Blog

Matthew Lynch published in Elementary Education February 8, 2024

20 Veterans Day Activities for Kids to Try in the Classroom This Year

Veterans Day is a significant holiday in the United States, serving as a time to honor and remember the men and women who have served in the military. For educators, it presents an opportunity to educate children about the importance of service and sacrifice. The following are 20 Veterans Day activities for kids to try in the classroom this year:

1. Create Thank You Cards: Have students make homemade thank you cards to send to veterans in local hospitals or through organizations that distribute them to service members.

2. Interview a Veteran: If possible, arrange for a local veteran to visit the class (either in person or via video call) so students can ask questions and hear stories firsthand.

3. Veterans Day Assembly: Organize an assembly with guest speakers, presentations by students, and perhaps a performance by the school choir.

4. Poppy Art Projects: Since poppies are a symbol of remembrance for veterans, have kids create their own poppies using tissue paper or paint.

5. History of Veterans Day Lesson: Teach students about the history of Veterans Day and its significance.

6. Write a Poem: Encourage students to write poems expressing gratitude towards veterans and what they have learned about their service.

7. Military Branches Study: Have kids research the different branches of the U.S. military and present their findings to the class.

8. Veterans Day Bookmarks: Kids can make bookmarks that celebrate freedom and honor veterans which they can keep or gift.

9. Flag Etiquette Lesson: Teach kids proper flag etiquette so they understand how to respect one of our nation’s most important symbols.

10. Create a Veterans Wall of Honor: Dedicate a bulletin board where children can display pictures of family members who are veterans, along with brief descriptions of their service.

11. Patriotic Song Performance: Learn and perform patriotic songs that honor America and those who serve.

12. Moment of Silence: Observe a minute-long moment of silence at 11:00 am on Veterans Day to reflect on the meaning of the day.

13. Veterans Day Timeline: Have students construct a timeline of major U.S military conflicts to better understand history.

14. Decorate Classroom Doors: Each class can decorate their door with patriotic themes and facts about Veterans Day.

15. Local Heroes Project: Research local veterans in your community’s history and present their stories as part of a “Local Heroes” project.

16. Field Trip to Veteran Memorials or Museums: If feasible, organize an educational field trip to nearby veterans memorials or military museums.

17. Salute To Service Project: Start a project where students commit to acts of kindness in their community as a way of showing appreciation for veterans’ service.

18. Veteran Pen Pals Program: Coordinate with local veteran organizations to establish pen pal relationships between students and veterans.

19. Guest Speaker Q&A Session: After having a guest speaker, hold an extensive Q&A session for students to delve deeper into understanding military service.

20. Learn Morse Code/Appreciation Messages: Teach students Morse code and use this as an activity for them to send messages of appreciation for vets.

Implementing these activities can enrich students’ understanding of Veterans Day, helping them develop respect and gratitude for those who have served our country.

Matthew Lynch published in Classroom Management February 8, 2024

Flexible Seating Ideas to Make the Alternative Work for Your Classroom

In recent years, flexible seating has become an educational trend that many teachers are embracing. The traditional classroom setup with rows of desks facing a blackboard is giving way to innovative layouts that encourage collaboration, comfort, and choice. Here are some flexible seating ideas that can help make this alternative approach work for your classroom:

1. Stability Balls: Replace traditional chairs with stability balls to help students focus their energy and improve their core strength. These can be especially beneficial for students who need to move around or fidget.

2. Standing Desks: Incorporate standing desks into your classroom to provide students with the option to stand while they work. This can boost engagement and may even lead to improved academic performance.

3. Bean Bags and Couches: Create a cozy corner with bean bags, couches, or other soft furniture to offer a relaxed environment. This type of seating is perfect for independent reading time or small group discussions.

4. Wobble Chairs: Wobble chairs allow movement while sitting, which can help students who struggle to stay still maintain concentration on their tasks.

