Author Month Lenny, 6th Grade Teacher: Lowell, MA

"Pick a month that you designate as "Author Month." Divide students into groups and assign a particular subject to each group. You can begin with major subject areas like Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, or Language Arts. You can always add Music, Art, Physical Education, or Home Economics. Once the main categories are picked, ask the students to search for authors who wrote about the topic that was assigned to them. Display the list of books that students compile at the end of the month."

Indoor Recess Thomas, 2nd Grade Teacher: Nevada

"On those consecutive rainy days, see if your school's gymnasium is available during your recess time or day. Instead of having an indoor classroom recess, hold your session in the gym!"

"Plan The Menu" Jacky Sreans, Elementary Teacher

"In our school we have a really dedicated cafeteria staff. Last year, they challenge the teachers of our building to use their resources as much as possible for student benefit. With the help of my principal, I was able to include a great culminating activity for my Nutrition Unit. My class researches and plans an entire week of school menu.

After we learn about a balanced diet, we visit the cafeteria and learn about what foods they have available or can order. We plan the menu about four weeks prior to the serving week. The menu must be balanced and overall healthy. Students get really involved and are very creative with the menu. We submit the menu for approval to the principal and the head of food services. Upon approval, they order the items and we serve the school.

This year we included our hygiene unit and actual served the school for one lunch period. I would highly recommend this activity to all teachers that have the resources to do such an activity."