Dear Substitute teacher: As an educated adult who holds a college degree, what makes you think that it is acceptable to allow 5 year olds to discuss why they are thankful to have a boyfriend/girlfriend? And why would you include such on our list of things we’re thankful for?
TRUE STORY PEOPLE! That is what I discovered upon my return to my classroom. I mean, really…come on now! Ain’t nobody got time for dat! And of course a lackluster sub means my ‘staches were a bit…unhinged today. But we survived. We made paper plate turkeys. A few of us cried (maybe…maybe not…the teacher!)…and tomorrow will be better!
If you read my blog much, you know i’m a bit of technology geek. I love gadgets and am a bit of nerd for some good technology. I love being able to use technology in my classroom to enhance and supplement our learning.
Right now our big fascination is with QR codes! You know, those little squares you see everywhere that can be scanned with a smartphone and it gives you information? Did you know that those are powerful learning tools? No, for serious. We love them in mustache land! They’re easily adapted for all skills…they can be easily differentiated AND they’re so darn cool that the ‘staches are 100% engaged with the learning. They beg for that center!
So…our dilemma was that the only device we had for scanning QR codes was Mr. Greg’s iPhone. Now, I honestly do not mind letting the ‘staches use my phone. But it would be nice if we had more access to the QR codes for more ‘staches.
Then it happened….I got a grant on my Adopt A Classroom page so I was able to order an iPod touch for our QR code center! And then…people, sit down…get ready…we were sitting in a faculty meeting and were gifted with an iPod touch! BAM! Seriously, 2 iPod’s in 2 days. I was giddy! So…here’s how the QR code center works in my room!
There are 2 iPods set up for students to use. I have the QR code reader app already open when ‘staches arrive. Depending on the skill I want the student work on, I will give them a set of qr codes. These are stored in Zip-Loc bags and labeled. They also get a recording sheet.
Students pick a card and scan the code. The code then reveals a letter, picture, word or ten frame (or limitless other skills…) and the students complete their recording sheet. Then they scan another code. And so on!
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