#LearnLAP occurs on Mondays starting at 7pm Central Time. Guest moderators and participants discuss topics from author Paul Solarz's book Learn Like a PIRATE.
Good evening #learnLAP crew! Let's start with some intros.
Name
Location
Role in Education
Memory from when you were a student in which you felt your voice was valued!
Don't forget the #learnLAP after each answer!
Kelly from Virginia Beach, Gifted Resource T and founder of #champforkids chat Tues 8est. I remember having a lot of kind, caring Ts but sadly I don't recall having voice and choice in the classroom as a S. #learnLAP
Cristina Dajero, reading specialist from Virginia Beach, VA.
My HS journalism T @MrsFaraWiles understood our needs, listened to our concerns, & helped us achieve our goals. She knew when to step up & when to step back. #LearnLAP
Good evening #learnLAP crew! Let's start with some intros.
Name
Location
Role in Education
Memory from when you were a student in which you felt your voice was valued!
Don't forget the #learnLAP after each answer!
Amy - a kindergarten teacher/curriculum writer from Texas... I feel the same way - lots of kind/caring Ts, but no real voice/choice that I can remember. #LearnLAP
I'm Paul Solarz, 4th grade teacher from Arlington Heights, IL. Every teacher I had had no choice but to HEAR my voice. However, only a select few welcomed it! :) #LearnLAP
Hey #LearnLAP! This is Michael A. from #122edchat in Chicago. I am #STEM Facilitator to the stars for @SmartLab_tweets from @Simmonsknights1. No good memories. Only wish I was kidding. Trying to make a difference so kids do not feel marginalized.
Good evening #learnLAP crew! Let's start with some intros.
Name
Location
Role in Education
Memory from when you were a student in which you felt your voice was valued!
Don't forget the #learnLAP after each answer!
Craig from Pa. HPE teacher. I’d say that during college, my calculus teacher helped validate my feelings of teaching and learning. She inspired me to enter the field. #learnlap
Annie, HS math teacher from Bethlehem, PA joining in for #LearnLAP I remember choosing partners, a lot of "choosing" whether we wanted the test on Friday or Monday, etc. But not a lot of voice and choice in *how* I learned the material 😭
Good evening #learnLAP crew! Let's start with some intros.
Name
Location
Role in Education
Memory from when you were a student in which you felt your voice was valued!
Don't forget the #learnLAP after each answer!
A1 - ask for Ss input on everything from class playlists, seating arrangements, books, and of course classroom expectations. Ss should have input on decisions, assignments, and ways they will show their understanding. #learnlap
Rich Anderson
North Syracuse
Teach 9th grade Global History
When I was in 9th grade my teacher, Mrs. DAmico, always made me feel heard—and always followed up with a detailed question/response. Nothing was generalized. #learnLAP
Good evening #learnLAP crew! Let's start with some intros.
Name
Location
Role in Education
Memory from when you were a student in which you felt your voice was valued!
Don't forget the #learnLAP after each answer!
Hey everyone! I’m Stella, an Instructional Technology Coordinator from KY. I can’t remember a time when I felt my voice was heard (other than fro talking, haa) #learnlap
Ryan, 6th grade social studies teacher from Michigan.
I remember a math teacher in HS who let us set up music playlists to listen to during class as long as we maintained a working atmosphere. It was small at the time, but I realized it made me want to go to that class. #LearnLAP
Good evening #learnLAP crew! Let's start with some intros.
Name
Location
Role in Education
Memory from when you were a student in which you felt your voice was valued!
Don't forget the #learnLAP after each answer!
