Tappedin Unedited Transcript

2007.11.13 16:41:20 SusanR joined the room. 2007.11.13 16:53:03 BJ joined the room. 2007.11.13 16:54:03 KaraLM joined the room. 2007.11.13 16:54:10 SusanR: hope we get a crowd 2007.11.13 16:54:16 SusanR: Welcome Karla 2007.11.13 16:54:18 DevetteG joined the room. 2007.11.13 16:54:24 KaraLM: Hi!! 2007.11.13 16:54:30 DevetteG: Hello Kara!!! 2007.11.13 16:54:36 SusanR: Welcome Devette 2007.11.13 16:54:50 KaraLM: I'm excited- I've been wanting to come to one of your sessions, but I kept having timing conflicts. 2007.11.13 16:54:54 KaraLM: hey Devette! 2007.11.13 16:54:59 JeffC joined the room. 2007.11.13 16:55:05 DevetteG: Hello Ms. Susan!! 2007.11.13 16:55:13 KaraLM: Thanks for the tip Jeff! 2007.11.13 16:56:41 SusanR: Glad you are here 2007.11.13 16:57:40 CourtneyP joined the room. 2007.11.13 16:57:48 SusanR: I invited Jen Wagner 2007.11.13 16:57:55 SusanR: from Technospud 2007.11.13 16:58:00 SusanR: as well 2007.11.13 16:58:18 KaraLM: What is Technospud? 2007.11.13 16:58:32 KimberlyNg joined the room. 2007.11.13 16:58:44 SusanR: I will explain, Karla 2007.11.13 16:58:52 SusanR: during the session 2007.11.13 16:59:09 KaraLM: thanks, I was just hoping I wasn't missing something! 2007.11.13 16:59:20 SusanR: not missing a thing 2007.11.13 16:59:39 KimberlyNg: Hi, is this for the Writing Fun session? 2007.11.13 16:59:58 JenW joined the room. 2007.11.13 17:00:14 SusanR claps for Jen 2007.11.13 17:00:24 SusanR: you got my twitter, Jen 2007.11.13 17:00:29 JenW left the room. 2007.11.13 17:00:39 BJB2 joined the room. 2007.11.13 17:00:46 SusanR: I do hope she returns 2007.11.13 17:01:28 BjB: |** ANNOUNCEMENT: The K-3+ Great Resources discussion is starting in the Comfy Conference Room. The topic is Writing. To participate type /join SusanR **| 2007.11.13 17:01:48 SusanR: Bj 2007.11.13 17:02:04 SusanR: Can you steer Jen here. please 2007.11.13 17:02:16 BJB2 nods 2007.11.13 17:03:05 JenW joined the room. 2007.11.13 17:03:10 SusanR: Hi Jen 2007.11.13 17:03:17 SusanR: You did get my twitter 2007.11.13 17:03:22 JenW: Today?? 2007.11.13 17:03:25 JenW: no -2007.11.13 17:03:27 SusanR: fabulous 2007.11.13 17:03:28 JenW: a few days ago -- yes 2007.11.13 17:03:36 SusanR: well let's get started 2007.11.13 17:03:59 SusanR: with some brief intros 2007.11.13 17:04:10 SusanR: so we can gear the session to your needs 2007.11.13 17:04:17 BJB2: a reminder if you are new to Tapped In to go to the Actions menu in the top right of the chat and click on DETACH 2007.11.13 17:04:29 DevetteG: My name is Devette and im currently student teaching in Kindergarten. 2007.11.13 17:04:29 EsmeraldaS joined the room. 2007.11.13 17:04:33 CourtneyP: Hi I am Courtney and I am student teaching in first grade. 2007.11.13 17:04:40 KimberlyNg: My name is Kim and I'm student teaching in

