#1stchat Archive
Weekly chat for excited 1st grade teachers who love to learn and share ideas. Participants are interested in a variety of topics including literacy, math, technology, play, inquiry, and being the best educators they can be!
Sunday July 24, 2016
Welcome friends! I am excited to moderate my first chat! We will follow a Q1, A1 format.
I am excited for you and know you will do awesome. Excited to be here for
Hi, everyone! Leka from Iowa! Looking forward to chatting with you all.
I am Terry from Florida. I am now a 3rd grade T, but couldn't stand to leave my PLN Still learn with them weekly!
Hi, ladies! Great to see you!
Amy from Iowa. So excited to talk about these chapters!
Happy Sunday! I'm Val from Michigan and I'm excited to chat about chapters 7-9 with as our moderator tonight.
Hi, Kris! Glad you are here!
Hello Can't wait to talk about his wonderful book. Qs look great
Hello! My name is Morgan and I teach the BEST grade ever (1st) in KY!
Hi, Leanna! Glad you are here!
Claire from Vermont checking in.
Hi, everyone...Megan from Indiana joining.
Please remember to follow (Jess) so you can see the questions as they are tweeted.
Hi, Morgan! Agree! Love 1st grade!
Stephanie from IN and this is my first time!
Hi, Claire! Hope you had a great week!
Chapters 7/8 talk about Storytelling and it’s impact on student growth Q1 & 2 focus on our ability to tell a story.
A2: I like to give my students a microphone that amplifies in the room when they being reading their stories! It builds confidence!
Yay! Hi Stephanie, you are going to love !
Hi, Stephanie! Welcome to best PLN ever!
Good evening Kathy from finally raining in Central PA
Hi, Tracey! Great to see you!
Kristi from Texas here! Can't wait to talk about this week's reading!
Lori! Glad to be learning from you again!
Q1 Share a story (words, picture, graphic) of something you did this summer that exemplified one of the stances in the book.
Hi, Kathy! Hope your summer is going well!
A1 Need to work on resilience and flexibility;almost missed my flight after ISTE but learned from it that's for sure!
A1Optimism and Persistence got me here! Top of Mount Mondnanock, NH.We didn't just climb it, we ran up it! https://t.co/BijdIfp5VG
Very nice summer! Hope you are enjoying family time!
Yes Leka I did. My daughter graduated with her 2nd degree, Medical Technology. So proud of her. Hope your wk was gr8
A1: Getting my luggage from airport to hotel took some persistence and flexibility. Right
LOL. And some arm strength and coordination:) https://t.co/ZAMRKbBeZB
A1: Getting my luggage from airport to hotel took some persistence and flexibility. Right
A1 Agreed to change grades and moved rooms then agreed to take a GT position, moving again-->flexibility
Georgina from SoCal here for just a few minutes
A1: I was the wedding planner for my wedding. I had to work through being flexible when issues occurred https://t.co/DfwfbrGiWn
A1: I also tutored 3rd grade Ss who had not passed the state assessment. Watching them retake, I exercised empathy.
A1 Witnessed flexibility & persistence at Camp: file:///Users/rachelruckes/Downloads/Camp%20Invention%20Structure%20Building.jpg
A1 here is me showing resilience in a line for Jurassic Park ride at the Universal Studios in 110 degree https://t.co/qzc8VdM0MW
I'm with ya. Moving schools and back to K. 4th move in 6 years. All kinds of flexibility and optimism. https://t.co/OwwRvdJJZM
A1 Agreed to change grades and moved rooms then agreed to take a GT position, moving again-->flexibility
A1: Potty trained my 3rd boy. i think that covers all the stances!
beautiful! Congratulations!
mount Lassen national park, ca
I am loving the "stories" you're telling!
Amazing when they put their minds to something! I am seeing it a lot lately in my 15 yr old & 17 yr old.
I spent 2 weeks in Texas with temps in 100s. I was flexible without realizing it.
Q2“Storytelling can be awkward and uncomfortable for adults” p. 80 What are examples from the book, addtl tips, or tricks you like?
