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6th grade Information Literacy Curriculum
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Information Literacy

GRADE 6

Orange Township Public Schools

Gerald Fitzhugh, II, Ed.D.

Office of the Superintendent

Information Literacy

Course Description: “Information literacy” means a set of skills that enables an individual to recognize when information is needed and to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information. Information literacy includes, but is not  limited to, digital, visual, media, textual, and technological literacy.

The 6th Grade Information Literacy curriculum equips students with critical life skills necessary for evaluating and synthesizing information from a wide range of sources. Upon completion, students will be proficient in using information literacy skills to locate, assess, and apply information from both contemporary and traditional sources effectively.

  • Students will be able to adapt information literacy skills to evaluate the validity of various sources of information

  1. Students will be able to discuss and maximize the research process and how information is created and produced.
  2. Students will be able to combine critical thinking and using information resources.
  3. Students will be able to develop research methods, including testing the difference between primary and secondary sources.
  4. Students will be able to discuss and elaborate on the difference between facts, points of view, and opinions.
  5. Students will be able to create projects accessing peer-reviewed print and digital library resources.
  6. Students will be able to discuss and predict the economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information.
  7. Students will be able to elaborate on the ethical production of information.

Key areas of focus will include:

  • The Research Process:  Understanding how information is created, produced, and disseminated.
  • Critical Thinking: Employing analytical skills to evaluate the credibility and relevance of information resources.
  • Research Methods: Differentiating between primary and secondary sources and understanding their roles in research.
  • Distinguishing Content: Identifying and analyzing facts, points of view, and opinions in various types of content.
  • Accessing Resources: Utilizing peer-reviewed print and digital library resources to support research efforts.
  • Information Issues: Exploring economic, legal, and social considerations related to the use of information.
  • Ethical Production: Applying ethical principles in the creation and sharing of information.

By mastering these skills, students will be prepared to navigate the complexities of information in an informed and responsible manner, making them adept at identifying reliable sources and understanding the broader implications of information use.

Scope and Sequence

Timeline

Major Works

(Units of Study)

Outcomes of Major Works

(Performance Outcomes)

Module 1

  • Research process and how information is created and produced.

  • Critical thinking and using information resources (incorporates the examination of Primary and Secondary Sources).

  • Students will demonstrate mastery in evaluating the validity of information by comprehensively understanding the underlying purpose and intent of various forms of communication, including print, digital, and multimedia. They will be adept at discerning the credibility and reliability of information, recognizing biases and motives, and critically analyzing how different formats and mediums influence the message. Through this process, students will develop a nuanced ability to assess and interpret information across diverse platforms, ensuring informed and discerning engagement with all types of content.

  • Students will be proficient in formulating, discussing, and evaluating diverse sources of information by applying rigorous critical thinking skills. They will critically assess the reliability and relevance of these sources, test their validity, and anticipate potential outcomes and implications of the information presented. This process will enable students to make informed predictions and evaluations about the accuracy and impact of information, fostering a deeper understanding of its potential consequences and applications.

Module 2

  • Difference between facts, points of view, and opinions.

  • Peer-reviewed print and digital library resources.

Students will demonstrate mastery in distinguishing between facts, points of view, and opinions across various types of communication—whether print, digital, or multimedia. They will apply a sophisticated understanding of the differences between scholarly and non-scholarly publications, critically evaluating each source’s credibility, relevance, and intent. This comprehensive skill set will enable students to effectively analyze and interpret information, ensuring a well-rounded and informed approach to engaging with diverse content.

Module 3

  • Economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information.

  • Ethical production of information.

  • Students will be adept at exploring and critically evaluating a range of issues related to the ethical use of information. They will apply advanced critical thinking skills and the research process to scrutinize ethical dilemmas, assess the implications of information use, and ensure responsible and principled engagement with content. By delving into these ethical considerations, students will enhance their ability to navigate complex information landscapes with integrity and insight.

Module 1

Grade

6

Unit Plan Title:

The Research Process and the Use of Information Resources

 Overview/Rationale

Module 1 Overview-  This module is designed to equip students with the skills and insights necessary to discern between the proper and improper use of information. Students will engage deeply with the research process, integrating critical thinking to analyze the motivations behind information creation. They will explore various sources and methodologies for evaluating the reliability of information. By the end of this module, students will demonstrate mastery in selecting credible sources and identifying potentially harmful or misleading information. Additionally, students will be proficient in formulating, discussing, and testing diverse sources, using critical thinking to anticipate and assess the potential outcomes and impacts of the information presented.

New Jersey Student Learning Standards- 

Currently in the design stage (2024) scheduled to be available 2025.

Career Readiness, Life Literacies, and Key Skills

2020 New Jersey Student Learning Standards – Career Readiness, Life Literacies, and Key Skills

9.4 Life Literacies and Key Skills by the End of Grade 8

  • 9.4.8.DC.1: Analyze the resource citations in online materials for proper use.
  • 9.4.8.DC.2: Provide appropriate citation and attribution elements when creating media products

(e.g., W.6.8)

  • 9.4.8.DC.3: Describe tradeoffs between allowing information to be public (e.g., within online
  • games) versus keeping information private and secure.
  • 9.4.8.DC.4: Explain how information shared digitally is public and can be searched, copied, and

potentially seen by public audiences.

  • 9.4.8.DC.6: Analyze online information to distinguish whether it is helpful or harmful to reputation.
  • 9.4.8.IML.1: Critically curate multiple resources to assess the credibility of sources when

searching for information.

  • 9.4.8.IML.2: Identify specific examples of distortion, exaggeration, or misrepresentation of

information.

  • 9.4.8.IML.6: Identify subtle and overt messages based on the method of communication.
  • 9.4.8.IML.7: Use information from a variety of sources, contexts, disciplines, and cultures for a

specific purpose (e.g., 1.2.8.C2a, 1.4.8.CR2a, 2.1.8.CHSS/IV.8.AI.1, W.5.8, 6.1.8.GeoSV.3.a,

6.1.8.CivicsDP.4.b, 7.1.NH. IPRET.8).

  • 9.4.8.IML.8: Apply deliberate and thoughtful search strategies to access high-quality information

on climate change (e.g., 1.1.8.C1b).

  • 9.4.8.IML.9: Distinguish between ethical and unethical uses of information and media (e.g.,

1.5.8.CR3b, 8.2.8.EC.2).

  • 9.4.8.IML.10: Examine the consequences of the uses of media (e.g., RI.8.7).
  • 9.4.8.IML.11: Predict the personal and community impact of online and social media activities.
  • 9.4.8.IML.12: Use relevant tools to produce, publish, and deliver information supported with

evidence for an authentic audience.

  • 9.4.8.IML.13: Identify the impact of the creator on the content, production, and delivery of

information (e.g., 8.2.8.ED.1).

  • 9.4.8.IML.14: Analyze the role of media in delivering cultural, political, and other societal

messages.

  • 9.4.8.IML.15: Explain ways that individuals may experience the same media message

differently.

  • 9.4.8.TL.2: Gather data and digitally represent information to communicate a real-world problem

(e.g., MS-ESS3-4, 6.1.8.EconET.1, 6.1.8.CivicsPR.4).

  • 9.4.8.TL.3: Select appropriate tools to organize and present information digitally
  • 9.4.8.TL.4: Synthesize and publish information about a local or global issue or event (e.g., MS LS4-5, 6.1.8.CivicsPI.3).
  • 9.4.8.TL.6: Collaborate to develop and publish work that provides perspectives on a real-world

problem

Technology/Computer Science and Design Thinking

Standards

New Jersey Student Learning Standards –

Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.2.8.ITH.1: Explain how the development and use of technology influences economic, political, social, and cultural issues.

8.2.8.ITH.2: Compare how technologies have influenced society over time.

8.2.8.ITH.4: Identify technologies that have been designed to reduce the negative consequences of other technologies and explain the change in impact.

8.2.8.ITH.5: Compare the impacts of a given technology on different societies, noting factors that may make a technology appropriate and sustainable in one society but not in another.

8.2.8.EC.1: Explain ethical issues that may arise from the use of new technologies

Interdisciplinary Standards

Standards

New Jersey Student Learning Standards English Language Arts (NJSLS-ELA)

L.SS.8.1. Demonstrate command of the system and structure of the English language when writing or speaking.

