#EarlyLang Archive

This biweekly chat is for early language educators - FLES and elementary immersion teachers. 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 8:00-9:00 pm EST

Wednesday May 2, 2018
8:00 PM EDT

  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa May 2 @ 8:00 PM EDT
    please let the #earlylang world know how it goes!! we need your reflections & voice!! kudos to you for being a risk-taker!!
    In reply to @alcolli1, @EarlyLang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:01 PM EDT
    Aaannnnd it's 8:00 ET! It's time for #earlylang - the chat dedicated to early language teaching and learning. Let us know who you are, where you're from, and what you teach. And- what's a favorite station you've seen / done?
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:02 PM EDT
    Good evening! I'm Julie, K-4 Spanish teacher in Maine. I've been experimenting with centers this year, but want to learn more! #earlylang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:02 PM EDT
    I'm Sara-Elizabeth, teaching Spanish in KY to homeschool learners ages 6-17. Excited to moderate this evening's #earlylang chat on stations/centers with @doriecp.
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa May 2 @ 8:02 PM EDT
    Hi #earlylang!! I'm Rose & I teach K-5 Spanish in NY. My favorite center activity is color & count :) #earlylang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator May 2 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    #earlylang: Hi, I'm Nathan from NJ. I teach French in a girls' school - levels Junior Pre-K through grade 5 - I am also our global learning coordinator. My favorite center/station is a listening station - with @edpuzzle in particular
  • kaitlin31415 May 2 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    Hi! I'm Kaitlin, K-3 Spanish teacher in MA. I have never implemented centers (although we do lots of center-like activities, but with all groups doing the same thing) and would like to learn more! #earlylang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    I love center activities that ask kids to interact with an #authres, like mapping Colombia's weather today #earlylang
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    And my first tweet of the chat, I forgot the hashtag! Good reminder for everyone to include our hashtag #earlylang so we can read your tweets!
    • doriecp May 2 @ 8:02 PM EDT
      My name is Dorie and I'm comoderating tonight's chat with @SECottrell. I teach Spanish grades 1-5 in Glastonbury, CT. I'm going to admit that I have a love hate relationship with centers. Looking forward to learning from everyone tonight!
  • srtacoulehan May 2 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    Marissa, Spanish K and first from NY, my favorite station is cutting up lyrics or lines to a poem and having them work in pairs to put them in order! #earlylang
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    #earlylang: I’m Rebecca, elementary Spanish teacher in CT. I like using centers to practice skills through multiple modalities to differentiate.
  • MaCristinaRV May 2 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    ¡Hola, #earlylang! I'm Cristina, Spanish teacher PK-5 from Miami. I've been holding back on planning centers... I want to learn more and setting them up-just do it!
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    We have a great hour of chatting "centered" on how stations can help #earlylang learners explore, succeed, move forward in their language journey. Q1 coming soon!
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    Looks like I'm not the only one forgetting hashtags tonight. ;) #earlylang
    • nathanlutz - Moderator May 2 @ 8:06 PM EDT
      Centers come in handy when you have limited resources or space for some activities. A good example is if you don't have enough ipads or computers - make it a center!
      In reply to @kaitlin31415
  • lucijgalvan May 2 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    Hi all! I am Luci and I teach K-3 Spanish in CA. I do not use centers but I used to use centers as a self-contained kinder and first grade teacher. #earlylang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    Q1 Q1 Q1! What are the benefits of having centers in the #earlylang classroom?
  • srtacoulehan May 2 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    Love the pun! #earlylang
    In reply to @SECottrell
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    Remember we use a Q1/A1 format. So when answering Q1, please preface with A1 to help keep our chat organized. #earlylang
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa May 2 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    A1 I use centers as final activities in a unit: we've practiced the activities/tasks, now you try. I like to see my students' independence & interdependence on each other. #earlylang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator May 2 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    #EARLYLANG LOL
    In reply to @doriecp
  • srtacoulehan May 2 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    A1 Stations can be so much fun! Think of the language games and different modes of communication you can provide in various stations #earlylang
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    A1: So far, the advantages have been to allow kids to do activities in smaller groups, being engaged in separate tasks, rather than whole group. It gives me an opportunity to circulate & touch base w individuals #earlylang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    A1 I was going to say my favorite use of centers is to PREview units! I love how versatile the idea is. #earlylang
    • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa May 2 @ 8:09 PM EDT
      A1 I use centers as final activities in a unit: we've practiced the activities/tasks, now you try. I like to see my students' independence & interdependence on each other. #earlylang
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    A1 Differentiation is my favorite reason for using centers. Also, I love that it frees me up to meet with small groups of students (or even 1:1). #earlylang
    • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:10 PM EDT
      A1: To make learning more student centered; to practice a variety of skills in one class period; to differentiate.
