Fork, Knife, or Spoon?

Subject Area:  Information Literacy
Technology Tools Used:  Computer(s), LCD Projector, Document Camera 
Tools Used:  Simulation, Audio, Social media tool
Grade(s):  K-5
Activity Type:  Lesson, Unit, Teacher presentation, Research

One area of my curriculum is to introduce the nominees for the North Carolina Book Award so the students can make informed decisions when voting. This year is the first time that I have tapped YouTube in addition to employing the aid of my "twins" Info and Elmo. Hearing an interview with an author, witnessing pottery being formed, seeing a story come to life with animation piques interest, holds attention, and targets multiple learning styles. Adding variety in presentation and opportunities for student involvement makes teaching more enjoyable, too!

One of the nominees is the book SPOON. Before introducing the book, I asked the students what eating utensil they would choose to be and why. I had a place setting displayed on a table as a focal point. After hearing their responses, we watched the YouTube clip that covered the first part of the book in which Spoon is expressing jealousy for the benefits she thinks Fork, Knife, and Chop Sticks have over her. After talking about feelings of jealousy and satisfaction, I read the rest of the book by using the Elmo so the students could read along and see the pictures more clearly. Having the lights lowered and using the Elmo focused the students' attention and participation.

Assessment:  Observational and verbal
The most telling feedback was to see the students who are the most challenging to engage pay attention and participate.

Shared by:  Beth Shoffner, Media Coordinator, Oakwood Elementary