Alternative Big Book Stand

Reading big books has always been a major juggling production because I lacked a big book stand.  If only I had the extra money and room, I would have purchased one long ago.  WELL, good thing I didn't because the solution was right in my very own home!!!  A music stand was the perfect alternative.  

Use a music stand for display and assisting with reading big books.  They are inexpensive, adjustable and easy to store.  

Trash to Treasure

It's true what they say, "One person's trash is another person's treasure."  I can not believe that today was my first visit to Goodwill.  Two words can describe my visit," TEACHER OVERLOAD!"  My brain was going a mile a minute trying to come up with excuses as to why I needed these things in my classroom.  I decided to start small and purchased this metal thing for $1.99. With a quick clean and spray paint, I ended up with a book holder. 

I don't even know the original purpose for this metal thing but it was worth 1.99.

Let the transformation begin!

The finished product!  I can use this for books or magazines.  It is also equipped with a handle!

I can't wait to go back.  You never know what Goodwill has in store for you!

Beanie Baby Reading Strategies

Since my summer began earlier than majority of my teacher friends, I had the privilege of snooping around teachers' classrooms who were still in session.  I love getting new ideas!  The following is one idea that I can't wait to implement this coming school year.

Click on the link to get  more information.

Beanie Baby Reading Strategies  

This picture was provided from the Reading Classroom Ideas Website. (link is above picture).
This website is amazing because it gives you all the tools you need to implement this idea (poster print-outs, bookmarks).  The only thing you need is the Beanie Babies!

  

Reading Baskets!

Students love to sit back in a Reading Basket with a good book =)

Reading Baskets are a great alternative to spending a fortune on building an inviting area for students to read.  In addition, it is a great behavior management tool because it gives students a defined reading space, where it is hard to disturb other readers.  The laundry baskets were purchased at Walmart for $5 each.  I purchased $3 towels at Walmart to make the basket more comfortable.

Student reading in a Reading Basket into a Whisper Phone (PVC Pipe-Lowes)
Funny how they would rather read in a laundry basket than on the couch = P

Don't let the size fool you.  Even I can fit into a Reading Basket and they are comfy =)