#4thchat Archive
#4thchat is a hashtag for teachers or anyone to talk about educational issues relating to 4th grade. Using #4thchat will create a network of 4th grade teachers or teachers working with 9-10 year olds across the world. We welcome anyone who 1. teaches 4th grade 2 .Works with 4th grade students and or 4th grade teachers 3. Likes 4th grade teachers (Groupies are encouraged).
Monday July 25, 2016
Hello tweeps. Joining in from Atlanta tonight as I’m attending the Edcamp Organizer Summit.
Hi Folks! So happy to be with my favorite people tonight for another ! Nancy from wicked hot Mass.
. Hi there, Paula! Glad you are having some fun!
Wow - you sure get around Paula! How is 'Hot Lanta'?
Hey! happy to have made it tonight
Please welcome Megan from New Jersey, visiting for the first time! Glad you are here, !
Thanks Nathan-going to think on this...Usually, I just jump in - but clearly having a goal is better!
Hi Kim! How is your Monday going? The heat index here is 110!
Hi Kim! So glad you're here tonight! How's summer going?
It is very hot and humid today. Almost as bad as .
Erica! Happy Monday to you!
Hey people! It's good to see you all today.
Hey Welcome to - You are going to fall in love with these folks! :) https://t.co/2CjeFtK9bS
Please welcome Megan from New Jersey, visiting for the first time! Glad you are here, !
Hey there, friend! How is Mass. these fine summer day?
yes! hot here too! and HUMID
It was 96 and HUMID today - I know by looking at my HAIR!
Hi Megan and welcome to . https://t.co/27e0yNsyHS
Please welcome Megan from New Jersey, visiting for the first time! Glad you are here, !
Thanks goodness for air conditioners!
Nope, I’m in Atlanta to my last conference of the summer.
Really need it on days like these! But hey it's summer so I'm not complaining!
Excited to join tonight. 4th Grade teacher from St. Charles, Illinois.
Oohhhh looks nice! Our construction guys won’t let us in yet!!!
So glad you made it this evening! Can't wait to learn along with you!
Dara, so glad you are here. How is your summer going? Many days of summer left?
Thank you! Feeling very welcome :) https://t.co/FsxssnEYns
Please welcome Megan from New Jersey, visiting for the first time! Glad you are here, !
That's awesome! Bet the kids love it. What are you using to teach?
Q1: When do you return to school?
Jennie here from Louisiana
Hi everyone! My name is Katherine. Glad to be back here!
Hi DAVE!!!! How are you doing today? Miss you!
A1: We go back the 1st and have kids the 8th.
Hello Mike! Happy you are here for 4thchat tonight. How long have you been teaching 4th grade?
HI Sorry I'm late.
My name is Dawn and I teach K-5 science in Indy.
A1: Ts first day is Aug. 8 and Ss return on Aug. 11. Right around the corner.
Hi Erica! Love your new pic!
7 of the last 10 years. Last year I taught K-5 Tech special.
A1: We return August 29th with 2 days of PD then Ss for 2 days then Fri off for long wkend.
Same for me! Can’t for our yearly 1st ! https://t.co/IvstE0V8zr
A1: Ts first day is Aug. 8 and Ss return on Aug. 11. Right around the corner.
Q1 August 22 for teachers, 24 for Ss. Been attending some PD's throughout the summer to get prepared for SBG and keep up to date.
Doing well. I've been working hard reading up on Thomas Jefferson and and writing a paper on him this week for a class.
Will def check that out! I think it's great you're doing that! doing a Robo camp too!
A1 - I am starting back in trainings NOW .. first teacher day 8/4 .. first student day 8/10
Wow- that sounds like fun. I am a self proclaimed tech nerd! Big plans for 4th grade this year?
A1- Ts go back Aug. 8 for PD, Ss come back Aug. 10. I need another month.
Good to keep learning during the summer. We are SBRC - going on year 3. It will be a topic this year!
I'm moving schools so that is the biggest change. I am working on flexible seating to start the year.
Yeah, our first call of the year tradition continues.
A1: new Ts on the 5th, all Ts 8th and Ss 15th
Also finding ways to use coding in the classroom.
