#2PencilChat Archive
The #2PencilChat is a weekly conversation about educational technology. As we enter a more student-centered age, let's talk about using all the tools in our toolboxes to be innovative and dynamic teachers.
Tuesday August 2, 2016
Hi! Lisa, support facilitation, from hot and steamy central Florida. It's all about the sparkle!
Hello! Teresa, MS Literacy Teacher from NY.
Kathleen from NY! First time chatting with y'all!
Hey Double-L! Welcome! ANd Oh no! I didn't schedule my slides! Yikes!
Hey everybody! Welcome to the ! Back to School has me all befuddled...slides to come. :)
Hi, everyone! Kimberly, Media Specialist from Daytona Beach here! Thought we were getting rain! https://t.co/L8vVBFP1VN
Peg, Instructional Coach/Reading Specialist from MKE. I need a twitter chat fix! Let's go!!
Hey, all! Robert from Los Angeles here. Middle school English.
Jesse from PA, Jersey T. Aspiring principal!
Hi everyone! I'm Cheryl from NC. Not quite ready for school yet, but hoping to get some beginning ideas!
I'm a week from tomorrow...ai yi yi!
Hi Teresa! Good to connect with you again! School starts next week & I'm ready to get pumped!
Teachers on 22nd, Ss on 29th.
A1: I buy new books for my classroom library. (What would you expect ?)
A1 when I start shopping for classroom supplies I get excited for the new year
Excited for school … dang … I’ve been building furniture all Summer for my class …
We have our PD day August 31st and Ss start after Labor Day.
Hi y'all! I'm here-ish. My own little turns 16 tomorrow so am "doing." (He reads my Tweets!) Valerie from Atlanta!
Janet Sweat district support for STEM.
A1: Not many professions get a start over! I embrace the endless possibilities that we have to empower Ss as readers & writers.
So many wonderful people showing up as I'm scrambling to catch up! Welcome everybody!
A1 That was a good chunk of my day today, Teresa. Think I under-budgeted time & $!
A1: new school supplies!!!!!!!
Getting the chance to teach some new epic lessons to really push student progress
Feel free to build me something! LOL
Hey! I'm going to be in and out, but wanted to jump in. A1: Books! That and buying supplies. 🤓
A1: school supplies and room decorating. We start next week.
Lots of colorful paint going on the walls in our buildings--also very exciting!
A1 Mine started yesterday! My motivation is found in books, in ideas in people! ♥️
A1 EdCamps and conferences and room redesigns!
I posted some pics to my Instagram earlier …
A1 It's been 'sSummerofFun! I've traveled, gone 2 cnfrncs/wrkshps; updted website; wrtng book! I'm rdy 2 get energized
Totally. We get a clean slate, new faces, new adventures- opportunity for improvement https://t.co/ODOskUFmLP
A1: Not many professions get a start over! I embrace the endless possibilities that we have to empower Ss as readers & writers.
I love the chance to put up new class room displays
A wonderful way to explore, learn & reflect! I love it! https://t.co/5GSqwcILHN
Excited for school … dang … I’ve been building furniture all Summer for my class …
A1: I start thnkng about something new I'm plan 2 try. Also, twitter chats R getting me motivated. First though,beach next week
YES!! so much more eloquently said!! https://t.co/zF4uHpobMq
Totally. We get a clean slate, new faces, new adventures- opportunity for improvement https://t.co/ODOskUFmLP
A1: Not many professions get a start over! I embrace the endless possibilities that we have to empower Ss as readers & writers.
A1: Planning out new projects, too...love that...
So great! Yes--another chance to get it right! https://t.co/443evzQf4z
A1: Not many professions get a start over! I embrace the endless possibilities that we have to empower Ss as readers & writers.
A1 The knowledge that I'll get paid again soon is an energizing thought. :)
That's an awesome outlook!
Yes! We have some teachers ditching desks and trying this year. https://t.co/8byb9aYLJs
A1 EdCamps and conferences and room redesigns!