His name is Vince. Looks like a smaller version of ScoobyDoo. I can't wait to share this info w/ my new school kiddos
A1 I was flexible when I volunteered to have my classrm floor torn up and replaced. It's a lot of work. https://t.co/rgBM6bDJ9P
A2: I think I am a little bit natural at this. I thought a lot about that while reading. I use stories a lot.
I use optimism in our TX heat all the time.
Vince is very blessed to be part of your family.
My kids showed a lot of persistence and empathy in the Texas heat to raise money for the animal shelter https://t.co/TYVmmd5Mg5
A2 Craft stories about a time when your were….optimistic, flexible, etc.
wow! Will you get a brand new carpet?
Admire all those who move grades/classrooms!
I am not so optimistic...better work on that. I complain all the time. Hate the heat. https://t.co/7xSb08FKWZ
I use optimism in our TX heat all the time.
Well I sent this out too early but I love using mics! Helps my friends that still whisper when they speak https://t.co/MeRiiWJKPu
A2: I like to give my students a microphone that amplifies in the room when they being reading their stories! It builds confidence!
I like that too. I plan to do that this year. Tell a story of a Ss success instead of just telling about the success.
A2 I thought I was not a good storyteller. I had to jump into a position and storytelling gave me and instant connection with Ss.
A2 Fave tip: Co-construct stories "with" the stars involved in them. They love when stories are about them.
A2: I love the idea of using their stories to teach the stances. I know making it personal is huge for them. Do it in math a lot.
I'm very grateful for air conditioning! And shade. I try to find those two things as much as possible! :-)
I have surround sound and it's wonderful! Everybody stays engaged.
No but I cleaned out the room and sealed all the shelfing for the men to rip every thing up....it took me hours.
A2: Since classroom is like a camp, we use our campfire rug and flashlights (mentioned in book)
A2: I like that they used a book as a prop, engages the listener
A2 Be animated, act silly, put on a a show. You will feel odd but the Ss reactions will be well worth.
I love that! I feel connections with students I work with by telling stories they can relate to. https://t.co/QY6SCWjDCq
A2 I thought I was not a good storyteller. I had to jump into a position and storytelling gave me and instant connection with Ss.
A2 as a part of closure I started asking who use problem solving, kindness, etc.,which was more meaningful than what did you learn?
A2: sometimes I struggle with finding closure for the stories I tell. Working to get better.
A2 My students especially love for me to tell math stories using there names.
I loved the idea of using a campfire setting.
https://t.co/lkt6gJdPXU
A2 Be animated, act silly, put on a a show. You will feel odd but the Ss reactions will be well worth.
A2: My students also love reader's theater and dramatic play. We make it fun but they also learn a lot in the process!
A2: Really loved the idea of props: campfire, book,, etc. Also, sitting in a circle to increase community was an aha for me.
Makes learning more personal! https://t.co/8wPz8JBLds
A2 My students especially love for me to tell math stories using there names.
A2 Last year I used one of my students to model good listening. She always nodded in agreement. It was a great reassuring example.
nope but new flooring that is maintenance free.P bought me new carpet for my Smart Board Area.itching to have it done
Yes! Also sitting by the student who is telling a story to support. https://t.co/ry1GzRz7X4
A2: Really loved the idea of props: campfire, book,, etc. Also, sitting in a circle to increase community was an aha for me.
Yes, I thought those were great ideas to set the stage for storytelling. Also, pretending to turn pages. https://t.co/KPqVwyfhau
A2: Really loved the idea of props: campfire, book,, etc. Also, sitting in a circle to increase community was an aha for me.
Great idea! https://t.co/k5bvMJ91Il
A2 Last year I used one of my students to model good listening. She always nodded in agreement. It was a great reassuring example.
A2: I am also imagining my Ss as the story tellers...great way to use their blogs. Share their stance experiences.
My Ss made backdrops and puppets for their readers theaters. Learned about setting, character, problem, solution.
I agree being able to help coach them with the story like the example with Jack.
Ss love the more I act out the story....especially with voices.
I agree. It's my goal to let them own the stances this year.
A2 Keeping a Storytelling Log was a great suggestion. Then you can refer to stories as you need them.
