3rd grade is trying something new!

This week the 3rd grade is finishing their state top ten lists.  They spent weeks finding interesting facts and turned those details into convincing reasons to visit their states.  In the past, the kids presented their speeches at a podium in front of the class.  This year, we used an online video software called FlipGrid to film their state lists.  At first, some of the students felt a little nervous about recording themselves, but after a couple of practice runs, they turned into master film-makers! The software allows them to easily record, pause filming and delete mistakes.  They have created amazing final presentations.  Not only are these students having fun recording themselves, but it seems that using FlipGrid motivates
them to take ownership of their projects.  I have seen greater engagement and investment in the presentation of their speeches than in previous years.  After they finish their videos, the students will  record video reflections about their research process, how they organized their facts, and how they felt about their final products.