#mschat Archive

A chat that offers middle school teachers a chance to have a collaborative discussion about a different topic each week. Our topics change from week to week, ranging from Common Core State Standards to Character Education. During the chat, participants exchanges ideas and resources. The chat group ranges in size each week from 10 to 50+ participants. Discussion can be general talking about instructional style or process to specific. Recently members of the chat group help each other create lessons.
Thursday December 1, 2016
8:00 PM EST
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:00 PM EST
    Welcome to #mschat tonight we are talking about energy in the middle school!
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:01 PM EST
    Let's start with introductions: Todd here 7th grade science teacher/ chat organizer #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:01 PM EST
    hey #mschat - michael from columbus, OH - middle school teacher multiple subjects and grades - actually home on a thursday :)
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:02 PM EST
    Good evening Michael, Glad you are home and can make the ENERGY chat (I know you usually have plenty!) #mschat
    In reply to @TeacherRunner42
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:02 PM EST
    I've been told so a few times :) #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:03 PM EST
    Too much energy? https://t.co/0EU3id2xLA Here is a article to ponder before the questions fly in a few minutes #mschat
  • AmyLynnRever Dec 1 @ 8:03 PM EST
    Greetings! Amy from MI. 6-8 Band. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:03 PM EST
    Good evening Amy, Hope is all is well #mschat
    In reply to @AmyLynnRever
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:05 PM EST
    We will be using the Q1...A1 format this evening #mschat
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:05 PM EST
    Ryan, Social Studies, Flint, MI #mschat
  • lora_kidwell Dec 1 @ 8:05 PM EST
    #mschat Lora from WV. 8th grade science
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:05 PM EST
    Good evening Lora #mschat
    In reply to @lora_kidwell
  • irishteacher6 Dec 1 @ 8:05 PM EST
    Happy Pre-Friday! I teach 6th ELA & SS, 7-8 reading and am out walking my dog. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:05 PM EST
    Glad you could pop in Ryan #mschat
    In reply to @Mr_Lisek
  • AmyLynnRever Dec 1 @ 8:05 PM EST
    Crunch time for December concerts, but otherwise all good! :) #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:06 PM EST
    Question one loaded and ready to fly #mschat
  • MsCommins108 Dec 1 @ 8:06 PM EST
    #mschat Hello! Bronwyn from CT! 7th and 8th grade ELA! I love the energy that I see in my #students!
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:07 PM EST
    Q1: With the holidays around the corner; Students are often amped up: How do we tame their energy for learning? #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:07 PM EST
    December is that BUSY time for all but especially for Band! ALL those Christmas concerts ... SON has one coming up #mschat
    In reply to @AmyLynnRever
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:07 PM EST
    my daughter has one as well :) #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574, @AmyLynnRever
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:07 PM EST
    Good evening Browyn glad you could stop in tonight #mschat
    In reply to @MsCommins108
  • brettdimmer Dec 1 @ 8:08 PM EST
    Brett, MS band/music, Wisconsin. Will be in and out tonight, but love #mschat!
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:08 PM EST
    A1: I try to build in kinetic activities into lesson plans: allowing them to move an burn some energy off #mschat
  • AmyLynnRever Dec 1 @ 8:08 PM EST
    A1: Don't fight it. Harness it. Get them moving around the room. Work in groups. Build in some social time. #mschat
  • Mr_Bussiere Dec 1 @ 8:08 PM EST
    Brian from NH checking in while I finish up my grades! #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:08 PM EST
    Good evening Brett glad to see you stop in #mschat
    In reply to @brettdimmer
  • EduGladiators Dec 1 @ 8:09 PM EST
    #EduGladiators BACK this SATURDAY! Listen to an update from @mgrosstaylor ▶️ https://t.co/LGCwEkKHR8 #langchat #mdeschat #mschat #G2great
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:09 PM EST
    a1: embrace the energy! get them up, moving, discussing, defending, singing! #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:09 PM EST
    Social is an important aspect of learning need to teach it and foster their desire to talk! #mschat
    In reply to @AmyLynnRever
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:09 PM EST
    Glad you can check in #mschat
    In reply to @Mr_Bussiere
  • drangelapeery Dec 1 @ 8:09 PM EST
    Check out the Google extension Move It. #mschat
    In reply to @AmyLynnRever
  • brettdimmer Dec 1 @ 8:10 PM EST
    A1 #mschat Change activity often. Move around if possible. Keep class fast-paced.
