After talking with my wife about life, teaching, and working out I realized that I was overtraining . . . leading myself to be less than average in all aspects of my life. I am gearing things down and focusing my workouts strictly on the 531 lifts and on mobility before/after workouts and at night.
Here goes nothin'! Truth!
Tuesday - OHP 9.25
warm-up: 2xbarx10, 2x50x5, 2x65x5, 80x3
5/5/5: 85x5, 95x5, 110x6 (goal was to get 5+)
Focused on shoulder mobility and stretching my back. I did a few sets of chins in the 5/5/5 part of the workout.
Wednesday - DL
warm-up: 2x135x5, 2x175x5, 210x3
5/5/5: 225x5, 260x5, 295x6 (goal 5+)
Felt really strong with DL today. Solid lifts all around.
Thursday - BP
warm-up: barx20, 2x75x5, 2x105x5, 115x3
5/5/5: 135x5, 155x5, 180x2 (goal 5+)
Poundages set using 100% of my TM - was too much!! So, I am revamping my weights for BP using 90% of my TM. Live & learn. The presses are easily my weakest areas at the moment.
Going to begin working out just 3x per week flipping DL/Squat - not sure if I'll do that weekly or monthly. We will see.
Saturday - small workout - 100 curls with 20# on bar + 4 trips with 35# dbs farmer's walk.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
C7 BBB Challenge - Month 3 Schedule
BBB Challenge | BP 5x10 @ 145# | SQ 5x10 @ 170# | OHP 5x10 @ 100# | DL 5x10 @ 245# | |||||||
1RM | BP 210# | SQ 240# | OHP 145# | 350# | |||||||
Warm up
Bench Press | Squats | Overhead Press | Deadlift |
85 lbs x 5 | 95 lbs x 5 | 50 lbs x 5 | 140 lbs x 5 |
105 lbs x 5 | 120 lbs x 5 | 65 lbs x 5 | 175 lbs x 5 |
125 lbs x 3 | 145 lbs x 3 | 80 lbs x 3 | 210 lbs x 3 |
5/3/1 Weights
Week 1 | Week 2 | Week 3 | Week 4 | |||
Bench Press | Set 1 | 135 lbs x 5 | 145 lbs x 3 | 155 lbs x 5 | 85 lbs x 5 | |
Set 2 | 155 lbs x 5 | 170 lbs x 3 | 180 lbs x 3 | 105 lbs x 5 | ||
Set 3 | 180 lbs x 5+ | 190 lbs x 3+ | 200 lbs x 1+ | 125 lbs x 5 | ||
Squats | Set 1 | 155 lbs x 5 | 170 lbs x 3 | 180 lbs x 5 | 95 lbs x 5 | |
Set 2 | 180 lbs x 5 | 190 lbs x 3 | 205 lbs x 3 | 120 lbs x 5 | ||
Set 3 | 205 lbs x 5+ | 215 lbs x 3+ | 230 lbs x 1+ | 145 lbs x 5 | ||
Deadlifts | Set 1 | 225 lbs x 5 | 245 lbs x 3 | 260 lbs x 5 | 140 lbs x 5 | |
Set 2 | 260 lbs x 5 | 280 lbs x 3 | 295 lbs x 3 | 175 lbs x 5 | ||
Set 3 | 295 lbs x 5+ | 315 lbs x 3+ | 330 lbs x 1+ | 210 lbs x 5 | ||
Overhead Press | Set 1 | 85 lbs x 5 | 90 lbs x 3 | 95 lbs x 5 | 50 lbs x 5 | |
Set 2 | 95 lbs x 5 | 105 lbs x 3 | 115 lbs x 3 | 65 lbs x 5 | ||
Set 3 | 110 lbs x 5+ | 115 lbs x 3+ | 125 lbs x 1+ | 80 lbs x 5 |
Monday, September 17, 2012
C6 W4 - Deload Week - 1RM
Monday - MP
shoulder mobility (including lacrosse balls)
warm-up: 2x55x5, 2x65x5, 75x3
5/5/5: 55x5, 65x5, 75x5
1RM: 2x95x2, 135xfail, 125x1, 130xfail
125# 1RM - back in spring 1RM was 110# so 15# in 6 months isn't too bad. I really want to get 135# up. Nothing like having the 45# plates on the bar!
Tuesday -rest day (forgot my towel - realized on the way to the gym, so went home took a shower there and headed to school).
*Head cold and school are beating me down. Going to take the week off from lifting and focus on getting quality sleep, diet, and mobility/stretching.