5. Floor Cushions: Scatter floor cushions around the room to give students the option of sitting on the floor while they work on low tables or clipboards. It’s an informal setting that can spur creativity and teamwork.

6. Modular Furniture: Invest in modular pieces that can be easily moved and rearranged. This flexibility encourages experimentation with different seating configurations tailored to each activity.

7. Café-style Seating: Set up round tables with chairs like a café, allowing for small group collaborations and peer interactions within an inviting space.

8. Lap Desks: Provide lap desks that students can take with them as they choose a spot in the classroom that feels comfortable for them, fostering autonomy within the learning environment.

When implementing flexible seating, it’s important to establish clear guidelines and expectations. Teach students about the choices available and how to select a seat that will benefit their learning experience each day. Classroom management techniques will also need to adapt—for example, you might allow students to choose their seats each morning or rotate options regularly.

Remember that not all flexible seating options will work for every student or every class; it’s essential to observe how your students interact with different seating choices and make adjustments as needed. With careful planning and consideration, flexible seating can transform your classroom into a dynamic learning space where all students can thrive.

Matthew Lynch published in Art Education February 8, 2024

Goal Setting Template (Iceberg)

Setting goals can often feel like attempting to unveil the unseen bulk of an iceberg that lies beneath the water’s surface. The Iceberg Model for goal setting represents this concept by highlighting that the visible part of the iceberg is the goal itself, whereas the much larger, unseen portion represents the necessary systems, habits, and beliefs required to achieve that goal.

In using an Iceberg Template to set your goals, you first identify the tip of your iceberg – this is your primary objective. It should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). This visible goal is what you will ultimately achieve.

Below the waterline lies the vast mass of the iceberg. In this area of the template, you will outline:

1. Systems – What are the processes or structures needed for supporting your goal? This section should detail the daily practices or broader systems that facilitate progress towards your aim.

2. Actions – Define the consistent actions that are required to reach your goal. These should be repeatable tasks that directly contribute to achieving your objective.

3. Resources – List any tools, people, or educational resources that will assist you in pursuit of your goal. These could be books, software tools, advisors, or courses that provide knowledge and support.

4. Beliefs – Identify empowering beliefs that will help you stay committed to your goal. Beliefs about yourself and what is possible are deep-rooted in our subconscious and can significantly influence behavior and outcome.

5. Obstacles – What potential challenges could impede your progress? This includes both external circumstances and internal mental barriers. Acknowledging them allows for proactive planning to overcome these hurdles.

6. Milestones – Establish smaller targets along the way to measure progress toward your larger goal. Celebrating these milestones can provide motivation and a sense of accomplishment throughout your journey.

Remember, just like an iceberg’s broad base supports its peak above water, a well-structured foundation beneath your main objective will bolster your success in achieving it. Using a Goal Setting Template like the Iceberg method provides a comprehensive view of both what is wanted and all that is necessary to make it happen.

Matthew Lynch published in EdTech News February 8, 2024

Interactive Games for Teachers

Interactive games have become an essential tool in modern education, offering a dynamic way for teachers to engage students, enhance learning, and cultivate important skills. The integration of interactive games in the classroom is more than just a way to introduce fun; it’s a pedagogical approach that resonates with the digital sensibilities of today’s students.

For educators seeking to employ interactive games, there are several key benefits. First, these games can significantly increase student participation and motivation. When students are actively engaged, they are more likely to absorb the material and retain it. Further, interactive games promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills as students must navigate challenges, puzzles, or quests that require thoughtful decision-making.

Moreover, interactive games cater to diverse learning styles and can be adapted to various subjects and competencies. Visual learners may benefit from graphically rich games, while kinesthetic learners might excel in games that incorporate physical interaction or movement.

Teachers can leverage educational platforms like Kahoot!, which allows them to create custom quizzes and learning games that can be played as a group. Such platforms offer real-time feedback on student performance, enabling targeted support for those who need it.

