Rock It - Using Songs, Movement and Stories in the Classroom (Book Review)

I recently had the opportunity to review a book titled:

Rock It!  Transform Classroom Learning with Movement, Songs and Stories.

 

I was so excited to read/review this book because a few

students in my room have a lot of energy.

I knew I would find some ideas to use.

 

What I loved about the book:

 

1.  For each activity, Steve tells you why the movement helps our students.

 

2.  Throughout the book, you will find tips on how to make the

activities more effective.

 

3.  Stories are included to show you how the activities have worked in actual classrooms.

 

4.  Did you know there are specific warm-ups for students

to do before they start writing?  You will find them in this book!

 

Now for my absolute FAVORITE part of this book...

There are stories and movements to go along with CCSS math and ELA standards.

The one I want to try with my class is "The Story of Area."  

It's pronounced AH - re - uh.

There is a story and then movements to go along

with the story. 

Students get a chance to act out the story

to help them form of mental image of area and perimeter.

 

There is so much great stuff in this book.

My goal is to try one of the activities each week.

I won't get to everything this year,

but I figure it's a start.

 

You can read more about the book on the book's website, 

and the book is available as both a physical book and a digital download

on the Brigantine Media website, on TpT,

and as a physical book through Amazon, Barnes & Noble,

or ordered in bookstores.

 

I'd love to hear if you have used this book.

 

 

Mastering Math Facts - Book Review

This upcoming school year,

we will be using Common Core for math.

One of the important parts is for my kids to

master their multiplication facts by the end of the year.

So...this book caught my eye.

 

 

When I was offered the chance to review Laura Candler's book,

I wasn't sure what to expect.

The first thing that caught my attention

was the book is aligned with Common Core.

As we all know, this is a must!

 

As I started looking through the book,

there were so many other features that I found beneficial.

 

1.  You don't need to use the whole book.

Laura suggests you assess your class

 and decide where you need to start.

As a third grade teacher, I'll be starting at the beginning.

 

2.  Each standard and the corresponding activities are listed.

If I need to teach or review a specific skill,

it's very easy for me to find the pages.

 

 

3.  A materials list and detailed directions are included for each activity.

Also, my favorite part, are tips from Laura on how to make

the activity run smoother.

 

After your students understand multiplication and division,

they can begin to memorize their facts.

Laura's book includes a program for that!

 

She gives ideas for evaluating your students

and putting together a motivational program.

 

Just like earlier in the book,

you will find LOTS of tips!

 

Laura shares how to practice mixed math facts daily

and progress monitor your students.

 

I wish I could share everything that is in this book.

It is very organized and easy to follow.

It seems like a complete program

that will be very easy for me to use in my classroom.

 

The book is available in print or e-book form.

Click here for the print version. 

*Bonus - You get the e-book when you buy the print version.

Click here to purchase only the e-book form.

 

If you have any questions,

please ask.