Will begin month 3 of BBB Challenge next week! 70% of TM!! OUCH!!
shoulder mobility (including lacrosse balls)
warm-up: 2x55x5, 2x65x5, 75x3
5/5/5: 55x5, 65x5, 75x5
1RM: 2x95x2, 135xfail, 125x1, 130xfail
125# 1RM - back in spring 1RM was 110# so 15# in 6 months isn't too bad. I really want to get 135# up. Nothing like having the 45# plates on the bar!
Tuesday -rest day (forgot my towel - realized on the way to the gym, so went home took a shower there and headed to school).
*Head cold and school are beating me down. Going to take the week off from lifting and focus on getting quality sleep, diet, and mobility/stretching.
Will begin month 3 of BBB Challenge next week! 70% of TM!! OUCH!!
Friday, September 14, 2012
Week 4 Reflection - Let's talk SALSA!
Algebra - man oh man the range of abilities in my Algebra classes! And that's in terms of effort, motivation, comprehension, so on and so on.
So, here's what I tried and it worked out really well - Tiered Tasks. Tiered tasks is the idea of working on the same topic but setting up activities which work at varying levels. I called it . . . SALSA!
Unit Focus - Solving Equations
Problem Set A - mild salsa (one step equations / two step equations)
Problem Set B - spicy salsa (two step equations / distributive property / combining like terms)
Problem Set C - inferno (solving equations of all sorts, sizes, and shapes).
This set up was awesome as I went around as the "waiter" and got the students' order - if the problem set they chose was too easy, then I gave them the next one up . . . and it could work the other way, but students didn't take this option = motivation/increased effort when stuck. Win win!
Then to top it off, I gave the students "desert" - a quick summary question/worksheet to tie it all together.
The students joked that I didn't give them an "appetizer" so will need to work on an opener next time.
Today I had students asking to do the A,B,C activity again. That's what I'm talking about.
I need to come up with some more variety in terms of set up, but the premise of having tiered tasks is something that I think will be a consistent in my lessons.
Might use it for this week's assessment coming up.
Next topic ahead - inequalities.
Geometry
Focus this past week was on midpoint, angle bisectors, segment addition, angle addition. Lots of algebra here . . . amazing how they freak out about solving for x!
Still don't feel like I have gotten into a groove yet with the classes, but they have some awesome personalities and effort/creativity has been great. Check out some of the avatars they created.
Avatars - Honors Geometry
Once we get our tablets, google acounts, etc. . . . it's on! I can't wait. Neither can the students.
Busy weekend ahead . . . soccer games for the kids Saturday and working at the Bengals on Sunday. If we can't beat the Browns, then it's gonna be a long year.
So, here's what I tried and it worked out really well - Tiered Tasks. Tiered tasks is the idea of working on the same topic but setting up activities which work at varying levels. I called it . . . SALSA!
Unit Focus - Solving Equations
Problem Set A - mild salsa (one step equations / two step equations)
Problem Set B - spicy salsa (two step equations / distributive property / combining like terms)
Problem Set C - inferno (solving equations of all sorts, sizes, and shapes).
This set up was awesome as I went around as the "waiter" and got the students' order - if the problem set they chose was too easy, then I gave them the next one up . . . and it could work the other way, but students didn't take this option = motivation/increased effort when stuck. Win win!
Then to top it off, I gave the students "desert" - a quick summary question/worksheet to tie it all together.
The students joked that I didn't give them an "appetizer" so will need to work on an opener next time.
Today I had students asking to do the A,B,C activity again. That's what I'm talking about.
I need to come up with some more variety in terms of set up, but the premise of having tiered tasks is something that I think will be a consistent in my lessons.
Might use it for this week's assessment coming up.
Next topic ahead - inequalities.
Geometry
Focus this past week was on midpoint, angle bisectors, segment addition, angle addition. Lots of algebra here . . . amazing how they freak out about solving for x!
Still don't feel like I have gotten into a groove yet with the classes, but they have some awesome personalities and effort/creativity has been great. Check out some of the avatars they created.
Avatars - Honors Geometry
Once we get our tablets, google acounts, etc. . . . it's on! I can't wait. Neither can the students.
Busy weekend ahead . . . soccer games for the kids Saturday and working at the Bengals on Sunday. If we can't beat the Browns, then it's gonna be a long year.
Monday, September 10, 2012
C6 W3 - BBB Challenge
Monday - MP
500m row
shoulder mobility (included lacrosse balls today)
warm-up: 2x55x5, 2x65x5, 75x5
5/3/1: 95x5, 105x5, 120x1 (was tough but kept it moving the whole time).
BBB: 5x10 @ 125# BP - solid all the way through.
Tuesday - DL
500m row
hip mobility
warm-up: 2x135x5 , 2x155x5, 185x3
5/3/1: 230x5, 260x3, 290x1 - this last set felt really strong!
