#LearnLAP occurs on Mondays starting at 7pm Central Time. Guest moderators and participants discuss topics from author Paul Solarz's book Learn Like a PIRATE.
Please take a moment to introduce yourself to the group!
I'm Paul Solarz, a 5th grade teacher from Arlington Heights, Illinois and author of "Learn Like a PIRATE."
#LearnLAP
A1. it begins at the relational level... If you develop positive relationships, and let that drive what you do in your classroom and school... then class meetings can be very productive #LearnLAP
A1 Class meetings empower students to explore and enact their values in how they treat their learning, their work, themselves, and each other.
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Oh this is my FAV topic. We do morning meeting everyday! I adore it. We start with a song, greet, activity, share, message, & end song If What I Am by https://t.co/ND53MivDaR#learnlap Nomatter what always have a share
A1: Class meetings is a great way to check in with each student- gives them ample opportunity to speak- & to be heard, first thing in the morning. They also help provide you- the lead learner to set the tone for the day- to meet w/ any students that may need 1:1 time. #LearnLAP
A1 - something I keep trying with my MS-ers, but need to get more creative. I try quick ones for team building in homeroom, which is very limited (maybe 7 mins after announcements). I debate on benefits outweighing need for teaching time in core classes. #learnlap
A1 I wish I could do more meetings as a MS T, but 40 min goes by in a flash. I use our time at the beginning of class to not only get ready for class but check in with students. I like a quick chat and convo with them #LearnLAP
A1. Class meetings are important for ss to share their feelings and make sure the culture is a positive one. Ss should feel confident to learn and attempt new things. #LearnLAP
A1: Building relationships with Ss and Families. Head off problems before they impact Ss learning. Spend time for meetings and gain time on instruction. #WALearnLap#LearnLap
A1) Our are "Family Meetings." My best tip is to avoid only meeting in response to negative situations. Get out in front and teach proactively. #LearnLAP
Since reading @LearnLikeaPirate our class meetings have been more productive. It allows for shared ideas, discussion and communication in a safe and caring environment. My co-worker and I are stepping back more each day, and letting kids lead. #learnlap
A1b Class meetings each morning make our class bond quickly. We learn so much from each other and it reduces stress. Kindness and manners always come in to play during these #learnlap
A1: Class meetings create a sense of belonging and ownership in their classroom. We build community, support each other, have a laugh or two, start the day together on the right note. The meeting creates a culture of respect and shared experiences. #learnlap
A1. If you build relationships in the beginning, Ss will not be afraid to take the risks and speak during the meeting. The environment must be safe and equal for all. Ground rules should be set at the beginning. #learnlap
#learnlap#walearnlap. Class meetings are important in showing students that they too have a voice in their education and to help them take ownership in their learning outcomes.
A1: I don't have Class Meetings. We have "Good Things" Circles and Group Launch at the beginning and end respectively. I could probably be more intentional with both.
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A1) Set expectations (listen w/an open heart & an open mind); have a system for who goes & when (we use a "mic" & u may only speak when u have the mic); #LearnLAP
A1) Here’s one I just learned on here: A school that streams its morning meetings on Facebook Live. Classrooms can do the same, to engage families—sometimes. Students should also have a more private opportunity. #LearnLAP
A1: The purpose of class meetings is to allow Ss to have a voice - let Ss know it is a safe place - and that their voices will be heard w/o bias or judgement #WALearnLap#LearnLAP
I love that song. I play that song with my kiddos when we do growth mindset. I get eyerolls and smiles. Some of them are too cool! Don't care! #LearnLAP
A1: classroom meetings are all about building community! Giving Ss an opportunity to have their voices be heard! Tip: let them have say in how mtg runs #LearnLAP
#learnlap As student led as possible! Place for students to brainstorm topics. Discourse structures for students to discuss topics during meetings. Lots of student led kudos. Sense of tradition and sacredness.
