Tried it Tuesday - Document Camera Read Aloud

Before I get started with this week's Tried it Tuesday, I want to say how heartsick I am over yesterday's events in Boston. It certainly makes me wonder about our world. And then I see a quote like this, and feel a bit better, especially when helping children understand tragedies.

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I'm once again linking up with Holly from Fourth Grade Flipper for Tried it Tuesday. This week's "Tried it" isn't very exciting, but we're in the midst of state testing, so nothing is very exciting in our world right now. 
My kids have been working extraordinarily hard this week. They take 8 different state tests (2 science, 3 reading, and 3 math - about 260 questions), spread out over 4 days. This year has been fun, because it's a transition year for Common Core for the state, a full implementation year for Common Core in our district, and our state tests are still based on our previous standards. These kiddos have had so much put before them this year, the last thing I want to do is work them too much during this exhausting week. I want their brains fresh for each new morning, full of tests. (Can you tell I love testing?!) 

Our school has a tradition of rewarding students with perfect attendance during testing week (all grades - no tardies or absences allowed). On Friday of testing week, all kids get to have a free dress-down day (no uniforms - yippee!), a popcorn party, and watch a movie.

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My neighbor and I decided to read and watch "How to Eat Fried Worms" with our kiddos. Nothing better than enjoying a book for fun after a stressful morning of tests, right? The catch? I only have one copy, and my kids this year are definitely visual learners. There are very few in the bunch that don't get distracted without the text actually in front of them. I relate, because I'm the same way.

AVerMedia document camera to the rescue! Oh my, how my students have been engaged as I've read to them so far this week. Not one is zoning out, and with the questions I've asked throughout, I'm pretty sure they're all keeping up with the story!

Source - not my actual class. My camera is broken. But you get the idea. :)

We have two more days of testing. I'm really proud of my kids - they're taking their time and doing their best. Well, most of them...

For those of you in the midst of testing or heading into testing season, remember:

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Maybe next week I'll have the chance to try something a little more creative. 

If you haven't yet linked up with Holly from Fourth Grade Flipper, what are you waiting for? :)