Monday, November 9, 2015

Stopping to Check the Gauges

Differentiating instruction for my students was the most difficult and worthwhile task that I chose to take on as a sixth grade Math teacher. Providing students with differentiated lessons in small groups and assignments based on their readiness required strong classroom management and careful planning, but it was rewarding to see students grow and flourish in this type of learning environment. Teaching my students in small groups and working as a facilitator of learning allowed me to get to know and love my students on a more personal level.

It is my goal to find ways to differentiate instruction and allow for choice during my professional development sessions with teachers this year. During my October Transform Session, I provided teachers with an opportunity to choose their own topic for learning and exploration. Though the feedback from teachers was excellent, many of them had a difficult time deciding what they needed/wanted to learn. As I planned for this month, my goal was to find a solution that allowed for choice without overwhelming anyone or triggering an "I don't know what I don't know" response.



We started the session by revisiting an AnswerGarden of teacher responses from September that lists words we want students to use to describe our class at the end of the year. As the first quarter closes and a new nine week period begins, this was a great opportunity to reflect on how the year is going so far! With the words FUN, ENGAGING, and EXCITING in mind, we used Charades Kids to play a quick "Name that App" Challenge.

With exams approaching in December, it was the perfect time to share a collection of apps/tools that teachers can use for assessment and review. Using Google Classroom, I shared a copy of the Slides presentation, throughout which I included informational links for each of apps or websites shared. After a quick overview of the seven tools, teachers were asked to choose and explore just one by creating a quick assessment or study tool for students. As they were exploring and creating, I was circulating to answer questions and assist those who are less comfortable with technology.

In selecting the apps/tools to share, I tried to find a balance of "old" and "new" in order to meet the needs of those who want to dig deeper into tools they already know and those who are always looking for something new. One teacher commented, "I did not feel rushed through this session. It was a great review of some of the apps that have been introduced previously. There were also some new apps that I am going use in the next few weeks!" Many other teachers left similar comments and included positive feedback on time to explore and create. Quizalize was the most popular new tool this month.




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