#TLAP Archive
#TLAP is a weekly chat for educators who embrace author, keynote speaker, and moderator David Burgess' approach of teaching like a pirate. Burgess is author of Teach Like A PIRATE: Increase Student Engagement, Boost Your Creativity, and Transform Your Life as an Educator and co-author of P is for PIRATE: Inspirational ABC’s for Educators.
Monday March 14, 2016
Hey PLN! If you use Padlet, do you recommend the free one or the school version?
Hello friends! & I are thrilled to have you here. We're SO EXCITED to have author of host tonight!
A1. Ts use standards based grading. Go over rubric ahead of time w examples. Pretest to see where student is and give feedback/plan.
should be doing report cards, but have to bouce in Monday night
Eric MS principal from Ohio & co- Author of Your School Rocks
Br Christopher, Atchison KS, middle school science, tech, religion!
Hi - tonight's topic is LEGO in class. Introduce yourself, and tell us something AWESOME that happened today! https://t.co/zY1Bw2Rbd4
Ryan from IL, tech coordinator and author of Small hope and My Life as a Comic Book Reader and doc student!
Thanks Shelley! Clearly excited about this one. :)
If you don't have a copy of yet... you need one! It's chock full of great ideas and so much FUN! https://t.co/7TKqSXRlIV
Robert.Elementary Principal..I woke up and greeted my students even with daylight savings ;)....
Matt from ATL, Ga - 8th Gr. US History & Gov't. Glad to be here
awesome: went to the gym despite every desire to slough!
Hey Ryan, glad you could make it tonight!
Hello folks, Steve, a Middle School Assistant Principal from Missouri
Nick Baskwill Grade 5, NS, Canada, got both kids to nap at the same time was awesome!
Don, middle school teacher from St. Louis. Popping in for a bit. We are on spring break. Woot!
Gina from Ohio, middle school science and SS. something awesome - we started our teach like a pirate group!!
Lauren, third grade teacher from MA.
Same here, its spring break at NIU and i've been looking forward to this all week.
Greg, Northwest Indiana. PE teacher and K-5 Tech coach. Started seeing Ss realize the amount we raised for Hoops for Heart.
Patrick, pre service teacher in my jr practicum in NJ. And I got to see my 2nd grade teacher today.
Hi all - HS social studies teacher. Got to wear this today while being a judge in another teacher's class https://t.co/op7NwSHKNW
I have used free version so far and haven't had concerns! I love . Use it a lot.
Welcome Matt!
welcome...mat...
I just got that!!
you can create templates too.
good evening, - michael from columbus, OH middle school teacher - got an AWESOME review from my admin today
Well done sir! Day after daylight savings that's a feat!
Happy for the time change. I can make more often now. I'm Ku, Learning Coach, Argentina
Hi everyone. I am Pan, a 10th grade chemistry teacher from Brooklyn, NY
I do have a "Welcome Mat" in front of my room... yes :) LOL
Laura MCDonell, Saint Clair Middle school. Stu council and I created the tournament of books. So exciting!
Well done! I...chose poorly.
third grade teacher from Plymouth MA, get to take a Google Expedition tomorrow!
Arrrr crew! I'm Stefanie from Peoria, IL & I teach 2nd. I had 6 Ss try quest ? on Twitter & 11 Ss commenting on the blog this weekend!
Today was my first day back from break. 😳 https://t.co/OZt1BoC8pd
Don, middle school teacher from St. Louis. Popping in for a bit. We are on spring break. Woot!
My students were engaged bell to bell with WeDo 2.0 pull-bot. I teach K-5 STEM, Becky from Barrington, IL
Welcome Steve! Middle school is where it's AT!
Kristi from NY. My 8th grade finished their volcanoes. =]
I did on for through so it could be more self paced. Twitter scares some people.;)
Big fan of (Teach Like a Pirate), (standards based learning), and (teachers throwing out grades)
taking a writing break from my final paper. Oh how I have missed this crew. Rayna from MA!
welcome Don, thanks for stopping in!
I made a padlet template & copied for each Ss for genius hour and put all padlet links on my padlet
Angela, 6th grade Albertan pirate joining the crew! Ahoy!
We still have a week and a half or so before ours.
Hello crew! Jon here from Michigan. Was awesome returning to my school after days away for conference! https://t.co/LbpZ9NvpzP
Brad Jacobson, 7/8 SS/Read teacher in Peoria, Illinois. Aspiring to step into administration soon!
Recovering today from my Pi Day experience it was great fun for students classroom efforts to be rewarded. https://t.co/P7tTCQoSwz
That's awesome Greg -- congrats!
Happy to be here tonight, but dreading parent teacher conferences tomorrow
Hi all! Julia from and 3rd grade teacher!
Hey hey ! Bryan from Alberta jumping in. Junior High.
Happy Monday! Kristin from Lansing, MI 6th grade ELA and SS.
That's fantastic -- did they recognize you? :)
True dat! Takes a special kind of person to teach middle school
Hello ! I'm Heidi from the Badger State and I teach 5th grade. Happy to be aboard tonight!
Cindy Tech Coordinator from Tucson enjoying the beautiful 75 degree weather.
my classes are HUGE fans of yours!!!!
yeah, what stinks is she is retiring this year :/
Michael Matera liver of all things Lego. Today my students submitted this for a side quest. Lego gov board https://t.co/JlHPMZZqFZ
This is awesome! What a great side quest!
Ordered it today along with Explore Like a Pirate! I have the other books so far! Excited!
are they glued to the board?
Everyone will survive,
Probably.
I am very proud of this student. However, many more where this quest came from. Love in action.
So if we're here to about LEGO...why? What it is about LEGO that you love as a kid/adult/teacher/student/parent?
Sandy, you will find that it is packed full of ideas… like so many other pirate books I know.
well done! One of my favorites!!
Hey Matt! That is sooooo cool! Love it!
I own two lego boys, the Green Goblin and Havok. I'm not allowed to get more😢
Q1 if we're here to about LEGO...why? What it is about LEGO that you love as a kid/adult/teacher/student/parent?