BBB: 5x10 @ 140# SQ - felt really good/solid.
Wednesday - rest/mobility.
Thursday - BP
500m row
shoulder mobility (used lacrosse balls)
warm-up: 2x75x5, 2x95x5, 110x3
5/3/1: 140x5, 155x3, 175x1 (felt really good / strong!)
BBB: 5x10 @ 85# MP - tried to push press on each set and seemed to actually wear me down quicker, sooner overall. Going to keep surviving this BBB. Only way to get better is to keep attacking it week in, week out. Might look at more rest between sets (I'm just so stinking impatient!).
Friday - SQ
500m row
hip mobility
warm-up: 2xbarx10, 2x85x5, 2x105x5, 125x3, 175x1
5/3/1: 155x5, 175x3, 195x1
BBB: 5x10 @ 205# DL - felt strong/solid throughout all 5 sets!
Looking ahead with my programming = going to finish up next month with BBB Challenge using 5x10 @ 70% of my TM (which sounds outrageous but motivating big time!). Then going to look at doing some more focused work after reading an article on t-nation.com written by the man, Jim Wendler. Here's his thoughts on programming:
So I'm gonna keep the basic 5/3/1 block going throughout but vary my focus in terms of maintaining vs testing, etc. I need the variety to keep my locked in, and I think I will continue to make strength gains in the end.
500m row
shoulder mobility (included lacrosse balls today)
warm-up: 2x55x5, 2x65x5, 75x5
5/3/1: 95x5, 105x5, 120x1 (was tough but kept it moving the whole time).
BBB: 5x10 @ 125# BP - solid all the way through.
Tuesday - DL
500m row
hip mobility
warm-up: 2x135x5 , 2x155x5, 185x3
5/3/1: 230x5, 260x3, 290x1 - this last set felt really strong!
BBB: 5x10 @ 140# SQ - felt really good/solid.
Wednesday - rest/mobility.
Thursday - BP
500m row
shoulder mobility (used lacrosse balls)
warm-up: 2x75x5, 2x95x5, 110x3
5/3/1: 140x5, 155x3, 175x1 (felt really good / strong!)
BBB: 5x10 @ 85# MP - tried to push press on each set and seemed to actually wear me down quicker, sooner overall. Going to keep surviving this BBB. Only way to get better is to keep attacking it week in, week out. Might look at more rest between sets (I'm just so stinking impatient!).
Friday - SQ
500m row
hip mobility
warm-up: 2xbarx10, 2x85x5, 2x105x5, 125x3, 175x1
5/3/1: 155x5, 175x3, 195x1
BBB: 5x10 @ 205# DL - felt strong/solid throughout all 5 sets!
Looking ahead with my programming = going to finish up next month with BBB Challenge using 5x10 @ 70% of my TM (which sounds outrageous but motivating big time!). Then going to look at doing some more focused work after reading an article on t-nation.com written by the man, Jim Wendler. Here's his thoughts on programming:
So I'm gonna keep the basic 5/3/1 block going throughout but vary my focus in terms of maintaining vs testing, etc. I need the variety to keep my locked in, and I think I will continue to make strength gains in the end.
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Remind101 & PollEverywhere
Here are two online programs I am using with my classes.
Remind101 (https://www.remind101.com/)
Started to use this program with my Geometry/Honors Geometry classes. How it works: I type a message and click send. The message is sent to my students' cell phone via a text message. Great way to remind the students about assignments, materials to bring to class, etc. Also, it's a one way messenger . . . meaning the teacher doesn't receive any random replies (which I think is great!).
There is also an option to send the message to email (I like the text option because it's instant - easy for last minuter reminders). Student sign up was easy and so far has worked great!
PollEverywhere (www.polleverywhere.com/)
I am planning on using this for warm-ups & quick-checks during class periods. I have not used this program yet and plan to use it in all my classes in some form or another. So, I will update this post with my thoughts on PollEverywhere. UPDATE: My students and I had our first experience with polleverywhere today and it was interesting . . . I really like the multiple choice option. The open ended question scares me with the students being in control of the responses that get posted. But I think it's going to be a great class opener and ender for sure.
I will say that the set up of my account, polls, grouping them, etc. has been super easy. Hopefully the same can be said for my students and the classes.
Til then . . . happy teachings!
Remind101 (https://www.remind101.com/)
Started to use this program with my Geometry/Honors Geometry classes. How it works: I type a message and click send. The message is sent to my students' cell phone via a text message. Great way to remind the students about assignments, materials to bring to class, etc. Also, it's a one way messenger . . . meaning the teacher doesn't receive any random replies (which I think is great!).
