#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 March 7, 2016
Hi Scott!!!! How are you doing? Hope all is well!
Hello friends. Colleen from Syracuse - so glad to be here tonight!
love the recent weather, all snow gone in WI!!
Hi Nate! Hope you are having great weather for your week off! We’re expecting 70 on Wed!
Hi Kim! How are you doing?? What are you doing that’s exciting?
is the best hashtag every!
A1: Do you use Math stations in your classroom? Why or why not?
The good within me stays bright through my praise of others. Read -> FIND THE GOOD AND PRAISE IT https://t.co/9JvWf18qYV
Hey Nancy! Weathers been wonderful!
UGH grades for report cards due tomorrow! Not exciting
Kim from CT. It's been awhile. Glad I could make it.
So excited for math topic tonight!
A1: I use math stations. My take of the Daily 3. I call it Daily Math. Ss choose their own rounds for the day.
A1: I run what I call "workshops" everyday in math for the first time this year, but interested on others sysytems!
Hello ! Cara from MO joining a few minutes late- Mommy duties called!
I feel you angst! Just handed mine in today.
A1 With the , math stations are so much easier! We love as one of our stations right now.
Hi Kim - So glad you’re back!! You’ve been missed! Talking “Math Stations” on
A1:Love the advantage of small group teacher stations in math stations. Organization of stations can look different on some days.
A1- I do math stations the majority of the time during math! It helps the Ss focus and me to provide more detailed instruction
A1: I use to give Ss choice, I can easily differentiate, grab Ss who miss time or need more, easy to extend.
A1 I do not use on a regular bases, looking for guidance and ideas tonight friends
A1: I use math stations but not everyday!
A:1 no math stations this year. I differentiate based of Formative assessments
Sounds very interesting. What is investigative math like?
I’m going to be able to say “I knew Billy when…..” Wow! Very exciting! Will check that out for sure!
Do you do full class instruction?
No math stations in my classroom, Would like to use, but difficult with our curriculum
Same here. I like to change it up.
A1: I aim for a 10 minute mini lesson and two "rounds" Love the small group factor. I take notes during mini lesson, then pull.
I struggle to give Ss choices because some can't handle that. Ideas for getting it started next year?
Hi Cara - so glad you made it - just in time. Q1 has been asked: Do you use Math Stations - Why/Why not
Anything with the internet, they do have an app as well.
Hi everyone Desiree from MI. Love math workshop!
Q2: How can math stations be advantageous to students?
A1: Never used Math Stations. Didn’t really know how to implement them. Intrigued by the idea though.
A1: I do my own version of math stations, not every day though
A1b: Oops - I try to get in as many days as I can. I find Ss are more engaged when Stations being used.
What's your curriculum? I thought the same at the beginning of the year, and the first month was bad - LOVING IT now!
Hi Desiree! So happy you can join the conversations!
We call them “Centers” but I like Work Stations better. May change that!
Thanks - I'll have to look into it tomorrow!
I don't do anything close 2 (she's a rockstar) I do my best to offer options, but w/ only 7Ss it gets tough
I agree- once there is a routine, it goes much better.
Amanda from MA listening I'm
A1: love the idea of ss seeing themselves as mathematicians and creating/constructing via math stations helps with this mindset
It's tough. I have lots of partner acts- spiral, review of concept earlier, more practice. And lots of digital games.
We use Math Expressions Common Core
I would love to hear what knows!
A:2 math stations could be advantageous if math talk, conversation, and collaboration is woven into them
We get a new curriculm next year, we looked at that. I'm sure you can make it work. It's a give and take!
I keep wanting to try the Flipped Classroom in math - I’m just not that organized.
A2 the change of activity is matching my students attention span 20 minutes per task
Sounds like the perfect storm of math!
she is truly inspiring and always pushing herself.
a2: small group instruction has CHANGED my math class for the best! Most of the Ss who hated math are feeling confident this year.
