Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Next Year
Since I'm moving to 2nd Grade next year I get to come up with a whole new list of fun technology lessons for my class. I plan on continuing with my Social Stories Videos with my 4th graders so that I can share them with my class next year. I am also planning on creating our Morning Circle time as a totally paperless routine. We will do the calendar on the Smartboard to practice days of the week, weather, site word review and simple math review. I also plan on uploading poems for centers to last the whole year. The students in poetry center will reference the poem on the Smartboard and highlight site words, and other current weekly skills.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Education Video 2 Draft
I've made some changes to my outline. Instead of doing several different social scenes, I've made the entire video about saying GoodMorning. I actually plan on making some more social stories vidoes for my students. Maybe it could be a series!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Educational Video 2
How to be a good citizen!
I will use my flip camera to video tape students making poor social choices followed by the correct way to act.
After briefly explaining the purpose of the video, I will show a student walking down the hallway while a teacher says hello. The student will not respond. I will then have a re-shot where the student says, Good Morning, How are you?
Next, the video will show two adults talking with a student trying to interrupt. The re-shot will be the student saying, excuse me.
The last video will show a teacher walking and a student closing the door in her face. The re-shot will show the student holding the door open.
The video will close with a reminder of all three things and then the credits.
I will use my flip camera to video tape students making poor social choices followed by the correct way to act.
After briefly explaining the purpose of the video, I will show a student walking down the hallway while a teacher says hello. The student will not respond. I will then have a re-shot where the student says, Good Morning, How are you?
Next, the video will show two adults talking with a student trying to interrupt. The re-shot will be the student saying, excuse me.
The last video will show a teacher walking and a student closing the door in her face. The re-shot will show the student holding the door open.
The video will close with a reminder of all three things and then the credits.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Team Progress
I will be attending The BOCES Celebration of Technology Conference this Friday. I am creating a Blog to share with the colleagues I meet that day. Take a look!
http://mrandone.blogspot.com/
http://mrandone.blogspot.com/
Educational Video Draft
I've been running into some technical difficulties, but here is a copy of my next video. Its just a draft, I still need to add a clip. Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrbBuYNdanw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrbBuYNdanw
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
3 videos
Video 1: http://www.nextvista.org/theme/
This video on theme was supposed to explain theme to students through the use of Romeo and Juliet. While the content was great, and the presenter had great voice quality, I would have appreciated a change in scenery. It would have been nice to see something other than the teacher speaking into the camera. Maybe some images of the characters, or visual examples of the topic.
Video 2: http://www.nextvista.org/limits-and-love/
When the video began, I thought it would be really interesting! The split screen and students "acting" made this movie fun! I enjoyed the whole thing, and it was short enough that I'm sure students would like it. While the video itself was well put together, I feel that it was lacking content. I didn't understand what they were trying to teach the audience. Perhaps this video is just the introduction to a lesson. If so, I want to see what comes next! I'm sure it would be just as good as this video!
Video 3: http://www.nextvista.org/baby-energy/
My favorite video by far!! Finally a video that had both content and visual images that are appealing to the viewer! Who doesn't want to watch a cute baby? The video of the baby on the playground shows how the topic of energy relates to real life. The summary at the end was a great way to tie in all that was taught briefly, and remind the students to look around in their own lives for examples of energy was the perfect finish. I hope to find more videos like this, and more importantly, to create videos just as great!
This video on theme was supposed to explain theme to students through the use of Romeo and Juliet. While the content was great, and the presenter had great voice quality, I would have appreciated a change in scenery. It would have been nice to see something other than the teacher speaking into the camera. Maybe some images of the characters, or visual examples of the topic.
Video 2: http://www.nextvista.org/limits-and-love/
When the video began, I thought it would be really interesting! The split screen and students "acting" made this movie fun! I enjoyed the whole thing, and it was short enough that I'm sure students would like it. While the video itself was well put together, I feel that it was lacking content. I didn't understand what they were trying to teach the audience. Perhaps this video is just the introduction to a lesson. If so, I want to see what comes next! I'm sure it would be just as good as this video!
Video 3: http://www.nextvista.org/baby-energy/
My favorite video by far!! Finally a video that had both content and visual images that are appealing to the viewer! Who doesn't want to watch a cute baby? The video of the baby on the playground shows how the topic of energy relates to real life. The summary at the end was a great way to tie in all that was taught briefly, and remind the students to look around in their own lives for examples of energy was the perfect finish. I hope to find more videos like this, and more importantly, to create videos just as great!
