tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77059980611960074432024-03-13T10:31:24.980-07:00Adventures In Teaching Grade One-TwoDocumenting my thinking about education in an early primary classroom.Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-22425754351634573512015-02-08T08:25:00.000-08:002015-02-08T10:15:34.545-08:00Continuing to Reflect and RefineIt has been a long while since my last post for sure and there are several reasons, or just one... LIFE!<br />
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Things (professional readings, workshops, and my PLN) are continuing to push my thinking as an educator and therefor my classroom evolves to reflect my beliefs of what is important. Some of these changes are readily observable like the switch from desks to tables and pencil boxes to tool trays and others are less observable and more fundamental, like the move from well planned thematic units to trying to study my students and plan curriculum in response to their experiences and needs (emergent/responsive curriculum), or creating my own report card to communicate my student's learning in meaningful ways.</div>
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The need for reflection is strong, and as I'm learning, necessary for true learning and growth. It takes time and effort for me to remove myself from home life for some much needed "think" time. This year I'm working on taking that time at home and in the classroom. I've been reading much on the teaching philosophy in <a href="http://www.reggiochildren.it/?lang=en" target="_blank">Reggio Emilia</a>, Italy. It is beautiful and causing a fundamentally changing view of the child as an independent and<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> capable individual, worthy of directing their own learning. This is very much a learning experience that I'm working through in my classroom. I'm currently participating in a series of after school workshops focussing on documentation as well as involved with a group of colleagues working on an inquiry project looking at how Pedegogical documentation can direct student learning and curriculum. This documentation requires effort during the day to stop being busy and observe the students. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Here's what documentation means to me at this point:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Observing - taking note of "<i>ordinary moments</i>" (this has been our challenge from our workshop homework), recording them, interviewing the student about their thinking, reflecting on the moment, sharing the moment with both colleagues and parents.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Revisiting the moment with the class. I think this gives value to the experience of the moment and shares the learning perhaps providing scaffolding to students who didn't experience the moment.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Provides a "spark" to ignite further exploration or a problem to solve that becomes part of our social responsibility.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The spark or problem provides me the opportunity to weave in the curriculum in a way that is relevant and connected to student's experiences.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">A recent "ordinary moment" documented…</span></div>
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This was a moment of unstructured exploration time where this student was concentrating on his building. I noticed he was positioning the planks differently than previously built structures. I sat and watched. As the tower became taller he drew the attention of other students who came to join him. I observed his reaction to the loss of his solitary experience as it became a shared structure. As the structure grew so did the noise. Then I heard him sternly command that everyone "don't shout because the sound vibrations will cause the delicate tower to fall". While I took note of his words and asked him to elaborate, not many of the 6-7 year old students did. I then grabbed my phone and asked for a further explanation to video. As is the case with all class towers, this experience ended with a truly "epic" crash.<br />
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I was excited to have witnessed this moment, but I was further excited when I shared the written documentation with colleagues who shared my excitement and encouraged me with descriptive feedback. They asked questions "Had I noticed …." and suggested possible directions for further experimentation using sound vibrations.</div>
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This moment has sparked our current investigation. We revisited this moment on video with the class and formed the theory to be tested as a group. Many students are involved in testing this theory. Results to date show that our voices (even at maximum volume) are not capable of crashing the delicate towers. Students are not willing to admit defeat and are committed to experimenting with varying "delicate designs". I am working on supporting them with good questions and soon new materials that we might see the effects of these <i>sound vibrations </i>on<i>.</i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What I'm learning</span></div>
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<li>this takes time, but is extremely valuable</li>
<li>this helps me know and connect with my students in deeper ways</li>
<li>I need my supportive group of colleagues to share collaborate with</li>
<li>students are amazingly capable of directing their own learning when given the opportunities and supported appropriately</li>
<li>I need to refrain from trying to recreate experiences of others' learning, but observe my own students daily to support their needs</li>
<li>I need to know the curriculum well in order to pull it into daily experiences</li>
<li>It is hard to take the time to let students experience the cognitive struggle to make sense of the experience and truly learn instead of me feeding them the solution.</li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have questions</span></div>
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<li>Is this type of documentation realistic in a classroom where time is precious and needs are many? There are things I don't get to in the day in order to spend time listening and documenting.</li>
<li>What is the best way to display this documentation that makes it relevant to students? I'm experimenting with digital methods (the Keynote app is working well), printing it and posting on walls and in folders in the class library.</li>
<li>Will these investigations come to a natural conclusion or will I have to move it along before it's concluded? Currently students are spending much time on them, but the learning is deep.</li>
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Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-57346072628640544582014-08-29T10:01:00.002-07:002014-08-30T06:57:37.412-07:00Listening to my heart<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Two of the best things about my job….<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. Working with young learners </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. Being a lifelong learner</span></div>
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It seems that I always have a large pile of professional readings that are reaffirming or challenging my beliefs about my practice. I am continually inspired by others in my profession and am so thankful for my PLN on social media, but this summer my readings have brought me to a quiet, peaceful sence of right. Yes, I'm inspired, excited, and nervous about the start of the new year, but I also have a newly found strength in my passion for the<a href="http://www.reggiochildren.it/?lang=en" target="_blank"> Reggio Emilia</a> approach.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My current reading list</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My newest readings</td></tr>
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I have been listening to colleagues, Charles Jungclaus, Niki Leech and Sandra Succamore who last year took part in the "<i>Self Regulation Series</i>" in my district and I read <u>Calm Alert and Learning</u> by <a href="https://www.ascy.ca/sites/default/files/files/Shanker.pdf" target="_blank">Stuart Shanker</a>. Through these, I have a greater awareness of the role of the <span style="font-size: large;">environment</span> on <span style="font-size: large;">learning</span>. In fact, <a href="http://www.reggiochildren.it/identita/loris-malaguzzi/?lang=en" target="_blank">Loris Malaguzzi</a>, states that the environment is the third teacher. </div>
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The common thread in all of these readings and works is the emphasis on quieting the environment and providing real, quality and natural items and tools for student use. The more I think about this and understand the philosophy behind it, the more I know in my heart it is right. When I look around my home I see a neutral calm grey on the walls and signs of nature in the plants, sticks, tree, wood, stone and fabrics. Why then is my classroom full of bright colours everywhere? Colourful borders on bright papered walls that interferes with student artwork, some store bought teaching materials and lots of plastic containers and materials. I need to quiet the classroom environment and turn to nature and natural items where possible.</div>
