Making plans for the school year ahead

Well, for many years I've been teaching 4th grade math and students switch from class to class. In other words, we departmentalize.  This has been awesome as we (teachers) can really hone in on our subject of expertise. During those years of math only (some years coupled with science), I got a MS Degree in Education, Mathematics from Walden University's online program. I love teaching math! Each year I announce that this year the students will like or love math more than when they came into fourth grade. That is my goal. It is a glorious thing, to see that actually happen before my eyes.

With the addition of 6 iPads last year, I also taught some technology innovations. It was probably my favorite year of teaching, and after 26 years of teaching, what a wonderful place to be and feel.

     A huge paradigm shift has occurred for me now, in that I have been asked to teach a 4/5 combo class this coming school year. My expertise in teaching math will be helpful. Thank goodness I made instructional iMovies, Educreations movies, ShowMe movies regarding fourth grade math...because that is one of ten subjects I'll be prepping for this year.

     Each day of summer so far, I've made at least one instructional video, and I'm making lesson plans on the PlanBook app I discussed in my last blog post. I'm starting with 4th grade math, and 5th grade math. I'd like to plan the whole school year, all the lessons, this summer. That way, when I start the school year I'll feel really ready. With the implementation of iPads in the classroom, it will be possible for one group to watch me talk on a video, while the other group hears me talk in person.  It WILL be possible to teach two lessons at once. Amazing!

     Besides all of the instructional videos I'm making, I'm getting lots of ideas from my teacher pal who also enjoys talking tech. Pinterest and Edmodo are places she's directed me to, and where I've found info on teaching combo class, and on paperless classroom possibilities, and tech! 

     Each year is the best year I've had teaching, and it's probable that the one ahead will trump them all!