A1: Ss should have input in many decisions made about how they learn, how they share, where they learn, what they use. If Ss don’t feel heard, they won’t feel valued. #learnLAP
A1 - We promote this on day one. Our initial class is all about a community of learning and a judge free zone. Also, learning what each student likes and their hobbies breaks the ice in promoting learning. #learnlap
A1: This year, I am not "setting up" my classroom. I'm going to allow Ss to make the set up to fit their need for the day. We will also work together to set expectations for the class. Many of the projects Ss will complete will be based on their choice. #LearnLAP
A1: I feel like I am a broken record at school. I am constantly encouraging kids to demand alternative options for demonstration of understanding. I like telling them to ask for the "hidden menu" because there is more to school than worksheets and essays. Bleh. #learnlap
Hi, Gretchen from KY joining in. STEM. I think our voices were valued by my Spanish 2 and 4 teacher. She was a teacher who listened when Ss talked to her. She cared for Ss. She gave choices when we taught spanish to the elem. Ss as part of our curriculum. #learnlap
This is what I will spend my whole day tomorrow working on! Sitting with teams as we look through our first units and find places for Ss choices! #learnlap
#learnlap a1 starts with calling it their classroom, what do you want to work on, how are we going to do that, what should we have done differently ask and listen
#LearnLAP crew, want to help us out with some feedback? Cody and Kasey Knight from SC here! Teach 1st and 3rd by day and Induction courses in the afternoon.
Tomorrow is our first Induction class as facilitators for the district. What do you wish your mentor teacher would have done (or will do) for you early in your #newteacherjourney ?
Hey #LearnLAP crew. Mike from MI. I’m a 6/7 Science Teacher, Student Council and Book Club adviser. A memory I have from when I was a HS student in World Lit AP and our teacher Mrs. Striemer always let us lead our discussions on books and gave us a lot of choice on assignments.
Hello #learnLAP! Tika, I currently teach 26 amazing 2nd graders and serve as a teacher leader for my district in Las Vegas, NV. I am lucky that my admin. ❤️s heading our ideas and encourages them, too😊
Good evening #learnLAP crew! Let's start with some intros.
Name
Location
Role in Education
Memory from when you were a student in which you felt your voice was valued!
Don't forget the #learnLAP after each answer!
I love your "hidden menu" message! I am also going to start with the "have it your way" menu where Ss tell teachers what they want to do to show mastery! #learnlap
The ole hidden menu of assessment options. I'm posting mine on my back wall. Taking a page from the @MrPStrunk lesson plans and front loading classes by teaching Ss how to use different tools to show understanding. #LearnLAP
If you have to ask for student input you might not have the student-teacher relationship you think you have. A positive relationship and the students will have no problem bringing ideas to you/letting you know what's not working. #learnlap
A1: I used a lot of choice boards last year. This year it's a game board that is a little more linear, but there's still choice built in all along the way! I want my students to learn how they learn best, not how I decide might work well for a majority. #LearnLAP
A1: It’s crucial to provide methods and platforms for students who are apprehensive, shy, reticent sharers-especially those who struggle with traditional communication because of native language or disability #LearnLAP
A1: I ask students to reflect on lessons and make suggestions for improvement. I make sure to consider their opinions and actively use their suggestions. I make them a part of the process. #learnlap
A1: I do lots of surveys with my SS to gauge their feelings, opinions, temperature of the class I give them lots of choices for work output and work spaces #LearnLAP
A1 I encourage Ss voice with purposeful discourse using sentence stems, Ss “pop up” to speak, and start with a class social contract so Ss feel safe sharin. #LearnLAP
A1 Hello, I'm Angie! I try to let their voice be heard by holding class meetings, seeking their input with expectations and building the environment, holding student led conferences. #LearnLAP
A1. I try to give students options. We know what they can do. does it have to be exactly what we ask of them. They respond better when they feel like they ave input. #learnlap
I always tell the story that I heard on @NPR about the "Land, Sea, and Air Burger" at McDonalds. Since then, I have been demanding to get what is not listed as an option. What's the worst they will say? NO? That's a low-risk investment. #LearnLAP
Hi all! I’m Kristen from PA! Awesome first day with kids! Got to play my plastic guitar, laugh with awesome adults. one kid’s “How do you have so much energy?” Made it awesome. Trying to get back in routine is hard, though... lost my phone during #formativechat 😂😂#LearnLAP
... but essays have their place. Really hard to explain your thinking without writing it down ... writing a script for documentary/play ... all based on an essay thought process. #learnlap
I collaborated with Ts this afternoon as they created a choice board for Ss to complete for word study activities. They wanted meaningful tasks not just busy work, I was so proud that they were thinking of their Ss as they selected choices. #LearnLAP
A1. Allowing Ss to use their voice in comments about activites, projects, experiments, choices, when options are given to them to choose pathway of learning. #learnlap
Thanks, Melissa! So sorry I wasn't able to make it! My youngest starts kindergarten tonight so I was getting showers in and reading "Twas the Night Before Kindergarten" ::cue tears:: #formativechat#LearnLAP#tlap#122edchat
A1 By building a community that establishes it is “our” classroom and I’m not the sole decider. After Ss have sat everywhere in my new flexible seating arraignment, they can decide what area works best for them.Ask Ss to share what they are interested in for #GeniusHour#LearnLAP
Great point!!! We must meet the needs of those learners that my not be sharing for a variety of reasons, but are still completely capable of amazing things! #learnlap
#Learnlap Gr 4T from MA looking for some help. Just found out I'm getting a chromebook cart and need advice on how to deploy with ease and style. Not tech info but how to best to manage and teach Ss how to use. I know how to use G-clsrm Any blog or book recs welcome!!
