We all want to send our children out into the world as well prepared as possible, but in today's technology rich society it is easy to suffer from information overload! Young people may be comfortable using technology (sometimes more comfortable than their parents are) but that doesn't mean they are always able to efficiently locate and evaluate resources or make the best use of the information they locate.
It's never too early to start modeling information literacy and supporting it in your own home! The more you can reinforce the lessons your children hear at school and demonstrate their applicability to real life problems, the more relevant and important they will seem.
Some of my previous blog posts about research describe things you can do to support these skills at home. In particular I would highly recommend developing a thorough acquaintance with the Big 6 steps for information seeking.
During library classes we have brainstormed real life (non-school related) situations in which people used the Big 6, and students have come up with a range of examples from, "My dad needed to choose a new car" to "I went on a hike with my family and saw a bird I couldn't identify." As you investigate a new recipe to try for dinner or start planning your next family vacation, try to let your child in on the steps you're taking as you look for and evaluation information. Modeling this process will help them break down their next big school project into logical and less intimidating steps.
You can use almost any situation as an opportunity for developing your child's information literacy, from advertisements you're exposed to (Can you trust the source? Can the claims be independently verified? If so, where and how?) to a spam email forwarded by a gullible relative (Is that dire warning really true? Can we believe everything we read? Where could we go to figure out if it's true or not?).
I'd also recommend this wonderful guide:
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Enter the fantastical world of David Almond
Although not terribly famous in the United States, the rest of the world has certainly taken note of David Almond. He was this year's winner of the world's most prestigious honor for children's literature, the Hans Christian Andersen Award! Coincidentally one of my favorite authors, his imagination, keen observations and appreciation for the slightly surreal make his works unique in the pantheon of children's fiction.
Almond's work is varied, from books for the very youngest (Kate, the Cat and the Moon, a picture book) to chapter books for younger readers (My Dad's a Birdman), upper elementary (Skellig) and teens (Kit's Wilderness), as well as a graphic novel (The Savage). With summer break right around the corner, why don't you pick up one of his books and find out what all the buzz is about?
Almond's work is varied, from books for the very youngest (Kate, the Cat and the Moon, a picture book) to chapter books for younger readers (My Dad's a Birdman), upper elementary (Skellig) and teens (Kit's Wilderness), as well as a graphic novel (The Savage). With summer break right around the corner, why don't you pick up one of his books and find out what all the buzz is about?
Friday, May 21, 2010
Read Three, Get One Free!
If you are between the ages of 12-18, KCLS has a great program called Read Three, Get One Free. You can discover some great new reading matter, get free books, hone your writing skills and share your opinions with other teens!
All you have to do is read three books, write brief reviews, then hand in your completed form at any branch of KCLS where you can select a paperback book to keep.
Keep an eye on TeenZone for more events and activities (such as the Read.Flip.Win video review contest coming in June) as well as great reading lists!
All you have to do is read three books, write brief reviews, then hand in your completed form at any branch of KCLS where you can select a paperback book to keep.
Keep an eye on TeenZone for more events and activities (such as the Read.Flip.Win video review contest coming in June) as well as great reading lists!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Summer camp fun at Open Window School!
Looking for something fun to do this summer? I'm teaching three summer camps at Open Window School and would love to see you there!
Please note: classes that do not reach minimum enrollment will be cancelled by the end of May, so don't hesitate if you want to sign up!
There is some flexibility in the ages admitted, so if you'd like to participate and are slightly older or younger than the age range given, call us anyway. Please invite friends and relatives who aren't OWS students - everyone is welcome!
Week 1, July 6-9: Dragons Galore!
For students entering 2nd & 3rd grades
Love dragons? If so, this is the class for you. We will read dragon stories, learn dragon lore, explore the history of dragon beliefs around the world, and create dragon-inspired art!
Week 2, July 12-16: Eat Your Way Around the World
For students entering 2nd & 3rd grades
Come on a trip around the world as we create and enjoy delicious dishes from every corner of the globe, explore the cultures that created them, and learn fun facts about the history of the foods we eat.
Week 3, July 19-23: Myths - Makin' 'em and Breakin' 'em (with Mr. Goodman)
For students entering 4th-8th grades
Spend half of the day with Ms. Simeon, who will guide you through a virtual tour of Mount Olympus, from Athena to Zeus. You’ll get to know the Greek gods, write myths of your own, and learn about the amazing civilization of the Ancient Greeks. During the other half of your day, work with Mr. Goodman busting and breaking down some less classic, but equally familiar myths. We’ll use our engineering minds and the scientific method to separate fact from fiction.
