Monday, November 29, 2010
Friday, November 26, 2010
Waiting for Superman response
Earlier this quarter I had the opportunity to see Waiting for Superman with Honors. I have to admit, the movie was not as much as it hyped up to be. I think they oversimplified many issues in education.
Things I liked:
- Their response to teacher quality and union involvement: I whole-heartedly believe that our nation's teachers need to be of higher quality. For too many people teaching is a back-up plan. Too many teachers make the old saying "Those who cannot do, teach" believable. Some of this has to do with teacher-edu, some with the standards already in place, some with lack of support or development, and a lot is because of teacher burn-out. Irregardless, our nation needs higher quality teachers. While I believe unions are necessary for contract negotiations and legal support, I do not believe that unions should have so much power that schools cannot get rid of bad teachers. We have all had them. Those teachers who make us hate class, hate learning, and at the worst not even believe in ourselves and our abilities. Anyone who has been a student recently knows they exist. Other professions are held to standards in which their job security is based on performance, and even ability. Why should teaching be any different?
- I like that they showed alternative education models. Education should not be black and white---there should be options. I think that they should be commended how good schools can help close the achievement gap--that students deserve a high quality education regardless of zip code or income.
Things I didn't like:
- I did not like that they disregarded public schools. There are great public schools, just as there are great charter and private schools. To disregard magnet schools and high performing neighborhood schools for being on an unreachable tower of sorts is not right. There are schools making a difference. Public, private, or charter we need to help other schools meet the same standards. The charter schools shown are to be commended, but they do not excuse the thousands of sub-standard charter schools.
- The issue of parent involvement was almost completely ignored. Schools are not islands! Let me say it one more time, SCHOOLS ARE NOT ISLANDS! Teachers and schools have a huge responsibility for education, but parents, families, and communities need to be a part of the equation. I am sorry, but you do not have to be well-off to care about your child and teach your children that school and education are important. When I worked at Wynn Center, almost all of the families were on vouchers. The students who progressed the most were not always the more financially advantaged (advantaged is a VERY relative term) students---they were the students who had parents, siblings, or guardians who cared what happened in school. They had the families you could count on to help problem solve when there was an issue. Family involvement is crucial! The children profiled in the documentary will likely be okay regardless of where they go to school. Yes, they will probably do better in a higher quality school, but their families have shown them that they care---that doing well in school is important. This value system, in my opinion, is more important to student success than the school.
CNN had a guest opinion editorial on parent involvement from the perspective of not just parental involvement, but the involvement of dads. Read it yourself. I believe it makes a very strong point. My favorite part (and quote to summarize my feelings of the documentary) is below:
"The film makes a persuasive case for how to fix the system, and it needs fixing. But the system is only part of the equation. Parents are the other part, and from that perspective, parents, especially dads, should not be waiting, but getting more engaged, focused and involved."
Things I liked:
- Their response to teacher quality and union involvement: I whole-heartedly believe that our nation's teachers need to be of higher quality. For too many people teaching is a back-up plan. Too many teachers make the old saying "Those who cannot do, teach" believable. Some of this has to do with teacher-edu, some with the standards already in place, some with lack of support or development, and a lot is because of teacher burn-out. Irregardless, our nation needs higher quality teachers. While I believe unions are necessary for contract negotiations and legal support, I do not believe that unions should have so much power that schools cannot get rid of bad teachers. We have all had them. Those teachers who make us hate class, hate learning, and at the worst not even believe in ourselves and our abilities. Anyone who has been a student recently knows they exist. Other professions are held to standards in which their job security is based on performance, and even ability. Why should teaching be any different?
- I like that they showed alternative education models. Education should not be black and white---there should be options. I think that they should be commended how good schools can help close the achievement gap--that students deserve a high quality education regardless of zip code or income.
Things I didn't like:
- I did not like that they disregarded public schools. There are great public schools, just as there are great charter and private schools. To disregard magnet schools and high performing neighborhood schools for being on an unreachable tower of sorts is not right. There are schools making a difference. Public, private, or charter we need to help other schools meet the same standards. The charter schools shown are to be commended, but they do not excuse the thousands of sub-standard charter schools.
- The issue of parent involvement was almost completely ignored. Schools are not islands! Let me say it one more time, SCHOOLS ARE NOT ISLANDS! Teachers and schools have a huge responsibility for education, but parents, families, and communities need to be a part of the equation. I am sorry, but you do not have to be well-off to care about your child and teach your children that school and education are important. When I worked at Wynn Center, almost all of the families were on vouchers. The students who progressed the most were not always the more financially advantaged (advantaged is a VERY relative term) students---they were the students who had parents, siblings, or guardians who cared what happened in school. They had the families you could count on to help problem solve when there was an issue. Family involvement is crucial! The children profiled in the documentary will likely be okay regardless of where they go to school. Yes, they will probably do better in a higher quality school, but their families have shown them that they care---that doing well in school is important. This value system, in my opinion, is more important to student success than the school.
CNN had a guest opinion editorial on parent involvement from the perspective of not just parental involvement, but the involvement of dads. Read it yourself. I believe it makes a very strong point. My favorite part (and quote to summarize my feelings of the documentary) is below:
"The film makes a persuasive case for how to fix the system, and it needs fixing. But the system is only part of the equation. Parents are the other part, and from that perspective, parents, especially dads, should not be waiting, but getting more engaged, focused and involved."
