by Mrs. Carlene Anderson & 3rd Grade Students (2011-2014), School #12 - Paterson, New Jersey USA

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Program Evaluation - The Robert Chronicles



Program evaluation is an essential part of appraising the impact that instruction is having on our students. This video provides a snapshot of one student's two-year journey through a bi-lingual/ESL program within an urban school district.  Essential question:  If this program were being implemented with fidelity, then how much farther along the continuum of the Performance Definitions for WIDA K-12 ELP Standards for Assessing Speaking Proficiency would Robert have progressed?

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Yahzier's Vision of Peace


Yahzier from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. valued non-violence.  He believed that we should relate peacefully with each other.  In honor of Dr. King's dream, my students used descriptive words to create poems that provide sensory details and images of their attainable dreams.

Yahzier wrote:  Peace is like a quiet park.  Peace looks like a beautiful place.  It never sounds loud and makes me feel jubilant.  Peace is never awful, but it's always marvelous.

Toni-Ann's Vision of Peace


Peace Poem 2013-Toni-Ann from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

Toni-Ann wrote:  Peace is  like a beautiful day outside.  Peace looks like a rainbow in the sky.  It sounds like the wind blowing on the beach and makes me feel excited.  Peace is never horrible, but it is always fair.

Monday, June 17, 2013

Eternity - Chinese Sumi brush painting with Darrell Wilson


Tutor-Darrell Wilson-Chinese Sumi Art1 from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

Through our partnership with William Paterson University, my students and I were fortunate to have Darrell Wilson, New York University Professor of Sculpture and Filmmaking, join us as a part of the Young Audiences grant.  What a meditative moment we experienced! Students got into the zone for creative expression.  We learned the symbol for "eternity".  This lesson on Chinese Sumi brush painting will remain with us for many years as we seek to preserve these memorable moments .

Monday, June 10, 2013

WPU Partnership yields a bucket-filling surprise!


WPU Tutors - Ms. Marrone's serenade-You Are My Sunshine from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

Mr. O'Reily, WPU tutor, prepared my students for a bucket-filling serenade of our WPU practicum teacher, Ms. Marrone.  She returned the sentiment by presenting my students with a heart warming tribute...a box of crayons, which symbolized our uniqueness and celebrated our diversity.  What a beautiful surprise!

Sunday, June 9, 2013

Making a Difference


Ask Me-Making a Difference from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

During a morning meeting, Nikayla began by sharing a collection of her favorite things.  Among her treasure, were some encouraging words from her grandmother, Abuela Mirtha.  This opened the door to our discussion of choices that we can make within our spheres of influence that will result in us making a meaningful difference in the world.

Sunday, June 2, 2013

It's okay to be different!


Celebrating diversity from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

As a part of our collaborative action research project, my students and I participated in a joint third grade book reading of It's Okay to Be Different by Todd Parr.  Afterwards,  my students analyzed the qualities that make us uniquely different and our decision to celebrate our diversity.

Saturday, June 1, 2013

The Perloff Family Foundation - Donors committed to social action, digital citizenship, and education justice


Thank you! from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

Dear Students:

We have been very pleased to support Mrs. Anderson and all of the interesting things you do in your classroom.  We look forward to seeing your photos, videos, poems, and stories.  We wish you continued success in your classroom studies and a fun summer.

Our best,

Sandra and David Perloff

Thursday, May 9, 2013

A Song-Peace Is So Beautiful by Nizaire and Tiana


Light and Love-Nizaire and Tiana's song from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

In response to the fear that was caused after the bombing at the Boston Marathon on 4-15-13, my students wrote reflections of empowerment.  We drew inspiration from Dr. MLK, Jr.  He stated, "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.  Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."

