We can do so much with blogger that I didn't realize! I wanted to share with you a blog I really enjoy reading. I recieved an article of this blog in Dr. Kress's Faith Integration class and since then I have been reading it. . . the blog is really good and he utilizes all the different things you can do with blogger!
Take a look and enjoy!
http://bittersweetblue.blogspot.com
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Monday, December 10, 2007
American's Today
Jay Leno wrote this and I found it very interesting. . . enjoy!
The other day I was reading Newsweek magazine and came across some poll data I found rather hard to believe. It must be true, given the source, right?
The Newsweek poll alleges that 67 percent of Americans are unhappy with the direction the country is headed, and 69 percent of the country is unhappy with the performance of the President. In essence, 2/3's of the citizenry just isn't happy and want a change.
So being the knuckle dragger I am, I started thinking, ''What are we so unhappy about?'' Is it that we have electricity and running water 24 hours a day, 7 days a week?
Is our unhappiness the result of having air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter?
Could it be that 95.4 percent of these unhappy folks have a job? Maybe it is the ability to walk into a grocery store at any time, and see more food in moments than Darfur has seen in the last year? Maybe it is the ability to drive from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean without having to present identification papers as we move through each state? Or possibly the hundreds of clean and safe motels we would find along the way that can provide temporary shelter? I guess having thousands of restaurants with varying cuisine from around the world is just not good enough. Or could it be that when we wreck our car, emergency workers show up and provide services to help all, and even send a helicopter to take you to the hospital.
Perhaps you are one of the 70 percent of Americans who own a home. You may be upset with knowing that in the unfortunate case of a fire, a group of trained firefighters will appear in moments and use top notch equipment to extinguish the flames thus saving you, your family and your belongings. Or if, while at home watching one of your many flat screen TVs, a burglar or prowler or intrudes, an officer equipped with a gun and a bullet-proof vest will come to defend you and your family against attack or loss.
This all in the backdrop of a neighborhood free of bombs or militias raping and pillaging the residents. Neighborhoods where 90 percent of teenagers own cell phones and computers.
How about the complete religious, social and political freedoms we enjoy that are the envy of everyone in the world? Maybe that is what has 67 percent of you folks unhappy. Fact is, we are the largest group of ungrateful, spoiled brats the world has ever seen. No wonder the world loves the U.S., yet has a great disdain for its citizens. They see us for what we are. The most blessed people in the world who do nothing but complain about what we don't have, and what we hate about the country instead of thanking the good Lord we live here. I know, I know. What about the President who took us into war and has no plan to get us out? The President who has a measly 31 percent approval rating? Is this the same President who guided the nation in the dark days after 9/11? The President that cut taxes to bring an economy out of recession? Could this be the same guy who has been called every name in the book for succeeding in keeping all the spoiled ungrateful brats safe from terrorist attacks?
The Commander-In Chief of an all-volunteer army that is out there defending you and me? Did you hear how bad the President is on the news or talk show? Did this news affect you so much, make you so unhappy you couldn't take a look around for yourself and see all the good things and be glad? Think about it...are you upset at the President because he actually caused you personal pain OR is it because the 'Media' told you he was failing to kiss your sorry ungrateful behind every day. Make no mistake about it. The troops in Iraq and Afghanistan have volunteered to serve, and in many cases may have died for your freedom. There is currently no draft in this country. They didn't have to go. They are able to refuse to go and end up with either a ''general'' discharge, an ''other than honorable'' discharge or, worst case scenario, a ''dishonorable'' discharge after a few days in the brig.
So why then the flat-out discontentment in the minds of 69 percent of Americans? Say what you want, but I blame it on the media. If it bleeds, it leads; and they specialize in bad news. Everybody will watch a car crash with blood and guts. How many will watch kids selling lemonade at the corner? The media knows this and media outlets are for-profit corporations. They offer what sells, and when criticized, try to defend their actions by' justifying' them in one way or another. Just ask why they tried to allow a murderer like O.J. Simpson to write a book about 'how he didn't kill his wife, but if he did he would have done it this way'...Insane!
Stop buying the negativism you are fed everyday by the media. Shut off the TV, burn Newsweek, and use the New York Times for the bottom of your bird cage. Then start being grateful for all we have as a country. There is exponentially more good than bad.
We are among the most blessed people on Earth, and should thank God several times a day or at least be thankful and appreciative. 'With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, 'Are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?'
Jay Leno
2007
The other day I was reading Newsweek magazine and came across some poll data I found rather hard to believe. It must be true, given the source, right?
The Newsweek poll alleges that 67 percent of Americans are unhappy with the direction the country is headed, and 69 percent of the country is unhappy with the performance of the President. In essence, 2/3's of the citizenry just isn't happy and want a change.
So being the knuckle dragger I am, I started thinking, ''What are we so unhappy about?'' Is it that we have electricity and running water 24 hours a day, 7 days a week?
Is our unhappiness the result of having air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter?
Could it be that 95.4 percent of these unhappy folks have a job? Maybe it is the ability to walk into a grocery store at any time, and see more food in moments than Darfur has seen in the last year? Maybe it is the ability to drive from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean without having to present identification papers as we move through each state? Or possibly the hundreds of clean and safe motels we would find along the way that can provide temporary shelter? I guess having thousands of restaurants with varying cuisine from around the world is just not good enough. Or could it be that when we wreck our car, emergency workers show up and provide services to help all, and even send a helicopter to take you to the hospital.