  • irishteacher6 Dec 1 @ 8:10 PM EST
    A1 we do an economy unit culminating in a Christmas bazaar and the kids love it #mschat
  • Mr_Bussiere Dec 1 @ 8:10 PM EST
    A1- Always trying to put a new spin on activities I like to incorpate movement and competitions into lessons! #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:10 PM EST
    My students are always doing one of those this time of year very rarely sitting and getting #mschat
    In reply to @TeacherRunner42
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:10 PM EST
    A1: Avoid SIT and GET activities ... #mschat
  • lora_kidwell Dec 1 @ 8:11 PM EST
    Love that answer. No use to fight it all the time. #mschat
    In reply to @AmyLynnRever
  • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:12 PM EST
    A1: I've learned to start each period with a warm-up activity that gets them moving. THEN they are ready for a mini lesson. #mschat
    • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:07 PM EST
      Q1: With the holidays around the corner; Students are often amped up: How do we tame their energy for learning? #mschat
  • MrsKRackley Dec 1 @ 8:12 PM EST
    Hi! Krystal from TX. I teach Dance to amazing 7th and 8th graders in Austin. #mschat
  • Megan_McMullen1 Dec 1 @ 8:12 PM EST
    #mschat Megan from Illinois! Energy is a great word to describe middle school!
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:12 PM EST
    same here - we were building and creating today. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:12 PM EST
    Good evening Krystal: Dance ... that is cool and awesome #mschat
    In reply to @MrsKRackley
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:13 PM EST
    Good even Megan and YES Middle schools can power the country #mschat
    In reply to @Megan_McMullen1
  • MrsKRackley Dec 1 @ 8:14 PM EST
    A1: Group projects are my favorite for taking their energy & focusing it to something positive & productive #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:15 PM EST
    Q2: Some students have too little energy from lack of sleep or too much activity how do we boost them up to learn? #mschat
  • Megan_McMullen1 Dec 1 @ 8:15 PM EST
    I love movement in the classroom, discussions with various peers! Always something different from day to day! #mschat
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:16 PM EST
    A1: I think we harness it with active and engaging lessons that provide the most movement as possible. Make it a +, not a -. #mschat
  • Megan_McMullen1 Dec 1 @ 8:16 PM EST
    A1: I love movement in the classroom, discussions with various peers! Always something different from day to day! #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:16 PM EST
    give them seating options - standing tables, fidgets seats - but also get the class standing as well! #mschat
    • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:15 PM EST
      Q2: Some students have too little energy from lack of sleep or too much activity how do we boost them up to learn? #mschat
  • AmyLynnRever Dec 1 @ 8:17 PM EST
    A2: The same things that utilize over-hyped students can help energize the underwhelmed ones. Moving, talking, S choices, etc. #mschat
  • brettdimmer Dec 1 @ 8:17 PM EST
    A2 #mschat Pair up w/energetic. :) Sometimes tiredness comes from too much sitting during day; get them up too!
  • Megan_McMullen1 Dec 1 @ 8:17 PM EST
    A1: We are starting debates this week! So excited to see their collaboration and defending things they're passionate about! #mschat
  • irishteacher6 Dec 1 @ 8:17 PM EST
    A2 have options for seating, allow for movement, keep them interested and most importantly don't stand in the front lecturing! #mschat
  • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:18 PM EST
    A2: Get the bloid flowing before you expect them to learn. Have them engage physically before mentally. #mschat
    • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:15 PM EST
      Q2: Some students have too little energy from lack of sleep or too much activity how do we boost them up to learn? #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:18 PM EST
    A2: Sometimes I just let them sleep ... Have them catch up later! If they missed something awesome won't want to sleep again #mschat
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:18 PM EST
    A2: Build brain break time into your lesson plans to get Ss moving without curriculum in mind. Give them a chance to wake up. #mschat
  • AmyLynnRever Dec 1 @ 8:19 PM EST
    Sleeping in the band room is dangerous. Crash cymbals are scary alarms. :) #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:19 PM EST
    A2: Build in transitions that get students blood flowing, give breaks of mindless tasks that are fund to re-energize #mschat
  • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:19 PM EST
    A2: I also allow Ss to stand or walk in the back while I'm teaching. For some, it helps them focus even more. #mschat
    • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:15 PM EST
      Q2: Some students have too little energy from lack of sleep or too much activity how do we boost them up to learn? #mschat
  • MrsKRackley Dec 1 @ 8:19 PM EST