L.KL.8.2. Use knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.

L.VL.8.3. Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words or phrases based on grade 8 reading and content, including technical meanings, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies.

L.VI.8.4. Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.

RL.CR.8.1. Cite a range of textual evidence and make clear and relevant connections to strongly support an analysis of multiple aspects of what a literary text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.

RI.CR.8.1. Cite a range of textual evidence and make clear and relevant connections (including informational text features such as charts, graphs, and diagrams) that strongly support an analysis of multiple aspects of what an informational text says explicitly, as well as inferences drawn from the text.

RL.CI.8.2. Determine a theme of a literary text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a summary of the text distinct from personal opinions or judgments.

RI.CI.8.2. Determine a central idea of an informational text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a summary of the text distinct from personal opinions or judgments.

RL.IT.8.3. Analyze how particular elements of a text interact (e.g., how setting shapes the characters or plot, how ideas influence individuals or events, or how characters influence ideas or events) across multiple text types, including across literary and informational texts.

RI.IT.8.3. Analyze how particular elements of a text interact (e.g., how contexts influence individuals or events, or how individuals influence ideas or events) across multiple text types, including across literary and informational texts.

RL.TS.8.4. Compare and contrast the structure of texts, analyzing how the differing structure of each text contributes to its meaning, tone and style.

RI.TS.8.4. Analyze and explain how an author organizes, develops and presents ideas, establishes a point of view or builds supporting arguments through text structure.

RL.PP.8.5. Analyze how an author conveys or develops their perspective or purpose in a text through the use of different perspectives of the characters and that of the audience or reader (e.g., created through the use of dramatic irony).

RI.PP.8.5. Analyze how an author conveys or develops their perspective or purpose in a text and by acknowledging and responding to conflicting evidence or viewpoints.

RL.MF.8.6. Evaluate the choices made (by the authors, directors or actors) when presenting an idea in different mediums, including the representation/s or various perspectives of a subject or a key scene in two different artistic mediums (e.g., a person’s life story in both print and multimedia), as well as what is emphasized or absent in each work.

RI.MF.8.6. Evaluate the choices made (by the authors, directors, or actors) when presenting an idea in different mediums and the advantages and disadvantages of using different mediums or formats (e.g., visually, quantitatively) to address a question or solve a problem.

RI.AA.8.7. Delineate and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, assessing whether the reasoning is sound and the evidence is relevant and sufficient; recognize when irrelevant evidence is introduced.

RL.CT.8.8. Analyze and reflect on how the author’s idea in fiction and literary nonfiction texts (e.g., practical knowledge, historical/cultural context, and background knowledge) is shaped by the author’s emphasis on different evidence, advancing different interpretations of facts, or fictional portrayal of a time, place, or character and a historical account of the same period.

RI.CT.8.8. Analyze and reflect on (e.g., practical knowledge, historical/cultural context, and background knowledge) two or more informational texts that provide conflicting information on the same topic and identify where the texts disagree on matters of fact or interpretation.

W.AW.8.1. Write arguments on discipline-specific content (e.g., social studies, science, technical subjects, English/Language Arts) to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.

W.IW.8.2. Write informative/explanatory texts (including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/ experiments, or technical processes) to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.

W.NW.8.3. Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, relevant descriptive details, and well-structured event sequences.

W.WP.8.4. With some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, sustaining effort to complete complex writing tasks; seeking out assistance, models, sources or feedback to improve understanding or refine final products; focusing on how well purpose and audience have been addressed.

W.WR.8.5. Conduct short research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question), drawing on several sources and generating additional related, focused questions that allow for multiple avenues of exploration.

W.SE.8.6. Gather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources, using search terms effectively; assess the credibility and accuracy of each source; and quote or paraphrase the data and conclusions of others while avoiding plagiarism and following a standard format for citation.

W.RW.8.7. Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, metacognition/self- correction, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.

SL.PE.8.1. Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 8 topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly.

SL.II.8.2. Analyze the purpose of information presented in diverse media and formats (e.g., visually, quantitatively, orally) and evaluate the motives (e.g., social, commercial, political) behind its presentation.

SL.ES.8.3. Delineate a speaker’s argument and specific claims, evaluating the soundness of the reasoning and relevance and sufficiency of the evidence and identifying when irrelevant evidence is introduced.

SL.PI.8.4. Present claims and findings, emphasizing salient points in a focused, coherent manner with relevant evidence, sound valid reasoning, and well-chosen details; use appropriate eye contact, adequate volume, and clear pronunciation.

SL.UM.8.5. Integrate multimedia and visual displays into presentations to clarify information, strengthen claims and evidence, and add interest.

SL.AS.8.6. Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.

21st Century Skills: 

E = Encouraged, T = Taught,  A = Assessed

ETA

Civic Literacy

ETA

Communication

ETA

Global Awareness

ETA

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Health Literacy

ETA

Collaboration

Financial, Economic, Business, &   Entrepreneurial Literacy

ETA

Creativity and Innovation

Environmental Literacy

Other:  

Essential Question(s)

  • How does the reliability of sources affect the accuracy and integrity of content related to real-world issues and beliefs?
  • Why is employing critical thinking and a structured research process essential for evaluating the credibility of information and preventing distortion, exaggeration, or misrepresentation?
  • How can integrating the research process with the use of primary and secondary sources help us critically evaluate media content and resist undue influence on cultural, political, and societal perspectives?

Enduring Understandings

  • Students will gain a deep understanding of the research process and critically evaluate the factors contributing to the misrepresentation of information.
  • Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of how to analyze and interpret both primary and secondary sources.
  • Students will recognize and understand the implications of hidden messages and biases within information resources.

Student Learning Targets/Objectives

By the end of this module:

  • I can use the research process to avoid distortion, exaggeration, or misrepresentation of information and critically evaluate the reason why such information was created.  
  • I can analyze primary and secondary sources while using the research process to argue or disprove  disinformation, misinformation, and fake news.
  • I can predict the consequences and impact of subtle and overt messages hidden in the production of media with the application of critical thinking, primary and secondary sources and the research process.

Weekly Objectives:

  • Week 1
  • I can conduct research on a selected topic.
  • I can annotate information articles, and organize thoughts using a concept map.
  • I can research claims of a selected topic and organize evidence into a table.
  • I can create a Works Cited of information articles on a selected topic.
  • Week 2
  • I can draft a Thesis Statement based on a selected topic.
  • I can organize thoughts and information about a selected topic into a Point Outline and a Sentence Outline.
  • I can compose a rough draft about a selected topic using gathered information and thoughts.
  • Week 3
  • I can revise and edit a draft using a given rubric.
  • I can peer review a draft, assessing areas of strength and growth.
  • I can self-assess a draft, assessing areas of strength and growth.
  • Week 4
  • I can differentiate between Primary and Secondary Sources.
  • I can apply the positive and negative uses of a Primary and Secondary Source to everyday life.
  • Week 5
  • I can differentiate between Primary and Secondary Sources.
  • I can apply the positive and negative uses of Educational Technology to everyday life.
  • Week 6
  • I can curate multiple resources to assess the currency of sources when searching for information.
  • Week 7
  • I can analyze the relevance of media in delivering cultural, political and societal messages,
  • I can analyze online information to determine positive or negative messages of a topic.
  • Week 8
  • I can provide appropriate citation and attribution elements when researching media products.
  • I can analyze the resources citations in online materials for proper use.
  • Week 9
  • I can identify specific examples of distortion, exaggeration, or misrepresentation of information.
  • I can evaluate and discuss the accuracy of information resources.
  • Week 10
  • I can identify the purpose of various information resources.
  • I can identify evidence of fact, opinion or propaganda in various information resources.
  • I can identify evidence of biases in various information resources.

Assessments

Assessments will be formative and ongoing throughout the module. Formative assessments will include, but will not be limited to the following;  (Examples)

  • Observations during in-class activities; of students non-verbal feedback during lecture
  • Homework exercises as review for exams and class discussions)
  • Reflections journals that are reviewed periodically during the semester
  • Question and answer sessions, both formal—planned and informal—spontaneous
  • Conferences between the instructor and student at various points in the semester
  • In-class activities where students informally present their results
  • Student feedback collected by periodically answering specific question about the instruction and their self-evaluation of performance and progress

Summative assessments may be utilized to meet district requirements or to validate the transfer of learning objectives. (Examples)

  • Presentations
  • Performance Tasks
  • Student evaluation of the course
  • Instructor self-evaluation

Teaching and Learning Actions

Instructional Strategies

Differentiation examples:

Academic Vocabulary -  Create and keep a current Word Wall consisting of words and terms used in the VPA content area, in which children can use and interact with. Important for all learners, academic vocabulary and language must be taught explicitly, particularly to second language learners.

