Saturday, April 25, 2015

Blog Post #5 Part 2




                                                     My Personal Learning Network
https://www.google.com/search?q=personal+learning+network&espv=2&biw=1440&bih=733&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=tE88VYbcEsKwggSUpYHoDw&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ#imgrc=bGAN05gmKDvQrM%253A%3B8A8Uv-6N7-3k0M%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fcorwin-connect.com%252Fwp-content%252Fuploads%252F2014%252F10%252F491323049.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fcorwin-connect.com%252F2014%252F10%252Fbecoming-connected-educator-saved-teaching-career%252F%3B2086%3B1440
At the beginning of the semester back in January, there wasn't much to my personal learning network(PLN).  EDM310 has helped my PLN grow substantially.  Once I started leaving comments for teachers, it opened my eyes to how much useful information and advice that is out there to be shared by other educators. I have all of my teachers’ links saved that I commented on so I can go back and check whats’s new. I have subscribed to a few educators from recent EDM blog post assignments, such as Paul Anderson. Another tool I added to my PLN is twitter.  I had never been on twitter before this class, but I now have an account and follow educators, mainly educators at USA.  I have not only added my educators to my PLN, but also the friends I have made in EDM310 that have helped me so much along the way.  Edutopia is another useful resource that is a part of my PLN.  I will continue adding resources to my PLN to help me on my path as a successful teacher.  I have already received useful advice from branching out with other educators and future educators.  I hope to show my students the steps to building their own PLN. I hope to use the collaboration portion of it as a method of teaching.  EDM310 has showed me how to start my PLN and I have much more insight on certain topics.  I hope to use this tool to ultimately enhance my learning experiences. 






Monday, April 20, 2015

C4K April Summary

C4k#8
https://www.google.com/search?q=restaurants&espv=2&biw=1440&bih=689&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=g741Vby3A4bfoAT3_oG4BQ&ved=0CAkQ_AUoBA#tbm=isch&q=restaurants+clipart&revid=1407318157&imgrc=esyE8SLmLpvzQM%253A%3Bjd9HM6568Z-UCM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fdir.coolclips.com%252FIndustry%252FTrades%252FHospitality_Trades%252FFood_Distribution_and_Preparation%252FRestaurant_Settings%252FRestaurant_scenes%252Foutdoor_cafe_CoolClips_arch0395.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fdir.coolclips.com%252FIndustry%252FTrades%252FHospitality_Trades%252FFood_Distribution_and_Preparation%252FRestaurant_Settings%252FRestaurant_scenes%252Foutdoor_cafe_arch0395.html%3B339%3B383
My first comment for kids this month was on Mrs. Lombard's Awesome 7th Graders blog. I was assigned Levi’s blog, in which he described what he would do if he started his own business.  His blog was well written and Levi went into detail about how his business would be an awesome restaurant.  My comment for Levi is below.

Hi Levi! 
I really enjoyed reading about what your business would be like. It sounds like a really cool place to go hangout with friends. Your writing skills are excellent. Great post!!


C4K#9
https://www.google.com/search?q=bucket+list&espv=2&biw=1440&bih=689&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=8r41Va-uGJfnoAT-2YHgBQ&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ#imgrc=Pzia8K1GdyB-rM%253A%3BP4ChRAqyxrNTxM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.thecedarsoftownandcountry.com%252Fwp-content%252Fuploads%252F2014%252F02%252Fimg_04391.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.thecedarsoftownandcountry.com%252Fwhats-bucket-list%252F%3B696%3B692 Londyn’s post was called “Bucket List.” In this post she described where she sees herself 5 years from now, 10 years from now, and for life! Londyn wants to have new friends and be in a great relationship. She also wants to have a business and a “happy and good life.” 
My comment for Londyn is below.

Hi Londyn! My name is Erika, and I’m a student at the University of South Alabama. I really enjoyed reading your bucket list. Those are great things to want to do in life! I’m sure you will get into a good college and have a business as long as you put in the effort and keep working towards your dreams. I hope you get to cross out all the things listed on your bucket list one day! Thanks for sharing! 


-Erika Owen

Blog Post #13

What Did I Leave Out?
Create an assignment for a Blog Post I should have created in your area of speciality (math,history, elementary ed, special ed, whatever). Write the instructions that I should have put here.Then do it.

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.artandeducation.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/3109c_may10_risd_img.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.artandeducation.net/announcement/the-intersection-of-arts-technology/&h=400&w=615&tbnid=AH9RWD0kfzESMM:&zoom=1&docid=eDON9o4HqnrQuM&ei=H6s1VY6MJ4_xoAT9_YGADA&tbm=isch&ved=0CCYQMygAMAA

I am going to be an elementary teacher, and one way I believe children can learn and having fun is through art.  Fortunately for teachers, technology can be incorporated into art in numerous ways! My assignment for this blog would be to list a couple of ways in which technology can be used for art education. List a resource you found interesting in music, theatre, visual art, dance,and other subjects. The example of my blog post is below.

Technology can be incorporated with art and education in so many fun and creative ways! With the internet at our fingertips, the resources are abundant, Here are a few I really enjoyed and could see myself using in my future classroom.

Music-  I would have students go to JamStudio online. This site allows students to use their creativity and create their own audio tracks.

Visual Arts - I thought Sketchup 7 was a really cool site.  This allows students to tap into their architectural skills and build 3-D designed cities, buildings, and more!

Dance- For dance, I would mainly use Youtube for my technology resource.  You can find any dance on this website and visually show your students.  You can even have them dance along.  


Theatre-  dramaresource.com is an awesome website that offers many drama games that students will love.  This website is a great way to incorporate technology with the arts. My favorite ones I found, were alphabet conversation and catch my name. 

