Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Literacy Project

 
I can not believe we have reached the end of this class, for me I feel like I am just beginning.  In an earlier post I created a digital story (using photostory), on the biography of a famous black American, Marian Anderson.  I had so much fun creating it, I knew my students would too!  In third grade we have been reading and writing biographies all year.  I thought this would be the ideal way for my students to demonstrate what they have learned so far.  I assigned each a group a person of interest. Using a graphic organizer, various books, and websites the students worked creatively and cooperatively to create thier own digital story.  The results are fantastic!  I was pleased that photostory was simple enough for them to use, with my assistance ofcourse.  The only problem I had was having 5 groups, and only one computer to use.  It took some time, but well worth.  The best part of this experience was the reaction of the students when they viewed their digital stories on the smart board.  We had a "viewing party" and it was obvious how proud they felt.  This is a great tool to enhance learning and motivate students to learn!  I had 5 videos total, however I have only posted 2. Tell us what you think!?

Tuesday, March 5, 2013

Web 2.0 Tools



This course has really opened my eyes to the many ways technology can be used in the classroom.  Integrating the various web 2.0 tools has spiced up the learning and teaching happening with my students.  Eight weeks ago animoto,voki, and diigo sounded like swear words, watching some of Judy's tutorials were like watching scary movies, and hearing the technology lingo was a foreign language.  However, that has all changed.  I now have new ways of enhancing my student's learning.  Thank you EDU584, I can say I am prepared to teach in the 20th century!

Monday, March 4, 2013

Diigo! Diigo!!

It has taken me some time but I think I finally understand how my sweet ol' diigo tool works.  I have to start by saying, after having a pinterest account for almost a year I just finally learned how to organize and create my boards, so I guess I'm doing "ok" considering!!  Now that it is up and running and a bit more appealing to view please check it out...