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.

Overseas Collaboration?

A former student from our school contacted me about two weeks ago asking if there was a way that I could help him out with a project that he was doing with the students in his class.

The difference was that I had never actually met this person face-to-face: He sent me an e-mail from Japan!

I am really excited about the possibilities that this connection offers. Not only could I learn about another country from the perspective of someone who has attended our school, but our students could do the same! No burden of time, distance, or cost.

Thank you Mr. S. for reaching out to us online. The possibilities are limitless!

Rocky Mountain Airport Show

The jet ripped thunder over our heads as Jedi II and Princess Ballerina clutched their water bottles and peered into the sky.

Our first airshow was a rousing success today. Jedi II discovered that he enjoyed warbird aircraft more than jet fighters (mainly due to the noise level during flight) and loved watching the pressurized air traveling over the jetwings during flight. Princess Ballerina got to touch the Air Force falcon, Destiny, and cried that she didn't get to jump on the air castle. Both got to sit in the cockpits of a helicopter and a few private planes, while their mother waited in an hour-long line for $5.00 hot dogs. Unfortunately, the last two dogs were sold to the people standing in front of her!

It was amazing to inspect such huge aircraft up close, shake the hand of the pilot, then watch them complete jaw-dropping aerial maneuvers the same day.

I'll post pictures that I snapped tomorrow night.

Next time we'll bring ear protection!

Colonial Day

AAAAAAAAWWWWWWWW man! I wish that I could be there for Colonial Day!

After all of the notes, summaries, United Streaming videos, Book Club readings, research and scrapbooking assignments, I hope that you are prepared for the time-warp that each of you will experience today.

Based on what I've learned about Colonial period in American History, you're in for a rough ride! From hauling wood to keep the schoolhouse warm, to paying taxes to King George III's Royal Representative on goods that are sold in your colonial store, the colonists faced obstacles that will test the patience and guidance of even the best leaders in our classroom.

Nathaniel Hale will take over for me until about 2:30 PM today, when you are scheduled to warp back to the 21st century. You'll need to demonstrate the same amount of caring and respect for him that you show to each other and the other adults in our building. What he says, goes! Remember that he is an educator, not a tax collector in real life!

I'll miss seeing how each of you react to what Nathaniel Hale has in store for you!