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The Reggio approach speaks about strengthening children's connections to the natural and local environment partly by the relationship created with the materials we choose in the classroom (stones, pine cones, shells, sticks, water, sand, light...). Another part of the Reggio philosophy is based on the strength of using loose parts for children's play and art. These items such as stones, gems, buttons, petals are more open ended and provide for greater children's creativity than some of the more commonly purchased materials that are geared for a specific use.</div>
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<b>Environment</b></div>
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Sooooo... my goal, (as soon as I can get back into my classroom), is to edit. I plan on taking down my colourful borders, paper and commercial materials and leave the neutral boards for displaying student work and documentation. I plan on </div>
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<li>Editing the materials on the shelves (thankfully I have some storage room at home) to make space. Empty shelf space for the creations students make. Having a space for them highlights the importance of student's work.</li>
<li>Paring down the materials that are out at a time to make more space to move and collaborate. </li>
<li>Replacing plastic bins with wicker and wood</li>
<li>Switching some plastic manipulatives to natural loose parts</li>
<li>Making some quiet independent spaces as well as large, collaborative spaces</li>
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<b>Planning</b></div>
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I intend to teach through play based inquiry. I will set up some provocations and observe and listen to students through their use of and play with the materials. I will follow their interests and strengths and challenge them where they are at. I have many possibilities of where we might go in our studies mapped out on paper as this is somewhat new for me, but I intend to teach the curriculum through the children's emerging interests. Yes, I will still directly teach guided reading, writing and numeracy concepts. No, I will not teach thematic units laid out by me in advance as in previous years. I know the big ideas in the curriculum and will incorporate them into our inquiries, provocations and daily explorations.</div>
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<b>Documentation</b></div>
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This will be the most difficult task for me, I anticipate, because I plan on taking a large amount of time at the beginning of our year to listen, observe, and record what I see. I usually rush to get formal assessments done and start implementing my plans, but now I want to slow down and truly know my students first. I understand this will take time and knowing my own strengths are not in going slow as I tend to rush, this will be difficult. Yes I will still do formal evaluations to individualize student learning, I just don't want to rush into this. Possibly this will be easier because I am likely rolling over some of my students from last year in a 1-2 combined class.</div>
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My heart says these are good things and I am listening!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwDsbAwgQ8iOirJXZQZwAslu5F2pp3x_wM0eMEhS6JJVqkgZlmUjQS_Ib04HVWrfwg-M4I7KYtC0lOdLiWClcuFWvCzTXuG7ktDhctGF1Wwj0FD6hMVkt4zZtDqgWQ639_mx7Ma8bCoGiC/s1600/c311b5797abb41d8bbf71be29303975c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwDsbAwgQ8iOirJXZQZwAslu5F2pp3x_wM0eMEhS6JJVqkgZlmUjQS_Ib04HVWrfwg-M4I7KYtC0lOdLiWClcuFWvCzTXuG7ktDhctGF1Wwj0FD6hMVkt4zZtDqgWQ639_mx7Ma8bCoGiC/s1600/c311b5797abb41d8bbf71be29303975c.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a>In preparation for the coming year, I have amassed more than a collection of reading. I have jars of sticks and stones and gems, flowers and leaves and petals pressing in my children's heaviest books, baskets of pinecones, and plants newly divided and planted ready for the love and attention of little hands. My family and friends have also been helping me in this endeavour. My husband has cut logs and drift wood for building blocks, made shelves and a light table, Hilary found some much coveted wooden bowls at a local yard sale, grandparents have donated baskets, fabric, jars, wood, and tiles. While this is an exciting start, I plan to have the children begin our collection with found treasures of their own and then add some of mine as needed. </div>
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Now, I am anxious to hear your thoughts and get into my room to begin!</div>
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Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-22190624168844932022013-11-17T15:29:00.000-08:002013-11-17T19:22:09.360-08:00Embracing the chaos...The thing about change is that it breeds more change. We recently began renovating our "new to us" home and what began as a kitchen reno led to moving a wall and rebuilding a staircase and... you know what I mean.<br />
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Same thing in the classroom. Having access to some new tools (iPads and SMARTboard) has provided the impetus for a progression of changes in my teaching practice. As has been mentioned several times at my district's <b>Engaging the Digital Learner </b>series by <a href="http://willrichardson.com/" target="_blank">Will Richardson</a> , <a href="http://www.edutopia.org/suzie-boss" target="_blank">Suzie Boss</a> and many others, it is not good enough to do the same things as I have always done with the new tools. If it looks like a worksheet in the app, or on the screen it likely is and is not making the best use of the tools available.<br />
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My classroom has changed much in the last 2 years and I have <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">learned</span> a few things...<br />
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<li>change is messy</li>
<li>change is often chaotic</li>
<li>change is not always successful the 1st, 2nd, or even the 3rd time (ie: Fred Banting who discovered insulin as a treatment for diabetes), but is worthwhile</li>
<li>change leads to more change</li>
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I have become more comfortable with giving up some of my control on the classroom environment and learning to the students, I am adjusting to a noisier, more collaborative environment where students are learning from each other as well as others around the world. I am comfortable with having students making some choices for themselves about where they will work,
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what they will work on and when. This means that often throughout the day my students will be working on different projects, in different spaces, at different times.
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Yes, there are times when it seems like it is <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">chaos.</span> Like when I am working with a small group at the writing table on their next goal and the wifi goes haywire for those posting on <a href="http://kidblog.org/MrsSarchetsClass1314/" target="_blank">Kidblog</a>
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and someone else who is testing to see if <a href="http://lsarchetgradeone.blogspot.ca/2013/11/our-pumpkin-inquiry.html" target="_blank">pumpkins</a> float or sink spills the water. But students are amazing and are <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">learning </span>to help each other (we have 4 students who are our resident iPad experts) , 2 others who know where to find everything and so on. My students now know that if they lose wifi there are several options as we are always working on similar things in different ways. They are <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">learning</span> to solve problems and be persistent and take responsibility for their own learning.<br />
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Change is not easy or neat or clear. It is exciting and my students and I are loving learning!</div>
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Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-80544313804286561302013-11-17T14:06:00.001-08:002013-11-17T19:44:20.963-08:00Balance<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tourist_on_earth/2654968978/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Balance by tourist_on_earth, on Flickr"><img alt="Balance" height="320" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3273/2654968978_17f4392b17.jpg" title="photo by tourist_on_earth" width="196" /></a></div>
It has been a long time between posts here. I've been struggling lately. I'm struggling with maintaining balance in my life and with the parts of my life that are the most important. This is difficult because I, like so many others, want to do it all and it is just not possible.<br />
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I have my faith that keeps me grounded, my husband that is my voice of reason and my rock, 3 kids that that are my light, and a profession that I love. Beautiful right? Yes. <br />
