Resources for Teacher
« Previous EntriesTeaching Tolerance: A Great Magazine (and website) for Free
By Tobi Kibel Piatek | Monday, August 18th, 2008
I am just back from the Minority Affairs Conference where I had the chance to speak to two groups of educators about the importance of creating relationships - not only to keep kids in school, but to strengthen school, family and community bonds. I will be writing more about the conference later, but today, I want to share a great resource I discovered tucked into my bag of goodies.
Teaching Tolerance is a magazine “dedicated to reducing prejudice, improving intergroup relations and supporting equitable school experiences for our nation’s children.” The Teaching Tolerance website is another powerful resource. It features information for teachers, for parents, for teens and for kids.
Published twice a year, Teaching Tolerance magazine “showcases innovative tolerance initiatives in schools across the country. ” The Association of Educational Publishers has named it the 2007 Periodical of the Year, and it is FREE for educators.
The magazine, which is well designed and written, features articles, stories, interviews and more. But of special interest to teachers and mentors working with kids is the Activity Exchange - an array of excellent, easy to use curriculum ideas that work in the classroom or after school program - NOW.
In the latest issue, the theme is Anti Bias Activities. These ideas include Identity Posters - a simple and effective plan to “start the year off right and stop teasing” (about ‘different’ names) before it starts. This is perfect for grades K-6.
Riding With Rosa is another idea - this one allows kids (grades 3-6) to go back in time and sit on the bus with Rosa Parks and consider how they might have responded if they were on that bus too. These are just two of the great ideas that will help any educator explore challenging topics in interesting and engaging ways.
Also, Teaching Tolerance will publish YOUR good ideas. To find out how you can share your ideas in print, go to http://www.tolerance.org/teach/magazine/getpublished.jsp
To learn more, to order your free subscription, and to explore the huge array of free and excellent resources available, visit the website - and, while you are there, take some time to discover the other free resources that can work with your kids.
Topics: RESOURCES, Resources for Teacher, Resources for Mentor | No Comments »
Things to Do: OPB Kids and Family Resources
By Tobi Kibel Piatek | Tuesday, July 22nd, 2008
http://www.opb.org/kidsfamily/
There is something for teachers, something for mentors, something for parents and PLENTY for kids on the OPB Kids and Family site. Parents and mentors looking for some good ways to enrich these summer days might want to check out some of these resources:
Lewis & Clark Explorer Guides If your are looking for some outdoor fun … plan your own Lewis & Clark adventure using these travel guides that are sure to bring the spirit of the Corps to life. (Note: I KNOW these are fun and interesting - because I wrote them!)
Eco Smart Tips, activities and resources to help you begin conversations with children about conservation and recycling. This site includes step-by-step instructions for activities families completed at OPB’s workshops with reused and recycled materials.
We know kids watch TV in summer -to make the most of that time, and to keep in touch with what they are watching, the OPB programming schedule in on this site, as well as some great ideas to connect learning and fun in summer days. Check out this collection of easy to use resources on Media Literacy:
Activities to Build On What You’ve Watched
Extend the Learning with Books :
Stay up to date on the latest listing for things to do in The Family Events Calendar
Teachers - look ahead to next year (while there is still time) check out the Lesson Plans from OPB
Topics: Recommended Resources, Family Involvement, Resources for Teacher, Quality Time, Things to do | No Comments »
Making Connections: Now with even more RESOURCES
By Tobi Kibel Piatek | Monday, June 30th, 2008
Thanks to all of the course participants who have contributed ideas, connections and suggestions for resources to add to our online course, our resource list - information for teachers and mentors, helping organizations, in depth information on a wide array of topics related to each subject within the course, who to call, where to go, things to do, and much, much more, has doubled in size.
Please be sure to check it out the next time you are visiting the course. If you are not a course participant, you now have many more reasons to start Making Connections.
Topics: RESOURCES, Resources for Teacher, Resources for Mentor | No Comments »
Intercultural Communication Institute Research Library
By Tobi Kibel Piatek | Monday, June 30th, 2008
I spent some time this weekend helping to prepare for the upcoming Summer Institute for Intercultural Communication which will be held at Reed
click here)As many hands worked together to assemble the notebooks that 600 participants from around the world will receive, it was hard to ignore the fact that we were surrounded on all sides by the books and resources that make up the Intercultural Communication Institute Research Library. Its an amazing collection, and you can take advantage of it.