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
The influence of experiential learning
Though I have never met Dr. Earl Reum, I have heard nothing but good things about him from John Namey and Connie Miley, leaders of the Ohio Association of Student Councils (OASC). Dr. Earl Reum's focus is on Activity Directors--the people who work with students, develop them as leaders, and understand them. They are the people who get experiential learning. The following link is a video, Perfect 10-- Earl Reum: Speaker, Educator, Mentor, that gives you just a little bit of insight into Dr. Earl Reum's life and the charisma in which he inspires those around him to inspire others. The title of the video could not be more accurate and I believe his lessons go way beyond activity development. They are 100% applicable to the teaching profession and pretty much every other area of life.
OASC is an organization directed at older students (6th-12th grade), but the the style in which they approach leadership development is similar to best practices in any classroom--- students learn from experiential learning and they are asked to reflect upon their experience and build knowledge and skills through this reflection.
Personally, I would be an entirely different person without OASC in my life. As a 6th grader I was still very shy and not very sure of myself. Thanks to OASC my ackward middle school years (which let's face it, went well beyond middle school) were not that bad. OASC taught me to be myself, to be confident in my abilities, to learn from change and failure, and to be goal-oriented. OASC helped me realize that leaders are developed, they do not magically appear---just as I believe students develop as learners.
As I grew through the OASC program and my school, extra-curricular, and work experiences I learned the power of facilitation, self- evaluation and reflection, to ask questions, give and receive constructive criticism, and to make sure to have plenty of fun. Surprise! Guess what are the most important skills I use in the classroom? The same skills I learned at OASC and through extra-curricular activities in HS and college. My experience outside of the classroom, in my opinion, has been more valuable than my experience inside of the classroom (which, of course, is important to).
As a classroom teacher, I need to remember the value of experiential learning. Experiential learning is more than just field trips---it should be an continuous occurring experience. It should not be pushed aside. Hands-on activities, project based approaches will undoubtedly add chaos to my future classroom, and I am sure at times will be an approach that is criticized. Experiential learning is worth fighting for and my students now and in the future deserve it. It seems like the students who need experiential learning opportunities the most are the same students who are forced to sit still in a desk and get talked at all day--the ones that are taught through worksheets. I will not be that teacher. I refuse to. I have OASC and many other activities and people to thank for that.
OASC is an organization directed at older students (6th-12th grade), but the the style in which they approach leadership development is similar to best practices in any classroom--- students learn from experiential learning and they are asked to reflect upon their experience and build knowledge and skills through this reflection.
Personally, I would be an entirely different person without OASC in my life. As a 6th grader I was still very shy and not very sure of myself. Thanks to OASC my ackward middle school years (which let's face it, went well beyond middle school) were not that bad. OASC taught me to be myself, to be confident in my abilities, to learn from change and failure, and to be goal-oriented. OASC helped me realize that leaders are developed, they do not magically appear---just as I believe students develop as learners.
As I grew through the OASC program and my school, extra-curricular, and work experiences I learned the power of facilitation, self- evaluation and reflection, to ask questions, give and receive constructive criticism, and to make sure to have plenty of fun. Surprise! Guess what are the most important skills I use in the classroom? The same skills I learned at OASC and through extra-curricular activities in HS and college. My experience outside of the classroom, in my opinion, has been more valuable than my experience inside of the classroom (which, of course, is important to).
As a classroom teacher, I need to remember the value of experiential learning. Experiential learning is more than just field trips---it should be an continuous occurring experience. It should not be pushed aside. Hands-on activities, project based approaches will undoubtedly add chaos to my future classroom, and I am sure at times will be an approach that is criticized. Experiential learning is worth fighting for and my students now and in the future deserve it. It seems like the students who need experiential learning opportunities the most are the same students who are forced to sit still in a desk and get talked at all day--the ones that are taught through worksheets. I will not be that teacher. I refuse to. I have OASC and many other activities and people to thank for that.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
SOE talk: my new favorite blog
I found this awesome blog from Johns Hopkins University, School of Education. While some of their info is directly related to area-news, most of it has an impact nation-wide. Get ready for frequent re-posts from it.
http://soetalk.com
http://soetalk.com
How INTERESTING!
As an ECE teacher, there will be times that things the children think our fascinating are 100% disgusting. As a science teacher, you might even be introducing this material. It is important to capture the children's fascination and help them learn from it. And they will notice if you are 100% disgusted and likely follow suite. One of my classmates had a great suggestion. Instead of saying "ewww" "gross" or "yuck" say "how interesting". Have the children do the same. Happy Science-teaching.
P.S...I wish I had this little trick in my bag when the naturalist from Hamilton County Parks came into the class with the snake.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Classroom Organization tips
Scholastic put out an article on 100 easy classroom management tips. I love it because it does not include anything too expensive and a lot of the supplies can be found in the home! View the original article.
NEW USES FOR OLD THINGS
1. Empty Tissue Box
You always need plastic bags for sending home art projects and wet clothes. Tame that unruly mess that seemingly multiplies under your desk by using an empty tissue box to keep bags corralled and ready for use.
2. Post-it Notes
Are the keyboards in your classroom frighteningly grimy? Run the sticky side of a Post-it between the keys to pick up crumbs and dust. Then finish up with slightly dampened cotton swabs.
You always need plastic bags for sending home art projects and wet clothes. Tame that unruly mess that seemingly multiplies under your desk by using an empty tissue box to keep bags corralled and ready for use.
2. Post-it Notes
Are the keyboards in your classroom frighteningly grimy? Run the sticky side of a Post-it between the keys to pick up crumbs and dust. Then finish up with slightly dampened cotton swabs.
3. Address Stickers
Brand anything as yours—classroom library books, rulers, staplers—with a return-address sticker, and they just may stick around.
Brand anything as yours—classroom library books, rulers, staplers—with a return-address sticker, and they just may stick around.
