tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40419713447164753912024-03-12T20:12:57.604-04:00Mr So's ClassroomThis blog is about my amazing learning as a teacher this includes my personal thoughts and reflections on education and the learning that happens in my classroom. You can find my resources at www.bit.ly/Soresources Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.comBlogger107125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-21776781634360766752016-05-05T06:43:00.002-04:002016-05-05T06:43:36.925-04:00Being a Teacher Parent and what it has taught meI just finished reading Aviva Dunsiger's <a href="http://adunsiger.com/2016/05/04/do-parents-know-what-their-kids-are-learning-in-school/">Post </a>on Do Parents know what is happening in the classroom and of course I love what she has to say. So much so that I thought writing a post in response would be the better option. In fact, I have been meaning to write about this for a while just have to find the time.<br />
<br />
I want to start off with being a Parent is one of the hardest things that I have ever done (I sense and hear the smirks from all the parents reading this as I know you know what I mean). And to be honest I knew that before being a parent but I didn't really know that if you know what I mean.<br />
<br />
To be honest I don't think that I really have thought about my connection to parents before until I was a parent with a child in school. Sure I knew that it was important. I knew that we were a partnership. I knew that we needed regular communication. Before having Izzy go to school I would have regular communications, I would write newsletters and then blogs and thought that I was doing a great job of telling them what I was doing in the classroom.<br />
<br />
Then my daughter went to Kindergarten for the very first time and everything changed. For the first time, I understood why my student's parents said, "How is my kid doing?" I wanted to know what she was doing and how she was behaving.<br />
<br />
Because of this I have learned many things:<br />
<br />
1) Plenty of communication:<br />
<br />
Though I thought I was doing this before I realized that I wasn't. If I still had parents asking me how is my child doing then I wasn't doing a good enough job. If I as a parent wanted to know what was happening then I was sure my parents were too. So know I do more tweets of the day. I collect those tweets in small weekly blog posts of what we did (Aviva does a much better job of this) with questions that we have been exploring and how parents can extend the conversation at home. Being in an older grade I have my students write monthly report card to their parents (when I taught 2 I did these) outlining what they are doing well, what they're struggling in, what their goals are and what they can do at home to help. This doesn't have to be long but I find that if parents know what is happening; 1) they are a lot happier and 2) they don't ask a lot of questions. I also invite my parents in whenever they can but we also try to do 3 sharing summits of their students work. These are during the day but we invite parents to come in and have their kids show them what they have been working on and how they have been progressing.<br />
<br />
As a parent being able to ask my daughter, when you did ______ activity did you learn about _____? instead of what did you do today? has been the best gift ever. We talk about her learning, instead of me getting "fine." At the same time, if she is already at 6 telling me fine what will that look like as she gets older?<br />
<br />
Now that I am a parent I think the more communication I do the better. I shouldn't wonder or even have to ask my kids what they did at school because I already know or have places to check and see what they did. I know this means a lot more work but the connections that you can make and the partnerships that you can develop is really amazing.<br />
<br />
2) Kids want to feel connected to you as a Teacher:<br />
<br />
Again, this is not something profound but I don't think that this really sunk home until Izzy was in school. I also don't think this is an area of strength for me. I mean I always tried to connect with the kids on their level, played sports with them, joked and had fun but was I really building a relationship. If they had a concern did I listen to them and tried to sympathize. My daughter has a lot of issues with self-regulation, I know she is only 6 but this is a big area of need for her. However, a lot of the problems in school surround her feeling lonely and not listened too. We cannot entertain all of the ideas that kids have but I think a lot of our so-called "behaviours" can be calmed and worked through with listening and making students feelings valid. Once they feel like you care, a lot more rationalizing and teaching can happen.<br />
<br />
3) Life is extremely Chaotic at home:<br />
<br />
This is something that I have been struggling with a lot as a teacher. I know what my house is like with two kids (soon to be three), what is home like for my students? When I assign a piece of homework, what is that doing to the dynamics? The stress? Is it meaningful? I have been very lucky that Izzy hasn't gotten a lot if any homework but I know it will come. What will that do to her anxiety, stress our home dynamics? I am still debating this but something to contemplate why and what we do after school. Is this something that we have a right to do? Is it something that we should/ need to do?<br />
<br />
As I said before being a parent is one of the hardest things if not the hardest thing anyone can do. Our parents send the best thing that they have and they do the best job that they can possibly do with the tools they have. What do we do to help them? What do we to help with that stress?<br />
<br />
Love to hear your thoughtsMr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-6770148660943780982016-04-06T19:26:00.000-04:002016-04-06T19:26:07.024-04:00Using coding to teach mathematicsI have been a proponent of coding for quite some time. I feel that it will be a skill that students need in the future. I know that this may cause some stir in many of you but here is my reasons:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
1) Though I do agree with who knows what the future may hold, I do believe that this is a skill all kids will need. At one point in time no one knew how to read. In fact it was only geared to the clergy because they had to read the bible. Now that skill is in every classroom. We may not be there yet but I think we are very close. Coding is a part of everything that we do and our everyday. I think that it is important to know how things operate. Yes that does mean changing our oil and fixing our cars. We may not have the time but I think as adults these are important skills. Students now should learn about how their electronics work. How do we make them do what we want to do? I am not saying that all of them will become computer programers but we should understand the basics.</blockquote>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
2) Coding does more then just teach programming skills. Students learn critical thinking, problem solving, and being creative. As students try and code they learn to research, ask questions and work through till they get a solution</blockquote>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
3) Most kids if not all, love to code. Now I say this with a side note. I do find that when the task is meaningless then some kids are not as engaged with coding but if they are creating something and the right differentiation is in place then they are all in. To be honest you can say this with most ideas but it does apply here.</blockquote>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
4) Coding teaches logical order and research skills. I don't have numbers yet but the more that I have done coding the more that I have noticed my students critical thinking and sequencing skills improve. I have noticed my students improve in making connections and seeing how all the big ideas link together. Again I cannot say this is all coding but I believe that this is a major reason. </blockquote>
<br />
For me coding fits naturally with mathematics. I mean the main idea of spatial sense is right in our curriculum. However, that is not the only area you can use it for.<br />
<br />
Today I thought of turning a quite boring lesson of order of operations into a coding exercise. It was really cool to see the students take a foundational lesson and a very procedural lesson and apply some creative and problem solving skills.<br />
<br />
The challenge was to create an app that can test students understanding of order of operations. Students had to also have their users think about misconceptions and possible errors.<br />
<br />
Here is what the code looked like for most:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zYnGh68UsGA/VwWWZl1fN8I/AAAAAAAARHM/wTbTVh0dZ0g4OE-6FhLIOKudn-Imp0hnw/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-06%2Bat%2B6.58.42%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zYnGh68UsGA/VwWWZl1fN8I/AAAAAAAARHM/wTbTVh0dZ0g4OE-6FhLIOKudn-Imp0hnw/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-06%2Bat%2B6.58.42%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KOWBsSus2LI/VwWWZslP1rI/AAAAAAAARHI/ZpyZjqudjsciduSEs_oeb_j1IaTOm3krQ/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-06%2Bat%2B6.58.35%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KOWBsSus2LI/VwWWZslP1rI/AAAAAAAARHI/ZpyZjqudjsciduSEs_oeb_j1IaTOm3krQ/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-06%2Bat%2B6.58.35%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L8t6jaFzLTA/VwWWY9vGcII/AAAAAAAARHA/-yUsk8VVd9s03L_Oe9K8WZ3wWRNi5wmZg/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-06%2Bat%2B6.58.54%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L8t6jaFzLTA/VwWWY9vGcII/AAAAAAAARHA/-yUsk8VVd9s03L_Oe9K8WZ3wWRNi5wmZg/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-06%2Bat%2B6.58.54%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pz739ih6rAo/VwWWZqq6FxI/AAAAAAAARHE/lxxhSKq8H2AZ7rUrtj0TmclwNviasMXTQ/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-06%2Bat%2B6.59.12%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pz739ih6rAo/VwWWZqq6FxI/AAAAAAAARHE/lxxhSKq8H2AZ7rUrtj0TmclwNviasMXTQ/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-06%2Bat%2B6.59.12%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
The students still need more time but here is the sample that we have been working on, <a href="https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/104333621/" target="_blank">link. </a><br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="402" src="//scratch.mit.edu/projects/embed/104333621/?autostart=false" width="485"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
Throughout this process the main purpose was not to teach coding but to understand the basic idea around order of operation. Sure I could have just told them the answer but they have now started to work through the procedure and how students can make mistakes. I hope that when we debrief they will forever have an understanding of order of operation.<br />
<br />
This is just one example of how coding can fit into our everyday math lessons. The main focus should always be the concept and idea of math and then the tool. By teaching this way I have allowed my students to explore order of operation and to critically think about the concept.<br />
<br />
I encourage you to try coding in your math classroomMr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-83145537989855752322016-03-23T19:31:00.000-04:002016-03-24T19:00:42.340-04:00My Journey to Moving towards a less Constrained ClassroomI recently blogged about a moment in the classroom <a href="https://mrsoclassroom.blogspot.com/b/post-preview?token=A_WAp1MBAAA.YwbUMa3e-EAYJTkHWqIwjQ4EcERHD6WNkxnu4hdj-mg1aVhF74mEMGyc2xtUHH8T8n8zKSx8YKtsVDWdGjAe0Q.KNwLWLhb9lT48iIqkYL8Pg&postId=6989565784736314188&type=POST" target="_blank">when I had little to no kids</a>. In fact I only had 8 due to various reason, so I decided that I couldn't go on with traditionally teaching and instead moved to a choose your own adventure model of learning. I let my kids explore whatever they want to do or work on any projects that they wanted to. This got my brains thinking about:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="color: blue; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"What if learning was like this everyday?"</span></blockquote>
I had many questions about this process and trying to make it a whole class approach:<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;">I know that we are hampered with the curriculum but are we? </span><br />
<span style="color: red;">Is it possible to let all kids explore what they want and for us to assist with the learning? </span><br />
<span style="color: red;">Is there benefit to have all kids learning the same thing at the same time? or should students do what they feel like? </span><br />
<br />
I also struggled with the idea that if this is a better model of teaching how do we do train teachers and sustain this model. I loved the responses that I received from my PLN and I am still researching and learning more about this process.<br />
<br />
However, though I still have more questions then answers I have decided to go ahead and try something for our next unit of study in Social Studies.<br />
<br />
The idea started with <a href="https://twitter.com/myrondueck?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" target="_blank">Myron Dueck's</a> tweet:<br />
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en">
in project-based learning, this template helped to keep Ss on TARGET from the start. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Assesspeel?src=hash">#Assesspeel</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PeelABC?src=hash">#PeelABC</a> <a href="https://t.co/x3G7yD4MdJ">pic.twitter.com/x3G7yD4MdJ</a></div>
— Myron Dueck (@myrondueck) <a href="https://twitter.com/myrondueck/status/707745423193059328">March 10, 2016</a></blockquote>
I loved his insertion of choice of medium and how will I showcase the learning expectation. As you know I have been struggling with how do I let the openness to happen while still maintaining the curriculum. My thought is for the students to complete a series of challenges anyway that they can.<br />
<br />
I devised five challenges that link specifically to the curriculum big ideas. I tried to leave it as open as possible focusing on a key question for them to investigate and then let them decide on how they will showcase their learning.<br />
<br />
Here is my <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OaQYQjSZor17_6-F5afV_S3YFAF-IRw-1NPMAhFg-k4/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">plan</a>. I still have to create the website along with what the badges will look like but its a work in progress. Thought I would share with you my process and if you have any advice please let me know.<br />
<br />
What do you think of this idea?<br />
Do you think it will work?<br />
Any advice?<br />
Anything that you would change?<br />
<br />
I cannot wait to hear your ideas. Thanks for helping me with this plan.<br />
<br />
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-69895657847363141882016-03-14T20:40:00.002-04:002016-03-14T20:59:20.189-04:00When little to no students are in your room<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j11KDto8arM/VudZmL4E0FI/AAAAAAAAQUc/xqISo-kdHekmu4oDcLHykpLi-bfThxWKA/s1600/20160303_115217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j11KDto8arM/VudZmL4E0FI/AAAAAAAAQUc/xqISo-kdHekmu4oDcLHykpLi-bfThxWKA/s320/20160303_115217.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So recently due to a sporting event and low numbers I had a class of 10 kids. Traditionally I would normally just gone on with my lessons and let the others catch up later. However, lately I have been exploring what is a classroom.<br />
<br />
