tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3442201510625702162024-03-12T19:45:33.477-05:00Mrs. Tilmon Says...wife to my amazing man.
mom to 2 gorgeous girlies.
passionate math teacher.
clean and simple scrapper.
enjoy karen kingsbury novels.
love all things pottery barn.
adore smiles, scripture, and a messy scrap table.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger118125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-24942201903641010122014-05-06T10:45:00.002-05:002014-05-06T10:45:52.343-05:00Teacher Appreciation Week: 2 of My Favorite Sales!<a href="http://www.kaganonline.com/" target="_blank">Kagan</a> is offering a very <a href="http://www.kaganonline.com/special_offer/teacher_appreciation_day.php" target="_blank">sweet deal</a> for Teacher Appreciation Day. They are offering 50% off books until midnight on May 6. These are the most loved Kagan books on my shelf:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.kaganonline.com/catalog/look_whats_inside/BKHSM_inside.php" target="_blank"><img alt=" Cooperative Learning & Mathematics High School" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWiRJ3H2yYWWyCU708ydpBYsZHdx8hAGaswNMRi009QdYV_YIqCHgopc3RzVJR0g7lzFF-kCi6khzQv_TdKi5-ewyUgqrCVbwYbpDtweGu7AHZNva1RBkPPKgGgEUg_xu658Bex4nyd9I/s1600/CL+Mathematics+High+School.jpg" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kaganonline.com/catalog/look_whats_inside/BKHSM_inside.php" target="_blank">CL Mathematics (8-12)</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.kaganonline.com/catalog/look_whats_inside/BKT_inside.php" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0pbJy_W800akviU0jhgAgT0t8unC1L36HQ1jXXbemfLCp_x9_KIgIGRfYVkfqn8_JJSs0SJK0qbokSFoCxpnHBSfylERBxlA5IoYn0Hx4NEZuWbxGpOGe6nEePkebNyLucKBWHmaRpgQ/s1600/CL+Teambuilding.png" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.kaganonline.com/catalog/look_whats_inside/BKT_inside.php" target="_blank">Teambuilding</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.kaganonline.com/catalog/look_whats_inside/BTV_inside.php" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgceYZ7aCVuQSL2COTHOY6Hc5HYdjNz_Zs8dRpjnJ_S3bC_XrLwWJNZnRSz7VtMBIQBboypUvPXnTCsmb1wXOzLVI_LPYIT5EiLffvUp318uX4Vg8V3QwND7uuUuyRhiN526YBTYo7OFKs/s1600/CL+Vocabulary.png" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kaganonline.com/catalog/look_whats_inside/BTV_inside.php" target="_blank">Vocabulary</a></td></tr>
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And TpT is offering a two-day for Teacher Appreciation Week because they {heart} teachers too! So hop on over to <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Lisa-Tilmon" target="_blank">TeachersPayTeachers</a>...and be sure to watch the time ticking on the banner so you don't miss the sale prices.<br /><br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk_SPzE3KkU1uAYxyn1k7vEP8LmcywIXmn0uRIyhGBUTR-GfZqzo-udhDjicdwrMzL8DAcC75DcnahnyBVXCYZdneLHEhPqFobQYawYbv8VNxsWxGlCUQoz-8TpPZHnoyFy2SR2Q35HhY/s1600/sale_300_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk_SPzE3KkU1uAYxyn1k7vEP8LmcywIXmn0uRIyhGBUTR-GfZqzo-udhDjicdwrMzL8DAcC75DcnahnyBVXCYZdneLHEhPqFobQYawYbv8VNxsWxGlCUQoz-8TpPZHnoyFy2SR2Q35HhY/s1600/sale_300_300.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">28% off my entire store with promo code!!</td></tr>
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Happy Teacher Appreciation Week to all of the teachers serving students today! Thank you so much for your countless hours invested in the lives of children. If you're a teacher who is reading this post, please leave a comment sharing what grade you teach...my readers would love to join me in thanking each one of you!<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwL6KurdLzgT_AD5yOQa9ZnMcfzAmLwbXEmJeiV02cIOggazoTqgD8lxRPdxucJK5TFW4psQ8GSEiHlU2tTS9RbAQ1knz2r44Wo3bxnOVEb8nPNFBZyx13mrRXpztu9fRM_viRpufKTY/s1600/signature.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-69352684173761332462014-05-02T16:02:00.001-05:002014-05-02T16:02:10.215-05:00Just Around the Corner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I love recording a snapshot at the beginning of the month!<br />It's time to link up with <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2014/05/may-currently.html" target="_blank">Farley's "Currently" Party</a> over at <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Oh Boy Fourth Grade</a>.</div>
Come join the fun!<br /><br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbpXCXKJVQRpAssyU6IjJUK8AK5nI7au_O7AA8BoKN81gSFmj5RCUnC9p0m2WZE2R4gLwrCWbCMgbjsb2zY_eklt5Drm9p1PQAJ3-vkgiGzk-43ZuDWWtxc6rhEkRiWs6uykscNc0vrV8/s1600/Currently+May+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbpXCXKJVQRpAssyU6IjJUK8AK5nI7au_O7AA8BoKN81gSFmj5RCUnC9p0m2WZE2R4gLwrCWbCMgbjsb2zY_eklt5Drm9p1PQAJ3-vkgiGzk-43ZuDWWtxc6rhEkRiWs6uykscNc0vrV8/s1600/Currently+May+2014.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
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Listening:<br />
Radio stations in the High Desert are inconsistent at best. So I have an app that plays my favorite KLRC...plus it brings a little dose of the South to my west coast home. ;)<br />
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Loving:<br />
Today is Happy Hair Day! Yay! Nothing makes this girly happier than a new cut and color.<br />
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Thinking:<br />
It's always time to organize. Ha! That's just how I roll. But really. I have lots of ideas spinning and causing me to be easily distracted. No bueno!<br />
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Wanting:<br />
Yep. The current idea spinning before choosing to create this Currently post is statistics. Brainstorming a smooth transition from the statistics unit in Grade 6 to the continuation in Grade 7. Must get this on paper today!<br />
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Needing:<br />
Confession. I'm not a fan of feet. At ALL! So I prefer to paint my own toes. But you can only do that for so long until you need a bit of professional goodness. Definitely needing a pedicure!<br />
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Surprise:<br />
It's been years since I first ran into <a href="http://venspired.com/" target="_blank">Krissy Venosdale</a> online. And I've followed her on Twitter for a while also. You've probably spied her talent all over Pinterest tagged with "venspired" in the corner. She is the perfect mix of creative and compassionate! I've got Krissy on my mind because I used one of her book recommendations in a Genius Hour session earlier this week. Hunt her down. She's a ROCK STAR you don't want to miss!<br /><br />I'm looking forward to browsing the "Surprise" section from other posts in this linky party! Leave me a comment and let me know who you recommend on your Follow Friday list.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwL6KurdLzgT_AD5yOQa9ZnMcfzAmLwbXEmJeiV02cIOggazoTqgD8lxRPdxucJK5TFW4psQ8GSEiHlU2tTS9RbAQ1knz2r44Wo3bxnOVEb8nPNFBZyx13mrRXpztu9fRM_viRpufKTY/s1600/signature.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-21188370684798394682014-04-03T00:30:00.000-05:002014-04-03T18:42:10.990-05:00Connecting the New Kid on the Block<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">A big THANKS to Theresa over at <a href="http://www.learnmesomethinggood.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">True Life: I'm a Teacher!</a> for nominating me for a Liebster Award.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeaEcTOvxjhpX7zrytjWNhIDEVKb0KkiRBO4dwa8cNi46CY3xGc9enxQx_rc4PtVkl_0XRapiJrlP7t0qqdHkK0ic9qGvpF5W1uZPQdWkIUFmpHK1EzYzI9W_PF7P5hZnIX8jW2Tnk2x8a/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-15+at+12.39.57+PM.png" /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br />This is like a giant icebreaker in blogland! But before I get to the Q&A session, let's chat icebreakers. How do you get to know your students at the beginning of the year? How do you help your students get to know each other? And is that something you only do at the beginning of the year or does it continue throughout the year? What happens when you get a transfer student? Does the new student get the same opportunities that the rest of the class had at the beginning of the year? It is difficult to be the new kid in a classroom where everybody knows your name while you are overwhelmed by the social side of learning with strangers. I try to ease the transition by creating an environment that is filled with ongoing icebreakers. My classroom routine includes teambuilding activities twice a week throughout the entire year. These activities are fun and non-content related. But students also engage in classbuilding activities that include current content during all stages of our lessons. My secret weapon for teambuilding is Find the Fiction. Students are asked to write three statements about themselves...two facts and one fiction. Then students take turns sharing their statements and guessing the fiction statement shared by each teammate. This activity requires no advanced preparation and can be repeated as students create new statements to share tidbits of themselves that others may not know.<br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Okay.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Back to the Q&A.<br />Here are the questions from Theresa and my responses:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1. What grade do you teach? What grades have you taught? How long have you been teaching?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="color: orange;">I taught high school math for 10 years and junior high math for 4 years. I started teaching 21 years ago and have been a stay-at-home mom for 7 years on three different occasions. What does that mean for me?!? I will be ancient when I have accumulated enough years to retire. Haha!</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2. What book do you read to your class each year without fail?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="color: orange;">Ummmm...this secondary girly usually doesn't read to my math classes. ;)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">3. If you weren't a teacher, what would you be doing?</span></div>
