Learning through Books, Media and Technology

ARTICLES THIS ISSUE:

1993 Administrative Leadership Awards

Accentuating the positive

1993 President's Award Winner

The energy of synergy

This is my country --- an my school

We are the world: our success is yours

Social sciences and technology --- a natural combination

No question of relevance

Inspiring students to speak out

Big ideas prepare students for the future

Open doors, open minds

Good Ideas! Home Page

Good Ideas! is published by CSLA

1499 Old Bayshore Hwy.

Burlingame

California

94010

(415) 692-2350

Inspiring students to speak out

El Sereno Middle School

Two magnet schools on a campus that houses 2,000 fourth though ninth graders is a large order, especially if more than 13 percent of them are classified as having limited fluency in English. The magnet schools are (1) a fundamental school for grades four through nine, and (2) a school for gifted students in grades seven through nine. Engaging these youngsters in gathering and using information might appear to be a formidable challenge, but indications are that students are eager and the staff is enthusiastic.

One technique that has worked well for Sandy Shuckett (library media teacher) is to make students the "experts" when it comes to firsthand information about a country or a culture. She found this information as valid in its own way as that from books, pictures, or electronic media. Peer tutors help other students interpret Spanish-language materials, or may even give a demonstration in Chinese cooking.

One of the most interesting displays in the library media center last year was a "tag" poster created by eighth grade students after reading Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. Moved by the experiences of the characters in this novel, they came to the library to search for information about civil rights. The "tag" poster provided a way for them to record their thoughts and feelings --- about freedom, about civil rights, about living in harmony. Their creative and intellectual energies were effectively channeled. Perhaps they were grateful also for this acceptable outlet to place their ideas before a receptive public without resorting to graffiti!

• El Serano Middle School (Grades 4-9, enrollment 2,000)
  2839 N. Eastern Avenue, Los Angeles 90027; (213) 223-2441
  Antonio Delgado, Principal
  Sandy Schuckett, Library Media Teacher
  Los Angeles Unified School District