LEGO - is that time when you used to be able to play, when time stood still
It is a toy that I could make however I wanted and remake and remake and remake and remake....
a1 LEGOs offer a sandbox approach to creation and learning. not as skill dependent as arts-- and less messy than finger paint!
A1: Its just FUN! I remember growing up with Legos! We use a few Lego videos: https://t.co/EY0w5vvJCS Battle of New Orleans
Agreed -- what was it about it that does that? (because it still does for some) https://t.co/OxqWfrdw5g
LEGO - is that time when you used to be able to play, when time stood still
losing the directions and just build
With both your books as my foundation in Tri 3, I'll bet engagement goes through the roof!
A1: I love the endless possibilities and options which Lego presents in an approachable format that is just plain fun!!!
A1 - you are only limited by imagination...and the pesky piece that you just can't seem to find!
So find a lego girl instead.
A1: The imagination/creativity/exploration aspects are amazing. So much can be taught/learned through Legos.
Legos are irresistible! Especially the mini-figures! You just HAVE to pick them up and start building!
A1:I love the forms and creativity. I love when you can build anything or imagine anything and then build it. Engagement out the wazoo
a1: no rules - build what you want with what you want - if you don't build correctly, natural consequence of falling apart
A1: Great thing about LEGOs is the ability to create! Making something new each time (alone or in groups).
A1: Legos encourages play, tinkering, creating through experimentation. Plus, they're colorful and tactile. Win-Win-Win.
A1:because you could either you the plans or create something out of your imagination or whatever you feel like, endless possibilities
usually the 1x2, blue piece.
A1. I used to make the little people come alive. big all with
-Mike from MD - 2 ES libraries.
I love how students can do rapid prototyping with LEGOs.
Q1: Loved LEGO since I was a kid but discovered it again when I broke my leg two years ago. Building a city right now
A1: Using my imagination to create something extraordinary like a spaceship and then going on a crazy adventure
A1: It started out of jealousy: my male cousins always got them while I was stuck with perfume...I loved the thrill of the build
A1: I have always loved it. Being able to build and bring to life so many scenarios - love watching my Ss build and play with it
haha, I was even going to say blue piece!
A1: You can build whatever you want using LEGO and it can be used easily in the classroom. Kids get really excited too.
Love that Lego allowed me to create using my imagination while recreating experiences which were burnt into my memory
A1- Love that Lego has so many possibilities. And you can be guided or create whatever you want.
A1 creativity, imagination. What can't be done with legos?
Hi & - I teach 5th grd w 1:1 iPads, created/facilitate , coach a team & love hands-on learning
I so want Captain Marvel and Ms. Marvel right now.
A1) I grew up with the legos that had no end goal on the package--I loved the freedom to be the architect of my imagination
KU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hello friend! How are you? Hope all is well! Always great to see you on twitter, my friend!
A1) so many options, structure yet open-ended for unlimited designs. Colorful. Boys and girls equally like them.
Directions? We don't need no stinkin directions.
In the AFOL (Adult Fan Of LEGO) parlance, you've ended your Dark Ages. Congrats. https://t.co/3cKpDJliU3
Q1: Loved LEGO since I was a kid but discovered it again when I broke my leg two years ago. Building a city right now
A1: At times I wished I taught little kids (k-5) to use Legos, at times my Ss look at legos & think "Not cool Mr. B" LOL
A1: we are here talking about LEGO at because with them anything is possible. LEGO has been part of life. https://t.co/3NXWNpw4yo
Lego's fostered a vision to accomplish a goal, it was learning and fun which is the best combo to have
A1: With LEGO I could create what I wanted, built when I imagined and then created my own stories.
A1: As a kid, I loved constructing things the way I wanted them. My castle or spaceship was mine, and no one could tell me I was wrong
A1: I loved that Lego could become ANYTHING! I can't draw, but my ideas came to life through Lego!
A1. also allows me to connect with Ss as it is my past time and something we both enjoy!
Hi Angela! Great to see you my friend! How's life? Hope all is well!
A1: Not intimidating to people who aren't naturally "builders" - make u realize u can create something even if u thought ucouldn't.
been watching my feed haven't you?
But they're boys. You can't have boys. You didn't say you couldn't have girls ...
A1: Loved creating stories and adventures. Interestingly enough pirate LEGOS were always my favorite!!
because they still allow it to happen - it's like ComicCon - you reinvigorate and rekindle that ember deep inside.
. my own kids created a large city which changed weekly. They had buckets of Legos organized by color and size.
A1: I love Lego because it can always be rebuilt. Not broken if we can fix it.
a1 because I like to leave little foot mobs on the floor
A1) also liked that if I didn't care for my creation, it could easily be changed, improved upon
A1: Using LEGOS promotes collaboration and enhances problem solving skills in a fun way
One of my Ss invented a vacuum last year for our fair
Very important idea -- doesn't have to be perfect the first time though. https://t.co/SrEXNqVHcc
A1) also liked that if I didn't care for my creation, it could easily be changed, improved upon
and there is 1000s of them!
Always read the fine print.
A1 Legos symbolize fun curious making- still love showing The White Stripes Lego animation M.Gondry created: https://t.co/EOjrQDnjod
A1: as a kid,neat to watch random pieces merge to form a structure that's recognizable,adult love the fractions that come from lego
A1: I thought I loved Legos as a kid. So much better as a father. Best moments are Lego play with my 4 kids.
I use EV3 and WeDo robotics for students to build devices to solve problems. They can easily change and test their designs.
Hello friends! Are you both returning to ? and I will be there!
I thought it was life, tomorrow,
I agree. I used LEGOs for a team building activity at the beginning of the year with my homeroom.
Big fan of both teaching and learning through the use of LEGO… Making movies and other projects…
A1: Legos could transport me anywhere, from a knights castle to a made up space ship to a rock em' sock em' derby car.
Q2 Within your curriculum, what's one concept/story/unit/idea that would make a great commercial LEGO set?
mobs was supposed to be bombs
Anticipation is intriguing! Like it
I wasn't judging.
