Home» Resources

Resources & Research

Type

Topic

Area

Clear Filter

10 Most Intriguing Tablets of 2012 Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This article outlines the features, price, and benefits of ten of the newest tablet models to look for in 2012.
10 of the best Android apps for education in 2012 Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This article from eSchool News highlights 10 of the top rated Android apps in education.
10 of the best Apple apps for education in 2012 Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This article from eSchool News highlights 10 of the top rated Apple apps in education.
12 Tech Innovators Who Are Transforming Campuses Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology College leaders are trying new approaches to teaching and conducting research with digital tools, and some of those approaches could be transformative. The Chronicle of Higher Education has gathered profiles of a dozen of those leaders, highlighting their ideas and the issues at stake.
4Teachers: Teach with Technology Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology 4Teachers.org works to help teachers integrate technology into their classrooms by offering online tools and resources. This site helps teachers locate and create ready-to-use Web lessons, quizzes, rubrics, and classroom calendars. There are also tools for student use.
6 Good Reasons for Setting Learning Goals Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This article addresses the importance of establishing what you want students to learn when teaching.
6+1 Trait® Definitions Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing The 6+1 Trait® Writing analytical model for assessing and teaching writing is made up of 6+1 key qualities that define strong writing. This brief provides definitions and information on the model.
8 Social Media Sites Just for Kids Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing Eight kid-only and kid-appropriate sites are described in this article. These sites offer viable alternatives to the unfiltered Internet world and allow children to exercise their social media muscles without running into online predators or inappropriate content.
A National Primer on K-12 Online Learning Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Although many have shown enthusiasm for online courses and online learning, teachers, administrators, and other school and district staff oftentimes do not know what to do online or how to implement it. This primer provides helpful advice for educational professionals in developing and advancing online learning.
A Parent Guide to Universal Design for Learning Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Universal Design for Learning This Parent Advocacy Brief offers parents the basics about the UDL approach, as well as helpful tips for talking with their schools about it.
A Taxonomy of Reflection Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation In an effort to assist schools in the process of reflection and creating reflective learning environments, the author presents his "Taxonomy of Reflection" which is grounded in Bloom's approach. The model is presented as follows: 1) a taxonomy of reflection, 2) the reflective student, 3) the reflective teacher, and 4) the reflective principal.
Adolescent Literacy: What's Technology Got to Do With It? Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Reading-Vocabulary Learn how technology tools can support struggling students and those with learning disabilities to acquire background knowledge and vocabulary, improve their reading comprehension, and increase their motivation for learning.
Alexandria City Public Schools High School Technology Integration Project Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation In Spring 2007, the Metiri Group completed an evaluation of the Alexandria City Public Schools’ (ACPS) High School Technology Integration Plan. The evaluation focused on five stated sub-goals, from the District Strategic plan, and eight program goals for accomplishing ACPS’ technology integration outcomes. The ACPS Technology Integration Project has accomplished most of the stated goals.
Asset Management Systems Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation According to one survey, the average school district loses more than $80,000 per year because of lost or damaged IT assets. This article describes how using software to manage assets can help your district save money.
Assistive Technology 101 Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This info brief from the Family Center on Technology and Disability provides a brief overview of Assistive Technology (AT) and highlights ways that AT can help meet student learning needs.
Assistive Technology for Kids with Learning Disabilities: An Overview Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This article will introduce parents to the role of AT in helping their children with LD. The better informed you are about AT, the greater the chances your child will experience success in school, in recreation and, eventually, at work. You will also want to learn how to choose AT tools that are reliable and to select technology that is tailored to your child's individual needs, abilities, and experience.
Assistive Technology Glossary Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This assistive technology glossary from the Family Center on Technology and Disability provides a comprehensive list of assistive technology and special education terms as well as additional resources for more information.
Blogs, Wikis and Text Messaging: What are the Implications for Students with Learning Disabilities? Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology The usefulness of assistive technologies for students with learning disabilities is fairly obvious. It is easy to understand the educational benefits of software designed specifically for students with dyslexia. But what about Web 2.0 tools? What are they and how do they affect learning and interaction for students with learning disabilities?
Bringing Lessons to Life with Animoto Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing Strategy Guide for using Animoto, which can be used by students to illustrate their writings, create videos of digital photos, and present research. Educator tips and lesson ideas are presented. Grades 5-12.
Bringing Lessons to Life with Animoto Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing Strategy Guide for using Animoto in the classroom, which can be used by students to illustrate their writings, creating videos of digital photos, and presenting research. Educator tips and lesson ideas are presented. Grades 5-12.
Browse the 4th Edition Standards & Benchmarks Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This article gives links to core standards in each subject area.
Build an Assistive Technology Toolkit Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology Ideas and suggestions on how to identify and use free tools to build an assistive technology "toolkit" for your school, classroom, or individual student. The author also makes recommendations on how to collaborate with a school's IT department to facilitate an effective school-wide AT program.
Captioned Media: Literacy Support for Diverse Learners Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation In a typical classroom, a teacher may find many students who are struggling readers, whether they are beginning readers, students with language-based learning disabilities, or students who are English language learners (ELLs). One motivating, engaging, and inexpensive way to help build the reading skills of students is through the use of closed captioned and subtitled television shows and movies. This article explains how and why to use these tools.
CCSS: The promise and the peril for students with disabilities Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Newsletter that highlights core assessment, with a focus on students with disabilities,
Choosing and Implementing Technology Wisely Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This brief article summarizes the contents of online resources for technology implementation teams (including CITEd), and underscores the importance of assembling and providing leadership through such teams.
Classroom Guide: Top Ten Tips for Teaching with New Media Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This guide is full of succinct and practical ways to prepare students for 21st-century success. Free guides and downloads are embedded within text. (Must be a registered user to access guides and downloads. Registration is free.)
Combining Computer Games with Classroom Teaching Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This article from NPR station KQED describes how a California charter school network is using computer games to help address gaps in student learning and raise test scores. Students attending the charter school go to the computer lab twice a day, for 50-minute computer sessions in both reading and math.
Common Core Standards: What special educators need to know Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Universal Design for Learning Describes Common Core State Standards, including their impact for special educators, and assessments.
Computer-Assisted Instruction and Writing Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing This brief provides an overview of computer-assisted instruction and looks at how writing software can help students with developing ideas, organizing, outlining, brainstorming, and minimizing the physical effort spent on writing so that students can pay attention to organization and content.
Concrete-Representational-Abstract Instructional Approach Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics The Concrete-Representational-Abstract approach is an intervention for mathematics instruction that research suggests can enhance the mathematics performance of students with learning disabilities. It is a three-part instructional strategy, with each part building on the previous instruction to promote student learning and retention and to address conceptual knowledge.
CoSN VOI Case Studies Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation These VOI case studies were developed to provide real world examples for K-12 decision-makers as they assess the costs and evaluate the benefits of proposed technology investments—before they make costly, time-intensive decisions and commitments. The VOI studies are intended to provide school technology administrators and other educators with insight on best practices for making sound choices about education technology projects, and to better articulate the costs and benefits of these proposed projects.
Creating a Tech-Infused Culture Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation As an educational leader, the technology administrator can and should take the lead in ensuring students benefit from the integration of digital technologies into classroom practices. Here are numerous practical strategies for achieving a culture in which students can be more engaged in their learning, have multiple means of accessing and demonstrating that learning, and have varied assessments through technology.
Creating a Vision Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation When you begin the process of strategic planning, creating a vision comes first. This article provides guiding questions to help create a vision statement.
Creative Solutions to Tech Integration Challenges in Math Instruction Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation The CITEd team found common challenges facing schools and districts with respect to providing technology-enhanced mathematics instructions, including funding, time constraints, and the need to provide professional development that embeds technology in content area training. These challenges are explored in detail.
Curriculum: National and State Standards Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This article gives links to core standards in each subject area.
DAILY INSIGHT: 7 Critical Questions for Tech Planning Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation The economic crisis with related budget cuts makes technology planning more critical. This is a useful guide for developing and gaining support for your technology budget.
Data-Driven Decision Making: A Powerful Tool for School Improvement Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Recent advances in technology and the increased demand for assessing student learning has led many school administrators to discover that the usefulness of data goes far beyond NCLB reporting requirements. This article describes how forward-thinking districts across the country are employing data-driven decision-making techniques not only to analyze test scores and student achievement, but also to narrow achievement gaps between student subgroups, improve teacher quality, improve curriculum, share best practices among schools and districts, communicate education issues more effectively with key stakeholders, promote parental involvement in the education process, and increase dialogue within the educational community.
Digital Storytelling: Extending the Potential for Struggling Writers Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing While some young writers may struggle with traditional literacy, tapping into new literacies like digital storytelling may boost motivation and scaffold understanding of traditional literacies. Three types of struggling writers are introduced followed by descriptions of ways digital storytelling can support their development.
Direct or Explicit Instruction and Mathematics Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics The authors of this article briefly define the strategy of direct instruction and outline key indicators of direct instruction. Following the overview, the authors discuss ways to apply the direct instruction strategy in the content area of mathematics. Examples are provided.
Does Technology Pay? Investing Wisely Takes Discipline Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This article investigates why districts should consider how—and if—purchasing the latest technology will translate into better classroom instruction.
Doing More with Less (and Other Practical Educational Technology Tidbits) Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This article provides help and guidance with getting started with technology integration.
Doing More with Less: How Informed Assessment Practices Can Help Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Free report highlighting the importance of assessment. Includes definitions of different types of assessments, examples of common assessment mistakes, and topics on assessment literacy, formative and performance assessments, aligning assessments with goals, accessible assessments, and using data to improve student learning.
Ed tech can help cut costs Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Arne Duncan and the National Education Technology Plan are emphasizing the use of technology to save money for school districts, including looking at data flow processes. This article asks, “How have YOU used technology to save district expenses and/or improve personnel productivity?”
Education Week: 'Embodied Learning' Blends Movement, Computer Interaction Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Universal Design for Learning Students who are able to engage in learning by being physically involved take more interest in classroom time. SMALLabs are discussed, which use a camera, projector, computer, and wand in an open classroom for students to interact educational games and lab-like settings for science and math.
Education Week: 'Embodied Learning' Blends Movement, Computer Interaction Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Universal Design for Learning Students who are able to engage in learning by being physically involved take more interest in classroom time. SMALLabs use a camera, projector, computer, and wand in an open classroom for students to interact educational games and lab-like settings for science and math.
Education Week: Studies Find Payoff in 'Personalizing' Algebra Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Universal Design for Learning Research is showing that when students are able to have math problems personalized to their learning style when learning a new or hard-to-grasp math concept, learning is enhanced and continues even after methods are no longer applied. Various softwares can be used in personalizing math problems for students.
Education’s Guide to Mobile Devices: Everything You Need to Know About Mobile Tech and Your Schools Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This free report highlights mobile learning in education, and includes discussions of teacher-vetted apps, best practices in technology implementation, and how to make the most of mobile technologies for learning.
Effective Math Instruction For Low Achievers Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics The purpose of this review of the literature was to identify appropriate strategies to increase learning outcomes for low-achieving mathematics students. The authors identified 15 studies that met their selection criteria. Results suggest that low-achieving students benefit from specific feedback about their performance, peer tutoring, computer-assisted instruction, use of parents to support math instruction, and use of explicit, teacher-facilitated instructional approaches.
Effective Mathematics Instruction Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics This issue of Evidence for Education was written to provide research-based tools and guidance to teachers, administrators, and families on how to help students stay on track in math. The authors summarize research that has been conducted on mathematics instruction for students with disabilities and discuss the most effective strategies to improving student learning outcomes in mathematics.
Empowering Education with Video Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology A series of articles and resources from eSchool News highlighting the educational value and possibilities of teaching with video. Includes information on popular resources such as Khan Academy and discussions of flipped classrooms.
End the Math Wars Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology In this article, the author discusses why and how educational technology can be implemented in the classroom and school to support improved student outcomes in mathematics. The author not only provides examples of how educational technology support differentiated instruction and individualized support for each student but also how teachers and schools can get past some of the implementation obstacles.
Feds Look to Accelerate E-Textbook Adoption with "Digital Textbook Playbook" Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation The federal government is looking to bring digital textbooks to all American students within the next five years. As part of the plan, the Federal Communications Commission and the United States Department of Education released the new "Digital Textbook Playbook," a guide designed to help schools overcome the challenges associated with the shift to e-textbooks.
Finding Alternative Sources of Funding for Assistive Technology Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004, all local educational agencies are expected to provide assistive technology to students who need it in order to receive a free appropriate public education. Students with learning disabilities are included under the special education umbrella, and have the right to be provided with appropriate assistive devices to help them succeed in school. This article includes resources for parents and educational professionals in reaching this goal.
Finding Funding Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation TechLEARNING offers twelve ideas for generating extra money for schools and districts. The ideas include installing cost-cutting infrastructure and changing some services from face-to-face to online.
Finding Funds for Student Laptops Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Understanding funding options is key to implementing a laptop initiative. This article explains the different options and the value of laptop initiatives in general.
Five Steps for Implementing a Successful 1:1 Environment Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This article describes the process of moving toward a 1:1 environment in the classroom.
Five Ways NOT to Teach Vocabulary Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Reading-Vocabulary Describes five common misconceptions in teaching vocabulary to students. Also mentions how to approach vocabulary lessons so that students learn more and have fun. It includes five web resources.
Five Ways NOT to Teach Vocabulary Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Reading-Vocabulary Details five common misconceptions in teaching vocabulary to students. Also mentions how to approach vocabulary lessons so that students learn more and have fun; includes five web resources.
Five Ways NOT to Teach Vocabulary Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Reading-Vocabulary Details five common misconceptions in teaching vocabulary to students. Also mentions how to approach vocabulary lessons so that students learn more and have fun; includes five web resources.
Fostering Reflection Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Expert teachers identify and replicate best practices. In reflecting on their practices, they therefore not only know what to do, but also why. A disposition toward reflection—and a good sense of when the teacher needs to step back and think deeply—should be part of all teachers' repertoires.
Fostering Reflection Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This article describes reflective thinking and how to utilize self-reflection as part of professional development and improved teaching.
Four Principles Toward Teaching the Craft of Revision Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing This short article highlights the importance of teaching revision as part of the writing process, and offers strategies and suggestions for teaching this skill to your students.
Game-Based Learning Units for the Everyday Teacher Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology Learn more about the basics of game-based learning and how to apply game-based learning in the classroom.
Getting the Most from Technology Tools Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This Knowledge Brief addresses the topic of how to get the most from technology tools in order to inform educators and policymakers who are developing school or district technology plans.
Google for Educators: The Best Features for Busy Teachers Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This round-up describes some of the more useful Google tools for educators and how they might be used in a classroom setting.
Growing Up Digital, Wired for Distraction Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This article discusses students' use of technology, and the implications for learning.
Helping Children with Learning Disabilities Understand What they Read Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Reading-Comprehension This article discusses visualization as a strategy for helping children with learning disabilities understand what they read, tips for implementation, and examples of graphic organizers appropriate for students with a wide range of disabilities.
Helping Students Learn with Reliable Wireless Connectivity Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Provides information about how reliable wireless access and mobile technologies can empower schools and classrooms.
How to Choose the Right Words for Best Search Results Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology NPR station KQED's tips and suggestions for teaching students how to be more effective searchers online.
How to Create a Professional Learning Community Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation The purpose of this article is to assist teachers and school leaders in the development of professional learning communities (PLCs) in their schools. The authors suggest six areas consider when facilitating a PLC. These include: 1) teaching participants how to collaborate, 2) creating an atmosphere of trust, 3) allowing enough time, 4) being broad and inclusive, 5) getting outside help, and 6) remembering the L in PLC.
How to Help Your School Thrive Without Breaking the Bank: Chapter 2. Developing a Vision and a Mission Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Developing a strong vision and mission statement can help stakeholders in your school reach a common understanding. A vision is your school's goal—where you hope to see it in the future. The mission provides an overview of the steps planned to achieve that future. A vision is concise and easy to recall, whereas a mission is lengthier and more explanatory in nature. This chapter describes how to develop your school's vision, because you need to know where you want to be before you can determine how you plan to get there.
How to increase the learning return for your ed-tech investments Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This suite of articles and resources from eSchool News highlights important factors to consider when making edtech purchasing decisions, including the importance of planning, shared vision, and involvement of key stakeholders.
How to Make Your Visual Arts Department Digital Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This article highlights ideas and suggestions for incorporating digital tools, such as blogs and e-portfolios, into teaching.
How to Plan Instruction Using the Video Game Model Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Universal Design for Learning This article discusses how learning modeled on the best aspects of gaming can help teachers differentiate instruction and address the needs of all students.
iLearn II: An Analysis of the Education Category on Apple's App Store Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology Provides information about the apps available in the Apple App Store. Includes an analysis of best practices in educational apps and a review of the content of children's apps.
Implementation Teams Make it Happen Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation A critical element of implementation success revolves around a collaborative effort. Even when an implementation initiative is developed by one person, a team of people are needed to carry out the processes. This article discusses how any educational initiative requires input from a team of dedicated people, ranging from teachers and administrators to technology coordinators and professional development coordinators, in order for the effort to succeed.
Implementation: Understanding the Design Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation There are critical steps and considerations that must be addressed for projects to move forward successfully, and initial enthusiasm, while helpful, is no substitute for careful preparation. Implementing technology initiatives in schools and classrooms requires the same careful planning. This Research in Brief reviews the literature behind such implementation to provide some guidance to teams charged with getting an initiative started.
Implementing Cognitive Strategy Instruction & Developing Self-Regulated Learners Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing Cognitive Strategy Instruction is a tool intended to help students develop the necessary skills to be self-regulated learners. The purpose of this article is to introduce and explain the Self-Regulated Strategy Development (SRSD) model of implementation, as well as provide the foundational basis for its effectiveness.
