#1stchat Archive

Weekly chat for excited 1st grade teachers who love to learn and share ideas. Participants are interested in a variety of topics including literacy, math, technology, play, inquiry, and being the best educators they can be!

Sunday July 15, 2018
8:00 PM EDT

  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:02 PM EDT
    So excited!! #1stchat starts in a few minutes. Can’t wait to chat about the “Empower” book study. Hope to see you there! @valruckes @spencerideas @ajjuliani @lekadegroot
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    Looking for to it! #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @spencerideas, @ajjuliani, @lekadegroot
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    Hello friends! Hope you are all having a great summer. Leka joining from Japan!! #1stchat
  • mmhole17 Jul 15 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    I just found this chat. Have not read the book, but interested in the conversation. Is that OK? Melissa from MN #1stchat
  • FirstAtBat Jul 15 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Hi friends. I am enjoying my summer, but it is going to be gone all too soon. #1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Welcome to #1stchat! Please let us know you are here by sharing where you are from and what grade you teach? I’m in North Alabama and teach 1st grade.
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    Happy Sunday! I'm Val from Michigan. Ready for our #1stchat book club!
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    Hi friends. I’ve missed our Sunday nights together! Traci from KS joining in #1stchat
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    AHHH!!! How is your trip? #1stchat
    In reply to @lekadegroot
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    Totally! Tonight is the first night and we will be discussing Chapters 1 - 3. #1stchat
    In reply to @mmhole17
  • abobbitt3 Jul 15 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    Hi all- I’m in TN and teach 1st- excited to chat- been missing this PLN! #1stchat
  • mmhole17 Jul 15 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    great #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties
  • allaidlaw Jul 15 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    Happy summer! Amy from Michigan #1stchat
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    Amy from Iowa! I currently teach 1st grade at PCM in central Iowa. I will have 14 students again this year. #1stchat
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    Please be sure to follow @csmithsmarties so that you can see the questions as they are tweeted. #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @csmithsmarties
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    Wow! Only 14? That’s great! #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    Question 1: What does empowering students to own their learning mean to you? #1stchat
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    I know! I can really get to know them and build a more solid relationship. They really feel like they get my undivided attention. #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    I bet. I had 19 last year and of those several had learning and behavior issues. I felt pulled all year. #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    Q1 is on deck! Please reply with A1 preceding your response. #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties
  • FirstAtBat Jul 15 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    A1: Empowering students to own their own learning means they are invested. They are learning something they are interested in, curious about or a problem they want to solve. #1stchat
  • assignmenthelp Jul 15 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    10 Best Essay Writing Tips That Every Master’s Student Must Know https://t.co/DMNR6vCtAd #1stchat #21stedchat #apchat #edchatri #GCLchat #ISNchat #wischat #mnlead #nbtchat #titletalk #vedchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    Totally agree with @FirstAtBat ! If they are invested, they are empowered. #1stchat
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    A1: Empowering students means they don't want to stop their learning about the topic or problem. They focus on it when they have any free moments. #1stchat
  • mmhole17 Jul 15 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    A1: Giving them choices, making them accountable, letting their curiosity lead the way. #1stchat
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    Nice! #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    A1: to me it means allowing Ss and giving them opportunities to guide their learning by choosing topics they are learning about and methods of delivering their learning . #1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    Yes! If they are working in free moments, you have totally empowered them to own their learning! #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24
  • mmhole17 Jul 15 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    Yes, they get to choose how they share their learning. #1stchat
    In reply to @Woods1stgrade
  • FirstAtBat Jul 15 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    Love that you included "methods of delivering their learning". I think it is so important they share what they learn. #1stchat
    • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:11 PM EDT
      A1: to me it means allowing Ss and giving them opportunities to guide their learning by choosing topics they are learning about and methods of delivering their learning . #1stchat
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    It’s going great! Enjoying time with my family and my friend whom I met on Twitter 4 years ago! @KLirenman #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24, @KLirenman
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    A1 Empowering students means they have the power to pursue the things that interest them and discover what they are passionate about. #1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    @Woods1stgrade @FirstAtBat Yes. When they have an authentic audience, they are more interested in what they are learning. #1stchat
    In reply to @FirstAtBat, @Woods1stgrade, @FirstAtBat
  • FirstAtBat Jul 15 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    Yes, watching them grow to understand what "passion" means. You have to develop that #1stchat
    • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:12 PM EDT
      A1 Empowering students means they have the power to pursue the things that interest them and discover what they are passionate about. #1stchat
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    I think it also means we allow them to fail and learn to preserve #1stchat
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    How do you model the different methods of delivering their learning? Beginning of the year? #1stchat
