Getting out of your (curriculum) box

I am a rule follower. I don't like to stir the pot and I am always trying to make sure I am doing the right thing, crossing my t's and dotting my i's. So I try to follow the curriculum to the best of my ability, but sometimes staying in the box... can be a little... *ahem* stifling.

As I am embarking on an overhaul of my technology use within my classroom, I am noticing that I am more willing to peek outside my box a little more. So when I came up on a quiz in my curriculum that I wasn't vibing with, I decided it was time to toss it and rely on my superpower - the power of teaching and the discernment of what is best for my kids. Enter: Stop Motion.

I quickly set up my iPad and showcased how to make a quick step-by-step movie using Stop Motion Studio to show someone how to solve a multi-digit multiplication problem. After all, the objective of the work sample I was due to give that day was asking for the same, but why stay in the lines? (Bonus: I could share an unfamiliar strategy with parents!)


And what happened? Magic. Learning. Collaboration. Smiles. And real conversations about math and strategies in play within our classroom. I could see the students' thought processes and catch errors where present. I was able to connect in the moment and talk about their thinking in a way that I never could in a pen-and-paper test.

As we continue in our year, let us remember that we are teachers given a curriculum as a tool. But where the real magic happens is with us. We are the reasons kids learn, not the script.

#LCR3 #LCR3Vanguard

Attachments

Attachments

All Comments

Posted on November 10, 2023

Yes!! I love that creative projects like this open the door for more conversation and collaboration. The best part is, they don't feel like they are doing work, because it is fun!

Maximum file size: 400MB

Insert a video

Insert an image

Insert an image

125: 125
220: 220

This action can’t be undone.

Error Message

Are you sure you want to continue? Your changes will not be saved.

This post contains content from YouTube.

If you choose to view this content, YouTube may collect and process certain personal data. You can view YouTube’s <a href="https://www.youtube.com/t/privacy" target="_blank">privacy policy here<span class="a11y">(opens in new window)</span>.</a>

This post contains content from YouTube.

You’ve rejected content from YouTube. Tap the button below to change your consent.