This makes me laugh every time...
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Graphic Novels
Now for a topic near and dear to my heart...graphic novels. Growing research demonstrates that, contrary to popular opinion, reading graphic novels takes more cognitive effort than reading traditional, all-print materials. (Lavin, 1998; Bylsma, 2007) Readers are bombarded with art and print through a series of panels, word balloons and captions which detail the novel's characters, setting, plot and action. GNs require readers to be actively engaged in the process of decoding and interpreting a range of literary devices--narratives, metaphors, humor, symbolism, and point of view--in way that reaches multiple intelligences. GNs are also an excellent way to engage developing readers.
Recently, graphic novels have also branched into the realm of non-fiction and biographies.
The Children's Cooperative Book Center at UW-Madison has an excellent list of graphic novels for all ages. My favorites include the Bone series by Jeff Smith, Lone Wolf and Cub by Kazuo Koike, and a the new series of Graphic Classics (Dracula, Frankenstein, Tom Sawyer, etc...). I would also encourage you to check out the works of Art Spiegelman...WOW.
In addition to reading graphic novels, your students (of all ages) are able to create their own graphic novels online through a variety of websites. This is a great way to emphasize aspects of the writing process (character development, dialogue...as well as Six Traits) in ways that are timely, immediate, and engaging.
10 Ways to Create Comics Online from Free Technology for Teachers is a great starter list of websites.
Recently, graphic novels have also branched into the realm of non-fiction and biographies.
The Children's Cooperative Book Center at UW-Madison has an excellent list of graphic novels for all ages. My favorites include the Bone series by Jeff Smith, Lone Wolf and Cub by Kazuo Koike, and a the new series of Graphic Classics (Dracula, Frankenstein, Tom Sawyer, etc...). I would also encourage you to check out the works of Art Spiegelman...WOW.
In addition to reading graphic novels, your students (of all ages) are able to create their own graphic novels online through a variety of websites. This is a great way to emphasize aspects of the writing process (character development, dialogue...as well as Six Traits) in ways that are timely, immediate, and engaging.
10 Ways to Create Comics Online from Free Technology for Teachers is a great starter list of websites.
Social Networking in Schools
One of the questions, we as educators are beginning to grapple with is the increasing demand for social networking within schools. More and more studies demonstrate that students engaging in appropriate social networking strategies are learning high-level 21st Century skills that not only improve their ability to use technology creatively and meaningfully, but also improve their ability to CREATE content and willingness to share their creations with others. Most importantly, using technology and social media as part of classroom content increases students' engagement and achievement.
At this point, I am not willing to "jump ship" and let students swim for themselves. There are a number of high quality, teacher-guided social networking tools available to use as part of classroom content/activities. Both of these Web2.0 tools have entirely private (your class or classes only) permissions as well as teacher oversight/monitoring.
Twiducate
Online social networking tool in the vein of Facebook and Twitter but set up within your own class(es). Only students, parents and other invited participants can view or share information. Excellent means of sharing assignments, quick questions during class and working collaboratively. Review and suggestions
Kidblog
Yes! A blogging tool for elementary/middle school students...Teach students to create and share online digital content in a private (class only) manner. Great tool with applications for teaching writing, digital citizenship, collaboration and peer-editing/mentoring. Takes less than 5 minutes to get your classes set up and ready to go with individual login/passwords.
Mashable's 5 Fun and Safe Social Networking Sites for Kids
Mashable is my favorite "techie" news and update site. They have articles and blogs on most topics (software, gadgets, etc...) and include reviews and tests on most new Web2.0 tools. Along with CNET which is a more high-end review site, Mashable posts multiple articles every day. If you subscribe to one online RSS feed to read everyday, I high recommend Mashable. This list is a collection of sites for younger children to join social networks (with parental permission and supervision).
At this point, I am not willing to "jump ship" and let students swim for themselves. There are a number of high quality, teacher-guided social networking tools available to use as part of classroom content/activities. Both of these Web2.0 tools have entirely private (your class or classes only) permissions as well as teacher oversight/monitoring.
Twiducate
Online social networking tool in the vein of Facebook and Twitter but set up within your own class(es). Only students, parents and other invited participants can view or share information. Excellent means of sharing assignments, quick questions during class and working collaboratively. Review and suggestions
Kidblog
Yes! A blogging tool for elementary/middle school students...Teach students to create and share online digital content in a private (class only) manner. Great tool with applications for teaching writing, digital citizenship, collaboration and peer-editing/mentoring. Takes less than 5 minutes to get your classes set up and ready to go with individual login/passwords.
Mashable's 5 Fun and Safe Social Networking Sites for Kids
Mashable is my favorite "techie" news and update site. They have articles and blogs on most topics (software, gadgets, etc...) and include reviews and tests on most new Web2.0 tools. Along with CNET which is a more high-end review site, Mashable posts multiple articles every day. If you subscribe to one online RSS feed to read everyday, I high recommend Mashable. This list is a collection of sites for younger children to join social networks (with parental permission and supervision).
New Tools for Teachers
IPad App: ShowMe
Easy whiteboard for the IPad that includes drawing and picture tools (either snapping a photo or importing). The real added benefit is the recording tool that allows you to narrate and illustrate. Once done you upload your lesson, which is viewable through the showme site or easily embedded to a wiki/webpage, tweeted, or emailed to you. ShowMe also has a collection of lessons for you to browse for ideas. Reviews here.
Web Tool: StoryJumper
This online, interactive children's book maker has limitless potential at all ages. As part of the writing process, creating children's books is beneficial and challenging for all ages of students.
StoryJumper includes sample graphics to illustrate books quickly. For more advanced illustrations, students can import graphics/images from the web or scan photos or artwork they create themselves.
Hosted by StoryJumper, the books are easy to share with parents or grandparents and link easily to your class website or wiki. As an added feature, they look excellent on Smartboards!
Easy whiteboard for the IPad that includes drawing and picture tools (either snapping a photo or importing). The real added benefit is the recording tool that allows you to narrate and illustrate. Once done you upload your lesson, which is viewable through the showme site or easily embedded to a wiki/webpage, tweeted, or emailed to you. ShowMe also has a collection of lessons for you to browse for ideas. Reviews here.
Web Tool: StoryJumper
This online, interactive children's book maker has limitless potential at all ages. As part of the writing process, creating children's books is beneficial and challenging for all ages of students.
StoryJumper includes sample graphics to illustrate books quickly. For more advanced illustrations, students can import graphics/images from the web or scan photos or artwork they create themselves.
Hosted by StoryJumper, the books are easy to share with parents or grandparents and link easily to your class website or wiki. As an added feature, they look excellent on Smartboards!
Apps Galore
Just discovered a new wiki dealing with Ipod and Ipad apps for educational users created by fellow CESA6 educator! I can't believe the amount of apps Paula has reviewed and the depth to which she knows these...WOW!
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