Pixton

Example1

Example2

They worked in pairs for this activity. It has been the first time they have used this tool, so I presented them the task and gave them an example which I did myself and explained briefly how to use the different options given by the programme. 

Lately we've been practising the structure "have/get something done" and the purpose of this activity was to use this structure in context.

In pairs they created their story and afterwards at home they took turns to create the characters and insert the text, pay attention to their facial expressions, movements, etc. Finally, they have shown their comic to the whole group role-playing the situations whenever possible.

As I see it, the tool has been an extra activity to assimilate this new structure to them, basically, they have seen the structure in a context created by them and being engaged in a project. This motivates them even more. And the presentations were great, even with the intonation and expressions.

They enjoyed most the role-playing part, and they stated that the part of making the story up was a bit more complicated, but as they were working in pairs, this was a bit easier.

Next time I'll try working with bigger groups.

Edpuzzle

 Edpuzzle

We are dealing with the topic of wellbeing with my B2.1. class. Therefore, I have decided to choose a video about Sleeping, as this is one of the topics we've been discussing lately in class.

The main objectives are:

- enforce their vocabulary about wellbeing

- become aware of different viewpoints regarding sleeping

- listening for general information and then focusing on more specific details

 

I have flipped my class since I have created 2 kinds of questions, the first group of questions are True of False. Students have watched the video at home and have answered to this first group of questions using Edpuzzle. I decided to place the question in a certain position and that they could not go further until that questions had been answered.

The second group of questions are multiple choice ones (a, b, c) and in class we work focusing on them. We listened to the video two times, since there were some students who could not watch the video at home. The flipped class help students to focus on general information at home and then pay attention to details in the class.

Some students have congratulated me for the activity and they would like to practice again using Edpuzzle.

Next time instead of having a multiple-choice activity in class I would suggest fill-in the gaps.

Reading habits

Looking at the images displayed it can be undoubtedly stated that our reading habits have been entirely reshaped to adapt to the digital revolution, although some people are still reluctant, but resistance is futile. 

As a consequence of the digital revolution we tend to live frantically. It is fairly easier and quicker to read on your smart phone or tablet, and even cheaper. When making reference to looking up information, the online search cannot be compared to the traditional one in libraries. The progress can be clearly assessed because one search could lead you to another piece of information in just seconds.

From my point of view, people are reading more fantasy and science fiction novels thanks to which they escape from reality and their day-to-day problems. Quite popular are also mysteries and psychological thrillers for those people who are in need of excitement and mystery. Although I believe those are the most common genres, I need to point out that reading tastes evolve throughout your life and the books you read depend on your mood and experiences.

Regarding who chooses the books, I think people follow trends. Many book reviews and reading forums can be found online and they help others to make their decisions. I have to admit that sometimes I tend to read books from the same author if their novels are gripping.

Youngsters are still defining their reading preferences and unfortunately some are highly influenced by other habits and do not read as much as teachers and parents would like. However, as I see it, it is a matter of developing a habit and linking reading to a relaxing and pleasant moment. Therefore, I consider that imposing books to them is not the best idea, and perhaps we should balance the choice between their preferences and our options, so that they feel motivated to read and reading could be extended to their daily life and not be limited to their school work.

In my case, nowadays I enjoy reading historical and mystery novels both in Spanish and English. Although in English I also read books about teaching methodology and books which grasp my attention because of their cultural background. I have to admit that I have read more classics of English literature that its Spanish counterparts.

I prefer reading on my tablet or smart phone, sometimes I feel like sitting in front of a traditional book and enjoy that pleasure too. As I am trying to instill my little one into reading, I am reading stories to him using traditional books.

I think we should try to find any moment to read and that is the reason why the use of digital books is so convenient. If I am waiting somewhere for a service, I simply get my device and read in the meantime. Apart from that, I normally read before going to sleep.

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