Kimberly Dyar Cecil County Public Schools

kdyar@ccps.org

Using Student-Built Websites to Promote Critical Thinking

Background: School Data Low MSA scores for

reading expository text AYP status Technology Literate by

Grade 8 (TL8) standards Tech resources at school

Collaborative Instruction Provides insight Improves teaching & learning Adds resources Shares work Taps unique skills Generates fresh ideas

Classroom Background

QuickTime™ and a decompressor

are needed to see this picture.

Historical Newspaper Project

ChallengeSurface

understandingNo contextLack of authenticityFocus on

appearance (tea-stained paper)

Add-on to unit

SolutionDeeper

understandingContextualized in

history & literatureAuthentic language,

imagery, detailsFocus on informationEnriching unit

Process Reading/writing workshop Research Written articles Website construction Reflection

Use of Primary Documents

Class-Generated Word BankCategories were posted on the wall. Students used sticky notes to add examples from their books & online resources.

ClothingTechnology in everyday lifeWeaponsWays of speakingTransportation

Games and recreationFoodEventsFamous people

Website IndexBannerFeature StoryEditorialLetters to the EditorAdvertisementsObituariesReflectionLinks

Key Teaching Points Content

“construction” Voice Audience Reading strategies

for primary sources Search skills

Complimentary images & text

Technical aspects Multimedia layout Web design &

analysis Copyright guidelines Using available tools

Structured Thinking Project overview at start Schema development Vocabulary Class structure Shared responsibility for content Multiple resources Primary sources as models Research skill support

Interactive Thinking Conferences - peer, teacher Coaching: research, visual, text

features Focus lessons & immediate application Error monitoring & corrections Constructivism Choices made explicit Student “think alouds” Shared problem-solving

Teacher-Student Conferences Promote critical thinking Individualize instruction Make connections Address questions Suggest improvements

Student Conferences

QuickTime™ and a decompressor

are needed to see this picture.

Common Challenges Multimedia vs. linear thinking Attention to tedious details “Period” mindset - texts & media Sharing information Personal preferences vs. authenticity Locating & connecting visuals to text

Ingredients for Success Choice Creative freedom Personalization Novelty Hands-on learning Transferable skill Multimedia Accommodations

Scaffolding - group resource creation & use

Mentor texts Primary source

references Discussion &

problem-solving

Teacher Feedback

QuickTime™ and a decompressor

are needed to see this picture.

Student Feedback

QuickTime™ and a decompressor

are needed to see this picture.

ccps.org/teachers/kdyar

Grade 8 Websites

Student Reflections