A1 Just wrote a blog on getting back yr mojo: 7 Questions to Reignite your Teaching Passion and Purpose https://t.co/1NMiY55prx
Another chance for us to prove how amazing Ss can be! https://t.co/S0ulge6SGq
So great! Yes--another chance to get it right! https://t.co/443evzQf4z
A1: Not many professions get a start over! I embrace the endless possibilities that we have to empower Ss as readers & writers.
Hi, Dennis! When will we see pictures? :)
Well, i just finished teaching summer school less than 3 wks ago- so enjoying a little summer now. Good luck!!!
Isn't that such a great part of the profession-- a new start each year with a renewed sense of energy! https://t.co/wed597PiUJ
A1: Not many professions get a start over! I embrace the endless possibilities that we have to empower Ss as readers & writers.
we need a campfire for these stories
my project this year is setting up a school reading lounge with flexible seating!
OMG! My fav part. Blank walls a new canvas to connect into your classroom Personalize. https://t.co/iy8saTKc0A
I love the chance to put up new class room displays
A1 And networking with is always motivating.
A1: the fall.......changing leaves, pumpkins, apples.....football....... love it!
For real! I can't wait until !
Coming to visit you next week, still up for it. Want to see your classroom!
Love that idea! Please share pictures. Thinking about "learning lounge" possibilities in my district.
A2: have Ss come in and decorate my room, fresh look, I take EVERYTHING down in June
A2 As Instruct Coach/Rdg Spec,don't have own clsrm; I encourage Ts 2 cr8 inviting & lrnr friendly space.Ask Ss what they want
These chats are motivating me a lot to take risks and a new outlook. https://t.co/xwlhcx0xNI
A1: I start thnkng about something new I'm plan 2 try. Also, twitter chats R getting me motivated. First though,beach next week
A2: Ts get a new slate so when my Ss arrive, their slates are pristine. I don’t prejudge. They are given opportunities 2 shine!
Posted some to my Instagram … blog update soon …
A2 I always have a couple of things to bring out. Introducing robot building station in library
A2: Feedback from stakeholders, inspirations from new ideas, the "have I used this" rule.
What a wonderful way 2 empower them-becomes their space & home. Remember, our Ss r our academic family https://t.co/mbxAwxcoP2
A2: have Ss come in and decorate my room, fresh look, I take EVERYTHING down in June
Reflect on the lessons you have taught this year and look at how you can make them more engaging
A2 I start with this each year and have my own little HGTV party. 😬I pack it all up & refresh! https://t.co/HRe3uaaVQn
I looked at my list today - that's an important reminder as we see names we've heard for years.
A2 My excitement mainly comes from my new Ss gaining the confidence & capabilities to wow the class with their profound insight
A2: I love to create new units and find current opportunities to create an authentic audience for Ss. https://t.co/XaL1C1JGja
I will. Planning to use it for reading lessons, book clubs, team planning, PLCs, etc.
A2: I always try to add something new from a conference or training...of course I am STEM. Fun stuff.
A2 being a lifelong learner there are always new things I want to try.
A2 Summer reading & learning (e.g., , , ) give way to fall applications. Rubber, meet road.
A2: I'm changing up some of my flex seating, trying a table w/stability balls. Advice anyone?
Reputations are hard to break. Maybe this year, you’ll be the one to break it :) https://t.co/pPuojk6fN0
I looked at my list today - that's an important reminder as we see names we've heard for years.
Lay out the procedures early so your kids aren't bouncing their way out of yoga ball privileges!
Ugh . . . we have to do the same!!! Would love to spend energy on something else. I have so much stuff!
so true. I tell Ts do not give me preconceived ideas. They have grown over summer. https://t.co/zIapxXwART
A2: Ts get a new slate so when my Ss arrive, their slates are pristine. I don’t prejudge. They are given opportunities 2 shine!
What's your handle there? I'd like to follow.
Those are great. Try to find the weighted ones. They roll less.
I found a plan in which I make a circle from a pool noodle and attach to bottom. Going to try it.
And sometimes personalities & learning styles are factors of success or lack there of. https://t.co/WSdVHTTWlH
so true. I tell Ts do not give me preconceived ideas. They have grown over summer. https://t.co/zIapxXwART
A2: Ts get a new slate so when my Ss arrive, their slates are pristine. I don’t prejudge. They are given opportunities 2 shine!