Perhaps you are one of the 70 percent of Americans who own a home. You may be upset with knowing that in the unfortunate case of a fire, a group of trained firefighters will appear in moments and use top notch equipment to extinguish the flames thus saving you, your family and your belongings. Or if, while at home watching one of your many flat screen TVs, a burglar or prowler or intrudes, an officer equipped with a gun and a bullet-proof vest will come to defend you and your family against attack or loss.
This all in the backdrop of a neighborhood free of bombs or militias raping and pillaging the residents. Neighborhoods where 90 percent of teenagers own cell phones and computers.
How about the complete religious, social and political freedoms we enjoy that are the envy of everyone in the world? Maybe that is what has 67 percent of you folks unhappy. Fact is, we are the largest group of ungrateful, spoiled brats the world has ever seen. No wonder the world loves the U.S., yet has a great disdain for its citizens. They see us for what we are. The most blessed people in the world who do nothing but complain about what we don't have, and what we hate about the country instead of thanking the good Lord we live here. I know, I know. What about the President who took us into war and has no plan to get us out? The President who has a measly 31 percent approval rating? Is this the same President who guided the nation in the dark days after 9/11? The President that cut taxes to bring an economy out of recession? Could this be the same guy who has been called every name in the book for succeeding in keeping all the spoiled ungrateful brats safe from terrorist attacks?
The Commander-In Chief of an all-volunteer army that is out there defending you and me? Did you hear how bad the President is on the news or talk show? Did this news affect you so much, make you so unhappy you couldn't take a look around for yourself and see all the good things and be glad? Think about it...are you upset at the President because he actually caused you personal pain OR is it because the 'Media' told you he was failing to kiss your sorry ungrateful behind every day. Make no mistake about it. The troops in Iraq and Afghanistan have volunteered to serve, and in many cases may have died for your freedom. There is currently no draft in this country. They didn't have to go. They are able to refuse to go and end up with either a ''general'' discharge, an ''other than honorable'' discharge or, worst case scenario, a ''dishonorable'' discharge after a few days in the brig.
So why then the flat-out discontentment in the minds of 69 percent of Americans? Say what you want, but I blame it on the media. If it bleeds, it leads; and they specialize in bad news. Everybody will watch a car crash with blood and guts. How many will watch kids selling lemonade at the corner? The media knows this and media outlets are for-profit corporations. They offer what sells, and when criticized, try to defend their actions by' justifying' them in one way or another. Just ask why they tried to allow a murderer like O.J. Simpson to write a book about 'how he didn't kill his wife, but if he did he would have done it this way'...Insane!
Stop buying the negativism you are fed everyday by the media. Shut off the TV, burn Newsweek, and use the New York Times for the bottom of your bird cage. Then start being grateful for all we have as a country. There is exponentially more good than bad.
We are among the most blessed people on Earth, and should thank God several times a day or at least be thankful and appreciative. 'With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, 'Are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?'
Jay Leno
2007
Lesson Plan for Writing
Instructional Plan for: Writing with an Idea in mind
Subject: Writing Date: December 11, 2007
Grade Level: 1 Teacher: Amanda Wilson
GLEs/ EALRs:
Writing:
1. 1. The student understands and uses a writing process.
• 1.1 Pre writes to generate Ideas and plan writing.
• 1.6 Adjust to the writing process as necessary.
3. The student writes clearly and effectively
• 3.1 Develops ideas and organizes writing
• 3.3 Knows and applies writing conventions appropriate for the grade level
Lesson Objectives:
Give direct instruction and guided practice for understanding of how to write with an idea in mind. The teacher will write an example story on the board, the story will be about a class experience. Students, as a class, will participate in formulating illustrations ideas for the story written. Students independently will think of an idea and then write about and illustrate their idea during quiet writing time.
Plan for Remediation:
Teacher will be available during quiet writing time to help those students who may be struggling or have further questions. A visual example will be posted on the board for reference.
Assessment:
• Formative: Students will be called upon during direct teaching to help add illustrations to the story (participation is expected). Teacher will listen and watch for non verbal queues that students understand the writing process. Students will also write their own story with detailed illustrations.
• Summative: Each student will complete a story with detailed illustrations that will be turned in for evaluation. They will be evaluated on how well they grasp the “writing with an idea in mind” concept as well as how well they followed directions.
• Student self- reflective: Students will journal about how they felt about the writing exercise. Was it a good method for them or did they struggle? They will then share their journal response with a family member.
Accommodations’ for learning styles:
Visual: many visuals will be used throughout the lesson:
• Teacher will write her/ his story on the board so students can see it.
• Teacher will illustrate story on the board.
Auditory: verbal instruction, directions and example given aloud.
Kinesthetic: students will move to the carpet for instruction and learning.
Classroom Characteristics:
Classroom set up: tables set up in rows, 4 large tables on each side of the room.
Materials: writing worksheets for students, crayons and pencils for students, white board and dry erase markers for teacher. For this particular lesson since it is not in normal classroom teacher will also need behavior management materials, red, yellow and green rockets, marbles and marble jar.
Behavior Management:
0-1 warning= Green rocket
If students remain on green all week they receive a “green all week” certificate to take home on Fridays.
2 warnings= yellow rocket
Students will owe 5 minutes of their recess to discuss their choices, and a note will be sent home for their parent to sign.
