First 20 Days of Personalized Learning Reflections by Michael Hansen

First 20 Days of Personalized Learning Reflections by Michael Hansen https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g View Teachers, search for the topics you read about and reflect underneath. en-us 2019-03-12 18:35:23 UTC 2019-05-08 21:21:22 UTC hello@padlet.com Sarah Crist https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/348732454 What I find challenging about this topic is that student’s interests change throughout the year. I try to keep connected with them by giving surveys again, eating lunch together, or talking with them at recess. I would like to use some of the questions in the articles because they would provide a deeper response than just one word responses. I also like how it expressed that it’s not just their interests that give us valuable information but it is also student’s concerns. ]]> 2019-04-04 21:16:58 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/348732454 Sarah Crist https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/348732628 This topic reminded me a lot of what we do at View. The “social contract” reminded me of being a PBIS school and how we use common language and structures. The team building activities help to build relationships among students and teachers. The article on collaborative problem solving was a great connection for me because we are continuously discussing and applying these skills in morning meetings, at recess, in small groups, etc. In the future, I want to give students more time to reflect on how they think they work with partners or on a team. ]]> 2019-04-04 21:17:43 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/348732628 Sarah Crist https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/348732920 Self-reflection for myself is a skill I feel I am strong in. I wish to model think alouds for self-reflection so I can show my students how to do it in the different areas of our day all year long. The prompts included in the article will help me to plan ahead so I can use them to think aloud with purpose. ]]> 2019-04-04 21:18:58 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/348732920 Anna Hester https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351810132 Flexible Seating has always been an interest of mine. Flexible seating provides students the opportunity to have choice with space and seating. The main idea if this is so students can sit were she or she can learn best. My only concern is that my classroom is not all that large and I don't have the funds to purchase some of the seating I have seen in educational magazines.]]> 2019-04-15 20:50:38 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351810132 Jeff Lippert https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351816421 I love the idea of student choice! Thinking of myself as a learner, choice is always appreciated so why would it not be with my students?!?! I am getting better at offering a choice during learning times, especially during math and literacy independent work station times. The idea of a playlist intrigues me, especially later in the year in Kindergarten I feel I have some students who could handle this. I am specifically thinking of proficient students who do not need as much direct teacher instruction as at times they grasp a concept easily. Perhaps I could have those student work through a menu or playlist to solidify or enhance their learning. Worth a try!

]]> 2019-04-15 21:35:25 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351816421 Response to Anna (Jeff) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351817442 I too am interested in flexible seating, and funds was a concern for me as well. I have decided to buy one piece of flexible seating each year with the PTO funds each classroom has been given. I know it will take a while but at least this offers me a start!]]> 2019-04-15 21:43:09 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351817442 Jeff Lippert https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351818031 Flexible seating seems like a slam dunk but the logistics of purchasing and executing this personalized learning strategy can seem overwhelming at times. I would love to offer choices to students as I know sitting at a table on a hard chair is not ideal for everyone, after all, I prefer a good recliner to do my work in at home :) The articles in this section offered some real solutions to offering flexible seating and I also appreciated the "rules" some classes had brainstormed.]]> 2019-04-15 21:46:50 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351818031 Jeff Lippert https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351818759 Ha! I do this, I think we all do. So it turns out I (we) are on the path to personalized learning! I love teaching in small groups as it allows an opportunity for feedback, students to learn from each other, and flexibility. My goal it to have my groups become more fluid in responding to formative assessments. At times students stay in a group for a while, and could possiblybe moved to another group or not met with at all for a period of time.]]> 2019-04-15 21:52:25 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351818759 Response to Sarah (Jeff) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351819305 Team building is so important to setting a classroom culture that students can thrive in. Sometimes I find myself assuming students know how to work with partners or on a team. I love the idea of giving more time to reflect and maybe some direct instruction in this area!]]> 2019-04-15 21:56:13 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351819305 Michelle Reittinger https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351840006 I actually love giving formative assessments. In kindergarten students learn new skills at different paces. I find it fascinating how quickly some kids learn new skills. So it is quite rewarding to look at formative assessments throughout the year. I liked this sentence: Good teachers in every subject will adjust their teaching based on what students know at each point. After giving a kindergarten formative assessment, I analyze my data and change my teaching, if needed ,or reorganize my groups. I would love to work with my team and create our own EXIT tickets. I have seen a lot on Teacher Pay Teacher but creating our own would work as well. ]]> 2019-04-16 00:37:58 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351840006 Michelle Reittinger https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351841320 This reminds me of our View Data wall we had in our conference room. I was able to check in on former students and check on their struggles as they move to different grade levels. I would love for our Kindergarten team to have our own Data Tracker using data from PAST, PA, 95%, Sight Words, letters names and sounds. Having a data tracker in Math would be very beneficial as well. I am not sure how I feel about having a Class Data wall. I know a few current students who struggle and they would have a hard time seeing their name in an area that is hard for them. ]]> 2019-04-16 00:46:50 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351841320 Michelle Reittinger https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351842397 In the past few years, I have developed an interest in flexible seating. Unfortunately, I do not have an unlimited budget to order different kinds of flexible seating for my current classroom. After reading the research on the benefits ( it channels excess energy, improves metabolism, motivates learning, increases engagement, and improves posture) it makes me feel bad for my current students. I can see most of my students benefitting from flexible seating. I will have to become creative to find ways to provide different seating for my kindergarten students next year. ]]> 2019-04-16 00:53:24 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351842397 Response to Sarah (Michelle) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351843289 I feel I am also strong in self reflecting. Unfortunately, I think I may reflect a little too much at times. (I'm working on that) I would love to see this modeled in a kindergarten setting. I am sure your 1st graders would do a nice job reflecting after seeing you model. I feel they are ready for that. I currently have some students who I could model self reflecting with. ]]> 2019-04-16 00:59:35 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351843289 Response to Jeff (Michelle) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351844033 I agree with you as I love teaching small groups as well. I am working on using my formative assessments to guide my groups more frequently. I am guilty of keeping some of the same kids in a small group longer than necessary. ]]> 2019-04-16 01:03:14 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351844033 Brandon https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351862940 Tapping into student interests is something that I am continuing to dive into more. In the past, it has been easier to see which kids play which sports (they are usually wearing jerseys/sports gear), but I'm wanting to learn more deeply about students interests. Sometimes, they are the simple things: unicorns vs. Fortnite, Miranda Sings vs. Jake Paul, etc. More often, and more importantly, they are deeper concepts, such as "Which subject gives you the most struggles?" or "Which fellow peer would you like to get to know better? However, sometimes basic things such as "Do you prefer a desk or a table?" or "Do you prefer soft music or silence?" can make a big impact too.]]> 2019-04-16 03:12:54 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351862940 Brandon Bauer https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351863566 Student choice is often a driving force in my classroom. Thinking specifically of most math lessons, I always start out with mental math (5ish minutes) and the whole class lesson (15ish minutes). From there, the craziness happens: some students are well beyond the concepts - they can do a few problems to prove it and then move on to extensions (games, enrichment activities, MAP skills, 5th grade content); others on target usually have the option of practicing on Khan Academy or with the enVision book; those who have gaps are encouraged to work with me for at least a bit, but then are able to work with a partner/small group or by themselves. By the end of the lesson, in conjunction with some sort of Exit Ticket, kids have been able to access grade level content in a manner that suits themselves best.]]> 2019-04-16 03:17:53 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351863566 Brandon Bauer https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351864141 Goal setting is an important piece of personalized learning. It moves the focus from what I, the teacher, want kids to know to what they, the students want to be able to do. It makes feedback more meaningful; it makes effort during daily classtime stronger; it makes attitudes towards testing less about "getting a good grade" and more about "a celebration of my learning". I've used data binders to help out with this process: I have a pretty basic sheet for each power standard, and for standardized tests, students have graphs of different sorts (bar, line, etc.) to monitor their progress over time.
Moving forward, I'd like to spend just a little more time allowing students a chance to reflect on their progress, set "next step" goals, and provide them with a bit more support when acting upon those ]]> 2019-04-16 03:22:31 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351864141 Response to Michelle (Brandon) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351864573 Hi Michelle - you have some great comments that spoke to me: being flexible based on formatives was a big one. Also, you mentioned finding/using formatives...sometimes it feels like everything needs to be perfectly planned and packaged, but the truth is that sometimes formatives are off the cuff, a basic word problem that encompasses possible misconceptions, or even a short one-on-one discussion with a child. Keep up the good work - you rock! ]]> 2019-04-16 03:26:21 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351864573 Response to Michelle, Anna, and Jeff (Brandon) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351864917 Your concerns are right on par with mine, and sometimes as I get more and more skeptical, I tend to think of only the negatives associated, especially cost and space. Another concern I have is the "jealousy factor" - what happens when someone wants to sit somewhere but someone else is already there? I've tried a cozy chair and wobbly chairs in the past, and I just can't get past that selfishness factor. Jeff, you mentioned coming up with some class rules about it, which I think are great, but from past experience, it seems like it's just better to keep it simple. (Also, is having a student chill in a lounger an accommodation on the ISASP? How is that documented? ;-D)]]> 2019-04-16 03:29:14 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/351864917 Anna Hester https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352021839 I love it when I am given choices!
When I am given a choice I feel much more engaged with my learning. With that being said, I am very interested in offering choice boards in both ELA and Math. Choice boards offer specific learning needs, interests, and abilities. Additionally, students can determine which activity they are most comfortable completing first, and once they master it, they can move on to more challenging activities. Now I just need the time to create them!]]> 2019-04-16 15:53:35 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352021839 Anna Hester https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352024376 In my opinion goal setting is extremely important for learning. By knowing what you want to achieve, you know what they have to concentrate on and improve upon. At the same time, goal setting works hand-in-hand with having a growth mindset. When someone believes they can do something, they will. It may not be right away, but with the right goals long term and short term, anything can be achieved. ]]> 2019-04-16 15:59:52 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352024376 Response to Michelle (Anna) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352072204 I too love to use formative data. It really does guide my instruction. But for me, I always try to remember a formative assessment does not always mean students have to "take a quiz" pencil paper.]]> 2019-04-16 18:01:59 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352072204 Response to Jeff (Anna) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352080257 I, too, value small group instruction. it is the perfect time to reinforce or reteach specific skills and concepts. The small groups do not have to be leveled, but rather, based solely on student needs. ]]> 2019-04-16 18:21:33 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352080257 Eric Kauder https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352149794 Learning about the visual profile and preferences to all students is a critical step with Personalized Learning. We will have an opportunity to make personal connections and gain some insight of student interests that we normally wouldn't have. This seems to be one of the building blocks with Personalized Learning. I also like the idea of posting those interests on a bulletin board to foster discussion with other students.]]> 2019-04-16 22:46:16 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352149794 Eric Kauder https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352150057 When I look at Self and Peer Evaluations, this is a great opportunity to build community. Often when peer evaluation takes place, it will open up areas of discovery and self awareness that students don't quite have for themselves just yet. Finding positive ways to evaluate and give each other feedback will result in a positive classroom environment.]]> 2019-04-16 22:49:48 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352150057 Eric Kauder https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352151744 Data tracking was an easy connection for me. We do a lot of data work at Prairie View and it's an important way for students to connect to their own learning. We use data binders in our classroom and we use that data to do some goal setting towards collective and individual goals. Data also helps keep students accountable for their own work and motivates to achieve even more.]]> 2019-04-16 22:55:31 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352151744 Response To Brandon (Eric) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352152380 When we look at diving deeper with interests, I agree that we do a lot of surface level learning about our students. If we are able to learn about them on a more personal level, they will gain more trust with us and hopefully lead to better work habits in the classroom. It also brings the empathy piece into play with them feeling like we care about them and not just knowing who they are.]]> 2019-04-16 23:03:12 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352152380 Response To Anna (Eric) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352152811 Anna when I think of student choice I think of happy kids in our classroom deciding what they want to learn about. There is probably no better way to engage our students than to give them opportunities to learn about self interests. I am more interested in the choice boards as well. Using some dedicated PLC time to make them would be a good opportunity.]]> 2019-04-16 23:07:09 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352152811 Angi Hartman https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352439697 I loved the idea of teaching students to write affirmations to one another. I can see that it would help to build a strong community and help to make each child feel like they matter to the group and that their contributions are important. I can see where it might help students to see that others are listening to them all the time so what they say matters. ]]> 2019-04-17 22:05:00 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352439697 Response To Eric (Angi) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352439911 I agree that peer evaluations can help build community. It also seems like a skill that would be valuable for a student's whole life- to look at another person's work and see the positive in it!