third grade. 2007.11.13 17:04:48 BJB2: good, Esmeralda. We've just started introductions 2007.11.13 17:04:55 KaraLM: I am Kara and am student teaching in Kindergarten 2007.11.13 17:04:57 SusanR: I am Sue Roseman, moderator of the K to 3+ Great Resources sessions and Ocasional Teacher ..recently grade 4/5 2007.11.13 17:05:02 JenW: I am Jennifer and I am on the Network Support/Help Desk team at my school 2007.11.13 17:05:25 BJ left the room (signed off). 2007.11.13 17:05:28 SusanR: I was mentioning Technospud..that's Jen 2007.11.13 17:05:50 JenW: that is me 2007.11.13 17:06:16 BJB2 cheers for Jen 2007.11.13 17:06:29 JenW: ty 2007.11.13 17:06:32 EsmeraldaS: Hi! I am Esmeralda working toward my masters in Reading 2007.11.13 17:07:20 SusanR: Jen is quite a busy lady..just moved..is the queen of online collaborative projects for elementary students; offers many workshops all over the country and facilitates the WOW2 group ..which starts in less than an hour 2007.11.13 17:08:14 SusanR: so this evening's agenda is .."The agenda will focus on some writing enhancements ie cursive writing and why we need to bring formal writing classes back, using "butt balls"... excuse me exercise balls in the classroom. Some great sites such as "Writing Fix' and Jenny Eather's site will be featured. I will be mentioning Jennifer Wagner's collaborative online holiday card exchange project which you may wish to join... a super way to seamlessly integrate and weave tech into your curriculum" 2007.11.13 17:08:18 JenW: actually moving in 17 days -- but LOL, who is counting 2007.11.13 17:08:32 SusanR: I see so you have time for us 2007.11.13 17:08:39 JenW: grins -- of course 2007.11.13 17:09:05 SusanR: How much time can you spend with us, Jen 2007.11.13 17:09:14 JenW: I have about 20 minutes or so 2007.11.13 17:10:01 SusanR: so we will skip over to you and start the session with your holiday card project..I am handing the stage over to you 2007.11.13 17:10:14 JenW: Ahhh well thank you 2007.11.13 17:10:27 JenW: Sue wanted me to share with you a bit about my upcoming December project 2007.11.13 17:10:42 JenW: it is a "Snail" mail project -- with a tie in to Google Earth, or Google Maps 2007.11.13 17:10:50 JenW: but if you don't have either at your school 2007.11.13 17:10:57 JenW: that is still okay because you can just use a MAP 2007.11.13 17:10:59 JenW: wall map 2007.11.13 17:11:14 KaraLM left the room (signed off). 2007.11.13 17:11:14 KaraLM joined the room. 2007.11.13 17:11:15 JenW: Right now we almost have 400 schools enrolled from all over the US and Canada 2007.11.13 17:11:21 JenW: and New Zealand. 2007.11.13 17:11:35 KaraLM: I'm sorry, I was disconnected! 2007.11.13 17:11:42 JenW: and each group will consist of 25 classrooms 2007.11.13 17:12:14 JenW: so basically - you will be sending HOLIDAY cards, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, etc to 24 classrooms (1 card per classroom) 2007.11.13 17:12:20 JenW: and then receive 24 cards in return 2007.11.13 17:12:31 SusanR . o O ( I have the link handy btw ) 2007.11.13 17:12:32 JenW: which you can then MAP on Google Map, Google Earth, or a Wall Map 2007.11.13 17:12:36 JenW: http://www.technospudprojects.com/Projects/holidaycardexchange/instructions.htm

2007.11.13 17:12:39 JenW: grins 2007.11.13 17:12:41 JenW: so do I 2007.11.13 17:12:49 SusanR: of course, Jen 2007.11.13 17:12:51 JenW: anyway -- it is a very easy project to join 2007.11.13 17:13:02 JenW: allows your kids to be creative in making cards 2007.11.13 17:13:06 KaraLM: very cool! 2007.11.13 17:13:16 CourtneyP: I love the idea! 2007.11.13 17:13:16 KimberlyNg: This sounds really great! 2007.11.13 17:13:19 JenW: as well as do GEOGRAPHY 2007.11.13 17:13:30 JenW: and it would be great if you join us 2007.11.13 17:13:33 HelenK joined the room. 2007.11.13 17:13:34 DevetteG: This is cool!! 2007.11.13 17:13:37 KimberlyNg: My kids are already addicted to Google Earth, they will love this. 2007.11.13 17:13:47 JenW: Yes, it is great fun 2007.11.13 17:13:52 JenW: we are sending KMZ's to each other 2007.11.13 17:13:54 SusanR: Welcome Helen 2007.11.13 17:13:54 CourtneyP: My kids love making greeting cards! 2007.11.13 17:13:55 EsmeraldaS: Very interesting 2007.11.13 17:14:05 JenW: SO if you want to join -- registration ends on November 21 2007.11.13 17:14:10 JenW: or 500 whichever comes first 2007.11.13 17:14:11 HelenK: looks like I missed something good :) 2007.11.13 17:14:13 JenW: and we are at 350 2007.11.13 17:14:21 EsmeraldaS: Great! 2007.11.13 17:14:34 KaraLM: wow- that's awesome! 2007.11.13 17:14:37 JenW: thanks 2007.11.13 17:14:48 JenW: you are more than welcome to join 2007.11.13 17:15:07 JenW: I would love for you to be a part 2007.11.13 17:15:19 JenW: and please check out www.technospudprojects.com 2007.11.13 17:15:24 JenW: for the 2007/2008 projects 2007.11.13 17:15:35 JenW: we have some great projects planned for 2008 2007.11.13 17:15:46 KimberlyNg: Cute website 2007.11.13 17:16:25 JenW: ty 2007.11.13 17:16:34 KaraLM: very cool- I would love to join as soon as I get my own classroom! 2007.11.13 17:16:43 JenW: that would be great karlaL 2007.11.13 17:16:47 DevetteG: Me too!! 2007.11.13 17:17:05 DevetteG: I will let other teachers know as well. 2007.11.13 17:17:06 JenW: goodie -- DevetteG 2007.11.13 17:17:13 SusanR . o O ( lots of great print rand teacher resources with all of Jen's projects as well ) 2007.11.13 17:17:14 JenW: anyway -- please consider joining up 2007.11.13 17:17:20 CourtneyP: I am definately going to do it! 2007.11.13 17:17:26 JenW: excellent 2007.11.13 17:17:31 JenW: Yes, 2007.11.13 17:17:32 KimberlyNg: I think I will be able to do this with my class. 2007.11.13 17:17:33 JenW: there are standards 2007.11.13 17:17:37 JenW: and ideas 2007.11.13 17:17:46 JenW: and you get a cert of participation too 2007.11.13 17:17:52 KaraLM: absolutely- combining writing, letters, social connections, and geography- perfect! 2007.11.13 17:17:53 JenW: grins -- to hang on your wall 2007.11.13 17:17:56 JenW: YEP 2007.11.13 17:18:02 KimberlyNg smiles 2007.11.13 17:18:03 JenW: and sharing about your school, or your city, or your state

