A child educated only at school is an uneducated child.
Digital Video Editing
Today I was experimenting with digital video editing, which is a creative process I hope to be able to use with my students. As part of this experiment I created the following video using Sony Vegas. Ideally, when working with primary students I would use less technical software with a more child friendly interface. The aim of this video is to present a portfolio of some of my visual arts creations. The techniques shown here are a great way for students to showcase their work while developing multiliteracy skills.
Literacy
Traditionally literacy has been seen simply as the technical skills needed to read and write (UNESCO, 2004). While these features remain key foundations for literacy, today’s modern world demands far more. Verbal and written communication skills, critical thinking and an ability to interpret a wide range of texts whether they be graphical, written or multimedia are all features of today’s literacy requirements (Winch et al., 2006). Literacy can no longer be seen as a fixed achievement but rather as life long learning.
Teaching PDHPE in Primary School
One of the key reasons for explicit teaching of PDHPE in primary schools is to expose children to important concepts relating to their own personal development. Much time in schools is devoted to developing cognitive skills, and with this specialisation it is easy to neglect other important areas in the development of healthy, well-rounded individuals. This should be seen as including both physical and emotional well-being. Alarmingly, studies show that the number of over weight and obese school children has now reached one in every four (Gill et al, 2009).
Teaching Creative Arts in Primary School
One of the key reasons for explicit teaching of Creative Arts in primary schools is to develop childrens’ concept of personal expression and imagination and to expose them to the social and cultural values of their own and others societies (NSW Boards of Studies, 2006). Much time in schools is devoted to developing numeracy and literacy, and with this specialisation it is easy to forget that Creative Arts can also play a pivotal role in the development of cognitive and critical thinking abilities as well as helping to develop confident, well-rounded individuals.
Final Professional Practice Reflection
The three weeks of professional experience at McCallums Hill Public School has provided me with reassurance and confidence that teaching is the career for me and has begun to build some of the vital tools that I know I will need to develop in order to become a great teacher.
Professional Practice Reflection Two
Reflection Two - Dialogue Reflection Journal
Professional Practice Reflection One
Reflection One - Double Entry Reflection Journal
Creative Arts Lesson
On Monday I taught my second lesson to the year 3/4 gifted and talented class I have for my first prac. Having that first lesson out of the way really made a difference and I was much more relaxed this time around.
Technology and Learning in Mathematics
In this technology focused world every opportunity for students to develop their computer skills is vital. Using a combination of traditional and technology related resources in mathematics will develop these skills while providing a sound grounding in mathematical concepts as well.
Using literature circles to teach children's literature in the primary years
My own involvement in a literature circle, i.e., roles performed, insights gained about this strategy and use of technology.