Janelle from Kansas here. I teach 3rd grade but thought I would join the chat. Looks interesting.
It was some work up front, but not all that bad really and now that it's done I love it even more!
Can you explain “how” they look different? https://t.co/7PMgIBvM6M
A1:Love the advantage of small group teacher stations in math stations. Organization of stations can look different on some days.
I am in the same boat this year. It has really helped my kids focus!
A1: When I teach small groups I like to give independent work Ss can finish at their own pace. If I use stations games R included.
A2 sm gr. Work seems to meet the needs of Ss, can work with Ss that are struggling in an area
I am piloting this curriculum. Were you saying it does not lend itself to work stations?
that's my problem too! plus I draw enthusiasm and energy from my Ss during instruction
Q3: How are math stations different from literacy stations?
Yes this year's group is very close in understanding so I do, we do, two do, you do is working well # https://t.co/ynogPXfp7P
Do you do full class instruction?
Do you all consider "math workshop" to be the same thing as using math stations? Or do you view them differently?
Thanks - Just bookmarked it.
Think the trick is to find Stations that can remain the same. turned us on to Versatiles
A2- I have a group this year that struggles to pay attention. Being in a small group for instruction helps with this.
Yes! Ideas for this? https://t.co/2kcm8meoj2
A:2 math stations could be advantageous if math talk, conversation, and collaboration is woven into them
Some days 3 groups/20 min. rotations. Some days 2 bigger groups, Grp 1 on tech (IXL), and Grp 2 with me
Every once in a while when I do whole group instruction I feel like all I'm doing is tapping on desks and shoulders!
A2- Also more individual attention for many students and more individualized instruction.
I have some that are different games/activities that reinforce concepts/skills
I love that you can work with small group or 1 student. https://t.co/T5zaqzRdUE
A1- I do math stations the majority of the time during math! It helps the Ss focus and me to provide more detailed instruction
Flipping gives me my whole hour to work with students 1 on 1, so there is still plenty of that.
Same here - looping 4 - 5 and back again makes it challenging, too.
A2 I would like to include more math talk into my rounds. Ideas?
Stations are one of he many tools of a workshop https://t.co/l3ebpDOT5i
Do you all consider "math workshop" to be the same thing as using math stations? Or do you view them differently?
That works too! You know your kids & what they need. https://t.co/IHlzJ3b7Q9
A:1 no math stations this year. I differentiate based of Formative assessments
nice to have some things that stay the same but also some new to spice things up and engage.
Do you have them watch at home? I struggle with
ss getting homework done-any ideas?
good goal & probably doable! Plus you’re building your resources.
We've used stems like I noticed, something you might want to consider, another way to think about this is.. https://t.co/io6dXIM7oI
Yes! Ideas for this? https://t.co/2kcm8meoj2
A:2 math stations could be advantageous if math talk, conversation, and collaboration is woven into them
They watch at home, or they can watch them the first part of math if they couldn't.
oh I bet! I just meant when I am doing direct instruction, I don't know how I would do recording w/o Ss
I don't know the difference - I call them "workshops". No "free roaming" for me, they work through 3 workshops.
No ideas, but I love this idea!
Never thought of it this way Desiree! Thanks for giving a new perspective. https://t.co/dFHwoXqKI6
A1: love the idea of ss seeing themselves as mathematicians and creating/constructing via math stations helps with this mindset
I flip in school. I don't send any flipped work home.
recording is weird, especially at first. I love that there are no distractions when they are listening.
I was even thinking morning work could work well to have them watch
So do you have them watch at the beginning of the hour?
Great question. Tuning in for the answer.
Q5: How can math stations work?
We use those stems with current learning and have also used Educreations apps to have Ss give feedback https://t.co/io6dXIM7oI
Yes! Ideas for this? https://t.co/2kcm8meoj2
A:2 math stations could be advantageous if math talk, conversation, and collaboration is woven into them
I have versa tiles from waaaay back. They're great and work for ELA, too.
just wondering about opinions. I consider stations a part of a workshop
I use or and record short reteaches.
very true. This Q was already asked, but how do you make sure all Ss can view the lesson?
