The #2PencilChat is a weekly conversation about educational technology. As we enter a more student-centered age, let's talk about using all the tools in our toolboxes to be innovative and dynamic teachers.
Welcome to the #2PencilChat! Just as it takes more than great entrees to make a great restaurant, it takes more than great curriculum instruction to make a great class. Tonight, we're talking about the other parts of the classroom experience! Introduce yourself and say hey!
Good evening everyone. I'm Priscilla, from Maryland. I'm the one who has been teaching in an all male Juvenile Detention Center for almost 10 years now!! #2PencilChat
Hi Everyone, my name is Corey Ortiz and I'm an Undergrad at the University of Michigan's School of Education! Happy to be checking out the chat for the first time! #2pencilchat
Ricky Mei from Michigan, currently student teaching for sophomores in high school, not too familiar with Twitter so I hope you can bear with me :) #2PencilChat
Q1
Presentation in a restaurant means so much to the dining experience, from the moment you walk in the door. That's true for a classroom or school, as well. Let's talk about setting up gorgeous learning spaces!
#2PencilChat
A1 I teach English, so having lots of books in the room creates an inviting space and makes students curious about reading. My colleagues are much better than I am at maintaining their classroom libraries. But just having the books helps! #2PencilChat
A1: Our school is old but there is a move to slowly fix things as money is available. Year 7 area is modern and open while Year 8 is still the old brick walls. You can feel the difference in the kids #2PencilChat
I think to have a good learning space, especially early on in the school year, your classroom should be presented in a way that is not only appealing to your students, but one that says something about who you are, as a teacher
A1 Spacing is an interesting thing; just the order of how the desks or tables are all set up can speak so much to what students expect coming into class. Gives them breathing room or a friendly face to sit by! #2PencilChat
Looking foward to the day that I can get flexible furniture into the room. Want to be able to modify class space with less effort. Making the best of it with what I have. #2pencilchat
A1: I like a place that doesn’t have too much going on. Makes it easier to focus. Sometimes in our efforts to design our learning spaces, we go a little overboard and create pretty distracting spaces. #2PencilChat
A1. Image is so important. The images must match the message you want to convey. Where I work, we took great pains to make our portion of the detention center to actually look like "a real school" with Posters &bulletin boards of student work. #2PencilChat
I think that if we looked at our classroom as a restaurant the first thing I think of is “Would people choose to be in the ‘restaurant’ and what would their review be?” #2PencilChat
A1. Most of what hangs in my room is either created by students or anchor charts for learning, Everything has a purpose and meaning. I change the furniture with my instruction. #2pencilchat
Hi Everyone Spiri from PA... running late
A1) I like a bit of chaos in all honesty! I like a good vibe, a buzzing sound, the hustle & bustle, an electric pulse #2pencilchat
Agreed, I had a student who was afraid to ask a teacher for a pencil; therefore, the student sat in his seat for the entirety of class not doing anything #2PencilChat
@MagicPantsJones I think a classroom should be inviting and colorful! I like a good reading corner, too! Flexible seating is always something fun to experiment with! #2pencilchat
My 4 walls are... whiteboard, windows, bank of lockers, broken wall that opens up that I try and keep kids away from.
In the middle space I need to organise 28 tables and chairs and I'm never happy with it #2PencilChat
A1: A room full of student product is just the beginning. For me, it's a FEEL thing. How does everyone respond to each other? Where does the learning take place? Does everyone take place in the learning process? Those are the questions I ask myself when visiting. #2PencilChat
I think that if we looked at our classroom as a restaurant the first thing I think of is “Would people choose to be in the ‘restaurant’ and what would their review be?” #2PencilChat
A1.1 I get to teach a bunch of different things, so I have a bunch of different posters in my classroom. I also put up posters of things I like, such as my Nascar drivers, and pennants from my favorite sport teams. I want my Ss to get a feel for who I am as a person #2PencilChat
Q2
Appetizers help to get things going in a group setting. They're communal, and they're usually foods that allow for easy conversation. What are the best appetizers in a classroom? How do you build that community feeling?
