Today, I read an interesting article by National Geographic Education (@NatGeoEducation) that I found on twitter. It was actually an article posted today about the background of Leap Year! I never knew anything really about why Leap Year Exists.
Turns out, Julius Caesar created leap year back in 45 BCE. Julius Caesar was an ancient Rome military commander and political leader. He was concerned about how the calendar would fall out of tune with the seasons. Then, Egyptian Astronomers informed him that the year was actually 365.25 days long! So, to cover for the extra one-forth of a day, Caesar added one extra day at the end of February every four years. This creation is what we know as Leap Day or Leap Year. It has been this was for over a thousand years.
I found this extremely interesting because I didn't know that information. This twitter account posts interesting facts like that or other interesting things all the time. I found this to be really interesting and useful. I would use a "Fun Fact" like that as a "warm-up" for my students in the morning. I feel that this little things could be fun and interesting for students to learn.
http://education.nationalgeographic.org/thisday/feb29/julius-caesar-takes-leap/?utm_source=Twitter&utm_medium=Social&utm_content=link_twedu_2292016-TDIGH&utm_campaign=Content&sf21690351=1
Monday, February 29, 2016
Blog 9- edutopia
Today, I reviewed an article from edutopia entitled,
"How Educators and schools can make the most of Google Hangout"
The article explained how Google Hangouts can be used by up to 10 people at one time. It can be used for a variety of tasks that range from simple to complex.I really liked how the article broke it down and explained how Google Hangouts can be used at different grade levels and jobs. My favorite idea for elementary school was the idea of a book club. The article explained how a book club (spread out over the country) and connect via Google Hangout with classes to discuss what they have been reading. The same idea applies to middle and high school. However, as the students age, they can create their own Google plus accounts and work with their peers. I liked how the article mentioned the idea of having "office hours" over Google Hangout. It would allow students and teachers to connect almost anywhere. I feel that students will be more encouraged to ask questions and receive help on work and assignments.
Before reading this article, I did not like Google Hangout. The app seemed so frustrating and confusing, I just did not want to bother with it any more. However, this article made me decide to give Google Hangout a second chance. It enables students and people at certain jobs to connect almost anywhere! The article described various ways to use Google Hangout that I was unaware of. I honestly believe that this tool is beneficial to all grade levels and backgrounds. People can even use it to just connect with loved ones!
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/educators-schools-google-hangouts-mary-beth-hertz
Monday, February 22, 2016
Blog 8 "Reading more Efficiently"
This next article I reviewed was written by Deb Peterson on about education.
"How to read faster and have more time to study as an adult student"
It gives 10 tips to improve reading and studying for the student. I found these tips to be really helpful for when I study. I have actually taken then tips and applied them to my current study habits to try to improve them. I found this to be such an interesting and helpful article, I just had to share.
"How to read faster and have more time to study as an adult student"
It gives 10 tips to improve reading and studying for the student. I found these tips to be really helpful for when I study. I have actually taken then tips and applied them to my current study habits to try to improve them. I found this to be such an interesting and helpful article, I just had to share.
1. Read only the first sentence of the paragraph.
- Good writers begin each paragraph with what the statement is about. Therefor, by reading the first sentence, you should determine whether it contains information you need to know.
2. Skip to the last sentence of the paragraph.
- This sentence contains clues to what important information is within the paragraph.
3. Read Phrases
- After determining if the paragraph is worth reading, move your eyes over each line to scan for key words.
4. Ignore the little words
- such as; like, it, to, a, an, and, be, etc. Your mind can automatically fill in those words when reading.
5. Look for key points
- spend more time reading around key points within the material.
6. Mark key thoughts in margins
- write key thoughts in the margin or on sticky notes so reviewing becomes much easier. You will only have to review the sticky notes
7. Use tools provided-- lists, bullets, sidebars
- The author provides these tools for a reason... so use them!
8. Take notes for practice tests
- When you read something you know will be on the test, write it down in the form of the question.