2007.11.13 17:18:14 2007.11.13 17:18:18 2007.11.13 17:18:19 2007.11.13 17:18:22 2007.11.13 17:18:31 2007.11.13 17:18:40 2007.11.13 17:18:46 2007.11.13 17:18:48 2007.11.13 17:18:53 2007.11.13 17:19:00 2007.11.13 17:19:16 2007.11.13 17:19:18 2007.11.13 17:19:21 2007.11.13 17:19:30 registrations 2007.11.13 17:19:31 us from Houston! 2007.11.13 17:19:36 2007.11.13 17:19:36 2007.11.13 17:19:36 2007.11.13 17:19:38 2007.11.13 17:19:49 2007.11.13 17:19:54 2007.11.13 17:19:56 2007.11.13 17:20:08 2007.11.13 17:20:11 2007.11.13 17:20:12 2007.11.13 17:20:14 Exchange 2007.11.13 17:20:15 2007.11.13 17:20:16

JenW: last year we had 328 DevetteG: That is cool!! JenW: this year, I hope for 500 KimberlyNg: Why is it that Texas is on the waiting list? JenW: Texas just overwhelmed me with registrations JenW: I try to have 1 state per group JenW: right now, I could put 4 in each JenW: but no worries JenW: I am making new groups -- as I can JenW: right now, there are 16 groups JenW: so I might need to double up Texas on groups JenW smiles LynneW joined the room. SusanR: How about California, Jen..lots of KaraLM:

especially after this group- with at least 4 of

SusanR: Welcome Lynne JenW: Not so much KimberlyNg . o O ( yay! ) JenW: CA JenW: Hello Houston!!! KaraLM: hi! LynneW waves hello DevetteG waves CourtneyP: Hello! = ) KimberlyNg waves SusanR: Lynne we are chatting about the a Holiday Card JenW salutes Houston SusanR:

http://www.technospudprojects.com/Projects/holidaycardexchange/instructions.htm 2007.11.13 17:20:29 JenW: how far is Houston from San Antonio?? 2007.11.13 17:20:39 CourtneyP: About 3 hours driving. 2007.11.13 17:20:40 EsmeraldaS: Hi! Houston, I used to live in Houston 2007.11.13 17:20:46 JenW: NECC is in San Antonio this coming July 2007.11.13 17:20:49 JenW: you should all try to come 2007.11.13 17:20:54 CourtneyP: Very cool! 2007.11.13 17:21:01 JenW: stop by and say Hello 2007.11.13 17:21:14 KimberlyNg: Oh, that sounds really interesting. 2007.11.13 17:21:26 KaraLM: I heard that it is an awesome conference- I'll have to look it up! 2007.11.13 17:21:26 JenW: it is a great conference -- if you are into TECH 2007.11.13 17:21:27 EsmeraldaS: Sounds good 2007.11.13 17:21:32 KimberlyNg: I am :) 2007.11.13 17:21:36 DevetteG: Me too!! 2007.11.13 17:21:42 JenW: grins -- of course you are -- YOU ARE HERE!! :) 2007.11.13 17:21:50 DevetteG: How do register for it? 2007.11.13 17:21:52 JenW: anyway -- please come and join in the fun 2007.11.13 17:21:54 JenW: for NECC?? 2007.11.13 17:21:56 KimberlyNg: http://center.uoregon.edu/ISTE/NECC2008/registration/ 2007.11.13 17:21:58 JenW: or the project?? 2007.11.13 17:22:00 EsmeraldaS smiles 2007.11.13 17:22:06 DevetteG: NECC 2007.11.13 17:22:06 JenW: there you go -- thanks Kim 2007.11.13 17:22:07 KimberlyNg: That's for NECC