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My difficulty is coming to terms with the many pulls on my time. I am a wife, mom, daughter, sister, friend, believer, teacher and learner. I love my job and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I love learning</span>. So, while I am passionate about sharing my learning on this blog, it does take time and I am working on how to make that time in my schedule. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I want the same for my kids and my students alike</span>. I worry that today's children will have even more demands on their time and choices to make of what things/people get their attention. Therefore I want to provide for them a joy of learning within a balanced program. I want them to think for themselves and understand what is important to them. To be able to make difficult choices thoughtfully and to understand that each one of us has the moral responsibility to do the very best we can not just for ourselves, but for others too.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Children need to learn to make choices by doing! </span><br />
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They need to choose which books they read.<br />
They need to choose which research project is most important to them.<br />
They need to choose where to play, where to work, and where to read.<br />
They need to learn to work, play, talk, and learn with others. To disagree, argue and solve the problem.<br />
They need to lean what excites them and what is calming.<br />
They need to identify their passion.<br />
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I am learning that they can and will do that given opportunity. Yes, some may need more support than others, but that is my obligation and opportunity as the teacher to scaffold their experience. I need to provide a few choices for some and allow them to make mistakes and then try again. Other students are able to make choices for themselves without me first narrowing the field for them. We <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">learn</span> more from our <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">mistakes</span> than our successes. I know this from personal experience, embracing the opportunities provided by our new digital tools have not come easily, but have been enormously worthwhile! <br />
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<br />Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-35663231849921044922013-04-24T18:31:00.003-07:002013-04-24T18:31:50.100-07:00Using TodaysMeetThis week we tried a web site that I have used a few times before at workshops, but new to our class. It is <a href="http://todaysmeet.com/" target="_blank">TodaysMeet</a>. We have been reading the novel<a href="http://www.sarapennypacker.com/pennypacker-clementine.htm" target="_blank"> <u>Clementine</u></a> by Sara Pennypacker, and I wanted to <i>see</i> what my students were thinking as we read. We have been practicing visualizing and making connections as we read and I wanted a quick look....<br />
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In TodaysMeet each student had an iPad and made comments during my reading. The comments were posted in a chat room I had made. We had the "room" open on the SMARTboard to see during the story and students were encouraged to share their thoughts. Some students made one comment and some made many.<br />
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My students are 6&7 so I made logging into the web site easy by preparing a QR code for students to scan which sends them directly to the right site.<br />
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While I've heard a lot about QR codes and different ways of using them, I've not always seen them as the "best" option. They have seemed like a "gimmick" to me. Fun, but why? I like the "save to home screen" option on the iPads. However, since every time you set up a TodaysMeet you get a new URL that option doesn't work. So QR code is the way. <br />
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Guess what? It worked and not only did kids love the scanning, they got to the right site very quickly and were ready to go in no time. I've since used it a few times with the same results.<br />
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I used <a href="http://www.qrstuff.com/" target="_blank">this</a> site to create the QR code.<br />
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Because this was the first time using TodaysMeet with my students, I stopped various times while reading the chapter to let kids catch up their typing and read each others comments. When I finished the chapter we reviewed all the comments. Even my most reluctant writers and distracted students were successful.<br />
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We will definitely be doing this again!<br />
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Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-986155367428566022013-01-26T08:30:00.000-08:002013-01-26T08:30:48.514-08:00Should there be screen time in the classroom?This is a question that has been coming to my mind often this year and I keep pushing it to the back and continue on. It is not that I want to ignore it, I believe this is a valid question and one that I debate in my own home as well as the classroom, but I am not sure there is just one answer. I was reminded last week by <a href="http://teacherleaders.typepad.com/the_tempered_radical/" target="_blank">Bill Ferriter</a> as he spoke at a district workshop, that using the tools available to us (what many refer to as technology today) should be about good teaching and what is best for students. I try to be cognizant of this as I plan lessons and provide my students choices (to some extent) in the activities they do, ways they show their learning, and where they work/who they work with. It is not about creating lessons for the latest tech tool, but rather which tool will best support the learning and connections of my students.<br />
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My students are 6 years old. They are <b>energetic</b> (13 boys / 7 girls). They are <b>active</b>. They can be <b>loud</b>. They are <b>creative</b>. They are <b>impatient</b>. They are <b>sweet</b>. They are <b>demanding</b>. <span style="font-size: large;"><b>They love to learn!</b> </span>They deserve to be provided the opportunity to learn in a way that is best for each of them in each circumstance. Often, but not always this involves using a screen of some sort.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVvisFVct_Jrpwl7v3C5IAVq4Vs9wGqbcQW8Rmh5AVJH3IQSwvyIFLlU1HGEMaEbM45N_EyPwVBujtcEQOTUI0kqjAt8NoDMfWkYENBdB9jdPS6UWzyWaC5Av5ypM8X13V1zQkccCWaHtF/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVvisFVct_Jrpwl7v3C5IAVq4Vs9wGqbcQW8Rmh5AVJH3IQSwvyIFLlU1HGEMaEbM45N_EyPwVBujtcEQOTUI0kqjAt8NoDMfWkYENBdB9jdPS6UWzyWaC5Av5ypM8X13V1zQkccCWaHtF/s200/photo.JPG" width="200" /></a>
<li>We practice letter formation on the iPads, but we also practice on personal white boards and paper</li>
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<li>We listen to authors and illustrators tell about their trades online, again we also look at paper books and have real authors/illustrators visit (though usually only once per year as it can be difficult to arrange)</li>
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<li>We communicate with other classes to share our learning on google hangout and Skype. We have also used the 'snail mail' to communicate and arranged a face to face visit at our school with a couple other grade one classes from our district.</li>
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<li>We share our learning and tell our story on our own blogs. Yes, this takes a commitment of time for grade ones to learn keyboarding and build the skills to navigate the blogging platform, but students help each other out of necessity (and a desire to share their story). Read <a href="http://adventuresinteachinggradeone.blogspot.ca/2012/04/student-blogging.html" target="_blank">hear</a> about my first experience with Kidblog last year. We are currently loving the Draw&Tell app for the flexibility to add photo and voice at the same time. Students also have paper writing books that they record their thoughts in. </li>
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<li>We teach each other how to use the new tools whether they are digital or otherwise.</li>
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<li>We use manipulatives to build and explore mathematical relationships and then students can record their learning on the iPads.</li>
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<li>We use drawing apps to create art, but we also use a lot of paint, play dough, plasticicene, paper and glue, fabric etc.</li>
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I believe the answer is different for every classroom and each teacher and each student. It is about <b>balance</b> and <b>choice</b>. It is about <b>knowing your students</b>. It is about taking <b>risks</b> and learning along side students. It is <b>exploring</b>. It is asking <b>questions</b>. It is using the <b>tools</b> available to you. There are many screens in my classroom, but I am always questioning the purpose of using them.<br />
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I would love to hear your opinions on the issue of screens.<br />
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<br />Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-26556644910948073192013-01-19T12:01:00.000-08:002013-01-19T17:08:14.796-08:00Is it meaningful?This post is more about the questions I am mulling over in my mind right now, than it is about sharing my learning....<br />
