English 5

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English
Grades 5-8

Language Resources

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English
Grades 5-8

Language Resources

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Web Sites

A&E Television Networks (2001). Speech Archives.
Simply download RealPlayer and get set to "hear the words that changed the world." Browse speeches by category or click on the speech archive link for a full list of speeches, arranged alphabetically by speaker.
URL: http://www.historychannel.com/speeches/ free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,20,11,12
Subjects: Public speaking, Persuasive language
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 3: Oral Presentation
Strand: Language

Barton, Jennifer, Paul Heilker, and David Rutlowski. (c. 2000 by McGraw-Hill Fisher Education). Fostering Effective Classroom Discussions.
The authors, professors of English at Virginia Tech., provide specific strategies to facilitate student participation in meaningful and productive classroom discussions. An excellent overview of types of questions teachers employ and methods designed to elicit stimulating student responses.
URL: http://www.mhhe.com/socscience/english/tc/discussion.htm free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Questioning, classroom discussion
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 2: Questioning, Listening, and Contributing
Strand: Language

The British Council. (c. 2000). British Studies Web Pages : Identity.
While the Council's stated target audience is "teachers and learners of English in Poland," the information they present has universal applications. Sections focusing on England vs. Scotland, for example, can be modified easily to reflect language patterns in the United States. Be sure to check "Political Corretness" and "What's in a Name?" in the Language Corner for relevant, thought-provoking classroom discussion topics.
URL: http://elt.britcoun.org.pl/i_index.htm free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,Teacher
Subjects: English language, names, world cultures
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 5: Structure and Origins of Modern English
Strand: Language

Cambridge University Press. (2000). Cambridge Dictionaries Online.
Users can search five online dictionaries for words, idioms and phrases. A nice way to compare American usage to its British and international counterparts.
URL: http://dictionary.cambridge.org/ free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Dictionaries, Vocabulary, Idiom
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 4: Vocabulary and Concept Development
Strand: Language

Cambridge University Press. (2000). Cambridge Dictionaries Online Activities.
The publisher provides challenging tests of users' knowledge skills based upon three international dictionaries: Cambridge International Dictionary of English. Of Phrasal Verbs, and of Idioms. The first two require Shockwave, and the illustrations accompanying the last are absolutely hilarious. A great in-class reward.
URL: http://uk.cambridge.org/elt/reference/activity.htm free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Vocabulary, Slang, Idiomatic expressions
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 4: Vocabulary and Concept Development
Strand: Language

Cook, Carley Orr. (1997-2001). Vocabulary University.
With difficulty levels ranging from elementary through college prep, this site offers activities such as Fill-in-the-Blanks, Definition Matching, Synonym and Antonym Encounter, Crossword, and many more. There is also a thematic approach ranging from fun (Baseball puzzles) to serious (Most Important SAT Words). Another plus is the lesson plan link for teachers.
URL: http://www.vocabulary.com/index.html free; personalized registration available at no cost
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Vocabulary, Word origins
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 4: Vocabulary and Concept Development
Strand: Language

Darling, Charles. (2001). Guide to Grammar and Writing.
Darling, a professor of English at Connecticut's Capital Community College, presents an amazingly in-depth but easy-to-use guide. Drop-down menus access rules ranging from Word & Sentence Level, Paragraph Level, and Essay & Research Paper Level. Darling also provides interactive quizzes and will answer grammar questions.
URL: http://webster.commnet.edu/grammar/index.htm free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Grammar, Sentences, Usage
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 5: Structure and Origins of Modern English
Strand: Language

Dillon, Tom. (May 14, 2001). Dillon's Online Vocabulary
Dillon offers interactive vocabulary quizzes for each letter of the alphabet; for foreign words that have entered the English language; for unusual words; and, most fun of all, Scrabble words. The first three categories provide answers and etymology, based upon The American Heritage Dictionary and Merriam-Webster Online, and the last relies upon The Official Scrabble Players Dictionary.
URL: http://people.ne.mediaone.net/tomdillon/index.html free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9
Subjects: Vocabulary, Etymology
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 4: Vocabulary and Concept Development
Strand: Language

Discovery.com. (2000). Discovery School's Puzzlemaker.
Use the on-line software to create and print word searches, crossword puzzles, cryptograms, mazes, etc. Word lists, organized by topic and intended to complement the Discovery Channel's lesson plans, plus clip art add a thematic dimension to puzzle-making. Another plus: Teachers may create on-line storage accounts by clicking on the "Join My Discovery" link.
URL: http://puzzlemaker.school.discovery.com/ free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Word puzzles, Vocabulary
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 4: Vocabulary and Concept Development
Strand: Language

Discovery.com (2001). Discovery Schools Vocabulary Quiz Whiz.
This is an incredibly flexible, easy-to-use program for creating vocabulary quizzes and anagrams. After entering your word choices, simply click on "View Printable Version" and print directly from the computer. Can easily be used by students who wish to create their own vocabulary projects.
URL: http://school.discovery.com/teachingtools/vocabularyquizwhiz/ free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,Teacher
Subjects: Vocabulary, anagrams
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 9: Vocabulary and Concept Development
Strand: Language

Doyle, Dennis. Practice Quiz on Vocabulary with Greek and Latin Roots.
This online etymological quiz is a stunning word-building skills site. The questions draw on the mini-lexicon provided in a “Roots Dictionary,” which includes each Latin or Greek root with its English meaning and an English word which employs that root. The quiz is fun, almost tactile, and reinforces Latin and Greek roots with their literal translations and sample sentences.
URL: http://english.glendale.cc.ca.us/roots.html free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Vocabulary, Greek and Latin roots
Standard: Standard 4: Vocabulary and concept Development; Standards 4.18 and 4.21: Determine the meanings of unfamiliar words by using knowledge of common Greek and Latin roots, suffixes, and prefixes.
Strand: Language

Doyle, Terrance. (1997). Public Speaking Website.
Sponsored by Allyn & Bacon, this website in intended to enhance student use of print textbooks. The topics, however, support oral presentations and lead the student through assessment of assignment, analysis of audience, and research, organizations and delivery of a speech. Dr. Doyle even provides an e-mail link, "Ask the Speech Dr.," for student communication.
URL: http://www.abacon.com/pubspeak/ free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Public speaking, oral reports, research
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 3: Oral Presentation
Strand: Language

Easton, E. L. (1998-2000). English On Line: Materials for Teaching & Learning.
An especially good source of ideas for middle and high school teachers, this website provides a virtual encyclopedia of materials to meet curriculum demands, daily lesson plan requirements, and solutions to problems of discipline and classroom management. There are many links to related websites and support for teachers of ESL.
URL: http://eleaston.com/ free
Audience: Teachers
Subjects: Vocabulary, grammar, lesson plans
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 5: Structure and Origins of Modern English
Strand: Language

Foll, Scott. (1998). Big Dog's Grammar: A Bare Bones Guide to English.
Based on MLA guidelines, this website truly embodies its name and provides easy access to clear definitions and examples of parts of speech and good style. Most pages provide quick interactive "self-tests" to reinforce concepts presented. One caveat: on 19 February 2001, the link to Garbl's Writing Resources Online was not updated.
URL: http://gabiscott.com/bigdog/ free
Audience: 5, 6, 7, 8
Subjects: Grammar, style and usage
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 5: Structure and Origins of Modern English, PreK-12 Standard 6: Formal and Informal English, PreK-12 Standard 19: Writing
Strand: Language (Standards 5, 6), Composition (Standard 19)

Harbet, Sheila. (c. October 1997, updated August 2000). Virtual Etiquette.
While the author has provided software and procedures for conducting on-line discussions, the guidelines are also applicable to in-class activities. Emphasis is on respecting others and responding appropriately to different points of view. Harbet provides links to downloadable software and easy-to-understand instructions.
URL: http://www.csun.edu/~webteach/mirc/vinfo.html free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Listening, discussion
Standard: PreK-12 standard 2: Questioning, listening and contributing
Strand: Language

Hardy, Chloe. (1999-2000). SpeechTips.com
While the author clearly hopes to attract buyers to her commercial web pages, her free pages skillfully guide novices through planning, writing and delivering oral presentations.
URL: http://www.speechtips.com/
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Public speaking, Oral reports
Standard: PreK-12 standard 3: Oral Presentation
Strand: Language

Hardy, Donald E. (1999). Traditional Grammar: An Interactive Book.
Northern Illinois University Professor Hardy's stated goal is to provide "a complete and free introduction to the basic syntactic strucure of Modern English." The interactive quizzes are challenging but quite engaging. A clear, no-nonsense approach to an often difficult subject.
URL: http://www.engl.niu.edu/dhardy/grammarbook/title.html free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Grammar, Syntax
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 5: Structure and Origins of Modern English
Strand: Language

Harris, Robert. (June 29, 1997). Ideas for Enhancing Oral Reports.
Mr. Harris provides seventeen guidelines to help speakers of all ages make effective, memorable presentations. Excellent, easy-to-understand suggestions lead the student from planning and preparation through effective communication techniques, including use of audiovisual tools and handouts.
URL: http://www.virtualsalt.com/oralrpt.htm free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,8,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Oral reports
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 3: Oral Presentations
Strand: Language

Kelly, Charles I. And Lawrence E. Kelly. (1998). Commonly-Used American Slang.
Part of a larger website titled "Interesting Things for ESL Students," this page defines nearly 300 slang expressions, sorted alphabetically. A good starting place to explore how and why language evolves.
URL: http://www.manythings.org/slang/ free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10
Subjects: Slang, Usage
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 6: Formal and Informal English
Strand: Language

Learn2.com. (1996-2001). Learn2 Write a Speech
Despite cutesy drawings and conversational tone, this site provides an easy-to-understand eight-step guide to public speaking. Younger students may actually find a comfort level in the humorous approach to writing a good oral presentation.
URL: http://www.learn2.com/06/0694/0694.asp free
Audience: 5,6,7,8
Subjects: Public speaking, Oral reports
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 3: Oral Presentation
Strand: Language

Moreland, Chuck. (1998) Origin of Phrases, Sayings, Terms, and Cliches

URL: http://members.aol.com/MorelandC/HaveOrigins.htm Free

Helpful online dictionary of phrase origins which also accepts queries about phrases whose origins you want to know.