3 warnings= red rocket
Students will owe their entire recess to discuss their choices, and a note will be sent home for their parent to sign.
Group rewards: For good group work, which includes following directions and working together, a group marbles to go in the marble jar, the marble jar is a jar that the class keeps, when the jar is filled to a certain line the class can earn prizes and parties.
Family interaction: Students will share their journal response about the lesson with a family member.
Anticipatory Set/ Introduction and review/ tie into past learning: 3 min
• Students will move to the carpet
• Tell students what they will be learning about today, how to write with an idea in mind.
• Read story “David goes to school” so students can see how to illustrate their ideas.
• Remind the students about some of the ways they have written before- ask them questions about different ways they have written and how they formulate their ideas.
Check for understanding: this will be included in teaching steps.
Teaching steps: 8-10 min
• Read: Read story aloud, “David goes to school.”
• Ask/ Check for understanding: Ask students questions about how the pictures go with what the author is writing- ask while reading the story.
• Explain: Tell students that you will teach them the approach to writing with an idea in mind.
• Demonstrate: Teacher will demonstrate how to write with an idea in mind. First, teacher will think of an idea by closing his/her eyes. Once the teacher has her/his idea they will say, “I got it.” Then the teacher will write a short story, story should be something the class has experienced together. The teacher will tell the class they are going to draw pictures to go along with each part of their story. Draw the first couple pictures. Then ask the class to help you.
• Ask/ Check for understanding: Ask students to give you ideas of what else you could draw to illustrate your story. Once your story is fully illustrated ask the students, “Do you see how I’m putting the whole story into my pictures?”
Closure: 3 min
• Check for understanding: Make sure the students understand what you have demonstrated.
• Give direction: Tell students that they will be writing their own stories using the “writing with an idea in mind method.”
• Tell students to go back to their seats.
• Once they are at their seats pass out writing worksheet, crayons and pencils.
• Tell them to start off by closing their eyes and thinking of an idea. Once they have their idea in mind then they can start writing!
Independent Practice: 9 min
Helpful idea: play relaxing music quietly while students are writing.
• Quiet writing time: students will get time to practice the writing process they learned. Teacher will walk around and check their progress. The teacher will also be available for questions and further explanation.
Closure: 1-2 min
• Reward class if they had good behavior during writing time!
• Tell students to put away their worksheets. If they are done they can turn them into you, if not they can continue tomorrow!!
Subject: Writing Date: December 11, 2007
Grade Level: 1 Teacher: Amanda Wilson
GLEs/ EALRs:
Writing:
1. 1. The student understands and uses a writing process.
• 1.1 Pre writes to generate Ideas and plan writing.
• 1.6 Adjust to the writing process as necessary.
3. The student writes clearly and effectively
• 3.1 Develops ideas and organizes writing
• 3.3 Knows and applies writing conventions appropriate for the grade level
Lesson Objectives:
Give direct instruction and guided practice for understanding of how to write with an idea in mind. The teacher will write an example story on the board, the story will be about a class experience. Students, as a class, will participate in formulating illustrations ideas for the story written. Students independently will think of an idea and then write about and illustrate their idea during quiet writing time.
Plan for Remediation:
Teacher will be available during quiet writing time to help those students who may be struggling or have further questions. A visual example will be posted on the board for reference.
Assessment:
• Formative: Students will be called upon during direct teaching to help add illustrations to the story (participation is expected). Teacher will listen and watch for non verbal queues that students understand the writing process. Students will also write their own story with detailed illustrations.
• Summative: Each student will complete a story with detailed illustrations that will be turned in for evaluation. They will be evaluated on how well they grasp the “writing with an idea in mind” concept as well as how well they followed directions.
• Student self- reflective: Students will journal about how they felt about the writing exercise. Was it a good method for them or did they struggle? They will then share their journal response with a family member.
Accommodations’ for learning styles:
Visual: many visuals will be used throughout the lesson:
• Teacher will write her/ his story on the board so students can see it.
• Teacher will illustrate story on the board.
Auditory: verbal instruction, directions and example given aloud.
Kinesthetic: students will move to the carpet for instruction and learning.
Classroom Characteristics:
Classroom set up: tables set up in rows, 4 large tables on each side of the room.
Materials: writing worksheets for students, crayons and pencils for students, white board and dry erase markers for teacher. For this particular lesson since it is not in normal classroom teacher will also need behavior management materials, red, yellow and green rockets, marbles and marble jar.
Behavior Management:
0-1 warning= Green rocket
If students remain on green all week they receive a “green all week” certificate to take home on Fridays.
2 warnings= yellow rocket
Students will owe 5 minutes of their recess to discuss their choices, and a note will be sent home for their parent to sign.
3 warnings= red rocket
Students will owe their entire recess to discuss their choices, and a note will be sent home for their parent to sign.
Group rewards: For good group work, which includes following directions and working together, a group marbles to go in the marble jar, the marble jar is a jar that the class keeps, when the jar is filled to a certain line the class can earn prizes and parties.
Family interaction: Students will share their journal response about the lesson with a family member.
Anticipatory Set/ Introduction and review/ tie into past learning: 3 min
• Students will move to the carpet
• Tell students what they will be learning about today, how to write with an idea in mind.
• Read story “David goes to school” so students can see how to illustrate their ideas.
• Remind the students about some of the ways they have written before- ask them questions about different ways they have written and how they formulate their ideas.
Check for understanding: this will be included in teaching steps.
