Tools to Help Students Learn

Jul 28, 2009 12:00 am

Tools You Can Use to Help Your Student Learn via
The Lebanon Democrat

Kid Scoop

Each Monday, we publish in color Kid Scoop. Geared more toward the younger students, teachers and parents can use the theme-oriented page for learning activities. The mission statement for the developers of Kid Scoop reads:

The mission of Kid Scoop is to enable children to express their basic desire to know about, and become active participants in their local community. Kid Scoop enlists the active use of the community newspaper in the classroom to accomplish its mission. The program features an in-paper section for and by children, as well as a unique team approach that involves newspapers, schools, and community supporters. This team approach provides children with the powerful message that their community is committed to helping each of them become an informed and involved citizen.

There is also a Web site component of Kid Scoop that includes information for teachers, parents and kids at www.kidscoop.com.

Newspapers In Education (NIE)

Teachers may receive a newspaper for the classroom at a discounted rate to use in teaching and motivating students in every subject area.

Why should you consider using newspapers as a teaching tool? For several reasons, including the following:

· Studies have shown that students who read newspapers score better on tests; demonstrate better reading, writing and comprehension skills; are more politically aware; and exhibit stronger feelings of civic responsibility.

· Students enjoy a feeling of importance when working with the newspaper.

· Newspapers bridge the gap between the classroom and the "real world" outside. Motivation for reading and discussion is built in.

· Newspapers contain something for every student – comics, sports, editorials, advice columns and much more.

· Newspapers provide the only up-to-date text available in print

· Newspapers contain history as it happens.