    In reply to @Woods1stgrade
  • dhmccaskill Jul 15 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    Wow! I wish I only had 14 students in my class. I currently have 20 on my roster for next year and that number will surely go up. I had 24 in my class last year. I think it is so beneficial to have smaller classes sizes! #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24, @csmithsmarties
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    I agree. I model my mistakes daily and ways I have failed. "Mistakes are proof you are trying." #1stchat
    In reply to @Woods1stgrade
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    A1 empowered students are curious & know how to pursue their curiosity into deeper level. #1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    Q2: Did you know that students spend about 14000 minutes at school each year? #1stchat
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    I would gladly have 23 again. Enrollment has declined since that year. It does give them more chances to respond and show their learning. #1stchat
    In reply to @dhmccaskill, @csmithsmarties
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    This is where go slow to go fast comes in. We have to directly teach certain skills, I also allow them time to just play and try to figure things out as well. I do teach one thing at a time in the beginning #1stchat
    • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:14 PM EDT
      How do you model the different methods of delivering their learning? Beginning of the year? #1stchat
      In reply to @Woods1stgrade
  • mmhole17 Jul 15 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    I think that students appreciate when you point out a mistake you made. My students were so used to mistakes that they were no big deal. #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24, @Woods1stgrade
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    A1 Students are empowered when they are so caught up in what they are doing they lose track of time and space. #1stchat
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    Q2 is on deck! #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties
  • abobbitt3 Jul 15 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    A1 Empowered students feel free to explore, create, fail, try again, and take charge of their learning. #EmpowerBook #1stchat
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    Q2 is on deck! #1stchat
  • mmhole17 Jul 15 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    A2: I guess I never did the math. We always think there is not enough time, but it is how it is structured that makes all the difference. #1stchat
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    A2: I did not know that. I did figure out last year about how many hours a day they are learning. It really helped me focus my time. and know that every minute counts. It also helped me realize not to cram things into every minute. #1stchat
  • FirstAtBat Jul 15 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    A2: I never figured out the minutes. What is interesting is we always question how to fit everything in. Time does seem to be an issue for all teachers. #1stchat I think we need to spend our time wisely. Make every moment count.
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    A2 That sounds like a lot but it never seems to be enough. #1stchat
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    A2: I know they spend a lot of time with us, another reason to limit homework 😀 #1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    Yes. This is a goal for me this year. To be so structured that my students have opportunities to explore while learning the standards I am required to teach. #1stchat
    • mmhole17 Jul 15 @ 8:17 PM EDT
      A2: I guess I never did the math. We always think there is not enough time, but it is how it is structured that makes all the difference. #1stchat
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    #1stchat
    • wakeupandtech Jul 15 @ 8:15 PM EDT
      Allowing them to be accountable, independent, creative, and fearless!
      In reply to @csmithsmarties, @lekadegroot
  • allaidlaw Jul 15 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    A2 great reminder to make sure ss are engaged, have choice and voice #1stchat
  • dhmccaskill Jul 15 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    Empowering students to own their learning means being the facilitator of the classroom but not being the only source of information. It is important for students to be able to be accountable for their learning and to have the opportunity to be creative. #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties
  • mmhole17 Jul 15 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    I really want to look at many more projects that are student driven this year. #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    Also it was great when I would make a mistake later in the year and one sweet girl would look at me and say "it's okay Mrs. Hansen everyone makes mistakes." It helped me roll with it much easier. #1stchat
    In reply to @mmhole17, @Woods1stgrade
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    I’m struggling with homework this year. #1stchat
    In reply to @Woods1stgrade
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    A2 Last year we decided to track the number of minutes we spent reading with students in order to tighten up in areas where time was being wasted. It was eye-opening. #1stchat
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    Mine too it is above my door in my classroom! #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties
  • FirstAtBat Jul 15 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    What did you find? #1stchat
    • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:20 PM EDT
      A2 Last year we decided to track the number of minutes we spent reading with students in order to tighten up in areas where time was being wasted. It was eye-opening. #1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    Do you find that you were spending too much time in one area? #1stchat
    In reply to @valruckes
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    We are not allowed to give homework. Besides the suggestion to read. #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @Woods1stgrade
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    A goal of mine as well, I want to include the Ss in the decision making process of our units, projects and the why #1stchat
    In reply to @mmhole17, @csmithsmarties
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    Do you have a curriculum or pacing guide to follow? #1stchat
    In reply to @Woods1stgrade, @mmhole17
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    A goal for me too! #1stchat Looking to do this in a makers type of writing.
