Planning is a task all teachers must do. You either love it or you hate it, and I LOVE it! I love it because my planning documents are purposeful. I refer to them and use them constantly throughout the term. No one wants to waste their time writing up planning documents only to file them away, nev
In an earlier post, I went over a list of memory review games that I am planning on using this year with my Foundations class. (CLICK HERE if you would like to read that post.) In this post, I am s…
Explore different materials and their properties with this engaging unit. Activities and printables for the Foundation and Prep Year chemistry strand.
Help children learning the colours of the rainbow in French with this lovely colouring sheet. Also helps to develop fine-motor skills.
A movie about this mysterious photographer was nominated for an Oscar. We have 120 photos, plus an interview with the curator behind a massive exhibition revealing the work of one of the “discoveries” of the century in street photography.
The Guide to the Capsule Wardrobe is finally here! To build your capsule wardrobe in 2024, your clothing pieces should be timeless and classic, yet stylish and comfortable. Your capsule wardrobe is essentially the foundation to all of your outfits, which you can later build on. So here is a carefull
Planning is a task all teachers must do. You either love it or you hate it, and I LOVE it! I love it because my planning documents are purposeful. I refer to them and use them constantly throughout the term. No one wants to waste their time writing up planning documents only to file them away, nev
The first few weeks of school are all about setting the foundation. We're establishing routines and procedures, encouraging a growth mindset culture, building classroom community, etc. I also like to spend some time laying the foundation for what students will need to be successful writers throughout the year, especially since writing is a focus that threads through all subject areas. In second grade especially, sentence structure is a great place to start. We review the 4 parts that every sentence has to have in order to be a complete sentence:
There's more to development than milestones. Track your child's play and social skills, coordination, daily activities, and self-expression abilities.
Created by How&How, the charity’s new name and visual identity is targeted less at tourists visiting the Caribbean Island and more at the local community
The Color of the Year (COTY) announcements for 2025 have already started. And the first one is from Sherwin Williams partner HGTV Home. This versatile color, grounded in nature, pairs well with many other hues making it a great foundation for almost any space.
The Then and Now History Unit is suitable for Foundation Year through to Year 2. This pack is jam packed with everything you need to teach about the historical changes in technology, transport and life from the past to today. In addition to 12 activities, the pack comes with an easy to follow instructions on how to use each resource. My students love the flashcards and the easy to use flip book to record their discoveries. A craftivity is a great way to solidify learning in a fun and interactive way. My students loved making the diorama, cutting, colouring and pasting the buildings and trees then thinking about where they might go. We undertook a short writing activity to go with their displays, explaining what historical changes had occurred in people's lives. The pack also includes several text and comprehension question sheets on different aspects of life in the past verses life now. Below is a full list of the contents of the pack: - Instructions (suggestions on how to use each of the resources) - Venn Diagram – Old, New and No Change - Then and Now colour images for timeline displays in the classroom - Then and Now Timeline cut and paste (includes suggested answer sheet) - Old and New Cut and Paste with sorting sheet (includes answer sheet) - Then and Now in the Kitchen – Text and Comprehension Questions - Then and Now in the Classroom – Text and Comprehension Questions - Then and Now Music Players – Text and Comprehension Questions - Then and Now Telephones – Text and Comprehension Questions - Then and Now Lighting – Text and Comprehension Questions - Then and Now Transport – Text and Comprehension Questions - Then and Now Washing Dishes – Text and Comprehension Questions - Then and Now Writing Tools – Text and Comprehension Questions - 5 W’s of Historical Questions Flash Card Prompts (Who, What, When, Where and Why) - Then and Now Writing Sheet (uses the 5w’s) – Quill - Then and Now Writing Sheet (uses the 5w’s) – Candle - Then and Now Writing Sheet (uses the 5w’s) – Candlestick Telephone - Then and Now Writing Sheet (uses the 5w’s) – Gramophone - Then and Now Word Wall (colour images with historical vocabulary) - 5 x Colouring Sheets – images from the past - Then and Now – Interview a family member (send home sheet – posing questions and written response) - Then and Now – Ask a family member (send home sheet- draw and label response) - Then and Now Flip Book - Then and Now – Diorama of life in the past See why teachers love it... "Terrific addition to our unit of study with excellent materials that include a flip book, higher reading material, 5 W's question and comprehension questions." "Lots of great resources to compare life today to life long ago. My students always enjoy creating their dioramas." "Love that this is related to the Australian curriculum and that I can use some of the activities for literacy groups."
