Freerice Game - with a myriad of categories to try out.

An oldie but a goodie - Freerice is an educational online game that helps kids with Vocabulary, Maths - including Times Tables and Basic Maths - along with a wide range of extra categories, such as: Flags, Countries, Ancient History, Movies, Quotations, Chemical Symbols, Biology, Languages, Foods of the World, Current Affairs.... 

For each correct answer, 10 grains of rice are donated to feed people dealing with famine in Third World countries through the United Nations World Food program.  

The best part? The game is self-levelling so it adjusts to the level the kids are working at, but keeps making it a little more challenging to increase their capabilities, without making it so hard that they don't want to do it. I realise that many of the subjects probably sound out of the park for a lot of our kids - but because it adjusts to their level, it isn't beyond the realms of possibility. 

https://freerice.com/categories

This could be useful in most learning areas - maybe a class competition? Teams to compete against each other?  Hmm - maybe a teacher competition??  😉

Check it out when you get a moment. 

 Just a couple of Edutopia links to round off the week and give you something to think about.  I also have the Edutopia site on the Blog Roll on the right hand side of the post, as there is lots more there to check out, if you are interested. 

https://www.edutopia.org/article/5-ways-unleash-student-creativity-and-reduce-fear-failure

https://www.edutopia.org/article/3-steps-getting-started-pbl

Here we go - 2022!

Welcome to 2022 - and whatever that will bring for us all!   It has been an interesting couple of years so far! 

A big welcome to our new staff as well.  And please don't listen to any scary stories that the other staff tell you about me - it's all fibs!  I am truly the sweetest person around here!  

Please see below for a brief run through of what is available/offered through the Library.  If you have any questions, please just ask and any suggestions would be appreciated as well. 

"Below is a list of some of what we can help you with. I put this list up each year, so if you go back through the posts, it is all there. Anything else? If there is something that you think we can help with, just come and have a chat. We have learned to be fairly good at pulling rabbits out of hats and we also like a challenge - most days anyway!  

• Looking for a particular book or resource? Come and talk to us. We can organise an Inter-library-Loan or help you find where to purchase it.
• Resources: Books, DVDs, Magazines and Newspapers, iPad sets, Digital Cameras, Video Recorders, Computer Mice sets, Data Projectors, Teacher Reference, Chess sets,.. 
• IWB area and a bank of computers, as well as laptops that are available to be booked for classes.  The B3/B4 laptop trolley is only to be used in the Library area, however.
• Help with research, proofreading of assignments, suggestions for books to read - we are your people.
• A place to display your amazing class work.
• Collation of websites and ideas for subjects/classes
• Booking sheets for: Library areas, F Block Laptops, Headphones, iPads and now for the Computer Room as well. 

Students have a 3 week borrowing period while staff have a month. For most of the resources, we can adjust the loaning period for whatever is needed - at least till the end of term. However, this doesn't include the AV materials - that is a 1 week loan period only.

The school also subscribes to the TV4Ed system so if you are looking for something that has been screened on TV at some point, let me know and I will do my best to find it and put it on the school system for you to access.  This often solves the problem of staggering and buffering while streaming the program.  I can usually have the required programs up on the system within 24 hours - assuming that they are available on TV4ED, of course. "

So ... here's wishing you all an awesome term/year with lots of books and reading involved.  Let me know any way that I can be of help to you this year. 

More Edutopia Weblinks

Check out the weblinks below - they are from the Edutopia website (which is American based - but may have something you could use). 

Not being a teacher, I am just guessing as to what may be helpful - so I'm hoping that this may be of some use - otherwise check out the Edutopia site for yourself. 

https://www.edutopia.org/article/framework-boosting-high-school-students-math-confidence

https://www.edutopia.org/article/3-math-games-you-can-use-class-today

https://www.edutopia.org/article/using-simple-outdoor-science-lessons-inspire-students

https://www.edutopia.org/article/engaging-students-community-based-projects

Teacher Magazine Articles on Digital Literacy

Below are a few articles from Teacher magazine on students and Digital Literacy - not just the reading and writing but the understanding and the knowing.  

It makes for some interesting reading - and I would bet my bottom dollar that a lot of adults would be in the same boat as well with very minimal deep reading skills. 

 It seems that, although we do our best to encourage students to read for pleasure, we rarely do the same for adults - and adults need to develop the same deep reading skills for all of the same reasons .. and, as is often said 'what you don't use, you lose!'

Although - to be fair .. just having someone READ, whatever they are reading - is seen as a win in today's world!  But then, if the skills are not being developed - can it really be a win? 

Take a few moments to check out the offerings below and hopefully there will be something to catch your interest. 

https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/developing-literacy-skills-in-a-digital-world

https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/critical-thinking-tools-the-crap-test

https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/the-research-files-episode-25-why-young-people-are-easily-fooled-by-fake-news

https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/developing-a-nation-of-innovative-thinkers

https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/a-stem-program-to-develop-digital-literacy

https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/adults-engaging-in-reading-for-pleasure

Weblinks on Reading and Libraries

When you get a few moments, check out some of the links below which talk about students and their engagement with reading.  

