Today is the gallery walk for STEP and I am excited. Being a part of this year's STEP team has really opened my eyes when it comes to technology in the classroom. I have always used some form of technology in the classroom. Since I started working in PGCPS, I have been blessed by being able to use an LCD projector and a overhead that is way much better than the standard. Plus I use my laptop for more than just checking email.
I tell my students all the time that they are blessed to be in the height of the technology age. Ill be 30 this year and I still remember when it was a luxury to have a computer in the classroom. Now most modern classrooms have anywhere between 4-8 up-to-date computers plus a school lab. My students found it funny when I showed them the game Oregon Trail, especially when they saw the graphics. To think playing 8-bit games was the highlight of my childhood.
Learning about wikis and voicethread I truly enjoy. Especially since I was taught how to incorporate them into the classroom. To think the programs is out there FREE to use. I enjoyed seeing my students actually light up. using the programs I felt like a teacher but more of a facilitator. I didnt feel like I had to lecture to get the point across.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Thursday, June 4, 2009
All of Rob's Blogs :-)
Here are the blogs that I have been keeping in Word...
12/15-12/29
Since this is my first blog, I want to share what I have done so far this year J. On a regular basis, I use my LCD projector, Elmo and and SMARTboard with my 4th grade students. I usually use my SMARTboard during math class and use the Elmo during reading. I use the SMARTboard to make working problems more interesting and the program allows me to save pages of problems that the kids solved that I can save and go over later. I use the Elmo to display pages from the practice book so explain the seatwork while I pull small groups. I am looking forward to using these technologies in new ways and using new technologies to enhance my educaiton. During the coming week, I am going to think of new ways that I can use the my laptop to enhance my reading lessons.
12/22-12/26
Students are not in school this week but I am planning ways to make lessons more interesting with technology. One idea that I am bouncing around in my head is finding a way to use technology to review for different quizzes and tests. Maybe incorporating our CPS clickers into some review sessions would make reviewing for tests more interesting. Next week, we will still be on spring break but I will be thinking about how to approach my wiki.
12/29-1/2
We are still on Winter Break and I am beginning to plan out my ideas for my classroom wiki. I want to use this wiki as a review tool but I am not sure which class to use it in. I am thinking it would probably work best in Science but I am looking into using a Social Studies video as well since we will beging studying the history of Maryland once school resumes. Next week, I will be working on using technology to prepare my students for their tests and quizzes using technology.
1/5-1/9
At this point in the school year, I need to make sure that all students know their math facts. I will be using www.multiplication.com to help students practice their facts. There is a great game call Math Magician on there that times the students and gives them a chance to print off their scores. There are also several games that ask students to know their math facts. Next week, I will look to continue using these websites and develop a a more efficient computer rotation chart for math.
1/12-1/16
I have worked hard to develop a more efficient math rotation chart. My old chart had students grouped alphabetically, which did not always work well because students that needed extra support from me would miss their turn on the computer. In my new rotation, I have students grouped based on ability now and it helps when I am pulling small groups in math. I can now see all of the students that I need to see at one time and there is a much more efficient rotation beween small groups, computers and seat work. Next week, I am going to shift my focus to reading and focus on my at risk students to help them to develop their very weak reading skills.
1/19-1/23
My 4th grade reading curriculum comes with a cd that reads the leveled readers to my students. I have had a hard time using these because they work best in small groups but my laptop is used for the whole group lesson so it takes time to get that unhooked and hooked up again in the small group section of the classroom. I ave decided to start moving the whole group lesson along a little faster so I can have time to get the laptop to the small group section of the classroom. Right now to assist students who are strugglign with reading fluency, I play the cd for the students to read along with in small groups. Alternating between student reading and the cd reading helps students to focus on comprehension. Next week, I will be looking into ways to improve note taking in class using technology.
1/26-1/30
This week, I worked out a great way to help students take notes during reading class. I now use my laptop to type notes and comments made by the class for tsutdents to put into their notebooks. I have found that students are much more engaged and want to see their ideas shared on the laptop. I have also found that this helps to better organize the notes and is easier to follow than notes written on the chalkboard. It is also nice to be able to save notes to go back to at a later time. During the coming week, I am going to turn my focus to science. We have a science test coming up and I want to use technology to help the students prepare for the test.
2/2-2/6
I have created my first Wiki! We have a test coming up soon on Earth Science so I have created a wiki that has a video about different tpes of sedimentary rocks. After watching the video, the students are to make a post in the discussion area describing a certain type of rock. I am looking forward ot reviewing what they record in the discussion area. Next time, I will share what I have observed about my first wiki experience.
2/9-2/13
The wiki experience was a disaster L. Students watched the video in the computer lab but when it came to making posts, students completely missed the point. I learned quickly that it would have made more sense to maybe have a practice wiki to expose the students to wikis. Most of their posts did not have significant information and some students tried to chat with each other over the discussion board. I am going to create a new wiki in a few weeks to review for our next test. I will that what I leanred from this experience to create a new wiki in generally the same way but with the students being more experienced. Later, I am going to do some invesigation into www.teachertube.com to find videos pertaining to the Early America.
2/16/2/20
This was our first week of implementing www.studyisland.com. Students really bought into the program and enjoyed seeing their percentages. The competitive aspect of study island (comparing student scores to other students and schools) has really motivated students to score better and try harder. I found that students were using the program at home and were imporving their scores by playing the game as often as they could. I will definitely continue to use this program in future weeks.
2/23-2/27
The success of TeacherTube earlier encourages me to find a video pertaining to erosion. I was able to find a cartoon that clearly explained the roll of erosion in nature and it effectively reinforced the information from our curriculum. The fact that it was a lively catroon kept my student’s attention and made the information more fun. I would definitely suggest that any other teacher use TeacherTube to find videos for their students. It eliminates the inapprpraite videos and advertisements that might istract the students and focuses them on more relevent material. Next week, I am going to continue my search to make reviewing for tests more fun.
3/2-3/6
I did not incorporate anything new into my lessons this week regarding technology but I was able to find a cool collection of sound effects. I will be able to play a version of “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?” with my students with the sound effects that I downloaded. I need to figure out a way to make sure that all students are involved in the game since it traditionally uses one person. I am thinking that I might have students answer two questions then call someone else. Next week, I will begin to look into using the CPS Clickers in my lessons to perform a formative assessment at the end of the lesson.
