Technology for Better or Worse...

The title wasn't a vow or truly a question, but recently our PE department head went researching at 2 other districts to take a look at heart rate monitors & how they are being used elsewhere.
The numerical direct feedback of your efforts through movement is fanominal. Some schools are even basing the students grades only on their consistent achievement of their personal healthy zone.
To me this is taking one step forward, while taking one step back. Shako PE has made solid strides in assessing students through the NASPE standards. The usage of technology in this case "heart rate monitors" has an absolute power, too much power. Heart rate monitors are a great feedback tool, not a grading scale.

And the assessments continue...

We were able to create quarterly assessments for all our 5th and 4th grade classes. Initially we had done this; however they were all short answer questions. We decided that for many of our students (especially our EL students and SPED students), varying the format of the tests would be extremely beneficial. We created tests that have mutiple choice, matching, pictures, goal setting, Venn diagrams, self-assessment, etc. I'm excited to try these out.

We had done a few formal assessments and then we came across the problem and question of "What do we now do with these?" Besides using them for our own use, to give us feedback as teachers, to see what the students retained, we are not able to use them towards their grade. Currently our report card focuses on the affective domain (cooperation, sportsmanship, effort). All the elementary PE teachers decided that in order to utilize these assessments, we need to change our report card. Next year we're hoping to grade on all three domains. One grade for affective (same as now), one for psychomotor (their effort during skill work), and cognitive (which would include their knowledge based assessments.)

Converting Files to other usable formats

In we're trying to think of new ways to incorporate technology into our gym. I've shown YouTube videos twice for a unit this year. I showed two short clips about bowling. I ran into difficulties with this because our wireless connection was weak. I was informed of a site that you can use to convert files into any format you like. Just wanted to share it as a teacher reference if by chance you do not have an internet connection, you can still use video clips.

The website is: www.zamzar.com

Enjoy!

Is some, better than none?

This is my first year (as well as my team's) to start the phonics curriculum. We've always done our own phonics/grammar/spelling, so this has been quite an adjustment. Each month there's about 8-10 phonics lesson, but each requires ALOT of prep and time. We've started to separate the load, and just do one lesson for the whole grade level so we can share. However, there are many other components for the spelling as well. I've decided to stick with what I'm doing, but start some of the different spelling activities (making connections, look/say/cover/write/check, etc.)

Since doing EVERYTHING right now isn't ideal, slowly taking on the new activities seems like a logical idea. I figure the more I figure it out, my quality of instruction will be better too. Do you think it's okay to make a good faith effort, and gradually take on a new curriculum WITH the intent to do it all eventually? I am meeting the standards, just in a different way currently.

ADVOCATING

As teachers we've always been taught to advocate for our students. If we notice a change in behavior, physical changes, or "red flags" with our students, we're required to report these things, AKA "advocate" for our students.

I have experienced a situation where I was put in a tough situation where a professional perception of me was stated, which was not true. I wrestled with the idea of what I should do...do I pretend that nothing had happened and continue to teach like normal, or do I confront the person to clarify that what had been said was incorrect? I was obviously bothered by this situation since what was said was untrue, so of course I needed to act!

What I have learned is that we're professionally responsible to advocate for our students, but it is equally important to advocate for yourself because if you don't, who will?

PE Universe

I know many of you aren't Phy. Ed. teachers, but a great resource for those of you who are (basically just you Ashley :) ) is peuniverse.com. There are MANY lesson ideas and the best part is they are all videos so you can actually see what the lesson looks like. Perfect for visual learners like myself! There is also a section for discussions and one for blogs. In this area, there are great discussions from PE teachers across the nation about anything from assessment to technology integration to safety. Classroom teachers, if you're ever looking for an activity to get your students moving (and you have some space available) this may be a great resource for you too!
Just thought I would share this great resource!

http://peuniverse.com