We all know that Spring is the time for rebirth and kites but, to me, it is the time for Baseball Season to begin!

Did you know that you could implement baseball (or any sport, for that matter) across the curriculum? Here are just a few ideas.

1. Reading - Read about your favorite players, teams, and stadiums. Alphabetize the names of all the teams. Sequence how to play the game. Predict the outcome of your team's year. Will they make it to the playoffs? Have a cause and effect discussion about a team's possible move.

2. Writing - Write to your favorite team to wish them a good year and let them know you are cheering for them.

3. Math - Play baseball by dividing your class into two teams. You be the pitcher and throw out math problems (addition, multiplication...whatever you are studying or reviewing). If the batter answers correctly, it is a single. If someone calls out an answer, it is an automatic double. If you give a two-part problem, count it as a triple. Ask a story problem for home runs. HAVE FUN! (NOTE: This game adapts well to any subject.)

4. Social Studies - On a map of America, color the states where the teams are located (perhaps red for American League teams and blue for National League teams). If a state has both leagues represented, color half the state in each color.

5. Community Involvement - Arrange for a player or other team representative to visit your class, grade group, or school. If you do not have a national baseball team, how about a high school or college team? How about a different sport?

I hope you have found these ideas useful. Remember, Reading is FUNdamental!!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Freda J. Glatt, MS, retired from teaching after a 34-year career in Early-Childhood and Elementary Education. Her focus, now, is to reach out and help others reinforce reading comprehension and develop a love for reading. Visit her site at http://www.sandralreading.com. Reading is FUNdamental!