3/9-3/13
This was the first time I have used CPS clickers with this class to conduct a reading comprehension quiz and I think that it could have gone better. The students were definitely motivated but I had difficulty finding a place to put the censor in a place where all students would point at it. I ended up having to hold it up and turn it in different directions to get all of the responses. I think that next time, I will probably use the SMARTboard to help up the censor while the projector projects onto the board. Next week, I am going to try the Clickers again with a Maryland Pop Quiz.
3/16-3/20
The pop quiz went pretty well with the Clickers. The students were still motivated and the technology worked well throughout the activity. One thing that I would change would be to add a few more quesitons and more variety to the questions. I stuck to traditional 4 selection multiple choice problems and I think I would want to mix in more of a variety, maybe some true and false and well. Next time, I am going to try an accomodation strategy that will also improve the trying skills of my students. I am going to have a student take notes on my laptop while the screen projects onto the chalkboard. Hopefully this will go smoothly and I will be able to print off notes for students who have a hard time taking notes and need to focus more on staying focused in the discussion.
3/23-3/27
My attempt to imporve the typing skills of some students completely backfired. They took a long time to type the notes and the idea was not time efficient at all. The notes were not taken very well and I needed to take a lot of time re-explaining different parts of the lesson. This has worked well when I have done it in the past and I will continue to display typed notes for my kids but I will think twice before getting my kids ot take notes for the class. Next time, I will go back to me taking the notes and the students recording. I will keep in mind the idea of printing off notes for students who would benefit more from taking part in the discussion.
3/31-4/3
I found an interesting video on the American Revolution for my students to see that showed some people conducting a reinactment of the war. It was important for students to see this video to get a better idea of how things were back in this time. It was also an easy video to find. I will definitely use this resource more often. I had not used TeacherTube in the past but I found it to be reliable and provide usefull videos. We are getting into heat in Science, so next week I will try to use a video from www.teachertube.com to assist the learning process.
4/6-4/10
This week I am finally getting a chance to use my “Who Wants to be a Millionaire” review game with the students. We will be using it to review for our civil war quiz coming up at the end of the week. I am planning on using the review questions from the end of the chapter to quiz the students. I am going to call on students to answer two questions at a time and see how far they can get in the game. My plans for next week are pending on how this review session goes. If the game works well, I will use it again for next week’s Science test. If things do not go well, I will continue my search for a fun way to incorporate technology into my review sessions.
4/13-4/17
The review session last week was a big success! Students really enjoyed the review game and it went smoothly. I will be using the game again this week to assist students in preparing for their science test. I will be making a slight change to the activity this week. Last week, I read the questions out of the book which worked OK. This week, I am thinking that I will show the question using my ELMO. We lost sometime because I had to spend time repeating questions. If it is shown on the ELMO, students can answer the questions easier. Next week, I am going to look into getting back in the computer lab and using the SMARTboard to create a review sessions for our fractions quiz next Friday.
4/20-4/24
This week in the computer lab, the SMARTboard session went OK. I think the students enjoyed using the SMARTboard but we ran into some technical difficulties. My plan was to have students working on www.multiplicaiton.com and working problems in their notebooks while students worked on the SMARTboard but the computers were really slow. I heard that the county as a whole had a very slow system recently so I had to work with frustrated students and encourage them to be patient. Next time, I will continue to use the SMARTboard in math class but use it as a way to record notes that students can copy into their notebooks.
4/27-5/1
This week we are reviewing probability and are using the SMARTboard to represent the lesson in an interesting way. The pictures were nice but students manipulating the figures really helped them to grasp the information. I was happy to see my below grade level students benefiting from a more hands-on activity. Next week, I am going to complete my Voice Thread with the students.
5/4-5/8
I had difficulty preparing my voice thread this week. I had videos picked out to use but I realized that I did not completely understand how to use the Voice Thread. Instead, I took the students to the comptuer lab to work on www.multiplication.com and work on their multiplication facts. Next week, I will use the Voice Thread to introduce Lattice Multiplication.
5/11-5/15
It is finally time to use my Voice Thread. I still came across some difficulties because not all of the voices recoreded . I tried putting the microphone in different positions but many of the voices still did not go through as well. I hope that I will get another chance to work on this, but I also need to get back into using Study Island. I will look at what my students need and pick the best choice for next week.
5/18-5/22
This week, I am making sure to spend more time in the computer lab. We have not used
5/25-5/29
This week, we are still doing Study Island in the computer lab but we are turning our focus to Reading. The students have performed better on reading tests that math tests in the past so I am not anticipating any problems with these concepts. I know that the material is a little harder than what they are used to but I am confident that there will not be any problems. This has been a rewarding experience and I am looking forward to using more technology throughout the rest of the year and in my future teaching experiences.
Stacey Morrison June 4, 2009
I thought that June 2 was going to be my last blog, but I realized that I forgot to mention my trip to MICCA! Actually, I did mention the the Podcast session. I realized that I forgot to talk about my session called Gadget - A - Go - Go. It was so much fun. The presenter is a school librarian who has this great WIKI where she evaluates all of this cool techie stuff. She was such a fun presenter! Here is a link to her WIKI (which she encourages everyone to visit): mhmsmedia.wikispaces.com/gadget
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Stacey Morrison June 1, 2009
6 – 1 – 09
Finally, my last blog! I still am not a big fan of blogging! However, I am a great big fan of Podcasts! All of the kids loved the Voice threads! They could not wait to do their reviews. I will definitely use Voice thread next year. It will be a year long part of library. The book reviews are really cool and I think that all of the grades will really get a kick out of it! Here is a great site for kids who are interested in book reviews! http://www.spaghettibookclub.org/
Finally, my last blog! I still am not a big fan of blogging! However, I am a great big fan of Podcasts! All of the kids loved the Voice threads! They could not wait to do their reviews. I will definitely use Voice thread next year. It will be a year long part of library. The book reviews are really cool and I think that all of the grades will really get a kick out of it! Here is a great site for kids who are interested in book reviews! http://www.spaghettibookclub.org/
Stacey Morrison May 26, 2009
5 – 26 – 09
The Kindergarten Podcasts are so cute! I will say that next year when I do a podcast with any students, I am going to have to make sure that they speak very loudly. Some of the kids were so quiet that you have to strain your ears to hear them. I could tell that they were nervous to be using the microphones. One of my students was “star struck” when he saw his picture and drawing on the computer. I had to nudge him to get him to start talking! I wish that I would have found this site sooner, but take a look! http://www.123techs4me.com/voicethreads.cfm
The Kindergarten Podcasts are so cute! I will say that next year when I do a podcast with any students, I am going to have to make sure that they speak very loudly. Some of the kids were so quiet that you have to strain your ears to hear them. I could tell that they were nervous to be using the microphones. One of my students was “star struck” when he saw his picture and drawing on the computer. I had to nudge him to get him to start talking! I wish that I would have found this site sooner, but take a look! http://www.123techs4me.com/voicethreads.cfm
Stacey Morrison May 18, 2009
5 – 18 – 09
Right now, I am trying to have the 6th grade finish up the WIKI. This has really been a work in progress. I can see how the kids are still going to want to continue to work on their stuff long after it is turned into the STEP Portfolio. I can honestly say that the kids have really enjoyed working on this. I have even had students who were not part of the class ask if they could join the WIKI.
