Peppy Test Prep and Math Machines

Works4Me presents weekly practical classroom tips from real experts -- your colleagues!

1. Peppy Test Prep

From Lillie Palmer, a teacher in South Dakota:

"We have a pep assembly for the third and fourth graders a couple of days before standardized testing starts. Two teachers pretend they are cheerleaders and shake pompoms as they give a 'pep' talk about doing a good job on the tests, getting a good night's rest, etc. We have three teachers sit in desks and pretend to be examples of how not to take the test. One keeps turning around and bothering his neighbor, one cries, and one is not paying attention to directions. Another teacher is showing the 'right' way to take the test. Breakfast is provided for the students and the teachers/helpers on testing mornings. We also borrow an archway from the local hardware store and put Christmas lights on it with a sign that says, 'Entering Testing Zone'. We set it up in the hallway that leads to the third and fourth grade rooms. The lights are on whenever we are testing."
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2. Math Machines

From Ellen Gevers, a first grade teacher in Minnesota:

"I introduce algebra to my first graders with an 'In and Out' machine, which they love using. Draw a box like machine with an 'in' hole and an 'out' spout or chute. Set up some examples of 'In' numbers with paired 'Out' numbers, like 'In goes 1, out comes 3. In goes 5, out comes 7.' (Rule is 'in' + 2.) Kids have to figure out the rule of what is happening to the numbers in the machine. When they understand the concept, they can work as partners to make up rules and give the in and out numbers to each other. Later, talk about the 'in' number as 'n' to get them thinking about variables."
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3. Question of the Week: National Poetry Month

From the Works4Me Worker Bees:

"April is not only about showers that bring May flowers but also National Poetry Month. What ideas do you have to introduce your students to the pleasures of reading and writing poetry? How do you inspire creativity in those students who think they are not creative?"
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4. Heard on the Message Board: Tired of Being Tired

"I'm a new teacher who is tired all the time and need some suggestions as to what to do about it. In short, I need help! I find myself completely exhausted after work, and when I get home it is usually time for me to relax. What has worked for any of you?"
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