How do you teach two classes at the same time, in the same period?
A wiki has proven useful for teaching split classes. Each grade can have an individualized assignment. This means that one teacher can provide material for two grade levels, while they are studying two different areas of the same subject. Presently both grades in my class are studying biological science. My grade five students are studying the human body and my grade six students are studying the diversity of life. Through using the class wiki I am able to plan activities that suit their grade level learning outcomes. The grade sixes are working in project groups and the grade fives have individual assignments. For me a wiki has become a solution in how to teach in a split class and fulfill the demands of the curriculum and to "facilitate inquiry".
I am enjoying the professional challenge of delivering curriculum in a new way. Our wiki will develop as we progress through the year. I am hoping it will produce the kind of learning Berger and Trexler (2010) suggest can happen with a wiki:
"1. Supports planning, collaboration, and critical thinking skills
2. Facilitate Inquiry
3. Encourages personal accountability
4. Provides practice in peer editing and reviewing
5. Empowers through shared authorship
6. Encourage responsible writing
7. Deters plagiarism by showing process
8. Engages and motivates students
9. Supports constructivist learning
10. Provides practice in validating information (p. 99)"
Reference:
Berger, P., & Trexler, S. (2010).Choosing Web 2.0 tools for learning and teaching in a digital world. Santa Barbara, CA: Libraries Unlimited.
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