]]> 2019-04-17 22:07:22 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352439911 Angi Hartman https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352440106 I liked to see how students looked knowledgeably at their MAP scores and data to decide areas they need to improve on. Then they looked at their daily work or homework to see how to improve. Great to see kids taking ownership of their learning.

]]> 2019-04-17 22:09:25 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352440106 Angi Hartman https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352440225 I loved the menu planner for Math. It allows kids to have some choice in activities to practice skills while still ensuring they complete the "must do's." Which in the example were the Main Dishes. The sides were able to be chosen, and the desserts were optional. I would love to create something like this for math group independent work.

]]> 2019-04-17 22:10:55 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352440225 Responding to Eric (Angi) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352440435 I agree View does a great job of having kids collect and manage their own data. I think it would be great if we shared our data binders vertically. I am sure parents appreciate how they are unique at each grade level, but some similarities might help kids make connections to self-evaluation from year to year!]]> 2019-04-17 22:13:23 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352440435 Carrie Davis https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352451665 Flexible seating is something that I have been experimenting with through out this school year. I was very apprehensive about letting go of the "control" that having students sitting at a desk brings. Setting solid expectations (when it is allowed, locations, etc.) were key for this to be successful. As well as getting students to really think about where they best learn and it is o.k. that if their learning spot is at their desk! Overall, my students have been very successful with flexible seating and even though I have had to pack up all of my flexible seating items due to my smaller space, I still have students asking if they could work in flexible seating spots around the room.]]> 2019-04-18 00:12:30 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352451665 Carrie Davis https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352452473 This is something I want to become more skilled at for next year. My students have opportunities for peer evaluation during the writing/editing process, but I haven't taken it any farther. While working with a blended coach this year, she gave us a wonderful idea on how kindergarteners were interacting with each other through peer evaluations. She said that the students create goals for themselves each Friday for the following week. The students then meet with a peer to discuss their goals each Thursday. She said that students are more likely to be honest with each other and be more response to feedback when it comes from a peer. I think that this will help to hold each other accountable and to build stronger, more meaningful relationships.]]> 2019-04-18 00:19:23 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352452473 Carrie Davis https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352453506 I love the idea of giving students a chance once a week to choose a learning object/topic that is meaningful to them. This would also answer the problem of finding time to 1:1 conference with my students. I just have a hard to picturing what this would look like, especially in a lower elementary classroom. Would everyone get to choose something they want to explore or would it be tied to something that they are learning about already? ]]> 2019-04-18 00:27:58 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352453506 Response to Michelle (Carrie) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352454245 I too love to give my students formative assessments. It is amazing to see their growth through out the course of a unit. Analyzing the formatives really given a teacher insight into their student's understanding as well as their misconceptions. I agree, that after giving a formative, I then have to figure out what my students need, just like putting together a puzzle! It is so rewarding when, as the unit goes along, the stack of "apps" decrease as the understanding of students increase. Michelle, we have created EXIT tickets for our students, especially for math. They just have a few problems that corresponds to what was taught the previous day. They are not difficult to create at all!]]> 2019-04-18 00:34:53 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352454245 Response to Jeff (Carrie) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352455352 I do enjoy working with students in small groups as well! I feel like you can really interact with students on a deeper, more meaningful level, especially when working on skills that they need. This year I have been working on making my math groups more fluid and flexible, even at times day-to-day. It takes a little more effort and planning, but I really think it has made a huge impact on student's math understanding.]]> 2019-04-18 00:43:16 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352455352 Kerby Hill kerbyhill https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352678180 I really liked the first article, as it stated that the first week of school is crucial and that is can define how the rest of your year goes. It stressed the importance of creating connections and having students work collaboratively. If we spend the time creating those connections it will foster deeper, more critical thinking later. The two ideas I really liked were the classroom treasure hunt and the 1st day of school puzzle. The Collaborative Problem Solving article then talks about how use those skills to create student-centered learning environments. One of the biggest challenges they listed (and I agree with) are that students have to take their individual problem solving skills and then apply them to a group setting. Hopefully with a strong classroom community from the beginning of the year, that may happens a little more seamlessly. ]]> 2019-04-18 21:37:19 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352678180 Renee Levi rlevi2 https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352679145 Flexible seating is to provide choice with space and seating in the classroom. I was reminded to have the students reflect on where they are most successful. I need to look at my seating choice and add more creative seats. I am going to create the Flexible Seating Expectations anchor chart. ]]> 2019-04-18 21:48:10 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352679145 Renee Levi rlevi2 https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352679593 Peer affirmations are used by students to create affirmations about their classmates. They can write something positive about themselves first. This helps build a positive learning environment. Teach the concept of specific, honest, and written affirmations first. Students love the compliment project. ]]> 2019-04-18 21:54:05 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352679593 Kerby Hill kerbyhill https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352679709 There were two major take aways I had when reading about peer evaluation in the classroom. #1- you have to have a strong classroom community to make it beneficial. #2- You can't just expect they know how to do it. You must teach them explicitly both the WHAT and the HOW. What should they be doing? How exactly should they be doing it. Should they ask questions, highlight a rubric, use question stems. etc. Before you can have any true success with this you must teach the process. However, when it is implemented at a high level it is very effective. ]]> 2019-04-18 21:55:32 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352679709 Renee Levi rlevi2 https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352679988 Student choice is using digital learning menus, choice boards, or playlists. I learned that playlists can be very flexible and can meet the academic needs of all learners. I thought the sequencing was beneficial. I knew to gather the effective resources, but I never thought about sequencing the activities. I felt the Tic Tac Toe Board was the most effective for 4th grade. ]]> 2019-04-18 21:59:39 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352679988 Response to Kerby (Renee) rlevi2 https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352680152 I completely agree with your statements, especially number one. I did peer evaluation a lot last year and it was successful. This year I did the same activity and it completely failed. In fact, I had two students in tears. I realized I did not set them up for success. I also realized the importance of really thinking about effective partners. Great thoughts! I feel this strategy is very beneficial]]> 2019-04-18 22:01:42 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352680152 Response to Brandon (Renee) rlevi2 https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352680327 I really appreciate all your work with goal setting. I am not surprised you chose this. I feel you have this personalized learning piece mastered. I appreciate the tools you have built and shared. It is important to think about the next step goals. Maybe this is something we could collaborate and add to the current template we are using for the standards. ]]> 2019-04-18 22:04:07 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352680327 Kerby Hill kerbyhill https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352680621 These resources talked about all of the benefits in providing students with choices for their assessment types. Not only does this increase students engagement and attention, but also when they have an assessment where they must create something or construct a response it leads to learning that is longer-lasting. A couple suggestions about how to do this are a tic-tac-toe board or to build assessment into games. I think a tic-tac-toe board would be something 3rd graders could easily understand and wouldn't be too difficult to create. I like the idea of using games to assess, but I really feel like I don't have enough knowledge or resources (or time!) right now to make that effective.I think PLC collaboration time to create these alternative assessments would be very beneficial. ]]> 2019-04-18 22:08:07 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352680621 Response to Michelle (Kerby) kerbyhill https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352681027 I agree-- I also love doing them. They do not have to be difficult and can provide you a wealth of knowledge. I like knowing exactly what my students have/haven't grasped yet. More than just using for student information, they are also a self-reflection tool for my teaching. It shows me whether the approach I took was effective or not. They also help with student self-reflection and goal setting. ]]> 2019-04-18 22:14:10 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352681027 Response to Renee, Carrie & Anna (Kerby) kerbyhill https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352681313 This is also something that I am very interested in, but if I am being honest, it scares me to give up "control." Will they be focused? Are they mature enough to be successful with it? That isn't even addressing the financial issue of funding all of the seats and spots. I agree with Renee that we would have to continually have students self-reflect about whether they are being successful or not. Carrie- I would be interested in how you set up expectations throughout the year. Also-do you have arguments over spots and what ways have you found to be fair with the various seats? ]]> 2019-04-18 22:17:53 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352681313 Terri Howes https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352752012 I love to get to know my students interests but I feel like it takes longer to do this in kindergarten that when I taught other grades because you have to depend on class meetings and interactions thought the day because they can't write their answers on a survey like they can when they have more writing skills. I think one way to make this happen more quickly would be to give the parents a survey to fill out so you could find out the information on a more timely basis.]]