Thursday, December 20, 2007
Program ?
What was the website that you could get the education program application off of? The one I wrote down from class doesn't seem to be working!!! Thanks !!
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Monday, December 17, 2007
As the Semester ends....
As everyone else has said, this semester went so fast and I can't believe it is already over. I enjoyed this class very much and felt that our class had a really nice connection. Hopefully we will all continue blogging every now and then to keep in touch but for now everyone have a great hoilday and Happy New Year!!! Thanks again!!
Just saying bye for now
Hi guys this is Bolove. I wanted to tell everyone that this class was great for me. I think I learned a great deal from you guys. You guys were pretty awesome and i'm definentely going to miss this class. Like many others said this definentely won't be the end. I hope we all can keep in touch through the blog. I hope everyone has a great holiday and vacation.
Due to Popular Demand...
During our meetings several of you asked about keeping this blog going. I'm happy to leave it up for you to continue to communicate with each other...I will most likely not participate in it after the end of this semester, so it's all yours!
As I've told you individually during our meetings, even though I'm not your adviser, please know that if you have any COE or program questions you should feel free to contact me for assistance. If I can't help you, I can refer you to someone who will be able to.
It was a pleasure having each and every one of you in class.
Happy Holidays,
M. Tomich
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Happy Holidays
Have a happy holiday and I know that everyone will make great teachers one day. Good luck!
Happy Holidays to all
I am also going to miss everyone and this blog!
Be sure to Keep in touch. :0)
Jennifer
Be sure to Keep in touch. :0)
Jennifer
As the semester comes to an end
Just wanted to wish everyone good luck on their future endeavors and in their pursuit of becoming educators. I really enjoyed spending the semester with all of you and look forward to seeing you all in the future. I wish all of you a wonderful holiday and a fulfilling New Year. I hope you are all doing well on your finals, and not getting to stress out. It will all be over soon!
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Wish every one good luck
I know I can say everyone in the class will be a very successful teacher and I know I have learned through all of you and I plan to bring that with me in the future. I wish everyone the bestest luck in becoming an educator, which I believe everyone in our class can achieve. I want to wish eveyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Years. Keep in touch!!!
Hey again...
Hey everyone... I would just like to say that it has been a pleasure being with everyone in EMSE... This was a great class.... I wish everyone the best of luck in the future... Hope we can all keep in touch... Ms. Tomich thanks for being the greatest, but this is not the end... I will definitely keep in touch... :-) Have a great weekend everyone...!!!
Hey...
Hey everyone... Unfortunately I did not pass the Mapp, but I will be taking it over in January... For anyone else that wants to take it.... It will be on January 26, 2008... I doubt there are any seats left but do not worry about it you can just show up I'm sure they will have extra space...
Friday, December 14, 2007
Just saying Bye
Hi guys this is Bolove. I wanted to tell everyone that this class was great for me. I think I learned a great deal from you guys. You guys were pretty awesome and i'm definentely going to miss this class. Like many others said this definentely won't be the end. I hope we all can keep in touch through the blog. I hope everyone has a great holiday and vacation.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Saturday, December 8, 2007
So sad that it's all over
No matter if the school was urban or suburban, I had a really good time observing both the teachers and students. I think that it was educating and interesting to watch how different teachers conduct their classrooms. If just observing the class was fun, I can't wait to actually get the chance to teach one. I had a great time visiting both of the schools and I can't wait to be in their place one day.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Roselle Interns
Thanks to those of you who graciously helped me getting this post to work. I think it should be correct.
I am sorry I didn't get a chance to speak with each one of you today, I do hope all went well and you enjoyed your visit at Harrison Elementary School. We believe we have an excellent school and hope your experiences were positive.
If any of you are interested in doing your preprofessional and or professional internship in Harrison, please see Mrs. Sullivan in the Teaching Performance Center and make your request known. Additionally, if there are any suggestions and comments you would like to make, please feel free to do so.
I wish you all a Happy Holiday and Good Luck with your teaching career.
I am sorry I didn't get a chance to speak with each one of you today, I do hope all went well and you enjoyed your visit at Harrison Elementary School. We believe we have an excellent school and hope your experiences were positive.
If any of you are interested in doing your preprofessional and or professional internship in Harrison, please see Mrs. Sullivan in the Teaching Performance Center and make your request known. Additionally, if there are any suggestions and comments you would like to make, please feel free to do so.
I wish you all a Happy Holiday and Good Luck with your teaching career.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Tomorrow's Final Visit
I hope you enjoy and learn from your last sophomore field visit. Again, you may want to send/email/give the principal and/or cooperating teacher a thank you note--totally up to you.
Anita DeRosa in the urban school would like to consult with one of you regarding the blog; will one of you please seek her out and give her a hand?
I have all papers but one in my possession, and guess I'll have quite a busy weekend. Don't forget to send your 5th report & reflection--and please send the final papers really soon if you are interested in knowing your final grade when we meet next week.
Don't forget to call me if you'll be late or can't make the meeting--next week is all booked, so I'll need the notice.
Have a great weekend!
How much do you know about gang activity in NJ?
Please go to this page and play the video.
http://www.njgangfree.org/home.htm
http://www.njgangfree.org/home.htm
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Let's discuss this paper
Let's take advantage of Jennifer's generosity in sharing her paper. First off, if you look at the Rubric for Evaluation of Contextual Factors can you pinpoint where she discusses each of the indicators?
Can you tell me where she discusses the implications for instructional planning and assessment? Can you tell me the difference between that and where she discusses what the teachers do there?
I'm hoping this analysis will help you if you haven't put the finishing touches on your own paper.
And...I can't resist: the implications for instructional planning and assessment is exactly where your critical thinking skills come in--and as you have seen, that's exactly where most of you have had your difficulties...you haven't asked about any of the other indicators--which are all from reports and observations; the implications is where you have to put it all together and come up with your own ideas.
This is the area you need to develop in yourselves; only then will you be able to develop and encourage it in your students.
Hope that helps...and thanks again, Jennifer.
PS: It would be wonderful if someone would share a paper on Roselle...
Can you tell me where she discusses the implications for instructional planning and assessment? Can you tell me the difference between that and where she discusses what the teachers do there?
I'm hoping this analysis will help you if you haven't put the finishing touches on your own paper.
And...I can't resist: the implications for instructional planning and assessment is exactly where your critical thinking skills come in--and as you have seen, that's exactly where most of you have had your difficulties...you haven't asked about any of the other indicators--which are all from reports and observations; the implications is where you have to put it all together and come up with your own ideas.
This is the area you need to develop in yourselves; only then will you be able to develop and encourage it in your students.
Hope that helps...and thanks again, Jennifer.
PS: It would be wonderful if someone would share a paper on Roselle...
My Contextual Factors Paper
Here it is:
As responsible future educators we must be knowledgeable of the academic and social needs of the communities we will be teaching in. By visiting both an urban and suburban district we were able to witness first hand how factors family income and crime rates will lend themselves to our pedagogy strategies. It is the contextual factors of our district that will help us come up with comprehensive methods of reaching our pupils and their families.
In this paper we will examine the contextual factors that influence Frank K. Hehnly School’s student’s academic performance. All of the statistics mentioned are from the schools 2005-2006 report card and www.OurClark.com.
Frank K. Hehnly School is located in the township of Clark, New Jersey. Clark is a thriving suburban community with elements of an industrial core. One of the states largest companies, L’Oreal, is located in the heart of this city. Many people who reside in Clark also work there. Due to the availability of jobs there is a very low student mobility rate. In fact there were no students who entered and left during 2006. This stability is both good for the community and for national test scores.
The median income for a household in the CDP was $65,019 ($10,000 more the state average), and the median income for a family is $77,291. About 1.0% of families were below the poverty line. This information is significant because it illustrates that the parents of this community are not financially stressed. Teachers do no have to be overly mindful of financial burden when choosing field trip locations or assigning at home projects.
The majority of the population consists of married couples (69.3%), less then 10% are single mothers, and the remaining population is single professionals. 31.5% of this population has school-aged children. The township is predominately Caucasian (95.61%). This lack of cultural diversity will be a major factor when considering an enriching curriculum. It will be very important to supplement diversity for these students and to make sure that the few students who are not Caucasian are accepted and treated with respect while in school. Likewise, there is a strong value in exposing the students to multicultural influences they are likely to find in the world outside Clark.
Clark is a safe community. There is less then a 2% chance of being a victim of a crime, and only a .03% chance of being a victim of a bodily crime. Due to this parents will be more likely to let their children play outside and participate in after school programs. They will feel as secure when their children are at school as they are when they are at home.
The best way to describe Clark is in laymen’s terms. It is a typical suburban environment. The people are middle to upper middle class. The parents are interested in their children’s education and overall success and are very active with the PTA. On any given day you will find several parents at the school helping in one way or another. Clark’s educators and parents both pave the children’s path to success. Most students enter Hehnly with a background of previous learning that was primarily developed at home.
Now that we are aware of the family and economic factors in Clark we can now examine the schools themselves. The Clark Public School District consists of the Frank K. Hehnly Elementary School and Valley Road Elementary School both service grades K – 5. The student’s transition from there to the Carl H. Kumpf Middle School for grades 6 - 8 and then to the Arthur L. Johnson High School for grades 9 – 12. It is important to mention that students from Garwood, attend the district's high school as well. Garwood and Clark work closely together and will send/ receive students based on need.
The length of the school day at Hehnly is 6 hours and 25 minutes, 5 hours and 25 minutes of this is instructional time, leaving the children an hour for lunch, and recess. The average class size in 2005-2006 is 24.1- this is considerably above the state average of 19.2. There are 13.3 students to every 1 teacher, also a higher ratio than the state average. Conversely, the number of school suspensions and expulsions are remarkably low, with a suspension rate less than 1% and zero expulsions in 2006. Hehnly students have also achieved a high success rate on the NJASK4 standardized testing. They test far above the state average in all areas of the exam. Hehnly School is clearly a powerhouse of academic triumph.