What is the Intercultural Communication Institute Research Library:
A collection of over 29,000 books, journals, articles and audio-visual materials entirely devoted to the subject of intercultural communication. Many of the items in this collection are called “fugitive” – difficult to locate, and perhaps, one of a kind.
Topics include:
- AIDS
- Community Development
- Conflict Across Cultures/ Intercultural Development/ Cultural Awareness
- Culture Shock
- Diversity (Organizational Development, Training, Negotiations and Mediation)
- Education (Curriculum Development, Diversity, Multicultural Education)
- Ethnic/Race Relations
- Family and Roles
- Gender and Sexual Orientation
- Healing and Medicine
- Human Consciousness
- Cultures Specific Information (
China, India, Middle East, Latin America etc.) - Peace Corps
- Sociology
- MORE
Who is the library for?
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Researchers: If you are looking for easily organized topical areas, “the library is likely to produce monographs you haven’t yet discovered.”
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International Educators wondering how to put together the perfect student orientation manual will find many examples.
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Trainers and Educators of any age group will find countless learning activities and book on instructional design.
The library has a collection of over 300 video and DVD titles, training manuals, course syllabi, theses and dissertations, classic texts, archival materials, and donations from the collections of numerous researchers and educators.
How to Use the Library: (NOTE: Library contents do not circulate)
The library welcomes you to come and browse (or study, or learn) year round. Please contact the library for hours of operation (503 297 4622) and to schedule some time to take advantage of this unique resource.
Topics: Recommended Resources, Resources for Teacher, Culturally Competent | No Comments »
Find items in libraries near you
By Tobi Kibel Piatek | Monday, June 16th, 2008
Summer is reading time, and for many of us, learning time. I want to let you know about another wonderful library related tool that will make your reading life simpler, richer and easier.
Welcome to WORLDCAT - the world’s largest network of library content and services. Worldcat connects you to the collections and services of more than 10,000 libraries worldwide.
There are more than 1.2 billion (!) items available, including books, dvds, cds, and articles. Establishing a free Worldcat account allows you to create list of items you’d like to keep track of and share. You can build a bibliography, and export it in different formats, and lots more.
An online tutorial makes it easy and clear.”WorldCat libraries are dedicated to providing access to their resources on the Web, where most people start their search for information.”
WorldCat.org lets you:
- • Search many libraries at once for an item and then locate it in a library nearby
- • Find books, music, articles and videos to check out
- • Find research articles and digital items (like audiobooks) that can be directly viewed or downloaded. (This is the perfect adjunct to the Library 2 Go feature mentioned in an earlier posting.)
• Link to “Ask a Librarian” and other services at your library
- • Post your review of an item, or contribute factual information about it
- NOTE: You may need to have an active offline membership with a WorldCat library to view/download content or check out materials through its Web site.
Topics: Resources for Teacher, Resources for Mentor | No Comments »
CHECK IT OUT: Library 2 Go
By Tobi Kibel Piatek | Tuesday, June 10th, 2008
I love to read. I love libraries, I love books, and almost as much, I love recorded books. Over the years I have listened to hundreds of them – first listening to tapes while commuting in my car, or on my Walkman while … walking (cooking, gardening … you get the idea. I am hooked). Then, I switched to books on CD – which are somewhat more convenient, but anyone who uses a CD Walkman knows that they skip and bounce when you do (like at the gym). So, my next approach was ripping CD’s into my computer and then dragging them into my Creative Media Player. This, it turns out is a long, slow process, and, unless you do technical stuff to the files, chapters often play out of order. What’s a reader to do?
The answer has arrived in a blaze of technical glory so wonderful I just have to tell you about it.
CHECK IT OUT: Library 2 Go (a feature of Oregon Digital Library Consortium) is “Now featuring downloadable videos as well as audiobooks for children and young adults!”
This is a huge collection, and it is certainly not only for kids, in fact, there is truly something for everyone. Offerings include a wide array of fiction, non-fiction, mystery, sci-fi, classics, current events, biographies, etc. There is also an extensive collection of videos – both for pleasure and education. I am currently watching a series of four videos (on my PC): Teach Me Different! with Sally L. Smith: Prizing Diversity. They are great for teachers and so easy to watch and access. You can find them (and so much more) on the site.