#learnlap a2 They wanted to respond to lit circles with and emoji, but then went so much deeper about character development because they were allowed to start with and emoji
It was one rarely amazing teacher who saw I finished my other work quickly and would get off task-but liked to draw-so she encouraged that for my free moments-one of my best teachers ever for multiple reasons #LearnLAP
A1 It all starts with our Morning Meeting where we practice essential skills. Small groups, lunch w/ Ss, students leading clubs & book talks, dialogue journals, and digital boards encourages #StuVoice. Having Ss for two yrs helps too. #LearnLAP
Precisely. But as someone that did not click with sitting still long enough to scratch down ideas, there needs to be alternatives available. I'm 40 and still struggle with patience to write. So many avenues to demonstrate understanding than the traditional two methods. #LearnLAP
#LearnLAP A1 I’ve been working on growing in this the last few years. I started a “what’s good?” to start at the advice of a student—which I am changing a bit for broader voice this year,I dived into trying a workshop model two years ago & am modifying it to increase choice/voice
A2, - We do what you want to learn Wednesday. It allows students to not only pick the topic, but also design ways to learn the material. It is totally student driven. My role is support, facilitate and promote positive learning #learnlap
Jumping into #LearnLAP a few min late - my youngest is starting Kindergarten tomorrow! AAAAH! Alicia from NC
A2: Allowing Ss to learn from videos, mnemonic devices, discussion, research, etc #learnLAP
A1: I ask for their opinions & feedback & use it to help guide our decisions. I let them share their voice through @Flipgrid which really meets the needs of so many different types of learners! #learnLAP
A2: Pretty much, you name it and I have allowed them to do it. They have created songs, short stories, art work, used social media, etc. If they are engaged in it and have a passion for it, they will remember the information that they are using it with all the better. #learnlap
A1: It’s crucial to provide methods and platforms for students who are apprehensive, shy, reticent sharers-especially those who struggle with traditional communication because of native language or disability #LearnLAP
A2: I’m assuming you’re saying processes for acquiring information rather than for demonstrating mastery-for that text, images, charts, videos, physical manipulatives, digital/physical games, peer discussions #LearnLAP
Yes, sadly when Ss finish early and become disruptive it is often looked at as a behavior issue instead of an opportunity to explore passions or extend learning. That's what we are here for, to change those myths! :) #learnlap
#Learnlap Gr 4T from MA looking for some help. Just found out I'm getting a chromebook cart and need advice on how to deploy with ease and style. Not tech info but how to best to manage and teach Ss how to use. I know how to use G-clsrm Any blog or book recs welcome!!
