#symchat Archive
#symchat conversations focus on classroom integration of SymbalooEDU, the educational version of Symbaloo developed for students, educators and schools.
Wednesday October 12, 2016 6:00 PM EDT
Hello! I'm Sylvia, 4th grade teacher from PA
Nissa, EdTech Coordinator, Santa Barbara, CA
Matt Rogers 4th Grade from PA as well!
So happy to be here to share ideas about using Brain Breaks in the classroom!
Absolutely ;) Trying to balance this while at the dog park. We will see how it goes!
If you get distracted , get your doggie on
Q1 How would you define brain breaks to anyone who was interested in learning more about this topic?
A1: Positive classroom interruptions that disrupt the learning allowing students to refocus and reenergize the learning
Yes, I think the word interruptions scare some people, but as we will explain, they are good interruptions! https://t.co/w4uw34GC4m
A1: Positive classroom interruptions that disrupt the learning allowing students to refocus and reenergize the learning
Happy to see the word positive too in your definition! https://t.co/w4uw34GC4m
A1: Positive classroom interruptions that disrupt the learning allowing students to refocus and reenergize the learning
A1 I'd consider them to be anything that breaks up a lesson, lots of changes of activities not just 1
Nice definition! Thank you for joining us on https://t.co/x8ILYg8Dm8
A1 I'd consider them to be anything that breaks up a lesson, lots of changes of activities not just 1
Q2 What characteristics should be part of a brain break activity to be effective for students?
joining in late, instructional designer w/ coast guard
I have heard about them, but I'm here to learn more,
Thank you for joining us !
Great, if you have any questions, just ask! https://t.co/pZZZoihJAu
I have heard about them, but I'm here to learn more,
A2 it needs to refocus them on the lesson objectives
I agree and they need to be quick, meaningful and very easy to manage! https://t.co/6qfy63HvDQ
A2 it needs to refocus them on the lesson objectives
needs to reset the senses. Should have the moving, talking/singing, breathing, and relaxing.
Yes, and students of all ages like those characteristics! https://t.co/XpkkZm6vRj
needs to reset the senses. Should have the moving, talking/singing, breathing, and relaxing.
still applicable to the adult learner?
That was one of my questions. What age is too old for BB's? I guess you're never too old!
INever too old is right. Think of how we feel sitting in a workshop all day long without breaks! https://t.co/YACYHT6neq
That was one of my questions. What age is too old for BB's? I guess you're never too old!
Q3 In your opinion, how often should brain breaks occur during a school day?
Research shows brain breaks are needed every 25-30 minutes!
However, it is important to know your students and implement them when needed
A3 I try and change activity at least every 15 mins
25mins sounds about right; we usually break every hour and it can drag on sometimes
Late chime for me Greetings all
It looks like everyone is on the same page for that answer. Great!
I think you just have to feel how it's going
So happy to see you here for . We are talking about brain breaks.
Q4 In your school or district, are administrators and teachers buying into the brain break concept? Why or why not?
A2 Thought provoking with much fun. Really out of the box, beyond the norm engagement
A4 I have heard some of my elem colleagues mention it, but idk if it's formally done.
A3. If the breaks serve a latent goal, marries content and real day application in FUN, I'd say, as often as needed
It should be discussed by faculties everywhere to be included in lessons daily
Why aren't all teachers including brain breaks in the classroom?
A4. Not an initial welcome when one believes "break" takes off from teaching time. Creative use of that break is key for buy in
Do you think that thinking comes from both teachers and administrators? https://t.co/mkyjX6ptbz
A4. Not an initial welcome when one believes "break" takes off from teaching time. Creative use of that break is key for buy in
RT not comfortable with the concept or how to apply properly
Great point, https://t.co/33QD06OyCw
if they don't see how it benefits them in turn, it can be futile. Must see it as lifeline to monumental tasks.
Nice discussion, everyone! Q6 is on the way
Q6 What are your favorite brain break activities which do not use technology/internet?
more so from the Tt and Ss. To get admin that's reluctant on board. Creative learning mophed into FUN learning
Here are 20 three-minute brain breaks from ’s Minds in Bloom website
Oops, let me give you that link https://t.co/KQ6qluS62A
Here are 20 three-minute brain breaks from ’s Minds in Bloom website
Musical chairs, nice. Do you do the singing ?!? https://t.co/kzuUMm5vO0
A6 Indoor garden projects (health, math, art😊) musical chairs jeopardy
Back to the past with Simon Says or Roc, Paper, Scissors Old, but effective!
Tell us about your indoor garden projects https://t.co/kzuUMm5vO0
A6 Indoor garden projects (health, math, art😊) musical chairs jeopardy
Q7 Which websites, apps, etc. are your go-to resources for implementing brain breaks into your daily routine?
Maybe will share their favorites!
Very interesting, Barb! It sounds very fun and engaging for students. https://t.co/ZdIkT3HVRc
it's actually an art engagement. No soil or plants that are real involved. Research plants, art store materials, qr code 4 info
the standby is jumpingjacks!!!
Oh yes, tried and true. Of course, the classroom under me may not think so! https://t.co/MMWkmNqkZX
the standby is jumpingjacks!!!
There are actually several good webmixes in the gallery on brain breaks
I must check to see if any Lesson plans have been created on this topic. Does anyone know?
A7 IYHO, What resources get the most buy-in from older students?
if anyone lurking on has any great brain break ideas, share them now! We would love to see them!
That is a great question! Who can help with this answer as I can only answer for 4th graders! https://t.co/CGGc6zUUqh
A7 IYHO, What resources get the most buy-in from older students?
I will try to ask around and get that answer for you, !
Any last minute questions or comments on the topic of brain breaks?
Thank you all so much for your input tonight!