4. Mittens
Put off-duty mittens to work as scissor guards. One classroom we saw had a clothesline of mittens to store scissors, dry-erase markers, and extra pencils. So cute!
Put off-duty mittens to work as scissor guards. One classroom we saw had a clothesline of mittens to store scissors, dry-erase markers, and extra pencils. So cute!
5. Six-Pack Carton
Transform a six-pack soda carton into a supply tote that's perfect for storing items for group work, tools for outside science exploration, or art supplies for each table of four or six students. Refreshingly simple.
Transform a six-pack soda carton into a supply tote that's perfect for storing items for group work, tools for outside science exploration, or art supplies for each table of four or six students. Refreshingly simple.
TERRIFIC TIMESAVERS
6. Download It!
From field trip forms to IEP progress reports to "No Homework!" reward coupons, you can find dozens of free downloadable templates at toolsforteachers.org. Better yet, each form can be customized for your needs.
From field trip forms to IEP progress reports to "No Homework!" reward coupons, you can find dozens of free downloadable templates at toolsforteachers.org. Better yet, each form can be customized for your needs.
7. Number Line
Assign each of your students a number. Then have them write their name and number on every paper. It makes assignments easy to keep track of and grades quick to enter. -Marilyn Ruzick
Assign each of your students a number. Then have them write their name and number on every paper. It makes assignments easy to keep track of and grades quick to enter. -Marilyn Ruzick
8. Label Everything
Place labels and photos on shelves and containers. It will make cleanup quicker and you won't have to field a thousand questions a day about where things go!
Place labels and photos on shelves and containers. It will make cleanup quicker and you won't have to field a thousand questions a day about where things go!
9. Velcro Your Walls
I use Velcro dots to attach posters to the walls. I attach the Velcro in the same spots on every poster (six inches from the center on both sides). This makes changing posters fast and easy-and I do it far more often. -Doranne Koval
I use Velcro dots to attach posters to the walls. I attach the Velcro in the same spots on every poster (six inches from the center on both sides). This makes changing posters fast and easy-and I do it far more often. -Doranne Koval
10. Copy That List!
Make 50 copies of your class list at the beginning of the year. They will be useful for so many things-quick classroom games, a reference for substitutes, notes on behavior during an assembly, or field trip checklists.
Make 50 copies of your class list at the beginning of the year. They will be useful for so many things-quick classroom games, a reference for substitutes, notes on behavior during an assembly, or field trip checklists.
11. Traffic Patterns
To start the year, I tape down paper footprints on the floor to teach the traffic flow I want in my classroom. It reduces conflict and saves minutes of learning time every single day. -Shannon McGovern
To start the year, I tape down paper footprints on the floor to teach the traffic flow I want in my classroom. It reduces conflict and saves minutes of learning time every single day. -Shannon McGovern
INGENIOUS ORGANIZING TOOLS
12-21 You might be surprised at the "free" organizing tools you can find in your attic, basement, or at least at a neighbor's garage sale.
- Vases
- Baskets
- Tackle boxes
- Silverware trays
- Muffin tins
- Oatmeal canisters
- Photo boxes
- Cookie jars
- Old suitcases
- Metal lunchboxes
- Baskets
- Tackle boxes
- Silverware trays
- Muffin tins
- Oatmeal canisters
- Photo boxes
- Cookie jars
- Old suitcases
- Metal lunchboxes
RETHINK YOUR ROOM
22. Instant Math Center
So you don't have the cash for Cuisenaire rods and other math tools, but you do have kitchen cabinets. Pantry staples like pasta shells and lima beans are perfect for hands-on math work and patterning.
22. Instant Math Center
So you don't have the cash for Cuisenaire rods and other math tools, but you do have kitchen cabinets. Pantry staples like pasta shells and lima beans are perfect for hands-on math work and patterning.
23. Reflections
Is your room gloomy? Hanging mirrors or even reflective wrapping paper opposite the windows can really brighten things up! -Frankie Frasure
Is your room gloomy? Hanging mirrors or even reflective wrapping paper opposite the windows can really brighten things up! -Frankie Frasure
24. Shower Gallery Space
Have an ugly wall? Hang a couple of sheets of shower paneling from a home store and let the kids write or draw! Invite the kids to be creative on a theme you are studying in class, whether it's oceans or Pilgrims. -Christina Vrba
Have an ugly wall? Hang a couple of sheets of shower paneling from a home store and let the kids write or draw! Invite the kids to be creative on a theme you are studying in class, whether it's oceans or Pilgrims. -Christina Vrba
25. Hide It Away
Ugly storage area? Hit the fabric store and look for a bright fabric or remnant. Use safety pins to hang kids' work or to make it into a word wall. -Robin Shaw
Ugly storage area? Hit the fabric store and look for a bright fabric or remnant. Use safety pins to hang kids' work or to make it into a word wall. -Robin Shaw
26. Color Your World
Every interior designer knows the quickest (and the cheapest) way to overhaul a room is a can of paint. You could ask parents or teens to volunteer to help! -Peggy Collrin
Every interior designer knows the quickest (and the cheapest) way to overhaul a room is a can of paint. You could ask parents or teens to volunteer to help! -Peggy Collrin
27. That Holiday Glow
I repurposed extra Christmas tree lights by running them along the window sill and around the bookcases in my classroom. I don't light them all the time, but it's always a pick-me-up for the kids when I do! -Mary Jo Pick
I repurposed extra Christmas tree lights by running them along the window sill and around the bookcases in my classroom. I don't light them all the time, but it's always a pick-me-up for the kids when I do! -Mary Jo Pick
JUST FOR FUN
28. Quack the Days
I have a huge collection of rubber ducks we use to count the days of the school year. We remove one from the windowsill each day. They add color and some fun to my classroom.-Stacey Telgren
I have a huge collection of rubber ducks we use to count the days of the school year. We remove one from the windowsill each day. They add color and some fun to my classroom.-Stacey Telgren
A MORE PEACEFUL CLASSROOM
29. Soften the Lights
I like to find extra floor and table lamps at junk shops and turn off the overhead flourescents. It makes my classroom more homey and reduces stress. -Amy Hoand
30. Reduce Clutter
Weed out all unnecessary clutter. Use crates and baskets for those things you want out of sight but handy when needed.