Teaching steps: 8-10 min
• Read: Read story aloud, “David goes to school.”
• Ask/ Check for understanding: Ask students questions about how the pictures go with what the author is writing- ask while reading the story.
• Explain: Tell students that you will teach them the approach to writing with an idea in mind.
• Demonstrate: Teacher will demonstrate how to write with an idea in mind. First, teacher will think of an idea by closing his/her eyes. Once the teacher has her/his idea they will say, “I got it.” Then the teacher will write a short story, story should be something the class has experienced together. The teacher will tell the class they are going to draw pictures to go along with each part of their story. Draw the first couple pictures. Then ask the class to help you.
• Ask/ Check for understanding: Ask students to give you ideas of what else you could draw to illustrate your story. Once your story is fully illustrated ask the students, “Do you see how I’m putting the whole story into my pictures?”
Closure: 3 min
• Check for understanding: Make sure the students understand what you have demonstrated.
• Give direction: Tell students that they will be writing their own stories using the “writing with an idea in mind method.”
• Tell students to go back to their seats.
• Once they are at their seats pass out writing worksheet, crayons and pencils.
• Tell them to start off by closing their eyes and thinking of an idea. Once they have their idea in mind then they can start writing!
Independent Practice: 9 min
Helpful idea: play relaxing music quietly while students are writing.
• Quiet writing time: students will get time to practice the writing process they learned. Teacher will walk around and check their progress. The teacher will also be available for questions and further explanation.
Closure: 1-2 min
• Reward class if they had good behavior during writing time!
• Tell students to put away their worksheets. If they are done they can turn them into you, if not they can continue tomorrow!!
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
What do you think your classroom will look like in 5 years?
In 5 years I am sure things will change. Things have changed so much already, I am not quite sure what they will come up with next. I heard they have hand held smart boards for students which can communicate with the main board. Hopefully in 5 years those boards will be more accessible for schools and students. That would be great!! I would love to be able to have more opportunities to post things online for younger kids. I am hoping in 5 years that younger students will be able to access things online with more safely, that would be really useful for me as a teacher and for students. I am exited to see what they come up with and hope that all the new technology so far will only be better and easier to use!
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Mrs. Wilson's Class Website- Assignment #5
Class Website
While creating this web page I did not run into too many obstacles. It was interesting learning how to link separate pages I had created to my web page. The most challenging was creating the charts and calendars. I used word to create most of them. I am still working on creating a volunteer calendar on Google Calendar. Google Page creator makes it pretty easy for you to figure out how to create a page, you don't have to know any html codes or anything challenging like that. I really enjoyed making this website, I am hopefully going to attach some more pictures as well. I got most of my ideas from other teacher websites, as well as knowing what would be most useful for my students. I also created a wiki the Parent's in my class to use to sign up for volunteer dates. The wiki is attached to my Volunteer Calendar page. After creating the Volunteer Calendar I realized I have to stay logged on for the parents to be able to read what is going on. I am not sure google calendars is made for public view, you have to be a member to view a public calendar. It works well for what I need right now, but in the future I am going to try to find a more effective calendar!
I feel I have become alot more knowledgeable of technology lately. By utilizing all the tools available in technology I am no longer nervous to use it. I was a little skeptical of using technology in the classroom, but I can see all the major advantages. I am now sure I can add Google Page Creator to my expert list as well as blogger. I am still learning about wikispaces and Google Calendar but I feel I will be an expert soon. This project helped me learn alot because I got hands on experience in utilizing these resources. I am no longer scared to try new things in technology, I am interested in learning more about it!
While creating this web page I did not run into too many obstacles. It was interesting learning how to link separate pages I had created to my web page. The most challenging was creating the charts and calendars. I used word to create most of them. I am still working on creating a volunteer calendar on Google Calendar. Google Page creator makes it pretty easy for you to figure out how to create a page, you don't have to know any html codes or anything challenging like that. I really enjoyed making this website, I am hopefully going to attach some more pictures as well. I got most of my ideas from other teacher websites, as well as knowing what would be most useful for my students. I also created a wiki the Parent's in my class to use to sign up for volunteer dates. The wiki is attached to my Volunteer Calendar page. After creating the Volunteer Calendar I realized I have to stay logged on for the parents to be able to read what is going on. I am not sure google calendars is made for public view, you have to be a member to view a public calendar. It works well for what I need right now, but in the future I am going to try to find a more effective calendar!
I feel I have become alot more knowledgeable of technology lately. By utilizing all the tools available in technology I am no longer nervous to use it. I was a little skeptical of using technology in the classroom, but I can see all the major advantages. I am now sure I can add Google Page Creator to my expert list as well as blogger. I am still learning about wikispaces and Google Calendar but I feel I will be an expert soon. This project helped me learn alot because I got hands on experience in utilizing these resources. I am no longer scared to try new things in technology, I am interested in learning more about it!
A story from the classroom
A little girl decided she was a hairstylist in class. During an art lesson she took her child size scissors and cut her hair. She was mortified that she had ruined her hair. That is probably the funniest thing that has happened this year! I am looking forward to experiencing more with these students!
