If you read this blog post on this topic, then you know more about how Writer’s Workshop needs to be structured, how easy it is to use it as a framework for teaching writing with different genres and themes, and what the components of the writing process are. In this...
Running Writer’s Workshop in COVID Times
The COVID global pandemic has changed teaching for schools all around the world, and understandably so -- it’s an infectious illness that could spread like wildfire in schools, in particular, if precautions aren’t taken. That doesn’t mean that it’s not hindering how we’ve all become accustomed to teaching, and for...
5 No-Prep Games for Practicing Listening Skills in Maternelle
Do you remember attending birthday parties as a child? I'm not sure if it's because I am from a small town that has grown a lot since I was young (we didn't have a movie theatre, indoor pool or playground, etc. until pretty recently), but I find they have changed...
Tips for Practicing La Conscience Phonologique
I've been talking all about la conscience phonologique lately on the blog, because I believe it is incredibly important! Phonemic awareness is critical for our students' success in reading and writing when they get a little older, and it's essential that they understand the sounds that letters make, before they try to...
The Hierarchy of Conscience Phonologique
If you read last week's blog post, then you know that I shared some tips with you for practicing phonemic awareness skills with your students. Today, I will explain each of the components that you will want to evaluate and practice. These components are what I refer to as the...
C’est quoi, la conscience phonologique?
In recent blog posts, I talked all about kicking off the school year and what I do with my students the first six-ish weeks of school. I want to switch gears in this blog post, so I'm going to talk about something that is so important to get started with...
4 Ways to Display Classroom Posters
I know I'm not alone when I say that one challenge that I have every year as a teacher is how to display my posters. Of course, we have four classroom walls and, theoretically, plenty of space...but that's not always the case! Many of us have administrations that require us...
How to Use Glue Sponges in Maternelle
Call me crazy, but we start using glue in my classroom from Day 1. We do a lot of crafts, which means a lot of cutting and gluing. If you teach or have ever taught maternelle, then you know that glue can be a hot mess. Today, I will be...
The Importance of Routine in Maternelle
One thing that is so cool about teaching is how we grow and evolve with experience. It's an amazing career for seeing tangible improvement and growth as a teacher (and as a human!), starting in just your first year. It's pretty crazy how you have to adjust and change in...
Communication Orale Practice in Maternelle: the “How Are You?” Circle
I'm not sure if you can relate, but sometimes I feel like half the battle in maternelle is just getting the day started on the right foot. If I can get my students calm, happy, and speaking French right from the get-go, we generally have a calm, happy, French-filled day....