Embedded Files
I am specifically proud of the work my student accomplish in class. Teaching in a turn around school means that my students have to conquer trauma and break down barriers before they even enter my classroom. Compounding this conflict is a community culture of apathy and distrust towards our school fostered by decades of a failing system. When my student turns in work that exceeds expectations I do my utmost to celebrate their accomplishments.
Scholars in my classroom work in small groups for all assignments and at the beginning of the semester are tasked with creating a group portfolio website to showcase their work.
My directions on what exactly should be included on the initial web page are left intentionally vague. Students are only asked to start with a homepage and an about us page.
I find that this leads to the best results as students take the opportunity to customize and personalize their own site. By taking ownership of their portfolio, students tend to put more effort into maintaining it.
For example this screenshot is of a student's homepage. The student was very creative and filled the page with some of his favorite quotes.
Two students admitted they "learn songs from online but never really master them." This led to a discussion between the 3 of us about the expectations of novice musicians and why songs are rarely ever "mastered."
Each portfolio includes an "About Us" page which allows students to share their personal interests. I learn so much about my students this way and also get indirect feedback on their progress in my class.
While grading this assignment I learned that one of my scholars plays guitar! We don't have any guitars at the school so the student never bothered telling me. This student now brings her guitar in once a week and we practice together!
Students are often overwhelmed by the interface of GarageBand. Even though it was developed by Apple to be the most approachable and user friendly Digital Audio Workstation available it can still take a long time to master.
For this assignment I have students take screenshots of specific buttons or completed actions in GarageBand. They add these screenshots to a Google Doc and submit the assignment via Google Classroom. This assignment allows students to prove they understand basic navigation of the software while simultaneously teaching them how to take screenshots, a useful technology skill.
5th Grade freestyle recording
Students are often microphone shy and I find that just getting them used to recording and hearing their own voice is a great way end their fears. In this freestyle recording two 5th grade girls opened up about the losses they have suffered in their families.
Recording incorporates multiple important aspects of education including collaboration, project planning, and presentation.
5 B ten toes Andrea Rashae.m4aOn the Block Merrit 7A.m4a7th Grade Rapper Boast
Rappers are known for having high opinions of themselves and for this project students had to channel their inner star. These students really came out of their shell and had a lot of fun with this project.
Composing involves both writing and math skills. Being able to develop meaningful lyrics and fit them to an established meter and form requires engagement and grit.
7th Grade Collaboration
Collaborating with fellow musicians is a necessity in today's music business. These students not only did an outstanding job sharing the microphone, they formed a bond through the process.
Working on a project with a group requires both social and academic skills that must be practiced and refined. I strive to provide an open and caring climate in my class where my students can feel safe to develop these skills in a low pressure environment.
Shakur Sadiq.mp3Zahmiere Merrit I'm Ready.m4a8th Grade "Ready for the Future"
The transition from middle to high school can be overwhelming. I wanted to encourage my students and convince them that they were ready for anything. This 8th grade scholar took the message to heart.
I think its incredibly important for my students to walk away from my class having created something meaningful. Short recordings like these are saved to their google drives and I hope they will rediscover their old work in the future and reflect on how far they have come.
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