Acknowledgements About the Author Introduction 1. Working Toward a Student Centered Classroom Developing Student-Led Class Discussions From Criteria to Rubrics: Student-Led Assessment Tool Other Assessment Tools Tutors, Teachers, and Collaborators Time Management 2. How to Create a Project Where to Find Project Ideas The Design Organizing 3. Standards and High-Stakes Testing Standards and Projects Standards for the English Language Arts Sponsored by NCTE and IRA High-Stakes Testing 4. Adopt-a-Poet Teacher Instructions Student Instructions 5. Project Monster Teacher Instructions Research Assignments Portfolio Presentations Student Instructions Research Assignments Portfolio Presentation 6. "I Was Friends With . . . ." Teacher Instructions Research Assignments Portfolio Presentation Student Instructions Research Assignments Portfolio 7. Tracing the Protest Movement in America Through Song: A Scavenger Hunt Teacher Instructions The Scavenger Hunt Portfolio Timeline Graphic Presentation Student Instructions Portfolio Timeline Graphic Presentation Appendix Project Design Adopt-a-Poet Project Monster "I Was Friends With . . . ." Tracing the Protest Movement in America Through Song: A Scavenger Hunt Resources Case Studies References Index
"Real, rather than theoretical. The clear examples are inspiring, and the approach can be put to use immediately." -Jon Potter, English and Drama Teacher Camden Hills Regional High School, Rockport, ME "This book provides many novel ideas for teachers to use, with practical applications." -Jamie Jahnig, English Teacher Cheyenne Central High School, WY Promote engaging and energizing learning experiences with a student-centered approach to literacy. Lessons come alive, students participate with keen interest, and productive learning experiences occur when teachers use authentic student-centered strategies in their reading and language arts classrooms and give students a real voice in their academic growth. In this unique resource, Karrell Hickman presents creative ways to make literacy instruction exciting and relevant, and outlines techniques for inspiring student motivation, exploration, and teamwork. In addition to four fully developed long-term research projects that encourage student-centered learning while meeting NCTE and IRA standards, this practical text also offers: Guidelines for using the student-centered approach with readings and assignments Strategies for guiding students in effective project development, rubric scoring, self-monitoring, and self-evaluation Time management strategies and resource lists for each project Student samples and Quick Tip sections Eliminate the guesswork and let this user-friendly resource expertly guide you and your students on a rich journey of collaborative learning.
Karrell Hickman currently teaches at Feather River Academy in Yuba City, California. She has a master's degree in English and has been a National Board Certified Teacher since 1995.