Friday, April 10, 2015

C4T March Summary

http://dochorsetales.blogspot.com/I was assigned Dr.Joseph McCaleb’s blog to comment on this month.  He also goes by the name DocHorseTales because he is a doctor who has a passion for riding horses and storytelling.  The first blog I commented on was “The Infinite in One Step.” I believe the main point of this blog, is to take each day one step at a time. He speaks about naysayers and how they “chastises me for not setting goals, counting costs, and allocating resources.” He uses a couple of quotes from Ghalib and William Blakes. McCaleb ends his blog post with saying, “Something as small as just taking one next step can breathe with the infinite.” My comment on, “The Infinite in One Step” is below.

Dr. McCaleb, 

I agree that we should take life as it comes to us.  I also agree that as teachers, we must have courage, discipline, and dedication to be a successful teacher.  



http://dochorsetales.blogspot.com/The second comment I had to leave, was on Dr.McCaleb’s post, “On Destiny and Consciousness.” In this post, he is discussing destiny and how it plays into our lives.  He speaks about how it as taken him most of his life to create a hopeful outlook of destiny. He says that good stories speak of destiny.  McCaleb quotes James Hillman throughout this articular post.  
Below is my second comment for Dr. Joseph Mccaleb.

I really enjoyed this post and hearing about yours and James Hillmas's outlook on destiny! 
"To be mindless or to be sleep-walking tells of an absent minder. Whatever we worship names the god of the temple of our dwelling." - I love that!
Thanks for sharing!

-Erika Owen

Sunday, April 5, 2015

Blog Post #11

What can we learn about teaching and learning from these teachers?

https://www.google.com/search?q=brian+crosby+back+to+the+future&espv=2&biw=1440&bih=689&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=af0hVdvlNsHCsAXBhIOwAQ&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ#imgdii=_&imgrc=msQpAxq_DtKmqM%253A%3Boxp-5_dpLY0GGM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.best-keynote.com%252Fwp-content%252Fuploads%252F2013%252F07%252FTEDxNYED_Brian_Crosby2-300x236.png%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.best-keynote.com%252Fbrian-crosby%252F%3B300%3B236The first video assigned for this particular blog post is “TEDxDenverEd- Brian Crosby- Back to the Future.” The video starts out with Brian Crosby telling us about his fourth graders survey results.  Not even half the students knew their address or own telephone number.  Mr. Crosby  believes that the students’ results are the product of them having a narrow curriculum their entire lives. Not having a narrow curriculum can promote creativity and passion. Narrow curriculums will have a negative impact on students building a world schema.  Mr. Crosby made it obvious that we should engage and encourage our students to learn as much as possible while also making it entertaining.  All of the experiments he did with his class looked so fun!  I learned from Mr. Crosby that teachers and students, must use 21st century skills to empower learning. He makes an excellent point that we cannot race kids through school. He then brings up the importance, once again, for children to build a schema for the world.  Brian Crosby ends his lecture with a quote from David Cowen,a high school teacher in California.  It is so important to not just look at your students test scores, but make sure they are understanding the material and gaining an experience out of it.  

https://www.google.com/search?q=blended+learning+quivers&espv=2&biw=1440&bih=689&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=QP0hVcjSFImXsAXq3oHwCQ&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAg#imgrc=fZBQOD9X-qbpWM%253A%3BvGovQThOvpgU_M%3Bhttps%253A%252F%252Flh3.googleusercontent.com%252F_K3SnyeltYwupaDl4OeZTFu9w_oGCUfwDrXl2kE1fAQcwSnCL7rX5ow5V_UZyI1xmM1RpAQwsWKl-mO5O2QJbgjd78uyTQCDuyp-CWj8nWG0r4OFr7w5BsZrRQ%3Bhttps%253A%252F%252Fjfreerscience.wordpress.com%252F2013%252F11%252F03%252F34%252F%3B298%3B169Paul Anderson teaches AP Biology in Bozeman, Montana. In his video, Blended Learning Cycle, we see how he uses modernized techniques in the classroom, such as a blended learning cycle.  Mr Anderson explains that blended learning is taking the compelling parts from mobile, online, and classroom learning and blending them together.  He then tells us about the five e’s in the learning cycle, which are engage, explore, explain, expand, and evaluate.  Paul Anderson came up with an acronym to help him remember the important points in blended learning. His acronym is “QUIVERS,” which stands for question, investigation/inquiry,video, elaboration, review, and summary quiz.    

https://www.google.com/search?q=elementary+kids&espv=2&biw=1440&bih=689&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=3P0hVbqeEYOLsAXP9YCACA&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ#tbm=isch&q=elementary+kids+learning&revid=104020469&imgdii=_&imgrc=gpqmsfatVaGGJM%253A%3BeFUS2zKvPCxlDM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.uniqueteachingresources.com%252Fimage-files%252Fchildrenlearntoreaddolchwords.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fpixgood.com%252Felementary-school-kids-learning.html%3B420%3B246
In the video Making Thinking Visible, Mark Church discusses the importance of asking students questions before and after a project.  Mr. Church shows that we should have students talk over information in small groups to help understand what they are learning and express ideas.It is also important to have students connect with the ideas, and pick out the challenge or puzzle being presented with the project or activity. It is important for students to carry the information they are learning forward.  

