Coming into this class, I was not sure what to expect .... I had never taken an online class and I wasn't sure how classes like this worked. I came to find I did enjoy most of the readings although they were not what I expected. I think I learned a lot from the Millenials video in terms of the type of students I will be facing in my classroom. The video made me realize I have to be prepared for a technology based group of little ones who are expecting to be reached with some type of technology coming their way .... although this is important, I am not going to devalue a book or doing a hands on project ... I feel that technology is taking away from students' higher order thinking and critical thinking skills.
The readings I did enjoy were the ones I actually understood ... there was a lot of jargon thrown around that had me going bananas trying to follow along but I think I learned that students need blogs or fan fiction websites as supplemental materials in the classroom. The ones described in the readings seemed very in depth and confusing at times but I could find ways to simplify them and keep them within our classroom. I think it is important to let students express themselves and since some students are very shy doing so, I think these source where they can make up an alias and go to town on their feelings would work well for them and give them the freedom they need. Blogs are something I am going to use in my classroom. Whether it is to keep families informed or as a type of readers notebook, I want my students to become engaged in an activity where they can take ownership for their work. Lastly, I think Memes are a great idea I would just need an older audience when teaching so I could get the reaction I need in order to structure a Meme into a lesson. Overall I really enjoyed the class and the readings ... for someone who is pretty tech savvy but limited in ideas of how to apply it in the classroom, this class helped for sure!
As I mentioned above, I would use some of the things we learned this summer and apply them in my classroom. I do believe technology to be important but I think it also needs to be exciting. Teachers are always using technology in the same way throughout the grades and I think this class has opened my eyes of new ways to implement technology in the classroom. By using these different New Literacies, I hope to be able to reach a variety of learners in my classroom and even get families involved in the process.
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Text Set #4 .... Ecosystems
Websites -- This are a variety of websites that students can use. They range from
fun and interactive to informational if working on a project. These sites will
help students learn about ecosystems as well as their plants and animals.
Facing the Future
This is an informational website
that will give kids the facts they need to know about ecosystems. There is
text, pictures, and videos to help students grasp the material on the page.
Good for working on a project to present about ecosystems.
Ages: Grades 2 - 5
Ecosystems
I have used this website in my
classroom before and it is awesome!!!! It talks about ecosystems as well as
biomes and food webs. The pictures are great and the text is written in
kid friendly language. They go over all the different biomes with
their plant and animal life. I would recommend this website to any teacher!
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Kids do Ecology
This website has a variety of games
and information for students. They can learn about scientific data, biomes,
mammals, and has a variety of classroom projects students can use. This website
is fun and interactive so students will be able to play and use the information
to help students learn new concepts. This could be used as
a supplemental material or for individual time in the classroom.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
EcoKids
I first would like to say this is a
Canadian website and I think that's really funny. But it is full of
games, coloring pages, and information for students. I think it is for younger
students that may be learning a little about habitats and animals. I think it
would be great as a fun site students can use to enhance their knowledge about
ecosystems.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Habitats
National Geographic is always a
great site for kids. This is an informational site that has separate links to
every habitat students can learn about. They have real pictures of the habitats
with their animals and plants. Students could use this when doing a
project ... not many games here :-)
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
The Magic School Bus
Who doesn't love what the magic
school bus has to offer?!!! This site is a game for students so they can review
what they have learned about ecosystems. Ms. Frizzle always has a fun way of
making school fun and for students who may not be grasping the information in
books or websites , this game will help them comprehend for sure.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Movies and Videos -- I think ecosystems are fascinating and need to be
viewed in videos and movies. This clips are great representations of ecosystems
and give students a first hand look at what a ecosystem is made up of.
What is an Ecosystem?
This video shows students what
ecosystems are. It also discusses the different species that are in an
ecosystem and what that means. This is a short group that will help students as
an introductory or if they are talking about specific parts of
ecosystems, this video talks about that.
Ages: Grades 2 - 5
How does an Ecosystem work?
Another short clip about how the
different aspects of an ecosystem wok together to help the ecosystem survive
and keep going. The images are colorful and fun and students will be able to
get a good look at all elements working together as a unit.
Ages: Grades 2 - 5
Grasslands Ecosystems
I thought this video would be good
because it has the Lion King in it and it will catch students attention. It
uses clips from the Lion King to explain grassland ecosystems and the problems
they are facing. I would show this to students as an example of an ecosystem or
if you are going each individual one ... this one is awesome.
Ages: Grades 2 - 5
My Pond -- The Ecosystem Song
Mister C introduces students to the
ecosystem through a song. It is catchy and helpful for students to remember
certain aspects of the ecosystem. I have found that when teaching through song
students do a better job at remembering the information.
Ages: Grades 2 - 5
Books -- I am a big believer that books are important to
incorporate into a classroom. The books posted are kid friendly and help
students to learn about ecosystems and biomes. A great resource for read alouds
as well as another resource for students who enjoy books.
Exploring
Ecosystems with Max Axiom, Super Scientist (Graphic Science series)
Author: Agniesezka
Biskup
Having a graphic
reader is important for classrooms that have reluctant readers. This particular
book explores different ecosystems and helps students learn fun and random
facts. I think this would be great for students who need visuals and also may
not enjoy the typical book.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Many Biomes, One Earth!
Author: Sneed B. Collard III
This book discusses the 12 biomes
in the world. It has a lot of great colorful pictures and is very kid friendly.
It discusses the animals and plants in each biome and how they are working
together to make it work. A great book!
Ages: Grades 2 - 5
Biomes and Ecosystems
Author: Barbara J. Davis
This book looks at connections
between living and non living things in an ecosystem that work together. There
is a lot of new vocabulary that may be hard for students but the book can help
expand students' knowledge on the topic and the illustrations are colorful and
vibrant. The book discusses many different aspects of the ecosystem including
food chains and webs.
Ages: Grades 5 - 7
Webquests -- I have come to find that Webquests may not be the
most practical way to implement a lesson in a classroom but I think
it is a great way to start getting ideas. These webquests are all hands on and
help students to design their own ecosystems!
I Spy an Ecosystem!!
Students are each given an
ecosystem to explore and recreate on their own. This webquest helps students to
use materials to create posters, diaramas, or brochures students will share
with others in the class or in the school. A great hands on activity that can
help students show their creative side!
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Ecosystem Expert!
Students will become experts (in a
group) on a biome they have chosen. They will need to find information on all
aspects of the ecosystem and then recreate it to share to the other scientist
in the classroom. I would try something like this and adapt it to help my
students get a better understanding of their ecosystem.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Media Presentation
This video was created to show students in the elementary grades about cultures and traditions. In the younger grades there is a big emphasis on culture and how every culture has its own traditions and are from different parts of the world. In order to show my students an example of culture .... I made a video on the culture here at UT. A lot of my students have attended sporting events at UT or have had some experience on campus. Showing them the traditions of the UT culture will give students a first hand example of how different cultures hold traditions near and dear to their hearts. It will also show students how traditions are carried on throughout the years and are meant to be kept alive. I thought this would also give students an insight to my life and cultural experience at UT. I bleed orange and would not have it any other way and I want my students to see the passion and I love I have for my university. Enjoy!!!!
New Literacies
In this final chapter, Lewis discusses three important dimension of practice: agency, performativity, and circulation. Of the three dimensions discussed in the chapter, I thought the perfomativity one was very interesting. Peformativity is not a word that is used very often in daily vocabulary but it has a major significance in the new literacies presented in this book. Lewis defines peformativity as "the individual and group identities that are constructed through repeated performances of self and in anticipation of the expectations, social codes, and discourses available within a given context (p. 231)." Changing interact worlds and role within cyberspace, there is a constant need for the changing and shifting of identities in order to keep up with changes as well as shape a new identity according to the new setting. An example Lewis uses is memes. Memes are constantly being reconstructed repeatedly due to changes in a social aspect of a person's life. Performativity can be used in many aspects of technology but I thought it was important to see how it relates back to the specific examples that were used in the book throughout.
I think the information in this chapter does apply to teachers. It is important to understand and connect with the new technologies that are constantly being invented and used throughout the web. Teachers need to be on the know with the up and coming technologies so they are able to apply them in their classrooms.
I think the information in this chapter does apply to teachers. It is important to understand and connect with the new technologies that are constantly being invented and used throughout the web. Teachers need to be on the know with the up and coming technologies so they are able to apply them in their classrooms.
Monday, June 25, 2012
Memes
It seems at UT memes have become a
new phenomenon to express hatred, humor, or dislike towards anything UT.
This growing phenomenon on Facebook has had me laughing since the day people
began creating memes about UT. I had never heard of a meme until the recent
outburst but I think they are a great way for students to express
themselves as well as become a catchy way to memorize material for a test or
quiz. The chapter started of describing memes and what they mean and the
different ways they can be produced and then it went into a study conducted to
see what types of memes are appealing over others. The basic gist of the study
conducted showed that memes with humor, intertexuality, and anomalous
juxtaposition will capture more students attention and have created something
that will be passed on throughout the web.
