Tool #5

After joining Delicious (already had a Yahoo account), I found a couple of websites that were of interest to me which could be used with my Pre-k students.

The first website has fun, interactive games for children to play that reinforce literacy skills and concepts that we teach daily basis.
http://www.gamequarium.com/

I used tags such as pre-k lessons and pre-k language arts to find this website.

The second site is a great resource for teachers to gain ideas for lessons.  It covers all content areas and has a wealth of info.
http://prekinders.com/

I used the tag pre-k math to locate this site.

This tool could be useful for creating a library of websites that are of interest to teachers...and an added bonus...it can be done from any computer through http://delicious.com/

Tool #4

Google Docs is going to prove beneficial in collaborating and editing lesson plans, newsletters, classroom notes etc..  All completed in a casual manner without a meeting!  I created a letter for parents to be handed out at orientation.

Google Reader is an efficient way of keeping up-to-date with my favorite sites and teacher blogs as they relate to my teaching.

Tool # 3

I created a list of words related to ice cream.  This would be a motivating way of getting children engaged in writing.  This could be a springboard for any type of writing, including: stories, poems, language experiences, descriptions of artifacts-characters/people, etc.



I used Bookr to make a book to be used in conjunction with a shared reading. Bookr could be used to create books for children and parents.  Children could also create their own books...the possibilities are endless!

Tool #2

I am thrilled to be a part of a PLN. It's so exciting to connect with others of similar interest regarding passionate topics. It's one more avenue to improve my teaching, which in turn, will improve student performance. An added bonus...this can be done anywhere and anytime!
I took to heart the suggestion about mutual respect when commenting. Often times, we take down our guard when at a computer, not being mindful of how our words may be interpreted. Posting thoughtful and meaningful responses and/or questions are important.

5 Blogs with comments:
Mrs. Boone's Class
Spring Daffodils
Bellas Orquideas
Kierstenbear
Melissa

Tool #1

Finally began blogging and creation of my Avatar. Took longer than I expected, but had many distractions along the way.

Blogging will prove useful in keeping an open line of communication between colleagues regarding specific lessons and great teaching ideas that can be shared and implemented into our classroom. I could also see a blog useful in communication with parents via photos of the students' learning, posting our topics of study as well as pertinent websites that are related to objectives being taught.

I had fun creating an Avatar. If think this lends itself to a creative and effective means of getting children "hooked" to a lesson and keeping them engaged during that time.

Reflections

I was a bit hesitant about getting started because of the unknown. This will be a challenge and may take some time and patience on my part (especially since I will be "working" with my two little ones alongside me), but I am ready for the journey!