A1- For me, class meetings are a great way to establish/maintain positive atmosphere. Let students have a voice and express their opinions judgement-free. #WALearnLap#LearnLap
A1: Use it to create a safe env. in the classroom and a sense of community. We meet reg. every Mon and Fri (more if necessary). Usually ask rank questions (scale of 1-10) helps quiet Ss to get started and not feel too personal. Can go from there w/ more conversation. #LearnLAP
A1: Without a doubt, I would go with norm setting as a primary focus, followed by sharing values that are important to the community. And of course, you can and should, have those meetings in a circle!! #LearnLAP
A1 I'm a little late, but LOVE class meetings! They can start or end our day on a great note, helps build classroom relationships, gives Ss a voice, helps them learn to problem solve...#LearnLAP
A1: My tip is weave how to give feedback into your meetings. Ss can see you model, you can practice within the meeting & then apply throughout the day #LearnLAP
So true! I need to work on this...as I fall into the trap of calling a meeting when we have an issue that needs to be solved. Need to be intentional about a regular rhythm of meetings. #LearnLAP
A2 Allow Ss to lead portions of the meeting as they are comfortable. Empower them to taste success & feel they they truly matter and then watch them flourish! #learnlap
Q2: At the beginning of the year the T sets the tone, the routine, the expectations of Morning Meeting and then I hand it off to the kids. It is their classroom, and their meeting to lead. It develops their speaking and leadership skills. #LearnLAP
A2: Ideally, teachers should be a facilitator and students should be leading the discussion considering many of the topics we discuss addresses needs/concerns for them. #learnlap
A2- I started as the facilitator- now the students run the meetings for the most part- we start the day off with greetings and students share- end the day with a student Led RESET that they’ve begun to use like another class meeting! #learnlap
In the older grades 2nd, I did a song, message, and share. In order to get it in at one school I had to set an alarm 10 mins before the bell. Glad I don't have to do that now.
#learnlap But you do what you have to do!
A2. again, this is core at the relational level - if you have built those positives relationships, this will be a "give and take" meeting with feedback on both ends - highly constructive - the alternative is "top down", and doesn't work #LearnLAP
A2: Once norms are established and expectations are being respected through T modeling, both Ss and Ts should share the role of participant and facilitator. Classroom meetings are the perfect opportunity to@hear S voice! #LearnLAP
#learnlap A2: Ts should model structures then scale back and let students run the meetings as the year and structures progress. Ss should launch and facilitate the discussions
A2 My Ss are able to add their topics to the agenda and they run it, with some guidance. The more voice they have, the more they are willing to share with and support each other. #LearnLap
A2: I think teachers should have a general idea of what they want to cover in the meeting, but students should really be the ones driving the conversation and discussing things with one and other while the teacher facilitates. #learnlap
A2: Students should be leaders, and teacher facilitators. But I also think teachers should participate! Kids love when their teachers are part of the family as well. #LearnLAP
A2 Morning meetings set the tone for the day. Allows for discussion on our character thoughts which are shared with the entire school. Allows for critiquing in a positive manner. Our Ss are now to the point where they respond without Ts direction. #learnlap
A2 I think Ts should take a back seat to Ss voices. I like to pose a question and watch the ideas go flying around the room. I tell them not to raise their hands, just add to the convo at the appropriate time. #LearnLAP
A2. A teacher plays a facilatator, and the Ss play the roles of the leaders. They can nominate a pres. , v. pres. and so on in the class or just have the class as a whole speaking. #learnlap
It helps to set a positive tone for all meetings. We always start with a 3 minute dance party too. Even when there is something serious to address. #LearnLAP
A2: If there is an issue that the students bring up, we usually designate a moderator(s) to run the discussion and try to find a solution. Sometimes we also have someone keeping minutes of the discussions.
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#learnlap A2 In our room we both play a role. They participate in all 4 parts, I facilitate it and plan the greet and activity weekly. The daily teacher leader helps lead many parts such as the message. Each day that changes. #learnlap
A2: After the Ts model what is expected they would then become the facilitator and the Ss should run the meetings. Ss love being in charge and they learn responsibility along with other lessons. #LearnLAP#WALearnLap
A2) Yes. Every student should get an opportunity to lead, and choose how. (If they don’t want to lead the discussion, they can determine the agenda.) #learnlap
A2 Student and teacher roles in class meetings can be flexible. Depending on context, the teacher can be a facilitator, a listener, or a participant.