Memes can be put to use in a classroom by teachers
who have an open mind. Memes can be used in order to dissect what and why this
type of media entrances and captures students attention ... if they can figure
that out, they can design new ways for students to socially interact and spread
the word on some important issues or trends. Memes not only can provide a laugh
every now and then, but they can be an educational tool for students to promote
ideas and represent their beliefs on specific topics.
I think memes would be a funny tool to use in a
classroom but it would need to be at an older level. Studnets in high school
would be able to look at a meme and dissect it in depth and see past
a funny caption linked to a picture. Teachers could have full class discussions
about memes and use them to open a lesson and guide students to thinking aloud.
Memes could also be a fun project for students to work on in order to express a
specific theme in a book or a lesson throughout history. There are a TON of
ways to use memes in the classroom but I think it would have to be a classroom
with a mature audience.
Some of the funny ones .....
CoMpLeTeD gLoSsArY
1. Discourses (p.3) -- Discourses are socially
recognized ways of using language, gestures and other semiotics, as well as
ways of thinking, believing, feeling, valuing, acting/doing and interacting in
relation to people and things, such that we can be identified and recognized as
being a member of a socially meaningful group, or as playing a socially
meaningful role
2. Machinima (p. 8) -- the process where fans
use video game animation engines and computer generated imagery to render new
animated texts on their desktop computers.
3. Social Space (p.29) -- a virtual space such as a
social network where people gather and interact with one another. Social spaces
can be privately owned or used publicly.
4. Sociocultural Theory of Literacy (p. 51) --
Literacy practices can occur across many contexts and in many places such as
the home or school. Studies focus on local and
everyday literacy rather than just the school based materials.
5. Secondary Authors (p. 68) -- Secondary Authors
construct specific fictional situations within an
already established imaginary world. They tend to have a love
hate relationship with agency because they have to have four types
of agency in order to create a fictional world that seems concrete
but at the same time have to leave room for others to collaborate or else the
whole world could fall apart.
6. Agency (p. 73) -- the ways someone is capable of
acting in a certain context. Types of agency:
7. Textual Agency -- The amount of control someone
has over the actual text such as words in a book or the shot sequence of a
movie.
8. Narrative Agency -- How much control someone has
over the story. This works from both the author's viewpoint of their
character's actions in the story as well as how the reader interprets each
character and their motives.
9.Psychological Agency -- How much
control individuals feel they have which may not always match how
much control they truly do have.
10. Cultural Agency -- The degree that a person's
agentic behavior is culturally recognized by others.
11.Character Agency -- The control
the character, not the author has. This agency happens in the imaginary
world environment of the game. What can the character do, what are
their abilities, and are they living up to those abilities.
12.Participant Agency -- Participants need to be
able to identify the type of agency a game is looking for so they can
effectively use their character to complete tasks. Their ideas and actions need
to be significant in order for the game and world to continue in harmony.
13.Framework Agency -- How a primary author shares
agency with the already decided elements of the game and the elements the
author themselves decide to implement.
14. Authority (p. 82) -- In traditional texts,
the author is the main authority and has the power to determine how the story
plays out but in role playing, no single person has all the power in deciding
the next steps of the story. It is shared among all the participants who are
contributing to the story. Types of authority:
15. Explicit Authority -- The specific rights a
particular participant has within the game and the consequences of others if
they get in the way of each individual's rights. Usually attached to a role or
a rule dealing with a specific character or setting.
16. Implicit Authority -- Real social
situations begin to matter more than the rules and role within the game. Every
social situation that comes to a head and needs guidance, implicit authority is
used in order to solve the problem. It usually can be solved with explicit
authority but it is not always a guarantee.
17. Imposed Authority -- Because many role playing
games are based off outside elements, they use these elements to help create
authority within their game. They use these "canons" to help sort out
issues or problems that may be encountered that implicit or explicit authority
cannot contribute to.
18. Affinity Spaces (p. 117) -- People who can
relate to each other through a common thread. It can be a common passion
or endeavor, as well as a common proclivity. Affinity spaces are helpful
because it gives those who may not have much in common with the
"norm" community an opportunity to find those who share the same
passions as them. Within an affinity space, there is an abundance of valued expertise
and knowledge being passed around and enjoyed.
19. Insider Research (p. 173) -- Researching done by
people who are emerged and have an active role in the media resource
being looked at. These researchers need this work done in order to gain a better
understanding of not only their work but with the development that the specific
media they're looking at has come across.
20. Memes (p.199) -- Memes are contagious
patterns of “cultural information” that get passed from mind to mind and
directly generate and shape the mindsets and significant forms of behavior and
actions of a social group.
Blogging
In Chapter 8, Davies and Merchant familiarize use with the world of blogging
and the different aspects of literacy and technology blogs have to offer. The
authors discuss how blogs are a new way of looking at the world through social
practices. Readers and bloggers alike have become interested in ways to explore
interactive texts which is why the use of blogs has become so popular and
addicting to those who produce them as well as those who read them. Davies and
Merchant states that blogs "blend the personal with the public".
Blogs are like online diaries for people who may want to get their own views
and ideas out in the world for people to read. Many people are attracted to
putting themselves out there through blogs because they do have a
secret identity that allows them to freely express themselves without others
judging them. According to the authors, these small aspects of blogging is what
makes it so appealing to others and let people enjoy reading and writing
them
When reading and writing blogs, it is important to
know there is no traditional way to anaylze the texts. Everyone looks at a blog
differently and they are not created to be read the same exact way by every
person. One of the greatest things about blogs is you can surf the web and the
different beliefs and stances on a topic just by clicking through blogs that
have common connections .... this has made surfing the web easier for people
and more enjoyable. Many people find connections with others through blogs
which is one the main purposes people enjoy blogging ... they can connect with
others millions of miles away and feel as if they are sitting in the same room.
Davies and Merchant also discuss 3 main attractions
of blogs which I have talked about in the upper sections. The first is being
able to reach a variety of people .... bloggers are able to spread their ideas
and beliefs and those clicking around may stumble upon their blog and read
their ideas which for some people gives them immediate gratification for their
publication. Second, blogrolls make it easy for people to navigate and surf
blogs and the web which I mentioned earlier makes it easier to get through the
web and find more information on connecting beliefs. And last, blogs are a
social network and who doesn't love a good ol' fashion social network.
I think blogs could work in my teaching age group. I
have seen teachers who have blogs on their classroom websites where students
are able to blog about what they have learned that day or what is upcoming in
their special events calendar. I think having a class blog that parents can
read and connect to would make all students feel involved in the classroom and
provide a positive atmosphere that parents can see their students interacting
in with enjoyment. I think blogs could really be effective even for an
elementary school classroom.
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Text Set ... FOSSILS
Books-- The books I have found are for younger students who would be able to follow along and comprehend the information in the books. They are full out pictures and are easy to understand for the students.
Fossils Tell of Long Ago
Author: Aliki
Aliki's book gives students different accounts of how fossils are made. She uses simple language with pictures and conversational point for students as well as giving them the information they need to comprehend easily. This book would be great for students to work in small groups with or do individual little project with.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Fossil , Rocks, and Arrowheads
Author: Laura Evert
This book gives a lot of information on fossils for students. It has real life pictures and examples from paleontologist ho share their experiences. This book would be great if you did not have the materials needed to bring in a real fossil and give students the opportunity to look at a fossil. The real accounts of fossils would be great for students and can be conversation starter for students to introduce fossils.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
The Fossil Factory: A Kid's Guide to Digging up Dinosaurs, Exploring Evolution, and Finding Fossils
Author: Niles Elderidge
This book is a full activity book that students can use in the classroom. It can keep kids interested and engaged throughout the lesson. The students can "travel" to an abundance of sites through the book and learn about different digs researchers have done and what they have discovered.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
DK Eyewitness Books: Fossils
Author: Paul Taylor
This book has real life accounts of fossils and evidence from fossils. This book discusses the development of fossils, how to bring fossils to life, and what people do with them now. They discuss different types of fossils from various parts of the world and different creatures that can form fossils. This book also discusses fossils from ancient history in Egpyt. A great multicultural world view book.
Websites-- Kids are always looking for games and interactive ways to learn a lesson and each of these websites provides them with that. They also have a lot of great information that will help students in their fossil units.
Walking with Beasts
http://www.abc.net.au/beasts/fossilfun/
A fun interactive website where students can play different fossil games to become a paleontologist. There are also fossil facts and evidence for students to look at research in their spare time. This website can be used at home or in the classroom for students to have supplemental activities.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Fossil Hunt
http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/channel/dinosaurs/flash/fossil-hunt-game.html
This website is AWESOME!!!! The student is the paleontologist and their computer mouse is used to brush away the dirt and discover fossils from different plants and animals. To give students a virtual feel for what scientists and researchers go through this would be excellent. This would be great for extra time or at home to get some practice.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Fossils for Kids
http://www.fossilsforkids.com/Website_Directory.html
Another website with a ton of resources. This site has a question and answer page with the most common questions about fossils as well as a virtual fossil museum students can take a "field trip" to and see all the different exhibits inside. There are pages for the different types of fossils as well as a link where you can click on the different dig sites and contribute. It is a really awesome page that is all inclusive for students in terms of researching fossils or interacting with them.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Fossil Facts and Finds
http://www.fossils-facts-and-finds.com/
This site seems a bit more advanced but it could be great for teachers who may need some assistance in teaching about fossils or if they need visuals to help explain their lessons. A lot of very good resources and it seems much more professional in terms of layout and links.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Videos-- Videos are always an important way to help students learn about a topic. These videos all discuss fossils and dinosaurs to give students a full view of fossils and how they came about and what is being done with them once they are dug up.
