Effective Teaching EveryDay
Bridges of Jasper County
![]() Mrs.
Johnson’s and Mr. Shallenburger’s fifth grade classes at Irving Elementary have
been working on a bridge unit to better understand the effects of force in the
real world. This cross-curricular
unit has taking the student on an in-depth journey in bridge design,
construction and other facets of community improvement. Students have studied the history of
bridge making around the world. Students
have made designs to test the tension and constriction of bridges caused by
live loads.
For the conclusion of the unit, the students have been put into groups to create a bridge building company. Groups were giving a situation for which a bridge was needed. As a team they will decide which type of bridge is best for the site. The groups also encounter a problem with their first type of bridge and need to make appropriate changes. Students chose roles that best suited their interest and skills. Each role is an important part of the company. The architect creates the design of the bridge to scale and the drawings that will be use to create the bridge. Public relations promote the bridge and deals with the environment and political issues that arise. Construction supervisor has the responsibility of ensuring that the construction is properly completed. Lastly, the Project Supervisor oversees to day-to-day operations and keeps the project on time and on budget when possible. The students have enjoyed the hands on learning style when learning about bridges. The bridges their companies are building will be on display in the halls of Irving Elementary. | eMints Classroom
![]() Professional development for educators by educators
The eMINTS National Center offers professional
development programs created by educators for educators. Leading experts
at the University of Missouri, the Missouri Department of Elementary and
Secondary Education and the Missouri Department of Higher Education have
collaborated to produce programs that
Transforming preK-16 education through technology requires changes in the skill levels of both teachers and learners. Today's students demand learning tasks that challenge and stimulate them as they use technology tools to acquire knowledge and skills for the 21st century. eMINTS instructional model eMINTS changes how teachers teach and students learn. Its instructional model provides a research-based approach to organizing instruction and can be implemented in any subject area at any level. The eMINTS instructional model enables educators to
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Student-Led Conferences
Dear
Parents,
This semester the students will be presenting a report on their progress. To help you be more prepared, I am very happy to provide the following information to you regarding the upcoming Parent-Teacher Conferences. I hope you will find it useful. HOW PARENTS CAN SUPPORT THEIR CHILD The three of them sat at the table. As the child spoke, the parents leaned forward and appeared intent on the works spoken. At intervals they encouraged their child with smiles and praise, while clarifying what they heard with question and comments. Active Listening Active listening requires focused attention on your child and what is being said. You need to know what you are listening for and should be able to retell what you’ve heard. Asking questions for clarification is part of active listening. Supporting and Encouraging You can provide your child with support in several ways. By making positive comments and asking pertinent questions at appropriate intervals you will provide your child with the confidence he/she needs to continue. Encouraging smiles, positive body language and ongoing indications of interest all help to create a comfortable atmosphere. |
Sample Questions or Comments for
Parent to Use during the Conference.
Make positive Comments “I’m really proud of the work that you have shown us.” “I can see that you are getting better at …” “I can see that you tried very hard.” “ I am so impressed with the way you conducted your conference.” Ask specific questions about you child’s work/learning. “Why did you choose to share the particular piece of work?” “What learning does this work show?” “What will you learn next?” Express confidence in your child’s ability to lead the conference “I can see that you are really organized ad ready to begin you conference.” “You are doing a great job conducting this conference.” Help your child formulate goals “Now that we have seen your work, what do you think you should work on next?” “How will you know when you have reached your goal?” Remember this is a BIG professional day for your child. You will want to give them the respect of a professional while you give them the support of a parent. I am excited for you to see your child shine. Mr. Shallenburger |