Becky Boer

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Becky

Teaching

Reference Binder (Or “Realizing Just How Nerdy I Am”)

About a week ago, I got an idea. My sister had been in Staples and found that they had binders on sale for some ridiculously low price, so she bought me 12. Twelve binders. Normal people might’ve been like, “What in the world am I supposed to do with twelve binders?” but not me. I was thrilled. (They’re also pink and green and super cute.) I’ve already moved the contents of most of my binders into these new ones. But I do have some left over, and while trying  ...

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Teaching

Goodbyes

Today I said goodbye to my fifth graders. Most teachers can send their students off at the end of the year with a pat on the back and a “Have a good summer; see you next year!” But not fifth grade teachers. Our students are moving on, not only from our grade level but from our school. They’re leaving elementary school and becoming middle schoolers, and they’re excited to begin the journey. Somewhere in there, they know they’ll miss their fifth grade teachers,  ...

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Teaching

First Day Activities

I recently left a comment online answering someone’s question about what they should do on the first day of school. I thought I’d post it here, in case it might help someone. I usually stand at the door to greet the kids. Oftentimes parents will walk the kids to the classroom and want a picture of the kid with the teacher, or will just want to chat with you, and it’s easier to keep the parent out of the classroom (by the time they’re in fifth grade, that is; I know  ...

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Teaching

Grouping Students

I love it when my kids work together to solve problems. You can really see the thought processes they go through, not only when solving problems themselves, but when determining how to help someone else. However, there’s always a tension that fills the room the second you say the word “groups.” There isn’t a single kid in the room still listening to your instructions! I rarely let my students choose their own groups. However, I don’t really have a great way to  ...

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