Are you looking for new ways to add mark making, writing and drawing to your outdoor classroom?! We can bring out paper and pencil and keep things same as usual. Or we can try out a variety of other ideas that might just spark some of our reluctant writers to begin mark making!

• Cardboard “clipboard” for each child – these are made from recycled cardboard with a binder clip to hold the paper on.
• Clipboards (regular sized or half sized) – attach pencil with string so it’s easy to manage outdoors.
• Nature Journal – seasonal/ monthly, easier to manage – Check out a video about my process with tips & tricks in our “Nature Inspired Teacher” Facebook group – https://www.facebook.com/april.benzzajko/videos/317045453779607?idorvanity=1843474542616408
• Fall Nature Journal – https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1jLb5f4DzvsgWr8FaMlhZJban8mlPhk5ppHGNIKhMePI/edit?usp=sharing
• Wooden leaves (see picture above) or tree cookies – draw on with markers. Somehow this project is more magical outdoors!
• Small chalkboards
• Chalk – onto rocks, lumber of raised beds, or sidewalk
• White boards & markers (better in warmer weather as the markers don’t write well in cold temperatures)
• Pencils and other writing instruments (have a management plan)
• Paper
• Paint pens on rocks or tree cookies
• Observation sheet for children to use
• Ten frames (poster board)
• Tally sheets
• Graph paper
• Large easel pads when just a few sheets left so if it gets wet, no big deal

Come join the “Nature Inspired Teacher” free Facebook group! I share lots of nature based teaching tips and inspiring ideas. Click this link ~

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