They Might Be Giants Friday Night Family Podcast

So yesterday, I posted about the new TMBG CD/DVD Here Comes Science. While reading about it on Wired GeekDad's blog, I saw a mention of a podcast. The They Might Be Giants Friday Night Family Podcast (link opens into iTunes) was started about 2 years ago, and sadly seems to have stopped last year. That being said you can still download all the episodes and listen to them. It is a video podcast and has videos from their CD/DVD's Here come the ABC's and Here Come the 123's.

The podcast is hosted by puppet versions of John & John (the lead singers) and the first episode is about giving High Five. This really seemed like a great song, and a wonderful lesson for kids. It could be used as part of a social story for kids who have trouble with know "when" to high five and such. While I haven't seen all the podcasts yet, there are ones about even & odd numbers, outer space, letters. It looks like a lot of fun and I can't wait to share it with my class!


Patrick

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They Might Be Giants - Science

I was reading about a new CD that will be coming out by They Might Be Giants. I'll admit I haven't listened to them in quite a while, but have always loved their music. So this CD is different and I actually think I'll get it! It's called Here Comes Science. In reading about this I found out that TMBG has started doing kids music (a great genre for them) and have 3 other CD/DVD combos - Here Come the 123's, Here Come the ABC's, and No!. Now they've added Here Comes Science to the mix.

Wired Magazines, GeekDad reviewed the CD/DVD combo here. And even includes a track list for the upcoming release. Danny over at The Whiteboard Blog talks about the CD as well, and give some ideas for songs that teach science concepts and are fun to listen to (think Particle Man!). I think this CD with included DVD will delight and educate many a child. It releases September 1, but you can pre-order on Amazon.com today!

Patrick

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How to download Youtube videos

Many school still block sites like YouTube.   I don't want to get into a debate over why this is, or if it's right, but there are ways around this blocking.  There are several sites that allow you to input the URL and the website will convert the file for download.  Some of the site will email you when it's finished and some you just have to wait for them.  All of these sites allow you to pick multiple movie formats (.wmv, .mov, or iTunes format) or even audio only formats like .mp3.

Media Converter - one of the first that I've use, simple easy to use.

Zamzar - another easy to use site, it will email you with the file to download.

Convert Play Tube - a site I've just found, but very easy, nice big buttons for picking format.

Quietube - not specifically a site download videos, but a way to "declutter" them. What you do is install a bookmark in your toolbar, then navigate to any Youtube video, then click the bookmark, and Quietube removes all the ads and clutter. You are just left with the video. A very cool tool.


Patrick

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52 Teachers, 52 Lessons

I've helped out Mr. D over at I want to Teach Forever today. Please head on over and read my thoughts for new teachers.

52 Teachers, 52 Lessons

Patrick

Photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons: Foundphotoslj

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UDL - Multiple Means of Expression

Principle II. Provide Multiple Means of Action and Expression    

Students differ in the ways that they can navigate a learning environment and express what they know. For example, individuals with significant motor disabilities (e.g. cerebral palsy), those who struggle with strategic and organizational abilities (executive function disorders, ADHD), those who have language barriers, and so forth approach learning tasks very differently. Some may be able to express themselves well in writing text but not oral speech, and vice versa. In reality, there is no one means of expression that will be optimal for all students; providing options for expression is essential.

There are so many tools available to students to use to express themselves.  Some of them are web2.0 tools, and some are available offline.  Some of these tools will overlap with all areas of UDL.  Check them out below:

Web2.0 Tools

• Voicethread - simple slide show creator allows students to share information auditorily as well as visually
• Glogster - online "poster" allows students to include videos, pictures, and text to express themselves
• Prezi - non-linear way to create a slideshow
• eyejot - simple website that allows you to use a webcam to save a video, then send it as an email
• Slideshare - create, upload and share slideshows
• Tarheelreader - Great story building website.  You can upload your own photos, or use their Flickr Searchable tool.  Once written, the book can be listened to by anyone.
• National Library of Manipulatives - virtual manipulatives for math
• Google Docs - free spreadsheet, word processing, and slideshow applications
• Vocaroo - record and share audio messages

Offline Tools

• Photostory 3 - Download and start creating photo slide shows. Windows Only
• Garageband - part of the Mac iLife Suite. Easily create podcasts, audio materials, and movies.

