Sunday, August 4, 2013

Back to school time!

Well, it's back to school time here in Nashville.  I went back on July 29th, and kids came back for a half day on August 1st.  Tomorrow, the 5th is the kids first full day, and my first day for classes. I decided to keep my eclectic monster/alien theme for my classroom this year, and just tweaked a few things. I expanded my word wall (it used to be on the back of the door) and also created a whole board focused on the rubric that I use to grade the student's artwork.  I do reference the rubric when I explain the projects that I expect the students to create. Above the marker board, I have the visual standards posted, and plan on hanging the objectives for the various lessons on this board as well.


                                      
The door was fun to decorate. I don't typically buy too many store bought decorations, but I found a cute monster set (the monsters above the marker board that are holding the standards) online. It came with something like 24' of border, but when I got it, the border was a solid sheet, and was not easily torn apart, even though it was perforated. So I used it in my cricut and cut out the letters for the creativity part of the door. I also put the pink alien on the door, because pink is my absolute least favorite color, and I wouldn't be able to see it with the door closed. Lol!
                                                        
I collect Crayola items, and had to have my little stuffed buddies out on a shelf.
                                                           
This is my paper cupboard, with the elements and principles on it.
                                        
Big Bertha is back again, although she is starting to fade a little, I think that a makeover is in her near future.
                                                   
This year, my school is focusing on three main rules, which are be respectful, be responsible, and be safe. My rule area says "Out of this world artists are respectful, responsible and safe. They..." And then under each of the main headings are more defined rules, such as follow all directions, use inside voices, etc
                                                      
I consolidated all of my books, both teacher and children's books into one area. I didn't realize that I had that many books!