[Durant] Some insights into the classroom

[Dave Allen Barker Jr]

I asked Ms. Durant about the morning math worksheets that come home 
completed on Thursday, and if maybe kids could get something a little 
more interesting (challenging).  She explained that those are just a 
baseline that are issued and graded, but that the real math work they do 
we parents wouldn't see because it doesn't come home.  They play 
interactive classroom games and other things.  I thought this was good 
to know, because I like to think our kids can really "be more" if we 
give them the chance, and I wasn't seeing it.

I asked if I could come in and watch, to get a better sense of what 
they're getting in class, and Ms. Durant answered, "Yes". I'll report 
back here like I hope you all would.

Even better, she is taking advantage of my presence in her classroom to 
put me to work!  Here's what I got from her.

    Yes I would love to have you on Monday 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. /and/
    Wednesday 9-10:30 /and/ Friday during our grade level official EGG
    DROP. While you are there we will begin our S.T.E.M. project. As a
    matter of fact, you will be our head Facilitator for our Classroom
    Egg Drop.  During our morning Language Arts you will be a part of
    our Science center. I will rotate 2 to 3 groups your way, one group
    at a time consisting of 4 to 5 students for about 20-25 minutes. You
    will discuss with each group how they think they should design their
    egg drop protector. I will give you chart paper so that you can
    write down their ideas. Next, if time permits each group will begin
    the project using /only/ the materials provided.

     1. 15 plastic straws
     2. 1 piece of 8 1/2x11 construction paper
     3. 1 foot of any type of masking or scotch tape
     4. 10 Popsicle sticks (normal size)
     5. Liquid glue-no limit
     6. Scissors maybe used to cut items but cannot be included in the
        container design

    Before you arrive the students will have already viewed this short
    video on YouTube and have had a brief discussion on materials,
    purpose, and required outcome.
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehVQM0I0PSU

Sounds like fun, eh? :)

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