Got any other tools that you like to use? Share them in the comments section.


- Patrick

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20 Tech Tools and Resources for Special Education Students

Guest post from education writer Karen Schweitzer. Karen is the About.com Guide to Business School. She also writes for OnlineCollege.org, an accredited online college resource.

20 Tech Tools and Resources for Special Education Students

Finding tech tools and resources for special education students is a great way to increase student comprehension and classroom productivity. Here is a selection of 20 free tools for special education teachers and students.

Thunder - Thunder is a free downloadable screen reader. The software makes tests, quizzes, and books more accessible and understandable to students with reading difficulties.

LibriVox - LibriVox features a large assortment of free public domain audio books read by volunteers. The site is a great way for students with reading difficulties to explore poems, stories, and other literature.

Bookshare - Bookshare provides free audio books and periodicals to students with qualifying disabilities. The site is backed by the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education Programs.

Do-It - The University of Washington's Do-It program provides many different resources for special education students, including online math lessons, tutoring, explanations, and visual aids.

E-speaking.com - E-speaking.com offers downloadable speak recognition software for your computer. It allows students to use their voice instead of keystrokes to command their computer.

LAT Kids - This educational site for students with disabilities features several tools and resources that make life easier through technology. Resources include an online library, speech augmentative communications, and a smart instant messenger.

Mindomo - Mindomo offers free software for creating mind maps. This visualization method is an excellent way for students to formulate and organize ideas.

Visuwords - Visuwords features an online graphic dictionary for a visual demonstration of words and concepts.

KartOO - KartOO is a visual search engine that provides images of pages as well as text. Search results include news, images, web pages, and online references.

Interactives - This interactive education tool features strategies, content, and activities for teaching concepts that are difficult for some students to understand.

Quizlet - Quizlet is a free flashcard creation site for students who want to find or create flashcards of their own.

Do2Learn - Do2Learn is an activity site created for children with special needs. The site provides games, songs, communication activities, and print resources.

Education World - Education World provides many different resources and tools for teachers, including articles and lesson plans for assisting special education students.

MySchoolog - This free web app provides students with easy-to-use tools for organizing school life. Students can schedule weekly lessons, drag and drop lessons, and establish assignment reminders.

RFB&D - Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic provides several resources for learning through listening. The site also offers audio books for every subject and grade level for a fee.

Ghotit - This site features free assistive writing tools for special education students. Ghotit offers a spell checker, an online dictionary, and text to speech software.

BrainPOP - BrainPOP offers interactive games and learning tools for all subjects. This educational site works especially well for teachers who want to help special education students better understand difficult subjects.

Help Read - Help Read is free Internet and text reading software for students with dyslexia or reading difficulties. Once downloaded, this software reads the material on the screen for you.

Mindplay - This teaching site features resources and tools for students with ADHD/ADD, dyslexia, and other learning disabilities. Resources include reading assessments, games, downloads, and speaking lessons.

EdTechTalk - This education technology podcast discusses the benefits of technology in the classroom. EdTechTalk provides useful information for special education teachers who want to implement technology in the classroom.

Nightlight Stories

It's been a few weeks since I listened to the A.T.Tipscast and just got around to listening to the end of season 2. It shared a great tip for everybody. The tip was for Nightlight Stories. Nightlight Stories are a collaboration between Chris (A.T.Tipscast) and his wife. They are all original stories, and some have a recurring character. Once you listen to the store (by download through iTunes) you can head to the blog. On the blog they have vocabulary and comprehension questions that can be used with each story.