> 2019-04-19 14:02:56 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352752012 I enjoy working with students in a small group because it is easier to CFU than it is in a large group. I move students in my group as needed but it seems that usually your struggling students seem to stay in the same small group. https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352752754 2019-04-19 14:08:24 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352752754 Mark Ganzeveld https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352753273 Peer feedback is a valuable tool that we often take for granted because we see ourselves as the master of all that is learning and correct. Yet we do not go to our curriculum leads for every question we have about our instruction, we go first to our grade level team! The only difference is that none of us, especially our students, have mastered the ability of providing appropriate and helpful feedback. It was suggested in the podcast that feedback can tend to be lazy even when given a rubric to follow. Teaching and practicing how to provide feedback regardless of skill (below, at, or above) and the language of constructive conversation for specific skills. That step in itself will certainly take some time for students to become comfortable and competent. The benefit to peer evaluation will most likely be simultaneously helping themselves because what they learn to see in other student's work then they will hopefully turn that same level of attention to their own.]]> 2019-04-19 14:12:17 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352753273 I think this is a big emphasis at view. Our day starts out with a class meeting that sets the tone for the day. It also allows us to talk about things we need to work on to be a team. I think the common language and the Promise Keeper notes helps to reinforce the importance of being a team player https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352753488 2019-04-19 14:13:43 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352753488 Mark Ganzeveld https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352754831 Self data tracking will become more and more important as we get closer to Personalized Learning within the culture of our instruction. In order for students to be able to set goals and reflect on their growth, students will need to see more data based on their own abilities. The independent practice of looking at scores, reflecting, and setting goals of future learning adjustment will be a skill that will need to be taught and practiced. We will also need to be prepared to teach the ability to internalize that want for improvement as well. The need to look at units in smaller steps will also be necessary so that they can also track the steps towards mastery of that standard as opposed to progressively shading in a score for that entire standard. This way students will be able to see smaller "wins" along the way as opposed to a 2..2..2 on their bar graph. ]]> 2019-04-19 14:23:53 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352754831 Mark Ganzeveld https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352756791 This category wasn't what I expected when I saw the heading but having had issues within my own classroom and being able to see the far future implications at the college level with the stories I hear from Mount Mercy, this topic is certainly a lifelong skill. Digital citizenship has lifelong implications because a student's footprint can now reach far beyond their classroom. Students need to not only understand the basics of taking care of technology but taking care of themselves while they are using technology. It isn't just cyberbullying but also the pictures they post, the comments they make on a gaming website, a joke they shared on Twitter, and seemingly innocent video they posted on YouTube. Teaching digital citizenship is beyond simple do's and don'ts. We need to teach our students (and our own kids) the ability to step back before clicking upload and question the implications of that action. How much will that upload cost me? My friends, my education, my job, my future?]]> 2019-04-19 14:38:47 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352756791 Response to Eric (Mark) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352758822 And having a simple binder of student interests would also help with those moments during writing when a student "Can't think of anything to write about." Or even those moments in the library when a student "Can't find a book." Having preferences handy would at least give us a little leverage to at least be able to provide a student specific push when it is needed.]]> 2019-04-19 14:52:18 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352758822 Responding to Renee (Mark) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352759276 Who doesn't like a positive affirmation? It is a skill often overlooked and might be one they don't have a strong ability to perform because they themselves do not hear them enough. This skill would also carry over to peer reflections when providing positive feedback. ]]> 2019-04-19 14:55:29 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352759276 Lindsay https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352766203 Being knowledgeable about my students' interests and giving students choice has been a major goal of mine. This stemmed from work done by the Sisters with Daily 5 and Cafe. Using student interest surveys at varying points in the school year would be a goal for myself. I use them at the beginning of the year but fail to spiral back around. In reading Reading Conferencing by Jennifer Serravallo she talks about doing different types of conferences to tune into students. She talks about varying between assessment, goal setting, compliment, research/teach, coaching and strategy conferences. These conferences will allow me to continue to grow in this area. ]]> 2019-04-19 15:36:19 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352766203 Swanny https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352767434 I love the idea of giving the google survey at the beginning of the year and having it handy to look back at throughout the year. I agree with Sarah that kids' likes change over the course of a year, especially in the younger grades. They can easily have their mind shifted by a friend. I like the idea of maybe giving the survey more than once throughout the year and being able to have discussions with students about maybe why their thoughts changed. ]]> 2019-04-19 15:44:08 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352767434 Response to Kerby (Lindsay) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352767665 It feels like you literally took the words out of my mouth. I too agree that those first weeks of school are critical it building a solid foundation for our teams. They need to learn to connect with one another, learn from one another and turn to one another for support. The learning situations that you spoke of really allow students to practice all of these skills together very early on. I would like to deepen my toolbox of strategies when it comes to collaborative problem solving within the classroom.]]> 2019-04-19 15:45:20 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352767665 Lindsay https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352768207 I absolutely love using small group instruction within all curricular areas in fourth grade. All students deserve time with me within each subject area so that the four critical questions can properly be answered. Students tend to learn better when in small groups and differentiation is much easier to reach. Tasks and learning experiences match their readiness levels and students are able to receive effective feedback in a timely manner. My teammate, Kayla, suggested using small groups for Science instruction and that has been a GAME CHANGER to ensure that all students are engaged, participating and connecting to the content.]]> 2019-04-19 15:48:12 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352768207 Swanny https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352768337 This is reassuring that we are already doing so much towards personalized learning. Working in small groups helps you build a deeper understanding of students and builds a closer relationship of trust. ]]> 2019-04-19 15:48:56 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352768337 Swanny https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352768841 Once again, I feel that View is completely on the right track. This section reminded me of all the activities we do during Olweus to build trust in each other. I loved the idea of having a scavenger hunt at the beginning of the year to have students get familiar with the room. I think it is crucial that we spend a lot of time at the beginning of the year to establish working together as a team to help build the trust and relationships. Our structure of morning meetings really aligns with team building. There were so many fun ways provided that I would like to try at the beginning of next year. I like the game "Have you ever..." and the Q and A hand. That would be fun to display so others from other classrooms could read too. ]]> 2019-04-19 15:52:12 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352768841 Lindsay https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352768964 I have really tried to use flexible seating in my classroom throughout my career and it has worked well so far. I have really loved allowing students to dig in and get comfortable as they work. Having students only sit in flexible seating options and for them to not have a homebase is a struggle for me. The logistics of it seems a bit mind boggling for me. I know that many students love having a desk and love having their materials organized, while others would be open to sitting anywhere. For a couple of years, I had dabbled in having about eight students be what is called my "pit crew" and for that seating rotation they had a basket as their "desk" and could choose to work and learn anywhere within the classroom. I really loved it and would like to try it again. I just need to purchase materials that would make for comfortable and accessible work stations. ]]> 2019-04-19 15:53:02 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352768964 Response to Sarah( Swanny https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352769773 I thought it would be fun to give the survey more than once as well. Kids at this young age often get their minds persuaded by what their friends are thinking.