    A2: I LOVE constructive rest times in my class. Sometimes Ss are so overwhelmed & need the time to mentally/physically recharge. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:19 PM EST
    Truth there: Sleeping in science room can be dangerous too: I did say sometimes since at times they need it #mschat
    In reply to @AmyLynnRever
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:20 PM EST
    A2.2: Use collaborative learning strategies that require all involved to be active participants. Keeps Ss interested. #mschat
  • Megan_McMullen1 Dec 1 @ 8:21 PM EST
    A2: I say movement again! It's so important to incorporate in ms! Also high interest, choice, relevancy are needed to help engage! #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:22 PM EST
    Sanding desks are cool!: I have counters all around the room that students stand or sit on #mschat helps
    In reply to @JudiHolst
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:22 PM EST
    a2: keep them guessing - today Ss wrote 3 sentences "the most imp. part of the cell is..." then had to dramatically act it out #mschat
  • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:22 PM EST
    - I agree. I have 2 of them, but I wish I had more. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • Mr_Bussiere Dec 1 @ 8:23 PM EST
    A2- As Ts we have to bring the energy set the example. If we are hyped up Ss will match our energy! #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:24 PM EST
    Q3: What tools can help our overly energetic students focus? #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:24 PM EST
    True, we will get to that later: I have found the more energy I have the more focused and on task students are #mschat
    In reply to @Mr_Bussiere
  • Megan_McMullen1 Dec 1 @ 8:24 PM EST
    Great Idea; I agree! Students need that time to reflect and recharge! #mschat
    In reply to @MrsKRackley
  • lora_kidwell Dec 1 @ 8:24 PM EST
    So cool! I'll have to try that. #mschat
    In reply to @TeacherRunner42
  • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:24 PM EST
    - MS kids LOVE to act things out. That's great you are doing it in science. #mschat
    In reply to @TeacherRunner42
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:24 PM EST
    A3 My students like Kinetic sand to help them focus https://t.co/mPlUffNQ1y #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:25 PM EST
    they randomly picked an organelle - had to defend :) one random Ss was the co-judge with me :) #mschat
    In reply to @lora_kidwell
  • irishteacher6 Dec 1 @ 8:25 PM EST
    because if the teacher is bored... #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574, @Mr_Bussiere
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:25 PM EST
    drama in middle school - need to make it work for us not against :) #mschat
    In reply to @JudiHolst
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:26 PM EST
    a3: standing tables, fidgets, common language (focus on the target, filter that comment) - actively teaching strategies #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:27 PM EST
    A3: These fidget cubes are pretty cool https://t.co/TEbBvPIUCw #mschat
  • Mr_Bussiere Dec 1 @ 8:27 PM EST
    A3- Always save classroom tasks for those Ss. Staple papers, erase board, pass out papers. Stress balls & fidget toys. Oh & movement #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:27 PM EST
    A3: ANYTHING but a WATERBOTTLE #mschat
  • MurphysMusings5 Dec 1 @ 8:28 PM EST
    A3 Energetic students need physical activity built into lessons. Direct instruction in small doses. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:28 PM EST
    Students just want to be busy and have something to do! YES jobs for some students help #mschat
    In reply to @Mr_Bussiere
  • MurphysMusings5 Dec 1 @ 8:29 PM EST
    3 Instructional Routines to Enhance Engagement https://t.co/iSphrkLs5y #colchat #edchat #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:29 PM EST
    A3: Have paper, pencils, puzzles ... anything that can keep the hands busy so the minds can focus #mschat
  • Megan_McMullen1 Dec 1 @ 8:29 PM EST
    A3: I would love to have standing tables in my classroom! I think that could make a difference for some students. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:29 PM EST
    A3: I have modeled sketch notes with students and this really has helped many students #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:29 PM EST
    They are great for doing tasks as well - have them hand out papers, collect papers come to the board #mschat
    In reply to @MurphysMusings5
  • AmyLynnRever Dec 1 @ 8:29 PM EST
    Saw those show up in my feed a little while back. I want one for me! #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:30 PM EST
    Q4: How can teachers harness a classes energy to enhance instruction? #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:30 PM EST
    it's a crazy game changer #mschat
    In reply to @Megan_McMullen1
  • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:30 PM EST
    - That's pretty cool. Need one myself for meetings. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • MurphysMusings5 Dec 1 @ 8:30 PM EST
