LoTi Onsite Training Support

MassCUE & METAA Technology Leadership Symposium 2011

2011-03-16T13:38:00.000-07:00

SESSION: Engaging the Unengaged—Using Digital Age Best Practices to Elevate Achievement in the Core Content Areas

Support Links:
- Monster Exchange
- Make A Police Sketch
- Thumb War
- H.E.A.T. Framework
- LoTi Lounge
- LoTi Classroom
- LoTi Connection
- Digital Age Best Practices Flyer
- Digital Age Best Practices White Paper
- LoTi Implementation Model
- Stage 1: Building Capacity Checklist
- Stage 2: Implementing Change Checklist
- Stage 3: Sustaining Independence Checklist
- Sample LoTi Digital Age School Report
- Sample Custom Online Course Project Report

- Engaging the Unengaged: Using 21st Century Skills/Themes to Elevate Student Academic Achievement PowerPoint PDF

SESSION: 21st Century Walkthroughs: Using iPad Technology to Improve Student Achievement and Digital Age Learning

Support Links:
- LoTi Lounge
- LoTi Classroom
- LoTi Connection
- Sample Monthly Walkthrough Report
- H.E.A.T. Walkthrough Form (Regular PDF)
- H.E.A.T. Walkthrough Form (Editable PDF)
- Custom Walkthrough Form Sample - H.E.A.R.T. ACBOE
- Custom Walkthrough Form Sample - H.E.A.R.T. Salina

- 21st Century Walkthroughs: Using iPad Technology to Improve Student Achievement and Digital Age Learning PowerPoint PDF

To view posts previously at this site as well as other LoTi Connection, LoTi Training and other LoTi Resources please visit http://loticonnection.blogspot.com/

Also consider visiting Dr. Chris Moersch’s blog—the LoTi Guy Speaks—at http://lotiguyspeaks.blogspot.com

Thank you for visiting!

Teach 2.0 Resource Blog

2009-08-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

Agenda

• Teach 2.0 Quiz
• Big Ideas
• Today's Interactive Generation
• Teach 1.0 vs Teach 2.0
• H.E.A.T.
• H.E.A.T. Analyses
• Research-based Best Practices
• H.E.A.T. Strategies
• Teach 2.0 In-Action: EBAM

General Resources:
• 21st Century Learning Revisited
• HEAT Observation Form
• LoTi Sniff Test
• LoTi Framework

Web 2.0 Resources
• GoToWeb20

H.E.A.T. Strategies:
• LoTi Digital-Age Survey
• Lesson Makeover
• Lesson Plan Reviews
• Graphic Organizers
• Questioning Toolkit
• Bloom's Taxonomy
• Sample Classroom Walkthrough
• Rubrics
• Peer Observations
• Differentiated Instruction
• Differentiated Instruction for Advanced Learner
• Focus Strategies
• 21st Century Performance Assessments
• online Learning

Creating Websites
Wikispaces for Teachers
Blogger
SchoolNotes
Scholastic Home Page Builder

Interactive Maps
Intute World Guide
National Geographic Map Machine
Google Earth

Video Editing
Movie Maker (Windows)
iMovie (Mac)

Google Docs
Take a Tour
Google Docs Help
Google Docs in Plain English

Publishing Student Work
Publishing Students Resources

Family and Consumer Science
Online Resources
Family and Consumer Science Website
Thinkfinity -Search by Content for Resources, Lessons

Math Resources
Get Real: Math in Everyday Life
Math Projects
Applying Math Skills to a Real World Problem
Funny Math Videos on Teacher Tube

Virtual Field Trips
Take or Create One
Internet 4 Classrooms Trips
Tramline

Photo Sharing
Photobucket
Flickr
Shutterfly

Screen Capture Recording
Cam Studio
i Show U (Mac)

Extreme Lesson Makeovers

2009-08-20T05:33:00.000-07:00

Agenda

• H.E.A.T.

• H.E.A.T. Analyses
• LoTi Levels & Sniff Test

• Lesson Makeovers

LoTi Orientation

2009-08-14T10:35:00.000-07:00

Provided below is the LoTi Refresher Agenda for today which includes the objectives, agenda items, and resource links.

Objectives:
• Identify LoTi Levels using the LoTi Sniff Test
• Apply H.E.A.T. strategies to classroom lessons
• Approximate the amount of H.E.A.T. from any learning experience

Agenda
• Welcome and Overview: LoTi Digital-Age Survey

• Digital-age Learning

LoTi Leadership Symposium - HISD

2009-02-24T09:17:00.000-08:00

• Next Steps Action Plan Template

• Next Steps Action Plan Sample

Research:
As requested, I have included the citations from "Current Research" from last week's program.

A. Technology use coupled with effective instructional strategies can improve student achievement.

Center for Applied Research in Educational Technology (CARET)
LoTi Connection
The George Lucas Educational Foundation
eMints National Center

B. Technology increases the complexity of the tasks that students can perform successfully, raises student motivation, and leads to changes in classroom roles and organization.

Baker, E. L., Gearhart, M., & Herman, J. L. (1994). Evaluating the Apple classrooms of tomorrow. In E. L. Baker H. F. O'Neil, Jr. (Eds.), Technology assessment in education and training (pp. 173-197). Hillsdale, NJ: Erlbaum.

Dwyer, D. C., Ringstaff, C., & Sandholtz, J. (1990). The evolution of teachers' instructional beliefs and practices in high-access-to-technology classrooms. Paper presented at the annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association, Boston.

Means, B., Blando, J., Olson, K., Middleton, T., Morocco, C.C., Remz, A.R., & Zorfass, J. (1993, September). Using technology to support education reform. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Education.

C. Technology can enhance both what and how children learn when used in conjunction with: (1) active engagement, (2) participation in groups, (3) frequent interaction and feedback, and (4) connections to real-world contexts.

Roschelle, J.M. Pea, R.D., Hoadley, C.M., Gordin, D.N. and Means, B.M. (2000). Changing how and what children learn in school with computer-based technologies. The Future of Children, 10:2, 76-101

Papanastasiou, E., Zemblyas, M., & Vrasidas, C. (2003). Can computer use hurt science achievement? Journal of Science Education and Technology, 12 (3), 325-332.

LoTi Refresher - Irving ISD: February 20th, 2009

2009-02-17T08:43:00.000-08:00

21st Century Professional Development = Empowered Teachers

2009-02-03T04:44:00.001-08:00

Good Afternoon! Provided below are links to H.E.A.T. Strategies mentioned in the TCEA Break-out Session, "21st Century Professional Development = Empowered Teachers."

H.E.A.T. Strategies:
• LoTi Digital-Age Survey
• Collaborative Learning Environments
• Questioning Strategies
• Peer Observations
• Peer Observations
• Differentiated Instruction
• Differentiated Instruction for Advanced Learner
• Focus Strategies
• 21st Century Performance Assessments
• online Learning
1. Go to: www.loticlassroom.com

2. Click on the "Login" link in the upper right corner of the screen. Login with the demonstration user account:
Username: lotiguest
Password: lotiguest

3. Click on the LoTi Classroom Demo Course link to browse the course.

21st Century Professional Development = Empowered Teachers

2009-02-03T04:44:00.000-08:00

Differentiating the H.E.A.T. - Day 2

2009-02-02T06:04:00.001-08:00

Good Morning and welcome to Day 2 of Differentiating the H.E.A.T. at DMJHS. Provided below is today's agenda:

• January 7th Review
• Tiered Lesson Reviews
• Creating Learning Center/Station Cards
• DMJHS DI Online Course
• Differentiated Workshop: Afternoon Session
• Next Steps

Differentiating the H.E.A.T. - Day 2

2009-02-02T06:04:00.000-08:00

Classroom Walkthroughs with H.E.A.T.

2009-02-01T09:42:00.002-08:00

LoTi Leadership Symposium

2009-02-01T09:32:00.003-08:00

Provided below is the agenda for the LoTi Leadership Symposium.

• LoTi Research

• H.E.A.T.

• LoTi

• LoTi/H.E.A.T. Input/Output Model

• LoTi Continuous Improvement Cycle

Assess

- LoTi Digital-Age Survey

- LoTi Profiler

Plan

- Next Steps Action Plans

- Individualized Professional Development Plans

Implement (H.E.A.T. Strategies)

- The LoTi Classroom (Online Learning)

User Name: lotiguest

Password: lotiguest

Sustain

- Classroom Walkthroughs with H.E.A.T.

- LoTi Observer

• LoTi Digital-Age Schools

• 5C's of Instructional Leadership

• Summary and Reflection

Important Links:

Please leave a comment about any questions from today's program.

Chris Moersch
LoTi Executive Director

Classroom Walkthroughs with H.E.A.T.

2009-01-14T09:58:00.002-08:00

Classroom Walkthroughs with H.E.A.T.

Provided below is the Classroom Walkthrough with H.E.A.T agenda which includes the goals, agenda items, and resource links.

Goals:
• Learn about each step of the H.E.A.T Walkthrough Process
• Using the LoTi Observer, practice gathering data in classrooms
• Acquire a systems approach for continuous improvement
• Develop a plan for conducting regular H.E.A.T.

Agenda
• Welcome and Overview
• Defining Classroom Walkthroughs
• H.E.A.T.
• LoTi Framework
• CIP Framework
• 5-Step H.E.A.T. Walkthrough Process
• LoTi Observer Application
• Step 1 - Pre-Walkthrough
• Step 2 - H.E.A.T. Walkthrough
• Step 3 - Post-Walkthrough
• Step 4 - Introduction to Group Data Analysis
• Step 5 - Development of Group Action Plan
• Wrap-Up
• Session Evaluation

Classroom Walkthroughs with H.E.A.T.

2009-01-14T09:58:00.001-08:00

Classroom Walkthroughs with H.E.A.T.

2009-01-14T09:58:00.000-08:00

Designing Interdisciplinary Units with H.E.A.T.

2009-01-03T12:15:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! Provided below is today's agenda:

Agenda:
• LoTi Case Study
• Define an interdisciplinary unit?
• 21st Century Skills/Themes
• Essential vs Engaging Questions
• High-Octane Culminating Tasks
• Focus Strategies
• Designing Interdisciplinary Units
• High-Octane Scoring Guides

Resources:
• LoTi Sniff Test
• H.E.A.T. Rubric
• Scoring Guide Rubric
- Validity Rubric/Reliability Rubric
• Interdisciplinary Learning in Your Classroom

Project Websites:
• eCybermission
• Urban Land Institute
• Living Relationships - Interdisciplinary Unit
• CIESE - Interdisciplinary Projects

Please leave a comment about any questions involving today's agenda.

May the LoTi Be With You!

Chris

Creating LoTi 5 Learning Experiences

2009-01-03T08:20:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year! Provided below is today's agenda:

Agenda:
• LoTi Case Study
• What is Online Collaboration?
• 21st Century Skills/Themes
• Online Collaborative Project Websites
- ePals
- CIESE
- Global Schoolhouse
- Education World
- Scholastic Online
- Connect Teleprojects
- Space Day
- Nature Mapping
- Eduscapes
• Creating Online Collaborative Projects
• Scoring Guides

Resources:
• LoTi Sniff Test
• H.E.A.T. Rubric

Resources:
• Teacher Tap
• Online Collaboration
• Collaborative Project Ideas
• LoTi Sniff Test
• H.E.A.T. Rubric
• Scoring Guide Rubric
- Validity Rubric/Reliability Rubric

Please leave a comment about any questions involving today's agenda.

May the LoTi Be With You!

Chris

Creating LoTi 5 Learning Experiences

2009-01-03T08:20:00.000-08:00

Differentiating the H.E.A.T. - Day 1

2008-12-31T08:58:00.001-08:00

Differentiating the H.E.A.T. - Day 1

2008-12-31T08:58:00.000-08:00

LoTi Mentor Certification Day 1 - Irving, Texas - December 18, 2008

2008-12-18T04:24:00.000-08:00

Today, we will begin Day 1 of the LoTi Mentor Certification Institute in Irving, TX. The agenda will consist of the following events:

21st Century Teaching and Learning
Think about H.E.A.T.
H.E.A.T. Analyses
LoTi Framework
LoTi Sniff Test
LoTi Mentor Certification Process
Certification Task #1
Lesson Plan Analysis
Certification Task #3

Let us know of any concerns or questions you have with the agenda or the institute itself. Your comments are greatly appreciated. By the way, check out some of the links below:

21st Century Resources:
LoTi Connection
Partnership for the 21st Century
Questioning Toolbox
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
LoTi Lounge

Chris Moersch
LeeChel Moersch

LoTi Leadership Symposium

2008-12-04T01:14:00.000-08:00

Good Morning! Welcome to the LoTi Leadership Symposium. Provided below is today's agenda.