Audience: Grade 5 and up

Subjects: Vocabulary and Origins of Phrases

Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 4: Vocabulary and concept Development

Strand: Language

Lexico LLC. (2001). Dictionary.com.
This outstanding online dictionary of dictionaries has class. Its ease of use is matched by its depth of scholarship. For example, look up the word “etymology,” and you get the dictionary entries from several authoritative sources, WordNet from Princeton University, Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary, and The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, complete with pronunciations, parts of speech and word origins. The site also includes links to Roget’s Thesaurus, foreign language dictionaries, word games and more.
URL: http://www.dictionary.com free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12 and Teachers
Subjects: Vocabulary, Greek and Latin roots
Standard: Standard 4: Vocabulary and concept Development; Standard 21: Revising
Strand: Language

Merriam-Webster, Incorporated. (2000-2001). Merriam-Webster Online: The Language Center.
Despite its e-business aspects, this site provides a free Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary and Thesaurus with appropriate Help sections; Word of the Day with archives and daily e-mail service; Word games; and transcripts of the public radio feature "Word for the Wise." "Words From the Lighter Side" and "Language Information Zone" offer fascinating etymological tidbits that should hook the most reluctant dictionary user. Look to find the answer to the pervasive internet challenge of finding three English words ending in -gry.
URL: http://www.m-w.com/ free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Dictionary, Thesaurus, Vocabulary
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 4: Vocabulary and Concept Development
Strand: Language

Quia Corporation. (1998-2001). Quia - List of Terms.
“Greek & Latin Roots Skills” invites users to log in and play online vocabulary games, based on a list of 20 common Latin and Greek roots. Games include a flashcard quiz, concentration, a word search, and a word match game, each, with clear instructions. For access to games, go to “Find other activities.” Teachers may also create their own assessment tools/games from this terrific site.
URL: http://www.quia.com/jg/223list.html Free
Audience: 5, 6, 7, 8 and Teachers
Subjects: Vocabulary, Greek and Latin roots
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 4: Vocabulary and concept Development; Standards 4.18 and 4.21: Determine the meanings of unfamiliar words by using knowledge of common Greek and Latin roots, suffixes, and prefixes.
Strand: Language

Quinion, Michael B. (1996- ; updated 7/7/2001). World Wide Words: Exploring the English Language.
The author, a researcher fir the Oxford English Dictionary, maintains this site for the purpose of "investigating international English from a British viewpoint." His etymologic postings are fascinating and quite detailed. Start a class subscription to the free weekly e-mail newsletter.
URL: http://www.worldwidewords.org/ free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Words, Etymology
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 5:Structure and Origins of Modern English
Strand: Language

Roberts, Doralyn R. and Judith A. Langer. (no date). Supporting the Process of Literary Understanding: Analysis of a Classroom Discussion.
Sponsored by the Center for Learning and Teaching of Literature at SUNY/Albany, the authors investigate the roles of teachers and students in classroom discussion of literature. Students should have no problem identifying with the opinions expressed by their contemporaries as they analyze The Girl who Owned a City, by O.T. Nelson (1975)
URL: http://cela.albany.edu/support/ free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Discussion, listening, literature
Standard: PreK-12 standard 2: Questioning, Listening, and Contributing
Strand: Language

Rusting, Jean D. 1995. “Cap o’ Rushes” Lesson Plan.
This multifaceted lesson plan, based on a famous folk tale, incorporates cooperative learning, Readers’ Theater, Cinderella variants, rewriting endings, drama vocabulary, research, classics connections (King Lear), compare/contrast activities, and graphic responses. Pre-reading/writing also relates modern dilemmas and challenges to an old tale. If Tales of Wonder is unavailable, a phrase search for “Cap o’ Rushes” at Google will offer several links to possible variants.
URL: http://www.ucalgary.ca/~dkbrown/caprush.html Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8 and Teachers
Subjects: Folk tales, fairy tales
Standard: Standard 4: Oral Presentation; Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative and Classical Literature; Standard 18: Dramatic Reading and Performance; Standard 23: Organizing Ideas in Writing; Standard 24: Research
Strands: Language, Reading, Literature, and Composition

Shepard, Aaron. Aaron’s Storybook – Folktales, Tall tales, Legends, More.
Author and folklorist Aaron Shepard has provided a treasure trove of folk tales, legends, sacred tales, and classic tales from around the world, many with links to his adaptations for readers’ theater.
URL: http://www.aaronshep.com/stories/index.html#folk Free
Audience: K,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12 and Teachers
Subjects: Folk tales, sacred tales, classic tales, legends, tall tales, and readers’ theater
Standard: Standard 4: Oral Presentation; Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative and Classical Literature
Strands: Language, Reading and Literature

Smith, Jerry. Horrid Homonyms.
This site offers a lesson plan and game that addresses the problems of frequently misused “horrid homonyms,” words pairs such as your-you're, whose-who's, there-their, and past-passed.
URL: http://yn.la.ca.us/cec/ceclang/ceclang.54.txt free
Audience: Teachers of grades 5,6,7,8
Subjects: Homonyms and vocabulary
Standard: Pre-k-12 Standard 4: Vocabulary and Concept Development.
Strand: Language

(Stanford University. (no date). EE353/CS394 Classroom Discussion.
Amazingly, Stanford University has seen fit to publish its grading guidelines for classroom discussion in its course "Business Management for Electrical Engineers and Computer Scientists." While the subject matter is a far cry from language arts, the five criteria listed for evaluating student comments are universally relevant.
URL: http://www.stanford.edu/class/ee353/discussion.htm free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Classroom discussion
Standard: PreK-12 standard 2: Questioning, Listening, and Contributing
Strand: Language

Technologies Inc. (1999-2001). English Language Activities.
An award-winning interactive site with online activities and quizzes. Topics include Grammar, Reading, Spelling, Vocabulary, Stories and Proverbs. Access by grade level.
URL: http://www.syvum.com/english/ Free, but annual fee of $4.95 provides membership benefits
Audience: 5,6,7,8,Teacher
Subjects: Grammar, Vocabulary
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 4: Vocabulary and Concept Development AND PreK-12 Standard 22: Standard English Usage
Strand: Language, Composition

The Learning Network, Inc. (2000, 2001). Classroom Lincoln-Douglas Debate.
This web site provides a nuts-and-bolts guide to the L-D debate format which, while designed for the teacher, can be used easily by students from middle grades through high school. Includes links to resources concerning the 2000 Presidential elections.
URL: http://www.teachervision.com/lesson-plans/lesson-2544.html free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Debate, discussion, lesson plans
Standard: PreK-12 standard 1: Discussion
Strand: Language

The Phrasefinder. 2002. Phrases, sayings, quotes, cliches, with their meanings, origins

Wonderful list of the meanings and origins of over 1,000 English phrases with a searchable archives

URL: http://phrases.shu.ac.uk/index.html Free

Audience: Grade 5 and up

Subjects: Vocabulary and Origins of Phrases

Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 4: Vocabulary and concept Development

Strand: Language

(February 2001). What's in a Name?
An early Finalist website in the ThinkQuest Junior competitions, this is a humorous but informative look at our multicultural linguistic roots. One note of caution: the site includes a page of "sexiest names."
URL: http://tqjunior.thinkquest.org/4626 free
Audience: 5,6,7,8
Subjects: Etymology of names
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 5: Structure and Origins of Modern English
Strand: Language

Top of Page

English
Grades 5-8

Reading and Literature Resources

Skip down to Web Sites

Print and Media

COMING SOON COMING SOON COMING SOON

English
Grades 5-8

Reading and Literature Resources

Skip to Print and Media Resources

Web Sites

Abigail, Natalie, Noni, and Katie for Thinkquest.org. 1998. Pegasus’ Paradise.
A Thinkquest Junior winner, this site provides easy access to some characters from Greek myths and a matching game that challenges the user to match up Greek characters with his or her Roman counterparts.
URL: http://tqjunior.thinkquest.org/4553 Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8
Subjects: Greek Myths
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative and Classical Literature.
Strand: Reading and Literature

AbsoluteShakespeare.com. 2000-2002. Absolute Shakespeare

Rich and diverse links to Shakespeare, his life and work, as well as full text of plays, poems, and select Shakespeare criticisms by Samuel Taylor Coleridge and William Hazlitt.

