Visible Literacy and Gingerbread Houses

I just love December!  It is so magical, and I am finding that this is the same feeling my kindergartners feel!  I can just feel the energy, magic, and excitement bouncing off of the walls each day.

Visible Literacy

About a month ago, I had the privilege of hearing Regie Routman speak on classroom literacy.  This was a great workshop which led to many great discussions on literacy with many other educators from my district.  One of the main points I walked away with was in response to the question: "Will visitors instantly know that your school (or classroom) focuses on literacy?"  And, honestly, as hard as it was to answer no, that was what I had to say.  Don't get me wrong, we focus on literacy all day long, but it isn't always visible.  We make cute crafts to go along with guided and shared readings, we celebrate writing- but it is almost like it is a secret among the members of my classroom.  Hence a goal was created.  Anytime a project is done- we now have an additional literacy component to be displayed with our work. So far, this has been a shared writing experience that explains our projects. It is has been a great way to bring more meaning to fun craft projects!

This cute project was from First Grade and Fabulous.  We studied realism and fantasy while reading Olivia.  

My student teacher reviewed and taught sequence by using Pet the Cat.  She found this fun craftivity from Mrs. Bremer's Class blog.

 

I just LOVE how these two projects turned out- so cute!  I am very big on having my students completely create their own craft.  They have gotten so good at problem solving by being in charge of their own artwork.

Gingerbread Houses

On Friday, we celebrated Grandparent's day by making gingerbread houses.  This was quite the event. For several weeks, we have been planning this event.  Each student could have up to 4 grandparents (or other relatives) come help them make a house.  Students supplied graham crackers, frosting, candy, and ENERGY.  And, even though teaching on Friday was rather challenging, it was all worth it.

For an entire hour my room was filled with smiles, concentration, laughter, holiday music, and the strong scent of sugar.  Take a quick look at some of the masterpieces created by my kiddos and their special visitors.

Can you say MESSY???  But, oh so cute!

Happy Holidays!