Light Saved the World by Eliezer


Light and Love-Eliezer from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

Peace Is Better Than Hate by Alize


Light and Love-Alize from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

Love One Another by Jodiel


Light and Love-Jodiel from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

Light is...by Asim


Light and Love-Asim from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

Always...with Love by Naomi and Aniyah

Tuesday, April 16, 2013


Terror - A Response to the Boston Marathon on 4-15-13 from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

During our morning meeting on 4-16-13, my students and I embarked on a very enlightening discussion of how acts of terrorism are used to instill fear.  We were all saddened by the news of the tragedy that happened in Boston on 4-15-13.  However, we were also encouraged by the stories of heroism as runners, observers, and first responders rallied to assist those who were hurt.  Perhaps we can choose to take the power back from those who would rob us of our peace of mind by choosing to forgive them instead.  In our discussion, my students reminded me that hurting people...hurt people.  Samuel articulated that revenge is not the answer.  Forgiveness is a noble alternative.  Amazing!  Third graders are great philosophers.

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

One-on-One with Steve Adubato showcase


Carlene Anderson NJPB from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

One-on-One with Steve Adubato is a PBS television program.  On March 1, 2013, my interview with this remarkable journalist aired.  Together, he and I had a poignant conversation about the impact that our global collaborations projects are having on my students.  Digital citizenship continues to be a major part of our global points of view initiative.

Monday, December 17, 2012

A Tribute to Students of Sandy Hook Elementary School, Connecticut


Sandy Hook Tribute from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

In memory of the 20 stupendous students who were killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut, my students and I hung 20 Santa caps in our classroom. We are heartbroken that your loved ones did not get to celebrate the 7th and 8th nights of Hanukkah with you. Christmas will not be as merry this year. You are gone, but you will always be in our hearts.

Saturday, December 1, 2012

Destiny - My Heritage Matters


Destiny - My Heritage Matters from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

Fabulous! Do you think your heritage is special? Well, I do! My awesome heritage should be celebrated because I am a beautiful African-American girl. In Africa, we eat everything with pepper in it. I think my heritage is special because I have an interesting heritage, and I love who I am. I am African because my parents are from Liberia. We value family, friends, and very hard work. If I didn’t celebrate my stupendous heritage, then I would be unhappy. My terrific heritage means a lot to me. Also, I will be miserable if I can’t celebrate my exciting heritage. I think my heritage is exciting because it’s like a surprise party! As you can see, this is a beautiful Liberian fabric behind me. What do you really think about my wonderful heritage?

NiKayla - My Heritage Matters!


NiKayla - My Heritage Matters! from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.


Did you know that people can be four things? Well, I am. I’m happy that I am an American, Puerto Rican, Peruvian, and Portuguese. I get to celebrate all of these heritages. I hope you celebrate your heritage too. My favorite part of being more than one thing is that I get to try different kinds of food everyday. I’m happy this is who I am. This is the Peruvian flag. It is a part of my heritage.

Badr - My Heritage Matters!


Badr - My Heritage Matters! from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

Everyone should be proud of their heritage. I am certainly proud of my heritage because I am half Moroccan and half Jordanian. These cultures are very different from the American culture. We eat different kinds of food. For example, we eat mencif, hummus, couscous, and kebab. We also have different costumes like a Abaya and Jallaba. These are things you use whenever you pray. Also, we have two important holidays. They are Eid Al Adha and Eid Al Fitr. Before Eid, we have to fast for one month and then we have a celebration. It is like a carnival because there are a lot of rides and we visit with our family. I will never forget my heritage because my heritage is amazing! I love being myself. This is the Jordanian flag, and I like the way it looks.

Saturday, November 24, 2012

A Cornucopia of Gratitude - Our Grateful Plateful!


Jorge-Our Grateful Plateful from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.
My name is Jorge and my Thanksgiving recipe includes: a dash of love, 2 hands full of kindness, lots of hugs and kisses, 2 cups of giving hearts mixed together in a bowl of family,  a pinch of laughter, a pint of happiness, a gallon of gratefulness, and last but not least a thankful prayer around the dinner table.