Sam Pane discusses the importance of internet safety in his video,Sam Pane 4th Grade. As teachers, it is highly important that we make sure our students know how to use the internet safely.  Mr. Pane has his students discuss poor and unsafe ways to use the internet, such as giving away personal information. Enagaging students with technology in a way that they are having fun and relating it to their lives can be very successful in a classroom.  Sam Pane encourages students to always be a “digital citizen,” when using technology. 

https://www.google.com/search?q=pbl&espv=2&biw=1440&bih=689&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=9f8hVfGzFsiSsAXxloGwBA&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ#imgdii=_&imgrc=dMVLfrAclHEa1M%253A%3BADS2nCzyB4yc1M%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww2.davidson.k12.nc.us%252Fpbl%252Fpbl.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww2.davidson.k12.nc.us%252Fpbl%252Fpblinfo.htm%3B351%3B176
In this video, Project Based Learning, Dean Shareski teaches us how we can combine different subjects into one Project Based Learning. He states that integrated studies using projects, increases students’ engagement and provides an opportunity for understanding.  using technology and PBL, teachers can incorporate more than one subject into one project.  


In the last video assigned, Roosevelt Elementary's PBL program,teachers and parents share the benefits of Project Based learning.  PBL  can show that students have learned something and understand concepts.  With PBL , children are taught how to begin a project and how to complete it.  Public speaking also plays a role in PBL, and can help students with their speaking skills starting at a young age.  PBL helps give children choices which can encourage  them more to learn.  PBL allows students to learn about things that they can relate to everyday life.  Students’ social skills will also improve by working in groups for projects.  This video did an excellent job on pointing out all of the benefits of PBL.

Sunday, March 29, 2015

Blog Post #10

What can we learn from Mrs. Cassidy? 
https://www.google.com/search?q=education+and+technology&biw=1440&bih=735&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=4aoYVeiZEIKogwSx4YDQBQ&sqi=2&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAg#tbm=isch&q=education+and+technology+quotes&revid=2106609317&imgdii=_&imgrc=-4AaZDb8c5KliM%253A%3BUBa98JVf_Z-EJM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fimage.slidesharecdn.com%252Fquotes-090601015546-phpapp02%252F95%252Feducation-technology-quotes-3-638.jpg%253Fcb%253D1377529500%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.slideshare.net%252Ftonyvincent%252Feducation-technology-quotes%3B638%3B479
The first video assigned for blog post #10 was “First Graders in Ms. Cassidy's Class.” Mrs. Cassidy has her students demonstrating and showing their enthusiasm for technology in the classroom.  The students discuss all of the technological resources they us such as blogs, Skype, Wiki, and Nintendo DS.  They use all of these things to learn and collaborate in the classroom.  This video shows a great perspective from the kid’s point of view on technology in the classroom.  It seems to be a successful and fun tool to use in teaching!
The next three videos provided are conversations between Mrs. Kathy Cassidy and Dr.Strange.  In the video “Interview with Kathy Cassidy Part 1”  Mrs. Cassidy discusses the start of her technology journey in her classroom.  She began with having a webpage ten years ago, then started her classroom blog five years ago. It was interesting to hear that some of the principals she worked with were not that into the idea of incorporating technology in the classroom. She explains to us how to keep classroom privacy and students identities safe. When using the web, students should only post their first names and not last, and also to post pictures, but not match the picture with a name.  I like how she has her students blog set up like a portfolio so that parents can view and see what their kids are doing.  I agree with Mrs.Cassidy that we have to change because the world has changed.  Technology creates so many opportunities for learning.  She makes an excellent point that blogs give students an audience, which can make them work harder and feel proud about their work.  Blogs also help students have more developed writing skills.  Mrs. Cassidy encourages educators to keep up and learn technology to better their classroom.  All teachers should be technologically literate because it is “not going away, its here to stay.”
The next video, “Interview with Kathy Cassidy Part 2,” is another conversation between Mrs. Cassidy and Dr. Strange.  They are discussing where to start when beginning to use technology.  Mrs. Cassidy tells us to start with what we are interested in.  If we enjoy videos, then start out with something like youtube.  Blogging would be ideal for people who enjoy writing.  Once you find something that you like to use, you can begin to build a network and add to it.  For myself, I enjoy youtube and blogger.  So it definitely just depends on what you are into.  Any way that you can connect with other educators to share ideas can be beneficial for teaching.  

The last video provided is yet another conversation between Mrs. Cassidy and Dr. Strange.The video “Interview with Kathy Cassidy Part 3,” starts out with students from USA asking Mrs. Cassidy questions.  She explains how she has her students post or comment on blogs almost everyday, but it depends on the year and how things are running in the classroom.  I agree that blogs are more so used for collaborating than “cheating” in the classroom. She discusses the importance of sharing safe links and showing students games that are fun and educational. Mrs. Cassidy then touches on the balance between work and family life.  As a future educator, I will take all of Mrs. Cassidy's advice and try my best to apply it in my classrooms.  All of her techniques seem to be very beneficial and fun as well!

Thursday, March 26, 2015

C4K Summary for March

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CAcQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legendsofamerica.com%2Fwe-oregontrail.html&ei=LnAUVaTyD4uSsQSj2IKgAQ&bvm=bv.89381419,d.cWc&psig=AFQjCNE37MCGjQCI380StOz_Mv-8Tw6i3Q&ust=1427489150858428My first assignment for the month of March was Fransisco V’s blog post "Life on the Trails" from Mrs. Weil's fourth grade class in Kansas. Fransisco discussed what life would have been like on the Oreagon Trail. he talked about the obstacles that would come along with sickness and accidents. He also talked about how the weather conditions being an issue.  My comment on Fransisco’s post:

Fransisco, 
I agree that life on the Oregon Trail was very difficult!  I think sickness and the weather would be the biggest obstacles.  Good post!


http://www.clipartlord.com/category/people-clip-art/men-in-uniform-clip-art/nurse-clip-art/My second kid I was assigned was La Cora, from Joliet West High School- Illinois, in Mrs. Maslowski’s class.  La Cora is discussing her job shadowing assignment.  She hasn't started it yet, but she wants to pursue her dream as a nurse and possibly a doctor.  My comment on La Cora’s post:

