Is it Really Testing Season?

It is official crunch time. We have 10 days until we begin our State Testing. Last year we began to incorporate Common Core into all curriculum which was no biggie because I taught 2nd grade there was no "official" testing and really "All was Good in My Hood!" I looped up to 3rd which in the State of Oklahoma is the first year of state testing. Okay, I have this handle I have already taught Common Core in 2nd grade I am Good...so I thought. Around November/December teachers were told that our state testing would NOT consist of Common Core aligned standards because the state had not found a testing vendor in time to make the state test. So what does that mean? We still have to teach to the Oklahoma PASS standards which don't completely match up with Common Core. Oh and don't forget you are required to teach the Common Core with those "other" standards. Repeat...We...were...told...in...November. So with the lost time I had to really evaluate what would be best for my kids. 

We are about to test in 10 days and if I was a nail biter, I would have only knuckles left. I believe in my kids and in my teammates and staff. I know, hope and pray I will get good news come July. I'll keep you posted! ;) 
In the meantime here is something that we have done to prepare for testing. The ABC's Testing Tips. This was a great way for me to go over all the Do's and Don't of the test. The entire class can tell you what each letter stands for. They took ownership since they illustrated each picture and it hangs in the hallway for all of the school to see. A 4th grade teacher has started walking by a few times a day with her class so the kids can also review the tips. YAY! Want to grab your own? Just click HERE or on any of the pictures below!

Mrs. Wirth :)

March Contest

Contest Time,  Contest Time, Contest Time

How to win? Just like my Facebook page and say "March Contest!" it's that simple! https://www.facebook.com/TotallyWirthItClassroom?ref=ts&fref=ts

Here is a little more info on the Bloom's Guided Reading Packet:

Common Core Aligned- These questions reflect the levels of the NEW REVISED Bloom's Taxonomy. These cards can be used in Guided Reading Time, Whole Group or as independent work.(I use draw them out of different bags/my teaching partner put them on popsicle sticks) A parent guide is enclosed with a front cover, letter to parents, explanation of which each level encompasses as well as Bloom's questions for each Level of Thinking.
Packet includes:
72 Higher Level Thinking Questioning Cards (12 for each level)
Parents guide complete:
front cover
parent letter
explanation of level of thinking
questions for each level of thinking

The End is Near...for Spring Break

I can not tell a lie; I have enjoyed my much needed Spring Break! Although I did not do as I promised...lay on the couch with a remote in hand and Bon Bons in my mouth (where do you even find Bon Bons?) I did find a few naps here and there, cleaned out closets (mine, R1's and R2's) took the hubster shopping for new clothes and shoes, saw Oz, had lunch at an actual restaurant on my own time on and on and on. I also managed to work on a few of my TPT projects and get them up and ready for sale (although I have so many that need to be tweaked and posted) Check them out here! Just click on the picture and it will take you to where you need to go! Thanks for looking!

~Mrs. Wirth 

 

Spring Break!!!

It's here folks....SPRING BREAK IS OFFICIALLY HERE! WHOO HOO!!!! Today was an awesome day. We celebrated St. Patrick's Day and everyone dressed in green; 100% class participation. 

We invited our K-Buddies up to catch Leprachauns with us. They were so creative and worked so well together. 40+ kids in one room and you could almost hear a pin drop. They brainstormed, compromised and then dove right in. Take a look at some of the awesome work they produced (and grab yours right here for FREE!!!) ....oh and I added some pics of our GREEN DAY! Happy Luck of the Irish To You!

FREEBIE From my TPT store

3rd Grade Work with Labels (they know my love for labeling!)

K-Buddies' Work

Writing about our Captures

Here are a few fun pics from our St. Pat's Day celebration. I am the one with the Green Wig and mustache. The other fabulous ladies are my interpreters for my Deaf Ed. students who main stream. THEY ARE FABULOUS and do so well with all of my crazy fast talking I put out there for them!
 

 

Poetry

The finishing touches were put on my 2nd poetry packet and is now up on my TPT. I used my class as my "guinea pigs" to see how well the packet would do explaining the different types of poems. To my surprise (cough, cough pat on the back) they kept taking this packet out of their desk and writing their own poems during their free time. I will post pics later of all the poetry they are producing. WOW!!! This packet is TOTALLY "WIRTH" IT!! http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Poety-WirthIt

Have a fantastic and relaxing Sunday,
Mrs.Wirth  :)

Teacher Conferences

I am waiting on some of my "No Show" families that really need to be here and I feel so frustrated. Then I have to think about all of the blessings that I do have. Working at a school that is 88% free and reduced lunches sometimes wears and tears on me...especially before Spring Break. Then I have families pop in and say how much they appreciate my hard work and how I will be missed next year. It really is the best! I looped with my kids from 2nd to 3rd grade this year and I truly will miss my "babies". (tear, frustration melting)

One of my favorite all time families knows me pretty well and brought me my favorite...Micky D's chicken nuggets with sweet and sour sauce. I AM BLESSED!!! :)

Nom, Nom, Nom!

WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER!!!

abbygracesmom and Amy Mathis Barker are my winners of the Poetry Packet with Similes and Metaphors Giveaway! Contact me with your e-mail address and I will send it your way!!

Thanks for entering :)