The Potential of a New Classroom

Day 1: complete. The kids were so excited to get to use the computers. I couldn't help but to smile as I saw their faces light up when they opened their new laptops.

The first day was a time for the kids to explore. In the afternoon the kids changed their dashboard to set the weather and time for Chicago. As we looked at the 5 day forecast we had a discussion about the weather. This very short discussion gave me a glimpse of at the possibilities in our new 1:1 classroom.

In first grade we talk about the weather every day at calendar. I simply ask one student to tell the class about the weather (how was it during recess, look out the window, ect) and flip over a card on our graph. This usually ends our discussion.

Today, as students were looking at the five day forecast for Chicago, we discussed the weather for the week. I told the children that I want to go for a run outside this week and asked which days would be best for my run. Many eager hands went up in the air as students suggested the "sunny days." One little girl kept her hand raised and eventually told me that the "best day" to go for a run outside was today because it was not only sunny but also had the high temperature for the week.

This short discussion was enough for me to be able to see the potential of my classroom. Teaching children through real-life situations and seeing students apply their knowledge to daily situations and problems.

I know that I have a long way before I am able to become that teacher but the tools are there and I am excited for the journey.