Hi La'Cora!
I'm a student at the University Of South Alabama.  It is so great and inspirational that you have a dream to help others.  I have many peers that are studying nursing at my college and they seem to really enjoy it.  As long as you are willing to put forth an effort and do the work, you will most definitely succeed! Great post! :)
https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CAcQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.laurenoliverbooks.com%2Frequiem.php&ei=xXAUVazxNZbbsASM-ICQAQ&bvm=bv.89381419,d.cWc&psig=AFQjCNHlcKAE62SFful42s3vDhc9O0z2Gg&ust=1427489346221321

  
For my third post, I was assigned Treasure W. from Mrs Lombard’s 7th Grade English Class.
Treasure’s post was titled “Reqiuem,” and in this post she is describing the book Requiem from the book series “Delirium.”  She also mentions why it is her favorite book and describes certain things that she really likes in it.  
My comment on Treasure’s post:

Hi Treasure! My name is Erika Owen and I attend the University of South Alabama.  I have not read any of the Delirium series, but after reading your post I am intrigued to look them up! Requiem sounds like an awesome book.  You use excellent grammar and sentence structure.  Great post!

Sunday, March 22, 2015

Blog Post #9

https://www.google.com/search?q=pbl+hectagon&espv=2&biw=1440&bih=689&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=WqwPVfaCEIbFggT0z4CYAQ&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ#imgdii=_&imgrc=kx2iWZuBpS0O6M%253A%3BMasl3UuKiqnUVM%3Bhttps%253A%252F%252Fk8jtechlearn.wikispaces.com%252Ffile%252Fview%252FPBL-heptagon.png%252F372169426%252F196x182%252FPBL-heptagon.png%3Bhttps%253A%252F%252Fk8jtechlearn.wikispaces.com%252FWikis%252B%252526%252BPBL%3B196%3B182
The videos and articles assigned for blog post 9 pretty much held the same concept on Project Based Learning. Seven Essentials for Project Based Learning is a very informative article that gives seven essentials to what every successful project needs. It also gives detailed examples which I found very helpful!  I will definitely use all of these essentials as a future teacher.  The first thing to remember when beginning a PBL lesson is to introduce your topic in an interesting way that will pull your students in.  The article referred to this as “A Need to Know.” Don't just put a stack of worksheets and paper work on your students’ desks. The goal as a teacher is to make the students want to start asking questions about whatever you just presented to them.  The article then discusses a “Driving Question.” A driving question challenges the students and gives them a clear understanding of the project. I liked how the article compared a driving question to a project and thesis statement to an essay.  There has to be one, to capture the message and meaning being portrayed.  The third essential to remember is “Student Voice and Choice.” It is very important to make the project meaningful to students.  Letting students have their on say on how they are going to do and present a certain project can not only make it mean something to them, but also doesn't set any bars.  I feel like this could challenge students and possibly lead to an better understanding of the project.  Next, the article talks about 21st century skills and how they can help students with collaboration, communication, critical thinking. Almost all projects will require the use of some technology rather it be researching facts or making an iMovie.  Students and teachers must having 21st century skills so that they can take projects so much further and allow for more creativity.  The article goes on to the fifth element of a project, which is “Inquiry and Innovation.” Having the students raise questions and then investigate them gets them even more engaged into the project. Motivate students to share new ideas and perspectives for new innovation.  Next, is “Feedback and Revision.”  Having students give feed back to one another and revise each other work can make the learning process more meaningful. By doing this, I can show my students that revision is a major part of work and help them with positive feedback.  Finally, a successful project should end with a presentation.  When students are given an audience, they are more likely to put more effort into their work.  This not only gives the project more meaning, but also gives students a feeling of pride.  

https://www.google.com/search?q=pbl&espv=2&biw=1440&bih=733&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=f6oPVduaF4HDggSN9oCoDg&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ#tbm=isch&q=project+based+learning&imgdii=_&imgrc=RoU8fXbARZ9IpM%253A%3BtmwlFzT6TzrpuM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fnormsteachersblog.com%252Fwp-content%252Fuploads%252F2014%252F04%252FMiller-PBL-Assessment-Resources-300x225.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fnormsteachersblog.com%252F%253Fp%253D7486%3B300%3B225The next resource I looked at concerning PBL was Project Based Learning For Teachers by Tony Vincent.  This video lists some of the standards for successful projects.  The video referred to PBL as getting students working over an extended period of time answering a driving question.  The driving question should be deep and sets a clear outlook on the project.  Students will present and share their work with others.  The video gave some great examples of driving questions.  As a teacher, I want my students asking “How?” instead of “What?" Project Based Learning includes some of the following elements: Inquiry based,Open-ended,Problem-solving, Personalized. During Project Based Learning students can learn Communication skills,Critical thinking skillsCareer and life skills.
Out of the seven videos, I chose to discuss What Motivates Students? This video was really awesome.  I loved hearing from the students’ point of view on what motivates them in school and in their classrooms.  The students also discussed what sort of rewards they receive for doing good in class. I liked how a variety of students were interviewed. It was interesting to see the different responses from different ages.  The first student is a male, probably in 9th grade and says that he feels good when the teacher announces to the class when he has done good.  He also gets motivation from being complimented by others, including his teacher.  The next student was a younger girl who seemed to have the same motivations to good good in school as myself. The only difference is that I didn't have these motivations until I was much older so props to her.  She said that the reason she wants to do good in school is so she can have a good house, feed her family, and she also wants to have a really good job…oh and a dog!   The next two students used their dream jobs as their main motivation.  The last student did not get to play baseball or other things he enjoyed unless he did well in class. His motivation is being able to do what he wants and is allowed to do.  The next question the kids were asked was how they were rewarded.  the answered ranged from colored pencils,pizza,browning points, and fun activities on certain days of the week.This video helped me realize that all the things these students seek can be found and gained through PBL.  PBL allows students to really get engaged with something while making it their own.  Allowing them to present their work can help them feel good about themselves and can be a rewarding process.  
Next, I chose Ten Sites Supporting Digital Classroom Collaboration in Project Based Learning.  This article provides many collaboration tools used for PBL. The article briefly discussed the standard of PBL and how using the methods listed below can provide better collaboration  and communication in the classroom.

