4. Popular Issues in English and Language Arts Instruction Issues in this subject area in regard to technology integration include: Expanding the definition of literacy Exploring new instructional practices Creating social learning environments Making decisions on keyboarding instruction
5. How does this lesson plan address these issues? Expanding the definition of literacy Nurtures the skills required as part of the “new literacy” such as internet research, software proficiency and basic computer knowledge Helps students become comfortable with the internet as an education tool Introduces students to a new process for planning and executing projects (Inspiration 9)
6. How does this lesson plan address these issues? Exploring new instructional practices Reinvents the somewhat tedious process of writing research papers by including interesting topics and modern tools
7. How does this lesson plan address these issues? Creating social learning environments Allows students to interact via writing critique and discussion
8. Technology Integration Issues The required level of technology integration should not create issues for students in this grade level. If the required technology (internet browser, projector, computer lap) becomes unavailable, students may complete this lesson using pencils and paper. Papers can still be typed at home, and the students will still be able to benefit from keyboarding practice as well computer familiarization.
9. Relative Advantage Students will find themselves more engaged in research when using the internet, a vast and exciting wealth of information. In addition, Inspiration 9 will enhance the planning experience by creating an interactive approach.
10. Meeting Standards: Sunshine Standards SS.3.A.1.2: Utilize technology resources to gather information from primary and secondary sources. W.11-12.2: Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas, concepts, and information clearly and accurately through the effective selection, organization, and analysis of content. W.11-12.3: Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences. W.11-12.4: Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience W.11-12.5: Develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach
11. Meeting Standards: NETS-S NETS-S 1: a. apply existing knowledge to generate new ideas, products, or processes. b. create original works as a means of personal or group expression. c. use models and simulations to explore complex systems and issues. NETS-S 3: a. plan strategies to guide inquiry. c. evaluate and select information sources and digital tools based on the appropriateness to specific tasks. NETS-S 6: a. understand and use technology systems. d. transfer current knowledge to learning of new technologies
12. Accommodations for Special Needs Students with mild cognitive disabilities or special needs may participate in this lesson without being isolated from the class Inspiration 9 creates a visual creative experience which can improve the overall experience for students with ADHD, autism, and dyslexia.
13. Assessment This assignment will provide a clear view of how effectively the student uses the internet, hardware, and software, as well as how capable they are at formulating ideas. Students will be graded on: 1. The quality of their final paper (grammar, coherency) 2. The completeness and usefulness of their planning documents 3. Their selection and utilization of internet sources