There is also an option to send the message to email (I like the text option because it's instant - easy for last minuter reminders). Student sign up was easy and so far has worked great!
PollEverywhere (www.polleverywhere.com/)
I am planning on using this for warm-ups & quick-checks during class periods. I have not used this program yet and plan to use it in all my classes in some form or another. So, I will update this post with my thoughts on PollEverywhere. UPDATE: My students and I had our first experience with polleverywhere today and it was interesting . . . I really like the multiple choice option. The open ended question scares me with the students being in control of the responses that get posted. But I think it's going to be a great class opener and ender for sure.
I will say that the set up of my account, polls, grouping them, etc. has been super easy. Hopefully the same can be said for my students and the classes.
Til then . . . happy teachings!
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Variety with students grouped @ tables (Algebra)
One of the issues I am dealing with in my classes is the fact that I have grouped my students around tables. This means that there are 5 students all within ear shot and eye shot of one another and each others' work.
I have a wide range of abilities in my classroom and sometimes it's hard to really see where some of my students truly are . . . especially my lower performing students. I know it's natural to try and "look" like you know what you are doing, but as a teacher you know that's not what's best in the long run.
So, I came up with an activity that I used in my class the other day. I create a set of practice problems for each student at the table and I placed the problems on the paper in the "spot" that the student is sitting in respect to the table.
Each student worked through the five problems in their "spot" - each set was different than the others. The trick - I made each of the answers end up the same . . . but students couldn't copy right from their neighbor.
How'd it work? Better questions from the students and some started to finally give in and say, "I'm not sure how to do this problem." That's awesome. These first three weeks have been so much about developing trust with the students so they will let me and Mrs. Harvey (co-teacher) give intervention and help.
Here's a pic of the problem set I created (I used photobooth which takes pictures mirror image style! #dealwithit):
I have a wide range of abilities in my classroom and sometimes it's hard to really see where some of my students truly are . . . especially my lower performing students. I know it's natural to try and "look" like you know what you are doing, but as a teacher you know that's not what's best in the long run.
So, I came up with an activity that I used in my class the other day. I create a set of practice problems for each student at the table and I placed the problems on the paper in the "spot" that the student is sitting in respect to the table.
Each student worked through the five problems in their "spot" - each set was different than the others. The trick - I made each of the answers end up the same . . . but students couldn't copy right from their neighbor.
How'd it work? Better questions from the students and some started to finally give in and say, "I'm not sure how to do this problem." That's awesome. These first three weeks have been so much about developing trust with the students so they will let me and Mrs. Harvey (co-teacher) give intervention and help.
Here's a pic of the problem set I created (I used photobooth which takes pictures mirror image style! #dealwithit):
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Geometry "Badge of Honor"
"Badge of Honor" - google drawing (simplistic rendition) - I hope to include some pictures as the year goes along of actual student created badges.
The "Badge of Honor" is a way for my students to have ownership of their learning, along with getting some positive feedback along the way. The "Badge of Honor" goes along with my idea of Geometry Ranks.
Students will have Missions to complete. As the students complete a mission, then I will give them a new rank and badge. Each badge will be placed on the "Badge of Honor" as a representation of the student's achievement.
This is the first time I have tried this and hope that it goes well. I love giving students the opportunity to tap into their creative side and so I can see this changing and morphing as the year goes on . . . but the basic premise will still remain the same.
*note: Student is given Rank: Private by being enrolled in my class. There is no insignia in the Marines for the rank of Private.
Mission #1
- Basic Constructions with compass/ruler (in future this will be using GeoGebra but due to technology issues this year we'll go with old school) = copy segment, angle bisector, copy angle, perpendicular bisector, parallel lines, equilateral triangle, square, & hexagon inscribed in a circle.
- Avatar - students will create their avatar for the course - this will be affixed to the student's "Badge of Honor".
- "Badge of Honor" - students will create the "Badge of Honor"
- Line Design - first project of the year - will be affixed to the "Badge of Honor"
- Google site (not sure on this one due to technology hiccups - *fingers crossed*) - students will use a template to create their student site for my Geometry class.
Completion of Mission #1will earn the student the Rank:
Private First Class
Insignia the students will receive & place on their "Badge of Honor":
Friday, August 31, 2012
Week 2 Reflection - Algebra/Geometry
Week 2 Reflection:
Go Cougars! Beat Milford! Let's go 2-0!
Algebra - gave my first assessment of the year this week (Algebra translations, rewriting expressions using exponents, evaluating expressions, distributive property, combining like terms) - the majority of students did pretty well overall - lots struggled with Algebra translations so I focused on that on Friday, the following day.