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A few nights ago I attended the third event in the "Engaging The Digital Learner: Going Deeper" series. There were a couple of teachers from my district sharing ways that technology is improving teaching, sharing, and assessment in their classrooms.Thanks @M1chelGagnon and Brette Galy. I enjoy hearing about the great things happening in classrooms around me and am inspired to be creative and share as well things that are happening in my school. Later in the evening we were inspired and challenged by <a href="http://teacherleaders.typepad.com/the_tempered_radical/" target="_blank">Bill Ferriter</a> as he spoke about <i>Teaching the igeneration. </i><br />
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So<i>...</i><br />
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I believe my students are actively involved and engaged in my room most of the day (maybe most of the day is not good enough?), but I wonder if being engaged and actively participating is<b> "it"</b>. Can I rest easy knowing that engaged learning is happening in my room?<br />
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<li>Does the learning meet the curriculum expectations?</li>
<li>Are the activities meaningful? Does it matter if the snowman has 2 or 3 or 4 body parts? Is it meaningful to talk about snowmen in winter if there is no snow on the ground?</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcqTVgPaX_ARA_-XCieuclHoe5-6ayxqG1xwCE9M32kxVsaloYX7av7iH10ZnRcLHyyO6ftenAyg0dcmXcLzD3SD7gsqxAA0IbOuKcfHhK6jbbhwwCC-QCL3C-ERi-li4RQSVT1MkOO7l3/s1600/IMG_2738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcqTVgPaX_ARA_-XCieuclHoe5-6ayxqG1xwCE9M32kxVsaloYX7av7iH10ZnRcLHyyO6ftenAyg0dcmXcLzD3SD7gsqxAA0IbOuKcfHhK6jbbhwwCC-QCL3C-ERi-li4RQSVT1MkOO7l3/s200/IMG_2738.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<li>Is it important for 6 yr olds to use technology?</li>
<li>Is blogging actually creating an authentic global audience for my students?</li>
<li>Is giving my students access to iPads, (even in a centre style as we have 5 iPads in our room) increasing their screen time, beneficial?</li>
<li>Is having a word wall the best use of space?</li>
<li>Are my guided reading sessions truly targeted individual instruction?</li>
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Yes, these are some of the experiences currently going on in my grade one room and yes my mind is spinning with justifications and alternatives. I can answer <b>yes</b> to these questions and tell you my thinking, but am willing to hear suggestions for improving my "best practices". Some of the games, crafts and apps we use/do may seem frivolous at first glance, but they all have a greater purpose. I am working at making this purpose better known to my students.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUl2BglDIfqz7XxFDQbSOdXZN95C1X7j_wnWX5XafyRrm41rB0ks1jvnp2V2-mqGc_UmdxcJkjo0YlbsavesI0P2yiGlpaKGjeGWVP4nb4nPON5TeCSXs8jT85_ZlJN9d55VDYpq5HAJLG/s1600/IMG_0357.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUl2BglDIfqz7XxFDQbSOdXZN95C1X7j_wnWX5XafyRrm41rB0ks1jvnp2V2-mqGc_UmdxcJkjo0YlbsavesI0P2yiGlpaKGjeGWVP4nb4nPON5TeCSXs8jT85_ZlJN9d55VDYpq5HAJLG/s200/IMG_0357.PNG" width="200" /></a>I am also thinking of how to 'build a bridge' as Bill said, between what they know about digital tools and how to use these tools for better learning. Many of my students use their tech tools at home for gaming, a few of them are beginning to blog and comment from home as well. We use many more tools in the classroom on a daily basis, but I struggle to ensure it is not about the novelty of the <b>tool</b>, but about the <b>best tool for the job</b>. </div>
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The challenge I was left with on Wednesday evening - <b>Is It Meaningful? - </b>is an important responsibility to keep at the forefront of my ongoing planning.</div>
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<br />Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-24331204649735389862012-11-16T21:04:00.000-08:002012-11-16T21:04:07.839-08:00Following the student's direction........ even if you don't know where it will lead.<br />
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I was at professional development last night as part of my district's digital learning series. Shelley Wright of <a href="http://shelleywright.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Wright's Room</a> was the guest speaker and challenged me to "rethink" my teaching practice. She shared her experience as she transformed her teaching from that of traditional lecture approach to project based learning. What I took away last night was the challenge to follow the student's interests. To allow them to learn to learn, make mistakes, and do something meaningful in the real world.<br />
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To some extent, I think I already do this. As a grade one teacher, I do have time in the day for student choice of activity and much of my teaching is close to a project based learning style, however I am not sure how much I truly follow the interests of my students. Yes, they do have choices within my overall theme, but how many times have I asked, "What do you want to learn about?" or "What is important for you to know about?".... not often!<br />
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Some have said to me today "...but they are just 6 (yrs old) and don't know what there is to learn. You must teach them first." hmmmmm<br />
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I asked my 6yr old students today what they would like to learn about and let me tell you, they were full of ideas! (Sorry Mrs. Brett, we will be altering our year plans slightly.) Here's what they had to say...<br />
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<ul>
<li>I want to learn about lego.</li>
<li>I want to learn about tarantulas.</li>
<li>I want to learn how cook.</li>
<li>I want to learn about black widows. (times 4)</li>
<li>I want to learn how to take care of animals.</li>
<li>I want to learn how to grow plants (poppies).</li>
<li>I want to learn about flowers.</li>
<li>I want to learn how to make flower pots.</li>
<li>I wonder what these electrical wires do? </li>
<li>I wonder about dinosaurs. (times 3)</li>
<li>I want to learn how to make pancakes.</li>
<li>I want to learn about trees and leaves. We could go outside and experiment!</li>
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<li>Myself, "I wonder who will learn more, me or my students?"</li>
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I think it can work. I'm not sure exactly what it will look like, it will likely be chaotic (I mean more chaotic than it already is), it might not all work, but <b>we will learn.</b></div>
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<br />Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-83997694842297902822012-10-13T15:29:00.004-07:002012-10-13T15:31:16.986-07:00ThankfulYes, right, it is past Thanksgiving! At least the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday, but since I'm choosing to think of Thanksgiving as more of an attitude than a day, it does not matter a bit. Am I right?<br />
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So here are my TOP PICKS<br />
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<ol><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWvNU3pkHYHZjcVuCv_MfDDlzLDJOo_KXPyrqRCywIrDyINXAz_WCm8hR3VrX1V3fFCTgCFfIATmvCeGpP78R5G08kAISs5NkYA-pklryb8ju_u5OwUUD6Et8dnMXMhuCfYLr-5FVAoALw/s1600/IMG_1942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWvNU3pkHYHZjcVuCv_MfDDlzLDJOo_KXPyrqRCywIrDyINXAz_WCm8hR3VrX1V3fFCTgCFfIATmvCeGpP78R5G08kAISs5NkYA-pklryb8ju_u5OwUUD6Et8dnMXMhuCfYLr-5FVAoALw/s200/IMG_1942.jpg" width="150" /></a>
<li><b>Famil</b>y. The whole, ever changing group that includes 3 children, hubby, 4 parents, 3 grandparents, 1 brother and family, 1sister-in-law and family, 1 nephew, 4 nieces, aunts, uncles cousins.... You always know you are a part of something greater in a <b>family</b>.</li>
<li>Home. I am realizing more and more the importance of a quiet, comfortable space filled with loved ones and treasured objects.</li>
<li>A job I love! It is a privilege to share in the learning of precious young students.</li>
<li>Sleep</li>
<li>Great <b>neighbours</b> that drive my kids to school everyday!</li>
<li><b>Friends</b> that will go beyond all expectations to dig up a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">GIANT </span>sunflower from the grandparents and drive it to my house late one night because she knows how I love doing a sunflower unit with my students and she knows my sunflowers are not blooming!</li>
<li>Colleagues that are also your good friends.</li>
<li>A principal that both supports and challenges.</li>
<li>A husband who is beyond measure. He will build a bench because my students can't reach the smartboard or make a portable pool to race our class boats in.</li>
<li>Technology that makes this world smaller. (I must admit to a love/hate relationship to this)</li>
<li>My faith that gives me hope.</li>
<li>Health. I appreciate the things I am <b>able</b> to do. </li>
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I am truly <b>Blessed!</b><br />
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What are you thankful for?Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-12466724747534248792012-10-13T10:29:00.000-07:002012-10-13T10:29:03.708-07:00Connections Part 2It is now October and Thanksgiving is behind me (that will be the next post), I am remembering my "word" <b>CONNECTIONS</b>! While I am happy to have made some organized thoughts regarding this in August when life was still a little quieter and I had time to think and plan, I am regretting my haste in putting it out here!
