On the Tuesday before break, Mr. B. agreed to try something new, fun, and exciting. He wanted to do something that would get his kids moving, thinking, and collaborating before break. He agreed to do an awesome Breakout EDU. With some careful planning, we were able to successfully challenge our students in a review of some 7th grade World History standards as the students tried to save the Roman Emperor from assassination.
The students were tasked with finding and solving a number of clues based on their knowledge of Roman History. They were encouraged to ask questions and to find, then synthesize, the information that was needed to solve the locks. Of Mr. B.'s five classes, three of the classes were successful in saving the emperor's life. Both of the other classes were just minutes away from cracking the last clue.
Students working to solve the clues.
As Mr. B. and I debriefed following it, we saw many amazing attributes from most of the students throughout the day. The students collaborated as a class. They did some critical thinking to solve the clues. They needed to communicate (had the two classes that did not open it communicated, they likely would have made it in) with one another to ensure that everyone was on the same page. It was truly incredible to see what they students were working on.
Throughout the day, the smiles, enjoyment, and authentic engagement that was demonstrated was incredible. The students enjoyed each and every minute of the class that day.
Students collaborating and critically thinking.
Before leaving for the holiday break, many students thanked us for allowing them to complete such a fun
activity.
As a reminder, we have one box in the building and we have ten boxes available at the RESA. If you are interested in doing a Breakout EDU game, let's talk about it and plan it. Below, you will see two videos from the day.
This weeks shortcut of the week is to help you project your Chromebook. Due to resolutions, your Chromebook will likely default to the “Extended Screen” mode. If they happens, you will see your desktop background on the screen upon plugging in your Chromebook (your Chromebook needs an HDMI connection, if you need a cable, I can get you one!). In order to change this, you will use the “Ctrl + Full Screen” button. This will quickly switch between the two modes, allowing you to switch back and forth. A quick word to the wise, the extended screen is usually to the right!
Torubleshooting a Chromebook is fairly easy. The first thing that I try is a reset. If a reset doesn't work, I can try to a harder reset, using this week's shortcut. When you press and hold the "Refresh" key and the Power button, you Chromebook will reset harder than simply powering down. It will not lose the settings that are on it. This shortcut is a crucial second line in ensuring that our students' Chromebooks are always functioning properly.
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