Now?!? Differentiation - I need to find a way to keep those who are doing well moving forward while giving the intervention to those students who struggled. Algebra always seems to have the biggest range in abilities/motivation/effort - how do you deal with this difference? Create individual plans (sounds great, but a lot of work for me as a teacher!)? Make up tiered activities and assign them to groups of students? Please share!
The next unit focuses on solving equations and this is usually a better understood section of material overall, and I have an easier time creating problem sets.
Again, the lack of technology (interactive whiteboard not a go / Acer tablets not a go) has slowed things down quite a bit. Of course, the scary thought is how all over the place students can end up once the technology is in place. We will see.
Effort/motivation has been good overall student-wise.
Next week - solving equations (1 step, multi step, variable on both sides)
Geometry - spent this week on more constructions - overall the two classes did well. A couple students struggled, but that was more of a lack of being able to use the compass consistently well more than an understanding of what to do. I gave my first assessment of the year (constructions - copy segment, perpendicular bisector, perpendicular through point on a line, perpendicular through a point not on a line). I could have done more if I had the tablets/internet access - *fingers crossed*
Students have homework over the labor day weekend - line design - opportunity to use straight lines to create some cool curvy designs, and the first "test" of responsibility as it is due on the Tuesday that we return.
Looking at creating some assignments that require the internet and see if students are able to complete them. I can't go another week without some technology being involved. And since I only have the 2 Geometries I think that'll be a good starting point.
Next week - Angle pairs (include Algebra), create student Avatar, begin the Geometry Rank system Ranks google doc (click here) (note: list will be edited since I have been unable to use GeoGebra at this point - again *fingers crossed*). Also, going to try and introduce some more technology programs that we'll use throughout the year (twitter, etc.).
I will look at the Geometry Rank system closely over the weekend to get a better feel of the "flow" of topics for the next few weeks. I'm ready to take things up a notch in these classes.
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Week 1 Reflection
Week 1 Reflection:
Overall - a great group of students with lots of energy, good senses of humor, and a lot of the same strengths/weaknesses of classes I've taught previously. I really need to look at how I want to differentiate the students, the activities, assessments, etc.
Cons: Technology is slow at this time - missing some connectors for my whiteboard and students do not have the Android Acer Tablet as of yet. It surprised me this week how much not having access to my interactive whiteboard threw me off. It allows so much flexibility and adaptability on the fly during class.
Geometry / Honors Geometry - focused on isometric drawings / basic constructions (daisy designs, angle bisectors / perpendicular bisectors). I so want to rock geogebra with these students but will have to wait on that once the tech stuff is worked out.
Algebra - mixed it up throughout the week - focused on algebraic translation, evaluating expressions, calculator basics, and a handful of various activities to see student personalities, effort, motivation, understanding, etc. - there are definite, noticeable levels in these classes - some very strong, and some not so strong students.
Things to think about for next week - pre assessing / creating parallel tasks / creating "I can statements" = SBG grade set up.
Overall - a great group of students with lots of energy, good senses of humor, and a lot of the same strengths/weaknesses of classes I've taught previously. I really need to look at how I want to differentiate the students, the activities, assessments, etc.
Cons: Technology is slow at this time - missing some connectors for my whiteboard and students do not have the Android Acer Tablet as of yet. It surprised me this week how much not having access to my interactive whiteboard threw me off. It allows so much flexibility and adaptability on the fly during class.
Geometry / Honors Geometry - focused on isometric drawings / basic constructions (daisy designs, angle bisectors / perpendicular bisectors). I so want to rock geogebra with these students but will have to wait on that once the tech stuff is worked out.
Algebra - mixed it up throughout the week - focused on algebraic translation, evaluating expressions, calculator basics, and a handful of various activities to see student personalities, effort, motivation, understanding, etc. - there are definite, noticeable levels in these classes - some very strong, and some not so strong students.
Things to think about for next week - pre assessing / creating parallel tasks / creating "I can statements" = SBG grade set up.
Saturday, August 18, 2012
What's the deal with the Teacher Desk?
This is something I am pondering as the new school year begins in just one week.
Here's the situation: brand new high school building; brand new classroom; 16 tables instead of individual desks (love this!); tall storage cabinet on wheels; "end table" type thing on wheels; a wall full of cabinets (high & low at the back of the classroom); two whiteboards with one hooked up with projector; teacher desk.