Do you know what I mean?
Not because I think differently, but because I feel the pressure to be true to my plans in a day when there is so little time and so many things to do. Sooooo.....
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<b>CONNECTING</b><br />
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The steps that I've taken so far with my students and myself professionally have had very positive results. This has not come without a fair amount of stress in stepping outside my comfort zone and trying new things that I don't know how to do.
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<li>Quad Blogging has been a very exciting experience for us so far. My class was matched with 3 other classes <a href="http://blog.st-barts.bolton.sch.uk/reception" target="_blank">http://blog.st-barts.bolton.sch.uk/reception</a> , <a href="http://kidblog.org/PhoenixKidsK-2/" target="_blank">http://kidblog.org/PhoenixKidsK-2/</a> and <a href="http://room10waihibeachschool.wikispaces.com/" target="_blank">http://room10waihibeachschool.wikispaces.com/</a> . We began by visiting the Waihi Beach School blog is Sept. and making comments to them about their learning (They were looking at heart, lungs etc. from a dead calf that a parent had brought to school. My students were intrigued to say the least!) I mentioned this in my class newsletter and got an immediate reply from a parent of one of my students whose family is from Waihi Beach, NZ! So, the next week we get an email from the school in Waihi Beach that my student, Ollie's grandfather had stopped in for a visit! My students (and I) were amazed! These places and people were suddenly real to them.</li>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ollie's grandad visiting our quad blog partner school<br />
image courtesy of Jess Hardley, Waihi Beach School<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> 2. Our class also joined a Primary Blogging Community that we partner with in a similar way. We have only just begun connecting with this group, but I feel confident we will learn from them, too.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> 3. We joined the <b>Global Read Aloud</b></span></div>
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We joined with <a href="http://www.mslirenmansroom.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Mrs. Lirenman</a>, <a href="http://lovetolearnwithmsleech.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Ms. Leech</a> and <a href="http://www.mrswideen.com/" target="_blank">Mrs. Wideen</a> for a google hangout to read one of the chapters together each week. In this way our classes are connecting and hearing the story being read by different teachers to 4 classes at once. We see all 4 classes on the screen at the same time. We can take turns sharing predictions and listening to each other. While I had practised at home first with Karen and Niki, our first scheduled Hangout with our classes at school came with a little technical difficulty on my end. The three other classes were on line waiting for me and I was unable to join in. The frustration was mounting (students were beginning to lose patience), fortunately Niki across the hall remembered that I needed to switch the wireless access to our school guest access in order for this to work. So, after a few tense minutes on my end we were able to join in the fun. This was my turn to read the chapter and my students first time seeing themselves on the screen which lead to much waving and head bobbing. I have to say that it was well worth the stress of that first time. My students want to know each time we read now, "are we going to 'hangout'?"<br />
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4. Making connections within my district is happening via our school's team participating in the Engaging The Digital Learner dinner series. The first of the series was a couple weeks ago when we had guest speaker Dean Shareski sharing about telling our stories (very inspiring). While there, though we met some teachers at our table who are interested in visiting our classes and and sharing practical ideas about managing technology in the classroom which is a big issue for us. We also got the opportunity to meet some of the <i>amazing</i> IT people in our district that help make these things possible. Since then we have had them visit our school to see our needs and how we could improve the finer details for our students (apple TV/ air play). The Primary Teacher's Association in my district also has exciting plans which I a looking forward to.<br />
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5. Positive calls home was on my list as well. I have to say I have not done this, YET. I still think it is important, but simply <i>have not got there yet</i>. Soon. I have heard though, from parents that the implementation of the class blog has been beneficial in connecting our classroom to student's home life.<br />
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6. Collaboration within my school is happening! We are fortunate to have collaboration time built into our schedules in the way of buddy time. Next week our big buddy classes take the students to do an activity together while the primary teachers meet to collaborate. The next week we switch roles and the intermediate teachers get the opportunity to meet. I must admit though, that otherwise, I don't get into other classrooms in my school as much as I would like.<br />
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Ok, I think that I am making improvements in my teaching practices through connecting, but I still have much to do.</div>
Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-34443096506197806272012-08-27T08:01:00.000-07:002012-08-27T08:01:45.256-07:00My word....As I'm sitting here (6am, coffee in hand) anticipating returning to the classroom today to set up and get ready for the new year, I'm thinking "What is one thing I'm going to do better this year?"<br />
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My word came quickly, almost too quickly that I brushed it off thinking its too obvious, but I kept coming back to it soooo....<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">CONNECT</span></div>
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Yes, I told you, obvious right? Sometimes you just have to go with it! So here it is, my plan to get connected!</div>
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<li>Be a <a href="http://connectededucators.org/" target="_blank">Connected Educator</a>. This is where the obvious comes from because I just signed up to join this site a couple of weeks ago to continue making global connections with teachers and classrooms. I believe in sharing and learning from each other within your class, school, district, country and around the world. Twitter and this blog have been a large part of my quest to connect and I have learned much, but now I want to make this experience "real" for my students. It must improve student learning, not just my own.</li>
<li>To <b>connect </b>with each student everyday. Maybe it will be an organized, purposeful method as Amy mentions <a href="http://missnightmutters.com/blog" target="_blank">here</a> or something else, but to connect with each student everyday in a meaningful way letting them know I value them and they are important.</li>
<li>To <b>connect</b> with parents. I plan to make use of the phone! I have read about the power of the positive call home<a href="http://www.edutopia.org/blog/power-positive-phone-call-home-elena-aguilar" target="_blank"> here</a> and from Matt <a href="http://mattbgomez.com/fab-5/" target="_blank">here</a>. I can imagine as a mom what that would feel like. Ultimately it gets back to the child. It is empowering for students! Yes, I will use the class blog, Twitter, and face to face interactions before and after school, but calling home is purposeful, individual, and I will reach every parent regardless of work schedule.</li>
<li>My school is full of talented, wonderful teachers who do great things with kids. I need to <b>connect </b>with my own staff better. I am a busy mom as well as teacher and when my students go home my thoughts starting turning to my own kids and the pressure to get home in a timely manner is great, however, I would like to visit the rooms of my colleagues on a regular basis. I mean physically walk <i>down</i> the hall or <i>down</i> the stairs, or <i>up</i> the stairs to enter their rooms. I would like to see what they are doing, talk to them, encourage them, or get encouragement. I haven't been good at this, room for BIG improvement here!</li>