The Magic School Bus: Busasaurus
Who doesn't love magic school bus? Let alone love it when Ms. Frizzle takes the students back in time to see dinosaurs. Although the video mostly focuses on dinosaurs and their species, it discusses how scientist use fossils and teeth to help determine facts about dinosaurs as well as learn new information. Magic School Bus is always a great way to learn about a lesson!
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
BrainPopJr.: Fossils
http://www.brainpopjr.com/science/land/fossils/
BrainPop Jr. is for the younger crowd of students and it has a great video about fossils. Annie and Moby are at it again explaining fossils and how they come from extinct animals different body parts as well as plants. They explain the formation of fossils and how things from our past can explain a lot about the Earth now and how they affected the Earth so many years ago.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
BrainPopJr: Extinct and Endangered Animals
http://www.brainpopjr.com/science/conservation/extinctandendangeredspecies/
I thought it was important for students to understand what it means when a specie of plants or animals are extinct. In order for students to grasp the formation of fossils, they need to know how they got there first. This would be good for an introductory lesson on fossils in order to weave it into how fossils came about.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Fossil Hunting
http://www.neok12.com/php/watch.php?v=zX076e0e6d5a7b775b0d7a41&t=Fossils
Although this movie is a bit slower and not as exciting, it interviews real paleontologist and how they work throughout the day. They have interviews with people on their dig sites and learn about the job of fossil hunting. This would be a good example of a live example of hunting fossils.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Analyzing Dinosaur Fossils
http://www.neok12.com/php/watch.php?v=zX40695b41580b6b78604606&t=Fossils
Another example of scientist and researchers and how they learn from fossils and analyze them. This is a great way to show students how fossils help us understand our Earth in the past or to learn something new about an animal. Another real time example for students to peak their interest.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Webquests-- Most of the Webquests I'm posting are for teachers to get an idea on how to go about teaching an interactive part of a lesson. I would not use these step by step but to help develop an idea of what to use when teaching fossils.
Second Grade Fossil Explorers
http://questgarden.com/129/44/0/110723165230/task.htm
The class will get to become paleontologist and discover their own fossils through this lesson. In groups students will learn about a certain type of fossil and have to create a visual presentation to show the class and explain how they did their research .... great interactive idea!
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Dino Quest!
http://questgarden.com/106/55/7/100712170515/task.htm
Student will research a fossil and create a brochure to hang up in their class museum. Students will have to gather information for their brochure that will be able to explain to the class and introduce in their presentation. A great way to get students researching and learning how to use materials to find information.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Can Ya Dig It?
http://questgarden.com/106/52/4/100711211335/
Students will be going to a "dig site" where they have to use the information they know about fossils to help them on their dig. They will have to know specific information in order to help them accurately identify what is seen on their dig. They will find something on their dig and then do a presentation on it .... Dig away :-)
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Fossils Tell of Long Ago
Author: Aliki
Aliki's book gives students different accounts of how fossils are made. She uses simple language with pictures and conversational point for students as well as giving them the information they need to comprehend easily. This book would be great for students to work in small groups with or do individual little project with.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Fossil , Rocks, and Arrowheads
Author: Laura Evert
This book gives a lot of information on fossils for students. It has real life pictures and examples from paleontologist ho share their experiences. This book would be great if you did not have the materials needed to bring in a real fossil and give students the opportunity to look at a fossil. The real accounts of fossils would be great for students and can be conversation starter for students to introduce fossils.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
The Fossil Factory: A Kid's Guide to Digging up Dinosaurs, Exploring Evolution, and Finding Fossils
Author: Niles Elderidge
This book is a full activity book that students can use in the classroom. It can keep kids interested and engaged throughout the lesson. The students can "travel" to an abundance of sites through the book and learn about different digs researchers have done and what they have discovered.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
DK Eyewitness Books: Fossils
Author: Paul Taylor
This book has real life accounts of fossils and evidence from fossils. This book discusses the development of fossils, how to bring fossils to life, and what people do with them now. They discuss different types of fossils from various parts of the world and different creatures that can form fossils. This book also discusses fossils from ancient history in Egpyt. A great multicultural world view book.
Websites-- Kids are always looking for games and interactive ways to learn a lesson and each of these websites provides them with that. They also have a lot of great information that will help students in their fossil units.
Walking with Beasts
http://www.abc.net.au/beasts/fossilfun/
A fun interactive website where students can play different fossil games to become a paleontologist. There are also fossil facts and evidence for students to look at research in their spare time. This website can be used at home or in the classroom for students to have supplemental activities.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Fossil Hunt
http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/channel/dinosaurs/flash/fossil-hunt-game.html
This website is AWESOME!!!! The student is the paleontologist and their computer mouse is used to brush away the dirt and discover fossils from different plants and animals. To give students a virtual feel for what scientists and researchers go through this would be excellent. This would be great for extra time or at home to get some practice.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Fossils for Kids
http://www.fossilsforkids.com/Website_Directory.html
Another website with a ton of resources. This site has a question and answer page with the most common questions about fossils as well as a virtual fossil museum students can take a "field trip" to and see all the different exhibits inside. There are pages for the different types of fossils as well as a link where you can click on the different dig sites and contribute. It is a really awesome page that is all inclusive for students in terms of researching fossils or interacting with them.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Fossil Facts and Finds
http://www.fossils-facts-and-finds.com/
This site seems a bit more advanced but it could be great for teachers who may need some assistance in teaching about fossils or if they need visuals to help explain their lessons. A lot of very good resources and it seems much more professional in terms of layout and links.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Videos-- Videos are always an important way to help students learn about a topic. These videos all discuss fossils and dinosaurs to give students a full view of fossils and how they came about and what is being done with them once they are dug up.
The Magic School Bus: Busasaurus
Who doesn't love magic school bus? Let alone love it when Ms. Frizzle takes the students back in time to see dinosaurs. Although the video mostly focuses on dinosaurs and their species, it discusses how scientist use fossils and teeth to help determine facts about dinosaurs as well as learn new information. Magic School Bus is always a great way to learn about a lesson!
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
BrainPopJr.: Fossils
http://www.brainpopjr.com/science/land/fossils/
BrainPop Jr. is for the younger crowd of students and it has a great video about fossils. Annie and Moby are at it again explaining fossils and how they come from extinct animals different body parts as well as plants. They explain the formation of fossils and how things from our past can explain a lot about the Earth now and how they affected the Earth so many years ago.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
BrainPopJr: Extinct and Endangered Animals
http://www.brainpopjr.com/science/conservation/extinctandendangeredspecies/
I thought it was important for students to understand what it means when a specie of plants or animals are extinct. In order for students to grasp the formation of fossils, they need to know how they got there first. This would be good for an introductory lesson on fossils in order to weave it into how fossils came about.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Fossil Hunting
http://www.neok12.com/php/watch.php?v=zX076e0e6d5a7b775b0d7a41&t=Fossils
Although this movie is a bit slower and not as exciting, it interviews real paleontologist and how they work throughout the day. They have interviews with people on their dig sites and learn about the job of fossil hunting. This would be a good example of a live example of hunting fossils.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Analyzing Dinosaur Fossils
http://www.neok12.com/php/watch.php?v=zX40695b41580b6b78604606&t=Fossils
Another example of scientist and researchers and how they learn from fossils and analyze them. This is a great way to show students how fossils help us understand our Earth in the past or to learn something new about an animal. Another real time example for students to peak their interest.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Webquests-- Most of the Webquests I'm posting are for teachers to get an idea on how to go about teaching an interactive part of a lesson. I would not use these step by step but to help develop an idea of what to use when teaching fossils.
Second Grade Fossil Explorers
http://questgarden.com/129/44/0/110723165230/task.htm
The class will get to become paleontologist and discover their own fossils through this lesson. In groups students will learn about a certain type of fossil and have to create a visual presentation to show the class and explain how they did their research .... great interactive idea!
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Dino Quest!
http://questgarden.com/106/55/7/100712170515/task.htm
Student will research a fossil and create a brochure to hang up in their class museum. Students will have to gather information for their brochure that will be able to explain to the class and introduce in their presentation. A great way to get students researching and learning how to use materials to find information.
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Can Ya Dig It?
http://questgarden.com/106/52/4/100711211335/
Students will be going to a "dig site" where they have to use the information they know about fossils to help them on their dig. They will have to know specific information in order to help them accurately identify what is seen on their dig. They will find something on their dig and then do a presentation on it .... Dig away :-)
Ages: Grades 2 - 4
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Technology Review #4
http://www.abcya.com/
A great site for elementary school kids ... ABCya has many fun and interactive games. You do not need a passcode or username to sign in .... all you do is click your grade level and you can play interactive games and learn new material. They have games for every subject area and they use many different characters that different kids would be attracted to. Everything is organized by grade level so students are well aware which games they can play or if they are feeling challenged, work in a grade level higher. There are a few ads on the website but the content and design is so attractive that the ads don't really stand out.