I can only plug my computer/phone in an area in the corner of the room (see pic) - so thinking of putting the "end table" there (which I did - see here):
Now, what to do with the tall storage cabinet on wheels and the teacher desk. Some background info - I am not organized. Never have been, and chances are pretty good never will be. My desk is just another place for me to randomly set papers, pens, pencils, rulers, calculators, you name it. At times my teacher desk has looked something like this (note: not an actual picture of my desk - just an illustration):
So, why the need for a teacher desk? I put this question out on twitter and here's some responses I received:
So true! As if the teacher desk is some "throne". I spend the majority of my time working with my students so why create a physical barrier that takes that away? Teaching is more than content and great lesson plans . . . its about interpersonal relationships and building of trust and confidence in the student. Also, so much of my work is going in the online direction that it's easy to move my computer to a student desk area and do my work.
Supplies & files . . . only if I were organized. LOL!
Love it because I have one of those - a tall storage cabinet!
Conclusion: Spoke with my inclusion teacher and she is going to take over the desk - she is very organized and being in my room for only 3 periods a day, it's a nice "home base" for her to keep all of her things. I found a great place to put the tall movable storage cabinet - fits perfectly in the corner in the back (this will be my "go-to" area / a desk on wheels that will hold dry erase markers, boards, graph papers of varying sorts, etc.): see here -
Here are a few shots of the layout of my tables (love this as it's very student centered which I want) - at this time I have 6 "islands" that can accommodate 5 students for a total of 30 students. I don't have my class rosters yet, so it wouldn't surprise me if I end up adding another "island" to the mix. I have the space if needed. Best case scenario - I have the 4 extra tables removed and then have a lot more space to work with!! *fingers crossed*
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Student E-portfolios (great video)
The State of Tech is always full of great information that you can use in your classroom right now! This video looks at google sites and the use of online student portfolios.
Enjoy!
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Blog Post Highlight: Simplifying Radicals: Grade Conversions
I have struggled a lot the past few years when it came to giving grades. There were times when I gave students the same grade that were not really on the same level in terms of knowledge and comprehension. Also, I feel that the stronger students should be getting the better grades in the end. Then I came upon a blog post that took the idea of being proficient and high performing into account and has a really neat/easy way to convert the grades.
I will need to create a list of outcomes for each unit (similar to the topics list I made for last year) then go from there. I think this will be a great way to differentiate between the average student and the above average student. I already have a google spreadsheet that allows me to identify those students who are average, mastered, etc. which I will use to help keep track of the outcomes. This idea is standards based grading in a way that makes me happy.
The focus would be on the level of completion for each outcome and how those outcomes fall overall in terms of # of proficient outcomes and # of high performing outcomes. Proficient for me would be - here's a problem, solve. High performing for me would be word problems or added steps or giving the answer and having students create a problem that fits, etc. - high order thinking.
To read more detail on this - check out the blog post:
Simplifying Radicals: Grade Conversions: Let's discuss how to convert all of those Ns, Ps, and Hs into a number grade. Ideally, you don't want to do this, but I don't think student...
I will need to create a list of outcomes for each unit (similar to the topics list I made for last year) then go from there. I think this will be a great way to differentiate between the average student and the above average student. I already have a google spreadsheet that allows me to identify those students who are average, mastered, etc. which I will use to help keep track of the outcomes. This idea is standards based grading in a way that makes me happy.
The focus would be on the level of completion for each outcome and how those outcomes fall overall in terms of # of proficient outcomes and # of high performing outcomes. Proficient for me would be - here's a problem, solve. High performing for me would be word problems or added steps or giving the answer and having students create a problem that fits, etc. - high order thinking.
To read more detail on this - check out the blog post:
Simplifying Radicals: Grade Conversions: Let's discuss how to convert all of those Ns, Ps, and Hs into a number grade. Ideally, you don't want to do this, but I don't think student...
Sunday, August 5, 2012
GeoGebra - first weeks of Geometries!
First couple week goals for Geometry classes:
1. Googlesite - eportfolio
2. Mini-Lego Avatar
3. GeoGebra (d'oh)
4. itslearning - going to use this site for assignments (descriptions/how to videos) - will use GoogleSite for displaying student creations/journaling - should be a great way to follow student growth and understanding throughout the entire year.
I still need to set up the Geometry Military Ranks so students can follow their progress (training) and see how they stack up with their classmates. May use their ranks as part of project during the semester.
Does anyone use gaming or ongoing competition in their classroom? If so, how do you set it up and run it? Please share!
Differentiating Algebra
Here's my plan to differentiate Algebra I this upcoming school year & include some SBG/flipclass ideas:
1. Create topics list.
2. Create assessments for each topic (pre-assessment).
3. Use the pre-assessments to gauge student ability.
4. Table groupings (we do not have desks in the classroom).
- Video Viewing - student has little to no idea whatsoever how to complete the problems.
