Math Podcasts

Based on an inquiry from a colleague of mine, here's how I have structured my daily math podcasts that I post to my wikispace:

1. One student per day chooses a word from the math section of their vocabulary notebook (student self-selected words are less anxiety-provoking). Most students choose a word that has been defined via a Frayer Model during earlier class discussions.

2. The student creates a script that they will read out loud for their selected word. Script guidelines include a salutation, accurate spelling of word, student definition of word, non-examples of how word/concept is used, and how the word/cpncept is used in "real life." A short closing wraps up the script.

3. Student practices reading their script to themselves and revises for clarity/meaning.

4. Student then performs their script live for a "trained" peer who listens for accuracy in meaning, then offers just-in-time feedback for their oral performance (pacing, enunciation, etc.) .

5. Trained peer then assists student with the recording process. Both students review the recording for accuracy and can be completely redone if anything needs to be changed.

6. Recording is then reviewed by the class (peer audience = motivation) at the end of the math period for accuracy. Feedback can be either private via stickynote or by wikimail.

7. Successful podcasters then earn a leveled certificate from me that recognizes their effort for each time they are recorded.

Learning 2.0 Conference Update

The registration for one of my favorite conferences Learning 2.0: A Colorado Conversation has closed (temporarily) because physical attendance has reached maximum capacity, but the organizers are adding Elluminate sessions to make it even easier for online attendees to participate. It sounds like they have added a waiting list, so if you're interested in attending this FREE conference (virtually or physically), sign up here.

I am facilitating a session from 9:30-10:45 MST entitled Classroom 2.0 on web 2.0 tools organized around the McREL book Classroom Instruction That Works. I would love to have you join the collaboration either physically or online.

I attended last year's conference (which was also free) that featured sessions/discussions facilitated by Bud Hunt, Karl Fisch, Ben Wilkoff, and other forward-thinking educators. It was thrilling to be around like-minded folks and definitely recharged my creative juices.

Hopefully you can make it!