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<span style="color: orange;">During my time away from the classroom I have been a full-time mom, math tutor, scrapbook business owner, and professional development facilitator. I would love to be a national <a href="http://www.kaganonline.com/" target="_blank">Kagan</a> trainer when I grow up!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">4. What's one thing you're just dying to buy for your classroom?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="color: orange;">Technology. I had a 1:1 laptop classroom last year. And I am not sure I can go back to the classroom without the integration of 1:1 devices...only time will tell.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">5. What's your non-teaching guilty pleasure?<br /><span style="color: orange;">My favorite pleasure of all time is a Sunday afternoon nap.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">6. Favorite book (non-teaching related)?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="color: orange;">I love all books written by Karen Kingsbury, but it will be a while before her next new release. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">7. What's one thing on your bucket list?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="color: orange;">Hawaii. My husband and I are thinking that just may be the perfect spot for our 20th anniversary. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">8. Favorite restaurant?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="color: orange;">We generally eat every meal at home except Saturday night. And I honestly am thrilled with any restaurant because it means no prep work to be done or dirty dishes to be cleaned.</span> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">9. Who would play you in a movie about your life?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); color: orange;">Oh goodness...I have no idea! It would have to be someone who is short, can speak with a Southern accent, and portrays passion about most things especially cute hair and jewelry!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">10. What's one thing you could eat everyday?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); color: orange;">I basically eat the same lunch everyday. So I would have to say carrot sticks, snow peas, and pretzel chips with spinach & artichoke hummus. Yum!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">11. What inspired you to begin blogging?</span></div>
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<span style="color: orange;">I originally started blogging about my scrapbooking hobby. But when I returned to the classroom and was hard-pressed to find a middle school math blog, I decided to contribute my thoughts to blogland. Teacher blogs have since exploded!</span><br />
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11 Random Facts about ME...<br />
<ul>
<li>I'm the baby of four girls.</li>
<li>I would be a nervous wreck if I was a momma of boys!</li>
<li>I'm not a fan of naked toes...toes were created to be painted...the brighter the better!</li>
<li>I'm the worst at remembering titles and names of movies/actors or songs/artists.</li>
<li>I love California sunshine!</li>
<li>Yet I'm super sad to have missed lots of snow and ice this winter.</li>
<li>It's official. I'm totally addicted to iced tea. </li>
<li>Flowers always make me smile. </li>
<li>Cleaning and cooking are my least favorite household chores. ;) </li>
<li>I could spend hours in the organizational supplies section of any store. </li>
<li>Did I mention that I {heart} all things math?!?</li>
</ul>
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And I would love for my nominees to answer the same questions that Theresa asked me and share 11 random facts! Drum roll please...<br />
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<center>
<a href="http://theclassyteacher.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="THECLASSYTEACHER" border="0" src="http://i901.photobucket.com/albums/ac218/MiraTucci/Elaina%20Weaver/5.jpg" /></a></center>
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<br />
<a href="http://smackdabinthemiddleschool.blogspot.com/" title="Smack Dab in the Middle"><img alt="Smack Dab in the Middle" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd_vn_eaNBRYAB_OnIOWsAePGr0BrfhwBtQnRnse1Uoe6DV21cYm9kaq1e8D0y8-oo1cvM98x6qUCSbsIXWEvGHvGBmrRxAoXsUa0rTc_pT74MBIurTJX3ud3OlMVc46wFWpUfF5MeLr8/s1600/Button.png" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
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<br />
<a href="http://teachingmathbyhart.blogspot.ca/" title="Teaching Math By Hart"><img alt="Teaching Math By Hart" src="http://imageshack.us/a/img17/1429/spicm.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
<center>
<br /><a href="http://meatballsinthemiddle.blogspot.com/"><img alt="Meatballs in the Middle" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaX-7VrQx0OvHLKo2L-uNK_t7PBnQCB2YdleAPrjBpTkJ_0697BnoLBgppJqRe6D55dao4X4DRhOJ4oK2YSX6Pqlrl5c5kf53NKCEahl36VaES1UST13f0_3vFPFUOZo4t8f6wo4mFstt6/s1600/button.png" height="125" width="125" /></a><br /></center>
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<a href="http://www.dogdaysofmath.com/" title="Dog Days of Math"><img alt="Dog Days of Math" src="http://dogdaysofmath.files.wordpress.com/2014/01/icon-e1390362955873.png" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Here are your rules of engagement:<br />
1) Link back to my blog as the one who nominated you.<br />
2) Nominate 5-11 blogs with fewer than 200 followers.<br />
3) Answer the questions posted.<br />
4) Share 11 random facts about yourself.<br />
5) Contact your nominees to let them know they have been nominated.<br />
<br /><br />So do tell. What is the most used icebreaker in your classroom? Name a random fact about you that most people don't know. Share your thoughts (or better yet...share a link to a blog post!) in the comments below.<br /><br />
Happy Friday Eve to YOU...make it count!<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwL6KurdLzgT_AD5yOQa9ZnMcfzAmLwbXEmJeiV02cIOggazoTqgD8lxRPdxucJK5TFW4psQ8GSEiHlU2tTS9RbAQ1knz2r44Wo3bxnOVEb8nPNFBZyx13mrRXpztu9fRM_viRpufKTY/s1600/signature.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-67138485781118719852014-04-02T12:46:00.000-05:002014-04-02T12:46:04.348-05:00Swirling Moment by Moment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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April.<br />Already?!?<br />This school year has been a speedy one in the Tilmon house!<br /><br />I know.<br />I have been a terrible blogger.<br />Let me be completely honest...this not being in the classroom thing can really mess with the blogger mindset. But I have so many things I want to document from my teaching experience last year and my staff development adventure this year. So this blog is about to become my outlet for organizing all of the math stuff that swirls around in my head moment by moment. Consider that your fair warning. ;) For now it is time to link up with <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2014/03/april-currently.html" target="_blank">Farley's "Currently" Party</a> over at <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Oh Boy Fourth Grade</a>. Come join the fun!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ6xt7K2drSQdthflN9b3Pta2Lg33vo_hI5HqufA0t5XXzQF9v4R8SaeqAqGk8bPOsdFIw-6GifBUVuOR9Ws6OmgNKYupi8ej1RpLbnqBKZkK2EE0up29U9NERDcYwb4hrb27hOQBcJ48/s1600/04.14+Currently.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ6xt7K2drSQdthflN9b3Pta2Lg33vo_hI5HqufA0t5XXzQF9v4R8SaeqAqGk8bPOsdFIw-6GifBUVuOR9Ws6OmgNKYupi8ej1RpLbnqBKZkK2EE0up29U9NERDcYwb4hrb27hOQBcJ48/s1600/04.14+Currently.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />Listening...<br />
