This Coming Week

Social Studies Methods:

I recently was given information on an alternative school located in Albany, New York.  For Tuesday, September 18th I would like for you to visit the school's website.  Read through the description of the school and the history of how the school was started.  It is a very interesting place and I am thinking of bringing you folks for a visit.  The website address is:  http://www.albanyfreeschool.org/about.  You folks know that I am a strong supporter of explicit instruction for literacy (at least), so it is important for me to balance my own biases toward alternative schools and consider what each offers in order to see what kinds of benefits such institutions offer for children.  In other words, I don't want to cram my philosophy of education onto you and that is why I think I should expose you to this school.  ;) Also for Tuesday, read Parker chapter 3.  Your first unit lesson plan is due for Tuesday as well.  If you have questions, concerns, or need help on the lesson plan you can come to see me during my office hours this Thursday from 11:00-2:15 or by appointment.  It probably is best for you to try to connect with Casey McGill (the Ed tutor in the LC) before coming to me, but regardless, you know that my door is always open.  Do not try to get help from Casey outside of her LC hours. As a side note, your lesson plan should be 100% free of spelling and grammatical errors!!!! 

For next Friday, September 21 (not this Friday): In an effort to ensure accountability for the readings I will be collecting your Parker books to note that you've highlighted, taken notes, etc.  As an alternative option you can turn in an outline of each chapter.  If you haven't read the text (which I sincerely hope that you have), please get on it.  There is way too much information for us to cover in class that you need to have thought through.  You will also have reading materials provided by Praxis Group B (Group B- be prepared to hand out the reading on Tuesday).  Now breathe!  You will get through this semester and this course! 

P.S.  We are booked for the "Memory" conference on Killington for Thursday, September 27th.  If you are attending and will be missing classes that day please notify your proff's NOW.  Tell them that they can send me an email if they have questions. Also, $20 buckeroos when you can.  If it is a hardship please let me know.