Google Docs

I would use this google docs on my blog to remind parents of an upcoming field trip.

Click here to view my Google docs example.

Google Slideshow

I would use this with our Canada project.  I would present this before the students choose a province/territory to research.  This would give them a close look at the provinces/territories.
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Reading 8-Collaborative Projects

This article offered lots to think about.  Skillen poses the question,"so how do you facilitate meaningful constructive conversations in your classroom?"  Important question but I would say not an easy task, at least not at my grade level.  First of all, getting teams to function well together can be challenging.  I have found the most success in a more structured approach by having the students take on a role within the group.  I like the idea of the students responding on-line as the students have the opportunity to respond at their leisure and with no time restraints.  I actually found Skillen's article on Scaffolding for Deeper Understanding more useful, at least for younger students,  as it offers practical suggestions (planning, reflection,comment and discussion starters) to encourage meaningful conversations amongst students.

I would post this livebinder on my blog for parents.  I have included, what I think, are useful links to support their child's learning as well as useful info about the French Immersion programme.  I tried to include links to some of the questions I am often asked.  I like the idea of telling parents to check my blog for useful links instead of having to tell them I will get back to them.

Livebinder example

Grade 3 F.I.

Reading 7- Content curation

To be quite honest, I wasn’t sure what content curation meant before reading the article.  I realize it goes beyond just collecting information randomly.  It seems to involve more of evaluating the information for its relevance.  In the graphic organizer, White describes content curation as “cherry-picking” reading, meeting a learning goal, etc.. Don’t most of us do these already?  I think the one thing that is missing is the publishing which seems to be a big part of content curation.  I do agree there are many benefits to sharing with a wider audience.  You’re learning, they're learning.  I can however, sympathize with the one woman who ask the teacher if she could curate resources just as part of her Moodle course.  It can be uncomfortable putting yourself out there for the whole world to see.  

I really liked the idea of students as content curators.  Giving students the opportunity to “take ownership of their learning”  would keep them motivated and actively engaged in the learning.   

Podcasting example

I decided to do a cooking lesson for my podcast which I would post on my class blog.  I have very involved parents so I thought this would be something fun and educational they could do at home with their child.  I might even get a few samples to taste test!!  Perhaps other class members might enjoy doing their own podcast and sharing their favourite recipes in French, too.