Traditionally, the model for classroom has been rows of desks and children sitting in them. It is an industrial model that makes us the teacher in charge of imparting knowledge. However, our classrooms haven't really changed much. I know we have moved to more student centered with grouped desks but the model we still follow has been to impart knowledge.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IxZhw4P_MKg/VudZmIK96fI/AAAAAAAAQUg/dgQf9xyGaQYQOAxa7kinaPJsHpdHdeHEg/s1600/20160304_104857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IxZhw4P_MKg/VudZmIK96fI/AAAAAAAAQUg/dgQf9xyGaQYQOAxa7kinaPJsHpdHdeHEg/s320/20160304_104857.jpg" width="320" /></a>This has bothered me a lot because I think in todays world knowledge is being thrown at our kids so fast. I am also finding that many of my students seem to just be coming to school and really not thinking about the learning. This has really bothered me as I think it should all of us.<br />
<br />
So having a very small class allowed me to do some more exploring. I decided to make my day a choose your own adventure model of learning. We have had a couple of projects on the go as well as some cool maker space things that we have in our classroom. I left the day up to the students and I decided to walk around and observe/ help with their learning. It was probably one of the best things that I have ever done. The kids didn't even want to stop the learning, the bells went and they were still building robots, practising speeches and playing with circuit boards. I also saw learning for the sake of learning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_uYcuDT67qc/VudZmD1uXlI/AAAAAAAAQUk/opJ3mpqWtIMvAvzFPVpjFQtUTSGZJ1iyw/s1600/20160303_092526.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_uYcuDT67qc/VudZmD1uXlI/AAAAAAAAQUk/opJ3mpqWtIMvAvzFPVpjFQtUTSGZJ1iyw/s320/20160303_092526.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
This got me thinking, why isn't all class like this?<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;">I know that we are hampered with the curriculum but are we? </span><br />
<span style="color: red;">Is it possible to let all kids explore what they want and for us to assist with the learning? </span><br />
<span style="color: red;">Is there benefit to have all kids learning the same thing at the same time? or should students do what they feel like? </span><br />
<br />
At this present time I have more questions then I have answers and I would love to here your comments and thoughts. I believe education needs to start changing and needs to look different then what we traditionally see it. How should it change?Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-25590501910584387852016-02-08T18:13:00.000-05:002016-02-08T18:13:00.932-05:003D printing <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E_aPfvPB4bo/Vrkd2XqoPtI/AAAAAAAAOwQ/1rN12hyRn6Y/s1600/20160205_120938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E_aPfvPB4bo/Vrkd2XqoPtI/AAAAAAAAOwQ/1rN12hyRn6Y/s400/20160205_120938.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Printer in action</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
So last week i jump into the amazing world of 3D printing and I am completely hooked. All I want to do now is 3D print. It was truly the most amazing experience I have ever been a part of. However, as any good technology there always has to be a purpose. 3D printing has all of this in one small package.<br />
<br />
Let's first take a look at the project:<br />
<br />
For this project my students had to research and design their own International Space Center. Students first researched and wrote a small report on the International Space Center and then got into Project Ignite to design their own. Project ignite is online tinkercad program.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nww1NLgaeW8/VrkdzYHl7EI/AAAAAAAAOv4/fbjRMamBtlw/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-02-08%2Bat%2B5.57.01%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nww1NLgaeW8/VrkdzYHl7EI/AAAAAAAAOv4/fbjRMamBtlw/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-02-08%2Bat%2B5.57.01%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Now on the whole this project may look simple but it covers so many curriculum expectations.<br />
<span id="goog_185234394"></span><br />
<br />
First let's look at the math: <br />
<br />
Math (Grade 6 curriculum):<br />
<br />
Number Sense:<br />
– estimate quantities using benchmarks of 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% (e.g., the container is about 75% full; approximately 50% of our students walk to school)<br />
– represent, compare, and order whole numbers and decimal numbers from 0.001 to 1 000 000, using a variety of tools (e.g., number lines with appropriate increments, base ten materials for decimals)<br />
– represent ratios found in real-life contexts, using concrete materials, drawings,and standard fractional notation<br />
<br />
Throughout this project students are working at reducing and estimating the size of an object. They have to look at measurements that are in decimal notation and in standardize units. In addition, students also have to learn to scale objects down when we print or it would be to long.<br />
<br />
Measurement:<br />
– demonstrate an understanding of the relationship
between estimated and precise
measurements, and determine and justify
when each kind is appropriate<br />
<br />
Taking an idea from your head and making it a reality always relates to some sort of measurement. In this case students were also required to look at specific measurements while they manipulated the program. Those that were successful at reading these measurements also had a more successful product.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uHI7AC9k_44/VrkdzYDvdqI/AAAAAAAAOwA/b3zaau77ZsM/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-02-08%2Bat%2B5.57.13%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uHI7AC9k_44/VrkdzYDvdqI/AAAAAAAAOwA/b3zaau77ZsM/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-02-08%2Bat%2B5.57.13%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Geometry:<br />
– sketch, using a variety of tools (e.g., isometric
dot paper, dynamic geometry software),
isometric perspectives and different views
(i.e., top, side, front) of three-dimensional
figures built with interlocking cubes<br />
– build three-dimensional models using
connecting cubes, given isometric sketches
or different views<br />
– explain how a coordinate system represents
location, and plot points in the first
quadrant of a Cartesian coordinate plane<br />
– identify, perform, and describe, through
investigation using a variety of tools (e.g.,
grid paper, tissue paper, protractor, computer
technology), rotations of 180º and
clockwise and counterclockwise rotations
of 90°, with the centre of rotation inside
or outside the shape<br />
– create and analyse designs made by reflecting,
translating, and/or rotating a shape, or
shapes, by 90º or 180º<br />
<br />
The whole project dealt in a 3D space. Students learned x, y and z planes and where able to manipulate these objects in the plane. Traditionally these transformational Geometry are taught on a 2D plane making it hard for many students to visualize what is happening. Using a product like Tinkercad allows students to practise and visualize in the proper space.<br />
<br />
Students also hit on their writing, reading and science curriculum. Students had to research, and read about the current ISS. They had to know how it operated so that they could redesign the process. Not only did they do this but they also hit many of the 7 C's that we talk about for 21st century learning. Throughout this whole process students were being creative, communicating ideas, collaborating with others as they had to figure out new tech, Critical think and problem solve out of situations, and be adaptable (which isn't a c but a critical one non-the-less). Students where so engaged throughout this process and learned a lot about the ISS itself.<br />
<br />
Here are some of their designs:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U3x7UbUzDPg/Vrkdz4J-hvI/AAAAAAAAOv8/kWVXchPYkB4/s1600/20160204_143436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U3x7UbUzDPg/Vrkdz4J-hvI/AAAAAAAAOv8/kWVXchPYkB4/s200/20160204_143436.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-JOdtQijTc/Vrkd0nWpsoI/AAAAAAAAOwE/YYwC1vUMF_k/s1600/20160204_143519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-JOdtQijTc/Vrkd0nWpsoI/AAAAAAAAOwE/YYwC1vUMF_k/s200/20160204_143519.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0CgscoDT1gA/Vrkd10ZMRXI/AAAAAAAAOwI/ixqgJacDyoo/s1600/20160205_105612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0CgscoDT1gA/Vrkd10ZMRXI/AAAAAAAAOwI/ixqgJacDyoo/s200/20160205_105612.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PnSfIYgV414/Vrkd14EOeeI/AAAAAAAAOwM/R0GEMaSNe3I/s1600/20160205_093512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PnSfIYgV414/Vrkd14EOeeI/AAAAAAAAOwM/R0GEMaSNe3I/s320/20160205_093512.jpg" width="179" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
As always it is never about the tech but the planning. This project took a lot of effort to plan and make it pedagogical sound for the students. They had to plan, research and then revise their plan even before they could work in the software. Once in the software portion they had to revise as some ideas didn't work and even after we printed many of the students revised having learned that their projects wouldn't work. This whole reflective and planning piece is critical to the success of any lesson involving new technology.<br />
<br />
I highly encourage anyone to get their hands on 3D printing and do this in their classroom. Even if you don't print the aspect of working on Tinkercad was truly amazing in itself. The printing portion was just a nice add-on. Big thanks and shout out to <a href="https://twitter.com/dcruz22" target="_blank">David Cruz</a> who brought the printer to us.Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-41723553207891340232016-02-08T13:14:00.001-05:002016-02-08T13:14:41.283-05:00What does it mean to have a reflective class?<br />
Just before the winter break I got my hands on probably two of the greatest books I have ever read. The books were titled: Teaching students to self Assess and Hacking the Classroom: 10 ways to go Gradeless in a Traditional Classroom by Starr Sackstien<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U7mWgU6_Cac/VrjTm6LjNDI/AAAAAAAAOvM/ZnOgGD-Thfk/s1600/51rxkKdXtIL._SX332_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rlr9TQ6YMfA/VrjMJ5GPGQI/AAAAAAAAOuo/HuLGPDL5mAc/s1600/download.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rlr9TQ6YMfA/VrjMJ5GPGQI/AAAAAAAAOuo/HuLGPDL5mAc/s200/download.jpeg" width="129" /></a><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U7mWgU6_Cac/VrjTm6LjNDI/AAAAAAAAOvM/ZnOgGD-Thfk/s200/51rxkKdXtIL._SX332_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" width="133" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
You can find both books: <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Starr+Sackstein&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3AStarr+Sackstein" target="_blank">Amazon.ca</a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These book were revolutionary because it validated what I was already starting to do in the classroom. For a long time I have felt that the way I was assessing students wasn't working. When I first started teaching I like many just followed what has been in place for centuries. We taught, we had students review and then we tested. We got data from these test but to be honest was it accurate or reflective of what that student can do? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These were the questions that I asked for numerous years before I sat in my classroom watching my students taking a test. Some of my students started to ask their friends some questions. I was about to tell them to be quiet when I sat there a decided to listen. The types of questions I was hearing was basically what I already knew about these students based on my observations. Then as I was marking I kept nodding as I already knew why those particular kids got the marks they got. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qh_D4X-M7Mg/VrjP5cpiUvI/AAAAAAAAOu0/s-OCE4Gs7Y8/s1600/download%2B%25281%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qh_D4X-M7Mg/VrjP5cpiUvI/AAAAAAAAOu0/s-OCE4Gs7Y8/s200/download%2B%25281%2529.jpeg" width="133" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is when it dawned on me that I already knew more about my students than any test was going to give me. Based on my interviews, observations and comments I made throughout the problem solving process, I already had a better picture of my students needs, next steps and achievements. This was the moment that I gave up formal testing. However, reflecting back I was still missing something. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had these amazing comments and observations I would share them with students but kids didn't read them (well most kids that is). This took me a long time to reflect on this, which is why I was led to this amazing book. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So what was I doing wrong? I was giving marks with my comments. I know this may seem like a simple thing but basically my students only honoured the mark and not the grade. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you think back to your own learning what have you always wanted, that lovely A. School has never been about the learning but always about the grades. This is true for our parents too. I come from a fairly traditional household and even when I came home with a 95% the reply back was where is the other 5%. It has been ingrained in our society to think about the letter and not what we need to achieve the letter grade. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So what have I done this year to address this: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After reading the books I rapidly changed my practice. I started thinking about how I can make my students better at reflecting and honouring the learning process. We first started with looking at our Curriculum. Yes I actually read the curriculum document with my kids. Before each unit of study we sit down and reflect on what standards we need to learn based on what the curriculum says. I have the students tell me in their own words what they have to do to achieve the standards of their grade level. now I do teach grade 6 but I think this can be done at any grade you just may have to think about the amount of expectations that you want them to focus on. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We also created a <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1ptZDnCZbkfshUwqamyzN8J4DU6dZVzAgE5HYmrc8N7k/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">google form</a> for their reflecting purposes. This is still a work in progress. This form gives me a quick look into my students thinking about what they thought they achieved and did on the assignment. Once these are submitted we have a conference about their learning where I either agree with their assessment or disagree. We also discuss next steps and my observations of their work. These conversations are about five minutes in length. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I also turned to having students do a final reflection on what they think their term 1 report cards are going to look like. This took a while and I am going to try and shorten this process but I also got very rich and amazing discussions from it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now you may think that grades are important but I have seen more growth this year in my students then ever before. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On a recent reflection about their writing here is what some students said: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I think I got 3 as my final mark. Maybe even 2.8. That is because my tone; it felt like I was shouting. I also plagiarized so that would cut out some marks. I would work on my tone and remember not to plagiarize in the future. I think I was stressing my point a bit to much and the person who I wrote this letter to already knew about this topic. It felt to him, even me, that I basically screaming through the letter. Next time, I should consider my audience. My goal is to get a level 4 in my next writing piece. ~ Raghav</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I think I would get a 3 because in the comments you wrote "This the work I expect from you all the time" and I followed most of the guidelines given. ~ Manpreet</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now this was their first attempt at reflecting and is still a work in progress. In fact after some short reflections on our reflection this is what students said during their final report for term 1: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; white-space: pre-wrap;">I think I deserve this mark because I can do and understand basic math, but I need more practise on justifying my work and answer. I need to work on think more deep and more logically. Math has a big part of logic which I need to practise on because I am very used to the algorithm and what we have been taught in primary grades. I need to focus more on understanding the numbers. ~ Pavneet</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- in the Surface Area Assignment he used math terms to write an answer to the question he was given