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    #earlylang
    • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:10 PM EDT
      A1: To make learning more student centered; to practice a variety of skills in one class period; to differentiate.
  • MaCristinaRV May 2 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    A1: Centers are fun, engaging and allow for differentiation. Students can learn from each other. #earlylang
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    I do LOOOVE seeing my students work independently when in centers. #earlylang
    In reply to @rrrrrrrrrrrrosa
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    A1 This is a takeaway I had from @CLC_Teachers - hit all the modes with centers/stations. #earlylang
    In reply to @srtacoulehan, @CLC_Teachers
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    Another great A1 for #earlylang!
    • alcolli1 May 2 @ 8:11 PM EDT
      Centers can help differentiate instruction, to give higher level thinking or extension to students picking it up fast while also giving review opportunities and reinforcement to students who need extra support.
      In reply to @SECottrell
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa May 2 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    A1 one thing I'm trying w my 1st graders is one language task per day of centers: so like Day 1 of centers is just Reading, Day 2 is just Listening, etc #earlylang
  • kaitlin31415 May 2 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    A1: As @nathanlutz pointed out, u can have fewer resources. Instead of having 2 prep materials/have ipads,etc 4 everyone, u just need enough for those who will be doing a particular center at 1 time. I love the idea of not having to make whole class sets of everything! #earlylang
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    Yes!!! It's a good way to remind myself that I don't always have to be the source of learning. Students can learn from each other too! #earlylang
    In reply to @MaCristinaRV
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    Remember that you can see how the rest of the chat plays out after you leave by reading the summary that will be posted at https://t.co/mRymv7WGQO in a few days. #earlylang
    In reply to @lucijgalvan
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    Do you assign particular kids to each center? #earlylang
    In reply to @MaestraAubreyCT
  • lucijgalvan May 2 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    A1: I think centers could really help when we need to conduct assessments! They also give students a chance to apply their understanding. Plus centers could provide our youngest learners with the diversity of task their attention spans require. #earlylang
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    For those joining #earlylang a little late, we are still on Q1: What are the benefits of having centers in the #earlylang classroom?
  • nathanlutz - Moderator May 2 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    #earlylang A1: Myriad of benefits - helping with limited resources, breaks kids into smaller groups, helps build indepenendent work ethic, builds teamwork skills, etc.!
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    In my younger grades, yes. They rotate in groups. Because my classes are short, I have 4 centers, and they do 2 in one class and two in the next. My older (4th grade) students choose their centers. #earlylang
    In reply to @MundodePepita
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    and can improve higher order thinking skills! #earlylang
    In reply to @nathanlutz
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    #earlylang
    • lucijgalvan May 2 @ 8:15 PM EDT
      What do you notice about time spent on task vs. off task? It is one of the main concerns holding me back from centers.
      In reply to @MundodePepita
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    A1 those smaller groups also can be a huge benefit for kids who will NOT speak up in whole-class activities #earlylang
    In reply to @nathanlutz
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    This is my biggest concern as well! Along w amount of language input-whole grp at the primary level seems to provide more input than centers, at least as far as I can see. I'm still learning & experimenting! #earlylang
    In reply to @lucijgalvan
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    Any last thoughts on the benefits of center/stations in #earlylang before we move to Q2?
  • srtacoulehan May 2 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    I love this! It gives us that one on one time with them while the rest of the class has meaningful tasks to do! #earlylang
    In reply to @lucijgalvan
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    So, you differentiate by creating distinct centers specifically for different levels of students? or do all kids rotate through all centers? #earlylang Sorry, I'm still learning about this!
