Mrs. Slaviero's Blog

 School is going well this year--it's been very busy!  In the search for new activities and assessments that will provide deep learning opportunities for all students I've decided this year to attempt the Harkness discussion. This type of discussion is a student-centered model that especially benefits English Language Learners. I observed a teacher in my department that is adept with this model and she gave me a lot of insight and ideas as to how I can bring it to my students. I was also fortunate to see how her students successfully and impressively take control of their learning while experiencing this discussion. Detailed planning really helps students feel comfortable, especially before their first discussion, and this is in my mind as I decide what and how we will use this in History. My research and insights are compiled in a power point reference:  Harkness Discussion Guide.pptx  I've learned so much, and I will update as we take on our first Harkness discussi...

The iPads will be in my classroom soon and I'm trying to decide how to help the students in my classes that (like me) haven't had a lot of experience using them. I think I will do this by downloading the videos of the apps we will be using (Pages, Keynote and Numbers), have them watch the videos and write down their thoughts.  My district Moodle page has many links to resources and tutorials to help me. After my preview students will get a feel of how iPads work and all of the new and interesting features available to them. They'll have a bit more prior knowledge and that will shorten the learning curve so that we can dive in and get to our project. ***** After watching the app videos I am very excited to start working with the iPads! I know my students will be, too, and we're going to make the most of the time they're in our classroom.