Accountable talk - Talking with others about ideas is fundamental to classroom learning. Classroom talk that promotes and sustains learning should be accountable to other learners, use accurate and appropriate knowledge, and adhere to rigor in thinking. Accountable talk responds to and further develops what others have said through relevant observations, ideas, opinions, or more information.

Cognates-Cognates are words in two languages that share a similar meaning, spelling, and pronunciation. 30-40% of all words in English have a related word in Spanish and this guide provides a helpful list of cognates in Spanish and English.

Conferencing - A one-to-one teacher conference with a student about his or her work in progress is prevalent in teaching writing and speaking, but it is also useful in other areas. The purpose of the conference-- engaging in meaningful conversation about the student’s work in progress--will not be realized automatically. Preparation (on the part of both the teacher and the student) before the conference, careful listening during the conference, recordkeeping, and follow-up are essential components for a successful outcome. In student-to-student conferencing, participants require guidance, a focused protocol, and accountability.  Video resource: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pad1eAcsHho

Content Stations – Areas where students work on different tasks simultaneously.  Can and should be leveled for review, challenge, and remediation at appropriate level.  Teacher rotates and facilitates instruction and assistance.  Activities reach various learning styles.  Houghton Mifflin Harcourt leveled readers to assist in background knowledge, skills application, etc.

Cues, questions, activating prior knowledge- Frequently assess your students for prior content knowledge to assist in planning your lessons.  Use effective questioning to prompt students to recall and apply what they have already learned.

Effective questioning - Teacher questioning and student response are common classroom learning activities. Research finds that teacher questions (and cues) are effective when they focus on what is important, require students to respond at higher levels, provide adequate wait time after a question is asked and establish an engaging introduction for the lesson. Effective questioning can also play a role in focusing students on unit learning goals or overarching themes throughout a longer period of study.

Flexible Groupings-   Teacher meets with groups to meet curricular goals, engage students, and respond to individual needs.

Integration of content areas - There is a strong case to be made for integrating curriculum. It strengthens skills that students encounter in one content area, but also practice in another, such as reading and writing, and it

can lead to the mastery of those skills. It provides meaningful instruction for students in multiple areas of standards in a single class or learning experience. It is also a more authentic way of

learning because it reflects what we experience, both professionally and personally, in the world. It can be a way to engage students when introducing them to a challenging subject. STEM education is a current example of effective content integration. Research supports the integration of content areas.

Intentional Use of Technology – whiteboard presentations and activities available and encouraged for use through HMH.

Leveled Instruction – Teacher gives introductory lesson to the entire class, then provides varying access points for students to practice skills.  Teacher provides several assignments with different levels of difficulty- the student OR teacher chooses an assignment.

Modeling - Modeling is an instructional strategy wherein the teacher or another student demonstrates a new concept or skill and students learn by observing and emulating. Modeling is an effective instructional strategy when it allows students to observe thought processes and imitate particular behaviors or steps in a process. Types and purposes of modeling can include approaches such as task and performance modeling (demonstrating a task), metacognitive modeling (thinking aloud), and disposition modeling (conveying one’s own enthusiasm, interest, or commitment). Modeling can be used across disciplines and in all grades and ability levels.

Read-aloud - Read-aloud is an instructional format, included formally in elementary reading programs and as an instructional activity in all areas and levels of the curriculum. A primary purpose of a read-aloud is to create a community of readers in the classroom and establish a known text as a basis for related literacy activities. Reading aloud allows teachers to model important components of literacy, such as fluency, expression, and interacting with texts while exposing students to vocabulary that is just beyond their instructional level and demonstrating how reading is a source of information and enjoyment.

SIoP Strategies - Sheltered Instructional Observation Protocol consists of eight components; lesson preparation, building background, comprehensible input, strategies, interaction, practice, lesson delivery, and review and assessment.  Using these eight components teachers can design instruction that will help Multilingual learner (MLL) to reach English language acquisition.

Student goal setting - Teachers who set, define, and communicate learning objectives effectively with students employ research-based findings that say goal setting with students should: (1) be flexible and general because when a goal is too narrowly focused, it may limit learning (2) encourage student ownership (e.g., creating own goals, personalizing teacher goals, committing to contracts, and providing feedback on their progress in journals, videos, etc.); (3) focus on understanding over accomplishing tasks; and (4) allow students enough time to adapt goals to their own interests, learning styles, and prior knowledge. Setting goals benefits from explicit instruction.

Targeted feedback - Research and effective practice points to the following keys to using targeted feedback to improve student achievement and avoid negative effects: (1) link feedback to objectives; (2) use a formative evaluation approach over a summative approach; (3) make guidance specific (e.g.,proofing remarks or codes may not communicate well); (4) provide feedback in a timely manner (not long after assignment is forgotten); and (5) identify how students should use feedback to make improvements.                                                                                                 Thumbs Up/Down, “Stop Light”, “Smiley Face”- for quick, formative assessment                                                                                                    Think-Pair-Share– Turn & Talk with a neighbor to discuss/review various concepts/vocabulary/etc.  Each child that is called on to share reports out their partner’s ideas/response; then switch.

Word wall - A word wall is an organized collection of words prominently displayed in a classroom and

frequently used as an interactive literacy tool for teaching vocabulary and spelling to children. There are many different types of word walls, such as high frequency words, word families, and story- or unit-related names.

Activities: Including G/T, SE, and ELL Differentiation

Differentiation examples:

Students with a 504:
All modifications and health concerns listed in his/her 504 plan MUST be adhered to.

  •  Provide scaffolded support when they respond to questions (ie. Rephrase questions, have them Turn & Talk to peers, provide sentences frames for response, etc)
  • Sentence frames discussions/sharing.
  • Encourage participation using words, phrases, gestures, illustrations, and dictation, as needed.
  •  Refer to visuals throughout lesson/activity
  • Divide instruction into smaller chunks of time
  • Post pictures with new vocabulary words when possible and have children repeat each word.
  • Students demonstrate understanding verbally or drawing.
  •  Allow role-play responses.
  • Provide sentence frames for forming opinions:  I agree with ____ because ___. Or I do not agree with ____ because _____.
  • Encourage use of content vocabulary.
  • Use words, gestures, and repetition  to assist in developing vocabulary meaning retention.
  • Retell stories, have children point to an image that matches their retelling.
  •  Have children highlight vocabulary/key words in their student workbooks..
  • Model using class anchor charts to assist in their writing, speaking, and reading..
  • Provide word/phrase cards to assist in accomplishing tasks.
  •  Model sentence structure when responding to questions.
  • Ask “yes” and “no” questions from time to time.
  • Allow frequent movement in the classroom, going up to the SMARTBoard, or big book to point out things relevant to the lesson.
  • Thumbs Up/Down for quick assessments.
  • Take dictation.
  • Have student make a line for each word of their response, then work with them to write the sentence decoding and reading the room to help with their writing. (ie. “I like the part when Keisha could build a tower using blocks.” _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.)
  •  Encourage asking questions for clarity. Provide displayed anchor chart of question words with question phrases on it.
  • Assign partner work.
  • Snap & Read Google extension (reads to student in selected language).
  • Small group instruction
  • Inclusion of videos, images, and Google Expeditions
  • Choice in task products (song, dance, writing, role play, drawing)
  • Use of Google Chromebook Accessibility Features, including:  screen magnifier, font increase, black/white contrast, larger cursor, Chromevox, on-screen

Module 1

Week 1:

Focus: Research Process and how information is created and produced

Activity: Overview of the Writing and Research Process

  1.  Prewriting
  1. Unpack the Task - identify the writing task; define important vocabulary.
  2. Generate Ideas - research the topic; text annotation; concept mapping; narrowing a topic
  3. Explore Ideas (Deep Dive)/Evidence Collection - source collection and annotation; exploration of online databases; reliable and valid sources; summary vs. direct quotes vs. paraphrase; annotated bibliography; works cited
  4. Collaboration - written conversations
  5. Establishing Claims/Topic Sentences - types of claims; components of a claim; effectiveness of a claim; controlling an argument