There are also a couple promoting libraries and their role in today's society.  I have also included one that talks about the rationale and purpose of libraries and librarians - and why we do what we do.  As well, there is an article about school libraries and activating the 'Third Space' which is a concept that is being seen more and more in various places in communities - and is becoming an important consideration in many school libraries today.

Although many of these articles are talking about Public Libraries,  I can see no reason why a lot of it can't also be true of school libraries.  Most 'library stuff' isn't really about the books - it is more about the connections made, and the time and information shared. 

https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/book-talks-with-librarians-opportunities-and-perspectives?

https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/successful-student-reading-engagement-initiatives

http://publiclibrariesonline.org/2013/04/community-centered-23-reasons-why-your-library-is-the-most-important-place-in-town/

https://www.brookings.edu/blog/up-front/2017/03/30/how-public-libraries-help-build-healthy-communities/

https://287.hyperlib.sjsu.edu/colab/2020/03/03/third-places-and-four-spaces-the-evolution-of-public-libraries/

https://education.nsw.gov.au/teaching-and-learning/professional-learning/scan/past-issues/vol-36--2017/unlocking-the-third-space-activating-your-library

https://www.blyberg.net/darien-statements

RAKs bring smiles!

I think that maybe the highlight for this week was the small, yummy RAK gift in our pigeonholes when we all came into work Monday morning.  What a lovely thought - and thank you to whoever came up with the idea.

I have sent through an update of all staff to TV4ED (AKA Functional Solutions) so you should be getting a welcome email with information re logging on and using the system. They are also hoping to organise an all curriculum Webinar to help you to use it to your best advantage - so if you would be interested in doing this, please let me know.
However, I can still download requests and put it onto the system for you if this is easier.

Ms Squires is updating the Student reward system - with lots of ideas, comments and input from the students so we'll keep you updated with any changes to that.

So - carry on being AWESOME - and enjoy your weekend!!  Obviously with lots of reading involved. 

Mindshift Blog Articles

Check out these articles when you get a moment - it is interesting to note in the first one concerning reading, that the data shows that American students are having as many problems with reading as ours are, along with the same concerns being made by their teachers.  I guess the highlight from that is: We are NOT alone and it ISN'T just us!  Poor comfort maybe, but possibly a comfort anyway!

https://www.kqed.org/mindshift/54452/why-deeply-diving-into-content-could-be-the-key-to-reading-comprehension

https://www.kqed.org/mindshift/54514/how-tech-tools-can-reduce-anxiety-and-strengthen-relationships-with-students

https://www.kqed.org/mindshift/54389/3-ways-to-shape-math-into-a-positive-experience

Enjoy your weekend - 7 weeks to go to the end of Term!      (If anyone is counting)

Displays and so on.

Currently I have a small mini display happening in the Library that I am planning to update each week (or so) covering various Genres in the Fiction area.

The one out at the moment is a collection of SPORT titles, and my plan is to try and work my way through most of the Genres in the hopes of catching students interest - as well as giving an understanding of what the pictures on the spines of the books actually mean, and how it can make it easier to choose a book. 

Mr Eckart also has a variety of display boards and posters that his class have done on Indigenous Language and Culture that he updates regularly, and Nurse Beck also regularly updates her board depending on what is happening in her area.  Huge thanks to both of you for keeping it current - and for saving me lots of time.  

We also have a small display of books concerning India tucked in a corner near the magazines which has proven popular for students wanting to flick through stuff - especially the Graphic Novels about Indian myths and legends.  

Maths and Sports

https://www.kqed.org/mindshift/53767/getting-physical-how-the-flagway-game-sparks-learning-and-love-of-math

Check out the above link  - it's another small gem from the MindShift website about a program called FlagWay which is changing students attitudes to Maths.  It's sort of like a combination of Maths problems and Parkour.   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parkour

I am no fan of Maths, as I'm sure some of you know - but I can see this being fun for the kids.

Google like a Genius

I am always amazed and fascinated by how students can sit in front of a computer to research information for their assignments, spend a whole lesson there and find absolutely nothing that they can use.  

Every so often I get a few who complain that "there's nothing there, Miss, I can't do this" and then look totally stunned when I find what they need in a few minutes ... and it isn't because I'm older and smarter than they are!  

I just know a few more tricks to use on Google to make it do what I want. (They do say that old age and cunning will always beat youth and skill)

So I have included a few links below with hints and tips for conning Google into providing what you need, when you need it.  While I am fairly sure that most of you already know these hints, it may be helpful to pass it onto your students ... after all, one less reason for not being able to complete something.  

http://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/the-35-best-google-search-tips-and-tricks/

http://epictutorials.com/top-10-google-search-tips/

http://visual.ly/10-tips-search-pro-using-google

And of course, there is always the tried and true Boolean searching method.  I have talked about that in a previous post, but it is always a good start.  