A2: I love @playposit so Ss can hear the information again, and the jump ahead feature let's them watch only what they need. I also think the immediate feedback/explanation of @IXLLearning is super helpful in developing skills. Finally, peer tutoring is ALWAYS a choice! #LearnLAP
A2: Those are great-I think I may have been confused by the question and relayed ways of conveying info to students rather than the ways you have them demonstrate mastery-what age are your Ss and how do they engage in social media for class? #learnlap
A2 Analyzing videos, other Ss work; partner studies—Ss can research a topic and then confer w/ each other what they learned by creating a visual of their learning. Trying Genius Hour this year to which I’m very excited about. #LearnLAP
A1: give them the objectives, tell them they can choose how they show what they learned, choose which stations they want to do, which words they need to work on. #LearnLAP
They just love it when you have made a change after getting their feedback. I had a girl say once this year, "Hey guys we are doing this because I asked if we could." :) #learnlap
Okay...I am an English teacher. I am going to say that everyone should be taught how to write a basic essay much like we are all taught the foundations of mathematics. Once that basic format is learned, you can modify it and do other things with it. #learnlap
A1: We use our student body to have a say through our elected officers. Once a month we meet and they provide suggestions on how to improve our school from the point of view of students. #learnLAP
A3: For me, it's always the lack of control. It's challenging to me because I want to be SURE they learn it. I just have to release the control and let them go. #LearnLAP
A2. Learn from hands on problem solving by doing, reading, create a poster type project and plan. Another pathway of choice of learning in a different project if it doesn't appeal to them. #learnlap
A2. As a band director I try to give my students choice (guided choice). I know if they get a concept by what they choose and how they perform. #learnlap
A2: Ss have options in topics they can research, choice in how they share new knowledge, and ultimately choice in what they feel will help them understand the material better (video, text, oral, visuals, combination) #learnLAP
A2 Whatever works for them. Articles w/ reading strategies, word work, creating things with manipulatives, writing songs, going to start #sketchnotes after seeing @HeckAwesome and #booksnaps from @TaraMartinEDU...anything that helps Ss—I’m a facilitator/coach #LearnLAP
A3: ensuring necessary rigor, ensuring equity in access to resources, making sure no one is left out, preparing to assess, explaining it to other teachers/admin-and the initial fear that we’re not fully doing our part #LearnLAP
A3: There are never enough sharpies.
WHERE DO THEY GO? For real, when students are given choice- does everyone else lose tons of materials? Haha. #learnlap
A3. The Ss have problems with sticking to one pathway when too many options are on the table. They need to understand the soft skills in making a decision and sticking with it! #learnlap
A2: I always give students a choice. When it comes to advising the principal (me) on some matters, I do set parameters. For example we don’t allow jeans for students but when they accomplish something academically we make exceptions. #learnLAP
A3: I get other Ts telling me that it's somehow less rigorous than their class or way to much extra work for them to ever try. I also think certain Ss struggle with that much freedom, but I try to guide them through the process - decision making is a huge life skill! #LearnLAP
A3 my problem is often when I don't define success for each choice of product that students can create. If I don't create criteria for success for a student who comes up with an individual idea, the results are often lower in quality #LearnLAP
Some Ss need to be at the board holding the marker (authors). Others need to observe and ask Qs (editors). Yet others need to see the final outcome. (readers). Know who is who. #learnlap
A3. OH BOY!!!!! As a band director and a teacher, I love to be in control. It's hard to let the students be in control. #OrganizedChaos But they are engaged and kinda, sorta learning. #today#learnlap
A3: management on various tasks occurring simultaneously, Holding some accountable, helping some remain motivated, supporting some as they reflect & decide to overcome an obstacle or take a new approach #LearnLAP
I agree. Communication via writing is essential, but when that becomes the only vehicle to share in classes then I complain. Knowing you, Noel, you are pulling many different levers to encourage engagement in your classroom. #LearnLAP
A3 Well the first challenge was to embrace it—then the biggest challenge is getting Ss to buy in/take ownership and realize that creativity is a skill you develop. Also fighting the mindset of grades/playing school #LearnLAP
A3 - Because many high school students have been told everything they have to do, it can be challenging to get them totally on board. It’s why the initial steps must be lessons that are attainable and meaningful. Too much, too soon, rarely works. #learnlap
It's so hard to do, isn't it? I think we teachers are all control freaks sometimes, lol... wonder if it's a personality thing for Ts, lol! But when the Ss own the learning, they learn so much more! #LearnLAP
I agree it can be difficult for some Ss to have too many choices, and if it is new to them they may not know how they learn best yet. It requires a lot of reflection! #learnlap
A.3 Student, "But, Mr Miller, what do you want me to do to get an A..."
