Welcome to #BmoreEdchat this evening! Thanks to @MrPenn31 for guest moderating! Please intro yourself with your name, role, location, and favorite science experiment!
Hey everybody! Justin, Resident Principal @RPEMS233 in Baltimore City here! My favorite experiment is George the Gummy Worm! Love when he is saved by students! #BmoreEdchat
Hi! Jen Manly, and I’m a middle school computer science and robotics teacher in AACPS. BUT! I live in Baltimore, I love following, and I couldn’t miss out on the STEM chat! #BmoreEdchat
Good Evening everyone! Welcome to tonight's #BmoreEdchat. Brendan, STEM Teacher K-4, Owings Mills, but currently at Smith Island with the #MDTOY cohort. My favorite experiment was watering flowers with dyed water and watching the petals change color in 2nd grade.
Welcome to #BmoreEdchat this evening! Thanks to @MrPenn31 for guest moderating! Please intro yourself with your name, role, location, and favorite science experiment!
Kait here! 2nd grade teacher from Baltimore City! I was always horrible at experiments (I often blew up the beakers and was afraid of the Bunsen burner) #BmoreEdchat
Welcome to #BmoreEdchat this evening! Thanks to @MrPenn31 for guest moderating! Please intro yourself with your name, role, location, and favorite science experiment!
Hey people, Corey , magnet Coordinator @GRMS_Magnet my favorite science experiment is launching soda bottle rockets and estimating flight information #BmoreEdchat
Rian here from #LaurelHighSchool! Special Educator/English 9 Team Lead/ Class of 2022 Sponsor/Assist. Indoor Softball Coach..and a few other untiled roles :) ELEMENTARY SCIENCE: Classifying leaves after a nature walk #BmoreEdchat
Hi all! Jessica, Ed Specialist at ESC Region 12...fave science experiment was making birds nests out of natural materials to see if we could man make one as strong as the birds! 🦅 #BmoreEdchat
A1) Hi- Pattie here, an Instructional Technology Specialist in Milwaukee. I had students build spaghetti towers as a team building exercise. Students loved it and learned a lot about communication. #BmoreEdchat
Ooh I did one with kids once where we talked abt heat changes by putting one corn kernel and a tiny bit of oil in a glass tube and holding over a heat source...so amazing to watch the change! #BmoreEdchat
A1: my students had a blast acting out the battles of the War of 1812! Loved how they were able to use our vocabulary, like impressment, through actions. I was very proud ❤#BmoreEdchat
A1 I'll never forget the day Darek sat down during our crime scene creative writing activity and wrote so passionately about what he thought happened. They loved exploring, and it made me so proud to see their hard work 😊 #BmoreEdChat
A1: One of my favorite lessons was borrowing the idea from @kait013087 to have my students rap their math facts with rolling numbers. I have high school students who come back rapping the lyrics! #BmoreEdchat
#BmoreEdchat Trae, 6th grade ELA. A lesson my Ss engaged in involved using GPS units to find story parts around the school’s campus. Then, using what they knew about plot, placed the parts back in order. Finally, Ss write to explain how the authors developed the plot.
A1: Fave lesson included making it “snow” in Texas using the snow kits...my kids were astonished by the fact that the powder became something more...even more so when they found out it was used in diapers! #BmoreEdchat
A1: There was a lesson in which my first grade students made pencils stand upright on their points by using counterweights. It was part of the science curriculum and students loved it. #BmoreEdchat
A1: There was a lesson in which my first grade students made pencils stand upright on their points by using counterweights. It was part of the science curriculum and students loved it. #BmoreEdchat
A1: Along with the PE teacher, we taught units focusing on the War of 1812. With kindergarten, the students read about and studied Mary Pickersgill, the local flagmaker who created the infamous flag. We then learned how to sew and created our own throw pillows. #BmoreEdchat
A1: Ss were debating energy sources- they researched nuclear vs coal and then I threw out an article on nuclear fusion in the last few minutes for both teams to consider- the kids were so passionate and inspiring to watch- They even incorporated the new info #BmoreEdchat
Dr. Richard Warren | Somerset MD | G8 S.T.EM
A1 - Model Rockets-students all had various roles such as architects, engineers, researchers, construction workers,and aero scientists.Each had a particular task and depended on each other to complete the final product. #BmoreEdChat
A1: since I am a science teacher, most of the labs are fun to me. Hard to pick a favorite but electrolysis of water is always fun to watch kids do #BmoreEdchat
A1: Lesson on goal setting where I connected @Drake's journey as an artist to understanding that each person's journey is unique..my most disengaged student was hooked & I gained respect when I educated them on @drake's previous role as an actor on Degrassi---#bmoreedchat
A1: The best lesson I ever taught was this immersive cryptography experience where kids are transported to 1941 as they race the clock to break Enigma. Combines SS, reading/writing, and code breaking (CS teacher!). Happy to share all resources! #BmoreEdchat
A2: Books!!! Half of my classroom was always a classroom library...we did daily read-aloud, had a chapter book ongoing always and kids knew and enjoyed reading anytime they could! #BmoreEdchat
#BmoreEdchat A2: We like to use all of the tools that are used in other contents since Ss struggle w/synthesizing: Use maps to describe by writing; create written directions to solve a math problem; replicate a structure in a story, etc.
