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We are almost 4 weeks into the school year and things are going very well. This has probably been my best year of teaching so far! Making the decision to flip has been completely rewarding for both myself and my students. I had not intended to make all my classes flipped. I was going to keep a traditional method with Algebra 2. However, due to the immense amount of math level differences in my class, I felt it was in the best interest of the students to flip. So far, so good. But, I will need to come up with a good way to keep my students accountable for watching the videos. I have WSQ charts in my Pre-Calculus and AP Stats classes and a google-form for summary questions after each video, but I have not implemented anything in Algebra 2 yet, just because of a lack of time to get it all together. (If you would like information on WSQ Charts let me know and I can forward you some info!)

I have decided, though, to begin my foray into blended learning. I know that the flipped classroom is a type of blended learning, but I wanted more differentiated instruction, so I am now taking my Algebra 2 classes to the computer lab once per week to work on Khan Academy and integrating that into their grade depending on their mastery of topics. While they are working independently, I work with a small group of students on certain topics for intervention. This has seemed to work out well, especially for the students who are repeating Algebra 2 and can move on to more advanced topics. I am hoping for some Chromebooks soon. Then, we will be able to stay in class and do this on a near daily basis with a "station-rotation" model.

As much as I am enjoying the new method, and do not feel like ever going back, I am having a really hard time keeping up with the workload. Making my own videos has consumed about 2 hours per day. I can't keep up with grading and creating assignments. I would recommend others to do this way in advance to be ahead. I know that once this year is done, I will have all of the materials and videos complete...but for now...it's painful.

First Day is tomorrow! — Aug 12, 2014 6:41:15 PM