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    Making Connections is an innovative, online learning tool designed to give mentors, teachers, counselors and volunteers the strategies and tools they need to build strong relationships with kids. For more information, click here.
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  • « Let’s Extend National Mentoring Month This Year | Home | Next Post »

    What Do You Know?

    By Tobi Kibel Piatek | February 5, 2009

    In lesson four of the course the assignments include making and using KWL charts. These charts are essentially a useful instructional technique that teachers and mentors can use to find out what kids already know about a topic (prior knowledge) and help them consider what they want to know about the topic, and finally, to record and consider what they learned.

     KWL charts are visual organizers, useful for a variety of learning styles. However, there were some concerns in the course discussions this week that the assigned activity was not appropriate to certain groups and certain students. So, I had an idea, and I think that addressing this problem resulted in a solution that anyone can use to make the most of what they are learning – in this course, and in any other.

     KWL YOURSELF. Take some time to review the many resources on this blog, and (if you have access) in the course Resource Listings. Chose a topic that interests you and find a resource on that subject.

    Create a chart – in the first column list what you already know about this topic. Then, in the middle column, consider what you want to know, what you hope to get from reading this article or resource. After you read, list what you learned.

     When you are done, identify your resource (it doesn’t have to be on this site, a book, article or talk will do just fine.) Add a link if available.  Tell us: Why were you interested? Was the resource worthwhile? Share at least three things you learned.

    Please post it all to this blog. And keep in mind - this is a great activity to do with older kids as well - share your experiences using this with kids as well.

    Topics: How To's, RESOURCES, Things to do, Uncategorized |

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