All of my students, K-3 have a science notebook. When they fill one up, they get a new one. These are theirs to keep for reference and resources. We glue in any lab sheets (they are taught how to fold them and only glue one half of the paper so they can still open it and it does not stick out), foldables, leaves, different types of sand, soil, clay particles, etc. I also have small ziploc (snack size or smaller) bags, so they can put liquids, slime, etc in their notebook also. In the first few weeks of school, I pass out old science magazines, national geographic kids, or whatever I have on hand. They get to cut out pictures of what science means to them and make a collage on the front on their notebook. I then cover in it in clear contact paper or clear packing tape. They are so proud of their notebooks and show any guests who come in! Their favorite part is taping things in. I go through a lot of tape, but it is worth it. :) Every table has their own dispenser. I always start off with modeling my own notebook. Anytime I go to any science prefessional development or I am trying out a new experiment/investigation, it is logged in my notebook. We have tried binders, folders, spirals, and the best thing is the compostion notebook. Consider using science notebooks...it improves science inquiry skills and writing.
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| My science notebook... |
And so it begins... I need to arrange my tables (trying to decide angled or straight?), do my bulletin boards, redo some stuff on my walls, make a new so valance for my ugly blinds, reorganize cabinets and closet (which is huge!), set up everything electronic, clean tanks, set up critters (that are at my house for the summer), and finish units for first and second grade for the first 18 days of school. Only ONE week of summer left... :(
My wonderful hubby started working on my bulletin boards! He put up the black material and layered my borders just like I wanted (and he does a much better job than me!). I am going with black and white (dots in bloom-creative press) with a touch of color. My wonderful daughter put my new label maker to work and started labeling my cabinets. I want everything organized and labeled! Teachers grade K-3 come in once a week for an open lab time and I want supplies handy for them. I also try to maintain supplies for experiments they do in their classrooms. 
Tables on an angle or not? I might try them straight. Last year, I had them like this and it took me a little while to get use to them (I like straight lines), but I ended up liking the arrangement. I am so not ready for summer to be over!
