In the 21st century, there is a multitude of ways to communicate with parents. I know a large part of the education workforce is comprised of ‘digital immigrants’, but with a little time and motivation, all teachers can (and should) utilize technology to increase communication with parents and students. Here are my eight favorite ways […]
Technology
Posted inInstruction & Curriculum
36 Weeks of Technology: GoNoodle
In this series, #36weeksoftech, I will review tech tools in my classroom. I will give you my honest opinion and some pros and cons through the eyes of an experienced teacher. This is my 21st year in the classroom, and I teach all subject areas. Using technology can be a way to increase engagement and […]
Posted inInstruction & Curriculum
ThatQuiz: A Great, Easy to Use Resource
ThatQuiz is a great resource for teachers and students! Here’s a quick breakdown of what it can do for a classroom teacher: Create quizzes of various types. Maintain a class/student list to track progress. Students are able to use independently and access outside of school. Grades and averages for the quizzes are kept for you. You […]
Posted inInstruction & Curriculum
The Techno-Sceptic’s Guide To Using Technology in the Classroom
I am not usually a big fan of technology in the classroom. To quote a former colleague on the subject, it’s often just “window dressing.” Just because students are using computers or smart boards or document projectors doesn’t mean that they are learning 21st century skills. If all that they are doing is coloring in […]
Posted inAsk a Teacher
Top 5 Things Every Teacher Should Do Before School Starts
Have the teacher dreams started? Does your heart pound when you see the school supply section at Target? While you’re relaxing on the beach, have you defaulted to lesson planning over novels? To help calm your nerves, I’ve compiled notes about five top things every teacher should do before school starts – and guarantee you’ll […]
Posted inTechnology
Google Classroom Part 3: First Year Reflections
I surveyed 42 of my juniors for this article. The questionnaire asked them to comment on benefits and frustrations with Google Classroom and Google Apps. Every student agreed that they felt more connected to students and curriculum by using Google Classroom. Most students said they preferred to virtually collaborate because of convenience, connection to teacher, […]
Posted inTechnology
Google Classroom Part 2: How to Set It Up
Alright, you’ve decided to give Google Classroom a try…now what? Here is a basic guide to begin using Google Classroom. Step 1: Create a Classroom Page Sign into your google account and go to www.classroom.google.com. Click the plus-sign (+) next to your email address (top right-hand corner). Select “create a class” and title it. You […]
Posted inTechnology
Google Classroom Series Part 1: Why I Use It
I love the feel of paper in my hands. My husband has desperately been trying to convert me to the Kindle, but I keep buying more printed books. Yes, we’re running out of bookshelf space (but isn’t it every English teacher’s dream to own an in-home library?), and yes, digital copies are cheaper, but I […]