Samuel-Our Grateful Plateful from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.
My name is Samuel and my Thanksgiving recipe includes: 2 cups of intelligent, humorous and exquisite sisters, 1 handful of a handsome brother, a pinch of a glamorous mother, 2 teaspoons of an ingenious step-father, 1 minute of love, 1 sprinkle of an eligible father, 1 blend of cooperation, 2 touches of an American and Jamaican heritage, 1 touch of a smart teacher, and a touch of family creativity.  Happy Thanksgiving!

Monday, June 18, 2012

America is...



Throughout the 2011-2012 school year, my students and I had numerous discussions on issues related to traditions, culture, diversity, and discrimination.  Our Points of View lessons culminated with this introspective look at what America means to us.  Digital storytelling is a very effective way of illustrating our ideas and demonstrating that we've mastered lessons intended to stimulate our higher order thinking skills.  
America is....mov from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Freedom Poems!


 
We Stand Free...We Stand Proud
by Taheem Williams

We stand free...we stand proud because we can!
It's America!
Freedom is a like a breeze
A breeze that will touch your soul.
It gives us the opportunity to start over.
You will have everlasting hope.
You can reach for the stars
because you're free.
Just remember, we stand free...we stand proud!
 
Freedom
by Beisy Nunez Araujo

Freedom is
Righteous. It
Embraces equality
for Everyone. It is definite in the USA.
it is obtainable.
Most importantly, it is merciful.
 
Freedom's Light
by Michelle DePena

Feedom is love, freedom is faith.
It cannot be taken away.
It's like a gentle wind
Whispering that it loves you...
or the dazzling stars
of the night sky.
Make a wish on its star.
It will come true for you.
It will shine brightly for every good soul.
 
Freedom
by Gabrielle Batista

Freedom
Represents
Equality for
Everyone. It is
Dedicated,
Obtainable, and
Memorable
 
Freedom
by Sandra Navarro

Freedom is like a spirit deep inside my soul.
Respect freedom like freedom respects you.
With freedom, you can do it all.

Our symbol of liberty is...strong and free is she!
Extending her torch, she welcomes everyone
To the land of the free and...home of the brave.

So, remember to respect and care for our freedom
or be enslaved by fear.
 
Freedom
by Nyree Glover

Freedom of opportunity
Religion,
Equality. It is
Effective for people who are
Discriminated against,
Oppressed, and
Most importantly enslaved.
 
Freedom is Fair
by Michael Rodriguez

Freedom is fair.
We should respect freedom.
We should always love freedom.
Freedom is like a bird flying in the sky.

Lady Liberty shows a sign of freedom.
Freedom should be allowed everywhere.
Freedom makes your wishes come true.
We all desire freedom because freedom is fair.
 
Freedom
by Leyla Rosado

Freedom is as beautiful as a flower that glows in the sun.
Freedom is like a powerful eagle opening its wings.
Freedom is lovely and sweet like a cupcake.
It's like a wish come true.
It's gentle.
It can never, ever be broken because it is so powerful.

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Communities of Caring-"Beatrice's Goat" and our donation to Heifer International with Ms. Verta and Ms. Ospina!



After our year-long "Penny Jar Fundraiser", our lesson on communities of caring culminated with a reading of the book, "Beatrice's Goat."  My students collected $81.00!  We decided to make a donation to Heifer International.  Take a look at this very poignant lesson on how a small group can make a tremendous difference in the world.

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

This is a special birthday greeting to our "Marine hero" in Afghanistan!


We have been in regular contact with Sgt. Fabien Nelson, who is a US Marine that was deployed to Afghanistan.  Students communicate with Sgt. Nelson via Skype.  They recite original poems written in honor of freedom and the bravery of our US troops at home and abroad.  It is always encouraging for us to know that we are making a difference in the lives of those who bravely defend our freedom.   Can you imagine how thrilled he was to receive this birthday greeting?

Sunday, February 19, 2012

3rd Grade Philosophers!


During a read-aloud of "The People Could Fly" by Virginia Hamilton, my students examined symbolism and imagery in American Black folktales. It never ceases to amaze me how deeply my students think and are able to reason beyond the obvious. We will endeavor to exercise our higher order thinking skills (HOTS) to preserve our beautiful minds. We have the "HOTS" for words! A few students shared insightfully. In the end, Angel punctuated our analysis with a very poignant message that encapsulated his classmates' sentiments in a remarkable way. He took my breath away!