Right now, I am trying to have the 6th grade finish up the WIKI. This has really been a work in progress. I can see how the kids are still going to want to continue to work on their stuff long after it is turned into the STEP Portfolio. I can honestly say that the kids have really enjoyed working on this. I have even had students who were not part of the class ask if they could join the WIKI.
Stacey Morrison May 11, 2009
5 – 11- 09
Book Fair is gone and it is time to concentrate on the Podcasts. I have decided to do my second Podcast with the kindergarten students. I am going to reread them a book that they all loved called “How to be a Pirate”. After I read the book, I will ask them to draw their favorite part of the book and then they can describe it on the voice thread. Not a bad idea!
Book Fair is gone and it is time to concentrate on the Podcasts. I have decided to do my second Podcast with the kindergarten students. I am going to reread them a book that they all loved called “How to be a Pirate”. After I read the book, I will ask them to draw their favorite part of the book and then they can describe it on the voice thread. Not a bad idea!
Stacey Morrison May 4, 2009
5 – 4 – 09
I still have not done any voice threads with the students. It is hard to find a quiet time in the library. Go figure! It seems that lately, everyone wants to use the library when there are not classes scheduled. After the book fair, I will schedule some quiet library time! I do have to add that while at MICCA, I went to a session on Voicethreads. It was really neat and gave me some great ideas. A super, fantastic site that I got from the session was Bernajean Porter's Digitales Website. Here is the link: http://www.digitales.us/
I still have not done any voice threads with the students. It is hard to find a quiet time in the library. Go figure! It seems that lately, everyone wants to use the library when there are not classes scheduled. After the book fair, I will schedule some quiet library time! I do have to add that while at MICCA, I went to a session on Voicethreads. It was really neat and gave me some great ideas. A super, fantastic site that I got from the session was Bernajean Porter's Digitales Website. Here is the link: http://www.digitales.us/
Stacey Morrison April 27, 2009
4 – 27 – 09
I told my 5th grade students to start thinking about their favorite books that they have read. I want them to write their reviews first for the Podcasts so that we can go over them. They seem to be excited to do this since they could pick a book that they have already read! It doesn’t hurt that I just got I a big order of new fiction books for the library.
I told my 5th grade students to start thinking about their favorite books that they have read. I want them to write their reviews first for the Podcasts so that we can go over them. They seem to be excited to do this since they could pick a book that they have already read! It doesn’t hurt that I just got I a big order of new fiction books for the library.
Stacey Morrison April 13, 2009
4 – 13 – 09
I have been enjoying Spring Break! Tomorrow, I will be back at school and “stepping” with my students. I am going to have to get them motivated to finish their graphic novels and comics so that they can upload them to the WIKI!!
I have been enjoying Spring Break! Tomorrow, I will be back at school and “stepping” with my students. I am going to have to get them motivated to finish their graphic novels and comics so that they can upload them to the WIKI!!
Stacey Morrison April 6, 2009
4 – 6 – 09
We met with Marilyn at Kenmore Middle School on March 31 to go over Podcasts. It was really neat and I am excited about creating a Voice Thread. I am going to do one with book reviews. I think that the students will like to be able to voice their opinions on books that they have read.
We met with Marilyn at Kenmore Middle School on March 31 to go over Podcasts. It was really neat and I am excited about creating a Voice Thread. I am going to do one with book reviews. I think that the students will like to be able to voice their opinions on books that they have read.
Stacey Morrison March 30, 2009
3 – 30 – 09
I figured out what I was missing and it was a whole WIKI! I skipped the entire part on making a Portfolio WIKI. I feel pretty stupid. I am going to begin to set up my portfolio WIKI. I submitted my classroom WIKI but I just did not even start the Portfolio WIKI.
I figured out what I was missing and it was a whole WIKI! I skipped the entire part on making a Portfolio WIKI. I feel pretty stupid. I am going to begin to set up my portfolio WIKI. I submitted my classroom WIKI but I just did not even start the Portfolio WIKI.
Stacey Morrison March 16, 2009
3 – 16 – 09
I think that I have finally become comfortable with the WIKI. It is about time! I have been playing around with it for a long time. I was having an issue with posting a picture but I finally figured out that I was not saving it as a jpeg so it was not coming up on my WIKI. I was extremely proud of myself for solving my problem on my own. Just think – I didn’t have to call for the Calvary!
I think that I have finally become comfortable with the WIKI. It is about time! I have been playing around with it for a long time. I was having an issue with posting a picture but I finally figured out that I was not saving it as a jpeg so it was not coming up on my WIKI. I was extremely proud of myself for solving my problem on my own. Just think – I didn’t have to call for the Calvary!
Stacey Morrison March 9, 2009
3 – 9 – 09
The students are beginning to edit the WIKI and one of the kids posted their entire cartoon on my front page! I am trying to delete it but I am having no luck! I am going to have to have a long talk with much too carried away group of students!
The students are beginning to edit the WIKI and one of the kids posted their entire cartoon on my front page! I am trying to delete it but I am having no luck! I am going to have to have a long talk with much too carried away group of students!
Stacey Morrison March 2, 2009
3 – 2 - 09
I am going to have to explain that my WIKI is a work in progress. It is one that I have made due to the fact that I am participating in STEP, but I am also using it with my students to complete a year long product. The kids are really enjoying it. I have to admit, that the students are just like the adults – there are those who can pick up the technology stuff in an instant and there are those who have techno blues!