Love that there is an option if they can’t get it done at home.
I post them on YouTube as well as email them through their student accounts.
oh I like that! Another reason I wish I had my Ss all day.
learning is always an option ;)
Great idea - Why not? Then you’re sure that EVERYONE has seen it.
We call it "centers" for ELA and "stations" sounded blah to me, so I decided on "workshops" at the BOY.
another reason my Ss need to have email!
I'd love 2 hear how others get Ss invested in rotating efficiently.W/my group this year it's a challenge.
if that isn't the quote of the century!
We finally got a set of 11 & workbooks to go with them. Kids are HOOKED!
Something that has worked well for me this year is the May Do/Must Do List.
So you have an hour? I think that makes a big difference. We have 45 min. I seem to be cramming.
Hi tweeps. Just getting home. Had to teach a 2 hour math class for a friend from 5-7. Sorry I’m so late.
A5: I also notice I'm using more manipulatives this year - easier to manage smaller sets of fractions bars than class sets
I have also used Educreations and Showmeapp to ck for understanding
I carefully make groups, ask those in the group to get up/return to their seats if others are off task.
I love ! We use it as our homepage for all of our resources.
This is my group this yr. Very young, impulsive, difficulty working in small grps! Furstrating
Love both of these! Great way for kids to show their understanding!
https://t.co/pzVbZsCz88
I have also used Educreations and Showmeapp to ck for understanding
It makes it so challenging! Q5: How can math stations work?
Math Talk is so important. If Ss are truly engaged then the talk is authentic. https://t.co/TMnTzKYhXP
A:2 math stations could be advantageous if math talk, conversation, and collaboration is woven into them
Thanks for sharing! Will definitely check these out!
I use but Explain Everything and Educreations great too.
have been missing the inspiration you all give me each Monday night during . Glad and had my back.
Q6: Describe how you group students for math stations- size of groups, abilitiy, personality, etc.
Love the idea of having them in a spot where parents can view also!
Hooray Paula - You’re here. How are you feeling? Have missed you! https://t.co/Pe84e8AXDr
have been missing the inspiration you all give me each Monday night during . Glad and had my back.
very jealous. They aren't allowed to have email until 5th
HI, Paula! Glad you are here!!!
My Learning Centers - Learning Stations page https://t.co/1TI8g7tAAy has math centers links. It all adds up that is a gr8 chat!
love having new things to check out! Thanks!
Feeling somewhat better. Still have a nasty cough. Thanks for taking the reins for the last couple of weeks.
awesome! Thanks for sharing!
A6: change groups each week at least based on formative and summative assessments
They start in our district with email in 3rd grade.
Please feel better soon, Paula and take care of yourself!
Glad to be back for . Thank you.
I have a timekeeper as I tend to work w/ Ss longer so the rotations might get off. https://t.co/ZvALHhzuso
A2 the change of activity is matching my students attention span 20 minutes per task
yes, love and Write About for that very reason!
Thanks, Jenn. I think it’s this southern weather - hot than cold, then hot again. Each day is different.
Q6 I group Ss based on check-ins during mini lesson, work from previous day, those who need a little more, those I need to reteach.
I am bad about that too! I have to set a timer to remind myself to switch!
we have used Symbaloo in the past. Need to do more with it though!
Q7: What are some obstacles to math stations running smoothly?
love these ideas! Thanks!
A6 I gr. mixed ability but am careful about personalities, stronger Ss usually help in their gr.
I'm always great for the first switch, then I forget to reset the timer for the 2nd and 3rd :(
Timing can be a problem. One station finishes before the rest.
That’s the BEST! You know you’re doing something right when Ss are feeling confident! Way to go! https://t.co/tdwZRa3yqv
a2: small group instruction has CHANGED my math class for the best! Most of the Ss who hated math are feeling confident this year.