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I agree Chris. Students like to know they have a say. It is much more motivating to them when their voices are heard and when they feel that their input matter. #learnlap#walearnlap
Speaking from inexperience, I would see the teacher more as a casual observer and the students lead and take ownership of the classroom meetings #learnLAP
A2: now that I have established expectations, I am there to facilitate. My Ss run the meeting. I participate too, I think that’s important. Ts are part of the classroom community too! #LearnLAP
A2: We do morning meetings on Mon and Fri. Every afternoon we do a version of REARJMCL from @LearnLAP. Students have roles of Recapper, Evaluator and Announcer. They really love it and is a great way to wrap up the day. #LearnLAP
#learnlap jumping in late... multi-tasking. Hopefully Ss and Ts have two roles in class meetings. Passive leader and/or active leaders. Sharing responsibility.
A2- Teachers should facilitate and encourage students to be actively involved in meeting. Students should be engaged in meaningful, relevant dialogue. #WALearnLap#LearnLAP
Oh my goodness I couldn't agree more. Ts must actively engage for Ss to buy in and to build that community environment. I feel that it's not a time to tune out or grade papers. #LearnLAP
#learnlap Thanks Sarah, not my site but found it once and it was so helpful in getting me started. Nice thing is they can go in math tubs later and ss can grab them at any time
On Mondays, I might ask how their weekend was on a scale of 1 - 10. It just gives me an idea of what kind of weekend they might have had. I usually don't ask why, just listen for the number. #LearnLAP
A3 I teach 7th grade with 5 classes. Beginning and end of day don't work...but I check in with my advisory every morning and touch base. In each class, we begin and wrap up each class together. #learnlap
Q3: kids come in from such varying situations it seems critical to start the morning coming together, sensing that “family”, that for some kids does not happen before they reach us each morning #LearnLAP
#learnlap#WALearnLap A2: Teachers are like tour guides in that while it is up to each student to take that educational journey, the teacher guides them to the important spots and helps avoid the pitfalls along the way.
A3 Love morning meetings. This question makes me think that maybe our end of the day could be a LOT less hectic if we took time for an end of the day meeting. Something to consider! #learnlap
#learnlap A2. It's a tremendous opportunity to empower students to become advocates for others AND themselves! We also use it for "adulting" skills like eye-contact, handshakes, greetings, and asking questions while seeking genuine replies
#learnlap a3: setting the tone for a positive and inclusive day! Ending let’s students reflect...I never miss a morning meeting but need to get better at the end of the day!
A2) it’s important to let students take on the responsibility and feel like they are in charge. Teachers can take on the student role, listen to what the students have to say and give them the power and freedom to take ownership #LearnLAP#WALearnLap
This is great! Temperature Readings! Tells so much. Great for the older ones. I did this as a college student and I loved it! #learnlap Great meeting idea Todd
On Mondays, I might ask how their weekend was on a scale of 1 - 10. It just gives me an idea of what kind of weekend they might have had. I usually don't ask why, just listen for the number. #LearnLAP
A3 I think it helps set the tone for the class. As a starter, Ss coming in stressed have an opportunity to either vent or hear positives, as an ending, Ss have a chance to solve or celebrate issues. For my class, we've had both and either worked well. #LearnLAP
A3 I make it my goal to personally connect with every single student of mine every single day. Even if it’s for 30sec just so they know I noticed them & I care. Some days I do better than others but I’m learning & growing! #learnlap
A3: I love morning meetings and our end of the day ritual. Both have their purpose: our day starts off on the right foot and our day ends with a goal in mind for tomorrow. It’s too hard to choose! #LearnLAP
#learnlap A3. I used to only do "tribal councils" on Fridays, but with snowdays kids clamor for "make-ups. This week I'm trying every day mini-meetings to work on skills and sharing, kids love it and so do I!