The percentage of students with IEPs (Individualized Education Program)is 9.2%. Although this is a small percent of the student population it is also important to note that the children are all ranked and placed in different math sections based on their ability and need. During my observation, I noticed my cooperating teacher and visual, written and auditory techniques to ensure her lesson was understood by many different intelligence types. This is done to make certain that the each student receives the attention needed to do well on standardized exams.
In many schools there is a need for bilingual classes. This is not the case in Clark. The first language spoken at home is 96.2 % English. Only 1.3% of the students come in as LEP students. (Limited English Proficient) This is also a huge advantage for them when it comes to standardized testing. There is a language learner’s room, and the school has all of the media necessary to aide in the process. In 2006 there were 6.9 students to each computer, but during my observation I was told that any class could provide laptop access to each student if it is required for a lesson plan. Each classroom has 100% Internet connectivity. Since all classrooms have Internet access, tools like Google Images can be incorporated into daily lessons.
Hehnly students have also achieved a high success rate on the NJASK4 standardized testing. They test far above the state average in all areas of the exam. Hehnly School is clearly a powerhouse of academic triumph. Contextual factors help to show how the school achieves these great results. No one factor can tell the story , although Clark does not rank as well in metrics like class size and student-teacher ratio, other contextual factors mitigate and even outweigh these. Clark’s schools benefit from it homogeneous and generally prosperous socioeconomic environment. Minimal resources need to be allocated for LEP students and IEP programs. Also, teachers know that most students are given resources and encouragement at home, thus enhancing the teachers in school efforts. In effect there is a sense of partnership between the parents and teachers in this school, creating a student centered environment, not merely a student centered classroom.
As responsible future educators we must be knowledgeable of the academic and social needs of the communities we will be teaching in. By visiting both an urban and suburban district we were able to witness first hand how factors family income and crime rates will lend themselves to our pedagogy strategies. It is the contextual factors of our district that will help us come up with comprehensive methods of reaching our pupils and their families.
In this paper we will examine the contextual factors that influence Frank K. Hehnly School’s student’s academic performance. All of the statistics mentioned are from the schools 2005-2006 report card and www.OurClark.com.
Frank K. Hehnly School is located in the township of Clark, New Jersey. Clark is a thriving suburban community with elements of an industrial core. One of the states largest companies, L’Oreal, is located in the heart of this city. Many people who reside in Clark also work there. Due to the availability of jobs there is a very low student mobility rate. In fact there were no students who entered and left during 2006. This stability is both good for the community and for national test scores.
The median income for a household in the CDP was $65,019 ($10,000 more the state average), and the median income for a family is $77,291. About 1.0% of families were below the poverty line. This information is significant because it illustrates that the parents of this community are not financially stressed. Teachers do no have to be overly mindful of financial burden when choosing field trip locations or assigning at home projects.
The majority of the population consists of married couples (69.3%), less then 10% are single mothers, and the remaining population is single professionals. 31.5% of this population has school-aged children. The township is predominately Caucasian (95.61%). This lack of cultural diversity will be a major factor when considering an enriching curriculum. It will be very important to supplement diversity for these students and to make sure that the few students who are not Caucasian are accepted and treated with respect while in school. Likewise, there is a strong value in exposing the students to multicultural influences they are likely to find in the world outside Clark.
Clark is a safe community. There is less then a 2% chance of being a victim of a crime, and only a .03% chance of being a victim of a bodily crime. Due to this parents will be more likely to let their children play outside and participate in after school programs. They will feel as secure when their children are at school as they are when they are at home.
The best way to describe Clark is in laymen’s terms. It is a typical suburban environment. The people are middle to upper middle class. The parents are interested in their children’s education and overall success and are very active with the PTA. On any given day you will find several parents at the school helping in one way or another. Clark’s educators and parents both pave the children’s path to success. Most students enter Hehnly with a background of previous learning that was primarily developed at home.
Now that we are aware of the family and economic factors in Clark we can now examine the schools themselves. The Clark Public School District consists of the Frank K. Hehnly Elementary School and Valley Road Elementary School both service grades K – 5. The student’s transition from there to the Carl H. Kumpf Middle School for grades 6 - 8 and then to the Arthur L. Johnson High School for grades 9 – 12. It is important to mention that students from Garwood, attend the district's high school as well. Garwood and Clark work closely together and will send/ receive students based on need.
The length of the school day at Hehnly is 6 hours and 25 minutes, 5 hours and 25 minutes of this is instructional time, leaving the children an hour for lunch, and recess. The average class size in 2005-2006 is 24.1- this is considerably above the state average of 19.2. There are 13.3 students to every 1 teacher, also a higher ratio than the state average. Conversely, the number of school suspensions and expulsions are remarkably low, with a suspension rate less than 1% and zero expulsions in 2006. Hehnly students have also achieved a high success rate on the NJASK4 standardized testing. They test far above the state average in all areas of the exam. Hehnly School is clearly a powerhouse of academic triumph.
The percentage of students with IEPs (Individualized Education Program)is 9.2%. Although this is a small percent of the student population it is also important to note that the children are all ranked and placed in different math sections based on their ability and need. During my observation, I noticed my cooperating teacher and visual, written and auditory techniques to ensure her lesson was understood by many different intelligence types. This is done to make certain that the each student receives the attention needed to do well on standardized exams.
In many schools there is a need for bilingual classes. This is not the case in Clark. The first language spoken at home is 96.2 % English. Only 1.3% of the students come in as LEP students. (Limited English Proficient) This is also a huge advantage for them when it comes to standardized testing. There is a language learner’s room, and the school has all of the media necessary to aide in the process. In 2006 there were 6.9 students to each computer, but during my observation I was told that any class could provide laptop access to each student if it is required for a lesson plan. Each classroom has 100% Internet connectivity. Since all classrooms have Internet access, tools like Google Images can be incorporated into daily lessons.
Hehnly students have also achieved a high success rate on the NJASK4 standardized testing. They test far above the state average in all areas of the exam. Hehnly School is clearly a powerhouse of academic triumph. Contextual factors help to show how the school achieves these great results. No one factor can tell the story , although Clark does not rank as well in metrics like class size and student-teacher ratio, other contextual factors mitigate and even outweigh these. Clark’s schools benefit from it homogeneous and generally prosperous socioeconomic environment. Minimal resources need to be allocated for LEP students and IEP programs. Also, teachers know that most students are given resources and encouragement at home, thus enhancing the teachers in school efforts. In effect there is a sense of partnership between the parents and teachers in this school, creating a student centered environment, not merely a student centered classroom.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
MAPP
Congrats Sarah for passing the MAPP.
As for me,I was able to take the December one without even signing up. They really just let anyone in, but I can honestly say I was suprised by the test. Although it was much like the SAT's I found it hard to finish all of the questions in the amount of time that was given. The first section, I definitely had almost ten questions left at the end that I just guessed on. The second section I made sure not to spend as much time on a problem if I was having trouble. Even with guessing the last few, hopefully I passed. Now I just want to know how you find out your score? Do they mail it to your house, school, both or what?
As for me,I was able to take the December one without even signing up. They really just let anyone in, but I can honestly say I was suprised by the test. Although it was much like the SAT's I found it hard to finish all of the questions in the amount of time that was given. The first section, I definitely had almost ten questions left at the end that I just guessed on. The second section I made sure not to spend as much time on a problem if I was having trouble. Even with guessing the last few, hopefully I passed. Now I just want to know how you find out your score? Do they mail it to your house, school, both or what?
I Passed!!
^_^ I passed the MAPP! I passed quite horribly, but I passed! I am so happy that I am auditioning for a musical tonight that I am totally unprepared for! Horray for being a semi-daredevil!
Ok, I'm going to go practice the music that I have not looked over yet. My audition is in another four hours. Too bad I have no idea how this song is played on the piano. As I said, totally unprepared.
(= Sarah =)
Edit 12:15AM:
Audition = Pretty gosh darn bad, like I predicted. Could it have been worse? Oh yes, but not by much. Could it have been better? About 1,00000 x's better. I'm happy that I at least tried though.
Ok, I'm going to go practice the music that I have not looked over yet. My audition is in another four hours. Too bad I have no idea how this song is played on the piano. As I said, totally unprepared.
(= Sarah =)
Edit 12:15AM:
Audition = Pretty gosh darn bad, like I predicted. Could it have been worse? Oh yes, but not by much. Could it have been better? About 1,00000 x's better. I'm happy that I at least tried though.
Monday, December 3, 2007
Confused
I am still confused on the Instructional Implications. Should I discuss the lack of contract for the teachers union and its effects? Or improvements that have been made in the school? If someone could please help I would greatly appreciate it thanks.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
$$$Tutor Needed$$$
Help I need to have an I-movie ready for next week. I can not figure out how to make my slides longer (time wise) or how to add my voice. I do not own a Mac (so the apple store will not let me buy a leson), so I need to work with someone who has one or can meet up at school. Can anyone help me out? I would be more then happy to pay you if you could.
Please let me know. My personal email is JLET102619@AOL.COM
Please let me know. My personal email is JLET102619@AOL.COM
New due date for Contextual Factors Papers
It was suggested (by one of you) that the new due date be Wed 12/5. That's fine with me.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Housekeeping
Enjoy your visits this Friday; I won't be stopping by, I'll be out of town until Tuesday. While looking over my appointments, I didn't see yours, Marie--did I miss it or did you not sign up? Please email me to set something up. Also, Christine, you were out last class; can you meet with me on Tuesday at 3pm Dec 18th? Second choice would be Wednesday at 3pm Dec 19th? Please let me know via email.
Please be sure to have your forms all ready filled out and ready to discuss. Also, I'd be happy to discuss any questions you have about this course or the education courses to follow.
Oh--and if you're counting on using this next school visit to wrap up your paper--you are given extra time as I said in the last class--just be sure to send it to me in time for me to read and grade before we have our meetings.
See you soon.
Please be sure to have your forms all ready filled out and ready to discuss. Also, I'd be happy to discuss any questions you have about this course or the education courses to follow.
Oh--and if you're counting on using this next school visit to wrap up your paper--you are given extra time as I said in the last class--just be sure to send it to me in time for me to read and grade before we have our meetings.
