Thursday, April 18, 2013

Future Meteorologists: Kindergarten participates in Flat Classroom project


  For the second consecutive year, Kindergarten students led by Ruth Metka and Fran Siracusa are participating in the Flat Classroom K-2 Building Bridges project. There are many wonderful opportunities out there already for students to connect using technology tools. However the aim in Flat Classroom projects is also to encourage students in different places to collaborate, not just communicate, and to enhance understanding of cultures and life styles beyond the immediate environment.
  For our first assignment, CDS students completed “View from our Windows.” Our students decided to enact a meteorologist’s live weather report for a rainy day in April. Students planned their scripts using words, drawn pictures, and research on an iPad. Using iMovie and GarageBand, Mrs. Siracusa and students put the final touches on the video. It is truly amazing to see how even our youngest students develop their 21st century learning skills! 

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

To: Russia Video

International Middle School Model UN Conference, New York City, 2013






From Thursday, April 11 through Saturday, April 13, Country Day World School students participated in the International Middle School Model UN Conference in New York City.  Similar to the high school and college level conferences held by the United Nations Association of the United States of America, middle school students were given the opportunity to assume the positions of UN delegates representing different committees and topics that are affecting our global community today.  By participating in simulations of committees such as the General Assembly, the IMO, UNICEF, and others, students were able to interact with 1,500 other middle school students from 14 different states and 12 different nations.  Following months of preparation and extensive research, the students demonstrated their knowledge and understanding during interactive committee sessions.  After delivering opening speeches, participating in moderated and un-moderated caucuses, and drafting resolutions, the students were able to form partnerships with like-minded individuals and celebrate in a closing ceremony unlike no other.  Students plan to return to continue conversations with new friends through collaborative technology mediums.