Okay, I was.
A1: I'm a geometry teacher and addicted to using manipulatives, and Legos would be the ultimate spacial geometry manipulative.
A1: I never had as a child because they "weren't for girls" i'm glad my students don't have to deal with that stigma
Ss have a box of LEGO on their desk at all times with a baseplate so they can create whenever it hits them
Yes! We will be there! It will be awesome to see you & Christine! Please tell her hello!
A2: Civil War...Marching the soldiers next to each other, mowing 'em down, canons everywhere, it'd be great!
yeah, do you have any pictureses of that?
Check out podcast on LEGOs and creativity.
hmm. perhaps building models of atomic theory using LEGOS. Would certainly make a dry topic more fun for the students!
a2 lego kit for energy transfer, simple machines in Phys Sci! (then I chuck that kit in with the bucket of the rest of the LEGO)
A2. Build the setting of How to Eat Fried Worms or any book out of ! I love what Ss choose for details and how they
judge away. I speak gibberish
A2: hmm. perhaps building models of atomic theory using LEGOS. Would certainly make a dry topic more fun for the students!
Once again, I say "If I had had a different math teacher back in the day..." https://t.co/eGGnDM99mm
A1: I'm a geometry teacher and addicted to using manipulatives, and Legos would be the ultimate spacial geometry manipulative.
do you have any lesson plans u would share
Q2 I had students create a LEGO set for an ancient civilization other than Egypt. designed box and major set.
My badge is invisible. I'm slightly behind.
ooooooo I see your Swartz is as big as my Swartz
A2: Figurative language I think would be so much fun. Use LEGOS within a writing makerspace! Also fractions & bar models in math
Q2 https://t.co/fgQMmJFGwG
Q2 Within your curriculum, what's one concept/story/unit/idea that would make a great commercial LEGO set?
A2 - Fractions and LEGO are such an awesome fit!
I am thinking of some epic to scale battles! Waterloo! Spanish Armada! D-Day! Destruction of the Death Star - wait - got carried away
tried to build some buildings out of paper, no proportions, creativity is limited, with Legos the possibilities are endless
Great question, Quinn! https://t.co/BSkpWvZzMq
Q2 Within your curriculum, what's one concept/story/unit/idea that would make a great commercial LEGO set?
A2: Legos could be used to "create" scenes from history: Ford's Theatre, Signing the Decl of Ind, Gilded Age factory, etc
I would love to see what they come up with for that -- https://t.co/O6RzyIj9cc
A2: hmm. perhaps building models of atomic theory using LEGOS. Would certainly make a dry topic more fun for the students!
I have been dreaming of an under water lego set for exploration for years! I do mean years! From atlantis to modern day bubbles.
Wish I saw this post a decade ago. Right after I broke my femur.
A2: What wouldn't be awesome? Volume, area, congruence, all the other fun Pythagorean mischief, etc.
A2: Lego sets for Mitosis and Meiosis would be pretty cool.
A2: Legos would be great for any math unit as a manipulative, or for tactile learners
A2: Battle of the Alamo...from our Texas History would be a fun set.
A2: legomath builds excitement...addition, multiplication, fraction work together to build imagination w/ legos
A2 I'd love a set with Happy bday! They never made one.
One concept that would make good Lego set is create a city centered around maps, structures, and collaboration in a Makerspace format
Really want to do a geographic model of Asia and show the silk road complete with caravans
With so many LEGO games, movies, and cartoons, there is inspiration to create anything!
A2: Egypt, and French and English Settlements in NS - great possibilities there! Also think there should be lego!
Checking in late, but great to be back on the ship! David from NW Indiana, 5th grade teacher
Awesome! https://t.co/PE5p58NF3j
Really want to do a geographic model of Asia and show the silk road complete with caravans
A2: We are about to have a "Living Wax Museum" for biography lessons. LEGOs would be a great extension project for it!
A2: Ancient Athens- have the Ss create a Greek agora
What about string theory? Kittens could serve as quantum influences.
A2) World geography--cultures, natural disasters, physical geography
A2 normally I am in the commercial for paper, but we use a lot of story rebuilding with Legos https://t.co/U4lUTLTZaz
I have all the new underwater city sets. made a display in my classroom. the Ss love it
Nice to recreate scenes centered around items from history that had been learned in class
A2 a set created for school
Wayne Wy P, I have been docked for many months nice to be able to join voyage in spite of tardiness.
A2: Ss building weapons for war from legos...WHAT weapons would be most effective in war & explain HOW its better.
SAVED my sanity. not my bank account though!
"If you build it, they will come" Our ES Ss are currently in a Legopolooza Drive to stock up for this! https://t.co/bvuGesXdsy
yes and then use Build with Google for Digital transfer!
Stereotypes on toys or overcoming them.
Students pick an historical figure, research them, dress up as them and then present as them in costume for parents.
Not until your house has multiple lego walls, tables, everything is interconnected & historically accurate
A2B: as an icebreaker has his Ss create something that represents themselves and explains it to the class
battles from different ways show strategies and how one side was able to win.
A2 - Create a map of North America and change it as settlers come over and different countries claim land!
A2: I have the notion to have them build visuals to help remember literary terms. Don't know if it will work, though.
True Story! I love the new NEXO Knights! Digital and medieval all in one.
Fortunately, I was in Michigan. Sanity wasn't an issue. If I was solo. I'd have lost it.
A2) have ss use a handful of Legos each piece represents words and parts of speech. Create. Writing poetry using same concept.
A2:reading-setting, plot, sequencing, why didn't I think of this before?
This is the greatest invention I've ever seen and that name!
also making scenery for green screen projects.
A2: I can envision the Battle of Gettysburg lego set, box is full of random limbs.......? 2nd try, Industrial Revolution Series.
digital and medieval you say? Might need to check it out!
I would love to see literature come to life with every book we read, dioramas, scenarios, scenes,
Do you worry about missing parts? Do you invest in them for your Ss?