Integrating Technologies: Handhelds Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology Handheld computers fit in the palm of the hand and enable students to take the power of a small laptop computer wherever they go. The continuing reduction in cost of handhelds is increasing access to computing capabilities and, thereby, supporting increased student access to the multiple capabilities for teaching and learning through this technology.
Integrating the Arts with Technology: Inspiring Creativity Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology Adding creativity into students' daily schoolwork can sometimes seem like a daunting task, but the synergy between the arts and academic learning is one that can be harnessed by students with disabilities, their teachers, and their schools as a way to integrate the arts into curricula to enhance student motivation, engagement, and learning, and as an alternative means of increasing academic achievement. The arts offer important benefits for children with disabilities, including access to the general curriculum required by IDEA 2004, as alternative assessments for children with cognitive disabilities, and as alternative learning methods for English language learners.
ISTE’s Technology Facilitation and Leadership Standards Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology An easy-to-follow guide for any educator wanting to be an effective technology facilitator and/or educational leader. The standards provide guidance in designing and delivering professional learning, managing budgets and staff, constructing a shared vision, and leading change, as well as assisting with implementation through scenarios, case studies, discussion questions, and resources.
It's Never Written in Stone: The Agony of Revision Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing How do we teach the beauty of revision when it is such an agony for young writers? Learn how one teacher of writing workshops cajoles revisions from her elementary students.
Leadership Teams and Quality Instruction Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation While not specific to the topic of technology integration, this article offers strategies for focusing a school-based team on improving instruction.
Leading for Learning: Reflective Tools for School and District Leaders Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Used as a leaders’ toolbox or a dynamic organizer, the overall framework of this paper is designed primarily for school and district administrators. The tools are also for those who can “lead for learning” from other positions, including teacher leaders, teacher developers, union leaders, community leaders, and policymakers. The ideas and suggestions presented here are based on published and ongoing research combined with the craft knowledge of a wide range of practicing educators.
Learning & Leading with Technology Online Archives Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing Full text availability of all issues of Learning & Leading with Technology.
Learning a Second Language with Multimedia Materials Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Universal Design for Learning According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the number of students in the U.S. who live in homes where the first language is not English has doubled over the last 20 years. This article outlines the structural and cognitive approaches to support students’ acquisition of a second language.
Learning Math Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Universal Design for Learning Even in math, printed text is the primary method for gaining instructional information in many classrooms. This article provides an introduction to designing instruction to help students (including those who are using already using Accessible Instructional Materials) read for math learning.
Learning Mathematics with Virtual Manipulatives Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics Abstract concepts are essential to understanding and performing mathematics. They are also a source of difficulty for many students who struggle with mathematics, many of whom find even basic mathematics concepts difficult to understand. A popular approach to help students understand abstract concepts is the use of manipulatives, which enable students and teachers to represent abstract concepts concretely and to link these concepts to prior knowledge.
Learning Mathematics with Virtual Manipulatives Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics Abstract concepts are essential to understanding and performing mathematics. They are also a source of difficulty for many students who struggle with mathematics, many of whom find even basic mathematics concepts hard to understand. A popular approach to help students understand abstract concepts is the use of manipulatives.
Learning to Read with Multimedia Materials Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Reading-Vocabulary The National Reading Panel (2000) identified three key elements of effective reading instruction: alphabetics (phonemic awareness and phonics), fluency, and comprehension (vocabulary, text comprehension, and comprehension strategies). After evaluating the research base for each element, the panel determined that instructional attention to these elements is critical to the development of independent, motivated readers. This article describes how technology and multimedia materials offer the potential for addressing the challenges of reading instruction.
Learning with Computer Games and Simulations Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology Computer games and simulations can be defined as interactive multimedia with dynamic elements that are under user control. They range from games that require simple, repetitive actions, such as Tetris®, to complex digital worlds. Unlike much of the currently available educational multimedia, games and simulations are highly interactive, with many user-controlled features. This article describes the pros and cons of integrating games and simulations into the curriculum.
Lessons Learned for Effective Technology Implementation Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Goals for a successful intervention begin with the end in mind—what do schools hope to see in terms of both teacher and student learning? In this process, schools look at both educational goals (learning goals for students) and professional learning goals (learning goals for teachers).
Leverage Social Media Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology Social media can enhance the education process for students, despite the present stigma attached to it. Incorporating social media into learning engages students by the broad spectrum of what it provides.
Leverage Social Media Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology Discusses how social media can enhance the education process for students. Incorporating social media into learning engages students by the broad spectrum of what it provides.
Lifebook Journals Help Students Write Fluently Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing A teacher inspires her second-grade students to write by having them keep "Lifebooks" modeled after Marissa Moss's "Amelia's Notebook." Their entries later become the bases of longer pieces.
Literacy iPad Apps for Educators Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing A list of literacy apps for elementary, middle, and high school grades. Both free apps and apps with minimal fees.
Making Sense of Data-Driven Decision Making in Education Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Unlike past studies of data use in schools, this paper brings together information systematically gathered from large, representative samples of educators at the district, school, and classroom levels in a variety of contexts. The paper further provides a comprehensive examination of the many facets of current DDDM policies and practices and suggests a research agenda to advance the field.
Making the Written Word Easier for Readers with Print Disabilities Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Universal Design for Learning Using technology-aided instruction is one way to help children with reading difficulties. This article describes how the National Instructional Materials Accessibility Standard (NIMAS) helps qualifying students with disabilities receive textbooks and other important materials in an accessible format at the same time as their fellow students.
Mapping Knowledge: Concept Maps in Early Childhood Education Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Reading-Comprehension Graphic organizers such as webs, timelines, Venn diagrams, flowcharts, and concept maps are well known and widely used instructional and learning tools. They help teachers and students not only to identify and visually represent their views and knowledge but also to recognize and depict relationships among concepts. This article discusses the use of concept maps in early childhood education. In light of a theory that suggests that information is processed and stored in memory in both linguistic and visual forms, it is argued that concept maps can be used in early childhood classrooms to help children organize and spatially represent both what they know and what they are thinking.
Math Peer Tutoring for Students with Specific Learning Disabilities Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics The authors of this article define several formats of peer tutoring to support student learning in mathematics. Drawing from the literature base, the authors advocate for peer tutoring programs that provide directed repetition, regular review and functional practice to overlearn skills, operation, and concepts. They then identify specific steps to support implementation of peer tutoring in the classroom.
Math Think-Alouds Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics Math Think-Alouds engage students and help them make their way step-by-step through a solution process, reasoning right along with you and can be used effectively both in school and at home. Students can often understand a more complex or difficult solution process than they can execute independently and by thinking aloud.
Mathematics Think-Aloud Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics The Mathematics Think-Aloud strategy has been proven to aid learning among students with learning disabilities, emotional behavioral disabilities, and mild to moderate mental retardation. The Think-Aloud strategy is appropriate for elementary and middle school students. It is well suited for English language learners, students with learning disabilities, and those with emotional behavior disorders.
Mooresville’s Shining Example (It’s Not Just About the Laptops) Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This article examines a successful laptop initiative in Mooresville, N.C. Highlights key factors affecting their success, including a shared vision, working together as a team, and providing access to technology.
National Survey and Video Case Studies: Teacher Attitudes about Digital Games in the Classroom Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Provides a report and video case stories of teachers a experiences and attitudes on using games for learning. Includes recommendations for future development and video exemplars of technology usage in the classroom.
National Writing Project: Using Twitter in Classrooms and for Professional Development Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing Every day, more and more people are using well-known social media sites. How can these popular resources be used for good in the classroom? National Writing Project teachers share how they've used Twitter in their classrooms as a means of teaching writing.
Not all Digital Textbooks are Created Equal Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Universal Design for Learning One of the UDL Guideline principles is to provide educational content in multiple and flexible formats to help ensure that every learner has basic access to the information they’re expected to learn. Traditional print-based curricular materials aren’t able to provide such flexibility due to the nature of the print format, which means individuals with learning, print, and physical disabilities, English language learners, and others who may struggle to use print must attempt to locate alternate formats.
Peer Tutoring in Arithmetic for Children with Learning Disabilities Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics The authors of this study explored the effects of peer tutoring on the acquisition of single-digit addition facts in primary-aged students with learning disabilities and their cross-aged tutors, and it investigated the relative effectiveness of two tutoring procedures. Results strongly support the use of peer tutoring for students with learning disabilities.
Perspectives on UDL and Assessment: An Interview with Robert Mislevy Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Universal Design for Learning Dr. Robert Mislevy, a leading expert in educational assessment, technology, and cognitive science, shares his insights on the integration of UDL and assessment. Dr. Mislevy points out that a principled application of UDL can increase the value and validity of large scale assessment for a greater number of students.
Planning for Budget and Funding Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Harvey Barnett of WestEd RTEC shares key factors to consider when developing your technology budget.
Primary Concepts Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Reading-Vocabulary This article explores inflectional endings, compound words, contractions, high frequency syllables, prefixes, suffixes, and root words, as well as activities that can help children learn the concepts and improve word analysis skills. This guide can be used with or without the kit of resources referenced in the booklet.
Professional Learning in the Learning Profession Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This research report by the National Staff Development Council reviews the effects of different models of professional development (e.g., the implications of the amount of time devoted to PD, the effects of coaching, mentoring, and induction programs, etc). The article is not specific to technology integration, but is an overview of PD in the United States, including comparisons to teachers in other countries.
Promoting Appropriate Uses of Technology in Mathematics Teacher Preparation Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology The Curry Center for Technology and Teacher Education at the University of Virginia is developing materials to help preservice secondary mathematics, social studies, and science teachers (PSTs) learn to incorporate technology appropriately into their mathematics teaching. This article describes activities and best practices in preparing teachers to use technology to enhance and extend their students' learning of mathematics.
Reading Strategies: Teaching Students to Visualize Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Reading-Comprehension This article lists five visual, tactile and kinesthetic strategies to actively engage children in visualizing.
Ready, Set, Write! Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing This article gives parents background on the processes involved in learning to write. The article discusses early development and later strategies parents can use to help their students.
Reflective Teaching: Exploring Our Own Classroom Practice Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Reflective teaching is a process of self-observation and self-evaluation. By collecting information about what goes on in your classroom, and by analyzing and evaluating this information, you can identify and explore your own practices and underlying beliefs. This can then lead to changes and improvements in your teaching.
Scaffolding English Language Learners and Struggling Readers in a Universal Literacy Environment with Embedded Strategy Instruction and Vocabulary Support Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Universal Design for Learning Today teachers are charged with including all students in literacy instruction, even those who have previously struggled in traditional school environments. One group that has struggled in the past is English Language Learners (ELLs). In this article, researchers discuss a four-week study that used supported digital text to assist ELLs with reading comprehension. They found that embedding features did help promote learners’ use of comprehension strategies.
School Improvement, Step by Step Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Research and theory consistently suggest that implementation with fidelity is a key to successful school reform. Thus, one of the best investments a school or district can make is to ensure that all teachers consistently implement reform initiatives.
Schools Abandon Textbooks to Go All iPad Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology Article describes the High School in Burlington, MA, which was one of 600 schools that bought an iPad for each student.
Schools Abandon Textbooks to Go All iPad Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology Some school districts are buying iPads in place of new textbooks for students nationwide. Article details the High School in Burlington, MA, which was one of 600 schools that bought an iPad for each student.
Screen Time For Kids: Is it Learning or a Brain Drain? Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This article from NPR station KQED discusses learning apps and screen time. Are kids learning when playing with apps? How much screen time is too much?
Self-Regulated Strategy Development (SRSD) for Writing Strategies: Instruction Implementation Table Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing Table providing descriptive program information, specifications and use, training required, and cost to acquire and implement the self-regulated strategy developed by Karen Harris at Vanderbilt University.
Self-Regulated Strategy Development (SRSD) in Writing: Story and Opinion Essay Writing for Students with Disabilities or Severe Difficulties in the Early Elementary Grades Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing The purpose of this article is to share the work conducted by the Center on Accelerating Student Learning on strategies students can use to plan, revise, and edit their written work. The use of self-regulation procedures in the writing process and peer support are discussed.
Setting Goals for Technology Integration Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation There are many different ways that technology can support what you do in the classroom, helping you to be more efficient, effective, organized, and more. This brochure for teachers in one school describes how to integrate technology, tech integration myths, etc.
Setting Objectives Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Setting objectives involves specific teacher and student behaviors, including both decision-making and communicating. Setting objectives, then, becomes a thoughtful exercise in considering how to generalize selected learning objectives while ensuring student focus, then letting students in on the process through clear communication.
SETTing up Staff and Supporters to Promote Student Achievement Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Using the SETT Framework as a guide, collaborative teams in all phases of delivering assistive technology build shared knowledge about the strengths, challenges, and interests of a student; the facilitators and barriers of the student’s customary environments; and tasks that the student must do or learn to be an active participant in educational activities. Following a careful examination and analysis of the Student, Environments and Tasks, teams are able to develop a system of Tools – devices, services, strategies, accommodations, modifications – and plan effectively so that assistive technology can be used by the student.
Seven Norms of Collaboration & Effective Meetings (Center for Adaptive Schools) Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This is a resource for newly created teams or teams that are seeking to reflect on their ability to work collaboratively. It includes hands-on downloadable worksheets and checklists.
Shaping Tech for the Classroom Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology The biggest question about technology and schools in the 21st century is not so much "What can it do?" but, rather, "When will it get to do it?" We all know life will be much different by 2100. Will school?
Six principles for principals to consider in implementing CCSS for students with disabilities Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Outlines steps for leaders to take for planning the education of students with disabilities in relation to the Common Core Standards.
Speak to Me: Teaching with Voki Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing Strategy Guide for Educators who can use a digital program called Voki for students to create avatars to get them more engaged in classroom activities. For instance, students can create an avatar of a book character they are learning about in class, or they can use an avatar to read their poems aloud. Grades 6-12.
Speak to Me: Teaching with Voki Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing Strategy Guide for Educators who use a digital program called Voki. By creating avatars students can become more engaged in classroom activities; e.g., creating an avatar of a book character or using an avatar to read their poems aloud. Grades 6-12.
Spotlight on the Common Core State Standards - What Do District Administrators Need To Know? Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Inside look into what district administrators need to know about the Common Core State Standards, including short term suggestions, long-term goals, and options for professional development.
Step 1: Give Every Kid a Laptop. Step 2: Learning Begins? Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This article looks at the successes and challenges of 1-to-1 laptop initiatives around the world and highlights features of these programs that lead to improved student learning.
Story Grammar Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Reading-Comprehension This reading comprehension strategy was designed to provide students with a strategic plan for selecting important aspects of story information for further study by asking themselves the five “wh” questions.
Strategies for Composition and Self-Regulation in the Writing Process Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing In this article, the authors discuss the importance of self-regulation in the writing process. The authors highlight the need to be goal-oriented, resourceful, and reflective when approaching writing and how to encourage students in the classroom to be self-regulated writers.
Strategies for Successful Professional Development to Support Technology Integration Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Supporting technology integration entails the following elements establishing communities of practice, providing administrative support, and creating relevance to context and curriculum. This article is a valuable resource for schools or districts establishing or refining their approaches to delivering effective professional development to support technology integration.
Strategies to Enhance Peer Feedback Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing This article describes a number of strategies that help students learn how to give feedback to their peers. Sentence starters are commonly used and very helpful.
Supporting a Data-Driven School Culture Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation A suite of articles and resources from eSchool News on using data to drive decision making and target instruction.
Teaching and Learning: Using iPads in the Classroom Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This article looks at some of the ways iPads and apps can be used in the classroom to enhance student learning.
Teaching Students Math Problem-Solving Through Graphic Representations Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics Recent studies have indicated that problem-solving instruction (e.g., graphic representational strategy), which emphasizes conceptual understanding, can significantly help children with learning disabilities meet the challenges of general education classrooms. This article describes the graphic representational technique, shows how to use the strategy for solving word problems, and discusses how to assess students’ problem-solving performance.
Teaching with Zooming Slideshows through Prezi Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing Strategy Guide for using Prezi in the classroom, which helps to develop critical thinking by allowing students to think outside the classroom. Prezi can be used by students for collaborating on group projects, sharing research, presenting illustrated short stories, and creating autobiographies. Grades 6-12.
Teaching with Zooming Slideshows through Prezi Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing Strategy Guide for using Prezi which helps students develop critical thinking skills. Studetns can use Prezi to collaborate on group projects, share research, present illustrated short stories, and create autobiographies. Gradies 6-12.
Teaching Word Meanings as Concepts Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Reading-Vocabulary This article discusses specific techniques that have proven successful in teaching word meanings as concepts. “Concept of Definition Maps”, “Semantic Mapping”, “Semantic Feature Mapping”, “Possible Sentences”, “Comparing and Contrasting”, and “Teaching Word Parts” are explored and explained.
Teaching Writing to Diverse Student Populations Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing This Access Center resource is intended to help teachers implement writing instruction that will lead to better writing outcomes for students with and without writing difficulties. It provides research-based recommendations, activities, and materials to effectively teach writing to the wide range of students educators often find in their classrooms.
Technology Funding: A How-To Guide Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Procuring funds for purchasing new technology is only part of the funding issue for schools and districts. Many people overlook the costs of properly maintaining and evaluating their technology purchases. Read this article to find sources for funding to ensure that your technology needs are fully satisfied.
Technology in Schools. Suggestions, Tools and Guidelines for Assessing Technology in Elementary and Secondary Education Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This guide was written by the National Forum on Education Statistics under NCES's Cooperative Education Statistics System. Directed toward state and local education agencies, it describes how to measure technology use by examining planning and policies, finance, equipment and infrastructure, technology applications, maintenance and support, professional development, and technology integration.
Technology Planning: The Educator's Guide Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This article describes the goal setting process for technology integration, including answering questions such as, “What is a good goal?”