9. Read with good posture
- This helps you read longer and be more able to stay awake
10. Practice, Practice, Practice
- Reading fast takes practice! Practice is key to success!!
I really enjoyed reading this article! It provided fantastic tips to making studying easier!
http://adulted.about.com/od/studyskills/tp/10-Ways-To-Read-Faster-When-You-Study.htm
Blog 7 "School Branding"
Today I read an interesting article by Lisa Nielsen the Innovative Educator.
Titled: "5 Social Media Platforms and Strategies to Develop your School's Brand"
I found it interesting to learn that today's parents and students tend to use social media more. They feel that user generated content (UGC) on social media is more reliable than other sites. Social Media is the best way to communicate a school's brand. this means, that they are checking these sites and believing what they are reading. Therefor, school's can use that advantage to better reach their community and inform them on important or exciting things happening at the school.
One thing that really stood out to me was what superintendent Joe Sanfelippo (a host on the BAM Radio show) advises to educators, "Never give up the opportunity to say something great about your school." This stood out because I think it is really important to highlight the students within the school. Schools should show their communities the creativity and exciting things that their students are doing. Branding creates a unique identity for the school. It will draw attention to prospective students within the area as well. This can be super beneficial to the school.
The article discussed some social media tools for schools to use.
Facebook- Schools can use facebook to reach their students, parents, and surrounding communities. More parents tend to use it. It can be used to create a positive online profile. Events, Photos, Videos, and more can be shared on the site. This way the followers can keep up to date on what's happening within the school.
Instagram- Some parents may not read English, therefore a picture can mean 1000 words them. It also keeps alumni involved and included in #tbt (throw back thursdays)
Twitter- Important updates and information can be relayed quickly using twitter. You can also share class experiences.
Livestream- This enables users to share whats happening at the school with the world.
Online Learning Community- This allows teachers to collaborate and share work and ideas with their community.
http://theinnovativeeducator.blogspot.com/2016/02/develop-your-schools-brand-with-these-5.html#more
Titled: "5 Social Media Platforms and Strategies to Develop your School's Brand"
I found it interesting to learn that today's parents and students tend to use social media more. They feel that user generated content (UGC) on social media is more reliable than other sites. Social Media is the best way to communicate a school's brand. this means, that they are checking these sites and believing what they are reading. Therefor, school's can use that advantage to better reach their community and inform them on important or exciting things happening at the school.
One thing that really stood out to me was what superintendent Joe Sanfelippo (a host on the BAM Radio show) advises to educators, "Never give up the opportunity to say something great about your school." This stood out because I think it is really important to highlight the students within the school. Schools should show their communities the creativity and exciting things that their students are doing. Branding creates a unique identity for the school. It will draw attention to prospective students within the area as well. This can be super beneficial to the school.
The article discussed some social media tools for schools to use.
Facebook- Schools can use facebook to reach their students, parents, and surrounding communities. More parents tend to use it. It can be used to create a positive online profile. Events, Photos, Videos, and more can be shared on the site. This way the followers can keep up to date on what's happening within the school.
Instagram- Some parents may not read English, therefore a picture can mean 1000 words them. It also keeps alumni involved and included in #tbt (throw back thursdays)
Twitter- Important updates and information can be relayed quickly using twitter. You can also share class experiences.
Livestream- This enables users to share whats happening at the school with the world.
Online Learning Community- This allows teachers to collaborate and share work and ideas with their community.
http://theinnovativeeducator.blogspot.com/2016/02/develop-your-schools-brand-with-these-5.html#more
Tuesday, February 16, 2016
Blog 6
Today I reviewed a blog from the Innovative Educator, Lisa Neilson.
http://theinnovativeeducator.blogspot.com/2016/02/efficient-roll-call-attendance.html
This blog was on Efficient Roll call and Attendance Procedure.
She explains how at the beginning of class, a lot of time is wasted because of the roll call. There are so many mispronunciations and time wasted using this technique every morning. So the technique has be revised and improved!