Saturday, February 18, 2012

Poet Suzie Johnson-Scott provides editing help to Nine, an aspiring poet!

My students and I are blessed to have many volunteers from the community who share their time and talent with us. During a recent tutoring session, Nine was treated to an enlightening and encouraging moment. He had no idea that his style of writing was reminiscent of Langston Hughes' in "Dreams." Imagine that. Our tutors rock! Ms. Johnson-Scott's book of poetry, "Keep Smiling, Standing Strong," is quite inspirational.

Tutors-Suzie Johnson-Scott-editing work with Nine, the poet! from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Our PS # 12 local celebrity!

Germir Robinson is a 6th grader at PS # 12 who was born in Paterson on 7/29/00. He possesses an excellent spirit! Did you know that he is our local celebrity? Well, his body of work includes such movies and TV programs as: Da Brick, Celebrity Ghost Stories, American Gangster, Bully, Lunch Money, UnderAchievers, Change, Person of Interest, The Dave Chappelle Show, The History Channel's American Revolution project, and numerous commercials. He aspires to become an actor or a professional basketball player. We believe that he is destined for greatness! To learn more about Germir's acting resume, visit http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3317072/.

Paterson-Germir Robinson-PS #12 local celebrity from Fast Track Video on Vimeo.

Monday, February 6, 2012

Tango @ WPU with Tutors Mrs. Kourani, Mr. Mankin, and Ms. Victor

In partnership with William Paterson University, PS # 12 is a Professional Development School. Endeavoring to expand my students' "Points of View," I often expose them to the arts. At a recent performance of her senior recital, a few of my students went in support of violinist, Nadya Kourani. It is an evening that they will not soon forget! Amid the elements that would otherwise discourage, my students are privilege to experience periodic glimpses of hope that reassure them that success is within their grasp.

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Social Action-"Stop the Drugs!"-Suicide vs. Homicide...

Stop the Drugs! – This on-going digital story was created in response to an over-whelming presence of drug paraphernalia and litter left in a neighborhood park that my students and I adopted as a part of our social action project. We've chronicled the heart-felt reaction of my students to the elements within their immediate environment that can truly blight the potential of their beautiful minds. Their words speak volumes about how these innocent observers are poised to become world changers.

Saturday, January 28, 2012

Social Action-"Stop the Drugs!"-Our Message


Stop the Drugs! – This on-going digital story was created in response to an over-whelming presence of drug paraphernalia and litter left in a neighborhood park that my students and I adopted as a part of our social action project. We've chronicled the heart-felt reaction of my students to the elements within their immediate environment that can truly blight the potential of their beautiful minds. Their words speak volumes about how these innocent observers are poised to become world changers.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

A South African Brain Teaser!


During our meeting with Steve Sherman of Living Maths in South Africa, we were treated to a wonderful brain teaser. My students and I were encouraged to use our "HOTS" or higher order thinking skills to figure out the word problem. How thrilled we were to be introduced to the language and beauty that is Cape Town! Thanks to Stefan Nielsen, our partner in Denmark, we look forward to experiencing a unique cultural exchange with our South African friends on a weekly basis. It's always a treat for us to develop our critical thinking skills while learning about people from far away lands.

Sunday, January 15, 2012

Ask Me-Anna-Lessons learned from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.


"Ask Me" is a segment that solicits candid answers to questions that are student and teacher generated. The range of questions varies based on students' knowledge about contemporary issues. During morning meetings, students are encouraged to become experts on any given topic. Their responses to questions are a mix of satire and sagely wisdom. It is never whimsical but is always poignant.

Ask Me-Anna-Lessons from Dr. MLK, Jr. on 1/13/12 from Dave Perloff on Vimeo.

Saturday, January 14, 2012

Ask Me-Interview with Mrs. Anderson-"Why do we do Points of View projects?"