The Death of English (LOL) Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing This article highlights research showing that children who are skilled in "textspeak" do better in writing and spelling. According to author David Crystal in his book "Txtng: the Gr8 Db8," the language of texting is hardly as deviant as people think, and texting actually makes young people better communicators.
The Effect of Assistive Technology on Educational Costs: Two Case Studies Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This paper looks in detail at the costs associated with the education of two children who have used assistive technologies developed at Boston College, and compares them with the educational costs had they not used the assistive technologies. The authors contend that, for these two children, the costs of the technologies and special teachers hired are offset by savings from the tuition and transportation of sending them to special schools.
The Power of Preparation: Teacher Training Gives New Educators a Head Start Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation The purpose of this article is to show how teacher preparation programs help novice educators during their crucial first years. There is a section dedicated to “making the most of technology.”
The Unique Challenges Facing the IT Professional in K-12 Education Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Many studies have been undertaken regarding the challenges of the information technology professional in the corporate world, but none address the special concerns of K-12 educational institutions. This article describes a multifaceted approach to help address this specific situation.
The Upside of Dislexia Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Describes dyslexia and increased periheral vision; understanding this at the classroom level could allow for adapted learning for students.
They Have to See It to Write It: Visualization and the Reading-Writing Connection Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing Frustrated by her students’ reluctance to write, a seventh-grade teacher shows them how to “see” what they’re reading and draw what they want to write about—and begin to think like writers.
Think-Alouds Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Reading-Comprehension Think-Alouds help students understand the kind of thinking required by a specific task. A teacher models the thinking process by verbalizing her thoughts as she reads, processes information, or performs some learning task. Students see how the teacher attempts to construct meaning for unfamiliar vocabulary, engages in dialogue with the author, or recognizes when she isn't comprehending and selects a fix-up strategy that addresses a problem she is having.
Thinking Allowed: Math Students Explain Problem-solving Out Loud as They Talk Through Their Thinking Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics This information brief shares the story of how one teacher has taught her students think aloud math problem-solving strategies. It offers research and supporting technology tools to help teachers share think aloud strategies in their math classrooms.
Tips for Technophobic Teachers Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Jim Wilson, a self-described "old guy" and star of Conquering Technophobia, has gone from grumbling about his school's technology-integration initiative to embracing it. These are his tips for surviving the transition.
Treating the "Instructional Core": Education Rounds Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation In the beginning pages of Instructional Rounds in Education–a new book by HGSE faculty members Richard Elmore, Elizabeth City, and Lee Teitel, along with doctoral student and Cambridge school principal Sarah Fiarman–the authors remind their readers that “Teaching causes learning.” While this might seem obvious, teaching is often the last focus of education–shifted to the side by standardized testing, changing curricula, faculty room politics, overbearing or aloof administrators, and shrinking school budgets. And yet, argue the book’s authors, the “instructional core”–the essential interaction between teacher, student, and content that creates the basis of learning– is the first place that schools should look to improve student learning. Now a time-honored tradition borrowed from medical practice is helping school leaders gain new insights into teachers’ work.
Twittering, Not Frittering: Professional Development in 140 Characters Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology Tips and tricks for incorporating microblogging (Twitter) into professional learning for teachers.
UDL Guidelines - Version 2.0: Research Evidence Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Universal Design for Learning UDL Guidelines are based on research from several very different fields, and from many different researchers at many different universities and research organizations. In this article, CAST lays out how that research has been reviewed, compiled, and organized by its educators and researchers over a ten-year period.
Using Assistive Technology to Support Writing Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing Technology—and especially the subset of technology tools known as assistive technology—can be an effective, if not necessary, element of the writing curriculum for students with disabilities. In this article, CITEd looks at how technology can support students’ writing.
Using Multimedia Materials to Engage and Challenge Learners Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Universal Design for Learning Learn how the benefits of multimedia technologies can engage, motivate, and instruct all students, especially those with disabilities. Based on CITEd’s suite of Research in Brief articles, this webinar provides a research-based framework to guide your practice, and introduces you to a wealth of free, online, content-rich multimedia resources to enhance your instruction and differentiation efforts.
Using Peer Tutoring for Math Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics This article provides a general overview of the peer tutoring strategy and methods for implementation. As stated in the article, peer tutoring can be used to reinforce math facts, computational skills, and math concepts while allowing teachers to engage all students in learning. Additional resources to support implementation are provided.
Using Peer Tutoring for Math Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics This article discusses peer tutoring and explores how to use the strategy in the math classroom. It includes suggestions for implementation and examples.
Using Technology to Support Struggling Students: Visualization, Representation and Modeling Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology In an increasingly complex world, all students need to be scientifically literate. While some students may go on to pursue advanced careers in the sciences, basic scientific literacy is critical for all students. All students need to understand what it means to think like a scientist, and how to evaluate information that is called "scientific". Many of the careers of the future will require that students have the ability to collaborate and solve problems using STEM skills. Struggling students are no exception — they will need the same types of knowledge and skills, and will often require additional supports to be successful.
Using the SETT Framework to Level the Learning Field for Students with Disabilities Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation The SETT Framework is a tool that helps teams gather and organize information that can be used to guide collaborative decisions about services that foster the educational success of students with disabilities. Originally developed to support assistive technology selection and use in educational settings, the principles of the SETT Framework have been used to guide decisions about a much broader range of educational services, and also, with minor adjustments, have been successfully used in non-educational environments and service plans.
Using Visual Technology to Support Diverse Learners Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Reading-Comprehension The "visual" section of the WestEd website lists six visual tips, each of which has examples, tips for implementing, and more resources.
Vision, Leadership, and Change: Introduction Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation Whether a teacher is implementing a new instructional method, a leadership team is spearheading a school improvement campaign, or a superintendent is undertaking the restructuring of a district, the starting point for any change is a clear vision. This paper focuses on vision, its definition, and how it is demonstrated in educators. Further, it provides a process for the collaborative development of a shared vision resulting in a vision statement.
Visualizing Math: How Intelligent Tutoring Technology Can Help Math-Challenged Students Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics Many students who struggle with basic mathematics courses benefit from digital instructional technologies, including additional visual and supplemental materials on difficult concepts and skills. Individualized support provided through online resources enables students to improve their math skills.
Visualizing Vocabulary Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing This article from a teacher writing for the National Writing Project presents a series of creative activities that have advanced her high school students' vocabularies and impressed on them the power of words.
Vocabulary Development in Mathematics: Vocabulary Instruction as a Tool for Improving Math Achievement Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Mathematics Teachers can bridge the gap between abstract math concepts and real-life application and understanding by incorporating appropriate writing activities into the math curriculum. These five principles will guide teachers in devising and implementing writing activities that develop math vocabulary.
VOI Methodology and Tools Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation VOI (Value of Investment) is a methodology for evaluating anticipated costs and benefits of proposed projects. Benefits for K-12 include monetary benefits (such as cost savings and staff productivity enhancements) and qualitative benefits which are oriented to achieving district or school mission, goals and mandates, or the strategic plan.
What is Gamification? Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology Learning and development blog defines "gamification" and talks about how the elements of games relate to teaching and learning.
Why Education Needs to Get Its Game On Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology Applies lessons from the world of video gaming to teaching and learning to help better engage and reach all students.
Why Integrate Technology into the Curriculum?: The Reasons Are Many Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology Discusses how to effectively integrate technology into the classroom using four key concepts.
Why Integrate Technology into the Curriculum?: The Reasons Are Many Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology Discussion on how to effectively integrate technology into the classroom using four key concepts.
Why Is Teacher Development Important? Because Students Deserve the Best Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Implementation This article from Edutopia is an overview of the types of training and support new and experienced teachers should receive.
Why the iPad Won’t Transform Education – Yet Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This article examines the educational opportunities of the iPad while addressing challenges teachers, schools, and classrooms may face when integrating the iPad.
With Media, Parents and Kids Learn More Together Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Technology This article highlights research from the Joan Ganz Cooney Center on improvements in learning from new media when parents and students (or students and peers) learn together.
Writing to Learn Resource Type: Info Brief/Article Category: Writing In this Educational Leadership article, researcher/author Robert Marzano suggests a five-step process for using writing as a learning tool in content classrooms. “Although formulaic,” he says, “it does ensure that students adequately encode, revise, aggregate, and review important information that has been the focus of instruction.”
Bang on Time Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics This interactive tool for students awards points when they show the correct time on an analog clock when given time in words. The game shows them the hour and minute hands moving together.
Book Adventure Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Comprehension Interactive site that motivates students to read, where they can choose their book, read, take quizzes on comprehension, and earn prizes.
Book Cover Creator Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing The Book Cover Creator is designed to allow users to type and illustrate front and back covers and full dust jackets. Students can use the tool to create new covers for books that they read as well as to create covers for books they write individually or as a class. Students can use text tools to add formatting to their titles and book notes, add shading to background areas of the cover, and draw original images to illustrate their covers and dust jackets.
CD/DVD Cover Creator Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing The CD/DVD Cover Creator allows users to type and illustrate CD and DVD covers and related booklets for liner notes and other information. Students can use the tool to create covers for books, music, and films that they explored as well as to create covers for media they compose individually or as a class. Students can use text tools to add formatting to their titles and notes, add shading to background areas of the covers and booklets, and draw original images to illustrate their covers and booklets.
Character Trading Cards Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing Using popular culture texts in the classroom offers students an alternative way to demonstrate their literacy knowledge and skills and to engage in meaningful literary practices. The Character Trading Cards tool allows students to create their own character cards, which they can then print off, illustrate, and trade or keep. It can be used with characters in a book students are reading or as a prewriting exercise for students who are writing narrative stories. The accompanying planning sheet allows students to draft and revise their work before going online to use the interactive.
Circle Plot Diagram Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing Introducing the concept of text structure to elementary students can be easy and fun with the use of the Circle Plot Diagram. The tool can be used as a prewriting graphic organizer for students writing original stories with a circular plot structure (e.g., "If You Take a Mouse to School"), as well as a postreading organizer used to explore the text structures in a book. When used as a prewriting exercise, the diagram can be printed out and shared with peers and teachers for feedback and revision in this phase of the writing process.
Class Clock Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics This online tool supports student learning of time by allowing students to manipulate both analog and digital clocks. The tool is very useful for individual student drill and practice of time, assessment, one-on-one tutoring, or class-wide learning with a smartboard.
Comic Creator Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing Allows students to create black and white comic strips, with ability to select and place backgrounds, characters, thought/speech bubbles, and sound effects from a database. There is also space to enter a free text caption on each slide.
Comic Creator Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing Interactive activity that allows students to compose their own comic strips with characters, props, backgrounds, and dialogue.
Compare and Contrast Map Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing This interactive graphic organizer helps students develop an outline for one of three types of comparison essays: whole-to-whole, similarities-to-differences, or point-to-point. A link in the introduction to the Comparison and Contrast Guide gives students the chance to get definitions and look at examples before they begin working. The tool offers multiple ways to navigate information including a graphic on the right that allows students to move around the map without having to work in a linear fashion. The finished map can be saved, e-mailed, or printed.
Comparison and Contrast Guide Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing This interactive guide provides an introduction to the basic characteristics and resources that are typically used when students compose comparison and contrast essays. The Comparison and Contrast Guide includes an overview, definitions, and examples. The Organizing a Paper section includes details on whole-to-whole (block), point-by-point, and similarities-to-differences structures. In addition, the guide explains how graphic organizers are used for comparison and contrast, provides tips for using transitions between ideas in comparison and contrast essays, and includes a checklist that matches an accompanying rubric.
Conceptua Fractions: Adding with Uncommon Denominators Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics Use this tool to help students build conceptual understanding of adding fractions with uncommon denominators by linking visual models to procedures. Students make use of fractions with a value of 1.
Conceptua Fractions: Addition with Common Denominators Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics This tool builds conceptual understanding of adding fractions with common denominators by linking visual models to procedures. Students first add using models, and then progress to using numbers.
Conceptua Fractions: Comparing Fractions Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics This tool helps students build conceptual understanding of fractions by comparing and ordering numeric representations, or comparing fractions using symbols (>, < or =).
Conceptua Fractions: Equivalent Fractions Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics Use this tool to help students build conceptual understanding of equivalent fractions by emphasizing how visual models represent equivalence. Students learn the value of multiplying a fraction with a value of 1.
Conceptua Fractions: Finding Common Denominators Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics Use this tool to help students build conceptual understanding of common denominators by relating visual models to numbers. Students learn the value of multiplying a fraction by a fraction with a value of 1.
Conceptua Fractions: Multiplying Fractions Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics Use this tool to help students build conceptual understanding of what it means to multiply with fractions. Present contexts in the form of story problems, help students paraphrase the problems, then use models to clearly represent the problems and the product. The tool easily represents the use of multiplication to find the product for both “groups of” and “parts of” problems.
Conceptua Fractions: Subtracting with Uncommon Denominators Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics Use this tool to help students build conceptual understanding of subtracting fractions with uncommon denominators by linking visual models to procedures. Students make use of fractions with a value of 1.
Conceptua Fractions: Subtraction with Common Denominators Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics This tool builds conceptual understanding of subtracting fractions with common denominators by linking visual models to procedures. Students first subtract using models, and then progress to using numbers.
Cube Creator Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Comprehension Summarizing information is an important post-reading and pre-writing activity that helps students synthesize what they have learned. The interactive Cube Creator offers four options, and students can save their draft cubes to revise later. The finished cube can also be saved, printed, and folded into a fun cube shape that can be used for future reference.
Essay Map Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing Online, Interactive tool to create outline for essays.
Eye on Idioms Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Vocabulary This resource can be used to engage students in the study of idioms. After viewing the literal representation of each idiom, students are asked to complete the sentence by selecting the correct idiom from the list. Using context clues from the sentence, students can then determine the metaphorical meaning of the idiom. As a final step, students are asked to use the idiom in a sentence to show their understanding of its meaning.
Fact Fragment Frenzy Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Comprehension This ReadWriteThink lesson plan includes an interactive exercise for students in which they take apart the text of a story and drag it to a notebook. The lesson teaches summarization and note taking skills.
Factorize Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics The factor tree is an online interactive tool that helps students learn how to apply organization strategies to find common factors without making lists.
Flip a Chip Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Vocabulary Effective vocabulary instruction requires active and positive student participation. In this online activity, students flip two chips to mix and match four word parts and make four words. Students then insert the four words into a paragraph, using context clues to determine where each word belongs. After each exercise, students can print their work to check whether they placed the four words in the paragraph correctly.
Free Rice Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Vocabulary Interactive site where students are asked questions by selected subject (check out the Math and English sections). Every time a question is answered correctly, 10 grains of rice are donated through the World Food Programme. Bonus: For extra math students can keep track of how many grains of rice they get to donate!
Fun English Games Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Vocabulary Helps students learn the English language through interactive games and activities (covering spelling, punctuation, and letter writing). The site also has videos, and even quizzes to test students' knowledge.
Fun English Games Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing This tool walks students through the writing planning process to help them create context for their story.
Graphic Map Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Comprehension The Graphic Map is designed to assist teachers and students in reading and writing activities through charting the high and low points related to a particular item or group of items, such as chapters in a book, events, or scenes in a play. The interactive map can be used as a prewriting activity, as students map ideas for an autobiography; as a post-reading activity, as students map the significance of events in a story; and as a reflection and assessment activity, as students map the high and low points of their inquiry process.
Graphic Organizer Templates Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing A huge list of graphic organizer templates for students to organize their thoughts and plan their writing.
Graphic Organizer Webbing Tool Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing An interactive tool that allows users to create free-form graphic organizers. Students can drag their ideas around in the organizer to arrange any layout desired.
Graphic Organizers Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing Graphic organizers can help motivate, increase recall, assist understanding, create interest, combat boredom, and organize thoughts. This site offers graphic organizer, concept mapping, and mind mapping examples.
Illuminations: Resources for Teaching Mathematics Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics Searchable database of online mathematics activities from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Activities can be searched by grade level and can be used to assist teachers in whole-class or small-group learning, as well as in individualized student practice and reinforcement.
Illuminations: Equivalent Fractions Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics Illuminations, developed by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, provides standards-based resources that improve the teaching and learning of math for all students. Choose from a variety of activities, lesson plans, web links, and standards to support students in learning new math concepts and reviewing old ones
Illuminations: Fraction Game Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics This applet allows students to individually practice working with relationships among fractions and ways of combining fractions.
Illuminations: Fraction Models Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics Searchable database of online math activities from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Search activities by grade level and use them to support whole-class or small-group learning, as well as in individualized student practice and reinforcement
Illuminations: Free Ride Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics Students can create equivalent fractions by dividing and shading squares or circles. They can also match each fraction to its location on the number line.
Interactivate activities and student interactives Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics This site provides a variety of online learning activities to support development of math skills through the use of computer-assisted coursework. Sort activities by grade level or subject.
Interactivate: Fraction Four Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics In this version of connect four, students gain the chance to place a piece after they simplify fractions, convert fractions to decimals and percentages, and answer algebra questions involving fractions. Choose difficulty level, question types, and time. Fraction Four is one of the Interactivate assessment games.
Kerpoof's Make a Storybook Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing Students can create their own picture and story books by using Kerpoof’s backgrounds, props, and characters or drawing their own illustrations. Students can write a story in both text boxes and speech bubbles using the simple interface. The sidebar has thumbnails of each page that students have created, making it easy to see their progress. Students can save their finished story books on their Kerpoof account to share with other students, download them, or print them out.
K-W-L Creator Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Comprehension This interactive tool is equipped with the work saver functionality so that students can save their work at different stages in the K-W-L process (in which students write out what they know, what they want to know, and what they learn). Users have the ability to embed text links, giving an extra level of interaction and explanation so students can show examples of their knowledge.