See you soon.
Monday, November 26, 2007
MAPP
To the people that are familiar with the MAPP test: Can you PLEASE tell me what to expect. I know we discussed the content before, but since the test is coming up this week I need a refresher. Thanks!! (I'm nervous..hopefully they take me in)
Saturday, November 24, 2007
This is where the Critical Thinking comes in...
Here's a little more help:
You are carefully gathering all kinds of information about specific students in a single classroom in a particular school in a unique community. With that in mind, and taking your knowledge, skills, dispositions and incomparable personality, you design the instruction and assessments tailored to this situation.
BUT, don't go crazy because...
In this Part 1 of the TWS, you are not asked to create learning goals, instruction or assessments...after all, you haven't taken any education courses yet! However, you've been observing teachers in their classrooms, attending presentations on education in our class, and hopefully reading books and materials made available to you this semester. Just end your paper with a brief but well thought out plan of action.
You shouldn't have to go past the first one:
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_are_instructional_implications
http://webs.wichita.edu/depttools/depttoolsmemberfiles/ess/TWS%20V.pdf
http://sitemaker.umich.edu/mulvaney/instructional_implications
I hope you'll continue this discussion here if anyone has any other questions about this.
You are carefully gathering all kinds of information about specific students in a single classroom in a particular school in a unique community. With that in mind, and taking your knowledge, skills, dispositions and incomparable personality, you design the instruction and assessments tailored to this situation.
BUT, don't go crazy because...
In this Part 1 of the TWS, you are not asked to create learning goals, instruction or assessments...after all, you haven't taken any education courses yet! However, you've been observing teachers in their classrooms, attending presentations on education in our class, and hopefully reading books and materials made available to you this semester. Just end your paper with a brief but well thought out plan of action.
You shouldn't have to go past the first one:
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_are_instructional_implications
http://webs.wichita.edu/depttools/depttoolsmemberfiles/ess/TWS%20V.pdf
http://sitemaker.umich.edu/mulvaney/instructional_implications
I hope you'll continue this discussion here if anyone has any other questions about this.
Samples of Contextual papers
Has anyone found anywhere that we can see other samples of Contextual papers? I've written the first 3 parts of it but would love to see another example. I've been searching on-line and not finding anything except the broad description and Rubric we already have.
Hope you all had a nice holiday-we are still eating leftovers here!
Lynn
Hope you all had a nice holiday-we are still eating leftovers here!
Lynn
Teacher Work Sample Comfusion
For some reason, I am still very confused on the fourth section; Instructional Implications. I saw Adriana's post and read Professor Tomich's response, but I am still very confused. I found data on Harrison's students that require such things as an IEP and inclusion, but Im not sure if that is the right direction and even if it is, what do I do with it. Someone please help!!!
Friday, November 23, 2007
Hey Guys
Hi Everyone. I was just on the internet and thought to myself that I should just come on the blog and see how everyone's Thanksgiving went. I hope everyone had fun and ate alot of food. I'm pretty sure some of you guys gained a pound or two or even more lol! Anyway, I had a great Thanksgiving and I had about 15 people at my house. Guess that's why my mom made two turkeys. One of greedy uncles even came by early this morning to get more food. Well hope evenryone enjoyed themselves and was able to get up to do a little shopping today. See you guys soon.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Friday Class
Thanks for making our last meeting together so pleasant by bringing food and drinks. It makes a difference, doesn't it?
Hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday with your loved ones.
Hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday with your loved ones.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
When it rains...it pours! Praxis feedback :''(
Here is
a)some therapeutic venting for me
b)a random picture of my puppy
c)advice on the different sections of the Praxis.
d) all of the above
I hope it will help you pass the first time round...
I was up at 5am this morning (and I am NOT a morning person)-and pulling up to McDonald's drive thru at 5:15 (I needed coffee in a big bad way) In the process of making my coffee I ended up covered in it- but at least the scalding liquid put me in a "more awake" state.
I went to Rutgers (I was told to get there no later then 6am because parking is limited and fines are high) and even though there was construction on Rt18 I still made it to the parking garage by 6am.
It was dark, cold and all of the buildings were locked. There were no signs on the buildings, so they were nameless to me. None of the signs ETS claimed would be posted, had been posted.
I walked three blocks before I found a building directory. I sat outside of the building I thought I was supposed to report to and other lost souls joined me. At 6:30 am a security guard unlocked the doors.
At 7:15 I saw a man posting signs letting us know what buildings to report to based on our last names. He apologized for being a "little" late.
A group of students and I located our test location (3 buildings away) bonded only by our anger and the fact that our last names started with the letters L-N. (Helplessness can make for fast friends.) My new pals and I then sat in an empty room til 8:15 when the proctor finally showed up. The test did not start until 9-It was horrible. Avoid taking the exam at Rutgers if at all possible.
As for the test itself- there were only 3 teaching theory questions so do not freak out like I did when you see those questions in your review books, but be sure to start looking at your review books now.
- The Social Studies section was unlike anything I have ever seen before. ..it jumped from reading maps to determine likely commerce, Confucius quote identities, questions on famous court cases, president's wives political views etc. It was a hot mess.
- The Math section was easier then it was on the MAPP in my opinion, but know the metric system. Also make sure you know the formulas for diameter, area, and mass. You MUST be able to read graphs to do well on this test.
- The English section was time consuming. Multiple passages had to be read all the way through- but the difficulty level was equivalent to the MAPP.
- The Science section covered many of the things I am learning in Bio 1000. Review your book prior to the Praxis and you should do well on this part of the exam.
McCartney Out
(of her mind)
Friday, November 16, 2007
Found Article... Teachers Salaries has Increased ! Take a Look!!
Hey,
I read the Star Ledger today, it talked about how teachers salaries in certain schools rose from $18, 000 to a good $50,000. And yes, $50,000 is the starting salary. Not to say I am all about the money because I am not, but this could be an added benefit. I believe that teacher should get paid a good amount of money just because we are such apart of students everyday lives in and out the classroom. We have such an effect on the students that it puts a heavy burden on us. It is definitly hard to be a teacher.
Click on Star Ledger below. You will find it interesting which schools and counties are rising their teacher salaries.
Star Ledger
Diana Medeiros
I read the Star Ledger today, it talked about how teachers salaries in certain schools rose from $18, 000 to a good $50,000. And yes, $50,000 is the starting salary. Not to say I am all about the money because I am not, but this could be an added benefit. I believe that teacher should get paid a good amount of money just because we are such apart of students everyday lives in and out the classroom. We have such an effect on the students that it puts a heavy burden on us. It is definitly hard to be a teacher.
Click on Star Ledger below. You will find it interesting which schools and counties are rising their teacher salaries.
Star Ledger
Diana Medeiros
COMMUNICATION
I loved this video because it shows how we can connect with the parents if a student is doing well in our class. In this case, the student got into trouble in school and the parents assumed the house visit was for that reason. Instead, she went to their house to inform them how bright their son is. Positive interaction with parents is a great way to build a strong relationship! Sorry for the technical difficulties, but here's the video! Enjoy!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Update
Hi guys Bolove again. While i've been doing my presentation. I realized that the information i'm finding is kind of old. It was based on findings in 2001 and things definentely have changed especially with the Bush administration implementing "No Child left Behind". So I found something more up to date and based on findings in 2004: http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2007/2007006.pdf
My presentation
Hey guys this is Bolove. All week I was thinking about what I should do my presentation on. I know on our syllabus we wrote down that I would be doing Learning theories, but I thought I might try something different which is seeing how our education system stacks up with some other countries. I found this file online which i'm going to use for information. You guys can check it out if you want: http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2005/2005021.pdf
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
PRAXIS NERVES
So last night I decided to take a practice Praxis exam-I had no idea that the content test was on teaching methods. (I only got 30 out of 49 correct. I will be cramming like a mad woman all week-the test is this Sat!)
I assumed the Praxis would be exactly like the MAPP-do not make the same assumption I did. Run out and get a review book today!
Just a few questions for anyone who might know:
Is it better to guess or to leave a question blank if you have no idea what the answer is?
What is a passing score?
What % of the test is question about methods vs content knowledge?
Thank you for your help!
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Teachers are throwing out their textbooks
What do you think about this?
Paulsboro science teacher Linda Smith built a hovercraft and "floats" students down the school hallway to demonstrate air pressure.
History teachers Douglas Cervi at Oakcrest High School and Steve Marcus at Egg Harbor Township High School invite veterans into the classroom to help bring World War II to life.
Can thick, heavy, print-laden textbooks compete in these modern classrooms filled with students raised on Dora the Explorer and GameBoys?
"I give the textbook out the first day and tell the students to leave it home and bring it back in June," Cervi said. "It's a reference resource, but if you're just teaching out of the book, you're missing the boat."
"If we're going to be doing inquiry-based lessons, there are no books," said Smith, a former state Science Teacher of the Year. "The students now are learning to find their own answers, not just parrot what's in the book."
This past week in Atlantic City at the New Jersey Education Association convention, Smith and Cervi each gave a workshop that highlighted lessons not found in traditional textbooks.
Down the hall in the exhibit area, book publishers displayed their latest offerings and promoted what they are doing to remain relevant to the YouTube generation.
Textbooks are not yet obsolete in most schools, but they are less likely to be the only source of information. They may provide just an introduction to a topic, or be used as a secondary reference, especially in areas like history and science, which can change in an instant.
AMSCO supplements its $85 hardbound history book with a softcover $11.95 book called "The World Today," which is updated every two years.
"A language arts textbook can last for years," said Irene Rubin, AMSCO vice president of marketing. "Grammar won't change. But social studies and science are not going to hold up."
Textbook sales are a $6 billion per year business, according to the American Association of Publishers 2006 annual report. The K-12 market made up 25 percent of the $24 billion spent on books last year. But the market has been erratic, and sales grew less than 2 percent over the last five years. After 2003 and 2004 fell pretty flat, there was a 10 percent jump in 2005, followed by an almost 6 percent drop in 2006.
Sales, publishers said, are affected by state aid, school budget constraints and state education standards.