    haha! Yes! I am taking secret pleasure in the knowledge that it isn't just us! #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • OnPointEdu Dec 1 @ 8:30 PM EST
    How to solve the 10 most common tech support problems yourself: https://t.co/KPg1e5J2PH #edtech #edchat #elemchat #mschat #hschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:30 PM EST
    a3: our fidget rule: has to be kept in one hand and under the desk - it's a tool for focus, not a toy #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:31 PM EST
    YES, I have a couple and it does make it to staff meetings #mschat
    In reply to @JudiHolst
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:31 PM EST
    A3: Anytime we can provide hands on learning opportunities, that energy can be most productive. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:31 PM EST
    I allow kinetic sand on tables but can't be shared or else we have a mess #mschat
    In reply to @TeacherRunner42
  • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:32 PM EST
    - I actually bought a rolling podium for me, but Ss quickly took it over. #mschat
    In reply to @Megan_McMullen1
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:32 PM EST
    A4: Energy is great to Plays, Songs, Projects so those are great tasks for this time of year #mschat
  • AmyLynnRever Dec 1 @ 8:32 PM EST
    I like the use of guidelines for it. The toy line is often crossed. Good to help them learn how to use as tool. #mschat
    In reply to @TeacherRunner42
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:33 PM EST
    it takes direct practice and messages - if it isn't helping them focus on the task, it isn't a good tool #mschat
    In reply to @AmyLynnRever
  • MrsKRackley Dec 1 @ 8:33 PM EST
    No problems w/Ss having too much physical energy (I WANT that in my class)but do have problems with too much vocal energy #mschat
  • irishteacher6 Dec 1 @ 8:33 PM EST
    😂😂 #mschat
    In reply to @MurphysMusings5, @blocht574
  • MsCommins108 Dec 1 @ 8:34 PM EST
    #mschat I try to turn that #energy into helping them discover what they are passionate about. That can be the basis for #geniushour
  • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:34 PM EST
    A4: In my public speaking class, it is all about passion and enthusiasm. Energy creates engagement. #mschat
  • MsCommins108 Dec 1 @ 8:35 PM EST
    #mschat I don't like to sit still either. Letthing them move every #class is so critical. I'm sure others do the same. #nothingnew
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:35 PM EST
    the cool thing is ANY class can be about Public Speaking when we need it to be #mschat
    In reply to @JudiHolst
  • AmyLynnRever Dec 1 @ 8:36 PM EST
    I have a yoga ball chair just for that reason. Constantly fidgeting. Staying still is hard, even as an adult. #mschat
    In reply to @MsCommins108
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:36 PM EST
    I don't sit down except during prep: Couldn't survive sitting all day: SO why should students? #mschat It would suck
    In reply to @MsCommins108
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:37 PM EST
    Yoga ball chairs are cool until they POP! (alway one kid who does it) #mschat
    In reply to @AmyLynnRever, @MsCommins108
  • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:37 PM EST
    True. Every class SHOULD include public speaking. #mschat #speaking #lifeskills
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:38 PM EST
    students joke that they have never seen me sitting longer than 30 seconds #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574, @MsCommins108
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:38 PM EST
    A4: Play to their strengths. Get Ss using the curriculum in ways they are comfortable with. If it's energetic, so be it! #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:38 PM EST
    My students ask if they can use my desk: Of course because I am never there just piles of stuff #mschat
    In reply to @TeacherRunner42, @MsCommins108
  • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:39 PM EST
    - Aren't you worn out more when you actually have to sit all day? #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574, @MsCommins108
  • AmyLynnRever Dec 1 @ 8:39 PM EST
    Haha! I'm selfish. Only one and it's mine. (plus probably shouldn't put a kid w/ a tuba on a yoga ball) #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574, @MsCommins108
  • MsCommins108 Dec 1 @ 8:39 PM EST
    #mschat I bought a knitted Frisbee (they fly, but won't hurt if they hit you), #students call on classmates by throwing it to them
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:40 PM EST
    Q5: AS the days get shorter it gets hard to keep our energy up, How do you maintain high energy during school day? #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:40 PM EST
    YES I can't sit for a staff meeting I get up and stand by the wall: otherwise I would be asleep #mschat
    In reply to @JudiHolst, @MsCommins108
  • MrsKRackley Dec 1 @ 8:40 PM EST
    A4:If Ss are too energized, I bargain with them. They can get a lights-out dance party last 5 min if they can focus during lesson #mschat
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:40 PM EST