Me, "I don't know it is your project what do you want to do...
Student, "I hate you..."
#LearnLAP
A3: Students need guidance and role models. Our honor society students are taught to take on leadership roles and help us throughout the school to strengthen their leadership traits. #learnLAP
A2: I would love to get a little more creative w/ this, but I have let ss pick for reading our story of the week- Read chapter/story with buddy or independenlty, listen to chapter/story on cd, work with T in small group to read ch./story (alternating T and ss reading). #LearnLAP
I teach US History ... we often have to write about history ... not everything has to be passion filled in order for the kids to learn ... not everything is creative writing ... sometimes they actually have to choose a side and justify their thinking. #learnlap
A4: When Ss own the learning, they truly LEARN. They don't just regurgitate facts and figures, but genuinely and authentically learn the material and become eager to learn more. It gives them a sense of success. #LearnLAP
A4: I’ve found that when Ss are provided opportunities to make choices, they feel empowered and are more engaged. I want Ss to take ownership of their learning & be proud of all that they accomplish- I want them to see what I see- amazing potential #learnLAP
For my youngest, just asking which finger she wants her blood sugar checked from makes all the difference! Imagine what that's like in a classroom, amplified by 20+ Ss! #LearnLAP
Hello #LearnLAP, sorry so late, but I had a lot of notifications to clear first!
A4 I spend a good deal of time having Ss learn about themselves, so that they can pick their own path to success when possible ! Know your brain, and maximize it
A4: #1-they want to be there and are happy y to learn/explore/create…I don’t have to ask to students to continue to work on a project because it is already their passion. They want to spend more time refining it and are unhappy when I have to stop them-good problems #LearnLAP
A4 Student autonomy helps them own their own learning. I had students choose a way of researching and presenting water problems facing #ATL, and students led the way in discussing how Atlanta water issues mirrors or differed from those around the US and the world. #LearnLAP
A3) Teaching students self-responsibility, accountability, and teaching them how to keep a broad-picture goal in mind while achieving the goal through small-scale efforts becomes critical. Excellent question!! #learnLAP
A4 Ss feel a true sense accomplishment and genuine ownership from learning the way they want to—empowerment, they can learn the way they want to and not have to feel like another sheep being herded by the sheepdog. #LearnLAP
A4: There is no more "I don't want to do that"... My high schoolers who are so used to being given strict instructions are so excited about the concept of choice... They're old enough to know themselves and their learning needs better than I do and I'm giving them that #LearnLAP
A4 When I taught 5th grade, my Ss created TEDTalks that stemmed from their #oneword. I have never seen 31 kids so engaged in not only their own work but in each other’s. #LearnLAP
I know what you mean. Some students must use a calculator to solve basic functions but can use their creativity to solve more complex math situations. In writing, they may not be awesome at the 5 paragraph essay, but thrive in a more creative format. #learnlap
Okay #LearnLAP - bedtime for the little Rays - gotta head out early. @khoggardGRT is epic - so excited to see her leading #LearnLAP tonight! Great choice @PaulSolarz
A4: Ss feel like they have some control over their learning and are more inclined to want to keep working toward success. Choice drives engagement. #LearnLAP
Let's be honest. Languages and math naturally have a tougher time letting Ss choose their learning. There IS content to get through in prep for next year. Thoughts? #learnlap
A4. Ss own their own learning. They can choose how they want to learn something. They gain confidence in controlling their learning and setting goals. They gain leadership skills by learning to find different pathways for learning. #learnlap
A4) Saying (and convincing!) students that I don’t care about grades, and instead care about them growing their understanding has definitely shifted their culture as well. It’s still shifting, but my actions and words back up my claim. And they’re seeing it. #learnLAP
A4 When I taught 5th grade, my Ss created TEDTalks that stemmed from their #oneword. I have never seen 31 kids so engaged in not only their own work but in each other’s. #LearnLAP
A4 The own it....they chose it...and it builds positivity because a lot ask for input—actually processing learning. Allows for good feedback opportunities and, if we are all honest, a lot of the time they come up with better stuff than we could have. #LearnLAP
I think with the essay, the logical thought process is mostly what we are teaching. They are not beautiful works of art, and definitely not my preference. However, students learn to put their arguments into a logical sequence without leaving holes to be poked at. #learnlap
Life skills! I am all about it! I told another teacher once that yes, we each teach math or history or English, but most importantly all teachers in all subjects and all grades teach life skills! #LearnLAP
#learnlap a5 Video is powerful for some, @Flipgrid but some prefer not to be on screen and would rather let @seesaw or @padlet, but trying @PearDeck was amazing last year!