A my girls seem to like zoo aniimals this year legps for habitats.
A2: I think it would be really easy to make the Alamo out of Legos. Why? B/C I did it in 1999 when I was in 8th grade, and got an A+
SO many creative ideas being shared in about how to use in class!
Oh great one -- we'll be looking at ELA more with Q7! https://t.co/gkenlKfJ4C
A2) have ss use a handful of Legos each piece represents words and parts of speech. Create. Writing poetry using same concept.
K-4, 4th grade project. Yes! My favorite was Neil Armstrong last year with full astronaut outfit!
I build a simple LEGO model and put it behind a folder and I ask my students to work together to rebuild it.
THIS IS AWESOME!! I am hoping to teach a whole LEGO course this summer for camp !
I love this idea. Stealing it.
Maybe add an aurasma to it?
He was so that it worked !
do I have to back up if I am question 45
A2: Using LEGOS to balance chemical equations and illustrate the law of conservation of mass? Maybe?
Love the idea. Must let it germinate
That sounds awesome! Wouldn't mind chatting more about that! https://t.co/YcDnuV6cUO
A2) have ss use a handful of Legos each piece represents words and parts of speech. Create. Writing poetry using same concept.
I invest with the Ss. I trust them with their LEGOS. My home sets are my sons. I sold off all my ones in 2008.
I also tell them that the entire group needs to be in agreement about their finished product. Then I let them loose. =]
My Ss use build with Google almost daily to create just about anything. Ok, I use it too :)
A2: The design process was the easy, obvious choice in Science, but Am Rev in SS would be AMAZING!
So the chat right now is about using Legos in school! Awesome!
Ok, Trying to figure out how to get them in my library. Sometimes its just easier to do it myself ...
so non threatening. Love it !!
I had Ss use it to create past structures over current locals when doing IL history.
A2: I'm no Science guy, but I would DEF make cells & atoms/molecules outta some legos & learn WAY more that way
We just finished a novel study and now some students are building part of the setting with it!
we did this 2 weeks ago, the Ss were disappointed because they couldn't come back to their creation and modify it
Great idea! Second idea I am stealing tonight
Cartoon Network Saturday mornings. The sets are amazing too
I have been ahead of Quinn in a few answers
Combine this with maps for authenticity.
Good to know! Will check it out! Thank you for the tip!
Q3 some of you have touched on this; how do we help kids think outside the box of LEGO instructions? https://t.co/Lb1ZUm21S3
A2. Not in curriculum per say, but robotics.
Not going to lie, better than the one I built in '99, but I mean look at those custom pieces. I had to rough it.
I teach ELA and would love more info, too.
I have been thinking about that and looking into it. Im glad you mentioned it
Brett, Course Developer with , from TX.
do bracket sets for reading. Build a piece from each book.
A3. I actually ask them to think inside the box. What can we use in our classroom with to ,
A3: With Legos, the Ss "build" what they want. No instructions needed, just think. It's like Ikea instructions, just do it :)
a3 take away the instructions. Provide open questions and don't offer or accept easy answers!
There are touring exhibits like this that are amazing; even the pics can inspire creativity. https://t.co/FH5vlUlgwr
My sister played with them ... in the '70s. . Bummed for you. Happy for your Ss.
A3: Don't give instructions. Give ideas.
Im not sure I could sell off my sets. I had to move them into the garage where my city is growing
A3: As Ts if we want to have students think outside the box we have to sometimes take our lesson designs out of the box too.
A3: By never looking at them.
A3: Just picked up Minecraft lego that has no 1 set of instructions. Ss build like they play the game
Take away the instructions 😉 and let creativity flow in conjunction with projects https://t.co/5XIq8Qh8Fz
Q3 some of you have touched on this; how do we help kids think outside the box of LEGO instructions? https://t.co/Lb1ZUm21S3
A3: I let the Ss go. I just tell them: "Think you are in Minecraft, you know the rules!" They create.
take them away! Let students discover in their own that they don't need directions
A3 - Tell them to talk to each other, don't give the instructions, encourage the imagination and play!
We are reading about inventors right now. Open-ended "invent" something to solve a problem could be fun way to end unit More ideas?
Now you're not only ahead, but combining multiple Qs. Pretty darn "special." :)
Replace them with pictures?
We made cells last year and it was really successful! Base plates are great for this!
It was a very hard time in 2008. I had some great sets including 1 that was worth 3K now.
A3: Lose the instructions😜 It happens naturally when they are given time to collaborate & explore.
A3: Provide topics with units of study & let them have at it! They will build on their own ideas.
check out the video I just set you
A3 find similar structures, reassemble the instructions and have them create something new with the new instructions.
I think my parents still have ours.
A3) Having kids use multiple sets to create what they dream up. Encourage creativity. Have them explain their problems they created.
A3: Let them create. Facilitate if necessary but let the creativity flow.
A3 instructions are a good start for some Ss, but then facilitate outside the box thinking. Create challenge or open ended building.
A3:Have a problem that you want your Ss to solve and have them create the solution and test it, great for scientific method
Glad you could make it Brett!
A3: get out of their way...lol. Should totally be a guide on side in every way on this.
OMG, could you imagine if you had a ton of lego boxes & said "Build a timeline of US history"...I'd LOVE to see that one!
Love this idea. What a great concept! https://t.co/uscaBFrPsK
A3: Just picked up Minecraft lego that has no 1 set of instructions. Ss build like they play the game
Q3 I have never put LEGO directions out for my Ss. it is the first thing I pull out and put away.
Bummed that you had to go thru that. Wish I invested more back when.
video is still uploading. Stay tuned
A3: Here is what a student sent to Jobs to land an intern job for Marketing… Employer built the intern https://t.co/dqVOBrYEKF
Frankly, it's adults who want instructions. Kids throw away instructions and just play til they get it the way they want it.
It is great to be back in the chat. Been awhile.
A3 shred the directions infront of them and have them go wild. In 2nd grade they could create something of their own.
