Global iBook project

We've been prepping for weeks now to get to get ready to work on our chapter for the global iBook project, TWIMA3, which will be all about patterns. The outcome of this book will be stunning I'm sure as it is being put together by one of my fellow Apple Distinguished Educator friends, Mr. Jon Smith (@theipodteacher) from Ohio. When the book is done it will be available free on iTunes for you and your child to enjoy and marvel at their efforts!

Over the course of this time we've talked about patterns, found patterns, and analyzed patterns in all sorts of places around our school. At this point we've been focusing on repeating patterns but as we work into our pattern lessons in math in the coming weeks, we'll also be learning about growing patterns.

 Today each kiddo was given the task of:

1. Finding something in our room that had a pattern and take a picture of it
2. Use hands-on materials of their choice from around the room to build their own patter
3. If they had time- they were to create a pattern on the iPad using an app of their choice. Kiddos chose apps such as Magnetic Alphabet,  Pattern Blocks, and Drawing Pad to create their masterpieces.

I was pleasantly surprised by their choice of apps as I wouldn't have thought to use some of the ones that they chose. NEVER underestimate the power of a first grader and their thought process! The collaboration, creativity and critical thinking skills that were used as we worked through the tasks was phenomenal! Many students began with basic color or shape patterns but as they worked through each task, their ideas and creations became more and more elaborate. 

The next step will be for us to analyze our patterns and explain them to others by either writing about them or recording some information about them. We will again be using a variety of apps depending on their personal preferences. Apps may include PicCollage or Explain Everything. We'll see what others they feel will work the job. I'm excited to watch and learn from this great group of kiddos. They never cease to amaze me!