Thursday, November 29, 2012

I Love Math!!!

That message was posted by one of my students after submitting their assignment on Edmodo. This couldn't have come at a better time. And here I was feeling a little overwhelmed because a little video was not loading properly.  Not to mention the fact that after re-reading Delia Bush's post, "How am I Making This Work?", I have come to the realization that I need to create a calendar, a chart or something with their assignments and video schedules for the entire unit. Which means I need to plan ahead... way ahead.  (and if you know me, you know that is really out of my character).

If you are thinking about flipping your class, I would also recommend you check out Crystal Kirch's FAQ's on her blog.  I have mentioned before how her students use WSQ when completing their assignments.  I really want to give a "shout-out" to Crystal for commenting on my last post!  Just those little suggestions you made have made a big difference in such a short time with my students.  Thank you!

Now, I really need to get on that calendar.  Ugh!

Using Egg Cartons to Add Fractions
1/2 + 1/3



And the answer is . . . 5/6!
 

This activity came from  Actions With Fractions
1998 AIMS Education Foundation

P.S. I just finished a fanstastic webinar with Crystal Kirch! I can't tell you how excited I was to learn that I don't have to have the entire chart filled in before I give it to the students. I can't say how important it is to "hook up" with other teachers if you are flipping. Whether it be in person or online; it is so important to have a resource you can learn from. Thanks again Crystal!

Monday, November 26, 2012

I've watched the video, now what?

I don't know how else I need to say it or what I need to do to help my students understand they are expected to complete a WSQ reflection (Watch, Summarize, Question) each time they watch a video. This idea came from Crystal Kirch.  After the assignment has been posted, I will usually get 1 or 2 posts on Edmodo asking if the WSQ is optional or do they even have to do a WSQ.  I have said it over and over. I have even written it as part of the instructions for completing the assignment. Granted, I don't write it every time. I really shouldn't have to, should I?

I have given them the choice of using a Google Document or completing the form in their math notebooks. I am also thinking whether or not students should be required to use the Google document each time or should they just write their responses in their notebooks or type them on a Word template and then print and glue them in their notebooks.

I am starting to think that requiring them to use the Google Document is more for my convenience than it is for their benefit since I can quickly check their response online rather than looking at 24 spiral notebooks.  The downside is when they use the Google Document, they don't have their video notes with them... And aren't the notes for them to use? 

What are your expectations for your students once they have finished watching the video? 

Sunday, November 18, 2012

What Are You Thankful For?

In light of the approaching holiday season, I thought it would be appropriate to talk about all the things I am thankful for in my flipped classroom rather than focus on the things I want to improve. So here is my thankful list:

I am thankful for...

Students that watch their videos and complete their WSQ forms after watching (and the ones who don't).

Parents that are supportive of our flipped classroom.

Administration that supports what I am trying to do in my classroom.

Tech Support that is always so helpful when I call (and I call a lot) with technical issues.

A tech savvy teacher next door that is always eager to help when I can't wait for Tech Support.

An online community of flippers and educators that are so willing and eager
to share their experiences with others to help make all of our classrooms better!

What are you thankful for?

Happy Holidays!
Sincerely,
Sheila

Monday, November 12, 2012

Creating a Cube


To begin our unit on volume the students created a cubic meter using meter sticks.
 

We combined our squares to make a cubic meter.
 



How many of the large Base-10 cubes will fill in our cubic meter?
 
This activity was adapted from K5 Math Teaching Resources.

Goodbye!

Wow! I can’t believe I have not posted anything this entire school year! I’m not sure what that means. I have decided that I will be retir...