Questions? Contact me at library at ows dot org, call the school (425-747-2911) and ask for Stefanie Johnson, or download the application form.
Please note: classes that do not reach minimum enrollment will be cancelled by the end of May, so don't hesitate if you want to sign up!
There is some flexibility in the ages admitted, so if you'd like to participate and are slightly older or younger than the age range given, call us anyway. Please invite friends and relatives who aren't OWS students - everyone is welcome!
Week 1, July 6-9: Dragons Galore!
For students entering 2nd & 3rd grades
Love dragons? If so, this is the class for you. We will read dragon stories, learn dragon lore, explore the history of dragon beliefs around the world, and create dragon-inspired art!
Week 2, July 12-16: Eat Your Way Around the World
For students entering 2nd & 3rd grades
Come on a trip around the world as we create and enjoy delicious dishes from every corner of the globe, explore the cultures that created them, and learn fun facts about the history of the foods we eat.
Week 3, July 19-23: Myths - Makin' 'em and Breakin' 'em (with Mr. Goodman)
For students entering 4th-8th grades
Spend half of the day with Ms. Simeon, who will guide you through a virtual tour of Mount Olympus, from Athena to Zeus. You’ll get to know the Greek gods, write myths of your own, and learn about the amazing civilization of the Ancient Greeks. During the other half of your day, work with Mr. Goodman busting and breaking down some less classic, but equally familiar myths. We’ll use our engineering minds and the scientific method to separate fact from fiction.
Questions? Contact me at library at ows dot org, call the school (425-747-2911) and ask for Stefanie Johnson, or download the application form.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Save the date: book launch for Sundee Frazier on June 12th!
Last month our school was lucky enough to have author Sundee Frazier visit during a staff meeting and talk to us about mixed heritage families. She is the author of Brendan Buckley's Universe and Everything In It, among other works.
I just heard that Sundee's latest book, The Other Half of My Heart, is coming out soon and we are all welcome at her book launch party. See details from Sundee below!
The Elliott Bay Book Company
1521 Tenth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98122 US
Saturday, June 12, 4:30PM
Please join me in celebrating the release of my new novel, which was recently called "funny and deeply affecting . . . an outstanding achievement" in a starred review from Kirkus.
Biracial twins Minni and Keira King made news around the world the day they were born--one came out "black" and the other "white." They are as close as two sisters can be, but a trip to the South to visit Grandmother Johnson and compete in a pageant for African-American girls will put their relationship to the ultimate test.
I'll read, answer questions, sign books, and enjoy talking with whoever can make it. If nothing else, come for the cupcakes! And kids are definitely welcome. If you are a teacher or librarian, please feel free to share this invitation with your students.
I just heard that Sundee's latest book, The Other Half of My Heart, is coming out soon and we are all welcome at her book launch party. See details from Sundee below!
The Elliott Bay Book Company
1521 Tenth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98122 US
Saturday, June 12, 4:30PM
Please join me in celebrating the release of my new novel, which was recently called "funny and deeply affecting . . . an outstanding achievement" in a starred review from Kirkus.
Biracial twins Minni and Keira King made news around the world the day they were born--one came out "black" and the other "white." They are as close as two sisters can be, but a trip to the South to visit Grandmother Johnson and compete in a pageant for African-American girls will put their relationship to the ultimate test.
I'll read, answer questions, sign books, and enjoy talking with whoever can make it. If nothing else, come for the cupcakes! And kids are definitely welcome. If you are a teacher or librarian, please feel free to share this invitation with your students.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
All books due back next Thursday, May 20th!
Dear Families,
It's hard to believe that the end of the school year is right around the corner! Here is some information about library books to help clear up any confusion at this busy time of year.
All items are due back by the end of the school day on Thursday, May 20th.
This week you should have received an email about any overdue materials. Next week you will receive an email from the library showing all checked out items.
Please note:
Some returned items may be in a classroom bin, so they will show up in the library software as still checked out. Please do not worry; they will get back to the library by the end of the day on the 20th! There is no need to contact us about these items. Do ask your child to check his or her backpack!
Overdue fines of $3 per item will be assessed on all materials returned after May 20th (remember, there is no school on Friday the 21st).
The cost of the item plus a $3 processing fee will be assessed on all lost or damaged items. Please let us know (library at ows dot org) if an item is missing or damaged.
Beginning Monday, May 24th, library materials should be returned to the main office, NOT to the classroom or the library.
There is an extended due date for items for school projects that are still in progress. If we accidentally bill you for one of these books, please let us know. We will do our best to catch them but are dealing with hundreds of students and all their materials so some may slip through the cracks.
