My Reading Autobiography

Final Reflections (summer school is done)!

I have learned so much in the past 20 days. I guess what amazes me most  is the fact that all of the apps we used were really easy to use. Before, I have been a little apprehensive about using new technologies.  I stuck with tried and true methods.

This class has been one of the most hands on & useful courses that I have ever taken.  Though, I won't be in a librarian positon in the upcoming year --my RELA class will be transformed!

Sidenote:  Yesterday, was the last day of summer school for Spring ISD, so decided to use my book trailer. It was a absolute hit!  Other teachers wanted to know how I did it!  

I can't wait to share my knowledge!

Remind (Just another App)

Remind (formerly Remind101) made a big difference in my classes last school year. I was able to remind students about project, library visits and test without have to make phone calls.  I even sent them messages during the school breaks to remind them about due dates.  

 I thought that I was the absolute last person to find this handy little tool---but just in case you aren't familiar with it, I felt it was worth introducing.

Remind is a safe way for teachers to stay in contact with both students and parents.

Remind allows teachers to send reminders to their students without students having access to  your personal information.

Here is how it works:

You can visit their website or download the app for your device and create a free account.  Once your account is created you have the ability to create classes within your account.  This will allow you to make a “class” to whom you can send messages.  You are able to create multiple classes, so you can have one for parents as well as classes for each of your student groups.  For each class you create you will receive a code along with a number to text the code to.  Give that information to each person you want to invite to that class.  When they text the code to the number given they receive a text back asking for their name.  Once they reply with their name they are registered! Once your participants have joined their classes you are ready to start using the tool.  Simply log into the site (or use the app), choose which class/classes you wish to send a message to, type in the message you want to send and send it off.  The people who have registered for that class will receive the message as a text on their device.  Want to send a message later but afraid you will forget?  You can type in messages and schedule them to go out at a later date/time.  I don’t think it could get any easier!  There is nothing for you to do with the information…it is done for you automatically!  (these directions were found at: http://teachthrutech.com/2012/08/15/remind-101-a-closer-look/)

On a personal note:  There was a small fire at my previous school (during the very early morning hours).  I was able to contact students and parents about the school closing--without making hundreds of phone calls.

Kahoot!

The first couple of weeks of school have flown by...I have a new job that I absolutely love!
So, here is my first blog of the new school year.
I am always looking for a quick assessment to check my students' understanding of the content being presented--- bottom line, I don't have the time to give them paper and pen assessments everyday---but I need to know if they understand...
About a week ago I was introduced to a really easy and useful app Kahoot!
Kahoot allows you to set up short assessments using your laptop, IPad or even a desktop.  Students use their own device (iPad, tablet or smartphone) to answer questions.
Teachers and students can view the results on screen.

Pros:
Students and Teachers love the instant feedback
Students take ownership of their learning
Students learn to use technology in a responsible manner

Cons;
Wireless connection to the internet is required
Students may not have their own device
Students are allowed to choose their own screen names--there are no filters!