#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 August 1, 2016
Welcome to those of you joining in tonight. Paula here joining in from New Orleans.
These are awesome! Great job! Kids love them!
Heyyyy Jody!!! So glad to see you here! How's it going?
Hello, ! Glad to be clicking in from Seymour, IN.
So glad you'll be joining in the conversation! Love learning along with you.
Hello ... So glad to have made it today! Sammy from MI!
Hello and so great to “see” you here for .
Saaammmmyyyy! Glad you are here!
Things are good! Summer is flying by but I'm totally enjoying it! :)
Nice to have you joining us for .
Hi Sammy - so happy you were able to make it tonight. Should be a good conversation!
Glad you are having a chance to enjoy. How much longer have you got?
Love when we're all together :)
Hi Tammy - How are you doing tonight? When do you start back?
I went to my classroom to set up for the year, but have broken a/c unit so didn’t stay long.
Hi Tammy. Thanks for joining us for .
We start back on the 29th of Aug. We were out on 6/17 so it's been a long hot summer! LOVE it! :)
Bummer! I hope it’s temporary. That New Orleans heat would really be something to work in!
Part has been ordered. Can’t stand the heat.
Q1: How do you define the term: “Digital Portfolio?”
Oh gosh - that alone should push school back a week - NO AC in NOLA - yikes!
Here’s to hoping for a quick fix!
Kiddos start 8/24 here. Went in for a bit today.. but it was TOO hot!
Seems to be a recurring theme
Hi everyone! Glad to be back to !
Went for lunch w/ a couple of others and they got called to come back, collect stuff because of gas leak.
Good golly! They better straighten all this out before next week.
A1: Digital Portfolio to me is ss collection of pieces they want to showcase in form of website, videos, photos, blog, etc.
A1: A digital portfolio is a way to collect Ss’s work in a digital space.
I have a 3-day conference to attend next week, but only head back to office on 18th. Ts back on 25th, Ss on 31st
A1: Paperless, organized, student work!
Too much construction going on still and school starts on August 8.
Hey Dave!!! Love your photos!!! Just so beautiful. It makes me smile.
This is the first time in years we have started before labor day. New county common calendar adopted and approved..
Hi Dave. Beautiful flowers.
Seems to be the way of change. We start the week before LD now.
Q2: What are the benefits of posting student work digitally?
Lol! we are supposed to start on the 10th- LOTS of construction left to go. Should be interesting!
A1: An online record of student work, creative content.
A1: A paperless way to store, and organize student work and progress.
A2: Ss have more motivation when there is a larger audience...usually produce better quality...can get feedback from world
A1: I was thinking from what I read about seesaw this week that would be a type of digital portfolio
Thanks for sharing - I can’t wait to read this! Such a push on math these days!
A2: Access anytime and over time without the fear of it being "destroyed"
We have a lot of construction happening in our district too. But we have a few more weeks left.
A2: Benefits of a digital portfolio are easy access from just abt anywhere, paperless, many types of artifacts can be included.
I’m hoping to hear ideas about “organizing” student work online tonight.
A1 - Dig Portfolio is digital collectn of S's work. Can include dig. & analogue. Ss have say in pieces chosen. Incl. Ss reflections
A2: Also, an easier way to share out and discuss changes... see progress in front of you..
A2: Keeping portfolios online gives the owner a chance to share with multiple people. Can also post publicly if he/she chooses.
Well, it only makes sense - they have a short window too to get things done.
I totally agree with this…when the work is real world w/ real audience there is more effort
Q3: What are the challenges of using digital portfolios?
Btw- the bathroom dividers didn’t come in yet. Just a row of toilets!!!
A2 Parents can view student work often not just 4 times a year.
A1 Traditionally a collection of s work using dig resources, but w/ & others becoming the norm, the term dig may be removed
A2: Others can see a Ss work - from peers to grandparents. Ss can look back at previous years’ work to see progress
A3: privacy can be a challenge for some... resistance from Parents/Admin ...
