Thing #2

Thing #2: 7 1/2 Habits Tutorial:

Habit #1: Beginning with the End in Mind, is one that we use daily as teachers from creating lesson plans, road maps, benchmark testing, and analyzing student data and performance. We have to create a series of class goals to make sure our students achieve both academically and personally. We use goal setting to modify and create lessons in order to help students meet the end of the year goals.

Habit #2: Accept Responsibility For Your Own Learning, is a habit that we try to get our students to adopt. This is often difficult for many middle school students as they transition from children into young adults.

Habit #3: View Problems as Challenges, this habit is often difficult for many of us to adopt. We tend to harp on problems and complain about difficulties versus viewing them as a positive experience.

Habit #4: Have Confidence in Yourself.., I can do it!

Habit #5: Create Your Own Learning Toolbox, I am hoping that through 23 Things I will have a technology toolbox that I can take back to the classroom for next year.

Habit #6: Use Technology to Your Advantage, this past year I worked with the librarian to create several class lessons that integrated technology into my class. The students really liked the lessons and they seemed to retain the information taught. Hopefully I'll gain even more ideas of technology to use in the classroom.

Habit #7: Teach/Mentor Others, this is what we do daily.

Habit #7.5: Play, is the habit I think everyone appreciates. Taking time out of your day to participate in activities you like makes life that much more enjoyable. If we don't appreciate or have fun with what we do in the classroom then we will lose our connection with our student. I do think that habit 7.5 is the easiest one to do.