I do have the background noise of the dishwasher in the kitchen and the dryer in the laundry room. But Iris overpowers both of those soft noises. :) Our neighbor's dog only barks twice a day. Seriously. She loves to welcome each morning with a barking affair. And luckily she is not an early riser!<br /><br />Loving...<br />
California has introduced our family to "late start" Wednesdays. And we are huge fans! The teachers have faculty meetings, professional development, and tutoring on a rotating basis during those non-student hours each week. Creative scheduling is much easier with neighborhood schools and public transportation.<br />
<br />
Thinking and Wanting...<br />
Spring Break is next week! And that means only two more days of school until the festivities begin. Well...festivities may be a bit of an exaggeration...but we are definitely looking forward to a little Disneyland and a lazy day at the beach. However I still find myself dreaming of a surprise vacation...to somewhere...anywhere...that is an all-inclusive event that doesn't require me to do anything. Haha! A girl can dream, right?!?<br />
<br />
Needing...<br />
But reality is that I really need to tackle the bathrooms today. I would much rather dive into my "to do" list of math goodness. That's my joy! Bathrooms. Not so much!<br />
<br />
Hours and Last Day...<br />
My hours revolve around the moments in between taking the girls to school each day. Emma starts later and finishes earlier than Taylor...so her schedule creates my window of opportunity. Although I'm not in a classroom this year, I have been facilitating math professional development twice a week via Skype. For more details, check out my previous <a href="http://www.lisatilmon.blogspot.com/2014/02/genius-hour-for-teachers.html" target="_blank">Genius Hour for Teachers</a> post. Our last scheduled Skype session is May 7. But the Tilmon house will be in the school swing until June 6...that three-week break at Christmas makes for a late dismissal.<br /><br /><br />So what are you up to these days?!? Will you be chatting with me about math and curriculum as we march into summer?!? Whatever today brings...make it count!<br /><br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwL6KurdLzgT_AD5yOQa9ZnMcfzAmLwbXEmJeiV02cIOggazoTqgD8lxRPdxucJK5TFW4psQ8GSEiHlU2tTS9RbAQ1knz2r44Wo3bxnOVEb8nPNFBZyx13mrRXpztu9fRM_viRpufKTY/s1600/signature.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-22006907490729039392014-02-27T04:18:00.000-06:002014-03-01T16:30:18.076-06:00Three Million Strong TpT Sale (and 3 new bundles!)Teachers Pay Teachers has reached THREE MILLION teacher members!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi55zZMIG8HdKtGuP94hCUKboHprNHCyYGvXDVK4IWeq056_sEvhYts9jJDAdoD-oyn2hyphenhyphen3t98Lo_yg3BXHzfDYQi79EdWtBF5R_DdHqP86GJpYkY2ViBkqpHGH0eBBQtU_ljXU-SWoK8Q/s1600/3millionstrongbutton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi55zZMIG8HdKtGuP94hCUKboHprNHCyYGvXDVK4IWeq056_sEvhYts9jJDAdoD-oyn2hyphenhyphen3t98Lo_yg3BXHzfDYQi79EdWtBF5R_DdHqP86GJpYkY2ViBkqpHGH0eBBQtU_ljXU-SWoK8Q/s1600/3millionstrongbutton.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Credit: Lindsay Perro</td></tr>
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In celebration of this milestone, my TpT store will be 20% off for THREE days February 27 through March 1. And I will reveal a new bundle of math goodness each day in this little nook...<br />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
#1</h2>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Solve-Systems-of-Linear-Equations-Unit-Bundle-1136465" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdUC3r4vmfa0rnC_bBAgTVXePwafV30W3mZOcUA8oCoqQBiGx1jALrx38kF7fTrQ1SDxE7FLYg5LC9gEnYfYiV0JcYg2nj03PVmW7STGDFWBWSCA1XaZrAaIhtbW4JWtCfGS35KhKTCo/s1600/Grade+8+CCSS+Solving+Systems+Unit+Bundle.png" height="320" width="213" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Solve-Systems-of-Linear-Equations-Unit-Bundle-1136465" target="_blank">Solve Systems of Linear Equations</a></td></tr>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
#2</h2>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Transformations-Unit-Bundle-1138232" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv4BdXVkPVZeMU_pvWeZVJ_sG2IaNmFhW7UV9XiziK7vD2oSqYCd0lk1b4NiPwLJ5ZDTVn7Y58Z8GRTQ7GIgP-4cpd4IwBaFB1XFH1tjcZw67OF4v8s4DfjEVzHZHKKdNHFVpJFm-rBUY/s1600/Grade+8+CCSS+Transformations+Unit+Bundle.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Transformations-Unit-Bundle-1138232" target="_blank">Transformations</a></td></tr>
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#3</h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Arithmetic-and-Geometric-Sequences-Lesson-Bundle-1139916" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir8T-8yir9sQWs4ytZuSwKOP-YUhw1RAahWtVwkqjamZm0l-_aHKjct7MDBNwUSKJoKFy0TidAc1Arz7SjNDR7k5s2ez5_RsVXCzwDf7v2gPLS7ZCCoXyKA6cBmkx3xQFNqqPrhVFPFAs/s1600/Algebra+1+CCSS+Sequences+Unit+Lesson+Bundle.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Arithmetic-and-Geometric-Sequences-Lesson-Bundle-1139916" target="_blank">Arithmetic and Geometric Sequences</a></td></tr>
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<br /><br />
Meanwhile...hop over to <a href="http://imbloghoppin.blogspot.com/2014/02/the-three-million-strong-tpt-teacher.html" target="_blank">Blog Hoppin'</a> to browse the linky party of sellers who are celebrating with me. Happy shopping to YOU!</div>
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<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwL6KurdLzgT_AD5yOQa9ZnMcfzAmLwbXEmJeiV02cIOggazoTqgD8lxRPdxucJK5TFW4psQ8GSEiHlU2tTS9RbAQ1knz2r44Wo3bxnOVEb8nPNFBZyx13mrRXpztu9fRM_viRpufKTY/s1600/signature.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-82711215926395748092014-02-27T00:24:00.002-06:002014-02-27T00:24:30.744-06:0030+ iPad Apps for the Math Classroom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Do you have an iPad or two (or maybe a class set of 30!) available to use with your math students?</div>
Are you wondering where to begin?!?<br />
Problem solved.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.lisatilmon.blogspot.com/p/ipad-apps.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjboNADxZBtSX0gqrKxavpd1QfWK6_F-h3D3ZjpfNJeqQ69SZ1PMoApq4leXnI4CjEVkqs7TyxDf6Ycjd3ICAsuXmJAPFi_oPADVImVQyeaSrMnHBb4oqQL8yhSeAB_KIqGzRe_XgXAJ60/s1600/iPad+Apps+for+Middle+School+Math.png" height="320" width="252" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.lisatilmon.blogspot.com/p/ipad-apps.html" target="_blank">iPad Apps for the Middle School Math Classroom</a></td></tr>
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<br />Browse my list of 30+ iPad apps for the middle school math classroom. This list includes everything from student screencasting to project organization to teacher productivity. And each icon is linked directly to the App Store for your convenience. Be sure to check back often for updates!<br />
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<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwL6KurdLzgT_AD5yOQa9ZnMcfzAmLwbXEmJeiV02cIOggazoTqgD8lxRPdxucJK5TFW4psQ8GSEiHlU2tTS9RbAQ1knz2r44Wo3bxnOVEb8nPNFBZyx13mrRXpztu9fRM_viRpufKTY/s1600/signature.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-86319697409657949582014-02-11T16:04:00.000-06:002014-02-11T23:31:56.702-06:00Thank Your Champion...<h4>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Every child deserves a champion...</span></div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><div style="text-align: center;">
an adult who will never give up on them,</div>
</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><div style="text-align: center;">
who understands the power of connection,</div>
</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><div style="text-align: center;">
and insists that they become the best they can possibly be.</div>
</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><div style="text-align: center;">
-Rita Pierson</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVaB8z0fDuO2wzHs0kPTzCTRuUGkAhO6vOY-kU2uT-_c7iyv8tpXRgG4pyiYvt4CCUk2VYHPU21qjCu5-ac2L708LaJ9vuClpr9Vxpy8vetKftAzp6aju9Ngm3r-0ldM7VbN49wG8OmfY/s1600/Every+Child+Deserves+a+Champion.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVaB8z0fDuO2wzHs0kPTzCTRuUGkAhO6vOY-kU2uT-_c7iyv8tpXRgG4pyiYvt4CCUk2VYHPU21qjCu5-ac2L708LaJ9vuClpr9Vxpy8vetKftAzp6aju9Ngm3r-0ldM7VbN49wG8OmfY/s1600/Every+Child+Deserves+a+Champion.png" height="320" width="247" /></a></div>
<br />
During an impromptu meeting, my mentor posed a question I had never pondered.<br />
<br />
"Lisa, what was the turning point for you?"<br />
<br />