A2 gives a larger audience to view the assignment
A2 - Posting work digitally allows adding diff media (video, audio), Can change ordering, etc without ripping. Allows sharing
A2 an ongoing, never ending digital collection of strengths and weaknesses that can be shared or not shared with others
That ought to be interesting…lol
if you are a google district Google Classroom is a huge help in organizing but it's not on line for all to see
A3: reliable access to tech is first major hurtle...then buy in from parents and staff
is absolutely a great type of portfolio. Used it a bit last year w/ success.
Agreed - progress (or lack thereof) & Ss' reflections about this are key feature
Are you ready for your ride??? Next week, right?
Real time too! No waiting. https://t.co/Rzs9J4cMtV
A2: Access anytime and over time without the fear of it being "destroyed"
A3: Too many items, not showing a wide array of content, unorganized.
We are a Google district. Used GC last year too. I need some better organization. Need to decide the best route.
A3 I feel it will take more time at the beginning but once we get going Ss will help. I tried a bit last year.
A3: Tching Ss how to upload things to their dig portfolio can be a challenge. Also, deciding if access with be public or private.
A2 multimedia examples show ongoing growth so much better than paper test scores
I Love GC! I am excited to use it more this year... Google Drive is going to help me on my quest to go paperless!
Providing immediate feedback is a huge plus. (from Ts & family). https://t.co/vPxrtVrLrv
A2: Also, an easier way to share out and discuss changes... see progress in front of you..
A3 - Challenges include shared device mayhem, shared folder of work mayhem, corrupt files, lost docs, etc.
I would really love to do this!
Digital portfolios help us create assessments that are varied and more interesting for students. https://t.co/od16lrXuHO
A2 multimedia examples show ongoing growth so much better than paper test scores
I’m as ready as I’ll be. Got new tires today! It’s Sat & Sun Hoping for no rain, although clouds would keep it cool
My 4th graders had trouble with shared items in GDrive. They don’t have their own logins.
baby steps for sure. I was in over my head last year. Really pushing it this year. We'll see how it goes!
Good point! Digital Portfolios are more likely to be around to build upon/compare/reflect in the next year
I'm a Google fan too! Hopefully I will be able to use GC more this year as well maybe even get !
Whew! Long 1st day back. Joining late from TN! A1: Digital Portfolio = online access to create & share learning. Love 4this
I am a fan of ... just haven't used it as much as I should/could ...
So true. Having videos, slideshows, digital voice recordings better any day than a test score.
Like the "never-ending" aspect https://t.co/CiX3TRGoYK
A2 an ongoing, never ending digital collection of strengths and weaknesses that can be shared or not shared with others
I would love to GHO with you about this!
did you like it?I was thinking of trying some of the get started lessons on the website to start to figure it out
Hi Jerry. Thanks of the link to your digital portfolio page.
nothing wrong with baby steps!!!
Ts this week (meet Ss tomorrow) start next Monday :) Where did summer fly to?
Q4: What’s your take? “An electronic portfolio is not a digital scrapbook.”
Crazy! Glad to “see” you!
Right! Traditional portfolio has limited pages. Too easy to incl. everything in dig without reflecting deeply
I loved it last year I set up different “classrooms” for each subject and it helped me a ton
We also have GC in our district but I plan to use for digital portfolios
Me too! I teach science to all 4th graders so it was so nice to have them in their own sections!
One of the keys I think might be “reflecting”. Ss can look back over work & even make changes https://t.co/be0HhBARtF
Good point! Digital Portfolios are more likely to be around to build upon/compare/reflect in the next year
A4: There are working portfolios which contain everything and showcase portfolio which contain select “best” work products.