Important to remember Maslow when a student is having trouble in class...
I use stability balls without weights & they are great. Found some stability COWS this year!
Thanks for letting me chat . Need to run to my gate and catch a flight! See you next week!
I do the same thing because I get new ideas from them. It makes it "their room." https://t.co/2E6FmxgQ7f
A2: have Ss come in and decorate my room, fresh look, I take EVERYTHING down in June
A2 Give Ss opprtunty 2 "weed out library." I wld love 2 c what they would keep/toss. That tells us a lot about Ss & their lrng
Thanks for coming, Double-V!
A1: Anyone know where to get cheap wooden bar stools? Would like to raise one table high and use them.
A2: Through the year I compile a list of new ideas/strategies from reading/PD. In the summer, I use list & update lessons.
Thanks! Love her. That room looks large!
absolutely. I get along with some Ss other Ts don't & vice versa. Personalities. https://t.co/WGAGc5kw1f
And sometimes personalities & learning styles are factors of success or lack there of. https://t.co/WSdVHTTWlH
so true. I tell Ts do not give me preconceived ideas. They have grown over summer. https://t.co/zIapxXwART
A2: Ts get a new slate so when my Ss arrive, their slates are pristine. I don’t prejudge. They are given opportunities 2 shine!
A3: I have been given an empty classroom and get to turn it into an "unplugged" maker space. So excited. Admins interested.
A3 Giving wrtng purpose. If T assigns 5 para essay, what's T going 2 DO w/ it bsids grade. Where's audience & what's the pt?
A2: I need to get better at weeding out books that Ss never read- old. I worked very hard on library last year, happy w/it.
A3: Videos for absent students made with Office Mix, Shifting to Single Point Rubrics for just about everything
A3 I'm trying blended learning this year one day a wk in computer lab
A3 I want to refine my personal writing conferences. Want to give feedback AS they write, not when they finish. Focused growth.
Have to run...wish I could stay longer!
I love the Launch book, the other is in my Amazon cart. Trying to refrain. Is it awesome?
A3 I'm gonna take an improv class, & use games with my students after learning from Anthony at
A3: Created suggestion box in Forms, students access with QR Code
lovethat HGTV party idea!
A3 I was at training the last two days. Plethora of info to learn about and implement.
My Ss & I closed last yr w/weeding + bk swap (including titles from Ss' homes). Shaky start, but will revisit.
I'm going to try and build in DIRT time into some lessons
- What are single point rubrics?
A3) Lots of new learning around . Also excited about a new sense of innovation in our district! https://t.co/IWxpHODf5A
So cool. I am using old AV carts to roll mine in and out of my room. https://t.co/vnBV5ssj25
A3: I have been given an empty classroom and get to turn it into an "unplugged" maker space. So excited. Admins interested.
SO MANY great ideas here tonight on the . We're lighting those sparks!
Please update us with the results throughout the year. So curious to hear successes, tweaks, & challenges.
I already have only tables, no desks. Getting rid of 1 more table for another floor area.
- Jealous. I started using improv in my public speaking classes, but I need HELP.
OK, you twisted my arm. Will join convo, thanks!!!
. Me too! Improv and theatre strategies/games are on my to do better list this year.
A3 I overlap with 2nd 1/2 of response from : Grading will look different for me & my Ss in 2016-17.
It's $125 for an eight week class...what a fun investment!
absolutely. Lots of pics and I will blog at iteacher imother
A3. Flexible seating in the MC, & I'm going to help Ts at my school build better relationships w/parents.
A4: I ditched a ton pf documents in June. Major clean out!
you need to take videos and share them to
A4 I'm ditching all the negative things I've heard from previous Ts about my SS this year
Right on! I'll have to figure out how to blur kids' faces in vid...
A4 The idea that I must respond 2 evry request/email now. Giving 24 hr wait time wrks.I'm able to reflect & thnk thru response
Um, we can all go home. Sherlyn just won tonight's chat! https://t.co/SEmaVcFTPC
A4 I'm ditching all the negative things I've heard from previous Ts about my SS this year
directed independent reflection time, so that Ss have time to respond to marking
A4 I threw out SO MUCH in June, but today I looked, and saw so much throwawayable stuff...
