Sign the Petition Please!

Bringing about change isn't easy.  Often a lot of leg work is involved and when that leg work is being done by a 10 year old it may seem even more daunting.

Background Information: It was a school tradition for over 18 years that the entire fourth grade participated in a Shakespearean play.  Last year, due to many different factors, the fourth grade team decided to try something different.  This change was met with mixed emotions (as change often does).

Current Situation: As we make our way towards the end of the school year, one of my students started discussing the "Fourth Grade Play" with her sister (who had been in a production of "Julius Caesar" several years before).  It seems that my student wanted to "Bring back the Fourth Grade Play".  Her sister suggested she start a petition.

The petition was then created and over a several day period the student collected over 84 signatures.  Fourth graders, third and fifth graders alike signed their names to the document.  (Even a staff member signed the petition.)  The day finally came when my student asked if she could present the paper to the principal.  I asked her to write our principal a letter stating what she was hoping to accomplish and attach it to the petition.  She did so and brought the letter and petition to the office.

The Discussion:  She came back with her hand over her heart saying "I'm so sick to my stomach, I can hardly breathe!"  It seems that she was worried that she was going to get in trouble for organizing this action.  She stated that some kids even erased their name from the petition for fear of being reprimanded. 

After calming down my student, we spoke about how this was a wonderful way to exercise her 'right to petition'.  Since we had just learned about Martin Luther King, connections of using peaceful methods to bring about change were made.  I assured her that she and her friends were not going to get in trouble and that this is how people bring about change in government and other areas.

The Outcome: Sometimes, even with a petition, the change we hope to bring about doesn't necessarily happen. This was to be the case for my fourth grader and her friends.  However, what DID happen was that the principal came to each fourth grade classroom and told the students how impressed and proud he was of their efforts.  He also explained how students shouldn't be afraid to make their voices heard and that they shouldn't be afraid to stand up for what they believe.


Even though the kids didn't receive the outcome they wanted, I think they were satisfied that their endeavor was taken seriously and proud of themselves for trying.

On Another Note:  In June these fourth grade students will participate in an activity called "Night at the Museum".  Students will research an historical figure and write a script about the life of that figure from their point of view.  They will wear a costume and perform their script.  It's a magical evening for students and their families.

Whether it's a Shakespearean play or a Night at the Museum the students will be afforded an opportunity to learn through drama and participate in an activity that they will remember for years to come.

RESOURCES:
Right to Petition the Government: From Learning to Give which has "resources that teach giving and civic engagement".

How to Write a Petition: This site provides information on "identifying your target, proper research, clear communication and how you will promote your petition."

Online Petition:  Start your petition online for free.

Why Use Drama in Education:  DramaEd.net states and gives examples how "drama accomplishes many educational goals."

Have your students created petitions?  What was the outcome?  How have you guided them in their efforts?  Please share your experiences in the comment section.

ReThinking Project Based Learning - Building a Radio

In the teachers' lounge early in the year I noticed someone was donating some "freebies" to any interested party. There were children's books, books for middle readers and even novels for adults.

It just so happened that this one day, there among the books, was an AM/FM Radio Kit. You know, it's the kind that you have to put together. Quickly, I snapped it up and brought it to my classroom.


The kit sat among my games and forgotten for most of the year. Just the other day I was organizing the shelves and found it again. A few students were waiting to be dismissed and asked about it. After listening to the explanation I asked if they would like to try building it together during indoor recess. Little did I know the hubbub and stir that would ensue!

Before any assembly could occur the kids realized they would need a screwdriver and started trying to decide which type was necessary. One student offered to bring one a small phillips head. Another said that wire cutters were needed but thought that maybe they could use strong scissors. The conversation about where to begin and what was needed went on until all students were dismissed for the day.


Due to the rain, the next day found the kids indoors for recess. A barrage of students approached me asking about putting together the radio. And so it began - the making of the AM/FM radio in short 15 minute bursts. It is still not completed, but the kids have not lost their enthusiasm.

This made me think about 'authentic problem solving'. These kids were learning on their own - how to organize, handle tools, read directions, classify parts, test out ideas, work together and more. Their level of interaction and engagement was high. This was a problem they wanted to solve.

Noticing the students' enthusiasm for learning makes me wonder how I can incorporate meaningful, well-focused Project Based Learning lessons in my classroom. These resources below may help.

RESOURCES:
The Power of Project Learning: On Scholastic by Wayne D'Orio

Problem Based Learning Activities: A collection of PBL activities through Mrs. O's House site.