I think it’s great starting the day being an active listener to students helping them know that their voice and feelings are heard and acknowledged and to end the day in reflection moving forward. #LearnLAP
A3: I think both are meaningful, but we only have time for a full one in the morning. Best to set the tone for our day & set off right. I do have a check in at the end of the day though, just short. #LearnLAP
A3: We currently only meet once a week. Though I can definitely see daily class meetings as a great starting opportunity to the day for our students. #learnlap
A3 The morning meeting I believe it essential. We do a short end one if possible with Count On Me Song and What we liked about our day response. But mornings are a norm always
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Q3 - proper introduction and closures are necessary for the environment to succeed and understand what will be going on and/or what went on and where we are heading to next #LearnLAP what learning went on during the meeting
A3 Start-of-day meetings can allow students to acknowledge any stresses they might be carrying into school. End-of-day meetings gove them an opportunity to notice what they tried that day, how it worked, and what they want to do next.
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A3: I feel like I am more consistent with afternoon meetings. Great way to reflect on the day and set the goal(s) for the next day. Would love to do both in a perfect world. Usually just remind in the morning of our goal we set from day before. #LearnLAP
A3: We currently only meet once a week. Though I can definitely see daily class meetings as a great starting opportunity to the day for our students. #learnlap
A3. Both are beneficial for different reason- like “apples and oranges”
Morning- set intentions for the day and reconnect with the classroom community
End of day- reflect on the day and celebrate successes and areas for growth
#LEARNlap
A3: starting the day with a meeting helps Ss to clear their head before they start the day. Ending the day with a meeting might set the tone for the next morning’s meeting. #learnlap#walearnlap
A3. In a meeting, it would occur towrds the beginning and/or end of the day. If Ss have suggestions, when working on a project or activity, they can speak freely. #learnlap
We're talking "Learn Like a PIRATE" philosophy on #LearnLAP now (Classroom Meetings, specifically) and #MasonEdChat starting NOW if you want to join the conversation!
A4 simply put relationships rule! This is a great way to develop them as well as build a culture of partnership. Ss that are more invested perform better #LearnLAP
A4: If you don't make time, you'll end up taking time later. Creating community solves many potential problems, allows chances to share, and solve problems as a class. I don't feel the need to justify them, just come to my class and you'll see the results in action. #learnlap
A3: Meetings are important at both times. To begin you Draw Ss in and get them focused, ready and excited - and a meeting at the end allows you to tie ups loose ends, a review or a question to ponder. #LearnLAP#WALearnLap
A3: Both meetings serve the purpose of beginning and ending the day...together. Sharing that moment of “we’re in this together” is so important to our Ss. Whether it’s a daily mindful moment, an inspirational quote, or a one word check-in, it all accomplished the same. #learnlap
A3: I think it depends on the needs of your class & can be adapted. I preferred starting my day w/ a read aloud. Every Monday then w/ a meeting & then rest of week depended on their needs #LearnLAP
A3: I think it’s just so important to greet our Ss too. I make sure I say good morning to every student, every morning as they come into my room, separate from morning meeting. #LearnLAP
A3: it’s important to start the day with a meeting . You never know what happened to a student on their way to school . The goal is for students to leave the baggage at the door #LearnLAP
A4: Building relationships with your kids transforms the classroom in every way possible. Whatever style meeting you choose...just do it. You’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner. #LearnLAP
A4 Make them as long or short as you need them. I have to remember each grade level needs diff things. When I taught the older grades I made them shorter but meaty enough to make a difference. A type of Share is vital in any meeting though
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A4: Meeting time can get Ss (and Ts) back on track. The time used to have a meeting is more productive than dealing with behavior problems or lack of focus because of no meeting. #LearnLAP