Practice: After explanation of 1a and 1b, complete Activity #1 - 6-8 MI.W.1.Prewriting1.pdf

After explanation of 1c-1e, complete Activity #2 - 6-8 M1.W.1.Prewriting2.pdf

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 2:

Focus: Research process and how information is created and produced

Activity: Overview of the Writing and Research Process

  1. Drafting
  1. Thesis Development - working thesis statement must be revisited and refined as the writer progresses through the research process
  2. Point Outline - the writer outlines the paper through brief ideas
  3. Sentence Outline - the writer shifts from brief ideas to full sentences in the outline
  4. Developing Commentary - the writer deeply considers how the ideas of others help develop their own ideas, fleshing out commentary and building in evidence as support of their claims
  5. Refining - the writer, with the help of the teacher, peers, or other feedback mechanisms, considers style and voice

Practice: After explanation of the drafting process, complete Drafting Outline 6-8 MI.W.2.Drafting.pdf

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 3:

Focus: Research process and how information is created and produced

Activity: Overview of the Writing and Research Process

  1. Revising 
  1. Use a rubric as a checklist for requirements
  2. Read aloud with partner
  3. Teacher conferences
  4. Peer Review
  1. Editing
  1. Conduct proofreading, including spell/grammar check
  2. Conduct peer worksheets and receive/provide feedback
  3. Revisit teacher feedback
  4. Read aloud with partner
  5. Self-assess based on rubric
  1. Publishing
  1. Display work
  2. Read aloud
  3. Participate in a publishing celebration

Practice: After explanation of the remainder of the writing process, revise and edit work using the materials needed:

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.  

Week 4:

Focus: Research process and how information is created and produced

Activity: The 5 types of Literary Sources; introduction of Primary Sources and Secondary Sources

  1. Brief explanation of Primary and Secondary Sources
  1. Primary Sources - These are contemporary accounts of an event, written by someone who experienced or witnessed the event in question. These are original documents.They may also include published pieces (as long as they are written soon after the fact and not as historical accounts).
  2. Secondary Sources - are one step removed from primary sources, though they often quote or otherwise use primary sources. They can cover the same topic, but add a layer of interpretation and analysis.
  1. Explanation of the 5 types of Literary Sources; digital, visual, media, textual, and technological. Focus will be on digital, visual, and media, providing examples of each.
  1. Identifying how the user can be affected both positively and negatively when exploring each of these types of Literary Sources.

Practice: After explanation of digital, visual, and media sources, complete Literary Sources Activity 1 - 6-8 M1.W4.LiterarySources1.pdf

Week 5:

Focus: Research process and how information is created and produced

Activity: The 5 types of Literary Sources (continued including primary and secondary sources)

  1. Explanation of the 5 types of Literary Sources; digital, visual, media, textual, and technological. Focus will be on textual and technological, providing examples of each including primary and secondary references.
  • Textual Sources - any source that provides information through text (considered primary or secondary depending on the context, i.e. books, magazines, newspapers, online articles)
  • Technological Sources - the various types of Educational Technology (see information below)6-8 M1.W.5.TechnologicalSourcesInfo.pdf
  1. Identifying how the user can be affected both positively and negatively when exploring each of these types of Literary Sources and the effect of primary versus secondary sources.

Practice: After explanation of textual and technological sources, complete Literary Sources Activity 2 - 6-8 M1.W5.LiterarySources2.pdf

Week 6:

Focus: Critical thinking and using information resources

Activity: Evaluating information resources: Currency

6-8 M1.W6-10.CRAAPTestInfo.pdf

  1. Identify specific examples of distortion, exaggeration, or misrepresentation of information.
  2. Critically curate multiple resources to assess the credibility of sources when searching for information.

Practice: After learning about currency in information resources, complete the activity 6-8 M1.W.6.Currency.pdf

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.  

Week 7:

Focus: Critical thinking and using information resources

Activity: Evaluating information resources: Relevance

6-8 M1.W6-10.CRAAPTestInfo.pdf

  1. Analyze online information to determine whether it is helpful or harmful to the reputation of the main person, place, or topic mentioned.
  2. Analyze the relevance of media in delivering cultural, political, and other societal messages.
  3. Explain how information shared digitally is public and can be searched, copied, and potentially seen by public audiences.

Practice: After learning about relevance in information sources, complete the activity 6-8 M1.W.7.Relevance.pdf

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.  

Week 8:

Focus: Critical thinking and using information resources

Activity: Evaluating information resources: Authority

6-8 M1.W6-10.CRAAPTestInfo.pdf

  1. Provide appropriate citation and attribution elements when researching media products.
  2. Analyze the resource citations in online materials for proper use.

Practice: After learning about authority in information sources, complete the activity 6-8 M1.W.8.Authority.pdf

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.  

Week 9

Focus: Critical thinking and using information resources

Activity: Evaluating information resources: Accuracy

6-8 M1.W6-10.CRAAPTestInfo.pdf

  1. Identify specific examples of distortion, exaggeration, or misrepresentation of information.
  2. Evaluate and discuss the accuracy of information resources.

Practice: After learning about accuracy in information sources, complete the activity 6-8 M1. W.9.Accuracy.pdf

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.  

Week 10

Focus: Critical thinking and using information resources

Activity: Evaluating information resources: Purpose

6-8 M1.W6-10.CRAAPTestInfo.pdf

  1. Use information from a variety of sources, contexts, disciplines, and cultures for a specific purpose.
  2. Identify subtle and overt messages based on the method of communication in information resources.

Practice: After learning about purpose in information sources, complete the activity 6-8 M1.W.10.Purpose.pdf

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Experiences (virtual and live field trips)

Federal Hall (Home to the nation's first Congress, Supreme Court, and Executive Branch offices, Federal Hall is the birthplace of the American Government. Right on Wall Street, George Washington took the oath of office as our first President. Students visiting Federal Hall will be able to see the place where the American Government was born first hand!)

Democracy Now! (Democracy Now! is a national, daily news program. Students are invited to the studio each day to watch the broadcast. This is a great chance for students to see independent journalism in action, learn about current events in context, dive into media literacy, and hear stories about active citizenry.)

Liberty Hall Museum ( Built in 1772, Liberty Hall Museum & Arboretum is the perfect place to discover the living past. Students can role play as citizens in colonial New Jersey on the eve of the Revolutionary War, or learn what life was like across five periods of American history.)

NEW JERSEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, NJPAC (New Jersey Performing Arts Center offers curriculum-driven programs that are designed to give you and your students opportunities to create, collaborate, and connect.)

ACTORS SHAKESPEARE COMPANY (Actors Shakespeare Company is committed to providing unique opportunities for young people to experience Shakespeare  as a living experience. Students may attend a weekday 10am performance. Each performance is followed by a talkback with the actors and director.

AFRICAN ART MUSEUM OF THE SMA (The African Art Museum is dedicated to the arts of Africa, with permanent collections including painting, costumes and decorative arts, exhibited on a rotating basis.)

BERGEN COUNTY ZOOLOGICAL PARK (Bergen County Zoological Park, on an 18-acre site, is a great place to see wildlife from North, Central, and South America, buffalo and horses, as well as more exotic animals.)

LIBERTY SCIENCE CENTER (Liberty Science Center in Liberty State Park features interactive, hands-on science exhibits, and a planetarium that houses 12 museum exhibition halls, a live animal collection with 110 species, giant aquariums and more.)

LIBERTY STATE PARK (Liberty State Park features exhibits and programs focusing on the natural history and ecology of the Hudson River Estuary. Visit for spectacular views, interpretive programs, and miles of trails suited to recreational activities.)

MONTCLAIR ART MUSEUM (MAM) Montclair Museum through its large collection of American and Native American art, strives to understand artistic expression in historical and regional contexts. Its programs teach critical thinking in art and history through exploration of the visual elements and evolution of American art.

MONTCLAIR HISTORY CENTER (Montclair History Center offers four historic homes for public viewing, including the Nathaniel Crane House, Clark House and Library and the Charles Shultz House, all built in the 18th or 19th centuries.)