We talked about professional growth and career goals often, but this question was focused on the distant past instead of the future. I had never shared the pivotal failure that occurred during my fifth year of teaching.<br />
<br />
Envision the last day of school before break when teachers and students are putting the final touches on semester details. I was conferencing with students to review final grades...in this instance three boys had gathered at my desk because they were inseparable (or should I say competitive?!?). I informed one student that his final grade was an 88%.<br />
<br />
He replied, "Not bad."<br />
I rallied, "True. Not bad. But you could have done better."<br />
And his gut-wrenching statement that I will never forget, "Why didn't you tell me that sooner? I would have worked harder!"<br />
<br />
Seriously. What had I done? I was so focused on the challenging content and making it accessible to my students that I had <strike>completely lost</strike> never gained sight of my students. Please notice the difference. I had great rapport with my students. I was involved in their world. I never gave up on them. And I truly believed they were capable of great things. I just never told them. In that moment of realization, I vowed to be a champion for students.<br />
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When I watched <a href="http://on.ted.com/RitaPierson" target="_blank">Rita Pierson's TED Talk</a> this past summer, I immediately thought back to this discussion. I wholeheartedly agree. Every child deserves a champion. Not just someone who silently believes in them from the sidelines, but an adult who is in the game for the sole purpose of ensuring they reach their fullest potential. <br />
<br />
Do you have a champion?<br />
Yes. YOU! The educator.<br />
The one who works tirelessly for the students you serve.<br />
Who never gives up on you?<br />
Who is it that understands the legacy of relationships and insists you become the best you can possibly be?<br />
<br />
Be sure to thank your champion for asking the hard questions!<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwL6KurdLzgT_AD5yOQa9ZnMcfzAmLwbXEmJeiV02cIOggazoTqgD8lxRPdxucJK5TFW4psQ8GSEiHlU2tTS9RbAQ1knz2r44Wo3bxnOVEb8nPNFBZyx13mrRXpztu9fRM_viRpufKTY/s1600/signature.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-9832827643821086552014-02-08T16:27:00.000-06:002014-02-08T16:27:42.461-06:00Genius Hour for Teachers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While sitting in a district Math Task Force subcommittee meeting last winter, the junior high principals asked me what teachers needed most to fully implement the Common Core State Standards. My response was immediate and simple. Time!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy643dxedN3eofz55lN3I2yhdoXA0o5HMJEpKZOIOwXjanAFxw5G4TywcFUp1729xyCGBFvfoRzxlTlBmpCVkxc_apZu0ClGFztwbh9ez0iFCaR4kkmKH6h5nTj0RfyoBVNXOXfxeEm4k/s1600/Genius+Hour+for+Teachers.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy643dxedN3eofz55lN3I2yhdoXA0o5HMJEpKZOIOwXjanAFxw5G4TywcFUp1729xyCGBFvfoRzxlTlBmpCVkxc_apZu0ClGFztwbh9ez0iFCaR4kkmKH6h5nTj0RfyoBVNXOXfxeEm4k/s1600/Genius+Hour+for+Teachers.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Modeled after 20% time projects at 3M, Google, and FedEx.</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
I continued with specific descriptions. Not time before or after school...that conflicts with tutoring, conferences, meetings, and assigned duties. Not time away from the classroom...that hinders overall long-term progress with students. But time during the school day with no responsibility for anything other than a focus on researching, thinking, collaborating, and creating whatever necessary to build stronger students.</div>
<br />One principal was convinced she could make that happen if the math teachers would be willing to increase their class size from a maximum of 25 students to a maximum of 30 students. The teachers were willing and the principal worked her magic with the master schedule so that every math teacher has 5 classes, 2 preparation periods, and one math department period for Genius Hour. The design allows teachers 80 minutes per week to collaborate via a scheduled session with an additional 120 minutes per week to create their own supplemental path.<br /><br />The Mission:<br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;">Every Fulbright math teacher has genius in them. It's true. And it takes time to discover, develop, and unleash that genius. </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;">Given the shift of instructional practices in the Common Core math classroom, FJHS math teachers have been gifted with time to investigate the genius that will build better math students.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;">The Process:</span></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;">First, the teachers generate pedagogy-related questions based on student needs. Then the facilitator creates coordinating prompts to </span></span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;">jumpstart</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;"> a team session. And the team collaboration evolves from there. </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;">Considering my relocation to a state in which I'm not certified to teach, the principal asked if I would facilitate the scheduled Genius Hour sessions via Skype. It was a privilege to brainstorm this program into existence with her. We launched the first sessions in September 2013. And it has been an honor to work with her teachers; they are committed to excellence in all they do to serve students well.</span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;"><br /><br />For additional resources on Genius Hour ventures in education read <a href="http://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/2012/05/28/the-best-resources-for-applying-fed-ex-days-to-schools/" target="_blank">The Best Resources for Applying "Fed Ex Days" to School</a> blog post by <a href="http://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/" target="_blank">Larry Ferlazzo</a>, a high school teacher in Sacramento, CA. Follow @JoyKirr and #geniushour on Twitter. Read Joy's <a href="http://geniushour.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">My Own Genius Hour</a> blog to see this idea in action with her ELA Grade 7 classes. (The mission statement above is fashioned from her thoughtful posts.) Or view the <a href="http://youtu.be/Aj0Vazf-xz4" target="_blank">Inside Look #3</a> video highlighting @KristiLevy and the Oshkosh Area School District in Wisconsin.</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfjZqhn4KELUKTUdeMPDfU4MtbvSAyZdtae1BSYc_t3uHdJL8FlaMpf-oqIK56X6TmiGUkpA27fV7QFsCx-2i3JCeIhoPBI7yQtaU3qaKTdm7-uJOo9yYSgqvsKWhW7Ffh2AfCW_KrXTk/s1600/Murry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfjZqhn4KELUKTUdeMPDfU4MtbvSAyZdtae1BSYc_t3uHdJL8FlaMpf-oqIK56X6TmiGUkpA27fV7QFsCx-2i3JCeIhoPBI7yQtaU3qaKTdm7-uJOo9yYSgqvsKWhW7Ffh2AfCW_KrXTk/s1600/Murry.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is written in loving memory of Kathy Murry.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><div style="text-align: center;">
The former principal and creative genius who established the home of the Timberwolves.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
May her legacy howl forevermore.</div>
</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.559999465942383px;"><br /> </span><br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwL6KurdLzgT_AD5yOQa9ZnMcfzAmLwbXEmJeiV02cIOggazoTqgD8lxRPdxucJK5TFW4psQ8GSEiHlU2tTS9RbAQ1knz2r44Wo3bxnOVEb8nPNFBZyx13mrRXpztu9fRM_viRpufKTY/s1600/signature.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-31827101864799765632014-01-24T11:03:00.002-06:002014-01-24T11:16:32.746-06:00dusting off my blogger mic...It's time to dust off my blogger mic and return to chatting about math, curriculum design, and so much more! My little nook at "Mrs. Tilmon Says..." has been dormant for nearly a year. Where has the time gone?!? And what exactly would have me so distracted from my treasured reflection spot?<br />
<br />
I must confess. Implementing 1:1 laptops and the Common Core State Standards in my Algebra 1 classes for the 2012-13 school year definitely monopolized my time. But my personal life encountered quite a roller coaster as well. Let's take a quick peek at my 2013...<br />
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<h4>
January</h4>
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A retreat for two to Big Cedar allowed us to share hopes and dreams as we planned for the possibility of my husband receiving a transfer with his job.<br />
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<h4>