    A S sat at my desk for 1/2 a class period w/o me noticing. They were just working. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574, @TeacherRunner42, @MsCommins108
  • Megan_McMullen1 Dec 1 @ 8:41 PM EST
    I agree!! I could never sit all day! Part of the reason I love teaching - up and moving! #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574, @MsCommins108
  • SamuelFritz Dec 1 @ 8:41 PM EST
    A4: sometimes, like today you just jump on the energy wave, stand up, and go for it - too often, maybe, Ts try to tame it #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:41 PM EST
    a5: rembr that your Ss reflect what you put out. if you put out lethargy they will as well. keep that in mind, plus lots of candy :) #mschat
  • MrsKRackley Dec 1 @ 8:41 PM EST
    A dance party can work in any class 😉 #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:42 PM EST
    Ss like to sit there to take attendance and work the computer (extra jobs ) #mschat
    In reply to @Mr_Lisek, @TeacherRunner42, @MsCommins108
  • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:42 PM EST
    A5: I play high-energy music as kids walk in the door each period. Ss start class with dancing while waiting for everyone to arrive. #mschat
    • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:40 PM EST
      Q5: AS the days get shorter it gets hard to keep our energy up, How do you maintain high energy during school day? #mschat
  • EduGladiators Dec 1 @ 8:43 PM EST
    Tune in #EduGladiators LIVE Podcast Mon w/guest @maverikcrq ▶️ https://t.co/SiWKy86gkd #mschat #globaledchat #langchat #memspachat #kyedchat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:43 PM EST
    A5: For me it is Coffee and Chocolate that keep me fueled for the day! #mschat
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:43 PM EST
    A5: We used to do 5 sec dance parties to get the fidgets out. They are a S favorite. Former Ss return and ask to do them. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:44 PM EST
    Can't tame the middle school beast: Just be the guide on the side #mschat
    In reply to @SamuelFritz
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:44 PM EST
    LOVE dance parties - first time we did one most students were like ?????? #mschat
    In reply to @Mr_Lisek
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:44 PM EST
    A5.2: I would participate to ensure my energy stayed up, too. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:44 PM EST
    YES getting in the mix with the students helps keep your energy up! #mschat
    In reply to @Mr_Lisek
  • MrsKRackley Dec 1 @ 8:44 PM EST
    A5: I only teach during the morning. My several cups of coffee help keep my energy up until I go home. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:45 PM EST
    Last year we danced out our school week! https://t.co/ss6FVcQwcM #mschat
  • Megan_McMullen1 Dec 1 @ 8:45 PM EST
    A5: Coffee! 😉 But try to be upbeat and energetic even when tired and exhausted! Teachers set the tone for the classroom! #mschat
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:45 PM EST
    And it shows them that embarrassing yourself is a requirement of the class. Lead by example. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:45 PM EST
    Lucky: my energy fades after lunch, so a good chocolate pick me up helps #mschat
    In reply to @MrsKRackley
  • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:46 PM EST
    - I admit...I crank up "Ice, Ice Baby" when I need to turn up my energy. Don't tell anyone! #mschat
    In reply to @Mr_Lisek
  • AmyLynnRever Dec 1 @ 8:47 PM EST
    A5: Lots of tea. Taking a few quiet moments at lunch every day, even if they're short. #mschat
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:47 PM EST
    Your secret is safe with me... :) #mschat
    • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:46 PM EST
      - I admit...I crank up "Ice, Ice Baby" when I need to turn up my energy. Don't tell anyone! #mschat
      In reply to @Mr_Lisek
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:48 PM EST
    A5: Sometimes I just walk the hallways for a few laps to pick up the energy #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:49 PM EST
    Q6: How do you keep the fire going at home/away from school so you stay sharp and focused for work and play? #mschat
  • MrsKRackley Dec 1 @ 8:49 PM EST
    Love all this dance party talk! Still cracks me up when Ss giggle about my dance moves during ours. They see me dance EVERY day! #mschat
  • AmyLynnRever Dec 1 @ 8:49 PM EST
    A5.1: I like picking up an instrument and playing along w/ Ss instead of conducting. Playing is fun! Always a good pick me up. #mschat
  • Mr_Bussiere Dec 1 @ 8:49 PM EST
    sometimes our brain break in my class is a quick round of freeze dance! #mschat
    In reply to @MrsKRackley
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:50 PM EST
    https://t.co/46RXLwbPiQ #mschat
    In reply to @JudiHolst, @Mr_Lisek
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:50 PM EST
    I will often barge into the music room and "interrupt" his Ss with an impromptu jam session. Ss love them. #mschat
    In reply to @AmyLynnRever
  • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:51 PM EST
    A6: I am a failure at this. Truth. #mschat
    • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:49 PM EST
      Q6: How do you keep the fire going at home/away from school so you stay sharp and focused for work and play? #mschat
  • MrsKRackley Dec 1 @ 8:51 PM EST
    A6: Running around outside w/my kids is a sure fire way to recharge! #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:51 PM EST
    a6: have dedicated 'you' time - no grading or planning (or twitter chats?) - I am keeping my run plan going strong! #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:51 PM EST
    A6: I recharge by spending time with family and kids #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:51 PM EST
    it's so easy to get caught up in the "one more thing" aspect of teaching #mschat
    In reply to @JudiHolst
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:52 PM EST
    A6: Coming home and playing with my kids. Nothing better to center me than that. #mschat
  • AmyLynnRever Dec 1 @ 8:52 PM EST
    A6: Always working on leaving school stuff at school. Some things are unavoidable, but feeling less guilty about saying "no." #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:52 PM EST
    A6: Twitter chats also help keep my mind fresh and recharged (sort of an addict if you ask my wife) #mschat
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:52 PM EST
    A6.2: Picking up the guitar at home and jamming out to some 80s ballads or some DMB. Slow jamming the stress away. #mschat
  • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:53 PM EST
    - Ha. So those are the right words to the song? 😉#mschat
    In reply to @blocht574, @Mr_Lisek
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:53 PM EST
    It is hard but MOST jobs don't come home need to make teaching one of them #mschat
    In reply to @AmyLynnRever
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:53 PM EST
    hah :) #connection #YouCreatedaMonster #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:53 PM EST
    There are many here tonight who can admit the same thing. #mschat
  • irishteacher6 Dec 1 @ 8:53 PM EST
    I run too! But twitter chats aren't work, are they? Kind of inspirational! #mschat
    In reply to @TeacherRunner42
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:53 PM EST
    Don't play but do crank it up on the drive home! #mschat
    In reply to @Mr_Lisek
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:54 PM EST
    Music feeds the soul. It keeps us young and alive! #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:54 PM EST
    as long as they don't become 'required work' :) You training for anything? #mschat
    In reply to @irishteacher6
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:54 PM EST
    I was also a runner at one time. I WILL get back to it. I have goals. #mschat
    In reply to @irishteacher6, @TeacherRunner42
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:55 PM EST
    once a runner always a runner :) goals help for sure! #mschat
    In reply to @Mr_Lisek, @irishteacher6
  • Megan_McMullen1 Dec 1 @ 8:55 PM EST
    A6: Spending quality time with family and my pup! She always gives me energy to recharge!! #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:56 PM EST
    Family is important!! #mschat
    In reply to @Megan_McMullen1
  • AmyLynnRever Dec 1 @ 8:56 PM EST
    Excellent musical choices. :) #mschat
    In reply to @Mr_Lisek
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:57 PM EST
    Thanks for fueling #mschat with energy tonight: Follow those that help you grow
  • AmyLynnRever Dec 1 @ 8:57 PM EST
    A good dog cuddle can go a long way (typed as I share the couch with my two). #mschat
    In reply to @Megan_McMullen1
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:58 PM EST
    Remember #mschat is here Thursdays during the school year: contact me if you want to moderate or to suggest a topic
  • Mr_Lisek Dec 1 @ 8:58 PM EST
    Thanks for the great topic tonight, @blocht574! It was a nice chat with the #mschat-ters tonight. Here's to next time!
    In reply to @blocht574
  • irishteacher6 Dec 1 @ 8:58 PM EST
    not right now but maybe in the spring. 😊 #mschat
    In reply to @TeacherRunner42
  • TeacherRunner42 Dec 1 @ 8:58 PM EST
    thanks to @blocht574 for giving #mschat the energy to power through to winter break - excited to be part of this #pln!
    In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:59 PM EST
    I will send out the transcript for @participatelrn in a bit #mschat Have an AWESOME Friday and weekend
    In reply to @participatelrn
  • Megan_McMullen1 Dec 1 @ 8:59 PM EST
    A6: I give myself time limits on working on school items at home to ensure family/home time. Some days I'm better than others. #mschat
  • JudiHolst Dec 1 @ 8:59 PM EST
    Love #mschat! Thank you @blocht574 for a great chat!
    In reply to @blocht574
    • blocht574 - Moderator Dec 1 @ 8:58 PM EST
      Remember #mschat is here Thursdays during the school year: contact me if you want to moderate or to suggest a topic
  • MrsKRackley Dec 1 @ 8:59 PM EST
    Great chat! Here's to an energized last couple of weeks before break! #mschat