Lesson Plan: Simple Machines

Last month I taught an awesome group of first and second graders about simple machines at one of our co-ops. After an introduction on simple machines, we split into groups and designed and built simple machines of our own using common craft materials and everyday objects. The kids loved working with their hands to put their newfound knowledge to immediate use.

It was a lot of fun researching (and drawing!) simple machines and making up a story to inspire our students to design their own machines. I've made my lesson plan available on TeacherPayTeacher:

Sally's Simple Machines

by Michelle Ristuccia

Another member of the co-op had this wonderful book which we read to introduce simple machines:

How Do You Lift A Lion? by Robert E. Wells

This gave me some time to (ahem) finish drawing and crossing all my T's in my new lesson plan. My lesson explains each of the 6 simple machines, but this book would still be a great supplement.

I've added this and other worksheets on a new collaborative Pinterest Board:

https://www.pinterest.com/mrsmica/elementary-printables-and-workbooks/

If you want me to add you to the board, send me a message.

Enjoy!

Charlie Cat Ebook Raffle [Ends 10/15/2016]

Enter below to win an ebook copy of Charlie Cat (kindle or pdf). Enter and share until Oct. 15!

Charlie Cat does not like scary monsters and ghosts. Charlie's friend Susie Dog loves to dress up for Halloween. When Susie Dog scares Charlie Cat, Charlie uses his strong voice to tell her STOP. Find out how these two friends get along on Halloween.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

You can also view and share the giveaway on Facebook.

The giveaway is also at rafflecopter's page here.

Good luck!

Book Release: Charlie Cat Does NOT Like Halloween

Here it is, just in time for Halloween!

Charlie Cat Does NOT Like Halloween!

Charlie Cat does not like scary monsters and ghosts. Charlie's friend Susie Dog loves to dress up for Halloween. When Susie Dog scares Charlie Cat, Charlie uses his strong voice to tell her STOP. Find out how these two friends get along on Halloween.

Charlie Cat is a rhyming picture book for ages 0-8

Pages: 27

Buy now on [Createspace]!

Buy the paperback on [Amazon] or the ebook.

If you are local to me, contact me about getting a signed copy around Halloween day!

Thank you for your support. Remember to leave a review - it doesn't have to be a long review. I love reader feedback, and so do other potential readers, and so does Amazon!

Charlie Cat also has his own facebook page.

The book can also be found on [Goodreads].

Charlie Cat picture book series explores challenging social situations through rhyme and fun illustrations. For ages 0-8 and special needs.

Join our author mailing list for free printables you can use at home or in the classroom.

Charlie Cat Draws His Personal Bubble on Easter

Susie Dog is so excited to hunt Easter Eggs, she forgets to look where she is going! When Susie Dog spills Charlie Cat's Easter basket, Charlie Cat teaches Susie Dog about personal space.

Charlie Cat Tries Earmuffs on Independence Day

When Momma Cat offers Charlie and Susie earmuffs for the loud fireworks, Susie Dog doesn’t need hers, but a new friend does! Learn about hearing protection and individual preferences in this rhyming picture book for ages 0-8 & special needs.

Charlie Cat Does NOT Like Halloween

Charlie Cat does not like scary monsters and ghosts. Charlie's friend Susie Dog loves to dress up for Halloween. When Susie Dog scares Charlie Cat, Charlie uses his strong voice to tell her STOP. Find out how these two friends get along on Halloween.

Charlie Cat Takes a Break on Thanksgiving

Charlie cat loves Thanksgiving, but when noisy guests arrive, Charlie needs a quiet room. Find out how Momma Cat helps Charlie enjoy Thanksgiving.

Charlie Cat Keeps His Paws Off at Christmas

Waiting to decorate the family Christmas tree is hard! Momma Cat helps Charlie Cat learn how to tell when he should keep his paws to himself, and Charlie is happy to find something he can play with safely.

Halloween Book Sneak Peak!

Say "Hi" to Charlie Cat!

I mentioned in another post that we have spent many years searching for Halloween books that were appropriate for our young kids - one of which is particularly sensitive to "scary" things. So, if you enjoyed that post, now is the perfect time to join my mailing list and check the "for children" option. Mailing list subscribers will be the first to have access to my upcoming book and free coloring sheets of Charlie Cat.

You see, Charlie Cat does not like Halloween.

Sensitive children are often misunderstood for the simple fact that they don't like scary things. My goal is not to shelter them from the entire world, but simply to respect them for who they are.

This picture book is for children who don't like scary things.

It's ok to not like scary things. There is no magic potion to drink to make you "brave."

It's important that our friends respect when we say "stop." It's important that they respect who we are, and that can be a difficult concept for young children. What better way to share this message than with a book?

Without further ado, here is a sneak peak of Charlie Cat!

Join my mailing list to be the first to hear about Charlie Cat's picture book and other upcoming educational products and books. 

Happy Halloween!