A3. That morning meeting is also great for kids who had a rough morning- whether parents felt rushed and said something to kid and kid took to heart or they got in fight with sis or whatever- The morning meeting is a great distraction of what may have occurred. #LearnLAP
A3: I think it depends on the needs of your class & can be adapted. I preferred starting my day w/ a read aloud. Every Monday then we ended w/ a meeting. Rest of the week depended on their needs #LearnLAP
A4: Spending the time upfront saves the loss of small chunks of instructional time during lessons. A meeting is structured time and intervention. re-directing Ss during the lesson is not #WALearnLap#LearnLaphttps://t.co/DqoYvZrbNy
A4: Schools should not be factories that create robots. Class meetings help promote concepts, beliefs, ideas, values that are essential to humanity. We need to help promote these ideas. #learnlap@DavidGeurin@_on11@ERobbPrincipal@KGT_Educator
A4) It is important to be clear what your objectives are for meetings. They should go beyond our Ss having a good day. The meetings can help them develop as better people too. #LearnLAP
Def agree - if forced to pick, I would opt for post class meeting. That way, I can reflect w students on what did/did not go well and adapt for future lessons. #WALearnLap#LearnLAP
A4: How can we not? Our students are required to work together & Be part of a community. We must build that community & 21st century learners. #LearnLAP
Luckily my district promotes this. There is huge value in building relationships between the T and Ss as well as between Ss. It also builds communication and problem solving skills. #LearnLAP
A4: Students need to be reassured that the classroom is a place that they are cared for and valued. Classroom meetings, outside of already loaded academic day, is just a drop of cool refreshing water! 💦 #learnLAP
A4 We are a family and Learn from our mistakes, so it is important to have that sense of belonging. I believe it helps with Growth Mindset if we know where everyone is for the day. We love to celebrate successes and failures from afterschool too, and this allows for it #learnlap
As facilitators we model the importance of creating these opportunities for our students regardless of the demands of the day, in reality, because of the demands it is essential to learn to be flexible and make the most of what time we have together. #LearnLAP
A3 - it’s nice to start the day with a class meeting. Great way to check in with students and get a pulse for their status emotionally and physically. A great way to build community. #LearnLAP
A4: Meetings can be just as educational as a question on a test or learning the definition of a new vocabulary word. It’s about the content. #LearnLAP#WALearnLap
#learnlap A4: to me, it’s just like a brain break, recess, a teachable moment or a re-teach—time spent building community is well spent and buys us back time in structure, routine, reflection and CARE
A4 I can't imagine not starting every day with a meeting. It allows Ss to transition from home to school in a positive,welcoming, and warm way. I hope it makes Ss look forward to arriving each day. Happy students will be more engaged students. #learnLAP
A4: Schools should not be factories that create robots. Class meetings help promote concepts, beliefs, ideas, values that are essential to humanity. We need to help promote these ideas. #learnlap@DavidGeurin@_on11@ERobbPrincipal@KGT_Educator
A3/A4. The morning meeting is also great for kids who had a rough morning- whether parents felt rushed and said something to the child & he took 2 ❤️ or they got in fight with sis or illness in fam-Morning meeting is a great distraction of what may b occurring. #LearnLAP
If you teach 2nd and lower this song is great to end the meetings. I have done it for over 5 yrs and we still love it. My husband did in 4th but used lyrics only
https://t.co/DaNDRRmkcP#learnlap
A4 Academic and social-emotional learning aren’t mutually exclusive uses of time. We create a community in the process of meaningfully learning together. A class meeting is a way to deepen that learning and acknowledge the community that supports our learning.
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A4- I have to admit, I had a hard time when I started this 2 years ago! There isn’t enough time in the day! But I’ve found that giving students that 20-30 min. To build relationships and to 🎉 & reflect is priceless! Won’t go back!! #learnlap
A4) The same way you justify teaching and learning as part of a complex web of relationships, not just a transmission of knowledge. Relationships and interaction are the first steps in that learning. #learnlap
#learnlap#WALearnLap A3: Meetings at the beginning of class work better for me because it's more prospective than retrospective. I would rather go forward than look backward so kids know what's ahead that day.