A2: Allows for audience comments & Parent engagement. is like SAFE Facebook for Ss & Ps to stay in touch w/ learning
Great idea! Thanks for sharing! https://t.co/9CVoemb136
I loved it last year I set up different “classrooms” for each subject and it helped me a ton
LOVE this!! https://t.co/Pj3THfpwPd
A4: There are working portfolios which contain everything and showcase portfolio which contain select “best” work products.
Glad to be here! Great topic!
Q4: Agree wholeheartedly. e-portfolio MUST be organised and consist of related content.
One of my goals is to use “Hyperdocs” w/ kiddos this year! Easy w/ google https://t.co/EoGOZqWOkv
I'm a Google fan too! Hopefully I will be able to use GC more this year as well maybe even get !
Yes, for me, portfolios are ALL about relfection. No right/wrong piece to incl, is what you say about growth/goals etc.
So glad you made it Heidi!
A3: Challenges = tech issues like internet not working, files deleted, no connection at home.
YES! I want to use more Hyperdocs too... I am working on one for a tech presentation I am doing in 2 weeks! https://t.co/jUQTnRsAii
One of my goals is to use “Hyperdocs” w/ kiddos this year! Easy w/ google https://t.co/EoGOZqWOkv
I'm a Google fan too! Hopefully I will be able to use GC more this year as well maybe even get !
Thanks ! What better way to start the year off then w/ a great
Thank you Jerry! You are such a busy man - your Grandkids & grandpets are lucky!
Do you all buy or use the free version ?
A4: I used tags with the sts in - each subject had a tag, but we used a “blue ribbon” tag for work included in portfolio.
A4 who makes the rules? The digital portfolio should be useful to those that use it- this may differ. Imo it must be important to S
Q5: Are you currently posting Ss work digitally? If so, how often?
I use the free version. It's not something that I can afford with district funds... would be nice though!
So much more to do with it this year thanks to shares!
A5: I use and we are avid bloggers with .. ss LOVE the feedback they get.
Mayhem certainly sounds like a challenge - lol (But I agree) https://t.co/fRfl7OiVPO
A3 - Challenges include shared device mayhem, shared folder of work mayhem, corrupt files, lost docs, etc.
Seeing "hyperdoc" pop up a lot lately. Is this the "webquest" of the early 2000's?
A4 - Electronic portfolio has Ss reflection that scrapbook doesn't. Scrapbook tends to be good stuff, portfolio can be mroe varied
unorganized is a HUGE personal issue :( Working on it :) :)
A5: Last year my Ss posted weekly to their blogs. This yer using and hope to post almost daily but tag things for public.
I forgot you can do that! Make more than one group/classroom.
I’ve got to figure out exactly what Hyperdocs are. think this would be a good MassCue topic for you to attack
I totally agree!! Trying to start with simplifying my classroom this week. You are one busy gal!
I dabbled in the 1st year, then dove in last year. Can’t imagine teaching without now! So engaging!
In there is a blogging component. My Ss will choose which work from their weekly posts they want included on the blog.
Have you looked at Bootcamp? I did it in June/July & it was awesome! Hyperdocs Handbook is great resource
LOVE GoogleDrive! Ss are so intuitive on how to get to it & add things in different folders :)
I plan on making our blog open to the public so they can receive comments from a global audience.
Q6: What method or tools do you use to create digital portfolios? Do you have examples?
This is awesome Paula - Thank you for sharing.
Your hyperdoc is amazing! The kids will really enjoy that! Thanks for sharing!
Is my write about a blog? I miss KidBlog since it went to fee based
I think is my new fav word for 2016-2017. Think it can be game changer for way Ts approach teaching with tech
Thank you! My first time presenting at a conference!!
Great! Tip: Turn off Parent sharing option. Less to worry about.
I have the free version. I haven’t gone pro yet. Your thoughts?
A6 used met so many needs
Hi ! Hallie, teaching 4th grade in St. Louis now. Lurking a bit and learning a lot tonight.