31. Bring Nature Inside
Plants (whether a real indoor garden or silk palms and ferns) add that soothing touch of green. And they're a boon for science study!
32. Collect It
Simple nature collections (stones, shells, pinecones, rocks) engage kids' curiosity and can be inspiration for writing, math, and art.
33. Listen Up
I often play classical music, jazz, and nature recordings in my classroom. We listen to the ocean while we do math, or the cello during reading. -Sarah Kal
34. Lower Your Voice
Sometimes the best way to get and keep kids' attention is to say less and say it very quietly. You set the tone.
I like to find extra floor and table lamps at junk shops and turn off the overhead flourescents. It makes my classroom more homey and reduces stress. -Amy Hoand
30. Reduce Clutter
Weed out all unnecessary clutter. Use crates and baskets for those things you want out of sight but handy when needed.
31. Bring Nature Inside
Plants (whether a real indoor garden or silk palms and ferns) add that soothing touch of green. And they're a boon for science study!
32. Collect It
Simple nature collections (stones, shells, pinecones, rocks) engage kids' curiosity and can be inspiration for writing, math, and art.
33. Listen Up
I often play classical music, jazz, and nature recordings in my classroom. We listen to the ocean while we do math, or the cello during reading. -Sarah Kal
34. Lower Your Voice
Sometimes the best way to get and keep kids' attention is to say less and say it very quietly. You set the tone.
FREE (OR ALMOST FREE) SUPPLIES
35-37
Too many teachers spend their own hard-earned cash to outfit their rooms. Here are a few websites you can count on.
- Freecycle.org: A nonprofit site where you can give (and get) stuff free in your own town. Great for kids' books, extra furniture, even a DVD player. Be sure to let people know you are a teacher!
- Donorschoose.org: A well-respected organization connects donors with classrooms in need. Any teacher can sign up!
- Bookins.com: Refresh your library with this book swap site. Give away books that aren't working for ones that will!
Too many teachers spend their own hard-earned cash to outfit their rooms. Here are a few websites you can count on.
- Freecycle.org: A nonprofit site where you can give (and get) stuff free in your own town. Great for kids' books, extra furniture, even a DVD player. Be sure to let people know you are a teacher!
- Donorschoose.org: A well-respected organization connects donors with classrooms in need. Any teacher can sign up!
- Bookins.com: Refresh your library with this book swap site. Give away books that aren't working for ones that will!
TAME THAT PAPERWORK
38. Paper Keeper
An empty wine bottle carton wrapped in a recycled map makes a perfect mailbox.
An empty wine bottle carton wrapped in a recycled map makes a perfect mailbox.
39. Start at the End
I have a calendar for the entire year. I take notes on major themes, brainstorm books, then I break down each book into themes and skills. I count the days and work backwards to fit it all in. -Diana Kennedy
40. In and Out Boxes
On a bookshelf by the door of my middle school classroom, I have six sets of In and Out boxes. They are arranged in pairs and labeled by period. Kids turn their work in to the top bin and pick it up from the bottom bin. It keeps the clutter off my desk! -Miranda Wicker
I have a calendar for the entire year. I take notes on major themes, brainstorm books, then I break down each book into themes and skills. I count the days and work backwards to fit it all in. -Diana Kennedy
40. In and Out Boxes
On a bookshelf by the door of my middle school classroom, I have six sets of In and Out boxes. They are arranged in pairs and labeled by period. Kids turn their work in to the top bin and pick it up from the bottom bin. It keeps the clutter off my desk! -Miranda Wicker
KEEP TECH ORGANIZED
41. Tangles of Wires
Slip wires through two or more empty paper towel tubes to contain them. For an even better look, have kids cover them with colored paper first.
42. Junior IT Help
Assign some tasks to students. They can position equipment, connect the projection device, log in, open the browser, and you're ready to go!
43. Share the Computer Space
Create groups of three students: keyboard operator, mouse operator, and director/recorder. In a crowded area, the director/recorder student can stand behind the other two and give the directions. Rotate roles every 5-7 minutes.
MANAGE VOLUNTEERS
44-53
Having volunteers in your classroom is a great gift, but it's also a lot of work. Here are some quick tips:
- Be clear about needs
- Set boundaries
- Give clear directions
- Respect their time
- Schedule in advance
- Make room for dads
- Give praise
- Vary the opportunities
- Use parents' talents
- Have kids say thanks!
Slip wires through two or more empty paper towel tubes to contain them. For an even better look, have kids cover them with colored paper first.
42. Junior IT Help
Assign some tasks to students. They can position equipment, connect the projection device, log in, open the browser, and you're ready to go!
43. Share the Computer Space
Create groups of three students: keyboard operator, mouse operator, and director/recorder. In a crowded area, the director/recorder student can stand behind the other two and give the directions. Rotate roles every 5-7 minutes.
MANAGE VOLUNTEERS
44-53
Having volunteers in your classroom is a great gift, but it's also a lot of work. Here are some quick tips:
- Be clear about needs
- Set boundaries
- Give clear directions
- Respect their time
- Schedule in advance
- Make room for dads
- Give praise
- Vary the opportunities
- Use parents' talents
- Have kids say thanks!
