Classroom Academics
I believe students learn best in using an inquiry approach to gain mastery in content delivered to meet the Common Core State Standards. I love the use of Depth & Complexity, Project Based Learning and Universal Design Learning approaches to meet that goal of mastery through inquiry.
Literacy
The CAFE (Comprehension, Articulation, Fluency and Expanded Vocabulary) approach to reading and writing is the foundational structure for meeting our literacy goals in the classroom. Our curriculum is Imagine It and I rely on Readworks, EPIC and IXL to support literacy goals in the classroom. Through studying literature, styles of writing and different genres of books, students understand authors purpose and influence on the audience through the entertainment of reading
Writing
Handwriting without Tears provies a great guideline to base my instruction on but many cross curricular influences from Flocabulary and IXL Learning provide additional support to get students writing in a way that builds a passion in learning proper grammar and language conventions.
Through the CAFE approach, students broaden their vocabulary and have a deeper understanding to reading that is shared in their writing. I'm eager to share that student voice with you in writing, audio and in art form.
Mathematics
iReady is the district adopted curriculum and is a stellar source in developing your students mathematics competency skills by focusing on algebra, number sense, measurement and geometry skills. I differentiate support by using Prodigy and Moby Max and work hard to make life applicable lessons for your student to take ownership in their learning.
Science
We are so blessed to have great science kits delivered to our students each year to build scientific inquiry skills. In addition, my students will master the concepts of life science through animal and plant science by hatching baby chicks and weekly gardening in our school garden complex.
Social Studies
I try to bring the world to our classroom and share the five themes of geography with my students through map exploration, exposure to new cultures and by gaining an appreciation for history that has impacted their lives. I use Newsela as a daily news format, as well as paired primary and secondary source activities to explore the world. The world is full of opportunities and I'm eager to broaden their horizons.
Specials
In 5th Grade students rotate between Physical Education, Art, Music, Robotics by Lego and Gardening each week. When possible I provide cross curricular support in the classroom to pair with their Specials curriculum. You will see your student perform dances you've not heard of, play games from ancient times, create masterpieces with art mediums and deliver music in new ways.
