Groundhog Day

Celebrating a rodent who can’t identify his shadow? Hi, it’s us. First grade students everywhere in the United States. We live for random, odd holidays and Groundhog Day is one of those. So, as a teacher, how do I allow us to bask in the weird while also ensuring another February school day isn’t lost? (You know what I’m talking about – 100th/120th Day, Dental Month, Valentine’s Day, President’s Day, ANDTHELISTGOESON.)

Groundhog Day Books – My Faves

I can never turn my back on a good book. It’s just not possible. From morning arrival to transition times, classroom bookshelves are the perfect space filler. On the market for some Groundhog favorites? Make sure to check out…

• Groundhog Gets a Say – There is a lot more to a Groundhog than February 2nd. In this hilarious book, the groundhog advocates for himself and educates other about his role and awesomeness year round, not just one day. 
• Groundhog Runaway Shadow – A perfect text if you want to match this fun day with a NGSS science unit surrounding sun and moon movement, shadows, and how time is effected by the relationship between the Earth and sun! 
• Celebrating Groundhog Day – This is a perfect beginning chapter book that helps students dig deep into the lives of groundhogs. A nonfiction text with beautiful illustrations, this book is approachable and lays a ground foundation for learning on February 2nd!

Additionally for some texts that are just-right for my primary learners, I’ve included informational reading passages about Phil and Groundhog Day here.

Phonics Sound Mats

Our themed learning doesn’t need to end during our literacy block. Support readers with three differentiated lists of groundhog-themed words. These sound mats help structure students as they say a word, tap it out, map it or smash it (as below), blend it, and then, write it. These routines help build automaticity, provide multi-sensory practice, and give students opportunities for repeated practice.

Math Center – Groundhog Problems

Finally, help Phil solve some of his most worrisome problems. Using addition and subtraction word problems within 20, these task cards are perfect for a solve the room math center or a just-right task for a math small group.

You can snag all the materials above ready to print and practice HERE! I would love to hear YOUR favorite way to celebrate Phil and his big day – February 2nd.