Heather Espeland

Fourth grade educator, Building Technology Coach, Canvas Building Coach, Year 9

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

We had a great first day in fourth grade! I am looking forward to lots of opportunities for learning and growth in so many ways. I was even lucky enough to have a past student visit me after his first day of Freshman year! #loveallmykiddos #year9

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

Tech Tool #2- Jamboard! We tested it out this week as a digital space to analyze and share thoughts about literary essay examples. This activity really generated thinking as they prepare for their own first drafts.

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

Wish you could call on more than one student at a time? Did you know there is a Chrome extension for PollEverywhere for Google Slides? I inserted a discussion question from Poll Everywhere and have it sync with my lesson slides. Students could see answers displayed in real time.

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

What a fantastic field trip to Twin Oaks! The students couldn't believe how fast it went. We were even able to have sap run from the two trees we tapped, despite the weather changes. @abelscience

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

@MrsStortecky Thanks! It worked so well!

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

Red & Blue Writing Party! Students read and gave feedback on informational books from both classes. Food was based on soldiers' rationed foods like salted beef, fish, beans, and even "fire cake." We also had a "tea party."

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

Making Music https://t.co/0t29ungV3K via @FacebookWatch

Check out our fourth grade STEAM unit project!

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

Round 3- Last one for today!
The Loyalist vs. Patriots debate at the 2nd Continental Congress! Students were respectful, took turns, and used factual information in their arguments.

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

Round 2! The students prepared to debate either the Loyalist and Patriot side. The best part was a student suggested that each side prepare together, rather than individually, so they could prepare counterarguments! We even had students being debate coaches! #futureleaders

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

Long time no Tweet, but trust me, amazing things have been happening! These researchers have been taking on new roles as teachers of history. Also, they learned how to plan and delegate tasks to compete a group project via Webex.

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

@WesCucchDCE This fourth grade teacher is looking forward to the word study skills I am seeing here!

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

Today students needed to collaborate on one planning document on WebEx to prepare for their first presentation on a topic within the American Revolution. I moved between the breakout rooms, and was so impressed by the productive conversations groups were having.

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

Each reading and writing unit this year, I have made a themed room based on the content. The kids get excited to see the new release, and I struggled with how I was going to pull this one off. Bitmojis don't come in revolutionary gear, but a little creativity goes a long way.

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

Essay examples! https://t.co/zM5SptAMf7

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

Yesterday's OREO celebration was a success! The students were able to read essays from both classes, and leave positive feedback for their peers digitally. Now, onto the American Revolution where I will try to "revolutionize" their ability to write historical essays.

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

Just a few examples!

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

The students have been feverishly working on getting two essays approved for our OREO Opinion Writing Party that was introduced a week ago. I upped the expectations to have at least two solid essays by the end of this unit, but a number of students did even more!

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

Ever had to create a mini research presentation in under an hour? My kids are really showing that their growing research and note-taking skills are paying off because several finished within 45 min. Their next big project will be a digital one, and I am excited for it!

[Heather Espeland @flourishIN4th]

I was really back and forth about wearing this holiday headwear, but it was too fun not to, so I added some fine print to it! Lots of air fives and air hugs today.