"Some districts want their books to last five years or more, especially if they're budget conscious," Rubin said. "Others want to be more up to date." [...]
::+::
The article would be very long if I post it on here so you can read the rest of it by clicking the link below:
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/top_three/story/7516209p-7415233c.html
(= Sarah =)
Paulsboro science teacher Linda Smith built a hovercraft and "floats" students down the school hallway to demonstrate air pressure.
History teachers Douglas Cervi at Oakcrest High School and Steve Marcus at Egg Harbor Township High School invite veterans into the classroom to help bring World War II to life.
Can thick, heavy, print-laden textbooks compete in these modern classrooms filled with students raised on Dora the Explorer and GameBoys?
"I give the textbook out the first day and tell the students to leave it home and bring it back in June," Cervi said. "It's a reference resource, but if you're just teaching out of the book, you're missing the boat."
"If we're going to be doing inquiry-based lessons, there are no books," said Smith, a former state Science Teacher of the Year. "The students now are learning to find their own answers, not just parrot what's in the book."
This past week in Atlantic City at the New Jersey Education Association convention, Smith and Cervi each gave a workshop that highlighted lessons not found in traditional textbooks.
Down the hall in the exhibit area, book publishers displayed their latest offerings and promoted what they are doing to remain relevant to the YouTube generation.
Textbooks are not yet obsolete in most schools, but they are less likely to be the only source of information. They may provide just an introduction to a topic, or be used as a secondary reference, especially in areas like history and science, which can change in an instant.
AMSCO supplements its $85 hardbound history book with a softcover $11.95 book called "The World Today," which is updated every two years.
"A language arts textbook can last for years," said Irene Rubin, AMSCO vice president of marketing. "Grammar won't change. But social studies and science are not going to hold up."
Textbook sales are a $6 billion per year business, according to the American Association of Publishers 2006 annual report. The K-12 market made up 25 percent of the $24 billion spent on books last year. But the market has been erratic, and sales grew less than 2 percent over the last five years. After 2003 and 2004 fell pretty flat, there was a 10 percent jump in 2005, followed by an almost 6 percent drop in 2006.
Sales, publishers said, are affected by state aid, school budget constraints and state education standards.
"Some districts want their books to last five years or more, especially if they're budget conscious," Rubin said. "Others want to be more up to date." [...]
::+::
The article would be very long if I post it on here so you can read the rest of it by clicking the link below:
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/top_three/story/7516209p-7415233c.html
(= Sarah =)
Monday, November 12, 2007
Our final class as a group is this Friday
We have Allison and Bolove making the last two presentations on this coming Friday Will you (Allison and Bolove) please post any readings or instructions of what we need before your presentations? If the technology permits, we'll also take in some digital stories. I'll try to have all your papers ready to return...
Are you still interested in having a party? (Which basically means bringing in food & drink...)
Why don't you all add comments letting us know what you're planning to bring...there are thirteen of us so don't bring a lot of anything.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Second Life Getting Famous
So, I was watching one of my favorite tv shows The Office on NBC. One of the characters named Dwight had a Second Life avitar and they were showing clips of Second Life on the show. It showed him flying and he created a store called Dwights Second Life in Second Life. Then, I saw a book at Barnes and Noble about S.L. I didn't realize how famous this whole ideas was. For a computer program to make it into a hit TV show, I thought was pretty cool. You can check out the episode on www.nbc.com and find the show The Office.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
HOT GOSSIP ABOUT THE MAPP
When I signed up for the Plato learning for the Praxis I overheard, and later confirmed that the school is going to replace the MAPP with the Praxis I at the cost of $150 per student.
They feel that the MAPP is not reliable because it makes the test taker go back and forth between their right and left brain (That and the school pays $40,000 a year to give the exam) I suggest if you don't want to have to pay for the Praxis I and the Praxis II I you take the MAPP this year while you still can.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Your philosophy statements...
Hey you guys...I'm a little concerned that you may not be so clear on what we mean by philosophy of education...in some of your papers I'm seeing your various reasons for wanting to become a teacher, and it's not exactly the same thing...here's a site to get started with looking at some definitions and examples. Explore further if you need to.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philosophy_of_education
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philosophy_of_education
Housekeeping
Hi Everybody!
Please remember that your Philosophy Statements are due this Friday. I'm happy to take an e-version instead of hard copy, but will accept either.
Your 4th visit report is due this Friday as well...
Your TWS Contextual Factors is due on Nov 30th; don't forget to bring to class the sample I distributed to you earlier...shuffle through all of the handouts you've gotten from me and bring what you'd like to talk about more...I'm happy to spend a little time on any of those documents.
Otherwise, I'll plan to describe the concept of digital stories and present a few to you.
See you soon.
Monday, November 5, 2007
More Staph Infections Hit New Jersey
Be careful! As most of you may know, Kean University has a Staph Infection warning out. The people at residence life on campus are taking many precautions to prevent this from spreading.
http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2007/10/more_staph_infections_hit_new.html
New cases of the staph infection known as MRSA continued to spring up around New Jersey today, with a Newark school security guard becoming the state's latest victim of the antibiotic-resistant infection.
The Newark guard, who works at the city's Roberto Clemente Elementary School, tested positive for MRSA on Friday, prompting school officials to notify parents, sanitize the school and post a bulletin on the district's Web site. The guard's diagnosis came on the heels of four newly reported cases in Passaic County, including children in Clifton and Paterson.
None of the New Jersey cases thus far has proved deadly, and physicians have repeatedly cautioned against overreaction to an infection that's been prevalent for years. But last week's death of a Brooklyn middle schooler diagnosed with MRSA has kept the so-called "superbug" high on the minds of Garden State residents.
"I just want to know what's going on," said Rose Ortiz of Newark, whose 9-year-old granddaughter attends Roberto Clemente School.
Ortiz said she became worried yesterday morning when she heard about the security guard's infection on the news and was apprehensive about sending her granddaughter to school without fully understanding the risk she might face.
"If that is true, I would be worried. I don't know that I'd want to send my granddaughter back to school," she said.
School officials took a calm tone, noting that the school would be sanitized and remain open.
"The district is working diligently to ensure that proper precautions and products are being utilized per the CDC's recommendations," said Superintendent Marion Bolden in a written statement, referring to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
(= Sarah =)
http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2007/10/more_staph_infections_hit_new.html
New cases of the staph infection known as MRSA continued to spring up around New Jersey today, with a Newark school security guard becoming the state's latest victim of the antibiotic-resistant infection.
The Newark guard, who works at the city's Roberto Clemente Elementary School, tested positive for MRSA on Friday, prompting school officials to notify parents, sanitize the school and post a bulletin on the district's Web site. The guard's diagnosis came on the heels of four newly reported cases in Passaic County, including children in Clifton and Paterson.
None of the New Jersey cases thus far has proved deadly, and physicians have repeatedly cautioned against overreaction to an infection that's been prevalent for years. But last week's death of a Brooklyn middle schooler diagnosed with MRSA has kept the so-called "superbug" high on the minds of Garden State residents.
"I just want to know what's going on," said Rose Ortiz of Newark, whose 9-year-old granddaughter attends Roberto Clemente School.
Ortiz said she became worried yesterday morning when she heard about the security guard's infection on the news and was apprehensive about sending her granddaughter to school without fully understanding the risk she might face.
"If that is true, I would be worried. I don't know that I'd want to send my granddaughter back to school," she said.
School officials took a calm tone, noting that the school would be sanitized and remain open.
"The district is working diligently to ensure that proper precautions and products are being utilized per the CDC's recommendations," said Superintendent Marion Bolden in a written statement, referring to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
(= Sarah =)
Roselle vs. Clark
The two schools were so differnt to me. The kids are great in both schools, but I feel that the atmospheres of both of the schools are so different. In the classroom that I was in, in Valley Road, the teacher kept saying that the children were misbehaving and being disruptive, but I didn't feel they were doing anything wrong at all. The class was in fact so quiet that it seemed like they were being too quiet. In Roselle, when the teacher felt that the class was misbehaving, they actually were. I just felt that it was very interesting to see the differnce of the two schools.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Here is a clip about how standardized testing affects english as a second language students
After spending the day in a bilingual class I was curious as to how these kids are tested for standardized testing. This clip shows teachers talking about how it is to test students where english is not their primary language.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRemrjlF6zo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRemrjlF6zo
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Friday, November 2, 2007
Next Friday
Hi Everybody!
Can't wait to hear how you guys in the suburban school made out this morning; I went to the urban school and stayed for so long that I had to get back to the university...let me know how your day went.
On November 9th, we'll hear presentations from Diana & Nicole about after-school programs and extracurricular activities. After that I'll go over the TWS/Contextual Factors paper. And then, as a treat, I think I'll introduce you to digital stories. Adriana opened up a can of worms when she mentioned the article from the last COE newsletter...anyway, it's something I'm sure ALL of you are going to enjoy.
See you soon.
Can't wait to hear how you guys in the suburban school made out this morning; I went to the urban school and stayed for so long that I had to get back to the university...let me know how your day went.
On November 9th, we'll hear presentations from Diana & Nicole about after-school programs and extracurricular activities. After that I'll go over the TWS/Contextual Factors paper. And then, as a treat, I think I'll introduce you to digital stories. Adriana opened up a can of worms when she mentioned the article from the last COE newsletter...anyway, it's something I'm sure ALL of you are going to enjoy.
See you soon.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
So this is what my life has come to.
So, as I was collecting information about our teaching philosophy this is what happened. I stapled the papers to my sleeve and my loving husband decided to take a picture.
Parking?
I'm going to Harrison tomorrow. So, where do I park? I drove by the school today and I saw a little parking lot on the side. Is it ok to park there? And what did you guys do for lunch breaks? It doesnt look like there were any places to go to.
Question about the MAPP?
So I went to Hennings Room 443, to sign up for the MAPP on December 1st ! Unfortunately not only was the test filled up but so was the waiting list ! Do you think I could just show up on the 1st and try to get in, or should I just wait till it is offered in the spring? I was hoping to apply for the education program in January/February so I don't know what to do!!! Much advice is needed !!!