• Bloom’s Taxonomy
• 21st Century Skills
• H.E.A.T.
• LoTi
• H.E.A.T. Strategies
• 5 C’s of Instructional Leadership
• Summary & Reflection

Important Links:
• LoTi Connection
• LoTi Classroom - online learning
- Enter User ID: lotiguest
- Enter Password: lotiguest
• LoTi Lounge
- Enter User ID: lotiguest
- Enter Password: lotiguest
• LoTi Observer

Please leave a comment about any questions from today's program.

Chris Moersch
LoTi Executive Director

LoTi Adminstrator Institute - Day 2: Friendswood ISD

2008-10-31T17:16:00.000-07:00

Greetings and welcome to Day 2 of the LoTi Administrator Institute. Provided below is today's agenda.

• LoTi/H.E.A.T - Review
• LoTi Implementation Cycle
• Assess – Classroom Observation using H.E.A.T. Observation Form: High School
• Lesson Plan Review
• Plan - Sample Middle School: Case Study
• Implement - H.E.A.T. Strategies
• Sustain - Classroom Observation using H.E.A.T. Form: Elementary School
• LoTi Project Schools
• Next Steps Action Plan
• Summary & Reflection

H.E.A.T. Strategies:
• LoTi Digital-Age Survey
• Lesson Makeover
• Graphic Organizers
• Questioning Toolkit
• Bloom's Taxonomy
• Sample Classroom Walkthrough
• Rubrics
• Peer Observations
• Differentiated Instruction
• Differentiated Instruction for Advanced Learner
• Focus Strategies
• 21st Century Performance Assessments
• online Learning
1. Go to: www.loticlassroom.com

2. Click on the "Login" link in the upper right corner of the screen. Login with the demonstration user account:
Username: lotiguest
Password: lotiguest

3. Click on the LoTi Classroom Demo Course link to browse the course

Please leave a comment about any questions from yesterday's program or today's agenda.

Thanks!

Becky

LoTi Adminstrator Institute - Day 1: Friendswood ISD

2008-10-31T17:14:00.000-07:00

Turning Up the H.E.A.T.

2008-10-31T06:52:00.001-07:00

Greetings and welcome to "Turning Up the H.E.A.T" on lesson planning. Provided below is today's agenda.

Agenda:
• LoTi/H.E.A.T.- Review
• WLC Moodle Site
• Lesson Make-overs
• Action Plan

Higher-order Thinking Tools/Strategies:
• Bloom's Taxonomy
• Questioning Toolkit
• Interactive Graphic Organizers
• Bubbl
• Components of a Well-developed Thinking Skills Program

Engagement Tools/Strategies:
• Survey Monkey
• Collaboration Projects
• Students Taking Action!

Authenticity Tools/Strategies:
• 21st Century Learning Revisited
• Google Earth
• ePals
• eCybermission
• Scorecard

Technology Use Tools:
• National Library of Virtual Manipulatives
• Interactivate
• Illuminations
• LoTi Sniff Test
• HEAT Observation Form
• Dabble Draw
• Gliffy
• Blogger
• Wikispaces
• Garageband
• Audacity

H.E.A.T. Strategies:
• LoTi Digital-Age Survey
• Lesson Makeover
• Lesson Plan Reviews
• Peer Observations
• Differentiated Instruction
• Differentiated Instruction for Advanced Learner
• Focus Strategies
• 21st Century Performance Assessments
• online Learning
1. Go to: www.loticlassroom.com

2. Click on the "Login" link in the upper right corner of the screen. Login with the demonstration user account:
Username: lotiguest
Password: lotiguest

3. Click on the LoTi Classroom Demo Course link to browse the course.

Please leave a comment about any questions involving today's agenda.

May the LoTi Be With You!

Chris

Turning Up the H.E.A.T.

2008-10-31T06:52:00.000-07:00

Turning Up the H.E.A.T.

2008-10-30T04:52:00.000-07:00

Greetings and welcome to our H.E.A.T. Overview. Provided below is today's agenda.

Agenda:
• LoTi/H.E.A.T.- Review
• NCHS Moodle Site
• Action Plan

Video Samples - High School Level
• High School Technology Elective: Video Editing
• High School Math: Pythagorean Theorem
• High School Math: Geometry in the Real World
• High School English: MacBeth
• High School Social Studies: Theodore Roosevelt and Progressivism
• High School Physics: Projectiles
• High School Science: Starry Night Simulation

Higher-order Thinking Tools/Strategies:
• Bloom's Taxonomy
• Questioning Toolkit
• Interactive Graphic Organizers
• Bubbl
• Components of a Well-developed Thinking Skills Program

Engagement Tools/Strategies:
• Survey Monkey
• Collaboration Projects
• Students Taking Action!

Authenticity Tools/Strategies:
• 21st Century Learning Revisited
• Google Earth
• ePals
• eCybermission
• Scorecard

Technology Use Tools:
• National Library of Virtual Manipulatives
• Interactivate
• Illuminations
• LoTi Sniff Test
• HEAT Observation Form
• Dabble Draw
• Gliffy
• Blogger
• Wikispaces
• Garageband
• Audacity

H.E.A.T. Strategies:
• LoTi Digital-Age Survey
• Lesson Makeover
• Lesson Plan Reviews
• Peer Observations
• Differentiated Instruction
• Differentiated Instruction for Advanced Learner
• Focus Strategies
• 21st Century Performance Assessments
• online Learning
1. Go to: www.loticlassroom.com

2. Click on the "Login" link in the upper right corner of the screen. Login with the demonstration user account:
Username: lotiguest
Password: lotiguest

3. Click on the LoTi Classroom Demo Course link to browse the course.

Please leave a comment about any questions involving today's agenda.

May the LoTi Be With You!

Chris

LoTi Administrator Institute - Belton ISD: Day 3

2008-10-18T05:27:00.000-07:00

LoTi Mentor Certification Day 3 - Las Vegas, NV - Sept. 12th, 2008

2008-09-12T06:01:00.000-07:00

Good Morning and welcome to Day 3 of our LoTi Mentor Certification Institute. Provided below is today's agenda.

H.E.A.T.Classroom Walkthroughs
Lesson Plan Analysis
Certification Task #3
Certification Task #4
Focus Strategies & Engaging Questions
EBAM & Certification Task #5
Certification Task #8
5 C’s of Instructional Leadership
LoTi Mentor Submission Date/Process
Evaluation

Have a great day!

Chris & LeeChel

Agenda: Day 3

2008-09-10T05:01:00.000-07:00

• LoTi/CIP Data Collection Strategies
• Sample Lesson Plan
• Sample Performance Assessment
• Sample Performance Task
• Sample Portfolios
• Sample Observation
• Teacher Observation/Interview

• online LoTi Courses

• Closure and Next Steps

Resources:
• LoTi Observer
• Sample Methods
• Sampling Chart

Agenda: Day 2

2008-09-10T04:59:00.000-07:00

• EBAM Evaluation

• Next Steps Action Plans

• Mini-Professional Development Intervention

• Personal Interviews

Mini-Makeover

2008-09-10T04:58:00.000-07:00

In this activity, you will review the learning experience called "How Crowded are our States?"and then complete the following tasks:

1. Approximate the current Level of Technology Implementation (LoTi) prior to the makeover including a detailed rationale for your approximation.

2. Explain in detail the changes you would make with the existing learning experience to move it one level higher on the LoTi Framework.

3. Explain in detail the changes you would make with the existing learning experience to move it two levels higher on the LoTi Framework.

On a separate sheet of paper, record any of your thoughts, assumptions, ideas, or insights relating to the lesson plan makeover.

Note:
Make sure to identify and defend the new LoTi Levels for the learning experience, "How Crowded are our States?" based on your recommended changes.

Video Case Study: High School Science

2008-09-10T04:57:00.001-07:00

Students were using digital probes to collect data samples from a local stream.

PowerPoint Exercise

2008-09-10T04:57:00.000-07:00

In this activity, you and your colleagues will modify an existing PowerPoint presentation for a meeting with a school district's administrative team. The multimedia presentation should last no longer than 10 minutes, but should give the targeted audience (e.g., superintendent, assistant superintendents, directors) a broad and persuasive understanding of the benefits that LoTi can provide their district in terms of improving student achievement in science and mathematics at Grades 5-8.

In this activity, you will need to complete the following tasks:

1. Download the existing PowerPoint presentation. "LoTi Powerpoint Presentation"

2. Review the PowerPoint presentation for content and purpose.

3. Make changes to the existing PowerPoint presentation that will produce a convincing argument as to why the school district's administrative team should implement the LoTi Program in their school system for Grades 5-8.

4. Deliver the PowerPoint presentation to your targeted audience.

Chris Moersch will serve as representatives of the school district's administrative representative.

Video Case Study: 4th Grade Science

2008-09-10T04:56:00.001-07:00

Student were learning about the rainforest in their 4th Grade Science class.

Video Case Study: Middle School Math

2008-09-10T04:56:00.000-07:00

Students were reviewing measures of central tendency in their math classroom.

Video Case Study: 3rd Grade Science

2008-09-10T04:55:00.001-07:00

The teacher is using an Interactive White Board to introduce and reinforce students' understanding of food chains, food webs, prey/predator relationships, and animal classifications.

Video Case Study: High School Language Arts

2008-09-10T04:55:00.000-07:00

The teacher is using an Interactive White Board as part of her instructional unit on MacBeth.

LoTi Observations (G)

2008-09-10T04:54:00.000-07:00

In this activity, you will work with your colleagues to approximate the Level of Technology Implementation (LoTi) for a series of learning experiences. The examples cover all grade levels, K-12. After previewing each video clip, you will have 5 minutes to discuss the LoTi and H.E.A.T. implications and then 1 minute to record your responses

Click on the comment link for each Video Case Study to enter (1) the LoTi level, (2) a one-sentence rationale for the LoTi level, and (3) your name for each learning experience.

Note: Be careful to base your LoTi approximations on the classroom processes you actually observe. Do not assume activities that may or may not be occurring beyond the scope of each learning experience.

Agenda: Day 1

2008-09-10T04:52:00.000-07:00

9:00 am NLTCI Overview and Introductions

10:00 am LoTi Observations (G)

10:45 am Break

11:00 am PowerPoint Exercise (G)

12:00 pm Lunch

1:30 pm Mini-Makeover Exercise (I)

2:00 pm LoTi Connection

3:00 pm Personal Interviews

LoTi Mentor Certification Day 1 - Las Vegas, NV - Sept. 10, 2008

2008-09-09T22:37:00.000-07:00

Today, we will begin Day 1 of the LoTi Mentor Certification Institute in Las Vegas, Nevada. The agenda will consist of the following events:

Issues with Digital-Age Technology
Extreme 21st Century Makeover
LoTi Framework
LoTi Classroom Observations
Think about Thinking - Bloom's Taxonomy
LoTi Survey Overview

Let me know of any concerns or questions you have with the agenda or the institute itself. Your comments are greatly appreciated. By the way, check out some of the links below:

21st Century Resources:
LoTi Connection
Partnership for the 21st Century
Questioning Toolbox
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
LoTi Lounge

LAI Day 2 - Waller, TX

2008-07-23T04:07:00.000-07:00

Greetings and welcome to Day 2 of the LoTi Administrator Institute. Provided below is today's agenda.

• Individualized Professional Development Plans
• Sample 21st Century Performance Task
• 270 To Win Website
• LoTi/H.E.A.T./Bloom - Review

LOTI IMPLEMENTATION MODEL
ASSESS
• Aggregate LoTi, CIP, and PCU Building Data - LoTi Profiler
• Lesson Plan Assessment
PLAN
• Next Steps Action Plan - Your Own Campus
IMPLEMENT
• Reaction Time #1
• Reaction Time #2
SUSTAIN
• LoTi Observer: Classroom Walkthroughs
• LoTi Project Schools
• 5 C's of Instructional Leadership
• Summary & Reflection

Please leave a comment about any questions from yesterday's program or today's agenda.