I know I immediately started looking at the ways this could be used in the classroom. As an auditory listening activity with questions to follow. It could even be used as homework for a student. Send home the questions, and tell the parents where to find the audio to do with them. The possibilities are endless.

Make sure you check out the A.T.Tipscast podcast, and also Nightlight Stories. Both are available on iTunes and through their website.

Patrick

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UDL - Representation

Principle I. Provide Multiple Means of Representation   

Students differ in the ways that they perceive and comprehend information that is presented to them. For example, those with sensory disabilities (e.g., blindness or deafness); learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia); language or cultural differences, and so forth may all require different ways of approaching content. Others may simply grasp information better through visual or auditory means rather than printed text. In reality, there is no one means of representation that will be optimal for all students; providing options in representation is essential.

- CAST UDL Guidelines


There are several web2.0 resources that you can use to help provide Multiple Means of Representation. Let's take a look at a few of them:

• Prezi - A Powerpoint alternative, that allows you to embed pictures, videos, and audio files. It's unique interface creates a non-linear type presentation.
• Glogster - Glogster allows you to create a uniqute "poster" that combines text, audio, video, and photos.
• Webspiration - The online, free version of the popular Inspiration & Kidspiration program.
• Youtube or Teachertube - Easy to find videos on multiple topics. Yes I realize that Youtube is blocked in most schools, but it's still a great resource (and there are ways to download videos for offline viewing).
• Navify - Here's a review of this website that combines Wikipedia entries with Youtube videos. Navify review by Paul Hamilton of Free Resources from the Net for (Special) Education.

These are just a few that I've come across that can help with Multiple Means of Representation. Do you have any tools you like to use?


 - Patrick

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Universal Design for Learning

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is quite the topic at many conferences and schools around the country.  While I don't admit to being an expert, I'd like to share some resources that help students be more successful.

CAST (one of the leaders in UDL implementation) defines UDL as:

"...a blueprint for creating flexible goals, methods, materials, and assessments that accommodate learner differences."  

There are 3 areas to consider when looking at UDL - Multiple Means of Representation, Multiple Means of Action and Expression, & Multiple Means of Engagement.  Over the next few posts, I'm going to share some of the web2.0 resources that can help you accomplish these things.


- Patrick

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#Onecomment

What would it take for most people to post one comment on a blog? I know I try and do it. Andy from iTeach has a challenged bloggers and readers to do just that, here's his idea:

Here is the process.


1. Read a blog


2. Post a comment that is insightful and constructive.


3. Tweet a link to the blog and your comment. Use the hash tag #OneComment


EXAMPLE: I just read a great piece on iTeach blog, check it out! #OneComment


4. Bookmark the blog and return to it another time.


It is just that easy! This Project will help create a positive forum for all who blog and comment. There are so many good educational blogs out there and I look forward to hearing your feedback and engaging in your comments!

The second phase of this project will be a featured blog a week project. This forum will review and promote one educational blog per week. It will also try and introduce new edu-blogs into the learning community. I will be setting up a Ning for this venture. The sole purpose of both ventures is to promote learning and create an engaging dialogue between so many great academic minds. The twitter hash tag for this will be #1Newblog

Please send me your thoughts, suggestions and feedback on both new ventures!I would also like to put together a small team to help with this venture due to the time consuming nature of the project. If you would like to help your fellow bloggers and be an integral part of this venture, please contact me at onecommentproject@gmail.com

I have also set up a separate twitter account for this second phase. It will be @1commentproject. Please follow it for blog updates and blog promotions. When we spread the word about great blogs, we all shine!

I would be looking for help with the following:

1. Finding new blogs

2. Posting Reviews of Blogs

3. Archiving a Blog roll on the Ning

4. Monitoring the Ning


I am very passionate about this project and am putting a lot of time and energy behind it. My belief is that we can all learn from each other and have endless technologies to help us collaborate! I really hope to see my PLN jump on board with me and help promote the edu-blogging community!


