Google’s CS4HS is “an annual grant program promoting computer science education worldwide by connecting educators to the skills and resources they need to teach computer science and computational thinking concepts in fun and relevant ways.” More information on applying for these hands-on in-person and online training opportunities is available here. You can also watch the video below to get a basic idea of the goals of this program.
Science
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Teacher Spotlight: Erin Evans, Monroe Elementary
Erin Evans makes learning meaningful and fun using various forms of technology in her Kindergarten class. The students use iPads with carefully selected apps during student rotations. This video highlights that, as well as Erin and the STS, Stephanie Evans, working with students who are using a new iPad suite of apps called Osmo. Osmo includes Words, Tangrams, and Newton, a critical thinking app. Students problem solve as they interact with the apps using letter tiles, tangrams and drawing in front of the mirror attachment for the iPad. The attached mirror recognizes what they have placed or drawn in front of the iPad and helps them with phonemic awareness, problem solving skills in math and critical thinking skills in the physics app as they draw lines to make a falling ball reach its target. Students also have access to a cart full of iPods (not shown in this video). Most of all, the students are fully attentive and enjoying learning in their classroom!
Spotlight Author: Teresa Bruin, Granite District Educational Technology Specialist
Apps and Resources Shown in Video:
Osmo: https://www.playosmo.com/
Homer: https://learnwithhomer.com/
Frog Hop HD: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/frog-hop-hd-math-problems/id585700693?mt=8
Teacher Spotlight: Dennis Hummer, Cottonwood High School
Dennis Hummer teaches Chemistry at Cottonwood High School. Mr. Hummer works with his students using the Flipped Classroom method, also known as the “backwards classroom.” The Flipped Classroom involves a blended learning model where students access lectures, demonstrations and other information at home, then come prepared to do labs and homework in groups during class. The students act as student tutors and problem solvers and are able to seek guidance as needed from the instructor. This form of teaching compliments differentiated instruction and project-based learning.
In addition to the spotlight video above, check out all of Mr. Hummer’s Chemistry course videos on his YouTube channel. Here is one of his recent review videos:
You can also follow Mr. Hummer on Twitter: @Hummer_Chem. Here is one of his recent tweets, showing his students in action in the lab:
It's all about focus. #coltsaregreat #Flametests pic.twitter.com/8Y0wn1qm55
— Mr. Hummer (@Hummer_Chem) October 10, 2014
Spotlight Author: Celia Powell, Granite District Educational Technology Specialist