2007.11.13 17:22:12 KimberlyNg: You're welcome 2007.11.13 17:22:14 JenW: you can volunteer 2007.11.13 17:22:18 JenW: and get a cheaper rate 2007.11.13 17:22:21 DevetteG: Thanks Kim!! 2007.11.13 17:22:30 KimberlyNg: You're welcome 2007.11.13 17:22:31 KaraLM: Thanks! 2007.11.13 17:22:32 JenW: its great fun to volunteer 2007.11.13 17:22:38 JenW: especially if you are good with computers 2007.11.13 17:22:48 JenW: you can help out in the hands on classes 2007.11.13 17:22:53 EsmeraldaS: I need to volunteer 2007.11.13 17:23:01 DevetteG: Sounds fun!! 2007.11.13 17:23:02 JenW: you do -- it is an easy way to save $$$ 2007.11.13 17:23:11 KaraLM: very nice! 2007.11.13 17:23:12 KimberlyNg: Yeah, it's pricey... 2007.11.13 17:23:18 JenW: well worth the cost -2007.11.13 17:23:24 JenW: but help out with volunteering 2007.11.13 17:23:30 JenW: you get a t-shirt too :) 2007.11.13 17:23:34 KimberlyNg smiles 2007.11.13 17:23:35 EsmeraldaS: Yes, it's priceless 2007.11.13 17:23:41 JenW: any how 2007.11.13 17:23:45 JenW: I need to go get ready for wow 2007.11.13 17:23:51 SusanR: Jen, you must consider presenting at a conference here in Toronto, Ontario, ECOO in May ... 2007.11.13 17:23:51 JenW: check out http://www.womenofweb2.com 2007.11.13 17:23:53 SusanR: http://www.ecoo.org/ 2007.11.13 17:24:03 JenW: Susan -- that would be great 2007.11.13 17:24:06 SusanR: It's our major conference 2007.11.13 17:24:14 JenW: I shall have to tel lyou later about my ONE experience with teaching in Canada later 2007.11.13 17:24:18 SusanR: Thanks for stopping by and sharing, Jen 2007.11.13 17:24:23 JenW: thanks for letting me 2007.11.13 17:24:26 JenW: this was FUN 2007.11.13 17:24:28 CourtneyP: Thanks Jen! 2007.11.13 17:24:31 SusanR: See you at WOW 2007.11.13 17:24:32 KimberlyNg: Bye Jen! 2007.11.13 17:24:38 JenW: enjoy TEACHING!! 2007.11.13 17:24:45 DevetteG: Thanks 2007.11.13 17:24:49 KaraLM: bye!! Thank you!! 2007.11.13 17:24:49 SusanR: now on with the rest of the session 2007.11.13 17:24:51 JenW left the room (signed off). 2007.11.13 17:25:46 SusanR: I wanted you to look at one article ..which I think elates to children's reluctance to write or enjoy writing 2007.11.13 17:25:56 SusanR: tell us what you think 2007.11.13 17:26:07 SusanR: http://www.canada.com/topics/technology/story.html?id=64c3042a-e26f-467fadca-2f144c69636c&k=42224 2007.11.13 17:26:15 CourtneyP left the room (signed off). 2007.11.13 17:26:17 CourtneyP joined the room. 2007.11.13 17:26:43 SusanR: Welcome Courtney 2007.11.13 17:26:58 CourtneyP: Sorry, I had an issue with popups. 2007.11.13 17:27:32 SusanR: I notice the grade 4 and 5 class I was in ..there was a reluctance to write creatively and I wonder if this was the cause 2007.11.13 17:27:34 SusanR: http://www.canada.com/topics/technology/story.html?id=64c3042a-e26f-467fadca-2f144c69636c&k=42224 2007.11.13 17:27:56 SusanR: what are your thoughts 2007.11.13 17:28:28 DevetteG: I agree with the atricle. Some teachers say they do not have time.

2007.11.13 17:28:47 SusanR . o O ( by the end of grade two all my students wrote in cursive ) 2007.11.13 17:28:56 KimberlyNg: I think it's appalling how teachers do not think it's important. 2007.11.13 17:29:21 KimberlyNg: The school I'm teaching at, the fourth grade student teacher said that the students still have trouble with cursive. 2007.11.13 17:29:25 SusanR: bring back formal writing/printing classes!! 2007.11.13 17:29:25 KimberlyNg: I think she meant the basics. 2007.11.13 17:29:32 CourtneyP: I completely agree with the article. Handwriting is extrmely important and it is being ignored on the classroom. 2007.11.13 17:29:41 KimberlyNg: In my class tomorrow, we're actually doing cursive tomorrow. 2007.11.13 17:29:53 KimberlyNg: letters e, l, o, and c 2007.11.13 17:29:58 CourtneyP: I remembering doing hours of handwriting a week when I was in grade school. 2007.11.13 17:30:20 CourtneyP: We used to write cursive in 3rd grade, but I talked to a friend that they are just starting to teach it in 4th! 2007.11.13 17:30:21 DevetteG: Me too!! It's like we had to know how to write on crusive. 2007.11.13 17:30:34 KimberlyNg: I don't really remember learning cursive, but I remember being praised if my handwriting was very neat. 2007.11.13 17:30:35 SusanR: last word on this topic http://www.boston.com/business/globe/articles/2007/05/06/in_digital_age_more_ts_ar e_crossed_poorly/ 2007.11.13 17:31:09 CourtneyP: Cursive was very important and we HAD to write with it and were rewarded if it was good handwriting. 2007.11.13 17:31:12 EsmeraldaS: I agree, handwriting has lost it's focus 2007.11.13 17:31:27 SusanR: and this may help with writing as well 2007.11.13 17:31:28 SusanR: http://www.smm.org/buzz/blog/keep_your_butt_on_the_ball_classrooms_are_ditching_ch airs_f 2007.11.13 17:31:38 KaraLM: My observing teacher in 4th grade only wrote in cursive to her students as a way to help them learn it, but their parents just got mad and sent notes saying, "My student does not know this. he can't read it!" 2007.11.13 17:31:54 KimberlyNg: I think it is very important for the students to see the teacher having fun with cursive and writing in general. 2007.11.13 17:31:54 CourtneyP: I think it is being ignored because teachers are losing the time in the classroom, but then they get mad at students if they have bad handwriting. 2007.11.13 17:32:00 SusanR: good grief, Karla 2007.11.13 17:32:06 KimberlyNg: My teacher calls herself the "Cursive Queen" 2007.11.13 17:32:10 KaraLM: yep... 2007.11.13 17:32:13 CourtneyP: Good for her! 2007.11.13 17:32:14 KimberlyNg: The kids absolutely love it! 2007.11.13 17:32:16 DevetteG: I agree!! 2007.11.13 17:32:21 EsmeraldaS: I agree, Kimberly 2007.11.13 17:32:32 CourtneyP: What does she do differently? 2007.11.13 17:32:52 KimberlyNg: Are you asking me Courtney? 2007.11.13 17:32:55 CourtneyP: yes. 2007.11.13 17:33:00 CourtneyP: = ) 2007.11.13 17:33:04 SusanR: to move on ...anyone using exercise balls or has anyone seen them in use in classes 2007.11.13 17:33:12 KimberlyNg: She has her "magic wand" which is a pointer 2007.11.13 17:33:13 DevetteG: No ma'am!! 2007.11.13 17:33:18 CourtneyP: No not at all. 2007.11.13 17:33:19 KaraLM: I have not- but that sounds kind of cool! 2007.11.13 17:33:20 KimberlyNg: She uses lots of verbal praise