Another impressive tool is Minecraft Education Edition, which provides an immersive environment for students to learn everything from history to coding while building virtual worlds collaboratively.

To implement interactive games effectively, teachers should:

1. Choose games that align with curriculum goals.

2. Ensure inclusivity so all students can participate regardless of ability.

3. Facilitate discussions around game content to reinforce learning outcomes.

4. Encourage teamwork and social interaction among students.

5. Integrate assessment tools provided by gaming platforms to monitor progress.

In conclusion, interactive games in education offer an expansive array of opportunities for both teachers and students. As these tools evolve, the potential for creative teaching strategies will continue to grow, making learning an exciting adventure rather than a mundane task.

Matthew Lynch published in Math Education February 8, 2024

Place Value Teaching Resources

In the world of mathematics education, place value stands as one of the most critical concepts for students to grasp. It forms the foundation for all higher arithmetic operations and mathematical understanding. Place value teaching resources are tools that educators can employ to effectively impart this fundamental knowledge.

Place value refers to the value of a digit based on its position within a number. Recognizing how the place of a digit changes its value is vital for students as they work with larger numbers and begin performing operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Teachers have a wide array of place value teaching resources at their disposal. These resources range from physical tools like base-ten blocks and place value charts to digital applications and games that make learning interactive and engaging. Here we’ll explore some effective resources and how they can enrich place value education.

Base-Ten Blocks:

Base-ten blocks are perhaps the most tangible tool for teaching place value. They allow students to build and deconstruct numbers visually and physically. Unit cubes represent ones; rods represent tens; flats represent hundreds; while cubes can be used for thousands, helping students comprehend the magnitude of numbers at each place.

Place Value Charts:

Place value charts provide a visual scaffold for understanding how numbers are structured. They show each place from ones on the right to millions (or beyond) on the left. As students work with these charts, they learn to recognize the significance of zero as a placeholder and how each shift in position alters a digit’s value.

Interactive Whiteboard Activities:

Many classrooms now come equipped with interactive whiteboards, which offer another dynamic avenue for place value instruction. Teachers can create or use pre-made lessons that allow students to drag digits into the correct column, visually breaking down how numbers are constructed.

Online Games and Apps:

Digital games have become increasingly popular for teaching math concepts, including place value. These games often incorporate bright colors, engaging characters, and rewarding systems that motivate students to practice identifying, comparing, and manipulating numbers in their correct places.

Worksheets and Printables:

For more traditional practice, worksheets remain an essential part of teaching. Place value worksheets might include activities where students have to fill in missing numbers on a chart, expand numbers into their component values, or compare numbers based on their digits’ places.

Also crucial is professional development for teachers looking to refine their approach to teaching place value. Many educational organizations provide workshops, seminars, and downloadable guides that offer strategies for making place value instruction more effective.

In conclusion, using diverse teaching resources ensures that all types of learners can access this crucial piece of mathematical understanding. From hands-on manipulatives like base-ten blocks to digital apps that turn learning into play, educators have numerous options at their fingertips for creating a well-rounded approach to teaching place value.

Matthew Lynch published in Teachers February 8, 2024

22 Best Halloween Costume Ideas for Teachers for 2023

As the spooky season approaches, teachers have the unique opportunity to engage students in a fun and festive way. Dressing up for Halloween can create a memorable experience and showcase creativity. Here are 22 of the best Halloween costume ideas for teachers in 2023:

1. Literary Legends – Embody classic characters such as Atticus Finch, Katniss Everdeen, or Harry Potter to bring literature to life.

2. Historical Figures – Dive into history by dressing as Cleopatra, Abraham Lincoln, or Marie Curie, complete with props and fun facts.

3. Science Sensations – Transform into a mad scientist with wild hair and lab coat or the solar system with planets orbiting around you.

4. Mathematical Minds –Be the embodiment of Pi (π) with numeric costumes or go as a famous mathematician like Albert Einstein.

5. Artistic Icons – Channel your inner Van Gogh or Frida Kahlo with costumes that reflect their art styles and personalities.

