To start the year off, I like to spend a few classes getting to know my students and allow them to get to know each other as well. One of the activities that I have done is co-create the classroom expectations. To the left, you will find a photo from one discussion that we had as a class.
I also like to ask my students to fill out a questionnaire on the first day. This allows me to do a general check-in with my students and help determine if they have any goals for that year. |
Technology Integration
In my teaching, I try to use technology as a regular tool instead of it as a reward. I have learned that gamification can help further a students understanding.
In my first year, to help a grade 6/7 ELD class understand algebra, I created a series of lessons using Minecraft Education. Below, students work as a team to solve algebraic equations to get the materials for repairing the roller coaster. Once they repair the coaster, they need to successfully ride it to the finish!
In my first year, to help a grade 6/7 ELD class understand algebra, I created a series of lessons using Minecraft Education. Below, students work as a team to solve algebraic equations to get the materials for repairing the roller coaster. Once they repair the coaster, they need to successfully ride it to the finish!
We used Minecraft Education for about 2 weeks as an experiment in the classroom and we found a significant increase in student participation, especially when we switched to online learning. One of the quiet students who didn't speak in English often started to participate more in class and was always asking if we were going to finish the class on Minecraft.
Below is some images from when students had a little more freedom with building structures. They were faced with some word problems to encourage algebraic thinking. We also did an off-line activity where they drew their Minecraft character on chart paper and calculated the perimeter.
Below is some images from when students had a little more freedom with building structures. They were faced with some word problems to encourage algebraic thinking. We also did an off-line activity where they drew their Minecraft character on chart paper and calculated the perimeter.
Outdoor Education
|
Our first field trip after the pandemic!
At the MacSkimming Outdoor Education Centre, students were able to explore the forest to discover what organisms we most prominent in early spring. They also had to work together when learning survival skills, like starting a fire, and then participated in a 5 minute meditative experience. At the end of the day, their physical skills were put to the test with a game of predator and prey in the forest! |
Anthologies
These are some examples of books that can be used for book studies to incorporate environmental sustainability.
Art With Ms.B
Putting student work up for display!