Doesn't that feel great?! I mvd offices this year & am in the process. I feel 10 lbs thinner! https://t.co/hqe7bP9dqI
A4: I ditched a ton pf documents in June. Major clean out!
I plan on documenting everything on my blog- pics and lessons I made to incorp makerspace Pls share ideas too
- We need to start a new chat just for ideas on this one!
directed independent reflection time, so that Ss have time to respond to marking
directed independent reflection time, so that Ss have time to respond to marking
A4: Hi all! Returning to a classroom after many years...many wonderful things left for me, but need to do a clean-out. 😊
We can tell we're Ts cause we don't want 2 throw anything away; after all, we might need it someday! https://t.co/fo6net1ERF
A4 I threw out SO MUCH in June, but today I looked, and saw so much throwawayable stuff...
A4. Ditching the negative speech: "Those kids..." "Those parents..." Instead of those, OUR. We are a family.
It was wonderful! My Ss esp loved carrying it all to recycling bin. LOL
Atlanta & sure pushed improv forward on my plate!
A3 that my pants are not as magical as Sean's
A4 I'm ditching digital lesson planning & going old school planner! 🤓
I am trying to get over that......
I cleared out about 12 bin bags of old stuff at the end of last year
can your class this year make them
A4 I'm ditching the fear. I want to step out of my comfort zone and take more risks. Stand up for what I believe is right.
A4: 1/2 of my Ss took my speech elective last year. I will have to ditch those units from last year. https://t.co/dbP3Og7OEn
I do that too. I revise so much up until lesson I have to.
Same here Peg, and guess where the Ts come when they need something!?!?!
Oh gosh, yes. Thank you for being you and pushing good ideas into my brain!
A3: Daily 5, Math Daily 3, , , flexible seating.
Started throwing away stuff yesterday, but custodians weren't done w/floors, so had to leave. Back at it next week.
I've been kind of doing it for a couple of years, I'm just going to try and make it more effective
A4 I am ditching assigned seats! We will begin w/ choice and voice http:/bit.do/choose-your-chair
I am there with you. So much simpler and accessible anywhere. https://t.co/w4ABYXdztq
A4 I'm ditching digital lesson planning & going old school planner! 🤓
Reminds me of Richard Carlson tite, "Don't sweat the small stuff & it's all small stuff." https://t.co/ixS9m6uLg9
A4 I threw out SO MUCH in June, but today I looked, and saw so much throwawayable stuff...
I definitely want to try QR codes this year!
I love how you get Ss involved in every way. Some Ss don't have opportunity to help & we know they want to
It's because she's amazing!
https://t.co/ZR2iLqXUZ2
I love how you get Ss involved in every way. Some Ss don't have opportunity to help & we know they want to
I love that. I always say our classroom and the BDJH family. More connected that way. https://t.co/WtJgIHJNJ2
A4. Ditching the negative speech: "Those kids..." "Those parents..." Instead of those, OUR. We are a family.
A4 I never give up on an idea but i try to fine tune an idea
You can do it, SO easy, so many uses!
I really like to use goqr.me
Me too! & I love pens and stickers and sticky notes. It's a visual display. Ha!
So crtical in r profession. Mke sure u find like-mnded Ts 4 supprt. It can b brutal out ther alone
Me too! I'm a bit nervous about moving into a flexible seating environment, but making the leap!
A4: I want to ditch hand raising, but I am still a little nervous to make the jump.
A4: I am ditching grumpy days and stress over paperwork. Did I mention "unplugged" maker space? Not just for kids. Teachers too
Q4: I'm throwing out some of the one size fits all we for a more interactive approach.
I can tell you - I've been doing it for 2 yrs, and it works...diff probs, but better.
Can we pls talk abt this! What's wrong w/ using paper/pen sometimes? What's wrong w/ flashcards? Yes! https://t.co/kDBiSlR1vP
A4 I'm ditching digital lesson planning & going old school planner! 🤓
Exactly. The comments I mentioned usually come from Ts and Admin. but it's so negative. I want us to ditch it!