How to Write Effective Driving Questions for PBL: on Edutopia by Andrew Miller

Resources for Project Based Learning: on Wikispaces Blog

10 Free Project Based Learning Resources: at Tech&Learning by Michael Gorman

Project Based Learning: A compilation of resources by Cybraryman

Project Based Learning Resources: by the Educational Technology Guy


Please share your favorite project based learning lessons in the comment section below!

Thank You Notes with a Twist

While some people expect them, to others they're a welcome surprise! Either way, right after the holidays people love to receive them! Thank You notes!

However, most kids hate to write them!  I know it's a battle with my own two children.  Since they were very little they have been (reluctantly) writing them.  I think they don't enjoy it because "it takes too much time." Regardless, it's important to show appreciation for a gift received.

In school, my students have occasionally written thank you notes to their parents as a way to recognize all that is being done for them at home.  This year I will have them write a note for one of their Christmas or Hanukkah gifts.  Of course, an accompanying lesson will be  'How to Write' a thank you note. and "How to Address an Envelope.

To make it less painless I will give the students a choice when creating their notes. They may choose one of the following: 

• Use blank construction paper to create their own.

• Use a recycled holiday card (I remove the fronts of the Christmas cards sent to me and use them as part of the thank you card.)

• Use a holiday printable template from DLTK (or a template like in the picture above from Family Fun)   (I used the free PDFEscape to type in the boxes, but handwriting works too!)

• Create your own Printable Card from "Got Free Cards". Choose from many covers and don't forget to add some stickers. 

• Create more Kid Friendly Printables for all kinds of occasions from Greetings Island. You can even add your own photos - then print!

• Send an e-Card:  Choose from an array of different cards from Yahoo and email them to relatives and friends. (this is a fun, easy option but this site does not allow you to add your own words).

It's never too early (and although the above video says to be punctual - I think it's never too late) to write a 'Thank You' as it will surely warm the hearts of the recipients knowing their gift was valued and treasured. (And as writing Thank You's is often a form of Art it will make the writer feel good about adding personal touches and sentiments as well).

I must hurry now and get my own notes out!

Teachable Moment-Apollo 7 Splashdown!

Crew of Apollo 7 (NASA photo)

Schirra, Eisele and Cunningham may not be household names, but they are names that are now known in our fourth grade classroom thanks to one 10 year old girl and her Grandpa.  These gentlemen were the crew of Apollo 7, the first manned Apollo space flight!  Our young fourth grader shared a piece of their incredible story, but shared it through the eyes and stories of her Grandpa who was fortunate enough to see the end of Apollo's mission.

In honor of Veteran's Day our class wrote letters thanking a veteran in our family (or neighbor).  My student wrote to her grandfather (who happens to also live with her) and he wrote back.  Not only did he write back but he sent in his yearbook from the ship on which he was stationed, pictures of that vessel and some amazing photos of Apollo 7's splashdown from 1968!

As this young lady shared the photos (via the class document camera) she spoke knowledgeably about each one of them. The photos were taken from the ship (where her Grandpa was assigned) the U.S.S. Essex on October 22, 1968 as they recovered the space capsule from the waters. She fielded questions from her classmates and answered them intelligently.  It was clear that she spent time listening and learning from her Grandfather. 

Splashdown - Navy Frogs

Of course this was not the planned lesson of the day, but the impact this had on the students was far greater than the scheduled instruction.  The class couldn't get enough information and wanted to learn more. They asked questions about the astronauts, the spacecraft, the aircraft carrier as well lots of other questions.  It became a social studies lesson on primary sources, a science lesson on space,  a math lesson on elapsed time, a language arts lesson (we wrote poems) and more! But, perhaps what made it most exciting for students, was knowing that their classmate's Grandpa was really "there"!  It made that instant connection with them.

It is important sometimes to forgo the plans and capture the excitement and enthusiasm for learning that comes from those teachable moments.  What was your last 'teachable moment'?  Please share it in the comment section below!


Learn more with Apollo 7 Resources:
Encyclopedia Astronautica:  Scroll down to see a great timeline beginning in March 1965
Astronomy Top 100: This site speaks about Apollo 7 being broadcast 'Live'
NASA Video of Apollo 7
Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum A brief summary of Apollo 7's mission.