URL: http://absoluteshakespeare.com Free

Audience: Grades 7 and up and Teachers

Subject: Shakespeare

Standard: Standard 8: Understanding a Text; Standard 9: Making Connections; Standard 11: Theme; Standard 14: Poetry; Standard 15: Style and Language; Standard 17: Dramatic Literature; Standard 18: Dramatic Reading and Performance

Strand: Reading and Literature

Academic Affairs Library, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. (1 February 2001). Documenting the American South.
Encompassing over 800 digitized books and manuscripts, DAS presents primary Southern literature from colonial times through the early 1900's. A remarkable collection of diaries, slave narratives, songs and Confederate memoirs. Includes many reproductions of book covers, spines, title pages, frontispieces, etc.
URL: http://docsouth.unc.edu/index.html free
Audience: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Subjects: Primary source materials, slavery, Civil War
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 11: Theme
Strand: Reading and Literature

The Academy of American Poets. (1997-2000). poets.org.
A rich source of poetry with easy-to-use search engines. Includes a larger-type option for visually impaired users, a listening booth for downloads to Real Player, an Events Calendar and a Discussion Forum (which requires user registration). Bonus feature: "My Notebooks" allows registrants to store information (favorite poems, for example) for access from any computer.
URL: http://www.poets.org/ free, but registration required for some features
Audience: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Subjects: Poetry, discussion
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 2: Questioning, Listening, and Contributing, PreK-12 Standard 10: Genre,PreK-12 Standard 14: Poetry
Strand: Reading and Literature

Alchemy Mile. 1996-2001. File Downloads.
This site has chapter by chapter lesson plans, vocabulary sheets and quizzes on The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain, True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle and Something Upstairs by Avi, Animal Farm by George Orwell, The Giver by Lois Lowry and more.
URL: http://www.smls.org/downloads/#nu Free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Animal Farm, The Giver, True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle and Something Upstairs
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Ashliman, D. L. (1996-2001). Folklore and Mythology Electronic Texts.
This thematic list of classical world literature available on the web offers countless cross-curriculum possibilities.
URL: http://www.pitt.edu/~dash/folktexts.html Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Folklore, Mythology, Multicultural studies
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative, and Classical Literature
Strand: Reading and Literature

The Baker Street Times. 2001. The Baker Street Times.
This attractive and engaging site offers a glimpse of what it was like to live in Sherlock Holmes’s London from newspaper articles at the end of the Victorian Era.
URL: http://www.sherlock-holmes.co.uk/library/newspaper1.html Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12 and Teacher
Subjects: Victorian newspaper articles from Sherlock Holmes’s London
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections
Strand: Reading and Literature

Beare, Kenneth. (2001). English as 2nd Language.
Beare, a teacher, presents a lesson plan and link that work well with both ESL and native English speakers. He provides detailed steps for determining Reading Clues which can be adapted for any piece of writing.
URL: http://esl.about.com/library/lessons/blreadcontext.htm free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10
Subjects: Context, Reading
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 8: Understanding a Text
Strand: Reading and Literature

Bibliomania.com, Ltd. Bibliomania: Free Online Literature and Study Guides
This highly respected site from Oxford, England is a highly accessible study guide on American literature and authors from early Colonial literature to the present day.
URL: http://www.bibliomania.com/2/3/270/frameset.html Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12 and Teacher
Subjects: American Literature
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Bigchalk.com. 2002. Homework Central: English Language Arts

A wide range of English Language Arts topics are covered briefly and clearly here.

URL: www.bigchalk.com Choose Middle School, then English Language Arts. Free

Audience: Grades 4 and up and Teacher

Subjects: English Language Arts Homework Help

Standard: Many English Language Arts standards

Strand: All English Language Arts Strands

Boston University. (February 22, 2001). Favorite Poem Project.
Robert Pinsky, thirty-ninth Poet Laureate of the United States and Professor of English at Boston University, encourages viewers to submit their favorite poems to this interactive site. Includes many classroom activities.
URL: http://www.favoritepoem.org/ Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Poetry, Lesson plans
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 14: Poetry
Strand: Reading and Literature

Bouchard, Normand. (1999- ). USITTT.
Based in Syracuse, New York, the United States Instithttp://ute for Theatre Technology works "to actively promote the advancement of the knowledge and skills of its members." A good source of expertise for anyone involved in school play production
URL: http://www.usitt.org/ $90.00 Individual membership
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Theatrical performance
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 18: Dramatic Reading and Performance
Strand: Reading and Literature

The British Council. (c. 2000). British Studies Web Pages : Myths, Legends, Folk and Fairy Tales
While the Council's stated audience is "teachers and learners of English in Poland," the classroom materials provide excellent activities for American youngsters as well. Additionally, there is a focus on Polish traditional literature the Fun Corner provides amusing on-line quizzes.
URL: http://elt.britcoun.org.pl/m_index.htm free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,Teacher
Subjects: Myths, Legends, Fairy tales
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative, and Classical Literature
Strand: Reading and Literature

Brown, David K. (1994-2001). The Children's Literature Web Guide.
The author, who is also the director of the Doucette Library of Teaching Resources at the University of Calgary, presents an in-depth guide to "internet resources related to books for children and young adults." Includes links to bibliographies of award-winning titles.
URL: http://www.ucalgary.ca/~dkbrown/index.html Free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Children's literature, Reading
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 8: Understanding a text
Strand: Reading and Literature

Campbell, D. 2001. Washington Irving.
This authoritative site on Washington Irving provides easy access to online texts by and about Irving and his work.
URL: http://www.gonzaga.edu/faculty/campbell/enl310/irving.htm Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12 and Teacher
Subjects: Washington Irving
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Champelli, L., Monroe County Public Library. 2002. Children�s Services � Books in a Series

Great access to books in a series, including the younger child.

URL: http://www.monroe.lib.in.us/childrens/serieslist.html Free

Audience: Grades 2-8 readers, teachers and library teachers

Subjects: Sequels to favorite books

Standard: Standard 12: Fiction

Strand: Reading and Literature

Choi, Soon Y. (no date). Soon's Historical Fiction Site.
Although he is a profession of business administration, Dr. Choi exhibits a passion for historical fiction at his website. Numerous links to related sites are well-maintained, and the page "For Young Adults and Education" skillfully blends English language arts and world history.
URL: http://uts.cc.utexas.edu/~soon/histfiction/ Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Historical fiction
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

CIERA. (2001). CIERA
The Center for the Improvement of Early Reading Achievement, sponsored by the University of Michigan School of Education, supports research on reading acquisition and broad dissemination of findings to "teachers, teacher educators, parents, policy makers, and others." CIERA includes downloadable archives in PDF format.
URL: http://www.ciera.org/ free although the CIERA intranet requires a password
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Reading research, Literacy
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 7: Beginning Reading
Strand: Reading and Literature

Crane, Gregory, Editor-in-chief. Tufts University. (2000). The Perseus Digital Library.
This website offers classic Greek and Latin works and has recently added English Renaissance materials. Also included are exhibits on the Olympics, Hercules and much more.
URL: http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/ Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Classical literature, Shakespeare, Renaissance
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative, and Classical Literature
Strand: Reading and Literature

Creative Nonfiction Foundation. (2000). Creative Nonfiction.
Editor and founder Lee Gutkind's purpose for this e-zine is to apply literary techniques such as dialogue, description, setting, etc. to enrich and enhance nonfiction writing. Classroom educational and mentoring programs are available.
URL: http://www.creativenonfiction.org/ Partially available free; subscription $29.95
Audience: 9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Nonfiction, Writing
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 13: Nonfiction AND PreK-12 Standard 19: Writing
Strand: Reading and Literature AND Composition

Dichter, Aledra. (no date). American Folklore & Tall Tales.
A great series of lesson plans based upon New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards but quite applicable to Massachusetts English Language Arts Frameworks. The author demonstrates how folklore, tall tales and heroic characters have historical roots.
URL: http://www.millville.org/Workshops_f/Dich_FOLKLORE/FOLKTEXT/folkhome.htm Free
Audience: 5,6,Teacher
Subjects: Folklore, Tall tales, Legends
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative, and Classical Literature
Strand: Reading and Literature

Donley, Nancy R. 2001. Lesson Plans Library: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
This site provides a comprehensive lesson plan, adaptable to various grade levels. It has links to other outstanding sites on the subject, such as Jim Zwick’s Mark Twain Resources on the WWW, which includes the biography of her father written by young Susy Clemens. In addition, there are links to Discovery.com’s handy Quiz-making tools, Puzzlemaker and Glossary Builder.
URL: http://school.discovery.com/lessonplans/programs/greatbooks-huckfinn/ Free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, related themes and Mark Twain
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 11: Theme; Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction; Pre-K-12 Standard 19: Writing
Strand: Reading and Literature, Composition

Dr. Zeus Web Development. 1994-2001.Into the Wardrobe: a Web site devoted to C.S. Lewis.
A cornucopia of links on the life and literature of C.S. Lewis, this site contains anecdotes and correspondences, pictures from Aslan to Mr. Lewis, annotated bibliographies, sound bytes, daily quotes and Other Lewis Links, that prove a real goldmine for C.S. Lewis fans.
URL: http://cslewis.drzeus.net Free
Audience: Grades 5-8 and Teacher
Subjects: C.S. Lewis, his work and life
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections
Strand: Reading and Literature

Durfee, Beverly. (2001). Writers' Exchange : Craft
This About.com site covers all the basics for the craft of writing fiction. Durfee covers dialogue, plot, characters, and dramatic writing. She also addresses concerns of new authors who hope to see their works published. Don't miss the Page 2 link to "Writerisms and Other Sins" by well-known fantasy writer C. J. Cherryh.
�RL: http://writerexchange.about.com/cs/craft/index.htm Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Writing, Plot, Character, Dialogue, Publishing
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Durfee, Beverly. (2001). Writers' Exchange : Nonfiction.
Webmaster Durfee first provides "Ten Important Tips for Aspiring Writers" and then focuses on business, science and journalistic skills. Chockfull of writing tips and advice for authors in search of a publisher.
URL: http://writerexchange.about.com/cs/nonfiction/index.htm Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Writing, Publishing, Nonfiction
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 12: Fiction AND PreK-12 Standard 13: Nonfiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Education Alliance. (October 28, 2000). Literature Units on the Web
Co-sponsored by the West Virginia Schools and Verizon, this site provides links to hundreds of literature lesson plans. Find pre-reading activities, thematic interpretations and interdisciplinary connections. A treasure trove of ideas.
URL: http://www.wvaworldschool.org/html/lesson/litunits.html Free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Literature, Lesson plans
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 8: Understanding a text
Strand: Reading and Literature

ERIC Digest. (no date). Helping Children Understand Literary Genres.
The author discusses the use of literature on classroom writing and stresses the idea of theme spanning a variety of genres. His particular focus is folktales and how they have evolved in the electronic age.
URL: http://www.ed.gov/databases/ERIC_Digests/ed366985.html free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Literary theme, Folktales
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 10: Genre
Strand: Reading and Literature

