Write about your shoe for all I care, JUST WRITE!!

There has been an incredible focus on Reading and Math in todays educational environments however writing is just as important and is sometimes being thrown at the back burner. I have recently made journals with my students and told them to write in it every night. I am the only one reading them. I am not even checking for correct grammatical operations, I just want them to write. I emphasized that they may write about anything; their house, their friends, their shoe! I just want to get them writing first. They need so much practice. Since accommodations and interventions are so important and because some writers can get writers block when they have so much freedom, here is a great resource for writing topics for grades k-12. Use these ideas for students who need that extra support whether it be topic ideas or further critical thinking topics. Enjoy!
Writing Topic Ideas for grades K-12

1:1 Classrooms

As technology is expanding, it is important to incorporate it into that classroom as means to enhance student learning. The following articles provide advice for adding BYOT (Bring your own technology), iPads, or Laptops in the classroom.

What you should do                           What you shouldn't do

Youtube in Education

As youtube has previously been blocked from education networks, it is beginning to expand its educational options. Youtube launches a new program called Next Edu Gurus.
Will schools let Youtube back into their network? Many already have and I believe that many more will. The important thing to remember about using Youtube is that if you use the video in your classroom, legally you must email the creator for permission. Do not get discouraged because this is extremely simple. Send them a brief email saying that, "I am requesting your permission to use your Youtube video in my classroom as an educational opportunity to learn _____. Please reply to this email if you find this to be an issue. Thank you for your time." Usually you do not get a response meaning that you may use it in your classroom. Otherwise this new Youtube site, Next Edu Gurus will be designed for the classroom and will therefore allow you to use any of its products in the classroom.
To Learn More Click Here! 

Post-it!

As I begin my blogging experience through "The Passion to Teach" I have decided to reflect on the current research that I have completed as a way to spread professional development. I have learned the importance of 'borrowing and stealing' ideas through Harry Wong's novel "The First Days of School." It is important for teachers to collaborate, question, and explore together so that students receive the latest and greatest teaching.

Recently, while student teaching, I have been using sticky notes in numerous ways. Mostly in reading I am having students actively thinking and questioning while recording those ideas on sticky notes. This article delivers more unique ways to use sticky notes in the classroom.

Sticky Note Teaching