Bad Case of Stripes!

If you've read my earlier posts, you know that I'm a HUGE fan of A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon.  This books talks about the importance of 'being who you are,' despite what others may think of you.  Camilla Cream LOVES lima beans, but she is afraid that she will be made fun of by her peers.  She develops A BAD CASE OF STRIPES that is only cured by eating lima beans.  While admitting that she likes lima beans doesn't appear to be that important, many of our students are afraid to share their hopes, dreams, and fears.

I begin the lesson by showing the students a video of this book on Storyline Online.  Sean Astin does a wonderful reading of the story.  After class discussion, the students made a class book about their own BAD CASE OF STRIPES.  The templates for this lesson can be found for free on Teachers pay Teachers

I am very impressed with their artwork.  It is obvious that they love this book as much as I do.

Have a great week!
Mrs. Muller

I Like Myself!!

I continued guidance lessons with second grade this week and we have had a wonderful time together.  Our focus for this week has been self-esteem and the students' 'uniqueness.'  I began the lesson by reading I Like Myself, which is written by Karen Beaumont and illustrated by David Catrow (Ms. R's favorite illustrator!).  This rhyming book engages students and helps them realize that we are ALL wonderful, even if we have flaws.  They are encouraged to 'like' themselves too.  After reading, students were given a template of a flower and asked to identify FIVE traits about themselves that they like.  

I showed them my example and asked them to create their own.  This student likes his family, reading, baseball, jumping on trampolines, and dancing.

This student told us that he likes reading, writing, and art; kittens; I Spy and Sea Life books; and soccer.

After labeling, coloring, and cutting, each student was given a 'stem' cut from dark green construction paper.  I borrowed this lesson from Professional School Counseling.  I loved this activity and I plan to use it with first grade when I see them.

Have a great week!