A2 I use stories and lesson.
I can see my students start referring back to their friends' stories. Log will be very helpful! https://t.co/xYwTyh6AAC
A2 Keeping a Storytelling Log was a great suggestion. Then you can refer to stories as you need them.
I should create a folder for growth mindset:) https://t.co/K8UhkVbWXw
A2: I am also imagining my Ss as the story tellers...great way to use their blogs. Share their stance experiences.
Q3 "Habit Loop” is often used to change neg.beh. What ways can we show/chart pos. habits? What are some cues we can use for our Ss?
A3 I've used Chris Biffle's Super Improver Wall to chart pos. Maybe instead of a star it's a speech bubble with a storystarter.
Joining in late , Michelle from WI.
A2 Loved the visual of clipping the story cards on a clothesline. Would be great for reminding me to tell the stories. :)
A3: I use Whole Brain's Super Improvers Wall and Scoreboard. Both methods motivate my students more than anything I've ever tried!
Anyone use the 2nd Steps program? I thought about this connection during these storytelling chapters
A3 I like the idea of a graffiti wall or "post its" wall to display the stances as they own them.
We had used that for years. https://t.co/HT40Loj6f5
Anyone use the 2nd Steps program? I thought about this connection during these storytelling chapters
yes! https://t.co/ruUFzpmtND
A3 I like the idea of a graffiti wall or "post its" wall to display the stances as they own them.
I liked this idea as well. https://t.co/TTAudwOIgX
A2 Loved the visual of clipping the story cards on a clothesline. Would be great for reminding me to tell the stories. :)
I may leave some space on the wall or bulletin board to display their drawings. https://t.co/WtLRxe79Vq
A2 Loved the visual of clipping the story cards on a clothesline. Would be great for reminding me to tell the stories. :)
A3: I like the idea as well, a place for them to celebrate. Our theme this year at school is to celebrate, might tie this in.
went to having all staff use this program,I like them and think I will just use Ss stories instead & have them lead them
A3 Having students create a personal stance cuff to remind them or cue them of the stances they can use to support their work.
A3 I like the idea of Ss giving each other shout-outs. https://t.co/nr1gzem5OW
A3 I like the idea of a graffiti wall or "post its" wall to display the stances as they own them.
I've new heard of WB Super Improvers wall/scoreboard are these programs?
I'm going to try scoreboard this year. Any advice? https://t.co/pu4C9jugy5
A3: I use Whole Brain's Super Improvers Wall and Scoreboard. Both methods motivate my students more than anything I've ever tried!
Also such a great connection for personal narrative stories
Seeing being used right now...is this the first grade T community I've been looking for?
Those who are artistic & crafty, I need some help with designing an interactive board for the stances!
I was thinking list the stances as headers then "post" how you displayed that stance. https://t.co/0dbn6eyMVl
A3 I like the idea of a graffiti wall or "post its" wall to display the stances as they own them.
Ahhh, YES!!! It is the best community of teachers.
Definitely! We can tie this into writing! https://t.co/X6lVLJwY1d
Also such a great connection for personal narrative stories
Yes, most of us are first grade teachers but all are welcome.
I love the cuff idea! https://t.co/70hzbUSeZC
A3 Having students create a personal stance cuff to remind them or cue them of the stances they can use to support their work.
Board/wall where we can post students' stories, examples, etc. Something ss can refer back to whenever. https://t.co/lXoP0AXOtW
Tell us more... What do you mean by interactive?
love this idea, Ss like to have easy reminders
a3: I love the idea that students illustrate the stances when they occur to them. A way for them to take ownership
Yes, an amazing group of educators here. https://t.co/IjAlUtYmA9
Seeing being used right now...is this the first grade T community I've been looking for?
I would also like some help with that. https://t.co/uM9QEQBCSt
Those who are artistic & crafty, I need some help with designing an interactive board for the stances!
Q4 Rethinking Rewards
What have/can you change to shift from short term rewards to enabling true drive in all content areas?
QR codes would be cool. Maybe link stories and videos so that Ss can access whenever? https://t.co/EmljWxu0lP
Interactive in paper pop outs or interactive as in QR codes or both?!