#2PencilChat
#2pencilchat A1 The worksheets at a restaurant are among the worst.. busywork. How many classroom environments have worksheets to dull curiosity? Worse, how many rich learning spaces restrict movement?
A2: Appetizers are shared and out in the open, so should our supplies. Ss need to know it is okay to help themselves but leave enough for everyone else. #2PencilChat
My problem is that even though it's my room, I'm only in there for maths. Then the other teachers come to the class that stays in the room and we all have different expectations ranging from having the kids nailed to the chair in rows to me #2PencilChat
#2pencilchat A1b In high school especially i was fond of the "desk-scoot-boogie".. the noisy messy orchestration where students had to move their desks in order to collaborate with peers. Toss the desks, tables & use a handy flat surface..
If only we could get grant funding, I think it'd be fun to have a classroom makeover business...or show on TLC....and I could fly down and we could spend a weekend making your room awesome! #2PencilChat
A2: By opening with an activity that allows everyone to participate. Avoid starting with a question that is out of reach for some. Take the big idea and break it down in a way that allows everyone to participate. A "tell me about a time when" is highly successful. #2PencilChat
A2: My students have materials that they know they have access to, we have some different chairs that students can pull up and sit in (students love rolly chairs), and there is a pink glittery dinosaur that students like to sit on their desk and talk to #2pencilchat
2A) Definitely start w/Greeting them at the door, then a nice serving of Morning Meeting, cleanse the pallet with Storytelling w/Mrs H & the piece du resistance... @GoNoodle#2pencilchat
A2) Common activities. Music, celebrating birthdays...
we have a class Supercoach league (like fantasy football but in AFL) Kids share ideas and it's good maths #2PencilChat
#2pencilchat A2a Proof's in the pudding.. will the students serve up the appetizer with a sub, where you're away experiencing amazing PD? Share the responsibility/authority for selection & service.
A2 We begin most classes by talking about what's happening in our lives. My Els love to tell me all the tidbits of their day. Good way to practice oral English and to ge to know the Ss better. #2pencilchat
Also it's the school policy that we start each day with a class prayer so I always direct the prayer at something relevant... sick kid, injury, upcoming event, maybe even something we need to improve on #2PencilChat
I haven’t been into a Bed Bath & Beyond in awhile, but I never can focus in a Cracker Barrel. My wife will be trying to talk to me and it is so hard to pay attention. It’s like I’m doomed to getting scolded. #beinghonest#2PencilChat
A2: in Hawai‘i we call those appetizers, pupus. 😁. I would say the pupus we use are shared laughter, wonder and experiences. Those make the learning come alive and stick. #2PencilChat
A1. For me, a gorgeous learning space is uncluttered and well-organized before the kids arrive. Once they are in, let them personalize a bit. #2PencilChat
I would like to keep more materials out for my students to explore with. But I have to think safety first - so anything that can be dangerous if thrown, mouthed, or tripped over has to be kept put away.... #inclusion#2pencilchat
A2. Because we have a daily revolving population, one one the appetizers that I like to use is talking to my Ss for a moment when I take the attendance. It could be asking how they are or noticing they got a haircut or introducing myself if they are new. #2PencilChat
Many years ago when I went for a promotion I had to do this fake desk activity where I had folders to sort in priority while the phone kept ringing with problems #2PencilChat
A1: I like challenging the fire marshall ;) haha jk.. But I think there should be color and INTENTION in your learning spaces. Don't put up a bunch of posters that you don't plan on referencing. If you don't model importance with it, what's the point? #2PencilChat
Q3
The drink menu serves many purposes: It quenches thirst, it complements the meal, and sometimes it facilitates conversation.
What serves the same purpose in a great classroom? What keeps kids going, complements the lesson, and helps with conversation for you?