My school offers visual, theater, and culinary arts... students sometimes gravitate to focusing a product in their area of artistic expertise... #learnlap
A5 I never called them #sketchnotes until I took the plunge into Twitter this summer but my Ss have always done pictures and written notes for showing a quick formative assessment check. Kids love making videos or creating an extension or alternate experiment. #learnlap
I feel the same way with math! I like to focus on choice in how they learn the content, and extension activities are great places to incorporate choice in what they learn #learnLAP
A4. Ss express their learning and problem solving skills by how the process information. There is more than one way to solve problems and people don't think alike! Every Ss prob. solves and expresses their work differently! #learnlap
A5 It depends on the student. The opportunity to create something visual has been most popular in my class....then create something lyrical—like a rap #LearnLAP
A5: Product choices? I assume you mean like their films, physical projects (3D printed/constructed), web design, dramatic performances, etc-depends on the kids-some love to create a meaningful rap/song, others prefer posters and keynote presentations #LearnLAP
#learnLap a5: my kids have shown a liking for #OnePagers from @AVID4College it takes a ton of modeling but it’s worth it when Ss create a work of art that displays thinking, creativity and depth.
In reply to
@khoggardGRT, @PaulSolarz, @AVID4College
A4: It definitely creates a culture of learners that want to create, explore, & wonder! They want to help each other & it builds their confidence. I love watching the 4Cs in action! #learnLAP
A5 Show me what you know - Ss propose what they want. A song, poem, movie, screencast, play, dance, puppet show, diagram, poster.... limited only to the student's creativity and imagination! #learnlap
A5: this is the one area I definitely have most room to grow. I gave a geometry project where they had to design the container that would hold the most liquid using the 3D figured we had learned. Some loved it but I remember one begging for a written test. Not sure #LearnLAP
Last year AP Stats. Some Ss chose a test..oth ers a project. The project Ss exceeded expectations! So glad I "let go" and let Ss lead and choose! #learnlap
If they know that you care about them more than their grades, they will work for you and not for the gradebook! They will be willing to go the extra mile and their grades will reflect their effort! #learnlap
Sometimes they have “write about this” ... if we have been discussing the American Colonies the writing will be about the colonies ... not the Civil War just because they like that better. We have “student voice/choice” only as long as it fits our standards. #learnlap
A5: Ss seem to enjoy the visual and oral presentations of learning/mastery more than the traditional written format. Ss also are more receptive to being the audience when it’s visual and/or oral sharing of material. Ss love being creative in creating their products #LearnLAP
A5: My students like to use nontraditional formats and change them creatively to fit the assignment. They are very creative about using the apps they enjoy to fit an assignment. We usually work together to make sure that it will be rigorous and appropriate. #learnlap
This was created by one of my kids last year! I believe she created the sketch using https://t.co/hrBOvBKt06 (if I’m not mistaken) and then she saved them as JPG and uploaded to G. Drawings. She is a fabulous artist. #learnlap
A5: My ss tend to prefer creative choices- drawing a picture/poster, building a model, writing a song, creating in @CodingMasterApp , writing a skit, etc.#LearnLAP
Even better is when, later in the year, they look at their old work and say-I can’t believe that was the bad stuff I used to make-it shows their growth and self-assessment #LearnLAP
In reply to
@peterdboland, @MTL_TechHeredia, @khoggardGRT