Inchworm, inchworm, Measuring the marigold. You and your arithmetic... You'll probably go far! So here is the beginning of my Kindergarten Measurement Unit. This is a fun unit, and that's a great thing, because we spend a lot of time on it! The unit is divided into 4 sections: length, surface area, weight and capacity. (We're also supposed to do temperature, but we cover that so much in science that we skip it in math). As with everything, we start out with lots and lots of hands-on, concrete learning activities. But once I feel like they have had enough practice, I give them a more abstract problem so that they can apply what they've learned. So let's start with LENGTH! In Texas, kindergartners only need to be able to compare 2 or 3 objects and tell whether they are longer, shorter or the same (and the Common Core Standards look similar). But my children usually master that concept very quickly, so we move on to measuring with non-standard units. K(10) Measurement. The student directly compares the attributes of length, area, weight/mass, capacity, and/or relative temperature. The student uses comparative language to solve problems and answer questions. The student is expected...
Print and cut our this hand on construction paper or cardstock! Use any items you'd like to learn about different textures. I used the following: soft - piece of a cotton ball smooth - wax paper rough - sandpaper hard - button (could use pasta, bead, etc.) bumpy - drawer liner **This product is a digital download only. Activity materials are not included.**
Finally fixing the basement drainage problems that have plagued my house for 30 years
Rock your style with our "Respect The Hustle" unisex heavy cotton tee. This essential piece is the foundation of casual fashion, offering the perfect mix of comfort and flair. Featuring a smooth surface for vivid, premium printing, this tee is designed to make a statement and inspire. No side seams mean no itchy interruptions, and taped shoulders enhance durability. Product Details: Made with medium fabric (5.3 oz/yd² / 180 g/m²) consisting of 100% cotton for year-round comfort and exceptional durability. The classic fit ensures a comfy, relaxed wear, while the crew neckline adds a timeless touch that suits any occasion, casual or semi-formal. Tear-away label for a scratch-free experience with no irritation. Crafted from 100% US cotton that is ethically grown and harvested. Proudly supporting sustainable production as a member of the US Cotton Trust Protocol. Size Chart: S M L XL 2XL 3XL 4XL 5XL Width, in 18.00 20.00 22.00 24.00 26.00 28.00 30.00 32.00 Length, in 28.00 29.00 30.00 31.00 32.00 33.00 34.00 35.00 Sleeve length (from center back), in 15.10 16.50 18.00 19.50 21.00 22.40 23.70 25.00 Size tolerance, in 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50
FOUNDATIONAL WORKSHOP Understand the basics and how to use homeopathic remedies for your unique symptoms. A comprehensive approach to the foundations of homeopathy and how to use these remedies in the comforts of your home or on-the-go. What you get: Interactive 1 ½ hour workshop with extended Q & A Workbook + toolkit Homeopathic foundations Dosing + potency guide How to match the right remedy with the individual’s symptoms Top homeopathic remedies and how to use them Case studies You will walk away with practical, hands on knowledge to confidently approach this holistic health tool. * Recording of the workshop, workbook and an audio only file to listen to on-the-go, will be emailed after purchase.