Virtual Field Trips! A Great Alternative! Part 1

Screen Shot of the Djuma Safari with Mark the guide

This morning I went on a Safari at the Djuma Game Reserve in the Sabi Sand of South Africa!  Riding along in the back seat of the open jeep, feeling the bumps of the dirt road, I witnessed Water Buffalo and Hippos basking in the watering hole,  an impala hiding in the brush and a pair of female giraffes eating from the tops of trees.  The whole time I thought, "My students would LOVE to do this!"   Well, they actually can as the safari is broadcast LIVE (twice daily for 3 hours each) through WildEarthTV.    What a way to learn about the animals in Africa!  (AS of November 2011 the Live Safari is no longer available due to funding).

Virtual field trips such as this safari, allow the students to experience different opportunities without having to actually BE there.  Students need not travel far or wide to be exposed to new adventures and gain new understanding of topics they might once have only read about.  It's engaging and fun for students to see things first hand and in 'REAL' time.  
Check out ANIMAL CAMERAS: 

Screen shot of Giraffe (Speech bubble added using Big Huge Labs)

Extensive list of Live Animal Webcams broken into categories such as Aquariums, Horses, Bees, Penquins and more! Clicking on one of the categories will bring you to several options.




Check out more livecam virtual animal sites:
Africam:  Elephant Plains 
Africam: Nkorho Pan


Check out this website full of livecams:

Trinity Mountain Outdoors: Links to all kinds of  Animal/Bird Cameras

http://www.trmichels.com/AnimalCams.htm

Screen Shot of Polar Bear Cam on Explore.org

Check out these this site for webcasts to learn more about polar bears:
Polar Bear International Tundra Connections:   Sign up for live broadcasts during the polar bear migration.




Learning by doing is best, but experiencing something "LIVE" is a great alternative.  Part 2 will explore other exciting options as virtual field trips!      

Halloween Activities for Kids

Halloween is nigh upon us! The weather in the northeast finally feels like autumn! Ghouls, ghosts and witches are suddenly finding their place on front lawns and porches in our neighborhood.

My students are abuzz over what costumes they are wearing and which parties they are attending.

Here is a perfect time to capitalize on the children's excitement and provide them with some fun and engaging Halloween activities that are educational too!

Halloween Math Activities:
Spooky Sequences: Skip counting by 2's (by Oswego.org)
Spooky Sequences: Find the missing 3-digit number in the sequence.
Spooky Sequences: Count backwards by 10!
Spooky Sequences: Find the missing SQUARE Number!
Ghost Blasters: Find the ghosts with EVEN numbers.
Ghost Blasters: Find the ghosts that are MULTIPLES of ten

Language Arts Activities:
Creepy Crossword: Online Crossword Puzzle (for older children-no word bank)
Spooky Night Mad Lib: Fill in the blanks to create a silly story.
Halloween Joke Bookmarks:  Print and share these halloween joke bookmarks for kids.
The Magic Pumpkin by HilaryWilliamson - This online story is about a boy and a magic pumpkin.
FrightBytes Halloween: Halloween stories that you can change the ending. (Some pictures may be scary for young children).

Coloring Pages:

Crayola Halloween Coloring Pages: Print out and color on your own!
The Color.com Halloween Pages: Choose a page to color online, print or share with a friend via email!

Virtual Pumpkin Carving: Practice Symmetry
Jack-O-Lantern Creator: Choose from different sets of eyes, noses, and mouths to make your own pumpkin.
Virtual Pumpkin Carving: Try your hand at designing your own pumpkin - you can print this out by taking a screen shot.
Pick A Pumpkin: Choose from 4 pumpkins and carve your own design at this Bloompetals site.



Halloween Tips:
Many sites remind parents about safety on Halloween night like this one, Fire Engineering which quotes the National Fire Protection Association.

Scary Movie Tips: This video from Common Sense Media talks about effects scary movies have on young children, young teens and older teens. (The video is not appropriate for young children).

Just for Fun:
Your local Bass Pro Shops are offering Halloween activities during the weeks previous to Halloween 2011. Check it out HERE!

DLTK'S Halloween Crafts Bat, Frankenstein, Ghost, Pumpkins and other fun crafts at this wonderful site!

Halloween Songs on Youtube: Some fun and funny songs with sound effects too for kids! See below!



Other Resources:  Cybraryman's Halloween Page


Please feel free to add your favorite Halloween sites in the comment section! Happy Halloween!

Homework - Been there, Done that!

Some teachers give a lot!  Some teachers give a little! Some parents expect a lot! Some parents expect a little!  Homework! It's one of those controversial topics which is constantly being discussed by educators, administrators and parents alike!

Just this week I spoke with a parent about how she could help her child with the homework.  It then occured to me that perhaps I needed to rethink the type of homework being assigned.