- In the None To Many assignment Manchit used math concepts to do math calculations to find the mean and the median
- should try to understand what is happening when you do the math equation</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
~Manchit</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It is funny because these comments was what I wrote on their reports even before I read their responses. I have found that the more students reflect and conference with you the more that they become in charge of their learning. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now this does take time. It is not something that can be done on the side; you must put the effort into making it a part of your practise and taking the time to reflect but the more that you do this the better students will get at it. I often hear that we need to prepare our students for what lies ahead but the reality is in life grades don't matter. They mean nothing except for university and even the grades they look at are the last years. What we need to do is train our children to know how to get the grades they want. To set goals and learn what it takes to meet them. We are training our students for today because in doing so we train them for tomorrow.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So I encourage you to a) read the books and b) jump in going gradeless. You have nothing to loose and all to gain. </div>
<br />Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-88250874997859105612016-01-24T23:10:00.002-05:002016-02-01T13:48:09.620-05:00To Code or not to Code?<div dir="ltr">
I know that this seems like a topic that is in everyone's blog post but that because it is in my own personal opinion one of the most important concepts to be teaching.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
This isn't because of being the coolest new buzz word to get everyone's attention but because it actually makes our students smarter. Now I really don't have any research to back me up here but from what I have seen in K-6 it has made my students smarter. Not book smart but thinking smarts.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Coding didn't teach my kids to memorize facts or to follow procedures but to think about what they are doing and why. Sure many of them often followed other people's ideas but the thinking that went into understanding code was tremendous.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Coding in my classroom is not just about computer science. I do not believe that in my role am I a)qualified to teach the skills and b) is the place but what it is, is part of my everyday teaching.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
For me coding is a tool, a vehicle for me to teach with. I treat it like I do any piece of technology or paper. It gives students a platform for learning. But it is the teacher that brings out that learning. I will be the first to tell you I only know the basics of code. But it is amazing to see kids understand and practise knowledge concepts through the act of coding. Coding makes my students think about what is going on. It makes them understand the algorithms that we teach and learn in class and it gives a place to solidly knowledge that we normally solidify with a test or some sort of worksheet. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Coding makes kids think and makes them creators and innovators. It teaches them to problem solve, to think and isn't that what we want for them?</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I love this info-graphic:</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://datascience.smu.edu/blog/kids-and-computer-science-infographic/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F3i8UljOJjg/VqWff3ptURI/AAAAAAAAOFQ/lKY2uUTo5PM/s1600/smu-kids-and-coding.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: https://datascience.smu.edu/blog/kids-and-computer-science-infographic/</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
So the questions then becomes how do I start? <br />
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Simple answer like you would another lesson. Have a big idea that you want to teach with, plan possible outcomes and find ways to modify for various students. Now think of a way to insert coding. You see it is not coding that makes it a great lesson but the planning that you do before hand. You cannot go into a lesson a just say hey let's code, you still have to plan.<br />
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Some lessons that I have done:<br />
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Measuring the distance around my hand in pixels: this grade 2 lesson had kids have their pixie move around their hand and count the pixels of their movement. We then compared the distance of our hand to fingers or the width of our thumb to that of our pinkie. <br />
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Design a game to create a pattern rule:</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br />
Students made a game for their partner to guess their rule. I also had them ask what is the algebraic statement. Students had to use algorithmic language to tell the computer what to say</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br />
Lightbot and codeable:<br />
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Are two great iPad apps that have many great practical knowledge built in. Counting, rotation, spatial sense, Cartesian planes, etc.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Coding has endless possibilities it is all up to your planning and own innovation. Remember it is not the tool that teaches but the teachers. Coding is a tool but you still need a good plan to teach.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br />
For more ideas you should check out:<br />
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="https://twitter.com/mraspinall" target="_blank">Brian Aspinall </a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="https://twitter.com/lisaannefloyd" target="_blank">Lisa Anne Floyd </a></div>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-26869869472425419542016-01-07T19:45:00.001-05:002016-01-07T20:25:31.001-05:00What does it mean to innovate?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p7l2_fYlEmY/Vo8CcDZJBrI/AAAAAAAANgE/owWyb1LjY1I/s1600/IMG_1729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p7l2_fYlEmY/Vo8CcDZJBrI/AAAAAAAANgE/owWyb1LjY1I/s400/IMG_1729.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Google has opened their Google Innovator Program (formally their Google Teacher Program) and this year they want applicants to think about an Innovation for education. This prompt got me thinking, What does it mean to Innovate?<br />
<br />
There are so many innovative people that I have met over my teaching career, from looking at what I admire in them here is what I think about innovation.<br />
<br />
An innovator is someone who thinks outside of the box. They are always willing to push the boundaries of education in order to better the profession. An innovator is able to make connections to many varying subject matter. An innovator is energetic, enthusiastic and has a zest for learning. They themselves are as much the learner as the innovator. An innovator is someone who continues to questions and is never satisfied with one answer. They don't just do things because its always been done. An innovator doesn't have to be the loudest person in the room but is someone who let's their voice be heard. They are leaders and teachers.<br />
<br />
However, as I am asked to think of an Innovation project I do get stuck. Is my idea good enough? Is it innovative enough? Has it been done before? However, this is the frame of mind that blocks innovation. What I do know though is that not everyone is an innovator but that everyone can be. It takes a special drive to be one but a personality that is in us all. We all can be an innovator, just have to remember that the most dangerous phrase is that it has always been done this way.<br />
<br />
What are you doing to be an innovator? How will you change education? Love to hear your thoughts.<br />
<br />
P.S: Some great Innovators to follow are:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/tina_zita" target="_blank">Tina Zita</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/MatthewOldridge" target="_blank">Matthew Oldridge</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/mssackstein" target="_blank">Starr Sackstien</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/mraspinall" target="_blank">Brian Aspinal</a>l<br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/rchids" target="_blank">Rolland Chidiac</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/avivaloca" target="_blank">Aviva Dunsiger</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/cordym" target="_blank">Michelle Cordy</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/watnunu" target="_blank">Sandra Chow</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/cherandpete" target="_blank">Peter Cameron</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-62827190490404622812016-01-07T19:03:00.001-05:002016-01-07T19:03:54.164-05:00Vision of grade 6<div dir="ltr">
So as many of you know I have started a new grade this year, grade 6. It has been fun but also very tiring. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
My vision for grade 6 was to have a totally inquiry run program. I wanted my students to be engaged in asking questions and being part of the design of the curriculum. I was tired of the traditional classroom. Now I am far from being a traditional teacher but was still finding that I have held on to many traditional ways. Even though my practice had a lot of student voice there was room for more. I was tired of assessments not being read or student choice still being directed by me.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Here is my plan:</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I started the year by changing the layout of my class. I got rid of traditional desks and opted for tables. I wanted the space to be creative and flow. To give my students the options depending on their needs. Now in no way is this the best situation but it has really opened up the traditional flow of a classroom. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NtvbqUFK1KE/VkuIcMIMUTI/AAAAAAAAMI0/K4MZDoui5Kg/s1600/20151117_150452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NtvbqUFK1KE/VkuIcMIMUTI/AAAAAAAAMI0/K4MZDoui5Kg/s320/20151117_150452.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qrzte4WzA2k/Vjg7unCMAWI/AAAAAAAALa8/iHxvfyxqfkE/s1600/20151026_115941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qrzte4WzA2k/Vjg7unCMAWI/AAAAAAAALa8/iHxvfyxqfkE/s320/20151026_115941.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I also started to do a more circular curriculum. Meaning that I teach a little of the curriculum at a time and keep circling back. It has allowed me to teach all of the curriculum in one term and making broader connections between strands and subjects. Students see the bigger picture and it has allowed them to make deeper connections.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="179" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FkiGZkr7PPs/Vo77EF2kZxI/AAAAAAAANfo/mEMJkIArugU/s320/Screenshot%2B2016-01-07%2Bat%2B6.55.31%2BPM.png" width="320" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1q72YYE8vCOUZOr-m4OhKJyl3zNMHGf7ZJzzmp66BZAY/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">My Math Plan</a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I wanted to teach predominately through Inquiry and Project based learning. Now this wasn't a stretch for me as I was doing this already but I really wanted to take this further. I wanted my students to really have direction and choice of where the projects would lead them. Now there is still the curriculum but I have let my students be a part of where they want to take the learning. This is done by setting the learning goals as the big ideas of the curriculum and then letting the students chose the avenue to present their learning. We then have a sharing session so that all of the students can hear what the others have learned.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rpyR4Ui84_s/Vo77a9tDfbI/AAAAAAAANfw/4Sonxa1DS4w/s1600/20160107_112840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rpyR4Ui84_s/Vo77a9tDfbI/AAAAAAAANfw/4Sonxa1DS4w/s320/20160107_112840.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1EydwN6GxTk/Vo77a3FRYYI/AAAAAAAANfw/QjEZXF62vuA/s1600/20160106_143717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1EydwN6GxTk/Vo77a3FRYYI/AAAAAAAANfw/QjEZXF62vuA/s320/20160106_143717.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fkM3sY14khs/VGui25-Du_I/AAAAAAAAB34/UCEJ8eKwGq0/s1600/Blb_n7VCAAEIBZu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fkM3sY14khs/VGui25-Du_I/AAAAAAAAB34/UCEJ8eKwGq0/s320/Blb_n7VCAAEIBZu.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I also have started many new things this year to incorporate as part of my vision. In other blog posts I have discussed Collaborative Problem Solving approach from Dr.Greene. I decided that part of making my students a part of the classroom was to have them talk as a classroom. We have started community circles to share our problems and frustrations. We then discuss how deal with them. I have noticed a real improvement in their behaviour and how they have matured. At the beginning of the year problems were very juvenile but they now are discussing how to make the classroom better versus who said what in the hall way. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I have also decided to throw out grades. Now this may seem weird but I have not given a letter grade at all to any of my students all year. Instead I provide feedback that is combined with their own feedback. We talk about what curriculum they have met and how they have met it. This allows them to see what they still have to accomplish and how. At the end we do discuss a final mark for their reports but this is often a collaborative discussion. Again I have seen a dramatic improvement with their work. Probably the biggest strides in learning I have ever seen. Students are more reflective and actual read their comments and compare it to the curriculum. My new goal is to have them write parts if not all of their reports.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