    In reply to @MaestraAubreyCT
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    So true! I've heard students participate in small groups who have never participated in front of the class before. Comfort is important when speaking in a new language. #earlylang
    • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:17 PM EDT
      A1 those smaller groups also can be a huge benefit for kids who will NOT speak up in whole-class activities #earlylang
      In reply to @nathanlutz
  • srtacoulehan May 2 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    Try to plan stations that are similar in time-on-task...like games that they can re-play if you haven’t rotated yet....or a game without an end? #earlylang
    In reply to @doriecp
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    Here's Q2! Q2 Q2 Q2- How can we make centers work, even when traveling on a cart or facing other logistical issues? #earlylang
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    Great advice to practice and model the how-to of a center before starting. #earlylang
    • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:18 PM EDT
      I also get concerned about off-task behavior. For this reason, I spend a lot of time at the beginning of the year practicing HOW to do centers with low-level activities. We practice A LOT before higher order content. I also go overboard with PBIS.
      In reply to @lucijgalvan, @MundodePepita
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    How young do you do centers? What's the earliest grade level? #earlylang
    In reply to @MaestraAubreyCT, @lucijgalvan
  • lucijgalvan May 2 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    I have heard some teachers use SeeSaw as a way to keep students accountable during center work. That's my other main concern, that they will not get as much CI when they are doing center rotations. #earlylang
    In reply to @MundodePepita
  • lucijgalvan May 2 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    Great point!! #earlylang
    In reply to @SECottrell, @nathanlutz
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    Q2 is so important, especially since #earlylang classes have so many constraints: short classes, long gaps of time in between classes, sharing instructional spaces, etc.
    • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:19 PM EDT
      Here's Q2! Q2 Q2 Q2- How can we make centers work, even when traveling on a cart or facing other logistical issues? #earlylang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    This is a reason we don't do small-group activities every class, or for very long in a class session. #earlylang
    In reply to @lucijgalvan, @MundodePepita
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    A2: One of my biggest takeaways in terms of logistics is to organize everything in large ziploc bags so that I can set up/ distribute materials quickly-this works well either w a classrm or on a cart #earlylang
  • EarlyLang May 2 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    Hey #EarlyLang friends - tonight's chat is sponsored by the generous @EMCSCHOOL! Thank you!! https://t.co/ToUIREJRjo
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    #earlylang
    • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:20 PM EDT
      In younger grds differentiation happens because students can learn/practice content through multiple modalities (listening, interpreting, speaking). They also have opportunities to lead and/or learn from each other, and it frees me up to extend/enrich and provide intervention.
      In reply to @MundodePepita
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    Currently 2nd grade, because my classes younger than that are only 20 minutes long. Most schools do centers much younger than that in core classes, so the kids know how to do it. #earlylang
    In reply to @MundodePepita, @lucijgalvan
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    #earlylang
    • MaCristinaRV May 2 @ 8:20 PM EDT
      I'm very hesitant to do centers with a novice low group with behavior issues. Then again, maybe that's just what they need to become engaged and remain on task! ☺️
      In reply to @MundodePepita, @lucijgalvan
  • srtacoulehan May 2 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    Yes! For me, I usually pick centers that are things we’ve done before so little explaining required...(tic tac toe, guess my number, follow the path gameboard, etc) #earlylang
    In reply to @doriecp
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    A2 This is a huge issue for me. I'm not on a cart technically, but I have to set up and take down my class every session. #earlylang
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    Thank you so much for the answer!! Great! #earlylang
    In reply to @MaestraAubreyCT
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa May 2 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    A2 My logistical issues: setup/breakdown between classes, new activities = new directions. My solutions: no more than 2 manipulatives per table, recycle activities from our class & gen ed class #earlylang
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    A reminder to include the hashtag #earlylang in your tweets so everyone can see it! You all have so many great pieces of advice and questions to share - I don't want anyone to miss it!
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    A2 At least I have 60-minute sessions with my middle grades- when I had 25-minute sessions with kindergarten, I can't imagine doing centers. 20 minutes in preschool, no way. #earlylang
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    Yes, I found that be piggy backing on gen ed routines has really helped! I even went in & observed a Kinder class doing centers so I could get a sense of how they are set up and conducted- was a great experience! #earlylang
    In reply to @MaestraAubreyCT, @lucijgalvan
  • srtacoulehan May 2 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    A2 I have the luxury of being in my own space at least once a week so I plan my centers accordingly. Otherwise, prep can be simply using materials you’ve already had on your cart! #earlylang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator May 2 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    #earlylang: A2: For traveling teachers: make center materials light and portable - put them in file folders that fold up flat! I sometimes have Ss use their own laptops and headphones.