I am going to have to explain that my WIKI is a work in progress. It is one that I have made due to the fact that I am participating in STEP, but I am also using it with my students to complete a year long product. The kids are really enjoying it. I have to admit, that the students are just like the adults – there are those who can pick up the technology stuff in an instant and there are those who have techno blues!
Stacey Morrison February 23, 2009
2 – 23 – 09
I have been out of school for the past week and I am not allowed to return for another week. I have come down with a nasty infection – so STEP and the WIKI will have to wait!
I have been out of school for the past week and I am not allowed to return for another week. I have come down with a nasty infection – so STEP and the WIKI will have to wait!
Stacey Morrison February 16, 2009
2 – 16 – 09
Our classroom WIKIS are due in a couple of weeks. I must confess that mine is not looking so hot! The student work part of the WIKI is not complete. They have been working on their graphic novels or comics but we have yet to think about posting any products to my WIKI. Now with MSA’s coming up, it is hard to be able to pull my group. TESTING UGH!!!!
Our classroom WIKIS are due in a couple of weeks. I must confess that mine is not looking so hot! The student work part of the WIKI is not complete. They have been working on their graphic novels or comics but we have yet to think about posting any products to my WIKI. Now with MSA’s coming up, it is hard to be able to pull my group. TESTING UGH!!!!
Stacey Morrison February 9, 2009
2 – 9 – 09
I am a bit nervous about the WIKI. The students LOVE the WIKI. They are having a blast and they want to come to my room at all times. I have to admit the discussion board on the WIKI is pretty cool. I wish that I would have been able to communicate with some of my teachers when I had a big project due!
I am a bit nervous about the WIKI. The students LOVE the WIKI. They are having a blast and they want to come to my room at all times. I have to admit the discussion board on the WIKI is pretty cool. I wish that I would have been able to communicate with some of my teachers when I had a big project due!
Stacey Morrison February 2, 2009
2 – 2 – 09
Well, all of my permission slips came back except for one, so I called the parent and spoke to them. They were just confused about what the project would entail. After our conversation they said that their child could participate and post. I was very happy because I would hate to see the kid miss out on all of the fun. I will introduce the WIKI tomorrow!
Well, all of my permission slips came back except for one, so I called the parent and spoke to them. They were just confused about what the project would entail. After our conversation they said that their child could participate and post. I was very happy because I would hate to see the kid miss out on all of the fun. I will introduce the WIKI tomorrow!
Stacey Morrison January 27, 2009
1 – 27 – 09
I started to tell my students about the upcoming WIKI project and they seemed to be really excited! I sent home the permission slips so that they would have parental permission to post on the WIKI. I know that some parents will be a bit “hinky” about the computer and the Internet. Being a parent myself, I understand their fears. Everyday, I try to talk to any of my parents before and after school while I am on duty. I have been talking up the WIKI project, so hopefully, they will all sign the permission slips ASAP!
I started to tell my students about the upcoming WIKI project and they seemed to be really excited! I sent home the permission slips so that they would have parental permission to post on the WIKI. I know that some parents will be a bit “hinky” about the computer and the Internet. Being a parent myself, I understand their fears. Everyday, I try to talk to any of my parents before and after school while I am on duty. I have been talking up the WIKI project, so hopefully, they will all sign the permission slips ASAP!
Stacey Morrison January 20, 2009
1 – 20 – 09
I am having fun creating my classroom WIKI. Once that I started to play around with it, I became more comfortable. It also helped me to take in the 5th grade class to the computer lab and watch them use their classroom WIKI on the Revolutionary War. Lisa did an outstanding job on her WIKI. Mine is so far pretty basic but I am making progress.
I am having fun creating my classroom WIKI. Once that I started to play around with it, I became more comfortable. It also helped me to take in the 5th grade class to the computer lab and watch them use their classroom WIKI on the Revolutionary War. Lisa did an outstanding job on her WIKI. Mine is so far pretty basic but I am making progress.
Stacey Morrison January 13, 2009
1 – 13 – 09
Thanks to my wonderful colleague, Lisa, I now have a better understanding of the WIKI! I am really jealous of the people who can grasp this technology stuff on the first outing! However, I feel pretty good with my abilities. I have definitely come a long way from 15 years ago. How I remember the issues I had with using a mouse!!
Thanks to my wonderful colleague, Lisa, I now have a better understanding of the WIKI! I am really jealous of the people who can grasp this technology stuff on the first outing! However, I feel pretty good with my abilities. I have definitely come a long way from 15 years ago. How I remember the issues I had with using a mouse!!
Stacey Morrison January 6, 2009
1 – 6 - 09
Finally 2009! Blogging still seems to be an issue. I was glad to find out that the blogging issues were not just me! PHEW! After contemplating what I would do for my WIKI, I decided to tie it in with my 6th grade TAG students who are doing a product on graphic novels. Now that is easier said than done. I really understood the WIKI stuff when Jack and Marilyn were at Magnolia. However, now that I am by myself, it is getting a bit confusing! I found a GREAT video on YouTube. It is called pbwiki - What is a WIKI http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmByB0sIPog You should watch it! It is a bunch of teachers explaining WIKIS and their use!
Finally 2009! Blogging still seems to be an issue. I was glad to find out that the blogging issues were not just me! PHEW! After contemplating what I would do for my WIKI, I decided to tie it in with my 6th grade TAG students who are doing a product on graphic novels. Now that is easier said than done. I really understood the WIKI stuff when Jack and Marilyn were at Magnolia. However, now that I am by myself, it is getting a bit confusing! I found a GREAT video on YouTube. It is called pbwiki - What is a WIKI http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmByB0sIPog You should watch it! It is a bunch of teachers explaining WIKIS and their use!