I'm already thinking about how I can make my campfire prop
Hooray! I'm going to be a first year T starting in August, teaching 1st grade in Northern VA. Can't join tonight, is it always now?
A3 I can see myself taking even more pics this year as I capture the stances in action. Exciting!
A3 I also like the idea of Ss marking their work with a symbol for a stance when they use one.
You know I love a QR code!
A4 I wonder if getting rid of the prize box and sending or calling home with positive praise would enable true drive?
mostly yes, but all are welcome!
I would say me too...but even if you have me your ideas it will look like one of those pinterest disasters.. https://t.co/22mVj3ywLO
I would also like some help with that. https://t.co/uM9QEQBCSt
Those who are artistic & crafty, I need some help with designing an interactive board for the stances!
A4: Setting goals. Tracking progress. Believe and motivate students every chance possible. Make them work for success (no gimmies).
https://t.co/N0vXRrRvy2
Yes! Link stories and then have them share a story of their own about a time they were like the character!
A4 I love the idea that the joy of doing the work Is the reward. My daughter calls it being in "The Zone" referring to her writing.
A3: Put those illustrations in a binder & have a class book for each stance! https://t.co/LaVTCcQZFf
a3: I love the idea that students illustrate the stances when they occur to them. A way for them to take ownership
LOVE that! I agree. True reward is how they feel inside when they learn/try something. https://t.co/0jnRahYaNw
A4 I love the idea that the joy of doing the work Is the reward. My daughter calls it being in "The Zone" referring to her writing.
Great idea! https://t.co/72EJDKA9eu
A3: Put those illustrations in a binder & have a class book for each stance! https://t.co/LaVTCcQZFf
a3: I love the idea that students illustrate the stances when they occur to them. A way for them to take ownership
I haven't used a prize box in years. Haven't missed it! I share specific positive praise w/parents and students often.
I wonder if that might work https://t.co/Zj1X86lauZ
A4 I wonder if getting rid of the prize box and sending or calling home with positive praise would enable true drive?
I know what you mean. I was on my way to a Pinterest fail yesterday. Had to stop and regroup.
A4 I really dislike gadgets/items as prizes. Sometimes I tell my students a smile from the teacher is the prize :)
Thanks so much, I look forward to joining you all next week. I've been looking for more Ts on Twitter!
I want to build this in all my kids,,,inside. But I also know we are all motivated by different things. Find theirs.
A4: I got rid of the prize box a couple years ago. Trying to instill Ss to be proud of their work. I comment on the page
I'd love to hear your fishing stories. You'll want to hear my leprechaun stories.
LOL we've all been there:)
I love to take pics. Maybe a pic collage of several students titled with the stance? Hmmm.... got me thinkin' now.
A4: encourage Ps to comment on Ss work as well
Search the hashtag when you have time and follow many of these Ts You will be glad you did. https://t.co/PIa1lvXuoz
Thanks so much, I look forward to joining you all next week. I've been looking for more Ts on Twitter!
Search the hashtag when you have time and follow many of these Ts You will be glad you did. https://t.co/PIa1lvXuoz
Thanks so much, I look forward to joining you all next week. I've been looking for more Ts on Twitter!
A4 My students are totally motivated by "celebrations" as rewards. We celebrate in so many ways and I don't need to buy a thing.
I want to add the stances to and make it part of our class story. I think that will be a plus.
A4: I didn't use the prize box, i used rewards cards and most of my students would pick eat with the teacher. :)
A4: Let Ss choose the reward they are working towards. Let them take ownership.
A4: also post pics of Ss working on & send to Ps on the Ss ❤️that
Good point!! https://t.co/DrpTkK5eDO
I want to build this in all my kids,,,inside. But I also know we are all motivated by different things. Find theirs.
What are some ways you celebrate? https://t.co/WRayFzAGaj
A4 My students are totally motivated by "celebrations" as rewards. We celebrate in so many ways and I don't need to buy a thing.