Lazette

LAI Day 1 - Waller, TX

2008-07-23T04:01:00.000-07:00

Good Morning! Provided below is the LoTi Administrator Institute agenda for Day 1.

• 21st Century Learning Revisited
• Thinking Skills
• 21st Century Lesson Makeover
• H.E.A.T.
• LoTi Framework
• Clinical Observations
• DETAILS for the 21st Century Questionnaire
• H.E.A.T. Walkthrough - Mr. Mayorga's Classroom
• Summary & Reflection

Please leave a comment about any questions from today's program.

Lazette Woods
LoTi Education Advocate

2008-06-28T07:36:00.000-07:00

Good Morning! Provided below are important links associated with the 5C's of 21st Century Leadership.

21st Century Learning
• LoTi Levels
• LoTi Sniff Test
* Click on Login
* User ID: demo
* Password: demo
* Select 'LoTi Mentor Support'
• Partnership for the 21st Century

Cultivation:
• H.E.A.T. Analysis

Courage:
• LoTi Implementation Model
- Assess:
DETAILS for the 21st Century Questionnaire
LoTi Profiler
* User ID - Ask your facilitator
* Password: admin753
- Plan:
Individualized Teacher Professional Development Plan
* Click on Login
* User ID: demo
* Password: demo
* Select 'LoTi Mentor Support'
* Select 'Certification Task #2'
Next Steps Action Plan
- Implement:
LoTi Classroom Teacher
* Click on Login
* User ID: demo
* Password: demo
* Select 'LCT 101'
- Sustain:
LoTi Observer

Creativity:
Click on the link below and create a 21st Century Performance Assessment for a group of middle school students based on this website. Afterwards, click on the Comment link below to add your performance assessment to this blog.
270toWin

Commitment:
• LoTi Observer
* User ID: lotiadmin
* Password: lotiadmin
• LoTi Lounge
* User ID: lotiadmin
* Password: lotiadmin

Communication:
• Blogger
• WikiSpaces
• Google Docs
• Discussion Forums

May the LoTi Be With You!

Chris Moersch
LoTi Project Director

2008-06-27T12:55:00.000-07:00

21st Century Leadership

2008-06-24T22:10:00.000-07:00

Sample LoTi 3 Social Studies Lesson

2008-04-25T07:27:00.000-07:00

Students will work in teams representing campaign strategists for the 2008 Presidential Election and devise an action plan strategy to get their candidate elected into the Oval Office. Remember, it only requires 270 Electoral Votes!. Each campaign team's action plan must include the following deliverables:

* An Executive Summary outlining the broad strategy to win the White House for their political party including an Electoral College Map projection
* An identification of the major issues that will likely be discussed and debated during the 2008 Presidential Election based on current trends.
* An Action Plan outline for "one" target state - Download Action Plan Template
* Final multimedia presentation to share goal, objectives, and action plan for the "one" target state

LoTi Mentor Certification Day 3 - Afton, WY - April 25, 2008

2008-04-25T05:17:00.000-07:00

Good Morning and welcome to Day 3 of our LoTi Mentor Certification Institute. Provided below is today's agenda.

LoTi Mentor Submission Date/Process
H.E.A.T. Walkthrough - High School
Professional Development Case Study
Certification Task #4 Revisited
Focus Strategies & Engaging Questions
EBAM & Certification Task #5
LoTi Project Schools
Certification Task #8
5 C’s of Instructional Leadership
Evaluation

Have a great day!

Chris

Link:

LoTi Classroom Teacher Online Course
Login: loti1
Password: loti1

LoTi Mentor Certification Day 2 - Afton, WY - April 24, 2008

2008-04-24T06:29:00.000-07:00

Greetings and welcome to Day 2 of the LoTi Mentor Certification Institute. Provided below is today's agenda.

LoTi Mentor Certification
Certification Tasks #1 & #3
21st Century Learning
H.E.A.T.
LoTi Sniff Test - Review
Certification Task #2
LoTi 3 Case Study - High School Social Studies
LoTi 3 Case Study - Middle School Mathematics
LoTi 3 Case Study - Elementary Mathematics
Certification Task #4
H.E.A.T. Classroom Walkthroughs
Professional Development Intervention: Case Study

Please leave a comment about any questions from yesterday's program or today's agenda.

May the LoTi Be With You!

Chris

Other Reaction Websites
Fastball Reaction Time
Online Reaction Time Test
Time to Think

LoTi Mentor Certification Day 1 - Afton, WY - April 23, 2008

2008-04-23T05:21:00.000-07:00

Today, we will begin Day 1 of the LoTi Mentor Certification Institute in Afton, Wyoming. The agenda will consist of the following events:

Issues with Technology Use
Extreme 21st Century Makeover
Think about Thinking
LoTi Framework
LoTi Classroom Observations
LoTi Mentor Certification
Certification Task #1
Lesson Plan Analysis
Certification Task #3

Let me know of any concerns or questions you have with the agenda or the institute itself. Your comments are greatly appreciated. By the way, check out some of the links below:

21st Century Resources:
LoTi Connection
Partnership for the 21st Century
enGauge 21st Century Skills
Questioning Toolbox
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
LoTi Lounge

Chris

LoTi Administrator Institute Day 2 - Dickinson ISD- January 23, 2008

2008-01-23T03:43:00.000-08:00

Greetings and welcome to Day 2 of the LoTi Administrator Institute. Provided below is today's agenda.

• LoTi/H.E.A.T./Bloom - Review
• Current Research
• Individualized Professional Development Plans
• Extreme Makeovers
• LoTi Implementation Cycle
• Assess – • LoTi Walk-Throughs (H.E.A.T.)
• Plan - ABC Middle School: Case Study
• Implement - LoTi 3 Professional Development Intervention 1
• Implement - LoTi 3 Professional Development Intervention 2
• Sustain - LoTi Walk-Throughs (H.E.A.T.)
• Next Steps Action Plan
• Summary & Reflection

Please leave a comment about any questions from yesterday's program or today's agenda.

May the LoTi Be With You!

Chris

LoTi Administrator Institute Day 1 - Dickinson ISD-Reflection

2008-01-23T03:33:00.000-08:00

Since most of the day was spent conducting H.E.A.T. and LoTi analyses of video clips, I wanted to provide you with some additional suggestions when conducting classroom walkthroughs or reviewing student products.

1.Having students apply what they have learned to a new authentic situation involves more than just depositing the information into a webpage, blog, wiki, or multimedia presentation; it requires students applying the pertinent concepts or skills to a situation that directly impacts the learner, his/her immediate surroundings, and/or the larger community. If this is not the case, then you most likely have either a LoTi 2 or 3 learning experience.

2. The easiest way to discriminate between LoTi 2 and 3 is the presence of (1) Higher Order Thinking Skills (Bloom's Taxonomy) or (2) one or more Complex Thinking Strategies. If a learning experience is teacher-directed and engages students exclusively at the Knowledge/Comprehension levels, then it is almost assuredly a LoTi 2 lesson. Conversely, if a learning experience is teacher-directed and engages students at the Application, Analysis, Synthesis, and/or Evaluation level or enables students to exercise one or more complex thinking strategies (i.e., Problem-solving, Creative Problem-solving, Decision-making, Investigation, Experimental Inquiry, Reasoning, Personal Reflection), then it is almost assuredly a LoTi 3 lesson.

3. Reaching consensus about the "learner-centeredness" of a classroom experience is sometimes difficult. The easiest way to achieve some type of consensus is to first divide the learning experience into three components: Content, Process, and Product. If you detect that a minimum of two out of three of these components is "learner-centered" then we call the entire experience a learner-centered activity. Conversely, if you detect that a minimum of two out of three of the components is "teacher-centered" then we call the entire experience a teacher-centered activity.

3. Whenever possible, use the LoTi "Sniff" Test to help approximate the LoTi of any lesson plan, web-project, or instructional unit.

4. A truly differentiated classroom has LoTi 0-4 occurring on a daily basis.

5. The appropriate or target LoTi should always be commensurate with the content standards being addresssed and at the desired level of student cognition.

6. When contemplating H.E.A.T. (Higher order thinking, Engaged learning, Authenticity, Technology use), consider the following: If the Technology use does not bump up the Higher order thinking, Engaged learning, or Authenticity, then chances are that the Technology use is an "add-on" and therefore, not needed for task completion.

6. We also spent time reviewing 21st Century Skills and Themes. Provided below is a summary as articulated by the Partnership for the 21st Century.

21st Century Skills:

Information, Media, and Technology Skills
- Information Literacy
- Media Literacy
- ICT Literacy

Learning and Innovation Skills
- Creativity and Innovation Skills
- Critical Thinking and Problem-solving Skills
- Communication and Collaboration Skills

Life and Career Skills
- Flexibility & Adaptability
- Innovative & Self-Direction
- Social & Cross-Cultural Skills
- Productivity & Accountability
Leadership & Responsibility

21st Century Themes:

Global Awareness

Financial, Economic, Business and Entrepreneurial Literacy

Civic Literacy

Health Literacy

Provided below are links to some of yesterday's videoclips and LoTi Resources.

Classroom Videos
Mabry online
Edutopia
Apple Learning Interchange 2007
Educational Technology Clearinghouse
Modeling Middle School Mathematics

LoTi Resources
Gaggle
ePals
Gliffy
Graphing Tools
Rubric Building Tools
Survey Tools
Graphic Organizer Tools
Web-based Projects
Google Earth
Questioning Toolbox
Random Numbers
Creative Action
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
National Library of Math Manipulatives
Interactivate
Illuminations
Scorecard
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
LoTi Lounge
PHeT Simulations
Blogger
Wikispaces

I look forward to your comments.

Chris

LoTi Administrator Institute Day 1 - Dickinson ISD- January 22, 2008

2008-01-22T03:40:00.000-08:00

Provided below is the LoTi Administrator Institute agenda for Day 1.

• 21st Century Learning Revisited
• Thinking Skills
• 21st Century Lesson Makeover
• LoTi Framework
• Clinical Observations
• Summary & Reflection

Please leave a comment about any questions from today's program.

May the LoTi Be With You!

Chris Moersch
LoTi Project Director

Becky Cook
National LoTi Certified Trainer

LoTi Math Workshop - January 10th, 2007 - Reflection

2008-01-10T12:06:00.000-08:00

Thank you for the great day discussing the importance of H.E.A.T. (Higher order thinking, Engaged learning, Authenticity, and Technology use) and the role of differentiated instruction in middle school math learning stations. We also spent time submitting math lesson plans online for review by LoTi National Trainers and reviewing the online LoTi Classroom Teacher 101 course. Please keep current with the weekly activities including the posting of your reflections. We want everyone to have a great experience with the world of online learning.

A large section of the day was devoted to the creation of learning stations for our middle school math classrooms. Provided below is a summary of notes and resources relating to learning stations.

Differentiation Strategies:
• Learning Stations/Centers
• Adjusting Questions
• Tiered Instruction
• Compacted Curriculum
• Flexible Grouping
• Anchor Activities
• Exit Cards
• Graphic Organizers
• Learning Contracts
• Personal Agendas
• Interest-based Investigations

Learning Stations versus Learning Centers:
Centers are areas in the classroom where students refine a skill or extend a concept (e.g., Math center, Anchor activity center). Stations are different places in the math classroom where students work on tasks simultaneously, and whose activities are linked - Carol Ann Tomlinson

Learning Stations in a Sample Math Classroom:
• Whole class warm-up
• Review station assignments made based on pre-assessment
• Pull a group to the teacher’s station for a structured focus lesson.
• Other students work at their stations. You move around to monitor their progress when students at the teacher’s station are working in pairs or independently.
• Whole class closure activity.

Learning Stations - Management Issues
• Remember - “Math Stations” is a strategy for differentiating instruction. Students only need to go to stations that will help them in mastering the math “Big Idea.”
• Have an anchor activity center already in place for students who finish their station work, or who don’t need to work at a station that day.

Learning Station - Teacher Exchanges
• Math Learning Centers
• Classroom Centers Chatboard - Really Cool!

Secondary Science/Math Centers
• Technology Centers for the Integrated Technology Classroom

Learning Station Videos
• Literacy Stations

May the LoTi Be With You Always!

