Simile Stockings

After studying the difference between similes and metaphors, our class read “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.” In this poem, many similes are used to identify Santa and his reindeer. For example, “He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle / And away they all flew like the down of a...

Interactive Science Notebooks

After our school took a hard look at the way we taught science, we decided that the most beneficial approach for our students was an integration between science and literacy. In order to help facilitate the connection for my students, we made our own version of ISN (Interactive Science Notebooks). We...

Classroom Flags

After reading about the CA Bear Flag Revolt and discussing the value of state and country flags, we decided to create a flag that exemplified the uniqueness of our classroom. All students drew things they felt were the most accurate representation of our class or things unique to our classroom that they...

California Mission Block Prints

Using a small piece of foamboard, a Speedball Hard Rubber Brayer, block printing ink, and some paper and pencils, students have the opportunity to create block prints depicting whatever their hearts desire! In my room, we create mission prints, as this directly relates to our social studies...

Food Colored Flowers

In order to demonstrate the essential functions that roots and stems provide for plant growth, students can participate in a VERY straightforward science experiment! Simply gather a few plastic cups, food coloring, and some white flowers (carnations work best). Inside the plastic cups, add water and a...

California Mission Models

Creating a California mission model has been a standard fourth grade project for YEARS! In our district, we have chosen to complete other mission-related projects in class and have treated model building as extra credit. After receiving the mission guidelines (both English and Spanish are available below),...