NB: 5th graders have extended deadlines due to their class trip and book report for Ms. Russell. They may return regular library materials on Monday, May 24th and book report books on Wednesday, June 2nd.
Thank you!
Ms. Simeon & Mrs. Kenmochi
It's hard to believe that the end of the school year is right around the corner! Here is some information about library books to help clear up any confusion at this busy time of year.
All items are due back by the end of the school day on Thursday, May 20th.
This week you should have received an email about any overdue materials. Next week you will receive an email from the library showing all checked out items.
Please note:
Some returned items may be in a classroom bin, so they will show up in the library software as still checked out. Please do not worry; they will get back to the library by the end of the day on the 20th! There is no need to contact us about these items. Do ask your child to check his or her backpack!
Overdue fines of $3 per item will be assessed on all materials returned after May 20th (remember, there is no school on Friday the 21st).
The cost of the item plus a $3 processing fee will be assessed on all lost or damaged items. Please let us know (library at ows dot org) if an item is missing or damaged.
Beginning Monday, May 24th, library materials should be returned to the main office, NOT to the classroom or the library.
There is an extended due date for items for school projects that are still in progress. If we accidentally bill you for one of these books, please let us know. We will do our best to catch them but are dealing with hundreds of students and all their materials so some may slip through the cracks.
NB: 5th graders have extended deadlines due to their class trip and book report for Ms. Russell. They may return regular library materials on Monday, May 24th and book report books on Wednesday, June 2nd.
Thank you!
Ms. Simeon & Mrs. Kenmochi
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
The International Children's Digital Library
Want to look at 4418 books for ages 3-13 in 54 different languages? Yes, there's a website where you can do this! The International Children's Digital Library is an impressive project designed to support literacy around the world.
It's also a fun way to expose yourself to books in a wide range of languages. You can also help broaden the collection by suggesting new titles for inclusion and expose other readers to your favorites by participating on the site and becoming a Featured Books contributor!
Check out the site today and start reading your way around the world! Remember that if you are interested in learning a new language or improving your knowledge of a foreign language, the public library offers free access (with your KCLS card) to language learning databases that track your progress from lesson to lesson!
It's also a fun way to expose yourself to books in a wide range of languages. You can also help broaden the collection by suggesting new titles for inclusion and expose other readers to your favorites by participating on the site and becoming a Featured Books contributor!
Check out the site today and start reading your way around the world! Remember that if you are interested in learning a new language or improving your knowledge of a foreign language, the public library offers free access (with your KCLS card) to language learning databases that track your progress from lesson to lesson!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
The OWS/Vista Book Fair!
A huge thank you to everyone who turned out to shop at University Book Store this past weekend! The library will receive 25% of the total purchases as store credit. Combined with my 20% educators' discount that adds up to a lot of wonderful new books for our school collection! I will publish the final results in the QuickTake once they are available.
Thank you also to Ms. Arends and all the talented OWS recorder players who showed up on Saturday morning to perform in the bookstore! The students’ music was beautiful and it was gratifying to see such an enthusiastic crowd of parents, siblings and friends turn out to cheer them on. Other shoppers were also entertained by their performance.
The book fair would not have been the same without the second graders' artwork to liven up the store. Thank you to Ms. Leggitt and all the OWS second graders for the bright and creative flower pastels they contributed!
Happy reading, everyone!
Thank you also to Ms. Arends and all the talented OWS recorder players who showed up on Saturday morning to perform in the bookstore! The students’ music was beautiful and it was gratifying to see such an enthusiastic crowd of parents, siblings and friends turn out to cheer them on. Other shoppers were also entertained by their performance.
The book fair would not have been the same without the second graders' artwork to liven up the store. Thank you to Ms. Leggitt and all the OWS second graders for the bright and creative flower pastels they contributed!
Happy reading, everyone!
Friday, May 7, 2010
Congratulations, first graders!
Two talented first graders from our school, Maggie and Sarah, are recent winners in local contests!
Maggie's entry was selected from many entries in the University Book Store's annual bookmark contest. Soon you'll be able to pick up free bookmarks decorated with her delightful artwork at any branch of the bookstore!
Maggie's entry was selected from many entries in the University Book Store's annual bookmark contest. Soon you'll be able to pick up free bookmarks decorated with her delightful artwork at any branch of the bookstore!
Sarah's story, The Walk of Danger, was chosen as one of the winners in the PBS Kids Go! Writers' Contest. Be sure to read this riveting and suspenseful adventure story!
Congratulations, girls!
Thursday, May 6, 2010
The book fair begins tomorrow!
Our annual book fair at the downtown Bellevue branch of University Book Store will take place from tomorrow, Friday, May 7th until Sunday, May 9th during normal store hours (see below).