ART IS MESSY, SO IS LIFE
54. Tempera
Sure it's washable, but it's still hard to remove from carpets. If you have a spill, first let it dry. Scrape away any loose paint. Next, use a clean cloth to blot the stain with white vinegar. The dye should begin to transfer to the cloth.
55. Instant Art Centers
Have some extra cookie sheets? If not, ask your friends. Nothing is better for keeping cut-and-paste projects contained. The edges keep all those scraps of paper on the tray instead of on the floor. -Amanda Freeman
56. Bingo!
Kids love to paint, but brushes can be hard to control for small hands and the cleanup is extensive. Use bingo stamp bottles filled with liquid watercolor and cleaning is a breeze.
57. Too Much Art
So much artwork, so little wall space. When kids' work piles up, take photographs of their masterpieces and post them on your website, or make them into an inexpensive photo book. (Try shutterfly.com or snapfish.com.)
58. Glitter
Transfer the sparkly stuff into recycled salt and pepper shakers. (Little hands find them easier to control!)
59. Save the Brushes
Extend the life of your brushes by putting them away clean and dry. Have students wash brushes with soap and water and then stand them to dry in jars filled with popcorn or lentils. The jars will catch any drops.
Sure it's washable, but it's still hard to remove from carpets. If you have a spill, first let it dry. Scrape away any loose paint. Next, use a clean cloth to blot the stain with white vinegar. The dye should begin to transfer to the cloth.
55. Instant Art Centers
Have some extra cookie sheets? If not, ask your friends. Nothing is better for keeping cut-and-paste projects contained. The edges keep all those scraps of paper on the tray instead of on the floor. -Amanda Freeman
56. Bingo!
Kids love to paint, but brushes can be hard to control for small hands and the cleanup is extensive. Use bingo stamp bottles filled with liquid watercolor and cleaning is a breeze.
57. Too Much Art
So much artwork, so little wall space. When kids' work piles up, take photographs of their masterpieces and post them on your website, or make them into an inexpensive photo book. (Try shutterfly.com or snapfish.com.)
58. Glitter
Transfer the sparkly stuff into recycled salt and pepper shakers. (Little hands find them easier to control!)
59. Save the Brushes
Extend the life of your brushes by putting them away clean and dry. Have students wash brushes with soap and water and then stand them to dry in jars filled with popcorn or lentils. The jars will catch any drops.
FIGHT GERMS
60-68
A five-minute daily clean routine can help keep the germs at bay and your classroom gleaming. Have your helpers of the day use disinfectant wipes to scrub down these hot spots:
- Desktops
- Countertops
- Light switches
- Doorknobs
- Keyboards
- Cabinet handles
- Drawer pulls
- Faucets
- Water fountains
A five-minute daily clean routine can help keep the germs at bay and your classroom gleaming. Have your helpers of the day use disinfectant wipes to scrub down these hot spots:
- Desktops
- Countertops
- Light switches
- Doorknobs
- Keyboards
- Cabinet handles
- Drawer pulls
- Faucets
- Water fountains
Online Organization Tools
69. RemembertheMilk.com This free personal organization tool works online and with mobile phones.
70. 43things.com You enter a list of goals you want to accomplish and other users can "cheer" you on.
71. Tadalist.com Ta-da List allows you to create a to-do list in 30 seconds. Your lists will be hosted at a unique URL assigned just to you.
72. Docs.google.com Google Docs let you share work online and access your documents from anywhere.
73. Mommytracked.com Dozens of downloadable forms for work and home.
KEEP TRANSITIONS FUN
74. Ring, Ring
Sounding a small bell or chime brings my class to order much more effectively than me trying to talk over the noise. -Melissa Valencia
75. Time for Talk
I let my first graders have quick "chat breaks" of a minute or two. When it is time to get back to work I count down slowly from five. -Suzanne Gerczynski
76. Attention, Please
I use wooden castanets, a New Year's horn, or a wooden train whistle. They enjoy the surprise! -Ann Trastevere
77. Brain Break
Between activities, have kids take turns acting out a fun or silly thing (e.g., catch and reel in a fish, hit a home run and then cheer for yourself). -Jordan Anderson
78. Downward Dog
If our lesson is longer than 30 minutes, we take a quick yoga break: strike a pose and do some breathing to get the blood circulating. -Heather Burch
79. Dance Party
After a period of intense focus, I transition with a One-Minute Dance Party. We play fast dance music. They know at the end of the minute they need to be ready to do what's next. -Nancy Hodges Barlow
80. Sign It!
I teach my kids the sign language alphabet! If we have to wait outside the music or library room door, we can silently practice our spelling words using the ASL alphabet. -Erin Harper
MAKE LESSON PLANNING EASY
81. Break it Up
I break my lesson plans into half-hour chunks to make sure we use every minute. -Kathie Gilbert
82. Standards First
Start with what you'll be testing (the standard), then plan how the students will demonstrate it. From there, plan how and what you'll teach them. -Jolene Wagner
83. Sticky Notes
I write my schedule and lesson plan ideas on Post-it notes because nothing goes exactly as planned. This way I can move things around. -Sara Griffin
69. RemembertheMilk.com This free personal organization tool works online and with mobile phones.
70. 43things.com You enter a list of goals you want to accomplish and other users can "cheer" you on.
71. Tadalist.com Ta-da List allows you to create a to-do list in 30 seconds. Your lists will be hosted at a unique URL assigned just to you.