10 Sites Supporting Digital Classroom Collaboration in Project Based Learning:




The last resource I chose from the list was Two Students Solve the problem of Watery Ketchup By Designing A New Cap .  This video showed a perfect example of two students using all of the skills from PBL.  They came up with a driving question that interested themselves, used 21st century skills, showed their voice, and publicly resented their impressive results.  




Wednesday, March 18, 2015

Project #13


https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGx5A-Z6ku8MWuSo2naT-hJCk626Dnit_d7KNje_ViyOPcy4ZhyphenhyphenWSk7tpaLFfr3pV6FFj5adCt2jkdyD2Ir1Frv_L1ciHBtxIrDXNY0rMHcg6qHBopLjc6TDN1YDyLUwnzY2VU9yR9H_w/s1600/Water+cycle+.gif


The Glue Group chose to do our Project Based
Learning lesson on the water cycle. Our students are to construct a group poster based on which phase of the water cycle their group was assigned. Each group will also create a video of "their version" of the water cycle. This video can be a dance, skit, or etc. Our students will present their group's poster and video. The students will choose which video they are more proud of as a whole class. This video selected will be sent to the Local News Station.


Click here to view our project site:

Water Cycle Project Group Website


Individual Links:

Lesson Plan


Lesson Plan Calendar


Project Overview


Individual Project Rubric


Group Project Rubric


Water Cycle Diagram


Example provided to the students when preparing

to make their "Own Version" video of the water cycle.



Sunday, March 15, 2015

Blog Post #8

What Can We Learn About Teaching and Learning From Randy Pausch? “Randy Pausch’s Last Lecture: Achieving Your Childhood Dreams” is avvery powerful and inspirational video in which Randy Pausch shares his life’s wisdom.  He is an outstandng human being that has the right outlook on life.  His words and lessons will not only benefit us in the educational world, but also in our everyday lives.  This video is titled “Randy Pausch’s Last Lecture” because he was battling cancer.  He starts his lecture by talking about his childhood dreams.  Some were realistic and some not so much (being Captain Kirk.)  Randy Pausch ended up achieving each childhood dream in some aspect.  This inspires me to never give up.  As a future elementary educator, I hope to enable my students’ dreams and inspire them to never give up.  One way to do this that Pausch lectured about is to know what a brick wall is.  He explains a brick wall as “being there for a reason: they let us prove how badly we want things.”  We are all going to face obstacles that get in the way of our goals. As long as we push through and keep working towards what we want, we can knock them down! He mentions that  Jon Shoddy once said to him that "if you wait long enough then people will impress you”.  I believe this applies to learning and teaching in a big way.  Teachers should never put a limit on what their students are capable of; let your students surprise you with what they can do when there isn't a bar.  Randy makes the point that we should never lose our child like wonder.  I believe this is especially important for elementary educators to remember.  Your students are going to be more willing to engage and learn when you are presenting things in a fun and imaginative way.  This is compared to being a strict teacher demanding your students to work on assignments alone with absolute quiet. I feel that making your lessons fun and entertaining will show incredible results with your students. Know how to get your students excited about learning.  I’m sure this is easier said than done, but keeping your child like wonder will help with this situation.  Randy also discusses the importance of helping others. Randy says,”Loyalty is a two way street- Believe in your students and they will believe in and with you.” This is a quote that really stood out to me. Teachers must never give up on their students.  Let your students know that you believe in them and they will feel more motivation to fulfill their dreams. Teach your students that ,“Luck is where preparation meets opportunity. ”  Randy speaks about focusing on other people instead of yourself and finding the best in everybody.  This is a useful lesson as an educator and just as a human being.  Randy Pausch truly is an inspiration and a great example to never give up. 


 “It's not about how to achieve your dreams, it's about how to lead your life, ... If you lead your life the right way, the karma will take care of itself, the dreams will come to you.” 

― Randy Pausch, The Last Lecture

Saturday, March 14, 2015

C4T#3 and C4T#4 Post

I was assigned Jose Vilson’s blog “The Jose Vilson”  for blog posts #3 and #4. My first comment was left on Jose’s blog, “White Administrator’s Guilt.” In this post, Jose discusses the issue of racist behavior in school systems.  He talks about teachers and administrators who are being cruel and racist to not only their students, but also the staff. Below is my comment for “White Administrator’s Guilt."