Chris Moersch

LoTi Math Workshop - January 10th, 2007

2008-01-10T01:18:00.000-08:00

Good morning! Today, we are going to focus on the use of differentiated instruction and specifically, the use of learning stations to address Transient Populations entering McGinnis Middle School.

Please comment on the agenda or any other issue surrounding math instruction at McGinnis Middle School.

Website of the Month
H.E.A.T. Revisited
Lesson Plan Submissions
Differentiated Instruction - Learning Stations
Extreme Differentiation
online LoTi Classroom Teacher Course - January 7th, 2008
Next Steps

Pre-Assessments for Learning Stations
Learning Styles Test
Thinking Styles Inventory
Multiple Intelligences Inventory

Math Assessments for Learning Stations
Discovery Island Assessment
TAKS Assessment

Technology Resources for Learning Stations
National Library of Math Manipulatives
Interactivate
Illuminations
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
Blogger
Wikispaces
Gaggle
ePals
Gliffy
Graphing Tools
Rubric Building Tools
Survey Tools
Graphic Organizer Tools
Web-based Projects
Google Earth

Let me know what you think about today's agenda.

Thanks,

Chris Moersch

January 4th, 2008 LoTi Inservice - Reflection

2008-01-05T12:30:00.000-08:00

Today, we had the opportunity to reflect on the recent 2nd Benchmark Assessment data, create 3rd Benchmark Pacing Guides, and revisit the amount of H.E.A.T. in sample learning experiences. What causes one lesson to be at a higher level of engagement than another relates directly to the amount of HEAT generated.

HEAT
- Higher order thinking
- Engaged learning
- Authenticity
- Technology tools

We ended the day with conducting a brief walkthrough of the online LoTi Classroom Teacher course as well as the online Lesson Plan template inside the LoTi Lounge website.

Let me know if you have any questions or comments.

May the LoTi Be With You Always!

Chris

Welcome back!

2008-01-03T22:33:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! I trust your winter break was relaxing and enjoyable from friends and family. Welcome back to Carson Middle School. Today's agenda will consist of the following events:

2nd Benchmark Assessment Data
3rd Benchmark Pacing Guide
- Select Calendar under the "more" option (located in upper left corner of the screen)
- Enter User ID: (Either carsonmiddle6, carsonmiddle7, or carsonmiddle8
- Enter Password: carsonmiddle

- Click the check box for your content area only (Make sure the other check boxes are unchecked)
- Create 3rd Benchmark Pacing Guide for your content area and grade level
Lunch
H.E.A.T. Revisited
Lesson Plan Template
Summary & Reflection

Let me know of any concerns or questions you have with the agenda. Your comments are greatly appreciated. By the way, check out some of the links below:

21st Century Resources:
LoTi Connection
Partnership for the 21st Century
enGauge 21st Century Skills
Questioning Toolbox
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
LoTi Lounge
Bubbl.us

Chris

LoTi Math Workshop - December 13th, 2007

2007-12-12T02:25:00.000-08:00

Good morning! Last month you brainstormed with Chris specific areas for follow-up discussion: Teaching Outside the Box, when Students Don't Know What's Inside the Box, Using Technology Beyond Calculators, and Transient Populations entering Middle School Math Airspace.

Today's session will focus on two of these elements: Teaching Outside the Box... and Using Technology Beyond Calculators. Chris will address the last item, Transient Populations entering Middle School Math Airspace in January. Please comment on the agenda or any other issue surrounding math instruction at McGinnis Middle School.

H.E.A.T. Analysis
Lesson Plan Submissions
Teaching Outside the Box - Focus Strategies
Using Technology Beyond Calculators
National Library of Math Manipulatives
Interactivate
Illuminations
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
Blogger
Wikispaces
Gaggle
ePals
Gliffy
Graphing Tools
Rubric Building Tools
Survey Tools
Graphic Organizer Tools
Web-based Projects
Google Earth
online LoTi Classroom Teacher Course - January 7th, 2008
Next Steps

Let me know what you think about today's agenda.

Thanks,

Amy Gordon

21st Century Learning Resources

2007-11-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

21st Century Skills:

Information and Communication Skills
Information and Media Literacy
Blogger
Wikispaces
Communication Skills
Gaggle
Web 2.0 for the Classroom Teacher
ePals

Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
Questioning Toolbox
Critical Thinking and Systems Thinking
Graphic Organizer Tools
Problem-solving
Gliffy
Creativity and Intellectual Curiosity
Web 2.0 for the Classroom Teacher

Interpersonal and Self-Directional Skills
Interpersonal and Collaborative Skills
Gaggle
ePals
Self-direction
eCypermission
Accountability and Adaptability
Social Responsibility
Scorecard
Creative Action

21st Century Themes:

Global Awareness:
Gaggle
ePals
Google Earth

Financial, Economic, Business and Entrepreneurial Literacy

Civic Literacy
• National Budget Simulation
• 270 to Win

Health and Wellness Awareness

LoTi Resources:
LoTi Lounge
Graphing Tools
Rubric Building Tools
Survey Tools
Web-based Projects
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
National Library of Math Manipulatives
Interactivate
Illuminations
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
PHeT Simulations

Welcome to the 21st Century Learning: Superintendent's Forum

2007-11-28T08:35:00.000-08:00

Good morning and welcome to the 21st Century Learning: Superintendent's Forum. The goals for this two-hour session are as follows:

Goals:
Four overall goals of the session are: (1) to increase student achievement by focusing on 21st Century instruction and assessment strategies within a standards-driven curriculum, (2) to promote higher levels of teacher innovation modeled at the operational curriculum level, (3) to provide a data-driven approach to learning technology planning at the building level, and
(4) to implement a model of continuous improvement system-wide.

Agenda:

• 21st Century Learning Revisited
• H.E.A.T.
• 21st Century Learning & Student Achievement
• 21st Century Learning Makeovers
• LoTi Framework
• Clinical Observations
• 21st Century Learning Resources
• 5 C's of Instructional Leadership
• 21st Century LoTi Project Schools
• Summary & Reflection

21st Century Skills:

Information and Communication Skills
Information and Media Literacy
Communication Skills

Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
Critical Thinking and Systems Thinking
Problem-solving
Creativity and Intellectual Curiosity

Interpersonal and Self-Directional Skills
Interpersonal and Collaborative Skills
Self-direction
Accountability and Adaptability
Social Responsibility

21st Century Themes:

Global Awareness

Financial, Economic, Business and Entrepreneurial Literacy

Civic Literacy

Health and Wellness Awareness

LoTi Sniff Test

2007-11-18T04:03:00.000-08:00

Is technology being used in the classroom? - Yes-LoTi 1
Is technology being used by students as part of the learning experience? - Yes-LoTi 2
Is there evidence of higher order thinking by students tied to the content? - Yes-LoTi 3
Are students applying their learning to solve a real world problem or situation or resolve an issue? - Yes-LoTi 4A
Is the learning experience student-centered? Yes-LoTi 4B
Is there two-way collaboration with experts outside the classroom? - Yes-LoTi 5
Do students have unlimited access to technology during the school day? - Yes-LoTi 6

LoTi Adminstrator Workshop - GRREC: Reflection

2007-11-18T04:02:00.000-08:00

Since most of the day was spent conducting H.E.A.T.analyses and "LoTizing" video clips and related learning activities, I wanted to provide you with some additional suggestions when conducting classroom walkthroughs or reviewing student products.

1.Having students apply what they have learned to a new authentic situation involves more than just depositing the information into a webpage, blog, wiki, or multimedia presentation; it requires students applying the pertinent concepts or skills to a situation that directly impacts the learner, his/her immediate surroundings, and/or the larger community. If this is not the case, then you most likely have either a LoTi 2 or 3 learning experience.

2. The easiest way to discriminate between LoTi 2 and 3 is the presence of (1) Higher Order Thinking Skills (Bloom's Taxonomy) or (2) one or more Complex Thinking Strategies. If a learning experience is teacher-directed and engages students exclusively at the Knowledge/Comprehension levels, then it is almost assuredly a LoTi 2 lesson. Conversely, if a learning experience is teacher-directed and engages students at the Application, Analysis, Synthesis, and/or Evaluation level or enables students to exercise one or more complex thinking strategies (i.e., Problem-solving, Creative Problem-solving, Decision-making, Investigation, Experimental Inquiry, Reasoning, Personal Reflection), then it is almost assuredly a LoTi 3 lesson.

3. Reaching consensus about the "learner-centeredness" of a classroom experience is sometimes difficult. The easiest way to achieve some type of consensus is to first divide the learning experience into three components: Content, Process, and Product. If you detect that a minimum of two out of three of these components is "learner-centered" then we call the entire experience a learner-centered activity. Conversely, if you detect that a minimum of two out of three of the components is "teacher-centered" then we call the entire experience a teacher-centered activity.

3. Whenever possible, use the LoTi "Sniff" Test to help approximate the LoTi of any lesson plan, web-project, or instructional unit.

4. A truly differentiated classroom has LoTi 0-4 occurring on a daily basis.

5. The appropriate or target LoTi should always be commensurate with the content standards being addresssed and at the desired level of student cognition.

As requested, I have included the citations from "Current Research" from yesterday's program.

A. Technology use coupled with effective instructional strategies can improve student achievement.

Marzano, Robert. J. What works in schools: translating research into action. ASCD: Alexandria, Virginia. 2002.

Center for Applied Research in Educational Technology (CARET). ISTE. http://caret.iste.org/

LoTi Connection. Learning Quest. Inc. http://www.loticonnection.com

The George Lucas Educational Foundation. http: www.edutopia.org

eMints National Center. http:///www.emints.org/evaluation/reports

B. Technology increases the complexity of the tasks that students can perform successfully, raises student motivation, and leads to changes in classroom roles and organization.

Baker, E. L., Gearhart, M., & Herman, J. L. (1994). Evaluating the Apple classrooms of tomorrow. In E. L. Baker H. F. O'Neil, Jr. (Eds.), Technology assessment in education and training (pp. 173-197). Hillsdale, NJ: Erlbaum.

Dwyer, D. C., Ringstaff, C., & Sandholtz, J. (1990). The evolution of teachers' instructional beliefs and practices in high-access-to-technology classrooms. Paper presented at the annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association, Boston.

Means, B., Blando, J., Olson, K., Middleton, T., Morocco, C.C., Remz, A.R., & Zorfass, J. (1993, September). Using technology to support education reform. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Education.

C. Technology can enhance both what and how children learn when used in conjunction with: (1) active engagement, (2) participation in groups, (3) frequent interaction and feedback, and (4) connections to real-world contexts.

Roschelle, J.M. Pea, R.D., Hoadley, C.M., Gordin, D.N. and Means, B.M. (2000). Changing how and what children learn in school with computer-based technologies. The Future of Children, 10:2, 76-101

Papanastasiou, E., Zemblyas, M., & Vrasidas, C. (2003). Can computer use hurt science achievement? Journal of Science Education and Technology, 12 (3), 325-332.

Also, think about LoTi as Levels of Teaching Innovation rather than Levels of Technology Implementation. It will prove most beneficial as you begin to implement LoTi on your campus.

H.E.A.T.

Keep in mind that the LoTi level can easily be determined based on the amount of H.E.A.T. in the Classroom. H.E.A.T. represents:

Higher order thinking
Engaged learning
Authenticity
Technology use

The more H.E.A.T. in the classroom, the greater the level of student engagement!

LoTi Adminstrator Workshop - GRREC

2007-11-18T03:50:00.000-08:00

Provided below is the LoTi Administrator Workshop agenda.

• Bloom Review
• Complex Thinking Review
• H.E.A.T.
• H.E.A.T. Analysis
• Extreme Makeovers
• LoTi Framework
• DETAILS for the 21st Century
• LoTi Project Schools
• LoTi Next Steps
• 5 C's of Instructional Leadership

Please leave a comment about any questions from today's program.

May the LoTi Be With You!