    In reply to @Woods1stgrade, @mmhole17, @csmithsmarties
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    You become much more intentional and you began to weigh the importance of everything you do. #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    That would be awesome!! #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24, @Woods1stgrade, @mmhole17
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    I bet. I’m trying to schedule my day more by routine too. So we aren’t wasting so much time getting things out. #1stchat
    In reply to @valruckes
  • mmhole17 Jul 15 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    So much time is lost in transitions. #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @valruckes
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    That is a great thought! I was thinking of ways to put things away quickly so that we can keep a tidy space to promote learning. #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @valruckes
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    Q3: How can you prepare students to make decisions and be leaders within the current education system? #1stchat
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    Our team became very protective of our literacy time/block. Anything that was considered to have minimal impact on student learning was eliminated. #1stchat
    In reply to @FirstAtBat
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    Q3 is on deck! #1stchat
    • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:25 PM EDT
      Q3: How can you prepare students to make decisions and be leaders within the current education system? #1stchat
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    Yes and no, standards to be taught by quarter #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @mmhole17
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    Last year, I did workboxes (small file boxes) for students to keep all their stuff in. They could tote it wherever they were in the room. #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24, @valruckes
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    Yes! But they are little so they need to move too. I’m considering doing mini lessons and coming to the carpet in between each round of centers. #1stchat
    In reply to @mmhole17, @valruckes
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    ohh I love that idea! #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @valruckes
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    What are some things you eliminated? #1stchat
    In reply to @valruckes, @FirstAtBat
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    A3: to help prepareSs, we have to allow them the opportunities to be leaders and make decisions #1stchat
  • FirstAtBat Jul 15 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    A3: We need to train students to prepare them to make decisions. We need to let them take steps of independence, allow them mistakes and reflect on the process. We need to step back. #empowerbook #1stchat
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    So what have you eliminated? #1stchat
    In reply to @valruckes, @FirstAtBat
  • dhmccaskill Jul 15 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    I totally agree that a lot of time is lost in transitions. This is something that I try to work on really hard at the beginning of the year so that the students understand that this time needs to be quick and so there is a proceure for evereything. #1stchat
    In reply to @mmhole17, @csmithsmarties, @valruckes
  • mmhole17 Jul 15 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    Q3: This sounds silly, but giving them practice making decisions and being leaders. Traditionally education has been teacher centered instead of student centered. They need to give them room to try and support to handle when they fail. #1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    That’s easier to allow students to be creative. We have a reading curriculum. The past few years we have been given more freedom in teaching reading. There were a few years that the curriculum was expected to be followed exactly. #1stchat
    In reply to @Woods1stgrade, @mmhole17
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    A3: Allowing time to collaborate. Work to make prototypes. Communicate and reflect on what type of learning works for them. #1stchat
    • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:25 PM EDT
      Q3: How can you prepare students to make decisions and be leaders within the current education system? #1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    Agree. They need to have opportunities to make decisions. Even simple things. #1stchat
    In reply to @FirstAtBat
  • FirstAtBat Jul 15 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    You mentioned you were tracking read aloud time..I hope you didn't choose to eliminate that. #1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    I’m working on making a procedure / sub binder so everything is written down for me to remember. I forget to teach the procedure for some things and then pay for it later. #1stchat
    In reply to @dhmccaskill, @mmhole17, @valruckes
  • abobbitt3 Jul 15 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    A3 we can give them a lot of choices, ways to share their voice, keep them rtalking about their learning and allowing them time to reflect, adjust, and try again #1stchat
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    Love mini lessons! It was a hard adjustment at first (not to talk too much🤪) #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @mmhole17, @valruckes
  • allaidlaw Jul 15 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    A3 Last year I really focused on students setting weekly goals for themselves. By the end of the year they were very invested in their learning #1stchat
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    Last year we had new reading curriculum and I kept with the skills but I am very intentional about developing creativity and thinking skills #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @mmhole17
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    My grandmother always tells me to be careful I don’t talk too much because the kids are not listening that long. Ha! #1stchat
    In reply to @lekadegroot, @mmhole17, @valruckes
  • ManionJulie Jul 15 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    Hello #1stchat joining in late.