6. Super Teachers – Create a superhero persona based on your teaching superpower, whether it’s ‘Grade-a-lot’ or ‘Captain Encouragement’.

7. Bookworms Unite – Wear a costume made of print material or pages and encourage students to guess your favorite books.

8. Tech Whizzes – Don circuit board attire or become a walking emoji board reflecting today’s digital age.

9. World Explorer – Dress as a famous explorer like Marco Polo or Amelia Earhart, complete with maps and travel gear.

10. Mystery Solver – Channel your inner detective à la Sherlock Holmes or Nancy Drew; magnifying glass included!

11. Famous Artists Palette – Wear an outfit that serves as a painter’s palette, including brush and art smock.

12. Pop Culture Phenom – Pick the year’s most popular movie character or social media trend and bring it into the classroom.

13. Out-of-this-World Alien – Sport an alien costume with lots of galaxy prints and futuristic accessories.

14. Animal Kingdom Ruler – Don animal prints from head to toe and crown yourself king or queen of the jungle (or quiet reading corner).

15. Sea Explorer Mermaid/Sea Captain – Dive deep into imagination with nautical-themed costumes that celebrate ocean life.

16. Pirate Teacher – Bring adventurous tales to your classroom by dressing up as a pirate searching for knowledge treasure.

17. Dynamic Duo/Trio Groups – Coordinate with colleagues for group costumes like rock-paper-scissors or famous trios from books.

18. Grammar Police Officer – Lay down language law with a badge-adorned uniform and grammar rulebook in hand.

19. Eco Warrior – Become an advocate for the planet dressed in recyclable materials while educating on environmental stewardship.

20. Peace & Love Hippie Instructor – Throwback to the ‘60s with tie-dye shirts, peace signs, and flower power messages.

21. Renaissance Scholar Gown & Cap – Step back into history with robes reminiscent of scholarly pursuits from centuries past.

22. Educational Toy Mascot – Transform into Lego blocks, Scrabble letters, or other educational toys that encourage learning.

These imaginative and educational concepts not only promise fun but also offer teachers exciting ways to enhance their lessons on Halloween day!

Matthew Lynch published in Teachers February 8, 2024

Card Games for Teachers

Card games can be an excellent tool for teachers looking to enhance learning in their classrooms. Beyond their traditional recreational purpose, card games offer diverse educational benefits and engage students of all ages in a fun and interactive way.

Educational Benefits of Card Games

1. Cognitive Skill Development: Card games often require specific cognitive skills such as strategic thinking, memory, concentration, and problem-solving, which are fundamental components of a student’s cognitive development.

2. Math Skills: Many card games require counting, pattern recognition, and understanding numerical values, which can help reinforce math lessons in a practical setting.

3. Literacy Improvement: Some card games are designed to enhance language skills, requiring players to read, comprehend rules and prompts, and sometimes even form words or sentences.

4. Social Interaction: Playing card games in groups helps foster social skills such as taking turns, communicating effectively, sportsmanship, and working cooperatively or competitively.

5. Emotional Intelligence: Through the course of a game, students can experience a range of emotions from excitement to disappointment. Learning to cope with these emotions in the context of a game can aid their emotional development.

6. Attention Span: Engaging in a multi-step card game can help improve students’ focus and attention span as they are required to follow the progression of the game closely.

Implementing Card Games in the Classroom

1. Selection: Choose card games that align with educational goals. For example, ‘Uno’ for color and number recognition or ‘Apples to Apples’ for language and vocabulary building.

2. Rules Overview: Clearly explain rules before starting the game to ensure all students understand how to play, thus avoiding confusion during the activity.

3. Integration into Curriculum: Use card games as a supplementary activity to reinforce concepts already taught in class. This helps solidify learning through practice.

4. Modifications for Accessibility: Simplify or tweak rules for younger or special needs students so everyone can participate meaningfully.