So far all is going to plan. There has been some hiccups along the way but for the most part it has been really amazing. I have seen so much gains both academically and socially. My students have really matured and a lot faster than I have ever see any of the kids in the past.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
What has been your vision this year? How is your year going? Any advice? Love to hear your comments.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-82457984427228624932015-12-15T19:00:00.000-05:002015-12-15T23:17:43.114-05:005 favourite things<div dir="ltr">
This is part of Peel 21st blog hop. The theme of this hop is our five favourite things.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">1) <a href="http://www.lostatschool.org/" target="_blank">Lost at School</a> by Dr.Greene Ross</span></b></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Though I have had a lot of favourite things this year my top one this year has to be Dr. Green's book, Lost at school. Learning about collaborative problem solving has been revolutionary; not only in my classroom management but with my personal parenting. CPS is an approach to managing all children. It is meant for those special friends we have but to be honest it works for all. Read more about this <a href="http://www.livesinthebalance.org/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">2) Starr Sackstein: assessment books</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
If you have not read these books I highly recommend that you do. They discuss her journey as she has thrown out grades. This has been a big journey for me as I have really thought about why we need to have grades? What do they actually tell us? Do they really matter? These are the questions that I have been pursuing this year while I am attempting to not give any grades (except those mandated by the ministry). Check out the various <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_7/179-0198223-3048360?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=starr+sackstein&sprefix=starr+s%2Caps%2C156" target="_blank">books</a> by Starr. The ones I refer too are: Teaching Students to Self Assess and Hack the Classroom: 10 ways to go gradeless in a traditional classroom.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">3) Doctopus and Goobric</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I know that many who read this blog or know me, know how much I love google. My main reason that pushes me to use it is the work flow possibilities. Doctopus and goobric allows me to push assignments to my students. It also allows me to differentiate for them by giving certain students one template and others another one. I can also attach this to goobric and give feedback right then and there within the assignments. For more info click on this<a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1AcxUIv4ouFiiEFtsqt6eHmHZGafVeaGBZjGunfn-VOE/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank"> presentation</a> I made.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">4) Some of my favourite people on Twitter</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
This wouldn't be a favourite thing post without some amazing people to follow and share with. These people are some of the best educators that I have had the privilege to meet and talk to about everything and anything in education. There are many who I could have put here but these are just a few that I have had the privilege of interacting with. Of course there are also the amazing people in this blog hop who you should follow. All of them are amazing educators.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Matthew Oldridge <a href="https://twitter.com/MatthewOldridge" target="_blank">(@MatthewOldridge)</a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Brian Aspinall <a href="https://twitter.com/mraspinall" target="_blank">(@MrAspinall)</a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Aviva Dunsiger (<a href="https://twitter.com/avivaloca" target="_blank">@avivaloca)</a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Peter Cameron (<a href="https://twitter.com/cherandpete" target="_blank">@cherandpete)</a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Rolland Chidiac (<a href="https://twitter.com/rchids" target="_blank">@Rchids)</a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Lisa Floyd (<a href="https://twitter.com/lisaannefloyd" target="_blank">@LisaannFloyd)</a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Michelle Cordy (<a href="https://twitter.com/cordym" target="_blank">@cordym)</a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">5) My Favourite Hashtags</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Of course adding to following people is following amazing hashtags for learning. Here are a few of my favourite ones</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
#peelmathchat</div>
<div dir="ltr">
#peel21st</div>
<div dir="ltr">
#engagemath</div>
<div dir="ltr">
#gafesummit</div>
<div dir="ltr">
#sharesease</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
These are just a few of my favourite things. To learn about more please look at the other amazing educators in this blog hop.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="http://jrichea/" target="_blank">Jason Richea</a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
https://flipagram.com/f/h9rpxkqYQh<br />
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="http://mshlye/" target="_blank">Heather Lye</a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
http://teachinginspirations.blogspot.ca/2015/12/my-favourite-things-december-bloghop.html<br />
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="http://amitmehrotra78/" target="_blank">Amit Mehrotra</a>: <a href="http://mramitmehrotra.blogspot.ca/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">http://mramitmehrotra.blogspot.ca/</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="http://jaywigmore/" target="_blank">Jason Wigmore</a>:<br />
https://jwigmore.wordpress.com/2015/12/15/a-few-of-my-favourite-things/</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="http://the_mulc/" target="_blank">Melanie Mulcaster</a>: <a href="http://valleyslearningcommons.blogspot.ca/2015/12/five-of-my-favourite-things.html" style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #aa0033; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14.49px; line-height: 17.388px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">http://valleyslearningcommons.blogspot.ca/2015/12/five-of-my-favourite-things.html</span></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="http://cashjim/" target="_blank">Jim Cash</a>:<br />
http://makelearn.org/2015/12/15/a-few-of-my-favourite-things/</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="http://tina_zita/" target="_blank">Tina Zita</a>:<br />
https://misszita.wordpress.com/2015/12/16/peel21st-blog-hop-a-few-of-my-favourite-things/</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="http://maggiefay_/" target="_blank"><br /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="http://maggiefay_/" target="_blank">Maggie Fay: </a><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/vusno76viphg63c/My%20favourite%20things%20post%20%20for%20Peel21st.mov?dl=0" style="text-decoration: none;">https://www.dropbox.com/s/vusno76viphg63c/My%20favourite%20things%20post%20%20for%20Peel21st.mov?dl=0</a> </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="http://msgandhi123/" target="_blank">Sapna Gandhi</a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="http://mrforestieri/" target="_blank">Matthew Forestieri</a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="http://tayloredinquiry/" target="_blank">Pam Taylor</a>:<br />
http://mindfulauthenticity.blogspot.ca/2015/12/december-peel21st-blog-hop-few-of-my.html?spref=tw</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="http://senora_louts/" target="_blank">Gina Loutrianakis</a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<a href="http://mmesmiley/" target="_blank">Larua Smiley</a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-50702349826496994832015-12-03T17:10:00.001-05:002015-12-03T18:29:46.856-05:00The power of a debrief<p dir="ltr">"An activity is just an activity unless you have a debrief!"</p>
<p dir="ltr">This was from a wise colleague of mine and what sparked this post.  I often hear in my many conversations about math that it is all about the kids voice and though I really agree with this statement I also disagree. I disagree because the role of a teacher is even more critical in Inquiry than any other time. </p>
<p dir="ltr">The act of inquiry, though innate in many of us, is not really that natural. Sure we wonder but often it stops at finding answers. We often need guidance to take any of our inquiries further, the same applies to our kids.</p>
<p dir="ltr">For inquiry to have a impact on our students we as teachers need to be planning thoughtful and critical questions to guide them through the learning.  This also includes a thoughtful and engaging debrief or consolidation phase.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This is the most critical part of any lesson. It is where the teacher really shines. Because you have planned and thought through kids learning, development and possible misconceptions you are able to guide the learning that you have seen in the lesson so far. </p>
<p dir="ltr">A debrief can be any length (a lot depends on kids and age). The key though is that as a teachers you are helping kids make connections to the big ideas and thoughts you planned or saw unfold in your lesson.  It is the place where you are purposefully guiding students through their tall and strategies. Students still have a voice but yours is the one that is really speaking.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Here are some of my <a href="http://Class talk: http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2wmd99i7F0dkKIDHREquWFiPIDtf5S1E">consolidations</a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I know for myself that I can tend to forget to debrief the learning but I have to remember "that an activity is just an activity without a consolidation."</p>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-45389368781815668552015-11-28T16:50:00.001-05:002015-11-30T22:34:58.487-05:00Let me Google that for you<p dir="ltr">This post has been in the works for quote some time.  In fact it started with a conversation with my good friend Michelle Cordy in China on a high speed train. </p>
<p dir="ltr">We were joking about a tweet on downloading youtube clips on chrome and I tweeted that I found this on google. This was then replied with: did you just let me Google that. My reply was yes.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This is a conversation that we are having more and more as the power of technology grows. Our students have in their hands a whole universe of knowledge and this is just what they are doing. Can you blame them?</p>
<p dir="ltr">However, just googling it is so much more and this was were Michelle ' s and I conversation went. When I google I don't just let the first response dictate the information I use, I don't just keyword something and believe the information, I curate. </p>
<p dir="ltr">The funny thing is curate means to be a priest in charge (a fact I didn't know till today and yes google told me this); however, to:</p>
<p dir="ltr">curate something (especially on the Internet) to collect, select and present information or items such as pictures, video, music, etc. for people to use or enjoy, using your professional or expert knowledge.</p>
<p dir="ltr">When I search for information for friends or myself I use Google but I collect and select carefully. It isn't just any information that I use but ones that I feel are important for my research.</p>
<p dir="ltr">So how does this relate to today's classroom. Lately I have heard a lot of fear that we are raising a society that jusy google and that is not good enough. My fear isn't that I am raising kids who google but that we are raisin kids to memorize and not critically think about the facts they consume.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Information isn't like it was when we were kids, even when our parents were kids. Information is rapidly changing. In my lifetime I have used encyclopedias (book form), to digital Cds, to having it at my finger tips. Information changes so quickly that we have new phones every Six months. The information we are giving our kids will not serve them when they head into the work force. What will is being able to critically think and search for that information.</p>
<p dir="ltr">So I am fine that my students are googling, in fact they should be because my assessment and learning doesn't depend on the facts they find but how they use those facts. Googling is a tool that our kids should learn how to use. They should be curators of data and learn how to search, find, and use the data that is at their finger tips.</p>
<p dir="ltr">What do you think? Love to hear your thoughts.</p>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-51450993019034016902015-11-17T19:30:00.000-05:002015-11-17T19:30:00.047-05:00The Best Learning Moment this Fall: Peel21st Blog hopI often wonder why I do the things I do? I know it is a question that many of us teachers ask ourselves. We are often in isolation and we often never get to see the same kids twice in a row. Well today was a validation moment.<br />
<br />
One of our teachers came told me today that he had was having a discussion with one of my former students about multiplication.<br />
<br />
The discussion went something like this:<br />
<br />
Teacher: "multiplication is doing repeated addition."<br />
<br />
Students: "That is not what, Mr.So told me."<br />
<br />
Teacher: "What do you mean?"<br />
<br />
Student: "Multiplication is using groups and when you are doing repeated addition you are not unitizing but adding."<br />
<br />
This was in a grade 4 classroom and I taught the student in grade 2 when she was starting to learn multiplication. I have always tried my best to show the mathematics in everything that we teach. I know that many students may not get it right then and there but I expose them to language and big ideas as much as possible. For me it will allow students to understand later on as they develop the skills.<br />
<br />
Now as I said before I have always wondered if what I do is correct but when I see that my students retain and then prove their thinking based on what I taught two years later, it does make me feel good, as well as, validate how I teach and why.<br />
<br />
This is just one small moment this fall. In fact it was quite hard to think of the BEST learning has this year has been a whirlwind of learning but thought this was just one of those stories that make you smile.<br />
<br />
What has been your best moment?<br />
<br />
This post is one of many that are participating in Peel21st blog hops. If you want to read more check out these amazing<br />
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 0pt;">
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none;"><colgroup><col width="34"></col><col width="170"></col><col width="338"></col></colgroup><tbody>