February</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZ0ohWKiM92VirZw9qgV0hiMHhkj0jiRrnAQGcMzHa5EriSmM1U1PVvH1GdGbIEnmYEePcuddIHhkUpjmD5G3ug3G2PpV1alL8k-ro3DzgGolGggM2oak7XK_dGCXUBm96ZonnFQqPKA/s1600/Kagan.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZ0ohWKiM92VirZw9qgV0hiMHhkj0jiRrnAQGcMzHa5EriSmM1U1PVvH1GdGbIEnmYEePcuddIHhkUpjmD5G3ug3G2PpV1alL8k-ro3DzgGolGggM2oak7XK_dGCXUBm96ZonnFQqPKA/s1600/Kagan.png" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
The majority of spare moments this month were focused on applying to become a school trainer with <a href="http://www.kaganonline.com/" target="_blank">Kagan</a>.<br />
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<h4>
March</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMQqbnKzMlUC9cl8S5dtZJHu8SdELs4l5gWByDIBh-SwP-yrL8_G1FfSaT_hLldXmM94zeJ1NiMYp5pW2TTi0oQo6krN4WwdHDmwy0LtzswfnsCsU04RNUpasFGhvV0j1r7j6m8qDaqnc/s1600/California.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMQqbnKzMlUC9cl8S5dtZJHu8SdELs4l5gWByDIBh-SwP-yrL8_G1FfSaT_hLldXmM94zeJ1NiMYp5pW2TTi0oQo6krN4WwdHDmwy0LtzswfnsCsU04RNUpasFGhvV0j1r7j6m8qDaqnc/s1600/California.png" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
Chuck accepted a new position located in Southern California. Spring Break was filled with planning for the transition.<br />
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<h4>
April</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_3t4cTW85kQexWQ05y1Mt42qiNNs5kNXcjWB7pYJo3VPDLXSzDnhkj7oq0pz56B-3AIp6BYKl9T4dcomMqNLat9luojoZgTW6h_6j95ZQ8kNL_UuLEgyk7qBd20x6OSuKstS6n-WX3OM/s1600/House.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_3t4cTW85kQexWQ05y1Mt42qiNNs5kNXcjWB7pYJo3VPDLXSzDnhkj7oq0pz56B-3AIp6BYKl9T4dcomMqNLat9luojoZgTW6h_6j95ZQ8kNL_UuLEgyk7qBd20x6OSuKstS6n-WX3OM/s1600/House.png" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
We spent a long weekend in California for hunting a house, school, and church for our family. Chuck started his new job, while the girls and I returned to Northwest Arkansas to finish the school year.<br />
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<h4>
May</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie2kbJPt3HxriEKYjAiTpBr3gygJXNvwYWv_DtWqJi-Ud3a170KNpT2AR8aIHGfAuzV1yHUYQm5PIYZSODiZ6an8fH_pQZdiBxGEyxDH0z3yuRi1T9tr2jLeXFL-BHcFdfnpqfycE3erE/s1600/Poolhouse.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie2kbJPt3HxriEKYjAiTpBr3gygJXNvwYWv_DtWqJi-Ud3a170KNpT2AR8aIHGfAuzV1yHUYQm5PIYZSODiZ6an8fH_pQZdiBxGEyxDH0z3yuRi1T9tr2jLeXFL-BHcFdfnpqfycE3erE/s1600/Poolhouse.png" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
Chuck returned to Northwest Arkansas for the end-of-school and moving festivities...such as putting the final touches on the poolhouse.<br />
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<h4>
June</h4>
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The big move! We had an awesome team who battled the rain to get our house boxed and loaded for the four-day journey to the west coast.<br />
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<h4>
July</h4>
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After a few weeks of hotel life, we moved into our house at the beginning of July. And we were blessed with another amazing team who unloaded the truck in the extreme heat. We had just enough time to unpack boxes before we left for Disney World. I completed my certification for Kagan School Trainer and the family hit the parks for a heavy dose of magic.<br />
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<h4>
August</h4>
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Our summer calendar ended with a drive to the beach and Taylor finishing an online trig course. The girls started school and quickly found a groove with all things California.<br />
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<h4>
September</h4>
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Don't get me wrong...we love California weather (especially in January!)...but triple digits in September isn't at the top of our list. Also I launched Genius Hour sessions with the Fulbright Junior High School math department via Skype.<br />
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<h4>
October</h4>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.nwahomepage.com/fulltext-news/fulbright-junior-high-set-to-open-for-school-year/d/fulltext-news/IEtLo34BIEy264WxribDLQ" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizi6gTm8cytkdv-ClE_-otn7s2oLJKSRQoyWUg5fs9PMvX3eZvIajcKOMJVW3oTwzGr9UNXEvGewEZAJDj2wu204obl9LmNaP4JYQttGRhOMyqGbFhrkj4Dg-_hwM5kY6Ba4VQPBqbD_Q/s1600/FJHS.png" height="200" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nwahomepage.com/fulltext-news/fulbright-junior-high-set-to-open-for-school-year/d/fulltext-news/IEtLo34BIEy264WxribDLQ" target="_blank">Photo Credit: Nexstar Broadcasting</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We traveled to Northwest Arkansas on an extended Fall Break for me to teach a few professional development sessions for Fulbright Junior High School. I squeezed in two LIVE Genius Hour sessions, a few refresher modules of Kagan Cooperative Learning, and the Kagan Cooperative Learning Day 3 workshop.<br />
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<h4>
November</h4>
After decorating our house for Christmas, we traveled to spend Thanksgiving with family. We love every second we can sneak with Chuck's sister and family...which always seems to include Black Friday shopping.<br />
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<h4>
December</h4>
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We launched the week of semester finals with a drive to Malibu. And one of our favorite things about California is the three-week winter break! We stayed in sunny SoCal for Christmas.<br />
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<h4>
January</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7TNmNXrnJ6dLaiKbFMtR5vXwAtPmkxyh7_Ca_TfVY1ZgTDZAOb8zHIxePM7HJUZi2gSQB1gHxjBTT_wO5CXTSZu1UzMsCUkpQM0ZzBviwDX94rx4VNnrskydvgBlVmlEDjAb3OJdMiS0/s1600/Rose+Parade.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7TNmNXrnJ6dLaiKbFMtR5vXwAtPmkxyh7_Ca_TfVY1ZgTDZAOb8zHIxePM7HJUZi2gSQB1gHxjBTT_wO5CXTSZu1UzMsCUkpQM0ZzBviwDX94rx4VNnrskydvgBlVmlEDjAb3OJdMiS0/s1600/Rose+Parade.png" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
We started a new tradition by going to the Rose Parade on New Year's Day. Chuck and the girls headed to the mountains for the first ski trip in the Tilmon family.<br />
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How's that for a longer than expected status update?!? Thanks for reading today! The talented Alicia over at <a href="http://www.dreamlikemagic.com/" target="_blank">Dreamlike Magic</a> is helping me give my blog a face lift. Please pardon my mess during the construction phase! I look forward to sharing my thoughts as an educational enthusiast. Stay tuned...<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwL6KurdLzgT_AD5yOQa9ZnMcfzAmLwbXEmJeiV02cIOggazoTqgD8lxRPdxucJK5TFW4psQ8GSEiHlU2tTS9RbAQ1knz2r44Wo3bxnOVEb8nPNFBZyx13mrRXpztu9fRM_viRpufKTY/s1600/signature.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-27502892239207809122014-01-06T21:14:00.001-06:002014-01-25T17:33:22.872-06:00Testing Post<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Testing 1 2 3...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ToFiHpFQ4WMSO1J-vf2KuYpto0P6so5pPxn67ruQDGVf50MtlpBemtDxZpjEslidJmStY2b9tu7bAnZgFCP2LEiAanBA5YcwgB0NkdEJOEY6zBZDlOjDy70UEi9C_I4vjcA7BUSIcmM/s1600/button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ToFiHpFQ4WMSO1J-vf2KuYpto0P6so5pPxn67ruQDGVf50MtlpBemtDxZpjEslidJmStY2b9tu7bAnZgFCP2LEiAanBA5YcwgB0NkdEJOEY6zBZDlOjDy70UEi9C_I4vjcA7BUSIcmM/s1600/button.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Middle School Math Blog</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwL6KurdLzgT_AD5yOQa9ZnMcfzAmLwbXEmJeiV02cIOggazoTqgD8lxRPdxucJK5TFW4psQ8GSEiHlU2tTS9RbAQ1knz2r44Wo3bxnOVEb8nPNFBZyx13mrRXpztu9fRM_viRpufKTY/s1600/signature.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-46392168061798744552014-01-03T16:10:00.001-06:002014-01-03T16:10:37.287-06:00follow my blog<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/5572297/?claim=r7jycpdbjpa">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a><br />
<br />New things are on the horizon for this little nook...be sure to follow!<br /><br />
<a href="http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/Signature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-14670759046889911152013-01-31T22:41:00.000-06:002013-01-31T22:41:08.155-06:00goal setting in the classroom...<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">Day 31 Prompt: What will you do to energize yourself for 2013?</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"><br />Perspective.<br />
For 2013 I commit to consider my circumstances through the filter of serving students.<br />
Trials and frustrations will arise.<br />
Instead of being drawn to the negative, I vow to find a positive spin by fixing my eyes solely on the needs of our students.<br />
