After 11 Tools: Reflections

The slideshow I created using Photostory with some of our vacation photos  was a lot fun and I know the students would have great time creating something similar.  They can add complete sentences and special effects to their pictures.  The ITouches will help make learning exciting and be a valuable resource in the classroom. 

Technology is playing a bigger role in the classroom today than when I first started teaching.  I get a little nervous with all that we have, but I recognize the valule these resources have in assisting in the learning process.  It just goes to show that we never stop learning and we can have some fun while learning.

Tool #11 Digital Citizenship

Three things that I would ensure the students comprehend about being a good digital citizen are safety, etiquette, and responsibility. Brainpop videos could be used to teach the students about digital citizenship.  The students can create a presentation to share with the class using Photo Story, image generators, or mashups for their projects.  As we progress through the school year, I will remind the students the importance of being a digital citizen.

Tool #10 Exploring Mobile Technology and Apps

Over the summer, I got an IPhone and I have had a lot fun learning how to use the variety of apps.  I'm amazed how useful and fun it is.  The IPod touches we have in the classroom will help to engage the children in learning with a hands on approach. 

USA Factbook can be used to learn the state capitals, state natural resources and state symbols.


Hangman can be used to help learn vocabulary and spelling words.

Unblock Me is a puzzle game that will enhance problem solving skills.

I look forward to all the fun we can have with our new technology in the classroom.

Tool #9 Sharing information through Jing and Skype

Jing could be used with new students to show classroom routines, stations, schedules, rules, etc.  This would be a tool that would make multi-tasking easier.

Skype can allow the children to share information and experiences with other children within the district or around the nation. 

Tool #8 Video Resources

The videos will grasp the childrens attention with the fun songs and silly antics, helping retain the information.

Follow the link below to view Nanna's Mad Lab, performing an experiment explaining "States of Matter".
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmHxYE_vDBs

Follow the link below to view Mr. Davies "Water Cycle Song" video and song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okZBiy_IdBA

Tool #7 Digital Storytelling

I used Photo Story to create my digital story and I really enjoyed watching the finished product.  The students can use Photo Story to add a fun twist of creating their own story.

Tool #6 Wikis

• Students might use Wikis in the classroom to aid in their learning by creating Powerpoints, share information, show off their work and/or build collaborative pages.

• I joined PBWorks.com to be able to use this in the classroom and to share with my team.  It states that we could post homework and other information for parents or others to see.  I am eager to see what I can use and share with my team!

Tool #5:Tagging and Social Networking

Two sites:
http://www.flyontheclassroomwall.blogspot.com/

http://www.strangematterexhibit.com/

Tags used: matter; science

How will Social networking be useful in the classroom:
Social Networking will be useful in the classroom to find ideas and share them with others.  It may contain lesson plans that could be useful in teh classroom.  I also, found some experiments I could use!!

Tool #4: Cool Google Tools

1. I created a spreadsheet that I will use to keep track of the supplies the children bring in.

2. I have subscribed to the following:
ABC News Houston
Houston Chronicle
Discovery News
Discovery Channel Earth
People.com

3.We could use the subscriptions under Google Reader like Discovery Channel Earth in Science to look up birds and their charateristics.  We could use the Chronicle and News to keep up with what is happening in Houston.

Tool #3: Image Generators & Mashups

1.

Image Generator

By: jkonrath's photstream


2. Wordle will be added as a gadget.  Look for it on the side!    

3.  I would use the picture of the tree in writing.  The children can describe wha the tree looks like or in science to use how it could feel or what they see(senses).
The wordle could be used by the children to desribe how a character of a story feels or even to check for understanding on what nouns or verbs are.

            

Tool #2: Building Community & Comments

I enjoyed looking at others blogs to get ideas and hope to be able to share information. 

From the commenting advice section, I took to heart the part of making positve comments.  Not just, Right on, but why, right on.  Write what you are thinking about what the blogger wrote.

The 5 blogs that I commented on were:
1st Time Teacher
Sports Nut
My Experiences
Rodriguez Review
SuperThornDos

Tool #1: Blog set up and registration

Being the first time on here, I appreciate the help of one of my coworkers, Miss. Chen.  I was having a little bit of melt down and she was my calming factor.  She helped me get started and I will always be grateful for her help.

Starting a Blog

Hi everyone!

My name is Rocio and I am a teacher at TWE.  This is a blog about using technology in the classroom.  I know I'll learn a lot.  Enjoy!