Comparing Numbers and Arctic Animals

This week has been so busy, and it's only Tuesday. I knew it was coming--there are so many things that I want to get done in the next few weeks, and there is just not enough time! But I decided to try to do them all anyways. I'm just too indecisive.

This week, we are researching arctic animals. We have done research before, in groups, but this is their first solo research project--and they are already rocking it! They have come so far. We are using a combination of PebbleGo (which you should definitely check out if you haven't before! It's great for primary.) and books that I have gotten from the public library.

They have so much fun listening to the information, watching the videos, and looking at the maps on PebbleGo. Today, I showed them a student writing sample provided on the Common Core site. They were blown away! They thought it was from a 5th grader. I definitely don't expect this out of most of my kiddos (we only started really writing in November), but I know there are a few who can get close. Hopefully this will push them to do their very best!

We are also learning about comparing numbers in math. So today, I pulled out our Mystery Box. 

They get so excited when they see this on my desk. I found this in the Target dollar section, where I find some of my best purchases ever! I also have one that's striped. Inside, were number cards. Who knew adding a little box could make number cards so fun?! We drew two numbers out, then compared the two using the new alligator mouths we made!

How cute are those?! Quick, simple, and a total hit. I love how they added unique details, even if it is blood on the alligator's teeth. We would flip our alligators over to make it true for the number cards we drew! Meaningful, math fun--I love it!

We also have our 100th day fun and Groundhog's Day to look forward to this week!