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    YES - familiarity with activities is a great advantage. So if the center is matamoscas game, they know how to play it because we've done it before. #earlylang
    • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa May 2 @ 8:22 PM EDT
      A2 My logistical issues: setup/breakdown between classes, new activities = new directions. My solutions: no more than 2 manipulatives per table, recycle activities from our class & gen ed class #earlylang
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    I LOVE ziploc baggies!!! They are in my top 10 classroom must haves lol #earlylang
    In reply to @srtacoulehan
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    A2 when I was traveling on a cart, I would often work with the classroom teachers so I could set up centers in their classrooms in the morning before school started. This usually meant I had to make extra materials so I had enough for each classroom. #earlylang
  • srtacoulehan May 2 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    Love that you shared challenges AND solutions! #superteacher #earlylang
    In reply to @rrrrrrrrrrrrosa
  • lucijgalvan May 2 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    I did centers with kinders and first graders with no problem when I was their primary teacher. I don't know how it would look in Spanish. I feel like I would want to wait until 2nd and 3rd grade. #earlylang
    In reply to @MundodePepita, @MaestraAubreyCT
  • EMCSCHOOL May 2 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    We ❤️ #EarlyLang!
  • nathanlutz - Moderator May 2 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    #earlylang A2: For time constrined folks - I used to always thing you had to do several rotations in one class period. Not so - you can do one center visit per class meeting - and then rotate next time. So what if it takes over a week to cycle through!
  • srtacoulehan May 2 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    You can split them up over several days...I write down which group they are in and then keep track of the ones they completed. Next class they do the centers they haven’t gotten to yet! #EarlyLang
    In reply to @SECottrell
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    A2 I also bought a wheeled file cart so I could organize any paper and zip lock baggies and quickly set them up when class began. #earlylang
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    What I found w my Kinders this year is that time spent at any one center was very short. They are not at a linguistic level that they can remain independent for long w/o redirection/ addtl input from me #earlylang
    In reply to @lucijgalvan, @MaestraAubreyCT
  • lucijgalvan May 2 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    How frequently do you see your students? How long do you spend on days you do incorporate centers? #earlylang
    In reply to @SECottrell, @MundodePepita
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    A2 I'll echo that easy materials is a key. My top center materials have to be an iPad and post-it notes. Pre-print or quick directions & we're off. #earlylang
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    A2: I would love advice on centers when I have to push in, as I may need to next year. The classrooms aren’t all group-friendly, and some teachers have the kids store SO much stuff on top of their desks! #earlylang
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    #earlylang
    • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:25 PM EDT
      A2: I deal with shorter classes (35 minutes) by having 4 activities, stretched across 2 class periods. So, I do a mini-lesson/whole group activity, and then 2 centers in one class and two in the next. I have a hyper organized classroom to switch between classes.
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    I see mine 1x a week for 60 minutes. (I have a younger class but there are only a handful of students so we're sort of always a small group moving from center to center lol) #earlylang
    In reply to @lucijgalvan, @MundodePepita
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    I'd say in any given class we have a center activity for a max of 15 mins / 60. #earlylang
    In reply to @lucijgalvan, @MundodePepita
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    Any other logistical advice for #earlylang teachers before we move to Q3?
  • lucijgalvan May 2 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    So smart!!! #earlylang
    In reply to @srtacoulehan, @doriecp
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    Share your last tips before we move on! #earlylang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    I'd keep an eye out and ask teachers for advice on what corner of the room you can commandeer. Table that's generally clear or clearable? Area of rug you can spread out the special "station blanket" on? #earlylang
    In reply to @MaestraAubreyCT
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    Or even things they're used to doing with their classroom teachers. I've had so much success copying popular classroom activities so that I didn't have to explain directions. #earlylang
    In reply to @srtacoulehan
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    Twice a week, 30 minutes each time. In terms of the centers activity, the one I did with 1st earlier in the year took about 15 mins each class (we did greeting, review, clean up and debrief in the other time) #earlylang
    In reply to @lucijgalvan, @SECottrell
  • lucijgalvan May 2 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    Cool. Good to know! #earlylang
    In reply to @SECottrell
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    A2: Have standardized games (ipad, go fish, matching, T/F questions) and then just mix up the content. So they aren’t constantly learning new games/rules. #earlylang
    In reply to @doriecp
  • alcolli1 May 2 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    #earlylang Hi I'm Ashley, from Michigan. I teach Spanish young fives through 8th grade, among three schools, for a total of 21 classes per week. I also travel on a cart.