According to Cathy Vatterott, homework "shouldn't be about rote learning. The best kind deepens student understanding and builds essential skills."   Was I giving this type of homework?  My goal for the remainder of the year will be to make homework a more meaningful experience!

Homework has been around for quite some time, but it seems that in the last decade there has been a greater push for students to continue the learning process at home.   The History of Homework mentions how the "launch of Sputnik changed education."  It also seems that homework was even to blame for acne, eye strain and other ailments.

A recent article in the Education Leadership Publication states that homework should be purposeful, efficient, offer choices, completed without help and is enjoyable or interesting.  Homework should allow for the differences of each child.  By offering choices the student is able to take ownership of his/her learning.

Teachers often feel obliged to give homework due to the policies of their district.  If it has to be given, it would be best if the homework is meaningful, reinforces concepts being studied in the classroom and engaging.  Check out: Homework Done Right by Janet Alleman, Rob Ley, Barbara Knighton, Ben Botwinski and Sarah Middlestead.  

In all likelihood, homework isn't going to go away.  Parents and teachers can help motivate children by following these 8 tips provided by News for Parents. 

For more information check out the Homework Debate resources provided by Cybraryman or the Flipbook below which has information provided by the Department of Education.


How do you feel about homework?  Please share your thoughts in the comment section!
 

Homework Help Resources:
Common Sense Media:  Online Math & Science - Games, lessons, videos
Discovery Education Student Resources: Homework help, Games & Interactives, Step by Step WebMath
Homework Spot Topics broken into levels for Elementary, Middle & High Schoolers
Scholastic's Homework Hub: Organize, Prepare, Practice and Research are some categories to help a student work on homework.

Blog Posts regarding Homework:
Before you Assign that Homework: by Jeff Delp

Where Were You When the World Stopped Turning? Remembering 9/11

Growing up I remember aunts and uncles asking one another "Where were you when you JFK was shot?".  I was too young to remember that tragic moment in American history.   Unfortunately, I was not too young to remember "where I was during 9/11".


Ten years ago on 9/11 I was in my classroom filled with 30 beautiful and innocent fourth graders.   Sara, an aide in my classroom, brought the news to me (in a hushed tone) that an airplane had struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York.  Of course we thought it was an accident.  She then went to the office to see if she could learn more about what happened.  She came back shortly to say that another plane hit the South Tower.  We became aware that it was no accident.  Sara then became our eyes and ears to the world keeping us up-to-date on the events.  As the morning progressed and the news got worse, word had spread throughout the building and all the teachers learned of the news.

My heart was racing with fear as I thought of my own children who were in my home town at their schools in Kindergarten and Grade 1. When my students were in phys. ed. I called my sister and left an hysterical message on her answering machine. "Go get my kids and bring them to your house. I want them home with you," I sobbed into the phone as I just couldn't wrap my head around what was happening.  Not my finest moment for sure. 


After I made the call and spoke with some of the other teachers.  I calmed myself down and tried to phone my sister again.  This time I spoke to her directly.  "I left a message on your answering machine - please DO NOT listen to it.  Hope you are okay and I'll see you this afternoon".  I had realized that my children would be okay with their teachers just as my students would be okay with me.  My children's teachers were not going to let anything happen to my kids just as I would be doing my best to protect my own students.

Ten years later, we had a beautiful ceremony in front of our school.  Our principal spoke briefly about all people who lost their lives and about all the heroes who helped one another.  We had local police officers and firefighters as representatives of all those who protect and serve us on a daily basis.  Our flag was raised by students then lowered to half-staff.  We all said the Pledge of Allegiance together then sang: Your a Grand Old Flag; a student played a song on his guitar and we sang again.  My friend and colleague, Suzanne, spoke to the students. She shared how her 2nd grade class during the year of 9/ll wanted to do something that would help so they created "A Garden of Hope" in the town.  "We needed to create a place that brought peace, comfort, and hope to our community, so we could honor the victims and the heroes from that day." Each year Suzanne's class plants in the fall and spring.   She also read a beautiful poem she wrote to think back on that day.

Although our students were not old enough to remember or maybe understand what happened on that beautiful, crisp, clear September day, they participated in a ceremony that shows respect and pride for our nation. 

 September 11th....Ten Years Later

Ten years ago, on a bright sunny day

America’s peace and security was taken away. 

Attacks in New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C.

Began some of the darkest days our country and our world would ever see.

Sadly, so many lives were lost; yet, so many heroes were found 

Because Americans are the strongest, bravest people around. 

The police officers, firefighters, and strangers alike 

Risked and gave their lives right after these horrific strikes.

