Clothing in Barbados, circa 18th century

One of our speakers told us about how the English were dressed in Barbados on the sugar cane farms. The natives and slaves that were working the fields were wearing very little due to the warm climate and the culture. The British were pompous and dressed like the English back in their homeland, wearing layers of silk, wool, and velvet. The heat would be intense and the British would not remove the clothing because they felt it represented a wealthy, aristocratic man. The fools would kill themselves with fashion! Crazy!

American Heroes

I really enjoyed learning about adding heroes to my classroom. I see how I can add them to every part of my curriculum. Now it is a matter of figuring out how much, when, and how to do it. Since I will teach a combo this year with 4th and 5th, I can see how I can have the kids work with heroes when they are done with seatwork. I see this being part of ongoing activities in a folder in each student's desk. Culminating activities can be so different and individualized which is perfect for high achievers and GATE students, the bulk of my class this upcoming year. Much to do, but excited to get started!

Editorial Cartoons!

I love the use of editorial cartoons in the classroom. Everyone sees different details when we analyze it. Some kids can really pull the connection together and others struggle, but once things are discussed, most can understand what they are looking at. When we made our own editorial cartoons, I momentarily panicked because I didn't think I could do it. But after given a moment to think, and some sample phrases or ideas, I managed to create one. I think I could use this concept in class once we practice a bit. Fortunately, we use Scholastic News as a tool in the classroom which has a weekly editorial cartoon which increases exposure. I hope to try this new strategy out this year!

Thank you, Anthony!