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    Yes, yes!!! Get the most out of each activity so you don't have to waste time explaining complicated directions. #earlylang
    In reply to @MaestraAubreyCT
  • MaCristinaRV May 2 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    Q2: You have to be organized to set up (and tear down) centers in a flash! Imagine you've set up for a picnic, time's over and it's starting to rain... #earlylang
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    Hi Ashley! You've joined us just in time for question 3. But feel free to go back and answer the others if you'd like. (Just add A1/A2 to your answers so we know which questions you are answering). #earlylang
    In reply to @alcolli1
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    I love this analogy! #earlylang #thisisreal4us
    • MaCristinaRV May 2 @ 8:30 PM EDT
      Q2: You have to be organized to set up (and tear down) centers in a flash! Imagine you've set up for a picnic, time's over and it's starting to rain... #earlylang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator May 2 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    and model, model, model how to do it - and then they'll be able to w/o any special directions #earlylang
    In reply to @doriecp, @MaestraAubreyCT
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa May 2 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    A3 so for my 1st grade listening centers, there'll be an EdPuzzle, a Seesaw activity, a straight video+worksheet, hopefully a QR code+worksheet...and hopefully something else. #earlylang
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    A3: Standard centers are writing, listening, speaking, playing, computers/ipads, reading, and creating. #earlylang
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    Q3! What activities or tasks do you have learners complete at centers? #earlylang
    • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:31 PM EDT
      Here's Q3 everyone! Let's talk what goes on at centers- What activities or tasks do you have learners complete at centers?
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    A3 I mentioned this earlier, but anything that explores an #authres related to our unit/CI story. So this semester, they mapped cities on Colombia and checked the weather report for that day. #earlylang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    Just want to be sure #earlylang sees this!!
    • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:34 PM EDT
      A3: They might label something and take notes on it; play matching or go-fish games; Quizlet on ipads or computers; listen to movies I make; speak to ea. Other with puppets or old phones; question each other with true/false questions; “read” culturally relevant books ...
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    My students love switching their iPads to Spanish so they can ask Siri what's the current weather in other cities. It may be one of their fav activities. #earlylang
    In reply to @SECottrell
  • KarenNemethEdM May 2 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    A3 Do any of you attend professional development about the curriculum being used in each grade so you can connect directly to what’s happening in gen ed in your planning? #earlylang
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    I have also had students comparing and contrasting weather in TL countries :) #earlylang
    In reply to @SECottrell
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    A3 Also, working on a blog post on Matamoscas (flyswatter), reminded that if they know how to play it, they can play it in a center with a learner being the caller - they love that! #earlylang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator May 2 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    #earlylang A3: I like to have a balance of the modes represented at my centers - something interpersonal (info gap activity), something interpretive (an EdPuzzle), and something presentational (make a @Seesaw or @Flipgrid video). I also like to have a "with the teacher" center
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    In our district we do this often. Much of our curriculum mirrors what the students are learning in either social studies or science. We even have opportunities to write curriculum together! #earlylang
    In reply to @KarenNemethEdM
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    This has been a major struggle. I am able to attend some data teams. I am also the Curriculum Committee Chair for my school and pressure to have updated curriculum mapping that is shared for this purpose. #earlylang
    In reply to @KarenNemethEdM
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    YES the "with the teacher" center is something else I remember from @CLC_Teachers tips - gives us a chance to focus on some formative assessment, specific help etc. #earlylang
    • nathanlutz - Moderator May 2 @ 8:36 PM EDT
      #earlylang A3: I like to have a balance of the modes represented at my centers - something interpersonal (info gap activity), something interpretive (an EdPuzzle), and something presentational (make a @Seesaw or @Flipgrid video). I also like to have a "with the teacher" center
  • alcolli1 May 2 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    Q3: I recently had my 6th graders complete some exploring centers about the Amazon. They listened to sounds of the rainforest trying to guess where the sounds are coming from, they looked at maps to tell me what countries Amazon covered, they also read articles #EarlyLang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    @Sra_Kennedy is amazing at this. Like amazing. Like I want to be her when I grow up. I eat up every post she writes. #earlylang
    • doriecp May 2 @ 8:37 PM EDT
      In our district we do this often. Much of our curriculum mirrors what the students are learning in either social studies or science. We even have opportunities to write curriculum together! #earlylang
      In reply to @KarenNemethEdM
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    Such a fun activity! I really love the idea of students having to guess what sounds they are hearing. I may have to give this a try! #earlylang
    In reply to @alcolli1
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    I based my original curriculum off of the themes done in each grade level at my school, & connect regularly w the teachers so I can connect & reinforce content. That being said, I have also found it's important to also key into priorities for my discipline, too #earlylang
    In reply to @KarenNemethEdM
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    #earlylang Q3: In my older grades (i.e. 4th-6th) I have used centers to scaffold project-based learning in the early stages.
