Video Creation by our "3,2,1...Action!" Enrichment Cluster

On Friday, October 18th,  our "3,2,1...Action!" Enrichment Cluster had a special guest.  Roby Brown, Director of Video Services for Round Rock ISD, presented to the 4th and 5th grade students in the enrichment cluster.  The students used objects around the room to create the action in the film.  Then, they recorded the audio.  Below is a link to the finished project.

It was just the second meeting of the 4th and 5th grade enrichment clusters and the students are already movie makers!  Thank you to Mr. Brown for spending part of your Friday morning with us and enriching the lives of our kids.  Once again, another exciting opportunity that sets LME apart.

https://docs.google.com/a/roundrockisd.org/file/d/0B6_bxpaRGdShOXRQR0YwTGFjMkk/edit?usp=sharing

First Meeting of our 4th and 5th Grade Enrichment Clusters

This past Friday, our 4th and 5th grade students were VERY excited.  And not for the typical reasons "It is a Friday" reasons.  This Friday was special because these students had their first meeting with their enrichment clusters.  This year, our 4th and 5th grade students had a nineteen different enrichment cluster to choose from.  The students will meet with their enrichment clusters until Friday, December 6, 2013.  The Enrichment Cluster Showcase will be on Friday, December 13, 2013 (times will be announced later).  As you can read below, there were a variety of hands-on, engaging, fun, exciting activities that took place during these first meetings.  

We were honored to have 4 visitors from Barton Creek Elementary (BCE) in Eanes ISD observe the first meeting of our enrichment clusters.  One of the teachers from BCE contacted me over the summer inquiring about the SEM and enrichment clusters.  Two of the classes at BCE are going to try our enrichment clusters in January and wanted to see the first meeting in action.  They had a great visit and were very impressed by our students and staff.  They could see that enrichment clusters are one of the many things we do that sets LME apart.  

Please take a few minutes and read over the summaries from last Friday's enrichment cluster meetings.

The Clay Creators: The Clay Creators  began with 2 short Reading Rainbow videos that showed how the Naranjo family, in New Mexico, mixed clay and made pots and bowls using the coil technique. The second video showed an artist in Hawaii, inspired by the volcanoes, using the potters wheel and raku firing his pots. Students shared ideas about what they would like to do for service and decided to give some of their products to the Empty Bowl Project in Round Rock to benefit the Round Rock Food Bank. They would like to market it and attend also. Then students used the pinch pot technique to make a bowl, while one student began to experience the potter's wheel.

Scratch the Surface: During the first session of our "Scratch the Surface" enrichment cluster the students explored the program. They viewed games made by other students across the country and around the world. They were even able to play these games and try to remix or edit and change them to their liking. Next week the students will do a step by step online tutorial to teach them how to program with Scratch.

The LME Computer Institute: The LME Computer Institute had a very productive first meeting. We started off with a general discussion of computers, taking a look back at the history of computers as they progressed from room-filling devices to the smart devices we use today. We also witnessed 50 years of computer graphics evolution over a few minutes. Our young information technology specialists looked inside computers and discussed the function of some of the parts inside. Then they sketched their ideas for the next step in computer evolution. Finally, we had a group discussion of what aspects of computers are most interesting to us. These will be the foundation for the remainder of the cluster as we explore your children's interests at the LME Computer Institute.

Awesome Authors Cluster: The Awesome Authors Cluster started out by brainstorming jobs that people with a love for writing might have. Some of our ideas were: journalists,newspaper, publisher, editor, technical writer, teacher, textbook writer, website creator, and music/lyric writer. After that, Mrs. Jackson shared Chris Van Allsburg's books with us. She read one of her favorites, The Widow's Broom. Next, we brainstormed what we wanted the cluster to be and what we wanted to do. Some of our ideas were: read a book and write a sequel, read a book and write a different ending, or make a short story book. We decided that an authentic audience could be Barnes and Noble, the public library, or maybe Starbucks. We then worked on a piece of writing of our own.

To Be or Not to Be: In our enrichment cluster, we looked at the part of the script from Hamlet from which our cluster name came. We discussed the meaning and the teacher demonstrated different ways it could be said. We talked about improvisation and did three different improv activities. We discussed whether we wanted to perform for an audience (we did!) and whether to write our own script(s) or use one already written. (We’re not sure yet.)

PowerPoint Cluster: In the PowerPoint cluster, we looked at a few PowerPoint presentations and decided what was wrong with the slides. From confusing colors, hidden words to crowded slides, we discussed what made presentations more appealing. We talked about possible products and/or services and are going to continue deciding next Friday. 