Sorry friends.I'm crashing & burning fast! Someone make me a lego bed! Good night pirates! C U next wk! Thanks 4 hosting
A3: Following instructions sets us up for mistakes. Creating sets us up for magic.
A3:Give the destination, empower the Ss to be pioneers! Less structure and more exploration. This might be the reason I'm a loud class
I also sold off my entire comic set too. Then again in 2010 and just last year. My collections done last.
I'd love to share ideas.My school has a weird set up for LP. We submit one a week with all our student centered acitvities
Q4 Many of our Ss spend more time w Minecraft than LEGO; is there value in hands-on building using LEGO vs digital worlds?
I am excited to see what they do with it!
We had students take instructions , crumple them, and throw them in the recycle bin. It was great! https://t.co/vDHWCD5pA6
A3 shred the directions infront of them and have them go wild. In 2nd grade they could create something of their own.
what if we remix instructions? build with them, then make them BETTER or put in a new situation or theme!
A3) I do this w my own kids at home. Give theme a topic like "freedom" and they have a time limit to create something and explain it.
And my dad wanted me to be an engineer...if only
Oh I am so sorry! That had to have been hard!
LEGO beds are more comfy than you'd think!
Glad you could join us Heidi!
A4 - the tactile component is nice! Bonus with digital is you don't run out of pieces!
I'm ready to power through the rest of the year style. Got sidelined too much last quarter.
A4: Real world its in their hands that they mold and no one can come in and tear down and you can still build together.
a4. YES because who says you need to play with inside. You can be & b with nature. is mobile. We all need 2
a4 depends-- lego doesn't have redstone! Something about the physical structure, I think appeals to sharing, pride in work.
I do this often in Science and Social Studies!
A4: Both have many positive and creative aspects. Building with hands and having a structure in front of you makes it more real
A3 I ask students to rebuild scenes from stories that are not already pictured using Lego. Also do this 3D printing
shredding it would make a pretty killer hook
A3 there's something about a Lego that is intrinsic to design minded people, there's no need to read instructions-just build & learn
joining late - Nikki from NW Arkansas, grades 5/6 - will be in and out putting little one down https://t.co/uGMaanE1kk
I love this idea -- helping kids see past the colors of the pieces can inspire creativity too! https://t.co/gAAse8mSjM
A4: sometimes you just want to touch something real. I love tech but still like to mark up and flag paper books.
A4 O think they both hold benefits, drafting used to be all done by hand for archetecture, but now it's done through CAD Programs
Same here. https://t.co/q5JjU2uX4F
A4: sometimes you just want to touch something real. I love tech but still like to mark up and flag paper books.
Concrete spatial awareness. I think it gives new perspective to online worlds. https://t.co/tBBxandsiO
Q4 Many of our Ss spend more time w Minecraft than LEGO; is there value in hands-on building using LEGO vs digital worlds?
A4: You can give geometry students all the fancy digital representations you want, but there's nothing like a hands-on manipulative.
you can also use a 3D printer to make more or ur own!
Stem certified. Teaching future engineers. Next best thing as long as you can play with legos ->Green Screen -> stop motion
A4: 4 the spatially challenged like me...YES!!! We need the physical component.for this I need physical and then I can "see" digital.
A4: Both engage the mind one truly engages the whole child… Building with LEGO lets your hands build your ideas, connect is powerful
A4 Some students need the tactile. Great for understanding math.
my daughters are in kindergarten and 4th grade - ahead of the curve!!!! Lol
I walk by sets now in stores and go: "Someday."
A4: I think there is value to both hands on and virtual. Students love being able to take ideas from the screen and then build them.
A4 - There is something powerful about being able to manipulate your creation with your hands Legos allow that
Q4) Kids like to create whether it is digital or not. Hands on helps them develop social skills with tangible products.
Q4: Given the option, my students choose the LEGO sets on their desk every day rather than Google Build. I was surprised at this.
a4: when you build with your hands you see how e'thing interlocks - putting a dozen 2x2 blocks on top of ea other doesn't work so well
A4: I love the digital world of Lego because the bricks are a lot less painful. Definitely a benefit to hands on and digital
(I'm forcing my 11 year old to fetch me some mint oreo ice cream)
why do they need to be separate? Separating hand skills from digital ones is ludicrous
A4) I think perceptual understanding and spatial awareness is gleaned through hands-on over digital and augments digital understanding
Yeah. Maybe I should. I've been investing in Robots and other things. Thinking about
Sometimes as great as tech is, Makerspace hands on, & problem solving collaboratively to create are still the most authentic learning
can he bring me some too?
A4 Tangible the creation becomes a bit of reality!
That's why I'm asking -- there's so much overlap in the design concepts... https://t.co/dPQ1jtDAyH
why do they need to be separate? Separating hand skills from digital ones is ludicrous
I'm ok with directions to scaffold the learning. Have you ever tried to build an EV3 robot without directions? It's hard! =balance
Q4: There is advantages to tactile learners, but I will have to admit the idea of is quite appealing
Jumping in to learn from the amazing . Monica, Special Education teacher, Texas.
can you train my 5 year old to do that?
A4: I think both can be used effectively. Great to create virtually & physically...both are "real world" skills.
A4: Love the minecraft Lego sets too...My son is eating them up...luckly not literally.
Q5 there are official LEGO Education initiatives, like We Do and FIRST - have you used them, would you recommend to others?
if I had to get a "starter kit". What would you all recommend?
if I had to get a "starter kit". What would you all recommend?
A4:For tactile learners the lego is better,the feel and shapes help them out,Ss that are more into video games minecraft benefits them
LOL. Just watched Supergirl and was just fangirling too much and almost forgot about
Just saw an awesome tweet - ALL LEGOS? AWESOMESAUCE!!!!!
oh wait... I forgot I am a Twitter jerk
Have you used ? Robots that follow marker lines.
tonight is all about instruction with Lego. I'm a visionary.
A4 I like doing the LEGO robotics because it's both hands on and digital. Students can see their programming moves in real 3D!
A4: I'm too unfamiliar with Minecraft to tweet accurately, but my Ss are in love with BuildWithChrome!
