During advisory this morning, all students started to create their PLPs. They individually chose what site to create their PLPs on (options included Google Sites, Wix, Weebly, and Adobe Sparknote). Most of the students were creating their PLPs on the Weebly app.
We ran into a few ipad glitches today. Individual students were unable to connect with certain buttons and do regular tasks like change font color and size and background images. This left them frazzled. Ms. Baldwin and I assisted as much as possible. However, our own skills were limited and we were confused why some students had no problems with their technology, and others did.
Ms. Baldwin kept insisting on a positive attitude from everyone throughout the process. Students would make negative comments out of frustration, and she would try to repeat their feelings in a more positive way.
As is the usual on Fridays, the class went to the library for independent reading. The students love going to the library. They asked about it constantly this morning before we actually left for the library. The students invited me to sit with them in beanbags on the floor and we all silently read for 15-20 minutes today.
It's interesting to hear the students regularly recommending books to each other. It is obviously a big part of their routine, and they really seem to enjoy it. One seventh grader was reading Stephen King's It while another student was reading Alex Ryder books. The reading levels and interest levels range excessively.
Ms. Baldwin's classroom normally features a relaxed style. The students are often comfortable with taking leadership roles and directing themselves and other students. For example, one seventh grader--Ryley-- addressed other students who were talking during the Pledge of Allegiance. She instructed them on correct behavior. The other students acted like it was no big deal that this correction took place.
This sort of thing happens rather frequently. Students are instructing each other in ipad processes, learning techniques, and even behavior. It's just part of the community. From what I can tell, the majority of the students are really comfortable with this direction.
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