]]> 2019-04-19 15:57:55 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352769773 Response to Kerby (Lindsay) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352769789 Once again you are taking the words right out of my mouth. At Cadre this is an area that I really dug into. I would love to work on peer evaluation in my classroom but what that looks like is still a mystery to me. The examples given are geared more towards middle and high school I believe and they seem to think it is something mastered in a short period of time. Thinking about how to roll it out to students effectively and then practice their evaluations and give feedback seems daunting. I do believe the work would be worth it, it is just a matter of figuring it all out.]]> 2019-04-19 15:58:01 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352769789 Response to Kerby (Swanny) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352770069 This section really resonated with me. I feel like View really is on the right track in this area. I like that we have some structured meetings but the flexibility to do what our class needs during a certain time. It is so great to be able to sit down and work out a problem as a class. I think Olweus really allows for a lot activities to build trust to strengthen a team. ]]> 2019-04-19 15:59:57 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352770069 Kayla Prull https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352770156 Peer affirmations can be done in so many different ways. This would be a great project to do multiple times throughout the year. It helps to promote classroom culture and community. ]]> 2019-04-19 16:00:30 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352770156 Amy https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352770511 I have been interested in the idea of flexible seating for a couple of years now. I have implemented several different seating options into my classroom, but haven't given up total control on when they can use them. I let flexible seating be a choice during literacy centers if students are using ipads, or during read to self, but still operate in a traditional standpoint for regular seatwork. I would like to get "brave" enough to try flexible seating during other times of the day, so we'll see what the end of the year brings!

]]> 2019-04-19 16:03:19 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352770511 Janet Youngblut https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352770601 I believe bringing student interests into my small groups this year has helped some of my students be more successful. I did a unit with my small groups called self-awareness where I had them think about their qualities, what they are good at, and what their interests are. I used this data to decide how to form some of my lessons to be of more interest to my students. Sometimes social skills instruction can be boring for students and designing lessons with a theme from their interests has seemed helpful. Like Sarah said, their interests do change throughout the year. I've had lunches with my students or just taken some group time to chat with them about "what they are into". This has helped me stay "up-to-date" on what they like and what their interests are.]]> 2019-04-19 16:03:58 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352770601 Response to Michelle (Amy) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352770830 I love your cited research for the benefits of flexible seating for students. I also want to say, you should not feel bad for your current students. They are thriving and comfortable, and in an environment that is serving them well!!! It will be interesting to explore ideas for flexible seating as a team and bounce ideas off each other!

]]> 2019-04-19 16:05:51 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352770830 Janet Youngblut https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352771160 I feel flexible seating has sometimes been a life saver in my room. With the flexible seating my room, expectations were taught and practiced, then students had a chance to try all of the possibilities. I allow students to choose where they feel they will learn the best. This has also helped in my room when a student is elevated. Having a comfy spot to relax or "hide" has helped some of my students get back in the green zone. ]]> 2019-04-19 16:08:22 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352771160 Kayla Prull https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352771325 Flexible seating is allowing students the choice of where they would like to work during independent or partner time. I think we all do a form of something like this in our classroom. Many of us have comfy spots for students to learn in. I think it's important to find a balance between this. There is a time and place. In my classroom we use comfy spots during math and reading rounds. One draw back from using flexible seating is having the budget to purchase materials. I slowly try to keep adding new and fun things each year. ]]> 2019-04-19 16:09:28 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352771325 Janet Youngblut https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352771780 Student choice is a goal of mine to implement more in my small groups. Allowing students the ability to choose "how" they will learn or what "tool" they will use to learn the concept will increase student buy-in. With as dry as some of the social skill topics can be in my small groups, finding more ways to "livin it up" will hopefully increase student retention of the skill.]]> 2019-04-19 16:12:22 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352771780 Amy https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352771793 I agree with other responses about how View is on the right track here! I love the resources we've been provided with from Responsive Classroom for energizers. Morning Meeting is a great way for all of our students to start the day as well. The idea that the first week(s) are so critical in setting classroom climate resonated with me as well. It just serves as another reminder, as well as some validation, that working hard to create that community early on, without getting heavily into academic content the first couple of days, is going to benefit the classroom culture in the long run!]]> 2019-04-19 16:12:28 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352771793 Response to Sarah (Janet) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352772297 I love how we all use common language here. There have been times this year I have gone to some of my teachers and shown them or explained to them the things I am teaching in my small groups or the language I am using and they have expanded upon my lessons in my small groups with their whole class. I feel this helps not only my students better learn the skill but also our entire student population.]]> 2019-04-19 16:15:43 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352772297 Katie https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352772538 My entire school day consists of small group instruction for literacy and math. My students learn best in this environment and need it in order to be successful and experience success. They receive more individualized instruction of specific skills with direct feedback, along with additional opportunities for practice. It also ensures they are engaged in the learning and helps build their confidence. ]]> 2019-04-19 16:17:20 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352772538 Kayla Prull https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352772562 Getting to know the students and their interest is so important to building that classroom community. One thing we do daily is something called CREW. The acronym doesn't really stand for anything. This is strategy I learned in my college experience and what we called it at the time so it has always just kinda just stuck. The name isn't really what's important it's the action behind it. At the end of the day we have a community circle. Each person rates their day 1 to 10. If they would like to share something with the class they can or they can say pass. I always make them rate their day but if they don't want to share anything else they don't have to. This is a good temperature check. It also helps me to learn more about what's going on in their lives daily. T ]]> 2019-04-19 16:17:29 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352772562 Response to Angi (Janet) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352772589 When I student taught, my host teacher had a list of affirmations her entire class said every morning after announcements. You could see the students believing in these affirmations and applying them throughout their day. ]]> 2019-04-19 16:17:37 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352772589 Response to Kerby (Amy) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352772642 YES! I agree so strongly with how critical those first few weeks are in establishing strong classroom community and culture! I read once, somewhere, (helpful source, I know!! LOL) that all the time taken at the beginning of the year to establish culture and community is paid back ten fold by not having to continually interrupt lessons to have discussions about being kind, respectful, following procedures, etc! I know we all have to do this throughout the year, as part of good teaching and general maintenance, but I believe it is minimized when we take the time to really build this from the beginning!