FORE! As the students came in they all got a chance to meet each other and we discussed a few questions to see what knowledge and exposure they had to the game. We proceeded into a light warm up and stretches then discussed the importance of it and that it's a routine/process amateurs and professionals take to prepare for the game. Then, we moved into the activity where the students practiced and learned the proper grip, stance and swing of the club. Students had a chance to rotate in stations where they practiced their skills in chipping and putting. At the end of class, Mr. Dones briefly  explained what we would cover during the next class and asked to think of a name for the cluster. The students we also asked to think of ideas of what they would like to do with their knowledge of the game that could help other people. 

The Caring Crafters: The Caring Crafters enrichment cluster started off our hour discussing the types of crafts the students enjoy and brainstorming on the crafts we would like to make and who they will benefit. They decided on: felt dog toys for the animal shelter, rubber band loom bracelets for children at Dell's Children's Hospital, water bottle bird feeders for the Preserve and no-sew fleece blankets for the Austin Children's Shelter. After making our plan for the next 8 weeks, the students made their first craft, pumpkins made from dryer venting that be used as decorations at the Fall Carnival. 

 Web...Web..Websites: Students explored the all the behind the scenes of a website; understanding htmls, various browsers and the behind the scenes code work that is put into each website. After looking at the world's worst website students recognized the importance of creating a purposeful website and brainstormed ways to create a website full of purpose! Next, we'll decide on our web host...will it be a google site, wix or a weebly? Stay tuned!

Brown Bag It: We are very excited at Brown Bag It!!! We watched an interview with a chef and discovered it takes a lot of talent to work in the culinary field. We then talked about what we want to do with our cluster and who our authentic audience could be. Everyone took away a dough nut in a brown bag. What will be in the bag next week?

3,2,1...Action! Our enrichment cluster introduced classroom expectations. I also surveyed the class on what they thought might be interesting as well as what they would like to create. I modeled how to take different shot with our flip cameras, and then the students got the chance to try it out. They learned how long to shoot for as well as how to manage pictures. We then started to create our first scene by planning it out on paper before you shoot with our cameras.

Games! Games! Games! The students in the "Games! Games! Games!" enrichment  cluster generated a list of games that are their favorites and games they'd like to learn to play. We also played Mrs. Sorrell's version of tic-tac-toe, learned to play a dice game called Snake Eyes, and then broke into groups of 4 to play some board games. The possibility of teaching younger students to play some games and/or visiting an assisted living facility to play card or board games with some of the residents was also discussed.

Global Cooking: The Global Cooking enrichment cluster explored the country and foods of Argentina with our wonderful parent volunteer Mrs. O'Donnell. We measured, mixed, cracked eggs, and baked to make a delicious appetizer of cheese balls. Students were fully engaged in the culinary arts and excited to learn about more cultures and the recipes they share. 

Health Career Cadets: The Health Career Cadets began our cluster with a brief discussion of the vast nature of the health care field, which is the second fastest growing career field available to new professionals. We created patient charts where we will log our observations and track progress towards our “treatment plans” (goals) for the cluster. We reviewed the agenda of careers we will learn about and skills we could learn from various health professionals coming to speak to us throughout our cluster. Mrs. Justice spoke briefly about mental health and counseling as part of the helping professions in health care, and outlined the education needed for various mental health careers. We then spent the remaining half hour exploring: we had different books about health careers and the human body, as well as a myriad of break apart, realistic models including a model eye, teeth, heart, internal organ set, brain, and skeleton, among others. We left our cluster energized and looking forward to learning more about the world of health careers and skills needed in this valuable and expansive career field. 

LEGO Discovery: The "LEGO Discovery" enrichment cluster investigated a variety of creative uses for Lego bricks. Members explored Lego architecture, sculpture, stop motion films, simple machines, and robotics to help define the direction for our cluster. 

Kids Helping Kids: The "Kids Helping Kids" enrichment cluster discussed different ways of how to help other "kids" in the community. They decided to check in with the Red Cross and the students at Westwood High School that have a group working with the Red Cross to see if a partnership could be formed.

Bonding with Chemistry: In our enrichment cluster we talked about chemical bonding and learned that combining glue, Borax, and cornstarch created a bouncing “polymer” ball. We’re excited about the future hands on experiments we get to explore!

Printing Imagination Station: Today in our first "Printing Imagination Station" enrichment cluster we learned about how to do screen printing. We watched a Bill Nye Video about the history of printing.We also talked about and started to make designs/sketches on what we would like to print. We talk about what we would print on. On the first day we printed "Laurel Mountain Rocks" and " I love Laurel Mountain" book marks. This is going to be a creative and fun E-cluster!

Into the World: Citizen Scientist: This morning students took a short survey/quiz regarding their current knowledge of citizen science, biodiversity and technology/apps available for science, we went over the introductory information, and then went outside to practice using the camera function on the tablets.

Here We Go!

