Book Trailers: Redefinition

One of the most challenging and rewarding projects that we did this year was to create Book Trailers using WeVideo. I allowed the students to work in small groups/partners to read a book together. The students then filled out a story map for the plot of the book. Afterwards, we used a storyboard that was shared with me by Tristan Evans, an 8th grade ELA teacher.  It was created by Lorena Swetnam, and its purpose is to get students to think about and discuss the aspects of the novel that they want to feature in the trailer. We then enlisted help from Mr, Abernathy, our Teaching and Learning Coach,  to learn how to use WeVideo and find images that are free to use. Eventually we needed to fill out a sequencing chart before creating the trailer in WeVideo.  I really enjoyed learning this technology with my students. I was very impressed with many of the final products, some of which were featured on our school news show.

I think that this project is a great example of  REDEFINING in the SAM-R Model. It absolutely would be impossible to create this learning experience without the use of technology.  The learning is student centered and collaboration is crucial. The final products are shared beyond the four walls of our classroom.

Hatchet book trailer

The Ghost of Graylock book trailer

Cover-up book trailer

Using Padlet for Responding: Modification

My students and I have enjoyed using Padlet this year as a place to post our thoughts. It gives each student an audience for their thoughts and allows them to feel like their thoughts are valued in our learning community. I have used Padlet for responses such as exit slips, warm-ups, feedback for other students regarding a presentation, and as a way to anticipate the needs of the class regarding a particular assignment or upcoming project.

I think that the use of Padlet qualifies as MODIFICATION in the SAM-R Model. It gives students an audience, which causes them to produce a quality of work that they may not otherwise  Students immediately get feedback from their peers and teachers. Also, this can not be done without technology.
Book Trailer Project Responses

Use of Kahoot for Review: Modification

       My students and I have really enjoyed using Kahoot for reviews of various concepts taught in 6th grade Language Arts. The students literally BEG me to play Kahoot. I most recently used it for checking reading comprehension for our class novel study of A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park. I really like that all students are engaged and must participate. It also creates and absence of threat in that each person gets individual feedback about whether he or she got the answer correct. At the end, the teacher can print out a report that lists each individual child's score. I really like this for reviews, but I would NOT use it for an assessment for the gradebook. Sometimes the students get kicked out.
      I think that this is a great example of MODIFICATION in the SAM-R Model. The learning is personal, it can not be done without the use of technology, and it provides immediate feedback. Who would have ever thought students would BEG to be quizzed?!
A Long Walk to Water Novel Review