When Jessie Came Across the Sea

Somehow I'm on the verge of tears every time I finish this book. Jessie is a bright-eyed 13 year old who braves the Atlantic alone in search of new life in America. The rabbi of her little village in Europe hand chose Jessie to apprentice at a lace shop in New York. But the move separates Jessie from Grandmother -- her only living relative. Adjusting to life in a new country is full of challenges such as language, culture, and new laws. However, Jessie finds that the strong Jewish community embraces her with open arms. She diligently writes letters to Grandmother about her new life, learning, and budding romance. Readers follow their correspondence back-and-forth across the ocean until the two reunite in New York City.
Lexile: 0470L

The Magic School Bus: Butterfly and the Bog Beast

Butterflies may be delicate insects, but they are masters of disguise. Ms. Frizzle and class experience this cunning survival skill first hand as they encounter the bog beast on yet another field trip.

The Magic School Bus and the Electric Field Trip

Ms. Frizzle's class is learning about electricity when lightening strikes -- literally. Power is out all over the neighborhood, but no worries! Here comes the magic school bus to the rescue. This charged adventure with the Friz (America's favorite science teacher) will have readers on the edge of their seats.

AD490L

What I See

The Green Light Reader series is designed for the "new reader who's ready to go!"  This text is the "Buckle up!" level which employs vivid illustrations, short stories with simple sentences, along with rhyme and rhythm.

Garage Sale 2.0: #2 Paper Clip Jewelry

Here's another art instructional...because everyone needs a pair of paper clip earrings : ) My students will be exercising their creativity to recycle classroom materials. Conservation, grade-school style!  I'll be looking for more ideas at the Decatur Arts Fest today.