]]> 2019-04-19 16:17:56 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352772642 Response to Mark (KaylaO https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352774158 I think Mark brings up a good point that peer feedback is something that can make a big impact but we must first teach kids how to do this effectively. It always starts with us. We must first model to students what specific feedback look likes. Having a strong classroom culture is so important for this strategy! ]]> 2019-04-19 16:26:32 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352774158 Katie https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352774849 Giving students the opportunity to make their own choices in learning increases their motivation, which I believe increases more meaningful learning. If we empower students through choice, they take more ownership in their learning and it helps us as educators to differentiate with the instruction options that are targeted towards our learning outcomes/goals. ]]> 2019-04-19 16:31:37 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352774849 Response to Mark (Kayla) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352775063 Student tracking their data is so important especially when technology is involved. Sometimes I think we easily forget how important this piece is. Having a weekly conference with students on their data on Freckle has made a huge difference in my classroom. ]]> 2019-04-19 16:33:24 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352775063 Amy https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352775240 I love the idea of being able to do more of this, quickly, in kindergarten. I felt overwhelmed as I was reading some of the options, thinking of the time it takes just to teach tech to kinders. Then I read more about Plickers, Quick Key, Zip Grade, and Grade Cam, and was excited about the idea that I would be the one with the technology, taking out a step of management, that would be a tool for quick checks. I also think creating more of these paper/pencil with our team would be good. What resonated with me was when the gal mentioned that she asked her kids if they got it, ALL said yes, but in reality only 2 did have it. I think this happens often, and to have the actual formative data to know and guide instruction is critical for success!]]> 2019-04-19 16:34:50 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352775240 Response to Jeff (Amy) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352775739 I agree, it seems pretty natural to offer choice in kindergarten through math and literacy center activities. It would be interesting to brainstorm together as a team the idea of a playlist, for later in kindergarten as you mentioned. I know there are other classrooms that use this in first grade, which gives me the confidence that it could also be implemented in kindergarten! ]]> 2019-04-19 16:38:38 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/352775739 Response to Lindsay (Sarah) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353147932 I love how you mention that each student "deserves time with you" in each content area. The 4 critical questions are so much easier to be clear on if you have that time with each student. I hope to give small groups a try with science and social studies like you mentioned. Great idea! ]]> 2019-04-22 18:34:59 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353147932 Jen N https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353207760 Not surprising that I picked team building to start my reflecting:) I love how the staff at View really takes the SEL component of class meetings seriously. That is one of the reasons our relationships with students are so strong. Taking time to play and do the beginning of the year team building activities is essential. It will set the tone for the year. Coming back and revisiting one of these or teaching anew energizer or game builds a deeper trust within the room. It is absolutely essential that students not only trust us but bond and trust each other. Doing these activities year after year gives the student more connections with peers. We never want our kiddos to feel alone or disconnected. Social media is sneaking into the elementary so we have to build these kids up even stronger.]]> 2019-04-23 00:23:36 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353207760 Response to Sarah and Jeff (Jen) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353208640 I love the idea of having students reflect on how they worked with each other. It makes me think of a simple three point scale developed together with the students. When they are done with a partner activity they give themselves a score for how they think they did. Holding up the number of fingers they give themselves and then discussing what they could try to improve next time. It could turn into a behavior over time graph:)

]]> 2019-04-23 00:30:35 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353208640 Jen https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353211008 I love this! Just like our staff shout outs. Teaching students to notice things about each other. Just like bucket filling or when we had a student run post office. I know I teach this briefly but I would love for it to be more wide spread and honest. I also love having them write affirmations to themselves first. This would lead into being able to identify their strengths and weaknesses and setting goals.

]]> 2019-04-23 00:43:33 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353211008 Jen N. https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353212929 I thought the 35 questions for student reflection were interesting. What if they were used as a closing circle for the day? Choose a question that matches one of the topics you covered and have students make connections to how they could improve, do differently, use this in different areas like home, or how they could use to help others. I also find myself and hear others talking with students about choices they have made and having them reflect on how they could handle thing differently the next time or what would happen if everyone did that?]]> 2019-04-23 00:56:54 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353212929 Response to all on this chain (Jen) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353213498 I enjoyed hearing about all of your ideas that are going on in the classroom. I appreciate coming into rooms where the students know the expectations for the seating. I also appreciate when the teachers notice that students may be taking advantage of my lack of knowledge of those expectations:) It would be interesting to list all of our flexible seating ideas and brainstorm some solutions to the funding issue. Thanks for all you do to make your classrooms so flexible and welcoming!!