Stacey Morrison December 15, 2008
12 - 15 – 08
YIKES! Already, I am having big issues with the blogging! I tried to enter and I somehow ended up on the Payroll page. I hope that I do not look like a big dummy! Believe you me, I do not want to be anywhere near that page again. The problem is that I can not delete my name for the page! OOPS! I thought that the blogging part would be a breeze. I am so wrong! I have notified Jack and Marilyn. I did some research on blogging and found this site to be helpful http//codex.wordpress.org/Introduction_to_Blogging
YIKES! Already, I am having big issues with the blogging! I tried to enter and I somehow ended up on the Payroll page. I hope that I do not look like a big dummy! Believe you me, I do not want to be anywhere near that page again. The problem is that I can not delete my name for the page! OOPS! I thought that the blogging part would be a breeze. I am so wrong! I have notified Jack and Marilyn. I did some research on blogging and found this site to be helpful http//codex.wordpress.org/Introduction_to_Blogging
Stacey Morrison December 8, 2008
12 – 8 – 08
Well, I decided to do the STEP thing again this year. After looking back at last year and all of the hard work, I decided that it would be to my benefit to do it another year. It was actually a lot of fun and I learned a whole lot. I will miss Ebony – she was such a great teacher and motivator. I am sure that Jack and Marilyn will be just as nice and I hope just as patient!!
Well, I decided to do the STEP thing again this year. After looking back at last year and all of the hard work, I decided that it would be to my benefit to do it another year. It was actually a lot of fun and I learned a whole lot. I will miss Ebony – she was such a great teacher and motivator. I am sure that Jack and Marilyn will be just as nice and I hope just as patient!!
Monday, June 1, 2009
Clueless
This initiative is real hard. One lesson after another makes me thoughtless. I couldn't think of any sane idea that is helpful to create a master piece that is reflective of my experience in STEP training. On the contrary, I felt excited to try a part of my wiki to my kids. That was just a great consolation that I'm with this important task, getting every student as wired as possible to succeed in their learning process.
Master Clicker
Kept trying all opportunities behind the keyboard and mouse. That's how determined I was to get rid of STEP work. I would have thought of completing the work with pride and fulfillment. But, this surely meant a real hard work. Good luck to me and to the rest of my fellow STEPPERS. Cheeeze!!!
Click, Click, Click
Take a little time after school to click your mouse and keyboard. There is always a chance to learn fresh ideas. Who knows?
Browsing Notes
I did nothing . except read and read our notes in STEP. Hoping to get a little understanding. At the end of the day. I just didn't get what I've read. The longer I spent time reading my notes, the harder it was for me to apply in computer. I discovered that there were ways to create interactive presentations without having to go by the prescribed rules. Short cut with a little eye-hand coordination makes it possible. Piece of advice: Dont give up clicking or playing around with mouse and keyboard.
Lifeline
HELP!!! Somebody please help.!STEP due is coming very close. I'm not dome with my wiki. It's good to have friends who are computer literate. They are indeed, life savers in times like this. I need a little polishing in my wiki presentation. And that friend was serious about sharing her techno wiz.
WWW
In technology, you can never bank on your own. That's why it is known as www (world wide web). We need someone from else where to get the work done. STEP has brought stressful impact to me. But, its pay off is remarkable! I gained a lot of learning that I could ever have imagined; visual, text, graphics and multitude of images. These are what really work for our students.
Last Minute Rush
Slow down on hectic days? Not anymore. Tomorrow is tomorrow. That' for sure! All STEP works are due ! I'd rather stay late at school finish my bloggs over going home early. I'm having belly ache now. I couldn't imagine myself stuck for 2 hours for just one image to be pasted in my wiki.
At last, my self discovery worked! I really need to go home eat my dinner.
At last, my self discovery worked! I really need to go home eat my dinner.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Grateful
Thanks a lot Liza for the help set up my podcast. Tried using it in my class for the first time. It did really work!!! Kids loved it so much. Fantastic!
Review
In my honest intent to finish STEP work, I had to go back review all my notes. Only to find out, a lot of pieces still missing. Gave me headache! I was kind a worried about the due date. But, wait a minute, how can I finish it?
Still confused
Here we go again! Had a real hard time starting to blog. At first, I tried a lot of steps from my notes. It failed. Then, I tried again. Still, could'nt make it. I gave up! Break, break, break!
Lets get Bigger
Let's get bigger! Now we have to make all the availbale technology in my room work simulataneously. Laptop, LCD projector and smarboard. Very well connected. I felt a little bit wired with my first embedded video for my wiki.. Wanted to make it bigger. I had to try other resources from the internet sites. For variety of presentation. I had a lot of work, kids had a lot of work too. Worth it!.
Smartboard
Kids were getting smarter as they utilized the electronic pen on the smart board. It looked like they had a lot of fun writing and drawing on the smart board. We have potential teachers in them someday, don't we? Way to go kids!
Video embedding
Look who's doing? It is the day to try the embedded video from a teachertube.com. Kids liked it as much as I did. Hurray!! My kids getting on task!
New Year
New year, means new STEP work for us. Can't get away with it. Can't screw this up. I hope I can make it right! (with your help)
Show me the way
As a beginner, i had to make a lot of researches, self, discovery and obtain others' help. You have shown me the way, but, it's not enough. Its just goes to show you this can happen with all your relentless help. We are facing a brand new year and all I could look at is the whole episode of STEP job ahead.
Be patient
I just hoped that the rest of Magnolia STEPPERS will never ever be tired of lending a helping hand to me. This is the first ever encounter on a more complex technology. So, i would't stop asking for help. I know eventually, I will be able to handle it and share it to my students. To Mr. C and Ms. G, please don't turn your back on me. Be patient! Thanks!
Desktop vs. laptop
I had a number of lesson materials in my desktop that I needed to try them in my laptop. Got some problem along the way. It never worked at all. How can I connect it to my smart board? I need somebody smarter than a smart board. Would you know one?
Laptop issue
There was no way i could use my laptop at home. Since ever we had STEP work, there was never a time that I benefited from it at home. This has been my longtime problem. That's why i had to stay late at school do my STEP homework. I see a big irony over here with our advance technology. Look forward to fix it, I'm optimistic about it.
Wiki Blues
When done with my wiki, I took time double check it. Asked another STEP member, she, too was confused what to click. Come along a colleague who did click something in my wiki. Unfortunately, all I did was totally gone. Ohhhh! Called Jack and Marlyn to the rescue, yet to no avail. I almost broke down as tomorrow's deadline. Started asking myself, what did I do? I couldn't rely on myself. Later, i recomposed and had to end it.
Tech in my Classroom
December 5, 2008
Yesterday was our first STEP meeting. All expectations and requirements were given to us and we were told that we would have to blog (non-blogger) once a week about using technology in our classroom and STEP. Well, there are five computers in my classroom and only two of them are in working condition. The others are very slow and we have trouble logging onto them. Other than that I create worksheets on my lap top, use my LCD projector and use the internet for worksheets and education video media. I have not make use of our computer lab as yet. I will get there.