Chris

Featured Websites
• 270 to Win,
• National Budget Simulation
• Reaction Time

Classroom Videos
Mabry online
Edutopia
Apple Learning Interchange 2007
Educational Technology Clearinghouse
Modeling Middle School Mathematics

LoTi Resources
Gaggle
ePals
Gliffy
Graphing Tools
Rubric Building Tools
Survey Tools
Graphic Organizer Tools
Web-based Projects
Google Earth
Questioning Toolbox
Random Numbers
Creative Action
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
National Library of Math Manipulatives
Interactivate
Illuminations
Scorecard
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
LoTi Lounge
PHeT Simulations
Blogger
Wikispaces
Reaction Time

LoTi Math Workshop - November 15th, 2007: Reflection

2007-11-15T07:54:00.000-08:00

Today, we had the opportunity to conduct some Extreme Makeovers for mathematics. I also introduced a concept called H.E.A.T. to help us think about ways of raising the bar for student engagement in the classroom. What causes one lesson to be at a higher level of engagement than another relates directly to the amount of HEAT generated.

HEAT
- Higher order thinking
- Engaged learning
- Authenticity
- Technology tools

During the morning, we discussed several makeover strategies for the video lessons presented (remember the lessons addressing central tendency, Archimedes Spiral, and area) as well as conducted an actual makeover for a math lesson addressing area and circumference of geometric shapes. The range of makeover ideas was excellent because they created more H.E.A.T. in the classroom which translates into improved student academic achievement. The actual makeover ideas appear below:

#1- Basketball/baseball comparison: Students will determine if pitching a baseball across home plate is easier than shooting a basketball through a basketball hoop based on their understanding of area and circumference.

#2 - Room Makeover: Students will conduct a classroom makeover in terms of rearranging and/or adding more furniture based on their understanding of area and circumference. Students will have to present a new blueprint for their proposed makeover using the Gliffy website.

#3 - Creating a Mural: Students will design a mural using different geometric shapes that will conform to the dimensions of an outside wall on a building in the Perth Amboy community. Students will use a digital camera to determine potential sites for the mural placement. Students will need to calculate area of the different locations in order to estimate the cost of paint, etc.

#4 - Inductive Reasoning: Students will work in small groups to inductively explore the concept of 3.14.

We ended the day with conducting a brief walkthrough of the online LoTi Classroom Teacher course as well as discussing topics for our December sessions. These topics included:

- Teaching Outside the Box, when Students Don't Know What's Inside the Box
- Using Technology Beyond Calculators
- Transient population enter middle math airspace

Kay will work with you in the meantime to submit one of your lessons for us to review through the LoTi Lounge.

Let me know if you have any questions.

May the LoTi Be With You Always!

Chris

LoTi Math Workshop - November 15th, 2007

2007-11-15T03:06:00.000-08:00

Good morning! Today, we are going to focus on elevating the level of teaching innovation through our work with lesson plan makeovers. Please comment on the agenda or any other issue surrounding math instruction at McGinnis Middle School.

Bloom Review
H.E.A.T.
Extreme Makeover (EM) Model
EM -Middle School Math lesson
21st Century Rubric
online LoTi Classroom Teacher
Next Steps

As you explore the connections between teaching and learning and effective technology use, I wanted to provide you with specific links to support your journey into the Land of Extreme Makeovers.

LoTi Tools:
Partnership for the 21st Century
Gaggle
ePals
Gliffy
Graphing Tools
Rubric Building Tools
Survey Tools
Graphic Organizer Tools
Web-based Projects
Google Earth

LoTi Resources:
Questioning Toolbox
Random Numbers
Creative Action
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
National Library of Math Manipulatives
Interactivate
Illuminations
Scorecard
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
LoTi Lounge
Blogger
Wikispaces

Turning Up the H.E.A.T.

2007-11-12T06:58:00.000-08:00

H.E.A.T. Rubric

Higher order thinking: (1-6)
1 Students taking notes only; no questions asked
2 Student learning/ questioning at knowledge level
3 Student learning/ questioning at comprehension level
4 Student learning/ questioning at application level
5 Student learning/ questioning at analysis level
6 Student learning/ questioning at synthesis/evaluation levels

Engaged learning (1-6):
1 Students report what they have learned only
2 Students report what they have learned only; collaborate with others
3 Students given options to solve a problem
4 Students given options to solve a problem; collaborate with others
5 Students help define the task, the process, and the solution
6 Students help define the task, the process, and the solution; collaboration extends beyond the classroom

Authenticity (0-5):
0 The learning experience is missing or too vague to determine relevance
1 The learning experience provides no real world application, or represents a group of connected activities
2 The learning experience provides limited real world relevance, but does not apply the learning to a real world situation
3 The learning experience provides extensive real world relevance, but does not apply the learning to a real world situation
4 The learning experience provides real world relevance and opportunity for students to apply their learning to a real world situation
5 The learning experience is directly relevant to students and involves creating a product that has a purpose beyond the classroom that directly impacts the students

Technology use (0-5):
0 No technology use is evident
1 Technology use is unrelated to the student task
2 Technology use appears to be an add-on and is not needed or task completion
3 Technology use is somewhat connected to task completion which involves one or more applications
4 Technology use is directly connected to task completion which involves one or more applications
5 Technology use is directly connected and needed for task completion and students determine which applications would best address their needs

LoTi Adminstrator Institute - Day 2

2007-10-30T22:14:00.000-07:00

Greetings and welcome to Day 2 of the LoTi Administrator Institute. Provided below is today's agenda.

• LoTi/H.E.A.T./Bloom - Review
• Individualized Professional Development Plan
• LoTi Case Study: 4th Grade Writing
• LoTi Case Study: 8th Grade Social Studies
• LoTi Case Study: Student Voices in Writing
• LoTi Case Study: 6th Grade Reading/Writing Reference
• LoTi Implementation Cycle
• Assess – Classroom Observation using BISD Walkthrough Form: Middle School
• Plan - Sample Middle School: Case Study
• Implement - H.E.A.T. Strategies
• Sustain - Classroom Observation using BISD Walkthrough Form: Elementary School
• LoTi Project Schools
• Next Steps Action Plan
• Summary & Reflection

H.E.A.T. Strategies:
• LoTi Digital-Age Survey
• Lesson Makeover
• Graphic Organizers
• Questioning Toolkit
• Bloom's Taxonomy
• Sample Classroom Walkthrough
• Rubrics
• Peer Observations
• Differentiated Instruction
• Differentiated Instruction for Advanced Learner
• Focus Strategies
• 21st Century Performance Assessments
• online Learning
1. Go to: www.loticlassroom.com

2. Click on the "Login" link in the upper right corner of the screen. Login with the demonstration user account:
Username: lotiguest
Password: lotiguest

3. Click on the LoTi Classroom Demo Course link to browse the course

Please leave a comment about any questions from yesterday's program or today's agenda.

May the LoTi Be With You!

Chris

LoTi Administrator Institute Day 1 - Reflection

2007-10-30T21:57:00.000-07:00

LoTi Adminstrator Institute - Day 1

2007-10-30T21:54:00.000-07:00

LoTi Tools & Resources

2007-10-22T04:00:00.000-07:00

LoTi Tools:
Partnership for the 21st Century
Gaggle
ePals
Gliffy
Graphing Tools
Rubric Building Tools
Survey Tools
Graphic Organizer Tools
Web-based Projects
Google Earth
Morphing Software Reviews
Bubbl.us

LoTi Resources:
Questioning Toolbox
Random Numbers
Creative Action
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
National Library of Math Manipulatives
Interactivate
Illuminations
Scorecard
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
LoTi Lounge
Blogger
Wikispaces
Traffic Light
Time for Kids
Truth or Fiction
Hannah Montana
Earth Footprint
Kindergarten Corner

http://www.earthday.net/footprint/

LoTi Sniff Test

2007-10-08T11:18:00.000-07:00

Is technology being used by students as part of the learning experience? - Yes/No
Is there evidence of higher order thinking by students tied to the content? - Yes/No
Are students applying their learning to solve a real world problem or situation or resolve an issue? - Yes/No
Is the learning experience student-centered? Yes/No
Is there two-way collaboration with experts outside the classroom? - Yes/No
Do students have unlimited access to technology during the school day? - Yes/No

Good Afternoon!

2007-10-08T10:24:00.000-07:00

Excellent job this morning with approximating H.E.A.T. and LoTi (Levels of Teaching Innovation) with various lesson plans and video clips. Provided below is today's agenda.

• Issues with Technology Use
• Extreme Technology Makeover
• LoTi Look-Fors & Sniff Test
• LoTi Sniff Test - Review
• LoTi Data
• Individualized Professional Development Plan
• DETAILS School Profiles
• LoTi Implementation Cycle
• LoTi Project Schools
• LoTi Project Schools
• LoTi Observer
• Lesson Plan Reviews
• LoTi Alignment Chart

Sample LoTi 3 Projects
LoTi 3 Case Study - Elementary School
LoTi 3 Case Study - Middle School
LoTi 3 Case Study - High School
H.E.A.T. Classroom Walkthroughs: Case Studies

Please leave a comment about any questions from today's program.

May the LoTi Be With You!

Chris

Greetings!

2007-09-24T08:53:00.000-07:00

Good morning! Today, we are going to focus on elevating the level of teaching innovation through our work with lesson plan makeovers. Please comment on the agenda or any other issue surrounding issues impacting instruction and assessment in Cy-Fair.

Bloom and LoTi Review
H.E.A.T.
Extreme Makeover (EM) Model
EM - Case Study - Science WebQuest
EM - Case Study - Math WebQuest
EM - Secondary Lesson Plans
21st Century Rubric
Next Steps

As you explore the connections between teaching and learning and effective technology use, I wanted to provide you with specific links to support your journey into the Land of Extreme Makeovers.

LoTi Tools:
Partnership for the 21st Century
Gaggle
ePals
Gliffy
Graphing Tools
Rubric Building Tools
Survey Tools
Graphic Organizer Tools
Web-based Projects
Google Earth

LoTi Resources:
Questioning Toolbox
Random Numbers
Creative Action
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
National Library of Math Manipulatives
Interactivate
Illuminations
Scorecard
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
LoTi Lounge
PHeT Simulations
Blogger
Wikispaces

Good Morning!

2007-09-24T08:49:00.000-07:00

Provided below are specific links to websites referenced during my Keynote Address, Implementing 21st Century Classrooms on a Shoestring Budget and Breakout Session, Outsourcing and Consultants on a Shoestring Budget:

Keynote Address Links
Partnership for the 21st Century
LoTi Connection
LoTi Framework

Breakout Session Links
LoTi Connection
Questioning Toolbox
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
LoTi Lounge
DETAILS Profile
LoTi Profile

Chris

Visual Arts/Music/PE LoTi Curriculum Session

2007-09-10T20:55:00.000-07:00

As requested, I have included the H.E.A.T. look-fors as well as the vertical alignment for a sample Visual Arts instructional unit addressing art principles and elements.

H.E.A.T. Analysis

High level processes (1-Low; 5-High):
Criteria Score
Student learning at knowledge level 1
Student learning at comprehension level 2
Student learning at application level 3
Student learning at analysis level 4
Student learning at synthesis/
evaluation level 5

Engaged learning (1-Low; 5-High):
Criteria Score
Students report what they have learned only 1
Students report what they have learned with
collaboration from others 2
Students given options to solve a problem 3
Students given options to solve a problem with
collaboration from others 4
Students help define the task, the process,
and the solution 5

Authenticity (1-Low; 5-High):
Criteria Score
No real world application 1
Limited real world relevance, but no applied
learning 2
Extensive real world relevance, but no applied
learning 3
Real world relevance and applied learning 4
Extensive real world relevance and applied
learning that has a purpose beyond classroom 5

Technology use (1-Low; 5-High):
Criteria Score
Unrelated to the task 1
Appears to be an add-on to task 2
Somewhat connected to task completion 3
Directly connection to task completion using
one or two applications 4
Directly connected to task completion and
students determine the best applications to
use 5

Visual Arts Vertical Alignment

2nd 6 Weeks - Grades K-5

Kindergarten: L2
Students will create a collage depicting some of the elements and principles of design including texture, pattern, and shape.

H - 2/6 - Students will be identifying the elements and principles of art
E - 2/6 - Students will be displaying elements and principles of art via collaboration
A - 3/6 - The learning experience provides limited real world relevance
T - 0/6 - Use of interactive white board

First Grade: L3
Students will produce a realistic piece of art for a first grade digital art gallery.