Something to ponder

Every so often the conversation about reading levels for students pops up again and whether or not this is a good way to teach children to read.  

My personal opinion is that - in an ideal world, which, of course we aren't - that being encouraged to read for pleasure, and reading things that interest them, is going to get them on board far more than trying to hit some target number of books.

However, check out the link below for more thoughts and opinions on the matter from people probably more qualified than myself.  

 https://theconversation.com/how-should-reading-be-taught-in-schools-61361

Another Dystopian title added

It seems that stories about Dystopian societies are all the go with the teens at the moment .. Hunger Games, Divergent, Maze Runner and the like.

So to keep the readers of the school happy - we have a new title on the shelf and ready for loan - 'Matched' by Ally Condie.  This is the first in a trilogy and having read it myself, it is certainly a thought-provoking book.    

Imagine living in a world where everything is decided for you: what you eat, where you live, when you die, who you love, even which poems, stories and paintings are worth keeping. The Officials who run Cassia’s society leave nothing up to choice. It makes for a more equal and controlled world. A better world. A less cluttered world. A calmer and less complicated world.
But what happens when someone starts to question the choices made for them - and worse still, wants to make their own choices?

What do you do? How do you deal with it?

Just something to think about

While looking for websites with Library activities, resources and all sorts of other stuff that may be handy for you all - I came across this site.  

http://momastery.com/blog/2014/01/30/share-schools/

The article stopped me in my tracks and I just wanted to share it with you all and to remind you all of just how awesome you are! 
And to say, both as a mother and a grandmother - THANK YOU!

R.E.D. Book Awards

The RED Book Award is an initiative by Falkirk Council in Scotland to promote reading by raising awareness of new titles and encouraging teenagers to read, enjoy and debate (R.E.D) good books. This year is a celebration of 10 years, and ten secondary classes from different countries across the world were selected to participate with Falkirk schools. Students in Mrs Spina’s year 8/9 English class, in Tennant Creek, Northern Territory, were the lucky Australians chosen. 

Students enjoying the books

This week we received our lot of books. There are four different titles ‘Beneath’, ‘Inflicted’, ‘Salvaged’ and ‘Mind Blind’ all specifically chosen for 13 – 15 year olds. Students have already begun reading their first book in silent reading, and we have already had several requests to take the books home to continue reading!

Enjoyment and choice is at the heart of pupils’ experiences as well as the opportunity to develop listening and talking, reading and writing skills. 

Students with Dion

As participants, we have been teamed up with a sister school in Denny and we will be communicating and sharing our thoughts and views on the books. Some of our responsibilities as participants is to provide some fabric that represents us/Australia that will be added to a patchwork quilt that represents the selected schools and countries. Fortunately, after discussions with Mrs Boulter, she was able to organise our local artist Dion Beasley to provide a fabric piece featuring Dion’s Cheeky Dogs. Further to this, Dion very generously donated a copy of the book he illustrated ‘Too Many Cheeky Dogs’ for us to send to Scotland. Our librarian, Mrs Walsh is making a special bookplate and has also donated some other beautiful Australiana fabric featuring platypuses, kangaroos, koalas and Aboriginal artwork. Students in photography classes have also begun planning the visual images they wish to create and send, while others are planning a sleep over in order to Skype our new Scottish friends. 

If any blog readers have further suggestions or items to donate, please contact our wonderful librarian Shelagh Walsh, who first introduced us to the RED Book Awards.

It is a wonderful opportunity to read some fantastic short-listed books, as well as talk to students on the other side of the world. 

Massive thanks to Yvonne Manning and the Falkirk Council for including us in this exciting experience. 

Stay Tuned for book reviews and More!
(Guest Blogger this week is Mrs Spina)

LMS & ANZAC Ceremony

Our Library Management System is STILL out - but we are at least getting phone calls from Darwin now, so hopefully we have reached the top of the action pile.  
The whole of the system is being upgraded in early May, so possibly they don't feel any urgency to get it going - and I can see them getting it operational and then we run into problems with the new one.  GRR.

As I said previously, please be patient when it takes longer than usual in here.  I am in no better a position - and have piles of items and pages of notes, just waiting for everything to come back on line. At least, I now have a spreadsheet that I can put people's names into, and scan the barcode, thanks to Carrie being so tech savvy.  (I really don't like spreadsheets!)

Also, I just wanted to congratulate everyone involved for a beautiful and very moving ANZAC Day ceremony.  I am so glad that we have these activities back on the agenda, and that the students got so involved as well.  

There are a couple of special days coming up in May that I thought you might like to be aware of:
1st May is School Principals Day and also Endangered Species Day
16th May is Biographers Day.

Hoping you all have an awesome week, and lets not forget it is a long weekend coming up.