You are currently browsing the monthly Archive for April, 2008.
We will begin our PACT review this week. It is always fun to dust off the material from September and October to see what the kids actually remember. I really don’t want to be disappointed, so I’m assuming that they don’t remember much. Now, here’s the question…Do they not remember the information because I didn’t present them the material in a memorable fashion?…or…Did they truly forget because they are teenagers going through changes in their life where their social activity far outweighs the enlightenment ideas of John Locke or Jean-Jacques Rousseau? I know what was going through my mind when I was in middle school…and it wasn’t European Exploration. Maybe that’s why I kind of understand why so many kids “hate Social Studies.” I just wish some of them would try a little bit harder, who knows, they might actually like talking about this stuff…I know I liked it as soon as I tried it…Hey, isn’t there a Dr. Seuss book about that?
So…slowly I’m gaining recognition in the “blogosphere.”
Recently, animoto.com contacted me about the projects that my classes produced. Nothing special…but they informed me of a classroom password that can give your classes a 3-month all access pass to animoto and everything it has to offer. Although the longer videos might be too much for some students to handle, it is nice to have that option.
As of last night, my request from donorschoose.org has been fulfilled. That was extremely exciting news! If anyone out there needs something for their classroom, but can’t afford it or doesn’t have the budget for it, you have to check out donorschoose.org. I wanted a classroom set of microphone headsets for various projects that required them, so I asked for 30. The total bill was almost $400. Last night donorschoose.org sent me an email informing me that my project had been funded. Awesome!! I can’t wait to get my shipment, it’ll be like Christmas!!
I’ve also been contacted by the people of Create South. They call themselves a “grassroots group of Grand Strand Bloggers.” Create South is having a conference here in sunny Myrtle Beach, South Carolina on Saturday, April 18th and they asked me to present during a session about blogging in the classroom. I’m honored!! That’s pretty neat!! I hope I don’t disappoint. I’m hoping that there will be some teachers in the audience since I can relate to them, but if they’re not in the audience, then maybe they know some teachers they can relay the information to. Regardless, this will be a great experience. I’m looking forward to it.
Grades are due today and these extra credit podcasts are still coming in. Procrastinators never cease to amaze me….I know because I’m one of them. Anyway…here it is.
As the quarter comes to an end, more students become interested in creating an extra credit podcast. Unfortunately, I still have to hold their hand as they create, but I still think they are enjoying what they’re doing…oh by the way…I think they’re also learning something.
Here’s the latest…
See What They’re Saying…