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    My learners have a Story Dice game they do with chapters of a novel, it makes a great center activity post-reading any story- once we have done it enough for them to know it. #earlylang
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    We're still on Q3: What activities or tasks do you have learners complete at centers? #earlylang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator May 2 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    #earlylang !
    In reply to @SECottrell, @CLC_Teachers
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    I'm loving all these ideas for center activities for #earlylang. I'm especially looking forward to @EarlyLang organizing them for me in the summary at https://t.co/kGpTJQNec0. Q4 is coming up soon!
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    #earlylang Q3: When I was teaching older grades one of my centers might be unfinished work and/or free choice (as long as it is WL-related). They LOVED this!
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    Ooh, good one! Could have a free voluntary reading center too! #earlylang
    • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:42 PM EDT
      #earlylang Q3: When I was teaching older grades one of my centers might be unfinished work and/or free choice (as long as it is WL-related). They LOVED this!
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    Yes!!! My students love free choice - and it always surprises me what they choose. One of the options is free read any book from my library and they choose books I would have never thought they'd be interested in. #earlylang
    In reply to @MaestraAubreyCT
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    Here's Q4! What setup, organization, and materials make centers a success? #earlylang
  • alcolli1 May 2 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    Q3: I've also used vocab activities, like dictionary in my stations. I had students draw on windows with dry erase markers... They were very on task here! #earlylang
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    #earlylang My 6th graders last year LOVED reading little kid books to each other!
    In reply to @SECottrell
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:44 PM EDT
    Great reminder that a summary of tonight's chat will be posted at https://t.co/mRymv7F5se in the next few days. If you're not following @earlylang, you should be so you'll get notice when it's ready! #earlylang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:44 PM EDT
    A4 I'm going to bounce off the free choice and mention another tip I'm pretty sure is from @CLC_Teachers - make 1 or 2 more centers than they can complete in the time, and let them choose where to go next / what to complete! #genius #voiceandchoice #earlylang
  • EarlyLang May 2 @ 8:44 PM EDT
    #EarlyLang friends - we hope you realize that we’ll have a 3 hr session on centers at the NNELL Summer Institute #nnell18! July 13-15, 2018, in Summit, https://t.co/WnZqMrDxxV
  • MaCristinaRV May 2 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    Q3: Another fun station is the very popular snack table, where you have "limonada y galletas" and practice using a language function with your friends. #earlylang
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    #earlylang Q4: I have standard signs for listening, speaking, writing, etc. I post the center rotations on my white board with magnetic tape. I organize materials on shelves by grade level, and when the class comes in move the materials to the appropriate tables.
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa May 2 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    A4: Time + materials + clear expectations = I don't spend forever explaining the activities + minimal materials/manipulatives #earlylang
  • alcolli1 May 2 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    A2: I think prepping well before hand helps with traveling on a cart and sharing the gen ed spaces. My cart has tubs and storage (minimal) to help hold all the resources. #Earlylang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    A4 I also learned (from my AP class of all things) to have a blank "things I needed to know and didn't" page. Because I never think of it all. #earlylang
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    A4 I'm not generally an organized person, but having centers forces me to consider organization in advance. I also find that keeping my classroom extremely minimalistic helps a LOT #earlylang
  • KarenNemethEdM May 2 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    A4 A critical answer in #earlyed is materials should be based on the children’s interests - not what the teacher thinks will be interesting. Best success when you get to know the kids and connect with their favorites so they have more to talk about. #earlylang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    We're quickly moving to Q5 very shortly #earlylang!