5. Assessment: Teachers can observe student participation to assess skills such as strategy application or mathematical understanding in real-time.

6. Encouragement of Reflection: After gameplay, encourage students to reflect on what they learned or how they could improve their strategy next time.

7. Equality & Fair Play: Emphasize fairness and equal opportunity for all players by monitoring interactions and ensuring that no student dominates the game excessively.

Considerations Before Use

Before introducing card games into the classroom environment, it is important for teachers to consider age appropriateness, educational content alignment, time-management for setup/cleanup of games, as well as managing noise levels during game sessions.

In conclusion, when used thoughtfully within an educational framework, card games present teachers with a unique tool for engendering collaborative learning experiences that are both educational and enjoyable. As such, they serve not just as a pleasant diversion but as instruments for academic enrichment and social-emotional development amongst students.

Matthew Lynch published in Project-Based Learning February 8, 2024

How to Prioritise Your Tasks When Everything is a Priority

In a world where the pace of work is constantly accelerating, feeling overwhelmed with tasks is all too common. But not all tasks are created equal; learning to prioritize can be your lifesaver. Here’s how to trim down that to-do list when everything seems like a priority:

1. Identify Your Ultimate Goals: Begin by understanding your ultimate objectives. Ask yourself what outcomes are most important to your success, whether that’s in your personal life or in your work career. This will help you recognize which tasks align with those goals.

2. Assign Urgency and Importance: Categorize tasks using the Eisenhower Box, dividing them into four quadrants: urgent and important, not urgent but important, urgent but not important, and neither urgent nor important. Tackle tasks in the ‘urgent and important’ box first.

3. Apply the 80/20 Rule: The Pareto Principle suggests that 80% of results come from 20% of efforts. Identify tasks that will have the most significant impact and allocate your time accordingly.

4. Break Down Large Projects: Divide larger projects into smaller, more manageable tasks. This helps in understanding which parts of the project need immediate attention and which can wait.

5. Set Boundaries: Be realistic about what you can accomplish in a day, and don’t be afraid to say no or delegate tasks that others can handle just as well or better.

6. Use Tools and Resources: Implement task management tools and apps which can help organize your lists based on different priority levels you assign.

7. Reassess Regularly: Priorities can change rapidly; regularly review your list to adjust priorities as necessary.

8. Limit Multitasking: Focus on one task at a time for more effectiveness; juggling multiple tasks often leads to reduced productivity and quality of work.

9. Know Your Productive Times: Identify when you are most productive during the day and schedule high-priority tasks during these times for maximum efficiency.

10. Maintain Flexibility: Be prepared to shift gears when unexpected high-priority tasks arise; agility in reprioritizing is crucial.

Implementing these strategies will transform an overwhelming list into an actionable plan, allowing you to attack each day with confidence and clarity regarding what should be tackled first.

Matthew Lynch published in Academic and Behavioral Interventions February 8, 2024

Amazing Relief Teaching Daily Plans Activity Ideas

Relief teaching, also known as substitute teaching, can be challenging as you’re stepping into a classroom at short notice, often with limited understanding of the specific dynamics and learning needs of the students. However, it’s also an opportunity to bring fresh ideas and activities that can make the day enjoyable and educational for both the teacher and students. Here are some amazing daily plans activity ideas suitable for relief teachers:

1. Classroom Icebreakers:

Start the day with icebreaker activities that encourage students to share fun facts about themselves or find things they have in common with their classmates. This not only warms up the class but also helps you quickly learn names and build rapport.

2. Interactive Read-Aloud:

Choose an engrossing storybook suitable for the age group and read it aloud, stopping periodically to ask predictive and reflective questions. This activity promotes listening skills and literary appreciation.

3. Math Puzzles and Games:

Incorporate math games such as Sudoku, math bingo, or puzzles that align with their current curriculum. This makes math fun and reinforces the subject matter in a playful way.

