This week, students began to research their driving questions. We discussed credible vs. non-credible sources, using key words effectively, and note-taking strategies. Our school recently purchased the NewsELA PRO resource, and this has proven a beneficial research tool.
In additon to conducting research, some students created surveys using Google Forms. Other students revised topics after the realization that their driving question was too vague. Students were also encouraged to share information that could potentially benefit other students. Of course, there were some challenges along the way. Some students searches directed them only to scholarly journal articles which were above their reading level. Others decided to abandon their topics and start fresh after realizing that research was limited. We were so inspired by our last session at the The Literacy Consortium, and we have reached out to some schools who are implementing flexible seating, coding, and an on-line curriculum. We are hoping to connect with a school in Arizona or Illinois in the near future! :) It’s always difficult to leave the classroom, but what an inspiring day! Silvia Rosenthal Tolisano was the guest speaker, and she shared a variety of resources with us. Some of them included the following: Mystery Skype, Skype in the Classroom, blogfolios, quadblogging, and PLN options, such as Twitter. We had the opportunity to experience Skype first-hand by connecting with four different people (personal, expert, colleague, and classroom). It was incredible! We had the chance to visit Silvia’s mom in Argentina, a classroom in Brazil, interview curriculum expert Janet Hale, and take a virtual field trip to TedX Studios in New York with Josefino Rivera Jr. This opportunity demonstrated how easy it is to collaborate and connect with classrooms and leaders around the world. We also learned the importance of preparation and participation in videoconferencing. By using GoogleDocs, we were able to share expectations and ideas. Engaging infographics showed the different roles that all students can have during video-conferencing sessions. These opportunities can easily be extended into our classrooms, and we can’t wait to share our journey! |
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January 2017
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