All you need to access this amazing resource is a library card. Once you log into Library 2 Go (with your card number and pin), you can “download digital audio books and video titles 24/7 to a PC at home, in the office or anywhere in the world. Transfer audio books to your MP3 or burn onto CD for listening on-the-go.”
Note: The website includes this information: At this time, OverDrive Media files cannot be used on iPods or Mac computers. Details about this are on the site too.
The site includes plenty of help and technical how-to information, and access to all the software you will need. Click here for help and more information. It was easy, trust me.
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Library 2 Go provides OverDrive Books and Videos.
What is an OverDrive Audio Book?
An OverDrive Audio Book title is a digitally-protected audiobook that has been optimized for download. OverDrive Audio Book titles are built using the Microsoft® Windows Media Audio format, which greatly enhances the sound quality for desktop listening, play of CD copies (when allowed by the publisher), and portable device use.
What is an OverDrive Video title?
An OverDrive Video title is a digitally-protected video file that has been optimized for download. OverDrive Video titles are built using the Microsoft® Windows Media Video format, which greatly enhances the sound quality for desktop viewing and portable device use. Note that OverDrive Video is a high speed Internet-only product.
Topics: Resources for Teacher, Things to do, Resources for Mentor | 2 Comments »
An Evening of Art for Educators (FREE)
By Tobi Kibel Piatek | Monday, June 2nd, 2008
Evening for Educators (K-12)
Enjoy light refreshments and network with other educators. Learn about the Portland Art Museum’s special exhibitions as well as the permanent galleries. Learn about opportunities for docent-led school tours and museum suitcase presentations in your classroom. These events are free to educators, but reservations are required as space is limited. Please call 503.276.4318 to reserve your space today.
Evening for College Educators
Enjoy light refreshments and network with other educators. Learn about the Portland Art Museum’s special exhibitions as well as the permanent galleries. These events are free to educators. Reservations are required as space is limited. Please call 503.276.4227 to reserve your space today.
Topics: Resources for Teacher, Things to do | No Comments »
How to make a difference
By Lisa Pfister | Wednesday, May 28th, 2008
Shannon was new to our school this year. She had attended her previous school for grades K-4th. Her two teachers described her as sometimes out-going, and sometimes moody. They saw her as a student with a “chip on her shoulder”. Shannon was often in my office due to problems with her peers. She would never “tell” on her friends, and would take the blame for any offense. She would always tell me, “I’m not ratting my friends out.” I contacted the school counselor of her previous school. The counselor said they also saw the same behaviors and worked hard on helping Shannon overcome these behaviors. They saw her as a student with low self-esteem and looked for ways that she could be successful in their school.
I had a break through with Shannon when she was once again sent to my office due to problems with her peers. She came with a very defiant attitude, her body was stiff and angry, and she did not want to talk. I started talking to her very softly and gently. I told her that it must be really hard to come to a new school and have to make new friends all over again. I told her that I wondered why she chose these specific students to be her “friends “. I let her know that by choosing friends that make poor choices she was putting herself in a difficult position, and didn’t she think she deserved better? Or, does she believe that if she doesn’t “hang out” with these students then she would not have any friends at all? By this time Shannon was tearing up. Shannon then told me, “It’s better to have bad friends then no friends at all.” This let me know that Shannon does not think very highly of herself and takes whatever comes her way. I let Shannon know that we could work together to help her find friends that would appreciate who she is. I even let her know that if she was out on recess with her “friends” , and they were making poor choices, then she could come to my office and I would help her find other outlets to pursue in school. I let her know that we have a wonderful kindergarten teacher who would like her help in her class. Shannon told me she felt she was a poor student and couldn’t help others. I let her know that kinders love when the big kids come to their classes to help out and that she could also read with them. I also told her about a girls group that I run at school. It is for girls who want to form new and more appropriate friendships with other girls their age. Shannon told me she would think about this and get back to me.
A week later, Shannon came in from recess and asked if she could still volunteer in the kindergarten class. I told her that this job was still open if she wanted it. She also wanted to join the girls group. I talked with Shannon’s teachers, and the kindergarten teacher to set up arrangements for her to volunteer. Shannon goes three times a week, during her lunch recess, to work with the kindergarten students. This has been happening for three months now. The teacher said that at first Shannon was very untrusting of the teacher, but as she got to know her, became quite a joy to work with. Shannon has also befriended two girls from the girls group and “hangs out” with them outside of school. I have also spoken with her two teachers about setting up an evaluation for a possible learning disability. I learned that Shannon has great difficulty in reading and articulating her thoughts. Her prior school evaluated her for these three years ago and she almost qualified. We feel that if we test her first thing in the fall that she will most likely qualify. Shannon’s mom has also been in the loop of all decisions made regarding her daughter. Mom says she has noticed positive changes in her daughter. She says she laughs more and does not get as “difficult” as in the past.