72. Docs.google.com Google Docs let you share work online and access your documents from anywhere.
73. Mommytracked.com Dozens of downloadable forms for work and home.
KEEP TRANSITIONS FUN
74. Ring, Ring
Sounding a small bell or chime brings my class to order much more effectively than me trying to talk over the noise. -Melissa Valencia
75. Time for Talk
I let my first graders have quick "chat breaks" of a minute or two. When it is time to get back to work I count down slowly from five. -Suzanne Gerczynski
76. Attention, Please
I use wooden castanets, a New Year's horn, or a wooden train whistle. They enjoy the surprise! -Ann Trastevere
77. Brain Break
Between activities, have kids take turns acting out a fun or silly thing (e.g., catch and reel in a fish, hit a home run and then cheer for yourself). -Jordan Anderson
78. Downward Dog
If our lesson is longer than 30 minutes, we take a quick yoga break: strike a pose and do some breathing to get the blood circulating. -Heather Burch
79. Dance Party
After a period of intense focus, I transition with a One-Minute Dance Party. We play fast dance music. They know at the end of the minute they need to be ready to do what's next. -Nancy Hodges Barlow
80. Sign It!
I teach my kids the sign language alphabet! If we have to wait outside the music or library room door, we can silently practice our spelling words using the ASL alphabet. -Erin Harper
MAKE LESSON PLANNING EASY
81. Break it Up
I break my lesson plans into half-hour chunks to make sure we use every minute. -Kathie Gilbert
82. Standards First
Start with what you'll be testing (the standard), then plan how the students will demonstrate it. From there, plan how and what you'll teach them. -Jolene Wagner
83. Sticky Notes
I write my schedule and lesson plan ideas on Post-it notes because nothing goes exactly as planned. This way I can move things around. -Sara Griffin
84. Style Code
I place a letter (A=Auditory, V=Visual, K=Kinesthetic) by each lesson plan idea to keep track of learning styles. -Elena Beehler
85. Math on Monday
Try to plan one subject's lessons for the next week each day. On Tuesdays, plan social studies, etc.
I place a letter (A=Auditory, V=Visual, K=Kinesthetic) by each lesson plan idea to keep track of learning styles. -Elena Beehler
85. Math on Monday
Try to plan one subject's lessons for the next week each day. On Tuesdays, plan social studies, etc.
KEEP KIDS ON TRACK
86. Picture It
I write the daily schedule on the board with picture cues. -Laurel L. Wodrich
87. Kitchen Timer
Multipurpose tool of the gods. Use it for transitions, group time, journaling, cleanup time.
88. Tell Kids What They Should Do
Rather than telling them what they should not do, this simple twist on how to give directions may revolutionize how you communicate with your students.
89. Teach Study Skills
Never assume kids know how to study. Teach them how to review a chapter.
90. Morning Mail
Set two trays near your desk, one for money (lunch, book orders) and one for parent notes. Check them quickly during morning work.
86. Picture It
I write the daily schedule on the board with picture cues. -Laurel L. Wodrich
87. Kitchen Timer
Multipurpose tool of the gods. Use it for transitions, group time, journaling, cleanup time.
88. Tell Kids What They Should Do
Rather than telling them what they should not do, this simple twist on how to give directions may revolutionize how you communicate with your students.
89. Teach Study Skills
Never assume kids know how to study. Teach them how to review a chapter.
90. Morning Mail
Set two trays near your desk, one for money (lunch, book orders) and one for parent notes. Check them quickly during morning work.
ORGANIZE YOUR LIBRARY
91. Student Librarians
Every year, I have my first graders sort our books according to the categories that they think are important. They always know what books we have. -Jamie Chaffee
91. Student Librarians
Every year, I have my first graders sort our books according to the categories that they think are important. They always know what books we have. -Jamie Chaffee
92. Library Cards
When students borrow a book, have them write the name of the book on an index card and place it in a pocket chart. Later they can write about the book on the back on the card.
When students borrow a book, have them write the name of the book on an index card and place it in a pocket chart. Later they can write about the book on the back on the card.
93. Market Your Books
Use bookstore tricks! Front-face books you'd like them to read and try themed display tables.
Use bookstore tricks! Front-face books you'd like them to read and try themed display tables.
94. Easy Book Return
Label clothespins with each child's name. When they borrow a book, have them clip their clothespin to the basket.
Label clothespins with each child's name. When they borrow a book, have them clip their clothespin to the basket.
95. Book Care 101
Teach children how to care for books, use bookmarks, and repair books when needed.
96. Match Up
Place stickers (yellow stars, blue circles) on your baskets and the books inside and they'll be easy to return to the right place.
Teach children how to care for books, use bookmarks, and repair books when needed.
96. Match Up
Place stickers (yellow stars, blue circles) on your baskets and the books inside and they'll be easy to return to the right place.
PARENT COMMUNICATION
97. Student Information Sheets
I send home student information forms the first week. On the back of the sheet is a contact log I use all year long. -Kechia Williams
98. E-mail Newsletter
A weekly e-mail that explains what's going on in class keeps parents in the know.
99. Positive Calls
I schedule the time for five positive calls home per week. -Kechia Williams
100. Family Projects
I do family projects each month-quilt squares, collecting food for a food bank, etc. The children love having their parents involved! -Diane Gold
97. Student Information Sheets
I send home student information forms the first week. On the back of the sheet is a contact log I use all year long. -Kechia Williams
98. E-mail Newsletter
A weekly e-mail that explains what's going on in class keeps parents in the know.
99. Positive Calls
I schedule the time for five positive calls home per week. -Kechia Williams
100. Family Projects
I do family projects each month-quilt squares, collecting food for a food bank, etc. The children love having their parents involved! -Diane Gold
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Reading in Front of the Class
One of the things I have gotten much better at this year is reading in front of the class. I used to HATE reading to the class, or really reading out loud in general, because I read so much faster than I talk. The more I have practiced, the more I like it. I began to think of it as a way to model fluency and reading with expression and realized that if I focus on those things, just as we ask children to, I was a much better reader.