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Questions for Panel Members
1. How has your classroom benefited by using technology?
2. In which ways do you use technology in the classroom?
3. Do your students respond well to technology? Do they know how to use it?
2. In which ways do you use technology in the classroom?
3. Do your students respond well to technology? Do they know how to use it?
Monday, November 5, 2007
Assignment #4- SMART Board Activity
Preparation for lesson:
To prepare for this lesson I went on SMART board.com and found a lesson plan that was age level appropriate. I made a few minor adjustments by adding in the correct answers after each slide, as wells as adding a link to a useful website at the end of the lesson. I also put together a lesson plan to organize my lesson.
Instructional Plan for: Harvest Festival
Grade Level: 1
Subject: Social Studies
NETs
1. Basic operations and concepts
• Students demonstrate a sound understanding of the nature and operation of technology systems.
• Students are proficient in the use of technology.
2. Social, ethical, and human issues
• Students practice responsible use of technology systems, information and software.
Objective:
I will give direct instruction and guided practice of how to use a SMART board while teaching about harvest time. Students, as a class, will join me in learning about harvest time by hands on interaction with the material. Students may volunteer to come up and answer questions concerning harvest time, as well as call out answers.
Introduction/ Anticipatory Set:• Introduce what class will be learning.
• Ask questions about what we do during harvest time. What is it for? Does it have anything to do with thanksgiving?
Teaching Steps:• I will present a smart board lesson on the subject of harvest time.
• I will go through the slides and ask students to participate in answering questions.
• Students will come up and answer questions by hands on interaction with the smart board.
• Once students have answered questions I will check for understand by providing the correct answers after each slide.
Closure:
I will close by allowing questions and open discussion about the lesson.
Discussion on Interactive board use in the classroom:
I feel my students would benefit by using a SMART board. The SMART board creates a fun, interactive learning environment. The SMART board provides a way for the students to participate in the lesson. Students are able to visually see the information as well as participating in a hands on way. For auditory learners the teacher can read the lesson aloud or add sound/music to aid in the learning process. The SMART board allows the teacher to meet the diverse needs of all students. Like I said before, each learning style can benefit from the smart board. The SMART board can easily accommodate to the needs of students. For example, if you have a shorter student in your class you can change the heights. If you have a blind student in your class you can add audio. There are many possibilities with this tool!
Harvest Festival SMART Board lesson- Grade 1
To prepare for this lesson I went on SMART board.com and found a lesson plan that was age level appropriate. I made a few minor adjustments by adding in the correct answers after each slide, as wells as adding a link to a useful website at the end of the lesson. I also put together a lesson plan to organize my lesson.
Instructional Plan for: Harvest Festival
Grade Level: 1
Subject: Social Studies
NETs
1. Basic operations and concepts
• Students demonstrate a sound understanding of the nature and operation of technology systems.
• Students are proficient in the use of technology.
2. Social, ethical, and human issues
• Students practice responsible use of technology systems, information and software.
Objective:
I will give direct instruction and guided practice of how to use a SMART board while teaching about harvest time. Students, as a class, will join me in learning about harvest time by hands on interaction with the material. Students may volunteer to come up and answer questions concerning harvest time, as well as call out answers.
Introduction/ Anticipatory Set:• Introduce what class will be learning.
• Ask questions about what we do during harvest time. What is it for? Does it have anything to do with thanksgiving?
Teaching Steps:• I will present a smart board lesson on the subject of harvest time.
• I will go through the slides and ask students to participate in answering questions.
• Students will come up and answer questions by hands on interaction with the smart board.
• Once students have answered questions I will check for understand by providing the correct answers after each slide.
Closure:
I will close by allowing questions and open discussion about the lesson.
Discussion on Interactive board use in the classroom:
I feel my students would benefit by using a SMART board. The SMART board creates a fun, interactive learning environment. The SMART board provides a way for the students to participate in the lesson. Students are able to visually see the information as well as participating in a hands on way. For auditory learners the teacher can read the lesson aloud or add sound/music to aid in the learning process. The SMART board allows the teacher to meet the diverse needs of all students. Like I said before, each learning style can benefit from the smart board. The SMART board can easily accommodate to the needs of students. For example, if you have a shorter student in your class you can change the heights. If you have a blind student in your class you can add audio. There are many possibilities with this tool!
Harvest Festival SMART Board lesson- Grade 1
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Assignment #3- Technology Integration
Lesson plan link: Family Interaction Plan/ About Me
I love the idea of using technology in a lesson. I find it a little challenging sometimes with my students because they need so much help using it. I came up with the idea of having my students and their families create a webpage using page creator. Since my students will be creating a project that tells the class about them I thought it would be great to give them the option to create that project online with thier families.
1. The only tools needed for this project would be a computer and parental supervision/help.
2. The technology would completely change the learning environment. The students would learn how to use technology and how to be creative when they are using it.
The students could also present their projects to the class using the overhead projector.
By adding technology to this lesson I feel it takes an expressive project and helps to make it a learning project as well.
3. Some of the challenges for my students will be their ability to use a computer and all the tools on page creator. They will need alot of supervision and help from their parents, that is why I made the project optional. They can create the project for extra credit.
4. "The student acquires the knowledge and skills necessary to create, to perform, and to respond effectively to the arts."
I love the idea of using technology in a lesson. I find it a little challenging sometimes with my students because they need so much help using it. I came up with the idea of having my students and their families create a webpage using page creator. Since my students will be creating a project that tells the class about them I thought it would be great to give them the option to create that project online with thier families.
1. The only tools needed for this project would be a computer and parental supervision/help.
2. The technology would completely change the learning environment. The students would learn how to use technology and how to be creative when they are using it.
