Life's Lessons #1

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And now, I'm wondering what you all think?

Why I'm Using Twitter, and You Should Too!

I am completely against promoting “one more thing” for teachers.  Because there are a billion resources marketed to teachers, all vying for our time, and often, our money.  Twitter is not “one more thing” to keep track of; rather, it becomes your very own Personal Learning Network, which is made up of experts, colleagues, and friends that will give you honest feedback.  I can’t imagine a better way to learn and grow.

I scroll through Twitter for two reasons: to learn and to grow.  What have I learned?  Well, #TCRWP (The Teachers College of Reading and Writing Project)  has taught me how to best use checklists to help our students become better writers. I’ve asked the writers of the books questions about assessment, teaching grammar, as well as “Help!  I’m teaching 4th grade and my students are so confused between Narrative and Realistic Fiction. Ideas?”

I learned that copious numbers of teachers are recommending the book Counting by 7’s, so I picked it up and fell in love with it.  I learned  ----- I learn when new TedEd talks appear.   I’ve learned how Karl Fisch is using the ideas within Mindset with his math students.  And yes, sometimes I learn that or Chris Lehman is going for a run, but I don’t care, because often I hear his own insights and thinking into his own research regarding writing.  Maybe I learn that Stephanie Harvey, Cris Tovani, or Kelly Gallagher is stuck in an airport, and that’s okay, because a few minutes later I learn what they are reading, writing, or pondering.

And that helps ME to read, write, and ponder. I need to do these things to reflect and grow.  I need to think about the questions that are put forth, as well as ask my own questions and offer my own reflections.  You know those little gems, those nuggets of wisdom that you hear at a conference?  I put it on Twitter.  One, to remember it myself, and share that it is something I value.  Two, to share with everyone else.  Because I think all of my Twitter colleagues can benefit from seeing the tweet: “Mistakes are expected.  Mistakes are respected.  Mistakes are inspected.”  I think anyone and everyone can be richer from seeing this post:  Love this short & engaging video about mindset. I'm planning on sharing this with parents, staff, and students vimeo.com/61231697

Are you interested?  Connect and create your personal learning network!

@lauramckone

@dlevesque

@rstall