2007.11.13 17:33:26 KimberlyNg: She just makes a big deal 2007.11.13 17:33:30 KimberlyNg: and encourages it a lot 2007.11.13 17:33:32 CourtneyP: Cool. 2007.11.13 17:33:33 EsmeraldaS: No 2007.11.13 17:33:46 KimberlyNg: I've never seen it used in a classroom. 2007.11.13 17:33:53 EsmeraldaS: Great 2007.11.13 17:34:07 SusanR: students have an option between using a ball or a chair. Invariably, balls are more popular than chairs 2007.11.13 17:34:26 KaraLM: i bet & it is a great idea! 2007.11.13 17:34:28 JohnRR joined the room. 2007.11.13 17:34:30 CourtneyP: They sit on the balls? 2007.11.13 17:34:31 SusanR: One second-grade student is quoted in a recent newspaper story as saying wiggling around helps her think better. 2007.11.13 17:34:36 KimberlyNg: Does it help them with handwriting? 2007.11.13 17:34:48 KimberlyNg: Oh, like a tapping pen. 2007.11.13 17:34:49 KaraLM: it allows them to move, which most of them need, and helps them get exercise without knowing it! 2007.11.13 17:35:07 CourtneyP: Children are so active these days I am sure it would work. 2007.11.13 17:35:10 SusanR: Welcome John..we are debating the use of exercise balls 2007.11.13 17:35:16 KaraLM: ooo-- good connection Kimberly! 2007.11.13 17:35:25 SusanR: as classroom chairs or seating 2007.11.13 17:35:26 KimberlyNg: Thanks Kara :) 2007.11.13 17:35:37 KimberlyNg: I think that if a teacher has great classroom management, it can be done. 2007.11.13 17:35:44 JohnRR: Thanks---will view a while and tryto catch up 2007.11.13 17:35:46 EsmeraldaS: Sounds like fun!, using creative teaching tec hniques is the key 2007.11.13 17:35:49 KaraLM: totally!! 2007.11.13 17:35:55 HelenK: I believe it also helps them with their coordination and balance 2007.11.13 17:35:56 DevetteG: You are right Kim!! 2007.11.13 17:35:58 KimberlyNg: If he/she discusses the rules and they know it, I don't see how it can be a problem. 2007.11.13 17:36:08 SusanR: for John 2007.11.13 17:36:08 KaraLM: and after few fun days, they will become normal! 2007.11.13 17:36:09 SusanR: http://www.smm.org/buzz/blog/keep_your_butt_on_the_ball_classrooms_are_ditching_ch airs_f 2007.11.13 17:36:14 CourtneyP: I think it could also be used for a reward. 2007.11.13 17:36:24 KimberlyNg: Or punishment, if they abuse it. 2007.11.13 17:36:27 EsmeraldaS: I agree, Kimberly, good classroom management is also key 2007.11.13 17:36:32 CourtneyP: True. = ) 2007.11.13 17:37:18 EsmeraldaS: Right 2007.11.13 17:37:34 DevetteG: I'm going to have to try this one day. 2007.11.13 17:37:42 KimberlyNg: If the students use it everyday, it will just be a seat to them. 2007.11.13 17:37:45 DevetteG: It seems very interesting. 2007.11.13 17:37:49 EsmeraldaS: Right Cornery it could also be used for a reward 2007.11.13 17:38:12 KimberlyNg: I wonder if any of the collaborating school use this. 2007.11.13 17:38:23 CourtneyP: I think this is an awesome idea, I never would have thought about it.