You'll often hear accomplished painters talking about the importance of values. The reason is simple: value is one of the foundations of realistic drawing and painting. In fact, if you were to pressure me, I'd say it's the foundation. Why do artists talk about values so much? Well, I think I know w
National Science Week (12 - 20 August 2017) is the perfect opportunity to bring a whole school celebration into the early years classroom and undertake some fun hands-on activities. What makes Science so much fun to teach is you can actually see the cogs whirring and your students' eyes light up as they perform experiments on different materials. To help you through Science Week I'm going to show you some of my favourite activities for early years science, point you in the direction of some great free and paid ideas and, as always, show you how to align these activities to the Australian curriculum (I don't know about you, but I don't have time to wander away from the curriculum too far during my teaching week). As always, make sure you review the Scientific Method with your students before beginning experiments (you can download a free set of posters on the Scientific Method by clicking here). 1. What is waterproof? I love explaining the concept of 'waterproof' to young students. It's always fascinating to see what they think will or won't be waterproof. I usually start with a discussion about what materials are made from and work towards undertaking an experiment with paper hats. The challenge I set students is - can you make a hat out of paper that will keep your partner's head dry (i.e.will be waterproof?). This activity ends up being a LOT of fun with students making paper hats and spraying water on them or, if you can take the activity outside on a hot day, using a watering can over their heads to test them! Instructions for making some great paper hats can be found here. Connections to the Australian Curriculum: Foundation Year Science - Objects are made of materials that have observable properties. Useful paid product: Science Story - My Waterproof Coat 2. Measure the weather. For this activity you will build a weather vane and record your observations in a journal. This is a nice idea to build on a Monday and then record observations each day in a weather journal, leaving Friday to reflect on what you have learned. Watch the step by step tutorial here or click below. Connections to the Australian Curriculum: Foundation Year Science - Daily and seasonal changes in our environment affect everyday life. Useful paid product: Foundation Year Science Pack: Recording sheets 3. What are the traditional ways of interpreting the changing of the seasons? One elaboration within the Australian Foundation Year Science curriculum, seeks to get students to investigate and reflect on how Aboriginal peoples have traditionally identified the changing of the seasons. This also fits in nicely with the new HASS curriculum on exploring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders perspectives on community and place. Exploring a story such as Tiddalick the Frog, is a fun and interactive way for students to understand weather and seasonal concepts such as drought and flood. I always enjoy creating some art pieces on Tiddalick to go with this activity as well. There is a wonderful video of Tiddalick the Frog available here or click below. Connections to the Australian Curriculum: Foundation Year Science - How Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander concepts of time and weather explain how things happen in the world around them. Useful paid product: Foundation Year Science Pack: Aboriginal Seasons & QR Video Sheet
Discover hands-on beginning of the year science activities that will excite your students and build the foundation for future science lessons!
Make sure you see this movie.
The first year of life flies by so quickly! Document your little one’s growth each month with these one-of-a-kind foundation paper pieced baby milestone flags. This project was inspired by the launch of my third book, First Words with Cute Quilted Friends, and goes perfectly with a handmade baby quilt. Prior knowledge of machine piecing and FPP is required. For more information on how, there is a tutorial on The Weekend Quilter's blog and for more visual support, check out Angela Walter's paper piecing tutorial on YouTube. Finished Sizes: Pattern makes 12 flags, one for each month of the first year. Each flag measures 6'' x 15'' (13 cm x 38 cm). Quilting skill level: Advanced Beginner This is an instant downloadable PDF file and will be delivered to your email after purchase is complete. Download link in email may be used up to 5 times. Please remember to save the PDF file upon receipt. Pattern is intended for personal use only. Finished items cannot be produced for sale. Do not reproduce, distribute or replicate any part of this pattern without written permission from the author. Quilt pattern is non-refundable or exchangeable. © 2023 The Weekend Quilter. All Rights reserved.
This cheerful song, set to the tune of "The wheels on the bus", is a great activity to be included in a science lesson about the parts of the body. Part of a set of My body resources available in my store. Instructions for printing and use Print on A4 paper.
Australian health and fitness experts, dietitian Leanne Ward and personal trainer Ben Lucas, share their top tips on achieving your best figure, no matter what your age.
Take a closer look at Microsoft To Do and check out some tips on how you can turn it into a powerful task manager.
Are you teaching Cycle One this year Classical Conversations? In CC Foundations (ages 4-12) we follow a three year cycle. In the Fall of 2024, we will be back on Cycle 1: Ancient History.