My students are a great audience and they LOVE books!We take full advantage of this and teach through our reading time as much as possible. Here is a list of things from the "Childhood 101" blog that are some basic ways for children to learn through story time. To see the full post click here.
1. Read the title of the book. You might like to point out the words which make up the title with your finger.
2. Read and point out the name of the author.
3. And the illustrator.
4. Point out any letters which are significant to your child, for example, the first initial of their name.
5. Before reading a book for the first time, look at the cover illustration and talk about any clues you can see which might help you both to understand what the book is about.
6. Look at the spine of the book - point out the title and talk about why a book has a spine, SquiggleMum has a great post about book spines here.
7. Use the correct vocabulary - cover, title, author, words, illustrator, illustrations, spine.
Whilst you might not do all of these things every time, taking time to explore the features of the book cover helps your child to;
Hopefully I will get a chance to post some specific lessons we have taught or introduced through stories, but what I like about these tips is that anyone can implement them and when done in moderation, the children won't even notice they are learning!
My students are a great audience and they LOVE books!We take full advantage of this and teach through our reading time as much as possible. Here is a list of things from the "Childhood 101" blog that are some basic ways for children to learn through story time. To see the full post click here.
1. As you read a new book, pause to make observations together or ask questions about what is happening in the story.
2. In picture books, illustrations are as important as words. Notice together interesting details or clues as to what is happening in the story.
3. For older children, ask what they think will happen next or what they would do if they were in a similar situation.
4. At the appropriate moment, pause as an invitation for your child to join you in reading a rhyming word or familiar phrase.
5. Ask your child to point to where the words are on a page (as separate to the illustrations). Talk about the words being the part of the book which you read.
6. Point to the words as you read them. This will show your child where you start reading, that you read English from left to right and that there is one word represented on the page for each word that you say.
7. When re-reading familiar books, point out (or ask your child to point out) any letters which are significant to them, for example, the first letter of their name.
8. For older children, notice punctuation marks, such as full stops, question marks and exclamation marks.
9. Explore the end pages of the book. SquiggleMum posted about the purpose and possibilities of end pages here.
Explore the Cover: (original post)
2. Read and point out the name of the author.
3. And the illustrator.
4. Point out any letters which are significant to your child, for example, the first initial of their name.
5. Before reading a book for the first time, look at the cover illustration and talk about any clues you can see which might help you both to understand what the book is about.
6. Look at the spine of the book - point out the title and talk about why a book has a spine, SquiggleMum has a great post about book spines here.
7. Use the correct vocabulary - cover, title, author, words, illustrator, illustrations, spine.
Whilst you might not do all of these things every time, taking time to explore the features of the book cover helps your child to;
- Build prior knowledge of what the book is about
- Make predictions
- Set the purpose for reading
Hopefully I will get a chance to post some specific lessons we have taught or introduced through stories, but what I like about these tips is that anyone can implement them and when done in moderation, the children won't even notice they are learning!
Sunday, November 7, 2010
NYT Best Illustrated Children's Books of 2010
In Teaching Reading Through Children's Literature and many subsequent courses we learn that illustrations are not just for looks. Children learn through looking at the pictures. The illustrations in children's books tell part of the story. They are there to compliment and enhance the plot.
In our classroom, we have teach the children that there are 3 ways to read: 1. Read the words 2. Read the pictures (notice we say READ not look) and 3. Re-tell the story.
Children who practice all three ways will have the best comprehension of the story.
I am excited to read the books listed in the New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Books of 2010. I will put it on my 'to do' list! I hope the books are as good as the pictures.
In our classroom, we have teach the children that there are 3 ways to read: 1. Read the words 2. Read the pictures (notice we say READ not look) and 3. Re-tell the story.
Children who practice all three ways will have the best comprehension of the story.
I am excited to read the books listed in the New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Books of 2010. I will put it on my 'to do' list! I hope the books are as good as the pictures.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Field Trip Talk
One thing I love about field trips is getting a chance to talk to the children a little bit more casually than usual. Bus rides, lunch time, and down time bring about some interesting conversations:
Today we passed a cemetery on our way to the field trip:
S: "Miss Prinzo...That's where all of the dead people live!"
Talking about TV:
J: L, you watch too much TV.
L: No I don't. I only watch a million hours a day.
Today we passed a cemetery on our way to the field trip:
S: "Miss Prinzo...That's where all of the dead people live!"
Talking about TV:
J: L, you watch too much TV.
L: No I don't. I only watch a million hours a day.
Revere's Levy Goes Down
I would have given anything to still bea registered voter in Bath, Ohio this week so I could vote in favor of Revere's levy. It makes me sick that the levy was turned down. The Revere Local School District has not been irresponsible with tax payer's money what so ever. They have stretched a 5-year operating levy over 9+ years. There is only so much they can do before the cuts to the budget start effecting the quality of education students receive. When I went to Revere, I knew that we might not have a lot of school spirit, but our community still cared about the education of its children. We expect the best, but this vote showed, that we aren't ready to sacrifice for it.