http://thejosevilson.com/white-administrators-guilt/Jose, 
I’m a student at the University of South Alabama. I am currently seeking a degree in elementary education and I am just sickened by the type of behavior you discuss going on in the school systems. I agree with you that if someone is seeing racist behavior happening in front of them and does nothing about it, they are just as guilty.  After looking over your links, thats were just shocking to me, I did a little more research on this major problem in school systems.  Of course I knew how big an issue racism is in the world, but I had no idea the problem in schools concerning adults anyways. Teachers and principles should be the ones to rise above this behavior and focus on children’s education and well being. I mean isn’t that the point of going into education for a profession?  I found an article that talked about a white teacher asking a colored girl if she was a monkey in front of the entire class, just because the child was talking with a friend while the morning announcements were being made.   I cannot imagine the humility this little girl felt. I’m glad you made a post about this sickening issue.  It helped open my eyes to what is really going on in some schools.  Thanks for sharing.   - Erika Owen





http://thejosevilson.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/vilson-empowerin-educators-cultural-competeence-2-01.pngThe second post I was assigned for Jose Vilson was “Empowering Educators Through Cultural Competence.” I loved reading this post! Vilson discussed the importance of letting our students tell us what they need sometimes.  So often teachers find themselves striving for quietness in the classroom when really, they should be asking questions to form a better understanding of their students.  Jose even talks about his own experience with a student of his.  A boy kept falling asleep in class and Jose associated this with laziness. In reality, the boy was dealing with family issues which was causing him not to sleep well at night. As teachers, we need our students to feel comfortable enough to explain or talk about things. Or atleast talk to us about seeing a counselor or someone to talk to.  Vilson also lists three very beneficial strategies to help us be a successful teacher.  These steps are as follows: 
1.) Build Relationships, But as a Teacher First 
2.) Create a Fair and Equitable Environment
3.) Ask Questions as a Form of Disarming

José,
I feel like the information and advice you share is extremely beneficial for future educators like myself. The workable strategies you listed are excellent. I found each one of them helpful and also agree with them completely.  I can't tell you how many teachers I have had in the past that constantly demanded silence in the classroom. This of course did not make for a great learning environment, so I’m glad you brought that point up.  After reading your post,I feel that I will be much more aware to take my students’ cultural backgrounds into consideration. I look forward to reading more of your powerful and informal posts! 

-Erika Owen

Saturday, February 28, 2015

Blog Post # 7




www.google.com/search?q=imovie&espv=2&biw=1440&bih=733&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=bPbxVLr_MtL-yQSvtIKQDw&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAg#imgdii=_&imgrc=MBVdqnvj9lzhAM%253A%3Bl2t5kQ6kt9dWiM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.napacoe.org%252Fteched%252Fwp-content%252Fuploads%252F2014%252F09%252Fapp_imovie_logo.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.napacoe.org%252Fteched%252Fimovie-on-the-ipad%252F%3B1500%3B1500I took away a lot of useful information after watching the videos assigned for blog post #7.  I gained information  on using technology effectively to encourage participation and learning. The first video,Using iMovie and the Alabama Virtual Library in Kindergarten, Mrs. Michelle Bennett from Gulf Shores Elementary School explains how  kindergartners in Alabama public schools are using iMovie in class.  Yes that’s right, I said kindergartners.   This just shows how technology is advancing, especially with younger people.  I just recently, like literally a month ago, started using iMovie and I had to play around with it for a while to get use to it.  I love that I will be able to incorporate iMovies into my lessons and know that the children will be familiar with it.  From this video, I learned that when teaching technology, start teaching students the mechanics of the program, do a few examples, and then let the students make a project of their own.  The video,Using iMovie and the Alabama Virtual Library in Kindergarten, also discusses and describes the Alabama Virtual Library (AVL).  AVL is a very useful tool and resource for students and teachers in the state of Alabama.  Elizabeth Davis from Daphne Elementary, describes it as “A great way to teach your students basic research.”  As an educator, I would assign my students certain topics  each week to research on AVL to teach them a great way to complete research.  

www.google.com/search?q=learning&espv=2&biw=1440&bih=689&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=yvbxVLSlLoWbyQTYpIHgBg&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ#imgdii=_&imgrc=U4YxD8N3gYghdM%253A%3B89gKD4Lq4iKYHM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fcdno.gettingsmart.com%252Fwp-content%252Fuploads%252F2013%252F03%252FLearning-Featured1.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fgettingsmart.com%252F2013%252F01%252F20-tips-for-creating-a-professional-learning-network%252F%3B482%3B335In We All Become Learners, the main thing I took from the video was that teachers are continuing to learn everyday. Mrs. Bennett discusses how technology and the use of devices changes the dynamic of the classroom.  She explains this as, “Teachers teaching students, students teaching students, and it’s students teaching us.”  I hope to teach my students all the knowledge I can , but I really do look forward to all of the things I will learn from my students.  Before watching this video, I was unaware of the apps, Padlet or Popplet. Here is a list of a few things Padlet will allow you to do: Personal note taking, give and receive feedback, make to-do lists, create party invitations, etc. Popplet  is an app used for capturing and organizing notes and ideas.  Mrs. Bennett, goes on to tell us about a time when one of her students taught her how to do something on a tablet and how great it was for the student to have the opportunity to teach a teacher something.  

The third video, IPads in the Classroom, discusses the benefits of incorporating iPads or tablets in the classroom.  After using iPads in a classroom for over a year, one teacher,Kristen Ziemke-Fastabend, had this to say, “The iPad allows us to take a virtual field trip everyday by searching web content that is user friendly for early childhood students.”  


The last video provided,Top 10 Reasons to Use Technology in Education ,  was very helpful and informative on reasons technology should be used in the classroom.  I agree that teachers that do not use technology in the classroom, will soon be replaced with teachers who do.  I learned ten reasons why I will use technology in my future classrooms.  Here are those reasons: 1.)  Students love it, so anything that will keep my students having fun and learning is okay in my book.  2.)  Technology engages the four key components to learning. 3.)  Technology provides professional development to help kids become tech leaders of the future.  4.) Technology makes life easier for teachers.  5.)  Technology has proven to show higher test scores. 6.)  Technology helps students with lower attention span, which I believe is a growing issue.  7.) Technology allows you to learn from experts.  8.) Technology can encourage homework. 9.)  Technology saves money overall.  10.)  The final reason technology should be used in the classroom is that technology can remove obstacles.  This can help teachers focus more on the lesson and not managing the behavior of their students.  