Out of the darkness that fell on that day

Rose a new America...different in so many ways. 

The world came together in comfort and peace 

To help those who suffered greatly and were stricken with grief.

Neighbors helped neighbors, and we all did our part 

To keep the faith and try to make a new start. 

Where we cared more about others and gave what we could 

To make the world a better by doing some good.

America’s pride came through loud and clear 

With flags flying proudly on homes far and near. 

Out of darkness, there comes light. 

Out of fear, there comes the strength to fight.

Out of the sadness, there comes hope each new day. 

That America and the world will live in peace in some way.

No matter how much time passes, this will be a day we remember

Never forget...the 11th of September.

Today and forever we honor the heroes and victims of 9/11...
Respectfully written by Suzanne Galvin, third grade teacher, Boyden School

RESOURCES: 

    Parenting.com  An article that gives tips on speaking with kids about 9/11

    PBS.org More strategies for talking and listening to children about this topic and other news stories.

   Scholastic Young people share their experiences of 9/11
   Brain Pop Video:  Explores the topic of 9/11 - Children should watch this with an adult.

"Where Were You When the World Stop Turning" was written by Alan Jackson and shared with me shortly after 9/11 by my colleague Michelle.  Each time I hear it I am reminded of that tragic day and I will never forget the bravery and sacrifice made by so many.

                       


Do you remember "Where YOU Were When the World Stopped Turning?"

Hurricane Information for Kids

As Hurricane Irene is making her way down the East Coast, many people are preparing for a serious storm.  While there are those excited by the prospect of high winds and torrential rain, others, like elementary students, may be nervous and confused about what to expect.  As always, providing information may alleviate their fears.

NASA Science Files for Kids: An interactive site that describes Hurricane Structure, Formation and Movement. 

Saffir-Simpson Scale: This NASA site explains the rating scale used for hurricanes.  Hurricanes are rated on a scale of 1-5.  A category 1 hurricane is less intense than a category 5.

Hurricane Names: Learn how hurricanes are named and find a list of names that have been or will be used.   Is your name here?


HURRICANE VIDEOS:

Discovery Channel Video:  This video explains how hurricanes form and describes some of the damage caused by them.

Hurricane Minute: A series of video clips from the Weather Channel Kids that are each one minute in length.  The content is more suitable for older children.


KidsKnowIt Network: This short video pairs animation with words to explain how hurricanes work. (Although there are ads on the side of the site this might work for younger students).

Video Explaining How Hurricanes Work and How they Get their Name
         (Two commercials are embedded in this video)



HOW TO PREPARE:

Family Education:  This site gives clear directions on how to prepare for a hurricane. This is more for parents to use with their children.

Ready America: This site is also for use with your children.

FEMA: A site that helps kids plan a 'disaster kit' and family 'disaster plan' and more.

WEATHER RESOURCES:

The Weather Channel Kids:  Look up the weather in your location using your zip code, play weather related games and more.  This site offers all kinds of different resources for kids and teachers.

FEMA for Kids:  This site has information on hurricanes and other disasters.  It has pages to show how to prepare for emergencies, how to protect your home and pets and more.

Weather Wiz for Kids Learn all about the wonderful world of weather through this site designed especially for kids (teacher & parent resources as well.)

Kidstorm:  Provides links and information about storms. For kids, parents & teachers.

Weather Coloring Books: This site has coloring books in PDF form to help kids understand severe weather.   (Should probably be used with parent as there is a lot of information.)     


National Weather Service: Here you will find the National Hurricane Center with all kinds of information. 
 
StormPulse:  Track Atlantic & Pacific Hurricanes, other storms and more.

Hurricane Resources:  A collection of sites compiled by @Cybraryman1


Putting the power in kids' hands by helping them learn about natural phenomena like hurricanes will hopefully ease their fears through understanding and at the same time create interest an interest in their world.

Lifelong Learners

Yesterday I was working with my mom on creating a flier for her art association sale.  We were using her PC laptop (I'm a Mac girl by nature!).  We were using Windows 7 (I'm a Mac girl by nature!) and both getting slightly frustrated.   I explained to my mother that the beauty of using a computer is that it is mistake tolerant (thank you Karen Janowski for sharing this idea!).  Mistakes are easily fixed by using the redo button. After a little bit we were both in sync and the flier was completed!

On the drive home I was thinking about how even at 78 and 85 my parents are life long learners. Beside keeping current with new technology, they are always bettering themselves. My mother is always going to art demonstrations and has even attended Webinars to advance her techniques. My dad is always starting new projects which allows for learning.  He writes news letters which promotes learning and is always learning something new with the computer!