What class you taking? Learning anything interesting? It seems history is not what we learned!
Looking forward to learning from others. That will be very helpful!
Wow - that can be scary but exciting! Wishing you the best! Still grade 4?
Q2: What are the benefits of mapping out your curriculum?
It's from the Freedom Foundation, we toured the Virginia estates of Washington, Jefferson, Monroe, and Madison.
Are you trying any new things this year?
Me too! Looking at lots of flexible seating posts. Found restaurant booth for new seating :)
That sounds AWESOME!!!! Talk about living history!
A2: Curriculum mapping helps me see “the big picture” and plan for big projects throughout the year.
A2: We like to make sure kids see all standards in a timely manner. Then start filling specifics…
once it was over I had to make a unit, and write up a big report on one of the four presidents we learned about.
I plan on using Scratch to have the students build games for review practice.
A2: I like having a plan, knowing what equipment, live critters I need and when to order them. Helps me be less nervous.
A2 I like to see the big picture and plan, prepare, and test things out along the way based on Ss needs each yr.
That’s right - I remember. Well, we all know grade 4 is where it’s at - lol
During class time? Before or after school hours? Also, have you done Mystery Skypes?
A2: Mapping gives me the big picture.. helps to not be so overwhelming
A2: W/o mapping I can focus too much on what is fun for me and not the standards.
Yes- I have got some STEAM things lined up. Finding lots of simple, low cost ideas on Pinterest! Do you STEAM?
Hi Mike - glad you’re joining in! (My former admin was Mike Stanton too - lol)
How do you keep your plan fluid to take Ss needs into account and still have a plan?
I haven’t used Scratch much- do you build your curriculum topics into that program?
Oh boy, do I concur with this statement! Easy to stray when bringing in new exciting material. https://t.co/op0b4C4pYG
A2: W/o mapping I can focus too much on what is fun for me and not the standards.
I think it gives a sense of structure that is reassuring - as you say - less overwhelming! https://t.co/werunLcohw
A2: Mapping gives me the big picture.. helps to not be so overwhelming
Thanks. Summer is going great, lots of family time and catching up on sleep. Hope your enjoying your summer!
A2: looking at the "big picture" helps to look for connections across disciplines and connections to real applications
I sure am! A few PD days, and lots of “me” time!
A2: a familiarity with the curriculum which allows you to be flexible when it comes to Ss interests and integration.
A2: I think mapping helps insure student success - making sure there is time to introduce/master curriculum/standards.
Totally agree! Ss learn better and are more engaged. https://t.co/98fzQmUiut
A2: looking at the "big picture" helps to look for connections across disciplines and connections to real applications
Great point! Some might think that mapping makes one rigid and unable to stray, but can be opposite.
Scratch is great. It has almost so many options that it can be over load for the kids at first.
Q3: What are some challenges of curriculum mapping?
Awesome! Do you still have a teacher’s desk?
how do exercise balls workout in the crates? comfy?
A3: Feel locked into it and struggle to differentiate.
The T desk is now a standing table for the kids
A4: the time to do it right.
no gave that up a while ago. I use small area where computer attaches to activ board.
A3: Hard to know incoming Ss needs. Feel pressure to stay on exact schedule.
Getting my 2 and 3 year old out of the bath. Be right Back!
I think sometimes we become hyper-focused on where we need to be it becomes harder to differentiate. https://t.co/9SSUByzwRP
A3: Feel locked into it and struggle to differentiate.
Either of you have pictures? This is my goal! Get rid of my desk! Best thing you found about it?
Yes!! How can I plan now for differentiation when I haven't preassesed yet and don't know where my Ss will be?
A3: Making sure we start the year with a map - sometimes I wait to long.
Plan is my starting point, that allows me the flex to differentiate as needed and still keep to the targeted learning goals.
A3: was working on this last night...trying not to stress over when things should happen but instead that they get mapped
Sometimes I get bogged down with being specific w/ the plan instead of general w/ standards. Make sense? https://t.co/I9qasljqeQ
Plan is my starting point, that allows me the flex to differentiate as needed and still keep to the targeted learning goals.
Well said, Dara. It’s flexible framework!
I realized the classroom is my Ss not mine. I am with them not getting pulled away.
