week: more teaching ideas for Black History Month!
Have a great weekend, everyone!

Google For Educators

Hello Friends,
Please forgive my absence in recent days; I have been out of state, trying to help my dad with some medical issues. I'm hoping I can make it up to you by sharing several great free ideas today.

I realize that some schools are very advanced technology-wise, and others are still in the early stages of integrating technology into teaching and learning. The world's most popular search engine, Google, has a branch called Google For Educators. Here you will find a list of Google products that are helpful to teachers grades K-12, and examples of how educators have used them. You can choose a classroom activity, print out posters about how to search Google, or find step-by-step instructions to make a class website. Another activity you might want to involve your class with is the contest going on now for students grades K-12 which gives them a chance to see their design featured as the logo for Google.

Speaking of technology, I just want to remind you of two features I 've built into this site that I hope will make your life easier.
On the left side of this post is a widget that you can copy and paste onto any page you like. For example, if you use Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, if you have your own blog or website, if you have iGoogle desktop, etc., you can simply copy the code for the Free Teacher Tips and Tools widget, and you can read my postings without taking the time to come to this site. I know how busy you are!
On the right side of my posts, there is a widget I thought might help you called Teachable Days. This tool lists all the major special days you might be celebrating each month; be sure to scroll down within the widget to find this feature, along with the individual days listed. The great thing is that, if you click on the title of one of the days or months listed, you will be taken to more free activities to use! Free tips and tools within the Free Tips and Tools!
Reminder: please feel free to email me with any questions or comments you might have, or just post them here!    Miss M.