Tag: december
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Teach Upper Elementary Reading Skills with Silver Packages
Silver Packages by Cynthia Rylant is a must-read for 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade classrooms in December. The story is set in a poor region of the Appalachia, where children eagerly await the arrival of the Christmas Train. This story perfectly demonstrates themes of gratitude and wants vs. needs, both wonderful reminders during the holiday…
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Gifts of the Heart Elementary Book Activities
Gifts of the Heart by Patricia Polacco is one of my favorite books to read aloud with my class during the Christmas season. Like many other Patricia Polacco books, this story is rich in theme and vocabulary. Plus, the lesson opportunities for character analysis of Richie are too great to pass up! The Story Trisha’s…
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Easy Classroom Elf on the Shelf Ideas
It’s almost December, which means it’s time for all the elves to make their way from the North Pole into homes and classrooms. I have a bit of a love-hate relationship with our elves, Sprinkles and Gilbert. Remembering to come up with fun, exciting stunts and activities every single day totally stresses me out, but…
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Teaching with Red and Lulu – December Book Activities
Red & Lulu is a holiday favorite picture book for many reasons. This book captures everything there is to love about New York City during the Christmas season. I highly recommend sharing this wonderful story with children at home and with students in the classroom. Red and Lulu are a happy pair of cardinals living…
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Best December Read Alouds for 2nd Grade
With December right around the corner, it’s time to start planning and preparing your classroom. Don’t stress! We’ve compiled the perfect list of holiday mentor texts to bring in the Christmas magic, while also helping you teach important 2nd grade grade reading skills. Christmas Farm by Mary Lyn Ray Christmas Farm is a beautiful story…
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December Read Alouds for 3rd Grade
Third grade is such a huge transitional year in reading. Students are making the jump from learning to read to reading to learn. Incorporating these fantastic picture books into your reading lessons during the month of December is the best way to bring in a little holiday magic without stepping away from the heavy standards…
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December Read Alouds for 4th Grade
Fourth grade is a pivotal year in reading, which is why I am always surprised to hear the misconception that fourth graders are too young for picture books. The benefits of interactive read alouds are immense, even in the upper elementary grades. If you haven’t already, there is no better time to incorporate picture books…
The Pedagogical Planner 