This website could definitely be used in the classroom. It would be a great extra resource for students who may need that extra boost or during recess or free time, students could click on the "just for fun" games and play any of the games in there. Teachers would love this site because it is so well organized and they can pick specific games for their students to focus on if they need supplemental instruction as well as monitor their students playing. It is a website that can be used in the classroom as well as at home. Parents can sit with their child as they play the games on the website and show their parents the new skills they have been learning in school. The website also has an APP for cell phones so parents can give their child something to do when they are busy or want them to practice more and teachers can have the site on more than one resource in the classroom if they have an ipad or itouch. I think this website is great for all students in elementary school and can be beneficial to those who apply their knowledge and skills they know in order to play the games.
A great site for elementary school kids ... ABCya has many fun and interactive games. You do not need a passcode or username to sign in .... all you do is click your grade level and you can play interactive games and learn new material. They have games for every subject area and they use many different characters that different kids would be attracted to. Everything is organized by grade level so students are well aware which games they can play or if they are feeling challenged, work in a grade level higher. There are a few ads on the website but the content and design is so attractive that the ads don't really stand out.
This website could definitely be used in the classroom. It would be a great extra resource for students who may need that extra boost or during recess or free time, students could click on the "just for fun" games and play any of the games in there. Teachers would love this site because it is so well organized and they can pick specific games for their students to focus on if they need supplemental instruction as well as monitor their students playing. It is a website that can be used in the classroom as well as at home. Parents can sit with their child as they play the games on the website and show their parents the new skills they have been learning in school. The website also has an APP for cell phones so parents can give their child something to do when they are busy or want them to practice more and teachers can have the site on more than one resource in the classroom if they have an ipad or itouch. I think this website is great for all students in elementary school and can be beneficial to those who apply their knowledge and skills they know in order to play the games.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
More Fan Fiction .... Chapter 7
In this chapter, Angela Thomas introduces us to two fan fiction writers who come from different literacy backgrounds. One of the girls writes the viewpoints of the other and they use different types of literacty such as poetry and narrative texts to tell their stories. Together, these two girls create a fan fiction base where they incorporate their own personal stories in order to create characters. They have also created identities for themselves in order to become more comfortable and let themselves becoming more emotionally detached from the situation. The girls work together to create a fan fiction site where they can be defenseless and write works that are emotional and other girls can relate to.
I think this chapter can be used in any classroom because role playing can be for anyone. I think it is important to let students have those moments where they can release their feelings and emotions without being judged. Even if it is not used through technology, letting kids have new "identities" they can use in order to express themselves is important. They can become stronger writers and learn how to use their own stories to connect to stories. I think you also have to be aware of your students' behavior and maturity in order to complete such a strong lesson. Overall, I think it could be applied and used for the good of all students.
I think this chapter can be used in any classroom because role playing can be for anyone. I think it is important to let students have those moments where they can release their feelings and emotions without being judged. Even if it is not used through technology, letting kids have new "identities" they can use in order to express themselves is important. They can become stronger writers and learn how to use their own stories to connect to stories. I think you also have to be aware of your students' behavior and maturity in order to complete such a strong lesson. Overall, I think it could be applied and used for the good of all students.
OLogy ... American Museum of Natural History
http://www.amnh.org/ology/?gclid=CKir4ffN2rACFUSK4AodeCYT3w
This website is AWESOME for kids. Its called OLogy because it talks about all the different types of "ologies" you can learn about. Students can click on any one they want and then there are different links students can click on to interact with the website. They have links about the topic you are learning, a craft project that can be done, and then games and interesting historical stories related to the topic. The website is super colorful with a lot of pictures and animations to capture students attention. Teachers can have an account for the OLogy website which may let them access more materials but without it there are still fun lesson starters or supplemental activities that can be used. There are stories from real historians and researches and their discoveries as well as places for students to make their own discoveries.
This website would be great for elementary school students when learning about science and social studies. It plays well into the cross-curricular aspect of teaching and gives students the time to interact and play while learning educational information as well. You do not need to pay for the website but like I mentioned earlier, a teacher login may be helpful to gain access to more things. I would recommend this website to be used at home also with parents and families. Having family involvement and letting them see what students are doing in school is engaging and helpful at the same time. Teachers may use this as an extra credit resource as well if a student wants to go above and beyond with the craft projects on the website. Overall this is a great tool for students especially when teaching a subject matter that may be confusing or very in-depth.
This website is AWESOME for kids. Its called OLogy because it talks about all the different types of "ologies" you can learn about. Students can click on any one they want and then there are different links students can click on to interact with the website. They have links about the topic you are learning, a craft project that can be done, and then games and interesting historical stories related to the topic. The website is super colorful with a lot of pictures and animations to capture students attention. Teachers can have an account for the OLogy website which may let them access more materials but without it there are still fun lesson starters or supplemental activities that can be used. There are stories from real historians and researches and their discoveries as well as places for students to make their own discoveries.
This website would be great for elementary school students when learning about science and social studies. It plays well into the cross-curricular aspect of teaching and gives students the time to interact and play while learning educational information as well. You do not need to pay for the website but like I mentioned earlier, a teacher login may be helpful to gain access to more things. I would recommend this website to be used at home also with parents and families. Having family involvement and letting them see what students are doing in school is engaging and helpful at the same time. Teachers may use this as an extra credit resource as well if a student wants to go above and beyond with the craft projects on the website. Overall this is a great tool for students especially when teaching a subject matter that may be confusing or very in-depth.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Digital Design: Online Fiction
In this piece written by Black, the focus on fan fiction and how members from different cultures can come together under a common topic and share their stories was really interesting to me. I think fan fiction is a great way for ELL learners to break through and become confident in their social interactions. Many ELL learners are not confident when coming into schools and my feel on the outside because of the language barrier. However, fan fiction sites give them the ability to socialize and share their ideas with others. I also thought bringing in Gees viewpoints and ideas was a great way to emphasize the importance of fan fiction and the community developed through these sites. When Gee speaks of affinity spaces and how they provide opportunities for individuals who may not have a typical bond with others in their community I thought he made a great point. Having these online communities gives ELL learners the ability to interact and share opinions with others that they may not be able to do in person. The common ground aspect of these spaces does not make anyone feel intimidated or unwanted and gives all people involved an equal opportunity to share their opinions. I also found it important to point out the identity aspect of these sites. Not having social roles and hierarchies on these types of sites gives everyone a social role and a fair playing ground. I thought it was important to know that members can have many different identities and it is okay because it gives more in terms of the participation. I think ELL learners having the opportunity to express themselves on these sites will give them the self-esteem to use these skills in face to face social opportunities as well continue their strength as a writer and reader.
I think fan fiction sites would be a fun experiment
in the upper elementary grades. If students could create their own blogs or a
group create one blog and write about something they enjoy they would increase
their writing skills and be able to become better writers. Students could read
a sci-fi book or historical fiction that interests them and then create a site
to share their ideas and story lines with others in the class .... the other
students could follow along, make comments, or help continue the story as well.
Through these types of sites I think it would be a good way to teach point of
views and respecting others' opinions when writing ... which is a skill that
should be learned early in school. Letting students have this freedom of choice
may also give them more incentive to produce better writer and not be afraid to
share their opinions since they are using a secret identity. With the right
resources in the classroom, a teacher could use this to
their advantage in the upper elementary grades. Black and Gee do a
great job at bringing to light the importance of these sites and how they give
students the opportunity to express themselves without much judgement.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Text Set 2 -- The Water Cycle
Videos -- All of the videos I found have fun songs about the water cycle. Some students learn information better from songs with the information in them as well as through narrative. These videos have a little bit of each in them and breaks down the water cycle into simpler terms.
BrainPop -- The Water Cycle
http://www.brainpop.com/science/earthsystem/watercycle/preview.weml
This BrainPop talks about the water cycle with Tim and Moby. They do a great job explaining the water cycle and making it relative to students. This can be used to start off a lesson or for a second day of the water cycle if your first assessment shows your students need a little more help
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Study Jams: The Water Cycle
http://teacher.scholastic.com/activities/studyjams/water_cycle/
This was a fun website I stumbled upon and thought all teachers could use this in order to expand on a topic. Its from scholastic which makes classroom friendly. It tells a story about the water cycle and afterwards there are quizzes and vocabulary games as well to play after.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Bill Nye the Science Guy -- Water Cycle Jump
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BayExatv8lE
Who doesn't love Bill Nye?! This is a small rap about the water cycle and the different stages of the water cycle. Students would love this because they can learn through music and the song is pretty catchy. It is a little outdated but I think the song makes up for it. A good way to introduce a lesson and get the kids excited or to review right before a test.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
WebQuests -- I LOVEEEE webquests and I think it is important to use these in your classroom. I know I used them last time but they are so helpful and they have them for all grade levels. Some of them are boring so you really need to dig through them but they make learning fun and interactive. Webquests are also great because they are cross-curricular.
