No, not that Po

Last week the freshmen started a new unit based upon The Pit and the Pendulum. The first day was spent reading and discussing an excerpt from the story. Poe is a tough read. It can be especially confusing if you’re not sure if Poe is the red Teletubby or the purple one.

Anyway… I really like this unit. The cherubs are making conjectures about what affects the period of a pendulum. They design and conduct experiments. In analyzing the data we talk about controlled experiments, measures of central tendency (including a nice exploration into standard deviation), and curve fitting.

There are a few reasons this is one of my favorite units. I think this is the first time many of them are exposed to normal curves and standard deviation, so that’s always fun (well, to me anyway). The best part is that they are doing in this unit. They make conjectures. They design the experiments. They analyze the data.

My goal is to find the right balance between guiding and staying out of their way.

Not Even a Visa

Yesterday was the first day of second semester. Much to my dismay, I could not be at school. While I didn’t have anything as cool as Dan did when he had a sub, I was able to get live updates from my trusty student aide.

One of the seniors in 8th period was a bit confused by the set up. I was informed by Andy that she was talking to the computer (”Hey Mrs. B” ) asking if I could hear her. Apparently this soon to be college freshman was befuddled by instant messaging.

Digital immigrant? I don’t think so.

Note to Self

Writing posts that are never published defeats the purpose of having a blog. Deleting them is even worse.The first semester of your teaching career is over. Reflect on this experience this weekend -after the finals are graded. Then click on the “Publish” button.

Write again. Publish. Repeat.

2007 Annual Report

Well, it is the last night for Dan’s contest. As I waited until the last day, there’s no time for a post reflecting upon the process.

That’ll happen soon.

I’m sure.

Well, I intend it to happen.

Anyway, without further ado, here they are. I look forward to constructive feedback. I’m still not too sure about the colors.

Interesting experience Dan - Thanks.