Wednesday, February 25, 2015

C4K Summary for February



C4K#1:
I was assigned Gabby D. in Mrs. Weil’s forth grade class at Kansas Elementary, for my C4K #1.  In Gabby’s post, “When I am Writing Fiction………..,” she is discussing her thoughts on writing fictional stories.  Gabby also tells us how she doesn’t like writing about things that are too ridiculous because it starts to distract her.  She talks about how she loves reading because it helps her realize when words are misspelled.  She used great detail in her writing and had great spelling.  

Below is my comment for Gabby D.’s post, “When I am Writing Fiction………..”:

Gabby, 
I enjoyed reading your thoughts on fictional writing. That’s great that you love reading. Reading also expands your vocabulary, which can help you become a better writer. Your use of complete sentences and detail is excellent! 

-Erika Owen

C4K#2: 
I was assigned Daquan in Mrs. Leatherford’s 8th grade Language Arts class 8-3, for my C4K#2.  In Daquan’s post, “Largest Rodent,” he is describing beavers!  Daquan included so many facts about beavers in his post and even provided a picture of an actual beaver.  He used great grammar and detail in his writing.  

Below is my comment for Daquan’s post,“Largest Rodent.” 

Hi Daquan! 
I’m a student at the University of South Alabama. I must say, I have learned so much about beavers by reading only two paragraphs! You presented excellent facts in your post, as well as a nice picture. Good job.  :)

C4K#3:
My third C4K assignment was Kailey from Mrs. Hartman's 4th grade class in Pennsylvania.  Kailey titled her post, “Diary Of A Wimpy Kid Rodrick Rules.”  In this post, Kailey is telling her readers how she has just started reading the second book of the “Diary of a wimpy Kid,” series.  She is describing Greg’s first day back at school and how he has “cheese touch,” so no one wants to be near him.  She talk about a character from the book who is debating on cheating off of the smartest kid in class.  Kailey then asks her readers if they would cheat off the smartest kid in class, if given the chance.  


Below is my comment Kailey’s post, “Diary Of A Wimpy Kid Rodrick Rules.’’

Hi Kailey!
I'm a student at the University of South Alabama.  You did an awesome job explaining the story so far.  "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" books are so fun and entertaining to read.  I loved your use of detail in your writing.  I don't know what "cheese touch," is and I don't think I would want to find out!  I don't think it is a very good idea to cheat off someone, even if they're  the smartest kid in class.  Anyone that studies and tries hard will do just fine on their own and feel better about it! Great post! :)

-Erika Owen


C4K#4:
For my fourth C4K assignment for the month of February, I was assigned Lily from Mrs. Maslowski's 3rd period class at Joliet West High School in Illinois.  Lily’s post was titled, “Valentines Day Vs. Friday the 13th.”  In this post, she is choosing whether she likes Valentines Day or Friday the 13th.  Lily points out that she likes scaring others and also likes superstitions, so she decides that she enjoys Friday the 13th over Valentines Day.  Lily also briefly talks about “karma,”  is a superstition and how she does not agree with it.  

Below is my comment to Lily:

Hi Lily!
My name is Erika Owen and I’m a junior at the University of South Alabama.  This was an interesting post.  I never thought to compare both Valentines Day and Friday the 13th.  I can see why Friday the 13th is more enjoyable for you, since you like scaring people and scary movies! I bet you really enjoy Halloween time!  Karma is believed by a great deal of people and religions, such as Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism.

Great post!

Sunday, February 22, 2015

Blog Post #6

After watching the the first video, Project Based Learning Part 1: Experiences of a 3rd Grade Teacher , I attained a much better understanding of what Project Based Learning (PBL) actually means.  Project Based Learning is an approach taken in a classroom to engage students and help them attain knowledge.  Anthony Capps and Dr. Strange discuss how beneficial PBL can be in a classroom.  As Anthony Capps says in the First Video,“The goal of a good project is one that has an authentic audience, has student interests, involves the community, and has driven content.”  I agree that it is so important to involve the community into the project so that children can relate it to the real world. I enjoyed hearing about Mr.Capp’s examples of projects he has done, such as getting his third graders to write to a congressman.  

 In the second video between Dr. Strange and Mr. Capps,”Project Based Learning Part 2: Experiences of a 3rd Grade Teacher,” I learned that when you are approaching a classroom with the style of PBL, never limit your students.  Always keep them searching for as many answers as they can so that they can learn as much as possible.  I believe PBL will get kids excited about learning and can be a big confidence booster. Especially, because the students can look back at what they have accomplished and feel proud with a better understanding of information.  Before watching the third video, “iCurio,” I had no idea what iCurio was.  I now know it is an online tool that can be used for a few different things. One, it serves as a safe and effective search engine for not only web information, but also audio and video. It offers a storage system for students and teachers to store valuable information they come across.  I learned that iCurio is a great way to start teaching students to organize information virtually at a young age, which will be helpful throughout life.  ICurio is a great way for students to gather and organize information in a safe way. It also has the option of text reading.  I would like to continue to learn about iCurio so that I could possibly use it n my future classrooms. 

In the video, “Discovery Education,” Mr. Capps and Dr.Strange continue to talk about PBL and Discovery Education.  Discovery Education is a very useful tool, mainly focused on visual learning.  Just like iCurio, I have just been introduced to Discovery Ed after watching this video.  It offers information on every subject and can be used by teachers as well as students to help bring text alive with pictures,audio, and video.  

