Holiday Work

We learned about traditions around the world.  We traveled to countries by using Google Earth and learned about different traditions.

Here are some pics.

Holiday Crackers

We went to the gym with Mrs. Everett's class to take a swing at our piñata.  The kids were so excited and it didn't take long for the piñata to be torn apart.

Students shared their opinions on which tradition was their favorite.

We also thought about Santa and what he'd ask for at Christmastime.

Students have learned all of the reading comprehension strategies.  After reading, Little Santa, I asked students to respond in their Reader's Notebooks.  They were able to choose among the strategies to create a response.

Here's what some came up with.

I also read, The Littlest Elf, and students wrote their opinion on if they'd want to be a toymaker, book maker, or baker.

Working in groups they created their very own toyshop, bookmaker shop, and baker's kitchen.

I hope all of you had a restful, fun filled break.  I can't wait to see you tomorrow!!

Happy Holidays from the Lyons' Den

It's January and I'm Blogging About Gingerbread Men

Yes, I know I haven't blogged in awhile.  I've been busy.  Really busy!! When I saw pictures I still had from back in December I knew it was time to sit down and spend some time blogging.  Time to play catch up!

Here are some pics from when we decorated gingerbread men.  The kids had a blast and ended up eating LOTS of candy!!

We also created a "Wish List" for Santa.  Students came up with great ideas on what Santa might want or need.

Happy Holidays!!

Here's a pic of the ornament each student made.  

I used Pic Monkey to add the hats for a pop of color.

Wrapping Up Holidays Around the World

We finished up our Holidays Around the World Unit.

This week kiddos spent some time learning about Sweden, England, and Germany.

While learning about Sweden, students tasted cinnamon buns and hot cocoa.  The oldest girl in the class helped serve the food.

In England they have crackers.  Not the crackers you eat!!  My kiddos absolutely LOVED popping these today.  They found a crown, riddle, and small ornament.

Ready to pull!! 3...2...1...

Here's the end result...a bit messy but tons of FUN!!

I hope you enjoy your holiday with family and friends.  I'll see you soon!!

Snowed In and Holidays Around the World

Every year we get a Charlie Brown tree.  I know it really doesn't fit the description but to me it qualifies as one because it's small.

Since we live in Maine it would be more exciting to tell a tale of my husband waking up before the crack of dawn, putting on his flannel, LL Bean boots, and carrying his axe into the woods but that's not the case.  He found this little gem just down the road.  He always drags it in and all I have to do is decorate it!!

Last night, as I waited for the MONSTROUS storm to arrive the tree was decorated and this little peeved off elf stood under it for a pic. After about 15 attempts with her continually taking off the hat I did manage one.

This morning I was shoveling the walkway at 6 am and even convinced myself it would just be a dusting.  Today's the PERFECT day to sit with a cup of coffee and catch up on blogging.  

We've been learning A LOT about traditions around the world.  If you haven't checked out Sara Cooley's Christmas Around the World Scrapbook you need to!  This has been one of the best purchases I've made and the kiddos absolutely LOVE this unit.

Students learned what a tradition is and we brainstormed traditions we had.  As we've traveled I've used Google Earth to show where each place is.  So far we've learned about the United States...

Mexico...

Students even tried to break open a piñata.  They have muscles but it wasn't as easy as they thought!

France...

Teg is from Ethiopia.  His mom came in on Friday and they taught us about their traditions.  Teg also came to school dressed in traditional clothing.  He shared all he knew!!  Kids listened to music, learned words, songs, and dance moves.  They even tried popcorn that had spices used there.  The class learned that Teg even drank coffee as an infant!!

Thanks so much Shannon and Teg for teaching us about your traditions and culture!