Learn Create Inspire

Sharing successes and challenges through teaching while becoming a (hopefully) published author.

Accessibility + Mrs. Salter’s Arcade = A Lesson in Retrofitting vs. Universal Design

Accessibility + Mrs. Salter’s Arcade = A Lesson in Retrofitting vs. Universal Design

Mrs. Salter’s Arcade is ready…and accessible. The last 24 hours has been a lesson in retrofitting versus universal design. My students have made sure ALL kids at our school can actively participate and enjoy our arcade—and I could not be more proud.

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Mrs. Salter’s Arcade: Hands-On Cross Curricular Fun

Mrs. Salter’s Arcade: Hands-On Cross Curricular Fun

Readers Request: Mrs. Salter’s Arcade. A brief overview of the 2.5 weeks that I use to turn my classroom into a cardboard arcade and the learning that occurs. I have provided BC curriculum links as well as a sample package to use and possible assessment. Be inspired. Get messy. Have fun! This is a great project to start the new year with. You could tell kids about it before they go on break and they will come back with so many ideas!

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Cardboard Connections: A Case for Playing with Materials
ADST, Science, Creativity, Collaboration, Hands On Learning Melissa Salter ADST, Science, Creativity, Collaboration, Hands On Learning Melissa Salter

Cardboard Connections: A Case for Playing with Materials

A cardboard connection lessons to help my students learn how to build with recycled materials. A case for seeing play as learning and letting kids play with materials and manipulative before you construct expectations together. Simple Machines, scissors, glue, Make Do kits, laughter, and a fashion show.

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A Case for Real Data: Where Math, Language Arts, and Science Collide
Math, Science, Language Arts, Hands On Learning, Creativity Melissa Salter Math, Science, Language Arts, Hands On Learning, Creativity Melissa Salter

A Case for Real Data: Where Math, Language Arts, and Science Collide

Use real data in your class to create cross curricular hands on lessons with high engagement! This post explores two activities that link science, language arts, and math that I have done in my classroom in the last two weeks as a way to inspire YOU to collect your own data with kids!

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Science Experiment: Simple Gravity Experiment
Science, Experiments, Hands On Learning Melissa Salter Science, Experiments, Hands On Learning Melissa Salter

Science Experiment: Simple Gravity Experiment

Experiments do not have to be complex to be effective. In fact, simple fun experiments that can be repeated can created the biggest learning/have a huge impact. This is a science experiment that can be used k-12 to explore concepts of gravity, air resistance, and forces. It involved dropping items…yup…you just need some objects to drop. It is engaging and can help students understand how to make/record powerful observations. And did I mention, it is fun!

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Reader Request: Hands-On Forestry Stations AND a Few Extra Activities… (Cross Curricular)

Reader Request: Hands-On Forestry Stations AND a Few Extra Activities… (Cross Curricular)

How do you make resources more hands-on? Run stations! Here is an outline of forestry stations I ran in my grade 5/6 class as well as a framework for designing your own stations. I also include a few additional forestry activities. Get messy! Play! Have fun!

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