Learner.org: Interactives Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics The webquests in this collection guide students through many different math topics including measurement, statistics, and geometry. The webquests include interactive study tools and can be used as review activities, especially for 5th or 6th graders.
Make Beliefs Comix Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing This website allows students to write and illustrate their own comic strips.
National Library of Virtual Manipulatives (NLVM): Adding Fractions Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics Illustrates what it means to find a common denominator and combine.
NRICH Math Games Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. On this website you will find thousands of free mathematics enrichment materials—problems, articles, and games—for teachers and learners from ages 5 to 19 years.
PicLits Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing Creative writing site that provides pictures and a word bank for students to create an enriched sentence or sentences about the picture, with the objective of putting "the right words in the right place and the right order to capture the essence, story, and meaning of the picture.” Students can choose to only drag words from the word bank to create their sentence or compose a sentence freestyle.
Quizlet Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics Quizlet provides hundreds of flashcards sets focused on fractions. Use a set that has already been created or create your own set to target specific learning needs of your students.
Rectangle Multiplication Resource Type: Interactives Category: Mathematics This virtual manipulative allows the user to visualize the product of two factors in three different ways. Click on any of the options beneath the array to choose Grouping, Common, or Lattice.
Spelling City Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Vocabulary Gives students interactive activities and games related to the vocabulary they are learning
Spelling City Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Vocabulary Gives students interactives and games related to the vocabulary they are learning.
Story Bird Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing Collaborative storytelling website that makes it easy to create and tell stories digitally. Students and teachers can create stories together by combining imaginative artwork and text. The final product can be printed, watched on screen, played with like a toy, or shared in an online library with the world. “Storybird promotes imagination, literacy, and self-confidence.” Creating, sharing, and reading Storybird stories is free.
Story Mapping Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Comprehension This is an interactive activity that includes a set of graphic organizers intended to help students on key elements of the story, including character, setting, conflict and resolution, designed for students in grades 3-5.
Venn Diagram - 2 Circles Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Comprehension In this online interactive, students can generate clear, well-formatted Venn diagrams that contain two overlapping circles, then generating concepts that can be placed on the diagram. A step-by-step animated demo shows students how to write out concepts and drag and place them on their diagrams. Students may view and edit their draft diagrams, then print the finished diagrams for reference.
Venn Diagram - 3 Circles Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Comprehension In this online interactive, students can generate clear, well-formatted Venn diagrams that contain two overlapping circles, then generating concepts that can be placed on the diagram. A step-by-step animated demo shows students how to write out concepts and drag and place them on their diagrams. Students may view and edit their draft diagrams, then print the finished diagrams for reference. In some cases, the Venn diagram tool has been customized to complement a specific lesson or activity.
Webbing Tool Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing This interactive Webbing Tool provides a free-form graphic organizer for activities that ask students to pursue hypertextual thinking and writing. Students can drag the circle or box shapes representing their ideas to arrange any layout and relationship that they want. Each layer on the chart has a different color border.
Wikispaces Resource Type: Interactives Category: Writing Wikispaces is a free, online place to gather students and edit pages together. This versatile tool can be used by students to collaborate on projects or showcase their best work, or by teachers to post homework and classroom goals or track student progress.
Word Family Sort Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Vocabulary This online activity is designed for beginning and struggling readers to help them recognize word patterns and learn about onset and rhyme. Students are first asked to select a vowel, and are then presented with a series of words to sort into short-vowel word families. Students can then print their completed word family chart and use it to practice reading the words fluently.
Word Matrix Resource Type: Interactives Category: Reading-Vocabulary The Word Matrix is a tool designed to assist teachers in vocabulary instruction, but it has flexible applications in literary analysis and writing instruction as well. The interactive tool can be used to teach students the concepts of connotation and register; to help clarify differences between seemingly similar words; to explore the concept of diction in literary analysis; or to encourage more precision in word choice in student writing.
12 Ways to Learn Vocabulary with The New York Times Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Reading-Vocabulary Here are 12 quick, easy, and engaging ways to learn and practice new words by reading, viewing, or listening to NYTimes.com.
12 Ways to Use The New York Times to Develop Math Literacy Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Mathematics Math may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about using The New York Times for teaching and learning, but the newspaper lends itself to math just as naturally as it does to other subjects. Here are a dozen ways to use The Times to foster mathematical understanding and skills.
6+1 Trait® Writing Lesson Plans Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Education Northwest has compiled this vast array of lesson plans that teachers for all grade levels will find useful. Organized around the 6+1 traits and grade levels, teachers can search and find lessons specific to their students' needs.
6+1 Trait® Writing Prompts Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Provided here are some generic writing prompts to get students started; teachers will also find some tips on how to write their own prompts.
All About Alliteration Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Poetry offers many opportunities for word play and learning about language. This lesson for third- and fourth-grade students is designed to overcome student fears by using a traditional poem to teach students about alliteration. After reading the book "A My Name Is..." by Alice Lyne, students use a variety of print and online resources to brainstorm their own alliterative word lists. They then create a poetry link that uses the traditional poem they have read together as a framework for their own poems.
All About Our Town: Using Brochures to Teach Informational Writing Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing All communities have their own landmarks, symbols, and people that make them unique places to live. In this lesson, students in grades 2–4 explore their towns using a variety of print and nonprint resources. By looking at brochures and other informational tools, students learn about some of the purposes for which people read and write. They also practice writing for a specific audience, revising their writing, and working collaboratively to create a brochure for new students just moving into town.
Blending Fiction and Nonfiction to Improve Comprehension and Writing Skills Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing This lesson supports the use of a text set (paired fiction and nonfiction texts on a similar topic) to increase student interest in and understanding of content area material and to develop critical writing skills. The more familiar format of narrative fiction introduces the topic and generates confidence in exploring the less familiar genre of nonfiction. Students then demonstrate what they have learned about the topic and genre by writing an original piece that blends together narrative and expository elements.
Bridging Literature and Mathematics by Visualizing Mathematical Concepts Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Mathematics Math-related informational books provide the focus for this lesson, which connects reading, writing, math, and science. By exploring images in the books and comparing familiar objects in them, students visualize measurements and mathematical proportions, and learn about ratios.
Building a Box Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Mathematics This lesson uses a real-world situation to help develop students' spatial visualization skills and geometric understanding.
Can You Convince Me? Developing Persuasive Writing Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Persuasive writing is an important skill that can seem intimidating to elementary students. This lesson encourages students to use skills and knowledge they may not realize they already have. A classroom game introduces students to the basic concepts of lobbying for something that is important to them (or that they want) and making persuasive arguments. Students then choose their own persuasive piece to analyze and learn some of the definitions associated with persuasive writing.
Constructing Narratives: A Unit Plan for Taking Apart and Reconstructing Stories Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing This lesson is designed as a project-based unit plan that will take students through the narrative process from deconstruction to construction. After initial discussion, students will use the Interactive Story Map feature at Read Write Think to deconstruct a short story. Students will use pictures to put together a PowerPoint-based storyboard that other students will use to construct a story.
Context Clues Lesson Plan Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Reading-Vocabulary The All About Reading website hosts a lesson plan that teachers can use to introduce the concept of context clues to students.
Dear Librarian: Writing a Persuasive Letter Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing In "Emily's Runaway Imagination," by Beverly Cleary, the character of Mama writes to the state librarian asking for help starting a library in their town. Inspired by the actions in Cleary’s book, students write to their school librarian, requesting that a specific text be added to the school library collection. Students use persuasive writing skills as well as online tools to write letters stating their cases. Students then have an opportunity to share their letters with the librarian.
Doodle Splash Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Teaching K-8 students to visualize what they are reading and to create graphic symbols helps them develop as readers. The Doodle Splash interactive combines the process of drawing with analytical thinking about a text by pairing an online drawing space with writing prompts that encourage students to make connections between their visual designs and the text. The tool can be used for whole-class discussion of a short story (or part of a novel), small group work, or individually, where students use doodles, symbols, drawings, shapes, and colors to construct a graphic of their story or chapter. After completing their individual or group images, students have the ability to print out their final versions for feedback and assessment.
Drexel University Math Forum Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Mathematics This searchable database of mathematics lessons by grade and content area is provided through Drexel's math forum, a leading center for mathematics and mathematics education on the Internet, and is as part of their teacher exchange program which allows teachers to share lessons, resources, and links with each other.
Emily Dickinson & Poetic Imagination Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing In this lesson, students will read and explore one of Dickinson's nature poems, "A Bird came Down the Walk—" through interaction with other art forms. First, they will listen to clips of a hymn to help them hear Dickinson's meter. Then, they will view 19th-century bird images and describe what they see, just as a poet would, and they will observe how a poet plays with language and imagery to create a scene by acting out verse lines. Finally, they will write a brief poem of their own using what they have learned and their own observations.
Essay Map Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Expository writing is an increasingly important skill for elementary, middle, and high school students to master. This interactive graphic organizer helps students develop an outline that includes an introductory statement, main ideas they want to discuss or describe, supporting details, and a conclusion that summarizes the main ideas. The tool offers multiple ways to navigate information including a graphic in the upper right-hand corner that allows students to move around the map without having to work in a linear fashion. The finished map can be saved, e-mailed, or printed.
Flip Book Creator Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing The Flip Book interactive is designed to allow users to type and illustrate tabbed flip books up to ten pages long. Students and teachers can use the flip book for taking notes while reading, making picture books, collecting facts, or creating question and answer booklets. Students can choose from nine different layouts for the pages of their books. A blank flip book is available for demonstration and planning.
Guided Comprehension: Summarization using the QuIP Strategy Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Reading-Comprehension In this ReadWriteThink lesson plan, students practice summarization by filling in a chart asking for short answers in response to questions about a story.
Illuminations Lesson Plan Database Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Mathematics Searchable database of mathematics lesson plans from Illuminations, developed by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and part of the Verizon Thinkfinity program. The database can be searched by grade level as well as learning standard.
I'm Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Someone a Letter Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing This lesson plan asks students to consider the following questions: Do you save copies of the letters you write? The letters you receive? How would you feel if your old letters were resurrected and made public by a historian or archivist? Would we find they adhered to the conventions of letter writing? What purposes for your letters would we uncover?
Internalization of Vocabulary Through the Use of a Word Map Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Reading-Vocabulary This ReadWriteThink Lesson Plan utilizes word maps to strengthen vocabulary acquisition and critical thinking skills.
Jigsaw Technique Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Reading-Comprehension In this game, each student in a group is given a part of a story or lesson to summarize and present to the rest of their group members. Students must learn the entire lesson or story by listening to and cooperating with their group members.
Letter Generator Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing The Letter Generator tool is designed to help students learn to identify all the essential parts of a business or friendly letter, and then generate letters by typing information into letter templates. A sample letter is included, and students can learn about the parts of a letter by reading descriptions of each part. This useful tool provides step-by-step instructions for familiarizing users with the necessary elements of written correspondence, and can serve as an excellent practice method for composing and proofreading both formal and informal letters.
Library of Congress Lesson Plans Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Find teacher-created lessons, primary source materials, and other resources from the Library of Congress. Search by topic, era, or state standards.
Math Can Take You Places Lesson Plans Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Mathematics These 25 Math Can Take You Places lesson plans focus on the following key concept areas in mathematics: equivalency, measurement, patterns, problem solving, and reasonableness. The lesson plans are written for use with students in grades 4-6 and can be easily be modified to accommodate students of various skill levels. Each hands-on plan is divided into subsections for use as a unit or as individual parts to enhance your lessons.
Math VIDS (Video Instructional Development Source): Concrete - Representational - Abstract Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Mathematics The purpose of teaching through a concrete-to-representational-to-abstract sequence of instruction is to ensure students have a thorough understanding of the math concepts/skills they are learning. When students who have math learning problems are allowed to first develop a concrete understanding of the math concept/skill, they are much more likely to understand math concepts at the abstract level.
MathActive Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Mathematics MathActive lessons are Flash-animated math modules designed for grades K-12. Each module features content that touches a geometry performance objective from the Arizona Academic Standards for mathematics. MathActive lessons were built around mathematical expertise and pedagogy. Using Backward Design, each module was created to target a specific geometry performance objective.
McREL Lesson Plan database Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Mathematics Searchable database of mathematics lesson plans and resources.
Musical Papers: Engaging Students in Revising and Editing Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Lesson plan incorporating music and the game "Musical Chairs" into the peer editing and review process.
New York Times Language Arts Lessons Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Reading-Comprehension This collection of language arts lessons uses articles and resources from The New York Times. Teachers can use or adapt the lessons across subject areas and levels. Students can respond to opinion questions, take news quizzes, learn the Word of the Day, try Test Yourself questions, complete a fill-in, or read Poetry Pairings.
Paraphrasing Informational Texts Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Reading-Comprehension This ReadWriteThink four-session lesson plan is about utilizing paraphrasing to monitor comprehension and acquire new information. Website includes resources for preparation and instructional plan.
PBS LearningMedia Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Provides lesson plans, based on research and Common Core Standards. Along with free sign up, educators also gain the ability to save favorite lessons, with topics sortable by grade level and subject area.
PBS Teachers Domain: Writing Process Lesson Plans Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Find lesson plan ideas and multimedia activities on the writing process on PBS Teachers Domain.
PBS Teachers Math Lessons Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Mathematics Explore mathematics lessons for all grade levels and areas on the PBS Teachers site. Teachers can search the database of lesson plans by grade level as well as topic.
Peer Edit With Perfection: Effective Strategies Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing In this lesson, students are introduced to a three-step strategy for peer editing, providing (1) compliments, (2) suggestions, and (3) corrections in response to a sample of student writing. They practice these steps in a small-group session and share the results with the class. Then they move to individual editing practice guided by a PowerPoint tutorial and an accompanying worksheet.
Postcard Creator Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing The Postcard Creator helps students learn to identify all the typical parts of a postcard, and then generate their own postcard messages by typing information into templates. Students fill in the address, details on the postcard's artwork, and the postcard message. The finished postcard can then be previewed, edited, and printed. After printing their texts, students can illustrate the front of their postcards in a variety of ways, including drawing a picture, creating a collage of images, or printing and pasting clipart in place.
Printing Press Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing The interactive Printing Press is designed to assist students in creating newspapers, brochures, flyers, and booklets. Teachers and students can choose from several templates to publish class newspapers, informational brochures, and flyers announcing class events. The tool allows for multiple pages when appropriate. Text added to the templates can be modified using a simple toolbar, which allows students to choose text features, such as font size and color.
Process Writing: Make Publishing Feel Authentic Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing This page contains a collection of resources, strategies, tips, and ideas for helping students publish their writing.
Profile Publisher Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Students can use the Profile Publisher to mock up or draft online social networking profiles, yearbook profiles, and newspaper or magazine profiles for themselves, other real people (including historical figures), or fictional characters. The tool could also be used for profiles of nonhuman living creatures, inanimate objects, or abstract concepts (e.g., profile of an amoeba, an historical monument, or friendship).
ReadWriteThink Notetaker Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing This hierarchical outlining tool allows students to organize up to five levels of information for reading and writing activities. During or after reading, the Notetaker can be used to compile and organize reading notes, research, and related ideas. During the writing process, students can use the tool to organize their information and plan texts in the prewriting stage and to review and structure their ideas during writing and revision.
Self-Questioning Lesson Plan Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Reading-Comprehension This lesson plan, called Guided Comprehension: Self-Questioning Using Question-Answer Relationships, should lead students to apply the strategy independently with new texts.
Sharing Favorite Books Using Interactive Character Trading Cards Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Reading-Comprehension In this lesson plan, students can recommend books to their peers through trading cards. The trading cards include information like character descriptions, a drawing of the character, and character quotes. Grades 3-5.
Sharing Favorite Books Using Interactive Character Trading Cards Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Reading-Comprehension Lesson plan for students to make book recommendations to their peers based on books they have read through trading cards. Trading cards, made by students, include information like character descriptions, a drawing of the character, and character quotes. Grades 3-5.
Sketch to Stretch Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Reading-Comprehension These activities introduce students to the visualization strategy and ask them to visualize a text and interpret it through drawing. Students then share their drawings in a group and draw other aspects of the book, such as characters or important moments.
Story Map Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing The Story Map interactive includes a set of graphic organizers designed to assist teachers and students in prewriting and postreading activities. The organizers are intended to focus on the key elements of character, setting, conflict, and resolution development. Students can develop multiple characters, for example, in preparation for writing their own fiction, or they may reflect on and further develop characters from stories they have read.
Talking Poetry with Blabberize Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Lesson plan for students to use an interactive website to listen to poetry, and then write and upload their own! Grades 4-8.
Talking Poetry with Blabberize Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing In this lesson plan, students use an interactive website to listen to poetry, and then write and upload their own! Grades 4-8.
Teaching with and about Technology Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Technology This large collection of resources for teaching with technology is from The New York Times. Includes many lesson plans for teaching students about technology's role in society and their lives.
Teaching With Infographics | Language Arts, Fine Arts and Entertainment Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Reading-Comprehension Students must be able to read and interpret visual representations of information—charts, graphs, and maps—in order to fully comprehend it. Use these ideas from The New York Times to help students learn using infographics in Language Arts.
The Elements of Fiction Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Reading-Comprehension Students identify the elements of fiction in a book they have read and share summaries of them by writing and illustrating their own mini-book.
The New York Times: Mathematics Lessons Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Mathematics A collection of mathematics lessons produced by the Learning Network as part of The New York Times. The lesson plans provide teaching and learning materials and ideas based on Times content. Students can respond to Opinion questions, take News Quizzes, learn the Word of the Day, try Test Yourself questions, complete a Fill-in, or read Poetry Pairings.
TILE-SIG Feature: Digital Storytelling Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Digital storytelling is a great way to help students become fluent readers and to be proud of their writing. It allows students to develop a writer’s voice while listening to their physical voices using a sequence of six to eight sessions to create digital stories.
Time Savers for Teachers: Peer Editing Form Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Printable peer reviewer sheets for teachers to use with their students when reviewing and revising their writing.
