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Matthew Lynch published in Art Education February 8, 2024

Origami Transforming Ninja Star (Using Sticky Notes)

Origami, the ancient art of paper folding, has a wide range of fascinating models to offer, from simple boats and hats to the incredibly complex dragons and other intricate figures. Among these countless creations, there is one that particularly stands out for its combination of simplicity, action, and adaptability: the Origami Transforming Ninja Star. This eight-pointed star not only boasts a cool design but also transforms with a captivating motion, flipping back and forth between two different forms.

What makes this origami model unique is that it can be made using something as commonplace as sticky notes – those little paper squares typically used for quick reminders can take on a new life in the hands of an origami enthusiast. The transformation is not just visual; it’s almost magical. With a bit of dexterity, one shape shifts into another, surprising those who often see sticky notes as mere stationary items.

Creating your Transforming Ninja Star is straightforward and doesn’t require any cutting or gluing if you’re using sticky notes. Each sticky note forms an identical module, and these modules are interlocked to create the transforming star design. Most satisfying is the fact that each part of the star is made in exactly the same way – once you have mastered the fold for one module, you can easily make the rest.

Once constructed, it’s all about precision and symmetry to give your star a smooth transformation capability. It flips inside out with a flick of the wrist, changing shapes in a quick motion much to the delight of origami lovers and novices alike.

For many crafters, sticky notes are now not just for jotting down phone messages or reminders for groceries. Through this unique application of origami techniques, they also become moving art pieces or playful toys that symbolize innovation and transformation – both literally in their form-changing abilities and metaphorically as they repurpose a common office item into something extraordinary.

Not only does making an Origami Transforming Ninja Star develop motor skills and encourage creativity, but it’s also an excellent activity for teaching kids about geometry and symmetry. So next time you see a pile of sticky notes sitting idly by your desk, remember that they hold more potential than meets the eye – all it takes is a little fold here and there to transform them into something truly remarkable.

Matthew Lynch published in History February 8, 2024

October History + Awareness Months Every Elementary Teacher Should Be Aware Of

October isn’t just about Halloween and falling leaves; it’s also an important month for recognizing various historical events, cultural heritages, and health awareness campaigns. As educators, it’s essential to incorporate these themes into your curriculum to promote diversity, education, and empathy. Here are key observations that every elementary teacher should be aware of:

National Bullying Prevention Month

Bullying is a serious issue in schools nationwide. October serves as National Bullying Prevention Month, which aims to encourage schools, communities, and organizations to work together to stop bullying by increasing awareness of the prevalence and impact of all forms of bullying on children.

Dyslexia Awareness Month

Dyslexia affects approximately 20% of the population and represents 80-90% of all those with learning disabilities. It’s a critical issue for educators given that early detection and intervention can lead to significant improvements for students. Dyslexia Awareness Month highlights the importance of understanding this learning difficulty.

Global Diversity Awareness Month

A celebration of the world’s diverse cultures and heritages. Schools can take this time to teach students about different cultures through stories, music, art, and guest speakers, creating an inclusive environment for all students.

LGBT History Month

Founded in 1994 by a Missouri high-school history teacher, LGBT History Month provides role models, builds community, and represents a civil rights statement about the contributions of the LGBT community. It’s an opportunity to educate students about historical figures who have contributed greatly to societal advancement while being part of this community.

Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month

This month celebrates the contributions that Italian Americans have made to American culture. Featuring lessons on notable Italian-American figures or learning about how Italian art has influenced our world can provide students with richer cultural understandings.

Polish American Heritage Month

Originating in 1981, this month recognizes the contributions of Polish Americans to society. Activities might include exploring famous Polish Americans or understanding Poland’s history and its influence on American culture.

Besides these observances, there are several important days in October that could be incorporated into educational modules: World Teacher’s Day (October 5th), which honors the vital role teachers play in education and development; Indigenous Peoples’ Day (alternatively observed in lieu of Columbus Day); and United Nations Day (October 24th).

By incorporating these awareness months into your teaching plans, you enrich your students’ understanding of our society’s diverse tapestry. It’s a powerful way to teach empathy and celebrate differences in your classroom throughout October.