Ford, David Nash. (1998). King Arthur
The author presents a scholarly yet accessible overview of King Arthur and all things Arthurian, real and fictional. Dozens of links and just enough maps and graphics to keep the viewer interested. Ford, newly-appointed History Department Editor for Britannia Internet Magazine, pledges to update the site and maintain its availability to all.
URL: http://freespace.virgin.net/david.ford2/arthur.html free
Audience: 7, 8, 9, 10, Teacher
Subjects: King Arthur, Great Britain
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 9: Making Connections
Strand: Reading and Literature

Forest, Heather. (2000). Story Arts Online.
Storyteller and author Heather Forest provides a rich site for teachers at all grade levels. "Lesson plans and activities" and "Storytelling in the Classroom" demonstrate the eternal elements of a good story. Be sure to subscribe to Musings, Forest's monthly newsletter
URL: http://www.storyarts.org/ Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,Teacher
Subjects: Storytelling
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative, and Classical Literature
Strand: Reading and Literature

Gaudioso, Marilyn. 2001. It’s a Mystery to Me
This site from the Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute presents a series of mystery/detective fiction lesson plans on select works by “The Murders in the Rue Morgue” by Edgar Allan Poe, “The Red-Headed League” by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and “And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie. Vocabulary sheets and author biographies are provided.
URL: http://www.yale.edu/ynhti/curriculum/units/1995/1/95.01.07.x.html#g Free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Mysteries, Detective Fiction, Poe, Doyle and Christie
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 10: Genre ; Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Glass, Colby and Mario Ramirez. (June 13, 2001). Drama.
An exhaustive list of links, this page is maintained by the librarians of Palo Alto College in San Antonio, Texas. Coverage is international and both historical and contemporary. There is something here for any student of theater.
URL: http://www.accd.edu/pac/lrc/drama.htm list of drama sites and refs
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Theater, Theatrical reviews, Children's theater
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 17: Dramatic Literature AND PreK-12 Standard 18: Dramatic Reading and Performance
Strand: Reading and Literature

Gmoser, Stefan. 2001. The Work of Edgar Allan Poe (1809 –1849).
This excellent study of Edgar Allan Poe provides online access to his works by genre as well as alphabetically by title. It also includes links to authoritative information on his life.
URL: http://bau2.uibk.ac.at/sg/poe/ Free
Audience: 6,7,8 and Teachers
Subjects: Edgar Allan Poe, his life and works
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction; Pre-K-12 Standard 14: Poetry
Strand: Reading and Literature

Gray, Terry A. 1997-1998. Lambs’ Tales from Shakespeare.
This Lambs’ Tales from Shakespeare is a page from the much heralded site Mr. William Shakespeare and the Internet. Charles and Mary Lamb retold Shakespeare’s plays in more understandable format for children. Here, one can read them online.
URL: http://shakespeare.palomar.edu/lambtales/LAMBTALE.HTM Free
Audience: 6,7,8 and Teachers
Subjects: William Shakespeare as retold for children by Charles and Mary Lamb
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 17: Dramatic Literature.
Strand: Reading and Literature

Gray, Terry A. 1995-2000. Mr. William Shakespeare’s Site Map
This compendium of links to William Shakespeare online texts, biographies, criticisms, the Globe Theatre, Elizabethan times, and more can be daunting. This Site Map of Mr. William Shakespeare and the Internet, a famous site, simplifies the many, possible approaches to a complex and exciting topic. Its annotated versions of plays help students tremendously.
URL: http://shakespeare.palomar.edu/sitemap.htm Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12 and Teachers
Subjects: William Shakespeare, his life, work and times
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 17: Dramatic Literature
Strand: Reading and Literature

Greene, Pamela J. 2001. Sherlock Holmes: Teaching English Through Detective Fiction.
This site from the Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute presents an overview of a Sherlock Holmes unit. It includes rationale, timeline, a brief Doyle biography and a quiz on The Adventure of the Speckled Band.
URL: http://www.yale.edu/ynhti/curriculum/units/1989/4/89.04.04.x.html Free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Sherlock Holmes
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 10: Genre ; Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Gwynne Ellen Ash. March, 2002. Teaching Readers Who Struggle: A Pragmatic Middle School Framework

This excellent article targets teachers of At Risk readers with a framework of five clearly outlined practices and a hyperlinked bibliography to scholarly articles on the topic

URL: http://www.readingonline.org/articles/ash/index.html Free

Audience: Middle School Reading Teachers

Subject: Reading Education

Standards: All in Reading strand

Strand: Reading and Literature

HarperCollins Publishers Inc. 2000 . Narnia.
The official Narnia web site, read about the people, mythical creatures and characters in Narnia, and play the “Who am I?” riddle game or “Test your Narnia Knowledge,” a short quiz. There are stunning pictures too and a chapter from each of the Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis. There is also a very brief biography of the author.
URL: http://www.narnia.com Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8
Subjects: Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Heiner, Heidi Anne. 1999-2001. SurLaLune Fairy Tale. Tales similar to Cinderella.
This site offers Cinderella variations online from many different cultures. There are links to modern Cinderella stories in books, stories, poetry, music, film and drama. There are also links to annotations, illustrations, the history of Cinderella and other fairy tales.
URL: http://members.aol.com/surlalune/frytales/cinderel/other.htm Free
Audience: Teachers and students, grades 7-8
Subjects: Cinderella tales online from many countries and in books, poetry, movies, and drama
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative and Classical Literature.
Strand: Reading and Literature

Herbst, Karl and the Clemson University VR Project. 1995. VR Globe Theater.
This dramatic virtual tour of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre takes you right into the heart of the theatre as it might have been. Choose either video or the faster loading “screen shots.”
URL: http://virtual.clemson.edu/caah/shakespr/VRGLOBE/index.htm Free
Audience: 7,8,9 and Teachers
Subjects: The Globe Theatre of William Shakespeare
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 17: Dramatic Literature
Strand: Reading and Literature

High Plains Regional Technology in Education Consortium. 2001. RubiStar Home.
Select the type of rubric you need at this wonderful site, and you have a rubric-maker for oral presentations and writing projects of many types. Other subjects are covered as well. Click on the topic you need. Then, click on the small triangle by the “Select category” box, and you will see what a terrific timesaver this site can be. You also have the option to generate a customized rubric.
URL: http://rubistar.4teachers.org/
Audience: Teachers and students who create criteria of a scoring rubric to evaluate compositions, recitations or performances
Subjects: Rubrics for oral presentations, media presentations, composition and more
Standard: Standard 4: Oral Presentation; Standard 18: Dramatic Reading and Performance; Standard 25: Evaluating Writing and Presentations; Standard 27: Media Production
Strand: Reading and Literature, Composition, and Media

Holcombe, C. John. (2000). Poetry Magic : Homepage
This British site discusses the craft and theory of poetry and offers guidance to beginners through advanced level writers.
URL: http://www.poetrymagic.co.uk/ Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Poetry, Writing
Standard: PreK-12 Standard14: Poetry AND PreK-12 Standard 19: Writing
Strand: Reading and Literature, Composition

IGD Solutions Corp. (2001). Novelguide.Com
Do not use this site if you cannot abide Masterplots, Cliff Notes and the like. But, if you think your students should find help wherever they can, NovelGuide provides decent literary analysis of many titles and authors studies in upper middle grades and high school
URL: http://www.novelguide.com/ free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Novels, Theme, Character
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 11: Theme
Strand: Reading and Literature

Integrated Literature Curriculum. (2001). Teaching & Learning Celebrations!
Enter this site and find a wealth of literary materials to support almost any curriculum. Search by grade level and subject matter.
URL: http://www.techlearncelebrate.com Free but some literary titles may require purchase if not available on-line
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Literary links and connections; Whole language
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 9: Making Connections
Strand: Reading and Literature

International Reading Association. 2002. ESEA Revision Signed [from Reading Today, Feb.-Mar 2002]

Important article on revision of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001

URL: http://www.reading.org/publications/rty/archives/esea_signed.html Free

Audience: Reading Teachers and Librarians

Subject: Reading Education

Standards: All in Reading strand

Strand: Reading and Literature

International Reading Association. (1996-2001). International Reading Association.
Since 1956 the Association has supported literacy programs through professional development, advocacy partnerships and research and is a great source of information about research awards and grants. Reading Research Quarterly, available online, is a must for teachers at all grade levels.
URL: http://www.readingonline.org/ free browsing archives index but a variety of membership levels available for full database access
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Reading, Literacy
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 7: Beginning Reading
Strand: Reading and Literature

International Reading Association. 2002. Literacy Links: Resources for Teacher and Parents

Excellent set of links for reading teachers and parents

URL: http://www.reading.org/links/lit_tp.html Free

Audience: Reading Teachers and Librarians

Subject: Reading Education

Standards: All in Reading strand

Strand: Reading and Literature

International Reading Association. 2002. What is Evidence�Based Reading Instruction?

Read the International Reading Association�s position statement on Evidence-Based Reading Instruction. PDF download.

URL: http://www.reading.org/positions/evidence_based.html Free single copy

Audience: Reading Teachers

Subject: Reading Education

Standards: All in Reading strand

Strand: Reading and Literature

Kendall, Juli. 2001-2002. Juli Kendall Reading Workshop Journal [from MiddleWeb]

This journal of a middle school teacher�s Reading Workshop is a helpful guide for teachers.

