One of our new team members at work shared this cute plug in that creates embeddable 'bling' titles for you.  You simply type in your text, select a glitter style and copy the embed code to paste. *Note: It is a flash based plug in, which means if you use Apple products or tablets, the flash may not appear.  It is super easy and fun to use - and if you are into bling...this is definitely for you!

Edmodo has been used for a few years at my campuses, but as a district we are making a big push for middle- junior high levels to utilize Edmodo for a virtual classroom for teachers. It enables you to blog, quiz, share documents, and provides a virtual backpack for all students. They have added Snapshot, which allows teachers select TEKS objectives and generates sample questions so you can get an idea of what students understand. We will be using Edmodo as we participate in the Global Read Aloud and I am excited to get more students and teachers on board! And FYI they have a free EdmodoCon online tomorrow - check it out!

When you are always finding great resources but would like to keep them all in one place, then share them with students, parents, or colleagues, Symbaloo is the answer!  This tool uses tiles within webmixes to keep your websites, videos, rss feeds, etc. in one place.  You can search for topics made by others and 'borrow' them, or make your own. It really has some amazing uses for your classroom and the possibilities are endless - the only catch is that is will only be as good as you make it.  So set aside some time to look around, create an account, then get yourself organized.  It will pay off in the end.  It may be just what you need to get started for the fall!

Flipping the classroom is allowing class time for homework while students view/ prep for class at home. The goal is students come prepared to learn and actively participate - getting more hands on activities in class. Flipping has been popular the last several years, and if you wish to start flipping this fall there are a few things to know.

1. You don't have to be a professional editor of video. Students respond better when it is personal and it's just how you would be in class.

2. Pick a path (at least for the year) an stick to it. There are tons of different tools that will help you flip- just find one you like and use it. Make a change next year or at semester if you want.

3. Start gradual - maybe only flip one lesson or do one once a month and build up more as you get more comfortable.

4. Flipping can be used at any grade level so don't discard it because you teach Kindergarten- yes young children can do it with parental assistance.

Flipped Classroom Resources - Organized in Symbaloo