However, I have noticed quite a few students still have difficulty to share their thinking. In order to help them "see their thinking, we started to use different color pens and pencils (see first image above) They start with one color. They use this to highlight the question and record what the important details (Step 1 and 2 of Unpacking using Depth and Complexity ) When they decide which strategy to use, they use a different color. Each time, they start something new, they alternate colors. This process has helped immensely when students begin to share out their thinking. I decided to take the next plunge and use technology as a tool.
I've used Educreations during Reading Workshop so students were familiar with it. The students were engaged, excited to share their new learning, and it was a great way to also share with parents. (Click here to read more about Educreations in Reading Workshop) I thought CGI would be the perfect opportunity for our next steps to create a multi-page slideshow, where students could share a new strategy on each slide.
One great benefit of using Educreations, is I can hear and see the thinking of ALL students. I "walk the room" and hear many conversation during our time, but it is impossible to interact with every single student during our CGI hour. Through Educreations, I can always hear and see their thinking remotely after school. Another bonus, is these educreations can be shared with parents, so they can hear their child thinking through a CGI problem. Check out this example. It's a win-win! For more on how to integrate CGI and Educreations, click here.