<li>I want to make some new<b> connections </b>in my district too. I have trouble with this because I am comfortable watching and listening. I do these well! I was a quiet introverted child as I continue to be as an adult. I believe though, that I will benefit from stepping out to make face to face connections. Maybe at district workshops, sporting events or meetings. If I will encourage my students to do this, so should I!</li>
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Ok, it is in B&W so hold me accountable!</div>
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Lora</div>
Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-64599816121714511602012-08-15T19:32:00.000-07:002012-08-15T19:32:12.117-07:00Preparing for a new year....As our first day (Sept. 4) quickly approaches I've been asked many times, "Are you ready for a new year?" and "What do you do to get ready?". The short answers are "No" and "Lots".<br />
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<b>No, I'm not ready for a new year quite y</b><b>et</b>! While it is true that autumn is one of my favourite seasons, (as much for the fresh start and new relationships the start of school provides as for the weather, food, and clothing that comes with it), I'm so enjoying carefree, flexible days of summer with my own kids. We do live in Canada after all so let's celebrate the seasons! During the school year I find myself pulled in so many directions I have a hard time maintaining a balance between my personal and professional life. I love teaching young children and feel passionate about being the best teacher I can be (as I do about being the best mom, wife, friend, daughter, Christian...I can be). For me, this means much reading, time to think, conversing with my PLN, more time to think, writing, and relaxing. When school ended this past June, it took me a couple of weeks to truly unwind. More than two full weeks of family vacation at the beach never felt so good! The faces of my students from this past year still seam so fresh in my mind however, I am beginning to feel that spark of anticipation and excitement for Sepember and the new little faces.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Each is an original, never two the same.</td></tr>
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<b>Yes, I do lots in preparation for a new year! </b>I spent lots of time at the beginning of summer reading. I read both for pleasure and for my profession. I have a large stack of great professional books I've collected recently. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw_sVzgZ4pW7JAhFZXXqEd8W7jqu0G6IKNgOod4aN82BuIdw1bCtonimD-umxQgMoEBdeCnnXAIFPAsokqoM-f2DfbKqMSAZrb8Ov2WWO1imRxW4LTKOCcvdnGUN9kpIw7Fbd_Nk1yshme/s1600/IMG_1823.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;">I read in the backyard with my kids, at the beach with my family and on the pool deck. My iPad has more books and articles as well. The most engaging and applicable information I have found though, is via Twitter. Although I still consider myself a newbie to social media and to technology in general, I have jumped in and embraced a steep learning curve alongside my students. Here are some of the things I've been working on besides reading:</span></a><br />
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<ul>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw_sVzgZ4pW7JAhFZXXqEd8W7jqu0G6IKNgOod4aN82BuIdw1bCtonimD-umxQgMoEBdeCnnXAIFPAsokqoM-f2DfbKqMSAZrb8Ov2WWO1imRxW4LTKOCcvdnGUN9kpIw7Fbd_Nk1yshme/s1600/IMG_1823.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw_sVzgZ4pW7JAhFZXXqEd8W7jqu0G6IKNgOod4aN82BuIdw1bCtonimD-umxQgMoEBdeCnnXAIFPAsokqoM-f2DfbKqMSAZrb8Ov2WWO1imRxW4LTKOCcvdnGUN9kpIw7Fbd_Nk1yshme/s200/IMG_1823.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<li>Signed up for Global Read Aloud. We will be reading Charlotte's Web and collaborating with classes around the world in many ways. I have to familiarize myself with Edmodo and Skype.</li>
<li>Applied for and was accepted for a Flat Classrooms Project and opted to do a spring project.</li>
<li>Created a new "class" blog where I will be sharing with families and others as an extension of the learning we do in class.</li>
<li>Worked on creating some Smartboard lessons as my Smartboard is new to me as of December this past year.</li>
<li>Collected supplies for my classroom.</li>
<li>Designed a new floor plan to make better use of the space and accommodate the new technology we have purchased.</li>
<li>Planned a couple of field trips.</li>
<li>I will be doing a few summer ProD sessions. One with my school on digital portfolios as well as <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><em style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://events.sd36.bc.ca/summer2012sshanker/" target="_blank">Dr. Stuart Shanker's Self Regulation </a> and </em><a href="http://friendsrt.com/funfriends.html" target="_blank">Fun Friends</a>.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">I enrolled in <a href="http://canucks.nhl.com/club/page.htm?bcid=536" target="_blank">Fins Friends</a> for the 2012/13 school year.</span></li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333;">While I have done much in the way of preparation for the new year, most beneficial for me has been to relax and enjoy time with my family. I believe I can be a better teacher and more "in the moment" if I am relaxed and refreshed as only a summer vacation will do. So I will be making the most of the next couple of weeks (yes, I will go in to set up my classroom too)!</span></div>
Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-79168484737081853532012-07-15T21:22:00.000-07:002012-07-15T21:22:39.768-07:00A year of learning...Ok, this is inspired by many <a href="http://earningandsharingwithmsl.blogspot.ca/">Karen</a>, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/excitementingradeone.blogspot.ca/">Niki</a>, <a href="http://mauimickey.wordpress.com/">Michelle</a>, and others so I strive to do it justice.<br />
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This has been one of the biggest years of learning in my life (behind becoming a wife and parenting my children). Although I have been teaching for 20 years, this has been the greatest. I returned to the classroom full-time since becoming a mom 14 yrs ago and embraced using technology with my students. As I have mentioned before, this was way outside my comfort zone, much like what I imagine my students feel like at various times in our day.<br />
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So here it is, my year 2011/12...<br />
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<ul>
<li>Sept. began, after a summer of preparing by reading <a href="http://www.the2sisters.com/the_daily_5.html" target="_blank">The Daily 5</a> and <a href="http://www.the2sisters.com/the_daily_cafe_new.html" target="_blank">The Daily Cafe</a> which brought about creating more student choice in my reading and writing program and improvements in individual conferencing (a work in progress)</li>
<li>Late fall I saw <a href="http://www.readingpowergear.com/" target="_blank">Adrienne Gear</a> speak about her <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Writing-Power-Engaging-thinking-through/dp/1551382636" target="_blank">Writing Power</a> book and several strategies to improve students writing. I'm thinking about how to help my young writers develop their own "voice".</li>
<li>Dec. saw my Smartboard finally installed. Amidst great excitement I began learning to use it with my students (who learn faster than I at times)! It quickly became a favourite teaching/learning tool for students and teacher.</li>
<li>Feb. I went to my first Ed Camp in Surrey, where I met Karen for the first time. She convinced of the power of Twitter, and blogging!</li>
<li>I set up a Twitter account and "lurked"</li>
<li>March, I began this blog.</li>
<li>I also set my grade 1 students up with their own kidblog account. I am so happy to see them continue to blog and comment through the summer.</li>
<li>I took part in Surrey's Digital Dinner series to learn more about using the iPad in my classroom and was amazed at the possibilities....</li>
<li>I helped write our school's proposal for the Innovative Learning Designs grant where we were successful in gaining funds to purchase mobile technology for next year.</li>
<li>I attended another Primary Teacher's Association mtg where I met <a href="http://sarahjane.edublogs.org/our-sites/" target="_blank">Sarah</a> who again encouraged me to jump-in with both feet and be more active on Twitter.</li>