A7- Time- which is an issue always! Also, this year my kids struggle with being on the computer and staying on task!
Thanks, Scott. It’s great to be back. Have missed my tweeps.
A7: planning for more and more and more each day was exhausting at first, now its not so bad
I am using GoogleClassroom more and more for everything, including math stations. GoogleDraw is awesome,
I have the kids take turns setting the timer and tell the class to switch stations!
excellent! Just followed her!
I also post my digital games on Google Classroom.
A7: monitoring on task behavior while addressing my small group with minimal distractions
Any suggestions for handling that? A “go to” activity if they finish any station?
I have been doing that recently too! We have also done some troubleshooting mini-lessons
we are not exactly encouraged to utilize Google...
Will def. check this out!
What all do you do in your ?
Have a spot in the room where they can go to work a few problems that they need more practice on. Differentiate.
Sounds familiar! Love when things run smoothly!
My Ss are CONSTANTLY on the floor! They love it! So do I!
- Yes-time! I like to give hands on activities as well, and some who are perfectionists take forever to finish,
A4: I try to have Math Fact station; Hands on Station (building using base ten etc) Game station; We use as a station.
We use FrontRow often in our classroom too!
I always have to step over Ss when I move around the room because they sprawl out everywhere.
These are very similar to my stations. We usually start with a whole group 10min mini lesson.
A7: If Ss finish a round, they make eye contact & I let them move onto the next. I know who it will be, or who needs to go back.
follow the components really focus on emphasize relationship building Lang. & collab
Definitely FrontRow. Love it in math
Yes, I wonder too. Especially because out district is fully invested.
Great idea! No interruptions!! Love it!
This means a lot to the students. Not all want to sit at a regular desk. Nice to see it in action. https://t.co/8mTdSBSkXe
Great Idea!! Hadn't thought of using it for that!
We love , Thinking Blocks, and Greg Tang Math! I want to check out Prodigy- anyone use this?
How do you use Google Classroom for stations? How do you use draw?
Can you record one so I can view? I would love to see it! I am sure several would love to see it on YouTube!
I have some who do and many who don't. I just bought material to make pillows...
I have started using May Do/ Must Do List- it helps when kids are finished. They can move on at their pace
Great resources to check out tomorrow! https://t.co/RV08L3hgec
We love , Thinking Blocks, and Greg Tang Math! I want to check out Prodigy- anyone use this?
Cara…this sounds VERY interesting. I must try this out!
How I handled rotations when I taught math for 90 mins. My MATH Workshop Groups - Google Drive https://t.co/Ae1R4ltrnC
How I handled rotations when I taught math for 90 mins. My MATH Workshop Groups - Google Drive https://t.co/OMp7OUbXb8
I started using a month ago, my students love it!
Got to go 2 year old grandson is calling.😀 this has been great
I have a friend whose district uses Haiku, but I am not really familiar with it.
It's been great- the may do/must do can sometimes cover a few days too!
anyone using coding as station in math?
I use MobyMax in stations but not LOVING it. May be me but I feel I constantly have to monitor ss. Anyone else using MM?
Try to start w/ a quick math game; then 10 min lesson-which ends up being 20-then stationsif all goes well. https://t.co/ImEPi1khyw
These are very similar to my stations. We usually start with a whole group 10min mini lesson.
Q9: Do you use math journals?
Yes, although some of my students only want to do that, although that may not be such a bad thing.
I post a list of digital games for the week. And put the links directly with the post.
A9: I need to do better with journals all around, but kind of.
Haiku could be used for creating story problems or vocabulary def.
Explain how you have Ss self select their stations. It seems to be working well for you.
Explain how you have Ss self select their stations. It seems to be working well for you.
When I taught math we ditched the math journals and wrote on our blogs instead. Loved blogging in math class.
A9- I am so bad with math journals. They are so great, I am just bad a keeping up with them!
Agreed - I'm horrible at it.
