I was surrounded by educators who hated the fidget spinner. I did not run out and buy one so my son created one out of eight LEGO pieces. As an educator's son he knows I preach that it's way cooler to create than consume. He was proud of his creation and took to school only to learn they were banned. Students were distracted or fighting over them. I have seen numerous posts from teachers on the dreaded FS! Teachers were posting that they belong in the trash along with flippin' bottles and dabs. In their minds, it was another trend that was a distraction. I think it's important to embrace the times and make a connection regardless of personal preferences. This generation will grow up and have a good laugh over these fads, but while they are obsessed with them, why not take advantage of their interests?
Our district recently hosted Dave Burgess for a PD. He encouraged us to "Teach like a Pirate"! I am always searching for pirates to collaborate with in the library and am happy to say that several teachers have taken on this approach! One teacher in particular, our math/special educator heard about my son's LEGO Spinner and wanted them for her students. It was a perfect collaboration because it was a learning opportunity for all involved and a great way to host a math/maker lesson in the library. It also empowered my son, a fifth grader, to present to a class of eighth graders AND persuade the principal to allow the FS for a teachable moment. Students really love learning from each other and were so kind to their 11 year old instructor.. The lesson was a blast and afterwards the 8th graders taught the 7th graders how to make and complete the math lesson! They are now permitted to use the FS in classroom under the teacher's acceptable use policy. Since the lesson, several students have been inspired to create their own original FS! As the school year comes to a close, students reflect on favorite lessons and this one was the favorite by far. Making and taking a positive spin with students... it's a win-win! Pros-Special thanks to http://www.erintegration.com/ for the FREE probability handouts! The kids loved the lesson and learned about probability and then were given the opportunity to teach their peers. Cons-The only thing that was time consuming was ordering a class set of LEGO parts for the spinners. LEGO PICK A BRICK The shipping was free but we didn't realize the bricks we picked were from Poland.... took over 2 weeks to receive the package. |
AuthorAli Schilpp ArchivesCategories |