Prezi Action

I just pimped my presentation on Point of View with Prezi. I LOVE it. It's much more attractive than powerpoint and the best part is, it's in the cloud! The tutorials are a must, but once I got the hang of it, it became very easy to do. 


 They seem to be adding new features often, which I like. I had been using this tool off and on, but I learned about the new features and it's great. I think kids are going to come to expect dynamic, engaging presentations like these. Once again, this has "flipped classroom" written all over it!

My Story Bird - Life Lessons

Life Lessons for ages 1-100 on Storybird

For me, this was a good activity in creating meaning from pictures.  I felt like I was doing the caption contest for the New Yorker.  I think kids would LOVE this at any age.  Very, very engaging!

My Blog Bling

My blog is all "blinged" out.  I like to keep it pretty simple though.  I've added a Yourtube link to the right as a gadget among other things.  I have embedded a video I've used in my ELA class that usually gets rave reviews.  It's probably the smartest commercial I've ever seen.  It's worth watching twice.  I use this to demonstrate personification and foreshadowing (yes, foreshadowing in a TV commercial).

How could I use a blog in the classroom?  I could use it for collaboration, and just like we did here, showcase media.  It's perfect for flipped instruction.  I could even see it as a digital portfolio that stays with students in any content area.  There is a ton of potential.  It's an opportunity for students to showcase what they know and care about.

Of the options listed, I think Blogger would be good for more authentic blogging.  Kidblog looks good for a more gated, project-based blog.  If I could have my pick, I would do Schoology school-wide.  Staff and Students would then only need to learn one platform:)

Introduction Time

Hi, this is my first post.

 

Quite honestly, I was motivated to write this blog because of the sweet video advertising it.  I also like technology and using it in the classroom.  There are always new tools, and this will give me a chance to hone in on a few I can try out next year.

I am hoping to learn about some new tools this summer.  It's near impossible to learn and implement new tech during the middle of the school year.

I am hoping to do less than I usually do this summer.  That's the whole point, right?  I am also going to my cabin for a week with no technology.  That might hurt.

Andrew