Teachers
Bill Smallfield and Deb Kaiser make up the 5th grade teaching team at Westwood Elementary School. These veteran teachers collaborate to develop opportunities for students to engage with the standards.Instructional Strategy
Book reports and book talks are classic fifth grade assignments for a good reason. They allow students to read books that match their interests and reading abilities while allowing teachers to ensure learning targets are met. In previous years, Deb and Bill have given the option to create posters to allow for more creativity, and last year they added the option of using Google Slides. No matter the medium, students are asked to present about their book to the class.This year, Deb and Bill worked closely with Kathy Kero, Westwood media specialist, to give students the option of creating videos on WeVideo rather than standing at the front of the room and presenting. Some students in the class were comfortable standing and speaking, while others tried the new video option. One shy student chose to create a video because she was scared of public speaking. She spoke on the video and was able to participate in the assignment in a way that made her more comfortable. Another student recorded himself speaking while showing his Google Slides, and yet another incorporated pictures to accompany the things he was talking about. Some students were inspired by watching their classmates’ videos and went back to edit their own to incorporate more ideas.
Adding an alternate way to complete the book report and book talk assignment allows Bill and Deb’s students an opportunity to express themselves in the way that best fit them while still meeting the standards. Students are engaged and excited about the videos and have requested a WeVideo option for future assignments.
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