Tapping into Creativity

There are six levels of Blooms Taxonomy.  Unfortunately due to the ‘T’ word it is not uncommon to find teachers moving beyond levels 1-3 in hopes of retaining formulas for end of grade test. Moving to levels 4-6 require illustration, supporting and creating.  Today we are going to tap into the higher levels by creating a Storybird.

Storybirds are art-inspired stories that impact everyone from Miss. Smartypants in the front seat to our reluctant readers in the back row.  Here’s how it works:

Storybird Quick Tour from Storybird on Vimeo.

In science have your students create a Storybird to illustrate the Scientific Method.  Social Studies students can retell the events leading to WWI.  The possibilities are endless for all content areas.

Empower your students to reach their highest high.  Sign up for your free Storybird acount today.

READER RESPONSE: How will you use Storybird in your class?

4,400+ Free Books

I bet that title got your attention.  If it did then you should know up front that this post is not about giveaways or a place to steal books and not get caught.  Today as we delve into Week 2 of Best Websites for Educators I want to share a site that can be used for students ages 1-100.

The International Children’s Digital Library (ICDL) provides thousands of books in 54 different languages from around the world.  From well known authors such as Walter Dean Myers to a French folktale favorites, you’ll find all sorts of interesting stories to share with students. 

As a classroom teacher I was a huge fan of using picture books to teach literary elements. With ICDL you now have access to books even when the copy is checked out at the school library media center.  All you need is an LCD projector and a working internet connection to share literature and beautiful artwork with students. 

Are you a parent wondering how to use ICDL with your child?  Download the free app on your iPad. We have one last summer vacation coming up and I cannot think of a better way to keep Junior entertained and save space in the car. 

ICDL is truly captivating and I hope that you find a way to integrate this into your content for many years to come.

READER RESPONSE: Search for a book on the ICDL site.  Please share how the book is connected to a specific content area.  Think outside the box English teachers.  We need to help our math, science, social studies and elective teachers use this resource in their classes today.

Spice Up Your Lesson Plans

Let's face it, sometimes our lessons plans are missing a little pep.  How many times have you glanced at your pacing guide only to discover that it's time to conjugate verbs or showcase the glories of the periodic table?   But how can you make last years bland delivery into something fiery? I think you know my answer.  The 2010-11 school year is approaching at a rapid pace.  The most exciting aspect or biggest fear is the use of technology.  I found this great Scrib to help you plan and integrate flavor into your curriculum.  Whatever you do, make sure these sites are accessible on campus and be sure to grab an Averkey or utilize an LCD projector the day you introduce new technology. As always, especially to my Rams, contact me if you need help utilizing these awesome tools.

Web 2.0 Tools for Teachers