More Twitter gems!

Ok - I am totally addicted to reading Twitter -- but I am not sure how many of you follow it, or me, so I have been just adding some of my favorite articles here -- hopefully some of them are interesting, inspiring, or just what you need!

Those of you who are thinking about eliminating (or at least minimizing) homework - here is the 11-step plan.

My own personal passion here -- look at how the common core has destroyed the love and passion behind reading -- it is a rant, but one I think is worth reading!

I have been reading A LOT about Evernote on Twitter -- it is supposed to be a great way to get your classroom (and your life) organized. If you are like me, you could use some tips in that department! Check out Evernote and see if it is right for you - it seems pretty easy and painless!

Google Docs allows you to be in contact with your students 24/7! Ok, that might not be a great thing, but there are some features here that you maybe didn't know were possible with Google Docs - things like revision history and commenting features for going paperless - might be worth a view if you are still unsure how to use these features.

Looking for a "fail safe" homework collection policy for your class? This guy has apparently solved the problem - he details his system here -- pretty exciting stuff!

Please keep this article in mind as you are planning technology integration in your classrooms - Technology is a Tool, not a Learning Outcome! This article reminds us what the technology is really for, and what it shouldn't be for...

We have talked about EdModo before in Appy Hour - if you want a refresher about how to get started with it and use it, this is a great article.

Want to use projects, but don't want it to be "just another project"? This article talks about inquiry based projects and how to set them up so the students extend learning - not just create a pretty poster!


Hope something strikes a cord with you!

Happy Reading!

Welcome Back

It is good to be back at school and getting started learning with our new digital devices! Here are some great Twitter gems I have found about engagement and learning in the classroom that might be worth a read!

The first is about using digital exit cards:

Hit the Mark with Digital Media Exit Cards

This one was great for me - I am having a hard time learning how to properly participate in a Twitter chat - there is great advice and instructions here for:

Twitter Beginners

and 

People wanting to learn to participate in a Twitter chat

This next article talked about building classroom community and not losing a personal connection while still using the machines. Among the fascinating quotes from this one, "Understanding what the qualities of a strong community are -- beyond the technology -- is where all teachers should begin. The technology will come and eventually foster established relationships." - 

Please take the time to read this one - it is worth it!

Need a place to go to develop a rubric, or get ideas for one - Check out this article with links to three good ones! I have used Rubristar before - but the other ones look great too!

Goal setting is an important "beginning of school" activity that would help bring relevancy and connection to school - this article outlines a process that you might use to work on goal setting with your students (or athletes).

Hope these give you something to think about as the year begins - feel free to comment and add your own -- look forward to an Appy Hour soon -- we might try a Google Hangout format this year!