Lauren Pritchett's Fund for Teachers Blog

Counting collections helps with counting skills, skip-counting, writing numbers correctly, or understanding base 10. Counting Collections is the perfect activity for kids for developing a solid foundation in number sense. It can also be modified for your child based on their counting needs. For example: If you child is working on counting proficiently within 100 you can find a collection of things under 100. However, you can also challenge your child with larger collections in the hundreds. We have done this as a game in our classroom already, so students should be familiar with the process.

What should I use for a collection? ANYTHING!! Paperclips, dry goods like beans, buttons, rocks, cotton balls, pom poms, playing cards, etc.

Sorting: Students can sort into small dixie cups, or in piles. Students can figure out the best way to sort. They might sort into piles of 5’s, 10’s, 20’s, etc. (Most do groups of 10’s) Once students reach 100 items, put those 100 cups or items together for a hundred group. (Remembering that 10 tens=100 items)

Once sorted, students can count based on their piles!

• 5, 10, 15, 20…….110, 115, 120, 121, 122, 123
• 10, 20, 30……100, 110, 120, 121, 122, 123
• 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, 120…121, 122, 123

Recording: I have created this recording sheet that shows students how to create a model of their collection and explain the place value of this number. You can print out the recording sheet, or students can write and draw this in their journal.

Replaying the game: This game of counting collections can be played as many times as you can find different items

I hope that everyone enjoyed their sunny day yesterday! I worked outside on the porch with Finn next to me all day enjoying the sunshine. 🙂

Yesterday, I also launched a Youtube channel that I will use to record videos of me teaching and read alouds over the next few weeks. I may also link other videos from other second grade teachers of MVE staff. Starting next week, I will post on here and email out discussion questions that can be used for the read alouds at home. Students can record their responses in their journals.

Check out my first video!

Click, Clack, Moo Cows That Type by Doreen Cronin https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPsnEC4GGtw&t=20s

Response Discussion Questions and Writing Response in Journal:

When many events and trips are cancelled, learning is not canceled! Here are some great resources with hyperlinks for students. All of these are educational resources that could be used at home!

Listed on the document are some our our class codes that were given in the parent letter last Friday! Hope these are helpful with logging in at home!

Music with Mr. McKnight and Mr. Steinman

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCE41_vwY1BIH1ffzu-UV-0A/playlists?view=1&sort=dd&shelf_id=0

Storyline Online: This website is one of our class favorites!! Listen to famous actors read some classic children’s books!

Home

Cambridge, known for it’s prestigious colleges, gets its name from its many bridges along the River Cam. As you walk around Cambridge you cannot help but notice the beautiful buildings, exquisitely designed churches , and well known bridges. The city is significantly quieter than London, however when I visited, it was a town of celebration- as many college students from Cambridge’s 31 different colleges were finishing exams.

On my arrival in Cambridge, I walked the streets to explore and gain an appreciation for the city. I found myself feeling as if I was in a Harry Potter film with the grey washed buildings, intricate architecture, and winding side streets. 

As I walked around the city I decided to give Cambridge a new nickname: The city of zip-ties. All through the city, you will find people riding bikes EVERYWHERE and while some used locks, many were zip-tied to fences. I found this to be a peculiar custom of the locals!

Now, let’s look at the reason I came to Cambridge—THE BRIDGES!

The best way to appreciate the city of Cambridge and it’s many bridges is through a punting tour. This gondola style boat tour winds between many colleges such as St. John’s, King’s, Trinity Hall, Clare College, and many more. The boat was filled with 6 people and was prepared for any type of England’s weather with umbrellas and blankets—luckily they were not needed!

The tour was filled with so much information about the history Cambridge and its bridges. I found it funny that Cambridge University began with a few students who fled Oxford University, because they were in trouble.

Many famous people have either attended or taught in Cambridge, some being C.S. Lewis, Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Allen Turing, Steven Hawking, Robert Frost, and Prince Charles. As I passed under each bridge, I couldn’t help but be honored by the thought that I am seeing and walking across the same bridges that these influential people did over the years.