<li>I tried "I Wonder..." statements with my students where they investigate their own inquiry. Powerful learning was the result.</li>
<li>I began learning from and with my students, and not fear the mistakes or problems along the way. Yes, the dongle to the Smartboard sometimes has a mind of it's own!</li>
<li>The last few months (and George Couros) have convinced me of the power of Twitter in my own Pro D. The connections are simply amazing!</li>
<li>I attended a workshop given by <a href="http://mrstsgrade3sclassblog.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Robyn</a> on blogging in Primary which further cemented my commitment to writing to learn. I am still learning.....</li>
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Here is what I am currently working on<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD52kcSsCpCNGFhhCpfsSn5fCJDjm_xOgnrP0qYLH7rRCLVQmwv5hK5FAc7EtI-xXiDizKc5fOj9CeDhybnjZb0QtEGT9Oauiz_vc8AcrwivwhtaaK5AOPInyDh16grIk_ZlXeiGuUnI7C/s1600/IMG_1723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD52kcSsCpCNGFhhCpfsSn5fCJDjm_xOgnrP0qYLH7rRCLVQmwv5hK5FAc7EtI-xXiDizKc5fOj9CeDhybnjZb0QtEGT9Oauiz_vc8AcrwivwhtaaK5AOPInyDh16grIk_ZlXeiGuUnI7C/s200/IMG_1723.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I have another stack from last year I intend to review this summer as well. I love being challenged by so many. My effort right now is to write to make sense of what I am learning. I aim to be more purposeful in developing my own voice right here.<br />
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I am thankful to all these talented teachers (and so many more) who encourage on my journey. Thanks also to Shelley Brett for supporting and believing in Niki and I!</div>
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<br /></div>Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-35237583316572826182012-06-03T08:03:00.000-07:002012-06-03T08:03:13.076-07:00Bitter Sweet........describes my emotions right now. It is June and all around plans are being made. Plans to celebrate the learning and achievements of this past year, plans to relax and unwind for the summer and plans to get ready for the coming year. I love summer and anticipate warm days at the beach, playing with my kids, reading, sleeping, running (hmmmm?) relaxing as much or more than the students, but I'm not ready yet.<br />
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Is it that there are too many unfinished projects? Well no, but there are a few. Is it that I'm not good with change? Well maybe, but I don't think so (my husband would argue this). Perhaps it is saying farewell to a wonderful group of kids?<br />
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I have been thinking about this for a little while now as the feeling builds. I do love September for the fresh starts and new relationships, but I am not finished this year yet. I think it is that simple. I am not finished. There are so many things that I would like to do with my students that I don't feel ready to make other plans. It is true that we have made a leap into technology this year and will continue next year as well, but I feel like we are just getting started.<br />
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I love reading my student's blogs and learning new things about them, seeing them grow and learn. I love seeing their expressions when they come in and hurry to look at their little plant, or their caterpillar, or their egg experiment. I love trying new technology with them and learning alongside them. It is the gift of teaching.<br />
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So, while I continue to make plans for winding up this year and celebrating with my students, it is with a certain amount of bitter sweet feeling. How are you feeling, I would love to hear!Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-18821648950207132562012-04-09T09:42:00.000-07:002012-04-09T09:42:56.275-07:00Inspiration<a href="http://www.readingpowergear.com/"></a><br />
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<tr class="tr3" valign="top"><td class="td3n2" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span id="hotword" style="position: static;"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="cursor: default; position: static;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">Inspiration:</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333;"> stimulation</span></span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; position: static;">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; position: static;">arousal</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="cursor: pointer; position: static;">of</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="position: static;">the</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="position: static;">mind,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="position: static;">feelings,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="position: static;">etc,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="position: static;">to</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="position: static;">special</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="position: static;">or </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; position: static;">unusual</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; position: static;">activity</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; position: static;">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; position: static;">creativity. I love it! The word suggests such beautiful possibilities.<br />
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I find myself continually inspired by the smallest and most unlikely things all the time (my son's Beyblades, pots of dye, worms in the garden...) more so now than ever before. I'm wondering why it is that today, when available time seems scarce, that there are so many things I want to do and try (both in my personal life and in my classroom)?<br />
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I was reminded of this when sitting in a fantastic workshop this past Monday night listening to <a href="http://www.readingpowergear.com/" target="_blank">Adrienne Gear </a>speaking about her Writing Power book and how she teaches writing in her classroom. I was thinking of ways to improve my teaching the students to become better writers (triple scoop words, similes, personification...). I also came away with a list of great new children's lit titles, I have a weakness for great books! All in all, a great and practical workshop and I am inspired to write more myself and help my students write more. Through the rest of the week though, I kept coming back to my problem with time. There is such a short period of time to do so many things, something I know we all battle with.</span></span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333;">Lately, I have been working on incorporating technology in the classroom and starting my students on their individual blogs. What I have decided for me right now is to continue with what I am already doing in the classroom and use <a href="http://www.readingpowergear.com/" target="_blank">Adriennne's</a> suggestions as my "mini lessons" that precede my student's writing time. I know, earth shattering, right? I mean, when I'm inspired with great ideas, I'm tempted to throw out the old and in with the new, but I need a little more continuity being there is already many things we are trying with the new technology this year. So, hopefully we will see improvement in student writing on their blogs....</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333;">In the meantime here is what is inspiring me....</span><br />
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</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI27MtfrvpfTec7_a1Wsgs1oYm38cE2CLiJxRdGO3kWGkeUK0EjkHJYayYlbDtuWhk7xGwProtbQwQuxLB9zsg4ZlZUBDVeJ6GFfY2rHheDrhCwePO-ykCxwkdKs2FW1D3oBNE4bL8koOk/s1600/IMG_0416.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI27MtfrvpfTec7_a1Wsgs1oYm38cE2CLiJxRdGO3kWGkeUK0EjkHJYayYlbDtuWhk7xGwProtbQwQuxLB9zsg4ZlZUBDVeJ6GFfY2rHheDrhCwePO-ykCxwkdKs2FW1D3oBNE4bL8koOk/s200/IMG_0416.PNG" width="150" /></a></div><br />
Allowing students to direct and test their own inquiry. I need to do more of this. The learning involved is fantastic.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiZUdOYCD1KuyxV1Kx1Mvc6HusvrnZ_7x2ZtEBifekvdS8TkXWpTjHhwY_fjoofTkcHAuIEL9DXkBs8e5VH0X5sKUBgMKJolxmVvPjkP1_A-bmwfl1U9E0uRubkuWEDyQMY4zXtSV9xvxq/s1600/IMG_0422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiZUdOYCD1KuyxV1Kx1Mvc6HusvrnZ_7x2ZtEBifekvdS8TkXWpTjHhwY_fjoofTkcHAuIEL9DXkBs8e5VH0X5sKUBgMKJolxmVvPjkP1_A-bmwfl1U9E0uRubkuWEDyQMY4zXtSV9xvxq/s200/IMG_0422.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
