Tuesday, August 14, 2007

Fall Planning is Upon Us

As a new school year begins, educator brains swarm with new and exciting lessons they want to try or change. Throw a SMARTboard into the mix and planning can become overwhelming. As many new boards make their mark in classrooms this fall, I often find teachers asking the question "where do I begin?" "How do I teach with the technology and not the technology itself?"My response...
Start with the objectives. Know what you want to teach, and what concepts you want to cover, then find ways to infuse the SMARTboard into what you are already doing. For example, if you are teaching map skills using a globe, start with the globe and end with using Google Earth on your SMARTBoard. Students will remain engaged for longer periods when you integrate your SMARTboard mid lesson!
What tips or ideas do you have that can empower lessons and spark some exciting fall integration ideas?