Hello! My name is Amanda Campos. I’m a teacher in Houston and my favorite science experiments are either dissections or photosynthesis lab! #BmoreEdChat
Welcome to #BmoreEdchat this evening! Thanks to @MrPenn31 for guest moderating! Please intro yourself with your name, role, location, and favorite science experiment!
A2: Legos! They are so versatile and it is impossible for students to not engage with them. I can use them for Art, Math, Engineering, or just Social Play. #BmoreEdchat
Hi! Amara Griffin, Makerspace Resource at Lansdowne Elementary. I think one of the neatest experiments I ever tried was making a naked egg :) #BmoreEdChat
We watched a clip of Willy Wonka with the Mike TV segment and compared it to the Brainpop on how cloud computing works. The kids were amused at the idea of particles of information above and then learned the reality of how the cloud really works.
A3: Look in the CLOSET! Sometimes we have access to more than we THINK we have access too. There just might be some unopened doors with unpacked boxes with JUST what you are looking for! #BmoreEdChat
A3: Gain access??? Depends on the project. Many times I end up purchasing the materials myself. I use recycled materials but it depends on what I need. #BmoreEdchat
A3) we are in the very beginning process of setting up our Creator Space. I’ve seen a lot of requests for material donations on the PTA Facebook pages, though. #BmoreEdchat
#BmoreEdchat Q3: Most of the time, I ask around or I buy some of the things I need. @DollarTree is my spot! I’ll do whatever so Ss can have access without having to pay.
A3: scour the house, beg other teachers and sometimes ask students to bring in. Sometimes I even hold on to junk because I just have the ‘sense’ it will be perfect for something #BmoreEdchat
A3: “Making” is a vehicle for the learning. It’s not always about the end product, more the process.
Obtaining necessary materials has been a hurdle in the past. Lots of recycled materials, donations, and school funds for other materials. #BmoreEdchat
I use book fair profits to purchase Makerspace materials and have support from our science department. In addition parents donate materials. Free Legos are a beautiful thing! #BmoreEdChat
Here comes Question 3!
A3: Maker learning is allowing students to demonstrate their understanding and comprehension through building, constructing, engineering, artistic artwork, and presenting or celebrating their work!