2007.11.13 17:38:33 DevetteG: At least they can't lean back they have the proper posture too. 2007.11.13 17:38:38 SusanR: exercise balls could be the wave of the future in classrooms of tomorrow 2007.11.13 17:38:58 CourtneyP: I think this is great for posture, they have to sit up. 2007.11.13 17:39:02 KaraLM: I wonder how hard it would be to implement- if the districts or principals would have problems with it. 2007.11.13 17:39:15 DevetteG: That is my concern too. 2007.11.13 17:39:25 KimberlyNg: I'm sure they would do a trial run with some classes first. 2007.11.13 17:39:29 KimberlyNg: Just to test it out 2007.11.13 17:39:30 EsmeraldaS: I wonder that also 2007.11.13 17:39:34 CourtneyP: It would be a nice grant. 2007.11.13 17:39:39 KimberlyNg: It would. 2007.11.13 17:39:46 DevetteG: I hope they would give it a try. 2007.11.13 17:39:48 SusanR: exactly..this could be debated!!! 2007.11.13 17:39:51 EsmeraldaS: Right 2007.11.13 17:39:56 KimberlyNg: At what grade would they use this? 2007.11.13 17:40:05 JohnRR: Slightly same subject---I attended a speaker once who claimed that today's children learned more from games tham any other form of learning and to not discount stuff like video games 2007.11.13 17:40:12 KimberlyNg: I couldn't imagine my kindergartners using this. 2007.11.13 17:40:17 SusanR: I would start as early as grade 1 or 2 2007.11.13 17:40:26 KaraLM: that is true John! 2007.11.13 17:40:31 CourtneyP: No, they would be all over the place. 2007.11.13 17:40:41 DevetteG: I agree Courtney. 2007.11.13 17:40:43 CourtneyP: Kim and I know we are at the same school. 2007.11.13 17:40:48 KimberlyNg: Haha 2007.11.13 17:40:52 EsmeraldaS: I agree, they learn more, when they have hands on 2007.11.13 17:41:00 SusanR: Let's delve into one of two GRREAT sites I have to stimulate learning 2007.11.13 17:41:01 JohnRR: what I find is that kids no longer listen to how it's done----the WATCH how its done 2007.11.13 17:41:04 CourtneyP: I think it would be great for 2nd and up. 2007.11.13 17:41:10 KaraLM: if you teach them how, it could work- and the chairs in the picture look like they have feet on the bottom 2007.11.13 17:41:18 DevetteG: I saw that. 2007.11.13 17:41:24 CourtneyP: My first graders are not ready for something like this. 2007.11.13 17:41:26 SusanR: great ideas Karla 2007.11.13 17:41:34 KimberlyNg: That's true John, they are so absorbed when a TV is on. 2007.11.13 17:41:47 CourtneyP: I agree. 2007.11.13 17:42:10 KimberlyNg: They lack listening skills, but I think it also has to do with how enthusiastic the teacher is. 2007.11.13 17:42:10 KaraLM: thanks susan! 2007.11.13 17:42:25 JohnRR: The power of video is tremendous with these youngsters----MUCH more so than in my day 2007.11.13 17:42:41 DevetteG: I agree with Kim. You have to make learning fun. 2007.11.13 17:42:48 KimberlyNg: I think because it is so easy to get ahold of. 2007.11.13 17:43:12 SusanR: Can I direct you to a Writing Fun site which will "make learning fun" 2007.11.13 17:43:19 KaraLM: yay! 2007.11.13 17:43:20 KimberlyNg: Yes please :).

2007.11.13 17:43:23 DevetteG: Yes ma'am!! 2007.11.13 17:43:27 EsmeraldaS: Kids of today need to be more physically active 2007.11.13 17:43:28 CourtneyP: Please! 2007.11.13 17:43:28 JohnRR: So if video is how they learn----I say dont fight t----games too----or wiggly balls---if it works go with it 2007.11.13 17:43:40 SusanR: Take a look at this site and see if you can find the Writing Fun area 2007.11.13 17:43:43 KimberlyNg: Definitely. 2007.11.13 17:43:51 SusanR: http://www.rainforestmaths.com/ 2007.11.13 17:44:10 SusanR . o O ( not that apparent ) 2007.11.13 17:44:11 KimberlyNg: I think that the teacher would have to balance the tools he/she uses though. Too much of one thing can become dull. 2007.11.13 17:44:17 DevetteG: I love this website i used it with my 3rd graders 2007.11.13 17:44:18 EsmeraldaS: Coordination is the key 2007.11.13 17:44:32 KaraLM: found it! 2007.11.13 17:44:49 KimberlyNg: Wow. 2007.11.13 17:44:54 KimberlyNg: My teacher is going to love this. 2007.11.13 17:44:56 SusanR: part of Jenny Eather's Rainforest Math site 2007.11.13 17:45:01 CourtneyP: Very cool! 2007.11.13 17:45:14 DevetteG: She also has a math dictionary 2007.11.13 17:45:17 KimberlyNg: My kids love it when we do online math games rather than writing it on paper. 2007.11.13 17:45:25 KimberlyNg: I like it because it makes them think faster. 2007.11.13 17:45:28 SusanR: we delt with the math areas last month in two sessions; please see the transcripts for a detailed chat 2007.11.13 17:45:29 KimberlyNg: Gets them on their feet 2007.11.13 17:46:10 KimberlyNg: Thanks for this site Susan! 2007.11.13 17:46:28 CourtneyP: Thanks Susan, I will definitely use it! 2007.11.13 17:46:40 SusanR: Have you noticed the "Writing Fun" area. It can be missed 2007.11.13 17:46:47 CourtneyP: Yes. 2007.11.13 17:47:05 KimberlyNg: I got distracted by multiplication :) 2007.11.13 17:47:16 KaraLM: Yes- & entered! 2007.11.13 17:47:25 JohnRR: Bottom right----easy to miss.... 2007.11.13 17:47:39 SusanR: There text organizers to help students in the writing process; graphic organizers ..grade 3 to 8 2007.11.13 17:47:39 EsmeraldaS: Great 2007.11.13 17:48:02 SusanR: Bottom right, correct 2007.11.13 17:48:03 KaraLM: I like the text organizers! 2007.11.13 17:48:28 DevetteG: Awesome!!! 2007.11.13 17:48:35 SusanR: It's an interactive site that allows teachers and students to create layouts and organise different sorts of texts. 2007.11.13 17:48:45 KimberlyNg: This is so great! 2007.11.13 17:48:54 KimberlyNg: This is definitely going to help in the classroom. 2007.11.13 17:49:05 SusanR: There's an online graphic organiser for writing!! 2007.11.13 17:49:06 CourtneyP: I agree Kim. 2007.11.13 17:49:14 KimberlyNg: Courtney, I'm so glad we have the SMARTBoard in the classrooms :). 2007.11.13 17:49:24 CourtneyP: This will help teach it. 2007.11.13 17:49:43 EsmeraldaS: Great, text organizers are essential for students 2007.11.13 17:49:43 SusanR: This site should help with the writng process 2007.11.13 17:49:58 KaraLM: definitely! 2007.11.13 17:50:12 EsmeraldaS: I agree 2007.11.13 17:50:31 KimberlyNg: I like how it has teh outline and tips on the

