Learning through Books, Media and Technology

ARTICLES THIS ISSUE:

1995 Administrative Leadership Award for Library Media Services

1995 President's Award Winner

1995 Technology Award

Editorial: Highlighting the Arts

Seurat, Haiku, Computers, Murals...

Keywords for the Fine Arts

Library Bids on Bach's Lunches

Quilting Gifts for the Community

Using the Arts to Understand

"Do We Get to Come Back Tomorrow?"

Intersecting disciplines

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Using the Arts to Understand

Hillview Middle School

Renaisssance Faire seventh-grade studentsincluded Jon Borgo, Keely Graham, Shelly Mainzer, Kaurl Borich, and Georgee Narval.

Throughout the three grade levels (6,7,8) at Hillview, student creativity makes learning come alive. Prior to the seventh grade Renaissance Faire, students search in the library media center for ideas and solid information. They select a character, prepare a monologue, and enjoy themselves hugely. Greek myths are turned into plays in the sixth grade, and real actors come to the library to show students how to express themselves in movement and words. Eighth graders hold a "History Day" focusing on the decades between 1920 and 1970, and the library again provides special resources and assistance to make student oral presentations authentic.

Each one of these representative projects is the result of collaboration between classroom teachers and the library media teacher, Sue Krumbein. When sixth graders read Cynthia Voigt's Homecoming, a presentation in the library featured singer/musician Greta Pedersen performing music from the book. She even taught students to play spoons! When seventh graders became connected with a community Native Garden as a Service Learning Project, botanical prints were made by students in the library. Writing projects, including photo journals, use library resources, and instruction in the use of video equipment is also provided to connect with curriculum requirements.

Bilingual and RSP students are integrated into this core program, with assignments suitably modified. The school has a reconfigured week so that there is early dismissal on Thursday, providing time for teachers to meet and plan. This team approach, says Sue, "results in creative programs in all areas of the curriculum." Such an active, almost visceral, approach to learning is sure to enhance understanding and build positive attitudes.

• Hillview Middle School (Grades 6-8; enrollment 530)
  1100 Elder Avenue, Menlo Park 94025; (415) 326-4341
  Mike Moore, Principal
  Sue Krumbein, Library Media Teacher
  Menlo Park City School District