A5. I have not but the school has them. We use though!
No!!! Do tell!!! https://t.co/cDtnR6LGTQ
Q5 there are official LEGO Education initiatives, like We Do and FIRST - have you used them, would you recommend to others?
Yes! My favorite. Love when they have to use every piece. No more...no less. Stretches their thinking.
Really like this idea! It would be great for all sorts of collaboration and team building.
A5: Pardon my naivety, never heard of em...Enlighten me?!
Really? I'm just finding out about this Now?!?!? My students are going to love you.
Ahoy. Sorry I'm late. Just checking in...and just finished Play like a Pirate this past weekend. Two thumbs up!!! :-)
a5 New to me as well. Must fix this!
A4: Something that I can feel is more memorable than what I can find a digital world.
he must have been bribed with either more time or a new set.
A5: Legos are pretty cost prohibitive...would love to use the education stuff, but wow! It's expensive. How do others pay for these?
A4 cont. Think of buying something. Prefer going to the store than buying online.
A4: Visual-special reasoning is truly tested in digital. Different constraints lead to different experiences https://t.co/5YEf4UjmFM
Q4 Many of our Ss spend more time w Minecraft than LEGO; is there value in hands-on building using LEGO vs digital worlds?
A5 - Have used the Lego Robotics. They were great!
I wouldn't put it past me.
A5: Just learned something new! That's what I love about these chats. Looking forward to hearing about them!
our school does lego robotics too - so amazing
A5: While I have used the LEGO Education sets I prefer the different lines like CITY for the students to use.
ok I love talking but have to get back to my paper!
A3: What??? Lego comes with directions??? 😊😊😊Bring on the creativity and innovation!
A5: Excited to learn about these!
there is something to be said for digital. As mother of 3 boys, I have permanent Lego prints on the bottom of my feet!
Thanks for the study break!
I love them but have made serious changes. I use the content given mostly as a jumping off point and add in stronger STEM and Design
Not surprised though. Something is missing. Not as tangible as the physical ones.
A7) Have not heard of them but would diffidently recommend them.
tried it a few years ago and was impressed.
Some of that is here: https://t.co/QYXp51ZLbc ...but we'll talk about that more in about ten. There are ways. https://t.co/N8fHl2eNwj
A5: Legos are pretty cost prohibitive...would love to use the education stuff, but wow! It's expensive. How do others pay for these?
which is better to work with? Build with chrome or minecraft
A5: Guess I need to get cracking looking that stuff up.
I used to get several sets for my classroom
I have! I own 12:-) they are a great tool for beginner coding.
Hi Sandy!!! Great to be back. Okay is an easy, fun read. 👍🏼
A5) Have not heard of them but would diffidently recommend them.
A5 LEGO Education/We Do has ready-to-go lesson plans and sets that complement them. You buy into the program, get support from LEGO
there are many digital platforms, I like to have students use app and 3D print design.
A4: Through the use of littleBits, Legos, and Minecraft you can connect them all.
I buy mixed Legos from eBay a lot of times.
Oops. Auto correct---arg!. 😳 Play is an easy read. 😜
A5 FIRST LEGO League is a robotics competition w problem solving skills; my sons participated in it, I was their "coach."
A5: I've used and created lessons for that. But never done the buy in, don't have the funds.
A4 Theres a value to the tactile experience Legos offers young students but I embrace learning in both physically & virtually
I want one of these, but I can't do $50 😪
I have a S who is going to do a project w/ and LEGOs.
Nice! Am thinking about buying 5 or 6. One per table group. Unless I talk myself into more. No budget.
A5: Has anyone seen this competition? https://t.co/kOlRQv0SO4 Was a judge one time & amazed by Ss's abilities in different areas.
A5 honestly I like flexibility of a box of LEGO more than buying into a program...but the lesson plans and activities are top notch
A5 wedo yes. First maybe. We switched to arduino microcontroller building with Lego parts. Looking PI replacement with nxt
A4 Theres a value to the tactile experience Legos offers young students but I embrace learning both physically & virtually
A4: Lego offers a tactile learning experience that can't be matched by digital creations, but digital can also meet different needs.
One of my favorite tools! The kids use it constantly because it gives them all pieces and its free!
also love the philosophical side of that; they encourage "cooperitition" -- a healthy, supportive competition https://t.co/dXG6wWA5WC
A5: Has anyone seen this competition? https://t.co/kOlRQv0SO4 Was a judge one time & amazed by Ss's abilities in different areas.
Yeah, now she's gonna get a big head and think she knows what she's doing.
not if you buy the refill packs off Lego Ed. Cheaper than eBay
love the boards to connect Legos to bits
INSPIRATION is needed in weakness. ;)
Yes, that was my favorite part seeing how teams scored in the "gracious professionalism" category for teamwork.
the benefit of pilot year means I have a budget!
A3. legos in a large flat plastic tub that lives under my desk. It comes out at indoor recess, free choice and math no instructions
Q6 Some secondary admins need convincing that LEGO can be appropriate for MS/HS students. What arguments can we use for LEGO?
This was shared on the chat! It's a virtual Lego building platform! Looks awesome!
a6 the storify of this chat!
Brilliant! Just brilliant!
What's up Pirates? Happy Pi day!!!!! Matt from the STL Mo checking in, I will catch it later. I served pie today to my Math class
that is only one of eight kits in the space station
A6 - go into a class using them and try to find a student not engaged!
A6: Hands-on experience allowed Ss to explore and take chances while tapping into their creative side.
A6: Love using LEGO for alternative assessments. See that chapter in love all the higher order thinking that went on for Ss.
Goodness knows my son's team didn't score much in some of the other categories...it was great to see the support they got
mine is on its way, do I have permission to when it does come?
The new WeDo 2.0 just came out and is programmable with the iPad. https://t.co/r24hRhPScp
A5 LEGO Education/We Do has ready-to-go lesson plans and sets that complement them. You buy into the program, get support from LEGO
A6 use student voice. Even my college students play with my Lego table
A6: If kids are interested, excited, can and want to learn with it....Then it's worth it!