MORRIS MUSEUM (Field trips to the Morris Museum allow youth groups to experience hands-on learning using museum artifacts, reproductions, and interactive activities in the science, arts, and humanities exhibits and activities.)

NEWARK MUSEUM (The Newark Museum is the state’s largest museum with a fine collection of American art, decorative arts, contemporary art, and arts of Asia, Africa, the Americas, and the ancient world.)

THE JEWISH MUSEUM OF NEW JERSEY (The Jewish Museum of New Jersey is housed at Congregation Ahavas Sholom, one of the oldest continually active synagogues in Newark. It includes permanent and rotating exhibit space, a library and media center.)

THE SHAKESPEARE THEATRE OF NEW JERSEY (See Shakespeare’s plays come to life at The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey dedicated to Shakespeare’s canon and other classical masterworks)

THOMAS EDISON NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK (At Thomas Edison National Historic Park, step back in time and tour Thomas Edison’s home and laboratory, where one of America’s greatest minds changed the course of modern technology.)

TURTLE BACK ZOO (Turtle Back Zoo is committed to providing an enriching experience that fosters excellence in wildlife education and wildlife conservation.)

VISUAL ARTS CENTER OF NEW JERSEY (As the state’s largest contemporary art institution, the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey hosts work by local and national artists. Past exhibits have featured illustration, collage, mixed media, painting, installation art, and other media.

Resources

Pacing/ Time Frame: 

10 weeks

Module II

Grade 6

Unit Plan Title:

Facts, Opinions, and Points of View

 Overview/Rationale

Module 2 Overview

Module 2 is designed to empower students with advanced skills in predicting, evaluating, and testing information. Building on the foundational skills acquired in Module 1, this module introduces students to more sophisticated techniques for distinguishing between facts, points of view, and opinions. Through engaging examples and strategic exercises, students will refine their ability to critically analyze various forms of information.

Students will:

  • Utilize Advanced Research Skills:  Learn to effectively navigate databases and other informational resources, enhancing their ability to conduct thorough and nuanced research.
  • Employ Critical Analysis:  Apply critical thinking strategies to evaluate the credibility and relevance of peer-reviewed sources, recognizing how these sources contribute to informed and balanced discussions.
  • Identify and Address Information Bias:  Develop the ability to discern between factual content and subjective interpretations, helping them to challenge misinformation, disinformation, and fake news effectively.

By the end of this module, students will have honed their skills in assessing the validity of information across diverse formats and contexts. They will be adept at recognizing and mitigating the effects of misleading or inaccurate information, thereby becoming more discerning consumers and producers of information in their everyday lives.

New Jersey Student Learning Standards: ?

Currently in the design stage (2024) scheduled to be available 2025.

Career Readiness, Life Literacies, and Key Skills

2020 New Jersey Student Learning Standards – Career Readiness, Life Literacies, and Key Skills 9.4 Life Literacies and Key Skills by the End of Grade 8

• 9.4.8.CI.1: Assess data gathered on varying perspectives on causes of climate change (e.g., cross cultural, gender-specific, generational), and determine how the data can best be used to design

multiple potential solutions (e.g., RI.7.9, 6.SP.B.5, 7.1.NH.IPERS.6, 8.2.8.ETW.4).

• 9.4.8.CI.2: Repurpose an existing resource in an innovative way (e.g., 8.2.8.NT.3).

• 9.4.8.CI.3: Examine challenges that may exist in the adoption of new ideas (e.g., 2.1.8.SSH,

6.1.8.CivicsPD.2).

• 9.4.8.CI.4: Explore the role of creativity and innovation in career pathways and industries

Technology/Computer Science and Design Thinking

New Jersey Student Learning Standards –

Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.2.8.ITH.1: Explain how the development and use of technology influences economic, political, social, and cultural issues.

8.2.8.ITH.2: Compare how technologies have influenced society over time.

8.2.8.ITH.4: Identify technologies that have been designed to reduce the negative consequences of other technologies and explain the change in impact.

8.2.8.ITH.5: Compare the impacts of a given technology on different societies, noting factors that may make a technology appropriate and sustainable in one society but not in another.

8.2.8.EC.1: Explain ethical issues that may arise from the use of new technologies

Interdisciplinary Standards

New Jersey Student Learning Standards English Language Arts (NJSLS-ELA)

L.SS.8.1. Demonstrate command of the system and structure of the English language when writing or speaking.

L.KL.8.2. Use knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.

L.VL.8.3. Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words or phrases based on grade 8 reading and content, including technical meanings, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies.

L.VI.8.4. Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.

RL.CR.8.1. Cite a range of textual evidence and make clear and relevant connections to strongly support an analysis of multiple aspects of what a literary text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.

RI.CR.8.1. Cite a range of textual evidence and make clear and relevant connections (including informational text features such as charts, graphs, and diagrams) that strongly support an analysis of multiple aspects of what an informational text says explicitly, as well as inferences drawn from the text.

RL.CI.8.2. Determine a theme of a literary text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a summary of the text distinct from personal opinions or judgments.

RI.CI.8.2. Determine a central idea of an informational text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a summary of the text distinct from personal opinions or judgments.

RL.IT.8.3. Analyze how particular elements of a text interact (e.g., how setting shapes the characters or plot, how ideas influence individuals or events, or how characters influence ideas or events) across multiple text types, including across literary and informational texts.

RI.IT.8.3. Analyze how particular elements of a text interact (e.g., how contexts influence individuals or events, or how individuals influence ideas or events) across multiple text types, including across literary and informational texts.

RL.TS.8.4. Compare and contrast the structure of texts, analyzing how the differing structure of each text contributes to its meaning, tone and style.

RI.TS.8.4. Analyze and explain how an author organizes, develops and presents ideas, establishes a point of view or builds supporting arguments through text structure.

RL.PP.8.5. Analyze how an author conveys or develops their perspective or purpose in a text through the use of different perspectives of the characters and that of the audience or reader (e.g., created through the use of dramatic irony).

RI.PP.8.5. Analyze how an author conveys or develops their perspective or purpose in a text and by acknowledging and responding to conflicting evidence or viewpoints.

RL.MF.8.6. Evaluate the choices made (by the authors, directors or actors) when presenting an idea in different mediums, including the representation/s or various perspectives of a subject or a key scene in two different artistic mediums (e.g., a person’s life story in both print and multimedia), as well as what is emphasized or absent in each work.

RI.MF.8.6. Evaluate the choices made (by the authors, directors, or actors) when presenting an idea in different mediums and the advantages and disadvantages of using different mediums or formats (e.g., visually, quantitatively) to address a question or solve a problem.

RI.AA.8.7. Delineate and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, assessing whether the reasoning is sound and the evidence is relevant and sufficient; recognize when irrelevant evidence is introduced.

RL.CT.8.8. Analyze and reflect on how the author’s idea in fiction and literary nonfiction texts (e.g., practical knowledge, historical/cultural context, and background knowledge) is shaped by the author’s emphasis on different evidence, advancing different interpretations of facts, or fictional portrayal of a time, place, or character and a historical account of the same period.

RI.CT.8.8. Analyze and reflect on (e.g., practical knowledge, historical/cultural context, and background knowledge) two or more informational texts that provide conflicting information on the same topic and identify where the texts disagree on matters of fact or interpretation.

W.AW.8.1. Write arguments on discipline-specific content (e.g., social studies, science, technical subjects, English/Language Arts) to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.

W.IW.8.2. Write informative/explanatory texts (including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/ experiments, or technical processes) to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.

W.NW.8.3. Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, relevant descriptive details, and well-structured event sequences.

W.WP.8.4. With some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, sustaining effort to complete complex writing tasks; seeking out assistance, models, sources or feedback to improve understanding or refine final products; focusing on how well purpose and audience have been addressed.

W.WR.8.5. Conduct short research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question), drawing on several sources and generating additional related, focused questions that allow for multiple avenues of exploration.

W.SE.8.6. Gather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources, using search terms effectively; assess the credibility and accuracy of each source; and quote or paraphrase the data and conclusions of others while avoiding plagiarism and following a standard format for citation.

W.RW.8.7. Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, metacognition/self- correction, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.

SL.PE.8.1. Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 8 topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly.

SL.II.8.2. Analyze the purpose of information presented in diverse media and formats (e.g., visually, quantitatively, orally) and evaluate the motives (e.g., social, commercial, political) behind its presentation.

