Daily 5 and Giveaways

Daily 5-Chapter 6 talks about Writing and Word Word. You should check out Mel's great post in the blog hop at Seusstastic Classroom Inspirations!  I also purchased the I Can Write Board from A Cupcake for the Teacher that Mel blogged about. 


Our Chapter 6 Hostesses have wonderful ideas so stop by and visit them too!
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 In the past, I have used the components of Daily 5, but not in the Daily 5 Framework.  I did not have time for 5 rotations, so my kids went to journal writing DAILY.  Then they rotated through the other components (Read to Self, Read to Someone, Listening and Word Work) weekly along with a daily Reading Group. 

This year I am hoping to work in the Daily 5 Framework and follow the Sisters Suggestions.  I am looking for fun activities to get the kids excited about writing.  I read on someone's blog (and if you know who's please let me know!) that she makes class journal books and I LOVE that idea!  For example, On the first day of school..., My favorite food..., etc. and each child writes in the class journal.  How fun as they are able to share with the class as well as read each others' responses!   I also love the Pen Pal Unit from Kellie at The Teacher Idea Factory.  Let me know if you are interested in a monthly connection:)


Word work is an area my kids always LOVE!  At the beginning of the year, they are able to use play-doh and alphabet cookie cutters, alphabet tiles, magnet letters, colored pencils for rainbow writing and some making words activities.  Later in the year, I introduce Scented Markers which they go CRAZY over!  I just found a cute recording sheet for this called Spell It, Smell it over at Crisscross Applesauce in First Grade!



I am always on the look out for great ideas and giveaways are an added welcome:)  Check out the following blogs for great giveaways and don't forget to enter my Birthday Giveaway too!

   The Resourceful Apple


    Swimming into Second
                                     
   Fourth Grade Fanatics

     Fabulous in First