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    A4 I also created a flipbook of most commonly used words and phrases for when students are working independently. For years I listened to what English they used when working independently, and that's the language I put in the book. Helps cut down on L1 during centers! #earlylang
  • EarlyLang May 2 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    I do too! and every S has a magnet with her name on it. Easy to group and regroup if nec #earlylang
    In reply to @MaestraAubreyCT
  • MaCristinaRV May 2 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    A4: I hand out different colored stickers to form the different groups. It helps to show a visual of the rotations and the various tasks on the board. #earlylang
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    Yes! I'm currently working on developing a center around our class garden, still working on the details, but my kids are super excited already! #earlylang
    In reply to @KarenNemethEdM
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    Q5 for #earlylang is up: How do you hold learners accountable for what they do at centers?
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    #earlylang A4: Again, can’t emphasize enough practice. I use a Powerpoint to time centers, it makes a noise at the 2 min warning, and then 1 min to signal clean up. Early in the yr I show pics of what a cleaned up center looks like. PBIS to reward groups that do it.
  • EarlyLang May 2 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    A4: I use those clear lucite sign holders - easy to slip paper with directions in it - and displayed on both sides. #EarlyLang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    GREAT tips. This is the nuts and bolts, y'all. #teach2teach #earlylang
    • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:51 PM EDT
      #earlylang A4: Again, can’t emphasize enough practice. I use a Powerpoint to time centers, it makes a noise at the 2 min warning, and then 1 min to signal clean up. Early in the yr I show pics of what a cleaned up center looks like. PBIS to reward groups that do it.
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa May 2 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    A5 In the past, I have collected all work & kept track on a spreadsheet; but honestly, the group I was working is six years old. They don't get *that* off task. As I don't have formal assessments or report cards, your work in Spanish is about being a learner. #earlylang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    A5 In interpersonal, they can hold each other accountable - check off what the partner(s) has/have answered #earlylang
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    Now everyone gets to guess who's the amazing teacher behind the @earlylang account tonight :) #earlylang
    In reply to @EarlyLang, @EarlyLang
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    and we've just had our marigolds sprout this week! great ongoing conversation topic!! :) #earlylang
    In reply to @SECottrell, @KarenNemethEdM
  • alcolli1 May 2 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    A4: Definitely connecting to student interest keeps them engaged and on task. I also have a handout/poster for commonly used phrases to stay in the TL. I also circulate to help and monitor. But mostly, teaching students how to use each station beforehand #earlylang
  • EarlyLang May 2 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    A5: in interpersonal centers, I have one partner sign off on the other’s work - did she do it? Was there effort? It’s not graded per se but I want them to think s/o is watching closely!! 👀 #EarlyLang
  • MundodePepita May 2 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    I had to create a chart where I could move kids names to the next center over the course of a few classes to clearly indicate what was happening & keep track of where everyone had been lol #earlylang
    In reply to @MaCristinaRV
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    #earlylang A5: I get warm and fuzzy just circulating the room and hearing them working their way through language and content in their own way. I have used a Google form and a table on a clipboard. I do sometimes have them take notes that become a resource for them.
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    A5 In the example of labeling weather/cities on maps, they can write the names of who was in the group, and then you have the map as evidence. #earlylang
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    A5 I use visual indicators to quickly show students if they are "meeting", "approaching", or "beginning" expectations (the same language used on our report cards for academic progress. #earlylang
  • doriecp May 2 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    A5b Basically a different color to represent each indicator. There is a poster hung up in my room for them to reference if they forget. It's amazing to see how quickly students will redirect as needed when they see their color. #earlylang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:57 PM EDT
    A5 could also give "sí se puede" marks à la @maestranadine as you walk around & see great stuff. Learners fill in a smiley face next to their name. #earlylang
  • SECottrell May 2 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    In the last minutes of #earlylang what's your "reflaction"? What center will you implement or tweak in the weeks to come?
  • nathanlutz - Moderator May 2 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    And so much excitement when they check on them! We just planted the new garden today - pictures coming soon! Need to finish our signs. Every class, K-5, has a different role. #earlylang
    In reply to @MundodePepita, @SECottrell, @KarenNemethEdM
  • alcolli1 May 2 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    A5: my younger students have a habit of rattling if someone isn't following expectations. I also have them do some sort of paper pencil as evidence. I also circulate. #earlylang
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa May 2 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    RF: I'm reminded to use #authres (gracias @SECottrell) as prompts for reading & listening and to include interpersonal (merci @nathanlutz) communication in centers #earlylang
  • MaestraAubreyCT May 2 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    #earlylang RF: I like the idea of posting performance indicators visably in the classroom. I have given them to students (todavia no, casi, si puedo, puedo hacer mas), but haven’t posted them prominently in the classroom.