If students are my primary focus, I can't go wrong...no distraction will steal my energy when I am serving students.<br />
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Let's hold each other accountable for keeping the main thing the main thing!</span><br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is part of the BlogHer #NaBloPoMo challenge.</span></div>
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Happy Friday Eve to YOU!<br />Make it count!<br />
<a href="http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/Signature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-22106878276567442522013-01-30T22:42:00.000-06:002013-01-30T22:42:22.489-06:00teaching perseverance via math...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Day 30 Prompt: Benjamin Franklin said, "Energy and persistence conquer all things." Do you agree or disagree?</div>
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Agree.</div>
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Persistence conquers all things.</div>
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And continued persistence requires energy.</div>
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In my algebra classroom, I strive to inspire persistence. I answer questions with questions. I provide reference points and resources rather than direct answers. I pose thought-provoking questions that add depth to the concept of focus. And I have no problem saying, "Well...let's see what new thoughts you have tomorrow that could inspire progress."</div>
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This mindset for any teacher requires energy. Much energy! An abundance of energy beyond the typical daily dosage. Why?!? Because it would be SO much easier to just provide students with a direct answer. For both of us! However, easy doesn't produce endurance...endurance stems from perseverance. And I want my students to be set for the long haul in future math endeavors.</div>
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Don't sell your students short. They are capable of thinking deeply and making connections. Always remember...the one thinking is the one learning! How do you integrate perseverance in your math classroom? Please share your tips by leaving a comment below...</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is part of the BlogHer #NaBloPoMo challenge.</span></div>
<br />
Happy Wednesday to YOU...make it count!<br />
<a href="http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/Signature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-37338910755280532802013-01-29T07:30:00.000-06:002013-01-29T07:30:03.134-06:00the iterations of teaching math...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Day 29 Prompt: What reoccurring thought uses up a lot of your mental energy?</div>
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Step 1.</div>
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Do my students have the necessary prior knowledge for this lesson?</div>
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Step 2.</div>
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Do my students already understand the new content outlined in this lesson? If so, how will I enrich these students while teaching the new content to the rest of the students?</div>
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Step 3.</div>
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How do I present new content in a way that is comprehensible by all students regardless of their prior knowledge? (i.e. How do I bridge the gaps while teaching new content?)</div>
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Step 4.</div>
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How do I know my students get it?</div>
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Step 5.</div>
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How will I enrich those who now understand the new content while actively remediating the students who don't get it?</div>
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Step 6.</div>
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Now...how do I know my students get it? And what will I do if they still don't get it?</div>
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Repeat Steps 1-6 for the next concept.</div>
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And this reiterative cycle occurs multiple times within one lesson. Yep. That's a reoccuring thought running through the mind of every teacher. It certainly uses up a lot of my mental energy. How about you?!?</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is part of the BlogHer #NaBloPoMo challenge.</span></div>
<br />
Happy Tuesday to YOU...make it count!<br />
<a href="http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/Signature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-52868245454977917872013-01-28T07:30:00.000-06:002013-01-28T07:30:03.929-06:00overcoming math anxiety...<div style="text-align: left;">
Day 28 Prompt: What emotion do you think is the biggest waste of energy and why?</div>
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Emotion?</div>
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Worry.</div>
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Waste of energy?</div>
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Definitely.</div>
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</div>
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I believe anxiety can be a huge waste of energy because if unchecked it can spin out of control quickly and cause unnecessary obstacles. My classroom has been occupied by students with math anxiety or general anxiety. I have found structure, routine, and confidence building opportunities are the best remedy for anxiety. Success breeds success. And when success becomes the norm...anxiety decreases and/or coping mechanisms keep the anxiety in check. Either way the student finds success.<br /><br />I could speak to anxiety at great length. Perhaps I should write a series of posts on the topic. Any interest? General interest? Math interest? Let me know...I could share specific examples and modifications that made a positive impact.</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;"><em>So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.</em></span> </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;"><em>Matthew 6.34</em></span></div>
</blockquote>
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<a class="external-link" href="http://www.blogher.com/frame.php?url=https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmk-FP6QxaH0IaekN7bH7MwHxfbGiKCYTT2kHUkNrc484BJOgS3i3MySR_6GNtt1CvMsvtU1f5gEPnYPXWiGm0GwBMcLwfLAqsLRVLWgVNY07AzhhlMbYrSzw662NJQ2OKHDDPX74irIY/s1600/NaBloPoMo_012013_465x287_ENERGY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmk-FP6QxaH0IaekN7bH7MwHxfbGiKCYTT2kHUkNrc484BJOgS3i3MySR_6GNtt1CvMsvtU1f5gEPnYPXWiGm0GwBMcLwfLAqsLRVLWgVNY07AzhhlMbYrSzw662NJQ2OKHDDPX74irIY/s200/NaBloPoMo_012013_465x287_ENERGY.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is part of the BlogHer #NaBloPoMo challenge.</span></div>
<br />
Hope your week is off to a great start...make it count!<br />
<a href="http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/Signature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-33556080464078988392013-01-27T23:50:00.003-06:002013-01-27T23:50:41.447-06:00my latest pinspiration...Confession:<br />
I could spend hours browsing on Pinterest.<br />
And my latest pinspiration has been working wonders in my classroom!<br />
<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EAy2wjVLt8M/UQYQpNgEAZI/AAAAAAAAA3c/o1-AaVemd5I/s1600/Function+of+the+Week.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EAy2wjVLt8M/UQYQpNgEAZI/AAAAAAAAA3c/o1-AaVemd5I/s320/Function+of+the+Week.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I spied some excellent examples of "_____ of the Day" for elementary classrooms. So I decided to make a few changes for my middle school math classroom and voila! This is the newest piece of my MATHercise routine for Algebra 1.<br />
<br />
Hope your week is amazing...make it count!<br />
<a href="http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/Signature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-47330971116278649832013-01-26T23:50:00.002-06:002013-01-26T23:50:11.077-06:00top of my checklist...Happy Saturday to YOU!<br />
<br />
What's on your "to do" list today?<br />
<ul>
<li>finalize answer keys</li>
<li>create assessment documents</li>
<li>organize online calendar</li>
<li>type review activity</li>
<li>complete unit graphic organizer</li>
<li>update online gradebook</li>
</ul>
And the list continues...and I haven't even shared items other than school goodness. A sweet colleague once shared that teachers are only caught up on the last day of school...all other days provide an opportunity for more to be accomplished. Absolute truth has never been more clear!<br />