Mine either, but they were really respectful of each other’s folders. Had my TechGurus to help too.
Hi Hallie! Good to see you again. Does your school year begin soon?
Would love paid but free is all I can afford lol May write a grant this year for the paid version
We connected with other SS often throughout the year and their writing improved drastically with
Anyone know how 's new student portfolios compare?
I use hyper slides as well. When I do a PD, slides are hyperlinked to resources. Ts download slides & click.
Yes! I'm in a new district, so training this week and next. Ss start on the 15th!
Hmmmm…intersting comparison. I think the hyperdocs might be more interactive-though not definite on that https://t.co/NvjyBboDvn
Seeing "hyperdoc" pop up a lot lately. Is this the "webquest" of the early 2000's?
A5 - I did have Ss make Dig portfolios in ppt 2005-2013. Added info 3x/yr end of term. Always goal to be more regular
Hi Hallie! Any chance that you are going to innovate conference in Nov? It's in St. Louis!
A6: Have uses , and to showcase Ss work. This year will use and some
Free version, but or I can share our ambassador code so you can try Plus for 1 month free
Training students to choose content carefully gives parents/tchrs a broad idea of students learning. Include good, growth,mistakes.
I wish! I'm in a new district, so still learning how they allow for conferences/PD...
Wow - blogging daily sounds awesome. Not sure I could pull that off.
Whew! Where did the summer go? Teachers here start on the 8th, kids on 10th.
Have you tried yet? I don't think it will take long to forget Hyperstudio!
Hello friend. https://t.co/HXyVDZBRlq
Yes! I'm in a new district, so training this week and next. Ss start on the 15th!
I really like and my kids LOVED it
That’s a great idea!
Did you try the folders? I think that’s the direction I’m headed this year!
Just got notified they accepted my “Social Media in the Classroom” presentation. Yikes. https://t.co/3IiuG7P2zr
I’ve got to figure out exactly what Hyperdocs are. think this would be a good MassCue topic for you to attack
It flew by! My daughter starts kindergarten on the 9th! She can't wait for summer to end and school to start though.
Teach writing skills and then have students publish in variety of formats blog, ebook, movie and store in digital portfolio
I have not used that feature. Wld be interested to know.
The blue ribbon tag lets you sort instantly or you can check out work by folders.
WHere are you presenting? https://t.co/iPRXm5IeYG
Just got notified they accepted my “Social Media in the Classroom” presentation. Yikes. https://t.co/3IiuG7P2zr
I’ve got to figure out exactly what Hyperdocs are. think this would be a good MassCue topic for you to attack
This chat is so timely! I'm interviewing for a tech integration position tomorrow! Yay!
If Ss post daily to will they later curate posts into portfolio & add reflections on why pieces chosen?
Agreed, and I just found out I'm on my school's tech committee. :)
You should share even as a new teacher - we all learn new things everyday(or we should!!) Thx BTW
I highly recommend the Handbook book as a resource to learn about & refer to for ideas
A5: Plan to start on day 1 with journals. says we don’t have a pencil lab, tech is everyday.
At MassCUE in October. Will you be attending?
Great!!! At least I know one session I’ll be going to!
I need to check this one out. Haven’t heard of it before! Thanks!
Hey friends. I started back today so I am just getting on tonight.
Hopefully if I'm a MA educator?? Interview on Wednesday ,,so nervous https://t.co/VYl8ThJh2U
At MassCUE in October. Will you be attending?
Q - Do you have parents sign a special permission for Ss to post blogs/work publically?
Welcome, Mike. Never too late for ! Glad you made it. Talking digital portfolios.
more like info is easy to get to cause it’s linked right in the document they’re reading.
Q7: Who is responsible for choosing what is portfolio worthy?
Used in the past& loved it.Kids love it too.Wish they had capability to make copy of GD for each Ss https://t.co/ZHtDYe7UPK
A6 used met so many needs
A7: Students should choose the work with guidance…they need to feel ownership!
