First Week.

I have no words except...whew! First week down and still so much to do with getting the iPads set up the way I want them.  We downloaded all the apps we need for now, we started using Xtramath.org (which is an incredible way to get the kids practicing Fact Fluency), we created two journals in Book Creator and explored...A LOT.  Next week, I need to start setting up their Google Classroom Accounts.  This process is so tedious that you forget how long it took to get the kids ready to work last years beginning of the year.  Again, whew!

The largest set back is the new update with Pic Collage:( They raised the age limit to 12+ and now we cannot download with the restrictions we have for the elementary grades through the district.  Pic Collage was used for everything, every subject, every day, finding something as easy as it was will be a challenge.  

District Policy is that we must teach Digital Citizenship to our students before we are allowed to handout the iPads. You better believe that I did that the 2nd day of school.  I feel like the Cookie Monster when it comes to technology "iPads" (in my best C.M. voice). We watched this catchy music video, then each student created a poster (like the one to the right) that represented each of the topics sang in the video. 

I am in love with the way I plan on using Book Creator to create student journals, such as Reader's Workshop and Science Journals.  I love that the students can record themselves reading or reflecting on read alouds and insert them into the journal.  Most of all, I love that they WANT to reflect and write in their journals.  

Next week will be another tedious week of trying to remember that I have to be SUPER patient with how sloooooowwww learning technology for "learning" can be for students who are so used to "playing."