Yearbook and "Code of the Day"

I have been working non-stop on my school's yearbook. I have devoted HOURS to this task and I feel as though I haven't made a dent in it. I'm slightly nervous. It's enjoyable, but WOW....I never realized how much work goes into something like this.

As I was getting ready for tomorrow, I decided to redesign my "Code of the Day" template. I got this idea from my former AP. Over summer break, she suggested to us teachers that we have a "code of the day." This is where you put a math fact on your door, whiteboard, wall, etc. and request that your students say it at various times of the day for different reasons. For my class I hang the "code" on my doors (I have two). The students must say the code and the answer when they enter the room. If I'm not by the door to hear their response, my fabulous (and always willing to tattle) 3rd graders will harp on that individual until they say it. At first, I was like "ehh... this could work." My fear was that my kiddos would just expect someone to solve the code and then "steal" their answer. I was very wrong. My students love this concept. They are very respectful of the idea and know that we have the "code" so that everyone can learn their multiplication and division facts. If they don't know the code, they peak their heads inside and ask for someone to bring them paper and a pencil. I LOVE IT! Such effort. :) Usually in the morning, they attempt to be "secretive" about the answer, so they will whisper it to me. By mid-morning we have heard the code/answer dozens of times and the novelty of the "secret" has worn off. BUT THAT'S GOOD...hearing a math 50+ times in one day! I make my kids say it if they want to leave for the bathroom, when they return, running errands, leaving for lunch, specials...EVERYTHING! Not only are they saying the same math fact several times a day, they are hearing that same fact constantly. My multiplication drill test scores are impressive. :)  

The template is nothing fancy, but I did have it laminated so I can use Expo markers to write/erase the facts.  I have attached the template for you all. Click on the picture.

Off to watch some football and snuggle with Penny. My alarm ringing at 4:30am tomorrow will be here before I know! Happy New Year blog friends!