I know Ss are getting their level as it’s adaptive.
Don’t feel bad…I and TRYING to get math journals going smoothly!
Haiku Learning or Haiku Deck??
ex: 4 geometry tchng turns-Ss create X & Y Y lines- use word art 4 their initials& then rotatde 90 4 turns.
is really good I've heard for students to keep "journals" and videos.
Do you get a morning meeting in everyday?
Also for symmetry - using capital letters for their names.
I’ve done this with a couple & kids love it. Need to do more of it. Thx for reminder!
Yes, Seesaw is an awesome way to “journal” in any subject.
absolutely! We also make sure to do a closing circle so important for us for reflection
Q10: What is your favorite thing about Math Stations? What would your students say is theirs?
I have tried and tried. Now they r sitting in desk. My Ss really need to write about math!
A Vocabulary Station is great! Love this idea.
A10: my favorite - Teacher Time, I can't imagine going back to whole group lessons 5 days/week
That's awesome - thanks for sharing - you're a step ahead of me! I love it!
Thanks for joining in! :) -
This is great! Thanks for sharing!
Do you pay for the subscription? Or can you do that with the free version?
A video would should us a clear picture! :) Hint Hint.
its embedded in the doc I shared :)
- I had 2 learn how 2 download videos & then upload them 2 GClassroom. Can't post form YouTube.
- Have to cut out a few minutes early- crying baby who wants to eat! Great topic tonight!!!
That makes sense. And takes the guess work out. Thx.
I am not sure - the one that's the most expansive of those two.
A10 Ss make their own choices. I do not make the T a station. I pull from the other stations. Ss get what they need.
Whew… I almost missed it! thank you.
That seems strange to me - both Google products - hmmmm. That’s a pain. That’s why I loved https://t.co/KMzrQ9PeuP
- I had 2 learn how 2 download videos & then upload them 2 GClassroom. Can't post form YouTube.
Do you have iPads 4 FrontRow or do U use Reg computers? We have Chromebooks 4 all.
Thanks all, off to make grades, woot woot. Inspired to look at putting in some station ideas this week!
Nice connecting! Good luck - you'll love it once you get started!
We have 2 iPads & Chromebooks - so most use the chrome books with it.
Use the iPads with ThinkingBlocks - so much easier.
Just showed up! What are we talking about today in
Have a mix of Chromebooks, and netbooks, one iPad mini and a MBP for Ss to use.
friends-an amazing discussion tonight as always! was right! and a great way to
Hi Nicole! We are talking Math Stations! Be sure to check the archives. It has been a great discussion!
That’s a great idea Did you have them explain how they solved problems? or create problems? https://t.co/1XrPxJUflU
When I taught math we ditched the math journals and wrote on our blogs instead. Loved blogging in math class.
Thank you 3 for always doing an amazing job of facilitating and participating https://t.co/bOdXJ3j7UU
friends-an amazing discussion tonight as always! was right! and a great way to
Sooo much easier on iPads! The apps are free.
And thanks to the great folks like you who keep the conversation fresh! Love this hour every week.
Very clever Colleen - I’ll have to think more on how to incorporate draw. Perfect.
Glad to have gotten in on much needed . Thank you to and for leading
When I taught science in 6th grade I used them extensively & LOVED them.W/45 min 4 math I haven't used them this year.
Thanks, Brad. Excited you will be presenting Sat. on . See you then.
Feel better, Paula! Virtual hugs to you both, friends!
Thanks for the great conversation and awesome ideas this week! A great end to a Monday.
Awesome Chat friends. Gr8 topic. Thx for some gr8 questions! So glad is back!
Heading to bed very shortly. Thank you both so-o-o-o much. Virtual hugs.
I will have to try that. I have limited use of our iPads.
Mark your calendars tweeps. Join us Sat. Noon ET/11CT to learn more abt. Participate Learning
Also used Draw 4 a constructivist type lesson on determining types of triangles.
