Just Hanging Out

As part of the First Lego League requirements for this year, teams must research a problem that occurs because of Natural Disasters, and then come up with an innovative solution to solve that problem.  In the process, students research various solutions already in place, the reference many sources such as books, websites, videos, and they also speak with experts that can help them with the development of their solution.  This year's team researched floods and came up with a solution for people stuck in their cars during a flood that is similar to the flotation devices in the seat cushions of airplanes.  As a part of their research process, they spoke with a UPS pilot, Jim Crowley, living in the DFW area.  In order to have an authentic conversation with Mr. Crowley, the kids utilized Google Hangouts to ask questions and clarify some of their research.  He was able to ask them more about their project as well. 

iPads and Auditory Impaired Students

Our deaf population students on campus are very visual learners.  Ms. Pickens has been utilizing iPads for her students to take notes and write in their agenda.  Her sixth grade students have been using them to take pictures of things then compare/contrast and to sequence activities.  One activity they are doing is teaching their teacher how to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, which will them be recorded on the iPad.  After that, the students will write about how to make the sandwich.  

Mimio Teach in Language Arts

After seeing how teachers in our math classes were using their Mimio Teach Interactive boards, students in Ms. Weigand's classes started using the Mimio Teach to annotate on passages.  Ms. Weigand finds that this is a more interactive and engaging environment for her students to learn new skills.  

Ms. Weigand was so excited about using her Mimio that she started teaching other teachers how to use their Mimio's as well! 

Face to Face Tutorials

Ms. Cowan, one of our Auditory Impaired Teachers, has been utilizing Face Time and texting with her auditory impaired students to answer homework questions.  This is an excellent use of technology because students may need to see the sign for a concept to have a better understanding of content that they are struggling with.