My Truth Monday: Celebrity Crushes

It is time for some more truths from Denise over at Sunny Days in Second! :)

So, ya'll that follow me know I am married.  And I love my husband, I really, REALLY do! :)

But...I'm certainly not blind! ;)

When it comes to cuteness, I can certainly appreciate it when I see it! :)

So...something else came up this week, and I thought this post might be a good place to be 'truthful' about it.

Someone copied a friend of mine....

Oh yes. They did.

This got me to thinking...what is copying...REALLY?

Here are my rules...

1.) Is it the same CONCEPT?

Some concepts are generic...like...task cards, interactive notebooks, 'roll, tally, graph, printable worksheets, morning work, or folding paper in creative ways to take notes. These are ideas that lots of teachers use over and over again and for student instruction.  Some concepts are more explicit...they are part of the 'brand' of another teacher.

2.) Is it the same THEME?

Of course there will be some overlap, but...if I've selected to do the same theme as someone else, I need to make sure that I distinguish myself as seperate.  For example, lots of people do things with a Thanksgiving theme...but if I am already doing a similar concept...and then also a similar theme, with similar concept and style...I could be putting myself in a tough spot.

3.) Is it the same FORMAT?

When I compare it to other sellers with the same type of product...are the words in the same place? Are the types of academic requirements similar?  Do I have a similar title?  Is the design nearly identical?

4.) Could I defend the differences in my work to the author that inspired it?

Sometimes, you don't know that you've shared an idea that came from someone else.  Great ideas come up for teachers all the time.  But...if you're the type of teacher that is constantly blog hopping, or pinterest shopping...you may be exposing yourself to ideas and not realizing that they have been inspired by someone else's thoughts.  Ask a friend.  Say, 'Hey...does this look too similar?'  If the answer is yes...then use it with your own learners, but direct people to the person who came up with the idea! :)

**Of course, it should go without saying, that taking ideas of Pinterest without giving credit...or taking freebies off of other blogs and turning them into paid products is DEFINITELY a wrong way to go.**

If any of these things are true, it's a NO GO for me.

There is a temptation to capitalize on the greatness of others because...well, they are GREAT--and we ALL want to be great too! :)  Just make sure that on your way to the top, you aren't stepping on other teachers as you go. :)

So I leave you with some 'Sweet Brown-eque' thoughts...