We, as edtech leaders and classroom teachers, must explore pathways where assessments support teaching and learning in the 21st century. According to Matt Renwick, Author and Principal of Mineral Point Unified School District, WI, in a recent edWebinar, complex authentic student learning experiences require complex assignments that not only demonstrate content knowledge but should also gauge enthusiasm, communication skills and habits of mind. Authentic assessments are always about the connections we make with students, each other, and the broader community as indicated in a Gallup poll. Only 47% of secondary students surveyed reported being engaged, enthusiastic and committed to their learning. Students who were able to agree with the statements, “my school strongly is committed to building the strengths of each student,” and, “I have at least one teacher who makes me excited about the future,” were 30 times more likely to be engaged at school when compared with students who strongly disagreed with the same items.
edWeb.net is delighted to announce that it was selected by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) as one of the 2018 Best Websites for Teaching & Learning. The Best Websites for Teaching & Learning recognizes websites of exceptional value to inquiry-based teaching and learning as embodied in the AASL learning standards. Websites selected for this prestigious recognition are free, web-based sites that are user friendly and encourage a community of learners to explore and discover, and foster the qualities of innovation, creativity, active participation, and collaboration.
Why is informational text so important and where can teachers find the best resources? In this TIME For Kids webinar, Jaime Joyce and Laura Blackburn answered these questions and shared tips and strategies for integrating informational text across the curriculum and throughout the school day. In addition, they provided graphic organizers and activities to support instruction.