<br />
And just in case you're wondering...I'm still hoping for a snow day. Put that at the top of my checklist! A surprise vacation day would certainly allow me to check several items off my list...hopefully before I created more items to add to said list. Haha!<br />
<br />
Enjoy your weekend...make it count!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/Signature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-31007961173065610912013-01-25T21:38:00.000-06:002013-01-25T21:43:37.572-06:00running the race...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Day 25 Prompt: How long do you think you could last in a power outage?</div>
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How long could I last in a power outage?</div>
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Honestly?!?</div>
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Not long.</div>
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I'm a total girly girl with that sort of thing.</div>
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Embassy Suites is my kind of camping! :)</div>
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</div>
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But seriously.</div>
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What does it really take to withstand a trial?</div>
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To overcome a battle?</div>
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To experience the sweet taste of victory?</div>
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</div>
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PERSEVERANCE</div>
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and</div>
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ENDURANCE.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kxIEqLMqS8Y/UQNQs8nVGxI/AAAAAAAAA3I/TkDF6ZPMmsw/s1600/present.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kxIEqLMqS8Y/UQNQs8nVGxI/AAAAAAAAA3I/TkDF6ZPMmsw/s200/present.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Math is a fairly unpopular subject.<br />
It gets a bad rap...from current students and former students (aka parents).</div>
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But I am in absolute awe of the subject!<br />
And even more importantly...I am passionate about sharing my feelings with others.</div>
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I strive to encourage perseverance.</div>
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It comes in small packages.</div>
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Disguised in colorful gift wrap.</div>
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And it unfolds the spark of desire...for math!</div>
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I'm intentional about providing opportunities for perseverance because perseverance leads to endurance. And any student (lover of math or not) is going to need an extra helping of endurance when it comes to making mathematical connnections.</div>
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<a class="external-link" href="http://www.blogher.com/frame.php?url=https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmk-FP6QxaH0IaekN7bH7MwHxfbGiKCYTT2kHUkNrc484BJOgS3i3MySR_6GNtt1CvMsvtU1f5gEPnYPXWiGm0GwBMcLwfLAqsLRVLWgVNY07AzhhlMbYrSzw662NJQ2OKHDDPX74irIY/s1600/NaBloPoMo_012013_465x287_ENERGY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmk-FP6QxaH0IaekN7bH7MwHxfbGiKCYTT2kHUkNrc484BJOgS3i3MySR_6GNtt1CvMsvtU1f5gEPnYPXWiGm0GwBMcLwfLAqsLRVLWgVNY07AzhhlMbYrSzw662NJQ2OKHDDPX74irIY/s200/NaBloPoMo_012013_465x287_ENERGY.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is part of the BlogHer #NaBloPoMo challenge.</span></div>
<br />
Happy Friday to YOU...make it count!<br />
<a href="http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/Signature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-33829404590214607342013-01-24T07:30:00.000-06:002013-01-24T07:30:02.990-06:00the woes of classroom laptops...<div style="text-align: center;">
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</div>
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Day 24 Prompt: What is your favorite thing to do when you lose energy in your home and can't use electronics?</div>
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My family loves to play games! Word games. Card games. Board games. I can't think of a game we refuse! And our game of choice lately is the Dutch Blitz card game.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-beuvY1ePY2M/UQDQh3uSsgI/AAAAAAAAA20/_ldk1vL52EA/s1600/Dutch+Blitz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-beuvY1ePY2M/UQDQh3uSsgI/AAAAAAAAA20/_ldk1vL52EA/s320/Dutch+Blitz.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is a card game that I started playing as a little girl. It's fast-paced game where energy abounds. We get a little loud. And laugh hysterically. But we still meet the objective of the game...to BLITZ!</div>
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Now...in my classroom?!? It's ironic that this prompt is posted on the day I'm attending my 21st Century classroom training. Since I will be out of the classroom today, my students will not have access to our classroom laptops. Something tells me the clock will move much slower today. Usually I leave math games for my students to play; however, today my students will be collaborating in their teams to compare linear and exponential functions.</div>
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What do your students do during the absence of technology? What type of plans do you leave for a substitute? With or without technology?</div>
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</div>
<a class="external-link" href="http://www.blogher.com/frame.php?url=https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmk-FP6QxaH0IaekN7bH7MwHxfbGiKCYTT2kHUkNrc484BJOgS3i3MySR_6GNtt1CvMsvtU1f5gEPnYPXWiGm0GwBMcLwfLAqsLRVLWgVNY07AzhhlMbYrSzw662NJQ2OKHDDPX74irIY/s1600/NaBloPoMo_012013_465x287_ENERGY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmk-FP6QxaH0IaekN7bH7MwHxfbGiKCYTT2kHUkNrc484BJOgS3i3MySR_6GNtt1CvMsvtU1f5gEPnYPXWiGm0GwBMcLwfLAqsLRVLWgVNY07AzhhlMbYrSzw662NJQ2OKHDDPX74irIY/s200/NaBloPoMo_012013_465x287_ENERGY.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is part of the BlogHer #NaBloPoMo challenge.</span></div>
<br />
Happy Friday Eve to YOU...make it count!<br />
<a href="http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/Signature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-84583074431019988522013-01-23T07:30:00.000-06:002013-01-23T07:30:02.447-06:00conserving energy...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Day 23 Prompt: What is the most creative way you conserve energy in your <strike>home</strike> <span style="color: orange;">classroom</span>?</div>
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Using a lamp instead of the classroom lights? Yes. </div>
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Keeping the blinds closed? Yes. </div>
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Keeping the room cool so the heat only turns on a few times a day? Definitely. </div>
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Recycling papers that were part of the process. Sure. </div>
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But do I really want to talk about that type of energy? Not so much. </div>
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And to be honest, I can't say that conserving student energy has ever been one of my classroom goals. My middle school math students seem to have an endless supply of energy! So I just plan activity after activity to use my resources wisely. :) </div>
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<a class="external-link" href="http://www.blogher.com/frame.php?url=https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmk-FP6QxaH0IaekN7bH7MwHxfbGiKCYTT2kHUkNrc484BJOgS3i3MySR_6GNtt1CvMsvtU1f5gEPnYPXWiGm0GwBMcLwfLAqsLRVLWgVNY07AzhhlMbYrSzw662NJQ2OKHDDPX74irIY/s1600/NaBloPoMo_012013_465x287_ENERGY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmk-FP6QxaH0IaekN7bH7MwHxfbGiKCYTT2kHUkNrc484BJOgS3i3MySR_6GNtt1CvMsvtU1f5gEPnYPXWiGm0GwBMcLwfLAqsLRVLWgVNY07AzhhlMbYrSzw662NJQ2OKHDDPX74irIY/s200/NaBloPoMo_012013_465x287_ENERGY.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is part of the BlogHer #NaBloPoMo challenge.</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/Signature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-82550827582533514842013-01-22T07:30:00.000-06:002013-01-22T07:30:03.705-06:00fossil fuels in my classroom...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Day 22 Prompt: Come up with a creative plan (and no, it doesn't have to be realistic and scientifically-based -- toddler on a hamster wheel, anyone?) to create energy once we use up our fossil fuels.</div>
