Week of August 21

Thursday Thoughts August 21

Last night I had an opportunity to attend a musical in which one of our Medlock Bridge students was a lead actor.  He performed in front of a packed house with a cast full of seasoned adult actors.  I was amazed to see this ten year old, sing, dance and act (with a British accent) like a pro.  While watching this child, I began to realize that I might very well be watching a future Broadway or Hollywood star.  I also started thinking that we have a school full of children who are more than just students in our classrooms.  There is more to them than being an "on" "advanced" or "accelerated" student.  There is more to them than just meeting or exceeding a standard.  We are fortunate in that we have first "dibs" on the imprints that are made on children's hearts and in their lives.  I know that it may be difficult to see the gift or talent in EVERY child, but I challenge you to do just that.  I am excited about embarking on Genius Hour.  I truly believe that everyone is gifted and we have to give children time and space to unwrap their gifts.

Staff Spotlight

This week Karen Cooke has been nominated for the staff spotlight by Debbie Doyle.  Talk about having to dive in head first!  Karen has not only navigated through the ever changing world of SLO's but she manages to keep a smile on her face during the madness.  Karen is being recognized because of her positive attitude and willingness to help out in any way.  It is hard to believe that she has been here for exactly one month today.  Karen is a real team player. 

Staff please remember to grab a nomination form and recognize a colleague. Things are crazy right now and a little acknowledgement will go a long way!


 

 4C's: Collaboration, Communication, Creativity, Critical Thinking Skills

 

A Taxonomy Tree: A Bloom’s Revised Taxonomy Graphic

by Teach Thought Staff

If you’re a TeachThought reader, you know that thought is at the core of our content–curiosity, critical thinking, self-direction, and play among other slivers of learning.
This is especially true as it relates to teaching, learning, and technology. At the point where teaching, learning, and thinking overlap sits the concept of a learning taxonomy. And at that the center of that overlap is Bloom’s Taxonomy, certainly the most iconic of the thinking frameworks we use today.
And somewhere in that center of overlap is this graphic. You’ve probably seen the dozens of posts we’ve done to clarify Bloom’s–at least in form. We’ve shared different versions of Bloom’s taxonomy–pinwheels, iPad wheels, charts, cards, posters, power verbs, a simplified version for students, you name it.
If there is one thing teachers can’t get enough of, it’s Bloom’s taxonomy posters. Which makes sense–if teaching is about thinking, any way to get a fresh take on a taxonomy that promotes it should draw some interest. We’ve featured graphics like these–often by Mia MacMeekin–in the past. Mia does a great job of capturing useful tips and strategies in easy to digest graphics, and this graphic is no exception
In terms of graphic commentary, it’s a straightforward take on Bloom’s updated taxonomy (Create on top). It also includes the power verbs that are so useful in writing lessons and objectives, etc. Check out Mia’s site and let her know what you think.

 

 

Technology Tidbits

http://resources.oswego.org/games/- great site to add as a math center on your computers

http://mathcounts.org/- a website geared to challenge the 5th & 6th grade math students.  Check out the posters which can be downloaded and used as a center as well as the Problem of the Week.
 

News & Notes

 This year FCS will keep continue to take substitute applications through February.  This is great news and hopefully means that we will not have a shortage of subs.  We are keeping our fingers crossed.  If you know of someone who is interested in becoming a sub in FCS, please direct them to this site: http://www.fultonschools.org/en/divisions/hr/Pages/How_To_Become_A_Substitute.aspx

This site is a little difficult to find on the FCS website so this link is a shortcut.