Write It Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Write It is an online writing resource packed with engaging ways to build your students’ writing skills. Includes lessons and activities for each stage of the writing process as well as an interactive online community for students and teachers to share and discuss writing.
Writing Bugs Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing List of printable writing ideas for students, organized by appropriate monthly themes.
Writing Lesson Plan: Teaching the Difference Between Editing and Revising Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Elementary students are often confused by the difference between editing and revising. This lesson plan helps students understand the difference with modeling and peer buddies.
Writing Process: Rough Draft Resources Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing This page contains a collection of resources, strategies, tips, and ideas for teaching drafting activities.
Writing with Writers Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing Interactive writing workshops with various well-known children's authors helping students brainstorm, plan, draft, revise, and write.
WritingFix: Our Revision Teacher Workshop Resource Type: Lesson Plan Category: Writing This page contains a collection of resources, strategies, tips, and ideas for teaching revision activities.
CAST UDL Online Modules Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Universal Design for Learning These two online modules introduce the theory, principles, and application of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) to teacher candidates and in-service teachers. They provide higher education faculty with a multimedia, interactive, online-learning environment that can be embedded in instructional methods courses.
Cyberlearning Research Summit Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Technology NSF has the potential to lead a new wave of STEM initiatives through its CyberLearning: Transforming Education program and its cross-cutting initiatives in cyberinfrastructure. Videos and presentations from the conference are available through the website.
Data-Based Decision Making Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Implementation In this webcast, nationally recognized experts and RTI implementers provided guidance on using data from multiple assessment functions to support and empower educator decision making within an RTI framework.
Data-driven decision making in K-12 schools Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Implementation Under the requirements of the No Child Left Behind legislation, school districts are required to test students, collect performance data, and use that data to identify strengths and weaknesses in their educational systems. Most often educators talk about the punitive uses of data to improve instruction. Few educators or educational leaders seem to be able to articulate how they might use data in a more positive or effective way to improve teaching and learning. The use of data in education remains an elusive concept and skill, yet the path to using data in making decisions is not out of reach or difficult to implement.
Develop and Maintain a Districtwide Data System Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Implementation As part of a coherent approach to using data effectively, districts need to provide a high-quality data system—this presentation describes how. A Data System Advisory Council can support the planning, design, and implementation of the system. Districts need to identify their needs and buy or build an appropriate system. It is also important to phase in the data system to ensure all stakeholders learn to use it.
Establishing a Clear Vision for Schoolwide Data Use Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Implementation This presentation describes how establishing a whole-school culture of data use helps all stakeholders make thoughtful, consistent, and appropriate data-based decisions. Schools can develop a data plan and team to guide the use of data and to support a culture of data use. The data team can develop a shared vocabulary for critical concepts of data use and learning.
iPad for Special Education Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Technology PowerPoint presentation on benefits and uses of iPads in educating children with special needs. Includes apps, resources, and ways to accommodate students in learning with the iPad.
Leadership Teams and Quality Instruction Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Implementation This three-hour module will help your team build awareness of what quality instruction means and looks like, analyze how to promote quality instruction, and explore practices that help the team stay focused on quality instruction. By the end of this module, your leadership team will be prepared to advocate for quality instruction at your school. (Must be a registered user to view. Registration is free. Once you view this module, other modules, such as Professional Development and Using Data Effectively, are available.)
Providing Supports That Foster a Data-Driven Culture within a School Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Implementation Schools and districts need to provide supports, such as school-based facilitators, professional development, and structured collaboration time, to help all stakeholders develop the knowledge and skills to use data. This presentation emphasizes that strong instructional leadership helps encourage teachers to interpret data and make changes to instruction.
Recorded Webinars Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Writing A list popular webinar links from Thinkfinity and Thinkfinity partners. Webinars provide guidance on using digital media in your classroom, including teaching with resources from National Geographic, the Smithsonian, and other online resources.
Reflective Teaching: Thinking and Writing About Our Work in the Classroom Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Implementation The importance of reflective teaching, methods for developing reflective teaching skills and ways to document your teaching philosophy and experience are discussed in this online presentation. Exercises are included throughout the presentation to start participants on the path to becoming reflective teachers.
Technology Decision Makers Hold the Keys to Successful Implementation Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Implementation The purpose of this webinar is to share common challenges faced by administrators when acquiring technology, introduce the Consumer Guide and demonstrate how it can be used to guide purchasing, distinguish between types of research, and gauge participants’ opinions about the importance of research.
The Assistive Technology Planner: A Guide for Implementing AT Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Technology This webinar (requires WebEx registration) explores the innovative AT Planner, a comprehensive set of guides for administrators, teachers, and families full of checklists, resources, and recommendations. Based on the research of the National Assistive Technology Research Institute, Margaret Bausch of the University of Kentucky discusses how to fully implement AT for students with disabilities.
Understand How to Use Data for Decision-Making Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Implementation The goals of this presentation are: understand the rationale for establishing a data-based decision-making system, identify types of data to be collected, identify characteristics of a useful data system, and understand how to use data for decision-making.
Universal Design for Learning and Teacher Preparation Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Universal Design for Learning What teachers need to know and be able to do to implement UDL in their classrooms, and what this means for system change.
Universal Design for Learning Online Training Module Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Universal Design for Learning This module helps users learn about the principles of Universal Design for Learning, identify the benefits of Universal Design for Learning (both for you and your students), understand the rationale of implementing Universal Design for Learning, explore alternatives in conducting your classes, learn how to implement Universal Design for Learning in your classes.
Universal Design for Learning: A Framework for Access and Equity Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Universal Design for Learning This presentation presents UDL as a vehicle for equity and access.
Using Mathematics Think Aloud: A Field-Identified Teaching Strategy for English Language Learners with Disabilities Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Mathematics This webinar presents teacher insights on the Mathematics Think-Aloud strategy. The Think-Aloud strategy is one of four research-based teaching strategies designed from the practices of teachers who work with English language learner students and is recommended by successful middle school teachers nationwide.
Vision and Goals for Technology Integration, K-8 Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Implementation This sample document describes the vision and goals of Los Gatos Union Elementary School.
Vision for Technology in Education Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Implementation This presentation covers the topic “What is a Vision?” and describes how to create, communicate, and commit to a vision.
Writers Workshop: An Introduction Resource Type: Presentation/Webinar Category: Writing This video provides an overview of the Writers Workshop, a framework for writing instruction and practice. Implementation of mini-lessons, independent writing, conferencing, and sharing are discussed.
A case study of enabling factors in the technology integration change process Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation This article details a case study that examined the integration of technology into a college-level science course over a period of six years. Through interviews and reviews of documents, the researchers identified three enabling factors that facilitated and sustained successful technology integration. The three enabling factors included creation of a sustained leadership team, the launch of a professional learning community, and positive influences of the education system.
A five-step approach to planning for technology in new science spaces Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation In this article, the author provides planning ideas for those building a new classroom space to ensure the accommodation of technology that will be available in the near future. Drawing upon an interview with a school technology director, the author outlines five steps that could be included in a technology plan to ensure that classrooms/schools will be able to meet future needs.
A mentoring model for interactive online learning in support of a Technology Innovation Challenge Grant Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation This article summarizes the evaluation of the Lewis & Clark Rediscovery Project, a technology professional development program designed to help teachers restructure teaching and learning practices in the classroom, and to foster technology use in the schools. The program immersed 51 lead participant K–12 teachers in eight states along the Lewis and Clark Trail in activities designed to increase technology efficacy and facilitate the infusion of inquiry-based learning projects into their classrooms. Findings indicated that participants identified the contribution of online mentoring strategies as among the most important aspects of the experience. Having a mentor or colleague who was always there for them and forthcoming with friendly critiques, advice, and help—both technical and pedagogical—appears to have been the key to their success.
A Meta-analysis of the effects of computer technology on school students’ mathematics learning Resource Type: Research Category: Mathematics This study examines the impact of computer technology (CT) on mathematics education in K-12 classrooms through a systematic review of existing literature. A meta-analysis of 85 independent effect sizes extracted from 46 primary studies involving a total of 36,793 learners indicated statistically significant positive effects of CT on mathematics achievement. In addition, several characteristics of primary studies were identified as having effects.
A new generation of goals for technology education Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation In this article, the author identifies a set of goal statements to guide curriculum for technology literacy in grades K–12. Using a modified Delphi panel, the author presented a number of goal statements to experienced practitioners and asked them to reflect on the importance of the goals. Through the panel process, practitioners identified five goals as priorities for current technology curriculum. Priority goals included instruction on the social, ethical, and environmental impacts of technology use and developing students as educated consumers of technology.
A synthesis of empirical research on teaching mathematics to low-achieving students Resource Type: Research Category: Mathematics This meta-analysis synthesizes the research on the effects of interventions designed to improve mathematics achievement of students considered low achieving or at risk for failure. It examined the effects of experimental studies that used five categories of interventions, including providing ongoing feedback, peer tutoring, parent support, use of explicit instruction, and computer- assisted instruction.
Accountability policies and teacher decision making: Barriers to the use of data to improve practice Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation The authors present findings from their study of the use of accountability data from annual statewide student achievement tests in school decision-making. Drawing upon a longitudinal study of nine high schools that were recognized leaders in the use of continuous improvement practices, they analyzed teachers’ responses to district expectations for using test data to inform instruction. Findings identified teacher concerns about the use of data and limitations in the use of accountability data to make effective instructional decisions.
Adequate funding for educational technology Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation This dissertation presents findings from a study that used a successful schools model to survey site principals and site teachers. The researcher sought their professional opinions and answers to several questions, including: (1) What types, amounts, configurations and uses of educational technology resources support school level efforts to raise student achievement?; (2) What additional support, funding, and budgets should be provided to support school level efforts to raise student achievement?; (3) Do state technology surveys and state achievement test data indicate a positive correlation between spending money on technology and high student achievement?
An instructional study: Improving the inferential comprehension of good and poor fourth-grade readers Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Comprehension The study employed a randomized, controlled trial design to examine the effect of an instructional approach to improve the inferential comprehension of students who were good and poor readers. The instruction consisted of activating background knowledge, answering questions, and making predictions, and the control group received the typical instruction in the classroom.
Applying Principles of Universal Design to Test Delivery: The Effect of Computer-based Read-aloud on Test Performance of High School Students with Learning Disabilities Resource Type: Research Category: Universal Design for Learning Standards-based reform efforts are highly dependent on accurate assessment of all students, including those with disabilities. The accuracy of current large-scale assessments is undermined by construct-irrelevant factors including access barriers, a particular problem for students with disabilities. Testing accommodations such as the read-aloud have led to improvement, but research findings suggest the need for a more flexible, individualized approach to accommodations. The current pilot study applies principles of Universal Design for Learning to the creation of a prototype computer-based test delivery tool that provides students with a flexible, customizable testing environment with the option for read-aloud of test content.
Characteristics of systems and leadership in K–12 public school educational technology programs: Understanding data use, decision making, and contextual factors Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation This dissertation presents findings from an investigation of how data informs school leadership decisions about technology use. The researcher conducted four case studies of K–12 school districts that had reputations for the effective use of educational technology. Ten attributes emerged that were shared among these four districts. The attributes included providing professional development to administrators in the use of data driven decision-making, forming a vision for technology use by all students and all teachers, and creating a viable funding model to acquire and maintain new technologies.
Conditions for classroom technology innovations Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation This article reports on a study of the complex and messy process of classroom technology integration. The main purpose of the study was to empirically address the large question of "why don't teachers innovate when they are given computers?" rather than whether computers can improve student learning. Specifically, we were interested in understandingthe conditions under which technology innovation can take place in classrooms. For a year, the researchers followed a group of K-12 teachers who attempted to carry out technology-rich projects in their classrooms. These teachers were selected from more than 100 recipients of a technology grant program for teachers.
Data use: Data-driven decision making takes a big-picture view of the needs of teachers and students Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation In this article, the author examines the interconnection of two types of data driven decision-making: classroom and school. Each type seeks to improve teaching and learning, and both are important for supporting student achievement. The story of an elementary school that successfully used data to improve achievement scores of students in all subjects illustrates the use and benefits of data driven decision-making. The author argues that school leaders must use data from the big picture to gain a comprehensive understanding of the needs of all students in their schools.
Deepening content understanding in social studies using digital text and embedded vocabulary supports Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Vocabulary This article discusses a strand of research conducted by the Education Development Center, Inc. in collaboration with the National Center for Supported Electronic Text. The research investigated the use of an online vocabulary support tool, Visual Thesaurus, for middle school students with and without disabilities. Data were collected from 10 eighth grade inclusive classrooms using a randomized control trial to compare the impact of Visual Thesaurus and Merriam-Webster OnLine on vocabulary and content knowledge from two social studies textbook chapters. Data analysis revealed significant posttest gains for students in both conditions, but no significant difference between the two treatments.
Developing Effective Fractions Instruction for Kindergarten Through 8th Grade (What Works Clearinghouse, 2010) Resource Type: Research Category: Mathematics This practice guide presents five recommendations to help educators improve students’ understanding of fractions. It features strategies to develop young children’s understanding of early fraction concepts and ways to help older children understand the meaning of fractions and the computations involved. It also highlights ways to build on students’ existing strategies to solve problems involving ratios, rates, and proportions.
Direct instruction in math word problems: Students with learning disabilities Resource Type: Research Category: Mathematics The study investigated the effectiveness of strategy teaching and sequencing practice problems when teaching students with learning disabilities (LD) how to solve word problems. Students were randomly assigned to one of three intervention groups: 1) strategy plus sequence, 2) strategy only, and 3) sequence only. All were instructed in small groups of 3–5.
Direct teaching, strategy instruction, and strategy instruction with explicit self-regulation: Effects on the composition skills and self- efficacy of students with learning disabilities Resource Type: Research Category: Writing This study assesses the impact of self-regulated strategy development (SRSD) on students identified as learning disabled (LD). Students were assigned to one of four conditions: full SRSD, SRSD without explicit self-regulation instruction, direct instruction of strategy, and nonrandomized practice control. Each condition included four groups of two to three students. Instruction was provided three times per week for three weeks, or until each student in the group could independently apply the writing strategy. Typically achieving peers were included to serve as a social validation reference group.
Do digital divisions still persist in schools? Access to technology and technical skills of teachers in high needs schools in the United States of America Resource Type: Research Category: Technology In this article, the authors examine whether there is any indication of current differences in technology access, skills and classroom integration practices as reported by teachers participating in an online professional development initiative. Survey data was collected from Title 1 school teachers before and after participation in their first e-Learning for Educators online professional development workshop. Findings indicated that differences in technology access among schools cannot be solved by funding alone.
Education Week: 'Embodied Learning' Blends Movement, Computer Interaction Resource Type: Research Category: Universal Design for Learning Students who are able to engage in learning by being physically involved take more interest in classroom time. SMALLabs are discussed, which use a camera, projector, computer, and wand in an open classroom for students to interact educational games and lab-like settings for science and math.
Educational technology in U.S. public schools: Fall 2008 Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation In this report, the authors present national data on the availability and use of educational technology among teachers in public elementary and secondary schools during the winter and spring of 2009. The data are the results of a national teacher-level survey that is one of a set that includes district, school, and teacher surveys on educational technology. The authors describe results from the survey, including information on the use of computers and Internet access in the classroom; availability and use of computing devices and software, teachers' use of school or district networks (including remote access); students' use of educational technology; teachers' preparation to use educational technology for instruction; and technology-related professional development activities.
Educators use student performance data to plan, implement, and evaluate Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation In this article, a middle school principal shares how he used data to make improvements in student achievement. By engaging in the repeated cycle of collect, analyzing, and using data, he believes that principals remain focused on identifying areas of need and leading targeted change in classrooms. He argues that it is the role of the principal to not only lead through the use of data, but to also cultivate a shared commitment to using data among all stakeholders in the school.
Effectiveness of question exploration to enhance students’ written expression of content knowledge and comprehension Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Comprehension The study examined the effectiveness of the use of a Questioning Instructional Routine in combination with an instructional graphic, a Question Exploration Guide, on students’ reading and writing outcomes. The intervention incorporated elements of three comprehension instructional strategies, which are summarizing, visualizing, and questioning. Overall, students who participated in the intervention outperformed students in the control group on comprehension and writing outcomes.
Effectiveness of reading and mathematics software products: Findings from two student cohorts—Executive Summary (NCEE 2009-4042) Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation A 2003 design effort by ED working with educational technology and research experts recommended focusing the study on software products used to support reading and math instruction. The study team set up a competitive process and worked with ED to select reading products to be studied in the first and fourth grades, pre-algebra products in the sixth grade, and algebra I products in high school (or possibly in middle school). The team implemented an experimental design in which teachers in the same school were randomly assigned to use or not to use a software product, and the team collected test scores and other data to assess effectiveness of the software products.
Effects of a direct instruction main idea summarization program and self-monitoring on reading comprehension of middle school students with learning disabilities Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Comprehension The study examined the effectiveness of a main idea instructional program on and a self-monitoring technique on improving the reading comprehension of middle school students with disabilities. The intervention consisted of a series of seven lessons that were carefully sequenced to teach students to identify key ideas from passages.
Effects of a supplemental vocabulary program in third-grade reading/language arts Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Vocabulary The study examined the effectiveness of Elements of Reading: Vocabulary on improving the vocabulary outcome of third-grade students. The year-long intervention utilized a randomized controlled trial to assign teachers in Title I schools to treatment and control conditions. Teachers in the treatment condition taught Elements of Reading (EOR) which utilized explicit vocabulary instructional strategies such as semantic mapping and context clues along with other effective vocabulary development elements (e.g., oral instruction, personalization and active engagement, ample practice).