#2PencilChat
A1 Ctd: As far as presentation, I have been known to spout out random, tangentially related anecdotes to Ss... right @MrsUhShafer ? It keeps the kids with me, helps me relate content, and forges relationships w/ the kids. Plus it's just more fun! #2PencilChat
A2 A lot of teachers use ice breakers at the start of the year, but they're helpful to get people going at the beginning of the day or a tricky lesson, too! #2PencilChat
Yes, definitely! If it's relevant to them, it's gonna seem so much more significant. Those experiences can shape the flow of the class and, as you say, make it all alive! #2PencilChat
I once heard about in a podcast a teacher who did the ENTIRE ROOM in pink and purple... whole thing. Good intentions, birthday party delivery #2PencilChat
Initially, let kids create something to share parts of their lives. Ask the questions, talk to them. Start things like morning meetings, but don’t do it the same way always. Some novelty will keep it fresh. Schedule daily time to talk 1:1 with your kids. #2PencilChat
A3 Topics that the students pick. Activities that they can connect to their lives. I let my Ss choose the articles that we read. They pick the topics and each gets a turn. #2pencilchat
Making sure that your responses and your lessons are engaging and thought provoking. You want to leave students wondering and thinking of new possibilities. Never settle for a concrete answer. Always question #2PencilChat
#2pencilchat A3a The first draft of most any assignment that asks the student to use their voice. Especially when they review peer's work and ask/provide feedback. It's students' ideas first contact that rocks it..
A3: Sometimes what quenches the thirst is finding an oasis to be safe and be yourself and be heard. When kids can come in and the class feels like, “Aaaahhhhh”. #2PencilChat
Shafer and I are besties and former coteachers and that kind of environment made our super fun. BUT we kept chaos at bay with solid expectations for the classroom and clear follow through. Ss knew we wanted them to have fun but that we had high expectations #2PencilChat
A3 When I think drink, it's something that gets me started carries over through the whole meal. In terms of the classroom, that could be something like a video clip or short excerpt. #2PencilChat
A3: doing 4 corners to discuss a topic, gallery walks, asking a question on my windows as an exit ticket and having students answer it and add their answer on a sticky note to the window #2pencilchat
A3: A well-timed shifter. Have students drop everything and switch positions. If they're sitting, stand them up. If they are standing have them rotate like it's a volleyball match but with a twist. Switch Partners!!!!#2PencilChat
We co taught math and ALSO had a ton of books! It really helps foster the culture of engaged readers if you can go into math class and have your two coteachers talk to you about different genres and ones that we've loved too #2PencilChat
Oh boy. Good. Q. Have to think about this. 🍎 Maybe, humor, it gives everything an edgy quality. Kids are sooo funny. Ts, great at stand up, and I don't mean standing up.
A1: That's a HUGE problem in Israel - the Ss stay in one classroom and the Ts shift around, so you can't design the class exactly like you would like, flexible seating, whiteboard desks, writable windows, etc. #2PencilChat
A3. I think a well placed video or video clip is great for this. My ss know that we get to watch Mike Rowe's Dirty Jobs every Friday b/c I'm the Career teacher. We have some awesome conversations about the things he does. #2PencilChat
Due to wireless issues I have been taking my Year 11 IT class to the library. They work so much better there in the comfy seats, couches and bean bags. The say they feel like they are working for Google #2PencilChat
And I’m saying students with different skill sets/access needs require different environmental set-ups —> different not less. And that it’s not appropriate to judge without context. #2pencilchat
A2: I LOVE the idea of a morning meeting. I don't see why you can't have "huddles" throughout the day to start your classes. Heck they do it in Target in the middle of the day, so why can't we? #2PencilChat
A3: I thought of drink menu, and I immediately thought of something that makes me happy. For my Ss, giving them time to absorb what they are learning and/or doing passion projects (aka Genius Hour). #2PencilChat
Q4
Side dishes allow a diner to finish out a meal in a way that is personal to them. That's one of the best things about going out to eat. How do a great class's sides help provide Ss w/their individual needs, including a need for student voice/choice?