One Comment Project T-shirts, beach towels and pillow cases to follow!

I've started doing this and I think it's been a great way to read new blogs. Happy Commenting!


- Patrick

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Easy Book Adaptations

I picked up a PDF recently on how to adapt books. It's a simple, low-tech way to create more accessible books for all students. All it requires is a copy of the book, some zip-top bags, a stapler, and some tape. Have fun adapting books!

Adapting Books

Patrick

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SMART Board Resources

I haven't been feeling in the mood to write posts lately, and really haven't had much inspiration. And my gut tells me don't write just to write, so that's that. I've come across quite a few SMART Board resources that I can't wait to try out (I'm getting mine sometime this Fall!!!).

PBS Kids - PBS has recently added an entire section to their website specifically designed for SMARTBoards. It includes stories, games, and videos all broken into categories. There's even an activity where you can sign in individual students and follow their progress.

Fraction Monkey - A simple game where you match fractions using common denominators. Easy to play, great as a whole group or center activity.

Panorama Website - An amazing website with panoramic pictures of sites from around the globe. High quality amazing pictures.

Money Flashcards - A site that allows students to count money from Aplusmath. Uses all coins and bills.

A new blog that I've come across is The Whiteboard Blog. They recently posted 20 Interactive Whiteboard Resources, a great post for all SMARTBoard users.

I also recommend you read Anne Marie's Talking SMARTBoards & More if you are interested in more resources.

Patrick

Photos courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons: Touring_fishman


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Experience...

So I've been lazy lately. I've fallen behind on blog posts, I've not planned for next year, I've done only a little for preparing my presentation for ATIA Chicago, and I have no excuse. But that got me thinking about other summer's I've had.

As I've stated before this will be my 10th year of teaching coming up. I've taught many different students, from Kindergarten all the way up to 8th grade, as well as many different disabilities, and every summer I spent a lot of time preparing for the next year! I've created materials, I've colored folders, I've made tons and tons of pictures on Boardmaker, and I've done it all summer. Every summer, except this one... I remember back to my first classroom, and I think of coming home every night getting materials ready for the next day. Struggling to have lesson plans done each week, and and setting up my classroom. I must have changed the room around about 10 times that year (and I was teaching kids with autism so I'm not sure that was the best idea), and literally spent every spare moment getting ready for the next lesson.

So what's different? I'm not exactly sure, I just feel comfortable and ready for next year without having to spend too much time getting ready. That's not to say I'm not learning a ton this summer and getting ready to try all sorts of new stuff next year, but I'm not stressed and feeling overwhelmed. Maybe it has to do with mastering behavior management skills, or not having to learn a new curriculum, but it's a different feeling this summer. And it took me almost 10 years to get here!

So, that got me thinking, are we doing new teachers a disservice by dropping them into a classroom with such little training? What about students, are we holding them back? What are your thoughts?

Patrick

Photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons: Vikingg



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Happy Birthday

Apparently I missed an important date. July 1 was the 1 year anniversary of Teaching All Students. I started this blog as way to share information that I had learned. I've learned so much from all the discussions on the blog, and thank everyone for their comments. I hope to continue writing, and actually plan on getting back in the groove now that summer school has started. Thank you again to all my readers and please keep reading!

Patrick

Photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons: Robokow

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Blogs Worth Reading

Recently another poster on the QIAT forum asked for ideas of blogs that everyone thought was worth reading. I thought that I'd take that idea a step further. I have created a Google Spreadsheet of blogs I read, and think are helpful to those in education. I would like anyone else who reads or sees this to contribute also. You can submit a blog, podcast, or other resource using this Google Form. I would encourage you to send this out so we can get a really good list. Any topic related to teaching students, parental help, AT, education, etc... is welcome. Please help so we can create a resource to be used by many different people.

Patrick

Photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons: MichelleM_

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