Hey...
Hey guys... I finally figuered out how to post a blog how exciting lol... I'm not a blog virgin any more hehe (I know corny joke just pretend to laugh lol)... I just want to wish you all good luck at your new school tomorrow... To everyone going to Harrison school you'll love it because I did and I'm pretty sure the girls who went with me will agree that it is a great school... Everyone is so friendly... I know I'm late but I hope everyone had a Happy Halloween :-D
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Valley Road Elementary
Hello there! Will those of us going to Valley Road be meeting outside the school, wherever that may be? I was there last week and personally, I don't know where the entrance to that school is. It is quite confusing.
Have a good visit everyone! I hope you all have another great experience!
(= Sarah =)
Have a good visit everyone! I hope you all have another great experience!
(= Sarah =)
PRAXIS Link
Good Luck!!
To everyone at their new schools! I'm really excited to go to Harrison School. I have a feeling I will love this school considering I attended an urban school as a younger child. I am definitely filled with a lot of excitement! Good Luck to everyone again and I am sure all of us will see many differences as well as similarities!
FIRE YOUR GURUS by tijn touber
This article really made sense to me! I believe there are so many people out there that raise the bar so high in their life that it can be out of reach. We have "gurus" that try to lead us in the right direction and their successes in life are our inspiration. That inspiration can make us followers rather than leaders. There are paths in our lives that we have not yet traveled, but are we ever going to walk as individuals? "Because the path is already worn, he doesn't have to work as hard to walk it, nor does he learn the same lessons." Some people out there may not realize this, but we are our OWN gurus! We should look to our real life gurus as pure inspiration..nothing more or less. The guru INSIDE all of us should determine how far we can go even if it's through a path that's unfamiliar.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Just browsing again
I found these insights on teaching and thought it was pretty cool. It is on this web address:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/1467/We-Need-To-Teach
some bits of it are: "Everybody has talent, it's just a matter of moving around until you've discovered what it is."
- George Lucas, movie producer and animation innovator
Doesn't that make sense? Lucas, an inventor and producer of dreams in reality, learned that as an adult. In general, that is not a lesson that children are taught.
Innovation--just being different--is a risky business. Society mediates against those who are different. They don't have ladders to climb. They must create their own mountains, then scale the precipices themselves. When they reach the top, they need to market themselves so that others will know what they have accomplished.
Our society is designed to produce followers. Which suits business fine because they treasure employees who will follow the role model they have described. In a society whose work habits, clothing styles, cosmetic usage, hair styles and even morals and ethics are dictated by business, the economy revolves around followers.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/1467/We-Need-To-Teach
some bits of it are: "Everybody has talent, it's just a matter of moving around until you've discovered what it is."
- George Lucas, movie producer and animation innovator
Doesn't that make sense? Lucas, an inventor and producer of dreams in reality, learned that as an adult. In general, that is not a lesson that children are taught.
Innovation--just being different--is a risky business. Society mediates against those who are different. They don't have ladders to climb. They must create their own mountains, then scale the precipices themselves. When they reach the top, they need to market themselves so that others will know what they have accomplished.
Our society is designed to produce followers. Which suits business fine because they treasure employees who will follow the role model they have described. In a society whose work habits, clothing styles, cosmetic usage, hair styles and even morals and ethics are dictated by business, the economy revolves around followers.
Changing schools
Hi Everyone,
Just wanted to remind you to do a dry run to your new school so you won't have any problem getting there on time. Spoke with Mrs. G-P at the urban school--she'll be there to speak with you, and I left a message for Mr. B at the suburban school...if you have any questions, please let me know.
I'm not sure yet which school I'll visit (if not both) but you're all in for a real change, and another good experience.
Good luck and enjoy!
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Friday, October 26, 2007
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Inclusion
Hello there!
This coming Friday, as you may or may not know, I will be doing a presentation on Inclusion in the classroooms. Here are a few websites to get you all familiar with the definition of inclusion as well as some basic information. These two websites in particular really helped me understand what inclusion is all about.
http://inclusion.uwe.ac.uk/csie/csiefaqs.htm
http://www.newsforparents.org/experts_inclusion_pros_cons.html
See you all on Friday!
(= Sarah =)
This coming Friday, as you may or may not know, I will be doing a presentation on Inclusion in the classroooms. Here are a few websites to get you all familiar with the definition of inclusion as well as some basic information. These two websites in particular really helped me understand what inclusion is all about.
http://inclusion.uwe.ac.uk/csie/csiefaqs.htm
http://www.newsforparents.org/experts_inclusion_pros_cons.html
See you all on Friday!
(= Sarah =)
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Info I came across
I was browsing the internet and saw something interesing. It was a study that followed a couple of individuals that recieved thier bachelor degrees in teaching in 1992-1993. It had statistical information. It had the percentage of them that are teaching, and why some did not continue or choose to teach and the preperation they went through to become a teacher. It was pretty interesting.
the website is : http://nces.ed.gov/pubsearch/pubsinfo.asp?pubid=2007163
the website is : http://nces.ed.gov/pubsearch/pubsinfo.asp?pubid=2007163
Autism
Here are some websites about autism. I am going to do a quick presentation on the subject on Friday. As autism becomes more prevelant in our schools and in our lives. Here are some websites that give good general information about autism.
If you want to can look around
http://www.autismspeaks.org/
http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer
If you want to can look around
http://www.autismspeaks.org/
http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer
Monday, October 22, 2007
How much is too much ?
I saw this article on Monday night, and it really made me question, why is the cost of College so expensive. Not only are you paying over thousands of dollars to attend but what about the five hundred plus dollars spent every semester on books for all of these classes? Plus if you live at school, or even commute, the gas money spent driving back and forth ? How much does college really cost?
Just thought it was an interesting article.....
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/10/22/education/21cnd-tuition.html?ref=education
Just thought it was an interesting article.....
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/10/22/education/21cnd-tuition.html?ref=education
Sunday, October 21, 2007
American History
This site is chock full of all kinds of useful information as well as loads of maps and images. The information is about 20th & 21st Century America.
http://www.teacheroz.com/20thcent.htm
(Not just for History or Civics teachers...)
http://www.teacheroz.com/20thcent.htm
(Not just for History or Civics teachers...)
Sexual Misconduct Plagues Schools
This story was on my aol home page The statistics mentioned are quite frightening. I can not believe that a teacher can molest a student and leave the district with a good reference-it is sickening.
http://news.aol.com/story/_a/sexual-misconduct-plagues-schools/20071020124309990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001
Saturday, October 20, 2007
My philosophy of education
Hi Everyone,
I had to complete this earlier then expected. If anyone needs any help with theirs please let me know. I am not the best writer in the world, but I am pretty good at catching typos. (Except my own!) See you Friday!
My philosophy of education is still in its developmental stages. It stems from my own struggles with education in the past. In simplest terms, I feel that you cannot force a child to learn; yet you must be fully able to teach them when they are ready. I think we must see potential in every student and realize that even though they might not fit the description of the ideal pupil, that it could be our ideals, not the student, that is flawed. With time and maturation even the worst student can become a successful member of society.
In high school I had a disgraceful GPA of 1.602 and saw no reason to strive for more then this. I felt I was an intelligent person and did not need a degree to do well in life. I questioned the real life applications for what was being taught and thought that I would be a success based solely on my personality. Much like the teenager who thinks that they are immortal I did not fear my lack of academic achievement.
My appreciation for formal education did not blossom until I found myself in the workplace. It was there that I was able to recognize its value. Desire for promotion, monthly bills, and even the price of gas motivated me more then any teacher ever had. I found myself taking night classes and doing well. Formal education was no longer an abstract process and with real world motivation, I found myself succeeding at a level far greater than my previous grades would have predicted. It was in these moments of clarity that I knew that I should be a teacher, to try to pass on this motivation to students at an earlier age. I wanted to teach in a way that was not judgmental, nor motivate with happy faces and stickers but with experience. I can relate to them because I was them, with the hindsight to understand their fears, the patience to work through their doubts and ability to supply real life reasons to why they should apply themselves.
Elementary teachers must be chameleons. They must always adapt to the subject matter being taught and changing needs of the students. Teachers must bring real life into the classroom so the children can value what they are being taught. They have a responsibility to truly know the curriculum and not merely rely on the teacher’s editions. Teachers must also always be students, and learn to adapt so that the teaching methods never become stale nor lose touch with the students. They must respond to the pace of technology, and be open to the opportunities and responsibilities new technologies will bring to the classroom.
I am no longer the student who questions why I am learning or how it benefits me. Today my GPA is a 3.77 and I have a newly found respect for academic success and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge.
In high school I had a disgraceful GPA of 1.602 and saw no reason to strive for more then this. I felt I was an intelligent person and did not need a degree to do well in life. I questioned the real life applications for what was being taught and thought that I would be a success based solely on my personality. Much like the teenager who thinks that they are immortal I did not fear my lack of academic achievement.
My appreciation for formal education did not blossom until I found myself in the workplace. It was there that I was able to recognize its value. Desire for promotion, monthly bills, and even the price of gas motivated me more then any teacher ever had. I found myself taking night classes and doing well. Formal education was no longer an abstract process and with real world motivation, I found myself succeeding at a level far greater than my previous grades would have predicted. It was in these moments of clarity that I knew that I should be a teacher, to try to pass on this motivation to students at an earlier age. I wanted to teach in a way that was not judgmental, nor motivate with happy faces and stickers but with experience. I can relate to them because I was them, with the hindsight to understand their fears, the patience to work through their doubts and ability to supply real life reasons to why they should apply themselves.
Elementary teachers must be chameleons. They must always adapt to the subject matter being taught and changing needs of the students. Teachers must bring real life into the classroom so the children can value what they are being taught. They have a responsibility to truly know the curriculum and not merely rely on the teacher’s editions. Teachers must also always be students, and learn to adapt so that the teaching methods never become stale nor lose touch with the students. They must respond to the pace of technology, and be open to the opportunities and responsibilities new technologies will bring to the classroom.
