Algebraic Expressions Clock Face

While on our Algebra unit, students were faced with the challenge of creating expressions (using parentheses, exponents, multiplication, division, addition and subtraction) to equal various given numbers.  They applied this knowledge to come up with an expression for each number (1-12) on the clock face.  They had to write that expression instead of the numbers on their own personal clock.  They set a time on their clock, and we decided to display them near our other classroom clocks (including one interesting "mathematical" clock with various formulas for each number). The students really got into this activity, and enjoyed trying to come up with expressions that no one else thought of.  One point for the teacher on fostering creativity and divergent thinking on this one!  :)

"Ask-Me" Buttons

If students make an A on a test, they get the privilege of wearing these buttons around school for a day in which other teachers and students will inevitably ask, "What'd you make on Ms. (or Mr.) so-in-so's test?"  to which they can proudly reply, "An A!!"  The buttons were popular with my 5th graders this year, and it was genius to introduce right before state testing time to build pride and confidence in their testing abilities... 

Symmetrical Art

Students used a reflection of their names to create "creatures" using watercolors.  A very simple project with an awesome result (especially if you have budding artists like I do in your room).  Here are some of their creations. There seemed to be a recurring theme of cats this year... Can you tell what their names are?

Spring Classroom Door Decor

This year we had a door decorating contest at our school during the first few weeks of Spring prior to testing.  Although my door didn't win a place, I did get an honorable mention.  My "door decoration" extended to the walls surrounding it, due to my students' enthusiasm for helping create my decorations.  As the only 5th grade math teacher, here is what I came up with: 

The flowers on the door and lining the hallway were student-made.  I had them pick a topic we had studied this year (Algebra, Geometry, Fractions, etc.) and write that word in the circle in the middle of the flower.  On each petal, they were instructed to write a problem of some type (equation, picture, words) dealing with the subject they chose.  Then, the answer to their "problem" on each petal could be revealed by lifting up the petal.  The kids were definitely excited to show off their math skills in this creative way!

5th Grade Graduation Parent Favors

For our 5th grade graduation this year, I decided to make favors for the parents that would come in handy during the ceremony.  I incorporated our school colors and mascot (Tigers) in the ribbon. The tissues not only had a practical use, but they also incorporated a message that let the parents know how much their children meant to us.  

 Over all, they were a big hit, and I ran out a lot faster than expected.  Many parents expressed their gratitude, and it was nice to see the appreciation of such a small gesture on this memorable day.  Next year, I will be making twice as many!  :)

Every year, I do a "Life Lessons" activity with my students.  I have them write a 1-3 sentence lesson that they have learned at some point in their young lives.  These never fail to make me smile, especially at this time of the year.  I thought I would share their responses from today with you.


5th grader's life lessons: 


"I've learned to be yourself because who you are doesn't make you different.  Just be yourself, and don't let anybody make you feel bad about yourself." - Age 11




"I've learned that... 
1. Pictures may be fun but may be embarrassing later.
2. Boys are crazy.
3. Your actions speak louder than your words.
- Age 11




"I've learned that, sometimes, I am smarter than my brother."
- Age 11




"I learned that strawberry & grape lipstick should be put up high so younger siblings cannot eat them."
- Age 12




"I have learned to not date and tell.  If you tell, it will spread, then you have to dump him."  
- Age 12




"I've learned that when you brag about yourself, you sound stuck up, but when other people brag about you, you sound pretty amazing."
- Age 11




"I've learned that the worse you are at something, the more determined you are to do it."
- Age 11




"I have learned that when someone is being mean to you, just move on because there is a thing called karma, and it will get you."
- Age 10




"I have learned that when you have a boyfriend, be careful because they might dump you for your other friends."
- Age 12




"I have learned to never trust a girl... unless she's THE ONE."
- Age 11




"I have learned that if you don't get any sleep, you'll be cranky in the morning.  That's not a good thing.
- Age 11