One method is using name badge. Name badges can include wireless pass codes, links to materials, and hashtags. Then once everyone receives their names badge, The left over badges are recorded as absent!
Initial Sign-ins can help speed up the process. If the sheet is alphabetized, it will be easier for participants to find their name. Then by simply signing their initials, you have a record of who was there. All other names would then be put in as absent.
Assigned Seating can also come in handy. If the seats are assigned on the first day of class, it will also help the teacher remember names! By indicating on your initial sign in, you can see what seatsb are empty. This will really benefit substitutes. If there bis one, Include a picture of each student seated in their chairs.
Digital Sign in sheets are becoming a big thing. Using a Google sheet, Students can log in and indicate their time of arrival in the attendance column. Another option could be a survey. People can answer one question surveys by entering their first and last name.
Tips and Tricks!!
One tip for proof of attendance is to take a group photo! that way no one can lie about attending
Alphabetize the lists and name badges!!!
Also, Dont print double sided sign in sheets, This just wastes time. Us more papers so the sign in process is quicker!
http://theinnovativeeducator.blogspot.com/2016/02/efficient-roll-call-attendance.html
http://theinnovativeeducator.blogspot.com/2016/02/efficient-roll-call-attendance.html
This blog was on Efficient Roll call and Attendance Procedure.
She explains how at the beginning of class, a lot of time is wasted because of the roll call. There are so many mispronunciations and time wasted using this technique every morning. So the technique has be revised and improved!
One method is using name badge. Name badges can include wireless pass codes, links to materials, and hashtags. Then once everyone receives their names badge, The left over badges are recorded as absent!
Initial Sign-ins can help speed up the process. If the sheet is alphabetized, it will be easier for participants to find their name. Then by simply signing their initials, you have a record of who was there. All other names would then be put in as absent.
Assigned Seating can also come in handy. If the seats are assigned on the first day of class, it will also help the teacher remember names! By indicating on your initial sign in, you can see what seatsb are empty. This will really benefit substitutes. If there bis one, Include a picture of each student seated in their chairs.
Digital Sign in sheets are becoming a big thing. Using a Google sheet, Students can log in and indicate their time of arrival in the attendance column. Another option could be a survey. People can answer one question surveys by entering their first and last name.
Tips and Tricks!!
One tip for proof of attendance is to take a group photo! that way no one can lie about attending
Alphabetize the lists and name badges!!!
Also, Dont print double sided sign in sheets, This just wastes time. Us more papers so the sign in process is quicker!
http://theinnovativeeducator.blogspot.com/2016/02/efficient-roll-call-attendance.html
Blog 5
Today I reviewed the blog "Teaching Personal Space to Children with Disabilities."
The blog discussed how children with disabilities (especially Autism Spectrum Disorder) have a hard time understanding the concept of personal space. However, understanding that concept is important because as they get older, they need to be aware of the social and emotional boundaries that are set by the general public. Children with ASD are called "deep pressure" meaning, they seek as much sensory input as they can get. This means, they will throw their arms around the nearest person to achieve that sensory, or they will not at all.
To help children with disabilities understand this concept, teach them a metaphor like a "Magic Bubble." Children with disabilities (or not) love bubbles! This metaphor will provide a better understanding bout the "Bubble" of personal Space. Modeling is another technique used. Modeling is the act of demonstrating the magic bubble game. Have the children put their arms out top the side and have them begin to spin. This concept helps the children to understand how big their personal bubble is. Have the children gently bump into each others' "Bubble" and give a polite introduction to one another. Another technique is called Explicit Instruction. This happens once the metaphor is explain and the "Magic Bubble" game begins. After the students introduce themselves, have them politely enter each others "Magic Bubble" and encourage the students to hug.
Breaking down the concept into steps, introducing the game, and thoroughly explaining the idea, will help the students understand the concept of "personal space" and prepare them for the general public.