URL: http://www.middleweb.com/ReadWrkshp/Juliindex.html Free

Audience: Middle School Reading Teachers

Subjects: Reading

Standard: All in Reading and Literature Strand

Strand: Reading and Literature Strand

Kerby, Mona. (June 6, 2001). The Reading Corner.
Well-known reading specialist Mona Kerby targets students in grades two through eight. Her book reviews, often combined with video clips, are sure to entice even the student who "can't find anything to read." A great link to the school or public library, too.
URL: http://www.carr.org/read/index.htm free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,Teacher
Subjects: Reading, Book reviews
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 7: Beginning Reading
Strand: Reading and Literature

Landow, George P. et al. 1994. Charles Dickens: An Overview.
From the acclaimed Victorian Web, this is a scholarly resource on Dickens, his life, times, and work.
URL http://65.107.211.206/dickens/dickensov.html Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12 and Teacher
Subjects: Charles Dickens, his life, work, and times
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 11: Theme; Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Levetzow, Maria. Bettendorf Public Library. Series and Sequels

Fantastic resource to find series and sequels by either favorite authors or titles

URL: http://www.bettendorflibrary.com/teen/series.htm Free

Audience: Teen readers, teachers and library teachers

Subjects: Sequels to favorite teen books

Standard: Standard 12: Fiction

Strand: Reading and Literature

Library of Congress. (2001). American Memory.
Don't miss this source of millions of digital items with appropriate connections to U.S. historical context. Today in History, Search of the Day, and a Learning Page are sure to engage all learners.
URL: http://lcweb2.loc.gov/ammem/ Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: American Literature
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 9: Making Connections
Strand: Reading and Literature

Library of Congress. 2002. Poetry 180

Program to get schools to listen to poetry 180 days a year with the list of 180 poems from Billy Collins, poet laureate of the United States

URL: http://www.loc.gov/poetry/180 Free

Audience: Grades 7 and up and Teacher

Subjects: Poetry

Standard: Standard 14: Poetry

Strand: Reading and Literature

Lynch, Jack. 1998-2001. Literary Sources on the Net
This much revered site offers access to authoritative online literary information with access by time periods, search button and more.
URL: http://andromeda.rutgers.edu/~jlynch/Lit/ Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12 and Teacher
Subjects: British and American Literature across a broad spectrum
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

MacNeil-Lehrer Productions. (2001). Online News Hour Extra: Poetry
This site should appeal equally to high school students and teachers, to traditionalists and rappers. It includes audio downloads, a format to submit original poetry and may lesson plans.
URL: http://www.pbs.org/newshour/extra/features/jan-june00/poetry.html# Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Poetry, Lesson plans
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 14: Poetry
Strand: Reading and Literature

Manjiro, Ichimura. (1995). Kabuki for Everyone.
A nice introduction to Japanese theater, this site also provides good links. The author promises frequent updates and welcomes comments and suggestions.
URL: http://www.fix.co.jp/kabuki/kabuki.html Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Kabuki
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 17: Dramatic Literature AND PreK-12 Standard 18: Dramatic Reading and Performance
Strand: Reading and Literature

Manuel-Coggins, Sheila Ann. (2001). Drama and Theater.
Continuing the in-depth about.com formula, Manuel-Coggins presents a series of nuts-and-bolts websites for writers, performers and teachers of drama. Each linked site leads to others.
URL: http://kidslangarts.about.com/cs/dramaandtheater/index.htm Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Writing, Drama, Theater arts
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 17: Dramatic Literature AND PreK-12 Standard 18: Dramatic Reading and Performance AND PreK-12 Standard 19: Writing
Strand: Reading and Literature, Composition

Manuel-Coggins, Sheila Ann. (2001). Writing Poetry.
In the familiar about.com format, Manuel-Coggins provides "resources, games, lessons, and articles on writing" children's poetry. (Note: On July 27 and August 9, 2001, the "Gimme a Limerick and Patrick Naughton's Magnetic Poetry Java Applet links did not connect, but all others did.)
URL: http://kidslangarts.about.com/cs/writingpoetry/ Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Writing, Poetry
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 14: Poetry AND PreK-12 Standard 19: Writing
Strand: Reading and Literature, Composition

McAlpine, Dr. Gwen and KidReach Staff. 1998. The KidReach Reading Center

Rich array of links for students and educators, including anticipation guides by grade level, lesson plans, book reviews, and author interviews.

URL: http://www.westga.edu/%7Ekidreach Free

Audience: All --Click on Grade level (K-4, 5-8 or 9-12)

Subjects: Books, authors and reading

Standard: Standard 12: Fiction

Strand: Reading and Literature

Megginson, David, editor. (1994, 1995, 1996). HyperGrammar.
A service of the Writing Centre at the University of Ottawa, HyperGrammar clearly explains standard English. While the editor provides no warranty, this reviewer could find no errors in the websites presentation.
URL: http://www.uottawa.ca/academic/arts/writcent/hypergrammar/grammar.html Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Grammar
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 12: Fiction AND PreK-12 Standard 22: Standard English Usage=
Strand: Reading and Literature AND Composition

Mitchoff, Kate Houston. 1997-2001. Homework Center - African-American Sites.
Multnomah Library offers an extraordinary set of links on U.S. slavery, abolition, the Underground Railroad, and other African American topics. This site is an excellent resource for enriching student understanding of Tom Sawyer, the choices he made, and other fictions books that deal with similar themes.
URL: http://www.multcolib.org/homework/aframhc.html#slav Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9 and Teacher
Subjects: American slavery, abolition and the Underground Railroad
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections
Strand: Reading and Literature

Nel, Phil. (3 September 2000). Imagery and Figurative Language.
A faculty member of the Department of English at Kansas State University, Nel defines eight types of figurative language and provides links to several illustrative on-line texts. Clearly written.
URL: http://www.ksu.edu/english/nelp/engl.f00/imagery_and_fig_lang.html Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Imagery, Figurative language
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 15: Style and Language
Strand: Reading and Literature

Nemes, John. (no date). Learning to Read.
Nemes presents a teacher-oriented overview of recent research on the reading process, reading instruction, and literacy issues. The Amazon.com links are for professional titles. While some links are no longer active, on July 17, 2001, "dead" on still provided home pages and current contact names.
URL: http://www.toread.com/ free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Language Arts, Reading Research
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 7: Beginning Reading
Strand: Reading and Literature

Norris, Betsy and Dulcie Davis. (2001). Lyrical Lessons Online.
The authors, middle school teachers who address the Tennessee state language guidelines at Harris Middle School in Shelbyville, have created a student and teacher friendly website for poetry. One is hard-pressed to find anything missing from the twenty-seven lesson unit of study.
URL: http://volweb.utk.edu/Schools/bedford/harrisms/spotlight.htm Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Poetry, Lesson plans
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 14: Poetry
Strand: Reading and Literature

Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory. (2000). Motivating Reluctant Adolescent Readers.
The NWREL sponsors LEARNS (Linking Education and America Reads through National Service) and works with the Bank Street College of Education. Click on the PDF's link to access The Tutor Newsletter and other downloadable resources, including guidelines for starting reading programs, games and word activities, sources of funding and program support, and new approaches to family literacy.
URL: http://www.nwrel.org/learns/tutor/win2000/model.html free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Reading, Literacy
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 7: Beginning Reading
Strand: Reading and Literature

Nottinghamshire County Council. (2000). Robin Hood.
Despite its obvious commercial goals, this website provides a good overview of the legend of Robin Hood, its historical roots, and daily life in eleventh-century England. The graphics suggest a sense of time and place, and the option to send a virtual postcard provides a nice opportunity for additional classroom projects.
URL: http://www.nottinghamshiretourism.co.uk/themes/robinhood/index.htm free
Audience: 5, 6
Subjects: Robin Hood, Sherwood Forest
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 9: Making Connections
Strand: Reading and Literature

PBS. (2001). PBS Teacher Source: Arts & Literature.
Search the PBS database to find lessons and activities organized by grade and topic. Each program explores the historical and cultural context of literary works.
URL: http://www.pbs.org/teachersource/arts_lit.htm Free but some PBS programs may require rental or purchase
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: American Literature, Media, American Studies
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 9: Making Connections AND PreK-12 Standard 26: Analysis of Media
Strand: Reading and Literature; Media

Perry Internet Consulting. 2001. Charles Dickens Gad’s Hill Place.
This site provides a brief overview on Dickens’s life and work, including themes, games, quotes, Dickens print resources and web links, and a brief quiz on some characters in the Christmas Carol.
URL: http://www.perryweb.com/Dickens Free
Audience: 7,8 and Teacher
Subjects: A Christmas Carol and Charles Dickens
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 11: Theme; Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Poets' Corner Editorial Staff. (2001). Poets' Corner.
The editors and volunteers have assembled a large virtual collection of mostly English and American poetry that is past copyright. The "Faces of the Poets" page displays many rare photographs, while the "Lives of the Poets" page provides good thumbnail biographical sketches.
URL: http://www.geocities.com/~spanoudi/poems/index.html free
Audience: 7, 8, 9, 10
Subjects: Poetry, poets
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 14: Poetry
Strand: Reading and Literature

Polette, Nancy. 1998. True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle.
This study guide on The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle includes a mini-quiz, a writing assignment and an activity that promotes thought and discussion about the characters in the book..
URL: http://www.nancypolette.com/LitGuidesText/doyle.htm Free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Railton, Stephen. (1996, 1997, 1998, 2000). Mark Twain in His Times.
Dr. Railton uses twenty-first century technology to transport us back to the nineteenth century. We learn about the world Samuel Clemens confronted and how it received his works and messages. Be sure to play "Mark Twain's Patented Memory-Builder Game." (Please follow the conditions of use statement.)
URL: http://etext.lib.virginia.edu/railton/ Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Nineteenth-century American literature, Fiction, Samuel Clemens
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 12: Fiction AND PreK-12 Standard 20: Consideration of Audience and Purpose
Strand: Reading and Literature, Composition

Ramsey, Inez. 2000. Avi: Teacher Resource File.
This site provides a helpful set of links for study guides on Avi and his work.
URL: http://falcon.jmu.edu/~ramseyil/avi.htm#C Free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Avi biographies, interviews, lesson plans and books
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Ramsey, Inez. 2000. Historical Fiction Page for Children and Young Adults.
Historical Fiction bibliographies, criticism, and lesson plans is the subject of this magnificent web site fromThe Internet School Library Media Center.
URL: http://falcon.jmu.edu/~ramseyil/historical.htm Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8, and Teacher
Subjects: Historical Fiction
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 10: Genre ; Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Redmond, Chris. 2001. Sherlock Holmes on the Web: the Sherlockian.Net Holmepage
Sherlock Holmes, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Victorian England are the subjects of many and varied links on the topic.
URL: http://www.sherlockian.net/ Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12 and Teacher
Subjects: life and work of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and his master of mystery, Sherlock Holmes
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 10: Genre ; Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Regents of the University of Michigan. (1995-1999, 2000). Mythology.
Offering Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced user levels, this site surveys world mythology and its relationship to what moderns call astronomy. Excellent illustrations, good web links and a great Mythology Hangman game for each skill level.
URL: http://www.windows.ucar.edu/cgi-bin/tour.cgi?link=/mythology/mythology.html free
Audience: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Subjects: Mythology
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative, and Classical Literature
Strand: Reading and Literature