Q4. Who ever said classroom meetings had to be in person. 2018 is full with technology. Many ways for people to find time via some sort of app. #LearnLAP It all comes down to how important something is for someone .. there is always time! #prioritizes
A3: Since we are all learners, opening and/or closing meetings are good pedagogy. In opening meetings, people have energy, in closing they have experiences. Why not mix it up? #LearnLap
You have to work up to that idea of having conversations, and not just talking AT each other. My 7th graders need help with how to interact and learn from each other. #LearnLAP
A5: Just building verbal communication skills alone is worth it. Many of my Ss can’t verbalize answers, I’ll ask additional questions sometimes to build that. #LearnLAP
A4. Communication is essential in relationships. Setting aside a few minutes for a class meeting where Ss can talk about concerns, issues, questions, or ideas that they would like to share with the group. #learnlap
A4- As long as meetings have a productive purpose, they are justified. Class objectives, expectations, concerns, etc can be addressed, and structured learning can take place w minimal redirection. #WALearnLap#LearnLAP
A5- Ss set goals at the end of each day and often they tend to be academic- they realize a challenge and plan a way to meet it- their plans are meaningful to them and more motivating than mine! #learnlap
A4 I can't imagine not starting every day with a meeting. It allows Ss to transition from home to school in a positive,welcoming, and warm way. I hope it makes Ss look forward to arriving each day. Happy students will be more engaged students. #learnLAP
#LearnLAP A5.) by being risk-takers to share in "tribal council" students are empowered to have a voice within the school day. I've seen so many wonderful quiet voices develop into passionate, empowered learners the rest of the day
A5: We recentlymissed 4 school days fro snow, we talked a lot about what we did on those days. Now that will be a writing piece, but students had a chance to talk, low-risk, first #LearnLAP
A5) A classroom full of compassionate, empathetic, safe, secure, motivated and happy students...is a place where enhanced learning takes place! #LearnLAP
A5: Our "activity" during morning meeting is often a game with a learning objective. Headbands with proper and common nouns, Padoodle to work on verbs, etc. Speaking and listening and leadership skills are a given in MM. Soft skills are a focus as well. #LearnLAP
A5 Class meetings can easily support content misconceptions, discussion, sharing and status of learning. Great use of time and collaborative work. #LearnLAP
A5: Meetings give us the opportunity to build relationships from our Ss...we see them, and they see us. Showing them that we are invested in them, will encourage them to invest in what we are presenting to them. #learnlap
A4: I think that when something is this important you find the time. :) The environment you create by having meetings will make for more engaged Ss and maximize instruction. #LearnLAP
A5 You can do so much to add learning into it with every part including the message and activity. But I also know that social skills are an important part of our day and mm helps us practice these skills. By now my class is always hugging...always #learnlap
A5: I love using team leader meetings. S project groups nominate a team leader for the day. That person becomes the expert and shares knowledge w/ rest of group. S take ownership, increase comm/collab 👌🏻 #learnlap
A5: It’s all about OPPORTUNITIES! As small as it may be...a short moment where Ss are comfortable could be what they need to express needs!
Also, opportunities to feel how much they matter.
Doesn’t feeling like you matter promote learning?!?! 🤔 #learnLAP
#LearnLAP Q1-We use them to set the focus for the week/class, talk about the expectation for how our classroom should look, feel, & sound. We clear up any misconceptions and discuss everything and anything under the sun. They are vital to a well-run classroom!
A5 We have the mindset that we learn ALL the time. It is important to take EVERY opportunity to learn. So, morning meetings is just another opportunity to learn. #learnlap
#learnlap walearnlap You need to budget time for the meetings. This can be done by allotting time when you plan your lessons. You cannot squeeze meetings in here and there because the results will be as haphazard as your efforts.
