Today was the first day for a long time that we had *almost* every student in class! We also started a new unit today on the Wonders of the World. We started by brainstorming as many words as possible that would connect to wondrous places. Then each student used a brainstorm page to think of a wondrous place they have visited or would like to visit along with descriptive words and phrases that connect to that place. They used their brainstorming to inspire either a concrete or free verse poem about that place. Poetry can be a fantastic way for students to practice thinking abstractly and let go of perfectionism. Most students had time to add their poem to their Book Creator portfolios.

For the rest of this unit, students will be researching the natural and modern wonders of the world, creating museum displays and activities, competing in a best wonder of the world bracket competition, and building an agamograph of their two favorite wonders.

I also was able to tell the students some exciting news today... I'M PREGNANT! for an ultrasound photo and other snapshots of my winter break, be sure to check out the site homepage.