Mathematical Bridge: This footbridge was definitely in my top 5 bridges of this entire fellowship. The intricacies and precise lines of the wooden bridge is what makes it so intriguing. The guide informed our boat of an interesting fact: It is said that the first Mathematical Bridge was constructed based fully on mathematical measurements without any screws or nails—incredible! After the tour, I bought a DIY model of the bridge to show my students–which I hope them seeing a 3D version will enhance their visual understanding.

Another bridge that stuck out to me was the Clare Bridge, the oldest bridge in Cambridge built in 1640. This arched structure is actually falling slightly in the middle–but is still structurally sound for use! 

Kitchen Bridge, the second oldest bridge, was built and carved out of a single block of limestone to give it the appearance of masonry. I found it very impressive!

The Bridge of Sighs….sigh! Its breathtaking design is what attracts many people to it. This bridge in Cambridge is actually a replica of the one located in Venice, Italy. Although many people are in awe of it’s architecture, many believe that the bridge in Venice was called the Bridge of Sighs because the bridge actually led prisoners to their cells. It is said that they took their last ‘sigh’, as they looked out to Venice for the last time—heartbreaking I know! Luckily, the Queen of England did not want the replica to have the same meaning. The bridge in Cambridge used by students of St. John’s College to connect the two sides of campus, was more of her intended purpose.

As humans, we are always trying to improve ourselves and the world around us. We think to ourselves: How could this be more efficient, artistic, or the next big thing? Many bridges in the UK have gone through some significant changes from complete rebuilding after long lasting wear and tear to city vision projects.

In London, when I visited the Millennium Bridge, I was frustrated to see that my view was blocked by construction workers, barrier fences, and lots of wire! My first thought was that the “wobbly” bridge was getting fixed once again. However, halfway down the bridge I noticed a sign. The sign notified me that London had an Illumination River Project under works! A unified light was being installed across London’s many bridges. This will unite the city and the many different communities. After seeing the inspiration for the project, my perspective changed on how I looked at the construction. London was creating a city wide art project! The Illuminated River Project states their vision, “The realisation of the project has involved a unique collaboration of London’s creative talent, statutory bodies and local communities and will leave a lasting legacy for the capital in the form of a dynamic public artwork, refocusing and celebrating the Thames bridges as social, historical and architectural landmarks.”

I cannot wait to show my students the photos from the bridge, look at the team effort to complete this project. The workers must work together in completing the project, but also ensure each others safety! Look at this one construction worker suspended under the bridge! Wow!

In my classroom, its my goal for my students to learn that their engineering designs and projects can be added onto and improved. Many of my students work quickly and say “I’m done!”…then move onto the next task. I want my students to be engineers who are trying to find ways to make their model even better.

https://illuminatedriver.london/about

There are parks of all sizes scattered throughout London, from expansive parks like Hyde park to the small parks like the White Hall Gardens. It’s amazing to see the diversity and people of all ages that frequent these parks. Whether it be locals or tourists, the benches scattered across the parks offer tranquility and a place to rest peacefully (I especially found this to be true after miles and miles of walking each day!). 

On the Southside of Tower Bridge, I visited a little park that was filled with food trucks, visitors, and many locals eating their lunch during their work breaks. I must admit, I can’t think of many better views for a lunch break!

On sunny days in London, (which was surprisingly a majority of my time there), there was a blend of people doing various activities — from eating, walking their dogs, reading books, taking naps, and tossing frisbees. I joined the locals of London and did the same. I brought some lunch, ate, and somehow found myself taking a little nap in the park. For such a fast-paced city, I understand why there are so many parks embedded into the city—you need rest! 

While exploring the Jubilee Bridges, I stumbled upon a little park, the White Hall Gardens, and sat at one of the many park benches. As I look up, I see a beautifully architectured building. Curious, I look up the name and the history behind it. The building, The Royal Horseguards, used to be a hotel and was then used for MI6 during the wars! (MI6 might also remind some people of the many James Bond movies). 

After crossing the Jubilee Bridges, I walked through yet another park and a restaurant located underneath the bridges. This park looked differently, more kid-friendly with a play area overlooking the River Thames. 

After my travels all over London, I have realized that many parks were created close to the bridges. I do not believe this is a coincidence. Whether you are sipping some coffee and resting your feet or getting some exercise—parks are a way of life in London.