- Basic Practice (proficiency) - could be a set of problems in the book/worksheet, matching activity, etc. - really looking to create opportunities for repetition.
- High Performing - this group would be looking at more difficult types of problem sets (i.e. involving fractions, decimals, word problems).
- Topic Capstone - student creations! Students will create quizzes, how to videos, worksheets, peer teach a student in one of the lower levels.
5. Assessment will be ongoing - each topic will be assessed, but then there will a larger unit assessment as well. That way if a student is having an issue with a topic I can continue to work with that student throughout the year.
One of the major issues I run into each year is trying to give the stronger students opportunities to branch out more in a topic and to tap into their knowledge levels. These students traditionally seem to be the ones who want to share their know how and I think the high performing/topic capstone is a great spot for them.
My hope is that I could get all my students into the high performing level, but am not sure if that's realistic. The first few weeks the students will be focusing on evaluating expressions/distributive property/equations vs expressions vs inequalities, solving equations, and solving inequalities/graphing solutions.
I plan to use a color coded style of grading to keep track of the strengths/weaknesses of my students - then use that to create a percentage grade. Still working on that idea.
The flipclass idea is one that fits my teaching style. I want to spend the majority of my time working with students to make them mathematically successful. I see the use of video/how-to's as a supplement to the classwork. I understand that there will be topics/strategies that I will need to complete with the entire group of students, and I will plan accordingly. I think that will be a great opportunity to keep things in perspective for myself and the students as well.
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Some stuff I want to use
I came across the stuff at Exeter who has these problem sets . . . of which most are pretty difficult or at least challenge you to think outside the box a little, which I love.
So, I tried to start a math club (I had a student teacher at the time and was ready to hurt myself b/c I wasn't teaching) which lasted about 3 months, and I looked to use the problem sets.
Been reading some blogs (specifically rationalexpressions.blogspot.com) which brought up the Exeter problem sets in one the posts . . . I think this is something I want to incorporate into my classes. Just need to find a way . . . maybe devote a day - make it a challenge/competition. I need to think about it.
Here's some other things that I'm thinking about:
1. Multiple assessments / recurring topics - I can't test once, say oh you have it in September and not check for retention until December's semester final!!
2. SBG - I love the idea because my job is to make my students stronger mathematically, but even more to appreciate the math, to learn to strive and persevere through the ups/downs of class (uh and life!).
#inspired
So, I tried to start a math club (I had a student teacher at the time and was ready to hurt myself b/c I wasn't teaching) which lasted about 3 months, and I looked to use the problem sets.
Been reading some blogs (specifically rationalexpressions.blogspot.com) which brought up the Exeter problem sets in one the posts . . . I think this is something I want to incorporate into my classes. Just need to find a way . . . maybe devote a day - make it a challenge/competition. I need to think about it.
Here's some other things that I'm thinking about:
1. Multiple assessments / recurring topics - I can't test once, say oh you have it in September and not check for retention until December's semester final!!
2. SBG - I love the idea because my job is to make my students stronger mathematically, but even more to appreciate the math, to learn to strive and persevere through the ups/downs of class (uh and life!).
#inspired
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Creating Assessments - Unit 0
Here's my quick write up of Unit 0 quick assessments. Looking at creating something "larger" that students must complete to show understanding (i.e. interview, online journal, poster/video how to, etc.).
Unit 0 Assessments
It's a start . . . will begin to look at Unit 1 Intro to Functions tomorrow.
Unit 0 Assessments
It's a start . . . will begin to look at Unit 1 Intro to Functions tomorrow.
Monday, July 9, 2012
Geometry Year Overview
Going to take the idea of gaming and introducing into my Geometry course this year. I find that each year I do less teaching and more scenario/situation type work. For instance, instead of taking the students through an activity where they draw a triangle, measure the 3 angles, then add the 3 angles . . . now I will just have them show me that that the triangle sum is 180 degrees using at least 2 different methods (i.e. GeoGebra, paper/pencil/protractor, etc.).
Also, I am going to create Geometry Ranks (taken from the USMC - United States Marine Corps). As a student makes his/her way through each section they will earn a part of their badge - the bade will be displayed in the classroom and the student will be able to decorate this as they receive badges. Also, I hope to post the badges (i.e. leaderboard) online - not sure how yet. So looking for ideas!
Also, each student is going to create an Lego Avatar for the year . . . may change it to fit the seasons but have heard how this helps with some students being a little less apprehensive about doing things and also taps into the creativity group that we all have in our classes. I can't wait to see this.
Planning on using journaling this year as well so will be using google docs Google Student site quite a bit . . . hopefully daily .