along side with the example papers. 2007.11.13 17:50:39 DevetteG: I can use this on the Promeathean Board to show all my students. 2007.11.13 17:51:01 DevetteG: Great resource!! 2007.11.13 17:51:08 JohnRR: Besides the SMARTboard----what kind of projection capability do you have in your classrooms----projection to all students is KEY 2007.11.13 17:51:14 SusanR . o O ( btw the sites are listed on the WHITEBOARD for thos who just dropped in! ) 2007.11.13 17:51:19 EsmeraldaS: This tips will definitely help me in the future 2007.11.13 17:51:32 SusanR: the whiteboard is just above the chat area 2007.11.13 17:51:35 LynneW left the room (signed off). 2007.11.13 17:51:40 CourtneyP: I like the everyday section, you could use it for the younger ones. 2007.11.13 17:51:47 EsmeraldaS: I agree, John 2007.11.13 17:51:50 KimberlyNg: Projection as in technology? 2007.11.13 17:51:55 KaraLM: I like the organizers for different types of writing 2007.11.13 17:52:14 RichK joined the room. 2007.11.13 17:52:16 JohnRR: yes---how do you project the computer on a big screen? 2007.11.13 17:52:27 KimberlyNg: In my class, we have the computers hooked to the TV 2007.11.13 17:52:35 CourtneyP: we have TVs in the classroom that you can view whatever is on the computer screen. 2007.11.13 17:52:41 JeffC: check out "averkey" to do just that. 2007.11.13 17:52:44 KimberlyNg: We don't use that too much though, because the SMARTBoard is there. 2007.11.13 17:52:56 DevetteG: In my class we also have Elmo. 2007.11.13 17:53:02 KimberlyNg: What's that? 2007.11.13 17:53:10 KimberlyNg: Oh. 2007.11.13 17:53:20 JohnRR: so thesmart board approx 4 x 6 is your "screen"??? 2007.11.13 17:53:20 KimberlyNg: We have that at the school, averkey. 2007.11.13 17:53:29 KimberlyNg: Yes 2007.11.13 17:53:37 JohnRR: Nice 2007.11.13 17:53:37 SusanR . o O ( these are great tools to stimulate writing ..whether you are using a smartboard or whatever ) 2007.11.13 17:53:56 KaraLM: what is the other GREAT site you have to make writing fun? 2007.11.13 17:54:16 SusanR: I thought you would never ask, Karla 2007.11.13 17:54:22 SusanR: I saved the best for last 2007.11.13 17:54:31 KaraLM: =D 2007.11.13 17:54:46 JohnRR: but to properly use the web----you HAVE to be able to project it to all students----but I'll shut up now 2007.11.13 17:54:47 DevetteG: Im sorry but i love technology 2007.11.13 17:54:50 SusanR: a busy site called Writing Fix 2007.11.13 17:55:03 SusanR: Undergoing some revision at the moment 2007.11.13 17:55:13 EsmeraldaS: How many projectors does your school have John 2007.11.13 17:55:19 SusanR: This site provides extensive resources for the six traits of writing for teachers and students 2007.11.13 17:55:25 KaraLM: ooo! 2007.11.13 17:55:28 SusanR: and it’s FREE! Again a very busy site with ideas galore. 2007.11.13 17:55:40 KimberlyNg: It definitely has a lot. 2007.11.13 17:55:43 SusanR: Perhaps we can disect thesite and explore together. 2007.11.13 17:55:47 JohnRR: 68----every room in the school basically