]]> 2019-04-23 01:00:52 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353213498 Jeremy https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353549423 I was really intrigued by the examples provided on the first link: Fantastic, Fast Formative Assessment. I thought the teachers example of students claiming to understand the material only to find out that only two of the students could really find the answer was very relatable. I found the technology examples to be something that I really want to try out with some of my groups. I think the idea of having students answer questions and having the answers recorded for me would be really beneficial. I try to keep notes and track of things but sometimes groups move fast so having records kept digitally would be really beneficial.]]> 2019-04-23 21:25:26 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353549423 Jeremy https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353550834 I think this is something that makes the process of learning visible for students. The importance of not just tracking their own data but the conversations that they have with teachers about their progress. Research shows two of the most important factors in increasing motivation for student learning is being sure that students are capable of completing the task and that they see the task as something that is valued. If you are keeping track of the students data, conferencing with the students, and sharing data with their families students will know that their work is being valued.]]> 2019-04-23 21:32:49 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353550834 Jeremy https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353552549 I think reflection and self assessment ties closely to student performance data tracking. If students are able to track their performance the next step is to reflect on the data. This video showed students really taking ownership of the learning the needed to do to strengthen their weaknesses. It was really impressive to hear students say "This is something I didn't even realize I was bad at. Now, I know I need to really focus on this area to improve."]]> 2019-04-23 21:42:56 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353552549 Response to Katie (Jeremy) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353553741 My day is also made up entirely of small groups and I think it is the best setting for many of the reasons that you stated. I am wondering how you handle keeping groups fluid? This was a common concern among classroom teachers and I share the same concern. I feel like special education would be even more challenging to create a group structure that does not feel static.]]> 2019-04-23 21:50:25 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353553741 Response to Kerby (Jeremy) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353554649 I agree that this type of assessment seems to be so engaging and would "stick" with students longer. It seems like it would be a valuable use of PLC or TQ time to create these types of assessments for future use.]]> 2019-04-23 21:57:13 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353554649 Lori Brendes https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353555637 I thought the closing reflection categories of Relationship/Collaboration, Community & Citizenship, Academic Performance and Future Goal Setting would tie nicely into PE. We are always talking about Sportsmanship which are the first two categories, we reflect on our learning which is the Academic piece and ways we can use our learning as we grow and develop.]]> 2019-04-23 22:04:13 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353555637 Response to Jen N. (Lori) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353556398 I like your idea of a closing circle for the day. I do that in PE more at the beginning of the year. Once we get in the swing of things I do less of that but should do more. I think it is good for kids to be reflecting on choices and how they can do something differently to better themselves and help others.]]> 2019-04-23 22:09:25 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353556398 Lori Brendes https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353557330 I think Peer Evaluations are difficult for kids at this age level. That might be why the examples under this heading were geared toward older students.
Kids need to have time to practice the how and what of evaluating their peers. In PE, I have used Peer Evaluations with a rubric so they know what to look for. This works pretty well, but again takes practice. At our level, kids are learning the skills so I don't think they are strong enough to evaluate the new skill in someone else, unless it is clearly spelled out what they are to evaluate and how.]]> 2019-04-23 22:15:46 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353557330 Response to Kirby (Lori) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353558055 I think you are correct about Peer Evaluation being tough to do at this level, but not impossible. Kids need to have time to practice and learn how to evaluate a peer's work. Once we have given them time and the tools to evaluate someone's work they will become successful at the process which will lead to higher level learning.]]> 2019-04-23 22:21:49 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353558055 Lori Brendes https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353559839 I loved the Peer Affirmation examples. The mailbox idea and the written affirmations on the board were very cool! I could see this working in the upper elementary classrooms. I liked the idea of having students write affirmations to themselves first then to other students. I think kids need to know what others see and think about them. What a positive way to share with others.]]> 2019-04-23 22:38:57 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353559839 Response to Katie (Lori) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353561046 I agree with you that giving students choices motivates learning and empowers students. PE lends itself to student choice with differentiating equipment and levels of learning. On station days kids are motivated to use the equipment that it out anyway they want. They are learning from these stations but they think they are having a FREE DAY!]]> 2019-04-23 22:47:45 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353561046 Response to Lindsay (Kerri) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353929956 I have seen how you use flexible seating in your classroom. You have gotten inventive and cost-efficient with some of your choices. I love the seats with no legs. Very creative! And cheap. Where there's a will, there's a way. I also like your point about having a home-base for each student. A blend of both is a win-win. ]]> 2019-04-24 21:51:03 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353929956 Kerri Leu https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353930285 Flexible seating reminds me of the brain-based learning educators were doing about 20 years ago. There's a lot of aspects to personalized learning that reminds me of TRIBES and Brain-based learning. I love what the author said in the first article-"I learn best when I'm comfortable and my kids do too." Makes sense!]]> 2019-04-24 21:53:09 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353930285 Response to Jen(Kerri) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353932449 I agree Jen! It doesn't matter how young or old you are, human beings need affirmation. I feel we do a good job of role-modeling this at View. We can make it more wide spread though. ]]> 2019-04-24 22:06:24 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353932449 Kerri Leu https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353932606 Have to admit, I got a little teary-eyed watching the Spread the Love Project video by the middle school. I used to teach middle school and I forgot how odd an awkward that age is. Some boys are super short, some girls are way tall, and they're all developing at different rates. What a great way to bring them all together. The teacher recommended this be done later in the year when the students have gotten to know each other better. I think that's a good idea. Very powerful. ]]> 2019-04-24 22:07:24 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353932606 Kerri https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353933648 The link, 15 Ways to Become Culturally Responsive sums up personalized learning and helped me truly see the difference with it and differentiated instruction. This article efficiently illustrates good teaching and ways educators can reach all students. One simple example was making assessment less scary for students by allowing them different ways to demonstrate the skills learned. I realize this may not be possible for all assessments, but it's comforting to know this type of option can be made available to students. Especially those students who learn in non-traditional ways. ]]> 2019-04-24 22:14:40 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353933648 Anne https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353951007 I have always felt like my job is amazing because I get to incorporate all types of things into the classroom (music, art, PE, writing, games, videos, math, reading, etc.). The toughest material to find would be videos that are of interest to the students. Many of the multi-media videos are geared for the super-primary (Dora/Sesame Street), secondary (lecture type), or Hollywood (Coco/Book of life - too long). Taking an interest-survey seems overwhelming for the amount of students that I see. Perhaps doing one class per grade level would give me a large enough sample. ???? ]]> 2019-04-25 00:25:40 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353951007 Anne https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353953314 Flexible seating is something that I have wanted to incorporate into my room for several years but struggle with the consistency in it. I understand the research behind it, my daughter has had it in her classroom and it's been wildly successful, my son struggles to sit in a desk with his long frame...I get it. My struggle is seeing them once a week and truly feeling like they are using time wisely. I've tried free seating before with explicit expectations, but still seem to falter. Perhaps I'm not giving them enough time to adjust before throwing in the towel. I will continue to allow students to do their activities (group work/games) on the floor or at a table (their choice).]]> 2019-04-25 00:38:14 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353953314 Anne https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353954905 I love the peer affirmations! One of my first years here was about filling buckets or Be a Bucket Filler. Students wrote out notes and stuck it in student mailboxes. I think 1st grade still does this! One thing that I always try to do when we do group activities in class is to publicly congratulate the "winning" team with a short Spanish phrase (¡Felicidades!) and to thank their own team members (Gracias or Buen Trabajo) for being a part of their group. ]]> 2019-04-25 00:48:16 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353954905 Response to Anna (Anne) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353955788 I love the growth-mindset connection! It is so important for the students (or anyone) to circle back to reflect on how they did on something. If they did not reach their goal (yet...) it is still attainable!]]> 2019-04-25 00:53:28 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353955788 Response to Angi (Anne) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353956326 Maybe I'm late to the game, but the 'must-do' and 'can-do's are awesome. Students are able to incorporate their own choice in learning while still incorporating the essentials. I've tried choice boards or menus before and haven't fell in love with them, but must-do/can-do is a nice compromise. :)]]> 2019-04-25 00:56:41 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353956326 Krista https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353970110 Looking through the ELL lens, I can identify with how important Culturally Responsive Teaching is. As our population continues to change, it is important for us to have a positive attitude, provide for different learning styles in our teaching, and get to know our students. By gaining an awareness of other cultures, we can empower all students to be successful.]]> 2019-04-25 02:20:27 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353970110 Krista https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353971230 I am constantly giving my students in ELL formative assessments. It is so important for me to know where they are in their English proficiency and what we need to work on next. I do a lot different types of formative assessments, depending on the topic and the domain in which I am assessing. I liked the idea of the digital assessment tools. I do not use technology a lot in my room as we are so limited on time, but this is one area in which I would like to try to use more often.]]> 2019-04-25 02:27:25 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353971230 Krista https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353971777 This year I have developed a data binder for my newcomer students that allows me to assess students in the skills that newcomers need to be successful in basic communication skills. I designed it so that all information can be kept in one place and can track the growth of each student over time. This category made me think of ways that I can empower my students and have them buy in to the learning by encouraging them to make individual goals and show their own progress over time.]]> 2019-04-25 02:31:16 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353971777 Response to Kayla (Krista) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353972877 Kayla, you are very aware of your students and their needs. I like how you take the time to talk to them to learn more about them. It may take time, but it is so important. What a great idea at the close of the day to get students feelings of how their day went. Obviously, if they do not want to share, but you see a pattern, knowing you, you probably take the time to pull them privately to check on how things are going.]]> 2019-04-25 02:39:12 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353972877 Response to Jeff and Amy (Krista) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353973484 I can't wait to see what your team comes up with as I know you will be successful when you try giving students more choice. I think it will be fun to see how you adapt it at the kindergarten level.]]> 2019-04-25 02:42:26 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/353973484 Responding to Angi and Jeremy (Renae) rmasbruch https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354306802 I loved that students are choosing pieces of work they think shows their understanding of the standards. I agree that watching them compare their MAP scores to classroom work seemed so powerful. These kids seemed completely okay with not understanding something and needing to move towards understanding. I can see where the teacher says they are working on getting the students to "invest in the work themselves." ]]> 2019-04-25 23:56:50 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354306802 Renae rmasbruch https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354308844 The blog about CRT was fantastic. I appreciated this: "culturally responsive teaching is less about using racial pride as a motivator and more about mimicking students’ cultural learning styles and tools." Spoiler alert: her 3 tips are GAMIFY, MAKE IT SOCIAL, and STORIFY IT. When I reflect on classrooms/teacher from which I learned the most and enjoyed the most that had these parts. I loved her point that the "brain is wired for stories," and that "every culture has creation stories." Culturally responsive teaching doesn't have to mention race at all, it does need to mimic students' own cultural learning tools and it shouldn't be random, it should be intentionally placed and daily.

