Elmo

Today I got an Elmo for my classroom.  It's amazing!  There are so many possibilities for it in the classroom.  For our first lesson using the Elmo, we looked through our writers' workshop journals and looked at the students' applications of their using authors as mentors.  It was so much more powerful for them to see their peers applying their learning, rather than just me.We were also able to put up actual examples of text that we modeled and see side by side comparisons whole class.  I plan to use the Elmo on a daily basis.  Here are a few of the ideas I have: introducing cursive letters, having students show examples of how they worked through math problem solving exercises, and modeling how to use sticky notes as a comprehension strategy.  I'm sure as I use it more the ideas will become endless!  Although I am clearly partial to the Elmo, there are definitely some downfalls to it.  One major stipulation is that you need an LCD projector for it to work.  I did not have one, so I had to get one for my classroom before I could have an Elmo.  This can make getting an Elmo even more expensive.  Another issue is student use.  With my old overhead I had students independently use it all the time, especially in centers.  I am not so willing to let students use the Elmo without my supervision.  The best option would be to keep both, but it's difficult to find the room (that has to point at our whiteboard).  Although, there are some concerns I will have to work through I am so excited to have an Elmo and know it will be a great addition to my classroom and increase student learning! (My husband thinks I should stick a Tickle Me Elmo sticker on it!)