Rhlschool.com. (1996-2001). Reading Comprehension.
A terrific source of worksheets that emphasize how to determine meaning through context. The exercises also can be used for in-class computer time or as good discussion starters.
URL: http://www.rhlschool.com/reading.htm free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,Teacher
Subjects: Reading comprehension
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 8: Understanding a Text
Strand: Reading and Literature

Ruggles, Clive. (July 22, 2000). Mayan Writing.
Part of an in-depth website supported by several universities worldwide, this page provides a general overview of Mayan creation mythology. Some of the links lead to sites that can be displayed in Spanish or English.
URL: http://members.home.com/urbanlee/MayaWrit.html Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8
Subjects: Pre-Columbian literature, Meso-American mythology
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative, and Classical Literature
Strand: Reading and Literature

Salwen , Peter. 2001. Peter Salwen's Mark Twain Page
This site provides outstanding links to Mark Twain and his work.
URL: http://salwen.com/pstwain.html
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12 and Teacher
Subjects: Mark Twain and his work
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 11: Theme; Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Schenker, Alyson. November 10, 2000. NCTE Teaching Ideas: Creative Presentations for Novel and Biography Studies

Innovative ideas for teaching novel and biography.

URL: http://serv1.ncte.org/teach//Schenker31201.shtml Free

Audience: Reading teachers for Grade 7 and up

Subject: Reading Education

Standards: All in Reading strand

Strand: Reading and Literature

Siren, Christopher B. 1993 - 2000. Myths & Legends.
This award-winning site provides a rich array of legends and myths worldwide and is conveniently organized by regions and languages.
URL: http://pubpages.unh.edu/~cbsiren/myth.html
Audience: 6,7,8,9,10,11,12 and Teacher
Subjects: Legends and Myths worldwide
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative and Classical Literature.
Strand: Reading and Literature

[skye@dim.com]. 2001. List of Tales.
This site provides easy access to many fairy tales and books derived from them. Each fairy tale is followed by a list of fairy tales in print with their authors. Access via list of fairy tales, with the e-tales right there, or via the list of books based on fairy tales. A stunning tool for students, teachers and librarians.
URL: http://www.dimensional.com/~boardman/skye/index/tales.html Free
Audience: Grades 5-8 as well as teacher and librarian
Subjects: Fairy Tales online and in print
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 10: Genre; Pre-K-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative and Classical Literature.
Strand: Reading and Literature

Slegg, Jennifer 1996-2000. The Definitive Laura Ingalls Wilder Pages.
Wilder enthusiasts will find family photos, marriage announcements, obituaries, Ingalls travels, links to Wilder societies and museums, and student activities from churning butter to grinding wheat.
URL: http://www.vvv.com/~jenslegg/ Free except for requests from select museums
Audience: Grades 5-8
Subjects: Laura Ingalls Wilder
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections
Strand: Reading and Literature

Stoner, Betty. (August 9, 1999). Technical Writing
The National Council of Teachers of English provides a variety of free pages for non-members. The sections geared to new teachers are excellent, as Ms. Stoner's lesson plans for technical writing prove. Www.ncte.org should be bookmarked on all English teachers' computers.
URL: http://www.ncte.org/teach2000/tw1.shtml Free, but full membership in NCTE is paid
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Nonfiction, Technical Writing
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 13: Nonfiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Swiniarski, Steven. (1996). Basic Plotting for Science Fiction.
Writer Swiniarski clearly explains the elements of plot, the role of characters, and difference between science fiction and other types of fiction. He also offers a terrific four step exercise to help students develop plots.
URL: http://www.sff.net/people/SASwann/text/plot.htm#plotTOC Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Science Fiction, Plot
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Teachers.Net Web Services. (1996-2001). Remedial Reading/Reading Recovery.
Billed as a Chatboard, this site offers a wealth of lesson plans as well as the opportunity to share ideas with other English teachers. Search by grade level and genre. An excellent source of professional e-help.
URL: http://teachers.net/mentors/remedial_reading/ free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Reading, Lesson Plans
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 7: Beginning Reading
Strand: Reading and Literature

Teachnology, Inc. (2001). Teach-nology.com
Sure-fire lesson plans for nearly 100 works of fiction and nonfiction, arranged alphabetically by title. Help students analyze figurative language, symbolism, character development and more.
URL: http://www.teach-nology.com/teachers/lesson_plans/literature/high/ Free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Literature, Lesson plans
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 8: Understanding a Text
Strand: Reading and Literature

Thanas, Susan. 2001. Of Fables and Folk tales.
This outstanding webquest by a 7^th grade teacher is a beautiful cooperative learning unit for integrating technology and composition with the study of folk tales and tall tales. Rubric included.
URL: http://216.20.30.91/~sthanas/Folk%20Tales%20Web%20Quest/webquest.html Free
Audience: 3,4,5,6,7,8,9 and Teachers
Standards: Pre-K-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative and Classical Literature
Subjects: Folk tales and tall tales from Arabia, Egypt, Russia, Scandinavia, Japan, China, Germany, England, Scotland, Ireland, Italy, and India.
Strand: Composition, Reading and Literature

ThinkQuest Inc. (1995-2000). Children's Creative Theater.
This interactive site, designed by and for middle school students, includes numerous projects and games as well as the history and vocabulary of theater.
URL: http://tqjunior.thinkquest.org/5291/ Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8
Subjects: Theater, Performing Arts
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 18: Dramatic Reading and Performance
Strand: Reading and Literature

Thinkquest. 2001. The Hole Truth – A Unit Study Based on Louis Sachar’s Book “Holes”
This Thinkquest Junior first prize for 2001 is a stunning activities site inspired by the compelling book Holes by Louis Sachar, winner of both the Newberry and National Book Awards for 1999. Drawing from the plot and other topics in the book, this site includes eight interactive games, chapter by chapter quizzes, inventions/inventors links, lizards links, music, math games and writing activities. Not to be missed by Holes fans! It covers important themes in the book, such as bullying, interracial relations, learning disabilities, and the juvenile justice system. It is colorful, easy to use and loads of fun.
URL: http://library.thinkquest.org/J0113061 Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8 and Teachers
Subjects: Holes by Louis Sachar, related topics, and interactive games
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 12: Fiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

University of Evansville. 1997. Exploring Ancient World Cultures.
This phenomenal site provides ancient myths and information on the worlds from which they came. For example, the Legend of Gilgamesh page also contains links to Hammurabi’s Code of Laws.
URL: http://eawc.evansville.edu/nepage.htm
Audience: 6,7,8,9,10,11,12 and Teacher
Subjects: Ancient Myths and the ancient civilizations of the Near East, India, Egypt, China, Greece, Rome, Islam, and Europe
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative and Classical Literature.
Strand: Reading and Literature

University of Michigan School of Information. 2002. IPL Kidspace: the Author Page

Online biographies and interviews with award-winning authors and links to how to write to them

URL: http://www.ipl.org/div/kidspace/askauthor Free

Audience: Grades 5-8 and Teacher

Subjects: Author Biographies and Interviews

Standard: Standard 9: Making Connections

Strand: Reading and Literature

Vandergrift, Kay E. 2001. Children’s Literature.
Kay Vandergrift’s Children’s Literature Page is a compendium of vital children’s literature links. It includes, but is not limited to, authoritative and colorful pages on authors and illustrators, genres, informational sources, sensitive issues, censorship, Hispanic American, Native American, Asian American, African American, female voices in literature, webbing, sharing literature, a bibliography of author biographies in print, and articles on children’s literature. It is a vital resource for students, reading and social studies teachers as well as librarians.
URL: http://www.scils.rutgers.edu/~kvander/ChildrenLit/index.html Free
Audience: 3,4,5,6,7,8,9, Teachers and Librarians
Subjects: Children’s Literature, genres, authors and illustrators
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 10: Genre; Pre-K-12 Standard 14: Poetry; Pre-K-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative and Classical Literature.
Strand: Reading and Literature

Vandergrift, Kay E. 1997-2001. Snow White Linkages Page.
This tremendous gift from Kay E. Vandergrift of Rutgers provides links to myths, fairy tales, and legends, glossaries of mythology, Native American myths, and myths and fairy tales variations worldwide. Some are large print and easy to read, while some are more difficult. There are online folk tales, myths, legends, and fairy tales, as well as teacher lesson plans.
URL: http://www.scils.rutgers.edu/~kvander/swlinks.html Free
Audience: 7,8,9 and Teachers
Subjects: Legends, Fairy tales and Myths worldwide
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 10: Genre; Pre-K-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative and Classical Literature.
Strand: Reading and Literature

Virtualguidebooks.com (2001). Virtual Guidebooks.
Download Quick Time to visit more that 2000 "virtual reality panoramas" located in the Canadian and U. S. Far West. Links to "Books" and "Thematic Lists" provide a sense of immersion in the lives and surroundings of American Western authors.
URL: http://www.virtualguidebooks.com/ free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Writers' lives, Setting
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 9: Making Connections
Strand: Reading and Literature

Wanamaker, Sam. Shakespeare’s Globe. Theatre.
Click on “Virtual Tour” for a remarkable view of every corner of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. It goes fast or slow, left or right, upper or lower deck, depending upon how you “drive” your mouse.
URL: http://www.shakespeares-globe.org/home.htm Free
Audience: 7,8,9 and Teachers
Subjects: The Globe Theatre of William Shakespeare
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 17: Dramatic Literature
Strand: Reading and Literature