]]> 2019-04-26 00:09:16 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354308844 Mike mikehansen1 https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354333762 Reading through the team building information made me reflect on how good practices in education always circle back around. This is no different. In 1991 as I was finishing student teaching, I participated in a two week seminar about collaborative learning and how to establish it in your classroom. In 2002, I was hired as counselor at Nixon Elementary in Cedar Rapids. All new employees at that time went through a 3-4 day training on TRIBES. TRIBES was a framework for teachers to use in their classroom where students were arranged in Tribes (groups of 4-5 students sitting together) and the focus was on these tribes building culture to work collaboratively with their learning and responsibilities throughout the day. ]]> 2019-04-26 02:48:45 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354333762 Steph https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354613950 I chose to investigate Team Building because I believe it is such an essential part of a successful classroom. Unless the students feel safe and cared for by each other they are unlikely to take risks to share and be vulnerable in learning. I think if team building is the focus at the beginning of the year it will pay off later! I really liked the ideas for team building- the puzzle piece is almost like an anchor chart to refer back to during the year as a reminder of the importance of teamwork. I believe this is an integral part of the culture here at View with morning meetings and common expectations through the grade levels. I was unable to see the social contract as it came up as an error (not user error:))! I would be interested on what it said! ]]> 2019-04-26 22:15:42 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354613950 Steph https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354614852 Flexible seating is something I have been interested in for awhile. I think about how I am sitting here with my feet up on a chair as I write this. Part of my concern is having them truly know how they work best to be productive, when it is very tempting to sit next to a best friend. I really need to be more of a North and go for it as I think it is so valuable. There is also an economic piece that is definitely involved. I also need to remind myself not to "throw the baby out with the bathwater" and take it slow and gradually add pieces in and evaluate how it is. I think having the structure of desks at times is still important for organization and my own sanity. I really appreciated the anchor charts as a reminder of how important expectations are to teach. ]]> 2019-04-26 22:26:10 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354614852 Steph https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354615713 I love the idea of student choice on many levels. It provides the students a sense of control over their learning and improve student engagement. I would love to incorporate it somehow in the literacy block as some students don't have the stamina to read for as others and a choice board would give them options. I appreciated the playlist building 101 article.]]> 2019-04-26 22:37:43 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354615713 Response to Mike- Steph https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354616537 I also made the connection to TRIBES and were trained about the same time. It was a commitment and sometimes I wonder if it got lost with the focus on standards and the push to get through certain things. i also believe if a district doesn't continue to make it a priority for new employees it cannot be sustained. Having team mates explain what they know is not the same as the expert training. The underlying understanding and buy in can be lost.]]> 2019-04-26 22:48:18 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354616537 Response to Lindsay and Amy - Steph https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354616988 It is good to read that you still have a home base. I read articles where the entire classroom is flexible and and I think I need to remember it isn't black and white but there is gray area. I admire that you guys have the Just do it attitude and adjust as needed- it's the way to make things happen:)!]]> 2019-04-26 22:54:16 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354616988 Response to Anna- Steph https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354617379 I could have copied and pasted your post:)! It is a matter of me just trying to get it going and not over thinking it! I do believe having the structure at the beginning of the year would be helpful so your not needing to reteach a routine in the middle of the year. I also think once a template is made, it would be a matter of changing some of the options but keeping them similar to keep it simple for them.]]> 2019-04-26 23:00:01 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354617379 Jenny https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354694182 After looking at the different tech tools to use to give formatives, it overwhelmed me, as there were so many and tech isn't my strongest asset. I also realized that my current method is paper and pencil but my recording method isn't as strong as I would like it to be. So how can I combine some tech with my paper and pencil to be more efficient? As I read through multiple articles in this section and the others, I decided that I would stick with my current methods; Seesaw and paper pencil. I will work to utilize more of the options in Seesaw to allow kids to showcase their learning with the tech and then I will probably still use my grade book to record the data. I also need to organize the standards in a way that I can see if the students reached the target goal and then spiral back later to see if that they still have that goal mastered and again, that can be through Seesaw for checking. ]]> 2019-04-27 17:45:10 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354694182 Jenny https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354695065 After looking at the student choice options I realized that much of it was set up with technology or seemed like it was geared more towards upper elementary and secondary and the technology did not inspire me at all but something else did. My team, Renae, Mike and I visited another school this past week and watched a classroom using blended/personalized learning and I spent an hour in a math classroom, watching students use choice boards. This did inspire me and allowed me to see how that could be used in my classroom and allow kids some choice in what they chose to do to meet a goal or standard. I was able to see the teacher pull small groups during this choice time to work with students on skills they were ready for or had not mastered yet. I also know that all of these choices would have to be taught and then with some means of accountability that the work was being completed or done correctly so that students weren't learning the skills wrong. So working towards some form of choice boards for learning maybe this year yet, but for sure next year is my choice of learning. :)]]> 2019-04-27 17:55:17 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354695065 Jenny https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354696107 I love that time of the year when I can see first graders actually focus on their learning and not their neighbors learning. To see them no longer need to borrow from a neighbor or change their answer because they think their neighbors answer is correct and theirs is not is such a good feeling. " I know we are not supposed to judge/grade on feelings--but they are so telling at times. In this section after looking through the articles, templates technology etc., I came back to our data binders that we currently use in our classrooms as a means of continuing reflection and assessment but with technology tied in. As I stated in an earlier post, I am committing myself---no not to a mental institution, but some days feel like I should, to utilizing the Seesaw program more effectively in my classroom and maybe even sharing posts with parents in a partnership sort of way. We talk so much about, "if only parents could." What if parents were seeing the work their students were doing, and could not only reflect but see where their students were exceeding or struggling or with skills, concepts and standards and together we worked to achieve or exceed those goals. This section was as much about learning about reflection/self assessment as it was for my personal reflection and how to make both of these stronger for my students. Can I see the big picture yet? No, it is still partly cloudy, but not completely overcast. ]]> 2019-04-27 18:06:28 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354696107 Response to Sarah (Jenny) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354697638 I didn't reflect on Student Interests, but was intrigued by learning more at the beginning of the year to understand them a bit better. I do a letter with parents, but maybe as a team we could create an online survey that both parent and student could share their answers to some of the questions you read in this article and so did I. I get great information from my parents but then the year starts and we get busy and it seems like there isn't the time to sit with each child and learn more about them without having to end our conversations. Questions that popped into my head when I looked at the survey were, what type of environment do you learn best in, what is the most comfortable seating for you, what are your interests, do you have pets, what things make you nervous, embarrassed and many other questions. ]]> 2019-04-27 18:23:22 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354697638 Response to Jen N. (Jenny) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354698388 All of the reflections inspired me to go and check out closing reflection but my lack of technology, prevented me from being able to access the 35 questions. The thought of a closing circle; yes I know I struggle with getting my class to the lockers on time, but I still think it would be good to end the day on a positive note and instead of just me reflecting with one or two students who maybe didn't make the best choices, the whole class would have the opportunity to share things they thought they did well or need to work on. This would also allow me to understand what some of my quiet, most always doing their job students might have to reflect about themselves. Feel free to let me know how to access the 35 questions and maybe it was just having to open an account, which I didn't do as I thought all the articles were available to us.]]> 2019-04-27 18:32:52 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354698388 Jenna Glanz https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354782495 Student interests is a fun one but teaching 6 years olds means those interests can change daily, weekly and monthly! One day they may prefer a quiet learning area where if they were given that same question again in a week or month, they may say the opposite. I think student interests are great to have on file and to know about each of your student but it's also an area to go back and revisit. I send out a family/student survey in the spring and I wonder if I should send it out in the fall and winter as well. I felt that I found out a lot of information from that survey as parents were involving their students in filling it out, which was great! ]]> 2019-04-28 15:50:24 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354782495 Response to Terri (Jenna) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354783097 I felt similar to how you do about student surveys as students enter 1st grade with a variety of skills at a variety of levels. I think a family survey is a great idea as I do one in the spring, but am considering sending one out in the fall and winter too. I think the one sent in the fall would need to be at the right time-not too early in the school year, as families are overloaded with requests at that point of the year and still trying to get into the groove of school, but also not too late.]]> 2019-04-28 15:56:02 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354783097 Jenna Glanz https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354783470 Small groups are clearly something we all know and do on the daily. There are so many benefits to small groups in the various subject areas. I think the small groups really give us as educators a chance to have a little one on one time (even in a small group) to get to know the students better, understand their mistakes, etc. I cannot imagine not having small groups as part of my daily routine. I would be very interested in knowing students' opinions on small groups!]]> 2019-04-28 15:58:53 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354783470 Response to Lindsay (Jenna) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354783716 I would love to know what small groups look like in science for 4th grade! I find it tougher to have small groups in science and social studies as our time frame doesn't always work for a lesson, experiment, recording and small groups. I know it would tell me more as an educator about my students' learning and understanding of science topics if I had small groups, even if it was only a few times a week! ]]> 2019-04-28 16:01:01 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354783716 Jenna Glanz https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354784000 Flexible seating has always caught my attention on Instagram/Facebook teacher accounts that I follow. I struggle with "letting go of control," when it comes to flexible seating. I realize and have read the benefits of flexible seating and most recently saw it in a classroom at CPU and it was amazing to see some students using their chairs as "normal," and peers that were simply standing and that was literally the only difference between the 2 students. Both were working, both were focused, both were doing their job, one was able to do it successfully by sitting and the other standing. I do have some flexible seating in my classroom but I am not a 100% flexible seating classroom YET! ]]> 2019-04-28 16:03:24 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354784000 Kim Rakers https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354982224 Building relationships is key to starting the year as well as maintaining strong relationships throughout the year. Although I have done different activities to get to know my students at the beginning of the year, I have not given my students interest inventories for a long time. I would like to do this next fall to find out the types of books and topics they like to read about. Knowing about things they like can also help me as I assign writing topics.]]> 2019-04-29 12:50:51 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354982224 Kim Rakers https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354982796 I like the idea of closing reflections to help students reflect on the first week of school. This can give me more information about what students like so far, what they would like to learn more about, and it can also give me more info on where they are socially and emotionally. As stated in the articles self reflection builds student ownership.]]> 2019-04-29 12:51:51 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354982796 Kim Rakers https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354983219 I like the idea of students creating a visual profile about how they learn best and what they are good at. Creating academic preference profiles at the beginning of the year will also aid in supporting relationships as I can get to know my students and their interests more quickly. The display will also help students connect with each other as they can see others who like the same things they do.]]> 2019-04-29 12:52:42 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/354983219 Response to Jen- Kim https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/355238316 I totally agree Jen with your post. Team building is essential to help develop relationships in class. Kids cannot feel safe to share, make mistakes, or get to know one another unless they feel the comfort of their classmates, teacher, and surroundings. I agree it's important to step away from technology and interact face to face, solve problems, and have fun with each other.]]> 2019-04-29 23:38:45 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/355238316 Response to Krista- Kim https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/355239760 I agree students tracking their own data is important. We use data binders for a variety of assessments in our grade. Students graph their own data and get really excited to track their progress and see how they have improved and grown. ]]> 2019-04-29 23:45:35 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/355239760 Shalyn Huerter https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/355644486 I am interested in flexible seating for the library and would like to learn more about how other elementary libraries offer different choices in seating. When I survey the 3rd and 4th graders each year, they always mention the hard library chairs and although students are not seated too long, I would like to explore some other ideas. The comfy chair area is appealing to a lot of kids for read to self in the library but I need to think about how flexible seating could be used during lessons as well. I liked the part about having kids reflect on where they do their best learning and could see that being very valuable.]]> 2019-04-30 22:18:20 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/355644486 Shalyn Huerter https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/355644747 The section on goal setting made me think about some of my third grade lessons that revolve around good reading habits. Third graders choose a reading habit that they want to improve on throughout the year. They rate themselves and then set a goal and come up with a plan to achieve it. I feel like the lesson on developing a plan could be stronger and more meaningful to students. Watching the WOOP video made me realize that having kids identify an obstacle and then a plan to overcome it, might be helpful to some students.]]> 2019-04-30 22:19:42 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/355644747 Response to Renee (Shalyn) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/355989988 I like that you are creating a Flexible Seating expectations chart and I feel like it would be valuable to do right away so kids know what the expectations are. When I introduce the comfy reading area in the library, I go through the expectations but don't have them specifically written out. I feel like that would be helpful for me so that I could revisit it throughout the year, like after breaks or whenever it seems necessary.

