October 20, 2012
I’ve been doing some reflection on our homework possibilities. Students have a choice to complete one of the three options for two of their homework each week. The teacher assigns an additional two homework assignments. One option is for students to practice math facts, word problems, and multiple choice items on the IXL site. Our PTAC funded a subscription for all fourth graders this year. The site is designed to be an engaging way for students to practice their math. The site does not transform their learning because it is not interactive. They simply choose their answer and are given simple feedback. The second option is for students to do a timed math facts test or other worksheet from a basket in the classroom. Finally, students may choose to respond to a simple prompt on Edmodo. Once again, I’m feeling that just posting an answer on Edmodo is not transformative. The teacher and other students must provide some sort of feedback or there must be some sort of follow-up. Otherwise, the students might as well write their responses in a journal.
October 25, 2012
Edmodo provides some great lesson ideas. I've also been using a lot of materials from Common Sense Media. They have great worksheets and planned lessons on internet safety and social media. Edmodo also has some a place where teachers can post their lesson ideas. Wish I had more time to play around on the site!
November 1, 2012
Did a lesson with students today on sarcasm. Some of them don't seem to realize that when you read another's post, you take it very literally. This can easily lead to someone feeling like they are being bullied. They had some great insights and provided some good examples. It's interesting because they are all over the place developmentally. Some get jokes, other don't, etc. Overall, I think it went well. I used the Common Sense Media Lesson this go around and really liked it.
November 7, 2012
Students are reacting to recent events in the news. Not sure how to handle this one.
November 12, 2012
Below is an example of students giving some feedback to their teacher. I love that they feel safe in this environment to ask questions and voice when something is hard.
November 20, 2012
Lots of white noise on KSE Rocks! Really annoys me!
November 29, 2012
Kids are still asking each other questions and trying to get to know each other. Stanley, the student who posted the question below, is not a very outgoing kid. Interestingly too, the students that respond do not always associate with each other at school. In a sense, students have developed an affinity space where they all feel comfortable responding to each other. The virtual space evens the playing field so that no one is more popular or better liked. Boys can talk to girls and vice versa. I didn’t anticipate this at all so I’m very excited.
December 1, 2012
Students began posting their own questions early on in this process. More recently, they have included some sort of incentive. The incentive varies from a snack to classroom currency. I’m not quite sure if these rewards are ever really given for correct answers. The fact that they feel the need to post them tells me that they are really wanting other students to respond. Still struggling with getting more traffic and participation on the site.