Yesterday was our first STEP meeting. All expectations and requirements were given to us and we were told that we would have to blog (non-blogger) once a week about using technology in our classroom and STEP. Well, there are five computers in my classroom and only two of them are in working condition. The others are very slow and we have trouble logging onto them. Other than that I create worksheets on my lap top, use my LCD projector and use the internet for worksheets and education video media. I have not make use of our computer lab as yet. I will get there.
Blogging Trouble
December 12, 2008
I am looking forward to STEP. I hope it does not take away from all the other things I have to accomplish this year. We are having trouble blogging so I don’t know what’s going to happen, let’s see!
I am looking forward to STEP. I hope it does not take away from all the other things I have to accomplish this year. We are having trouble blogging so I don’t know what’s going to happen, let’s see!
LCD User
December 19, 2008
Still having blogging troubles so I guess we will not have to do this part of the program anymore. I’m thinking STEP but I’m not doing STEP. Technology for me still consists of my lap top and the LCD projector. Mr. C (Robert) took time out to teach, everyone in the building that was willing to learn, how to use the LCD and the white board. I’m now an expert with the LCD but I have not touched the white board. That’s my next project.
Still having blogging troubles so I guess we will not have to do this part of the program anymore. I’m thinking STEP but I’m not doing STEP. Technology for me still consists of my lap top and the LCD projector. Mr. C (Robert) took time out to teach, everyone in the building that was willing to learn, how to use the LCD and the white board. I’m now an expert with the LCD but I have not touched the white board. That’s my next project.
Overtime
I had to stay late at school to redo my wiki. Seemed like there was still missing piece in a puzzle that I needed to fill up. But how? I just thought it was such an obligation that I had to fulfill. Thanks again to friend who dropped by help me all the way. Yeheeey!!!
After the Break
January 7, 2009
Well, it’s after the break and I did not think about blogging. I relaxed and enjoyed my family. I would like to get into the lab so that my kids can work their math. I would like to teach them how to search for academic online games. First, I’ll walk them through the process, using my lap top and the LCD projector. This should be fun.
Well, it’s after the break and I did not think about blogging. I relaxed and enjoyed my family. I would like to get into the lab so that my kids can work their math. I would like to teach them how to search for academic online games. First, I’ll walk them through the process, using my lap top and the LCD projector. This should be fun.
Wiki Training
January 16, 2009
Today is Friday and we had our first wiki training on Tuesday. My first idea is to give students a camera so that they can take pictures and write descriptive sentences for them but we do not have cameras for students use. So I guess its back to the drawing board.
Today is Friday and we had our first wiki training on Tuesday. My first idea is to give students a camera so that they can take pictures and write descriptive sentences for them but we do not have cameras for students use. So I guess its back to the drawing board.
Grading vs. Wiki Making
January 27, 2009
I’m taking a break from SchoolMax to search for quiz making sites. After a few tries I found mystudiyo.com which seems like it will work for me. You have to join the site which gives you the ability to choose from many different styles and types layouts. Now it’s back to SchoolMax and my grades. I made a promise to myself that I will publish my grades Friday morning.
I’m taking a break from SchoolMax to search for quiz making sites. After a few tries I found mystudiyo.com which seems like it will work for me. You have to join the site which gives you the ability to choose from many different styles and types layouts. Now it’s back to SchoolMax and my grades. I made a promise to myself that I will publish my grades Friday morning.
Making of a Wiki
February 7, 2009
I spent my Saturday making two wikis. The first one is called “Parts of Speech” and I used mystudiyo.com to create my quiz. The second one is “Comparing Numbers” and for this one I used the survey portion on the wiki page. Teachertube.com had some great videos for me to choose from. Things went well however, after I opening my first wiki, “Parts of Speech”, and doing the quiz something weird happened. A page opened up with links to other sites so, I’m not going to use it but I will keep it. I’m afraid that my kids might be tempted to point and click. I wouldn’t want that to happen.
I spent my Saturday making two wikis. The first one is called “Parts of Speech” and I used mystudiyo.com to create my quiz. The second one is “Comparing Numbers” and for this one I used the survey portion on the wiki page. Teachertube.com had some great videos for me to choose from. Things went well however, after I opening my first wiki, “Parts of Speech”, and doing the quiz something weird happened. A page opened up with links to other sites so, I’m not going to use it but I will keep it. I’m afraid that my kids might be tempted to point and click. I wouldn’t want that to happen.
Wiki in Motion
February 13, 2009
My students had a ball yesterday. We got into the lab and worked on the “Comparing Numbers” wiki. A few of them did not get to complete the activity in the lab so we went back to the classroom and took turns. There were stars in their eyes and they all said they wanted to do another one but, I had no more. Next year, wikis will be a big part of my life.
My students had a ball yesterday. We got into the lab and worked on the “Comparing Numbers” wiki. A few of them did not get to complete the activity in the lab so we went back to the classroom and took turns. There were stars in their eyes and they all said they wanted to do another one but, I had no more. Next year, wikis will be a big part of my life.
Reflection
February 17, 2009
Students had a chance to reflect on last weeks writing activity. Of course my projector was set up. Everyone wrote how they felt about last weeks writing activity and what they learned about writing a story. Their response was then placed on the projector so that they could see and read each others response. Some students realized that they really need to work on their handwriting. This was a good thing!
Students had a chance to reflect on last weeks writing activity. Of course my projector was set up. Everyone wrote how they felt about last weeks writing activity and what they learned about writing a story. Their response was then placed on the projector so that they could see and read each others response. Some students realized that they really need to work on their handwriting. This was a good thing!
Technology! Technology! Technology!
February 27, 2009
This week I used my LCD projector to model writing a story using a story organizer. The topic was pets and we went through writing the title, beginning, middle and ending sentences which included a problem and solution. Students began their story on Wednesday and finished up today. We had a successful week.
This week I used my LCD projector to model writing a story using a story organizer. The topic was pets and we went through writing the title, beginning, middle and ending sentences which included a problem and solution. Students began their story on Wednesday and finished up today. We had a successful week.
Hanging in There!