]]> 2019-05-01 21:56:49 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/355989988 Response to Swanny (Sha) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/355990254 I feel like our building does have a lot of supports in place to help make small groups possible throughout the day. View should be proud of how well we support kids where they are at. I like how you commented about building trust and relationships within those small groups, thinking of the whole child and not just the academic skill.

]]> 2019-05-01 21:58:32 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/355990254 Katie https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/356763609 Team building is crucial in any classroom. The most important lesson students can learn from working together as a team is how to effectively communicate with other. Their social skills are useful in every situation and will help them succeed later in life no matter what career path they take. Team building allows students to work together in social situations and they learn to control their impulses, empathize with others and manage their behaviors. I also believe it help student’s build their self confidence by knowing their words are valued and respected. ]]> 2019-05-03 21:10:56 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/356763609 Response to Sarah- Katie https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/356763861 I agree with you that it is tough to always keep up with student interests. I find eating lunch, talking and really listening to their responses is very helpful during that initial getting to know you period of a new school year. It for sure is a powerful way to establish that student / teacher relationship by building trust. It’s important for us as teachers to learn as much as we can about our students as quickly as possible to start that positive relationship. ]]> 2019-05-03 21:12:42 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/356763861 Reponse to Kim- Katie https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/356764078 I agree that having students create profiles about how they learn best and their strengths would be a great tool for teachers to build relationships. This quick insight into our students gives us an opportunity to set them up for success and make their path to learning a positive one. ]]> 2019-05-03 21:14:12 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/356764078 Lesley Panos I start each year with a student interest survey and mini project. The survey is geared toward what materials they like to use in art and what they hope to learn about or projects they hope to do. After reviewing the survey's, I am able to review and edit my lessons to incorporate these materials or subjects. It is hard to do an actual survey at the kindergarten level. I usually do a brainstorm with them the first day of art and then also in December and March. https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357421139 2019-05-07 00:01:24 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357421139 Response to Anne (Lesley) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357423195 I struggled with the number of students we have as well regarding surveys. In the past I tried to do a survey for each student and it was really overwhelming. Now I give each table a survey to fill out together so I only have 5 surveys per class to look at. That is much more manageable for me and it gives the kids a chance to have some good conversations. ]]> 2019-05-07 00:12:21 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357423195 Lesley Panos I am slowly incorporating some flexible seating. The 3 cozy chairs I am "storing" in the art room while construction is going on was the perfect place to start this year. I have those and then one small desk and one larger desk. I also have a few places in the art room that kids can work on the floor. I also have a lot of kids that like to stand up and work. Cost is always a factor and safety can be a concern as well. I have seen kids trip on other kids who are working on the floor and that always makes me nervous. My flexible seating is more flexible in where you are working not so much what you are sitting in. https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357424614 2019-05-07 00:19:43 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357424614 Response to Jenna (Lesley) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357425748 I also have trouble giving up control in my classroom. There are many benefits to having flexible seating but I can't seem to get the "what if's" out of my mind. I have always allowed kids to sit or stand but they are still at their table and I still have control. I am going to try to slowly give up more control and add more flexible seating. We can do it together! ]]> 2019-05-07 00:26:12 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357425748 Lesley Panos I would like to try to incorporate a menu planner for some art lessons. I try to give my students as many choices as I can but sometimes the subject of the art project is the same for everyone. I think the kids would love to have a menu to look at to plan their art after I assign a project. https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357427393 2019-05-07 00:35:14 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357427393 Response to Angi and Anne (Lesley) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357427925 I also like the idea of "must do's/can do's". I think on my menu planner I will put a list of what each project must have and also a list of what they could add if they would like to. That way they have more choice but don't lose sight of the expectations of each project. I may try to have each class brainstorm idea's to put on the "can do" side to help each other get their creative juices flowing!]]> 2019-05-07 00:38:15 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357427925 Megan Dyrland https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357877119 In the Three Tips to CRT, I literally laughed out loud when I read, “I am not going to be rappin’ about the periodic tables”. I thought it was a great idea…LOL. I love how it talks about how the primary way of transferring knowledge is oral and active and how using that memory system to transfer that information makes their knowledge USABLE. I feel that this is something I am able to do in my classroom every day. It is very natural in a music setting as was mentioned in the article of why we know our ABC’s—it’s rhythmic AND melodic—our brain remembers it because using those two strategies becomes part of our memory system. There is so much good brain research about music and the brain and how closely they work together to create and impact fluency, memory, behavior, etc. Her ideas of gamify, make is social and storify are such great ways to organize differentiated lessons and activities. I feel like this is something I’ve been doing, now I know what to call them! ]]> 2019-05-08 01:39:27 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357877119 Megan Dyrland https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357877331 The Compliments Project=AMAZING!

I like how it was mentioned that after she started, she noticed that students started to reach out to her more—maybe because they trusted her more? It shows how this had an impact on her students and how she fostered the positive relationships with her students at a much deeper level. In a world of social media, this is definitely an activity that had a genuine impact on students. I can see this working well with the older grade levels, and even with the younger grade levels with a little more guidance. I also like how she suggests the teacher sits in the hot seat and how it “will make your day”.

]]> 2019-05-08 01:40:27 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357877331 Megan Dyrland https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357877465 Formative assessment is such a natural process in a performance based class. I am able to observe their learning on the spot—all the time.

I like how it was mentioned in the article how she had asked her class if they all had it and then she comes to find out only TWO really had a solid understanding. AH! This always something in the back of my head—are they REALLY getting it. Right now my main forms of formative assessment are exit tickets, small group or solo performing/playing/singing. I’m really interested in trying PLICKER!

]]> 2019-05-08 01:41:08 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357877465 Response to Angi, Anne, Lesley. (Megan) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357877765 I have actually tried the menu planner in my classroom for both melody and rhythmic concepts. This was part of my masters program for differentiated learning. I absolutely loved it and so did the kids. It not only allowed them to choose their side dishes and dessert (which they loved) but it also let them work at a pace that was appropriate for them as well as the appropriate challenge level. My only downfall with it was that it took FOREVER to complete. I can see this being incredibly effective in a core classroom, but it took me several weeks in music (only seeing them once a week) for students to get through the menu choices. Still trying to figure out a good way to do it because the kids really liked it! ]]> 2019-05-08 01:42:32 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357877765 Response to Anne (Megan) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357878865 I have a lot of the same feelings as you. I think flexible seating is such a great idea until I stop and think about how many transitions we make and how much we move in the music room. I have toyed around with the idea of using it for 3rd and 4th grade as they do a little more paper--pencil type work--I just need to really think through what that might look like. I might see if I can't find some resources online to see if any other music teachers have used this in their classroom. Maybe we can brainstorm and see what we could come up with that would work?!?!]]> 2019-05-08 01:48:31 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/357878865 Julie Zastrow https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/358249108 I really loved the resources and feel that View is on the right path with team building. Having that focus within community circle time is such an important part of building that team feel in the classroom. I notice even in my small groups that students are more able to communicate their feelings of empathy and reasoning regarding, no matter if it's within the storyline of a book we're reading or if its about a personal situation. Students are able to share and discuss if they feel more connected to each other. We try to do team building in our groups at the start of the year. I feel the real power in the activities, as fun as they seem, are actually in the debrief/reflection. ]]> 2019-05-08 21:07:20 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/358249108 Response to Kat https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/358251234 2019-05-08 21:16:46 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/358251234 Response to Katie (Julie) https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/358251241 Katie I'm in the same boat as you with small group instruction. I can't imagine trying to do this job embedded in the classroom. My kids, too, learn well in this environment. Sometimes they say things in our small group that they would never say in a larger group. Gifted kids can have some pretty unique emotional needs and I feel I can have some more personal conversations in our little groups than I could have in a larger group. Right now we're trying to work through some nerves about moving buildings and some specific strategies to help with this change.

]]> 2019-05-08 21:16:47 UTC https://padlet.com/mikehansen1/n9i554d3053g/wish/358251241