How to Teach Measurement Conversions: A Free Printable Reference Chart for Students
When I first started teaching measurement conversions, I dreaded it. The endless tables, the confusing rules—my students struggled, and honestly, so did I. But once I started paying attention, I realized how often we use conversions in everyday life: 📏At the grocery store – Converting ounces to pounds for produce or meat📏 At home – […]
How to Help 5th Graders Master Multi-Step Word Problems for Test Prep Success
How to Help 5th Graders Master Multi-Step Word Problems for Test Prep Success Test prep season is here, and for many fifth graders, multi-step word problems are one of the biggest challenges they face. If your students freeze up when they see a long word problem, they’re not alone! These problems require more than just […]
Mastering Multi-Step Fraction Word Problems
Fractions can be a tricky concept for many students, and adding word problems to the mix often increases their anxiety. However, fractions are not only a vital part of everyday life but also an essential component of fourth and fifth-grade math standards. These skills are important to master! While multi-step fraction word problems can be […]
Valentine’s Day Math Activities For Upper Elementary Students
Bringing Valentine’s Day Fun to Your Upper Elementary Classroom With winter in full swing and spring break still weeks away, February can feel like it stretches on forever. That’s why Valentine’s Day math activities are the perfect way to re-energize your classroom. They keep students engaged and excited while working toward mastery of the standards. […]
How to Multiply Decimals: A Step-by-Step Guide for Fifth Grade
Does multiplying decimals seem tricky? It doesn’t have to be! Just like baking your first cake from scratch can feel overwhelming until you learn the recipe, mastering decimal multiplication is easy once you know the steps. Whether you’re a teacher introducing this skill for the first time or a student navigating a decimal unit, understanding […]
Manage Pre-Halloween Classroom Chaos with Engaging Math Centers
Halloween Math Centers Halloween is just around the corner, and if you’re like most upper elementary teachers, you know the week leading up to it can feel like a rollercoaster ride. Excited students, endless distractions, and sugar highs all contribute to a challenging classroom environment. But what if there was a way to channel all […]
Mastering Your First Year as a Fifth Grade Math Teacher: Tips, Tools, and Resources for Success
As a new fifth-grade math teacher, it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. You’re stepping into a pivotal role where you’ll be guiding young minds through important mathematical concepts that set the foundation for their future learning. But before you let the overwhelm set in, let’s take a deep breath and focus […]
Transform Your Classroom with Morning Work: Essential Benefits and Setup Ideas for Elementary Teachers
Creating a structured start to the school day can make a significant difference in the success and engagement of your students. Morning work is a great way to establish a routine, reinforce learning, and promote independence. Truly, setting this routine up at the beginning of the year can be a game changer and transform your […]
Three Tips for Teachers: Reducing Overwhelm and Finding Joy This School Year
As we gear up for another school year it’s time to start thinking about finding that sweet spot between teaching, learning, and taking care of ourselves. Last year, I realized I needed to make a few changes to keep my sanity and joy intact. Here are three things I’m committing to doing differently this year, […]
Setting Up Small Groups for Math Centers in Fifth Grade: A Step-by-Step Guide
As elementary teachers, we all know how challenging it can be to meet the diverse needs of your students. One effective way to provide personalized attention and support is through small group learning. Research shows that students in small groups perform better on assessments, with a significant increase in their understanding and retention of mathematical […]