Common Core Math & Some Teacher Sales!

Wow! I've survived the first two days of my ten day Common Core math workshop.  I can't say I've gotten a ton out of it so far, but I know that we're just starting the journey.  Yesterday consisted of taking some pre-assessments and looking at the new standards.  Thankfully, for third grade there really isn't a lot of difference in the standards from what we are already teaching our students.  The only major thing that will be part of the assessments that currently isn't is fractions, so we'll just have to teach that earlier than we currently do.  (They actually had pilot CC fraction questions on this year's state assessments, but they didn't count...  But, dang, they were hard for those kids!)  

Next week we'll be sharing some lesson ideas of math activities that align to the new standards.  We're encouraged to use things that we already do and just make any necessary adjustments.  I think I'm going to do a base-10 activity and hope to be able to share more about it on here next week!

Now onto the sales!

It's getting to be that time of year when the Back to School sales start popping up!  I started making lists of things to buy, to make, and to do.  This year's "to buy" list isn't too bad!  (We're getting quite a few new reading items to go along with Literacy First, so I'm not buying a lot of those types of items this year.)  My list consists mostly of items like more library pockets, nametags, and labels.  I did a school survey thing and  got a $35 Wal-Mart gift card so I'm also thinking I may use that to possibly get some new reading corner pillows and some other things to spruce up my room.  

Here are a few current and upcoming sales you might be interested in:

Lakeshore - Free shipping on $79 or more and 20% off select items. 

Mardel - Education Sale is next Thursday, July 19th with 20% off most items.  It doesn't say anything about online, but last year it was the same deal with $5 flat rate shipping.

US Toy - 20% off with their Teacher Reward Card through the 22nd.  This one is in-store only.  (Boo, since I don't live near a location.)

Creative Teaching Press - No sales yet, but usually those come mid-July for a week or so.  They just released their new catalog, though, so it's great for checking out new items!

Target - I've heard rumor that their dollar section is starting to get school stuff in.  My store didn't have anything as of Saturday, but I plan to swing by another one tomorrow afternoon and check it out.  Check out their weekly ads for promos.

I'll try to keep up on any new sales or bargains I run across and do a haul as promised!