As the library teacher, I’m always seeking ways to support you and your students. Information literacy and reader’s advisory form the core of the library curriculum, which is delivered in traditional and non-traditional ways.
Reader’s Advisory
The library teacher advises readers and creates new readers through book talking and empathetic book selection. Examples include:
- Class visits,
- One-on-one and on-demand book advisory, and
- Book requests in person and through the website.
Media Literacy
The library teacher teaches:
- How to tell if a source is credible,
- How to discover bias, and
- Differences between types of information (eg. magazines vs. journals, “published” vs. “non-published”, electronic vs. print, “free web” vs. the “hidden web”, etc.)
The Research Process
The curriculum is delivered by collaborating with you in the design and instruction of research projects including, but not limited to:
- How to define a topic,
- How to find reliable information using subscription databases (eg, Gale, JStor, etc.),
- Searching and finding information on the web and the “hidden web”,
- How to write a thesis statement,
- How to take notes,
- How to organize and outline, and
- How to cite and give credit.
Ethical Use of Information
The library teacher teaches about the ethical use of information, including:
- What is intellectual property?,
- What is copyright?, and
- How to otherwise avoid plagiarism.
Emerging Technologies
The library teacher teaches and advises on the use of emerging technologies, including “web 2.0” resources (ie., interactive, “social” and participatory media), and by field testing new devices. This includes instruction on problem-solving and project-building.
Examples:
- Using blogs and social media platforms to participate in scholarly discussions,
- Communicating a message through screencasting, podcasting, and web design,
- Designing and delivering presentations using the latest software (eg Prezi) and Smartboards,
- Representing simple to complex ideas and data through infographics, and
- Designing using Photoshop and/or Illustrator.
Pathfinders
Throughout the school day the library teacher is on-call to provide assistance to you and your students. Teachers may request a pathfinder any time. A pathfinder is a guide to research relating to a specific lesson plan. Here’s an example. Please allow a few days lead-time.
The library offers devices for individuals and classes that support this instruction, including desktop computers, Chromebooks, and video cameras.
For more, see ‘What does a school librarian do?‘
To schedule your class visit, or help with anything related to the above, contact Kevin McGrath.