The blog discussed how children with disabilities (especially Autism Spectrum Disorder) have a hard time understanding the concept of personal space. However, understanding that concept is important because as they get older, they need to be aware of the social and emotional boundaries that are set by the general public. Children with ASD are called "deep pressure" meaning, they seek as much sensory input as they can get. This means, they will throw their arms around the nearest person to achieve that sensory, or they will not at all.
To help children with disabilities understand this concept, teach them a metaphor like a "Magic Bubble." Children with disabilities (or not) love bubbles! This metaphor will provide a better understanding bout the "Bubble" of personal Space. Modeling is another technique used. Modeling is the act of demonstrating the magic bubble game. Have the children put their arms out top the side and have them begin to spin. This concept helps the children to understand how big their personal bubble is. Have the children gently bump into each others' "Bubble" and give a polite introduction to one another. Another technique is called Explicit Instruction. This happens once the metaphor is explain and the "Magic Bubble" game begins. After the students introduce themselves, have them politely enter each others "Magic Bubble" and encourage the students to hug.
Breaking down the concept into steps, introducing the game, and thoroughly explaining the idea, will help the students understand the concept of "personal space" and prepare them for the general public.
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
Education Blog 102
Today I read the a blog from:
http://www.specialeducationadvisor.com/i-have-a-dream-for-special-education/
Titled: I have a Dream for Special Education
The article talks about how far america has come within the last 30 years. It talked about different Special education acts that have been passed and how IEP's work. Unfortunately, the article says that instead of a team working with a students IEP, it often becomes a battle between the parents and the school and just a lot of miscommunication happens.
The author of the article goes on to talk about the dream they have for special education. The author hopes we can one day get to the point where IEP's are not a fight but where both sides of the team talk it out instead. The author's dream consists of a school for special needs where the programs arn't cut, a school that doesn't underestimate their responsibility, and a place where teachers can talk to parents about assessing their child without an argument. The author dreams of a school where the child's needs are assessed and an educational plan is put in place to help the student progress as much as possible.
I have the same dream. A students educational needs should be a priority and the school should be doing everything in their power to make sure the student is getting the help they need and not be discriminated by it.
Education Blog 101
Today I read a blog entry from:
http://specialed.about.com/od/integration/tp/Multi-Sensory-Instruction-in-Math-for-Special-Education.htm.
It was titled "Multi-Sensory Instruction in Math for Special Education"
It provided a lot of insight on learning disabilities in reading. I learned that math may actually help students progress in reading. Math allows the student to compete with their classmates and gain a better understanding of fundamentals. It also went on to say that providing students with a lot of structured practice will really help the student gain a better understanding of the subject. The article then goes to link other articles that provide insight on helping students gain a better and broader understanding of the fundamentals of math.
Students can use a muffin tin to help with understanding counting as well as grouping of objects based of certain characteristics. Students can count nickles on a number line to better understand operations such as addition and subtraction. Using a hundreds chart, students can use coins to understand place value as well as skip counting. The important thing when it comes to special education it engaging the student so they can have the best possible learning experience. Children tend to respond better to things that are "fun" yet educational. They also will learn better doing hands on activities instead of the teacher just teaching up on the board.
http://specialed.about.com/od/integration/tp/Multi-Sensory-Instruction-in-Math-for-Special-Education.htm.
It was titled "Multi-Sensory Instruction in Math for Special Education"
It provided a lot of insight on learning disabilities in reading. I learned that math may actually help students progress in reading. Math allows the student to compete with their classmates and gain a better understanding of fundamentals. It also went on to say that providing students with a lot of structured practice will really help the student gain a better understanding of the subject. The article then goes to link other articles that provide insight on helping students gain a better and broader understanding of the fundamentals of math.
Students can use a muffin tin to help with understanding counting as well as grouping of objects based of certain characteristics. Students can count nickles on a number line to better understand operations such as addition and subtraction. Using a hundreds chart, students can use coins to understand place value as well as skip counting. The important thing when it comes to special education it engaging the student so they can have the best possible learning experience. Children tend to respond better to things that are "fun" yet educational. They also will learn better doing hands on activities instead of the teacher just teaching up on the board.
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