Blog - Mrs. Winter's Bliss

A Phonics Scope and Sequence for K-2

In this post, we examine a strong phonics scope and sequence for Kindergarten - 2nd grade students. Research shows students must be taught with a systematic and explicit approach phonics in order to build solid foundations for reading. Too often it is assumed that learning to read is a natural process, like learning to talk or walk. But decades of research has shown us that learning to read doesn’t come naturally. English decoding ... read more

Engage and Motivate Students to Read at Home: The Adopt a Pet Reading Buddy Kit

Get students excited about reading at home with an adopt a pet reading buddy. Classroom reading pets build students' responsibility and enthusiasm for reading! As teachers we know the importance of reading cannot be underestimated. We not only teach students how to read but also try to cultivate a love of reading. We know that reading for pleasure can improve a child’s education, social and cognitive development, their wellbeing, and their ... read more

Non-Contact Morning Greetings

Classroom morning greetings are a powerful way to deepen relationships, build our students’ confidence, and learn communication skills. Non-contact morning greetings are a way to still offer greeting choices while maintaining social distancing or remote teaching meetings. This past school year was one we never could have predicted! So much changed, so very quickly. You suddenly left the comfort of our classrooms and quickly ... read more

Digital Writing Activities for Elementary Students

This blog post shares favorite NO PREP digital writing activities for elementary students that can be used in Google Classroom for distance learning. As a teacher you’ve always had to be flexible. Though you may try to plan your weeks, days and lessons, (sometimes down to the minute!) you do so knowing things won’t go exactly as planned. Each day is filled with little things that require us to adjust our plans to ensure students’ needs ... read more

Ways to Keep Students Engaged in Distance Learning

Help keep students engaged and build intrinsic motivation during distance learning! Be sure to download the free editable student choice boards in the blog post! We have long known that student engagement is a key component to learning. When students are engaged they feel connected and are willing to work hard. When students feel disconnected from a lesson they become distracted and are less likely to learn. In this time ... read more

Digital Math Activities for Elementary Students

This blog post shares favorite NO PREP digital math activities for elementary students that can be used in Google Classroom for distance learning. 2020 has been quite a year for everyone, but particularly for teachers! We never could have imagined leaving our schools and classrooms to teach from our homes and interact with our students only through the internet. But that’s where we find ourselves today and so we are finding ways to ... read more