RAZ Kids
The Cafe: Daily 5
RAZ Kids is a website that allows students access to 29 different level books that they can access at school or at home (wherever there is a computer with internet access). The website has the option to have the book read aloud to the student first, then the student reads independently and finally that is followed up with a quiz testing their comprehension. The teacher is able to see the student's progress as they go through the different books and levels. There is an option for teachers to print out the books if they want a hard copy for their classroom. Unfortunately, this isn't free, it costs $109 US/year, but it would be worth it if you plan on using it often, also some schools might be open to buying the subscription.
The Daily 5 Cafe is a program developed to teach and assess literacy. I've seen it used in classrooms about 5 years ago but haven't seen it used as much recently. It is suppose to create independence in students and engage them in reading, writing, and learning, while the teacher has opportunity to meet/observe all students in the class. There are 5 tasks that student's are able to choose between during the literacy block such as 1) Read to Self, 2) Work on Writing, 3)Read to Someone, 4)Word Work and 5) Listen to Reading.
The Daily Language Review
The Daily Language Review is an excellent resource for preparing quick lessons on practicing editing sentences, punctuation, capitalization, spelling, grammar and reading and writing skills. The lessons are broken down into a short daily lesson Monday-Friday. They have editions from grades 1-8. The way I would use this is at the beginning of the day as the students are entering the classroom, the daily lesson can be open on the smart board. The students will know that they need to independently complete the lesson.
Dash the Robot
A ready to go resource that can be linked to Science and Technology (ST) is Dash the Robot. Dash the Robot, comes fully charged right out of the box and allows students of all ages to be introduced to coding and the starting phases of computer coding. Dash has the ability to respond to voices, sounds, he can dance and sing. Dash is great for kids of all ages, I think he would fit nicely in grades 1-6; he has a library of in-app challenges to help students of all ability levels grow and learn.
Dash the Robot is made by Wonder Workshop and can be purchased at www.makewonder.com. Dash the Robot and many other robots have the ability to fit into many areas in the Ontario curriculum in creative ways such as math, literacy, science and awareness of environmental and social issues. However, for this assignment I will focus on the Science and Technology curriculum. Dash would be appropriate starting in grade 2 in the movement strand of (ST). The overall expectations are to investigate mechanisms that include simple machines and enable movement; and demonstrate an understanding of movement and ways in which simple machines help to move objects. The specific expectations I’d plan on teaching are 2.2 investigate and describe different types of movement (e.g., by observing how toys and everyday objects move); 2.3 Investigate the structure and function of simple machines (e.g., by exploring the effects of changing the slope of a ramp) and 2.4 use technological problem solving skills and knowledge and skills acquired from previous investigation to design build and test mechanisms that include one or more simple machines (e.g., a toy, a model vehicle). The way I would use this in my classroom would be to have the kids investigate Dash, what kind of simple machines he is made up of, how he moves and how they help him move. From there we could do hands on experiments of having him move up and down different slopes and ramps the children build and make conclusions based on their observations. In addition to this, I would give groups a different scenario that they needed to solve that using Dash.
The strengths of this resource are that I think it can be very cross curricular and beneficial to students learning. It’s a fun and engaging resource that is inclusive to everyone. Most children would want to play, explore and learn with Dash. I think it can also be a great experience for students to realize the importance of learning science and math and make the connection of how those subjects are going to be applied to the real world. Coding with dash will enable students to use critical thinking skills, problem solving, and collaboration with peers. In today’s technology driven world, I believe introducing students at a young age to coding, computer programming and technological skills will prepare them for future jobs.
The weakness of this resource is that they are expensive and require either a laptop or computer to use. Not all schools will have the privilege of having access to Dash. In addition to this, we all know that technology can let us down and malfunction from time to time. They also need to be properly charged before they are used so who ever used them last will need to be responsible and ensure they are charged for the next group. Finally, I’ve seen first hand where Dash was being used in a classroom and groups of students would try to take over another
group’s robot by pairing it with their IPAD which caused arguing and behaviour to occur.
Dash sells for $169.99 on the Wonder Workshop website. I know some schools in the UCDSB have invested in some for their schools. Teachers could buy one with their own money or ask their administrators for funding for one if they really felt it was beneficial for their students.
Although, I have concerns with the cost of Dash, and that he will eventually become outdated I believe his strengths outweigh his weaknesses. Lastly, he definitely meets the principles of the ICI program, he would enable students to problem solve creatively and be in charge of where their learning goes and the things they could code Dash to do. There was an example I came across where students had to code Dash to use different materials to create an art project.
