Tuesday, August 2, 2016

On the Edge of My Seat

It is just a few weeks until the start of another great year. A clean slate to paint a new masterpiece. Bare walls on which to create a great tapestry of inquiry, investigation and inspiration. Long gone are my science posters of the subjects of life science. This year I will focus on higher order thinking by building an interactive word wall, a comment board-each class a different color of sticky-note, and concept maps of the larger ideas of life science.

I have new standing desks and round tables, and science desks. I am going to spread them out like a coffee house. Even bring some stools and bean bags. Flexible seating, baby. This is a new concept to me and it scares me, but I am going to take the leap forward, I am going to take the risk. It is what will make learning more accessible and enjoyable for students. As long as I have my same organization and discipline model in place all should go smoothly. I have very little behavior issues-I run a tight ship. But we do have fun and letting them move about and have a choice of where to sit will make them feel more connected and welcome in the classroom.

My makerspace is taking shape. Tinker Corner? Not sure of title yet, but I have gathered materials and will ask kids to bring in recyclables too. Lots of hands on modelling and creation in my makerspace. I also have 3 notebook computers and hopefully 10 ipads like last year. This will provide a tech corner too. But, most kids bring their own device which helps a lot.

I teach all three levels this year, Academic, PreAP, and pure GT. I am excited to bring my tools of differentiation and enrichment more into swing too. Planning away. Once I start putting my classroom together I will add photos and descriptions and will show how the makerspace and flexible seating has enhanced our classroom.

More to come....follow my blog with your email and stay tuned.

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