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Showing posts from October, 2024

Leprechaun Trap Challenge (STEM): St. Patrick's Day

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Leprechaun Trap Challenge (STEM) Instructions: Build a trap to catch a leprechaun using everyday materials. Follow the design process below! Objective: Encourage creativity, engineering skills, and problem-solving by designing a functional trap that could catch a mischievous leprechaun. Planning Sheet: Materials List: What will you use? (e.g., paper, string, tape, cardboard, LEGOs, pipe cleaners, cups, paper towel rolls, craft sticks, aluminum foil, etc.) Sketch Your Design: Draw how your trap will work, labeling key parts and mechanisms. Trap Mechanism: How will your trap trigger when the leprechaun enters? Will it use a pulley, lever, or hidden entrance? Will you include bait like gold coins, glitter, or candy? Building Phase: Work on assembling your trap using the selected materials. Testing & Improvements: Try triggering the trap multiple times. Identify any weaknesses and refine the design. Reflection Questions: What was the most challenging part of building the trap? What ...

iteach: Alternative Teacher Credentialing

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 iTeach is an alternative teacher certification program that allows individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree to become certified to teach. It’s popular among those who are changing careers or did not pursue a traditional education degree. iTeach operates in several states in the U.S., providing online coursework and mentorship for aspiring teachers. How iTeach Works: Eligibility: You need to have a bachelor’s degree (usually with a minimum GPA requirement) to apply. Online Coursework: Most of the learning is done online, which includes modules on classroom management, instructional strategies, and education theory. Field Experience: Candidates complete fieldwork in a school setting, often through a student teaching placement or a paid internship. Certification: After completing the program and passing required exams (such as Praxis or state certification tests), candidates are eligible for a teaching certificate.  Pros of iTeach: Flexibility: The online format allo...

Make Dsimissal Time Smooth and Structured

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  Here are some tips for varying grade levels to ensure a smooth and orderly class dismissal. Establish a Consistent Routine. Create a clear and consistent dismissal routine that students can easily follow. This might include specific tasks like putting away materials, lining up in a certain order, or listening for a dismissal signal. Consistency helps students understand expectations and reduces confusion. Use Visual and Verbal Cues. Visual cues (like a timer or specific hand signals) and verbal cues (like a transition song or countdown) can help signal to students that it's time to prepare for dismissal. This keeps the process calm and prevents last-minute chaos. Positive Reinforcement. Praise or reward students who follow the dismissal routine well. Offering a small incentive, such as stickers or verbal praise, encourages others to follow suit, helping the transition go smoothly without constant reminders. Assign Responsibilities or Roles. Give students specific roles related to...