Webb, Ruth. (1995- ). Mythology.
Professor Webb has designed her website to supplement her course at Princeton on classical mythology. The focus is primarily Greek literature.
URL: http://www.princeton.edu/~rhwebb/myth.html Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Classical mythology
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative, And Classical Literature
Strand: Reading and Literature

Wedell, Sara and Brian Mitchell. 2000. Ars Poetica.
This outstanding Thinkquest winner provides a very clear glossary of poetic terms, concrete suggestions on how to better grasp a poem, some sound ideas on writing poetry, and links to famous poets. The Browse Poems link is currently down, but the site is still a beauty.
URL: http://library.thinkquest.org/C005319 Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12 and Teachers
Subjects: Poetry, how to write it, read it and “get it”
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 14: Poetry
Strand: Reading and Literature

Weld, Ann, et al. (no date). Research and Study Skills Unit.
Ms. Weld and others, teachers in Santa Clara County, have posted a five-;esson unit on research skills. While the authors address California State Standards, the emphasis on using library resources and evaluating print and electronic aterials is applicable to Massachusetts middle schoolers.
URL: http://www.etc.sccoe.org/i99/skills.html Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8
Subjects: Research, Library skills
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 13: Nonfiction
Strand: Reading and Literature

Writers Write, Inc. (1997-2001). The Write News.
Why does a writer choose a particular genre? What is the difference between fantasy and science fiction? Click on the author and book review links for answers to these questions and suggested reading lists.
URL: http://www.writerswrite.com/books/ free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Writing, Book reviews
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 10: Genre
Strand: Reading and Literature

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English
Grades 5-8

Composition Resources

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Print and Media

COMING SOON COMING SOON COMING SOON

English
Grades 5-8

Composition Resources

Skip to Print and Media Resources

Web Sites

ACT360 Media Ltd. (1996,1997). Writing DEN.
Part of The Digital Education Network, Writing DEN's purpose is to help students in grades six through twelve improve their writing. Sign up for a digital "word of the day" or click on "Tips-o-matic" for information about sentence, paragraphs and essays. The Teacher's Guide is excellent.
URL: http://www2.actden.com/writ_den/index.htm Free, but no-charge membership is helpful
Audience: 6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Writing, Sentences, Paragraphs, Vocabulary, Grammar
Standard: v 19: Writing AND PreK-12 Standard 22: Standard English Usage
Strand: Composition

The Art of Writing. (2000). Writing and Creativity.
The Art of Writing is "a webzine about writing for writers." While the focus is fiction and poetry, there is something for any writer, including free clip art and graphics.
URL: http://www.artofwritingzine.com/ Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Writing, Fiction, Poetry
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 19: Writing
Strand: Composition

AskERIC. (2001). Writing.
Includes numerous links to Lesson Plans, Internet Sites, Discussion Groups, and additional ERIC resources.
URL: http://ericir.syr.edu/cgi-bin/print.cgi/Resources/Subjects/Language_Arts/Writing.html Free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Writing
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 19: Writing
Strand: Composition

Barker, Joe. (1995-2000). Finding Information on the Internet: A Tutorial.
Barker's tutorial covers most of the material presented in the Internet workshops of the University of California at Berkeley. Easy-to-follow tips plus links to resources for keeping up-to-date.
URL: http://www.lib.berkeley.edu/TeachingLib/Guides/Internet/FindInfo.html Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Research, Search Engines, Internet
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 24: Research AND PreK-12 Standard 26: Analysis of Media
Strand: Composition AND Media

Barlow, Linda. (1996-1999, updated July 16, 2001). The Spider's Apprentice: A Helpful Guide to Web Search Engines.
Barlow presents six popular search engines and explains the difference between keyword and concept-based searching. She then guides the user through refining a search and understanding relevancy ratings.
URL: http://www.monash.com/spidap4.html Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Research, Search engines
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 24: Research AND PreK-12 Standard 26: Analysis of Media
Strand: Composition AND Media

Big6 Associates. 2001-2002. Community Folk Tale

Fantastic Lesson Plan for classroom and library teachers coordinating a local folk tales writing project with the Big 6 Information Problem Solving Method

URL: http://www.standrews.austin.tx.us/library/Assignment%20organizer.htm Free

Audience: Teachers and Librarians

Subjects: Writing Folk tales about your community and Big 6 and Information Problem Solving

Standard: Standard 20: Consideration of Audience and Purpose; Standard 23: Organizing ideas in writing; Standard 24: Research

Strand: Composition

Cook Counseling Center. Virginia Tech Division of Student Affairs. (no date). Study Skills Self-help Information.
While this site is addressed to Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University students, the questions posed and the information provided can help any middle or high school youngster. Excellent hints to help disorganized or unmotivated student set and achieve goals.
URL: http://www.ucc.vt.edu/stdysk/stdyhlp.html Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Study skills, Research
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 24:Research
Strand: Composition

Dewbury, Dolores, et al. (1999-2001). The Learning Base : Getting Thoughts on Paper.
The stated goal of The Learning Base is providing teachers and other adults insights into students' learning challenges. This page clearly outlines the skills and obstacles youngsters face when attempting to put their ideas in written form. Click on "Tell Me More" for excellent classroom management tips.
URL: http://www.allkindsofminds.org/library/challenges/GTPGeneratingOrganizingIdeas.htm Free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Writing, Organizational skills
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 23: Organizing Ideas in Writing
Strand: Composition

Dichter, Aledra. 2001. American Folklore.
This colorful Tall Tales site provides an appealing webquest with easy handles. Includes webquest, definitions, what is a tall tale and write your own tall tale. Retells Paul Bunyan and Pecos Bill, and the real Johnny Appleseed, John Chapman. Very manageable technology/media center research integration with literature and composition.
URL: http://www.millville.org/Workshops_f/Dich_FOLKLORE/FOLKTEXT/lesson1.htm Free
Audience: Grades 5,6,7,8
Subjects: Tall Tales
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 9: Making Connections; Pre-K-12 Standard 10: Genre; Pre-K-12 Standard 16: Myth, Traditional Narrative and Classical Literature; Pre-K-12 Standard 24: Research.
Strand: Reading and Literature; Composition

Dobbs, Diane. (2001). Creative Writing for Teens.
Dobbs provides an in-depth resource to help "young authors develop their writing skills and creativity." A virtual course from getting started to being published.
URL: http://teenwriting.about.com/ Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Writing
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 19: Writing
Strand: Composition

East Muskingum Schools. (2001). Organizing Ideas for Writing.
As the authors of this Ohio school district's web site point out, virtually every class requires some type of writing activity. The authors provide four clear and visually pleasing steps for students to follow, including the need to avoid plagiarism.
URL: http://www.east-muskingum.k12.oh.us/reading%20comprehension/writing_and_proofing.htm Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8
Subjects: Writing, Organizational skills
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 23: Organizing Ideas in Writing
Strand: Composition

Engle, Michael. (19 February 2001). The Seven Steps of the Research Process.
A reference librarian at Cornell University Library, Engle provides easy-to-follow guidelines for student research assignments. This is a terrific module for explaining the difference between books, periodicals, audiovisual materials and internet resources.
URL: http://www.library.cornell.edu/okuref/research/skill1.htm Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Research
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 24: Research
Strand: Composition

Essid, Joseph J. (2001). Writing Effective Paragraphs.
Essid, Director of the University of Richmond (Virginia) Writing Center, explains everything one could possibly want to know about paragraphs.
URL: http://www.urich.edu/~writing/wweb/paragrph.html Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Paragraph, Topic sentence
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 23: Organizing Ideas in Writing
Strand: Composition

Family Education Network. 2000-2002. Factmonster: Online Almanac, Dictionary, Encyclopedia, and Homework Help

Excellent online almanac, dictionary, and encyclopedia

URL: www.factmonster.com Free

Audience: Grades 5 and up and Teacher

Subjects: Almanac, dictionary and encyclopedia

Standard: Standard 24: Research

Strand: Composition

Greencorn, Jerome and Deborah Falk. (June 1, 2000). Jerome & Deborah's BIG PAGE of Student Research Links.
The authors, both teachers in Manitoba, provide research links for history, geography, science, art, math, language arts, sports, music and miscellaneous sites. While a few links did not connect on July 27, 2001, most were active. Each topic has numerous subdivisions.
URL: http://www.mts.net/~jgreenco/student.html#Index Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8
Subjects: Research
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 24: Research
Strand: Composition

Guilford, Chuck. (1996, revised Sept. 15, 2000). Paradigm Online Writing Assistant.
This completely free writer's guide offers help to the novice and the professional. The program walks the writer through all steps of the writing process, from choosing a topic, organizing, revising, editing and documenting. First-rate.
URL: http://www.powa.org/ Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Writing, Editing, Revising
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 19: Writing AND PreK-12 Standard 21: Revising AND PreK-12 Standard 23: Organizing Ideas in Writing
Strand: Composition

Houghton Mifflin Company. (2000-2001). Education Place. Houghton Mifflin English, Grades 6-8.
A good middle grades site that emphasizes grammar as well as proofreading and evaluating one's own work. Teachers can find ready-made templates for student use by clicking on "Graphic Organizers." (Please be sure to credit Houghton Mifflin.)
URL: http://www.eduplace.com/kids/hme/6_8/index.html free guest access
Audience: 5,6,7,8,Teacher
Subjects: Writing, Grammar
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 19: Writing AND PreK-12 Standard 25: Evaluating Writing and Presentations
Strand: Composition

Jansen, Barbara A. 2002. Big6 Assignment Organizer

Very useful form, following the Big 6 model, to guide students in planning an assignment. Helpful coordination tool for teachers and library teachers who team up in their planning

URL: http://www.standrews.austin.tx.us/library/Assignment%20organizer.htm Free

Audience: Grades 6 and up and Teachers and Librarians

Subjects: Organizing assignments and Big 6 Approach to Information Problem Solving