<tr style="height: 0px;"><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jason Richea</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://beyondangrybirds.blogspot.ca/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">http://beyondangrybirds.blogspot.ca</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 0px;"><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jonathan So</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://mrsoclassroom.blogspot.ca/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">http://MrSoClassroom.blogspot.ca</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 0px;"><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Amit Mehrotra</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://mramitmehrotra.blogspot.ca/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">http://MrAmitMehrotra.blogspot.ca</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 0px;"><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">4</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tina Zita</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://misszita.wordpress.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">http://misszita.wordpress.com</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 0px;"><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jim Cash</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://makelearn.org/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">http://makelearn.org</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 0px;"><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">6</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Melanie Mulcaster</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://valleyslearningcommons.blogspot.ca/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">http://valleyslearningcommons.blogspot.ca/</span></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 0px;"><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Heather Lye</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://teachinginspirations.blogspot.ca/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">http://teachinginspirations.blogspot.ca</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 0px;"><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">8</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Erica Armstrong</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://www.msarmstrong.ca/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">http://www.msarmstrong.ca</span></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 0px;"><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">9</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Matt Fletcher</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://heymrfletcher.wordpress.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://heymrfletcher.wordpress.com/</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 0px;"><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">10</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jason Wigmore</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://jwigmore.wordpress.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">http://jwigmore.wordpress.com</span></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 0px;"><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">11</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shivonne Lewis-Young</span></div>
</td><td style="border-bottom: solid #000000 1px; border-left: solid #000000 1px; border-right: solid #000000 1px; border-top: solid #000000 1px; padding: 7px 7px 7px 7px; vertical-align: top;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://slewisyoung.wordpress.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">http://slewisyoung.wordpress.com</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 13.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-28456327241319293952015-11-17T16:08:00.000-05:002015-11-17T16:07:21.355-05:00Are we reluctant to share?<div dir="ltr">
Are we scared to share? Do we often feel like what we have to say isn't worth reading? I know that I do. But we have to remember that what may seem as silly to us is often not for others.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
It reminds me of this video that I have seen numerous times: </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/xcmI5SSQLmE/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xcmI5SSQLmE?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I was reminded of this a couple of days ago when I reluctantly posted this post on "<a href="http://mrsoclassroom.blogspot.ca/2015/10/what-does-it-mean-to-be-teacher.html" target="_blank">What does it mean to be a Teacher?"</a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I say reluctantly because I wasn't too sure about the topic. I mean I loved the idea, it is why I decided to write but I wasn't too sure if anyone else would have cared, or even wanted to read it. It was more of a reflection or response to the comments I was hearing about our profession of teachers. However, I decided to post and the next day a good colleague <a href="https://twitter.com/davidpetro314" target="_blank">David Petro </a>posted my blog on his daily <a href="http://ontariomath.blogspot.ca/2015/10/math-links-for-week-ending-oct-30-2015.html" target="_blank">Math Reviews</a> (on a side note if you are not following David or reading his weekly blog you are missing out). The funny thing was my post wasn't even about math but on what it means to be a teacher. It did comment on teaching being more than telling, which I often think this is the preconceived notion of a teacher and why many think they can do our job but I digress. The fact was that David saw something in my post and then felt the need to share it. Even though I didn't think that the ideas were decent someone else did. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
To be honest I think that as a profession of teachers we all have amazing ideas and need to share them. We only get better by reflecting and learning from one another. So if you ever feel like your ideas don't matter remember that an idea that may seem trivial to you, may not be for someone else. If you don't share that knowledge or thought than you are depriving the profession of some amazing ideas. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
So I encourage you all as teachers, readers, parents get out and blog, Share your amazing ideas and connect with amazing people. And a big thank you to David for reminding me about this.</div>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-27437472171962108852015-11-17T16:03:00.000-05:002015-11-17T16:03:06.855-05:005 Best Things that I have done this YearThis year I started a new grade and even a new division, grade 6. On top of this I have decided to do a lot of things differently. I have thrown out grades completely, I have no desks, I have gone 95% digital with my classroom, collaborative problem solving and I wanted to turn my grade 6 middle school classroom into a place of inquiry and learning. As the year has progressed I have gained more and more confidence in my decisions. I am close to my 200 limit here but let me briefly share with you what those decisions have looked like.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1) Throwing out grades: </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In the past I have done this for the most part but this year I have not given one grade to a child. Instead, I have written monthly reports or updates about students strengths and weaknesses. Students have then written down what they think their strengths and weaknesses are and next steps for improvement. This goes home to parents (well actual in their drive). Students are more engaged, they ask questions not about marks but what they can do better. I have students who are now conferencing with me without my prompts. It has been great.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
2) I have no desks: </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As part of making my space inquiry driven and "play-based" I have no desks, just work stations. Kids choose where they want to sit. The carpet, desks, under desk, wherever they feel comfortable to work. This has given me more freedom to worry about the learning. Kids have also become more independent as they have learned to move where they will be getting work accomplished not just with their friends.</div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NtvbqUFK1KE/VkuIcMIMUTI/AAAAAAAAMIw/LGKoZnfPV0g/s1600/20151117_150452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NtvbqUFK1KE/VkuIcMIMUTI/AAAAAAAAMIw/LGKoZnfPV0g/s320/20151117_150452.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br />
3) Going Digital: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I honestly keep forgetting the photocopy code. But having google drive it has allowed me to open the classroom walls and share every file with my students. They want a note or homework taken up its there. Want to share a video with parents, its there. No more paper, no more mess all online.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BV0nRDYZVNw/VkuJxWmWpPI/AAAAAAAAMJA/cvRlZTpv1rs/s1600/20150903_134910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BV0nRDYZVNw/VkuJxWmWpPI/AAAAAAAAMJA/cvRlZTpv1rs/s320/20150903_134910.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4) <a href="http://www.livesinthebalance.org/" target="_blank">Collaborative Problem Solving: </a><br />
<br />
I have been blogging about this for quite some time and I am in no way an expert but this has single handily been the best thing that I have done this year. For those that are unfamiliar with CPS, it is basically working together to get our difficult kids to not be difficult. I started it because my daughter is one of those difficult kids. It is not because she wants to be or because we have really bad parenting but because she doesn't know how and needs help to learn it. This year I have done it with certain kids and the whole class and I really don't have problems in the classroom. I don't have to be the mean, strict, yelling teacher but one that can talk to my kids and work through a solution. Just a fair warning CPS like any method is not a immediate fix. It will take time but it is time well worth it.<br />
<br />
5) Inquiry in a Middle School<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Some may think this isn't possible but again another great moment. My kids are driven to work on projects because they care. I have gotten some of the best writing and learning from them all because of inquiry and allowing them to invest in a big idea versus checking off curriculum. The funny part, all curriculum is done. Now if you have been reading my blog I absolutely love inquiry but I have often heard that it is hard to do in middle school. I would like to challenge that notion as it has been amazing.<br />
Take a look at these writing samples (please remember that my kids are all ELL): https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B_euA7pkOAyXeERZTnMyNjd3ZU0&usp=sharing </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What has been some of your best things that you have done this year?</div>
</div>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-73579804331442427812015-11-03T13:31:00.001-05:002015-11-03T13:31:43.737-05:00Can we truly have a student led lesson?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qrzte4WzA2k/Vjg7unCMAWI/AAAAAAAALa4/GcsfE8Mc7lI/s1600/20151026_115941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qrzte4WzA2k/Vjg7unCMAWI/AAAAAAAALa4/GcsfE8Mc7lI/s400/20151026_115941.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My students hard at work on a class project. Focus: Why do people Come to Canada?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I have heard these terms (student led and Student choice) being used and it has started to make me do some thinking. My biggest problem that I am having is if we as teachers are making detailed and thoughtful lessons, can we truly have student led lessons?<br />
<br />
Now I know I may be questioning or going with the flow but, hear me out. I understand that as teachers we need to have the voice and ideas of the students at heart of our lessons. Teaching is no longer about the wise old sage on the stage giving all of their knowledge to their students. but should be more about facilitating the learning that is happening. If that is what you mean by student led then I am all for that. However, let me push some thinking more here.<br />
<br />
In the last three years I have been highly influenced by Stein et al. article titled: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4245QONE7HaNk44bnh2NTR3Slk/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Orchestrating Productive Mathematical Discussions: Five practices for helping teachers move beyond show and tell</a>. In this article they showcase five practises that all teachers should be doing.<br />
<br />
1<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1: Anticipation (P.322)</span></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The first thing is for the teacher to look and see how students might mathematically solve these types of problems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In addition, teachers should also solve them for themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anticipating students’ work involves not only what students may do, but what they may not do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Teachers must be prepared for incorrect responses as well.</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2: Monitoring students' work (P. 326)</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">While the students are working, it is the responsibility of the teacher to pay close attention to the mathematical thinking that is happening in the classroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The goal of monitoring is to identify the mathematical potential of particular strategies and figure out what big ideas are happening in the classroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the teacher is monitoring the students work, they are also selecting who is to present based on the observations that are unfolding in the classroom.</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3: Selecting student work (P.327-328)</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Having monitored the students, it is now the role of the teacher to pick strategies that will benefit the class as a whole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This process is not any different than what most teachers do; however, the emphasis is not on the sharing, but on what the mathematics is that is happening in the strategies that were chosen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4: Purposefully sequencing them in discussion (P. 329)</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">With<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the students chosen, it is now up to the teacher to pick the sequence in which the students will present.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What big ideas are unfolding, and how can you sequence them for all to understand?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This sequencing can happen in a couple of ways: 1) most common strategy, 2) stage 1 of a big idea towards a more complex version or 3) contrasting ideas and strategies.</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">5: Helping students make mathematical sense (P.330-331)</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">As the students share their strategies, it is the role of the teacher to question and help<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>them draw connections between the mathematical processes and ideas that are reflected in those strategies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stein et. al. suggest that teachers can help students make judgments about the consequences of different approaches. They can also help students see how the strategies are the same even if they are represented differently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Overall, it is the role of the teacher to bridge the gap between presentations so that students do not see them as separate strategies, but rather as working towards a common understanding or goal of the teacher.</span></div>
<br />
If we follow these practise as teachers we are thinking about good contexts that will create huge discussion in our classrooms. We are anticipating results and answers so that we as teachers can ask the right questions at the right time. We are planning and sequencing work so that the end results end up close to the Big Ideas that we were hoping to accomplish and we as teachers are prodding, questioning and revoicing so that the Big ideas are brought to the students attention. Finally, we then create similar problems so that students have the opportunities to try these ideas out again.<br />
