1. Practiced Yoga
During our annual reading of the Arkansas Diamond Nominee books, we incorporated more Yoga into our library. We always transition from carpet time to table work or reading spaces by stretching with basic yoga poses. Sequoia by Tony Johnston was the perfect avenue for us to add a new pose!
2. Broke a Geode
A student found an image of a geode in his library book. He asked if they were real and was curious about the crystals growing inside of a "rock ball". I happened to have a geode left from Christmas (my kids wanted some). We took a hammer and the geode outside to bash it open. They had fun watching it smash into pieces and choosing a piece to take home. I love that their learning wasn't even planned. Spontaneity makes the BEST lessons.
3. Was Allowed at the Radio Station (again)
This was the fourth or fifth time I had been asked to do the radio spot. Our local station has a feature weekly highlighting activities at each campus. So much fun to see how the technology works and take clips back to our students.
4. Invited Parents to Play
During our Spring Family Night, we set up stations of our tech fun for students and parents. I think the parents had more fun playing with OSMO, Cubelets, and watching our 3-D printer than the students. It was great to see families working together to figure out how to combine Cubelets to meet the challenges.
5. Invited the Public Library to Visit
Our local public library Director and Cataloger love to visit schools. They talked with 6th graders about how to apply for a library card, how to use their e-book collection, and plans for the new library space. Babbs (cataloger) loves to share new books and her favorite reads!
6. Created Standing Computer Stations
We removed the "chairs of death" in our lab and raised the tables. Students enjoy the option to sit on a stool or stand to work. Many choose to stand and have said that they love being able to move around while working.
7. Went Old School
I found a box of transparency paper in the back of the library. Students designed a "stained glass" autobiography. Using Google Drawing, students wrote their name and added at least five images that describe themselves.
8. Gave Away Books
Each year, we have Free Book Day. It had another name, but students just call it Free Book Day...so that's what it is. We use money raised through Scholastic Book Fairs to purchase "bruised book" boxes and sets of books. Each student receives at least three brand-new books and have the opportunity to choose a couple of weeded library books. All students that our library serves take home at least four books for their home library. It's crazy, made, and stressful, but it's also fun!
9. Explored PD with Digital Breakouts
Thanks to my friend Jennifer Lyon, I didn't have to create the breakout myself! During a summer PD session, we explored digital breakouts. Teachers are really competitive!
BreakoutEDU has some free digital breakout games; however, you do have the option to purchase pre-made games. You can also use Google Sites to create a customized Digital Breakout.
10. Explored Race through Literature and Art
Our fantastic art teacher wanted to talk about our differences. We searched the catalog for a book that would support her lesson and teach racism. The Skin I'm In by Pat Thomas was perfect for our learners. Students created a self-portrait that was displayed on a rainbow background (I believe each grade level was assigned a color).
I loved the display and conversation students had about how important we all are.
No comments:
Post a Comment