Screencastify was a favorite in my classroom too. I had a couple kids who became the class "experts" and everyone would go to them for help when they wanted to make videos. #learnlap
In reply to
@Stella_Pollard, @Flipgrid, @Screencastify
A5: Vlogs, game design, computer science, stop-motion, sketchnotes, video production. Just because a demonstration clicks for me, doesn't always mean that it will be a hit for them. We need to keep their voice in the conversation. If you can demonstrate understanding... #LearnLAP
Screencastify was a favorite in my classroom too. I had a couple kids who became the class "experts" and everyone would go to them for help when they wanted to make videos. #learnlap
In reply to
@Stella_Pollard, @Flipgrid, @Screencastify
A6. Students are used to being told what to do instead of choose what to do. It's hard to get them to understand that it's ok to be "weird" and different. #learnlap
Are their real world application opportunities to use that allow Ss to use those content skills with a purpose? Can Ss uncover content through essential questions and inquiry? #learnlap
A6 Be sure to give Ss models or exemplars to reach for. Remember, that they improve over time and with feedback. For Genius Hour, I have Ss give feedback to each other via exit slip (I get to filter them that way). #learnlap
A.5 The Pecha Kucha
20 slides 20 images 20 seconds per slide narrated for 6 minutes and 40 seconds. 20 seconds is so short but oh so long. There is Genius in Constraint.
#LearnLAPhttps://t.co/cSFxVLE8L7
A5: This past yr so many of my Ss were all about coding with @scratch Some used it to teach others about their genius hour topic! They also really liked Google Slides, Google Drawings, & @AdobeSpark Video. #learnLAP
A6. Students are used to being told what to do instead of choose what to do. It's hard to get them to understand that it's ok to be "weird" and different. #learnlap
A6: At the beginning, figuring out how to grade different products, what would the rubrics look like? Once I realized that the demonstration of sharing the learned material was the main purpose, I was ok. Again, it’s about learning how to manage & assess effectively #LearnLAP
A6: The T needs to provide clear expectations and a fair way to evaulate learning such as a rubric. In elementary I think it most effective to provide 2-3 choices and have ss see the T if they have a different way they would like to demonstrate learning. #LearnLAP
One of the best choices I have instilled to create a safe classroom for choice, purposeful discourse and metacognition is Morning Choice with LEGOS, Banana Grams, Rubiks Cubes, and Jenga. #LearnLAP
#learnLAP a4: motivation and engagement have gone up with more student choice. They are more inclined to do something they choose than something chosen for them- and then allow them to choose the product...
#learnlap a6 trying the newest product is always the best, love @jmattmiller who says use the tech you have in different ways. Google slides for assessments
A6: You have to make sure that the rigor is even over all of the product choices, but even that isn't very difficult. I really enjoy giving them the choice because that means I get to view or read varied products. It makes grading more fun for me. #learnlap
A6The cry for a rubric/how it will be graded...it’s so rooted in them by 9th grade that alot of time is just getting them unfixated—then trouble when I did go to grade it but have come to just providing feedback & asking for their reflection on it. Work in progress #LearnLAP
A6 Always model a variety of what products have been created in the past and then ask, “what else could you do with this or how can you make it better?” This creates a whole new level of products. Finding rubrics or equitable ways of assessing them is hard as well. #learnlap
A6. Students compete to be the best. They worry about a Google Slide Presentation v. Screencastify v. Flipgrid. They are s concerned about the grade than the product!