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Define fossil fuels:</div>
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Oil, coal, natural gas...all non-renewable sources of energy. Once depleted this energy source cannot be replaced. Besides that long-term problem, when fossil fuels are used to provide energy the process also causes damage to the atmosphere. </div>
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What are these in my classroom?</div>
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Standardized testing. I believe in teaching with the end in mind. Aiming toward what my students should be able to do at the conclusion of our time together maintains focus for all parties involved. And standardized testing has unleashed a giant highlighter on measuring the extent to which the content has been learned. A source of energy that can be used to adjust the path for future learning. Meanwhile, this measure has been widely used to "rank" students, teachers, schools, districts, and states. And therein lies the damage to the classroom. Comparison vs. collaboration. </div>
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What if they cease to exist? How do I make them renewable?</div>
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No more standardized testing? That's an immediate gain of time in my classroom; a definite plus. And that has to save all levels of institutions plenty of money that can be reassigned; technology infrastructure, please. However, I still need the data that shows individual student alignment to our learning goals, but that's an ongoing process in my classroom regardless of whatever testing is administered from above. </div>
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<a class="external-link" href="http://www.blogher.com/frame.php?url=https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmk-FP6QxaH0IaekN7bH7MwHxfbGiKCYTT2kHUkNrc484BJOgS3i3MySR_6GNtt1CvMsvtU1f5gEPnYPXWiGm0GwBMcLwfLAqsLRVLWgVNY07AzhhlMbYrSzw662NJQ2OKHDDPX74irIY/s1600/NaBloPoMo_012013_465x287_ENERGY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmk-FP6QxaH0IaekN7bH7MwHxfbGiKCYTT2kHUkNrc484BJOgS3i3MySR_6GNtt1CvMsvtU1f5gEPnYPXWiGm0GwBMcLwfLAqsLRVLWgVNY07AzhhlMbYrSzw662NJQ2OKHDDPX74irIY/s200/NaBloPoMo_012013_465x287_ENERGY.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is part of the BlogHer #NaBloPoMo challenge.</span></div>
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<i>Disclaimer: As with all opinions I share via my blog, these statements are my personal beliefs and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts, opinions, or practices of my employer. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Happy Tuesday to YOU...make it count!<br />
<a href="http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/Signature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-17772962977111641732013-01-21T07:30:00.000-06:002013-01-21T19:55:44.825-06:00classroom concern...<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); text-align: -webkit-auto;">Day 21 Prompt: What is your biggest concern about the future of the <span style="color: yellow;">classroom </span>environment?</span></div>
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How do I give my students the firm foundation they need for future learning while preparing them for a totally different classroom environment and instructional style?</div>
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That is my biggest concern. It overwhelms me at times. Why?!? Partly because of my 10 years of experience teaching at our highly ranked local high school. Partly because I am the mom of a high school student. I know the differences. Knowledge is power, right? But teaching foundational math at the middle school/junior high level is critical in content...while my concern lies in the practical skills of being an independent learner. How do I teach students to respectfully advocate for themselves? How do I help students realize how they learn best and then passionately take a stand when those conditions aren't readily available?</div>
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My apologies if you were hoping for a Go Green message today. Instead I twisted the prompt to my classroom and spilled my deepest fear. It would be awesome if I could list a 3-step solution to remedy my concern. Truth? I'm at a complete loss on this one. I do know that success in overcoming this concern will require me to be intentional in my efforts. As always, I will certainly keep you posted. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is part of the BlogHer #NaBloPoMo challenge.</span></div>
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Hope you made this special day extraordinary...make it count!<br />
<a href="http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/Signature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-75255541834623814932013-01-20T22:44:00.001-06:002013-01-20T22:44:25.648-06:00my #1 cheerleader...Behind every good teacher is a great cheerleader. I am so very thankful for my amazing husband! I simply couldn't minister to the students in my classroom without him. I often tease my students that our latest gadget is compliments of the Mr. Tilmon grant fund. Haha! But it's the moral support...the endless hours spent listening to school stories that make the biggest impact in my classroom. But not just listening...my hubby is a smarty with creative solutions to my problems. He also scours Twitter for educational articles that he knows I will want to read. He is a definite keeper!<br />
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So who is your #1 cheerleader?!? And how do they help you become an even better teacher? I can't wait to hear your stories!<br />
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Hope your Sunday was fabulous...make it count!<br />
<a href="http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/Signature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-80281784218603477522013-01-19T17:08:00.000-06:002013-01-19T17:08:03.532-06:00vacation: gotta get away...One of my favorite Twitter peeps is <a href="http://sweattoinspire.com/" target="_blank">Todd Bloch</a>. He is a 7th grade science teacher who moderates the weekly #mschat on Thursday nights and inspires throughout the week. Today his wife asked if teachers every just take a day off. Haha! My husband often wonders the same thing; however, his mother taught kindergarten for 28 years...he gets it. A teacher's job never ends; there is always something else that can be done to impact a student.<br />
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But let me caution you to take time for YOU! This isn't my personal strength. Thank goodness for my amazing man! He turned this long weekend into a 4-day getaway.<br />
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Hope you find a way to turn part of your weekend into a vacation!<br />
Happy Saturday to YOU...make it count!<br />
<a href="http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/Signature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-344220151062570216.post-56930695864097456952013-01-18T07:30:00.000-06:002013-01-18T07:30:03.976-06:00the tilmonator...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Day 18 Prompt: What would be your superhero name and why?</div>
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<br />The Tilmonator.</div>
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It sounds so powerful...almost like a high-functioning machine. Problem in...solution out!</div>
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It's true. I would love to be a master problem solver who eradicates all things that prevent our students from receiving the differentiation that they so richly deserve. I could get fired up as a superhero on a mission for learning.</div>
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But to be honest..."The Tilmonator" is actually a nickname my high school students gave me back in the day. Somehow they decided I ruled with an iron fist...not really...just a little early morning humor! My precalculus students once told me that they thought I was super scary until they spent a few weeks enrolled in my course...then they knew I was scary, but they liked me anyways. Gotta love kids...they shoot straight regardless of the casualties.<br /><br />I am super short. I smile constantly. And I probably have the loudest laugh in the building. Yep. I'm the Tilmonator. Haha! So what are you known for in your building?!? Spill. We want to hear the scoop!</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is part of the BlogHer #NaBloPoMo challenge.</span></div>
<br />
Enjoy your long weekend...make it count!<br />
<a href="http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/lisatilmon/Signature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0