2007.11.13 17:55:51 CourtneyP: I just went to a professional dev. about 6 + 1 traits 2007.11.13 17:55:55 KaraLM: please! 2007.11.13 17:55:57 SusanR: http://www.writingfix.com/ 2007.11.13 17:56:07 DevetteG: Me too Courtney 2007.11.13 17:56:16 SusanR: This site can support 6 + 1 traits 2007.11.13 17:56:26 KaraLM: it looks a little overwhelming 2007.11.13 17:56:42 JohnRR: we were a test----to see how well they would be accepted and used----huge success----now every school in the district wants them 2007.11.13 17:56:43 KimberlyNg: This is great, it so hard sometimes to think of your own stuff. 2007.11.13 17:56:49 SusanR: think we need simple activities at the word or sentence level in order to provide young learners with basic skills and the opportunity to build up their confidence in writing. Explore the generls site and please return with one great idea you might use in your clssroom. 2007.11.13 17:56:52 EsmeraldaS: The school where I'm doing my study has only 4 LCD projectors 2007.11.13 17:57:54 SusanR: I am looking at the clock on the wall ..so we will look in depth at this site iin part two of this session in two weeks 2007.11.13 17:58:04 HelenK left the room. 2007.11.13 17:58:06 KimberlyNg: I like the "Interactive Plot Creator". 2007.11.13 17:58:14 KaraLM: I do too!!! 2007.11.13 17:58:16 RichK left the room (signed off). 2007.11.13 17:58:17 KimberlyNg smiles 2007.11.13 17:58:19 JohnRR: There is NO equity----or fairness when it comes to equipment----learned that in the Army years ago.... 2007.11.13 17:58:27 KimberlyNg: It really lets the kids take off, because the main parts are there. 2007.11.13 17:58:27 HelenK joined the room. 2007.11.13 17:58:30 CourtneyP: Me too that is perfect even for first grade. 2007.11.13 17:58:31 KaraLM: That will help kids with the inevitable"writer's Block" 2007.11.13 17:58:31 KimberlyNg: They just need to fill in the rest. 2007.11.13 17:58:39 KimberlyNg: Indeed. 2007.11.13 17:58:51 DevetteG: I like that one too!! 2007.11.13 17:59:02 EsmeraldaS: Monies are the gap 2007.11.13 17:59:11 KimberlyNg: Did you guys see the "Plot Pre-Write" sheet? 2007.11.13 17:59:16 SusanR: that is the 4th Tuesday ..we will focus on the wealth of materials here at The Writing Fix 2007.11.13 17:59:20 KimberlyNg: That's a great resource as well. 2007.11.13 17:59:27 KaraLM: I also like the "Start and Stop" Game 2007.11.13 17:59:31 SusanR: how we can adapt them for classrooom use 2007.11.13 17:59:39 RichK joined the room. 2007.11.13 17:59:40 EsmeraldaS: Yes 2007.11.13 17:59:45 SusanR: and meet standards as well 2007.11.13 17:59:45 CourtneyP: yes, very cute! 2007.11.13 17:59:54 EsmeraldaS: Yes 2007.11.13 18:00:04 SusanR . o O ( perhaps it will be revised as well ) 2007.11.13 18:00:04 KaraLM: we can put them in a literacy center 2007.11.13 18:00:44 BJB2 looks at the clock on the wall 2007.11.13 18:00:45 KaraLM: do moderations in our class- such as writing settings, characters, and plots on strips of paper and having the students draw them out of hats to create a story to write on 2007.11.13 18:00:58 KaraLM: not yet BJB! 2007.11.13 18:01:07 EsmeraldaS: yes, a literacy certer is a good idea 2007.11.13 18:01:09 KimberlyNg: The "Plot Pre-Write" sheet could be a starter for the kids. 2007.11.13 18:01:20 BJB2: Sue will meet again on November 27

2007.11.13 18:01:21 KimberlyNg: They could complete each event block a day. 2007.11.13 18:01:34 SusanR: I can leave you to debate amongst yourselves here in the Comfy Conference Lounge..so kick off your shoes and relax 2007.11.13 18:01:34 BJB2 . o O ( same topic...to be continued! ) 2007.11.13 18:01:35 CourtneyP: I agree Kim. 2007.11.13 18:01:36 KimberlyNg: That way, they can have time to develop that event or scene. 2007.11.13 18:01:47 EsmeraldaS: yes, it could 2007.11.13 18:01:48 SusanR: yes, BjB same topic to be continued 2007.11.13 18:01:58 KaraLM: Thank you for the resources, and your time Susan!! 2007.11.13 18:02:03 KimberlyNg: See you on the 27th Susan! 2007.11.13 18:02:06 SusanR: Thank you all 2007.11.13 18:02:06 DevetteG: Thank you for your time!!! 2007.11.13 18:02:10 CourtneyP: Bye everyone! See you at school tomorrow Kim! 2007.11.13 18:02:13 CourtneyP: Thanks you! 2007.11.13 18:02:14 HelenK: thanks Susan great as always 2007.11.13 18:02:14 KimberlyNg: Thanks so much for all of this! I can't wait to share with my teacher tomorrow! 2007.11.13 18:02:17 HelenK left the room (signed off). 2007.11.13 18:02:18 KimberlyNg: Bye guys! 2007.11.13 18:02:22 BJB2: Thanks, Sue. Goodnight 2007.11.13 18:02:23 EsmeraldaS: I'll hold on to my houseshoes, their comfy 2007.11.13 18:02:25 DevetteG: Bye UH!! 2007.11.13 18:02:28 SusanR: Great crowd 2007.11.13 18:02:29 KimberlyNg: Haha 2007.11.13 18:02:31 KaraLM: bye devette! 2007.11.13 18:02:38 BJB2 left the room (signed off). 2007.11.13 18:02:42 EsmeraldaS: wave 2007.11.13 18:02:48 JohnRR: Thanks 2007.11.13 18:02:51 KimberlyNg: Bye Courtney, see you tomorrow! 2007.11.13 18:02:53 JohnRR left the room (signed off). 2007.11.13 18:02:54 CourtneyP left the room (signed off). 2007.11.13 18:03:06 DevetteG: Bye Kara! 2007.11.13 18:03:21 KaraLM left the room (signed off). 2007.11.13 18:03:25 DevetteG left the room (signed off). 2007.11.13 18:04:01 EsmeraldaS left the room (signed off). 2007.11.13 18:04:23 SusanR left the room (signed off). 2007.11.13 19:13:38 SusanR joined the room. 2007.11.13 19:16:01 SusanR left the room (signed off).