A6: Man, put Legos in front of teachers for PD one day and I dare them not to be engaged by them.
A6: thank goodness mine don't! Idk...google "using Legos to teach ms or HS" and just start throwing the genius at them?
I know a couple who would probably think about giving it a shot. https://t.co/ZsphZV0Q2V
Q6 Some secondary admins need convincing that LEGO can be appropriate for MS/HS students. What arguments can we use for LEGO?
A6: Legos can make a great engagement tool, I think of Ss making a helix in science, using them in geometry, lots of ideas
I fondly remember the future engineer locked in his bedroom for days until each one was complete. https://t.co/rURFLUuOeg
Yeah, there's a whole third party economy out there that has some great "add-ons" to LEGO. https://t.co/VlZBqWEEbG
love the boards to connect Legos to bits
A6: build symbols in history class-Which symbol reps America best?
Great combination of two amazing learning resources!
A6 it's all physics Happy Birthday Happy
Don't throw the actual LEGO at them though. That almost never helps.
in retrospect, there are some high end gadgets I could have gone w/out in favor of simpler things like LEGOs
A6: Here is a fly by of crops and Pyramids on the Nile student built in 15 min and wrote short essay for. https://t.co/ojRCI4xbc9
A6: Tell them to Lego dat textbook and try a hands-on manipulative. (Gets boo'd off stage)
I do it ALL THE TIME. :) https://t.co/WIuyIqAiGU
A6: Man, put Legos in front of teachers for PD one day and I dare them not to be engaged by them.
I got daddy duty tonight, sorry I'm missing the fun, glad I was part of it the last time you you were on
Only as a last resort. https://t.co/hf72tQ9cMR
Don't throw the actual LEGO at them though. That almost never helps.
and it usually hits someone in the eye
I've seen stop motion videos for HS using Legos, could use to build molecules, parts of body, math manipulatives. Isn't that DI??
That would be the best PD ever. You know what? You gave me an idea for my next PD.
A6: I'm thinking that just sharing the ideas from here will be mighty convincing! Model a couple Lego activities & share too!
If I could either have had my 2009 SmartBoard or the equivalent in LEGO...I know which I would have taken https://t.co/rfg2axhoqJ
in retrospect, there are some high end gadgets I could have gone w/out in favor of simpler things like LEGOs
But will administrators react the same way? :)
why are all these kids dress like pirates with eyepatches? We had a Lego fight in action
Really? I saw you can now program WeDo with Scratch
Lego, Lego, Lego! https://t.co/S7w3Lwmd7l
If I could either have had my 2009 SmartBoard or the equivalent in LEGO...I know which I would have taken https://t.co/rfg2axhoqJ
in retrospect, there are some high end gadgets I could have gone w/out in favor of simpler things like LEGOs
I sit with my Legos in front of people and they usually join
Hmmm, one board at the front of the room or students actively engaged in learning.... not a hard choice. https://t.co/tYKRueNRT6
If I could either have had my 2009 SmartBoard or the equivalent in LEGO...I know which I would have taken https://t.co/rfg2axhoqJ
in retrospect, there are some high end gadgets I could have gone w/out in favor of simpler things like LEGOs
Q7 LEGO is often seen as a STEM or STEAM tool; how can it be used for ELA or other curriculum?
love connecting my classroom across the states...it's amazing
TY for My school culture has completely changed. Ts rush to see my lessons and are much more positive. It is a new school
but you could build with chrome on your smartboard
A6: I'm 26 and you'll catch me playing Legos with my lil' cousins. STEM initiative should be enough persuasion, they're kids at heart
It's why I was the last teacher in the building to get one. Not QUITE kicking and screaming... https://t.co/D4oKH0gBgQ
Hmmm, one board at the front of the room or students actively engaged in learning.... not a hard choice. https://t.co/tYKRueNRT6
If I could either have had my 2009 SmartBoard or the equivalent in LEGO...I know which I would have taken https://t.co/rfg2axhoqJ
in retrospect, there are some high end gadgets I could have gone w/out in favor of simpler things like LEGOs
Hey ! Sorry to miss the awesomeness tonight but just finished speaking in Clearlake, CA. Thanks to for hosting!
If they don't, I wonder about the priorities and climate and culture created at the schools by the admin.
A7 Storytelling and movies can be used in any subject. LEGO stop motion iPad app is free and incredible !
A7: I ain't know English teacher, but I bet you could break down text and paragraphs in writing into sections using Legos.
Seeing creativity come in the both physical and written form pushes Ss minds in both directions… = Bigger! https://t.co/QJPbwrvRF8
A6: It's like saying math manipulatives should only be used by our youngest Ss...Lego is a resource that enhances learning at any age.
A7 now you are in my wheel house. Lego are the basis of imaginative story building. Create graphic novels
A7: Use story topics or Social Studies topics as ideas for creating. Not exclusive to Math & Science.
Thanks Dave! We haven't said anything* behind your back.
*cough-cough https://t.co/0ukZYbInxP
Hey ! Sorry to miss the awesomeness tonight but just finished speaking in Clearlake, CA. Thanks to for hosting!
a7: give everyone 3 pieces = text structure. Give everyone other items = text features
A7:Again-recreate scene from story, theme, setting, plot twist, fave part, character, possibilities endless
A7 create Lego fan fiction of titles
A7: Watch out, . This is my area. Use current events (like ) + do a stop motion video filled with the whole 9 yd.
A6: Put in front of MS/HS students and let it speak for itself. Socialization, creativity, collaboration...higher level stuff!
A7 - there's been great ideas in this chat already! Reenact a scene, tell a story, model something, stop motion.
A7 rebuild epic historic battles out of Legos
A7: With ELA, you can have a student communicate with LEGO that they can't do regularly and works with SPED beautifully.
I was super excited to see several people get & together. Wow! The S's won't know what hit them!!
A7 Lego stop motion retell in elementary. Next step-do the retell from another character's perspective
I had my students build Ferris Wheel with Knex. Then they built support with Legos for the littleBits motor to spin wheel
This is my favorite by far.
