iPods in 1st Grade

Technology is my passion. I strive to integrate it into a daily part of 1st grade. Last year the kids were doing so many things with the computer, my iPad, and other digital devices I could get my hands on, which inspired me to get my hands on even more technology.

This year, due to a grant I wrote, the students have had the amazing chance to use iPods all year. Don't get me wrong, I have spent HOURS setting them up, updating, and managing software...but every hour spent, was more than worth it. The kids in my class have had the opportunity to learn, excel, and master the use of the digital devices.

THEY have inspired and blown me away ...they have turned into little tech-gurus. I admire their excitement, and their innovative ideas. They have been able to learn new languages, fill their brains with knowledge, google curious questions, and actively respond to questions. They have been able to become true photographers, and video editors. These students have interviewed people, written stories, and increased their reading fluency- all through the use of their iPods. Their love of effortlessly acquiring new information without boundaries has opened my eyes to a  new world of learning, that expands beyond the walls of my classroom.

Overall, this year has inspired me to new levels. I cannot wait to see the future that these kids hold. 

Oh What a Week!

This week was full of many fun and exciting things. I had one hilarious student start the morning off with..."Morning! Did you know that bison’s were chased to the end of cliffs by Native Americans, and they were chased to their death?" They are full of such useful information, it is definitely endearing.

Love them.

Today we designed self-portraits with a pencil. Then we covered them in glue. Then salt was poured on the glue. Then we took water color (Thank you, Mr. Faust) and dipped paint on top of the salt. They turned out "artistic." Although the art project was interrupted by a fire drill...which let me tell you, you don't know "panic" until classes of 1st graders and a guest reader have to throw paintbrushes down, and literally rush out the door. So amidst the few accidental splatters...it was a successful day! We also attended a parade, where we cheered on and gave encouraging words to students who will be taking the FCAT next week!

 

Mystery Reader!

We had an awesome mystery reader from the post office!

Spring Break!

Hello Families,

What a year it has been, thus far. Words cannot express this year, in a nutshell. As Spring Break comes along every year, it is always much anticipated, however it is somewhat bittersweet. Your sweet little ones came into our class, 7 months ago as young, scared, fresh out of Kindergarten-students. We are more than half-way through the year, and as we look around the room…we no longer see young, scared, Kindergarten students…but we see, smart, independent, loving almost 2^nd grade students.

 

This year has truly been a blessing. We have such a wonderful class, and so many unforgettable moments…and it’s not even over yet! We are full of so much PRIDE when we listen to the students read or as we watch them becoming little independent self-managers. We just wanted to take this time before we go into Spring Break to THANK YOU, from the bottom of our hearts, for ALL of your support and encouragement this year. We know that all of the parents have busy-lives, with a lot of things going on, and we know it’s not easy to stop your life to comment on the blog, or email me, or just be so actively involved…but you all have, and that’s what counts. Being a teacher is full of ups and downs, challenging and rewarding moments. Having the support of your parents, and the respect and love of your students makes the experience as a whole uplifting and 100% worthwhile. Words cannot express our “thanks.”

 

Over Spring Break, please continue to read with your child, and go over the high-frequency word list, because when they come back from Spring Break we are putting it into high-gear, and diving in the material head first. Your support with their reading and math skills makes all the difference; even if you don’t notice it…you can take our word for it, it makes such an impact!

 

Thank you!

Mrs. Ramirez & Ms. Bladon

3-D Shapes, Paint, and Double Mystery Readers

We had such a busy and fun Thursday! We planned our geo animals out, and explained the features of each 3-d piece. Then we put our smocks on (myself included) and started painting! We also had back to back mystery readers, which was so awesome! One more day... Until Spring Break!

Almost Spring Break!

We've had a fun and eventful week- from experimenting with bones, to second opinions, to talking about a scary disease, to coming together to raise money for this event! We were also proud of our VFW and facetimed a student who was out sick. We will also start geo-animals tomorrow! We also had back to back mystery readers. Love these darlings. Check out some pictures!