A Journey through the Water Cycle -- The Life of a Water Drop
http://questgarden.com/03/93/1/051006133936/task.htm
The students become water experts and each have a specific part of the water cycle to focus on. They will have to keep a journal of their experience through the water cycle and then present their findings and their journey to the class through presentations and posters.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
A Day in the Life of a Water Droplet -- A Look at the Water Cycle
http://questgarden.com/47/96/1/070314175615/task.htm
Students will take on the role of a water droplet and will spend 5 days in the water cycle. They will record their experiences through the water cycle and work with their partner to write a story about their experiences.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
The Water Cycle
http://questgarden.com/62/58/7/080319140228/index.htm
For students who may be struggling with vocabulary and the terms used in the water cycle, this webquest would be very beneficial. Once they have understood all the terms of the water cycle they will make their own simulations and present them to the class. A great hands on experience for students
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
The Water Cycle
http://questgarden.com/28/36/0/060627134048/index.htm
Students will develop their own aquifer and help a community that is facing contaminated water. Students have to research all the information about an aquifer in order to build one that is sufficient enough for their town. They will present their aquifer to the class and the "community" will vote on which will help their town.
Ages: Grades 3 -5
Websites-- Websites are always a great resource for students to interpret information in a more appealing way for them to grasp the information. These websites are great for students because the writing and visualizes are clear and bright and have fun animations throughout.
The Water Cycle
http://www.kidzone.ws/water/
This website gives the basic information of the water cycle but it lays it out in a kid friendly manner. There are also coloring sheets for students as well as fun pictures to help understand the different parts of the water cycle.
Ages: Grades 2 - 5
The Water Cycle
http://www.mbgnet.net/fresh/index.htm
This website breaks down the water cycle into different links so students have an easier time understanding. The writing is nice and big with pictures and good explanations. This would be great for students if they had to fill in a graphic organizers or to review for a test or quiz.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
The Water Cycle for Kids: A Placemat
http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/watercycleplacemat.html
This is a great visualize for students about the water cycle. It has a small explanation but the picture is easy to understand and it is kid friendly. There are also links for words that may be too big to understand and have examples of those words with corresponding websites for students to learn more information.
Ages: Grades 2 - 5
Interactive Website Games-- Who doesn't love games?! It is crazy that many kids these days don't know what board games are and instead enjoy computerized games. All of these games are fun and interactive and can be good for kids if they finish early. They explain the concepts and parts of the water cycle in a variety of ways and encourage learning at the same time.
Thirstin' Water Cycle
http://www.epa.gov/ogwdw/kids/flash/flash_watercycle.html
This website is AWESOME! You can click on different parts of the water cycle and explains what is going on while it happens. There is a small little rain drop who helps explain everything and walk the students through it. Its super cool and fun and I would recommend this site for teachers!!!
Ages: Grades 2 - 5
Matching Fun Facts Games
http://www.epa.gov/safewater/kids/flash/flash_matching.html
Once students have learned about the water cycle and water consumption, this website will help students to understand the amounts of water that are consumed doing different things at home. This site is great for cross-curricular instruction because it incorporates the math aspect of the water cycle.
Ages: Grades 3 -5
Build Your Own Aquifer
http://www.epa.gov/safewater/kids/flash/flash_aquifer.html
This website discusses an aquifer and all the important parts of it and how it affects humans as well. Once it gives the introduction it walks you through the steps of how to build your own using classroom or household materials. This would be great for a teacher to build one in class and have an interactive aspect to the water cycle lesson.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Water Cycle Fun
http://www.athena.bham.org.uk/old/WCjumbled.htm
This website is an interactive whiteboard site. Students can move the different parts oft he water cycle to correct spots as well as use the different components individually to discuss each aspect. A great way to incorporate technology in the classroom.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
The Water Cycle Lesson Plans
http://www.cookie.com/kids/games/water-cycle.html
This is an AWESOME game website for the water cycle. Students will be able to play these game and enjoy reviewing facts about the water cycle. Teachers can use this in extra time in their classroom as well as an incentive for those who finish early or are behaving properly.
Ages: Grades 3 -5
BrainPop -- The Water Cycle
http://www.brainpop.com/science/earthsystem/watercycle/preview.weml
This BrainPop talks about the water cycle with Tim and Moby. They do a great job explaining the water cycle and making it relative to students. This can be used to start off a lesson or for a second day of the water cycle if your first assessment shows your students need a little more help
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Study Jams: The Water Cycle
http://teacher.scholastic.com/activities/studyjams/water_cycle/
This was a fun website I stumbled upon and thought all teachers could use this in order to expand on a topic. Its from scholastic which makes classroom friendly. It tells a story about the water cycle and afterwards there are quizzes and vocabulary games as well to play after.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Bill Nye the Science Guy -- Water Cycle Jump
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BayExatv8lE
Who doesn't love Bill Nye?! This is a small rap about the water cycle and the different stages of the water cycle. Students would love this because they can learn through music and the song is pretty catchy. It is a little outdated but I think the song makes up for it. A good way to introduce a lesson and get the kids excited or to review right before a test.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
WebQuests -- I LOVEEEE webquests and I think it is important to use these in your classroom. I know I used them last time but they are so helpful and they have them for all grade levels. Some of them are boring so you really need to dig through them but they make learning fun and interactive. Webquests are also great because they are cross-curricular.
A Journey through the Water Cycle -- The Life of a Water Drop
http://questgarden.com/03/93/1/051006133936/task.htm
The students become water experts and each have a specific part of the water cycle to focus on. They will have to keep a journal of their experience through the water cycle and then present their findings and their journey to the class through presentations and posters.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
A Day in the Life of a Water Droplet -- A Look at the Water Cycle
http://questgarden.com/47/96/1/070314175615/task.htm
Students will take on the role of a water droplet and will spend 5 days in the water cycle. They will record their experiences through the water cycle and work with their partner to write a story about their experiences.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
The Water Cycle
http://questgarden.com/62/58/7/080319140228/index.htm
For students who may be struggling with vocabulary and the terms used in the water cycle, this webquest would be very beneficial. Once they have understood all the terms of the water cycle they will make their own simulations and present them to the class. A great hands on experience for students
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
The Water Cycle
http://questgarden.com/28/36/0/060627134048/index.htm
Students will develop their own aquifer and help a community that is facing contaminated water. Students have to research all the information about an aquifer in order to build one that is sufficient enough for their town. They will present their aquifer to the class and the "community" will vote on which will help their town.
Ages: Grades 3 -5
Websites-- Websites are always a great resource for students to interpret information in a more appealing way for them to grasp the information. These websites are great for students because the writing and visualizes are clear and bright and have fun animations throughout.
The Water Cycle
http://www.kidzone.ws/water/
This website gives the basic information of the water cycle but it lays it out in a kid friendly manner. There are also coloring sheets for students as well as fun pictures to help understand the different parts of the water cycle.
Ages: Grades 2 - 5
The Water Cycle
http://www.mbgnet.net/fresh/index.htm
This website breaks down the water cycle into different links so students have an easier time understanding. The writing is nice and big with pictures and good explanations. This would be great for students if they had to fill in a graphic organizers or to review for a test or quiz.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
The Water Cycle for Kids: A Placemat
http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/watercycleplacemat.html
This is a great visualize for students about the water cycle. It has a small explanation but the picture is easy to understand and it is kid friendly. There are also links for words that may be too big to understand and have examples of those words with corresponding websites for students to learn more information.
Ages: Grades 2 - 5
Interactive Website Games-- Who doesn't love games?! It is crazy that many kids these days don't know what board games are and instead enjoy computerized games. All of these games are fun and interactive and can be good for kids if they finish early. They explain the concepts and parts of the water cycle in a variety of ways and encourage learning at the same time.
Thirstin' Water Cycle
http://www.epa.gov/ogwdw/kids/flash/flash_watercycle.html
This website is AWESOME! You can click on different parts of the water cycle and explains what is going on while it happens. There is a small little rain drop who helps explain everything and walk the students through it. Its super cool and fun and I would recommend this site for teachers!!!
Ages: Grades 2 - 5
Matching Fun Facts Games
http://www.epa.gov/safewater/kids/flash/flash_matching.html
Once students have learned about the water cycle and water consumption, this website will help students to understand the amounts of water that are consumed doing different things at home. This site is great for cross-curricular instruction because it incorporates the math aspect of the water cycle.
Ages: Grades 3 -5
Build Your Own Aquifer
http://www.epa.gov/safewater/kids/flash/flash_aquifer.html
This website discusses an aquifer and all the important parts of it and how it affects humans as well. Once it gives the introduction it walks you through the steps of how to build your own using classroom or household materials. This would be great for a teacher to build one in class and have an interactive aspect to the water cycle lesson.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Water Cycle Fun
http://www.athena.bham.org.uk/old/WCjumbled.htm
This website is an interactive whiteboard site. Students can move the different parts oft he water cycle to correct spots as well as use the different components individually to discuss each aspect. A great way to incorporate technology in the classroom.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
The Water Cycle Lesson Plans
http://www.cookie.com/kids/games/water-cycle.html
This is an AWESOME game website for the water cycle. Students will be able to play these game and enjoy reviewing facts about the water cycle. Teachers can use this in extra time in their classroom as well as an incentive for those who finish early or are behaving properly.
