Mrs. Evans' Blog

Tech Savvy 8th Graders Videoconference with their Blog Pals

2010-10-04T17:17:00.000-07:00

Some people may read "tech savvy 8th graders videoconference with their blog pals" and wonder what that even means! But the PHMS 8th graders didn't bat an eye when they were given this assignment.

Tracy McGuyer, a friend and fellow teacher of mine (used to sub and coach at PHMS) also teaches "The Outsiders" to her 8th graders at Herington Middle School in Herington, KS. We collaborated to come up with some opportunities for our students to talk about their experiences while reading this novel through a blog. Basically, they had the 21st century's version of pen pals. After finishing the novel, we decided to let the students "meet" by using skype for free video conferencing.

The students asked some intriguing questions and had some good dialogue about the novel, and they seemed to really enjoy it. We are hoping to plan another novel study together later in the year.

The 7th graders also had blog pals with HMS over their novel study of "The Watson's Go to Birmingham", but our schedule didn't allow us a chance to video conference. Hopefully we can arrange something like that for them later in the year, too!

There are links to both the 7th and 8th grade blog conversations with their pals from Herington on the left side of this page if you're interested in seeing the discussions.

PHMS Cheerleaders

2010-10-01T06:20:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of being cheer sponsor for a night at the Madison football game on September 30th. Christa Miller, PHES teacher and PHMS cheer sponsor, along with five 8th grade girls have worked really hard to provide spirit at the PHMS football games this year. They are doing a great job. This cheer literally made me LOL, so I had to share. Nice job girls!

Check It Out!

2010-09-21T12:36:00.000-07:00

Check out another blog that the students will post their writing to: http://phmswriting.blogspot.com/

There is a link on the left of this blog called "PHMS Student Writing" that will also get you there.

Enjoy!

2010-08-12T21:10:00.000-07:00

PHMS 6th and 7th graders went on a field trip to Kansas State University at the end of last school year. They had a blast exploring the horse unit, wildcat football offices, locker rooms, weight room etc. But nothing beat getting to play football and run up and down Bill Snyder Family Stadium's football field! I'm not sure if anyone had more fun than me though...who could want anything more than getting to watch your "kids" play at your alma mater! Brought a tear to my eye!