I'm inclined to say that what works for you best is best for you!
A5 I am excited about the new year and new learning, that gets my Ss excited too
I hear you! I don't want to get in the way of our wonderful custodians!
THIS CHAT is getting me more psyched up for the new year!
A5: Have FUN! Get to know them, build rapport, establish relationships, create an "our" classroom culture
A5: Get them outside. Lots of chances to talk and meet new people. Laugh/play/learn. Repeat. https://t.co/5208jmRmgl
Hit the ground running, do something epic with them
A5: connect curriculum with their interests. Offer opportunities for them to explore. They are world changers in the making.
A5 Include their interests, get their input on planning whenever possible!
A5 they are scared. They need to know they will be accepted have fun and be appreciated soI tell them the animal school story
A5 Wkng w/ T on wrtng prgrm. We're focusing on empathy. The wrtng will take time; the resrch will b tough.We're not sugar-coat
A5 Full steam ahead with capturing my new Ss' hearts, spirits, minds, & manners. Create a sanctuary of meaning & scholarship!
Nicely said. I am preparing early so I can ditch the stress and embrace the excitement. https://t.co/6O1UyXWIOS
A4: I am ditching grumpy days and stress over paperwork. Did I mention "unplugged" maker space? Not just for kids. Teachers too
- I did flexible seating with no seating chart last year. I will never go back.
No, has been leading it for a while. 😊
I've not used hands u for years, it allows to to strategically target your questioning and Ss cant avoid Qs
A5a Smtms we're quick 2 say, "oh it's not hard; it's not tough." We're gng 2 come right out & tell them it's hard & tough.
A5: get to know the Ss, their likes and dislikes, create community, promote compassion and asseptance, show failure as learning
A5 Let them tell their stories! Allow them to ask questions. Celebrate the keepers of the day!
Good grief....have to restart like 3X! LOL
A5: High expectations combined with letting them know that I believe they can meet them.
A5. iPad scavenger hunts in the MC. Sketchnotes expectations. Laughter. Smiling at them. Talking w/them.
A5 Make it fun! I ask this question everyday: "what did I do today that makes them WANT to come back tomorrow'
. . . and learn to spell "acceptance"
A5b But w/ all the 'tough' & 'hard' comes support & safety net. Embrace the tough & hard & let's learn together.
Have you ever had an admin question you about it? It sounds awesome!
A5 From : There's school & there's learning. Emphasizing latter over former may ease transition, ignite sparks?
A5: Focus on building relationships and developing growth mindset, getting students excited for the year ahead.
A5: Welcome them! Love them! Encourage them! Help them to believe that they are SUPERHEROS!
Good idea, ipad scavenger hunts! Any ideas to share?
Yes, yes, yessity yes! https://t.co/DulagSTTpi
A5: Welcome them! Love them! Encourage them! Help them to believe that they are SUPERHEROS!
Oh that's right!!! I have seen them thanks! Perfect!
Working on one for becoming familiar w/media center. I'll share when done.
Yes. Focus on really getting to know them and let them get to know you early. Build trust. https://t.co/V0JrGXTXdy
A5: Focus on building relationships and developing growth mindset, getting students excited for the year ahead.
A6 Channeling : books & other reading materials
A6: "FUN" writing utensils
I can't ever remember being questioned, as long as there's progress they leave me to it lol
Or tacos... though I've been spelling it tackos lately just because.
I didn't spend enough time doing this last year and paid for it.
A6 Really comfortable shoes!
A6 positive incentives for my kids in my classroom
A5: Make my room a crime scene- Ss solve mystery- then try to use all the skills they used to solve the mystery in learning.
A6a Lots of snacks. When I wrk w/ Ts, I also want to embrace Ss. A Hershey's kiss or homemade brownie goes a long way 4 buy-in
A6.2 Briefly intrigued by Rocketbook Wave, but turns out it doesn't quite do what I want it to do. https://t.co/cWpl24Du98
A6: NO markers, I'm banned, have TONS! Flex seating stuff.