A3 My students used https://t.co/755y8ittC0 to write and self-publish their book, Behind the Door of G115. We used the Chromebooks provided by our county to facilitate this. #BmoreEdChat
A4: Wipes, hand sanitizer, & Dollar Store trashcans. I give each group/table the necessary materials to clean up after themselves. I find the more trashcans you provide, the more Ss will clean after themselves. Set expectations & provide time for clean up. #BmoreEdchat
A4: Teaching students where materials go and having things labeled. Provided plenty of time for clean up. I always use a strategy @MrPenn31 taught me. Teaching the difference between tools, consumables, and reusables. I make a lesson out of it. #BmoreEdchat
A1: One proud teaching moment was when I channeled the kids' natural curiosities and energy via 'Creation Station,' during ELA independent work time. Ss chose their own topics and presentation method. I learned so much about my students! #BmoreEdChat
A4: I also have been creating Maker 'Kits" that have many items that are needed. This leads to quick, easy cleanup with back-to-back classes. #BmoreEdchat
A4: Double whammy: give kids a budget for every project and place prices on materials. Kids hang on to their stuff, they use what they take, AND they get some real life math application in the process. #BmoreEdChat
A4 I leave plenty of time for clean-up and find more success with asking specific students to complete specific tasks rather than asking a broad question to the entire room. #BmoreEdChat
A4: planning is the best clean up procedure, next is a strong culture with class roles, finally I use fun timers, competition and relentlessly clear procedures #BmoreEdchat
A4: Double whammy: give kids a budget for every project and place prices on materials. Kids hang on to their stuff, they use what they take, AND they get some real life math application in the process. #BmoreEdChat
A4 I think having a strong sense of community and belonging in classroom sets a strong foundation for cleanup. So want a clean, bright space when they take ownership of it and feel a part of it.#BmoreEdchat
A2: Defintely the microscope and test tubes. You can’t teach 7th grade life science without it. :) I’m now getting into incorporating a #3DPrinter so I’m very excited about that. #BmoreEdChat
A2: At the moment it's hot glue guns 😂 but seriously, the cool shots are ok for even K to use, and the quick drying nature of hot glue beats any other adhesive when 18-20 kids are all making projects at once! #BmoreEdchat
Q5: How do we teach collaboration or the sharing of ideas with students, particularly in elementary grades, but also in middle/high school? #BmoreEdchat
Ohhh, Amara - you are brave! I never bring my hot glue guns to class, even now working with adults. LOL -- too worried someone will burn themselves. #BmoreEdchat
Q5: How do we teach collaboration or the sharing of ideas with students, particularly in elementary grades, but also in middle/high school? #BmoreEdchat
A3: As of this week, @DonorsChoose and @Chevron has come through for our kids. Very thankful! Other than that, I use a lot of recycled materials and I ask (ok, maybe beg) my colleagues to donate materials that they would have normally thrown away. #BmoreEdchat
#BmoreEdchat Q5: We use @KaganOnline structures early and often. Also, we model cooperation by letting Ss see us Ts collaborate and share with one another. It benefits everyone.
A5: A recent strategy I learned at a PD was to have students put their fingerprint or initials on their aspect of the group design. This ensures everyone has a say in the plan. #BmoreEdchat
Q5: How do we teach collaboration or the sharing of ideas with students, particularly in elementary grades, but also in middle/high school? #BmoreEdchat
A5: Model with the Ts! Also, allowing a design process where there is planning, time for student communication, & supporting the groups throughout the process #BmoreEdchat
Q5: How do we teach collaboration or the sharing of ideas with students, particularly in elementary grades, but also in middle/high school? #BmoreEdchat
A3: BEYOND grateful for funds allocated for my Makerspace - used them for high tech tools like Makey Makey and Ozobots -thank you, @BaltCoPS! For 'tinkering' Maker projects I get recyclables from LES teachers and families! To me, Making is exploring without fear. #BmoreEdchat
#BmoreEdchat Q5: We use @KaganOnline structures early and often. Also, we model cooperation by letting Ss see us Ts collaborate and share with one another. It benefits everyone.
A5: Post-Group Work Discussion Questions.....
What success did you have while working?
What glitches did you encounter while working?
Why is this process important? #BMoreEdChat
Q5: How do we teach collaboration or the sharing of ideas with students, particularly in elementary grades, but also in middle/high school? #BmoreEdchat
They grow the three sisters (corn, beans, and squash), asparagus, tomatoes - all kinds of veggies. They also create their own compost from the school’s food waste to use in the garden. #BmoreEdChat
A4: Defintely have a place for everything & have it labeled so the kids know where to put unused materials. Also, ask a student to help carry the recycle bin! I end the activity a lot earlier before the bell to make time to clean. #procedures#procedures#procedures#BmoreEdChat
A5: I think first, we have to recognize that many students’ cultures value collaboration over competition, which is often in direct conflict w/ traditional schooling. Plus, humans are social creatures - many of our students are naturally equipped to collaborate (1/2) #BmoreEdChat
A5: Post-Group Work Discussion Questions.....
What success did you have while working?
What glitches did you encounter while working?
