It is okay to make mistakes!

It is okay to make mistakes! I have to remind myself that this is true and acceptable! Perfection is desired, but not needed.Talking is acceptable!

This week, I stepped out of my comfort zone. I tried new things. I braced myself for the feeling of uneasiness. I started with the program Which One Doesn't Belong (I hear the song from Sesame Street playing when I do this activity). I asked them to choose the shape that doesn't belong and be ready to justify their answer. At first, it was silent! I must admit, I enjoyed the moment of silence. Then I had students pair up, the in a pod (group of 4). There was discussion and disagreements. I loved it. We then discussed as a group. I chose a leader to help with the discussion. I was allowed to observe and facilitate! I was in awe!!!

I also started with an activity from 3 Acts. The activity was about Girl Scout Cookies. I had students in pods. I had the groups choose a spokesperson. The discussions, the estimations, the different thinking that was going on was amazing. My room was not silent, but students were on task.

I must admit that there was still feeling of uneasiness, but a smile did appear after each activity! Guess what, I am okay. I wasn't perfect with demonstrating the programs, but this is okay!

Feeling successful and excited for week 2!

#3 Acts Math and #WODB

NCTM BLOG

This week was a blur. I ask myself what I know, what I learned, and what I want to change....I learned that I am a nerd that loves Diet Coke and chocolate. I am  a Wollowitz in a room full of Sheldons.

I moved to middle school this year. I moved from a school that was closed to only teaching math and science. That change alone is huge! Now add, changing your teaching style. Who has the time? Where do I begin?

I begin thinking about this year.  Do I remember the first day? What did I do. More importantly, how did I feel?  I remember being anxious and nervous. I was not a new teacher, but this was my first year transitioning from Elementary to Middle School. I felt out of my element! I chose to be a middle school teacher. Did I make a mistake? Could I find my way and find my rhythm?

While at the NCTM conference, I attended a Shadow con. This was the meeting with all of the "rock stars" of math. There was a call to action. What am I going to do? After attending this 90 minute meeting. I felt inspired. I knew that I was a toddler  among athletes. Math athletes, yes I said it. I felt small, but not defeated. 

This blog will be about my changes after going to the math conference.

The programs that I want to implement are: 3 Act Math, Which One Doesn't Belong, and "deleting the textbook." I will share my successes and my failures. Let the journey begin...stay tuned!