Haha - You’re so sweet! :) Trying to figure out how to make it an interactive session instead of me talking
A6: Have given Ss ppt template in past. This past yr, had encouraged use of Google Slides for portfolios. This yr exploring
A6 - Oh, and also had portfolios on kidblog for a while
Haven’t used the plus version with the Ss yet. Willing to try it out for free. Neat options!
I am wondering if there is a way to award digital badges in Seesaw!
I agree. If we are meeting each student and pushing for their personal best what is "worthy" is flexible. https://t.co/9y2OaqxYc7
A7: Students should choose the work with guidance…they need to feel ownership!
I'm going to have to check out after tonight!
Great plan! I am hoping to collaborate with a few teachers to get this going too
No greater testament to the product than that! https://t.co/ksoEwXGEzf
We connected with other SS often throughout the year and their writing improved drastically with
Don’t worry about talking to much.You’re a presenter’s that you just want to talk, so many takeaways
Definitely worth it! Let the kids tell you!
Thanks! Hoping to make more regularly this year! I'm so excited to be back in 4th grade!
I am excited for you! The kids are great and this PLN is so inspiring!
Thinking of how 2 share for as well. Create googledoc & put link in Then can update GD with new badges
Using the photo part of the , Ss could snap pic of something they worked on that day, add voice or annotation.
Where is this interview? You’ll do great! You’re so passionate and accomplished.
Sure! You can add any image. Could create a "badge" folder too. Ss explain how they earned it
Can't wait to visit writers again this year
Good luck! I'll be thinking of you on Wednesday!!
Wow! I remember those days well! So sweet!
Link to digital citizenship Hyperdoc I created for beginning of yr in gr. 5-6 (but could work in 4th too) https://t.co/arTAxai6Br
Awesome idea! Thanks for share!
Do you have an example? I was thinking more of like a circle stamp to put on some digital documents.
Congrats, Nancy. I love presenting at conferences.
Not yet, just in my brain. maybe 5 tasks solved, or 5 tweets shared. Or use like bragtags & add to GD table
I agree - I think that there would be some definite “must have’s” too. https://t.co/rimwPhNIuR
A7: Students should choose the work with guidance…they need to feel ownership!
Q8: What happens the following year w/ the portfolios that are created in 4th gr?
During conferences w/ Ss we’ll discuss which artifacts they added to will be added to blog.
Instructional coach Donovan school N Randolph. ¸ https://t.co/G1xzTxwD2S
Where is this interview? You’ll do great! You’re so passionate and accomplished.
A8: It would be great if students could keep it to see their growth. Maybe keep in Google Drive? Upload from Seesaw?
Ss and parents (if you so choose) can comment on Ss work posted on .
A8: It would be amazing if the portfolio could follow them year to year, even through HS as part of senior project.
A8: I'm trying to find a way for 5th grade teachers to continue to add to it ... Google Docs now that we are a GS ...
I will be doing lessons on quality commenting before I open that option in .
I love they can comment by typing or audio record!
our district has a media release form they sign during registration.
Do you talk about quality commenting with Ps at Open House or conferences?
4th grade is such a special pivotal year for kids!!! The teachers are special too! Glad you’re back!
A7 - T can give guideline (e.g. a math test) & suggests but Ss should choose piece can reflect about what shows of their learning
A7: combination of both Ss & Ts. I keep final say though :)
Yes, might also run an evening Wkshop for Ps to explain about commenting.
See - this is what I’m saying - You just need that quick idea! Thx Paula This is something I could manage.
You’re wonderful! Thanks!
Thanks Paula - this topic I’m a bit nervous about - was hoping to finalize it this summer….but….
Glad ot have you back with us for , Hallie. Mark your calendar for every Monday night 8ET/7CT.
I’m going to start with paper tweets this yr with Ss and then allow Tweeter of Day to post one or two.
