Getting to the point

Our class is winding down! We have only one month left to go, and that includes Thanksgiving! We’re going to be moving quickly for the next few weeks so please make sure you read the blog on the days you aren’t in class so you can keep up.

Hands on activity
Our next topic is problem solving so we’re going to do a group activity related to problem solving (it’s also one of Gretchen’s favorite science activities).  In groups of 4, using the 3 bamboo skewers and clay, create a structure that balances/remains steady by the point of one skewer.

Problem solving group discussion
Within your group – respond to two of the following questions:

• There are 2 types of problems: open-ended and close-ended. Which was the balancing activity?
• How is the balance activity an inquiry activity?
• Could the balance activity be considered problem-based learning?
• When have you experienced the problem-based learning approach in your classes? (What is problem-based learning?)
• How is this connected to critical thinking? For that matter, what IS critical thinking?

Here are the NETS for problem solving (and other related areas):

Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Decision Making
Students use critical thinking skills to plan and conduct research, manage projects, solve problems, and make informed decisions using appropriate digital tools and resources. Students:

• identify and define authentic problems and significant questions for investigation.
• plan and manage activities to develop a solution or complete a project.
• collect and analyze data to identify solutions and/or make informed decisions.
• use multiple processes and diverse perspectives to explore alternative solutions.

Homework

• Read Chapter 6 in your textbook. Complete the reading guide (you can skip #5, 9, and 12). Remember, you need to complete 4 of the 6 reading guides (there is only 1 left after this one). The reading guide is on Wednesday's blog post. This is due Monday, November 8. (We'll do chapter 4 right after that, and it will be due on the 12th).

TLAT #2 Reflection

Today we'll work on finishing our TLAT #2.  I hope you are learning something, and you can reflect on that in your section 5. Once you complete the TLAT, take the following steps to include it in your website.

• Log into Google Sites and create a page called TLAT #2
  • Choose Insert. Then choose Document.
  • Find your Design Guide and select it.
• Log into Google Docs and locate your copy of your lesson design guide.
  • Change the sharing settings to Public (anyone on the web can see it).
  • Make sure you do NOT change the editing settings. You don’t want anyone to edit your work but you.

Homework
Finish your TLAT. It’s due Friday at the beginning of class.
If you are done, you can start reading chapter 6.  You can find the reading guide here.

TLAT #2 Decisions and Peer Review

Today we’re deciding which TLAT activity we want to implement. We’ll decide by evaluating our ideas and choosing the best one. Let’s take a look at the design guide. I have included five criteria that I believe are important to designing lessons that inspire creativity and innovation. You should choose five and list them in table 3.1 and 3.2 on your design guide. I would recommend using my top three in your list, but certainly you are free to include other points instead. You’ll need five total. Consult your book (Chapter 5) as a guide.

After you type those in, work with a partner who will read through and evaluate each of your ideas. Type your partner’s name beside 3.1 so I’ll know who it was. Explain anything that isn’t clear to your partner (although that means you probably need to write a clearer description). After your peer evaluates your work, now it’s your turn. Read through your ideas again and honestly assess their value.

Once you’re done, complete sections 3.3 and 3.4. Here’s an example of someone who thoroughly explained why s/she chose an activity. Your description doesn’t have to be as lengthy; the point is to clearly connect choosing the activity the criteria you selected.

Once you’re done with Section 3, go ahead and begin Section 4. Make sure you provide details. I’ve given a little more guidance this time, to make sure you have a clearly elaborated lesson. There were lots of 10s last time, but also some 9s and 8s because you lacked clarity, or 6s and 7s because you simply weren’t thorough. I want to award all 10s this time, so do your best!

We'll meet on Wednesday and finish up, as well as reflect on our ideas.  Remember, these are due on Friday.

• Finish Section 3 and 4. We'll work on 5 in class on Wednesday.
• Vote on November 2.
• Your TLAT is due Friday at the beginning of class. I will post directions on Wednesday’s blog to remind you how to embed it.