The students could also present their projects to the class using the overhead projector.
By adding technology to this lesson I feel it takes an expressive project and helps to make it a learning project as well.
3. Some of the challenges for my students will be their ability to use a computer and all the tools on page creator. They will need alot of supervision and help from their parents, that is why I made the project optional. They can create the project for extra credit.
4. "The student acquires the knowledge and skills necessary to create, to perform, and to respond effectively to the arts."
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
What are issues with the internet?
1st grade issues:
cyber bullying
can't read
system not compatiable with home system
internet predators
don't know the basics of computer use
exposed to inappropriate websites on accident
recieved inappropriate emails or messages
cyber bullying
can't read
system not compatiable with home system
internet predators
don't know the basics of computer use
exposed to inappropriate websites on accident
recieved inappropriate emails or messages
Sunday, October 21, 2007
k12 Conference- "Oodles of Google"
I listened to "Oodles of Google" by Sharon Betts.
The information was very useful. The presentor went through five steps on how to create an online presentation or report using google. I was not aware of all the different applications google had available. I thought it was very useful and something that I would love to utilize in the classroom. I don't think 1st graders would really understand how to use it, but this would be a great tool for middle school and up. Using google you could do reasearch through notebook and save/share things in your notebook. After doing your research you can upload that research to google docs. You can create a presentation and also use page creator to allow students or teachers to access your presentation. I really enjoyed learning about this, the presentor was very good and very informative when presenting. She went through each step with the viewer and showed you exactly what to do. I will definetly utilize this tool!
Link to "Oodles of Google"
The information was very useful. The presentor went through five steps on how to create an online presentation or report using google. I was not aware of all the different applications google had available. I thought it was very useful and something that I would love to utilize in the classroom. I don't think 1st graders would really understand how to use it, but this would be a great tool for middle school and up. Using google you could do reasearch through notebook and save/share things in your notebook. After doing your research you can upload that research to google docs. You can create a presentation and also use page creator to allow students or teachers to access your presentation. I really enjoyed learning about this, the presentor was very good and very informative when presenting. She went through each step with the viewer and showed you exactly what to do. I will definetly utilize this tool!
Link to "Oodles of Google"
Thursday, October 4, 2007
SMART Board vs. Active Board
I was observing at Newcastle Elementary today and I was in the fourth grade classroom. They are in the process of putting active boards in all the classrooms. It was interesting to see the active board in use. It is similar to the smart board but has some differences. There is only one pen, and the clickers are different. I really liked the active board it was very easy to use and the clickers were very effective. They were high quality and the kids could stay in their seat and answer. I though it might be hard for the 1st grade students to adapt to but they picked up on it very well. The teacher did a small assignment with the fourth graders and their 1st grade buddies. The 1st graders loved it and had a great time and use the clickers correctly and quickly. I was impressed. There were some things I did not like as much as the smart board. The pen makes this horrible screatching noise when you write on the board. There was also no tray to set your pens in and no eraser. I did not get to play with it so I am not sure how you would erase. I was really interested in learning more about it. The more I am at Newcastle the more impressed I am with the technology there. They have upgraded to new projectors as well as video projectors which I find very useful. They also have computers in each classroom for the teacher and a computer for the students to access. I feel they are embracing technology and teaching the students how to use it.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Childhood Development- Grade 1
I chose the category 'Childhood Development- Grade 1' because as a teacher I want to know where my students are at as far as development. I would like to know how they interact best, and what is going on with them intellectually, physically and socially. I believe that knowing about their development will help me to teach the effectively. Each site in this category focuses on ages 5 & 6 because I am planning on teaching this age group. The 1st site on the list named Child Development is a great site, it gives the reader specific bullets on the intellectual, physical and social development of a 5 or 6 year old. It tells the reader their characteristics, things they typically enjoy, and common moods. The site also lists some helpful hints on how to interact with children in this age bracket. Education.com is also another great site. This site gives charts with specific characters and qualities as well. What I really like about this site is it gives you indicators of development lag. I believe that important to know as an educator.
About Disabilities
I chose the Category 'About Disabilities' because I feel it is important to have knowledge on the disabilities of the children in our classrooms before we can determine how to accommodate them. Each site in this category focuses giving the reader knowledge about the disability. Helpful Tips- Dyslexia in the classroom is one of my favorite websites, it gives information and great tools on how to help a dyslexic child. For example, using a different color pen for each time you write on the white board or smart so that the child can decipher the different lines. Also using soft shades as background colors on worksheets, this will help the child read the print better. My other favorite is the site on learning about selective mutism. This site gives information on the disability as well as how to help. The site is detailed in answering common questions and answers the questions that I am most curious about.
English Language Learners- ELL
I chose the category of English Language Learner because English as a second language is very common. There are a large amount of kids being put in the classroom that understand very little English and are still learning. I chose sites that focused on teaching ELL students effectively. This is important to me because in the classroom where I student teach there are three ELL students. It is good for me to know how to effectively communicate with them. I really like the site Focus on Effectiveness, it gives great factual information about ELL students. My other favorite is Tips for Teaching ELL students, this site gives you effective tools on how to promote success among your ELL students. The site helps teachers to develop important strategies to encourage the students succees.