Does being a lifelong learner come naturally?  This article by Scott Young suggests that you can Cultivate Lifelong learning.   (I dislike his first paragraph but the 15 steps make sense!)

Are you curious about your learning style?  Finding out how you learn best might help you become a lifelong learner.  Check out this short quiz from Edutopia. (you do not need to sign up).

I always thought I was a visual learner! (Interpersonal-interesting)

As teachers and parents, we should model lifelong learning to our students and children.  Sharing what we have learned and how we learned it is one way to model.  Learning something new along with the children is another. Help make connections to what you already know and what you are learning! (Thanks Mom & Dad for being my Models!)

I consider myself a life-long learner.  Just recently I received my Graduate degree, participated in an Edublogs teacher challenge and joined Twitter to share & learn from other educators. This has enabled me to learn new strategies and techniques to engage, motivate and help my students become life long learners themselves!

Every day presents an opportunity to learn something new.  Time to go learn! 

What was the last thing you learned?
 

What was the last thing you learned?... at AnswerGarden.ch.

Tornado Information for Kids

In the news the other morning was an account of a serious outbreak of tornadoes. The tornado season is upon us, and mother nature is certainly keeping busy as over 800 preliminary tornadoes have touched ground (According to the NOAA's Storm Prediction Center). With the peak of the season not yet reached (May and June) one only wonders what the old girl has planned.

Watching the swirling columns of air sweeping their way across our TV screen, and witnessing the destruction left behind was rather frightening to me. I imagined it would be the same for some of my students while others might be drawn to it.

Naturally, children are curious, fascinated and maybe fearful of tornadoes. It might be helpful for them to have some information about this topic.

Fujita Pearson Scale: This is the old scale used to rate and describe the tornado, but it gives the children an idea of what kind of damage occurs. The scale has now been enhanced to these wind speeds.

Tornado Video: This 3 minute National Geographic video for kids explains how tornadoes form and what to do in the event of a tornado.






Tornado Alley: In the U.S. most tornadoes occur in the states between North Dakota and Texas, although they can happen anywhere. (More in depth information can be found at tornadochaser.net)

Other Great Sites:

Teach Your Kids about Tornado Safety: Safety tips from eHow explaining what to do before, during and after a tornado.


Weather Wiz Kids: This site has a lot of information created especially for kids.

FEMA for Kids: This site has information and more. A highlight of this site are some Tornado stories written by children.

Tornado Photo Gallery: This site shows the different types of tornadoes: Cones, Wedges, Elephant Trunks, Ropes & Stovepipes.

Putting the power in kids’ hands by helping them learn about natural phenomena like tornadoes will hopefully, ease their fears through understanding and at the same time create an interest in their world.

Please let me know if you have any resources that should be added to this list. I welcome your comments and ideas.

Resources from Cybraryman:
Tornadoes
Top Photo:photo credit: Jmos® via photo pin cc

Bottom Photo:
photo credit: Florencia Guedes via photo pin cc

Reporting on Report Cards

My First & Second Grade Report Cards

"Why don't you just give them all A's!" shouted my daughter this afternoon!  It never fails...I hear the same request from either my sister, mother, husband, cousin, friend, neighbor, or local teen every time I sit down to spend the day to write out my students' report cards.


Do they really all think that teachers just 'GIVE' grades based on some nebulous reason?  Don't they understand that teachers work long hours finding sums and averages based on the student's assessments? Or don't they realize that hours are spent filling in checklists based on whether the student has completed the standards set by the state?

The business of report cards is a touchy subject at best.  When mentioned in most any setting it brings recounts of days gone by.

"Do you remember when I locked myself in the bathroom and wouldn't come out? How I shoved my report card under the door for mom and dad?" my sister asked me.  Apparently, her report card was not one that she was proud of and was in fact rather embarrassed by it.  "What happened?  I thought you were always an "A" student!" I probed further.

Well, it started out like this......She was an all "A" student in elementary school (something which I was NOT).  When she got to junior high school she was an "A" student as well.  But one day, in science her class was asked to collect insect specimens in jars with the intent of eventually mounting them on a board.  They were supposed to collect 50.  She was horrified with the activity and would not participate.  And so, led to the decline of her straight "A" days.  Since she wouldn't complete the project she was given a zero (that day till the end of the project) and subsequently received an "F" in the class.   Each day she would go into science class and feel worse and worse about the events taking place.  Knowing she was failing made her try less.