Prior to my arrival in London, I asked a few friends who currently live in London where to go for the best markets. Many were listed from Portobello Road, Camden Market, Borough Market, and a few others. With the small time I had in London, I was able to visit Portobello Road and Borough Market — each with their own unique atmosphere and INCREDIBLE locally-made food ( some made right in front of me!). The Saturday Portobello Market was packed with antiques, trade items, food, and tons and tons of people. Although I only ventured through this market for about an hour to grab a bite to eat and explore, I heard more languages spoken within that hour than I have anywhere in the United States. It helped put everything into perspective and expand my understanding of how the bridges have “bridged” the cultural gap in London.

Borough Market was my absolute favorite (I actually visited twice because the food was so wonderful!). The Market is located underneath the passenger railways and next to London Bridge on the Southwark side. You know you’ve arrived at Borough Market by the appetizing smells (my mouth is watering just thinking about it). I was told to arrive hungry—and they were right. You can choose from all sorts of food from curry, fresh baked items, bbq, fresh veggies or fruit, fish and chips, Thai, and many others. There were almost too many options, and making a decision on what to feast on was very difficult. I circled the market twice before I landed on my choice! While I ate my fish and chips and custard filled donut…and cinnamon roll (really healthy, I know) I could hear trains come and go every few minutes. All of the booths would rumble a bit, but everything carried on as normal.

While at the market, I stopped by the information center to learn a little bit more about the market. I learned that market is the oldest in London—it has existed since year 1014!! WOW! The man went on to tell me that the market was positioned strategically next to the only bridge in London at that time — the London Bridge. The market was used for trade of produce. At first, the market was only two days a week where tradesman would sell to the locals and travelers, but the market’s scheduling changes in the 1500’s to 6 days a week and has remained the same ever since. He also told me that this market is the only privately owned market in London and surrounding areas, as there are no government relations associated with it.

While I was sitting and eating a vanilla custard-filled donut, it struck me that this market is older than the United States, dating back over 1,000 years ago. It’s safe to say that, without bridges, these markets and the overall London economy historically would take a hit and cease to flourish.

Who wants a donut?

Birds eye view

Seeing London from up above is the best way to capture the vastness of the city. Through my fellowship, I was able to see London’s many bridges from an aerial view.

For starters, I visited St. Paul’s Cathedral, where I observed the Millennium, Blackfriars, and Southwark Bridge. This allowed me to expand my perspective and helped me better grasp the amount of vehicles and pedestrians that crossed each of the bridges. Also, it was neat to observe certain bridges supported trains for both travel and industry. In addition, I noticed that many of the buildings surrounding the bridges had rooftop terraces with gardens, restaurants, and lounge areas. For a local—what better way is there to enjoy the daily view?

Next, I observed London’s bridges from the Shard, the tallest building in Western Europe. This building, which can be seen from nearly anywhere in London, is a staggering 1,016 feet high! I took the elevator up 72 flights to the observatory deck. Once I reached the deck, I immediately noticed the temperature change, as I could feel the cold breeze rushing by since the roof was an open structure. Don’t worry- I was protected by the glass walls.

This perspective allowed me to view MANY of the bridges along the winding Thames River, ranging from the Tower Bridge to the Millennium Bridge. If I hadn’t gone up to the Shard, I wouldn’t have noticed how many roof top terraces and parks surrounded each of the bridges as well.

To say that the city of London is fast-paced would be an understatement, and the view from the Shard was evidence of this. It also allowed me to see that the people of London find rest in London’s plentiful parks that are connected to the bridge areas.

The third viewing area was the new and popular landmark, the London Eye. An interesting fact I learned was the Ferris wheel was originally meant to be temporary (2-3 year attraction), but was so sought after by the public and tourists alike that the city decided to make in permanent. The views from the Eye are like none other. I was also lucky— I visited the London Eye on a day that started rainy but haze cleared up right at sunset—the perfect time to visit! On the London Eye, I entered the 360 glass viewing pod-as seen in the photos. The Hungerford Bridge, Jubilee Bridges, and Westminster Bridge we’re beautiful at sunset.