I think that is where I am also. curriculum is hands on and builds, so I feel like i have to go by the plan to teach it
Love it- I’m going for it!
I use a tool box for many desk items. Keep cans of pencils/pens/stapler everywhere. Move more!
I have always wanted a "teacher toolbelt or vest".
Do you still have a teacher’s desk?
We try to add it into our curriculum planning as much as possible.
Try to let yourself take the time your Ss need to move learning 4ward. Much easier said than done https://t.co/TzfHhZJ8Nm
Yes! I have an old, old, old OAK teacher desk - hard to part with have used it 26 years!
This is a goal for me this year! I want to be more organized wh/ in turn will be better for Ss.
Kathy who is hoping to be in a MA school soon lurking
Q4: Who else is involved with your mapping/planning?
A4: This year we were lucky enough to have a half day planning day with our team!
did that when taught 1st. Kept markers pencils scissors post-its in toolbelt- dorky
A4: We work together as a grade level to map out concepts for the quarter.
A4: I try to integrate with the Social Studies/Math/Reading teacher and Art teacher, if I don't initiate integration-it doesn't go
oooh totally get that! I had old broken thing, lol
A4: only me. I teach 4th grade LA. Wish I could team up with 3rd and 5th grade LA teachers
Q4 Each grade level has curriculum writers. Asst. Sup. and Dir. of Instructional Services.
Me too. There's a sense of freedom, but also great responsibility when it's just you.
pretty good. trying to keep up!
A4; 4th gr team! We map out & try to stay close to each other throughout the year
Wow - that must be a help - then you can fine tune when needed.
That would be hard. It’s great when they can work in planning time during the school day when all can work together.
I know I'd feel dorky - but I waste time looking for pencils, markers etc
We also work with our teams and have early release every Thursday to discuss common assess. and district initiatives.
U mean I'm not alone N this quest 😊 feeling blog post Will U still <3 me, will U still want me when I'm 64 https://t.co/n9OPXHwT21
We have building-based grade level PLC time 45 min per week. Get a lot of similar things done.
Q5: Do you have a plan for this year? If so, what is it?
Wow early release to plan and colab. That is awesome. How to the Ps feel about that?
It's amazing! It helps that everything is also kept on a Google Site for easy updating and sharing.
Your district really has it going on!
Try using a HomeDepot one. You never loose pencils/pens/stuff that's for sure!
A5: Just got crayfish and beetles from a workshop I facilitated, so I'll start the year with FOSS Structures of Life unit
You say I can use it as a stand up kid station?
Here's my 2016-2017 Curriculum Map for Social Studies - https://t.co/yMC1WiEK91 . Not quite finished yet, but getting close.
Keep saying I'm going to make my own-I like the home depot idea - but would have to add bling
That would really be so much better.
They seem to be onboard. No complaints, I think. They understand what the staff is doing at that time benefits the Ss.
I think this is what we need to do - then adding/changing/deleting would be so easy from year to year.
That sounds so cool! Where do you keep the crayfish? in a tank?
Friend gave me garden tool belt w/chickens on it. Used that for year haha.U must post photo!
They are in plastic containers about 6 in deep. One container for each table of students.
A5: We will start the year with a PD day & hopefully, get that going!
I have to say we do stay above the norm. One of the things I like the most about the district.
Right now they are on my dining room table.
Okay - I'm def going to do something this year! Pics WILL be posted.
Q6: What are some “outside influences” you need to consider when planning?
That must be something! Post pic!!! How long do they last? Can u tell-I'm fascinated.
I LOVE the bucket seats too! How did you cut the board?
A6: I try to plan around how I can tie in my Ps and the community. The more stakeholders on board the better.
I cut the board with a jigsaw but HD will cut it for you.
A6: all last-minute activities my schools throws in which mean I know I won't be teaching all the hours I'm supposed to
Sorry just reading this - it seems so strange to see early August start times. Wow! You must get out early May
A5: To start simply, I make a 2 column doc, list week by week dates on left, and drop in standards on right-time based on prior.
I’m a “big picture’ kinds of gal. Need to know where I’m going before I get there (GPS’s drive me crazy!!) Need a map!