In, The Anthony - Strange list of Tips for Teachers Part 1, The conversations between Dr. Strange and Anthony Capps continues, as they discuss how to prepare future elementary school teachers.  Dr. Strange makes it clear that as educators, we must be able to continue and love to learn ourselves.  I liked how Anthony went on to say that with teaching, work and play can go hand in hand.  This is one of the reasons I chose to seek a degree in elementary education.  As future teachers, we must be flexible and alert.  I also learned that to be a successful teacher, we must realize that teaching and learning never stops.  There is always more knowledge to be obtained.  

Don't Teach Tech - Use It is a great video explaining how technology is emerging and should be used in the classroom.  You should teach technology, as well as use it in your curriculum.  Another thing I took from this video is as teachers, we need to get technology into our students hands.  

Additional Thought About Lessons, is the last video provided that discusses thoughts on lesson plans. Anthony believes a lesson is “at least four layers thick.” Mr. Capps tells us to think about lessons in terms of how it fits in with our year. The next layer is the unit size on how to make it meaningful and connected.  next is the weekly plan, and lastly we have the daily plan.  The daily plan helps measure what your students learned that day and helps you as a teacher, to prepare on what to focus on the next day.  

I learned excellent tips on how to be a successful teacher from all of these videos.  

Saturday, February 14, 2015

Blog Post #5

http://oaklandschoolsmi.com/2013/08/08/pln/
PLN means personal learning network.  This is pretty much a gather of tools and people to help and consult you on gaining information, or as Dr. Strange puts it, “It is those people, places, organizations and activities which enable you to learn.” Twitter, Youtube, Facebook, and blogger are a few examples of a PLN.  Personal Learning Networks can be extremely useful for educators.  A PLN can help you gain knowledge each and every day.  As a teacher, you can follow other educators on networks such as Twitter, to connect and share concepts and ideas. Michael Fawcett shared how making a PLN has impacted his educational life, in the video “Michael Fawcett Discusses his PLN.” Thanks to his PLN, NASA actually answered one of his questions via Twitter! By reaching out with other educators, you can exchange new sites, blogs web tools, youtube videos,and other useful tools and resources to expand classroom opportunities.  Thanks to EDM310, I have already began to create my PLN.  I now am a frequent blogger and I recently created a twitter.  Although I have not really gotten into twitter very much, I plan to so that I can follow people that can share interesting and helpful ideas.  PLNs allow you to learn constantly as long as you are willing to.  I am also building my PLN by leaving comments for teachers on blogs, as well as students.  I still have a tremendous amount to add to my PLN, but I agree with Dr. Strange that Twitter is the most useful.  I look forward to see how much my PLN has expanded a year from now.  




Thursday, February 12, 2015

Search Engine Project




http://searchengineprofiling.com/search-engine-marketing/


#1.) WolframAlpha:  WolframAlpha is an excellent search engine for finding calculations.  Not only is this site useful for solving algebraic equations, it can also find nutritional information, probabilities, gas prices, weather, and so much more! You can find movie times and tickets in your area or even find the answer to a calculus equation. I typed in “Alabama,” just for the heck of it to see what would show up. It immediately provided me with the capital, the state’s full name, and the year it joined the Union. Unlike a lot of search engines, WolframAlpha supplies you with direct information instead of showing you 20 other sites to use as resources.  This is an excellent search engine to obtain just about any kind of knowledge.  

#2.)  Bing:  Second, I chose the search engine Bing.  Bing is used to search all kinds of things on the internet.  It also allows you to use key words to help you find specific information. You can shop, as well as find local information, weather, and all other things of that nature.  Bing is somewhat similar to Google, but not as useful in my personal opinion. 

#3.)  DuckDuckGo:  duckduckgo.com, provides you with instant information on music, recipes, weather, and other things of that sort.  I like how you can customize as you go.  Duckduckgo allows you to personalize your search engine experience by picking your own theme and layout for your visual pleasure.The best thing about this search engine is that it does not track you whatsoever.  It doesn't collect personal data or keep any record of your searches so you can be clutter free! The spam rate is lower than Googles and it’s family friendly.

#4.)  Care:  care.com is an excellent search engines for parents or guardians in search for caregivers.  This is also very useful for caregivers looking to build their resume and find work. This search engine is not only for child care, but for senior, pet, and home care as well.  It  allows you to view possible candidates for your future caregiver, as well as background checks to ensure your loved ones safety.  You can also create a profile and look for work as a caregiver.  You can find a caregiver in your area and easily provide the information needed, such as what days and times they would be requested, and any other accommodations that may be needed.

#5) Yahoo!:  Yahoo! has so much incorporated into one search engine. It offers some of the following: weather, horoscope, local news, world news, shopping center, email, game center, health, beauty,finance, and so much more! Yahoo also is very easy to navigate around.  I use Yahoo! almost everyday.  

#6.)  WebMD:  If you want health information, then WebMD is your go to search engine.  You can find information on managing your health and also remedies for treating illnesses.  WebMd also matches your symptoms with what could possibly be wrong with you, so if you can’t go to the doctor then this would be a good tool to use to help diagnose your illness as long as it’s not serious.  All of the information has been approved by certified doctors, so you are receiving expert information and advice.  WebMd also shares top health news and stories.  


#7.)  eHow:  eHow.com is the perfect search engine for “how to” questions.  It offers over two million articles and videos to help you find exactly what you are looking for ,and teaches you how to do things.  The videos are great for visual step by step instructions.  When I visited the site, I learned how to transfer ink onto wood and make chocolate covered strawberries on one page.  The site has a good number of categories, so you are sure to find something that interests you.  

#8.)  Kayak: I chose Kayak because I believe it is a very useful travel search engine.  Kayak lets you compare over 100 travel sites at once,so that you can make the best bookings to accommodate your needs. You can compare prices and find the best deals on flights and hotels.  Kayak allows you to book your flight, hotel, rental car, and more on one website.  

My Sentence Videos:








link to my sentence video




Link to my passion video