General/Multi-Topic
Genius hour is a block of time set aside to allow students to autonomously work on projects for which they have passion. Wouldn’t it be nice if this could be worked into our schedule somewhere?
WARNING: NO REAL EDUCATIONAL VALUE HERE! (unless you count making a creative idea into reality.) I was looking for information on Makerspaces and I came across this (in the middle of a TEDtalk if you can image.) Honestly… it is creative and it makes me smile so I thought I’d share…
Language Arts
The Ultimate Backseat Bookshelf
Need to recommend a great read, but stuck for a title? Check out this post of the 100 must-reads for 9-14 year olds. How many have you read?
From the Eric Carle Museum. Provides a framework for using picture books, not just for entertainment, but to promote discussion.
Social Studies
Back in the Day: Lessons form Colonial Classrooms
An Education World article with many resources for teaching about colonial classrooms. Inculdes suggestions for hands-on activities and resources.
Great lessons and interactive games related to civics. The lessons contain everything you need for lessons on citizenship, branches of government, the constitution, and others. Check out the teacher page or just play a game! If you register, the points you earn from playing games can go toward making an impact on the world.
This site, published by the National History Education Clearinghouse, was featured in a blog post on Free Technology for Teachers about “Why Hoistorical Thinking Matters” Features teaching materials, history content and best practices.
Science/Health
79 Animal Adventures in Honor of Shark Week
Blog post by Common Sense Media. Includes apps, movies games, and more.
Information Literacy/Technology
Free sound effects with licensing information clearly marked for each file.
I receive these monthly via email with my membership in AASL, but many of the articles are applicable to all educators. Includes a lot of information on curriculum, assessment, STEM etc.
Wikipedia as an authentic Learning Space
Professional development opportunity provided by EasyBib. Hurry! The meeting is tomorrow August 7, at 3:00 EDT.
This blog post from Free Technology for Teachers discusses creative ways to use this new tool effectively. PicMonkey is free and no login is required.
Sources of my sources: Susan L. Panter (@SLPanter), Joyce Valenza (@Joycevalenza), Robin Bryce (@busybryces), Emily Gover (@Emily_EasyBib)
Curiously Questioning 