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    Glad you are here! #1stchat
    In reply to @ManionJulie
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    Not read aloud time. Reading/literacy was protected and other areas like cute projects and low impact learning activities were no longer done. #1stchat
    In reply to @FirstAtBat
  • FirstAtBat Jul 15 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    Intentional is so important. In everything we do, we must be intentional. #1stchat
    • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:31 PM EDT
      Not read aloud time. Reading/literacy was protected and other areas like cute projects and low impact learning activities were no longer done. #1stchat
      In reply to @FirstAtBat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    Being intentional for me goes back to planning. If I don’t plan well and know what I want the kids to know in the end, I get lost in the cutesy. #1stchat
    In reply to @FirstAtBat
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    A3 Create learner-centered environments and support with dispositions of risk-taking, flexibility, perseverance, etc. #1stchat
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    Really getting to know our Ss will help with allowing them to express themselves in a way that matters to them, maybe art, a book, tech apps, a song, etc. #1stchat
  • FirstAtBat Jul 15 @ 8:34 PM EDT
    Yes, part of my summer planning is to have more of an outline and focus...so when I go to plan I know my goal. Using my standards to do this. #1stchat
    • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:33 PM EDT
      Being intentional for me goes back to planning. If I don’t plan well and know what I want the kids to know in the end, I get lost in the cutesy. #1stchat
      In reply to @FirstAtBat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    That’s what I have done this year. I have been able to put all my resources together for each month. #1stchat
    In reply to @FirstAtBat
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    Hi, Julie! #1stchat
    In reply to @ManionJulie
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    Q4: How can you empower your students to learn more about what they are interested in while still teaching them the skills they need based on standards? #1stchat
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    Q4 is on deck! #1stchat
    • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:36 PM EDT
      Q4: How can you empower your students to learn more about what they are interested in while still teaching them the skills they need based on standards? #1stchat
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    At our level start with providing choices. Ss will learn to make descisions. Gradually give students opportunities to practice taking risks in their learning process. #1stchat
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    As I’m moving to kdg next years, I’ve spent time getting to know the standards as well, it all has to start their with then end goal in mind, there’s so many ways to get their though- involve the kiddos #1stchat
    In reply to @FirstAtBat
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    And you rock at it!! You always make a such nice classroom community! #1stchat
    In reply to @Woods1stgrade
  • mmhole17 Jul 15 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    A4: By creating broad topics of study and giving them choices around perimeters. This is always where I get a little stuck. I am interested in what others are thinking. #1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    Yes. It is very important to know your standards. I’ve had many discussions this year with coworkers about how curriculums have skills not in the standards. #1stchat
    In reply to @Woods1stgrade, @FirstAtBat
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    A4: providing them choices when it comes to their learning. I started this several years ago by having flexible seating. I'm excited to focus it on academics more this year. #1stchat
  • FirstAtBat Jul 15 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    A4: We can find what students are interested in by close observation. What do they choose to read about? What do they ask lots of questions about? When do they seem more engaged and in tune? Do inventories. We must know our kids. #empowerbook #1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    Yes. I’m hoping to do more with choice boards this year. So students will show that they have mastered a skill, but they can choose how they want to show it. #1stchat
    In reply to @mmhole17
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    A4 we used our wonder board a lot last year and it lead to wonder projects which were packed with authentic learning! #1stchat
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    A4: our conversations-at ISTE were all around this topic, building relationships, offering choices, less teacher talk, teach choices but involve the Ss, they will have great ideas on ways to practice skills #1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    Flexible seating has been so transformative in my classroom. #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24
  • mmhole17 Jul 15 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    I think sometimes people get caught up in curriculums and assume the standards are in it. #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @Woods1stgrade, @FirstAtBat