Teacher Tools
I chose Teacher Tools as one of my categories because it is important as a teacher to have online resources. Teacher tools consists of sites that are helpful to teachers. Some of the sites inculde lesson plan ideas and others consist of important information for teachers. Online Grade Level Expectancies is an important site for beginning teachers. It is crucial in your first years of teaching to know what is expected of you by the state. I also chose the site Educator World. I love this site because it has it all. Great lesson plan ideas, Professional development information and information on how to integrate technology in the classroom,which we all know is becoming more important in our society.
1st Grade Online Learning
I chose the category of 1st grade online learning because I feel it is important to have tools your students can use at home. Each of these sites are fun and interactive, each site is specific to a subject, like reading, writing, math, etc. It is important to encourage your students to have fun with learning, the games and activities on the sites help to do exactly that. There are two sites imparticular that I really love. Alien Scavenger Hunt Letter Bugs is one of them, this site is very interactive and helps the kids learn what letters sound like and how to spell basic words. Cool Math is another great site. Cool Math creates fun ways to learn math using pictures and colorful explanations. The site explains the type of math (e.g., addition or subtration) in a way that is easy to read and understand.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Monday, September 24, 2007
A Day in the Life of Web 2.0
I found this article very interesting and encouraging. I have been having a hard time getting use to all the technology being used in the classroom. It was good to see the effects of technology played out in a real life situation. I am not sure if the story is true, but it was great to see the teachers really grasp technology and use it to encourage their students. I liked the idea of having the students create a study guide by using a wiki. I also like the idea of teachers having blogs to pass information onto their students.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Smart Board
I have mixed feelings about the SMART board. I think it is a great tool in the classroom if you know how to use it correctly. I would want to make sure I knew everything about the board before I used it in front of my classroom. As a teacher, I think it is important to know what your doing when your in front of 30 students. My only concern would be that I would want to use it and I would get confused during a lesson. Being that I am going to be teacher k-2 graders I would not be able to get help from my students. Overall, I think it is a great tool and can be very effective. I would be interested in observing a teacher use it with a class of young elementary students!
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Monday, September 17, 2007
Technologically Literate
I believe that technology should be used in the classroom. Today's society depends so much on the use of technology. For example, we depend on technology when we are learning. We use discovery and email to communicate assignments. If we did not use technology in our own education it would make learning more difficult for us here at Northwest. I believe technology does aid learning. We are examples of that. Technology aids teachers in the teaching process, therefore it aids the students they are teaching. Students today also are very technological. They live technology. They have cell phones, computers, IPOD's, palm pilots. They can easily relate to technology. Students learn best by what they enjoy and by what is familiar to them. Therefore, it is almost crucial in today's society to keep up with technology and use it in the classroom. However, I don't believe all technology aids learning. For example, I don't believe the use of cell phones in the classroom would aid the learning process. Although, I do feel technology as a whole is a good thing and can significantly improve learning.
Students today use a wide range of technology. Most students ranging from elementary school to high school use cell phones, computers and IPOD's on a daily basis. Most students also access websites like myspace, or facebook on a daily basis as well. I think it would be great to incorporate these elements into the classroom. I personally, depending on the age range, would try to incorporate computers and websites like facebook and myspace. For example, you could have students set up their own website about a subject they enjoy or about a particular topic you are researching in class. This would help to integrate what they enjoy into their education. Students could also be allowed computers in class to take notes or work on a project.
I would put the classroom in which I am observing under tier 1, observable and best practices. The teacher uses technology to get the job done. The teacher uses an overhead projector,a classroom website, email and organizes information like grades, etc on a personal computer. I noticed that the classroom lacks technology. It is a first grade classroom, but I could see where some technology would fit. If I were to add some things to her classroom I would add a computer lesson for the students, an assignment that involves using the computer, and a new overhead (one with a camera rather than a light).
GLE Arts Grade 4- The GLE requires that students acquires skills necessary to create, to perform, and to respond effectively to the arts. 1.1- To understand and apply concepts and vocabulary to communicate ideas: Identify different multimedia forms used to produce and present works of art: graphics, photography, animation, moving image, audio and video. For this specific standard I would first teach students about the information. I would teach them about art and how to create and perform works of art using technology. I would then require the students to choose a specific technological representation of art, graphic, photography, animation, video, audio, and create their own. For example, a student could create a video and use their computer, or compose a song.
GLE Reading Grade 4- The GLE requires students to understand and use different skills and strategies to read. 1.5- Use features of nonfiction text and computer software: Recognize organizational features of electronic information such as pull- down menus,key word searches, icons, etc. For this specific standard I would teach a basic computer lesson.
GLE Communication Grade 4- The GLE requires students to communicate ideas clearly and effectively. 2.5- Effectively use action, sound, and/ or images to support presentations: Experiment with a variety of media and resources to convey a message or enhance an oral presentation. For this specific standard I would first teach the students about the different ways to use technology to communicate. For example, power point, websites, etc. Then I would require the students to make a website where they would communicate information about a certain topic or make a power point presentation communicating information about a topic.
Students today use a wide range of technology. Most students ranging from elementary school to high school use cell phones, computers and IPOD's on a daily basis. Most students also access websites like myspace, or facebook on a daily basis as well. I think it would be great to incorporate these elements into the classroom. I personally, depending on the age range, would try to incorporate computers and websites like facebook and myspace. For example, you could have students set up their own website about a subject they enjoy or about a particular topic you are researching in class. This would help to integrate what they enjoy into their education. Students could also be allowed computers in class to take notes or work on a project.
