Acting like a Civil War Soldier

The past two weeks at school have been by far the best Social Studies unit all year, The Civil War! When I was in high school I was absolutely positive that I would be a high school history teacher. After a few college general history courses, and some work with elementary school students I realized I wasn't meant to spend my days with teenagers, but instead 10 year olds :).

Anyways we started the Civil War (literally in my classroom) we have the Union soldiers and the Confederate soldiers who each earn points for there side by doing homework, having good behavior, and extra challenges. Last Wednesday we invited two other 4th grade classes over to experience being soldiers by making "hard tack" a type of biscuit the soldiers made and ate on the battlefield, and to experience music played and sang throughout the times.

As a teacher I love when my students get so excited! We have done nonstop Civil War incorporating it into our guided reading time, our spelling activities, and computer lab along with our normal social studies time. I feel like they actually have a grasp of the concepts and they really are getting into the culminating projects. I can't wait to see the final results.

Yesterday was also our Valentine's Day party. In the past I have always been the lame teacher. We eat our treats, maybe listen to some music, and talk with friends. No games, fun activities...yeah I know...

Anyways, my next door neighbor teacher decided to pull me kicking and screaming (atleast that is waht she claims :)) into a weeklong "secret valentine" activity. Kind of like a secret santa. It actually went really well. The kids enjoyed sneaking presents and notes to each other and trying to keep secrets. So yesterday we finished our day with our V-day party which included games such a converstation heart stacking contest, a contest to see which group could line up a row of conversation hearts to be the closest to a foot, and then pin the lips on the heart lady.

My first successful class party where the kids left satisfied ;).

Now finally to a restful weekend. Matt is at semi-state with 3 of his wrestlers last night and today. He will be back later tonight and then nothing on the agenda for tomorrow...THANK GOODNESS!!

Well time to shower and enjoy my super clean house! Happy Valentine's Day everyone!