A3) I think it’s important in the beginning to discuss what the lesson and the day will entail and at the end to debrief and get/give feedback on the days lessons and activities. #LearnLAP#WALearnLap
A5: Loved using class meetings for book studies that promoted healthy positive habits! Those positive social emotional skills allow for more focused instructional time which in turn benefits our Ss. #LearnLAP
A2- Teachers should encourage students to be involved in the morning meeting. Both the teacher and the student could be a facilitator, a listener, or a participant depending on the context and content of the meeting. #LearnLAP
Phone is dying and some last min chores to do. #firstThingsfirst
Love this chat and loved loved this topic! Biggest thing we can do is to listen to our kids. Class meetings make time for this and shows them we prioritize them #learnlap
A5. Find out what Ss are interest in and build projects and lessons around their interests that can apply to everday life situations/ problem solving. When having meetings 1:1, have Ss det. where their strengths and weaknesses may lie and where they think imp. is nec. #learnlap
I also spend a lot of time "branding" in my room. We are #TeamOlson. It builds pride in our room and how we treat each other. It is also important to play and laugh together. I remind Ss that families don't get along at all times and that is ok too. #LearnLAP#FullHouse
A6 We had a meeting today about sharing the iPad cart. It wasn't ideal for us, but modeling sharing and kindness to another teacher was important and while kids weren't happy, they got it. #learnlap
Sometimes we play guessing games w the message. Students look for clues about our day & goals.For example, I might write verbs in a different color & Ss have to figure out why they are different than the rest of the message. #learnLAP
A1: The most beneficial power I give to my Ss that enables them to lead in the classroom is the power to interrupt the class whenever they need to by using "Give Me Five!" The call-out gathers the attention of their peers & allows for directions to be announced. #MasonEdChat
#learnlap A5: this year when I noticed an ELL always “passing” during MM I talked to her and gave her some ideas on what and how to share and she always participates now
A5: students are able to hear different perspectives on certain topics . It teaches them to actively listen and engage in others point of view . When it is time to collaborate, students know how to be open to other ideas #LearnLAP
Q1: class meetings can be used to check the climate of the classroom. It is important to check in with your students to see where they are at. It allows them to let out what they need to let out before starting the day. #LearnLAP
@PaulSolarz This year, I have one group that is taking far longer to feel empowered despite all of my coaching. I'm not giving up! I know that true change takes lots of time! I just want to see them get there before they go to 6th grade! #MasonEdChat
A5: We create a safe space where students can create and develop real life solutions to problems that are meaningful to them and lend to teaching opportunities like transdisciplinary projects that bridge multiple content areas. #LearnLAP
A5: We start morning meetings in a social way in the beginning of the year while we get to know each other, then we’ll incorporate academic games and activities. My kids write meeting ideas they make up and we keep them in a folder to use as well. #LearnLAP
A6 Ss learn speaking and listening skills, including respectful disagreement and agreement. Everyone needs to take their turn and allow others a voice. Ss also learn to support each other and hold each other accountable (responsibility partners) #LearnLAP
A6) Regular meetings can lead to Ss sharing very personal stories. The more they hear others' stories, the more care and compassion they will be able to show others. #LearnLAP
A5: New here! Are these really “meetings?” They seem more like collaborations to me. Meetings to me are for information dissemination while collaboration is about group creation. Semantics? Pardon my obtuseness. #learnlap
A6: For the past three years, I have used a book (like Ron Clark's Essential 55) to bring up topics for discussion to encourage positive behavior and habits. We then focus on 1 or 2 for the week. #LearnLAP
A6. When we made our classroom guide, have Ss participate in making them in the meeting. They will set the expectations and behavior that should be expected. Facilitate kindness, caring, empathy and role model situations.#learnlap
Regardless of what level we teach/lead at... we can’t assume all Ss have same backgrounds. Meetings allow us to set expectations, model good citizenship, & acknowledge areas of strength and growth #WALearnLap#LearnLap
A6 Modeling expected behaviors is so important. We take time to talk about how we feel when others aren't showing those behaviors. This helps Ss understand their actions impact how others feel & they are more motivated to show positive behaviors. #learnLAP
A6: We have a student-led portion of our end of the day ritual that incorporates goal setting. The kids reflect on their day and set a goal for the next day. There’s no pointing fingers - everyone comes together as a family to better themselves. #LearnLAP
Some of best topics go to #flipgrid- my very shy student will not talk in the group but can come alive on the video😙! The discussion continues! #learnlap
I liken my "Family Meetings" to the ones that always took place on Full House and now @fullerhouse I even had to go out and buy a classroom couch! We come together and grow individually and as a family at these "meetings." #LearnLAP
A6: As teachers, we can use times that we modeled good behaviors as examples. We can also use the times we've fallen short to show how some of our negative decisions did not grow fruitful outcomes. #learnlap
A7 it gives them an opportunity to participate and share their opinions if students suggestions and comments are respected and valued confidence will grow #LearnLAP
A6 Set the tone/expectations of family culture on the first day! Every voice is valued and important! We are each other cheerleaders! We learn and fail together enthusiastically!
