Students live in a world where content is on demand and communication is in real time. Why shouldn’t the instruction they receive reflect that? In Ms. Little’s 5th grade math class it does. Students use iPod Touches to interact with math content and make choices that fit their learning needs. Ms. Little loads iPods with video content that teaches math concepts and apps that provide them with learning tools. Students can watch the videos, as many as they need for understanding, pause to take notes or rewind to clarify. They may then select from several hands on activities to reinforce concepts. This “student centered” learning model allows students choices and puts them in an active learning roll. While students work independently, Ms. Little  is able to pull small groups to provide enrichment, reinforcement and targeted instruction to meet individual needs. Periodically, students are allowed to text answers to the teacher which not only motivates them to find the solutions to problems but also provides immediate, private 2 way communication. For more information on this learning model, contact Tracy Mulligan, Campus Technologist or Blair Little, 5th Grade Math.

Mr. White's students observe a painting and gather details for a discussion

The BVES 5th grade students had the opportunity to participate in a videoconference about the Lewis & Clark expedition last week as part of their Social Studies instruction. The students connected with Ms. Bradfield, SHES campus technologist,and other 5th grade classes across the district to become familiar with this important topic of American history. Special thanks goes out to Mrs. Giambattista & Mrs. Odom, the 5th grade Social Studies teachers, for registering their classes for this distance learning event.

Mrs. Gries points out the correct answer.

 5^th grade students at Science Hall tested their measurement skills using CPS (Classroom Performance System) Clickers on Friday, February 5^th. Joanne Gries, 5^th grade teacher, and Amy Bradfield, Instructional Technologist, collaborated to create a fun activity to assess the student’s knowledge of measurement. The collaboration didn’t end there! 5^th grade students from Bruce Brouillard’s class partnered up with Mrs. Gries’ students to work together on answering questions and using the Clickers. It was a fun filled Math Friday!

Adam Krueger, a meteorologist with News 8 Austin came and visited our 5th graders Tuesday September 15th. He came and talked to them about the different types of weather that we experience here in Kyle and how we can safely respond when it occurs. He also showed them what it was like to be a weather man and deliver the news reports live in front of the green screen.