Book Lists and Patriotic themes~

I really think that the right books are the best part of a reading or writing lesson. I made a couple new units- one for Presidents' Day and 4th of July, and one for Valentine's Day. The lessons are pretty open-ended and allow for differentiation. Then I combed my bookshelves for old favorites, and looked for some newer reads to include on the booklists I have included in each unit. My teaching brain is usually geared toward kids with learning disabilities, autism, and primary grades. My 4-6th graders can finally read these terrific books, and if they think they are too babyish, I have them read to a younger child. We also have a high number of English Language Learners at my school, so many of my units are perfect for those kids.
Here's my Patriotic book list:

http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Patriotic-Reading-and-WritingPresidents-Day-1058240 

Valentine's Day

I am offering this Valentine unit for a freebie for a little while. I have created mostly open-ended activities that can be used with various Valentine's Day books, and will allow the kids an opportunity to get creative and have fun! I can't wait to use it with my own group....

http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Valentine-Reading-and-Writing-Special-Education-ELL-or-Primary-1040863