Matthew Lynch published in Safety February 8, 2024

Classroom Cleaning Hacks that are Safe and Effective

Keeping classrooms clean and tidy is not only essential for the health of students and teachers, but also to create an environment conducive to learning. With the use of certain cleaning hacks, it is possible to maintain a clean classroom without resorting to harsh chemicals. Here are some safe and effective ways to keep your classroom sparkling:

1. Vinegar and Water Solution: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle for an all-purpose cleaner. This solution can be used to clean desks, chairs, and whiteboards without leaving harmful residues.

2. Baking Soda for Stubborn Stains: Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that is great for removing stubborn stains on surfaces. It can also be used to deodorize carpets by sprinkling it on, waiting for a few minutes, and then vacuuming it up.

3. Essential Oils for Freshness: Keep your classroom smelling fresh by using a diffuser with essential oils like lavender or lemongrass. This way you can avoid synthetic air fresheners that may trigger allergies or asthma.

4. Microfiber Cloths: These cloths are made of fibers that can trap dust and grime effectively without the need for chemical sprays. They’re also reusable, which makes them an eco-friendly option.

5. Hand Sanitizer Cleanup: A dab of hand sanitizer can remove permanent marker stains from surfaces such as desks or whiteboards due to its alcohol content.

6. Magic Erasers: These sponges are effective for removing scuff marks from floors and crayon marks from walls without the need for additional detergents.

7. Soap Nuts for Non-toxic Mopping: Natural soap nuts can be used to create a liquid cleaning solution perfect for mopping floors without leaving behind any toxic residues.

8. Toothpaste for Shiner Chrome: A little toothpaste can be used to polish chrome fixtures in classrooms like faucets and door handles, making them shine like new.

9. Rubber Bands as Paint Drips Catchers: When painting class projects or refurbishing classroom furniture, use rubber bands around paint cans to wipe your brush – this prevents paint drips and keeps cans clean.

10. Lemon Juice Power: Lemon juice has natural antibacterial properties and can be used to disinfect surfaces or remove stains from countertops.

By incorporating these simple hacks into your regular cleaning routine, you can keep your classroom clean without compromising on safety or effectiveness. Plus, involving students in safe cleaning practices teaches them responsibility and the importance of maintaining a clean learning environment.

Matthew Lynch published in Early Childhood February 8, 2024

Must-Have Picture Books for Lower Years

Picture books hold a magical appeal to children in the lower years, serving both as a gateway to the world of reading and as a tool for visual and emotional expression. Must-have picture books combine stunning illustrations with compelling storytelling to capture the young reader’s imagination, impart lessons, and provide comfort.

One such book is “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak. This timeless classic has captivated generations of readers with its story of Max, a boy who sails to an island inhabited by wild creatures that he ultimately rules. The book’s message of freedom, imagination, and coming home resonates powerfully with children.

“The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle is another essential addition to any picture book collection. Through its vibrant collages and the journey of a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly, Carle teaches counting, days of the week, and growth cycles in nature.

For laughs and silliness, “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!” by Mo Willems is irresistible to little ones. The interactive text encourages children to participate in storytelling by denying the pigeon’s whimsical requests. Engaging and humorous, this book invites laughter and participation.

Another treasure is “Goodnight Moon” by Margaret Wise Brown. The gentle cadence of its text and the warmth of its illustrations make this book a perfect bedtime ritual for young children as they say goodnight to everything in the great green room.

Lastly, “The Snowy Day” by Ezra Jack Keats stands out not only as a delightful winter story but also as a milestone for featuring an African American protagonist—a significant step toward diversity in children’s literature when it was published. Peter’s experiences in his snowy urban environment are universal; children will relate to his sense of wonder and adventure.

From tales of adventure to nightly rituals, each book offers a unique experience for young readers. They teach empathy, creativity, and critical thinking alongside vital literacy skills. These picture books are not just must-haves; they are treasures that sow the seeds for a lifelong love of reading.

