Professional Resource Catalog Consolidated
This picture is from Adam Sicinski’s blog, Creating a Life Resource List. Retrieved from http://blog.iqmatrix.com/life-resource-list
I found this website some time ago and kept it in the back of my mind while working on the Professional Resource Catalog. Every article, book, blog, video, and conversation becomes part of our own life resource list. Let’s learn from them and use the information to grow and become better teachers.
This website bases all its resources on six basic strategies for learning:
Founded by filmmaker/director George Lucas, the idea is to promote exciting learning with “student teams working cooperatively and children connecting with passionate experts”. The resources include videos, job postings, research, and lesson plans.
There is one whole section on diversity with several short videos for teachers. One in particular is narrated by Dr. Dorothy Strickland (2012), which recommends the teacher learn as much as possible about where each child is coming from, but be able to step back and deal with each child as an individual. This also applies to adult learners and isn’t necessarily easy, but very important.
I was able to visit just part of the Smithsonian earlier this year and found myself amazed at the overwhelming amount of knowledge contained within the walls. Now, much of that knowledge is available online through this website with resources for teachers, students, and families. One can search by state standards to ensure the lesson plan is appropriate for the region. There are suggestions for planning field trips, and opportunities for professional development.
I especially like the webcasts available online and would certainly use some of those in a classroom. Another lesson plan which would appeal to the students is From Corido to Ballad which teaches about the history of the cowboy culture. “El corrido de Kansas” is probably the earliest existing song about the cowboy life, and in the lesson, students change a Spanish language song to an English language song. It presents the opportunity to understand the gist of the song, rather than a literal translation.
Educurious® is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization on a mission to fundamentally transform the K-12 education experience. Our vision: To create an effective education system in which young people learn in meaningful and inspiring ways, and classrooms are places they want to be. Their goal: “To cultivate curious, motivated young people who are ready for college and tomorrow’s careers….They combine project-based learning, technology, and connections with real-world experts, to create meaningful learning experiences that cultivate contemporary skills.
This resource offers links to many articles and blogs by others in education. Most recently, I found an article that had lists of questions for every level of teacher to ask themselves for classroom/self- improvement. In addition, there are links to training, chat, YouTube videos, etc. One can search for ideas specific to their teaching. Type in “writing” and the site brings up many resources.
This website offers varied ESL lesson plans and the materials (worksheets) to use. While observing the ESL class these last weeks, I mentioned this site to the teacher and she uses it quite frequently. It provides resource links to other colleges and universities. Currently, I’m reviewing lessons on writing.
Dr. Krashen’s ideas have been integral to the entire TESOL program. He discusses what the differences are between acquisition of first and second (or third) languages. His lecture is easy to follow and he emphasizes key points.
Another video, this one brings understanding to the teachers about the why of learning and speaking English. Kohn says, “I want to get it right” not just be understood. This is especially important for adult learners. As a bonus, it was pleasant to hear English spoken so carefully and clearly.
I found this paper to be quite helpful in explaining and showing how scaffolding works in teaching English to non-native speakers.
This website offers the standards for students to take and pass the CASAS-CAHSEE Exam (2014), a state test of English language proficiency which is designed to show proficiency in:
There are assessment tests available. Students preparing for citizenship tests or employment opportunities will appreciate the experience. CASAS recognizes the following areas of competencies: phonology, vocabulary, grammar, general and informational discourse, and strategic and critical thinking.
This network features blogs by educator for educators. Recently, I have been following SOS, Spotlight on Strategies. There are many resources for training and techniques for bringing Discovery into the classroom.
liveandlearnaway 