Outline!
For my next movie- I plan on creating a video tutorial on how to use Turning Point clickers. This video will be helpful in part for my students,and also for my collegues. Some of my students will be presenting at a BOCES conference in two weeks and they will use this video as a part of their presentation.
The video will open with an introduction of the technology. What the product is, where it can be found and what the cost is. The video will then show how easy it is to create a basic turning point slide. Two students (that have parental permission to be video taped) will then present how easy it is for students to use the clickers, and will give step by step instructions. The video will be taken with a flip camera and edited in Imovie.
The video will open with an introduction of the technology. What the product is, where it can be found and what the cost is. The video will then show how easy it is to create a basic turning point slide. Two students (that have parental permission to be video taped) will then present how easy it is for students to use the clickers, and will give step by step instructions. The video will be taken with a flip camera and edited in Imovie.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Video 1: Perspective on the Promise of Educational Technology
Check out my first video for class on You Tube...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnCSDEWt0Qk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnCSDEWt0Qk
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Play
I believe that in order to have a fulfilled life, you need to have play! Life with money, and success is nothing without the memories and laughter of play spent with family and friends.
I have had an on going debate with a colleague over the merits of playful literature in the classroom. I feel that the poetry of Shell Silverstein (and other comedic children's poets) is very much a necessary component of teaching poetry to children. My colleague disagrees and feels that the writing we expose children to should only be deep and meaningful. As a person who has always liked reading novels and writing short stories more than poetry this goes against everything that I believe it! I feel that introducing students to funny poems that they can enjoy will allow them to find a type of poetry that they enjoy, and will encourage them to read more! Isn't that what we want, for them to read more?
This conversation started a debate about the kind of books we allow kids to read. I think its good if they read Captain Underpants or ANYTHING if it means they are loving to read! My colleague disagrees and feels that they should be reading only books that makes them see the world in a better light. While I do feel that reading deep literature and literature that brings out more in them is important, I also feel that reading something that brings out laughter and pleasure is equally important. Kids need to see that laughing and playing is a part of themselves that they shouldn't forget about. What's wrong with seeing a Will Ferrel movie to blow off steam? After seeing a stupid movie that makes you laugh for two hours, its easy to forget the important stuff thats going on, even if only for a little bit.
We should all encourage that our family and friends take a few moments to enjoy life! Take a walk, play a game, see a funny movie, go on a vacation! These are the things that we remember from our childhood, and these are the things that will be remembered when we're gone! Not how much time we spent at work, or how much time we spent cleaning, but the valuable time we spent with the people we love, having a good time at play.
I have had an on going debate with a colleague over the merits of playful literature in the classroom. I feel that the poetry of Shell Silverstein (and other comedic children's poets) is very much a necessary component of teaching poetry to children. My colleague disagrees and feels that the writing we expose children to should only be deep and meaningful. As a person who has always liked reading novels and writing short stories more than poetry this goes against everything that I believe it! I feel that introducing students to funny poems that they can enjoy will allow them to find a type of poetry that they enjoy, and will encourage them to read more! Isn't that what we want, for them to read more?
This conversation started a debate about the kind of books we allow kids to read. I think its good if they read Captain Underpants or ANYTHING if it means they are loving to read! My colleague disagrees and feels that they should be reading only books that makes them see the world in a better light. While I do feel that reading deep literature and literature that brings out more in them is important, I also feel that reading something that brings out laughter and pleasure is equally important. Kids need to see that laughing and playing is a part of themselves that they shouldn't forget about. What's wrong with seeing a Will Ferrel movie to blow off steam? After seeing a stupid movie that makes you laugh for two hours, its easy to forget the important stuff thats going on, even if only for a little bit.
We should all encourage that our family and friends take a few moments to enjoy life! Take a walk, play a game, see a funny movie, go on a vacation! These are the things that we remember from our childhood, and these are the things that will be remembered when we're gone! Not how much time we spent at work, or how much time we spent cleaning, but the valuable time we spent with the people we love, having a good time at play.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Meaning and PlAY
When we met in class to discuss Daniel Pink, I was sure I was an advocate for the "play" group... While I still feel that play is one of the most important part of life, it was so informative to talk to my classmates about Meaning! Our conversation flowed so easily as we discussed what our purpose in life is, and how important it is to reflect on who we truly are! Through our talks, it seemed clear to me that I need many components of what Daniel Pink discussed to find true meaning in my life. It brought me back to my original thoughts of "Play" In order to find true happiness and meaning in my life I need to play! I need to spend time with those that I love- My Fiance, my family, my friends, my students! My time and FUN with them is really what gives my life meaning!