Matthew Lynch published in Extracurricular Activities February 8, 2024

10 Autumn Activities Your Class Will Fall For

As the leaves begin to change color and the air gets crisper, it’s clear that autumn has arrived. This season is a wonderful time to incorporate exciting and educational activities into your classroom. Here are ten autumn activities that are sure to engage and delight your students.

1. Leaf Chromatography

Science meets art in this fascinating activity. Have your students collect different colored leaves and use chromatography to separate the pigments. This will not only teach them about the science of colors but also create beautiful artwork.

2. Pumpkin Math

Use pumpkins for a variety of math exercises. Students can guess the weight of a pumpkin before weighing it, measure its circumference, or even estimate and count the number of seeds inside.

3. Creative Writing with a Fall Theme

Encourage your students to write short stories or poems that involve autumn-themed elements suchas spooky Halloween nights, Thanksgiving celebrations, or exploring corn mazes.

4. Harvest Festival Simulation

Organize a classroom harvest festival where students can learn about different crops that are harvested in the fall. They can role-play as farmers, market sellers, or buyers and will understand economics on a small scale.

5. Autumn Leaves Art Project

Collect leaves and have your students create artwork by tracing them, rubbing them with crayons to get the textures on paper, or painting them to design custom prints.

6. Weather Tracking

Autumn weather can be quite dynamic. Have your class track daily temperatures, rainfall, or wind conditions to learn about seasonal weather patterns.

7. Spooky Science Experiments

Incorporate Halloween-themed experiments like making slime or dry ice bubbles. It’s a fun way to get kids excited about chemistry!

8. Migration Studies

Autumn is a time when many animals migrate. Have your students research different species and create presentations on their migration patterns.

9. Apple Orchard Virtual Field Trip

Many apple orchards offer virtual tours during harvest season. Take your class on a digital field trip where they can learn about apple varieties, harvesting methods, and even try some apple-based recipes.

10. Thankfulness Tree

With Thanksgiving in mind, you could create a thankfulness tree where each student adds a leaf with something they’re thankful for written on it.

These activities offer hands-on learning experiences that embrace the unique aspects of autumn while fostering creativity, observation skills, scientific thinking, and gratitude in your students – an ideal way to celebrate the season within your classroom walls!

Matthew Lynch published in Physical Fitness February 8, 2024

How to Add Movement to Your Lessons This National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

With the arrival of National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, educators across the country are seeking innovative ways to incorporate more movement into their lessons. Movement doesn’t just promote physical health; it can enhance focus, memory, and cognitive function, making it a critical component for effective learning. Here are some creative strategies to get students moving throughout the school day:

1. Active Breaks: Build short, active breaks into your schedule. Have students stand up, stretch, or follow a quick exercise routine every 30 minutes to keep blood flowing and energy levels high.

2. Lesson-based Movement: Integrate physical activity into your lesson plans. For a math class, this could involve jumping jacks while counting or a scavenger hunt to solve problems placed around the room. For language arts, try vocabulary hopscotch or acting out stories.

3. Outdoor Learning: Whenever possible, take learning outside. The change of environment can be invigorating, and open space invites natural movement—whether it’s reading under a tree or conducting science experiments on the playground.

4. Movement-based Seating: Encourage fidgeting in a constructive way using seating options that allow movement, such as stability balls, wobble chairs, or standing desks.

5. Incorporate Technology: Use educational technology that requires physical interaction—like dance mats that double as input devices for answering quiz questions or virtual reality experiences that require body movements to navigate.

6. Classroom Layout: Arrange your classroom to encourage movement by creating clear pathways for students to walk through. Use stations around the room where students can rotate and engage in different activities.

7. Dance and Music: Incorporate dance and music related to your lesson content whenever appropriate. Music can set the pace for an activity and make repetitive tasks more enjoyable.

8. Sports as Teaching Tools: Use sports to teach concepts like statistics in math class or physics principles in science.

By consciously working to add these elements of kinetic learning into your curriculum during National Physical Fitness and Sports Month—and throughout the year—you’ll be promoting healthier habits and may even see an improvement in your students’ engagement and academic performance as they enjoy the many benefits of staying active during the school day.