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Watching my son and wondering....Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-79798146849652541202012-04-01T13:36:00.000-07:002012-04-01T13:36:20.854-07:00Student BloggingHappy April 1st, and yes, it is... SNOWING! No Fooling!<br />
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So, on Friday this past week I experienced two very different and conflicting emotions. One was great frustration and had nothing to do with students (I will not go <i>there ....</i> <i>here)</i>. The other was great pleasure, and this I <i>will</i> share :)<br />
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My students (and I) have been so excited to begin their blogs that waiting for their turn on our classroom computer or the few laptops we share during the writing component of the day was frustrating for them. So I decided that we would all venture out to use our old lab of computers (some don't work or have other problems). We found a working computer for each student and began. It was......chaos! If I could have changed course right then without a mutiny on my hands, I would have!<br />
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Picture 19 six and seven year old students all trying to access kidblog and begin a writing for the first time (3 students had posted their first blog the day before) with 1 teacher! <br />
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But wait, yes, I was the only adult in the room, but soon the students began stepping up and teaching each other. Within 5 minutes the tone in the room went from chaotic to engaged, active learning. 2 students walking around ensuring everyone was on the right site, a couple more finding the colour button for their fonts and soon many students were typing rainbow colours. Someone calling out "How do you do a period?" and "How do you do a capital letter?" again students to the rescue.<br />
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When the recess bell rang 45 minutes later groans from around the room were heard. "Can I stay and finish my writing" was the common request. I answered "No, let's take a break, but we'll come back right after recess" ! One beauty of a small school is the access to equipment. So, straight after recess we were right back at it, finishing our first posts. There was no "I'm done, now what?" only "Can I write another one?".<br />
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A teacher's great joy is to see her students actively involved in their own learning and helping one another. I am eager to see if the novelty of blogging wares off, or if the desire to communicate their own ideas with a larger audience maintains the initial enthusiasm. Either way, I am very pleased with our new venture into the world of blogging. I am continually amazed at how quickly my students learn when they are truly interested and engaged in what they are doing.Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-50467745368387892162012-03-22T14:31:00.000-07:002012-03-22T14:31:04.737-07:00SpontaneityDon't you just love it when your planned lessons are enhanced by a little "spontaneous combustion" so to speak? As I have mentioned before, I am being challenged to keep up with technology in the classroom and so far love (with a little hate here and there) the experience. I am learning to let go of idea of the <i>perfect</i> lesson in place of the <i>I will make mistakes and learn along with, or from, my students. </i>I do find this giving up a little of the control in the class very difficult, but when things start to fall into place and everyone in the room begins to adjust to their new roles fluctuating between instructor and learner, the results are amazing!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy-kJ5shmKVFu3WJX_AIgoaxI6RAywjcF5Q1Qf_EF9NU9T_08pPw979AZAvWCOTwv5LiJd7hE-F41jywe3PfEDjG3ggU502Oe2ST-xJ7Lc9vsfZP6lASUzAdJqAR0bjGCRSVDveMPS1sv/s1600/IMG_0959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy-kJ5shmKVFu3WJX_AIgoaxI6RAywjcF5Q1Qf_EF9NU9T_08pPw979AZAvWCOTwv5LiJd7hE-F41jywe3PfEDjG3ggU502Oe2ST-xJ7Lc9vsfZP6lASUzAdJqAR0bjGCRSVDveMPS1sv/s200/IMG_0959.JPG" width="180" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDJOkJ136l8wvuElC9gOOjKN6pYgXdEbEv4XT0NwENhHFRFXX6yZfEq948SG-sGSDtFBXvlwxUJUBD7P3QijnpQKD14WeLzHPY2D_9ztQayu322uwI-ecne1pXS3lM39zhK4fD-7l5s5z/s1600/IMG_0951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDJOkJ136l8wvuElC9gOOjKN6pYgXdEbEv4XT0NwENhHFRFXX6yZfEq948SG-sGSDtFBXvlwxUJUBD7P3QijnpQKD14WeLzHPY2D_9ztQayu322uwI-ecne1pXS3lM39zhK4fD-7l5s5z/s200/IMG_0951.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
Just before the break I had an art lesson planned using plasticine in the style of Barbara Reid. While my supplies and books to get ideas from were organized and the students were excited, I was still missing something. Enter my fabulous colleague from across the hall, Ms. Leech, who is also doing the same activity only she is showing her students a youtube clip of Barbara Reid modelling her techniques. So, with the ease of having the Smartboard already setup my students too were benefitting from Ms. Reid's expertise within minutes. Here was the missing link to enrich my students experience with this activity. In opening our doors and allowing others to see in and interact (teach, share and learn) with us, we all may benefit. Yes, I do find the thought of others seeing me teach and make mistakes in the classroom humbling to say the least, but isn't that what I'm asking of my students? I'm trying!<br />
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I am beginning to see the possibilities of further allowing my students the opportunity to share their learning on a more global platform and interact with others around the world. Exciting! I would love some ideas for direction and opportunities.Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7705998061196007443.post-5010620149685618552012-03-21T21:32:00.000-07:002012-03-21T21:32:47.273-07:00Spring Break and Looking back on the Year!This spring break has brought a much needed opportunity to relax and reenergize. I was fortunate enough to trade our wacky and unpredictable BC weather for the 90+ degree Arizona climate for a few days (thanks mom!). It felt great to put the worries of the day (current job action stresses, family & household chores, homework - my own as well as my grade 8, 6 & 4 kids to help) aside and spend some time by the pool with my iPad, visit and shop!<br />
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Now that I'm back home, I'm continuing with the goal of improving my teaching! In the course of this past year achieving this has morphed into a more dedicated focus on technology. This is a challenge for me as I am not a "techie"! In preparing to return to the classroom full time this year, I spent last summer covering related blogs and Pinterest for ideas. I was challenged in my thinking and gained many lesson ideas from talented professionals. I jumped into full-time teaching as I tried to keep up with my own professional development on line as well as opportunities through my district. It was at our district ed-camp that my plans to use technology to a greater extent in the classroom really took root. I had just got a Smartboard installed in the classroom and my students and I love using it, but can my grade ones do more?<br />
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The short answer is - Yes! My friend, Niki and I met fellow grade 1 educator Karen Lirenman, also from our district, who is using technology in so many other ways with her <i>6 year olds! </i>After some great discussion we made arrangements to meet again where she graciously helped set me up in the world of blogging and showed me how she gives her students a greater voice with their own blogs. Soooooo, here I am jumping out of my comfort zone with this blog as well as preparing to start my students with individual blogs. I have also been introduced to Twitter which is fast becoming another valuable professional development tool and yes, using iPads in the classroom! <br />
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This has been a fantastic year in so many ways for me as a teacher and I have never before been so excited about learning. The more I learn, the opportunities I can see......!Lorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01730108559781991448noreply@blogger.com1