March 6, 2009
STEP is not on my mind. I have completed my wiki activity and I know there will be another activity coming soon. My plan was to create another wiki for my class but I have not had the chance to do so as yet. I will try to get another one done by the end of April.
STEP is not on my mind. I have completed my wiki activity and I know there will be another activity coming soon. My plan was to create another wiki for my class but I have not had the chance to do so as yet. I will try to get another one done by the end of April.
Problem Solving
March 13, 2009
My two best friends are my lap top and the LCD projector. Yesterday, my kids had to give me directions to play “Add ‘em up” on primarygames.com. They had to work together, take turns, and tell me exactly how to solve various addition facts. Each group had to explain their problem solving strategies, using what they already know or counting on, that helped them find their sum.
My two best friends are my lap top and the LCD projector. Yesterday, my kids had to give me directions to play “Add ‘em up” on primarygames.com. They had to work together, take turns, and tell me exactly how to solve various addition facts. Each group had to explain their problem solving strategies, using what they already know or counting on, that helped them find their sum.
Let's Get Going
March 20, 2007
I would like to take my kids into the computer lab but it is being used by 3rd through 6th grade for MSA preparation. Yes, technology is being used. Everyone is logged onto Study Island and they seem to be enjoying learning. Technology is being used for reinforcement of skills.
I would like to take my kids into the computer lab but it is being used by 3rd through 6th grade for MSA preparation. Yes, technology is being used. Everyone is logged onto Study Island and they seem to be enjoying learning. Technology is being used for reinforcement of skills.
Some Success
March 27, 2009
This week I navigated through mdk12 to locate my technology standards for my wiki. That’s over, now I need to think about my portfolio. I think I can now teach someone how to create a wiki and embed various types of media onto the page. I’m getting better but the best part is that I’ll be able to use this technology in my classroom from now on, YES!
This week I navigated through mdk12 to locate my technology standards for my wiki. That’s over, now I need to think about my portfolio. I think I can now teach someone how to create a wiki and embed various types of media onto the page. I’m getting better but the best part is that I’ll be able to use this technology in my classroom from now on, YES!
Podcasting via Voicethread
April 3, 2009
Two days ago we were trained on Podcasting via Voicethread. It was so cool I think I was giggling like a child when I heard my own voice. My kids will have a ball with this activity. Now I need to research some wikis with voicethreads embeded in them. I'll try to make time for that during the break.
Two days ago we were trained on Podcasting via Voicethread. It was so cool I think I was giggling like a child when I heard my own voice. My kids will have a ball with this activity. Now I need to research some wikis with voicethreads embeded in them. I'll try to make time for that during the break.
MICCA experience
I had such a unique experience to personally observe how this cutting edge technology could be helpful to teachers incorporate in their classroom activities. With countless technologies like wggleworks, bookflix, Qwizdom, inspiration 8 to name a few, It surely is gonna make the lessons more interesting and attractive to students. Thanks to Ms Guillens and Mr C for making me part of the school STEP team. It's getting me more literate.
Navigating
Figured it out where to go. (sites- youtube, teachertube, etc.) It's EXPLORATION time! But, it was a very challenging experience. Hope I'm not alone! way to go folks! This is a belated blog.
Harder work
Took us whole training period setting up the banner. Internet was getting slower, made my head spin. But, it was a fulfilling task awaiting for viewers to find out how we actually went through the process.
grateful
Thanks a lot Lisa for the help set up my podcast. Tried using it in my class for the first time. It did really work.!!! Kids loved it so much. Fantastic !
Saturday, May 30, 2009
After the Break
April 17, 2009
Well, it's the week after Spring Break and this is a three day week. I am in a good mood because I've published my grades without any problems.
Well, it's the week after Spring Break and this is a three day week. I am in a good mood because I've published my grades without any problems.
Where am I?
April 30, 2009
I am still trying to get into the computer Lab so we had to make do with the two working computers in our classroom. Students took turns responding to my Comparing Numbers wiki. Their eyes were all a glow when it was their turn. We are having fun.
I am still trying to get into the computer Lab so we had to make do with the two working computers in our classroom. Students took turns responding to my Comparing Numbers wiki. Their eyes were all a glow when it was their turn. We are having fun.
Time's of the Essence
May 6, 2009
I have decided to look for educational podcast online in order to see how others have used this technology. It seems that every time I sign up to use the computer lab there is some sort of staff training or sixth grade completing a project. My idea of having students use the Paint program to draw a picture and tell a story about it, by highlighting the adjectives they have used, seems like it will not happen because of time.
I have decided to look for educational podcast online in order to see how others have used this technology. It seems that every time I sign up to use the computer lab there is some sort of staff training or sixth grade completing a project. My idea of having students use the Paint program to draw a picture and tell a story about it, by highlighting the adjectives they have used, seems like it will not happen because of time.
Work Session
May 12, 2009
This evening, at our project work session, I logged into my wiki page and to my surprise the media part of my wiki disappeared. I was told that they sometimes expired. I was very upset because of the work I had put into it and on a Saturday. Anyway, I searched and found another video. I did have a chance to finish up my profile page.
This evening, at our project work session, I logged into my wiki page and to my surprise the media part of my wiki disappeared. I was told that they sometimes expired. I was very upset because of the work I had put into it and on a Saturday. Anyway, I searched and found another video. I did have a chance to finish up my profile page.
Lost
May 22, 2009
HEEELLLPPP! I feel so lost and overwhelmed. My dreams consist of unfinished wikis and podcast. My wiki is complete but I'm having trouble with my podcast. All the ideas I came up with at the beginning of the program involved my students using a camera. Do I have to involve all 28 of my students or just a few? What will I do? What will the end result be? What ever it is I know my teammates will be there as my guide.
HEEELLLPPP! I feel so lost and overwhelmed. My dreams consist of unfinished wikis and podcast. My wiki is complete but I'm having trouble with my podcast. All the ideas I came up with at the beginning of the program involved my students using a camera. Do I have to involve all 28 of my students or just a few? What will I do? What will the end result be? What ever it is I know my teammates will be there as my guide.
The Finale
May 31, 2009
It's down to the wire. My Podcast is now complete and my wiki needs a little sprucing up. I'll do that on Monday. What can I say? This was a project that made me feel overwhelmed. In the end I learned how to create workable wikis and podcast. My students enjoyed both activities, especially adding their reflections/discussions to our wiki and listening to their classmates voices that were added to the podcast via voicethread. I will definitely use these activities in my classroom next year.