Ages: Grades 3 -5
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Video Games
In this chapter, Gee discusses how video games can be an extension to the real world and learning can occur through playing games. When playing a video game, Gee discusses how learners take on specific roles as their characters and have skills that need to applied to their character ... the learner also needs to learn what skill the character has in order to work well as the character and complete the task. One of Gee's strong points is that videos games do promote earning but no in the way that most people expect learning to be done. When Gee discusses the learning taking place, it can be compared to a hands on approach in the classroom. The player or student is engaged in the world of the game/lesson and are able to connect with it because they are immersed within it. Students should have the ability to be hands on in the classroom but they need to have a purpose for doing it and reasoning behind it. Gee states that letting students do science without a purpose or set of guidelines can give too much freedom and lose focus of what the lesson is about. Students and gamers need to be given a task, decipher a way to work it out by using previous knowledge, apply what they think to be true and end up with results that will either have you switch your thinking for the next time around or give you insight as to why your reasoning was correct. Having engaging learning such as Gee mentions will keep students engaged and able to discuss their learning without just reciting facts and figures.
I think video games are a great way to learn in the classroom and promote hands on learning (which I LOVE). Students should have the experience of learning through something other than note taking or small group discussion. Having a hands on approach will let students have the feeling they are connected to the lesson as well as the game and benefit their understanding in the long run. However, I do not think video games would be good for the younger grades. I know many of my students play video games and know how to play them but I think trying to adapt them to the classroom would not be beneficial because they would not see the learning aspect of it. I think students need to have responsibility and monitor themselves and what their thinking while playing in order to link it to the lesson and I think some elementary students would struggle with that.
I think video games are a great way to learn in the classroom and promote hands on learning (which I LOVE). Students should have the experience of learning through something other than note taking or small group discussion. Having a hands on approach will let students have the feeling they are connected to the lesson as well as the game and benefit their understanding in the long run. However, I do not think video games would be good for the younger grades. I know many of my students play video games and know how to play them but I think trying to adapt them to the classroom would not be beneficial because they would not see the learning aspect of it. I think students need to have responsibility and monitor themselves and what their thinking while playing in order to link it to the lesson and I think some elementary students would struggle with that.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Role-Playing Texts
Chapter 4 discusses how agency and authority can be manipulated in role playing games not only by those who created the games, but those playing as well. The chapter begins by discussing the different types of role-playing games on the web and how they are put together. The chapter discusses the different types of texts (primary, secondary, and tertiary) as well as the different types of agency and authority and how they are practiced and changed throughout the games. There was a lot of information in this chapter and many unfamiliar terms but I came to find that the main idea was that anyone can be a director in the world of role playing. With so many different elements to the game, there are many opportunities for players to mold the game to their own personal setting and make it able for them to succeed in playing. In order for players to be successful at role playing, they need to understand authority and agency and how to manipulate them to their advantage. Those who are able to do so are very tech savvy and have the ability to fix a game to their liking. Role playing enables the player/author to tell the story in their own way .... making them become a writer. Role playing is a digital form of story telling and enables authors to virtually create a fantasy story ... a new way to see technology playing a role in the world of education.
When I read this chapter, I was very taken aback by all the vocabulary. I thought it was really great at breaking down the world of role playing and how it can relate to being the author of a story. Understanding agency and authority were very big components of understanding the chapter but the overall message was very clear and it gave a lot of insight to online role playing in the classroom. Being in elementary school, I do not know how effective these techniques would be. Some students would have the ability to design and manipulate a game to their own standards, but I am not sure how I would incorporate such a game into a lesson. I feel like the mystical time of many online games are seen more in middle and high school leveled classes where students can use these games to understand how the people of these days functioned and worked in order to maintain a role in society. I think online role playing is a great tool for the classroom but in terms of elementary education, I am not sure how I would use it to engage my students with standards that are appropriate to the curriculum.
Website Review: Science in Elementary Ed!
http://www.sciencebob.com/index.php
This website is a SUPER FUN science website to use in the classroom. Science Bob gives teachers the opportunity to either us it in the classroom or for personal use in order to gather ideas. It has a TON of different experiments you can do that deal with different areas within science. Some of the experiments are a little more challenging than others but teachers will be able to assist students with the needs. The great thing about the experiments on the website is all the materials are things you can find at home, in the art room, or ask around school for .... no need to spend extra money! The website also has awesome videos for the kids to watch in class ... some deal with the science experiments listed and others can help elaborate on a topic so the students can get a better understanding of what they are learning about. Lastly, there are research links if students are ever doing a research project in class. Bob has links from things such as the solar system to physical science and weather in order to enhance or help students get started in their findings. Bob has also a link to help students get started with science fair experiments as well as where to look to begin your experiment .... BOB IS AWESOME!
Some of the links that may be more directed towards the teacher and planning is first the link all about Bob .... you need to know who you are getting your information from and how helpful they will be. If you wanted, you could also introduce your class to Bob since he is in the all videos and will be assisting throughout the use of the website. The website also has experiments that OTHER teachers across the country have used and talk about their experiences working with the experiments and how their classes responded. Bob also has a science store where you can buy different items that would be helpful in the classroom. I think this is an AMAZING website for any teacher who may struggle with science and need to find ways to make science fun and exciting in their classroom.
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Websites vs. Classroom Materials
Chapter 3 focuses on how many of the websites students are focused on today value the same literacy practices used in school but the students do not apply the literacy practices in the classroom as they do when looking at their favorite websites. As seen by the websites focused on, many students out of school are focusing on the things they enjoy socially as well as what they enjoy in terms of their cultural. The author conducting the research of these websites focused on syntax, vocabulary, and genre in order to determine what is making students so much more willing to sit and read what they find on the websites rather than the books in school. The findings indicate that the websites students look at outside of school do include many of the genres looked at in school such as bibliographies, satires, news articles, and historical events. The findings also looked at the sentence lengths of the websites and discovered that many of the sentences are lengthy and well written with high levels of vocabulary. If so much of the information and layout are similar to the materials found in school, then why aren't students performing higher in the classroom?
When I read this chapter, I figured the answer was simple: Students don't perform well in the classroom because the material is not what they WANT to read but rather what they HAVE to read. Although a lot of the information on the websites was equal in terms of reading level and vocabulary, the students wanted to read the information on the websites ... it was relevant to them in their personal lives as well as their interests. Aside from relevance and interest level, websites are also appealing to students with all the different gadgets and moving materials ... they are constantly keeping student engaged. Handing a student a book and saying read the first two chapters silently or round robin style is not going to keep a child interested .... lessons need to be hands on and creative. The new technologies that are keeping the attention of the younger generation in middle and high school needs to be applied to lessons in the classroom. I know for every single reading there can't be a website pulled up or an electronic book but supplemental activities may be helpful. Take the Cesar Chavez example .... you can read his bibliography in class or a story about him but let students go home and find their own information about him to share in the class. This information can be anything but try and have the students find their own personal connection with what they will be sharing. This gives them the opportunity to do their own research and at the same time be willing to read the in class materials because they will have their own connection with them and maybe be more interested.
I know the solution cannot be this simple, but there are many ways to keep students engaged in the classroom. I know the article said that students may also not be actually reading what is on the website but if they are willing enough to stay on the website and connect with it over an extended period of time, then they are doing something on the website. Many students do read and enjoy it but they need something to keep them connected and interested.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Text Set Collections: 3 Branches of Government
Webquests -- I really love webquests and the hands on opportunities they provide kids. The best thing about using webquests in your classroom is you have the ability to switch them up and use them as a base to create your own idea. They are also great if your creative juices are running low and you need some help getting started on finding a way to engage your students.
http://questgarden.com/133/94/8/111025071840/index.htm
Three Branches of Government
This webquest is great because it is fun and interactive where students take on different roles. They have to report information on the three branches of government for students in their class. They will present their information through activities such as posters, brochures, and scavenger hunts.
Age: Grades 3 -5
http://questgarden.com/84/06/3/090626095451/index.htm
What are the Three Branches of Government?
For this assignment, students will be running for a place in the government. They have to research which branch of government and responsibilities and duties fit best for their personality and beliefs. Once they have done the research, they will put together a speech and run against their classmates to be voted into office.
Age: Grades 3 - 5
http://questgarden.com/80/02/8/090408124422/index.htm
Three Branches of Government
Students will be asked to set up a new government for a new town in their state. They have to research information about our government and how it works in order to run their new town properly. After they gather their information they will create a video to share with the citizens and the class will vote on who they believe would run the town the best.
Age: Grades 3 - 5
Videos-- Videos are a great way to introduce lessons or recap what has been learned the previous day. Some students do not do well reading straight out of books or doing worksheets and videos are a great way to engage and help explain information in an extended form. All of these videos are kid friendly and help the students with songs, jokes, and fun facts.
http://www.brainpop.com/socialstudies/usgovernmentandlaw/branchesofgovernment/
Branches of Government
This BrainPop is a great introduction to the three branches of government. Tim and Moby go through each branch and their specific powers and guidelines. They speak about how the branches help each other and balance each other out as well as their effects on other parts of government. BrainPop is also great because then there are games and quizzes students can play in order to assess their understanding and if they took anything away from the video.