A7: Characterization, have different lego people and have them relate them to a book character
Missed you tonight Dave but Quinn is doing an amazing job steering the ship.
a7 LEGOs seem a better fit to humanities than even Sci, math because of the ability to tell story, show scences
a7: create a structure, put Ss in pairs - have one S try to explain how to rebuild the S to the other S: lab procedure!
Love connecting different building tools like that!
A7: Recreate events from text using Legos as characters and scenery.
The software requirements include newer tablets and well as PCs and Macs with Bluetooth.
Now that is some teachers bring super awesome to their classrooms! Boom! and power! https://t.co/x5IbRjkxSL
I was super excited to see several people get & together. Wow! The S's won't know what hit them!!
A6 LEGO is just another conceptual teaching tool, with more interactive possibilities than diagrams on a whiteboard.
you will be surprised about how many ways you can kill a Lego man
Did that last year. IT was great.
A8: Set designs for green screen videos or parts of plays, stories, dialogue practice, math manipulatives, art sculptures, 3D shapes
Legos hands down. I have a projector, & iPads. Don't need a smart board.
Congratulations to Missouri's Distinguished Principal of the Year
TRUE STORY!! I have seen some bloody battles done with stop motion!!
A teacher friend just shared his 30/30: give a kid 30 LEGO pieces and 30 minutes to write a story. Loved what they came up with
A7 create a scene and have students describe what is happening in another language.
This video is awesome. Explains how toys like Legos can be used to create medical tools and devices. https://t.co/JsrNoM9Nfv
Now that is awesome! https://t.co/PNVCEx1wMi
A teacher friend just shared his 30/30: give a kid 30 LEGO pieces and 30 minutes to write a story. Loved what they came up with
Great idea. Building and creating will especially engage boys who may be reluctant to writing
Great idea! https://t.co/AwGqAwf5Mk
A teacher friend just shared his 30/30: give a kid 30 LEGO pieces and 30 minutes to write a story. Loved what they came up with
But how many ways can a lego man kill you?
Q8 (last one) ...what are the challenges/obstacles unique to using LEGO in your class? What are some ways around them?
I do these, and use them for addition facts, too. I teach 1st.
A8: Losing pieces on the floor or some Mini figs in students pockets…
we had half a Lego man chasing his legs while kicking its hand
This idea is amazing! Thanks!
a8-- getting "enough" LEGO (is there ever enough?) to go around, or having stations set up... breaking down the walls in Ss' minds!
A8: $$, those things are not cheap, unless you get them from a thrift store or ask people to donate old ones
A8 The biggest challenges is not having all the pieces they need to create. Google Build helps with this a lot!
A7) assign parts of speech or parts of an essay to certain Legos. Poetry or structure of an essay. https://t.co/ntk99JzBTv
Q7 LEGO is often seen as a STEM or STEAM tool; how can it be used for ELA or other curriculum?
A8: Buy in from other stakeholders in school. It'll take considerable time + effort to get there, but the results will be worth it.
Lego bricks are loud when you're trying to find "that one piece"! 😉
A8: Not having enough for everyone, sharing problems and never having enough variety.
A8 not enough Legos and not enough time
I love that sound. I want it as a ringtone. *makes note*
A8: It's easy to get carried away with time when you play and have fun. Got to stay focused on the task somehow. Big problem for me.
A7: just have to be willing to think outside the box. :)
A8: Cost...PTA could be a help in getting funds.
A7 After spending time w/me in STEM lots of my teachers brought LEGOs into their classroom for math (fractions) and story-telling.
A8 My first obstacle was getting enough Lego for my school...We worked with a local church and the community to collect 64,000+ brick.
yeah we have experienced the minifig in pocket problem too
A8 I think sometimes w HUGE LEGO CREATIONS we see online, we forget that kids can be creative w a handful of pieces. Sometimes moreso.
If you ever get a chance, check out https://t.co/ZfVeGsi3N5 Amazing artwork with Legos. Ss will sure become inspired.
A8: Not being able to steal your child's Legos to use in class because she still plays with them consistently.
have to be an eagle eye part of the time
A8: $....it's always the $ 😕 grants, donors choose, parent involvement.
Thank you SO much to all of you for joining tonight. & I are for this crew. Thanks for hosting!
I'm do not like this . Now I want to tap. I see $$ on the map.
Steal #3 and counting. Great idea.
: After the chat, I would love to hear your thoughts on the latest Supergirl episode. Really amazing chat!
: After the chat, I would love to hear your thoughts on the latest Supergirl episode. Really amazing chat!
A8 RE: cost -- several of our schools have "school LEGO kits" that are basically a bin per school (some per grade now), sharing pieces
I completely forgot about Lego poetry. Add words to the front of Legos
We had to have a bounty hunter… Since that I have far less things lost in the class.
I'm sorry I missed this awesome chat from the beginning! Looking forward to the transcripts from !
A8 getting admins on board with using your budget for LEGOS :D
A7: Lego's learning applications and contexts are only limited my the imaginations of teachers and students.
Start small. Otherwise overwhelming. May take too much time in day.
Thanks for the great questions!!!
A8 My kids can get carried away with "decorating" rather than using the LEGOs as a tool to solve the design problem. Reflect/Redirect.
A8 I also have my personal buying tips for teachers here: https://t.co/QYXp51ZLbc buying smart does drop the cost some.
Everyone- join your local Facebook garage sales groups. Someone is ALWAYS getting rid of Legos!
How much does Lego costs? I feel odd asking this, but I am now interested.
A8 Think when you choose to use Legos in the class you're also choosing to find Legos under the heater 5 years later-stay organized!
we need to remember that we need to write about what we create. Literacy is keep to learning
Thank you for hosting tonight and helping us PLAY like pirates using LEGOs. I suddenly have the urge to build!
Decorating - art - marketing - PR - essential skill Deisgn thinking?
Have you ever bought from Pick a Brick? Wondering if that is cheaper or not.