4. Science Experiments:

Conduct simple science experiments that require minimal materials yet provide impactful learning experiences. Experiments related to physics, chemistry, or biology can spark curiosity and encourage scientific thinking.

5. Creative Writing Prompts:

Give students creative writing prompts that allow them to use their imagination and practice their writing skills. You can make this a silent activity or one that encourages sharing stories after.

6. Art Expression Time:

Provide art supplies and let students express themselves creatively through drawing, painting, or craft. This free-form activity can be particularly relaxing and therapeutic.

7. Physical Education:

Take the class outside or to the gym for organized sports or physical activities such as relay races, tag games, or yoga. Physical activity is excellent for health and for expelling excess energy.

8. Group Projects:

Assign small group projects on subjects relevant to their studies. Group work promotes collaboration skills and allows you to assess students’ understanding of the subject matter.

9. Educational Videos:

Show short educational videos that tie into the subjects they are learning about in class followed by a discussion or quiz on the content viewed.

10. Reflection Journaling:

Close the day with reflection journaling where students write about what they learned, what they enjoyed, or any thoughts about the day’s activities.

By incorporating a variety of teaching techniques and activities into your plans as a relief teacher, you can ensure each school day is an enriching experience for both you and your students despite being temporary in their classroom journey.

Matthew Lynch published in Instructional Technology February 8, 2024

Eisenhower Matrix: How to Prioritize Your Tasks When Everything is a Priority

In the whirlwind of daily life, balancing personal and professional responsibilities can sometimes feel like steering a ship through stormy seas. Amidst the chaos, the Eisenhower Matrix emerges as a beacon of clarity, offering a structured approach to prioritizing tasks effectively.

The Eisenhower Matrix, also known as the Urgent-Important Matrix, is attributed to Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States and a five-star General during World War II. He was renowned for his ability to sustain productivity by making tough decisions on which tasks warranted his attention.

This decision-making tool categorizes tasks into four quadrants based on two criteria: urgency and importance. The matrix guides you in recognizing the most critical activities that align with your long-term objectives and values.

Quadrant 1: Urgent and Important

Tasks falling into this quadrant are both urgent and important. They are crises or deadlines that need immediate attention. Examples include medical emergencies, last-minute preparations for a scheduled presentation, or a project deadline due today.

Quadrant 2: Not Urgent but Important

Here lies the heart of effective personal management. Activities are essential for achieving goals but do not require immediate action. Focusing on this quadrant increases productivity and reduces time spent in crisis mode. Long-term strategies, relationship building, and personal growth initiatives such as exercise are classic examples.

Quadrant 3: Urgent but Not Important

Tasks appear important because they demand instant attention but do not necessarily move you towards your goals. Frequent interruptions from emails, phone calls, or peer requests often land here.

Quadrant 4: Not Urgent and Not Important

The tasks in this quadrant are typically time-wasters or activities that offer escape or entertainment with little to no value addition towards your personal or professional growth. Mindless web browsing, excessive TV watching, or aimless gossip are some examples.

Applying the Eisenhower Matrix requires discipline but starts by simply listing all your tasks. Then assign each to its respective quadrant. Prioritize addressing Quadrant 1 tasks first, then schedule regular time for Quadrant 2 tasks; these are crucial for progressive success without burnout. Delegate or minimize Quadrant 3 activities when possible and be ruthlessly critical of any time sunk into Quadrant 4.

By streamlining focus towards what’s truly significant and learning to say ‘no’ to non-essential urgencies, one can navigate through life’s demands with precision and poise – reclaiming time for what really matters. The simplicity of the Eisenhower Matrix belies its transformational power – it not only aids in managing workload but also enlightens one on living with intent by distinguishing mere activity from genuine productivity.

