Last One!

Well this wraps up the number of posts that I have to have for this blog...

1.  Will a blog be helpful to continue to use?

I feel like this is a great way to record my feelings and to reflect on my lessons.  I know that I have already pointed out things that I would like to change.  However, with the time restraints that I already have with this job, I feel like it would eventually get neglected.  After talking with the other librarians in my district, I found that some of them have a blog while others just read library blogs to stay up to date on current books and materials.


2.  Would my students benefit from a blog?

I do feel like my junior high bunch would love to create a blog.  They love technology, and it is about the only way that I can get them to engage in learning while they are in the library.  I still hear the complaint, "This is my activity period, why do I have to work?"  This will definitely be a hard mind-set to break since they are already over worked and over tested.  I want them to have fun and learn at the same time.  I think a blog would be a great way for them to express themselves!


3.  How can I improve?

I am a newbie at this whole librarian experience.  I am learning as I go, and with the help of other librarians in my district, I feel like I have already grown.  However, I know I have a long ways to go!  I have really enjoyed my time in the library so far.


I hope I have done all of my requirements thus far!

Observation: Compare and Contrast

Yesterday was my first announced observation!  Overall, I felt that it went well.  I was observed during my morning first grade class.  I started the lesson by reviewing what we talked about last week and focusing in on the element of character.  I then told them that we would be comparing and contrasting two characters in the book Miss Nelson is Missing.  To introduce the skill of compare and contrast, I created a power point.  To illustrate comparing and contrasting, we used oranges and bananas.  After comparing/contrasting the fruit, we watched a short You tube video about the skill.  Then, I read them the book Miss Nelson is Missing.  I questioned them throughout the story and encouraged higher order thinking.  At the end, we completed a Venn diagram together to compare/contrast Miss Nelson and Miss Viola Swamp.  Then, I sent them to their tables to complete an activity as a group.  They compared a football and a basketball using cards that I had previously made with descriptive words for each. I also included blank cards to encourage independent thinking. To close, I reviewed the skill, and each table had to answer an exit question before they could line up to go back to class.


1.  What could I have done differently?
     I would have liked to include an exit ticket for individuals so I know who really got it and who still needs help, but I was really pressed for time.

2.  How do other librarians teach this skill?
    Some of the librarians in my district use an "H" instead of a Venn diagram.  They also made suggestions of comparing books to short you tube videos.

3.  Would I reuse this lesson?
Definitely!  The kids really seemed to get into the activity, and they LOVED the book.  Surprisingly, they had never heard it before!