Something for everyone...

There is so much out on the web, - just look at the number of results for the next search you do! As  Teacher Librarian I hope to draw attention to some of the sites that may be of interest or help to you!

For Everyone

Cyber-safety is important for all of us and cyber-bullying is becoming an issue in schools, even primary schools. This Cybersmart link takes you to excellent resources that help us become aware of the things we all need to think about when online. There are links for 5 - 7 year olds, 8 - 12 year olds and teenagers, as well as parents, teachers and even librarians :) - something for everyone!

For Teachers

I have decided to begin teacher resources with links to Blooms Taxonomy Resources. With changes in technology and increasing awareness of catering for the different strengths of students, it is good to look at what is being done around the world and here in Australia.

For Students (and parents & teachers)

I took home some of the popular books students have been borrowing for some holiday reading. It started me thinking about the good books we have (or should have) in our library and how to tell you about them. So to help you chose some good books to read I have included some lists for the different stages. I have to thank the OZTL_NET [teacher librarian forum] for their collective wisdom. Click on the link that best matches you!

• Great Reads K_2 
• Great Reads 3_4  
• Great Reads 5_6

For Parents

If you would like to look at other books available, check out Pivotal Kids books for some more ideas or read the Books from the Basement blog, reviews from retired librarian Kerry Neary :)

For Researchers (students & teachers)

Our library has some great books to help your research, but there are also many websites that can be of great use. To see what we have to help you find out more about what you are studying in class, visit my pathfinders wiki. If you have any thing to add to these just let me know : ). This wiki also includes help for the information skills process (or "how to research and present your work"!)

Improving your web searching

For everyone:

Google:

A retired Librarian recently pointed out, a handy feature of google.
Instead of just typing the keyword and looking at the results

• choose the "show options" link
• the "wonder wheel" gives you a concept map to help refine your search

There are a number of other features to explore and improve your search - give it a go and see what you find!

For kids:

There are also a few other good search engines to try
GoGooligans
When you begin typing a keyword in this search engine, it will give you options to improve your search. Once you have finished typing, it also gives other options to help your search, including finding facts, definitions, videos and more!

Ask Kids
This is a really easy to use search engine that will show different types of results for your keyword. It will include websites, images and a definition if there is one. Make sure you look on the left had side as it will also give suggestions to widen your search [cover more of the topic] or narrow your search [make it more specific].

Welcome

Welcome to Ferncourt Library 2010 :)

The new year has begun and we are making some changes.

•  new shelves are on order
•  new books are out, with more to come
•  non-fiction books are gradually being up dated
•  a new library website has begun, with links to useful websites for students
•  some of the taller shelving is going
•  hopefully a more open feel to our library is being developed

 There are a number of little jobs that you may be able to help with.

*As part of our face lift, I would like to recover the "comfy chairs" our students love to sit on. If you can use

• a drill
• staple gun and
• scissors    

       perhaps you could help make our chairs look great again.


*New books always need covering
If you can use

• scissors

      perhaps you could help get our new books ready for borrowing

If you can help, give us a call or pop into the library Monday to Thursday