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 […]
6 Engaging End of Year Activities Your Upper Elementary Students Will Love

As the school year winds down, keeping upper elementary students engaged and motivated can be a challenge. However, the end of the year is the perfect time to incorporate fun and educational activities that will leave a lasting impression. Here are six engaging end-of-year activities that your third to fifth graders will love. End of […]
5 Effective Strategies to Prevent the Summer Slide for Upper Elementary Math Students

5 Effective Strategies to Prevent the Summer Slide for Upper Elementary Math Students As the school year winds down, parents and teachers often worry about the dreaded “summer slide” – the tendency for students to forget the knowledge and skills they’ve learned over the break. This is especially concerning in math, where concepts build upon […]
How Do You Teach Fifth Grade Measurement Conversions?

How Do You Teach Fifth Grade Measurement Conversions? Have you heard? Students HATE learning about measurement in math class. This was a sentence that I heard while at a gathering and I was completely shocked. I knew that it just was not true. And yes, I get it, everyone has their own opinion, groups of […]
Fifth Grade Math Word Problems That Excite and Engage

Teaching Word Problems in Fifth Grade Word problems are one of my FAVORITE things to teach. Yes, really! Why? Well, that’s easy! Word problems can be made relatable to the real world in so many ways.They make math have meaning and they encourage students to think about these connections as they solve. I love when […]
Using Real World Word Problems in Upper Elementary

Word problems that reflect real-world situations are SO important in elementary school. Not only does using a realistic scenario enhance students’ engagement, but it also provides them with an understanding of how what they are learning in the classroom pertains to their life. This can be a game changer. Here are three (of many) benefits […]
Fractions in February: Valentine’s Day Math Activities Students Will Love

Teaching and reviewing fractions in February can be so much fun. These Valentine’s Day math activities will sure to be a hit with your students! Equivalent Fractions Heart This sweet Valentine’s Day math bulletin board activity is designed to make teaching and practicing finding equivalent fractions enjoyable and festive. Students complete a fraction heart activity, […]