Are you using Amplify's CKLA Knowledge program? It is a bit overwhelming when you are starting out.
This was my 3rd year teaching Amplify's Knowledge and Skills programs. My students and I absolutely love both of them!
One of my favorite things is using the image cards to create an art gallery for every unit - it helps to keep them talking about it throughout the day!
My first graders always love the content they learn in each Knowledge unit, it really is amazing to see the connections they can make throughout the year!
Now that I've had a few years to focus on how to best teach the content, I wanted to elevate the way in which we celebrate the end of each unit.
Here are some of my favorite activities that help enhance my first graders understanding, and make our celebration days even more entertaining!
Ambience
To set the mood, I like to hang backdrops on our windows that connect to our unit. Most of the Fables and Stories have a farm setting, so I used this farm backdrop.
They also help darken the room a bit too since we get so much afternoon sunshine - not that I'm complaining!
Videos
Click here if you would like a copy of these videos!
Maps
Since many of these stories take place in different countries, I bought a foam map we use to track all the locations we have "visited" throughout the year.
I have a key to help them find each country easily. I also add to this chart during Unit 3 - Different Lands, Similar Stories.
Trade Books
After we finish the unit and the quizzes, we read the trade books, or any other book that aligns to the unit. They love to hear Anansi the Spider, since they heard the folktale in the unit.
Artwork
Then, it is time for their art projects!
Using Kwik Sticks and oil pastels, my students create an illustration for something they loved learning about from that unit. Then, they write a few sentences explaining why they chose it.
I display their artwork in our classroom until the end of the next unit. It makes for some great conversation pieces during break times!
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Celebration Ideas
Retelling Stories
They retold the stories 2 ways. One was orally, using the image cards, flip books and their puppets.
Some also chose to retell their favorite story using one of these writing templates.
There are charts and Venn diagrams for all the stories, as well as different blank writing templates, for your students who prefer to not use an organizer.
Don't miss the other posts in this series!
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