The Wheels that Never Stop Turning... Summer 2015 "To Do" List

At the point in the year, I'm always thinking about what I want to do differently for next year and half kicking myself for not feeling like a did enough last summer, lol. Isn't that always the life of a teacher? In the last few weeks as we gear up for Georgia's new standardized test that aligns with Common Core, I realize that I need some new tricks to get and keep my kids engaged with new and unfamiliar texts, but to also give them tools that carry with them into high school. Below is my "To Do" list of things I want to accomplish this summer or ideas I want to refine from this year. 

• Become a Google Certified Teacher
• I completely acknowledge the need to integrate EFFECTIVE technology in the classroom. While I'm not super keen on the whole cell phone piece of interactive technology (I still think they are way more of a distraction for the majority of students), I love what Google has to offer, and I plan to incorporate much Google's apps next school year. 
• Become a TOOL Certified Teacher
• Eventually, I'd like to try teaching online where more of my time can be geared towards feedback and direct interaction with students. This is something that isn't happening anytime soon but down the road. I did renew my contract this year, lol. 
• Jump in with Kylene Beers and Bob Probsts Signposts 
• I want my kids focused on finding the clues contained in stories that they often overlook, but they definitely need to recognize and know about. I'm particularly excited to see what their non-fiction book has to offer. 
• Read more Jeff Anderson.
• I very cautiously began incorporating his grammar strategies this year as my students tackled informational texts, and it was amazing! Full steam ahead for next year. 
• Update my bulletin boards with year long emphasis in mind
• Every year, I plan out my bulletin boards based on units. However, I'm always emphasizing structure when writing throughout the entire year as well as FANBOYS and AWUBUS words. I want to create year long bulletin boards to really hit home with students how flexible many reading and writing ideas are across texts. This is definitely the case with Notice and Note signposts. 

This is my list so far. As we round out this year (we're only 3 weeks away from our last nine weeks!), I'm sure I'll be adding more. For now, check out some great Notice and Note Signpost bookmarks (Thanks Teaching With A Touch Of Twang) I came across on Pinterest that really have me inspired to introduce these to my kiddos during our short story unit!!