In a couple of weeks, our 4th and 5th grade students will begin their journey in their enrichment cluster. Enrichment clusters provides students the opportunity to pursue an interest area in a small group setting. The enrichment clusters will begin on Friday, October 11 and meet through December 6, 2013. We will have our Enrichment Cluster Showcase on Friday morning, December 13. More details will be coming soon on that. 

Over the weekend, the descriptions for the enrichment clusters went home with our 4th and 5th grade students. This week in class, they will rank their top four choices and they are guaranteed placement in one of those four choices. The students will find out what enrichment cluster they are in when clusters begin on Friday morning, October 11(nothing wrong with a little suspense). 

Until then, you can read the variety of descriptions below. We are excited to offer nineteen different enrichment clusters to our 4th and 5th grade students. Enrichment clusters are another thing that sets LME apart.

Bonding with Chemistry: Do you like to get your hands dirty and explore through a chemist’s eyes? Have you ever wondered how crystals are formed? Are you a curious person? If so, come join us and discover what it’s all about!

Games! Games! Games! Do you have some favorite games that you would like to introduce to friends? Are there some new games you'd like to learn to play? Board games, card games, and much more! Join us for Games! Games! Games!

Clay Creators: What can you make with clay? What is the name for the study of clay? In this cluster you will explore the nature of clay, how it connects, use real artist tools to make pottery and 3-D sculptures.

Cooking Around the World: Do you love watching cooking shows? Have you ever wanted to create those dishes on your own? Are you interested in learning about how foods are prepared in other countries? You can try out new recipes, learn recipes from different parts of the world, and explore ways to teach others about what you have learned. We will also find ways we can share our love of cooking with others by sharing recipes, developing a cooking show, or by preparing food for others. 

Into the Wild: Citizen Scientists! Are you interested in using the latest apps and coolest technology to explore the pulse of life in our preserve that will help researchers throughout the world? If so, grab one of our tablets earmarked for outdoor learning and meet me at the gate to the Preserve -- this cluster is really gonna be WILD! 

LME Computer Institute: Do you love learning about COMPUTERS? Would you like to learn how to do new and amazing things with them? Would you like to open a computer and learn more about what’s inside? Then come explore with us at the LME Computer Institute! Enter the world of information technology!

Web...Web....Websites! Do you enjoy spending time on the web? Are you interested in technology? Then it's time you created your own site. Yes, I'm talking about building and designing your very own website! As of today there are over 252,000,000 websites world wide. 1 in 10 people have a website of their own. In this cluster you will receive creative website design advice, webdo's and don'ts and ultimately create your very own WIX site. 

Awesome Authors Cluster: Do you like to express yourself in writing? Do you love fantasy or fiction books? Do you enjoy making up stories? If you said, “Yes!” to these questions then join the “Awesome Authors Cluster” and put your imagination to work!

Printing Imagination Station: Do you like working with your hands? Does designing and creating your own original art interest you? Then this is the cluster for you. In this enrichment cluster you’ll learn the art of screen and other types of printing. What you create is limited only by your imagination. Come join us and discover your potential in hands art! 

Health Career Cadets: Are you interested in becoming a doctor, nurse, paramedic, or other health professional for your occupation? Do you want to learn more about the world of helping professions in the medical sciences? If so, this cluster is for you! We will explore the variety of health careers, host guest speakers from various occupations and organizations, and even learn some hands-on skills that health professionals need in their daily life ‘on the job’. Our product or service and some of our experiences will be determined by students in the group, so come ready to participate and brainstorm our first week! Let’s make this cluster work for you as you delve into the world of health careers!

“Scratch” the Surface - Making Computer Games You Can Play: Do you like to play computer games? Do you think “I could make that!” when you play your favorite games? Join us to learn a new language called “computational thinking”. You can be a game designer, too!

3, 2, 1, ACTION! Are you interested in making movies? Well my enrichment cluster is for you. We will dive students interests in things such as story telling with flip cameras, types of shots such as close ups, video editing, and how to interview. So put on your creative lenses and shoot some film with us. 

POWERpoint Cluster: You've used PowerPoint before, but have you had an opportunity to explore all its possibilities? What about prezi.com, an on-line presentation resource that allows you to zoom and create an “upgraded” presentation? Come show us your skills and maybe learn from your peers!!! Join the “POWERpoint Cluster” to develop your creative and technological skills! 

Brown Bag It! Are you interested in food? Have you ever wanted to know what it would be like to be a chef? Are you always interested in how a particular dish was made, or what makes it so spicy or sweet? This cluster might be for you! Come join us as we explore where your interests might take you!