Election defeat: http://www.ohio.com/news/106582788.html
Pre-election scrutiny: http://www.ohio.com/news/education/105619938.html
Revere Board of Edu responds to questions about levy: http://www.cleveland.com/opinion/index.ssf/2010/10/summit_county_revere_school_le.html
My mom tonight told me that she is "so thankful you are out of there." I have always believed in public education, mainly because of the Revere Local School District. A parent should not have to be grateful that her child is out of school. I know the system needs fixed, I doubt our political figures have the miracle solution they have campaigned on, but I hope the Revere community has the sense to do what they can when the Levy is placed back on the ballot again
Election defeat: http://www.ohio.com/news/106582788.html
Pre-election scrutiny: http://www.ohio.com/news/education/105619938.html
Revere Board of Edu responds to questions about levy: http://www.cleveland.com/opinion/index.ssf/2010/10/summit_county_revere_school_le.html
My mom tonight told me that she is "so thankful you are out of there." I have always believed in public education, mainly because of the Revere Local School District. A parent should not have to be grateful that her child is out of school. I know the system needs fixed, I doubt our political figures have the miracle solution they have campaigned on, but I hope the Revere community has the sense to do what they can when the Levy is placed back on the ballot again
Election Day
We spent a lot of time this week talking about elections and voting.
It was a week that really reinforced my belief that my job as an Early Childhood Educator is so much more than teaching math and reading, it is about giving children a foundation to being a good citizen, showing them how to treat one another, and teaching them social skills that will last a lifetime.
So we talked about voting! I was amazed at how fascinated my children are about the voting process. We talked about it for about 20 minutes on Monday when we changed the calendar, and for close to 40 minutes during our Tuesday morning meeting (for those of you not in ECE...that is like an eternity for class discussion).
We also had more formal activities in which we read books about elections ("Duck for President" and "Otto Runs for President") and voted on important class issues (what to do for our Thanksgiving celebration and what to do for our January monthly project). All of the children signed in, voted secretly on the issues, and were given a "I voted today" sticker. We announced the results later in the day and conducted a short discussion on how voting results are announced.
Here are some of the topics we covered. I personally was amazed at the depth of the discussion and the questions my children asked:
- Voting is a way to show your opinion on important public matters.
- If you don't vote, you can't complain (a personal favorite).
- Poll locations are based on where you live
- What polling locations look like.
- Why you have to show your ID when you go to vote/
- Voting is a private thing. You should not feel pressured to vote for a particular candidate and you should not have to share who you voted for.
- Why political campaigns can be negative.
- You can not campaign at a polling location.
- How results are announced to the public.
- What a levy is
- What a non-presidential election is
- Election day is the first Tuesday of every month.
- You can elect people into positions or vote for or against an issue.
- Majority rules.
- People in different cities vote on different issues.
I think we have some future politicians in our classroom...or even more importantly, future caring and compassionate voters!
"A passive and ignorant citizenry will never create a sustainable world." -Andrew Gaines
It was a week that really reinforced my belief that my job as an Early Childhood Educator is so much more than teaching math and reading, it is about giving children a foundation to being a good citizen, showing them how to treat one another, and teaching them social skills that will last a lifetime.
So we talked about voting! I was amazed at how fascinated my children are about the voting process. We talked about it for about 20 minutes on Monday when we changed the calendar, and for close to 40 minutes during our Tuesday morning meeting (for those of you not in ECE...that is like an eternity for class discussion).
We also had more formal activities in which we read books about elections ("Duck for President" and "Otto Runs for President") and voted on important class issues (what to do for our Thanksgiving celebration and what to do for our January monthly project). All of the children signed in, voted secretly on the issues, and were given a "I voted today" sticker. We announced the results later in the day and conducted a short discussion on how voting results are announced.
Here are some of the topics we covered. I personally was amazed at the depth of the discussion and the questions my children asked:
- Voting is a way to show your opinion on important public matters.
- If you don't vote, you can't complain (a personal favorite).
- Poll locations are based on where you live
- What polling locations look like.
- Why you have to show your ID when you go to vote/
- Voting is a private thing. You should not feel pressured to vote for a particular candidate and you should not have to share who you voted for.
- Why political campaigns can be negative.
- You can not campaign at a polling location.
- How results are announced to the public.
- What a levy is
- What a non-presidential election is
- Election day is the first Tuesday of every month.
- You can elect people into positions or vote for or against an issue.
- Majority rules.
- People in different cities vote on different issues.
I think we have some future politicians in our classroom...or even more importantly, future caring and compassionate voters!
"A passive and ignorant citizenry will never create a sustainable world." -Andrew Gaines
Past, present, and future
Yesterday we were talking about past, present, and future.
We were looking at pictures of a 7 year old boy (past), a 30 year old man (present) and we asked our kids what they thought he would look like in the future..."Dead."
I can't argue with that.
We were looking at pictures of a 7 year old boy (past), a 30 year old man (present) and we asked our kids what they thought he would look like in the future..."Dead."
I can't argue with that.
Teachable Moments
During my first observation in Preschool Practicum, my supervisor spent a lot of time talking with me about the importance of teachable moments (apparently I missed quite a few). It was probably the most influential talk I have had since beginning practicum, and I can guarantee you I am a better teacher now than I was because I have been able to capitalize on "teachable moments."
The hardest thing about teaching in the moment is that it is unplanned. As a teacher, you have to be flexible and make a split-second decision on whether or not this moment is worth capitalizing on, worth taking away from your next lesson. I have found that more often or not, teachable moments are worth it.
Being able to capitalize on a moment, and really capturing the students' interest, is an invaluable opportunity to expand a students' learning.
This Tuesday was full of teachable moments...
I gave impromptu lessons on being courteous to authority figures, allowing people to concentrate on their work, why we shut off water when we work on plumbing, how a crock pot works, and, my favorite, the voting process. Needless to say, it was a crazy day. I do, however, believe that the lessons learned were worth the craziness! I believe we learn by living, regardless of whether or not we are in the classroom!
I found a blog forum from PBS that could not be better at explaining teachable moments...I highly recommend it:
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)