The Walking Classroom has been such a great addition to my curriculum and classroom. My students love it so much they even want to go out and walk on rainy days! They are always so disappointed when I tell them we have to wait until tomorrow.
What works best for my students is to show the videos and discuss the topic(s) before our walk. Initially we watched the videos after our walks, but I have found it helps so much more to frontload information for my language learners. I show a lot of pictures and we watch 1-2 videos. This also helps activate schema for my other students.
Recently, we listened to Rachel Carson (5-#8, STEM-#37, Complete-#157) which my students really enjoyed. They had never heard of her before and learned a lot about her dedication to nature and her activism.
The Walking Classroom’s podcasts have been extra helpful during Black History Month and Women’s History Month. We listened to many biographies which tied into so many discussions and read-alouds that we had covered.
In addition to the impact from the content of the podcasts, I have been also happy to see certain students rise to the occasion to be student leaders. They love taking turns being the line leader or caboose. I have seen some of my students really step up and take charge of our walking time. They take us around the school and keep a great pace that the others can follow. I am so proud to see them doing a fantastic job which allows me to take a step back and keep it all student-centered. I am looking forward to discovering more podcasts with my students in the future!
Laura Schmitz
Teacher
William Anderson Elementary
Visuals are great! Where can you find the videos?
Nancy McGowan,Ed.S, NBCT *Gifted Specialist, Shades Mountain Elementary* 205.439.3100 “*The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity*.”
attributed to Dorothy Parker
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Hi Nancy! All of the podcasts have supplemental resources that include videos, slide decks, online and downloadable activities, and more that are all available in your Adopter Resources account. You should have received instructions on setting up your free account when you received your Walking Classroom materials. Please send us an email if you need that. Happy trails! (info@thewalkingclassroom.org)