Andrea Knight

Teacher · Learner · Author

Dr. Seuss Biography Project

Whose childhood was not impacted in some way by the work of Theodor Geisel, or Dr. Seuss? I loved going to my grandmother's house because she had a small collection of his books on a shelf upstairs and I would just sit on her soft carpet and read book after book while the adults were doing who-knows-what downstairs. I loved how silly they were, with creative nonsensical words that rhymed with … [Read more...]

St. Patrick’s Day Math Activity

I know this doesn't look like a St. Patrick's Day math activity, but stick with me for a minute... I'll get there. When I was a kid, I loved books that showed me step-by-step how to draw things. I don't think kids have changed much in this way because our students still love our little art tutorials. We make these sweet little leprechauns every year on or near St. Patrick's Day, and we don't … [Read more...]

A Crankenstein Valentine – Book Activities

Do you have a Crankenstein valentine in your classroom? If you're like us, you probably have at least one or two or ten. They're the kids who think Valentine's Day is a gross, disgusting waste of time. They hate it all... the hearts, the flowers, the syrupy sentimentality of dumb valentines... it's torture. They hate when the day starts and they can't wait for it to end. Or can they?? Take … [Read more...]

Seasonal Scissor Bins

 A lot of the stuff we throw away during the holidays are things kids can cut to develop their fine motor skills. I mean does anyone actually use ALL of the wrapping paper that comes on the roll? (If you do, please don't tell me. That'll make me feel bad.) Save the paper plates and napkins you didn't end up using. Gather up some leaves and pine needles. Yarn, feathers, straws, … [Read more...]

Women’s History Month

I love Women's History Month. It's a time of year when we collectively seek out stories of determined, courageous women ... women who looked obstacles right in the face and said, "Pardon me while I go around you." It's so common for curriculum calendars to suggest, or mandate, certain topics for certain times of the year. I remember when I was a new teacher and my mentor said something like, … [Read more...]