I am no longer the student who questions why I am learning or how it benefits me. Today my GPA is a 3.77 and I have a newly found respect for academic success and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge.
October 26 Class
Hi Everybody!
Hope you all had a chance to look over the sample Contextual Factors paper I distributed the last time we met. As I told you then, it's a good model for you to refer to when you're ready to write your paper. I hope you took plenty of notes and notice while you were at your first school. Don't forget too that you will find the statistics you need on the "report card" page on the Internet.
Just wanted to clarify: who is presenting on Friday? I know Sarah will, but I also have Kari and Adriana down for "Special Ed/Autism" and "The Struggle for Educational Opportunity." Will this be the second presentation for both Kari and Adriana? Please let me know. Do Diana and Nicole want to present on that day also? If you'd like to, we will have the time. Otherwise, I'll arrange for something else.
See you soon!
Friday, October 12, 2007
Second Life experiences
Hi there!
This is Librarian Craig Anderson, aka Draconius Merlin in SL.
I just wanted to say that it was so much fun being able to teach a class in Second Life this morning, and that I am so glad to see so many of you embracing this new technology. To download Second Life onto your home computer, simply go to www.secondlife.com and choose "Download Second Life" on the bottom left of the homepage. If any of you are having troubles with getting into Second Life from home, you can either comment on this post, or send me an e-mail at: cjanders@kean.edu.
I've sent you all an invite to join the Kean University group on SL, which will allow me to send you bulletins and news as a group. I have the SL names for 11 of you, so I'm missing someone. Here are the names that I have:
Nana Masatada
Princesa Liotta
Miley Mayako
MarieElizabeth Pinklady
Purplelady Oceanlane
Cool Silverspar
Actually Blessed
Feeling Timeless
Leighlani Pinazzo
Tennesee Outlander
Pink Lovenkraft
A few tips for newbies:
-- Remember that once you're on SL, you can use the "Search" button to do a search for different areas, people, and events online.
-- Your inventory contains many things that may be useful to you. Whenever someone gives you a landmark, calling card, or article of clothing, it goes into your inventory. Right-click on an inventory item to use it.
-- Right-clicking enables you to interact with many items in the work. Some vehicles will allow you to right-click on them and select "drive". If you right-click on a person (including yourself) , you can read their profile, add them as a friend, or send them an IM.
-- The "Communicate" button on the bottom will bring up your list of contacts (friends), any groups that you belong to (Like the Kean group), and let you teleport people on your contacts list. Always be careful that you're not saying anything private in the "near me" tab. That means that you're announcing your statement to the surrounding area.
-- When you feel comfortable with it, you can click "build", and start using the 3D modeling tool to build objects. Be careful with this, and be sure to always right-click on the object and select "take" when you're done building. Otherwise these objects stay in the area in which you built them. (and that's littering!) Once an object is in your inventory, you can delete it if you don't want it.
-- for those of you with headsets and/or external microphones, you can go to the Edit menu and select "preferences" to enable voice chat. This will allow you to speak with others using voice instead of typing. (it puts a little snowflake above your head so that you can tell people who have voice enabled)
-- If you really want to, feel free to get a Premium membership. This gives you 300 $L (Linden Dollars) /week, which you will surely spend quickly.
-- When you get into SL, do a search for "Hypatia Dejavu". She is a wonderful librarian, extraordinarily helpful, taught me everything I know, and most importantly, SHE LOVES TO SHOP. Speak to her, and she'll have you better dressed in no time. :)
I look forward to seeing you all online, and I hope you have fun with this. But as Professor Tomich (Prof. Amat) says: Don't get TOO addicted! :)
Sincerely,
Craig Anderson/Draconius Merlin.
PS: Check out http://secondlife.reuters.com for the SL news desk! (one of them, anyway)
This is Librarian Craig Anderson, aka Draconius Merlin in SL.
I just wanted to say that it was so much fun being able to teach a class in Second Life this morning, and that I am so glad to see so many of you embracing this new technology. To download Second Life onto your home computer, simply go to www.secondlife.com and choose "Download Second Life" on the bottom left of the homepage. If any of you are having troubles with getting into Second Life from home, you can either comment on this post, or send me an e-mail at: cjanders@kean.edu.
I've sent you all an invite to join the Kean University group on SL, which will allow me to send you bulletins and news as a group. I have the SL names for 11 of you, so I'm missing someone. Here are the names that I have:
Nana Masatada
Princesa Liotta
Miley Mayako
MarieElizabeth Pinklady
Purplelady Oceanlane
Cool Silverspar
Actually Blessed
Feeling Timeless
Leighlani Pinazzo
Tennesee Outlander
Pink Lovenkraft
A few tips for newbies:
-- Remember that once you're on SL, you can use the "Search" button to do a search for different areas, people, and events online.
-- Your inventory contains many things that may be useful to you. Whenever someone gives you a landmark, calling card, or article of clothing, it goes into your inventory. Right-click on an inventory item to use it.
-- Right-clicking enables you to interact with many items in the work. Some vehicles will allow you to right-click on them and select "drive". If you right-click on a person (including yourself) , you can read their profile, add them as a friend, or send them an IM.
-- The "Communicate" button on the bottom will bring up your list of contacts (friends), any groups that you belong to (Like the Kean group), and let you teleport people on your contacts list. Always be careful that you're not saying anything private in the "near me" tab. That means that you're announcing your statement to the surrounding area.
-- When you feel comfortable with it, you can click "build", and start using the 3D modeling tool to build objects. Be careful with this, and be sure to always right-click on the object and select "take" when you're done building. Otherwise these objects stay in the area in which you built them. (and that's littering!) Once an object is in your inventory, you can delete it if you don't want it.
-- for those of you with headsets and/or external microphones, you can go to the Edit menu and select "preferences" to enable voice chat. This will allow you to speak with others using voice instead of typing. (it puts a little snowflake above your head so that you can tell people who have voice enabled)
-- If you really want to, feel free to get a Premium membership. This gives you 300 $L (Linden Dollars) /week, which you will surely spend quickly.
-- When you get into SL, do a search for "Hypatia Dejavu". She is a wonderful librarian, extraordinarily helpful, taught me everything I know, and most importantly, SHE LOVES TO SHOP. Speak to her, and she'll have you better dressed in no time. :)
I look forward to seeing you all online, and I hope you have fun with this. But as Professor Tomich (Prof. Amat) says: Don't get TOO addicted! :)
Sincerely,
Craig Anderson/Draconius Merlin.
PS: Check out http://secondlife.reuters.com for the SL news desk! (one of them, anyway)
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Eugene schools share their technology knowledge
I was searching google for some education news articles, and I found this. I found it interesting and it reminded me of all of the techology videos we looked at a few weeks back. This takes place in Eugene, Oregon. There is also a video in the link provided that I am unable to post. I recommend taking a look at it. It's very interesting.
The link: http://www.kval.com/news/10490432.html
The Eugene School District is playing host to teachers and administrators from across the west.
They're showing off their computer savvy to help other school districts benefit from technology.
At Howard Elementary school, the future is now.
Teachers and students use smart boards, clickers, computers and ipods for everything from science to reading.
Now they're sharing their experience with 50 educators from districts all over.
Teacher and technology expert Carol Greig Pitetti of Howard Elementary says, "How we integrated technology and infused it into our entire curriculum."
The teachers and principals at the 4j tech seminar are watching, and learning.
Bruce Krieg of the Oregon City School district says, "I'm thrilled, I'm thrilled, very excited wonderful example."
These Oregon City teachers are planning their own technology roll out.Tech Specialist, Micah Baker, says "This is an incredible example to bring back and I've got many pages to bring back, notes to share."
Howard Elementary started using ipods 4 years ago, but only recently fully integrated technology.
Greig Pitetti says "I'm proud, yeah of our kids and our staff, the fact were able to be a leader and show people look, look what we can do with kids."
And the technology isn't just in the classroom, but in the gym as well where the visiting educators kicked off their shoes and learned how dance dance revolution gets students moving in PE.Heidi Dahlin of Oregon City says she's been in tech for 13 years and has never seen an application for PE.
She says, "I thought it was a clever use of technology it certainly engaged me."
The teachers say if they find technology this fun. imagine what their students will think.
Krieg says "Look it can be done and be done very successfully."Howard Elementary used apple computer grants and district title one money to buy their technology tools.
(= Sarah =)
The link: http://www.kval.com/news/10490432.html
The Eugene School District is playing host to teachers and administrators from across the west.
They're showing off their computer savvy to help other school districts benefit from technology.
At Howard Elementary school, the future is now.
Teachers and students use smart boards, clickers, computers and ipods for everything from science to reading.
Now they're sharing their experience with 50 educators from districts all over.
Teacher and technology expert Carol Greig Pitetti of Howard Elementary says, "How we integrated technology and infused it into our entire curriculum."
The teachers and principals at the 4j tech seminar are watching, and learning.
Bruce Krieg of the Oregon City School district says, "I'm thrilled, I'm thrilled, very excited wonderful example."
These Oregon City teachers are planning their own technology roll out.Tech Specialist, Micah Baker, says "This is an incredible example to bring back and I've got many pages to bring back, notes to share."
Howard Elementary started using ipods 4 years ago, but only recently fully integrated technology.
Greig Pitetti says "I'm proud, yeah of our kids and our staff, the fact were able to be a leader and show people look, look what we can do with kids."
And the technology isn't just in the classroom, but in the gym as well where the visiting educators kicked off their shoes and learned how dance dance revolution gets students moving in PE.Heidi Dahlin of Oregon City says she's been in tech for 13 years and has never seen an application for PE.
She says, "I thought it was a clever use of technology it certainly engaged me."
The teachers say if they find technology this fun. imagine what their students will think.
Krieg says "Look it can be done and be done very successfully."Howard Elementary used apple computer grants and district title one money to buy their technology tools.
(= Sarah =)
Kids say the darndest things...
I was writing my journal and could not find a place to put this.
At the end of the day my cooperating teacher asked me to take a student back to the library to trade her book (she had chosen an autobiography instead of a book of fiction).
