Thing 11

I've cataloged my 5 books on LibraryThing. I had a little trouble getting them to add to my list. I kept clicking on the cover not the text. At this time, I can't see me using this site. However, I have friends who are deep into cataloging their library, and I'll be sending the web address on to them. The groups were interesting, but I prefer getting my information from my book clubs and friends. Guess I'm old school with this activity.

Thing 10

Searching for online generators was fun! I enjoyed making photo word searches at http://next.yahoo.net/photosoup/. There were so many options that I had difficulty choosing one or two to use. I finally did a Google search for “online generators education” and found several that I think will be useful. One of these http://www.shodor.org/interactivate/ has wonderful interactive math and science activities. You can search by grade and concept. Another site I enjoyed was http://www.physlink.com/index.cfm.The cartoons on this site would really enhance a science lesson.

Thing 9

Wow! What a wide world! I found that I used Blogline’s Search Tool and Google Blog Search the most often so they must fit my learning style. I’ve been looking for good information about gardening in Houston and found it using the blog search. I’ve also found myself listening to the pundits on TV about the campaign and then checking out their blogs. The RSS feeders make it very easy to find LOTS of information.

Thing 8

RSS
I subscribed to the Houston Chronicle. I like the way I can get the news without waiting for all the ads. This is really easy to use. I already get email alerts from NASA and other places about current happenings. It's too soon for me to tell which way I like getting the information. I'm anxious to try it for gathering up to the minute information on units I'm teaching.

I added the Google Reader and my blog address to the Links bar. It makes it easier to use.

Thing 7

The Google tools are great. I signed up for an alert on origami. It'll be interesting to see what comes my way.

I like the notebook and think it might be very good for student research. Also, like the calendar and sharing ideas for family and friends. The only problem I see with all of this is time. There is so much available, but sorting out what is really going to be useful eats up the day. I'm glad I'm doing this during the summer!

Thing 6

I've made a great poster with Mosaic Maker! It would be a fun "hook" when beginning a unit/lesson. The pictures are so rich. I think the kids would be spell bound looking at them and wondering what is coming next.

I also like Badge Maker, but wonder how loading photos of students would work with the privacy issue?

Thing 5 Flickr

This is a great site! http://www.flickr.com/people/28481088@N00/
I've found a wonderful photographer in Japan, Tanakawho. She has great directions for taking close up pictures with loops. Here is one of her photos.

Thing 4

Yea! I'm registered!

Thing 3

Critical Reading, Critical Reading, I must try harder with my Critical Reading. Setting up a blog is not for those of us who like to skim through the reading process. However, I did it without too many re-reads. Now, it's off to the fun stuff! Oh yes, I loved the choices for my avatar. I really wanted to use the blue Mohawk hair. Next time, maybe.

Thing 2

Thing 2
My first thought is that life long learning happens to everyone no mater if they want it or not. The key is to manage the quality and quantity of learning. The difficult part of learning for me is goal setting or planning the road map. I like to learn lots of things…. the more random the better. So in the interest of focusing my learning, I turn to book groups, organizations, friends, and self-assigned homework (23 Things) to keep variety from making my life too spicy/dicey. The rest of the 7 ½ things are easy.

The Beginning

It's a Puzzle! Why starting is so hard and doing is so easy!