SL.ES.8.3. Delineate a speaker’s argument and specific claims, evaluating the soundness of the reasoning and relevance and sufficiency of the evidence and identifying when irrelevant evidence is introduced.

SL.PI.8.4. Present claims and findings, emphasizing salient points in a focused, coherent manner with relevant evidence, sound valid reasoning, and well-chosen details; use appropriate eye contact, adequate volume, and clear pronunciation.

SL.UM.8.5. Integrate multimedia and visual displays into presentations to clarify information, strengthen claims and evidence, and add interest.

SL.AS.8.6. Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.

21st Century Skills: 

E = Encouraged, T = Taught,  A = Assessed

E

T

A

Civic Literacy

E

T

A

Communication

E

T

A

Global Awareness

E

T

A

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Health Literacy

E

T

A

Collaboration

Financial, Economic, Business, &   Entrepreneurial Literacy

E

T

A

Creativity and Innovation

Environmental Literacy

Other:  

Essential Question(s)

  • How can a lack of understanding between facts, points of view, and opinions contribute to the distortion, exaggeration, or misrepresentation of information in various media sources?
  • How can utilizing peer-reviewed print and digital library resources foster a more informed society and guard against deception, misinformation, and ethically questionable content?

Enduring Understandings

  • Students will develop a nuanced understanding of the distinctions between facts and opinions when analyzing various information resources.
  • Students will develop a nuanced understanding of the distinctions between facts and opinions when analyzing various information resources.

Student Learning Targets/Objectives

By the end of this module:

  • I can differentiate between facts, points of view, and opinions to effectively identify and avoid misinformation, disinformation, and fake news across various publications.
  • I can use peer-reviewed print and digital library resources to substantiate, evaluate, and critically assess published information from multiple sources, effectively defending or challenging different points of view.

Weekly Objectives:

  • Week 1
  • I can define and differentiate facts and opinions.
  • Week 2
  • I can differentiate between the various Points of View.
  • I can analyze the effects of differences in various Points of View.
  • Week 3
  • I can elaborate on the differences between facts and opinions through the analysis of a news article.
  • Week 4
  • I can distinguish facts and opinions through the writing of balanced news and editorials. 
  • Week 5
  • I can identify facts and opinions within editorial findings. 
  • Week 6
  • I can identify facts and opinions within editorial findings.
  • Week 7
  • I can identify scholarly and non-scholarly information within Peer-reviewed print and digital library resources.
  • Week 8
  • I can distinguish scholarly and non-scholarly information within Peer-reviewed print and digital library resources.
  • Week 9
  • I can identify and differentiate between scholarly and non-scholarly information within Peer-reviewed print and digital library resources.

Assessments

Assessments will be formative and ongoing throughout the module. Formative assessments will include, but will not be limited to the following;  (Examples)

  • Observations during in-class activities; of students non-verbal feedback during lecture
  • Homework exercises as review for exams and class discussions)
  • Reflections journals that are reviewed periodically during the semester
  • Question and answer sessions, both formal—planned and informal—spontaneous
  • Conferences between the instructor and student at various points in the semester
  • In-class activities where students informally present their results
  • Student feedback collected by periodically answering specific question about the instruction and their self-evaluation of performance and progress

Summative assessments may be utilized to meet district requirements or to validate the transfer of learning objectives. (Examples)

  • Presentations
  • Performance Tasks
  • Student evaluation of the course
  • Instructor self-evaluation

Teaching and Learning Actions

Instructional Strategies

Academic Vocabulary -  Create and keep current, a Language Arts Word Wall, for children to use and interact with. Important for all learners, academic vocabulary and language must be taught explicitly, particularly to second language learners.

Accountable talk - Talking with others about ideas is fundamental to classroom learning. Classroom talk that promotes and sustains learning should be accountable to other learners, use accurate and

appropriate knowledge, and adhere to rigor in thinking. Accountable talk responds to and further develops what others have said through relevant observations, ideas, opinions, or more information.

Cognates-Using Cognates for words in Multilingual learner (MLL) native language

Conferencing - A one-to-one teacher conference with a student about his or her work in progress is prevalent in teaching writing and speaking, but it is also useful in other areas. The purpose of the conference-- engaging in meaningful conversation about the student’s work in progress--will not be realized automatically. Preparation (on the part of both the teacher and the student) before the conference, careful listening during the conference, recordkeeping, and follow-up are essential components for a successful outcome. In student-to-student conferencing, participants require guidance, a focused protocol, and accountability.  Video resource: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pad1eAcsHho

Content Stations – Areas where students work on different tasks simultaneously.  Can and should be leveled for review, challenge, and remediation at appropriate level.  Teacher rotates and facilitates instruction and assistance.  Activities reach various learning styles.  Houghton Mifflin Harcourt leveled readers to assist in background knowledge, skills application, etc.

Cues, questions, activating prior knowledge- Frequently assess your students for prior content knowledge to assist in planning your lessons.  Use effective questioning to prompt students to recall and apply what they have already learned.

Effective questioning - Teacher questioning and student response are common classroom learning activities. Research finds that teacher questions (and cues) are effective when they focus on what is important, require students to respond at higher levels, provide adequate wait time after a question is asked and establish an engaging introduction for the lesson. Effective questioning can also play a role in focusing students on unit learning goals or overarching themes throughout a longer period of study.

Flexible Groupings-   Teacher meets with groups to meet curricular goals, engage students, and respond to individual needs.

Integration of content areas - There is a strong case to be made for integrating curriculum. It strengthens skills that students encounter in one content area, but also practice in another, such as reading and writing, and it

can lead to the mastery of those skills. It provides meaningful instruction for students in multiple areas of standards in a single class or learning experience. It is also a more authentic way of

learning because it reflects what we experience, both professionally and personally, in the world. It can be a way to engage students when introducing them to a challenging subject. STEM education is a current example of effective content integration. Research supports the integration of content areas.

Intentional Use of Technology – whiteboard presentations and activities available and encouraged for use through HMH.

Leveled Instruction – Teacher gives introductory lesson to the entire class, then provides varying access points for students to practice skills.  Teacher provides several assignments with different levels of difficulty- the student OR teacher chooses an assignment.

Modeling - Modeling is an instructional strategy wherein the teacher or another student demonstrates a new concept or skill and students learn by observing and emulating. Modeling is an effective instructional strategy when it allows students to observe thought processes and imitate particular behaviors or steps in a process. Types and purposes of modeling can include approaches such as task and performance modeling (demonstrating a task), metacognitive modeling (thinking aloud), and disposition modeling (conveying one’s own enthusiasm, interest, or commitment). Modeling can be used across disciplines and in all grades and ability levels.

Nonlinguistic representations- drawings, blocks, physical models, kinesthetic activities, graphic organizers, realia

Read-aloud - Read-aloud is an instructional format, included formally in elementary reading programs and as an instructional activity in all areas and levels of the curriculum. A primary purpose of a read-aloud is to create a community of readers in the classroom and establish a known text as a basis for related literacy activities. Reading aloud allows teachers to model important components of literacy, such as fluency, expression, and interacting with texts while exposing students to vocabulary that is just beyond their instructional level and demonstrating how reading is a source of information and enjoyment.

Semantic Mapping -The association of meanings and context for a given word that may include: origin, images, multiple meanings, word structure, synonyms, antonyms, descriptors, common contexts, examples, historical or cultural connotations and personal associations. When using a semantic map, it will assist students by building a meaningful network of associations around the words that must be learned which will be stored more deeply in memory and retrieved more easily.  

Share the Pen- Interactive writing strategy where teacher and students “share the pen” to create a written product such as a sentence, story, or list.

SIoP Strategies - Sheltered Instructional Observation Protocol consists of eight components; lesson preparation, building background, comprehensible input, strategies, interaction, practice, lesson delivery, and review and assessment.  Using these eight components teachers can design instruction that will help Multilingual learner (MLL) to reach English language acquisition.

Student goal setting - Teachers who set, define, and communicate learning objectives effectively with students employ research-based findings that say goal setting with students should: (1) be flexible and general because when a goal is too narrowly focused, it may limit learning (e.g., If the goal is to learn how a piston works, students may not learn its relationship to other parts of an engine), although too general goals may be unattainable; (2) encourage student ownership (e.g., creating own goals, personalizing teacher goals, committing to contracts, and providing feedback on their progress in journals, videos, etc.); (3) focus on understanding over accomplishing tasks; and (4) allow students enough time to adapt goals to their own interests, learning styles, and prior knowledge. Setting goals benefits from explicit instruction.