Effects of interactive vocabulary instruction on the vocabulary learning and reading comprehension of junior-high learning disabled students Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Vocabulary The study examined the effectiveness of interactive strategies, including semantic mapping, semantic feature analysis, and semantic/syntactic feature analysis, against definition instruction. Students were grouped into four intervention conditions: semantic mapping, semantic feature analysis, semantic/syntactic feature analysis, or definition instruction.
Effects of mathematical word problem solving by students at risk or with mild disabilities Resource Type: Research Category: Mathematics The purpose of this study is two-fold. First, the researchers sought to assess the effectiveness of two instructional strategies, an explicit schema-based strategy and a traditional basal strategy, on one-step addition and subtraction word problems for students with mild disabilities and students at risk of failure in mathematics. Second, the researchers explored the long-term impact of the two strategies and ability of the students to transfer the skills learned in the strategy to new contexts.
Effects of Morphological Instruction on Vocabulary Acquisition Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Vocabulary The study investigated the effectiveness of an intervention targeting morphological word structure on students’ vocabulary knowledge. The intervention program used a guided problem-solving approach and sets of morphologically related words to teach students how the structure of words provides cues to word meaning. Students in the experimental group participated in three to four 50-minute lessons weekly for a total of 20 lessons, while the control group participated in instruction as usual.
Effects of parent involvement in isolation or in combination with peer tutoring on student self-concept and mathematics achievement Resource Type: Research Category: Mathematics This study assessed the effects of a home-based, parent involvement (PI) intervention and the combined effects of PI with reciprocal peer tutoring (RPT) on self-concept and mathematics achievement. Participating students were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: PI, PI+RPT, or practice control. Students in each condition participated in two 45-minute mathematics sessions per week over a 10-week period.
Effects of reciprocal peer tutoring on mathematics and school adjusttment: A component analysis Resource Type: Research Category: Mathematics This study investigated the differential impact of the structured peer tutoring and group reward components within a reciprocal peer-tutoring (RPT) intervention to enhance mathematics performance for students at risk for failure. Participating students were randomly assigned to four study conditions: 1) structure plus reward, 2) reward only, 3) structure only, and 4) no structure, no reward.
Effects of self- explanation as a metacognitive strategy for solving mathematical word programs Resource Type: Research Category: Mathematics The study examined the effects of a metacognitive strategy (i.e., self-explanation) on elementary school students’ ability to solve word problems. Students were assigned to one of three conditions: (1) self-explanation, (2) self-learning, and (3) control. Students were administered a pretest, a ratio word problem test, and a transfer test.
Explicit instruction in mathematics problem solving Resource Type: Research Category: Mathematics This study examined the effectiveness of the explicit translation strategy method that explicitly teaches fourth-graders to translate word story problems into mathematical equation form. The study also explored the impact of providing students with additional instructional time and controlled practice opportunities.
Factors that influence elementary teachers’ use of computers Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation The author describes a quantitative study that investigated the ways in which elementary teachers use computer technology for instructional purposes and the factors that influence their use of computers. The population consisted of recent graduates from the elementary teacher preparation program at a mid-Atlantic university. Data were gathered using a survey instrument, which addressed the four factors that support teachers’ use of computers: (1) access and availability; (2) preparation and training; (3) leadership; and (4) time. The findings indicated that 84 percent of the teachers felt either well or very well prepared to integrate technology into curriculum, and that they were able to overcome the typical barriers to computer use in elementary classrooms.
First teach their teachers: Technology support and computer use in academic subjects Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation This article explores the results of a study of the effects of the allocation of computer coordinator work time on incidence of student computer use in academic subjects in Grades 5 and 11. Analysis of regression models suggested that teacher support is more critical to student use than student support, that effects differ in different grades, and that the effectiveness of technology support for teachers may be contingent on the degree to which the computer coordinator's job resembles that of the client teacher.
Fostering the development of vocabulary knowledge and reading comprehension though contextually-based multiple meaning vocabulary instruction Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Vocabulary The purpose of this study was to test the effects of vocabulary instruction, using words with multiple meanings (i.e., contextually-based multiple meaning vocabulary instruction), on the vocabulary and reading comprehension of students. Over a three-month period, the treatment group received language arts instruction embedded within contextually-based multiple meaning vocabulary instruction. Students in the control group received the standard language arts instruction (non-specific treatment).
Fraction instruction for students with mathematics disabilities: Comparing two teaching sequences Resource Type: Research Category: Mathematics The study compared the effectiveness of concrete-representational-abstract (CRA) and representational-abstract (RA) instructional sequences in teaching mathematics to middle- school students with mild to moderate disabilities. Students in the CRA group used concrete manipulatives and students in the RA group used representational drawings. Participating students received 10 scripted mathematics lessons in either the CRA or RA approach.
Identifying the knowledge base for school improvement Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation This article identifies and reviews a knowledge base to assist school leaders in addressing the challenge of introducing and sustaining large-scale improvement. The authors posit that there is a general model of organizational improvement processes—including planning, implementation, and institutionalization—that is necessary to achieve non-routine change. They review the knowledge bases for each of the elements within these phases. Although knowledge about the organizational change process is important, school leaders need to be able to assimilate and interpret new knowledge for the change process that will work within their unique contexts.
Implementation research: a synthesis of the literature. Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation The purpose of this monograph is to describe the results of a far-reaching review of the implementation literature. There is broad agreement that implementation is a decidedly complex endeavor, more complex than the policies, programs, procedures, techniques, or technologies that are the subject of the implementation efforts. Results of this literature review and synthesis confirm that systematic implementation practices are essential to any national attempt to use the products of science—such as evidence-based programs—to improve the lives of its citizens.
Improving the reading comprehension of middle school students in inclusive classrooms Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Comprehension The study examined the effectiveness of a direct instructional approach on middle school students’ reading comprehension. The intervention involved the use of summarization and question strategies and other meta-cognitive components.
Individualizing learning using intelligent technology and universally designed curriculum Resource Type: Research Category: Universal Design for Learning The American education system and its rigorous accountability and performance standards continually force educators to explore new ways to increase student achievement. The improvement in computer technology and intelligent computing systems may offer new tools for student learning and higher academic achievement. These systems have the potential to meet individual student learning needs using universally designed curricula and assessments. The purpose of this paper is to present a conceptual framework that harnesses the potential of intelligent learning systems, machine learning models, and universal design for learning principles to help formulate next generation instructional materials.
Instructional leadership in practice: What does it look like, and what influence does it have? Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation The authors discuss findings from their study of the activities of principals who move beyond roles as administrative leaders to assume positions as instructional leaders. In the study, they investigated the relationship between principal leadership practices and the professional development that teachers received as part of a district-wide reform effort in a large urban district. They found a connection between the presence of principal instructional leadership practices, such as forming a vision, and the presence of teacher professional development that was aligned with best practices, such as a focus on content and curriculum.
Integrating technology into K–12 teaching and learning: Current knowledge gaps and recommendations for future research Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation This article describes the challenges that schools face when using technology to support student learning. The authors list several common obstacles that K–12 schools encounter in these efforts, including a lack of expertise with the technologies and the attitudes and beliefs of school staff. They offer strategies—including the creation and sharing of a vision for technology use as a part of classroom instruction—that schools can utilize to overcome these obstacles.
Managing technology efficiently in California K–12 schools: Policies & practices for minimizing the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation To assess the total cost of ownership (TCO) of computer technology in California's K–12 public schools, the authors of this thesis studied two high schools, one elementary school, and one school district that implemented successful technology programs. The study covered four fundamental issues in technology ownership that add costs to schools and create problems for educators: (1) lack of technical expertise; (2) lack of sustained funding; (3) lack of incentive to manage technology efficiently; and (4) difficulties in managing technology programs. The authors recommend three state policies to help schools and school districts identify, plan, and manage TCO for technology. The first requires schools to have separate budget accounts for technology in the school budget. The second divides state funding into four phases, with each contingent on a school’s readiness to proceed to the next phase. The third creates incentives for school districts to provide technology support more efficiently.
Planning into practice: Resources for planning, implementing and integrating instructional technology Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation This comprehensive guidebook helps school administrators plan and implement a technology program to support student achievement. The chapters of the guidebook describe steps from setting goals that integrate technology into the school instructional program to developing teachers’ capacity to use technology, acquiring and managing technologies, and evaluating technology integration efforts. The guidebook includes recommendations for other resources for school leaders and offers forms and materials that may be reproduced.
School environment and technology implementation in K–12 classrooms Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation The authors present findings from a study that examined teachers’ perceptions of their school environment in terms of factors that enhance or prohibit the use of instructional technology. The study also investigated whether the technology implementation environment varied for schools at different locations and different levels. Both quantitative and qualitative data indicated that the most serious problem in K-12 technology implementation was time constraints, followed by technical problems that could not be taken care of in a timely manner.
School leadership teams: A process model of team development Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation The authors describe their examination of factors influencing the effectiveness of school leadership teams. They surveyed school leadership teams in 71 elementary and 71 secondary schools in California. Charged with making decisions on school instruction and curriculum, the school leadership teams had received one year of training as a team. Analysis of survey data identified factors that influenced the ability of teams to focus on teaching and learning. The use of data to identify needs and guide decision-making was the greatest predictor of a team’s focus on instructional and curricular issues.
School technology leadership: Artifacts in systems of practice Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation In this article, the author discusses findings from her study on the influence of team-based leadership on the adoption of new instructional technologies. She conducted a cross-case analysis of five case studies of school leadership teams in middle schools that launched programs that provide laptop personal computers to students. Analysis revealed that school leadership teams were an important, positive factor in the implementation of the programs, as the varied and broad expertise of the team members allowed the team to respond to the evolving needs of the programs.
School technology leadership: Incidence and impact Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation This report presents findings from the authors’ examination of models of technology leadership in schools. Applying a framework of six types of decisions that influence the utilization of technology (e.g., goal setting, vision sharing), they surveyed school administrators, teachers, and technology coordinators from 898 schools in the United States about technology policy decisions. Findings from analysis of the survey responses identified the frequency of the adoption of different technology policies and the leadership characteristics of the school staff in those schools. Schools included in the study reported a wide variety of implemented technology policies and that strong school leadership had a positive effect on the effective adoption of technology programs.
Self-regulated strategy development instruction for writing an opinion essay: Effects for six students with emotional/behavior disorders Resource Type: Research Category: Writing The purpose of the study was to examine the impact of self-regulated strategy development (SRSD) to support POW (Pick my idea, Organize my notes, Write and say more) and TREE (Topic sentence, Reasons, Ending, Examine) on elementary-age students with emotional and behavioral disturbance (EBD). The study employed a multiple-probed, cross-subject, single-subject methodology that focused on persuasive-writing outcomes. Writing performance was assessed prior to and after instruction. Instruction was divided into seven stages and was administered in 30-minute sessions during a range of 11 to 13 lessons.
Strategy training and attributional feedback with learning disabled students Resource Type: Research Category: Mathematics The study explored strategies of verbalization and effort-attributional feedback on student self- efficacy and skills. Grounded in the hypothesis that verbalization enhances learning outcomes, the researchers explored the differential impact of this strategy at various levels of intensity. To explore the impact of effort-attributional feedback, students were provided with varying levels of effort feedback with the expectation that students receiving more effort feedback would enhance self-efficacy and skills, particularly among students with learning disabilities.
Successful K–12 technology planning: Ten essential elements Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation In this digest, the author describes 10 essential elements of successful technology implementation, including budgeting. Technology plans that help districts and schools to use technology effectively include the following steps: (1) Create a Vision; (2) Involve All Stakeholders; (3) Gather Data; (4) Review the Research; (5) Integrate Technology into the Curriculum; (6) Commit to Professional Development; (7) Ensure a Sound Infrastructure; (8) Allocate Appropriate Funding and Budget; (9) Plan for Ongoing Monitoring and Assessment; and (10) Prepare for Tomorrow. The author suggests there are two parts to a technology budget. The recommended formula for the first portion is: 40% of every dollar allocated should be for hardware, 20% for software, 20% for professional development, and 20% for upgrades and additional needs as teachers' expertise grows.
Switch to Digital Resources within 5 Years, Report Tells States Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation Outlines steps for moving towards integrating technology and digital materials into classrooms within five years.
Teaching algebra to students with learning difficulties: An investigation of an explicit instruction model Resource Type: Research Category: Mathematics The study examined the effectiveness of an explicit concrete-to-representational-to-abstract (CRA) sequence of instruction. Participating students were randomly assigned to the CRA treatment group or the comparison group, which used traditional instruction for teaching algebraic transformation equations.
Teaching expressive writing to students with learning disabilities: A meta-analysis. Resource Type: Research Category: Writing The purpose of this meta-analysis was to summarize the impact of process-writing interventions (i.e., writing, editing, and revising) on students with learning disabilities (LD). The interventions also emphasized expressive writing, defined as writing for the purpose of demonstrating knowledge or self-expression.
Teaching morphemic and contextual analysis to fifth-grade students Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Vocabulary The study examined the effectiveness of using morphemic and contextual analysis on vocabulary learning and reading comprehension. Students were randomly assigned to groups of morphemic-only instruction, context-only instruction, combined morphemic-context instruction, and instructed control. Each of the three experimental groups received twelve 50-minute lessons on different strategies using an explicit instruction model. Morphemic-only students studied eight frequently occurring prefix families; context-only students studied contextual analysis; morphemic-context group students studied combined morphemic and contextual analysis; and the instructed control group studied vocabulary as usual.
Technology academies: A professional development model for technology integration leaders Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation The authors describe the Maryland Technology Academy Leadership Program and present findings on the program’s effects from an independent evaluator. The program was launched in summer 1999 to build technology integration leaders who could promote and support the use of technology in schools throughout Maryland. For over four years of operation, the program provided an intensive professional development experience to more than 450 educators, most of whom were school-based. Components of the professional development included collaboration with colleagues, development of authentic products, systematic follow-up support, and engaging in reflection on teaching. The program was quite successful in changing participants’ attitudes and beliefs about the potential of technology and themselves as technology users, and continues to serve as a mechanism to build a network of technology leaders across the state.
Technology and Education Change: Focus on Student Learning Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation This study examined technology implementation practices associated with student learning gains. Interviews and observations were conducted with staff at schools where teachers using reading or mathematics software with their students attained above-average achievement gains and at schools where software-using teachers had below-average gains. The findings highlight the importance of school practices in the areas of principal support and teacher collaboration around software use and of teacher practices concerning class- room management and use of software-generated student performance data. The issues of instructional coherence and competition for instructional time are highlighted as challenges to software implementation. (Keywords: Tech- nology, implementation, software)
Technology planning: A roadmap to successful technology integration in schools Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation The author presents findings from a study that examined the technology planning process in a private K–12 school to investigate why, despite extensive investments in technology, schools are not always successful in the integration of technology. Teachers (n=105) and administrators (n=25) completed questionnaires about their computer abilities. Students (n=376) completed questionnaires about their thoughts on the usage of technology in the school. Results indicated that administrators felt competent in computer usage, but did not feel they had sufficient guidelines for technology integration; students expressed a lack of utilization of technology in their classes. This information points to the need for a school technology plan.
The effectiveness of a highly explicit, teacher-directed strategy instruction routine: Changing the writing performance of students with learning disabilities Resource Type: Research Category: Writing Using a highly explicit and teacher-directed instructional strategy, this study examined the impact of three planning strategies (goal setting, brainstorming, and organizing) on writing outcomes for students with learning disabilities (LD). The effectiveness of the planning strategies was compared to process-writing instruction. Instruction was conducted in groups of two, and total instructional time ranged from 9 to 11 hours.
The Effectiveness of electronic text and pictorial graphic organizers to improve comprehension related to functional skills Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Comprehension The study examined the effectiveness of a computer-based instructional program in teaching students with intellectual disabilities how to use a pictorial graphic organizer as a visual prompt to improve their comprehension of electronic text-based recipes. Students in the study first received training on how to use a pictorial graphic organizer via a PowerPoint presentation on the computer. They then developed graphic organizers with only e-text and audio support.
The effects of adjunct questions and feedback on improving the reading comprehension skills of learning-disabled adolescents Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Comprehension The study examined the effect of various questioning strategies on improving students’ reading comprehension. The participants of the intervention condition were randomly assigned into four groups: inserted questions, massed questions, feedback, or no feedback. The interventions lasted for six weeks.
The effects of instruction using semantic mapping on vocabulary and comprehension Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Vocabulary The study compared the effectiveness of semantic mapping and context clues on students’ vocabulary and comprehension. In the semantic mapping group, the students learned new words using related known words. In the context clue group, students learned the meaning of the words using clues of word definitions embedded in rich context.
The effects of strategic morphological analysis instruction on the vocabulary performance of secondary students with and without disabilities Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Vocabulary This study tested the effects of an intervention which taught high school students with and without learning disabilities, in general education English classrooms, to predict word meaning using a word analysis strategy. The study randomly assigned six intact classrooms into two treatment conditions: the Word Mapping condition for learning the word analysis strategy, or the Vocabulary LINCing condition for learning a mnemonic strategy. Three other classrooms were selected as the test only control classrooms. The word mapping condition utilized the Word Map, a graphic device which prompts students through the steps of the Word Mapping Strategy. The Vocabulary LINCing Strategy group used a set of cognitive and behavioral steps that helped students memorize and recall word meanings.
The effects of strategy instruction on the comprehension performance of at-risk students Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Comprehension The study examined the effects of two interventions on improving student reading comprehension. The first intervention was strategy instruction. In this condition, students were taught how to strategically use their knowledge of text structure including making predictions, identification of main characters, identifying the central problem of a story, and identifying the resolution to a problem. Students were taught to note key words and were asked to make story maps for each passage that they read.
