Studying Complex Concepts such as Courage

Studying Complex Concepts such as Beauty, Truth and Courage in Depth

http://fno.org/may2010/complexity.html

"There are dozens of concepts such as beauty, courage, truth, honor and originality that are deserving of a different approach — one that deepens and extends the students' understanding so they can appreciate more fully the nuances and rich possibilities of such words. This understanding will serve them well as they ponder great works of literature as well as the challenges of their own times."

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Strategies for bringing History (Socials) to life

A Focus on History, Literacies and ICT

http://fno.org/may2010/history.html

Jamie McKenzie offers more than a dozen strategies to bring History to life. (The suggestions come after Jamie's reflections of teaching History in Australia: simply scroll down until you see the Mind Map in the article...the strategy descriptions come after the image.)

This list of strategies can be readily applied by classroom teachers. While they are not "new", it may give SS teachers some options to consider.

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Using Digital Riches to Enhance Learning

Beauty and the Beast: Using Digital Riches to Enhance Learning

By Jamie McKenzie, ©2010

http://fno.org/mar2010/beautyand.html

Digital resources can be a blessing to both teachers and students, bringing a richness to learning that is dramatically different from what was available to schools four decades ago. At the same time, the shift of popular culture to embrace such digital possibilities often entails risks, difficulties and liabilities that usually go unmentioned by cheerleaders and digital promoters. This article takes a more balanced perspective, celebrating the benefits while identifying those risks.

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A timely article from Jamie McKenzie

Why We Still Need Libraries and Librarians

By Jamie McKenzie, ©2010,

http://fno.org/mar2010/still.html

"Given the literacy and comprehension challenges facing schools in this decade — especially those presented by the new information landscape — we need libraries and librarians now more than ever."

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