Use some type of hand signals, thumb under chin.
A6 Groceries? My room has most of what I need, and kids will bring more. I need to cut away! More robots would be fun, tho.
A6: Things that support flex seating, electric pencil sharpener, magnetic word wall words, buckets for books, books.
Do you start from Day 1 or get there eventually?
A6: Organization stuff for me and some alternative seating for my students.
Works on me! https://t.co/N18Uf9vGXl
A6a Lots of snacks. When I wrk w/ Ts, I also want to embrace Ss. A Hershey's kiss or homemade brownie goes a long way 4 buy-in
A6 More sharpies than you can imagine. They'll all be dry by year's end!
A6 more card stock. I ❤️💛💚💜paper
That's me and post-its. NO PURCHASING ALLOWED! (and folders)
In theory, I want them to speak when appropriate without being called on...like real conversation.
If I decide to go for it, it will have to be day one as I will only see them once/week.
Paper of all kinds, sizes, and thicknesses!
I've been warned about this, returning to an early primary classroom after 16 years in support roles! 😊
This is how you can tell a T who comes from a two income family. ;)
Or at least who can plan well...
Inquiry w/Ss? "How many of you raise hands to talk outside class? Hmm, so how does it work then?"
Tell me more about these.
Those look so cool! Wonder where I could find them here in Ontario?
Ugh . . . and post its too! But, this year, just putting money into flex seating. I CAN DO IT, YOU CAN TOO :-)
All I want for new school year is more tweets
I cant advise more to write a grant. I won a grant 4 myself & 2 Ts to get standing desks https://t.co/o943muqXsb
A6: Organization stuff for me and some alternative seating for my students.
A6 the pokemongo music duh
A6 To quote an old commercial "and glitter, so much glitter"
A7 Either Latin party music, or something amazing with great rapping...Last year it was Guns and Ships from
That's what I don't like about floating & I teach in a desks in rows schl. Maybe moving desks as soon as we enter.
I've been meaning to look into that. I'm just not sure where to start.
A7: I added Pink's "Just Like Fire" instrumental. Signal for heading towards carpet area.
The only thing I never say no to is books. YES! We can be strong!
Would love to hear more. I taught ELA for 8 years to literacy in very important to me in science.
Isn't the appropriate sentiment, "Welcome back"? ;)
A7: Funny you ask. My son is entering my ms this yr- I warned him that I dance, sing, force all those in my hall to dance too!
I think we might be soul sisters!
We don't raise hands often during Socratic Sems, so I know it works. I need to let go the rest.
But since my name is Peg, I get to pick, right?
Q7 I have so many amazing musicians in class who ❤️the classics so I use Pandora or Storify and set it to Gershwin
check out your district education foundation. Mine is from our Katy Ed Foundation.
Going to have to give that a listen! Thanks!
That is awesome! I may need to add those to my wish list.
are THE BEST shoes for teacher feet!
I believe you might be correct!
A7: Fossil Rock Anthem...it's the schist!
A7: If I was going to have a classroom I would add Marshmello's "Alone." It's pretty cool.
A7: With A Little Help From My Friends
A7. Taylor Davis radio on of course!
floating KILLS for that reason- and a props/decor reason. Sending you my sympathy.
Musing- Does room layout change for seminar (circle, say) or configured similarly most of time?
A7: I Feel Good! James B.
A7 Kids think it's cheesy, but I sing them "The Glory of Love." You got to give a little, take a little...
Checking that out as well!
I like that it gets my workaholic self home faster (If it can be done on the run, it can be done at home).
A7 Whether it's Spotify, Amazon, Apple, or Google, make a class playlist, folks!
Configured, doesn't change, have a large carpet area.Many times during day choice seating though.
A7: You Raise Me Up. Josh G.
oh it's going to be a good year
Awesome chat! Sad it's over. :( Until next week! :)
We move desks around a lot (circles, groups, etc).
I will be that teacher with my son in my English class!
Beyoncé! FORMATION! (Clean version of course!)
You all KILLED it tonight, . Again, I love you.
Thanks everyone for getting me psyched for the new year!