Standard: Standard 24: Research

Strand: Composition

Kasper, J. ( 1998-2001). 4th and 5th Grade Student Research Resources.
Despite its name, this website provides links that are suitable for grades five through eight. The author, a teacher, promises to check the links weekly and welcomes user feedback.
URL: http://www.geocities.com/EnchantedForest/Tower/1217/ Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8
Subjects: Research
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 24: Research
Strand: Composition

Kelly, Melissa. (2001). Proofreading with SWAPS.
Addressing her comments to high school educators, Kelly provides a template for students to proofread their own and other students' work. A good over-all review of standard English usage.
URL: http://7-12educators.about.com/library/graphics/blproofreadguide.htm?iam=dpile&terms=%2Bproofreading Free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Proofreading, Grammar
Standard: PreK-12 standard 22: Standard English Usage AND PreK-12 Standard 25: Evaluating Writing and Presentations
Strand: Composition

Kenston Local Schools (1998-2001)."The Sixty Step Guide to Writing Good"
Posted in a tongue-in-cheek manner by the English Department of Kenston High School, Chagrin Falls, Ohio, this humorous page of fifty-four rules is sure to amuse (and even enlighten) savvy teens everywhere. Not for the purist.
URL: http://www.kenston.k12.oh.us/khs/english/writinggood.htm Free
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Writing
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 19: Writing
Strand: Composition

Kim, Kyong-Jee. (no date). Creative Writing in Elementary Schools.
The author, a Reference Specialist at the ERIC Clearinghouse on Reading, English and Communication, presents an extensive bibliography of ERIC citations and Internet sites. Search alphabetically or categorically.
URL: http://www.indiana.edu/%7Eeric_rec/ieo/bibs/createle.html Free, but some documents are fee-based
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Creative writing
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 19: Writing
Strand: Composition

Learn2.com (1996-2001). Learn2 Write to Your Congressperson.
Like other Learn2 modules, this one takes a light-hearted approach to a serious subject but provides a detailed, sequential outline of the steps to follow. Good for letter-writers of all ages.
URL: http://www.learn2.com/08/0818/0818.asp free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Letter-writing
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 20: Consideration of Audient and Purpose, PreK-12 Standard 21: Revising
Strand: Composition

Livingston, Kathy. (2001). Guide to Writing a Basic Essay.
Despite the annoying "Tripod Membership Page!" pop-up window, the Guide leads students in an easy-to-follow manner through all the steps required to complete a clear, well-reasoned essay. (Note: The author's home page features a link to Christian sites.)
URL: http://members.tripod.com/~lklivingston/essay/index.html free
Audience: 7,8,9,10
Subjects: Expository writing, Essay
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 19: Writing
Strand: Composition

Lycos, Inc. 2001. RhymeZone rhyming dictionary and thesaurus

Terrific online dictionary of rhymes, synonyms, homophones and more

URL: http://rhyme.lycos.com Free

Audience: Grades 5 and up and Teacher

Subjects: Rhyming Dictionary, synonymns, antonyms and homophones

Standard: Standard 20: Consideration of Audience and Purpose; Standard 23: Organizing ideas in writing

Strand: Composition

Mathe, Elek. (September 30, 2000). Writing.
A teacher of ESL, Mathe presents four excellent writing lessons (plus variations) suitable for any English class. Enjoyable activities with easy-to-follow instructions. Note: Mathe uses British spelling and grammar.
URL: http://englishlearner.com/teachers/writing.html Free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Writing, Audience, Revising
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 19: Writing AND PreK-12 Standard 20: Consideration of Audience AND Purpose PreK-12 Standard 21: Revising
Strand: Composition

Olsen, Mark, University of Chicago. ARTFL Project: ROGET�S Thesaurus Search Form

Easy online access to Roget�s Thesaurus

URL: http://humanities.uchicago.edu/forms_unrest/ROGET.html Free

Audience: Grades 5 and up and Teacher

Subjects: Roget�s Thesaurus

Standard: Standard 24: Research

Strand: Composition

Prentice-Hall, Inc. (1999). Focus: Writing Sentences and Paragraphs.
This on-line companion to Martha A. Campbell's of the same title is completely interactive and provides excellent links to related web sites. Easy-to-use online quizzes and writing activities.
URL: http://cw.booksites.net/bookbind/pubbooks/campbell/ Free, but print text and workbook available
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Writing, Sentences, Paragraphs
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 22: Standard English Usage
Strand: Composition

Spalding, Cathy. (2001). Homework/Study Tips : Proofreading.
Spalding provides students of all ages useful guidelines to follow for self-checking their presentations.
URL: http://homeworktips.about.com/library/weekly/aa011698.htm?iam=dpile&terms=%2Bproofreading Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Proofreading, Editing
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 25: Evaluating Writing and Presentations
Strand: Composition

The Trustees of California State University. 1995. Fair Use: Obtaining Permissions
This site provides a useful permission form to send to the owners of copyrighted materials.
URL: http://www.cetus.org/fair7.html Free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Copyright Fair Use Policy and sample form letter to request permission to use
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 19: Writing; General Standard 24: Research
Strand: Composition

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. 1996. Copyright Permission Form Letter.
This site provides a useful permission form to send to the owners of copyrighted materials.
URL: http://www.utc.edu/Teaching-Resource-Center/copy_per.html Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12, and Teacher
Subjects: Copyright permission form letter
Standard: Pre-K-12 Standard 19: Writing; General Standard 24: Research
Strand: Composition

Top of Page

English
Grades 5-8

Media Resources

Skip down to Web Sites

Print and Media

COMING SOON COMING SOON COMING SOON

English
Grades 5-8

Media Resources

Skip to Print and Media Resources

Web Sites

ACT360 Media Ltd. (1999). FrontPage 2000 In The Classroom.
This twelve-unit online tutorial designated for K-12 teachers claims to be "the simple tool to make a Web site for your classroom, your school, your teacher's group." A good bet for folks who love Microsoft. Note: An upgrade to FrontPage 2002 is now available although this reviewer did not find an online tutorial for it.
URL: http://www.actden.com/fp2000/java/index.htm Free but software package required
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Website development
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 27: Media Production
Strand: Media

ACT 360 Media Ltd. In conjunction with Microsoft Corp. (1980). Power Point in the Classroom.
Despite the corny hosts, Sue Special and Jim Jingle, the tutorial shows K-12 teachers how to make effective presentations "in a dynamic slide show format" which can be enhanced with "text, charts, graphs, sound effects and video." All tutorials may be printed free of charge by nonprofit educational organizations (see guidelines under Tutorials in Print). A good starting point to demonstrate the power of multimedia presentations.
URL: http://www.actden.com/pp/ free
Audience: Teacher
Subjects: Media production, PowerPoint
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 27: Media Production
Strand: Media

The Annenberg/CPB Project. (1999). Cinema: How are Hollywood Films Made?
A clearly written, easily understood overview of screenwriting, directing, producing, acting and editing movies. Includes hands-on activities and opportunities for students to experiment with all stages of cinema production. Good possibilities for an American Studies unit, especially one focusing on the 1950's and McCarthyism.
URL: http://www.learner.org/exhibits/cinema free
Audience: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Subjects: Cinematography, Screenwriting, movie production
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 27: Media Production
Strand: Media

Ladnier, Penny Dunlap. (February 15, 2001). The Costume Gallery's Research Library, 1997-2001.
An incredibly extensive presentation of fashion articles from the early Middle Ages to the 1900's. The author truly provides a "central location to study costume and fashion." Countless links to full-text articles show how clothing reflects historical and cultural roots. The site even includes translation capabilities to French, Spanish, German, Portuguese and Italian. A must-see site for any theater or movie production.
URL: http://www.costumegallery.com/research.htm free, although for-fee research is available
Audience: 7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Costume, clothing, fashion, theater production
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 26: Analysis of Media; PreK-12 Standard 27: Media Production
Strand: Media

Library of Congress. (1998). American Variety Stage.
For any student of Theater, especially vaudeville, this is a must-see site. Focusing on Vaudeville and Popular Entertainment, 1870-1920, this multimedia exhibit offers students a glimpse of America a century ago and should serve as a wonderful jumping-off point to discuss how audiences, scripts, and music have evolved in the electronic age.
URL: http://lcweb2.loc.gov/ammem/vshtml/vshome.html free
Audience: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Subjects: Theater, scripts, vaudeville, motion pictures
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 26: Analysis of Media
Strand: Media

Museum of Broadcast Communications. (2001). Encyclopedia of Television.
Scroll down the MBC homepage and look for "Also on Museum.TV" to link to the Encyclopedia of Television Online, which seemingly includes everything there is to know about television history. In association with the University of Illinois at Chicago, it also offers The Great Debate, an in-depth history of politics, elections and television. Additional on-line lesson plans cover major topics in twentieth-century U. S. history.
URL: http://www.mbcnet.org/ Free
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: Television
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 26: Analysis of Media
Strand: Media

Museum of Broadcast Communications. (2001). The Radio Hall of Fame.
What made radio great? Who were its enduring stars? Find the answers here. (Note: Membership is strongly recommended.)
URL: http://www.radiohof.org/ Free, but $30.00 membership provides many hours of broadcast archives
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Subjects: Radio, Broadcast history
Standard: 26: Analysis of Media
Strand: MediaPBS. (2001). PBS Teacher Source: Arts & Literature.

Search the PBS database to find lessons and activities organized by grade and topic. Each program explores the historical and cultural context of literary works.
URL: http://www.pbs.org/teachersource/arts_lit.htm Free but some PBS programs may require rental or purchase
Audience: 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,Teacher
Subjects: American Literature, Media, American Studies
Standard: PreK-12 Standard 9: Making Connections AND PreK-12 Standard 26: Analysis of Media
Strand: Reading and Literature; Media

For questions or comments contact:
Metrowest Massachusetts Regional Library System
135 Beaver Street
Waltham, MA 02452
781-398-1819
frameworks@mmrls.org
Last revised: January 2002
http://www.mmrls.org