Age: Grades 3 - 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5M50xBz1cU&feature=related
The Three Branches of Government -- School House Rock
School House Rock has always done a great job at introducing and helping students to understand school lessons with songs and clever lyrics. This video goes over the three branches of government and their importance. Having it on TeacherTube or YouTube, students have the opportunity of watching them again and the teacher can stop in the middle and explain things more in-depth.
Age: Elementary Grades
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibRAWyRVa3o
Three Branches of Government
Another video for students to learn about the government and how the branches work together. You could use this video as a refresher maybe after the weekend or before a test. It is not as exciting as the school house rock video but if students want a solid review and something to help them remember specific facts this video is good.
Age: Grades 3 - 5
Games and Interactive Websites-- Games and interactive websites help all students in their learning. Along with the videos, they give students the chance to interact and test their own learning without a teaching grading them or staring over their shoulders.
http://www.trumanlibrary.org/whistlestop/teacher_lessons/3branches/3bgovt.htm
3 Branches of Government Game
This website can be a 1 or 2 player game for students. It is set up in a jeopardy style game where students test their knowledge. This could be a good review for students before a test or if they ever finish their work early they can play this game against a classmate. Another fun way to learn as well as keep students working while others may be finishing up.
Ages: Grades 3 -5
http://www.usmint.gov/kids/games/branchesofpower/
Branches of Power
Students love to take the roles of different characters and this website does well to help them! They can become a spy with a top secret document that they need to deliver. They need to know specific information about the three branches of power in order to progress through the levels. Another fun game where students have the ability to determine their own fate. I know I would have LOVED to play this when I was learning this information
Ages: Grades 3 -5
http://www.sheppardsoftware.com/usa_game/government/branches_government.htm
Branches of Government Game
Students can prove their knowledge through this government game. They have to place the correct duties with the correct branch and work through the different jobs of the government. This game works for checks and balances, the different components of the executive branch, as well as Obama's personal administration. This helps students with current government not just the basics of overall government.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Books-- Although the internet and websites are great ways for students to learn, we also cannot forget that books are also an important role in student learning. They need to be able to hold something and learn from the information inside.
How the U.S. Government Works
Written By: Syl Sobel
This book explains the different parts of the government and jobs of all the houses. It has good pictures and explanations for students ho may not be comprehending the information. This book also discusses the individual citizens role in the government and how we play a part. It connects the students to the materials making it more meaningful and interesting.
Ages: Grades 3 -5
The Everything American Government Book
Written By: Nick Ragone
This book is awesome for students because it gives information for everything in the government from the birth of our nation to all parts of government. It has a lot of fun information and it is kid friendly in how it is presented and has fun ways for students to interact with the materials. If students were ever working on a project it would be a fun way to get the information and get the creativity going.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Branches of Government: Government in Action
Written By: John Hamilton
Another great resource for how the government works. The book speaks of several forms of government to give kids a compare and contrast idea of how our government works as well as how the Constitution became the US plan for government. It also discusses the branches of government plus checks and balances .... another great overview for students to use to better understand information.
Ages: Grades 4 and 5
Websites -- These three websites are each for a branch of government with the different roles and the people who work within these roles. It helps students to get a better idea of the branches since each site is dedicated to one branch of the government.
http://www.congressforkids.net/Executivebranch_president.htm
Executive Branch: Who's in the White House?
This site focuses on the Executive Branch and the different components associated with it. Students can click on links and the information s friendly written It also gives fun facts and breaks down the information so students aren't taking in irrelevant information that ma confuse their understanding.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
http://www.congressforkids.net/Judicialbranch_index.htm
Judicial Branch: Here Comes the Judge!
Just as the last site had for just the Executive Branch, this is about the Judicial Branch. This site talks about the Supreme Court, segregation, and the Justices ... each an important part of the Judicial Branch. Same as the site above it is kid friendly with relevant and easy to understand information.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
http://www.congressforkids.net/Legislativebranch_house.htm
Legislative Branch: House, Senate, and Laws, oh my!!!
A very informative website about the Legislative Branch with all of its components. Same as the other two sites it works to inform students in a kid friendly way without giving too much information to over-whelm them. Students can even print the website to take home for reference.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
http://questgarden.com/133/94/8/111025071840/index.htm
Three Branches of Government
This webquest is great because it is fun and interactive where students take on different roles. They have to report information on the three branches of government for students in their class. They will present their information through activities such as posters, brochures, and scavenger hunts.
Age: Grades 3 -5
http://questgarden.com/84/06/3/090626095451/index.htm
What are the Three Branches of Government?
For this assignment, students will be running for a place in the government. They have to research which branch of government and responsibilities and duties fit best for their personality and beliefs. Once they have done the research, they will put together a speech and run against their classmates to be voted into office.
Age: Grades 3 - 5
http://questgarden.com/80/02/8/090408124422/index.htm
Three Branches of Government
Students will be asked to set up a new government for a new town in their state. They have to research information about our government and how it works in order to run their new town properly. After they gather their information they will create a video to share with the citizens and the class will vote on who they believe would run the town the best.
Age: Grades 3 - 5
Videos-- Videos are a great way to introduce lessons or recap what has been learned the previous day. Some students do not do well reading straight out of books or doing worksheets and videos are a great way to engage and help explain information in an extended form. All of these videos are kid friendly and help the students with songs, jokes, and fun facts.
http://www.brainpop.com/socialstudies/usgovernmentandlaw/branchesofgovernment/
Branches of Government
This BrainPop is a great introduction to the three branches of government. Tim and Moby go through each branch and their specific powers and guidelines. They speak about how the branches help each other and balance each other out as well as their effects on other parts of government. BrainPop is also great because then there are games and quizzes students can play in order to assess their understanding and if they took anything away from the video.
Age: Grades 3 - 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5M50xBz1cU&feature=related
The Three Branches of Government -- School House Rock
School House Rock has always done a great job at introducing and helping students to understand school lessons with songs and clever lyrics. This video goes over the three branches of government and their importance. Having it on TeacherTube or YouTube, students have the opportunity of watching them again and the teacher can stop in the middle and explain things more in-depth.
Age: Elementary Grades
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibRAWyRVa3o
Three Branches of Government
Another video for students to learn about the government and how the branches work together. You could use this video as a refresher maybe after the weekend or before a test. It is not as exciting as the school house rock video but if students want a solid review and something to help them remember specific facts this video is good.
Age: Grades 3 - 5
Games and Interactive Websites-- Games and interactive websites help all students in their learning. Along with the videos, they give students the chance to interact and test their own learning without a teaching grading them or staring over their shoulders.
http://www.trumanlibrary.org/whistlestop/teacher_lessons/3branches/3bgovt.htm
3 Branches of Government Game
This website can be a 1 or 2 player game for students. It is set up in a jeopardy style game where students test their knowledge. This could be a good review for students before a test or if they ever finish their work early they can play this game against a classmate. Another fun way to learn as well as keep students working while others may be finishing up.
Ages: Grades 3 -5
http://www.usmint.gov/kids/games/branchesofpower/
Branches of Power
Students love to take the roles of different characters and this website does well to help them! They can become a spy with a top secret document that they need to deliver. They need to know specific information about the three branches of power in order to progress through the levels. Another fun game where students have the ability to determine their own fate. I know I would have LOVED to play this when I was learning this information
Ages: Grades 3 -5
http://www.sheppardsoftware.com/usa_game/government/branches_government.htm
Branches of Government Game
Students can prove their knowledge through this government game. They have to place the correct duties with the correct branch and work through the different jobs of the government. This game works for checks and balances, the different components of the executive branch, as well as Obama's personal administration. This helps students with current government not just the basics of overall government.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Books-- Although the internet and websites are great ways for students to learn, we also cannot forget that books are also an important role in student learning. They need to be able to hold something and learn from the information inside.
How the U.S. Government Works
Written By: Syl Sobel
This book explains the different parts of the government and jobs of all the houses. It has good pictures and explanations for students ho may not be comprehending the information. This book also discusses the individual citizens role in the government and how we play a part. It connects the students to the materials making it more meaningful and interesting.
Ages: Grades 3 -5
The Everything American Government Book
Written By: Nick Ragone
This book is awesome for students because it gives information for everything in the government from the birth of our nation to all parts of government. It has a lot of fun information and it is kid friendly in how it is presented and has fun ways for students to interact with the materials. If students were ever working on a project it would be a fun way to get the information and get the creativity going.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Branches of Government: Government in Action
Written By: John Hamilton
Another great resource for how the government works. The book speaks of several forms of government to give kids a compare and contrast idea of how our government works as well as how the Constitution became the US plan for government. It also discusses the branches of government plus checks and balances .... another great overview for students to use to better understand information.
Ages: Grades 4 and 5
Websites -- These three websites are each for a branch of government with the different roles and the people who work within these roles. It helps students to get a better idea of the branches since each site is dedicated to one branch of the government.
http://www.congressforkids.net/Executivebranch_president.htm
Executive Branch: Who's in the White House?
