Research Entry #2 9/30/13

Yesterday (9/29/13) I spent about 6 hours (straight!) researching information to add sources to my topic paper.  I then edited my paper and added sources which took another hour.  I enjoyed most of the research.  I found a lot of interesting information about game based learning (GBL) that made me really wish that I was a video game designer as a part time job.  Apparently it would be very helpful in my math class.  Too bad that I am not a video game designer, so I can not really use most of what I found unless I find games already designed to supplement my lessons.

I also found a lot of information about the PARCC test that my students will be taking next year.

So far I am enjoying the research, but I hate writing papers. 

Also, today I spent all of my prep, part of my lunch, and the last hour and 15 minutes revamping my paper for submission because I didn't feel like it was good enough.  It's like my martial arts instructor says, "The biggest room in the world is room for improvement."

Here we go!!! Research entry #1 9/23/13

This week has been CRAZY to say the least.  I ended up starting a little late with developing my topic.  It seemed like a monumental task for only being worth 2 points, haha.  I spent HOURS thinking about what topic I was going to choose.  I love martial arts and I love math, so I was torn.  After careful consideration, and some help (Thanks Amy!) I finally chose my topic.

My wife and I had a big house party on Saturday, so I was unable to get anything done that day.  On Sunday I spent about 3-4 hours reading sample products and our textbook.  It took me a little while to muster up the motivation necessary to finally sit down and write the paper.  I always dread tasks like this before I start them, but once I start I usually can't stop until I'm finished.   Once I started writing, it took me about an hour and a half to complete the paper.

I'm looking forward to an action packed but rewarding semester.