Thanks to Lisa for her help in completing my podcast.
It's down to the wire. My Podcast is now complete and my wiki needs a little sprucing up. I'll do that on Monday. What can I say? This was a project that made me feel overwhelmed. In the end I learned how to create workable wikis and podcast. My students enjoyed both activities, especially adding their reflections/discussions to our wiki and listening to their classmates voices that were added to the podcast via voicethread. I will definitely use these activities in my classroom next year.
Thanks to Lisa for her help in completing my podcast.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Voicethread
Today my students took an active part in their education. I uploaded photos from their camping trip onto my voicethread account. Their warmup for the day was to write 2-3 sentences about their experience at camp. They could write about what they liked, did not like. They could write about what they will forever remember, or what scared them the most. At first they were reluctant for that they thought that it was just another usual written assignment. But once I explained to them the complete assignment, showed them the website ALL EYES lit up. Especially when it came to the fact that they could either write their experiences or say them. Most were excited that their voice was recorded and they could hear the playback.
Once we where done, I played for the class their finished product. The class enjoyed seeing and hearing their classmates experiences. I enjoyed how the voicethread allowed my class to share their thoughts in an unconventional way.
Once we where done, I played for the class their finished product. The class enjoyed seeing and hearing their classmates experiences. I enjoyed how the voicethread allowed my class to share their thoughts in an unconventional way.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Podcasting
Before Spring Break, the STEP team recieved training on Podcasting. After doing more research, joining a few podcasting wikis. I think that Im ready to try it in the classroom. Cant wait to see how things turn out.
For podcasting, we were trained to use Voicethread. Again another FREE website. I noticed that the websites that were chosen for the Year 2 schools had easy access. Which I find to be a plus. I did like the fact the websites can be accessed both in school at home. A gold star for whoever did their research and found out that we can use both websites on the county server.
From the training, I can see myself using Voicethread as a reflection tool in the classroom. From the examples that were shown, many teachers were using Voicethread to have their students evaluate a lesson.
So now it comes to....what am I going to have the students talk about.
For podcasting, we were trained to use Voicethread. Again another FREE website. I noticed that the websites that were chosen for the Year 2 schools had easy access. Which I find to be a plus. I did like the fact the websites can be accessed both in school at home. A gold star for whoever did their research and found out that we can use both websites on the county server.
From the training, I can see myself using Voicethread as a reflection tool in the classroom. From the examples that were shown, many teachers were using Voicethread to have their students evaluate a lesson.
So now it comes to....what am I going to have the students talk about.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Podcasting with Gillens
Podcasting seems as though it is going to be extremely interesting and fun! I'm excited about working with the Dynamic STEP team of Magnolia to create VoiceThreads. The STEP team always keep me focused and on task. Since my team has been with me for so many years, they already know that working with me on VT will be a headache (oops!!!). I mean a REWARDING experience. LET'S GO TEAM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
WIKI
Wiki is very good !It is very interesting and my kids loved it.They appreciated Wiki a lot and looking forward to have another one.
Making a wiki is very confusing especially fo beginners like me.It takes a lot of patience and perseverance.But the effort I made to create one it is worth it because my kids enjoyed every bit of it.
Making a wiki is very confusing especially fo beginners like me.It takes a lot of patience and perseverance.But the effort I made to create one it is worth it because my kids enjoyed every bit of it.
March 31, 2009
This is the third STEP training and my first official blog. I feel like I am learning a lot. The students are really enjoying the WIKI. Sometimes, I feel like they understand the whole process better than me! I need to fix up the WIKI. I really need to get with my STEP teammates who understand how to do this (hint: Lisa)!!
Step and Me
So far I enjoy the fact that I can now create my own wikii with out help. I am more willing to try new things and I also find myself looking at other peoples wikiis when searching the web. I do wish we had digital and video cameras so my students can have more experience with everyday technology.
Wikii Feedback- My students were very excited when I introduced them to the wikii. They all went on, completed the activity and now they are ready to do another.
Wikii Feedback- My students were very excited when I introduced them to the wikii. They all went on, completed the activity and now they are ready to do another.
Ms. M- 3/31/09
Today is the third day for training for STEP. So far I have enjoyed the program. Let me take you back a minute.
When I selected to be a member of the STEP team I was elated. Last year I saw how my coworkers where trained how to incorporate technology into the classroom. Most of which we already use and was at our fingertips. I feel that most people need to realize that education is getting away from being "traditional". Teachers are now taking more of a facilitating role. We use technology almost everyday, so why not use it in the classroom.
Me and along with my students like the fact that more technology is included in their education program. When I created the wiki - I got positive feedback from them. Have the students learn via wiki taught me as well. I did learn to have RULES and EXPLAIN what you want your students to do. I did realize that some of my students missed the point to the discussion part of the wiki. Some thought that they could post whatever they wanted while others thought that is was a "chat"area. So I did have to delete some of the students' responses.
To be honest, I dont think that they realized that they were learning at the same time. - With this generation, anything done on the computer is "fun".
So today, we will be receive training about podcasting !!!
Technology blog - 3/23 through 2/27
I was not able to use technology in my classroom as much as I usually do this week due to MSA :-(. I was very happy to see the extra instruction from Studyisland.com help my students on MSA. I was also very happy to see how the Math Magician game on multiplicaiton.com helped students to learn their math facts. Circulating during the test, I saw many students applying what they practiced in both of these games and getting many aswers correct on the Math MSA.
With MSA being over, we have more time to experiement with a variety of technologies. I am looking forward to getting my students onto a larger variety of eduational websites and using Clickers for more assessments. I am also looking forward to incorporating more medai from teachertube.com as we start our next Science unit on Natural Resources. I was able to use teachertube.com when we were studing the Revolutionary War and found a slideshow of pictures from a mock Revolutionary War held in Yorktown, Va.
Until next time!
Rob
With MSA being over, we have more time to experiement with a variety of technologies. I am looking forward to getting my students onto a larger variety of eduational websites and using Clickers for more assessments. I am also looking forward to incorporating more medai from teachertube.com as we start our next Science unit on Natural Resources. I was able to use teachertube.com when we were studing the Revolutionary War and found a slideshow of pictures from a mock Revolutionary War held in Yorktown, Va.
Until next time!
Rob
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