<br />
Now I know that this article is a math article but these practises can be and should be for all subjects. So if we follow this line of thinking, who is really leading the lessons? Is it the students? or is it the teacher? If we as teachers are putting in this much thinking and planning do we truly have student led or based lessons? or is it because we have put all of this planning into our lessons that students feel that the lesson is student based and that is really all that matters?<br />
<br />
Love to hear your thoughts.Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-82841233209231514132015-11-02T23:07:00.000-05:002015-11-02T23:07:13.548-05:00Global Awareness Projects: Grade SixI have started a new grade this year and moved up to six. Its been a lot of fun. The social studies curriculum in six has the students learning two things: 1) Global Issues and how Canada and other countries deal with them and 2) The Canadian Identity and the various parts that have made it up. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My teaching partner and I felt that Global Issues might be to big of a topic to start with as many of our students don't really know what happens beyond their neighbourhood. However, we decided to start broad, then go closer to home and eventually go back out to the world. We felt that the students needed to understand various problems that are out in the world to than see how the world has impacted us as Canadians. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
To do this we developed a Global Awareness project. The students had to pick a global issue in the world and research. They had to figure out what the issue was and why we should care about it. I knew that being August (we are a balance calendar and teach in August) my students wouldn't have a lot of research back ground so we also turned it into a unit to learn how to research and write smaller reports. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For a month students worked on these centers: <a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B_euA7pkOAyXfi1tOTJTSXBudTUxeW1jeVJ5MjJERWROU2tTMFlJekZKdEROcUloa0xwWUk%C2%A0" target="_blank">https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B_euA7pkOAyXfi1tOTJTSXBudTUxeW1jeVJ5MjJERWROU2tTMFlJekZKdEROcUloa0xwWUk </a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The focus of the centers was on asking critical questions, taking jot notes and writing paragraphs. Students also had to create short movie trailers for their global issues. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Take a look at the videos: <a href="https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B_euA7pkOAyXflJFWi1lRFFxb1o5N2NjM0IzaFJKMkNTUk1MZ1RkVUNVOHpsWWM5VDg4dUU&usp=sharing" target="_blank">https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B_euA7pkOAyXflJFWi1lRFFxb1o5N2NjM0IzaFJKMkNTUk1MZ1RkVUNVOHpsWWM5VDg4dUU&usp=sharing </a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Once this was done students wrote a mini report about their global issue. Here is their writing: <a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B_euA7pkOAyXeERZTnMyNjd3ZU0." target="_blank">https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B_euA7pkOAyXeERZTnMyNjd3ZU0. </a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It has been amazing because I was able to team up with <a href="https://twitter.com/cherandpete" target="_blank">Peter Cameron </a>from Thunder Bay and Barb VanHatten from Lakehead University. Together the two of them have been giving feedback through the ConnectED project that Peter started. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My students have loved the impact that their writing has done and they have loved the real feedback, instead of just my thoughts to them. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We plan to revisit these global issues again at the end of November and revise the learning that has happened from their other units. Please remember that these projects where their first attempts at writing longer report writing pieces and making videos. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Just thought I would share this project and if you have any thoughts or feedback for my students please message away, they would love it.</div>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-16052022622316753302015-10-30T12:45:00.002-04:002015-10-30T12:45:43.274-04:00My journey with Collaborative Problem Solving<div dir="ltr">
It has been two month since I started my journey with community circles and just over three using it with my own daughter and it has been amazing. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
For those that are new to reading this blog post in August I was introduced to Dr Green's book, explosive child and lost at school. His book mentions many strategies to deal with trouble students. He calls for collaborative problem solving model. It is a model that works both on solving the problem but teaching students the skills to change their behaviours. The book predominately deals with those "troubled" students; however the more I read the more I realized that this strategy is best for all students and so my journey began.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
At least once a week we as a class have a community circle. In this circle we discuss how the week has gone and if any problems have occurred. At times we have spent more it all depends on what is needed and how severe the problems are. It has allowed my students to feel like they are a part of the classroom and have a place inside of it. When I say that they are in charge of their learning it is true they are and they know it.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Community circles have also given me a time to voice my concerns in a positive manner. If something was bothering me as a teacher I can address it. Now you may say can't you do that anyways and the answer would be yes but now its not me lecturing and telling them but voicing a concern that I have. Because I have let them tell me their issues, they have more respect for mine. In addition to this we as a class solve them and it isn't just me lecturing them about what I expect.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
At home my daughter's episodes have calmed down. She has now been able to communicate her feelings. I get more "Daddy, I am tired and need to rest!" or "Daddy, I am getting hungry can I please have a snack?" At the same time, my partner and I are able to recognize certain situations or her triggers. We avoid those situations so that her episodes don't happen. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
If you haven't read this book or started Community Circles and Collaborative Problem Solving I highly recommend that you too. It will change your practise and your life. </div>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-90754371633198807122015-10-30T12:35:00.001-04:002015-10-30T12:35:25.591-04:00What does it mean to be a teacher?<div dir="ltr">
In Ontario we are currently in a work to rule situation we haven't had a contract in over a year and it doesn't seem to be getting any better. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Whenever we are in contract negotiations it is always lovely to hear how everyone feels about the profession (being sarcastic here). The problem is I am not too sure why? I mean I understand what people see, two months off as kids have breaks in the year, our job is seen as baby sitting and anyone can teach. This is especially true if you follow the saying those that can't do, teach. However, teaching is so much more.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I know that I am preaching to the choir about this as most of my readers here are teachers but it is nice to be reminded about all the great things that we do as professionals.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<h3>
1) Teachers take their job seriously:</h3>
<br />
Teachers take their job seriously. I have not met a teacher who does not stay up late marking, is in to school early to plan and stays late for school concerts and meet the parents. I know that many of you may think that this is part of the job description but it is not. I also know that all teachers are here for students success. This means that we will do whatever it takes to make a student successful. Buying books, buying school supplies or even supplying lunches from our own money is not out of the possibilities. Many teachers put their own families second behind that of the school and students. Teachers are always the constant learner. They want to do better and will because it makes their students better.<br />
<br />
You know this is true because no matter what your story is presently you have had that one teacher who has made a difference in your life.<br />
<br />
<h3>
2) Teachers are more than babysitters:</h3>
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
There is more to my job than babysitting. Yes I watch 25-30 young students but I don't just give them an activity to pass the time. A good teacher motivates, they encourage and they teach. This brings me to my next point.<br />
<br />
<h3>
3) There is more to teaching then tell kids what to do:</h3>
<br />
Teaching is a gift. As much as we all think we may be able to teach, to truly teach a skill it takes more than telling students information. Real teaching takes planning, understanding what motivates and how students learn. Learning is a developmental process (though I know many may argue with this) but learning takes time. It takes a teacher to know that development so that they move students a long a continuum of learning. When a student is stuck, it takes a teacher to know where they are stuck and how they can help them. It takes a teacher to know in what way a child may learn best. It takes a teacher to know how to show the information to get the best out of their students. For example, this year I was able to go to China to help teachers learn about Problem Based Learning. I was given a class of 30 students, who I had never met and spoke little English. We were expected to have them ready to be showcased in 3 days in front of 1000 teachers. If teaching was just about reciting knowledge then I wasn't needed but it took my teaching partner and myself real teaching to get them to understand the physics of flight.<br />
<br />
A teacher knows when and how to scaffold information, they know how where a child needs help and when to help.<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b>4) Teaching should be an honoured profession:</b></h3>
<br />
I have no idea when teaching became a disdain on society here in North America. I understand that the grass is always greener on the other side and what teachers have as a contract may not be the same as the rest of the world but teaching should be an honoured profession. Teaching is the only profession that trains all other professions. We as a profession see children and raise them the same amount of time as their own parents.<br />
<br />
Yes I am a teacher, Yes I have a bias but never have I thought that education, and teachers are not worth the money that we pay them. Teachers have a hard job, they have worked hard for the job they have and deserve the respect for it.<br />
<br />
So as labour negotiations head into a critical weekend think about your child's teacher or teachers in general. Thank them for what they do and who they are.<br />
<br />
If you are a teacher keep your head up high and remember that you are amazing.</div>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-81210550896895398522015-09-08T09:21:00.000-04:002015-09-08T09:21:53.784-04:00Love every student<div dir="ltr">
I still remember my associates teacher words in teachers college, <span style="color: red;">love every student</span>. I know its simple but it is also hard to follow up on sometimes. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Now I am not saying that as teachers we don't, we all came into this profession because we love kids but I also know that as the year goes on there are students that can just bug or irritate us just so and we cannot wait to the year ends. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Lately I have been reading some books by <a href="http://www.livesinthebalance.org/educators-schools" target="_blank">Dr Greene Ross</a>, the explosive child and lost at school. This has been mainly because of my daughter who I know is one of those kids that by the end of the year we just can't wait to have a break from. I mean I want that break and she is my kid. However, as I have been reading my daughter has a lot of lagging social skills that need to be developed. We all know that <b>ALL</b> kids want to be good. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Take a look at this sheet. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AXcE5U3_AwU/Ve7fvrzjiQI/AAAAAAAAKG0/NxvqW7zPSX0/s1600/IMG_20150907_132358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AXcE5U3_AwU/Ve7fvrzjiQI/AAAAAAAAKG0/NxvqW7zPSX0/s640/IMG_20150907_132358.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
It was developed by Dr. Greene to help identify the types of problems that a child may have. This is the first step to Plan B as he calls it.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Plan B is where you collaboratively with the students to solve problems. Once you identify the problems you can then start the empathy stage. Here you seek the students perspective. It is important that we do not force our perspective. At this stage we are just hearing the child out. It is also important to note that this stage may take time. Many kids are not familiar with being asked what they think is up. Once you identify the concern, re-voice to see if it truly is the problem. Then state your concern and seek help to solve it. The last note is that this does take time but in the end you save time because you are solving problems.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
This year I plan to do this with my whole class and have a whole class collaborative problem solving period every week and maybe more if we need it. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I think about all of the students that I have had in the past and how even though I thought I was talking it was me telling. So as you start your week out, getting to know your students academically don't forget the social side. Remember that <b>ALL</b> students want to be good just many don't know how.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-26923306476992749802015-08-24T20:49:00.001-04:002015-08-25T07:42:43.287-04:00That chaotic student....<div dir="ltr">
We have all had them. The one student we often tread, the one we are always on pins and needles waiting for something to happen......</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
