Deirdre Bailey with Jocelyn Monteith The Alberta Math Curriculum is extensive, and for the sake of organization and accessibility it is structured in a very linear, segmented format. Considering how we might connect key skills and concepts with the broader discipline of mathematics in ways that engage diverse groups of learners and breathe life into the … Continue reading
This story was put together as part of the Canadian Education Association’s “What Standing in the Way of Change in Education” Conference in Calgary, October 21 – 22, 2013. I only remember a few specifics from my first few weeks in the classroom. I had big ideas but the execution was definitely messy. I remember … Continue reading
A hilarious post from the satirical CBC news show “This is That” made the rounds on social media late last week claiming that an Ontario Soccer Club had decided to eliminate the ball from soccer in an effort to curb competition. The article cites a pseudo spokesperson as saying: “We want our children to grow … Continue reading
Traditionally, Grade 4 “Wheels, Levers and Devices that Move” units involve hands on investigations in which students have the opportunity to build something. Often however, these building opportunities are heavily regulated and have students follow a specific set of instructions, put pieces together sequentially and then showcase a collection of virtually identical products. While I can’t pretend … Continue reading
Sometimes it gets to me that my classroom is noisier and that my students’ work is messier. Why am I in constant negotiation with nine and ten year olds over quality, clarity, detail, what’s worth the effort and when it’s reasonable to expect to move on? Wednesday morning as I sat at my desk feeling uncertain … Continue reading
At the start of our first year with a 1:1 iPad program in Grade 4, Jon Van de Raadt made a comment that resonated and has set the tone for our year. “I think you’ll find that iPads are not a junior version of the MacBook and should not be used as such. The iPad … Continue reading
Deirdre Bailey I had a conversation with a teacher today which prompted this post. It was similar to conversations I’d had in the past about twitter, its advantages and how it has been one of the most valuable learning tools for me as I continue to inquire into teaching and learning. I find it impossible … Continue reading
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