A1: We spent time looking through our portfolios. We can already see growth. There was lots of giggles as students looked at work from early in the year. #3rdchat
A1: Ss responded to how they read (their mind work) their 1st, last and will read their next mystery using some quick prompts... and they weekly reflect using #flipgrid so will probably set up a semester reflection topic for next week ##3rdchat
A3: Today, we reflected on how many digital tools they learned to used since September. They have mastered so many tools in a short time. Their digital competency has grown quickly. #3rdchat
My students will be publishing their informational books before end of next week in some form... looking forward to seeing all their work come to a celebratory close #3rdchat
A1 I love to have them look back at work from our portfolios, We discuss our growth and write our highlights from the first semester and set goals for the new year. #3RDCHAT
A1: We're on a trimester system so not a super logical "reflection" point right now. But we're wrapping up a science chapter and tomorrow they'll start making "Water Environment' books #3rdchat
A1: Today, we reflected on all the digital tools we mastered since September. They didn't even know how to log in. They saw how quickly their digital competency has shown in a short time.#3rdchat
Q2: Working in groups is a great option for students that are just as mentally exhausted as their teacher. What are some engaging end of the semester lessons that can engage groups of students and encourage collaboration? #3rdchat
A2 this time of year is great because students have learned my expectations for group work. My ss are working on presentations to show what new understandings they have in math this semester. #3rdchat
A2: Easing off the intensive writing instruction and working on creative communication projects. Asking students to show learning in different ways. Collaboration is always in season and move us forward together. #3rdchat
Q2: Working in groups is a great option for students that are just as mentally exhausted as their teacher. What are some engaging end of the semester lessons that can engage groups of students and encourage collaboration? #3rdchat
A3: I think it's all about not worrying if things get chaotic, and trying to inject levity into lessons. Kids have lots of strong emotions around the holidays so I also try to keep some structure. #3rdchat
A3: I manage stress with early bedtimes, reading in bed, and sipping hot tea! I also enjoy writing for personal enjoyment- after my kids go to bed! #3rdchat#3rdchat
Q4: Bringing the real world into the classroom can generate excitement. What are some ideas for guest speakers, community projects, or global learning opportunities that could be brought into the classroom? #3rdchat
A3: Keep up the workout routine. Get enough sleep. Eat as healthy as you can. Regular routines can get thrown off kilter. Take care of yourself, so you can take care of your students and your family. #3rdchat#fitnessedu
A4: I had @RubinPingk skype with my class about conquering the goblins that hold us back. He has this wonderful presentation about using ninja moves to do everything. Plus he wrote Samurai Santa. It's a fantastic book with amazing illustrations. #3rdchat
Q5: Many buildings do fun spirit weeks or other building wide activities to help keep excitement flowing until the break. What types of activities or events does your building promote for students and/or staff? #3rdchat
Q5: Many buildings do fun spirit weeks or other building wide activities to help keep excitement flowing until the break. What types of activities or events does your building promote for students and/or staff? #3rdchat
A5: My favorite was a school that I was at hosted a schoolwide Polar Express event complete with Christmas PJ day, hot cocoa, and our principal read the story aloud...you could have heard a pin drop. Afterward, every child got a jingle bell. #3rdchat
Q5: Many buildings do fun spirit weeks or other building wide activities to help keep excitement flowing until the break. What types of activities or events does your building promote for students and/or staff? #3rdchat
A5: Staff is doing a Secret Snowman and we're having a pot luck on the last day (half day for kids)... sadly there isn't as much holiday stuff for kids anymore due to varied beliefs, etc. #3rdchat
A6: Keep your ear to the ground and listen carefully. With all the busy festivities of the Holiday, we want to make sure we don't miss an opportunity help students or staff who may be in need. An empathetic ear can be the gift someone needs this Holiday. #3rdchat
Hmmm... I've been trying to figure out a way to get these to an authentic audience... may have to let them know other 3rd graders may be able to read their work... thinking #3rdchat
A7: Infuse more rich literature into my instruction. Teach students how to make a Google Site. Make a digital holiday card for families using @DoInkTweets . #3rdchat
You really don't have to teach much for Google Sites. It is pretty intuitive now that it has been updated. Lessons could focus more on digital citizenship aspects of creating a site. #3rdchat