To Be or Not to Be: Have you ever wondered if you wanted to be an actor? Do you love performing in front of friends and family? Do you look forward to giving reports in class because you don’t just “give” your reports, you PERFORM them? If this describes you, join the “To Be or Not to Be” cluster and discover acting! Develop your skills! Learn techniques! The cluster will decide whether to perform an already written script or whether we should write our own. Should we perform for an audience? I would think so, but it’s up to us to decide! If you’ve ever wanted to “trod the boards” and develop your acting skills, “To Be or Not to Be” is the cluster for you!

FORE! Golf...a wonderful individual life time sport that can be as frustrating as it is rewarding. Have you ever wanted to learn the basics of golf? Then this is the enrichment cluster for you. This enrichment cluster will be designed to introduce beginning golf to students who have not had any previous experience. We will start with the grip, stance, and 1/4 swing. Come get active and practice your swing. 

LEGO DISCOVERY CLUSTER: Whether you want to create an amazing structure, a simple machine, explore the laws of physics, or build a robot to help you with your homework, LEGOS are the tool for you! Children all over the world are creating amazing inventions with these little bricks. If you can dream it, you can build it with LEGOS. Bring your creativity, inspiration, and dreams to the LEGO Discovery Cluster

Caring Crafters: Do you love making crafts? Do you love helping others? If so, this is the cluster for you! We will explore various craft options and ways in which these crafts can be used to help others. Some ideas include, making friendship bracelets for patients at Dell Children's hospital, coffee filter flower centerpieces for Thanksgiving dinner at a nursing home, or a collaborative mural to decorate the teacher's lounge. 

Kids Helping Kids: Do you want to share your time and talents to help others in our community? Come join us as we explore ways to make a difference in someone's life! You might discover a hidden passion you didn't know you had.

Dot Day and Making Our Mark

Over the weekend, I was enjoying a cup of tea.  I love the brand of tea I drink because there are little inspirational messages on the string of the tea bag.  This is my message from Sunday:  

It was like the tea philosophers knew I was going to update my blog about Dot Day.  Those words are so simple and true!  At Laurel Mountain, we have master teachers in our classrooms. They are teaching our students to be creative, to think outside the box and to be problem solvers. And what a perfect message to receive this weekend because Sunday, September 15 was International Dot Day. You might be asking, "What is Dot Day?" Well, here is a short explanation from the International Dot Day website:  http://www.thedotclub.org/dotday/

"International Dot Day, a global celebration of creativity, courage and collaboration, began when teacher Terry Shay introduced his classroom to Peter H. Reynolds’ book The Dot on September 15, 2009.

The Dot is the story of a caring teacher who dares a doubting student to trust in her own abilities by being brave enough to “make her mark”. What begins with a small dot on a piece of paper becomes a breakthrough in confidence and courage, igniting a journey of self-discovery and sharing, which has gone on to inspire countless children and adults around the globe.

And each year on International Dot Day – with the help of people just like you –the inspiration continues. What started as a story in the pages of a book is transforming teaching and learning around the world as people of all ages re-discover the power and potential of creativity in all they do."

Last Friday and today several classes at Laurel Mountain participated in Dot Day by reading Peter Reynold's book, creating their own dot art and making their mark in this world.  The students at Laurel Mountain are using their talents, gifts and energy to make the world a better place.  And that is what Dot Day is all about.  This is what helps set LME apart.

First E-slot of the Year!

Fridays are a very exciting time at Laurel Mountain. Besides the weekend being so near, we have Enrichment Slot or E-slot EVERY Friday. This is a time for ALL of our students to engage in enrichment activities in areas they are interested in. During our professional development last week, the staff created a list of what E-slot is. According the LME teachers E-slot is: 

• Based on student interests
• Purposeful
• Drawing, if that is what kids like
• Exploring
• Expanding interest
• Exposing
• Finding
• Creativity training
• Problem solving
• Depth
• Being with kids with the same interests
• Explore what you are truly interested in
• Type 1 activities AND time to explore further
• Could be a one time thing or could be semester long
• Community building
• Service learning
• Cross curricular
• Small group
• Flexible grouping

This morning, I walked around the school and looked in on classroom. Below are some pictures from my E-slot walk. As you can see, E-slot is one of the many things that set LME apart. 

Bar graph from survey results...E-slot is the brown bar

 "Will it float?" Experiments

 Seeds planted

 Lions being painted

 Food coloring, milk and detergent experiment

 Shaking for ice cream

 Origami

 Spaghetti, tape, string and marshmallow towers being constructed 

 Another class bar graph...enrichment is the brown bar.

 "How do we like to present?" bar graph. Our kids LOVE technology

 First grade goals

 Lincoln Log construction

 Gears

 Salt dough maps

 Selling goods for jewels

 Our classes fit together

 Marker experiment

 "Me" Museum

 LME Students are "Game Changers"