The thing that really killed me last Spring was Late Work….it was such a nightmare tracking it down from a … More
Category: Start of the year
New year, new routine
I used to be one of those teachers who was all about kids coming in to class and getting started … More
Mientes con todos los dientes: A lying game
This week, during out teacher work days, I remembered a super hilarious Get to Know you game that we used … More
Classroom management: Why the start of the year is so important
Classroom management is a big deal. In fact, it’s such a big deal that I think it’s the biggest factor … More
Operation Welcome to Spanish Class
It must be hard being a new student. And really tough starting a new school mid way though the year. … More
World Cup- AKA Community Building Extravaganza
You guys! This is so fun! This might be my favorite (and newest!) tradition! I’m typing this exhausted, sore and … More
Level 1: Jolly Rancher Fun
I love the Beginning of the Year in Spanish 1. They come so excited to learn and soak it … More
Ríe, llora…starting off Spanish 1 with Celia Cruz
Day 1, Spanish 1…what to do when they know nada, nothing, no Spanish at all? Well, over here we sing … More
El verano fabuloso- a game to start the year
Today was The First Day of School! And, because I can’t help myself, I’m already planning a game for Day … More
Name Game
EEEEEKKKK! School starts on MONDAY! MONDAY! Already!! I’m excited and nervous and squirmy and nearly ready to go! This starts … More
Parent letter: Why we do what we do
Part of our job is loading our little darlings up with comprehensible input. The other part of our job is … More
Back to School Resources
It’s August 1 and that means Back to School is just around the corner! The Walmarts are all decked out … More
Thinking ahead for next year: Student Interest Survey
Howdy! I hope you’re loving your summer vacation! I find myself between trips (Just back from Japan, leaving for Portland’s … More
Thinking ahead for next year: Syllabus
I’m killing time during a painfully long layover (Our Japan trip was awesome, 7 hours at LAX …not so much!) … More
Proficiency Based Grading: a letter for parents
One of the things I love best about teaching is that we get to start fresh every year! We can … More