Why is this process important? #BMoreEdChat
Q5: How do we teach collaboration or the sharing of ideas with students, particularly in elementary grades, but also in middle/high school? #BmoreEdchat
I love those tools as well! Our @BCPSmakes Lending Library is awesome! My young students love learning the early stages of coding with Ozobots! #BmoreEdchat
In reply to
@LESLionLab1, @bmoreedchat, @BaltCoPS, @BCPSmakes
A5 cont: It comes down to giving them the opportunities to practice collaboration. Do it in different settings- learning, projects, etc, but also in diff groupings. Debrief after. I use pluses and deltas, which is easy and focused on growth rather than negatives. #bmoreedchat
a3b. Maker learning- constructing knowledge and solutions through access to information, manipulation of materials and creation of objects. New focus of our school library now renamed The Construction Zone #bmoreedchat
Indeed!!! It is a great way to end a lesson and also allows for reflection for our more emotionally-intelligent students! All wisdom can be celebrated and listened to for our growth! #BMoreEdChat
A6: Learning is all about reflection and the process we model in STEM or science classes can be applied to the thinking we apply in other classes. 1. What happened? 2. What is your reaction and analysis? 3. What are your conclusion based on evidence? #BmoreEdchat
A4: Clear storage bins. EVERYWHERE. With teacher permission, 1-2 kids stay after classes to scurry and put runaway items back. I also have 3 former Ss (5th graders) who visit me after school each day; we decompress while tidying up together. It's a nice routine :) #BmoreEdChat
haha, sure! I have $1 containers from Big Lots with Scissors, markers, tape, rubber bands, etc. I can leave one tub at each table. This reduces the amount of traffic within the room for materials. #bmoreedchat
A6) Studying for my CETL exam, and there is a lot of emphasis put on the ability to use the design process, problem solving, and all the soft skills associated with STEM and Making. The jobs of the future require these abilities to adapt and collaborate. #BmoreEdchat
A gallery walk, after a first attempt of a given challenge, motivates students because they see value in the ideas of others and then go back to their project and make it better. #BmoreEdchat
Q5: How do we teach collaboration or the sharing of ideas with students, particularly in elementary grades, but also in middle/high school? #BmoreEdchat
A5: Scaffold! Middle school students can be nervous to share their ideas. I’m trying to build their confidence in speaking about their ideas on @Flipgrid before they share face-to-face. #BmoreEdChat
Q5: How do we teach collaboration or the sharing of ideas with students, particularly in elementary grades, but also in middle/high school? #BmoreEdchat
A7: Starts with a community event around the purpose of maker/stem learning. We must invite families in the school to learn and celebrate the problem solving our kids can do. Next is partnering with community partners who model scientific process for students LIVE! #BmoreEdchat
One part of this is to use questioning to help students focus their thinking and improve a given research question. Integrating subject areas also extends thinking and learning too. #BmoreEdchat
@bmoreedchat, thank you for allowing @MrPenn31 to host tonight! He is so awesome!! Got me thinking about how I use and how I will further use STEM in ELA! 😍🙌🏽 #BmoreEdChat
A7: Share their careers. Parents may just work in Design Thinking and can share their career fields with the class or even the school! We have a Career Day coming up! PLEASE share our career Day Sign-Up: https://t.co/c9a63B50jG We are severely lacking volunteers! #BMoreEdChat
A7: connecting with the community makes the learning authentic and provides an audience. I hope to reach out to my new families in order to get volunteers in the classroom. #BmoreEdchat
Working to reinforce the idea of giving credit where credit is due. If someone sees an idea they like and build off it, they should credit the original; likewise, the original should be proud that they inspired someone. Trying to ban the statement, 'THEY COPIED ME!' #BmoreEdchat
#BmoreEdchat Q7: Advertise, advertise, advertise! Our local paper was invited and shared the success of our Makerspace initiated by one of our teachers. Welcome parents to engage with the kids.
Schools can host a maker showcase for the community, where guests can see student work and hear students talk about ideas for real world problem solving. Invite professional “makers” from science, tech, manufacturing to the event. #BmoreEdchat
A7. Sharing the curriculum/key topics goes a long way to facilitating family engagement. I created and led a maker lesson in my daughter's second grade class aligned with their English unit... fairytales/Cinderella. They created alternative settings using recyclables #bmoreedchat
