Latin America

My students are currently studying the Latin American unit.  We have discussed the physical geography of the unit with an emphasis on the deforestation of the rain forests.  Students will write an essay over the cause and effect of rain forest deforestation and why the global community should be concerned.  What is the best alternative for those that feel that their economic survival is dependent upon rain forest destruction?

Fours Week Down!!!

We have almost finished the first six weeks of the new school year.  It has been a whirlwind!  My students are exciting and full of energy.  My biggest challenge right now is getting my students to begin to think critically and face difficult challenges with a determined attitude that "I can do this!"  Plus, I want them to know that I am here to help them.

Survived the First Week!

Today is Friday and I survived the first week of school.  It has been exciting getting to meet all of my new students.  I used a web 2.0 application called Xtranormal to introduce myself to the students on the first day.  Now, they are creating a one minute introduction so that we may all get to know each other.  This application can be used for students to demonstrate their understanding of a topic, tell a story, teach a concept, etc.  I am so excited about the new school year and hope that you will be too.

Check out my intro! Then go and create you an animated movie clip.  Have fun!

http://www.xtranormal.com/watch/6993443/

First Day of In-Service

Our first day of in-service was held at Central Baptist Church.  It was really nice to see some familiar faces and hear about their summer.  The breakfast was especially nice and relaxing to start the year off right, especially since it was pretty difficult to get up so early this morning.  I think that's why schools have in-service - to get us back on schedule so we won't be yawning as much as the students next week.  Just kidding! 

The administration & staff reviewed us over some of the school policies and procedures, as well as expectations for the upcoming year!  We even shared some laughs along the way.  Can't wait until tomorrow!  BHS here we come!

Last Day of Technology Workshop

Where did the week go??? Today, we are posting a few of the new software & Web 2.0 applications on our workshop wiki to review and critique.  The teachers in this workshop with me are truly amazing and has put forth a lot of effort in grasping these new applications.  Although these are just rough drafts, they are still pretty awesome!  Some of them will be used at the beginning of school!  Watch out now!

New Features in iMovie '09

I was familiar with iMovie '08 and the new laptops that my students were working on had the '09 version.  We didn't have time to explore or look for any new features in '09 but I have learned about a couple of neat ones to share with my students this year.  One is called "greenshot" and the other one is "a picture in a picture."  These can be very exciting features for my students to use!  I am ready for school to start so that we can begin; well ALMOST ready! Now I have got to go try these new features out in my own creations.  Off and running!

Glenda's Birthday Jingle!

This original soundtrack was created for my little sister Glenda on her birthday, August 4, 2010!!  I know this is not World Geography but ...... please forgive me.