What an amazing day I had with my 5th graders yesterday! It was one of those days when most everything went perfectly.
To get the day started I had the kids go to A Google A Day for a research challenge. I think the kids thought it was going to be a piece of cake because they all live on the internet…it was NOT! After 10 minutes we discussed what we discovered as we were researching. The kids made some wonderful observations and I think it will help change the way they search. We will continue to participate in these challenges from time to time.
Next we discussed Independent Studies…what they are and their purpose. We discussed diving below the surface and going beyond the simple. I think the 5th graders were starting to understand, but it will be a year long process.
Next came the step the kids had been anxiously waiting for…GOOGLE DOCS. Each child learned how to log in to their account. They learned how to tie their doc account to their Edmodo account…truly amazing! Then we collaborated on one spreadsheet to share the Rules, Details, Language, Big Ideas and Unanswered Questions about Independent Studies.
Finally, the students were able to use Google Docs and Visuwords to begin planning their Independent Study. Success!
Below is a photograph made with Wordfoto (app) showcasing the things the kids had to say about doing Independent Studies. The reviews were positive.