Matthew Lynch published in Science Education February 8, 2024

8 Citizen Science Projects and Ideas to Engage Your Primary Students

Citizen science projects offer a unique opportunity for primary students to engage with real scientific research. These projects can help develop critical thinking, data collection, and analytical skills while also fostering a love of learning and curiosity about the natural world. Here are eight citizen science projects ideal for primary students:

1. Monarch Larva Monitoring Project – Students can help scientists track the distribution and abundance of monarch butterflies. By reporting sightings of monarchs and their larvae, students contribute to conservation efforts and learn about butterfly lifecycles.

2. Project FeederWatch – This project involves observing and recording the birds that visit feeders in your area from November through April. It’s a great way to learn about local bird species and their behaviors while contributing to a long-term study of bird populations across North America.

3. The Great Sunflower Project – Participants plant sunflowers and then record how often bees visit them. This data helps scientists track bee populations and pollinator health, giving kids a closer look at the role these insects play in our ecosystem.

4. Globe at Night – Encourages students to observe and report on night sky brightness. It’s an excellent way for kids to learn about light pollution’s impact on our environment and contribute to a global database of nighttime observations.

5. iNaturalist – A project where students photograph and identify plants and wildlife in their area. Their observations contribute to biodiversity science, with the added bonus of learning how to classify different species.

6. Earthworm Watch – This project allows students to investigate the health of their local soil by counting earthworms and identifying their species. It connects them with earth sciences and teaches about the importance of soil ecosystems.

7. Weather Observation Website (WOW) – An initiative run by meteorological organizations where students can submit their local weather observations. Participating in this project helps kids understand weather patterns and climate.

8. Plastic Pollution Citizen Science Project – Students survey a local beach, park, or schoolyard for plastic waste, record what they find, and upload their data to a global map of plastic pollution. This experience educates them on environmental issues related to plastic use.

These citizen science projects not only encourage children’s participation in community science but also enhance learning outcomes by bringing classroom lessons out into the real world.

Matthew Lynch published in Elementary Education February 8, 2024

Drama Games for Kids: Years 4-7

Drama games are a fantastic way for children to explore their creativity, build confidence, and develop communication skills. For kids in years 4-7, these games can be both educational and immensely enjoyable. Let’s delve into some engaging drama games ideal for this age group.

1. Freeze Frame

In this game, the leader calls out a scene or scenario, and the kids quickly come together to create a still image that captures the essence of that scene. Once the leader yells ‘freeze’, everyone holds theirposition. This activity is excellent for developing quick thinking and teamwork.

2. Story Building

Story building is a sequential game where each participant contributes one sentence to construct a story. This helps with understanding narrative structure and stimulates imagination as children think on their feet to continue the tale in surprising ways.

3. Emotion Charades

Kids will learn to express different emotions through facial expressions and body language. Participants pick an emotion out of a hat and act it out without using words while others guess what it is. Emotion Charades expand emotional intelligence and empathy.

4. Mirror Mirror

In pairs, one child leads by moving slowly while the other mirrors their movements exactly. This gamefocuses on observation skills, attention to detail, and nonverbal communication.

5. What Are You Doing?

One child performs an action, and another approaches asking, “What are you doing?”. The first child must respond with something different from what they are actually doing, prompting the second child to start acting out that new action instead. This continues with more kids joining in. It’s perfect for thinking creatively and wacky humor.

6. Sound Ball

Using imaginary balls of various sizes, kids throw these to each other using sounds instead of words. The receiving child catches with an appropriate sound response depending upon the ‘size’ of the ball thrown. The game sharpens listening skills and coordination.

7. Prop Box Stories

A box filled with random props is used to inspire impromptu skits or monologues, with each child selecting an item as the basis for their story segment or character choice. This encourages inventiveness and spontaneity.

8. Tableau Vivant

Children work in small groups to create a living scene which then freezes into a tableau that represents a particular moment in time—like historical events or scenes from books they’re studying.

9. Magic Carpet Ride

An interactive storytelling game where children sit on a ‘magic carpet’ (a mat or blanket) and go on an imaginary adventure narrated by the teacher or a student, contributing ideas along the journey.