Overall, the experience of viewing London’s bridges from a high advantage taught me a few things:

⁃ Old and New: One of my favorite things I would never have realized without this fellowship is the transition from the old to the new in London. For example, while in the Shard, I observed the Tower Bridge. On the North side of the bridge is the historic Tower of London and opposite is the South side of the bridge with a very modern building and a crowded park with food trucks. The blend of these two is what makes London so intriguing and iconic.

⁃ Multiple Bridges: seeing the bridges from a “birds-eye view” allowed me to see them side by side and compare them. First, I notice the number of bridges that span the Thames River. After visiting the Tower Bridge tour and London Bridge Experience, I now understand the need for multiple bridges in this growing city. Over the centuries, London has grown exponentially in size, which has forced London to engineer bridges that can support the city’s growth. Although there are so many bridges that cross the Thames, each one is utilized to their max potential. Who knows if London will need to build another in the coming years?!

⁃ Structure of the bridges: From the Shard especially, I noticed the various types of structures and architecture-styles of the bridges. From the bascule Tower Bridge, arches of the Westminster and London Bridge, and cable-stayed of the Chelsea and Jubilee Bridges.

London Bridge, commonly mistaken as the Tower Bridge, is one of the most famous bridges in the United Kingdom. However, by modern day appearance you might cross this bridge without realizing the history behind it.

Through this fellowship, I’ve had the opportunity to participate in the London Bridge Experience and personally walk across the bridge. Even though photos were forbidden during the tour, I gained much insight about this bridge:

•The London Bridge has been rebuilt a total of 4 times over the years. It was originally built by wood by the Romans to connect the northern city area and the Southbank. The wooden bridge was replaced by a stone bridge in 1176. This bridge lasted 600 years. I was amazed to see a full model of this bridge which had houses, shops, and a chapel on the London Bridge.

•“London Bridge is Falling Down”, the famous children’s song, comes from a few possible origins. One is the attack from the Saxons and Vikings that left the bridge partially destroyed. Others speculate that the disassembled bridge of 1176 might have inspired the song. Another potential origin is from the partial collapse of the bridge during the Great Fire of London of 1666.

An interesting fact:

One cold winter, the River Thames froze so much that the merchants and community came onto the river to set up booths for trade and play games. I also found this story depicted through a memorial underneath the bridge.

The tour also highlighted the Great Fire of London, depicting that the buildings that resided on the bridges were burned but the foundation stood strong (this tragedy destroyed 2/3 of London!). I found it interesting that during these specific times, the people of London were superstitious about the River Thames that flows underneath the bridge. Due to their belief that evil spirits lurked in the water (where they also threw suspected witches), the folks that lived on the bridge hadn’t learned to swim. This ended up being their demise as both ends of the bridges were ablaze during the Great Fire.

The next bridge that was rebuilt in the 1760’s served a much different purpose the the previous bridge. Instead of shops and living areas, the engineers built a wider and much greater arch structure to allow more weight for travel. Years later, a multi-arch (five arches) structure was supposed to enhance the functionality of the bridge, but only lasted until the 1960’s. During that time, the population of London amplified too quickly for the bridge and officials began brainstorming plans for a new bridge. The bridge was dismantled and shipped to, none other than, Arizona! How shocking!

The new bridge, which stands today, was built with prestressed concrete, which better supports the heavy weight of vehicles and pedestrians. It was opened to the public by England’s queen, Queen Elizabeth II, in the 1970’s.

Although “London Bridge is falling down” is a tune that most people around the world are familiar with, the bridge still stands and has been rebuilt and repaired throughout history. It, along with other bridges across London, play a vital role in the traffic flow, accessibility, and over economy of the area.

St. Paul’s Cathedral has been around for over 1400 years and has become one of London’s landmarks. The inside is filled with awe-inspiring mosaics, stained glass, and architecture.

After viewing the dome and history of the church, I ventured up the twisting and narrow 1,056 steps to the view of London. It was worth it!

The perspectives I gained of the city of London and it’s bridges was impeccable. I was able to see the Millennium, Blackfriars, and Waterloo bridge and the surrounding buildings. In the distance I could see the London Eye and Tower Bridge!