H - 6/6 - Students will be operating at the synthesis level relating to a rendition of a realistic piece of art
E - 3/6 - Students will be given limited options to create their piece of art
A - 5/6 - The learning experience provides real world relevance, and provides opportunity for students to apply their learning in a real-world context
T - 3/6 - Teacher using a digital photo for the digital art gallery; use of interactive white board

Second Grade: L3
Students will produce a rendition of abstract art for a second grade digital art gallery.

H - 6/6 - Students will be operating at the synthesis level relating to a rendition of an abstract art
E - 3/6 - Students will be given limited options to create their piece of art
A - 5/6 - The learning experience provides real world relevance, and provides opportunity for students to apply their learning in a real-world context
T - 3/6 - Teacher using a digital photo for the digital art gallery; use of interactive white board

Third Grade: L3
Students will produce a rendition of non-objective (non-representational) abstract art for a third grade digital art gallery.

H - 6/6 - Students will be operating at the synthesis level relating to a rendition of non-objective (non-representational) abstract art
E - 5/6 - Students will be given options involving the process as well as the final product to create their product/design
A - 5/6 - The learning experience provides real world relevance, and provides opportunity for students to apply their learning in a real-world context
T - 4/6 - Teacher using a digital photo for the digital art gallery as well as a Focus activity.

Fourth Grade: L3/4
Based on a target audience of fourth grade students, students will apply the principles of texture, pattern, and shape to create a T-Shirt design.

H - 6/6 - Students will be operating at the synthesis/evaluation level relating to the creation of their school shirt.
E - 4/6 - Students will be given options for designing their final product with collaboration
A - 5/6 - Students would be apply the art principles to the creation of a commercially-viable product/design
T - 5/6 - Students can use KidPix for their design

Fifth Grade: L4
Students will select their audience and then use the principles of texture, pattern, and shape to create a commercially-viable product or design.

H - 6/6 - Students will be operating at the synthesis/evaluation level relating to the creation of their product/design
E - 5/6 - Students will be given options involving the process as well as the final product to create their product/design
A - 5/6 - Students would be apply the art principles to the creation of a commercially-viable product/design
T - 5/6 - Students can use KidPix for their design

Greetings!

2007-09-03T10:19:00.000-07:00

Good morning! Today, we are going to focus on elevating the level of teaching innovation through our work with the 5E Model, Informal Assessment Strategies, Mad Math Minutes, and Open Ended Questions. As you explore the connections between teaching and learning and effective technology use, we wanted to provide you with specific links to support your instruction and assessment strategies in mathematics.

Math Links
Graphing Tools
Rubric Building Tools
Survey Tools
Graphic Organizer Tools
Questioning Toolbox
Random Numbers
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
National Library of Math Manipulatives
Interactivate
Illuminations
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
LoTi Lounge
Math Tools
Math Exemplars

Math Open-ended Questions/Prompts
Northern Kentucky University - Open-ended Responses
Open-ended Assessment in Mathematics
Rubrics and Open-ended Questions
Illuminations

Provided below is today's agenda

8:00 am Large Group - Informal Assessment Strategies #1 - Chris Moersch

9:00 am Breakout Sessions -

Breakout #1 - 5th Grade - 5E Math Lesson Demonstration - (Classroom - NBEA)
Breakout #2 - 6th Grade - Math Minutes/Benchmark #1 Review - (Cafeteria - District Math Coaches)
Breakout #3 - 7th/8th Grade - Benchmark #1 Technology Resources (Media Center - Campus Technology Specialists)

10:00 am Breakout Sessions -

Breakout #1 - 7th/8th Grade - 5E Math Lesson Demonstration - (Classroom - NBEA)
Breakout #2 - 5th Grade - Math Minutes/Benchmark #1 Review - (Cafeteria - District Math Coaches)
Breakout #3 - 6th Grade - Benchmark #1 Technology Resources (Media Center - Campus Technology Specialists)

11:00 am Lunch

12:30 pm Breakout Sessions -

Breakout #1 - 6th Grade - 5E Math Lesson Demonstration - (Classroom - NBEA)
Breakout #2 - 7th/8th Grade - Math Minutes/Benchmark #1 Review - (Cafeteria - District Math Coaches)
Breakout #3 - 5th Grade - Benchmark #1 Technology Resources (Media Center - Campus Technology Specialists)

1:45 pm Large Group - Open-ended Questions - Ray Allen/Chris Moersch

2:30 pm Large Group - Informal Assessments #2 - Chris Moersch

Greetings!

2007-08-28T04:57:00.000-07:00

Good morning! Today, we are going to focus on elevating the level of teaching innovation through our work with lesson plan makeovers. Please comment on the agenda or any other issue surrounding issues impacting instruction and assessment in Cy-Fair.

Bloom and LoTi Review
H.E.A.T.
Extreme Makeover (EM) Model
EM - Elementary Lesson Plans
21st Century Rubric
Next Steps

As you explore the connections between teaching and learning and effective technology use, I wanted to provide you with specific links to support your journey into the Land of Extreme Makeovers.

LoTi Tools:
Partnership for the 21st Century
Gaggle
ePals
Gliffy
Graphing Tools
Rubric Building Tools
Survey Tools
Graphic Organizer Tools
Web-based Projects
Google Earth

LoTi Resources:
Questioning Toolbox
Random Numbers
Creative Action
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
National Library of Math Manipulatives
Interactivate
Illuminations
Scorecard
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
LoTi Lounge
PHeT Simulations
Blogger
Wikispaces

Mental Health

2007-08-24T12:16:00.000-07:00

Please take a moment right now and complete the survey.

CMS Mental Health Survey

LoTi Mentor Certification Day 3 - Shelbyville, KY - August 16th, 2007

2007-08-16T04:11:00.000-07:00

Good Morning and welcome to Day 3 of our LoTi Mentor Certification Institute. Provided below is today's agenda.

H.E.A.T. Walkthroughs - HS/MS Levels
LoTi Sniff Test Review
Focus Strategies & Engaging Questions
Certification Task #4
EBAM
Certification Task #5
ABC Middle School School: Case Study
Certification Task #8
LoTi Project Schools
LoTi Mentor Submission Date/Process
LoTi Skill Sets & Resources
5 C’s of Instructional Leadership
Evaluation

Have a great day!

Chris

Link:

LoTi Classroom Teacher Online Course
Login: loti1
Password: loti1

LoTi Mentor Certification Days 1 & 2 - Shelbyville, KY - Reflections

2007-08-16T03:55:00.000-07:00

==================
On Tuesday, August 14th, Lora and Terry spent most of the day with you "LoTizing" video clips and related learning activities. Please consider the following points:

1.Having students apply what they have learned to a new authentic situation involves more than just depositing the information into a webpage, blog, wiki, or multimedia presentation; it requires students applying the pertinent concepts or skills to a situation that directly impacts the learner, his/her immediate surroundings, and/or the larger community. If this is not the case, then you most likely have either a LoTi 2 or 3 learning experience.

2. The easiest way to discriminate between LoTi 2 and 3 is the presence of (1) Higher Order Thinking Skills (Bloom's Taxonomy) or (2) one or more Complex Thinking Strategies. If a learning experience is teacher-directed and engages students exclusively at the Knowledge/Comprehension levels, then it is almost assuredly a LoTi 2 lesson. Conversely, if a learning experience is teacher-directed and engages students at the Application, Analysis, Synthesis, and/or Evaluation level or enables students to exercise one or more complex thinking strategies (i.e., Problem-solving, Creative Problem-solving, Decision-making, Investigation, Experimental Inquiry, Reasoning, Personal Reflection), then it is almost assuredly a LoTi 3 lesson.

3. Reaching consensus about the "learner-centeredness" of a classroom experience is sometimes difficult. The easiest way to achieve some type of consensus is to first divide the learning experience into three components: Content, Process, and Product. If you detect that a minimum of two out of three of these components is "learner-centered" then we call the entire experience a learner-centered activity. Conversely, if you detect that a minimum of two out of three of the components is "teacher-centered" then we call the entire experience a teacher-centered activity.

3. Whenever possible, use the LoTi "Sniff" Test to help approximate the LoTi of any lesson plan, web-project, or instructional unit.

4. A truly differentiated classroom has LoTi 0-4 occurring on a daily basis.

5. The appropriate or target LoTi should always be commensurate with the content standards being addresssed and at the desired level of student cognition.

==================
On Wednesday, August 15th, we focused on several areas impacting instruction, assessment, and technology use in the classroom such as how to model a LoTi 3 investigation (remember the Reaction Time for Middle School) as well as how to conduct a Lesson Plan Analysis on a sample web-based project (i.e., WebQuest - And They Came to the Streets that were Paved with Gold).

We also reviewed the procedures for your staff to complete the DETAILS for the 21st Century Questionnaire and then completed Certification Task #2 (Individualized Professional Development Plans) for a sample teacher.

I introduced another concept called H.E.A.T. to help us think about ways of implementing LoTi and 21st Century Skills/Themes in the classroom. Based on the Partnership for the 21st Century, these 21st Century Skills/Themes include:

21st Century Learning Skills
Information and Communication Skills
- Information and Media Literacy
- Communication Skills

Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
- Critical Thinking and Systems Thinking
- Problem-solving
- Creativity and Intellectual Curiosity

Interpersonal and Self-Directional Skills
- Interpersonal and Collaborative Skills
- Self-direction
- Accountability and Adaptability
- Social Responsibility

21st Century Themes
Global Awareness

Financial, Economic, Business and Entrepreneurial Literacy

Civic Literacy

Health and Wellness Awareness

I used a lava lamp as a metaphor to represent the different levels of LoTi in the classroom. What causes one lesson to be at a higher LoTi level than another relates directly to the amount of HEAT generated.

HEAT
- Higher order thinking
- Engaged learning
- Authenticity
- Technology tools

Keep in mind that the H.E.A.T. acronym represents four of the dimensions from the larger scoring guide that we use to evaluate lesson plans and instructional units. The reasons for addressing only four dimensions are threefold: (1) KISS principle, (2) reduce the amount of staff anxiety-already too many competing priorities going on in the classroom, and (3) hit the critical elements first.

We ended the day with conducting a H.E.A.T. observation of a middle school math classroom (Archimedes Screw) and a kindergarten classroom (Weather Prediction).

May the LoTi Be With You Always!

Chris

Interesting Links:

Survey Monkey
Zoo Tycoon
Explore Learning - Gizmos
National Budget Simulation
Baby Name Wizard

I look forward to your comments.

Chris

LoTi Mentor Certification Day 2 - Shelbyville, KY - August 15, 2007

2007-08-15T04:49:00.000-07:00

Greetings and welcome to Day 2 of the LoTi Mentor Certification Institute. Provided below is today's agenda.

Certification Task #1 - Review
21st Century Learning
H.E.A.T.
LoTi Sniff Test
DETAILS for the 21st Century Questionnaire
Certification Task #2
Extreme Technology Makeover - WebQuest Edition
Certification Task #3 - Review
LoTi 3 Case Study - Elementary School
LoTi 3 Case Study - Middle School
LoTi 3 Case Study - High School
Complex Thinking Strategies - Hollywood version
H.E.A.T. Classroom Walkthroughs

Please leave a comment about any questions from yesterday's program or today's agenda.

May the LoTi Be With You!

Chris

LHS Mission Statement Survey

2007-08-14T11:42:00.000-07:00

Click on the link below to take the LHS Mission Statement survey.

Click Here to take the Mission Statement survey

21st Century Skills & Themes

2007-08-14T04:05:00.000-07:00

21st Century Skills:
Information and Communication Skills
- Information and Media Literacy
- Communication Skills

Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
- Critical Thinking and Systems Thinking
- Problem-solving
- Creativity and Intellectual Curiosity

Interpersonal and Self-Directional Skills
- Interpersonal and Collaborative Skills
- Self-direction
- Accountability and Adaptability
- Social Responsibility

21st Century Themes:
Global Awareness

Financial, Economic, Business and Entrepreneurial Literacy

Civic Literacy

Health and Wellness Awareness

LHS Day 1 Reflection

2007-08-13T13:40:00.000-07:00

Thank you again for your energy and effort toward raising the temperature of school climate at Levelland High School. During the course of the day, we conducted a series of self-assessments (e.g., thinking styles, PIG personality profile) to help better understand our individual strengths, discussed and modeled the 5 characteristics of 212º Climate (i.e., Authenticy, Faith, Belief, Perseverance, and Kindness), and participated in a series of team building simulation designed to promote decision-making, problem-solving, and communications. We finished the day by developing a Mission Statement surrounding the 5 characteristics of 212º Climate

Sample Mission Statements:

The Focus of Levelland High School is to encourage students to become productive citizens by providing educational opportunities that promote positive attitudes and strong beliefs.

