No, that image to the left is not an iPad surrounded by SmartCovers. That is the Microsoft Surface. Not to be confused with the giant table-sized computer the company released a while ago, the Surface is Microsoft’s entry into the tablet market.
Attempting to take a page out of Apple’s playbook on several levels, Microsoft revealed the Surface during a mystery press event in California. What those in attendance saw was an iPad knock-off that is heavier, boasts shorter batter life and an inferior chip. To be fair, the Surface does have an impressive cover that contains a fully functioning keyboard, but that is an accessory that must be purchased.
Microsoft has two versions of the Surface in the works, each for a very different audience. There’s a “consumer version” that will run Windows RT and a “business version” that will run Windows 8.
Microsoft isn’t saying exactly when the Surface will be available for purchase, or how much it will cost, but experts are predicting the “consumer version” to fall in the $500 price range with the “business version” to come in at over $1,000. The pricier version does have better overall tech specs than its cheaper brother, but that improved performance comes at the cost of weight and, of course, cost.
What kind of teacher are you?
Would you like to be better at what you do?
As a teacher self-reflection is vital.
Are you at a point where you want to change or can change?
Do you self-reflect and continually change?
What qualities do you possess that make you the kind of teacher you would want your child to have, or your grandchildren to have?
As I taught, I would...
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When I was in college, I heard all about centers and how fun they were. I observed in classrooms where centers were placed throughout the environment. Until I got my own classroom, I never really understood the effect that centers had on a classroom setting. I didn’t truly...

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All teachers use different strategies and learning opportunities for their students. We all know that we need to change our ideas and teaching each year, depending on who our students are, what they know, and what they need. We are usually given a set of curricula that either...

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We know that today is different than last year at this time. I am going to share with you ideas to partner with families right now during the pandemic but also, when things get back to “normal”, as we know they will, ideas for cultivating that relationship.
Right now, families just need support. Teachers need support also. We all need to work together and be kind and realize we are each doing everything...
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