The learning-to-learn strategies of adolescent students with disabilities: Highlighting, notetaking, planning, and writing expository texts [Special issue on written language] Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Comprehension The study examined the learning-to-learn strategies of students with and without disabilities as they highlighted, took notes, planned, and wrote expository texts in social studies and science. Learning-to-learn skills are important to student reading and writing performance. To assess student performance, the study used assessment tools developed as part of the ACCelerating Expository Literacy (ACCEL) project to evaluate the strategic routines that students used to obtain, summarize, and represent key information in content-area text.
The process writing approach: A meta-analysis Resource Type: Research Category: Writing The purpose of this meta-analysis was to determine if process-writing instruction improves the quality of students’ writing and their motivation to write. The meta-analysis focused on studies with primary-grade students, including those considered to be at-risk writers. Studies assessing the impact of the writing process on student motivation also were included.
Toward an effective use of technology in education: A summary of research Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation This report reviews the research on the role of school leaders in the adoption of technology. The authors present summaries of research studies to highlight actions that leaders should take and the potential benefits of technology adoption. One dimension of leadership analyzed is forming a vision. From the review of the research, the authors indicate that leaders must present a vision that incorporates the diverse needs of all learners while maintaining a focus on excellence in instruction.
Transforming American education: Learning powered by technology Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation The National Education Technology Plan, Transforming American Education: Learning Powered by Technology, calls for applying the advanced technologies used in our daily personal and professional lives to our entire education system to improve student learning, accelerate and scale up the adoption of effective practices, and use data and information for continuous improvement. It presents five goals with recommendations for states, districts, the federal government, and other stakeholders. Each goal addresses one of the five essential components of learning powered by technology: Learning, Assessment, Teaching, Infrastructure, and Productivity.
Transforming American education: Learning powered by technology Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation The National Education Technology Plan, Transforming American Education: Learning Powered by Technology, calls for applying the advanced technologies used in our daily personal and professional lives to our entire education system to improve student learning, accelerate and scale up the adoption of effective practices, and use data and information for continuous improvement. It presents five goals with recommendations for states, districts, the federal government, and other stakeholders. Each goal addresses one of the five essential components of learning powered by technology: Learning, Assessment, Teaching, Infrastructure, and Productivity.
Transforming American education: Learning powered by technology Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation The National Education Technology Plan, Transforming American Education: Learning Powered by Technology, calls for applying the advanced technologies used in our daily personal and professional lives to our entire education system to improve student learning, accelerate and scale up the adoption of effective practices, and use data and information for continuous improvement. It presents five goals with recommendations for states, districts, the federal government, and other stakeholders. Each goal addresses one of the five essential components of learning powered by technology: Learning, Assessment, Teaching, Infrastructure, and Productivity.
Trends in technology planning and funding in Florida K–12 public schools Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation In this article, the authors present findings from their empirical study of trends in technology planning and funding in Florida’s K–12 public schools between the 2003–04 and 2005–06 academic years. Special purpose public K–12 schools (e.g., charter, private, and vocational schools), and combination schools (schools housing multiple levels) were excluded, which reduced the final sample to N = 2482 as a representation of the typical public K–12 schools in the state of Florida. Survey items that focused on funding and planning issues on Florida’s statewide school technology integration survey were analyzed using logistic models. Results indicated a significant increase in the number of schools revising their technology plans on a regular basis; a significant increase in the frequency with which Florida’s K–12 public schools are seeking funding for technology-related initiatives; a significant increase in parent, administrator, teacher, and student involvement in the technology planning process; and a significant decline in adequate funding for software and hardware needs. In addition, schools with low proportions of economically disadvantaged students sought and were awarded significantly more funds from donations and federal and state grants.
Unlocking excellence with keys to quality: Align appropriate technologies within your school’s strategic improvement plan Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation The author, a deputy superintendent of the Georgia Department of Education, explains the importance of utilizing technology as a key component of continuous improvement in schools. She describes how technology implementation supports research-based strategies valued by school leaders, such as the creation of teacher professional learning communities and the use of comprehensive formative assessment systems. She also provides action steps to aid school leaders in developing goals for technology implementation in alignment with other school improvement goals.
Using CRA to teach algebra to students with math difficulties in inclusive settings Resource Type: Research Category: Mathematics This study compared student achievement in solving liner algebraic functions using a concrete- to-representational-to-abstract (CRA) sequence of instruction and a repeated abstract explicit instruction model. Six classes of students were randomly assigned to a treatment condition or comparison condition. Students participated in a total of 19 scripted lessons with detailed instructional steps.
Using graphic organizers to improve at-risk students’ reading comprehension of expository text Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Vocabulary The study employed a randomized controlled trial design to examine the effectiveness of using student-completed or researcher-completed graphic organizers on students’ comprehension of expository text. The intervention was given 30 minutes a day, three days a week for six weeks. For the intervention groups, the researcher provided graphic organizer frames adapted from the Framing Routine (Ellis, 1999) and content materials from the science and social studies text.
Using student achievement data to support instructional decision making Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation This practice guide describes how school leaders can use student achievement data to make instructional decisions. The guide focuses on the use of data from common student assessments, such as annual state achievement tests, school and district benchmark assessments, and commercially produced assessments. The authors provide a set of recommended actions for school leaders to make the use of data a central practice in their schools.
Using technology to enhance collaborative learning Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation The author presents findings from her investigation of the use of technology to create opportunities for collaboration among administrators across school sites. Principals, administrator interns, and university professors participated in an online communication system that supported them in sharing experiences and learning from one another. Data collection methods included focus group interviews, surveys, and review of intern portfolios. Findings indicated that online communication was an effective way for participants to learn collaboratively and to develop a better understanding of the issues facing school administrators.
Vocabulary tricks: Effects of instruction in morphology and context on fifth-grade students' ability to derive and infer word meanings Resource Type: Research Category: Reading-Vocabulary The study assessed the effects of morphemic and contextual analysis strategies embedded within subject instruction on students' ability to learn word meanings and comprehend text. Students in the treatment group received instruction in morphemic and context analysis for vocabulary instruction. The comparison group received business-as-usual instruction (i.e., textbook vocabulary instruction).
What forty years of research says about the impact of technology on learning: A second-order meta-analysis and validation study Resource Type: Research Category: Implementation This research study employs a second-order meta-analysis procedure to summarize 40 years of research activity addressing the question, does computer technology use affect student achievement in formal face-to-face classrooms as compared to classrooms that do not use technology? A study-level meta-analytic validation was also conducted for purposes of comparison. An extensive literature search and a systematic review process resulted in the inclusion of 25 meta-analyses with minimal overlap in primary literature, encompassing 1,055 primary studies.
6+1 Trait® Rubrics (aka Scoring Guides) Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Writing The core of the 6+1 Trait® assessment model is the rubric. This site provides 5-Point and 6-Point sets for K-2 and 3-12. Both sets are field tested, research-based, and teacher friendly.
A Template for Self-Reflection on Teaching Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Implementation This handout provides several suggestions for teachers engaging in post-lesson reflection.
Activity-Based Implementation and Evaluation Plan Summary (Used as SETT Scaffold for Implementation and Evaluation Planning) Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Implementation This SETT tool provides an objective way for teachers to make Technical Assistance decisions for students.
CAST Learning Tools Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Universal Design for Learning These tools developed by CAST include a UDL Curriculum Self-Check, UDL Lesson Builder, and Strategy Tutor.
Classroom Guide: Top Ten Tips for Teaching with New Media Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Technology This teacher guide from Edutopia has tips, lesson ideas, and strategies for teaching with new media. The guide contains succinct and practical ways to prepare students for 21st-century success. (Free registration required.
GeoGebraTube Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Mathematics GeoGebraTube is the official repository of GeoGebra constructions and GeoGebra related resources. Search GeoGebraTube to find free materials or share your own GeoGebra constructions with other users and your students.
Implementing the Writing Process Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Writing This strategy guide explains the writing process and offers practical methods for applying it in your classroom to help students become proficient writers.
Inside Writing Communities: Grades 3-5 Professional Development Workshop Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Writing This workshop is supported online with a viewing guide, resources for teachers, and an interactive exercise. A Facilitator's Guide offers a suggested agenda for a two-and-a-half-hour workshop combining two videos and the corresponding web activities. Facilitators can use this preview to promote the use of "Inside Writing Communities: Grades 3-5" within their schools.
Inside Writing Communities: Grades 3-5 Professional Development Workshop Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Writing This workshop is supported online with a viewing guide, resources for teachers, and an interactive exercise. A Facilitator's Guide offers a suggested agenda for a two-and-a-half-hour workshop combining two videos and the corresponding web activities. Facilitators can use this preview to promote the use of "Inside Writing Communities: Grades 3-5" within their schools.
National Writing Project: 30 ideas for Teaching Writing Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Writing 30 Ideas for Teaching Writing offers successful strategies contributed by experienced writing project teachers. Few sources available today offer writing teachers such succinct, practice-based help—which is one reason why this article won the Association of Education Publishers' 2005 Distinguished Achievement Award for Instructional Materials.
Self-Assessment Checklist Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Implementation This Scholastic resource is for teachers who want to evaluate their own practices. Use their printable checklists as a starting point for self-assessment and self-improvement.
SETT Scaffold for Consideration of AT Needs Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Implementation This SETT tool helps teachers and other learning partners to answer questions and make AT decisions based on data and relevant factors.
SETT SCAFFOLD FOR GATHERING DATA–ANNOTATED Collaboratively Gather and Analyze Information from a Variety of Sources Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Implementation This SETT tool provides an objective way for teachers to make Technical Assistance decisions for students.
Supporting Comprehension Strategies for English Language Learners Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Reading-Vocabulary Reading comprehension strategies are less effective in a person's second language than they are in his or her first. For ELLs, the development of and access to useful background knowledge is crucial for comprehending texts in their second language. This lesson is helpful for helping ELLs develop comprehension.
Supporting Vocabulary Acquisition for English Language Learners Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Reading-Vocabulary English language learners frequently do not have the breadth and depth of vocabulary needed to comprehend their English and content area texts or to participate in classroom discussions of texts. This guide introduces strategies teachers can use for ELL vocabulary instruction in their English and content area classrooms.
Technology Self-Assessment Tool (TSAT) Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Implementation The TSAT has been designed for teachers (to determine their own levels of technology proficiency and to identify personal technology professional development needs), schools/districts (to assess their professional development needs and to plan professional development activities that will help all teachers become proficient in technology), and the state (to gather and report data on technology competencies and technology professional development).
test Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Reading-Vocabulary Can I really add something here?
TeXT: Ezine and Blogging Tools for Schools Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Writing Free ezine and blogging tool that allows students to publish their writing to a wider audience in a secure environment. The website was developed and is hosted by Teaching Matters, a non-profit organization which partners with schools to improve education.
UDL Guideline 2: Provide options for language, mathematical expressions, and symbols Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Universal Design for Learning Information, examples, and resources that support teaching of key math terms, symbols, syntax, and notations. UDL Guideline 2 offers a variety of strategies to help students think more carefully about their ideas and the ideas of their peers.
UDL Guidelines -- Checkpoint 6.2 Support planning and strategy development Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Universal Design for Learning An important skill for students in any content area, and especially in math, is the ability to think aloud and demonstrate how they arrived at an answer. UDL Checkpoint 6.2's examples, resources, and research help teachers support students in thinking aloud and developing plans, including the tools they will use, for solving math problems.
UDL Guidelines -- Checkpoint 6.3 Facilitate managing information and resources Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Universal Design for Learning Creating an organized list, table, chart, or other graphic organizer is an important problem-solving strategy. UDL Checkpoint 6.3 offers resources, examples, and research on a variety of internal scaffolds and external organizational aids to help students organize information.
UDL Guidelines -- Checkpoint 7.1 Optimize individual choice and autonomy Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Universal Design for Learning Offering students choices can develop their self-determination and make them proud of their accomplishments. It also increases the degree to which they feel connected to their learning. UDL Checkpoint 7.1 provides resources and supporting research on fostering choice in the classroom.
UDL Guidelines -- Guideline 3: Provide options for comprehension Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Universal Design for Learning Constructing knowledge from information is an active process that requires teachers to provide scaffolds to ensure all learners have access to knowledge. UDL Guideline 3 provides information, resources, examples, and supporting research on how to help students learn to transform accessible information into usable knowledge.
Using the SETT Framework to Create Opportunities to Communicate Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Implementation The SETT framework is based on the premise that in order to develop an appropriate system of tools (e.g., support-devices, services, strategies, accommodations, etc.). Teams must first develop a shared understanding of the student, the customary environments in which the student spends time, and the tasks that are required for the student to be able to do, or learn to do, in order to be an active participant in the teaching/learning process that will lead to educational success.
Virtual Math Manipulatives in English, French, and Spanish Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Mathematics The National Library of Virtual Manipulatives is a library of uniquely interactive, web-based virtual manipulatives or concept tutorials, mostly in the form of Java applets, for mathematics instruction. The website encourages student use of virtual manipulatives to help students visualize relationships and applications.
VOI Benefits Examples Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Implementation This table is an example of measurable benefits applied to school goals.
VOI Project Benefits Worksheet Resource Type: Toolkit Category: Implementation The VOI Project Benefits Worksheet (in Excel) will help you to identify dollar savings and user productivity enhancements and apply them as benefits.
An Introduction to Teacher Development Resource Type: Video Category: Technology The purpose of this video from Edutopia is to prepare educators in training with a focus on practical tips and feedback.
An Introduction to Technology Integration Resource Type: Video Category: Technology Video showcasing integration of technology at Harrison Highschool, where students use technology in learning in topics from physics to history. One math class analyzes data gathered from the school's cheer squad to see how they can improve, keeping subject matter relevant.
An Introduction to Technology Integration Resource Type: Video Category: Implementation Video showcasing integration of technology at Harrison High school, where students use technology in learning in topics from physics to history. One math class analyzes data gathered from the school's cheer squad to see how they can improve, keeping subject matter relevant.
Assessment Overview: Beyond Standardized Testing Resource Type: Video Category: Technology This video explains traditional standardized testing isn't the only way, or necessarily the best way, to gauge a student's knowledge and abilities. Many states are incorporating performance-based assessments into their standardized tests or adding assessment vehicles such as student portfolios and presentations as additional measures of student understanding.
Big Thinkers: Salman Khan on Liberating the Classroom for Creativity Resource Type: Video Category: Technology The founder of Khan Academy, a free educational video library that features over two thousand titles and an interactive dashboard for formative assessment, discusses how his videos can help create a "flipped classroom" that allows blended learning -- online lectures to watch at home and project-based learning to engage in during school hours.
Book Publishing Presentation Resource Type: Video Category: Writing Watch first-grade students present and read their published stories.
Bubble Diagram: A Pre-Writing Strategy for Stories Resource Type: Video Category: Writing This video shows a teacher giving a mini-lesson to her elementary school students about the steps to take during prewriting. The teacher uses a cluster or bubble diagram and the 5 Ws (who, what, when, where, why, and how) to begin prewriting, and then has the students practice the process in their journals.
Conquering Technophobia: A Classroom Veteran Warms to Digital Tools Resource Type: Video Category: Implementation In rural Freedom, Pennsylvania, a once-hesitant instructor is proving that even the old school can learn to use and love computers.
Games, Learning and Society with Constance Squire, White House Senior Policy Analyst - Aspen Ideas Festival 2012 Resource Type: Video Category: Universal Design for Learning Video of Constance Squire and John Seely Brown discussing how gaming- a modern controversy- actually develops team building and problem solving skills. Virtual games that grab a student's interest, when combined with educational lessons, will yield a positive result for students and teachers alike.
Games, Learning and Society with Constance Squire, White House Senior Policy Analyst - Aspen Ideas Festival 2012 Resource Type: Video Category: Universal Design for Learning Video of Constance Squire and John Seely Brown discussing how gaming actually develops team building and problem solving skills. They claim that motivating virtual games, when combined with educational lessons, will yeild a positive result for students and teachers alike.
How Assistive Technology Enables Dreams Resource Type: Video Category: Technology This video provides an overview of some of the different types of assistive technology tools available, from voice-activated software to customized laptops, and provides example of how tech can change the way students communicate, learn, and play.
How Teachers Collaborate Online and in School Resource Type: Video Category: Implementation This Edutopia video highlights tools used by the Vail School district in Arizona to encourage teacher collaboration and learning.
How to Teach Students to Revise Their Writing Resource Type: Video Category: Writing Teaching students to revise their writing begins with reviewing a rough draft, offering substantial comments on the piece, and providing an opportunity for a rewrite. Encourage students to revise their writing with tips from a produced playwright in this free video about the writing process.
I Can Soar Videos and User Guide Resource Type: Video Category: Implementation This set of videos from the National Center for Technology Innovation includes a user guide and promotes the videos as a way to build awareness within a school community of the positive impact of the use of instructional technologies.
Inside Writing Communities: Grades 3-5 Resource Type: Video Category: Writing This video workshop for elementary school teachers uses classroom footage to demonstrate how a writing workshop approach motivates intermediate students and helps them become proficient and independent writers.
Khan Academy: The Future of Education? Resource Type: Video Category: Technology This 60 Minutes special looks at Khan Academy and the concept of the "flipped classroom" and online learning.
Learn About Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Resource Type: Video Category: Universal Design for Learning This video describes the roots of Universal Design.
Myths and Opportunities: Technology in the Classroom by Alan November Resource Type: Video Category: Technology Alan November discusses how schools used technology in the past (through the history of his town Marblehead, MA) and addresses how schools need to make use of technology in the future to help all students learn.
Pre-Writing Strategies Resource Type: Video Category: Writing This video walks students through multiple strategies for prewriting including brainstorming, clustering, free-writing, and others.
Prewriting: Web Maps with Icons Resource Type: Video Category: Writing This video shows elementary school students a number of examples of prewriting specifically for descriptive writing, but applicable to other writing as well. The teacher walks students through explicit steps to create a web diagram.