Levelland High School endeavors to create a positive learning environment focusing on those characteristics vital to success in school and life beyond high school. Administrators will foster a positive attitude throughout the LISD campus. Teachers will show kindness towards the students while continuing to believe in every student's potential. Through this process, the high degree of academic excellence as well as success outside the classroom will be maintained and preserved.

The mission of Levelland High School is to engage all students in their quest to achieve both personal and educational goals. By fostering teamwork, student success will be inevitable.

All stakeholders at Levelland High School will demonstrate an attitude that supports a positive and engaging learning environment, one committed to communicating high expectations for learning and achieving. We believe in every student's ability and unique potential to succeed and the importance of life-long learning. Teachers and students will persevere in the process of identifying appropriate learning methods and styles. With the support and kindness of each other as well as the community, this endeavor will be an ongoing mission.

Levelland High School will create the leadership needed to produce excellent attitudes and a belief that all students can succeed. By engaging, focusing, and relating to the students, a positive relationshp among all stakeholders will ensue based on the kindness and integrity of both students and staff.

Our mission at Levelland High School is to develop successful students through a positive and kind attitude along with a strong belief in the importance of education. Our students will focus and persevere above and beyond acceptable standards and succeed in life.

It is the mission of Levelland High School to foster a climate of success by promoting a positive attitude based on kindness in and out of the classroom and a belief that all students can achieve their dreams and goals through focus and perseverance.

The LHS community will approach learning using an optimistic viewpoint with the belief that all students will be successful in each area of life while aspiring to give their personal best and show their generosity of spirit. The staff will achieve this goal by providing a learning environment that promotes students using real-world applications.

Every student will have a positive attitude, demonstrate kindness toward each other, and focus on learning & success. As educators, we must empower each student to believe in themselves and have perseverance to reach their dreams and overcome obstacles.

The attitude and beliefs that we give needs to focus on teaching our students perseverance and kindness.

Mission Statement Links:

Sample Mission Statements
About Mission Statements

Good Morning!

2007-08-13T02:35:00.000-07:00

Welcome to today's program focusing on 212º Climate at Levelland High School. Provided below is a link to the Thinking Styles website. Please complete the following steps:

1. Access the web link below.
Thinking Styles Inventory

2. Complete the Thinking Styles Inventory

3. Review your results page.
Interpret Your Results

4. Check off the highest intensity level for each category (e.g., Functions of Thinking Styles) on your "About Me... handout.

5. Add a Comment to this Blog as to how this Thinking Styles Inventory relates to how you interact with others on campus.

6. Enter your School Climate Score Card results based on our earlier School Climate Survey.
Click Here to access Levelland High School Cimate Survey

Good Luck!

LoTi Mentor Certification Day 1 - Shelbyville, KY - August 14th, 2007

2007-08-12T06:30:00.000-07:00

Today, we will begin Day 1 of the LoTi Mentor Certification Institute at the Shelbyville, Board of Education. The agenda will consist of the following events:

LoTi Mentor Certification
Issues with Technology Use
Extreme Technology Makeover
Think about Bloom
LoTi Framework
LoTi Classroom Observations
Certification Task #1
Lesson Plan Analysis
Certification Task #3

Let me know of any concerns or questions you have with the agenda or the institute itself. Your comments are greatly appreciated. By the way, check out some of the links below:

21st Century Resources:
LoTi Connection
Partnership for the 21st Century
Questioning Toolbox
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
LoTi Lounge

Lora

LoT Orientation

2007-08-09T09:01:00.000-07:00

During the course of the day, I have adjusted the agenda to address the areas of responsibility and grade levels of our participants. Provided below is the "after-lunch" agenda.

• Issues with Technology Use
• Bloom Workout
• Extreme Technology Makeover
• LoTi Look-Fors & Sniff Test
• LoTi Implementation Strategies (Seagull Simulation)
• Take the LoTi DETAILS survey
• LoTi Implementation Cycle
• LoTi Project Schools
• LoTi Observation
• H.E.A.T.
•Lesson Plan Submission*

I would like you to submit your completed lesson plan to me directly at: chris@learning-quest.com. I will give you feedback based on the H.E.A.T. rubric and email back to you my comments.

21st Century Resources:
LoTi Connection
Partnership for the 21st Century
Questioning Toolbox
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
Thinkfinity
WebQuest

Have Fun!

Chris
chris@learning-quest.com

LoTi Mentor Certification Day 3 - Murray, KY - Reflection

2007-07-22T11:21:00.000-07:00

I wish to compliment each of you for your intensity level, dedication, and commitment to high level "teaching innovation" during the LoTi Mentor Certification Institute at Murray State University. You folks were great!

On our third day of certification, we focused on H.E.A.T. Walkthroughs (remember Mr. Mayorga - "...that was big, big, really big."), "Focus" Strategies and Engaging Questions, EBAM (Experiential-based Action Model), Certification Tasks #5 (EBAM), and Certification Task #8 (Next Steps Action Plan). During the Focus Strategies intervention, I articulated critical differences between Essential Questions and Engaging Questions. A summary of Essential and Engaging Questions appear below:

Essential Questions:
They are open-ended and resist a simple or single right answer.
They are deliberately thought-provoking, counterintuitive, and/or controversial.
They require students to draw upon content knowledge and personal experience.
They address the highest levels of Bloom’s Taxonomy (Evaluation).
They invite inquiry by students throughout the year.

Engaging Questions:
They often lead to students solving a real world problem or resolving a personal situation .
They are the result of dissonance in the student’s perception of his/her world.
They allow students to draw upon content knowledge and personal experience.
They give students purpose and meaning to their inquiry.
They are student-generated.

During the past three days, I modeled different professional development interventions including Focus Strategies and Engaging Questions and the Few Computer Classroom (e.g., Monster Exchange, 270 to Win, Reaction Time) as well as described how you can use both your LMC CD and Manual to create dynamic professional development interventions for teachers. I coined these interventions, LoTi Skill Sets. These skill sets appear below:

LoTi Skill Sets - Extreme Tech Makeovers
• Evaluating Web Projects Handout
LMC Manual - Page 89
• Introduce Makeover Candidate (e.g., lesson plan, instruction unit, learning experience, Web project)
• Conduct Makeover
• Show Before/After

LoTi Skill Sets - Performance Tasks
• Evaluating Web Projects
LMC Manual - Page 145
LoTi Mentor CD - Session #8
• Supersizing Lesson Plans
LMC Manual - Page 102
• Designing “High-Octane” Performance Tasks
LoTi Mentor CD - Session #7
LoTi Mentor CD - Session #9

LoTi Skill Sets - LoTi Framework
• Classroom Technology Case Study
LoTi Mentor CD - Session #1
• LoTi Framework
LMC Manual - Page 55
LoTi Mentor CD - Session #2
• LoTi Observations
LoTi Mentor CD - Session #3
• LoTi Review - Manatee Cards, Teacher Narratives, WebQuests, Sample Lesson Plans, LoTi Mentor CD -
Session #4

LoTi Skill Sets - Thinking Skills
• Bloom Review - Discrepant Event (e.g., Spiderman)
LMC Manual - Page 40
• Bloom Workout Videos
LoTi Mentor CD - Session #3
• Complex Thinking Simulation
LMC Manual - Page 46
LoTi Mentor CD - Session #6

LoTi Skill Sets - Differentiated Instruction
• Roll the Dice PowerPoint Simulation
LMC Manual - Page 163
• Evaluating Web Projects - Differentiation
LMC Manual - Page 98
• High/Low Simulation
LMC Manual - Page 162

LoTi Skill Sets - Target Tech Units
• The Great American Apple Pie Simulation
LoTi Mentor CD - Session #10
• Apollo 13 Presentation
LoTi Mentor CD - Session #11
• Experiential-based Action Model Units
LMC Manual - Page 164
LoTi Mentor CD - Session #12

LoTi Skill Sets - Rubrics
• Clapping Simulation
LMC Manual - Page 139
• Good, Better, Best Simulation
LMC Manual - Page 142
• online Rubric Makers (e.g., RubiStar)

Thank you again for becoming an active participant in the LoTi Mentor Certification Program. As a reminder, your LMC submissions are due no later than October 31st, 2007. In the meantime, if there is any aspect of the program that you would like clarified, please let me know. I hope all of you given serious consideration to becoming LoTi Project Schools for the 2007-08 school year.

Sincerely,

Chris Moersch
chris@learning-quest.com

LoTi Mentor Certification Day 3 - Murray, KY - July 19th, 2007

2007-07-18T22:51:00.000-07:00

Good Morning and welcome to Day 3 of our LoTi Mentor Certification Institute. Provided below is today's agenda.

H.E.A.T. Walkthroughs - K/HS Levels
LoTi Sniff Test Review
Focus Strategies & Engaging Questions
Certification Task #4
EBAM
Certification Task #5
ABC Middle School School: Case Study
Certification Task #8
LoTi Project Schools
LoTi Mentor Submission Date/Process
LoTi Skill Sets & Resources
5 C’s of Instructional Leadership
Evaluation

Have a great day!

Chris

Link:

LoTi Classroom Teacher Online Course
Login: loti1
Password: loti1

LoTi Mentor Certification Day 2 - Murray, KY - Reflection

2007-07-18T21:42:00.000-07:00

Today, we focused on several areas impacting instruction, assessment, and technology use in the classroom such as how to model LoTi 3 investigations (remember the Monster Exchange for Elementary School, Reaction Time for Middle School, and Electoral College for High School ) as well as how to conduct an Lesson Plan Analysis on a sample web-based project (i.e., WebQuest - And They Came to the Streets that were Paved with Gold).

We also reviewed the procedures for your staff to complete the DETAILS for the 21st Century Questionnaire and then completed Certification Task #2 (Individualized Professional Development Plans) for a sample teacher.

I introduced another concept called H.E.A.T. to help us think about ways of implementing LoTi and 21st Century Skills/Content in the classroom. Based on the Partnership for the 21st Century, these 21st Century Skills/Content include:

21st Century Learning Skills
Information and Communication Skills
- Information and Media Literacy
- Communication Skills

Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
- Critical Thinking and Systems Thinking
- Problem-solving
- Creativity and Intellectual Curiosity

Interpersonal and Self-Directional Skills
- Interpersonal and Collaborative Skills
- Self-direction
- Accountability and Adaptability
- Social Responsibility

21st Century Content
Global Awareness

Financial, Economic, Business and Entrepreneurial Literacy

Civic Literacy

Health and Wellness Awareness

I used a lava lamp as a metaphor to represent the different levels of LoTi in the classroom. What causes one lesson to be at a higher LoTi level than another relates directly to the amount of HEAT generated.

HEAT
- Higher order thinking
- Engaged learning
- Authenticity
- Technology tools

Keep in mind that the H.E.A.T. acronym represents four of the dimensions from the larger scoring guide that we use to evaluate lesson plans and instructional units. The reasons for addressing only four dimensions are threefold: (1) KISS principle, (2) reduce the amount of staff anxiety-already too many competing priorities going on in the classroom, and (3) hit the critical elements first.

We ended the day with conducting a H.E.A.T. observation of a middle school science classroom focusing on heat transfer.

May the LoTi Be With You Always!

Chris

Requested Links:

Survey Monkey
Zoo Tycoon
Explore Learning - Gizmos
National Budget Simulation
Baby Name Wizard

LoTi Mentor Certification Day 2 - Murray, KY - July 18th, 2007

2007-07-18T04:10:00.000-07:00

Greetings and welcome to Day 2 of the LoTi Mentor Certification Institute. Provided below is today's agenda.

Certification Task #1 - Review
21st Century Learning
H.E.A.T.
LoTi Sniff Test
DETAILS for the 21st Century Questionnaire
Certification Task #2
Extreme Technology Makeover - WebQuest Edition
Certification Task #3
LoTi 3 Case Study - Elementary School
LoTi 3 Case Study - Middle School
LoTi 3 Case Study - High School
Complex Thinking Strategies - Hollywood version
H.E.A.T. Classroom Walkthroughs

Leave a comment about any questions from yesterday's program or today's agenda.

