Most of the kinds of mammals in the world are bats — they’re actually the largest group of species in the world, with 1,000 different species living on all the continents except Antarctica. We’re lucky we have them, too, since they eat insects. Online resources: Bats: Creatures of the… Continue reading
There are some nice ready made bulletin boards for November. Teacher’s Friend’s Happy Thanksgiving! Bulletin Board has pilgrims and a turkey, the slogan “We Are Thankful,” and lots of leaves and acorns. Have students write what they’re thankful for on the leaves and acorns, or write names and attach them… Continue reading
If you have a pumpkin, you can have a quick, seasonal lesson. And, really, at this time of year there’s no reason not to have a pumpkin. Pumpkins are a variety of squash, related to cucumbers. They are natives of North America, but now are grown on all six inhabited continents.… Continue reading
Bats may be the first nocturnal creatures that come to mind, but actually there are lots more. Learn about some of the real creatures that sleep all day and wake up at night (links take you to informational websites): bats possums raccoons owls deer coyote fox mouse skunk weasel porcupines… Continue reading
Shake Dem Halloween Bones by W. Nikola-Lisa with illustrations by Mike Reed is a terrific book for Halloween lessons. It works on a lot of levels. First, it’s a very fun rhythmic read aloud, with a refrain young kids can join in on: Come on, Li’l Red, won’t you dance… Continue reading
One of our favorite songs for Hallowe’en is “Have You Seen the Ghost of John?” As far as we can tell, this is a folksong, and it appears to be an American one. Hayes Roberts at bluebison.net is the artist responsible for the skeleton musician here, used with permission. Check… Continue reading
Ghost stories are fun at any time of year, and they’re perfect for Halloween. You need to tell or read ghost stories aloud. This can be an excellent way to introduce some classic literature, delve into folklore, or start a study of short stories. Read a few and then let… Continue reading
Let kids try out their deductive skills with these mystery games and puzzles, both online and hands-on: MindWare Bella’s Mystery Deck is a set of 50 puzzles, with answers kids can check using the enclosed mirror. Bella is a 13 year old sleuth with a clever dog. The set… Continue reading
Octodogs are fun for undersea units! Continue reading