#2PencilChat
I feel like as long as thought is put forward with your Ss as far as what they need and the frequency w/ which they need it, then you're good. I like keeping things handy also, as for me it cuts down on those super long "red carpet walks" that my Ss love to do #2PencilChat
A4: It is important to give students some options in their assignments. Usually, I give the students some options in their assessment. They also get to pick some of what I grade. #2pencilchat
A4: To me, sides are the differentiated classroom we create. Ss can choose what they need to focus on or practice. That’s why I love having a blended learning environment. #2pencilchat
Q5 sides allow Ss the option to decline without penalty. Sometimes watching someone else thoroughly enjoy something previously declined is the best way to bring someone in. #2PencilChat
A1: The experience must inviting to all who walk through your door. Preparation is the key ingredient. Without that, the food (lesson), may not taste so good. #2PencilChat
Q1
Presentation in a restaurant means so much to the dining experience, from the moment you walk in the door. That's true for a classroom or school, as well. Let's talk about setting up gorgeous learning spaces!
#2PencilChat
A3: A posted “Question of the Day” that students are able to ponder/respond to flexibly (in writing, in dialogue, in their minds, etc.) and at their discretion (no mandatory response needed) is one of the most valuable, multipurpose classroom tools there is. #2pencilchat
This is an interesting framework.
Independent, choice reading and writing are my side dishes.
My main dishes are the official Topic of Study, which have options so they can be cooked to order.
But every student adds their own mix of books and writing projects.
A4: The "sides" show a different side of the learner and their unique profile. Instead of everyone getting the house salad, it's a time for students to share their learning preferences. #2PencilChat
A4: Using @DaveRage Player Type questionnaire to figure out Ss motivation to play, then design lessons like a game that appeals to all players. #2PencilChathttps://t.co/zCA1Dv6wKY
A4: Diff modes of response... written, acted, spoken... takes away unwanted angst regarding skills for which the student doesn't feel comfortable, increases likelihood that they will make more genuine and thorough contributions #2PencilChat
A4:) At the end of every day, each kid fills out a Daily Inventory Sheet. We talk about what they did & what they thought about it & if it was useful to them. Honest answers! #2PencilChat
Q5
Desserts are fun and delicious, and do a great job of closing the meal!
What activities and rituals are the desserts of the classroom? Are they every day things, or just for special occasions? Why do otherwise great teachers sometimes skip them?
#2PencilChat
#2pencilChat A4b A while back @SciencePenguin introduced me to the #exitTicket.. it's the customer comment card. Does a T use them to collect feedback for continuous improvement? How do you know you're meeting individual needs otherwise?
A5: There should always be a dessert! You don't have to pick one, but there should be an option. When it comes to having a lot of options, they skip it because of all the prep. #2PencilChat
Q5
Desserts are fun and delicious, and do a great job of closing the meal!
What activities and rituals are the desserts of the classroom? Are they every day things, or just for special occasions? Why do otherwise great teachers sometimes skip them?
#2PencilChat
Dunno. How do teachers make sure they covered all the bases? In Ratatouille the mouse-chef knew or made a really good guess what critic wanted. Is it intuition or something more? #2pencilchat
A5 sharing out, a brain teaser, some trivia. allows Ss to get in where they fit in without hesitancy. The sweet spot should be shareable, plentiful, and frequent . wrappping the class with makes it easier to show up and out the next day. #2PencilChat
A5. Making sure there is time for kids to share, even if it is with a partner. Making sure student voice is heard. Honestly, many of us simply run out of time. #2PencilChat
A5: I feel like the desserts are things that you only get to do some of the time like breakouts, mystery skype, guest speakers, review egg hunts, making haiku tunnel books, etc. #2pencilchat
A5:) We have ongoing desserts: Slipper Tuesdays, Song of the Day, Our Life Cycle Maze (where u continually get consumed,) the Cereal Challenge. Desserts can be free & sprinkled; small doses so as not to get too sick. #2PencilChat
I love you SO MUCH, #2PencilChat Pals! Thank you for joining us tonight! Take a mint on your way out, and go provide a great experience for the students in YOUR life!
A5 The dessert is actually dessert. My ELs often bring in food from their countries. We all get to taste and live the culture of countries around the world. #2pencilchat
