Tips and Tidbits
Week of Sept. 14, 2015 vol.1
Collaborate and Communicate: 5 Ways to Increase Rigor and Relevance
One way we can create authentic learning opportunities and in turn increase relevance to our instruction is by collaborating and communicating. Quad C and D lessons include verbs like debate, defend, explain, express, justify, summarize, propose, recommend, and rate. Look at the tasks you're asking students to do and instead of directing students to "fill this out" ask them to collaborate, share, discuss, comment and interview.
ConnectEd Collaborate
This is a great platform for students to write, reflect, explain, express opinions, and respond to a topic. It allows them to learn from each other all the while increasing their communication skills in an on-demand writing opportunity.
If you'd like me to model a lesson using ConnectEd's Collaborate, contact me to set up an appointment. The lesson would include how to comment on others' posts and keep the conversation going online.
Email: kristacarson@smsd.org
Create a Shared Learning Wall.
Invite students to find and upload copyright free images to a shared Linoit wall representing current vocabulary.
OR
Students can reflect on the day's learning and add a short summary to the wall. Students and/or teacher can vote for the one short summary that will be used as the tweet for the day from the classroom Twitter account.
Collaborate on a Shared Document
Invite students to plan, write and revise writing in a Google Doc or Slides. Share the document with peers to read and recommend revisions.
Blog
Start a classroom blog or individual student blogs using Kidblog. Students can reflect on learning, discuss current topics and write for an authentic audience.
One way to start slowly is to try QuadBlogging. Check out the link below to find out more about QuadBlogging.
Google+ Community
Join this Google+ Community and you will be able to connect with classrooms across the globe or participate in Google Hangouts with experts in the field.
Choose one idea that's new to you and implement as a regular practice in your class this year.
Let me know how I can help.
Email: kristacarson@smsd.org