A5: all last-minute activities my schools throws in which mean I know I won't be teaching all the hours I'm supposed to :'(
Crayfish live as long as you feed them and they have their own territory. A long time if you care for them.
Oh gosh - kids are going to love these!!!!
I tell my hubby that we don't eat the classroom pets.
A5: not yet but working on it! Lots of things changing in NJ and I've been taking some time to keep learning
Q7: What are some “non-Standard based events” you plan? Ie Genius Hour?
Q8: Where do required assessments fit into your curriculum mapping?
Would you like me to share it? I’d love pointers.
A5 I always have a plan but I've learned to be very flexible. We have added a dedicated intervention block for each grade level.
I scheduled some tweets - that's why they are coming at the same time - sorry folks.
A7: That’s a great idea…I hadn’t put it in!
A7: I want to do a better job of having Genus Hour or Maker spaces this year.
Dedicated intervention block is awesome - did this last year & it was refreshing! https://t.co/heh6Dp3ET6
A5 I always have a plan but I've learned to be very flexible. We have added a dedicated intervention block for each grade level.
A7 Global Read Aloud, BreakoutEdu, Author Skype, Projects by Jen - Oreo projects is the Ss favorite each yr.
Great thinking 😊 https://t.co/TZz2qeulrb
I scheduled some tweets - that's why they are coming at the same time - sorry folks.
A8 I try to make sure I've covered the standards prior to the assessment and keep right on teaching through it.
A7: Genius Hour is hard for me to always make sure I put in the time for so I have a "Genius/STEAM" area of my room 1/2
Good to hear! Think it will be great for the Ss just need to plan how we work that time with the team.
and the Ss work on those activities when they are done with their work. 2/2
A6: We’ve lots of outside cultural events that seem to be added at various times of the year. They’re awesome but can put us behind
Those events always seem to sneak up on me.
I'm no expert but they are areas of your class where there is stuff Ss use to build projects or be creative
I want to come up with anchoring phenomena events for more science units and I want to integrate making into my science lessons
Same-We also have school assemblies 2x/month. Students present. So gr8 but sometimes sched is during math/reading/etc
Q9: What are some TOOLS you use when mapping?
Yes!! Let's hear your ideas
So they will be class pets or someone will take them home eventually?
A9: We're using Rubicon Atlas school-wide
Yes, i can usually find another teacher that wants them when I'm finished with them.
A9: Mapping is probaly the most old school thing I do as a teach. Paper &pencil
Same - I often know they are coming and then….the time catches up!
I do like them but I’d rather have a regularly scheduled time so that it doesn’t interrupt a core subject.
OK….I posted the first quarter from last year. Would love feedback. I started this about 5 yrs ago.
Join me tomorrow night at for a discussion about Hands on Science, 8-9pm EST
Always a frustration for public and private schools alike.
We NEED to integrate science more. It makes so much sense.I miss the “Integrated Unit” days of yesteryear. https://t.co/jagtkx84Xh
I want to come up with anchoring phenomena events for more science units and I want to integrate making into my science lessons
A9: Old fashioned paper planner and a pencil and eraser
Let me know what you decide. We have the same pop. of Ss.
We used to do the 1/week but changed that. Pre-set time would make sense.
Have you done and PBL units to help with this. I find the Ss are able to learn so many standards and the same time.
yep it worked! I am learning I am not very organized :(
I have math too. Not all goals,resources, assessments are in yet.This is a flexible framework!”
Yes - but it’s important that Ss present to their classmates. Good public speaking practice.
Let's bring them back they make most sense 4 S learning. We don't live N silos, why do we teach that way https://t.co/lqfrhPmY88
We NEED to integrate science more. It makes so much sense.I miss the “Integrated Unit” days of yesteryear. https://t.co/jagtkx84Xh
I want to come up with anchoring phenomena events for more science units and I want to integrate making into my science lessons
Going public with their work always makes in mean more for the Ss. https://t.co/7koG8Cz18r
Yes - but it’s important that Ss present to their classmates. Good public speaking practice.
We don’t do PBL units - per se; but, we have been incorporating STEM projects with our reading/math standards.
Always a good question! We incorporate a lot of science reading during our Literacy block but we need more hands on.