10. Pass the Gesture

This starts with one person making a small gesture with a distinctive sound which is then passed around the circle with each individual amplifying it slightly until it comes back full circle greatly exaggerated.

Drama games not only entertain but also provide valuable life skills like empathy, creativity, collaboration, expression, and public speaking prowess – key attributes that contribute to personal development during years 4-7 when children are highly receptive to learning through play.

Matthew Lynch published in Parent & Family Tech February 8, 2024

11 Parents’ Evening Tips for Teachers to Make the Night a Success

Parents’ evenings are a crucial touchpoint for teachers to engage with parents and discuss the development, achievements, and concerns regarding their students. The following are eleven tips to help teachers make the most of these important nights:

1. Be Prepared: Review each student’s performance, behavior, and any pertinent notes beforehand. Have samples of the student’s work available and prepare a list of talking points.

2. Stay Positive: Begin and end your conversations on a positive note. Celebrate each student’s unique strengths before moving into areas they could improve.

3. Create a Welcoming Environment: Arrange the room in a way that is inviting and non-confrontational. Comfortable seating and a tidy workspace can create a good impression.

4. Use Time Wisely: Be mindful of the clock to ensure you can speak with all parents. Stick to your allotted times, and consider using a timer if necessary to keep meetings concise.

5. Listen Actively: Allow parents to voice their concerns or observations. Listening can provide valuable insights into how to best support their child.

6. Communicate Clearly: Avoid educational jargon that might be confusing. Speak plainly about students’ progress and needs.

7. Set Goals Together: Collaborating on setting achievable goals for students can align expectations and efforts between home and school.

8. Offer Resources: Have a list of resources ready for parents who want additional tools to support their child’s learning at home.

9. Follow Up: After parents’ evening, follow up with any promised information or resources, showing that you are proactive and dedicated to their child’s education.

10. Reflect on Feedback: Consider feedback from parents about your teaching style or approach and if it could positively influence your classroom functions.

11. Keep Documentation: Write down any important points discussed or agreements made during each meeting as a reference for future interactions or follow-up meetings.

By following these tips, teachers can ensure that parents’ evening is both productive and positive,fostering meaningful collaboration in support of students’ academic success.

Matthew Lynch published in Teaching Strategies, Tactics, and Methods February 8, 2024

10 Scaffolding Education Tips for Primary Teachers to Support Learning

Scaffolding is a teaching methodology that enables students to learn more effectively by providing them with tailor-made support structures. For primary teachers, scaffolding is essential for supporting young learners at various stages of their educational journey. Here are 10 scaffolding tips that primary teachers can use to enhance learning in their classrooms:

1. Start with what students know – Begin lessons by connecting new information to existing knowledge, so students can build on a foundation they already have.

2. Break down tasks – Large and complex tasks can be overwhelming for young learners. Breaking them down into smaller, manageable parts can help students achieve the overall objective step by step.

3. Use visual aids – Incorporate charts, pictures, and diagrams to convey concepts more clearly. Visual aids can make abstract ideas more concrete and easier to understand.

4. Encourage collaboration – Group activities and peer-to-peer instruction allow students to support each other’s learning, providing varying levels of scaffold that can adapt to individual needs.

5. Ask guiding questions – Prompt students’ thinking with open-ended questions that guide them towards the discovery of answers rather than simply providing them outright.

6. Provide models and examples – Show examples of finished work or provide templates to give students an idea of what is expected in the final outcome.

7. Offer feedback and adjust supports – Regular feedback helps students recognize areas for improvement and allows teachers to adjust the level of support provided according to each student’s progress.

8. Foster independent thinking – Gradually reduce the amount of scaffolding as competence grows, encouraging learners to think independently and take ownership of their learning.

9. Utilize technology – Integrate educational software and online resources that provide interactive experiences and can be customized to individual learner needs.

10. Be patient and flexible – Allow time for students to digest new material and understand that the removal of scaffolds should be a gradual process tailored to each learner’s pace.

By employing these scaffolding techniques, primary teachers can facilitate a supportive learning environment that helps all students reach their potential.