"Ask Me" is a segment that solicits candid answers to questions that are student and teacher generated. The range of questions varies based on students' knowledge about contemporary issues. During morning meetings, students are encouraged to become experts on any given topic. Their responses to questions are a mix of satire and sagely wisdom. It is never whimsical but is always poignant.

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

I smile because. . .

"My students are a constant source of inspiration. They make me smile!"
- Mrs. Carlene Anderson
Beisy: "If my teacher was my mother, then I would smile. I would smile
because she is like my real mother. Whenever I think of my mom I smile.
I smile because she is beautiful. When I think about myself, I also smile.
Do you know why I smile whenever I think about myself? I smile because
I am gorgeous! When I see my stepmom, I smile. I smile because she
treats me like my mom treats me. Whenever I hug my dad, I smile.
I smile because I pretend that I am hugging my mom."

Iz'Jahmier: "When you smile, do yo like it? Well, when I smile, I do like it.
I like it because I don't have to be in the shadows. I like to show my beauty
and my passion. When I smile, I feel like I can't lose hope. I love to smile!
You should too."

Nine: "Wow, have you smiled lately? I have! I smile because my dad makes
jokes. Also, I smile because my brother and sister are silly. I love smiling
because my friends smile back at me."

Jermaine: "Do you know why I smile? I smile because joy is inside of me.
I smile because my family loves me. When my family members look at me,
they make me smile. Another reason why I smile is because of my friends
and teachers! Whenever I smile it is because of my beautiful life!."

Riana: "I smile because it makes me look gorgeous. My smile is unique! I
also smile because my mom wants me to smile, and she said I am a very
pretty girl. I always smile whenever my mom, my brother, and I say jokes.
Do you think I have a great smile? I think my smile is beautiful."

Sandra: "Do you know what makes me smile? When I think of my friends,
I smile. Also, I smile whenever I take a picture and whenever my teacher
compliments me. I like to smile. Do you? Smiling is great for me and you!"

Gabrielle: " Do you know why I smile? I smile whenever I am happy. I like
to smile. Also, I smile because I want all the people that are around me to
know that I am happy. I look cute whenever I smile. That's why I like to
smile."

Dennis: "I wonder why I smile? I smile when something is funny. I love to
laugh! Another reason why I smile is to take a picture. Whenever something
hits my funny bone, I laugh. Sometimes, I even laugh for no reason at all,
but I try to hold it in."

Michelle: "Do you know why I smile? I smile because of jokes, funny books,
and when my mom hugs me. Jokes are funny. Funny books are hilarious!
Whenever my mom hugs me, it's lovable. I'm proud of my smile. I'm special
because of my smile. Do you like my smile?"

Sha'Asia: "Wow, have you smiled lately? Well, I smile all the time. My sister
and brother make me smile all the time. My life is always fun. School is fun
to learn. I have many reasons to smile."

Tiara: "Wow, have you ever smiled lately? Well, I smile with my friends.
I like to smile because I look pretty. I love to smile! Do you like to smile?
I think smiling is my favorite expression. Do you know I smile because I think
about me having a big house and a nice car when I grow-up? I smile about a
lot of things in my life. I am glad that I have a great smile."




Mrs. Anderson: "Smile! I ask myself, "Why do I smile as often as I do?" Well,
I'll share a few reasons why I've smiled lately. The other day, Tiara brought
in her homework folder with a note attached. Her mom explained that the
dog ate her homework. While reading the note, I smiled. The bite marks in
the paper tickled me.

Jermaine also brought a smile to my face. He insists on crooning during
instruction time. Although I would rather reprimand him for interrupting
my lesson, I took a glance into the future and imagine him singing before
shouting fans. I smile!

My most recent source of amusement in class, was when Angel shared his
method of forecasting the weather. He stated that it's more accurate to
predict the weather by putting saliva on the tip of your finger and holding
it up in the air to judge how the wind blows. He continued very convincingly
that the direction of the wind will tell if there is going to be a storm. Isn't
that hilarious?