.....The problem is that student has turned into my daughter and I have had a paradigm shift (a huge one). Its amazing how these shifts happen when you can closely relate too the problem. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zuuux6yx5HY/Vduv0jRKmoI/AAAAAAAAJhU/zC2OFCzzXYQ/s1600/20150822_202655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zuuux6yx5HY/Vduv0jRKmoI/AAAAAAAAJhU/zC2OFCzzXYQ/s320/20150822_202655.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Let me introduce you to Izzy. Izzy is one of the most enthusiastic, funny, entertaining and joyful kid you will ever meet; unless she is having a melt down. It feels like I am in constant Jekyll and Hyde movie. One day she is amazing and the next its a melt down. Izzy hasn't always been like this and yes she is five and still learning social skills but these melt downs are a lot different than normal. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Now you may be thinking why am I writing this post and no it is not to vent and get some thoughts out (though this is quite therapeutic). Because of Izzy my partner and I have been doing a lot of reading and thinking. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Lately I picked up a book called "The Explosive Child" by Dr. Rosse Green. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-71wxaWgoEXk/VduyS6qIpzI/AAAAAAAAJhg/VJgLFtT6L-4/s1600/IMG_20150822_120114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-71wxaWgoEXk/VduyS6qIpzI/AAAAAAAAJhg/VJgLFtT6L-4/s320/IMG_20150822_120114.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I will admit that I am only a third of the way through this book but it has already changed my thinking about dealing with children that have these explosive tendencies. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When we first had to deal with Izzy we dealt with her as I did most of my students, hard nose and draw the line. I mean it worked quite well for the most part with many students in my classroom. It is also what most parents and our own told us. Be firm, she just needs to know where the line is. This of course would pretty much work in the classroom. I mean occasionally, I would have blow-ups or there was always that one student but I chalked that up for being those rare occasions where you get that student. I never thought that it was me or what I was doing; until Izzy. Of course this hard nose approach didn't work with my daughter and it ended up making it worse. We had more severe blow ups and it just ended up making my partner and I more and more frustrated. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Reading this book as made me see that my daughter has a problem with thinking and communicating when in highly frustrating situations. Now you may all think don't we all and that statement is true but we also have learned adaptive skills to help us cope and these particular students have not. I mean when I first heard this I too had my doubts, as far as I know there is no real diagnosis for this but seeing this first hand makes me want to bring this more to the attention of others. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As I am reading this book I cannot help but think that my own classroom management strategies have been misguided. I have always felt that a firm hand is needed for most if not all students. Draw a line that students know where it is and you won't have problems. To be honest this works for most kids but what about the ones that it doesn't. What about Izzy? I have seen the impact it has on her. She doesn't like school anymore (yr 1). She had a hard time making friends. The teachers (bless there hearts) where drained and tired (as we were as parents). It was a tough go for her as I am sure it is for many.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now it is important to note that Dr Greene mentions that if all is fine then normal classroom management and parental skills still work and will work. But when you have many unsolved problems and run into walls it is time to rethink, for both you and the child.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The book has three plans: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1) Hard nose and see where it goes</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2) Collaborative Problem Solving: Where you work with the child to solve problems together. This is the one that he recommends and the one that to be honest has had the greatest impact. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3) Dropping some expectations so that you can work on the important ones. This strategy has been working at times but it is a strategy that we use to get to the bigger problems and deal with them in a collaborative way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am only writing this post because I cannot help but think and fear how Izzy is going to do in her school life. She has already had a rough first year and not at the fault of the teachers she had. We have had amazing teachers who have only had Izzy's best interest at heart. I mean Jen and I do too but we still have our difficulties and we still struggle with dealing with her. We all have these kids in our classrooms and many of us may feel just as helpless as my wife and I. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hopefully this post may shift some thinking for you and if it does I would recommend that you read this book. It isn't just about parenting but also has many connections to our teaching and classroom management.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Any thoughts feel free to leave them here, love to read them. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-5791559597443184772015-07-27T08:22:00.001-04:002015-07-27T08:22:33.394-04:00What it is Like to be an ELL Learner?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be an ELL learner in your classroom?<br />
<br />
For me I would have to say I never really have. Not that I haven't thought about how I could help but that the perspective has always been from the other side. Me the English learner, teaching English with good pedagogy. But never really with the lense of what it was like to receive a foreign language.<br />
<br />
I will have to say I have never experience life as an ELL learner until I was in China. I mean I knew what it was like to be a teacher of ELL students, I know the pedagogy and the approaches that I need to do in order to engage and help my ELL students but I have never felt what it was like to be one until two weeks ago.<br />
<br />
It is probably safe to say that the majority of us in North America as teachers can say the same thing as I did just above. Born and raised as an English speaker, in an English country I have never known what it was like to not understand the language around me. Well that changed dramatically when I went to China for the Global Education Summit.<br />
<br />
Even though this summit was a Global Education Summit it was predominantly meant for Chinese teachers so it was predominantly or pretty much all in Chinese. In addition to this our interpreters didn't understand English that well and there was not enough of them to go around for all of the English speaking teachers.<br />
<br />
This meant that I spent the majority of my day listening to the cadence and rhythm of random words and sounds. Though it was pretty and every now and then I picked up a word or two it was quite frustrating and often times I tuned out and wasn't engaged in the conversation. I mean why would I want to be when all I heard was the Charlie Brown teacher. WanWAA WANAA<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/ss2hULhXf04/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ss2hULhXf04?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />
This was quite a frustrating experience. My brain was able to comprehend what was going on but I wasn't able to communicate all of my thoughts in a manner that was acceptable to the audience I was talking too.<br />
<br />
To help with this there was a lot of hand gestures, asking questions, visual cues, lot of review of english and Chinese, repeated practise or listening and talking, etc. But in the end many of times I was just bored and lost interest.<br />
<br />
This got me thinking about my own classroom. Is this how my students feel? Is this what they are going through as they learn a new language?<br />
<br />
In my head I was thinking no way, my classroom is amazing! but to be honest it is most likely the reality that many of my students have just tuned me out. Can you blame them? It is a lot of work to listen intently, to try and pick up words that you think have meaning. I mean I wanted to learn, I wanted to be there, I wanted to participate but I just didn't know what was happening. Even with translators it was hard work and after a day of it my brain wanted to explode.<br />
<br />
I know as teachers we do amazing things in the classroom to engage our ELL learners but it was truly humbling to be in the other shoe ( so to say) and really shifts your paradigm and perspective on your own classroom.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">What do you do in your classroom to help engage the ELL learner? What strategies do you find work best? </span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><br /></span>
This post s more of a umm...I never thought about this. I have more questions than answers but wanted to put this thought out there. I would love to hear your ideas and thoughts.<br />
<br />Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-27138073372454296262015-07-27T08:00:00.004-04:002015-07-27T08:00:31.814-04:00Global Education Summit: China 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rskLtAPmj6A/Va0RmGbgpBI/AAAAAAAAIG0/jGh_Y7Rm49s/s1600/20150717_215032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rskLtAPmj6A/Va0RmGbgpBI/AAAAAAAAIG0/jGh_Y7Rm49s/s400/20150717_215032.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This has been a well over due post but after two weeks away from my family, they were my first priority.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This summer I was given the opportunity to go to China for their Global Education Summit (GEC2015). Basically, the Chinese are embarking on a path of discovery and trying to analyze good teaching practises. <a href="http://www.uww.edu/coeps/facstaff-directory/profile?id=liangg" target="_blank">Professor Guoli Lang</a> decided to bring Project Based Learning to Chinese Classrooms. In order to do so he started a GEC community three years ago with teachers from the United States, Finland, Australia, Singapore and now Canada. He has also teamed up with Ann Lieberman from Stanford University who was the person to bring my teammate Michelle Cordy and myself, along a with two teachers from Butler University and Lab school in the States.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">As I stated the point of the conference was bring Project-based Learning to China. This was a totally new experience for many of the Chinese Teachers; even after three years the teaching that the other GEC countries brought was a total new phenomenon.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The conference lasted two weeks, during which time we were asked to develop a project on Flight or bridges and then model a lesson from that unit. We were given three days to meet and greet with our students and then 75 minutes to teach the lesson, which was broadcasted over a huge screen to about 200 teachers.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lp35lqd0Pf8/VbYPmXL0OVI/AAAAAAAAIZk/9yJfd3J65WQ/s1600/20150708_200555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="99" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lp35lqd0Pf8/VbYPmXL0OVI/AAAAAAAAIZk/9yJfd3J65WQ/s640/20150708_200555.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PitlqGRcgYI/Va0RmJtjr6I/AAAAAAAAIGI/hnzbysxsq9w/s1600/20150716_211444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PitlqGRcgYI/Va0RmJtjr6I/AAAAAAAAIGI/hnzbysxsq9w/s200/20150716_211444.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nWbqfggJbss/Va0RmVtziFI/AAAAAAAAIHI/dpNIGOkzX54/s1600/20150708_015257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nWbqfggJbss/Va0RmVtziFI/AAAAAAAAIHI/dpNIGOkzX54/s200/20150708_015257.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IYa_bcVym84/Va0RmJpE5-I/AAAAAAAAIGY/jQlWhWvZXZg/s1600/mmexport1437139662737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IYa_bcVym84/Va0RmJpE5-I/AAAAAAAAIGY/jQlWhWvZXZg/s200/mmexport1437139662737.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jRnSU7qIGbQ/Va0RmEbeieI/AAAAAAAAIHI/uJkXtwDMuVU/s1600/mmexport1436842617716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jRnSU7qIGbQ/Va0RmEbeieI/AAAAAAAAIHI/uJkXtwDMuVU/s200/mmexport1436842617716.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: medium; font-weight: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The first day was a little rough as I was still getting over jet lag and being 12 hours ahead of everyone. However, during this day we got to see parts of the school and I was able to play some sports with the kids on the play ground. There is nothing in the world that can put a smile on a Teachers face then being with students. I know that many of you understand, there is no word to describe it but one of the biggest learning moments I had is no matter where you are in the world kids are kids.</span></div>
</h2>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I absolutely loved the atmosphere of the schools that we were at. The first school was in Beijing. Supposedly it was the number one school in the whole city but that aside, even though in a gated community it had a welcoming vibe. I say parents and kids coming and going and doing all of these amazing activities together. The Chinese value good physical education and culture in their programs. There is a lot of facilities for activities and the students even learn the culture of serving tea. </span><br />
<span style="line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">They have three wings a K-1 wing, 2-3 wing and a junior wing. Also in the school are various cultural and physical spaces. I saw at least two band rooms, with numerous practise spaces. Some of the classrooms became specialist music rooms as well. For example there was a room dedicated to violins and one for a cello. They had a ballet section as well as the whole outside was for sports (basketball, football, volleyball, track and a jungle gym). From what I have seen and heard there seems to be a really good balance between school, the arts and physical education; then again students go to school for a long time each day so it is a little bit easier to fit that into their schedule.</span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AkSiYAi_O5w/Va0RmdQKECI/AAAAAAAAIF0/p9tVpzMk7Kc/s1600/mmexport1436308754362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AkSiYAi_O5w/Va0RmdQKECI/AAAAAAAAIF0/p9tVpzMk7Kc/s320/mmexport1436308754362.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Before I knew it I had a huge line of students. In fact they asked if I was the new Volleyball Coach.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dIcM2WRMyro/Va0RmWlW_UI/AAAAAAAAIF0/Xw3dQLZPOCE/s1600/20150705_203419.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dIcM2WRMyro/Va0RmWlW_UI/AAAAAAAAIF0/Xw3dQLZPOCE/s320/20150705_203419.jpg" width="179" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Library Reading area</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K9c_sgGHedQ/Va0RmQIhaMI/AAAAAAAAIG0/UD-vb7R79B4/s1600/20150705_204808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K9c_sgGHedQ/Va0RmQIhaMI/AAAAAAAAIG0/UD-vb7R79B4/s200/20150705_204808.jpg" width="112" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Hallways of the School</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XbZ6hTXqiDw/Va0RmQ2OeOI/AAAAAAAAIGU/YIe4Mj0i_NU/s1600/20150705_203411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XbZ6hTXqiDw/Va0RmQ2OeOI/AAAAAAAAIGU/YIe4Mj0i_NU/s200/20150705_203411.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Library</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RGxtEhnPwrc/Va0RmcT-HkI/AAAAAAAAIGs/CFJ-_hnq_2s/s1600/20150705_210048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><img border="0" height="111" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RGxtEhnPwrc/Va0RmcT-HkI/AAAAAAAAIGs/CFJ-_hnq_2s/s200/20150705_210048.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tea Classroom</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cpf3htWwbVg/Va0RmcmeNKI/AAAAAAAAIPQ/H5fGF58CcR0/s1600/20150706_022934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><img border="0" height="58" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cpf3htWwbVg/Va0RmcmeNKI/AAAAAAAAIPQ/H5fGF58CcR0/s320/20150706_022934.