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
One Tree Hill
Yes, I watch One Tree Hill. Im almost embaressed to admit it, but its true. Last night, the show featured the video game, SIMS. And this week, they had some seens shot through the eye of the game. Characters were re-created through their images, and the entire town of Tree Hill was also made. It made me really look forward to creating my own on-line world this summer in class. I can't wait to find out how to re-create the best of what's around me!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
EE WEBSITE!
We've just spent some time working on our new websites! Once you get into it, it's actually kind of fun! I feel like I've accomplished something! Here's the bare bones of my new website...I played around and just added a few pictures.
http://eev3.liu.edu/ee0810/MR/index.html
http://eev3.liu.edu/ee0810/MR/index.html
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Talk Radio
On my way in to work this morning (on this GLORIOUS two hour delay!!) I was listening to some good old talk radio. The host- Glenn Beck- was reading an ad for a company that does web conferencing. After reading off the talking points- Glenn and another commentator began to discuss how rapidly the world is changing thanks to technology. The conversation basically lead to saying that we are on the verge of a technology revolution! It was so similar to all that we've been discussing in class. It was very interesting to hear such a stimulating conversation stem from a add for a great new piece of technology that can make many work days go so much smoother. As each new idea is introduced, we need to try to recognize it and see how much of a great effect it can have on our lives!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Update...
Well, we presented at the board meeting the other night, and it went really well! It was a little intimidating to be presenting in front of all those people (many of which hold my job in their hands!!) But it's amazing to think that our presentations could convince them to take the next step in putting more technology in our classrooms. It's an exciting thought!
Our collaboration group is finally on a roll! We have a great idea, and we are starting to put it into action! We are all in touch and are sharing our plans with out students.
Only two more days until vacation! Can't wait!!!
Our collaboration group is finally on a roll! We have a great idea, and we are starting to put it into action! We are all in touch and are sharing our plans with out students.
Only two more days until vacation! Can't wait!!!
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Board Meeting
Southampton School District has board meetings every two weeks. Tonight, I will be presenting (along with Pauline!!) some new technology!
My class has been using Turning Point Technology along with our Smartboard. This program allows students to select answers to questions created by their teacher, with the use of a "clicker." I have never seen students more enthused or excited about answering questions, or taking a test! This program keeps track of student responses and can show teachers what questions students are finding difficult, with a touch of a button.
We are currently piloting this program. It is my hope that showing all the great things it can do will encourage the school district to purchase more for other teachers to use. It has become an invaluable tool in our class!
My class has been using Turning Point Technology along with our Smartboard. This program allows students to select answers to questions created by their teacher, with the use of a "clicker." I have never seen students more enthused or excited about answering questions, or taking a test! This program keeps track of student responses and can show teachers what questions students are finding difficult, with a touch of a button.
We are currently piloting this program. It is my hope that showing all the great things it can do will encourage the school district to purchase more for other teachers to use. It has become an invaluable tool in our class!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Collaboration
My collaboration group is onto a bigger and better idea! We are all in agreement that we have hit a wall in regards to our tutoring idea. While if put into action I still think it could have a great effect on kids, its not really practical for our purposes.
Nina had the FABULOUS idea to create a website to help students new to our Country. We can have an area where they post videos talking about where they came from and what their experiences have been like. We can also have a place where parents can post about their experiences and perhaps chat with others to find support.
The BEST part of all of this is it is something we can totally do right now! I'm planning on starting a writing project with three of my kids as soon as we get back from vacation. We are going to talk about it this week and prepare (since I have lots of fun testing to do this week) so we can start right away.
I think Nina is going to update our Google Docs and gain the help of a parent for that section. We are all going to begin working with our students right away. I cant wait to begin web design so we can get it all set up!
Nina had the FABULOUS idea to create a website to help students new to our Country. We can have an area where they post videos talking about where they came from and what their experiences have been like. We can also have a place where parents can post about their experiences and perhaps chat with others to find support.