#LearnLAP
A6. In doing multiple project choices, the T needs to provide a rubric which generalizes the topic covered and what requirements they are looking for in grading. With diversity of projects, you have to keep an open mind frame at all times! #learnlap
A7. Students are happier and more engaged. The kids learn and focus better. The whole class period is brighter and everyone wants to be there. #learnlap
A7 The amount I see in student growth as well as increased self-confidence always blows me away. They really push themselves and each other to do outstanding work! When given the chance to shine they light up! #learnlap
Our school started Morning Choice activities last year during breakfast time in the classroom and kids loved having the freedom to come in, socialize, and make their own choice instead of being told to sit down and do morning work as soon as they walk in the door. #learnlap
Students are invested in their finished product if they choose what it looks, sounds, feels like. They learn the content, and they learn soft skills along with it. We can hit skill standards that might not seem related to content, but still matter. #LearnLAP
A7: Greater ss confidence and an opportunity to shine using by using strengths to compliment current learning. It is also a great way to learn about ss learning preferences by observing how they choose to demonstrate learning. #LearnLAP
A7 Collaboration, engagement, empowerment, motivation, and/or self-worth increased. Take time to reflect as a class AND individual as well (us too!). #learnlap
Our school started Morning Choice activities last year during breakfast time in the classroom and kids loved having the freedom to come in, socialize, and make their own choice instead of being told to sit down and do morning work as soon as they walk in the door. #learnlap
Our school started Morning Choice activities last year during breakfast time in the classroom and kids loved having the freedom to come in, socialize, and make their own choice instead of being told to sit down and do morning work as soon as they walk in the door. #learnlap
A7 Collaboration, engagement, empowerment, motivation, and/or self-worth increased. Take time to reflect as a class AND individual as well (us too!). #learnlap
Great way to encourage new products. I do agree that using a rubric to assess a variety of products can be tricky! I use a lot of anecdotal notes throughout the process to show Ss learning. #learnlap
A7: Getting to know each other better, finding interests they never knew about, realizing things about themselves as a learner through the process, accomplishing goals they never thought about, overcoming obstacles they felt were impossible to beat #learnLAP
Q8 - Think about a unit you are about to begin. What are some choices you can allow Ss in the process of uncovering information and products to demonstrate their learning?
#learnlap
#learnlap a7 Einstein Bench Blogs, weekly topic by the students, filmed by the students (on a bench) written and edited by students. Noisy, yes but my the motivation!
Ay: Sometimes with products rather than using rubrics, give a thorough cover sheet with some general expectations and just offering solid feedback can be enough for the grade to make sense to the student ... #learnlap
#learnlap crew, don't forget:
#tlap at 9:00est with @iluveducating steering the ship tonight!
#champforkids goes #edcamp style Tues 8est bring your Qs
I will be in the drivers seat for #kidsdeserveit Wed 9 est
Be sure to follow each other to keep the learning going!
One specific that comes to mind for one of your groups was realizing how much literature that was out there that reflected a Ss culture! That was so positive for him! #learnlap
Have to tag my wife out with one of our kiddos so thanks for the chat as always. Learning new ideas and gaining more peeps for my PLN is always awesome! #learnlap
I'm trying to think of how we can have a generic rubric for an assignment that takes the student choice into account. It might not be possible or easy, but I think having at least one category based on effectiveness of product in conveying learning is a start #LearnLAP
Thanks SO much to everyone who participated in tonight's #LearnLAP chat, especially @khoggardGRT for moderating!
Please join us next Monday at 7pm Central as @Rdene915 moderates "Back to School Trends, Tips & Tricks!"
For now, jump on over to #tlap for more great discussion! :)
If you're around Twitter tomorrow night, please join @theresaklambert for #5thchat (All grades welcome!) at 7pm Central. TOPIC: "Extending relationships through a LIVE CLASSROOM."
#LearnLAP
A8: I start with Jrs & Srs writing the common app essay, then they make a presentation based on the essay. Choice is built in already with the seven prompts that are provided... #learnlap
So if you are creating the rubric around the objectives and essential questions does that make it easier or more difficult to assess. What are the non-negotiables that must be included to show mastery of the objective? Build the rubric from there! #learnlap
A8 I am going to provide students with some basic instruction and then have them research and create their own learning on the 5 themes of geography. Open product choice. #LearnLAP
Q8 - Think about a unit you are about to begin. What are some choices you can allow Ss in the process of uncovering information and products to demonstrate their learning?
#learnlap