Did she receive the "F" because she didn't KNOW the information? Or wasn't learning?  Or was it an "F" based on effort?  How should she have been graded? 

I think the following video by Rick Wormeli (author of Fair Isn't Always Equal: Assessment and Grading in the Differentiated Classroom) explains what most likely happened to my sister.

 

Report cards are supposed to share information about a child's progress in the classroom.  Some think the traditional report card tells parents very little about what their child really knows.  While some others prefer this method because of the familiarity or comfort level.

Many communities have already or are moving towards a Standards Based Report Card, but these can be confusing. Check out how one community explains the purpose and application of its Standard Based Report Card in this video.

Check out this student's thought's on Standards-based Grading!


Whichever, system is used, it is important to give feedback to our students and their parents about how they are progressing in school.  Is there evidence of learning?

                    Do you have a favorite REPORT CARD MEMORY?  

Leave it in the comment section!

             

                  

Ski School!

Go ahead and ask my kids!  They'd tell you that I would bring 'school' anywhere.  It just so happens that we are on vacation and indeed school is in session!  Ski school that is....well, really Boarding School. Well, really...we're just snowboarding and skiing!  And I didn't bring 'school' here I just brought the kids to the mountain and the lessons are here waiting to be discovered!    

Okay - so what I mean is that there are ample opportunities for the kids to learn even while they are snowboarding. Take a look at a few of our lessons today.

Lesson 1: Elapsed Time!  What time will you need to wake up if it takes 40 minutes to get to the mountain? Make sure you plan to give yourself time for a 10 minute shower each (so multiply by 3) and grab a quick breakfast.  We need to arrive by 8:30 so you might need to work backwards.  (Elapsed time practice for kids).

Lesson 2:  Money! (at the ticket window)  Throughout the day the kids will be working on money concepts.  First up is to decide which value is better.  A one day ticket for $56 each or buying three 2-day tickets for a total of $270.  What would the savings be if we bought 3 teen tickets for 3 consecutive days?

Lesson 2a.  Money Continued (at the Lunch):  You will be given $20 to spend on food for the day. What will you buy so that you have enough for 3 trips through the lodge?  Will you save any to buy something for the ride home?   Are there any deals where you can combine your money. (Money practice for kids).

Lesson 3:  Geography:  Even though we have a GPS, we like to bring along a map to find our way to the mountain. Once there planning and creating a route on the trail becomes important and involves Reading a Map.  Although there will be no longitude and latitude, paying particular attention to the map key and following signs will be key to getting down the mountain.  Locating the lodges and first aide areas would be a great first step.  Approximate estimate of distance will also be important in the planning process.  

Lesson 4: Science:  From measuring the amount of snow on the trails, finding the temperature at different intervals and at varied elevations, factoring wind chill (and dressing for it), comparing and contrasting conifers to identifying animal tracks, there is a lot of science to be learned on the mountains. 

Lesson 5:  Social Skills: Waiting patiently in line, allowing others to go ahead of you, being polite, courteous and respectful, and taking turns are just a few of the social skills learned during this type of vacation.  This is where a parent's good teaching comes to fruition.  Realistically, this is probably the most important of the lessons being learned.  If your child can handle being in a crowd of people while behaving most pleasantly, then you did your job well!

Above all, even though there are lessons to be learned by all of us - being with family is just the best lesson in itself.  Making memories that will last a lifetime is also a lesson in its own right.  Spending time with family shows your children how important they are and how important it is to be with family.  Hopefully, this lesson will be paid forward in the future when the children grow up to have their own Family Fun!

Tell me, do you know of any lessons that can be learned on the mountain, at the beach or some other vacation spot? 

To See or not to See (his Shadow that it is) - Punxsatawney Phil and Groundhog Day

photo © 2005 Silvers Family | more info (via: Wylio)
It's the age old question: Will we have 6 more weeks of winter? The only one that truly is equipped to deal with that is Punxsatawney Phil the Groundhog from Pennsylvania... !

Every February 2nd before sunrise Phil is brought out from his home at Gobblers Knob in Punxsatawney PA, to determine if he 'sees' his shadow. If he sees his shadow there will be six more weeks of winter. No shadow means ...Spring is around the corner.


Groundhog Day - February 2nd - holds fascination for many... especially children. Here is some information and activities for those interested in Groundhogs and Groundhog Day!

The Official Groundhog Club Site: Here you can find information about the history of Phil, past predictions and fun facts.


Hoghaven: Here you can listen to sounds of groundhogs.

Kaboose: This page gives craft directions to make a felt portrait of Phil.