We went to the library but it was already closed for the day. We then went to the office to find where the Librarian was, we then went to her end of day post (but not before being spotted by the students 2nd grade sister who then joined us on our quest for fiction)
The librarian gave me permission to reopen the library for this student. The three of us went to the library where the student swapped her book- I closed the room up and realized I was not sure where I was taken the children to next.
So I asked "So where do we go next" and with out skipping the beat the student responded "We go home with the babysitter, I am not sure where you go."
I couldn't help laughing out loud.
Always remember students take what we say literally!
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Top 10 Common Teaching Mistakes For Teachers To Avoid
I saw this article on About.com and thought I would share. I am sure we will all make mistakes (We are new at this, and only human) but maybe this can help us avoid the common ones!
Saturday, October 6, 2007
"Educatio est omnium efficacissima forma rebellionis"
I saw this quote on someone's profile in second life. Can anyone find out whose quote it is? What does it mean? Do you agree with it?
The first person to answer gets (some kind of) extra credit!
The first person to answer gets (some kind of) extra credit!
Know Your Personality
It may be helpful (or at least interesting) to take the free test they offer at this website.
Enneagram Institute
Enneagram Institute
Friday, October 5, 2007
Reminder About Your Writing Skills
Hi Everybody!
Ouch! I've been reading your first reports and journals--please review my post on September 26th--proofread or have someone proofread your assignments before you send them to me!
Hope you had a good visit today...
Enjoy your long weekend.
Ouch! I've been reading your first reports and journals--please review my post on September 26th--proofread or have someone proofread your assignments before you send them to me!
Hope you had a good visit today...
Enjoy your long weekend.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Lets Meet Up!
For those who would like to meet up outside of Harrison School again we will meet at the same time 8:15. I hope we all have a great second visit!
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Hello There!
Hey everyone! I hope everyone enjoyed their first field visit! I know I did, and I am really looking forward to the second. (=
So good luck and have fun on Friday! Luckily, I'm not nearly as nervous as I was last Friday, haha.
(=
So good luck and have fun on Friday! Luckily, I'm not nearly as nervous as I was last Friday, haha.
(=
My 1st Field Report at Hehnly Elementary
Field Report 1
School: Hehnly Elementary School
Grade: 4
Teacher: “Miss Lopez”
Time: 8:00am-3:00pm (6.5 hours)
Date of visit: September 28, 2007 (Friday)
My first field experience started at 8:30am as the students rushed into the classroom to prepare the appropriate materials to start their day. I was quietly sitting in the back of the classroom as I observed the chaos that was happening. Miss Lopez then had control of the students and started her morning by writing the date and the activities that were going to take place throughout the day. The day was full of excitement and anticipation because I had no idea what to expect considering I have not been in an elementary classroom since I was a younger girl.
The classroom consisted of twenty-four energized students and one amazing teacher. Her teaching techniques were definitely out of the ordinary. Friday’s math lesson was about subtraction of long numbers and the students showed an enormous amount of interest! Her students were absolutely in tune with her when she began the lesson. When Miss Lopez saw that the students were experiencing minor difficulties with a few problems she had the students pick up a 9x12 dry erase board and a marker. I was certainly surprised to see this particular teaching material because it was something I was not familiar with. I was always accustomed to teachers using the dry erase board as a teaching method and not have each student have one of their own. I believe it was a great way to engage the students visually and gave Miss Lopez the opportunity to see where they might be making mistakes.
All of the students were equally participating in the lesson and then soon asked Miss Lopez for more challenging problems. The students were then given a problem to figure out on their boards and asked to raise their board when completed. Miss Lopez walked around the classroom and was able to make out the students that needed more of her assistance. What I liked about her teaching method was that she gave the students a chance to figure out their mistakes on their own. Miss Lopez did not just write out the problem on the board and then solve it. Miss Lopez asked questions to guide the students to the right answer and help them better understand where they might be making common mistakes.
The dry erase boards gave the students the chance to feel like a teacher and visually show Miss Lopez the strategies they used to solve a specific problem. I definitely felt the energy in the room when she asked the students to get the boards. I think slightly changing the common way of learning engages the students in a positive way. Students do tend to get uninterested when they are given the same routine everyday. Miss Lopez integrated her everyday teaching tool with the students and it changed attitudes of the students drastically.
During reading time Miss Lopez put on a tape so the students can read along with no trouble. A student asked, “Can we sit on the tables?” and I was surprised to hear such a question. Miss Lopez then agreed to the inquiry and everyone jumped for joy. They sat on their desks and followed along with the tape attentively. Again, I never saw such a thing, but it was a great idea to keep the students awake and attentive. She probably lets the students sit on their desk during reading time to better grab their attention and not have the students put their heads down and possibly fall asleep.
In conclusion, my first field experience was great and I was able to gain many different teaching techniques that I can perhaps use for my future classroom. Simple, yet effective techniques such as white erase boards and sitting on desks while reading are great ways to engage the students physically and mentally.
Question
I can't figure out what I did with Prof. Tomich e-mail address and want to email her our assignments. Can some one please let me know? and good luck to everyone on their second visit! Thanks
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Ideas for next Classroom visit
I really enjoyed my day at Hehnly school. The teacher I was visiting with had some suggestions I wanted to share with everyone. She said that I should bring my camera next time and take pictures of any bulletin boards that I liked so I'd have ideas for when I have my own classroom one day. She also suggested starting a folder and making copies of any handouts that I liked or make copies of any activities that I thought would work well in the classroom. She showed me the Back to School Folder that she gave the parents and said I could make copies of it if I wanted to. Did anyone else get any good tips on things to do next time we visit or on things to look for to help us out with our own classrooms one day?
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Housekeeping
Hi Everyone!
I take it you all survived your first day back in elementary school? Can't wait to hear all about it...which leads me to clarify some confusion as to how you're to send me your assignments.
Each field report & reflection (two separate documents) are due exactly one week after your visit, regardless if we meet or you're in the field and the easiest is for you to email them to me as attachments. IT'S IMPORTANT THAT YOU SEND THESE REPORTS & REFLECTION ON MS WORD ONLY. ALSO, BE SURE TO SAVE THEM FOR POSSIBLE FUTURE USE.
Please name your assignments like this: YOUR LAST NAME, Field Report 1. (Then 2, and 3, and 4, etc...)
Example: Tomich,Field Report 1. Tomich, Reflection 1. In the body of your document please include the date of your visit.
Again: your email may bounce back, saying my mailbox is full (I'll try to free up some space). Don't worry--I have a back-up mailbox (and you should too since we don't have too much memory in Kean email).
I take it you all survived your first day back in elementary school? Can't wait to hear all about it...which leads me to clarify some confusion as to how you're to send me your assignments.
Each field report & reflection (two separate documents) are due exactly one week after your visit, regardless if we meet or you're in the field and the easiest is for you to email them to me as attachments. IT'S IMPORTANT THAT YOU SEND THESE REPORTS & REFLECTION ON MS WORD ONLY. ALSO, BE SURE TO SAVE THEM FOR POSSIBLE FUTURE USE.
Please name your assignments like this: YOUR LAST NAME, Field Report 1. (Then 2, and 3, and 4, etc...)
Example: Tomich,Field Report 1. Tomich, Reflection 1. In the body of your document please include the date of your visit.
Again: your email may bounce back, saying my mailbox is full (I'll try to free up some space). Don't worry--I have a back-up mailbox (and you should too since we don't have too much memory in Kean email).
Friday, September 28, 2007
Questions on field report/ journal
Wow today was such an amazing experience! :0)I was about to sit down and write my journal entry when I realized I was not sure what the journal/ field report procedure is. Do we put the information on the blog, or do we email it right to the Prof. Tomich?
I also know we are not to include teacher/ student names in our field reports- is this also the case with the journal entries?
I also know we are not to include teacher/ student names in our field reports- is this also the case with the journal entries?
I hope everyone else had as much fun as I did. Have a great weekend.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
First Field Visit
Hope everyones first field visit goes well. Have fun and don't be nervous, even though I know I am !!
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
It's time to comment on your speaking and writing skills
Suggestion: Make it a point to review the "oral" and "written" rubrics you have in your folders. With your first visit coming up, it's important for you to be conscious of the way you communicate to the personnel and students in your school. (I want you to make a good impression--who knows--it may help you get a job in the near future!)
Never hand anything in that hasn't been proofread. If you don't trust yourself to catch your own errors, make an arrangement with a classmate or friend to trade papers and proofread for each other. (It's insulting to receive student papers that haven't been proofread).
Check this list of commonly misspelled words:
http://www.yourdictionary.com/library/misspelled.html
Please know the difference between "their, they're and there," and use the right one.
We converse--it hasn't officially evolved into conversate yet...
Know when to use "I" or "me" (I'll give you a great tip in class next time if you remind me).
Remember: First impressions are important!
Never hand anything in that hasn't been proofread. If you don't trust yourself to catch your own errors, make an arrangement with a classmate or friend to trade papers and proofread for each other. (It's insulting to receive student papers that haven't been proofread).
Check this list of commonly misspelled words:
http://www.yourdictionary.com/library/misspelled.html
Please know the difference between "their, they're and there," and use the right one.
We converse--it hasn't officially evolved into conversate yet...
Know when to use "I" or "me" (I'll give you a great tip in class next time if you remind me).
Remember: First impressions are important!
Monday, September 24, 2007
Testing....what do you think about this idea?
Just wanted to see what everyone thought about this idea regarding testing.......
I thought of Lynn's presentation this morning as I was sitting in my Disabled Persons in American Society class. This class basically goes over in depth different learning disabilities. Today in particular my professor started talking about how testing really screws around with a students mind and how she understands the pressure that students go through even to the point that she told us today that all of our tests including our midterm and final are all take home tests. Right when she said this I was a little surprised becaue that is not something you hear very often especially in college but she had really good reasoning behind her choice. She started to tell us how so many students will just memorize either a few nights before the upcoming test or even cram the night before and then the second we hand in our test, it is completely forgotten. Then theres the student that will study so much but when the test is put in front of them everything is competley forgotten. So how much is testing really helping us?
