Hi friends,

We're back with another peek into what’s actually happening on the Top Floor! This week is a fun mix of new learning, real-world connections, and one very real teacher task we all know is coming… report cards.

Starting a New Novel Study​
We’re kicking off a new novel study with My Brother Sam Is Dead by Christopher Collier and James Lincoln Collier. The timing couldn’t be better. It pairs perfectly with where we are in social studies as we dig into the American Revolution.

We love when ELA and social studies naturally overlap. Students are already making connections between the historical context and the characters’ choices, which leads to some really thoughtful discussions early on.

👉 My Brother Sam Is Dead Novel Study (Interactive Notebook)​

Launching Fraction Multiplication​
In math, we’re moving into multiplying fractions. One of our favorite ways to launch this skill is by reintroducing Cuisenaire rods.

They’re such a powerful visual. Students can physically see how fractional parts combine, which helps them build understanding before jumping into equations and algorithms. It’s a great way to slow down and make the math feel concrete.

Gearing Up for Big Events​
We’re leaning into two big events students are already excited about: the Super Bowl and the Winter Olympics.

For the Super Bowl, we’re starting with the pre-game activities this week. Students use math in a real-world context by tracking things like yardage, scores, temperature, attendance, and more. After the game, we’ll use class time to research additional information and wrap up the rest of the packet.

👉 Super Bowl Classroom Activities Pack​

We’re also excited about the Winter Olympics opening ceremonies happening on Friday. We’ll be using reading and STEM challenges tied to winter sports. We’ll go deeper into those activities next week, but for early planners, here’s the bundle we love:

👉 Winter Sports & Winter Games Activity Bundle​

Report Cards Made Easier with Instructron​
We’ve wrapped up the first semester, which means report cards are officially here.

Instructron has made writing report card comments so much easier. You simply enter your student’s name, pronouns, strengths, areas of growth, and any other details you want to include. With one click, professional comments are generated instantly.

We’ve had several teachers reach out to tell us this is their favorite feature. They can’t believe how much time it’s saved them.

A quick note on safety: no identifying student information is saved in the program, so you can feel confident using it.

👉 Try Instructron here​
Use code TOPFLOOR20 for 20% off your subscription.

🎁 This Week’s Freebie​
We’re sharing a free page from our Super Bowl activities so you can try it out with your class.

👉 Grab the free Super Bowl activity here​

Have a great week,
Joe & Quyen
Top Floor Teachers

Joe and Quyen from Top Floor Teachers

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