Matthew Lynch published in Critical Thinking and Creativity February 8, 2024

Teaching Higher-Order Thinking Skills: Here’s Why It Matters Matters So Much

In our rapidly evolving world, the ability to think critically and creatively is more important than ever before. Traditional education often prioritizes the memorization of information and mastery of basic skills. However, to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century, education systems must emphasize higher-order thinking skills (HOTS). These skills, which include analysis, evaluation, synthesis, and creation, enable learners to go beyond surface understanding and apply knowledge in complex and unfamiliar situations.

One of the primary reasons HOTS are so crucial is that they equip students with the ability to solve real-world problems. The abilities to analyze information critically, evaluate different perspectives, synthesize new ideas from existing knowledge, and create innovative solutions are essential in almost every field. As automation and artificial intelligence take over routine tasks, human cognitive capacities that cannot be easily replicated by machines become increasingly valuable.

Moreover, teaching higher-order thinking promotes lifelong learning. When students learn how to learn, they become more adaptable and self-directed in their education. This adaptability is vital in a world where individuals will likely change careers multiple times over their working lives and where continuous learning becomes necessary for professional success.

Incorporating HOTS into the curriculum also has implications for equity. It levels the playing field by giving all students opportunities to develop these essential skills, which can help them thrive irrespective of their background or learning style. Educators have a responsibility to ensure that all learners have access to educational experiences that cultivate high-order thinking.

The process of teaching higher-order thinking requires a shift from traditional teaching methods. It involves promoting inquiry-based learning, encouraging open-ended questioning, and providing opportunities for students to engage in collaborative problem-solving activities. Furthermore, assessment practices need to evolve beyond simple recall tests towards evaluating students’ abilities to apply their knowledge in novel contexts.

In summary, HOTS are not merely educational buzzwords; they represent a fundamental shift toward preparing our youth for a future where adaptive problem-solving and creative innovation are paramount. As educators and policymakers focus on building these competencies within our educational systems, we can hope to nurture a generation well-equipped to face tomorrow’s challenges with agility and confidence.

Matthew Lynch published in Extracurricular Activities February 8, 2024

11 March Madness Ideas to Dribble Into Your Elementary Classroom This School Year

As spring approaches, so does the frenzy of March Madness. While college basketball takes the center stage in athletics, the excitement can spill over into your elementary classroom. Here are 11 March Madness-themed ideas to engage your students and bring the spirit of the tournament into your teaching!

1. Classroom Bracket Challenge: Create a bracket challenge not based on basketball teams, but on books, historical figures, or math problems. Students can vote on their favorites each day to move one step closer to the winner.

2. Math Madness: Use basketball statistics to teach math concepts. Have students calculate players’ free throw percentages, or compare stats to discuss probability.

3. Reading Round-Up: Just as teams duke it out on the court, create a reading challenge where books “compete” against each other for attention. Set a reading goal for each student and reward those who meet their “reading bracket.”

4. ‘Hoops’ Spelling Bee: Hold a class spelling bee where students shoot a basket after getting a word correct for extra points. It’s a fun way to combine physical activity with spelling practice.

5. Geography Jump Shots: Teach geography by having students learn about the different locations of teams in the tournament. They can then track the progress of teams by region on a U.S. map.

6. Science of Basketball: Engage students in physics by exploring how different angles and forces affect shooting hoops.

7. History of Basketball: Learn about the history of basketball and the NCAA tournament, including influential players and key events that shaped the game.

8. Artful Athletics: Have students create team mascots or jerseys for imaginary teams and discuss elements of design like color and symbolism.

9. Write-a-Thon: Encourage creative writing by asking students to write short stories or poems that incorporate basketball terminology or set within a March Madness scenario.

10. P.E. Skills Challenge: Model your physical education activities around basketball skills such as dribbling relays, passing accuracy, or layup lines to improve hand-eye coordination.

11. Teamwork Lessons: Just like in basketball, teamwork is crucial in many areas of life. Use March Madness as an opportunity to engage students in team-building activities and collaborative projects that mirror working together on the court.

These classroom activities are sure to captivate your elementary students’ interest while teaching them valuable lessons inside and beyond basketball during this thrilling sports season!