  • PlayYay Jul 15 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    Building a classroom community of we are all teachers and we are all learners and let them make decisions about books, projects, and learning opportunities #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @lekadegroot
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    #1stchat
    • allaidlaw Jul 15 @ 8:40 PM EDT
      So true! Start small and you will see big results by the end of the year-even the following year when they come to me in 2/3 grade :)
      In reply to @lekadegroot
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:41 PM EDT
    Inventories are great. #1stchat
    • FirstAtBat Jul 15 @ 8:39 PM EDT
      A4: We can find what students are interested in by close observation. What do they choose to read about? What do they ask lots of questions about? When do they seem more engaged and in tune? Do inventories. We must know our kids. #empowerbook #1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:41 PM EDT
    Love that idea! #1stchat
    In reply to @lekadegroot
  • ManionJulie Jul 15 @ 8:41 PM EDT
    A4. I empower mine by asking what they want to learn next. When met with silence I suggest the 4-5 monthly themes and see what talk that generates.#1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    Totally agree. Personally I struggle with feeling like I’m not giving my students enough if I don’t use the curriculum resources provided by the school system. #1stchat
    In reply to @mmhole17, @Woods1stgrade, @FirstAtBat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    This summer a teacher at workshop said that she tells her students that they are teachers in training. #1stchat
    In reply to @PlayYay, @lekadegroot
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    A4 Important to show them how the learning is relevant to their lives. I had a reader who felt reading was not important to his interest in creating video games until I reminded him of the reading within games & directions on boxes. #1stchat
  • KCantrell31 Jul 15 @ 8:44 PM EDT
    A4: Empowering students begins with getting to know them. Let them ask questions about the content before/during/after to help drive the learning & let them explore independently afterwards. Give them a voice; let them make choices #1stchat
  • PlayYay Jul 15 @ 8:44 PM EDT
    A4: I like to do a wonder wall where the students post questions about a big topic (standard) and then I take those questions and build lessons! #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    I’m going to take risks next year by flipping the idea of literacy stations. Instead of skill based (word work, writing, etc) I we will start with interests. (Building, drawing, coding, etc) then tie those activities back to literacy. Fingers crossed 🤞 #1stchat
    In reply to @Woods1stgrade
  • PlayYay Jul 15 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    A3: We can give students a voice and teach social emotional skills through practice and great literature! #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    In third grade, I had a student who wanted to be a truck driver. His whole family drives for a living. He didn’t want to learn elapsed time so we talked about how truckers need it to keep a log. #1stchat
    In reply to @valruckes
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    This sounds awesome!! That is what we are looking at for writing. I want to be in your class! #1stchat
    In reply to @lekadegroot, @Woods1stgrade
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    Making it relevant is the key, that’s why Ss should be involved in some of the planning process #1stchat
    • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:43 PM EDT
      A4 Important to show them how the learning is relevant to their lives. I had a reader who felt reading was not important to his interest in creating video games until I reminded him of the reading within games & directions on boxes. #1stchat
  • KCantrell31 Jul 15 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    Hi! Just now popping on to #1stchat and have some.catching up to do!! Im from Lee's Summit Mo. #1stgrade
  • FirstAtBat Jul 15 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    A4: I am hoping to use #TeachSDGs more this year, allow them to see real problems and see where their interest is in exploring solutions. Building empathy, seeing our Earth as important and the people in it. #1stchat #empowerbook
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    Good luck!! I always go back and forth on literacy stations. I’m trying student maps instead of rotations. They will go to all the centers twice in a week and each time with someone different #1stchat
    In reply to @lekadegroot, @Woods1stgrade
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    Welcome Krista! #1stchat
    In reply to @KCantrell31
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    I’m still on my idea of having 10-12 places (centers) that are open ended with Ss designing their day first thing in the am, it will take time to teach but I’m developing picture checklist to help them. #1stchat
    In reply to @lekadegroot
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    I would love to see this when you finish it. #1stchat
    In reply to @Woods1stgrade, @lekadegroot
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    That is a great idea! #1stchat I'm looking to do a soft start to start our day.
