Goals for 2013

So I decided that I needed to come up with some goals for this new year. . . after fiddling with my blog appearance for days I have something I am happy with. . . for now. . . .

1. Writing

My writing program is a little weak. I have never been as comfortable with writing. Math I was able to figure out with lots of guidance and reading I am still being guided by colleagues and our school's literacy coach. Writing I always feel like I'm not sure where to start, I struggle to find a shared reading that shows the example of the writing form. I am using a great resource called Write Genre written by Lori Jamison Rog has been an amazing help but I need to go farther. . . . 

The only thing I'm proud of in my writing program is the choice boards I came up with. They always surround a theme: Christmas, Remembrance Day etc and usually include examples of activities that touch on all the forms of writing. They are not a choice board that fits different learning styles although the products on them do differ! I am attempting to post one in this post!

Click here to download the choice board!

2. Problem Solving

Last year my class were problem solving machines but this year since it's my first year with the kids all year I've become a little obsessed with making sure I cover everything, problem solving then doesn't happen as much. When I say problem solving I mean the chart paper, different coloured markers and the problem solving model that is encouraged. We still use the Nelson Math problems from the text for each lesson but I want to get back to that place, the kids loved it, I was able to take lots of anecdotal notes so . . . more problem solving is needed!

3. Drama

Include more! I think I am making it too difficult to integrate. . .it shouldn't be this hard! Lucky for me a lovely lady at the board office was clearing out some resources and I was able to scoop the book Drama Schemes, Themes & Dreams by Larry Swartz and Debbie Nyman has given me some great ideas to get going.

4. Sensitivity

Anyone that knows me know that I may or may not wear my heart on my sleeve 24/7. . . for better or worse, although I have got much thicker skin in my few years teaching. . . there's still farther I can go. Easier said than done!

That's all, first day back tomorrow, I'm excited to see my kids and hear about what everyone has been up to on holiday.

That's all for today, have a great day tomorrow everyone :)
Kathleen :)