Primary Games: Interactive games such as a Word Search, Puzzles, and Jumble can be found at this site.


Groundhog Day & Possum Nights: A talking storybook by Tom Tittle


Surfnet: This site has a fun concentration game for kids.

Treats: To celebrate Groundhog's Day perhaps you could make some fun treats like these cupcakes:

photo © 2009 Mark Levisay | more info (via: Wylio)


I'll let you discover if Punxsatawney Phil declares more winter or spring. One thing I will tell you....he predicted the Pittsburgh Steelers will WIN the Superbowl!


Please take a moment to share how you like to celebrate Groundhog's Day by placing your answer in the AnswerGarden.



How do you like to celebrate Groundhog's Day?... at AnswerGarden.ch.

It ain't over til It's over - Activating Prior Knowledge - Part 3 After Reading

photo © 2008 Chris connelly | more info (via: Wylio) 


“It ain’t over til it’s over” was the phrase coined by Yogi Berra.  Spoken like a true sportsman or classroom teacher!  

We all know that even when the kids have finished reading a story they’re “not really done”.  We read. We discuss. We assess.  There are all kinds of other activities that we can initiate to make sure the students have made connections to their reading.  This is Part 3 in the "Activating Prior Knowledge" series. 

In the Before reading post, it was suggested to use an Anticipation Guide.  If used, it would be a great (quick) assessment to see if the kids can answer those questions correctly now.  (They love getting them all right too!!).  Also, in the Before post as an alternative to the KWL chart - a Word Cloud was suggested.  How about make a new word cloud to share what was learned.  (The kids love comparing them!) 

The During reading post suggested to use a Wallwisher.  Students could add new thoughts to the Wallwisher.  (The kids will have fun revisiting the Wall!).


Other activities  to institute when the students have finished reading could include creating a retelling of the story.  Why not try have the students create a comic at ToonDoo.  It is free, fun and quite simple to use.  See my sample below.

By Ncarroll | View this Toon at ToonDoo | Create your own Toon

Another activity along the lines of a summary, is to create a talking picture at Blabberize.  Blabberize is a free site where you can upload a picture and record a narration.  In the sample below, a picture was created at Sketchfu then uploaded to make a Blabber. 






For something a little more open-ended, have students create a poem.  With the help of ReadWriteThink students are guided through the writing process.  See the sample below of an Acrostic poem. 

Guiding our students and having them complete activities AFTER reading will help them make connections and therefore, have a deeper understanding of the concepts.  

Hopefully, students will come to the realization themselves that "It ain't over till it's over!"

They're Reading-Now What? Activating Prior Knowledge-Part 2

They're Reading - Now What? What are the strategies that you employ while your students are reading? Is there a way to incorporate technology as a way to help students with their comprehension?

Focusing on making connections and activating prior knowledge DURING reading is just as important as tapping into the prior knowledge BEFORE reading. Check out these 'during reading' ideas at All America Reads. You probably already utilize many of these tactics.

Using graphic organizers helps our students solidify their understanding through pictorial or structural designs. They aid our student's comprehension. One way to add a new twist to graphic organizers is to pair these time-tested tools with technology.

Excel Spreadsheet: An Excel spreadsheet, for example could be created and filled in while reading. The example I have created below is about the characters in our reading story. Students can complete the charts individually, with a partner or whole group. (Brush up on your Excel basics at Internet4Classrooms).


Digital Post it Notes: I LOVE sticky notes....I have my students use Sticky notes while they are reading to record any thoughts or questions relating to the story. Why not have the students post their sticky notes on a free site like Wallwisher. Students will enjoy reading each other's stickies . Check out our Marven Wallwisher. (The picture at the top of this post was created in Wallwisher).

Another site where you can create and post stickies (and then embed them into your website) is Classtools.net. Students can create a word splash that show an understanding of the story or as a class create a Post-it.

TIMELINES: Sequencing activities also strengthen comprehension while students are reading. Using a timeline will help children make connections and put them in a logical, sequential order.

There are many sites that offer free timelines. Some are more involved than others. For elementary students I suggest using the ReadWriteThink timeline. These timelines can be organized by date, time, event, or other and can be printed vertically or horizontally. Another timeline suitable for elementary students is from TeAch-nology. It's simple and easy to use (although you are limited in your description of events.)

These activities during reading can be paper and pencil tasks, but what if we were able to create these organizers digitally? Would our students be more engaged and therefore more motivated? Would it effect their comprehension in a positive way? I think the answer is yes. Why not find out for yourself!

(Part 3 of the series will deal with Activating Prior Knowledge AFTER reading).