Fun with Conversation Hearts {Unit and Freebie}

A few years ago, I created this fun unit to use for a themed day on Valentine's Day.  This past week, I started prepping the file for my maternity sub.  I just love the unit.  It has activities for each content area and the kids love the hands on activities.

This year Target is selling this cute set of heart books in a package of 8 books for $3.  I picked up a couple to glue in the heart shaped unit. The book is a little smaller than the ones last year so I adjusted my print settings.  You can print at full size and it will be okay.  The example shown has been printed at a shrink setting of 85%.

To ensure my sub knows how to complete the activities, I completed a book myself for an example.  Here's the preview images...

If you're interested in the unit for $2, click the cover graphic below.  You will need a little time to prep.  I will say, you can simple print and staple.  It doesn't have to be cut and glued in the books but my kiddos love making them each year.

I also have an excellent book companion for the story, Somebody Loves You Mr. Hatch that I love using with my kiddos each year. Discounted 50% off through Feb 1st, 2020.

And, if you're looking for a cute freebie, I have one that aligns with the story When an Elephant Falls in Love. However, you don't need the book to complete this reproducible activity.

Fun with Conversation Hearts {Mini Book}

Just popping in to share a fun little file that pairs well with the Target mini books: heart shaped and square.  You will see a visual of all the pages included below...

If you're interested in this file, link using the cover below...

When An Elephant Falls in Love {Freebie Response}

I stumbled across an adorable book a few weeks ago and knew it would be perfect compliment for my next response at our writing center.  The kids were all smiles and giggles about the elephant's silly behaviors.  In the coming weeks, students will respond to writing the freebie provided below.

The story, When an Elephant Falls in Love, tells of an elephant that does many foolish things when he is around the object of his affection.  He hides, writes letters he never sends, and leaves flowers at the door only to run away.  I was instantly captivated by the adorable illustrations and simple text.

Target can be dangerous.  A little shopping therapy ended in a cheap parent gift for each student, costing $10.  The book was $12.

Contain the mess by using a bowl.

I have adhesive magnetic tape that I adhered to the back of their frames.

The heart light was purchased several years ago.  I found a cute free printable if you're looking for something your kids can hold.  The bunting comes in English and Spanish. 

The 4x6 frame fits perfectly in the party bags!

Check out a few pages of this adorable story...

Click cover graphic below for the freebie download.

The kids are provided a directed drawing of an elephant and a doodle framed paper for their illustration.  To assist their writing, my students are also provided picture cards of Valentine's Day nouns and an affectionate acts mini book.  Students are asked to write sweet or silly things they will do for the people they love.

Looking for additional ideas, I have a book companion for Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch.

Click the cover graphic above.

Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch {Book Companion}

I've been working on this file off and on for a hot minute but finally found the motivation to complete it yesterday!  I'm so grateful for the lovely feedback on the unit! 

I fell in love with Somebody Loves You Mr. Hatch with the Storyline Online Reading by Hector Elizondo. 

Captivate students with holiday themed fun while meeting learning standards! This 73 page packet is packed full of excitement.

What's included...

Build background knowledge of Valentine's Day with a KWL or record facts with new learning.

A heavy dose of story vocabulary will assist language learners with words such as prune, supper, supper, packages, fluttered, wondered, valentine, mysterious, harmonica, delivered, fetched, streamers.

Provided are several options for recording vocabulary words. Option one includes a vocabulary book with clipart images. Option two includes blank vocabulary response pages. Option three includes interactive pages.

Reread the story throughout the week using my prepared interactive skills pages. Included are essential questions, flip flaps for note taking, and a student page for informal assessment. Each of the above options are provided for transitions, days of the week and communities.

You'll find engaging comprehension response sheets with a story map, compare/contrast, plot, cause/effect and connections.

Encourage students to write friendly letters. Included for lesson is an instructional poster and matching checklist, parts of a letter poem and Valentine's Day card with key words.

Spruce up your bulletin board with a Lovebug Craft or send home for mom and dad. 

Last, you'll find a developing fluency reader. Mr. Hatch, Mr. Hatch What Do You See? 

I'm eager to use this unit and hope you find the activities engaging yet meaningful.  Click the image below to link to the unit.