Dash the Robot is made by Wonder Workshop and can be purchased at www.makewonder.com. Dash the Robot and many other robots have the ability to fit into many areas in the Ontario curriculum in creative ways such as math, literacy, science and awareness of environmental and social issues. However, for this assignment I will focus on the Science and Technology curriculum. Dash would be appropriate starting in grade 2 in the movement strand of (ST). The overall expectations are to investigate mechanisms that include simple machines and enable movement; and demonstrate an understanding of movement and ways in which simple machines help to move objects. The specific expectations I’d plan on teaching are 2.2 investigate and describe different types of movement (e.g., by observing how toys and everyday objects move); 2.3 Investigate the structure and function of simple machines (e.g., by exploring the effects of changing the slope of a ramp) and 2.4 use technological problem solving skills and knowledge and skills acquired from previous investigation to design build and test mechanisms that include one or more simple machines (e.g., a toy, a model vehicle). The way I would use this in my classroom would be to have the kids investigate Dash, what kind of simple machines he is made up of, how he moves and how they help him move. From there we could do hands on experiments of having him move up and down different slopes and ramps the children build and make conclusions based on their observations. In addition to this, I would give groups a different scenario that they needed to solve that using Dash.
The strengths of this resource are that I think it can be very cross curricular and beneficial to students learning. It’s a fun and engaging resource that is inclusive to everyone. Most children would want to play, explore and learn with Dash. I think it can also be a great experience for students to realize the importance of learning science and math and make the connection of how those subjects are going to be applied to the real world. Coding with dash will enable students to use critical thinking skills, problem solving, and collaboration with peers. In today’s technology driven world, I believe introducing students at a young age to coding, computer programming and technological skills will prepare them for future jobs.
The weakness of this resource is that they are expensive and require either a laptop or computer to use. Not all schools will have the privilege of having access to Dash. In addition to this, we all know that technology can let us down and malfunction from time to time. They also need to be properly charged before they are used so who ever used them last will need to be responsible and ensure they are charged for the next group. Finally, I’ve seen first hand where Dash was being used in a classroom and groups of students would try to take over another
group’s robot by pairing it with their IPAD which caused arguing and behaviour to occur.
Dash sells for $169.99 on the Wonder Workshop website. I know some schools in the UCDSB have invested in some for their schools. Teachers could buy one with their own money or ask their administrators for funding for one if they really felt it was beneficial for their students.
Although, I have concerns with the cost of Dash, and that he will eventually become outdated I believe his strengths outweigh his weaknesses. Lastly, he definitely meets the principles of the ICI program, he would enable students to problem solve creatively and be in charge of where their learning goes and the things they could code Dash to do. There was an example I came across where students had to code Dash to use different materials to create an art project.
Go Noodle Resource for DPA
A resource that I believe would be useful to meet the criteria in the Health &/or Physical Education (HPE) is the website Go-Noodle. It can be accessed at www.gonoodle.com. This website is a database of a bunch of different dance and exercise videos for children. They are organized into different categories or channels. The videos can be filtered or searched by time limit, energy level or by title. Teachers will need to create an account for themselves and their class. The more the class uses the account, the more points they will receive which will give the digital class character opportunity to be upgraded or evolve, which is usually exciting for students.
I believe that this resource would be appropriate for grade levels kindergarten to grade 6. Applying it to the grade 1, Ontario curriculum documents, I believe the GoNoodle website could fit into the overall expectations, B2., the strand Physical Fitness : demonstrate an understanding of the importance of being physically active, and apply physical fitness concepts and practices that contribute to healthy and active living. More specifically, with the specific expectations B2.1: Daily physical activity (DPA): participate in moderate to vigorous physical activity, with appropriate warm-up and cool down activities, to the best of their abilities for a minimum of twenty minutes each day.
The strengths of this resource are that it allows DPA to be fun, exciting and have variety of options every day of the week. Although there is an upgraded paid version of the website, the free account is very good and still offers a lot of variety and features that in my opinion are more than enough. I believe the students could have a voice while using this website in DPA, the teacher could plan a 20 minute block of using GoNoodle or they could spread the 20 minutes throughout the day. If I was the teacher using this, I would start with a video of my choice and then have a student pick the next one based on participation and effort. I’d keep it positive and focus on things I observe students doing in hopes that the rest of the group would recognize the desired behaviour and strive to improve themselves. The nice thing about this website is that it’s accessible to anyone who has a computer, internet access and a smartboard/projector screen in their classroom.