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Music Room and Band</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sesr9h6UTuY/Va0RmUCUEgI/AAAAAAAAIGw/j_KyGQ0BdRo/s1600/20150705_203407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sesr9h6UTuY/Va0RmUCUEgI/AAAAAAAAIGw/j_KyGQ0BdRo/s200/20150705_203407.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">More from the Library</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uje6BXj29xY/Va0RmSbRveI/AAAAAAAAIQI/0Q8MupLaBa4/s1600/20150705_194609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uje6BXj29xY/Va0RmSbRveI/AAAAAAAAIQI/0Q8MupLaBa4/s200/20150705_194609.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qs4UVX0l_ZQ/Va0RmLKt1XI/AAAAAAAAIH0/UA9BFYbrLMM/s1600/20150712_201615.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">The school from the outside</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The only thing that I was not a fan of was the differences in classrooms. The picture above is the American classroom. Students sit in groups there is paper and "stuff" all over the wall. It is a visual nightmare. The Chinese classroom are all in rows with very little visual, in fact nothing except for the socialist tenets and rules of the school. <span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It made me reflect on my own space and how effective the "scholasticy" posters are (</span><span style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Caveat: I have nothing against scholastic. I use that name as a verb to describe all store bought posters). </span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> I have been thinking about this for a while but I wonder how effective these posters really are. Sure they make our rooms look pretty and full of information but do the students really view them? If we just put them up on the wall and never refer to them then what good are they? </span><span style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Caveat: I know that many teachers use these posters quite effectively and they do have great content on them.) </span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: magenta;">All I am really trying to question is the purpose for our posters. Is it to make our room look amazing and special or is it for educational purposes? For me I would rather see student generated success criteria, performance rubrics, and student work samples on the bulletin boards.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7fyKvBIdsTk/Va0RmWo2-pI/AAAAAAAAIGA/izTmqHMq6eg/s1600/20150705_212854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7fyKvBIdsTk/Va0RmWo2-pI/AAAAAAAAIGA/izTmqHMq6eg/s320/20150705_212854.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8n1q6tibPhc/Va0RmYNvYrI/AAAAAAAAIGg/yp-PddUsAew/s1600/20150705_201256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8n1q6tibPhc/Va0RmYNvYrI/AAAAAAAAIGg/yp-PddUsAew/s320/20150705_201256.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The school in HangZhou was even more artistic. They had a sculptures yard, outdoor playgrounds, ponds and a track in the middle. Quite an amazing design. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-right: 1em; padding: 6px; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ecyki7PzSug/Va0RmDB0t6I/AAAAAAAAIHw/1gi6vUY8tnI/s1600/20150712_201958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BeXkP5324oI/Va0RmLBGmWI/AAAAAAAAIGM/bkcz0BWGya4/s1600/20150712_202234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BeXkP5324oI/Va0RmLBGmWI/AAAAAAAAIGM/bkcz0BWGya4/s200/20150712_202234.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9A_LPLIurtE/Va0RmEz_lFI/AAAAAAAAIGA/yjM7JJRA8uw/s1600/20150712_202252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9A_LPLIurtE/Va0RmEz_lFI/AAAAAAAAIGA/yjM7JJRA8uw/s200/20150712_202252.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ecyki7PzSug/Va0RmDB0t6I/AAAAAAAAIHw/1gi6vUY8tnI/s1600/20150712_201958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><img border="0" height="111" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ecyki7PzSug/Va0RmDB0t6I/AAAAAAAAIHw/1gi6vUY8tnI/s200/20150712_201958.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QjEEdbRKk3Q/Va0RmPSwvJI/AAAAAAAAISg/R1Hn4ofHodo/s1600/20150712_201719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QjEEdbRKk3Q/Va0RmPSwvJI/AAAAAAAAISg/R1Hn4ofHodo/s200/20150712_201719.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yPKts3PRItE/Va0RmNoXQkI/AAAAAAAAIF8/tiikt2VK764/s1600/20150712_202922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yPKts3PRItE/Va0RmNoXQkI/AAAAAAAAIF8/tiikt2VK764/s200/20150712_202922.jpg" width="111" /></span></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9A_LPLIurtE/Va0RmEz_lFI/AAAAAAAAIGA/yjM7JJRA8uw/s1600/20150712_202252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qs4UVX0l_ZQ/Va0RmLKt1XI/AAAAAAAAIH0/UA9BFYbrLMM/s320/20150712_201615.jpg" width="320" /></span></div>
<h2>
</h2>
<div style="clear: both; margin: 0px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Makes me think about our own school design and classroom design. <span style="color: orange;">What can we do to make it more inviting? What can we do to make it a true learning space? What is a true learning space? What makes it a learning space?</span></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sorry a lot more questions than answers. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">However, back to the teaching. We finally got to our Demo's and it was really great to see all of the teachers in action. Here are some of my thoughts:</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">First I want to start off by saying that no matter which group was teaching it was interesting to see some commonalities between all three. 1) the interaction with students is a key for problem based learning. In all three groups the teachers spent time talking to students, working closely with them, giving them feedback and helping them to improve. 2) Kids are kids. In all three groups the same behaviours that I would witness in my classroom in Brampton happened here. Kids are kids and they are just happy to be learning. They want to talk, they want to feel honoured and they want to have fun. 3) Good pedagogy is good pedagogy. In all three classrooms there was wait time, good questions and a reflection process.</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="line-height: 22.0799999237061px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here are my thoughts on the Chinese group:</span></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Chinese teachers designed a ball launcher. It was interesting to see how even though they had three teachers in the classroom, each one work as a separate unit. The teachers seem to have specific roles to play. Afterwards I found out that they actually do. There was the Chinese teacher, the math teacher and the physics teacher. Each of them were looking for different things and taught different parts of the lesson. Where I do think that specialty teachers have their place I would rather have teachers know their content super well and be able to teach it effectively than having three teachers out of sync with one another. The best world would be where these teachers could teach together fluidly, which would serve the best interest of the students.</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here are my thoughts on the American and Finnish Teachers:</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-42d014e9-cf49-1cf1-437c-f71b73a22a1b"></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I loved the connections that the teachers made with each student. They knew who and what each students was. This connection is very important because it makes the students feel that they are honoured and feel important. This may not have any statistical value but it does have quantitative value. We were given three days to work with these students in order to bring the best out of them. Having a good connection and making them feel honoured is key to this success. These students did amazing work and I attribute this to being the key to success. I was also amazed at all of the good teaching pedagogy: the scaffolding, the good thinking questions, student voice, and observations where tremendous.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Overall, good teaching is still good teaching no matter where you are in the world. Kids need many things to be successful. Scaffolding, clear expectations, clear assessment and honouring their voice. I was truly honoured when they asked the students what did they learn and they said: </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">"that learning can be fun, mistakes are okay as long as you are learning, and that they have a voice and ideas."</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is really what our kids want, they want to know that they matter. When they feel that they matter, they will learn and do amazing things for you as a teacher. We had three days to get students who spoke very little English to basically perform and learn about flight the biggest key was making them see the value in learning; of course also tied into amazing teaching pedagogy and learning.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Need I say that this was quite an interesting experience. However, in the end meeting some great people from Finland, the United States and Australia was truly remarkable and the best part of my two weeks. Take a look at all of the photos: <a href="https://plus.google.com/+JonathanSoMrSo/posts/MAi31hCZrBS">https://plus.google.com/+JonathanSoMrSo/posts/MAi31hCZrBS</a>.</span></div>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-29934772714958268742015-06-25T19:31:00.001-04:002015-11-17T16:09:51.019-05:00Year 2 of primary<div dir="ltr">
It's been my second year of second grade and even though I entered the grade with some reservations it has been two of my best years of teaching. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
Being in primary has taught me three things: 1) Inquiry learning is amazing; 2) really look at the curriculum when planning and 3) kids are amazing.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
INQUIRY LEARNING</div>
<div dir="ltr">
As I said above inquiry is amazing. When students are given the autonomy to learn the possibilities are endless. Now I am not promoting that kids are off on their own doing whatever they feel like but that the teacher is always there guiding and asking questions. The teacher has a plan in mind and has mapped out how the standards all fit together. The students are exploring and learning about the concepts. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
When students have an opportunity to learn they gain so much more knowledge then if they were just told. Now this does take time but when you look at the curriculum there is that time. Primary is the time to explore, investigate, practise theories and interjections. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
Inquiry also builds self confidence, research skills, critical thinking and inferencing skills. Students have to use all faculties to make judgements about what they are learning. It is also about the community and the learning that is happening around them.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
LOOK CLOSELY AT THE CURRICULUM</div>
<div dir="ltr">
Before coming down to primary I taught junior (4,5) for a very long time. I often thought what is being taught in the primary grades, why do these grades seem so high but I wasn't looking at the expectations close enough.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
When I came to primary I had to examine the curriculum very carefully because I had no idea of what to expect. I was shocked at how little was expected of them. It made me realize how primary students were receiving an A but then in junior dropping to B and Cs. There is a huge jump in learning expectations in junior that is not found in primary (possibly another <u>post</u>). However the point is no matter what grade you teach one has to look carefully at the expectations that is expected of them. Map out the learning, map out the questions and the trajectory of those expectations and see where it goes. Remember that expectations are by the end of the year so we have to keep revisiting them.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
KIDS ARE AMAZING</div>
<div dir="ltr">
We as educators cannot forget this important fact in our profession. If we think that they can't do something then they will never be able to do it. Kids are amazing and will continue to surprise you at ever turn. I had to stop myself a lot this year from saying they're too young or they won't get it. They might not but more often then not they did. Kids are amazing.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
These are just 3 of the most important things that I learned this year. What are yours? </div>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4041971344716475391.post-3573848620774274032015-06-09T18:40:00.001-04:002015-06-09T19:14:53.454-04:00No grades no problems<p dir="ltr">I had to laugh a little when I heard the news this morning on my way to work, "there may be no formal report card for public elementary students this year!"</p>
<p dir="ltr">"Oh, no! The world is coming to an end." I don't mean to make fun of anyone who feels this way but at the same time it feels a little "sky is falling mentaility." </p>
<p dir="ltr">For me the final report card is a labour - some task that many only see the letter grades and not the helpful comments that go with it. They are often a cause for smiles on kids faces as they beam with pride or hidden because the child doesn't want to disappoint or face the eye of failure.</p>
<p dir="ltr">However, I want you to think about a couple of things:</p>
<p dir="ltr">1) should the final report be the first time you hear success or failure? </p>
<p dir="ltr"> If not then how important is this report card? Why is it so honoured the without it the world is done?</p>
<p dir="ltr">2) are your elementary marks or any grades for that matter, tell how successful you will be in the future?</p>
<p dir="ltr"> Don't get me wrong they are good indicators but are they everything? </p>
<p dir="ltr"> If no then again why are they so important?</p>
<p dir="ltr">Is it an accountability piece? If so then I can give you every mark and note I have ever done on any student at any time. Why because that is my job as a teacher.</p>
<p dir="ltr">For me assessment is about learning and learning is not shown in a final letter grade but in growth and reflection. I can't speak for every classroom in Ontario but in my classroom, all students have access to the class coconstructed rubrics, success criteria and their own reflections. We are always talking about their performance and they all know what their strengths, and weaknesses are. All assignments come with formative feedback based on our rubrics the have comments on how they did and what they can do better next time. We have constant conferences with parents and students and all work is posted in their portfolios. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Kids have private class YouTube channel that they vlogg, blog and tape their thinking. Assessment is truly an open door policy.</p>
<p dir="ltr">So in closing I ask you two more questions:</p>
<p dir="ltr">What is more important, a formal document with my EDU speak and grades or a child telling you how they are doing and what they can do next to improve?</p>
<p dir="ltr"> Or </p>
<p dir="ltr">What is more important a document that comes to you three times a year or ongoing formative refections and assessment that comes every assignment?</p>
<p dir="ltr">For me it's the ladder of the two and why I find the discussion of no report cards quite hilarious we need to relax and ask our children or their teacher.</p>
<p dir="ltr">If you ever want to know how they are doing, just ask.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Love to hear your thoughts.</p>
Mr Sohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06820164014431578634noreply@blogger.com0