Targeted feedback - Research and effective practice points to the following keys to using targeted feedback to improve student achievement and avoid negative effects: (1) link feedback to objectives; (2) use a formative evaluation approach over a summative approach; (3) make guidance specific (e.g.,proofing remarks or codes may not communicate well); (4) provide feedback in a timely manner (not long after assignment is forgotten); and (5) identify how students should use feedback to make improvements.                                                                                                 Thumbs Up/Down, “Stop Light”, “Smiley Face”- for quick, formative assessment                                                                                                    Think-Pair-Share– Turn & Talk with a neighbor to discuss/review various concepts/vocabulary/etc.  Each child that is called on to share reports out their partner’s ideas/response; then switch.

Word wall - A word wall is an organized collection of words prominently displayed in a classroom and

frequently used as an interactive literacy tool for teaching vocabulary and spelling to children. There are many different types of word walls, such as high frequency words, word families, and story- or unit-related names.

Activities: Including G/T, SE, and ELL Differentiation

Differentiation examples:

Students with a 504:
All modifications and health concerns listed in his/her 504 plan MUST be adhered to.

  •  Provide scaffolded support when they respond to questions (ie. Rephrase questions, have them Turn & Talk to peers, provide sentences frames for response, etc)
  • Sentence frames discussions/sharing.
  • Encourage participation using words, phrases, gestures, illustrations, and dictation, as needed.
  •  Refer to visuals throughout lesson/activity
  • Divide instruction into smaller chunks of time
  • Post pictures with new vocabulary words when possible and have children repeat each word.
  • Students demonstrate understanding verbally or drawing.
  •  Allow role-play responses.
  • Provide sentence frames for forming opinions:  I agree with ____ because ___. Or I do not agree with ____ because _____.
  • Encourage use of content vocabulary.
  • Use words, gestures, and repetition  to assist in developing vocabulary meaning retention.
  • Retell stories, have children point to an image that matches their retelling.
  •  Have children highlight vocabulary/key words in their student workbooks..
  • Model using class anchor charts to assist in their writing, speaking, and reading..
  • Provide word/phrase cards to assist in accomplishing tasks.
  •  Model sentence structure when responding to questions.
  • Ask “yes” and “no” questions from time to time.
  • Allow frequent movement in the classroom, going up to the SMARTBoard, or big book to point out things relevant to the lesson.
  • Thumbs Up/Down for quick assessments.
  • Take dictation.
  • Have student make a line for each word of their response, then work with them to write the sentence decoding and reading the room to help with their writing. (ie. “I like the part when Keisha could build a tower using blocks.” _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.)
  •  Encourage asking questions for clarity. Provide displayed anchor chart of question words with question phrases on it.
  • Assign partner work.
  • Snap & Read Google extension (reads to student in selected language).
  • Small group instruction
  • Inclusion of videos, images, and Google Expeditions
  • Choice in task products (song, dance, writing, role play, drawing)
  • Use of Google Chromebook Accessibility Features, including:  screen magnifier, font increase, black/white contrast, larger cursor, Chromevox, on-screen

Week 1: 

Focus: Difference between facts, points of view, and opinions.

Activity: Defining fact and opinion

  • Provide the foundation that a fact is a statement that can be verified.  It can be proven to be true or false through objective evidence.
  •  A FACT:

- can be proven true or false through objective evidence.  - relies on denotative language.

- frequently uses measurable or verifiable numbers, statistics, dates and measurements.

  • Define an opinion as an expression of belief about something.  Give examples and allow for students to test their understanding of opinion versus factual statements.
  • AN OPINION: - cannot be presently verified.

- relies on connotative language.

- can mean different things to different people.  

- uses value judgment words and comparisons such as “best,” “most,” etc…

Practice:  Fact or Opinion or Both?

  • Allow students to apply the research process and previous learned skills to determine the following.

1. I have a husband and two children.

2. Pit bulls are the most dangerous dogs alive.

3. Ostriches do not hide their heads in the sand.

4. There is nothing like an ice-cold bottle of Coke to satisfy a thirst!

5. It is time for educators to assume more responsibility for schools’ unhealthy lunch menus.

6. The government should increase spending for preventing unwanted pregnancy; more than one million teenagers become pregnant every year.

7. Rob said that the book Angels and Demons is better than The Da Vinci Code.

8. New York City is not the capital of New York State.

  • Extend and provide additional practice of understanding
  • Other tips on fact and opinion:  
  • Opinions may sometimes look like facts because of professional or technical-sounding words:  
  • State funded and accredited schools are far superior to private institutions.

  • A false fact is still a fact:  A majority of experts agree that smoking daily can improve your health.

  • Predictions are opinions because they cannot be verified right now:  By the year 2025, Americans will have socialized medicine.

  • Value (or judgment) words often represent opinions:  Antonio Banderas is the most handsome actor in the movie Interview with the Vampire .

  • The word “should” usually signals an opinion: Government regulation of our private lives should be halted immediately.

  •  Provide examples of Value Words (Keywords to determine opinion)

(these words cannot be verified of measured):

best                    must                  disgusting

bad                     worst                 wonderful

great                    good                 pretty

should                terrible               most

beautiful            strange               lovely

6-8 MII.W.1.Fact or Opinion.pdf

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 2: 

Focus: Points of view

Activity: Analyze Effects of Differences in Point of View

  • Analyze how differences in the points of view can affect the information provided to an audience or reader.
  • The point of view of information is the perspective from which the story is told. Authors can choose to give the information a particular point of view in order to create certain effects in the story. The narrator’s point of view shapes the reader’s point of view because the reader experiences the story through the narrator’s description of the events.
  • Establish that the narrator of information can be an individual, group, company, etc. (explore other sources of information that can include artificial generation)
  • The point of view of the information is the perspective from which a story is told. A writer may choose from four differ ent types of point of view in order to tell a story: first person, second person, third-person limited, and third-person omniscient.

The following chart identifies the characteristics of each point of view. A narrator can be either objective, which means that he or she only relates the facts of an event, or subjective, which means that the narrator gives his or her opinion about an event. If a narrator describes how she feels, she is giving a subjective account of the story.

Practice 

  • Ask students to write a short description of an event that they watch or read together as a class.
  • Have students write from a diversity of viewpoints.
  • After they have completed this exercise, allow them to share their writing with each other.
  • Discuss how different narrators treat the same situation differently.
  • Ask students to consider how  these different perspectives resulted in differing versions of the same story.
  • Conclude the activity by sharing the connection with information and how information can have various points of view.

6-8 MII.W.2.Point of View .pdf

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 3: 

Focus: Identifying and differentiating facts and opinions.

Activity:  Fact vs. Opinion Activities

 

  • Defining Fact and Opinion for Students

  1. Use simple definitions to help students.

(differentiate between fact and opinion)

  • A fact is a statement that can be verified.

  • An opinion is an expression of belief about something.

  • You can add additional qualifiers to your explanation. Facts rely on observation or research and generally involve the use of empirical data and information. In many cases, facts also involve our physical senses, like hearing, seeing, smelling, touching, or tasting.

  • Explain, opinions are based on assumptions that cannot be proven and reflect somebody's views, beliefs, personal perspectives, or values. In a news story, all opinions must be quoted from a source, and sources from both sides should be cited. Even a statement like “it is too hot outside” can be an opinion. Some people prefer hot weather, whereas others do not. Opinions cannot be verified.  

  1. Fact Clues

  • The research confirms…
  • The doctors recently discovered that COVID-19 is airborne…, COVID-19 is ...
  • "According to [source]" is usually followed by a fact. But it can also be followed by an opinion statement. You need to know your source.
  • The source of a fact has to be credible. It cannot simply be your mother or your relatives—unless they are a recognized authority.