The weakness of this resource is it is reliant on internet access and technology to work. Therefore, if there is an issue with technology that particular day it won’t work. In addition to this it might not be a great fit for all students. There are certain students who are very uncomfortable dancing or moving around in front of their peers.
I believe that this resource is pretty inclusive of most groups of individuals. For students who are physically impaired, I believe the moves could be adapted to all ability levels. I would be supportive of all student’s participation and encourage their involvement. They do a great job of representing individuals of all different groups. On a few of the videos I’ve watched, I’ve noticed children of different races, genders. Unfortunately, I have not come across children of different abilities.
There are very few concerns that I have with this resource. One concern that I have is that it relays on internet access to work. Another concern I have not seen any children of different abilities represented thus far.
Based on the principles in the ICI program, I believe GoNoodle would introduce students to various types of dance and allow them to be creative and come up with their own unique dances. It is a stepping stone for them to be comfortable and to imagine different scenarios through music, movement and creative scenarios.
I believe that this resource would be appropriate for grade levels kindergarten to grade 6. Applying it to the grade 1, Ontario curriculum documents, I believe the GoNoodle website could fit into the overall expectations, B2., the strand Physical Fitness : demonstrate an understanding of the importance of being physically active, and apply physical fitness concepts and practices that contribute to healthy and active living. More specifically, with the specific expectations B2.1: Daily physical activity (DPA): participate in moderate to vigorous physical activity, with appropriate warm-up and cool down activities, to the best of their abilities for a minimum of twenty minutes each day.
The strengths of this resource are that it allows DPA to be fun, exciting and have variety of options every day of the week. Although there is an upgraded paid version of the website, the free account is very good and still offers a lot of variety and features that in my opinion are more than enough. I believe the students could have a voice while using this website in DPA, the teacher could plan a 20 minute block of using GoNoodle or they could spread the 20 minutes throughout the day. If I was the teacher using this, I would start with a video of my choice and then have a student pick the next one based on participation and effort. I’d keep it positive and focus on things I observe students doing in hopes that the rest of the group would recognize the desired behaviour and strive to improve themselves. The nice thing about this website is that it’s accessible to anyone who has a computer, internet access and a smartboard/projector screen in their classroom.
The weakness of this resource is it is reliant on internet access and technology to work. Therefore, if there is an issue with technology that particular day it won’t work. In addition to this it might not be a great fit for all students. There are certain students who are very uncomfortable dancing or moving around in front of their peers.
I believe that this resource is pretty inclusive of most groups of individuals. For students who are physically impaired, I believe the moves could be adapted to all ability levels. I would be supportive of all student’s participation and encourage their involvement. They do a great job of representing individuals of all different groups. On a few of the videos I’ve watched, I’ve noticed children of different races, genders. Unfortunately, I have not come across children of different abilities.
There are very few concerns that I have with this resource. One concern that I have is that it relays on internet access to work. Another concern I have not seen any children of different abilities represented thus far.
Based on the principles in the ICI program, I believe GoNoodle would introduce students to various types of dance and allow them to be creative and come up with their own unique dances. It is a stepping stone for them to be comfortable and to imagine different scenarios through music, movement and creative scenarios.
Election Canada’s Teacher’s Resources
Election’s Canada has a website generated towards teachers and provides FREE resources and tools that they will mail to your school or home to help support your classroom’s learning. You can access them here at www.electionsanddemocracry.ca. I ordered the Grade 5 resource on Voting Rules, it comes with a teacher’s guide, a mock ballot box, and posters. This is the perfect time to teach this engaging and hands on lesson with the upcoming election occurring on Monday, October 21, 2019. This will fit perfectly with the Grade 5 social studies curriculum as they are required to learn about ‘The Role of Government and Responsible Citizenship’.
Sir Cumference Geometery Books Series
This week I’ve been at home on reading week. Needless to say, I’ve been getting caught up on a lot of my assignments and school work. One of the assignments I had to do was finding a children’s book that will serve as a math resource. After class one day, I headed down to the Teacher Education Resource Center at the University and stumbled upon a whole series of books called Sir Cumference. They’re a fun way to incorporate literacy and geometry together. There are 9 books in the series and there is also a teacher’s guide available with classroom activities to further your student’s learning.