This site focuses on the Executive Branch and the different components associated with it. Students can click on links and the information s friendly written It also gives fun facts and breaks down the information so students aren't taking in irrelevant information that ma confuse their understanding.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
http://www.congressforkids.net/Judicialbranch_index.htm
Judicial Branch: Here Comes the Judge!
Just as the last site had for just the Executive Branch, this is about the Judicial Branch. This site talks about the Supreme Court, segregation, and the Justices ... each an important part of the Judicial Branch. Same as the site above it is kid friendly with relevant and easy to understand information.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
http://www.congressforkids.net/Legislativebranch_house.htm
Legislative Branch: House, Senate, and Laws, oh my!!!
A very informative website about the Legislative Branch with all of its components. Same as the other two sites it works to inform students in a kid friendly way without giving too much information to over-whelm them. Students can even print the website to take home for reference.
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Internet in the Classroom
When I began reading the article, I was taken aback by Hodas' argument that schools have been unchanged for many years and that teaching has been the same thing and he also states how technology will enhance schools and bring them out of the "dark ages". Maybe I was confused when I read this but does Hodas understand that teaching techniques have changed throughout the year drastically because we have so much technology in the classroom? Teachers have also changed in their teaching methods because following standards and the constant need for high test grades have challenged and encouraged teachers to step up and find new ways for their students to learn the information and enjoy what they are learning. The chapter also focuses on how a specific school was able to use computers without having to use the internet to get the job done. They discussed different techniques students have used the computer for such as note taking setting up a paper, and having editing done on their paper which are all great to have a computer for but I feel that the purpose of computers offers so much more than just the basics.
When I read this article all I could think of is how much more information and variety the internet can bring to the classroom. In a tech-savvy world, students need to know how to use the internet and what kind of information and tools the internet provides for everyone. Having a Promethean Board in my classroom this year and being able to use the internet for interactive games and fun videos helped me in promoting specific lessons and information as well as reaching all my diverse learners in an attempt to have all students paying attention and following along. In terms of worrying about students being social and going off to do their own thing, schools these days have websites such as Facebook and even Google Images blocked so students cannot gain access to them. Overall, I felt like maybe this chapter was a bit outdated in terms of how a classroom works and what the internet has to offer students. I know it was a specific school with a special case but if those teachers knew what they were missing out on in terms of all the internet has to offer students maybe they would be able to create more interactive and fun lessons that their students can personally connect to and find joy in.
When I read this article all I could think of is how much more information and variety the internet can bring to the classroom. In a tech-savvy world, students need to know how to use the internet and what kind of information and tools the internet provides for everyone. Having a Promethean Board in my classroom this year and being able to use the internet for interactive games and fun videos helped me in promoting specific lessons and information as well as reaching all my diverse learners in an attempt to have all students paying attention and following along. In terms of worrying about students being social and going off to do their own thing, schools these days have websites such as Facebook and even Google Images blocked so students cannot gain access to them. Overall, I felt like maybe this chapter was a bit outdated in terms of how a classroom works and what the internet has to offer students. I know it was a specific school with a special case but if those teachers knew what they were missing out on in terms of all the internet has to offer students maybe they would be able to create more interactive and fun lessons that their students can personally connect to and find joy in.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Website Review ... again :-)
The website I looked at was national geographic for kids. This website can be used by students in elementary and middle grades. It can be used in the classroom to show visuals as well as articles about specific things such as animals, countries, and important news that is happening in different areas of the social sciences. This particular website has a lot of connections with fourth grade content in terms of space and animals. I have seen the fourth grade teacher in my pod use this website many times in order to help her students get a better understanding of a topic or subject area. There are games and videos for students to watch which makes the website more interactive and kid friendly. I think depending on what the teacher is teaching the class at that time they should be supervising to make sure all the content is appropriate as well as students staying on task because it is a busy website with a lot going on. The great thing about National Geographic is there is little to none commercials and ads on the website so there is nothing that students can click on that could be trouble or off topic. Since the website is NatGeo kids, you do not need to sign up which is good because it will be accessible to students at home to play on with their families and friends.
Overall I think this is a great website for kids. I think it is engaging, visually appealing, and fun for students to learn about topics that can be hard to incorporate hands on activities with. As a teacher, I will always be looking towards websites such as these that are written for children and appealing to them in a way that an adult website may not. Once students know how to navigate the page and work with the materials, they will be entrapped in the website and be able to get work done in the classroom .... I only know this because I have seen it before. I think NatGeo kids is a great resource that needs to be used not only online but through their magazines as well.
Monday, June 4, 2012
Mindsets
When reading the section on mindsets and looking at the table, I stopped to try and figure out what kind of person I would be and to which mindset I learn more towards. The mindsets discuss how people approach the world and look at how we have advanced in technological times as well as how those technology advances have played a roll in our lives. The "physical-industrial" mindset seems to me ... if I was reading it right ... that the world has always been the same throughout the different eras and we have been growing from experience but putting all the technology in has made it become more sophisticated. The second mindset gives all the changes in our world to the credit of technology; through all the advancements we have in technology we are experiencing a more advanced world. The second mindset continues to speak about how we curious people who are exploring and experimenting with the different technologies. The overall difference between the two mindsets is one believes we use technology as new tools that help us to discover and create new things (mindset 2) where as the other uses technology to practice the same old routines over and over again (mindset 1).
When I think about which side of the mindset I stand on, I believe being part of the millenials has made me lean towards a more mindset 2. I think it is great that we have people exploring and discovery new ideas and experiences through technological means. Instead of harping on how we can take old routines and make them better with technology, these thinkers are looking outside the box as to how we can use technology as a tool to find new methods or ideas. I think it is so important to be able to take what we are given in terms of technology and begin to discover and explore a separate type of "life" and see what can be created from technology. Those in mindset 1 seem to be people such as our parents who fear technology and using it and the unknown it brings our country in terms of inventing new tools and gadgets whereas mindset 2 seems to be the younger generation eager to learn and be creative with what they have at their fingertips.
When I think about which side of the mindset I stand on, I believe being part of the millenials has made me lean towards a more mindset 2. I think it is great that we have people exploring and discovery new ideas and experiences through technological means. Instead of harping on how we can take old routines and make them better with technology, these thinkers are looking outside the box as to how we can use technology as a tool to find new methods or ideas. I think it is so important to be able to take what we are given in terms of technology and begin to discover and explore a separate type of "life" and see what can be created from technology. Those in mindset 1 seem to be people such as our parents who fear technology and using it and the unknown it brings our country in terms of inventing new tools and gadgets whereas mindset 2 seems to be the younger generation eager to learn and be creative with what they have at their fingertips.
Saturday, June 2, 2012
The Millenials: Good or Bad?
After watching the video of the "debate" as to whether the new generation is smart or dumb, I find myself leaning more towards Neil Howe and his stand of this generation being the next great generation. When I initially began to watch the debate, I thought Bauerlein may have some really good points as to how the media and technology has been hindering students throughout their schooling, but because his focus was only on intellectual habits and their decline, I did not feel he had a strong argument. Bauerlein focused mainly on how intellectual skills, specifically reading, have declined vastly in spite of the great advantages and opportunities to acquire knowledge and skills in schooling. Although he makes a good point that this is happening because the digital age has kids self-absorbed in their social networking, he fails to mention how many social medias are being used in the classroom in order to engage students and complete assignments. Many classes now use facebook as a discussion board site and blogs are being used to share opinions in classes as well as for teachers to communicate with parents and students outside of the classroom. I can see how students do become self-absorbed with social media but a majority of students do know how to limit themselves and get their work completed before indulging in the luxuries of tweeting or posting a new status.
I thought Howe's argument was very well structured and focused on more than one area of a child's life and how technology has shown positive benefits for students. He brought up excellent points specifically in behavior and discussing how students have seen decreases in violence and drugs and increases in civic responsibilities as well as the closing value gap with parents. I also liked how he took the four common myths about technology and kids and completely busted them. He made great points to the fact that although students are not leisurely reading as much it is because they have to read for school and as many students know, that takes away any time for reading outside of the classroom, as well as how video games are being used to train people in the military. Overall, I thought Howe's powerpoint presentation and display of statistics blew Bauerlein out of the water and was a fair representation of how our generation is the next generation and will be able to reap the benefits from technology as well as help to enhance different jobs and areas of life where technology can be used positively.
I thought Howe's argument was very well structured and focused on more than one area of a child's life and how technology has shown positive benefits for students. He brought up excellent points specifically in behavior and discussing how students have seen decreases in violence and drugs and increases in civic responsibilities as well as the closing value gap with parents. I also liked how he took the four common myths about technology and kids and completely busted them. He made great points to the fact that although students are not leisurely reading as much it is because they have to read for school and as many students know, that takes away any time for reading outside of the classroom, as well as how video games are being used to train people in the military. Overall, I thought Howe's powerpoint presentation and display of statistics blew Bauerlein out of the water and was a fair representation of how our generation is the next generation and will be able to reap the benefits from technology as well as help to enhance different jobs and areas of life where technology can be used positively.
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