One year down, one more to go!
Topics: Relationship Strategy, Resources for Teacher | No Comments »
Multicultural Resources: When you need something to read
By Tobi Kibel Piatek | Tuesday, May 20th, 2008
Teachers, SMART volunteers, parents and mentors often ask me “what’s a good book to read with my kids?” Now, I not only have a great list of books to add to my recommendations, but a lovely magazine too.
The magazine is Skipping Stones, an International Multicultural publication for youth that “encourages communication, cooperation, creativity and celebration of cultural and environmental richness.” Founded in 1988, Skipping Stones is award-winning resource in multicultural education, designed to provide “a playful forum for sharing ideas and experiences among youth from different countries and cultures.”
Each issue contains stories, articles and photos from all over the world, as well as book reviews, news, and a guide for parents and teachers. Non-English writings are accompanied by English translations to encourage the learning of other languages.
Skipping Stones publishes bimonthly during the school year. Click here for subscription information.
In addition, every year, Skipping Stones recognizes exceptional books and teaching resources that “encourage an understanding of the world’s diverse cultures, as well as nature and ecological richness. The selection promotes cooperation, nonviolence, respect for differing viewpoints, and close relationships in human societies.”
So, looking for something to read this summer? Start with the 2008 Skipping Stones Honor Awards – a list of 26 books for different ages, reading levels and interests. Click here for the 2008 winners list.
To view past lists of recommended books click here.
One more thing, Skipping Stones invites submissions from young writers. Click here to learn more about their entry guidelines for Youth Honor Awards.
WHAT ARE YOU READING WITH YOUR KIDS? Please share your recommendations for books and publications that you like. Tell us why?
Topics: Recommended reading, Resources for Teacher, Culturally Competent, Resources for Mentor | No Comments »
Things to Do: Three Activities to Build Self-Esteem
By Tobi Kibel Piatek | Friday, May 16th, 2008
Here are three ideas for things to do that will make it easier to create an atmosphere where kids feel comfortable, cared about, noticed and free to be themselves. These ideas will not only foster self-esteem and strengthen relationships with peers; they will also encourage creativity, cooperation, and fun.
Note: These ideas are especially relevant to Lesson 8 in the course, which focuses on Peer relationships.
Create a Mural: Tape a long sheet of butcher (or other) paper to a wall. Provide a variety of art materials (crayons, pens, tempera, pens, pastels, magazines to cut apart, old photos, old cards, scissors, glue, fabrics etc.) Have kids create a mural that depicts things they have in common, and things they do which are uniquely their own. This can include hobbies, pets, sports, family activities, travel, adventures, work, etc.) This mural offers opportunities for kids to use their talents learn about each other’s interests, cultures and families, and encourage cooperation and conversation.
All the News that Fits, We Print: Creating a class or project wide newspaper or eNews is a great way to provide an opportunity for kids to see their names and accomplishments in print. It also provides kids with ways to use a spectrum of abilities and tools. The newspaper can include articles and stories. It can feature kids’ achievements, histories, adventures, lists of favorites, etc. It can also include recognition for services and helping, accomplishments, and activities. One of the best aspects of this project is that newspaper production involves so many jobs. Each one is an opportunity to use a talent, learn a skill, or discover a new interest.
As kids work together to choose a name for their paper, decide on article ideas, conduct interviews, write and edit stories, take photos, create illustrations (or ads, or comics), put the news together (whether on paper or a computer screen), and share their product, everyone has lots of chances to work cooperatively, make new friends, and see a real life application for skills they learn in school. TIP: This is also a great opportunity to invite community members who work in media, or photography, to visit your kids and share what they know and do.
Teaching: Ask each kid to list a skill that he or she feels confident enough to teach another person. This may be a sport, a hobby, a song, a dish to cook, a joke, a dance, etc. Also, create a student list of things they would like to learn if someone in their group or class had the skill to teach them.
Topics: Creating a Positive, Resources for Teacher, Things to do, Resources for Mentor | No Comments »
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