The BEST part of all of this is it is something we can totally do right now! I'm planning on starting a writing project with three of my kids as soon as we get back from vacation. We are going to talk about it this week and prepare (since I have lots of fun testing to do this week) so we can start right away.
I think Nina is going to update our Google Docs and gain the help of a parent for that section. We are all going to begin working with our students right away. I cant wait to begin web design so we can get it all set up!
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Mini saga
Mini Saga Completed- Just trying to solve the problem of posting it!
We have just completed our mini saga assignments. Im honestly undecided with how I feel about the project. The writing part seemed difficult for me. I understand the idea of needing to be brief in some writing elements, but I find it hard to take part in creative writing and be brief. I think its because I teach 4th grade special ed, and I'm constantly trying to get my students to add more details, give as much information as possible. While my students would probably love an assignment where they only had to write a few words, it wouldn't fit into the curriculum. I think something like this is best suited for older grades once the basic mechanics of creative writing has been taught.
I do have to say, I enjoyed looking for images to pair up to my writing and putting my words to pictures and music. Creating the movie was my favorite part! While my students don't have access to Imovie in our classroom, they do have access to Photostory. We have used this in our class several times, and they love adding this extra element to their writing. This is something I will continue to do throughout my teaching career.
We have just completed our mini saga assignments. Im honestly undecided with how I feel about the project. The writing part seemed difficult for me. I understand the idea of needing to be brief in some writing elements, but I find it hard to take part in creative writing and be brief. I think its because I teach 4th grade special ed, and I'm constantly trying to get my students to add more details, give as much information as possible. While my students would probably love an assignment where they only had to write a few words, it wouldn't fit into the curriculum. I think something like this is best suited for older grades once the basic mechanics of creative writing has been taught.
I do have to say, I enjoyed looking for images to pair up to my writing and putting my words to pictures and music. Creating the movie was my favorite part! While my students don't have access to Imovie in our classroom, they do have access to Photostory. We have used this in our class several times, and they love adding this extra element to their writing. This is something I will continue to do throughout my teaching career.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Google Docs- A guest list made easy!
I have officially fallen in love with Google Docs! I was in the process of creating my guest list for my BIG ITALIAN family's "SMALL" Engagement party (And when I mean small, I mean 150 immediate realatives invited)I started to get frustrated comparing and compiling everyone's different lists. Enter Google Docs! I created my guest list, emailed my mom and had her add people I forgot! We both made corrections and I even invited my future sister in laws to make their additions. All on my lunch break! It was so easy to go on and make changes and especially to make sure we didn't forget anyone!
I can't wait to go in and make my additions to the spread sheet for the actual wedding! Luckily there's no shortage of memory for a list that size!
I can't wait to go in and make my additions to the spread sheet for the actual wedding! Luckily there's no shortage of memory for a list that size!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Well we have one class of the second semester under our belts. I'm excited about going to the big conference this summer, although I am a little bit worried that my best friend might go into labor the second I arrive in Washington D.C. I really don't want to miss the birth of my God Child!! I guess I might just have to wait a little bit longer until they determine a more realistic view of a due date...even though that's no guarantee.
I haven't purchased the new programs yet... hopefully this week. I'm excited, yet apprehensive about all the new technology. As long as I can somehow use it in my classroom, I'm sure I will love it!
I haven't purchased the new programs yet... hopefully this week. I'm excited, yet apprehensive about all the new technology. As long as I can somehow use it in my classroom, I'm sure I will love it!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Wow! I can't believe we're back into the swing of things already! It feels like yesterday we were enjoying each others company at our end of semester celebration! Christmas was wonderful, my boyfriend of almost six years and I got engaged! We spent the next week looking at catering halls and celebrating my birthday at Foxwoods. We booked July 4, 2010 at The Historical Thatched Cottage in Centerport. I'm so excited!
Other than that I've just been re-adjusting to being back at school. My 4th grade class has been taking the ELA test this week, so I cant wait until its over so we can get back to FUN learning!! The past few days have been exhausting, and I'd be lying if I didn't say I was hoping for a snow day tomorrow! Keep your fingers crossed!!
Other than that I've just been re-adjusting to being back at school. My 4th grade class has been taking the ELA test this week, so I cant wait until its over so we can get back to FUN learning!! The past few days have been exhausting, and I'd be lying if I didn't say I was hoping for a snow day tomorrow! Keep your fingers crossed!!
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