May the LoTi Be With You!

Chris

LoTi Mentor Certification Day 1 - Murray, KY - Reflection

2007-07-18T04:06:00.000-07:00

Since most of the day was spent "LoTizing" video clips and related learning activities, I wanted to provide you with some additional suggestions when conducting classroom walkthroughs or reviewing student products.

1.Having students apply what they have learned to a new authentic situation involves more than just depositing the information into a webpage, blog, wiki, or multimedia presentation; it requires students applying the pertinent concepts or skills to a situation that directly impacts the learner, his/her immediate surroundings, and/or the larger community. If this is not the case, then you most likely have either a LoTi 2 or 3 learning experience.

2. The easiest way to discriminate between LoTi 2 and 3 is the presence of (1) Higher Order Thinking Skills (Bloom's Taxonomy) or (2) one or more Complex Thinking Strategies. If a learning experience is teacher-directed and engages students exclusively at the Knowledge/Comprehension levels, then it is almost assuredly a LoTi 2 lesson. Conversely, if a learning experience is teacher-directed and engages students at the Application, Analysis, Synthesis, and/or Evaluation level or enables students to exercise one or more complex thinking strategies (i.e., Problem-solving, Creative Problem-solving, Decision-making, Investigation, Experimental Inquiry, Reasoning, Personal Reflection), then it is almost assuredly a LoTi 3 lesson.

3. Reaching consensus about the "learner-centeredness" of a classroom experience is sometimes difficult. The easiest way to achieve some type of consensus is to first divide the learning experience into three components: Content, Process, and Product. If you detect that a minimum of two out of three of these components is "learner-centered" then we call the entire experience a learner-centered activity. Conversely, if you detect that a minimum of two out of three of the components is "teacher-centered" then we call the entire experience a teacher-centered activity.

3. Whenever possible, use the LoTi "Sniff" Test to help approximate the LoTi of any lesson plan, web-project, or instructional unit.

4. A truly differentiated classroom has LoTi 0-4 occurring on a daily basis.

5. The appropriate or target LoTi should always be commensurate with the content standards being addresssed and at the desired level of student cognition.

6. As a reference, I have included the citations from "Issues with Technology Use" from yesterday's program.

A. Technology use coupled with effective instructional strategies can improve student achievement.

Marzano, Robert. J. What works in schools: translating research into action. ASCD: Alexandria, Virginia. 2002.

Center for Applied Research in Educational Technology (CARET). ISTE. http://caret.iste.org/

LoTi Connection. Learning Quest. Inc. http://www.loticonnection.com

The George Lucas Educational Foundation. http: www.edutopia.org

North Central Regional Educational Laboratory. http://www.ncrel.org/tech/

eMints National Center. http:///www.emints.org/evaluation/reports

B. Technology increases the complexity of the tasks that students can perform successfully, raises student motivation, and leads to changes in classroom roles and organization.

Baker, E. L., Gearhart, M., & Herman, J. L. (1994). Evaluating the Apple classrooms of tomorrow. In E. L. Baker H. F. O'Neil, Jr. (Eds.), Technology assessment in education and training (pp. 173-197). Hillsdale, NJ: Erlbaum.

Dwyer, D. C., Ringstaff, C., & Sandholtz, J. (1990). The evolution of teachers' instructional beliefs and practices in high-access-to-technology classrooms. Paper presented at the annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association, Boston.

Means, B., Blando, J., Olson, K., Middleton, T., Morocco, C.C., Remz, A.R., & Zorfass, J. (1993, September). Using technology to support education reform. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Education.

C. Technology can enhance both what and how children learn when used in conjunction with: (1) active engagement, (2) participation in groups, (3) frequent interaction and feedback, and (4) connections to real-world contexts.

Roschelle, J.M. Pea, R.D., Hoadley, C.M., Gordin, D.N. and Means, B.M. (2000). Changing how and what children learn in school with computer-based technologies. The Future of Children, 10:2, 76-101

Papanastasiou, E., Zemblyas, M., & Vrasidas, C. (2003). Can computer use hurt science achievement? Journal of Science Education and Technology, 12 (3), 325-332.

Also, think about LoTi as Levels of Teaching Innovation rather than Levels of Technology Implementation. It will prove most beneficial as you begin to implement LoTi on your campus or in your district.

I look forward to your comments.

Chris

LoTi Sniff Test

2007-07-18T04:04:00.000-07:00

Is technology being used in the classroom? - Yes/No
Is technology being used by students as part of the learning experience? - Yes/No
Is there evidence of higher order thinking by students tied to the content? - Yes/No
Are students applying their learning to solve a real world problem or situation or resolve an issue? - Yes/No
Is the learning experience student-centered? Yes/No
Is there two-way collaboration with experts outside the classroom? - Yes/No
Do students have unlimited access to technology during the school day? - Yes/No

LoTi Mentor Certification Day 1 - Murray, KY - July 17th, 2007

2007-07-17T05:52:00.000-07:00

Today, we will begin Day 1 of the LoTi Mentor Certification Institute at Murray State University. The agenda will consist of the following events:

LoTi Mentor Certification
Issues with Technology Use
Extreme Technology Makeover
Think about Bloom
LoTi Framework
LoTi Classroom Observations
Certification Task #1
Lesson Plan Analysis
Certification Task #3

Let me know of any concerns or questions you have with the agenda or the institute itself. Your comments are greatly appreciated. By the way, check out some of the links below:

21st Century Resources:
LoTi Connection
Partnership for the 21st Century
Questioning Toolbox
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
LoTi Lounge

Chris

Today's Agenda

2007-06-20T03:44:00.000-07:00

Good Morning. Welcome to Levelland ISD's 21st Century Assessment Writer's Workshop. Today, we will brainstorm and draft performance assessments that truly inspire students to apply their content understanding to real world problem-solving that requires lots of H.E.A.T.

LoTi Review

21st Century Skills/Content

H.E.A.T. Case Study

Performance-based Assessment

LISD 21st Century Assessments

21st Century Resources:
LoTi Connection
Partnership for the 21st Century
Questioning Toolbox
LoTi Schools Bookmarks
Thinkfinity
WebQuest
LoTi Lounge
Kathy Schrock's Guide for Educators

LoTi MATRIX Administrator Workshop - Reflection

2007-06-05T13:42:00.000-07:00

Thank you again for attending the LoTi MATRIX Administrator Workshop at the Cherry Hill Public Library. Today, we focused on strategies for ensuring the sustainability of the MATRIX grant during the 2008-09 school year. During the workshop, we discussed 21st Century learning opportunities, reviewed the LoTi and CIP Frameworks, conducted H.E.A.T. Observation Walk-throughs, and developed a draft Next Steps Action Plan that addressed student achievement in mathematics.

During the morning session, I introduced the 5'C's of instructional leadership which included:

* Cultivation
* Creativity
* Commitment
* Courage
* Communication

Implementing the 5'C's in conjuction with H.E.A.T. (Higher order thinking, Engaged learning, Authentic assessments, and effective Technology use will raise ASK and GEPA scores as well as elevate the Level of Teaching Innovation in the classroom.

Provided below are links to additional resource websites and sample "action steps" that can aid your campus in addressing AYP priorities for mathematics and raising the Level of Teaching Innovation in the classroom.

Workshop-generated Strategies
* Integrate 21st Century performance tasks every 6 weeks in 6th=8th grade math curriculum
* Develop cross-curricular PBL for each grade level
* Involve special teachers (music, art, health) with cross-curricular PBL projects
* Model LoTi 3 and 4 lessons for staff
* Seek out a "community-support" person to enhance cross-curricular PBL projects
* Require MATRIX participants to mentor at least one non-MATRIX teacher in the "tech-infused" PBL process
* Institute H.E.A.T. Forums to highlight cross-curricular project results
* Conduct H.E.A.T. walkthroughs once a month
* Critique lesson plans based on H.E.A.T.
* Allow teachers to self-assess themselves based on the H.E.A.T. rubric
* Evaluate GEPA results to guide curriculum mapping
* Have teachers design lesson plans based on H.E.A.T.
* Distribute the updated H.E.A.T. Walkthrough form and distribute to staff
* Have staff discuss how rigor impacts assessment and evaluation
* Elevate expectations based on H.E.A.T.
* Have students complete an observation of the classroom based on H.E.A.T.

Links:
LoTi
CIP
LoTi Project Schools
Partnership for the 21st Century

Today's Agenda

2007-06-05T05:51:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the New Jersey MATRIX Administrator's Workshop. Provided below is today's agenda.

Morning Session:
• 21st Century Skills/Content
• 5 C's of Leadership
• LoTi Review
• CIP Review
• H.E.A.T
Afternoon Session:
• LoTi Project Implementation Cycle
• ABC Middle School Case Study
• Next Steps Action Plan
•Evaluation

Let me know if you have any questions or concerns with today's program.

Chris

LoTi Mentor Certification Institute Day 3 - Bedford, TX -May 31st, 2007

2007-05-31T03:21:00.000-07:00

Good Morning and welcome to Day 3 of our LoTi Mentor Certification Institute. Provided below is today's agenda.

LoTi Narratives
Professional Development Intervention
Certification Task #4
LoTi Walkthroughs
Focus Strategies & EBAM
Certification Task #5
LoTi Project Schools
LoTi Mentor Submission Date/Process
LoTi Skill Sets
Certification Task #8
Mission Statement
Evaluation

Cool Links from Yesterday
270towin
Lemonade Stand
National Budget Simulation
Baby Name Wizard

Have a great day!

Chris

LoTi Mentor Certification Institute Day 2 - Bedford, TX -Reflection

2007-05-31T03:13:00.000-07:00

Today, we focused on several areas impacting instruction, assessment, and technology use in the classroom such as how to conduct professional development interventions (remember the High-Octane Culminating Task PD) as well as how to conduct Extreme Technology Makeovers (remember the two makeovers - And They Came To the Streets That Were Paved with Gold/Dance with a Molecule). During the High-Octane Culminating Task PD, I outlined the attributes of a culminating task and a high-octane culminating task. These attributes appear below:

Culminating Performance Task Characteristics:
* Assess student demonstration of critical content
* Incorporate several instructional activities that precede them
* Relate to students’ prior knowledge
* Represent an end-product

High-octane Performance Task Characteristics:
* Assess student demonstration of critical content
* Incorporate several instructional activities that precede them
* Relate to students’ prior knowledge
* Represent an end-product
* Allow for multiple pathways or solutions
* Require complex thinking strategies
* Have personal meaning or authenticity
* Apply learning to a new situation or context
* Are challenging

We also spent time creating Individualized Professional Development Plans for teachers based on their current DETAILS profile, LoTi, CIP, and PCU data.

I introduced another concept to help us think about LoTi and the eight stages comprising the LoTi Framework. I used a lava lamp as a metaphor to represent the different levels of LoTi in the classroom. What causes one lesson to be at a higher level than another relates directly to the amount of HEAT generated.

HEAT
- Higher order thinking
- Engaged learning
- Authenticity
- Technology tools

Keep in mind that the H.E.A.T. acronym represents four of the dimensions from the larger scoring guide that we used today to evaluate a lesson plan. The reasons for addressing only four dimensions are threefold: (1) KISS principle, (2) reduce the amount of staff anxiety-already too many competing priorities going on in the classroom, and (3) hit the critical elements first.

May the LoTi Be With You Always!

Chris

LoTi Mentor Certification Institute Day 2 - Bedford, TX -May 30th, 2007

2007-05-29T13:54:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Day 2 of the LMC Institute! Provided below is today's agenda. Please comment on today's agenda or any other topic that we discussed yesterday.

21st Century Learning
H.E.A.T.
Certification Task #2
Manatee LoTi Cards
LoTi Sniff Test - Review
Complex Thinking Strategies - Hollywood version
Professional Development Intervention - High-Octane Performance Tasks
Certification Task #4
Lesson Plan Analysis
Certification Task #3
EBAM
Certification Task #5
LoTi Project Schools

Cool Links:
Teacher Tube
Scorecard
Ohm Zone
Gaggle
Random.Org
PhET Simulations
Baby Name Wizard
Gliffy

May the LoTi Be With You Always!

Chris