My professor went on to explain how by letting us take home all of our tests she has a better chance of us actually learning the information, plus it takes off a lot of pressure knowing that we do not have to study crazy and then possibly have an anxiety attack when it comes time to take the actual test.
I just thought this was a little interesting and made me think of Lynn's presentation that she gave on Friday in refrence to Standarized Testing. So the question is....are take home tests better or worse for the students?
I thought of Lynn's presentation this morning as I was sitting in my Disabled Persons in American Society class. This class basically goes over in depth different learning disabilities. Today in particular my professor started talking about how testing really screws around with a students mind and how she understands the pressure that students go through even to the point that she told us today that all of our tests including our midterm and final are all take home tests. Right when she said this I was a little surprised becaue that is not something you hear very often especially in college but she had really good reasoning behind her choice. She started to tell us how so many students will just memorize either a few nights before the upcoming test or even cram the night before and then the second we hand in our test, it is completely forgotten. Then theres the student that will study so much but when the test is put in front of them everything is competley forgotten. So how much is testing really helping us?
My professor went on to explain how by letting us take home all of our tests she has a better chance of us actually learning the information, plus it takes off a lot of pressure knowing that we do not have to study crazy and then possibly have an anxiety attack when it comes time to take the actual test.
I just thought this was a little interesting and made me think of Lynn's presentation that she gave on Friday in refrence to Standarized Testing. So the question is....are take home tests better or worse for the students?
Bill Gates has his own ideas about testing...
Hi Everybody!
Saw this in yesterday's Parade...please read it and tell us what you think:
http://www.parade.com/articles/editions/2007/edition_09-23-2007/Intelligence_Report
Saw this in yesterday's Parade...please read it and tell us what you think:
http://www.parade.com/articles/editions/2007/edition_09-23-2007/Intelligence_Report
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Updated Syllabus/Due Dates
Essay: My Philosophy of Education 20%
Six Field Reports/Reflective Journals 30%
Class Participation/Blog/Presentation 30%
Teacher Work Sample (TWS) 20%
Due Dates (All assignments can either be handed in or e-mailed)
TWS- November 30th
Essay- November 9th
Six Field Reports- are due one week after class visit
Dates: Oct. 5,12,26
Nov. 9
Dec. 7,14
Six Field Reports/Reflective Journals 30%
Class Participation/Blog/Presentation 30%
Teacher Work Sample (TWS) 20%
Due Dates (All assignments can either be handed in or e-mailed)
TWS- November 30th
Essay- November 9th
Six Field Reports- are due one week after class visit
Dates: Oct. 5,12,26
Nov. 9
Dec. 7,14
Information for Contextual Factors--Not too early for you to start looking at these factors during your first school visit
The Teaching Performance Center (TPC-W110) has an excellent website and I recommend that you become familiar with it. Here's the URL: http://www.kean.edu/~tpc/
You'll find everything you need to know about all phases of your fieldwork, Teacher Work Sample (TWS), Educational Portfolio, the PDS program, various seminars, and much more.
Once you get to the home page, look at "Handbooks" on the left, and click on “Teacher Work Sample Portfolio” and "The Guide to Compiling a Teacher Work Sample Portfolio" can be found here. I haven't added these links to this posting because you may want to browse around the site rather than go directly to this specific information. It will benefit you to access and take your time reading much of this on your own. Definitely bookmark the tpc website for future reference.
All of the information you need, including the rubric by which your paper will be evaluated, can be found here. In addition, I'll bring a sample contextual factors paper to our next class meeting for you to look at and discuss.
In addition, here's the link to the video we saw in class yesterday, just in case you wanted to look at it again: http://kutv.kean.edu/KU3_Sneak_Preview.html
That's it for now. Enjoy your weekend!
You'll find everything you need to know about all phases of your fieldwork, Teacher Work Sample (TWS), Educational Portfolio, the PDS program, various seminars, and much more.
Once you get to the home page, look at "Handbooks" on the left, and click on “Teacher Work Sample Portfolio” and "The Guide to Compiling a Teacher Work Sample Portfolio" can be found here. I haven't added these links to this posting because you may want to browse around the site rather than go directly to this specific information. It will benefit you to access and take your time reading much of this on your own. Definitely bookmark the tpc website for future reference.
All of the information you need, including the rubric by which your paper will be evaluated, can be found here. In addition, I'll bring a sample contextual factors paper to our next class meeting for you to look at and discuss.
In addition, here's the link to the video we saw in class yesterday, just in case you wanted to look at it again: http://kutv.kean.edu/KU3_Sneak_Preview.html
That's it for now. Enjoy your weekend!
More then free apples for teachers:0)
Receive a free science fair kit and other resources from Elmer’s and Discovery Education. Loaded with great ideas and organizational tips, the FREE “Science Fair Central” kit and DVD will help your middle and elementary school students excel while making the process less stressful for students, parents and you!
My friend emailed me this site- it has free downloads and free teacher workshops. I signed up for the free science fair kit (If they won't send it to me I requested they send it to our program)
Check it out if you have some free time.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Standardized Testing & Classroom Management
We had two really informative presentations this morning. Does anyone want to comment or ask a question regarding either presentation?
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Second Life Library instruction
Hi there!
This is Craig Anderson, librarian extraordinaire. (the guy in the hat) Professor Tomich gave me access to this group so that I could get an idea of what you guys are presenting in your class.
I'm going to be giving a demonstration in the library in a few weeks about the Second Life online virtual environment. (and I was reasonably certain that I was giving this demonstration on the 12th, but now I see it listed here as being on the 15th. Please advise!) So I was just curious to know if any of you have had the chance to check out Second Life, or if any of you are already familiar with it.
Feel free to e-mail me with your thoughts and/or experiences with this virtual reality platform, if you've had the chance to experience it. You can respond to me here, or e-mail me at cjanders@kean.edu. For those of you already ON Second Life, I am Draconius Merlin there, and usually can be found hanging around the Info Island reference area. :)
See you in a few weeks! :)
This is Craig Anderson, librarian extraordinaire. (the guy in the hat) Professor Tomich gave me access to this group so that I could get an idea of what you guys are presenting in your class.
I'm going to be giving a demonstration in the library in a few weeks about the Second Life online virtual environment. (and I was reasonably certain that I was giving this demonstration on the 12th, but now I see it listed here as being on the 15th. Please advise!) So I was just curious to know if any of you have had the chance to check out Second Life, or if any of you are already familiar with it.
Feel free to e-mail me with your thoughts and/or experiences with this virtual reality platform, if you've had the chance to experience it. You can respond to me here, or e-mail me at cjanders@kean.edu. For those of you already ON Second Life, I am Draconius Merlin there, and usually can be found hanging around the Info Island reference area. :)
See you in a few weeks! :)
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
School Visit Info
For all three schools: You are to find parking on the street; please do not park in the school parking lots--there just aren't enough spaces for you. Be aware of street cleaning/alternate side of the street parking signs!
In Roselle you're to be there at 8:30am and stay until the 3:10pm. Students are dismissed at 2:55pm, but teachers stay 15 minutes beyond that. It's a 40 minute lunch, so chances are you won't have time to leave the building to buy & eat lunch out...(that doesn't mean you can't leave the building at all)
In Clark you're expected to report at 8am and stay until 3pm. Here you have a 50 minute lunch and you can ask for some nearby lunch places if you like.
Your lunch time is the same as the teacher and class your observing. You may or may not have the same lunch period as your classmates. In any case, I highly recommend that you brown bag it at least for your first observation--just to be sure that you are covered. You can check out the cafeteria and decide what to do for your second visit.
So: street parking only, brown bag it at least for the first observation, and be sure to be prompt. Please use this forum for any questions that come up prior to your first visit, and also to share info and tips you may have after your first visit!
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Grading
Since I forgot to bring this up during the last class, let's begin the discussion here. The six elements you'll be graded on for this course are the following:
1. Essay "My Philosophy of Education." Be sure to consult the rubric you were given.
2. Reflections on Readings...(handouts and web pages from fellow students and me)
3. Class Participation...this includes the Blog postings/comments (consult rubric).
4. Six Field Reports (consult rubric).
5. TWS element: Contextual Factors
6. Reflective Journal
Please give this some thought prior to our class on Friday and we will spend a little time discussing and finalizing this before student presentations.
See you on Friday!
Monday, September 17, 2007
Faculty may be armed
Since we talked about attacks on teachers last week I had to do a little research to see if there are any laws allowing teachers to practice self defense if needed.
I did not find anything on that yet-but I had to share the below links with you. It is a crazy/sick world out there! I am very glad I live in NJ!
Excerpt from
link one:
link one:"It is unlikely that many teachers would participate if the laws were changed to allow them to defend themselves and their students. Fortunately, this concept does not depend on a high participation rate for success. Simply changing the policy from "this school is a gun free zone" to "faculty may be armed" would immediately reduce the chances of a violent attack.
Excerpt from link two:
Currently, 23 states allow corporal punishment. In six states, teachers are immune from liability for hitting students. Five of those states – Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, and Georgia – rank in the top 6 of those states with the most number of students hit during the 1997-1998 school year. Texas ranks #1, with 81,373 children hit that year. (Wyoming also has an immunity law).
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Great article in the Times today about a school in Newark
Hi everyone. I'll be presenting on Standardized Testing on Friday and I just found a great article on how one school who is in danger of failing to meet the standards of No Child Left Behind is trying to turn things around. It's Newton Street School in Newark. There is also a good link to see what schools are in danger of not meeting the standards and how many years they have been in danger. The article is below
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/16/nyregion/nyregionspecial2/16rcover.html?_r=1&ref=nyregionspecial2&oref=slogin.
If you want to see what schools are in danger click below:
http://www.nytimes.com/packages/html/nyregion/20070916_NJGRAPHIC.html
Have a great weekend and I'll see you on Friday.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/16/nyregion/nyregionspecial2/16rcover.html?_r=1&ref=nyregionspecial2&oref=slogin.
If you want to see what schools are in danger click below:
http://www.nytimes.com/packages/html/nyregion/20070916_NJGRAPHIC.html
Have a great weekend and I'll see you on Friday.