Here's a quick glance at my Geometry Ranks (not sure how to differentiate Honors Geometry in terms of rank other than the expectations are higher; I may look at using a different rank system but think that'll be confusing and a royal pain for me).
The underlined sections are breaks for the unit - so #1-3 are a Unit focusing on technology, geogebra, and constructions.
Also, I am going to create Geometry Ranks (taken from the USMC - United States Marine Corps). As a student makes his/her way through each section they will earn a part of their badge - the bade will be displayed in the classroom and the student will be able to decorate this as they receive badges. Also, I hope to post the badges (i.e. leaderboard) online - not sure how yet. So looking for ideas!
Also, each student is going to create an Lego Avatar for the year . . . may change it to fit the seasons but have heard how this helps with some students being a little less apprehensive about doing things and also taps into the creativity group that we all have in our classes. I can't wait to see this.
Planning on using journaling this year as well so will be using google docs Google Student site quite a bit . . . hopefully daily .
Here's a quick glance at my Geometry Ranks (not sure how to differentiate Honors Geometry in terms of rank other than the expectations are higher; I may look at using a different rank system but think that'll be confusing and a royal pain for me).
The underlined sections are breaks for the unit - so #1-3 are a Unit focusing on technology, geogebra, and constructions.
Geometry Ranks
- Private - Avatar creation / Googlesite set up
- Private First Class - GeoGebra Essentials
- Lance Corporal - Construction Zone A
- Corporal - Geometry Definitions
- Sergeant - Congruency
- Staff Sergeant - Transformations
- Geometry Sergeant - Proof
- Master Sergeant - Triangle Property Proofs
- First Sergeant - Parallelogram Property Proofs
- Master Geometry Sergeant - Construction (Inscribed / Circumscribed)
- Sergeant Major - Dilations
- Sergeant Major of the Geometry Corp - Triangle Similarity
- Warrant Officer 1 - Indirect Measure
- Chief Warrant Officer 2 - Project
- Chief Warrant Officer 3 - Coordinate Geometry
- Chief Warrant Officer 4 - Slope
- Chief Warrant Officer 5 - Midpoint
- Second Lieutenant - Distance
- First Lieutenant - Circle Characteristic / Properties
- Captain - Circle Equation / Parabolas
- Major - Volume
- Lieutenant Colonel - Trigonometry
- Colonel - Pythagorean Theorem
- Brigadier Colonel - Final Project A
- Major General - Final Project B
- General - Final Project C
Next step is to create a grading/scoring rubric for the different ranks - as we all know, just because I am now a Lance Corporal doesn't necessarily mean I'm an expert at GeoGebra but I did complete the required steps. So, I need to create some levels - looking at using stars or some type of rewards (i.e. purple hearts) - need to research this idea.
Also, I am looking at having students build their Geometry backpack through the completion of extra work - origami activities, exeter problems, Algebra reviews, and so on. I am looking for android apps to use for this.
I wanted to get an overall feel as to what to cover and where before I created my online learning environment. Now I will need to look at Algebra from the big picture as well.
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Geometry Unit 1
Starting to turn my attention to Geometry a little now . . . specifically Unit 1 Definitions/Rigid Motions.
Here's a quick glance of the topics I plan to cover:
1-1 Definitions
Here's a quick glance of the topics I plan to cover:
1-1 Definitions
- points, lines, planes
- segments, rays
- angles
- angle pairs
- triangle types
- parallel lines/perpendicular lines (including proofs)
1-2 Congruency
- triangle congruence / proof
- CPCTC
1-3 Transformations
- translations, reflections, rotations, glide reflections
- coordinate rules
Trying to figure out how to set up #flipclass style for these . . . I feel like the definitions are better set up for in class projects/assignments / congruency is a hands on inductive/deductive experience / transformations is so much of a "just do it and observe" topic - I am going to need to set up a solid set of "workouts" for this unit for sure.
Not sure how to incorporate video with this . . . will have to be creative.
Algebra Unit 1: Functions
1A: Coordinate Plane
1B: Relations-Domain-Range-Mapping
1C: Tables & Relations
1D: Graphing Linear Functions
1E: Exponential Functions
1F: Functions
Have almost all the videos for this Unit 1 completed.
I am going to have to put a lot of time & effort into my classwork assignments for this Unit . . . going to need a lot of reflection, discussion, collaboration/group work to go beyond the basic idea.
1B: Relations-Domain-Range-Mapping
1C: Tables & Relations
1D: Graphing Linear Functions
1E: Exponential Functions
1F: Functions
Have almost all the videos for this Unit 1 completed.
I am going to have to put a lot of time & effort into my classwork assignments for this Unit . . . going to need a lot of reflection, discussion, collaboration/group work to go beyond the basic idea.
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