During our session today, we had the opportunity to explore the LoTi (Levels of Teaching Innovation) Framework, conduct virtual walk-throughs of classrooms using the LoTi Sniff Test, and begin the process of designing an interdisciplinary LoTi 4+ instructional unit for each grade level. These units have tremendous promise to turn up the H.E.A.T. in the classroom and improve student achievement. We also explored a couple of Teaching Innovation Tools (EBAM model and Focus Strategies) as well as Technology Tools (Survey Monkey, Gaggle, and ePals).
The 6th grade interdisciplinary unit focused on a "possible" chasm in the knowledge base of parents relating to the Ancient Egyptians. In this investigation, students will determine the extent of this "gap" and based on their data analysis from an online survey, determine a course of action to address parental ignorance about Ancient Egypt (e.g., Egyptian Night).
The 7th grade interdisciplinary unit addressed the concepts of "conflict" and "point-of-view." It was suggested that students investigate the point-of-view of various regions of the country relating to some aspect of the Civil War. In this scenario, students would be listening to podcasts from selected regions and determining which point-of-view belongs to a specific region of the country (above or below the Mason-Dixon line). The culminating event (i.e., task) would be determining possible gaps in the textbook version of the Civil War compared to provincial accounts and reporting any discrepancies to the publisher for future textbook revisions.
The 8th grade interdisciplinary unit focused on the use of linear equations to analyze data from student proposed evacuation routes at school. The Social Studies connection is citizenship.
It is my hope that you will continue to work on these potential LoTi 4+ units and submit them to us for review. The submission steps include:
1. Registering at the LoTi Lounge (the directions for registering are located at the following URL:
http://www.loticonnection.com/newjerseyStart.html
2. Selecting Access My Projects from the Main Menu.
3. Clicking on My EBAM Units Summary.
4. Clicking on Add New.
5. Completing EBAM Template with your grade level interdisciplinary unit.
6. Clicking on Submit for Review when done.
If you have any questions about this procedure, please email me at chris@learning-quest.com.
