Artifact # 10
Context: This unit was created in spring 2002 to fulfill a group assignment in a language arts methods class. We used Netscape Composer to design a website.
Impact: I would use this Literature Circle Unit on time travel to teach language arts to my class. This unit is particularly good because the children read books that are on their instructional level. All of the books are high interest and are based on similar ideas. Because the entire unit is online, any teacher may use it as a resource.
Alignment: The literature circle unit is designed to be
developmentally appropriate for all students in a class. Each student
reads a book that is on his or her instructional level. This level is based
on their performance. The unit is also designed to use instructional
skills for many learning styles and meets many NC Standard Course of Study
Goals. Because students are placed in groups based on their instructional
level, this unit addresses the needs of diverse learners. (INTASC
Standard 3) The unit also includes opportunities for using technology
resources such as the internet, online encyclopedias, and word processors.
(IIA) Many of the jobs assigned
to students encourage them to reflect on past knowledge and to connect
their past knowledge with new information. Students assume responsibility
by accepting a job that contributes to their group's discussion. (INTASC
Standard 2) The literature circle unit includes
specific and clear procedures and instructions that assure students are
prepared to function within the group. Because students make choices
and lead the group in discussion, they determine what the group discusses
and may relate it to personal experience. (INTASC
Standard 5) This unit is also an interdisciplinary unit.
It not only teaches children about language arts and reading, it has a
strong concentration on the historical content of each book. Students
are required to use methods of inquiry to learn about the embedded historical
ideas within the books. (INTASC
Standard 1) The unit also demonstrates that I can develop
short and long range plans because there are daily plans for each section
of the book and plans for the entire unit.
(INTASC Standard 7)