    In reply to @Woods1stgrade, @lekadegroot
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    A topic in the book that stood out to me was engagement is different than empowerment. #1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    Q5: How can you shift from engaging students to empowering students? #1stchat
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    Q5 is on deck! #1stchat
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    Come visit me! We are not so far from each other!! #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24, @Woods1stgrade
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    Me too! I like that they don’t have to “finish” a paper. And hopefully it will bring a happy start to their day. #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24, @Woods1stgrade, @lekadegroot
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    A5: engagement is just keeping their attention but empowering is Ss driving their learning, we have to include them in the process #1stchat
  • FirstAtBat Jul 15 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    A5: We can engage them and still be the one in charge of what they learn. But when we empower them, they are making the choices of what they learn.We give the power to them. It has to be a gradual release with our little minds. #1stchat #empowerbook
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    That’s a tough release. My fear is making sure that I find the motivation for kids who are not excited at all. And those who have interests that are so different than the ones I’m used to. #1stchat
    In reply to @FirstAtBat
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    I will try to pencil it in during the year. #1stchat
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    I like the definition/chart as well. #1stchat
    • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:49 PM EDT
      A topic in the book that stood out to me was engagement is different than empowerment. #1stchat
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    How do you structure your soft start? #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @Woods1stgrade, @lekadegroot
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    A5 PASSION!! Let students pursue their passion!!! #1stchat
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    Those kiddos with “different “ interests are exactly the ones we need to reach and empower they may not fit into the normal school routine #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @FirstAtBat
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    I did a passion project during our space unit and my students loved it. We learned a lot about black holes. #1stchat
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    It’s a work in process. #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24, @Woods1stgrade, @lekadegroot
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    Yes! I want to learn more on how to reach them. #1stchat
    In reply to @Woods1stgrade, @FirstAtBat
  • FirstAtBat Jul 15 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    That is where choice comes into play. Of course, they must all learn the standard, but there are so many ways to learn. I think of the "rap song". The teachers engaged them, but then released them to learn and explore in ways they wanted to. #1stchat #empowerbook
    • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:52 PM EDT
      That’s a tough release. My fear is making sure that I find the motivation for kids who are not excited at all. And those who have interests that are so different than the ones I’m used to. #1stchat
      In reply to @FirstAtBat
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    A5 I love when the book talks about this - The mindset shift is preparing them for "anything" instead of for what's next. #1stchat
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    I have stem bins or just open ended building items around the room so kids can visit and collaborate when they arrive. #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24, @csmithsmarties, @lekadegroot
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    I have never done it before so just curious about ideas. #1stchat I was thinking about having 5 stations - logic, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, reading....? or building. that was what I was thinking
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @Woods1stgrade, @lekadegroot
  • KLirenman Jul 15 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    Hi Amy I do a soft start each morning. #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24, @csmithsmarties, @Woods1stgrade, @lekadegroot
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    Yes. To me that’s where procedures come in. They know the basic of how we do things, but the learning process is changing and evolving. No matter what the future holds, there are basic skills they will need. #1stchat
    In reply to @valruckes
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    I think I'm going to say that on the first day. "This year is going to prepare you for anything." #1stchat
    In reply to @valruckes
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:57 PM EDT
    Tell me more, please? #1stchat
    In reply to @KLirenman, @csmithsmarties, @Woods1stgrade, @lekadegroot
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    I had a student last year that I convinced he could be a computer engineer by the end of the year. He would tell anyone that listened that he could program computers when he got older. #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24, @valruckes
  • dubioseducator Jul 15 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    Hello #1stchat Didn’t realize you’re back to chatting. Faige in Los Angeles. Very late to the chat but will check out the tweets. Hope you’re all having a good summer.
  • KLirenman Jul 15 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    My students have between 15.-30 minutes each day of soft start at the beginning of the day. #1stchat
    In reply to @hawkeye_teach24, @csmithsmarties, @Woods1stgrade, @lekadegroot
  • valruckes - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    A5 I was reminded of Inventors. Inventions are designed as a result of trying to solve a problem. First the problem----->New invention is the result. Encourage them to find the answers to problems in our world. #1stchat
  • Woods1stgrade Jul 15 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    Did you get him into coding? #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @hawkeye_teach24, @valruckes
  • lekadegroot - Moderator Jul 15 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    Thanks @csmithsmartiesfor moderating today! Looking forward to getting together again next week! Please read ch 4-6. Have your book snaps ready too! #1stchat
  • hawkeye_teach24 Jul 15 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    I had a similar student. He loved when we did code and he loved video games. I told him he could code for video games! When he got older. He thought that might be something he would like when he got out of the army. #1stchat
    In reply to @csmithsmarties, @valruckes
  • csmithsmarties Jul 15 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    Yes. He loved it! #1stchat
    In reply to @Woods1stgrade, @hawkeye_teach24, @valruckes