Make a statement with our unisex heavy cotton tee, the ultimate wardrobe staple that combines comfort with a bold political message. Perfect as the foundation for any casual outfit, this tee is designed with specially spun fibers that provide a smooth, premium surface, ensuring vivid, sharp prints that let your message be seen loud and clear. Details: Year-Round Comfort: Crafted from 100% cotton with a medium-weight fabric (5.3 oz/yd² or 180 g/m²), this tee is both breathable and durable, offering unbeatable comfort all year long. Classic and Versatile Fit: Featuring a classic fit and a crew neckline, this tee offers a relaxed, timeless look that effortlessly adapts to any occasion, whether casual or semi-formal, while still making a strong political statement. Uninterrupted Comfort: The absence of side seams means no itchy interruptions under the arms, while taped shoulders add extra durability, ensuring the tee retains its shape and comfort over time. Scratch-Free Experience: A tear-away label eliminates the annoyance of tags, providing a smooth, irritation-free wearing experience. Ethically Made: Made from 100% US cotton that is ethically grown and harvested, this tee reflects a commitment to sustainability. As a proud member of the US Cotton Trust Protocol, Gildan ensures ethical and sustainable production practices. Express your views boldly and comfortably with our unisex heavy cotton political tee—designed for those who want their wardrobe to reflect their beliefs. Size Chart: S M L XL 2XL 3XL 4XL 5XL Width, in 18.00 20.00 22.00 24.00 26.00 28.00 30.00 32.00 Length, in 28.00 29.00 30.00 31.00 32.00 33.00 34.00 35.00 Sleeve length (from center back), in 15.10 16.50 18.00 19.50 21.00 22.40 23.70 25.00 Size tolerance, in 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50
This is the third year that my students have completed my Transformation Summative Assessment Project. See my previous posts Here, yea...
Playdough is always a favourite in my classroom. It's ideal to use that interest for reinforcing educational skills and concepts. That’s the beauty of a play-based classroom. You can teach phonics and consolidate phonemic skills through the provocations and learning invitations you provide. Playdou
My flawless base series continues with tips & favourite products: foundations, application methods & cleansers. What are your fave bases?
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system. It most commonly impairs one’s ability to gauge and execute movements (pivoting, turning, reaching, and stepping, to name a few). The Parkinson’s Foundation estimates that over 10 million people worldwide are living with PD every year. Physical and Occupational Therapy are standard interventions for PD, with programs like LSVT BIG leading the way. To supplement such programs, 5 balance exercises favorites are listed below from the Haas Balance Book: 100+ Exercises for PTs and OTs): Standing + Reaching Across Midline [Exercise 15] reinforces trunk rotations and improves balance during reaching to the side or behind midline. Targets are positioned laterally or posteriorly (behind patient) to challenge range of motion and balance. Functional carryover includes improved safety and ability to prepare meals, take showers, don clothes, etc. Reaching Overhead [Exercise 13] emphasizes standing and raising arms above one’s head, similar to motions of changing a lightbulb. This exercises challenges balance (center of gravity moves posteriorly) while also helping improve trunk extension and arm flexion motions. To integrate cognitive challenges with overhead reaching, add Balance Games [Exercises 88-93 & 95-97]. Randomized Turning [Exercise 78] requires patient to pivot, turn and face the colored target called out by therapist. Colored cards are used to randomize color order. The benefit of this exercise is on improving safety and stability when changing directions in standing and walking. Stepping On/Off Obstacle [Exercise 57] helps improve steadiness when lifting and setting foot on an obstacle, such as a curb or step. The patient is asked to set their foot on the obstacle and then return it back to the starting position while attempting to minimize balance deviations. The sequence is then repeated with the opposite foot. Selecting higher obstacles (second or third steps) is helpful for increasing step height and reinforcing movements into hip and knee flexion. Randomized Stepping (with Balance Dots) [Exercise 73] or Clock Yourself App [Exercise 75]. Random cues help simulate reactionary movements. Steadiness, quickness, and strength with stepping movements are important for balance recovery and fall prevention. For more information on stepping strategies see previous blog titled “Tips to Improve Stepping Strategies.” Other Balance Exercise Groups: 1. 5 Balance Exercise Favorites Following Hip Replacement
Whether you are a seasoned pro or new to teaching with STEM, these first-week activities for STEM are sure to be a hit in your classroom.
