Common Sense Media Literacy Site

Check out this site:

http://www.commonsensemedia.org/

There are lesson plans and review sections.

Media Literacy and Girls

I just heard of about an ad-free magazine for girls called "New Moon: The Magazine For Girls and Their Dreams".   The magazine targets media stereotyping and other issues for girls.  You can sign up for an e-newsletter.  Does anyone out there know any more about this magazine?  You can see the web page for this magazine at www.newmoongirls.com

It Was Only A Matter of Time

Oprah has announced that she is now doing for children's literature what she has done for adult reading. Check out her children's literature picks.

http://www.oprah.com/article/oprahsbookclub/kidsreadinglist/pkgkidsreadinglist/20080701_orig_kids_books

If you are planning to do an Olympic unit on China, there is a very nice book about the Forbidden City and the ancient emperors called "Elephants and Golden Thrones" by Trish Marx. It has beautiful pictures and has many interesting facts about this amazing place. However, you might get asked what a eunuch is.

Library Brochure

Take a look at the brochure I made for the Moore Library. It was pretty easy. I just used the template from Word Office. You may want to make one for your library.

file:///Users/vaughnlarson/Desktop/Moore%20Library%20Brochure%20pdf.pdf

Let's Collaborate On Line (It's Cheaper)

Years ago (yes I am old, but some of you were there too) the media specialists in the valley would meet once a month to discuss issues, share new books, and present teaching ideas. It was very valuable . I learned a great deal from the other media specialists, used the ideas others presented and made some life-long friends in the process. Times change.

Face to face meetings are still the best, but I am hoping this blog can keep us connected. Gas prices being what they are and time restrains pulling us in all directions, this blog may be our best avenue for collaboration.

Please feel free to contribute anything you feel would help our group. Ask for help. Share author school visits. Review the last book you read. Inform us of "waste of money" purchases. Anything you feel...maybe a picture of your latest grandchild!

Have a great year!