Class Scrapbook

I'm a scrapbooker, however, that little hobby has taken a major backseat to computer fun recently. I still love to incorporate its eclectic creativity into big projects that my students work on though. At the beginning of the year, I'll bring in one of my family's scrapbooks and take the kids on a short get to know me tour. They don't know what's cooler, the funny photos or the embellishments.

The scrapbook pictured here is really what gets them talking. This was lovingly given to me by a parent-turned-friend on the last day of school five years ago. It has become a staple in my first 10 minutes of welcoming my new class into the room. It's a great way to invite them on the journey that will be a our year together. For the students new to our school, it's a reassuring glimpse into me and my personality. For those who know me, it's putting pictures with the stories older siblings have shared. Most importantly, it the best Anticipatory Set (Do they even use that vocabulary in the college teacher programs anymore?) I've found for any lesson. It also serves as a fantastic visual as the kids create their personal portfolios throughout the year to take home on the last day.