Hopscotch.
An oldie (as in kids have been playing it for over hundreds of years) but a definite goodie. The rules are simple and kids can either draw their own course with the chalk or have a parent help.
Why walk if you can jump anyhow?
But outdoor chalk Math?
When the weather is nice and no one feels like working, take learning OUTSIDE with these fun sidewalk chalk math games!
These math games are perfect for ages 5-8, and we hope that you’ll be able to customize any of the ideas for the level that you need. Basically, you can take anything from a math book and do it with chalk. Kids will add (subtract/multiply/divide) across the grid!
We’re all looking through our game stashes now to see what other games could be enlarged into chalk versions for more chalk your walk creations. Spend endless hours of active fun with one piece of “equipment.” Anything is more fun with Toysmith Jumbo Sidewalk Chalk, ha!
Comment below other activities, chalk art, or chalk games you would like us to feature.
]]>1. Mix and Match
You don’t have to stick to one style for a whole year. Mixing and matching gives you the opportunity to switch things around. Stacking borders that are similar in color can make it easy for you to mix and match. Start off with stacking two borders, contrast or similar colors are key to pulling off the mix and match look. Stack a minimum of two borders and max of three. Want to going for four? Well.. I salut you for being so daring.
2. Be Bold
Don’t be afraid of adding bold colors to your classroom decor. The key for experimenting with bold colors have that bold theme carried throughout the classroom. Have a statement piece that is bold and keep the rest of the decor soft and neutral. Too much bold could be too loud and distracting.
3. Don’t limit yourself
If you want to test the waters at the bold approach, try choosing a monochromatic theme and add accents of color. Going this route can create the simplest but most elegant classroom decor. Just keep in mind like-colors compliment each other and bold colors can be displayed easier by using contrasting colors.
Making learning something new visually appealing!
Displaying information in a visual way can be tricky, especially when you want it to look tasteful and informational. There are different types of learning styles that can truly help teachers understand their students. These are the 7 types of learning style of retaining information:
The most common learning style for younger students is visual and verbal learning. Combining visual and verbal learning can help students make the connection of information. It’s easier to show students that yellow and blue make green rather than describing the colors and leaving that information up for interpretation. Visual learning can help students retain new information, making it much easier for them to associate the visual with the verbal information. As students continue to learn through visuals, it can help them develop critical thinking. To create that kind of classroom set up can truly help students learn and retain new things.
Bulletin boards don't have to solely display information. Get students involved by creating a brain storming bulletin board, display their work to give them confidence. Add an interactive classroom jobs chart to introduce students responsibility. The most memorable experience in school starts in the classroom. Creating that kind of environment can help students look forward to new things!
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Put yourself in your student’s shoes for a moment. You walk into your new third-grade classroom, eyes aglow at the multitude of colors, patterns, and themes that are clamoring for your attention. They’re so bright and powerful that they distract you from the teacher. They’re dizzying and overwhelming, making it hard to know where to give your focus.
]]>Put yourself in your student’s shoes for a moment. You walk into your new third-grade classroom, eyes aglow at the multitude of colors, patterns, and themes that are clamoring for your attention. They’re so bright and powerful that they distract you from the teacher. They’re dizzying and overwhelming, making it hard to know where to give your focus.
From the teacher’s perspective, you might be feeling impressed with yourself. You’ve painstakingly created a stunning visual design and probably had fun in the process.
But as a student, too many themes, colors, and elements creates chaos and confusion. For students with ADHD or other disabilities, it magnifies these effects. The more you add to the room, the more you set up your students for a distracting, noisy learning experience.
However, when you can integrate a classroom theme that minimizes distractions, your students can feel inspired. They’ll appreciate the effort you put into making their class fun and inviting and may even look forward to coming to school every day.
When done correctly, a strong classroom theme can add value to every moment your students spend there. Before you go crazy on art supplies, consider the following tips for choosing an effective classroom theme that will help your students excel:
It’s not about having the most themes - it’s more about having the right theme. Stick with one idea at a time and be consistent throughout your classroom. Simple themes look less busy, which can help students feel less overwhelmed when they step inside your classroom.
Over time, your theme becomes an expectation. It blends into the students’ daily lives and they don’t give much thought to it. To keep your classroom fresh and exciting, consider changing your theme with the seasons or holidays so students always have something new to look forward to.
Your theme should set the stage for classroom success, not complete the entire story. If you’re crowding your walls, ceiling, and windows with decor, there’s no room for students to contribute their own work.
Make sure you dedicate enough space for artwork, projects, and other displays that help students feel at home in your class. Every time they look at their work, they’ll love knowing it’s something they added to the classroom ambiance.
Get inspired this upcoming school year at Class Border - check out our newest classroom themes that will make your students excited to learn!
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