The school library gets 25% of the sales as store credit. Combined with our 20% educators’ discount, this adds up to a lot of books! Just show your OWS/Vista book fair voucher when you shop for books, gifts, art supplies, stationery and more. Vouchers are being sent home with students this week and will also be available in the farmhouse, library, main office and at the bookstore.
At 10:30am on Saturday, May 8th, Ms. Arends will lead the OWS recorders group in a concert at the store! And don’t miss the beautiful Van Gogh-inspired flowers created by our 2nd graders in Ms. Leggitt’s art class that will be on display for the duration of the book fair.
Thank you for helping to support your school library!
Questions? Contact Ms. Simeon at library at ows dot org
University Book Store has free underground parking and is conveniently located near Bellevue Square mall!
990 102nd Ave NE, Bellevue
425.462.4500 ~ ubsbelle@u.washington.edu
Hours: Friday 9am–7pm, Saturday 10am–6pm, Sunday 12pm–5pm
The school library gets 25% of the sales as store credit. Combined with our 20% educators’ discount, this adds up to a lot of books! Just show your OWS/Vista book fair voucher when you shop for books, gifts, art supplies, stationery and more. Vouchers are being sent home with students this week and will also be available in the farmhouse, library, main office and at the bookstore.
At 10:30am on Saturday, May 8th, Ms. Arends will lead the OWS recorders group in a concert at the store! And don’t miss the beautiful Van Gogh-inspired flowers created by our 2nd graders in Ms. Leggitt’s art class that will be on display for the duration of the book fair.
Thank you for helping to support your school library!
Questions? Contact Ms. Simeon at library at ows dot org
University Book Store has free underground parking and is conveniently located near Bellevue Square mall!
990 102nd Ave NE, Bellevue
425.462.4500 ~ ubsbelle@u.washington.edu
Hours: Friday 9am–7pm, Saturday 10am–6pm, Sunday 12pm–5pm
Monday, May 3, 2010
Dragons and food and Greek gods, oh my! Summer camps with Ms. Simeon!
Looking for something fun to do this summer? I'm teaching three summer camps at Open Window School and would love to see you there! There is some flexibility in the ages admitted, so if you'd like to participate and are slightly older or younger than the age range given, call us anyway. Please invite friends and relatives who aren't OWS students - everyone is welcome!
Week 1, July 6-9: Dragons Galore!
For students entering 2nd & 3rd grades
Love dragons? If so, this is the class for you. We will read dragon stories, learn dragon lore, explore the history of dragon beliefs around the world, and create dragon-inspired art!
Week 2, July 12-16: Eat Your Way Around the World
For students entering 2nd & 3rd grades
Come on a trip around the world as we create and enjoy delicious dishes from every corner of the globe, explore the cultures that created them, and learn fun facts about the history of the foods we eat.
Week 3, July 19-23: Myths - Makin' 'em and Breakin' 'em (with Mr. Goodman)
For students entering 4th-8th grades
Spend half of the day with Ms. Simeon, who will guide you through a virtual tour of Mount Olympus, from Athena to Zeus. You’ll get to know the Greek gods, write myths of your own, and learn about the amazing civilization of the Ancient Greeks. During the other half of your day, work with Mr. Goodman busting and breaking down some less classic, but equally familiar myths. We’ll use our engineering minds and the scientific method to separate fact from fiction.
Questions? Contact me at library at ows dot org, call the school (425-747-2911) and ask for Stefanie Johnson, or download the application form.
Week 1, July 6-9: Dragons Galore!
For students entering 2nd & 3rd grades
Love dragons? If so, this is the class for you. We will read dragon stories, learn dragon lore, explore the history of dragon beliefs around the world, and create dragon-inspired art!
Week 2, July 12-16: Eat Your Way Around the World
For students entering 2nd & 3rd grades
Come on a trip around the world as we create and enjoy delicious dishes from every corner of the globe, explore the cultures that created them, and learn fun facts about the history of the foods we eat.
Week 3, July 19-23: Myths - Makin' 'em and Breakin' 'em (with Mr. Goodman)
For students entering 4th-8th grades
Spend half of the day with Ms. Simeon, who will guide you through a virtual tour of Mount Olympus, from Athena to Zeus. You’ll get to know the Greek gods, write myths of your own, and learn about the amazing civilization of the Ancient Greeks. During the other half of your day, work with Mr. Goodman busting and breaking down some less classic, but equally familiar myths. We’ll use our engineering minds and the scientific method to separate fact from fiction.
Questions? Contact me at library at ows dot org, call the school (425-747-2911) and ask for Stefanie Johnson, or download the application form.
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