I would put the classroom in which I am observing under tier 1, observable and best practices. The teacher uses technology to get the job done. The teacher uses an overhead projector,a classroom website, email and organizes information like grades, etc on a personal computer. I noticed that the classroom lacks technology. It is a first grade classroom, but I could see where some technology would fit. If I were to add some things to her classroom I would add a computer lesson for the students, an assignment that involves using the computer, and a new overhead (one with a camera rather than a light).
GLE Arts Grade 4- The GLE requires that students acquires skills necessary to create, to perform, and to respond effectively to the arts. 1.1- To understand and apply concepts and vocabulary to communicate ideas: Identify different multimedia forms used to produce and present works of art: graphics, photography, animation, moving image, audio and video. For this specific standard I would first teach students about the information. I would teach them about art and how to create and perform works of art using technology. I would then require the students to choose a specific technological representation of art, graphic, photography, animation, video, audio, and create their own. For example, a student could create a video and use their computer, or compose a song.
GLE Reading Grade 4- The GLE requires students to understand and use different skills and strategies to read. 1.5- Use features of nonfiction text and computer software: Recognize organizational features of electronic information such as pull- down menus,key word searches, icons, etc. For this specific standard I would teach a basic computer lesson.
GLE Communication Grade 4- The GLE requires students to communicate ideas clearly and effectively. 2.5- Effectively use action, sound, and/ or images to support presentations: Experiment with a variety of media and resources to convey a message or enhance an oral presentation. For this specific standard I would first teach the students about the different ways to use technology to communicate. For example, power point, websites, etc. Then I would require the students to make a website where they would communicate information about a certain topic or make a power point presentation communicating information about a topic.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Newcastles website review
After viewing newcastles site I did not find much wrong with it. I think the site is very well put together. Each teacher has a link to their own site where you can find information about thier class and their lesson plans. You can also view different information about the school itself as well as driving directions and recent test scores.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Adopt and Adapt: 21st Century schools need 21st Century technology
Prensky makes some good points about Technology in Education. After reading the article I had a few comments and questions of my own.
I agree with allowing students to type their assignments. I feel that their work will be more efficient and better quality as well as easier on the student.
The author made a comment about allowing students to use cell phones and cell phone cameras in learning. I don't understand how this would be beneficial to students. Cell phones and cell phone cameras are purely for communication in my opinion and would not be beneficial in a learning environment. I would be interested in seeing a teacher integrate them in a good way.
I agree with the idea that using technology will better education. I think people learn by what is familiar to them and in society today technology is what is familiar to our youth.
However, I do think that technology has gone to far when there is no longer communication with a teacher face to face. I think students need that relationship and availability.
Is Instant Messenger a good or a bad thing in education? I am unsure to the answer of this question. I don't understand how a teacher would use instant messenger in a learning environment. I see it as a communication device and not exactly useful in a learning environment but, I would be open and interested in seeing how it could be used.
I completely agree with the paragraph talking about new things in new ways. I think that students today are begging for a new way of teaching and in order to teach them best it is important to take that into consideration. If we as educators don't pay attention to the needs of our students and our ever changing environment we will fail to teach effectively.
I agree with allowing students to type their assignments. I feel that their work will be more efficient and better quality as well as easier on the student.
The author made a comment about allowing students to use cell phones and cell phone cameras in learning. I don't understand how this would be beneficial to students. Cell phones and cell phone cameras are purely for communication in my opinion and would not be beneficial in a learning environment. I would be interested in seeing a teacher integrate them in a good way.
I agree with the idea that using technology will better education. I think people learn by what is familiar to them and in society today technology is what is familiar to our youth.
However, I do think that technology has gone to far when there is no longer communication with a teacher face to face. I think students need that relationship and availability.
Is Instant Messenger a good or a bad thing in education? I am unsure to the answer of this question. I don't understand how a teacher would use instant messenger in a learning environment. I see it as a communication device and not exactly useful in a learning environment but, I would be open and interested in seeing how it could be used.
I completely agree with the paragraph talking about new things in new ways. I think that students today are begging for a new way of teaching and in order to teach them best it is important to take that into consideration. If we as educators don't pay attention to the needs of our students and our ever changing environment we will fail to teach effectively.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Why you want to be a teacher and the role of tech in Education
I would like to be a teacher because I feel called to teaching. I have a passion to influence and encourage children in a positive way. I was inspired to be a teacher by my 6th grade teacher Mrs. Nelson. Mrs. Nelson influenced my life by her commitment to teaching and to her students. When I entered her class I had just changed schools and I had no friends in my class. Mrs. Nelson was committed to me as a student and helped me to feel encourage and exited while at school. I want to influence my students lives in the same way she influenced mine. Mrs. Nelson died about 3 years ago from breast cancer, she had influenced so many students that there was a memorial given for her and over 300 of her students attend. She is the prime example of how passion and commitment can postivetly influence the lives of children.
Technology is important in Education. Technology is always changing like education and it is important to keep up with both. I am not the biggest fan of technology, but I think if it is improving a students education than it is a good thing. I think technology plays an important role in education because our world today relys on technology. It is important for students to be up to date with new technology so they are better equipped for thier future.
Technology is important in Education. Technology is always changing like education and it is important to keep up with both. I am not the biggest fan of technology, but I think if it is improving a students education than it is a good thing. I think technology plays an important role in education because our world today relys on technology. It is important for students to be up to date with new technology so they are better equipped for thier future.
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