#LearnLAP
#LearnLAP@PaulSolarz@mcnairan3#ghbookstudy ME TOO!!! I used it all day today and I empowered a few of my students to use it to get the classes attention so they can make announcements. It's GREAT!
A1: The most beneficial power I give to my Ss that enables them to lead in the classroom is the power to interrupt the class whenever they need to by using "Give Me Five!" The call-out gathers the attention of their peers & allows for directions to be announced. #MasonEdChat
A7 A classroom in 2018 should not be sit and listen to the teacher. Having meetings, asking students to help you and other students, and letting them lead builds self esteem and empowers. If we empower the the kids in front of us every day they can change the world! #learnlap
A7: Ss learning to share and listen and have empathy and respond to each other, to push their own boundaries, to lead and have success in leading, to find out that they belong, to answer questions and accept praise...all of these things build a Ss confidence! #learnLAP
A7: witnessing students become experts in conversations that connect to them personally is one of the most rewarding experiences for not only the students but for the teacher as well. #LearnLAP
q7: Showing kids they matter will build a student's self-esteem. Showing them that you are willing to listen and have a conversation with them is HUGE! #LearnLAP
A6. Any meetings that build relationships and deepen connection between Ss or S and T, will result in a more positive learning experience. Kids learn from people they like (and people they feel like them in return) #LEARNlap
A7: Meetings can create a sense of community that allows the shy Ss the courage to participate. Also when they are given a role/job they feel a sense of pride and will work hard to do their very best. #WALearnLap#LearnLAP
A7: Meetings give Ss voice. Ts provide guidance and support for all Ss (some of whom we know don’t have that at home) and can scaffold confidence and self advocacy. Respond not react to others. #WALearnLap#LearnLap
A7. A class meeting gives leadership opportunities to Ss and allows them to take risks in a safe environment. It gives them confidence for speaking for themselves and leading the way. We empower them with the feeling "I can do it!"#learnlap
Yes, where I am from the word meeting is so negatively connotated that I have stopped using it. I use the word collaboration instead. Love your quest to redefine it! #learnlap
A7. Gives that student a voice where they may have faded into crowd before- can give the child chance to take a risk and speak- see family listening and cheering them on and will build that child’s confidence. #LearnLAP
A7: Use them to validate student feelings and to praise student successes. Students need a place to belong, and class meetings can help them connect to our classrooms. #learnlap@ERobbPrincipal@schug_dennis
A7: When students build each other up their confidence grows. As the classroom community strengthens and students trust one another, students gain confidence they never had before! Everyone gets a voice. #LearnLAP
Calling all pirates!!! Do we have any pirates looking to talk Makerspace?Join #scitlap this Wednesday 8CST. We love talking and teaching science, but all subjects are welcome! #learnlap#tlap
A7: I notice self esteem increase when students have similar stories . Students use their voice more once a connection is made . It brings me joy to watch how much they grow #LearnLAP
A7 I’m more interested in how class meetings build self-compassion rather than self-esteem. Class meetings can help students notice their common humanity, put their struggles in context, and treat themselves & each other with kindness. #LearnLAPhttps://t.co/jRMobghWHo
#Learnlap A8 to be so close to positive communication with Ts fosters the same courage in Ss. Especially as they grow as active participants in their learning.
Thanks so much to @MrsReinagel for moderating #LearnLAP this evening! Hope you'll all join us again next week as @teresagross625 & @HeckAwesome moderate a special "Sketchnoting" chat!
For now, jump on over to #tlap and/or #MasonEdChat for more great discussion!
A8. Class meetings promote Ss leadership by taking risks and speaking up for themselves and others, owning learning by conducting the meeting and the topic with issues discussed, disc. their own ideas and creativity. #learnlap
A3: #LearnLAP helped me re-envision my classroom environment. Kids are empowered to do EVERYTHING that they are capable of doing. Kids love being in charge. And, I love letting them. Life changing. #MasonEdChat
A3: Although my Ss are assigned a job at the beginning of the year, everyone is encouraged to do each others' jobs as needed (the assigned student just ensures that it gets done). When a job is motivational & several Ss want to do it, they Rock-Paper-Scissors for it! #MasonEdChat