Matthew Lynch published in Writing February 8, 2024

10 Ways to Use Persuasive Topic Cards

Persuasive topic cards are versatile tools that can be used in various activities to improve communication, debate skills, and critical thinking. Here are ten ways you can use persuasive topic cards to your advantage:

1. Debate Preparation: Use the cards to practice for debates by pulling out a card and formulating arguments for or against the stated position.

2. Ice Breakers: At social or professional gatherings, distribute cards to prompt discussions and help people engage in meaningful conversations.

3. Public Speaking Practice: Choose a card at random and give an impromptu speech on the subject to hone your public speaking abilities.

4. Writing Prompts: Writers can use the statements on the cards as prompts for essays, articles, or opinion pieces to explore different viewpoints.

5. Teaching Critical Thinking: Teachers can use these cards in classrooms to help students analyze issues from multiple perspectives and develop argumentative essays.

6. Group Discussions: In group settings, a card can serve as the focal point for discussion, requiring participants to articulate their stance and listen to others’ opinions.

7. Conflict Resolution Training: For those studying or practicing conflict resolution, persuasive topic cards can simulate real-life disagreements where finding common ground is key.

8. Sales Training: Sales teams can work with persuasive topic cards to craft compelling pitches or understand potential objections they might face from clients.

9. Networking Events: To encourage substantive conversations at networking events, persuasive topic cards can steer dialogues towards areas of professional interest and expertise.

10. Personal Development: Individuals can use the cards for self-reflection on personal beliefs and biases by considering their responses to each topic.

Persuasive topic cards are an excellent aid for anyone looking to enhance their rhetorical skills, engage in more profound discussions, or simply break the ice in a new setting.

Matthew Lynch published in Special Report February 8, 2024

Mother’s Day 2024 Teaching Resources

Mother’s Day is a special occasion that offers a chance for students to learn and reflect on the significance of motherhood. As we approach Mother’s Day 2024, educators are seeking innovative resources to incorporate this celebration into their curriculum. Here is a guide to some unique teaching resources that can help engage students in this heartfelt holiday.

1. Digital Storytelling Projects: Encourage students to create digital stories about their mothers or important maternal figures in their lives. Using video editing software or online platforms like Storybird, students can combine images, text, and audio to craft personal narratives that celebrate motherhood.

2. Mother’s Day Interview Assignment: Create an assignment where students interview their mothers or mother figures to learn more about their lives, aspirations, and experiences. This activity not only strengthens family bonds but also develops students’ interviewing and listening skills.

3. Role Play Scenarios: Develop role-playing activities where students act out scenarios related to parenting and empathy. These scenarios can include dealing with daily challenges that mothers face or historical perspectives on motherhood.

4. Cultural Studies on Motherhood: Craft lesson plans that explore how different cultures celebrate motherhood and the diverse roles of mothers around the world. This encourages global awareness among students and an appreciation for cultural diversity.

5. Art Projects with a Theme of Gratitude: Facilitate art classes where students create artworks expressing gratitude towards their mothers or maternal figures. This can range from handmade cards and crafts to complex art pieces using various mediums.

6. Writing Poetry about Motherhood: Inspire your class to write poems focusing on the theme of motherhood. This activity helps enhance literary skills while allowing emotional expression through creative writing.

7. Interactive Bulletin Boards: Set up an interactive bulletin board dedicated to Mother’s Day in the classroom. Students can post notes, pictures, and drawings that highlight what they admire about their mothers or share memories they cherish.

8. Virtual Guest Speakers: Organize virtual sessions with guest speakers who can talk about mother-related topics such as maternal health, work-life balance, or historical figures who were mothers.

9. Mother’s Day Science Lessons: Introduce lessons that focus on the biology of motherhood, such as reproduction in different species or genetic inheritance patterns.

10. Classroom Fundraisers for Maternal Causes: Engage students in organizing fundraisers for charities that support maternal health and welfare, teaching them the importance of giving back and helping those in need.

In conclusion, Mother’s Day 2024 serves as an excellent opportunity for educators to introduce innovative teaching resources that not only celebrate mothers but also impart valuable lessons across various subject areas. By integrating these resources into their lesson plans, teachers can enhance learning experiences while acknowledging the profound impact of motherhood on society.