Principal Kappy Cannon Fosters Technology Innovation and Teamwork Resource Type: Video Category: Implementation Kappy Cannon, the South Carolina 2010 Principal of the Year, encourages master teachers to innovate with new technologies and work together to share their skills with the entire staff.
Publish a Newspaper Resource Type: Video Category: Writing Watch fifth- and sixth-grade students explain the articles and advertisements they created for their class newspaper.
Revising and Editing Your Book Review Resource Type: Video Category: Writing In this video, a teacher models the process of revising one of her draft book reviews. She thinks aloud as the goes through this process and provides explicit instruction on how to make changes in a story.
Revision is Not Punishment Resource Type: Video Category: Writing This interview with author Janet Angelillo discusses the process of revising and how teachers approach this part of the writing process, with a particular focus on student motivation.
Strategies for Integrating Video Into Your Lessons Resource Type: Video Category: Technology This demo from the HP Teacher Exchange is designed to share techniques on finding, editing, and saving videos for use in the classroom.
Students and Technology, Constant Companions Resource Type: Video Category: Technology This New York Times article includes interviews with five students, who talk about technology in their lives and how it affects their learning.
Sugata Mitra: The Child-Driven Education Resource Type: Video Category: Technology Watch Sugata Mitra, education scientist, talk about how technology can solve problems of access—when teachers, schools, or resources aren't available where they are needed most—by giving students access to the web and self-directed learning.
Teacher Feature: "Given-New" Idea to Writing and Drafting Connected Sentences Resource Type: Video Category: Writing Step-by-step instructions on making sentences flow using the given-new idea, which argues that good sentences are connected by always telling the reader "given what I've said previously, here's a new idea and here's how it relates to what I said before."
Teacher Feature: Adding Transitions to Your Writing Resource Type: Video Category: Writing This video introduces students to one of the ways to improve their writing. Simply by adding transitions, students can take their writing to the next level.
Teacher Feature: Word Choice Resource Type: Video Category: Writing This video focuses on the importance of students' taking more risks by ending the usage of boring words such as bad, good, and big and replacing them with more sophisticated word choices.
Teachers Support Differentiated Learning Through Professional Development and Collaboration Resource Type: Video Category: Implementation In order to keep up with the latest technology and successfully personalize learning for each student, teachers at Forest Lake Elementary plan lessons together, build a strong support network, and collaborate on professional development.
Teachers’ Views on Technology Resource Type: Video Category: Technology The New York Times provides a collection of videos with teachers around the country and internationally discussing technology in education.
Teaching Writing Resource Type: Video Category: Writing Featuring Dr. Steven Graham, Dr. Louisa Moats, and Dr. Susan Neuman, this video shows a discussion about teaching writing. These three renowned reading and writing experts address why writing is important, what the latest research tells us, and what educators and parents can do to support children's development as writers.
Technology Provides Parents a Window on the Classroom by Linking Home to School Resource Type: Video Category: Technology This case study by Edutopia shows how Forest Lake Elementary helps parents stay informed and participate in their child's education with assignment trackers, student blogs, and other online learning tools.
Temple Grandin: The World Needs All Kinds of Minds Resource Type: Video Category: Universal Design for Learning Watch Temple Grandin talk about autism, thinking in pictures, and diverse learners.
The Power of Simple Words Resource Type: Video Category: Writing This short animated video from TEDEducation highlights the importance of clear, concise communication when writing for various audiences.
The Writing Process: Pre-writing Strategies Resource Type: Video Category: Writing An overview of pre-writing, including brainstorming and outlining. This short video walks students step-by-step through the pre-writing process.
Todd Rose: Variability Matters Resource Type: Video Category: Universal Design for Learning This video shows Todd Rose, from CAST, at the Cyberlearning Research Summit on January 18, 2012 discussing UDL and diverse learners.
UDL at a Glance Resource Type: Video Category: Universal Design for Learning A short YouTube video created by CAST illustrates the three principles of Universal Design for Learning.
Using Data Wisely in the Classroom Resource Type: Video Category: Implementation Using data wisely is a crucial step to inform and customize your teaching practices to meet the needs of your students. This animated demonstration explores several ways to use student data to inform and customize your teaching practices.
What is an Evidence-Based School? Resource Type: Video Category: Implementation This short video features educators and administrators talking about what an evidence-based school means to them. Learn how schools and teachers can use data and research to make effective decisions about teaching and learning.
Wisdom of the Crowds Resource Type: Video Category: Mathematics Quirky video about estimation and the "wisdom of the crowds" concept.
Writers Speak to Kids Resource Type: Video Category: Writing A collection of video interviews of children's book authors talking about the process and craft of writing.
Writing Workshop Lesson: Improving the Process of Revision Resource Type: Video Category: Writing In this video, two students interact around a draft. One student explains the importance of revising the story to the other. This video answers important questions for students about how to revise their stories.
9 Online Maths (Tools) and Interactive Teaching Resources Resource Type: Website Category: Mathematics Inludes an in-depth toolkit for educators as well as several interactive games for students on angles, fractions, and how to use a calculator. Tools are interactive whiteboard capable.
A Google a Day Resource Type: Website Category: Technology Website provides a new puzzle each day that can be solved using Google searches. Help kids practice search techniques, web research, and other online skills while solving fun puzzles.
A+ Math Resource Type: Website Category: Mathematics The purpose of this website is to help students improve their math skills using interactives The website supports student learning both online and off through the use of flashcards, worksheets, math problems, games, and the homework helper feature.
Adolescent Literacy Concept Maps Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Vocabulary Adolescent Literacy’s Concept Maps page explains the strategy of concept mapping by providing background information, outlining their benefits, and identifying tips for how to create and use them. Users are also able to download a graphic organizer to use as a model.
Adolescent Literacy Question-Answer Relationship (QAR) Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Comprehension Adolescent Literacy’s Question-Answer Relationship (QAR) topic page provides background on the strategy, benefits of using the strategy, and tips on how to use the strategy in the classroom.
Alcumus Resource Type: Website Category: Mathematics Alcumus offers students a customized learning experience, adjusting to student performance to deliver appropriate problems and lessons. As the student completes mathematics problems on the website, Alcumus automatically provides more challenging material, and conversely, if the student is having difficulty with a particular topic, Alcumus provides additional practice. Student progress reports and tools for teachers are also available.
Alleyoop: Personalized Math Help Resource Type: Website Category: Mathematics The Alleyoop website provides games and activities to support learning mathematics skills. The website tracks student progress and then recommends games and activities that meet individual learning needs. The website also uses videos and online virtual tutors to assist in the mastery of mathematics skills. Both free and paid options available.
Alliance for Technology Access Resource Type: Website Category: Technology The mission of the Alliance for Technology Access (ATA) is to increase the use of technology by children and adults with disabilities and functional limitations. ATA encourages and facilitates the empowerment of people with disabilities to participate fully in their communities.
Assistive Technology for Kids with LD: An Overview Resource Type: Website Category: Technology This site introduces parents to the role of AT in helping their children with LD. The better informed you are about AT, the greater the chances your child will experience success in school, in recreation and, eventually, at work.
Best Evidence Encyclopedia Resource Type: Website Category: Writing What works in education? The Best Evidence Encyclopedia (BEE) presents reliable, unbiased reviews of research-proven educational programs to help policy makers, principals, teachers, and researchers.
Book Adventure Resource Type: Website Category: Mathematics Online reading program with interactive features and games. Students can create booklists, choose books, and take quizzes on books they’ve read. There are also contests and prizes.
Children's Books Forever! Resource Type: Website Category: Technology Website with free online illustrated children's books in English, Spanish, French, German, Japanese, and a variety of other languages. Site also contains "Waldo Humor Books" which are illustrated pages that students can follow or for which they can create their own story. Note: Requires Adobe Reader, available for free download; also compatible with smartboards and projectors.
Children's Storybooks Online Resource Type: Website Category: Technology Free online illustrated books website, which contains an image of the cover and a short description in the overview, with captivating titles like The Brave Monkey Pirate by Hayes Roberts. Titles can be sorted by reading level (from Young Children to Young Adult), and there are audio capabilities on select titles.
Concept Mapping Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Comprehension Reading Rockets provides more information on concept mapping, as well as templates, lesson plan ideas, and book suggestions.
Conceptua Free Fractions Tools Resource Type: Website Category: Mathematics Free online fraction interactives to support teacher-facilitated and whole-class instruction, "Number Talks," and parent support at home. Each math tool is supported by Common Core State Standards alignment, key vocabulary, and IEP goals.
ConnSENSE Bulletin Resource Type: Website Category: Technology The NEW ConnSENSE Bulletin is dedicated to becoming your essential resource for the latest assistive technology news and information.
Dangerously Irrelevant: Technology, Leadership, and the Future of Schools Resource Type: Website Category: Technology Blog dedicated to issues and ideas in educational technology. The author also provides reviews of education technology books and links to technology and education resources.
Digital Age Teaching Resource Type: Website Category: Technology Standards for evaluating the skills and knowledge students, educators, and administrators need to learn, teach, and work in an increasingly connected global and digital society.
Digital Learning Day: Showcase of Promising Practices Resource Type: Website Category: Technology Check out this collection of examples of technology integration from districts and elementary, middle, and high schools.
Digital Learning Now! Resource Type: Website Category: Technology Videos, resources, and advocacy information for educators, administrators, state and district-level administrators and others interested in digital learning.
Doodle Splash Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Comprehension Doodle Map is an interactive that teaches students to create graphic symbols for what they are reading, and combines visualization with analytic thinking by pairing an online drawing space with writing prompts that encourage students to make connections between their drawings and the text.
Edmodo Resource Type: Website Category: Technology After free sign up (different account types for student and teacher), users can create online communities to share and document their learning.
Edmodo Resource Type: Website Category: Technology After free sign up (different account types for student and teacher), users can create online communites to share and document their learning.
EDSITEment! The Best of the Humanities on the Web Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Comprehension This website, developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities, provides high-quality material, including lesson plans, student activities, and interactives in the subject areas of literature and language arts, foreign languages, art and culture, and history and social studies.
Educational Apps Resource Type: Website Category: Writing This blog describes various apps used for education, detailing everything from Motion Math which teaches fractions to Scribble Press which allows students to write and illustrate their own books.
Educational Apps Resource Type: Website Category: Technology This blog details various apps used for education, detailing everything from Motion Math which teaches fractions to Scribble Press which allows students to write and illustrate their own books.
First School Years Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Vocabulary First School Years has educator-created worksheets and resources for parents and teachers of children ranging in age from five to nine, or emerging readers. Interactive online activities for children to use at school and at home are available.
Free Reading Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Vocabulary Free Reading is a free open-source reading program addressing literacy development for grades K-3 which provides hundreds of research-based lessons and materials that users can download and use for free.
Fun English Games Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Vocabulary This website provides a wide range of free teaching resources that are perfect for students learning English, ESL classes, and teachers looking for ideas online. Examples of activities include word scrambles, caption-writing exercises, reviews of movie trailers, and tongue-twister games on parts of speech and vocabulary.
Global Reading Aloud Project Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Comprehension Students around the world reading the same book can communicate via video, blog, or online discussion.
Global Reading Aloud Project Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Comprehension Students around the world reading the same book can communcate via video, blog, or online discussion.
Hooda Math Resource Type: Website Category: Mathematics This website is dedicated to improving student outcomes in mathematics by making math learning fun. Teachers will find learning tools and whiteboard games for use in whole-class instruction as well as mathematics games, tutorials, worksheets, and movies to support individualized student learning. The targeted grade range is 3rd through 6th.
Illuminations NCTM Resource Type: Website Category: Mathematics Illuminations, developed by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, is designed to provide standards-based resources that improve the teaching and learning of mathematics for all students. Activities, lesson plans, web links, and standards are provided to assist teachers and students as they teach new math concepts and review old ones.
iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch Apps for (Special) Education Resource Type: Website Category: Technology A frequently updated collection of apps for education, with a focus on students with special needs. Includes apps for speech, sign language, art, reading and writing, math, games, accessibility, early intervention and more.
Journal of Emerging Investigators Resource Type: Website Category: Writing A peer-reviewed STEM journal for middle and high school students to showcase and publish their science writing.
Kids Math Games Resource Type: Website Category: Mathematics Includes a wide range of free math games, interactive learning activities, and fun educational resources that will engage students while they learn mathematics. Types of resources include math games, printable worksheets, quizzes, and videos.
Make Magazine Resource Type: Website Category: Technology Browse Make Magazine's vast collection of articles, blogs, projects, videos, and resources for ideas for fun STEM activities to try out with students.
Mind/Shift: Educational Apps Resource Type: Website Category: Technology Latest news, articles, and reviews on educational apps from NPR's Mind/Shift.
My English Lesson Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Vocabulary This website offers strategies and activities to deliver instruction in grammar, spelling, reading, and vocabulary lessons for teachers. Resources include models of friendly or business letters, rubrics for writing, and lists of spelling rules.
NSDL Math Common Core Collection Resource Type: Website Category: Mathematics Contains digital learning resources that address concept and skills components of the Math Common Core State Standards. Resources are organized by grade level and domain and include lesson plans, simulations, problem sets with explanations, student activities that provide feedback, and other interactives.
Pathways to School Improvement Resource Type: Website Category: Writing Contains countless resources for teachers and administrators on topics ranging from professional development and integrating technology into the curriculum to information for teaching subjects like math and reading.
PBS's CYBERCHASE Lesson Plans Resource Type: Website Category: Mathematics CYBERCHASE, the award-winning, research-based adventure series and website from PBS, helps kids develop strong math and problem-solving skills. The website includes a series of mathematics lesson plans and activities, web games, a glossary of math terms, a game show for use with a smartboard, links to video clips, and more.
Professional Development Resources Resource Type: Website Category: Universal Design for Learning Explore a variety of resources, compiled by CAST, that support understanding and implementation of Universal Design for Learning. Also, download professional development slides and activities that are useful in teaching others about UDL.
Reading Comprehension Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Comprehension Contains numerous printable reading comprehension worksheets for upper elementary through middle school students, with separate printable teacher answer keys. Topics range, including fashion, coins, and outer space.
Reading Rockets Summarizing Topic Page Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Comprehension This site describes background information relating to the importance of summarization, providing ideas for how to use summarizing, lesson templates, and trade book suggestions.
Reading Rockets Visual Imagery Summary Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Comprehension This website describes background information relating to the importance of visualization, providing ideas for how to use visual imagery, and book suggestions for students.
Reading Rockets: Word Decoding and Phonics Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Vocabulary This page provides ideas for how to help children with reading using decoding, the ability to apply knowledge of letter-sound relationships, including knowledge of letter patterns, to correctly pronounce written words. Practical advice and ideas for parents and teachers are provided so skills can be generalized across settings.
Reading Rockets: Word Maps Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Vocabulary This word maps topic page describes the purpose of word maps and provides examples of how to use them in the classroom.
Story Starters Resource Type: Website Category: Writing These Story Starters assist children in getting past what can be the first writing block: what do I write about? These starters are great for journaling and exercises.
Teach the Writing Process! Pre-Writing Strategy and Idea Exchange Resource Type: Website Category: Writing This website, developed by a Northern Nevada teacher, contains a collection of resources, strategies, tips, and ideas for teaching pre-writing activities. The purpose in establishing this pre-writing resource exchange page is to provide ideas to help teachers guide students through the planning part of the writing process so that students can begin to see themselves as writers.
The Longman Vocabulary Website Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Vocabulary This website has context clues exercises which are grouped into three levels—beginning, intermediate, and advanced. A review of the concept of how context cues are used, along with the five types of context clues, is provided for teachers.
The Visual Thesaurus Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Vocabulary The Visual Thesaurus is an interactive dictionary and thesaurus that allows you to discover the connections between words in a visually captivating display. (It offers a 14-day free trial before a paid subscription is necessary.)
Toon University Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Vocabulary Toon University is an interactive game intended for younger learners. It uses specific examples in sentences used to teach context clues.
ToonDoo Resource Type: Website Category: Writing Comic-creating tool that allows students create comic strips or books by selecting backgrounds, dragging and dropping characters and props, and adding dialogue. After creating them, students can publish their comic strip or book to the website for others to view and purchase with tokens earned on the website.
ToonDoo Resource Type: Website Category: Writing After signing up, students can create comic stips in color.
Utah Education Network Resource Type: Website Category: Mathematics This website provides mathematics games designed for students in grades 3 through 6. Interactive tools to support instruction and practice are provided in the key content areas of mathematics including but not limited to algebra, fractions, measurements, geometry, money, patterns, and data.
Visual Math Learning Resource Type: Website Category: Mathematics Visual Math Learning is a free interactive multimedia online tutorial for math students. The principal aim of this website is to provide a new educational tool to parents, teachers, and students. Access is free and requires no pre-registration or action other than clicking on the links.
Visual Thesaurus Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Comprehension The Visual Thesaurus is an interactive dictionary and thesaurus which creates word maps of meanings and branches to related words. The contents of this website are appropriate for students across a range of categories of disability.
Word Mapping for Deaf/Hard of Hearing Students Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Vocabulary This website offers word mapping lesson plans, ideas, and worksheets to teachers who teach children who are deaf or hard of hearing in rural areas. The activities may be appropriate for their peers, as well.
Word Wise – Using Prefixes, Suffixes, and Root Words to Decode Words Resource Type: Website Category: Reading-Vocabulary This page hosts a collection of web sites used to practice using root words, prefixes, and suffixes to decode words.
Writing Workshop Resource Type: Website Category: Writing The Writing Workshop, similar to the Reading Workshop, is a method of teaching writing using a workshop method. Students are given opportunities to write in a variety of genres, which helps foster a love of writing. The Writing Workshop allows teachers to meet the needs of their students by differentiating their instruction and gearing instruction based on information gathered throughout the workshop.

Resources & Research

Learning Center

PowerUp Tools

About Us