Having choices in how to celebrate... love that. https://t.co/Qm641L8CqP
A4: I didn't use the prize box, i used rewards cards and most of my students would pick eat with the teacher. :)
We have a bring a stuffed animal as an award option. Ss love it. Also becomes a reading buddy for the day :)
Great idea. I may do that too. https://t.co/KlZ7tkuGOj
I want to add the stances to and make it part of our class story. I think that will be a plus.
Q5- Tracking
How do you track students’ short and long term goals? How do students track their short and long terms goals?
At the beginning of the year I ask my Ss what they would like to have as rewards. We revisit throughout the year.
That is fabulous! What a great idea! https://t.co/R7J03CFlEs
A3: Put those illustrations in a binder & have a class book for each stance! https://t.co/LaVTCcQZFf
a3: I love the idea that students illustrate the stances when they occur to them. A way for them to take ownership
This is wonderful Valerie. I need to use this.
We do dance parties, bring your fave music cd day, drawing day, eat with teacher, etc.
they do, like that all the pics are in 1location, I took 300+pics in 1 "folder"
Great idea! Consider it stolen!!
A5 Our goals relate to our learning targets. We have both reading/writing goals. Goals are posted/visible & changed as needed.
Do they get to decide as a class?
I do. Each is used for a different purpose: work, pics, and messages. No pushback
Wait 'til you hear some of the ideas (good times).
Some great surveys to do out there, Some like power, prizes, prestige...I want to revisit that survey. https://t.co/PNz2Fvcdeq
Great idea! Consider it stolen!!
I'm going to use the Appletree app this year. Easy way to message parents. Picked it up at ISTE! https://t.co/HeCPcuNIGE
I wonder if that might work https://t.co/Zj1X86lauZ
A4 I wonder if getting rid of the prize box and sending or calling home with positive praise would enable true drive?
If you find the survey will you share it with me please?
Are you referring to their goals?
A5 Ss keeping short term writing and reading goals in their writing folders and reader's notebooks.
unfamiliar with this app, more info please
A5 Using the CAFE model by The 2 Sisters is a great way to track goals.
We do that too! We have also used them in or writing and for math stories.
Yes, to be able to earn the rewards or is that not for their goals?
A5: We set goals in reading and writing folders during conferences, then celebrate when reached.
A5 We also keep Data binders with their year long goals and work samples from each 9 weeks.
A5 Does anyone have a good tracking form?
Q6- What is one goal you have for the rest of the summer? Short & long term goals. (We won’t follow up, but hopefully you will :-)
The celebrations are for all kinds of positive behaviors, both academic and social/emotional.
Have thought about this a lot, was it a lot to have them keep updating them?
A6 Create an all encompassing theme for my room. Mantra, mindset, and expectations that lead to a student driven classroom.
I think stances are something they use continuously and improve. Portfolio may work better than form?
That's where I have trouble. Looking for a good solution. (aka easy way).
A6: Professional...finish 3 more books b4 school. Personal...finish husbands office & get the boxes out of my house
A6: For me that is one week. I need to create a list of things I've learned, want to improve for my goals to be ready.
A6 Meeting w/grade level team and our literacy consultant tomorrow, in fact, to plan for the year & grow our culture for learning.
I use celebrations at random times when we feel accomplished, not directly tie into goals.
Thank you all, I love learning from such amazing educators!
P/T communication app. T adds events, reminders, which post to a calendar Ps can see.
I'm back August 5, have been able to get in my room yet ...YIKES. Hopefully soon.
A6: long term...incorporate more Growth Mindset this up coming year w/Ss and co-workers
maybe clipboard? I'm planning on using clipboards for record keeping next year.
T can also message group or individual Ps.
I'll be thinking of you. Good luck.
A6 Other goals include reading 2 more professional books for our leadership team. We have a retreat in August.
I made Google forms to help me w/this. The clipboard doesn't work for me.
A6:flexible learning space ready, practice using Smart Notebk I'm getting a SMART panel in my room this year!!!Also so many books!
A6: Finish 4 more professional books. Implement flexible seating. Write thank you notes. Clean and organize my house. :)
A6 Want to create posters of the stances, also want to make bookmarks with the stances too, have to put whole room back in place,