      2.  Opinion Clues

  • I think, I believe, I feel, In my opinion, Some people think, My friends think, My parents think, Some people claim, He/she claims
  • Always/Never, Awful/Wonderful, Beautiful/Ugly, Better/Best/Worst, Delicious/Disgusting, Enjoyable/Horrible/Favorite, For/Against, Good/Bad,, Inferior/Superior, Oppose/Support, Terrible/Unfair, Worthwhile

Provide anchor chart:

  • Fact vs. Opinion Activities (2 week application)

There are many fact or opinion activities you can use to teach these critical thinking skills. Here are some ideas. Use the next 2 lessons to review, and expand student thinking and understanding of facts versus opinion. Focus on using current and world events.

  1. Analyze News Stories vs. Editorials: As a straightforward and effective activity, have students actively pick out the opinions and facts from an editorial they find themselves. Students share their findings with the class, and then follow up with a news story about the same topic after doing the same type of analysis. Have them compare what they found in each article. A teacher can also find a digital news story and engage the entire class with the same article. Students should have a routine where they find a news story and analyze it at least once a week for the semester. After a semester of doing that, they will have embedded that learning.

6-8 MII.W3.Fact vs. Opinion Activities.pdf

https://apnews.com/

https://www.cbsnews.com/

https://www.nj.com/

https://www.foxnews.com/

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 4: 

Focus: Identifying and differentiating facts and opinions.

Activity: Fact vs. Opinion Activities (Expanding)

  • Defining Fact and Opinion for Students

  1. Use simple definitions to help students.

(differentiate between fact and opinion)

  • A fact is a statement that can be verified.

  • An opinion is an expression of belief about something.

  • You can add additional qualifiers to your explanation. Facts rely on observation or research and generally involve the use of empirical data and information. In many cases, facts also involve our physical senses, like hearing, seeing, smelling, touching, or tasting.

  • Explain, opinions are based on assumptions that cannot be proven and reflect somebody's views, beliefs, personal perspectives, or values. In a news story, all opinions must be quoted from a source, and sources from both sides should be cited. Even a statement like “it is too hot outside” can be an opinion. Some people prefer hot weather, whereas others do not. Opinions cannot be verified.  

  1. Fact Clues

  • The research confirms…
  • The doctors recently discovered that COVID-19 is airborne…, COVID-19 is ...
  • "According to [source]" is usually followed by a fact. But it can also be followed by an opinion statement. You need to know your source.
  • The source of a fact has to be credible. It cannot simply be your mother or your relatives—unless they are a recognized authority.

      2.  Opinion Clues

  • I think, I believe, I feel, In my opinion, Some people think, My friends think, My parents think, Some people claim, He/she claims
  • Always/Never, Awful/Wonderful, Beautiful/Ugly, Better/Best/Worst, Delicious/Disgusting, Enjoyable/Horrible/Favorite, For/Against, Good/Bad,, Inferior/Superior, Oppose/Support, Terrible/Unfair, Worthwhile

Provide anchor chart:

  • Fact vs. Opinion Activities (2 week duration)

There are many fact or opinion activities you can use to teach these critical thinking skills. Here are some ideas. Use the next 2 lessons to review, and expand student thinking and understanding of facts versus opinion. Focus on using current and world events.

Have Students Practice Writing: Recognizing a biased story is one skill, but going one step further is being able to write balanced news. If students learn to write balanced news and then editorials, they don’t forget the distinction. For example, have them choose a topic they are interested in and then write an objective article on that topic, followed by an editorial where they voice their opinion.

6-8 MII.W4.Fact vs. Opinion Activities.pdf

https://apnews.com/

https://www.cbsnews.com/

https://www.nj.com/

https://www.foxnews.com/

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 5: 

Focus: Identifying and differentiating facts and opinions.

Activity: Fact vs. Opinion Activities

  1. There are many fact or opinion activities you can use to teach these critical thinking skills.
  •  Analyze News Stories vs. Editorials: As a straightforward and effective activity, have students actively pick out the opinions and facts from an editorial they find themselves. Students share their findings with the class, and then follow up with a news story about the same topic after doing the same type of analysis. Have them compare what they found in each article. A teacher can also find a digital news story and engage the entire class with the same article.

6-8 MII.W5.Fact vs. Opinion Activities.pdf

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 6: 

Focus:  Identifying and differentiating facts and opinions.

Activity: Fact vs. Opinion Activities (Expanding)

  1. There are many fact or opinion activities you can use to teach these critical thinking skills..
  •  Analyze News Stories vs. Editorials: As a straightforward and effective activity, have students actively pick out the opinions and facts from an editorial they find themselves. Students share their findings with the class, and then follow up with a news story about the same topic after doing the same type of analysis. Have them compare what they found in each article. A teacher can also find a digital news story and engage the entire class with the same article.

6-8 MII.W6.Fact vs. Opinion Activities.pdf

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 7: 

Focus: Peer-reviewed print and digital library resources

Activity: Awareness of the roles of information in our society.  Distinguishing between scholarly and non-scholarly information.

  1. Students will need paper and pen or pencil. Presentation of slides via screen or student devices.

  • Before going through the presentation ask students to write a brief definition of information.  
  • Allow students to pair and share if necessary. Have student groups read their definitions.
  • Start the presentation and highlight the variations in the definitions included. Stress the unique aspects of scholarly information.

6-8 MII.W7.Peer Reviewed.Presentation

  1. Review scholarly and non-scholarly information with students and allow students to provide examples of each.

6-8 MII.W7.Peer Reviewed.Presentation2 Scholary versus non-scholary .pdf

  • Have students identify and record scholarly publications both digital and print.
  • Have students compare and document non-scholarly publications.
  • Continue to focus and expand on the reliability differences between both publications.

SCHOLARLY VS. NON-SCHOLARLY JOURNAL ARTICLES

Scholarly Journal Articles 

• Purpose: to inform, report, or make original research available to other researchers.

 • Authors/Publishers: written by scholars or researchers in the field. Articles are peer reviewed by other experts in the field before being published by a professional organization.  

• Sources: cite sources; include extensive documentation to previously published research (footnotes, endnotes, bibliographies, etc.)

• Language: use terminology, jargon, and the language of the discipline covered.  

• Format: have grave, serious formats. May contain graphs and charts to illustrate concepts.  

• Examples: Annals of Microbiology, Harvard Business Review, Journal of Physiology

Non-Scholarly Journal Articles (News/General Interest) 

• Purpose: to provide general information to a well educated, general audience.  

• Authors/Publishers: written by staff, free-lance, or scholarly writers. Articles are not peer reviewed; the editorial team makes all content decisions before publication for profit.

• Sources: Occasionally cite sources, but not as a rule.

• Language: geared to any educated, non-specialist audience; unfamiliar terms often defined.

• Format: are attractive in appearance. Include photos and graphics to enhance visual appeal.  

• Examples: Atlantic Monthly, Newsweek, Fortune, Psychology Today Popular Magazines

• Purpose: to entertain or persuade, to sell products or services.  

• Authors/Publishers: written by staff or free-lance writers for a broad-based audience. Articles are not peer reviewed. They are published by commercial enterprises for profit.  

• Sources: rarely cite sources. Original sources may be obscure.  • Language: use simple language for broad accessibility. Articles are short, with little depth.  

• Format: are generally glossy with an attractive format. Contain photos, illustrations, and drawings to enhance publication's image.

• Examples: Better Homes and Gardens, GQ, Glamour, People Weekly, Sports Illustrated

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 8: 

Focus: Peer-reviewed print and digital library resources

Activity: Identifying and distinguishing between scholarly and non-scholarly information. This activity is intended to have students understand the difference between scholarly and non-scholarly which will support critical thinking of the publication's overall message.  

  1. Review scholarly and non-scholarly information with students.

6-8 MII.W7.Peer Reviewed.Presentation2 Scholary versus non-scholary .pdf

  1. Provide students with a presentation and handout to identify the differences between each publication.

6-8 MII.W8.SCHOLARLY VS. NON-SCHOLARLY student handout.pdf

  1. Have students search various publications and identify the type of publication and provide supporting details that support scholarly or non-scholarly.

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 9: 

Focus: Peer-reviewed print and digital library resources

Activity: Proper identification of scholarly and non-scholarly resources is a critical skill needed by academic researchers and writers. Generally, the main requirement indicating a publication or scholarly or non-scholarly is whether or not the articles within the publication have been peer-reviewed. Students will focus on peer-reviewed and how to properly search for peer-reviewed publications.

  1. Define Peer-Reviewed
  • Peer-Reviewing (also known as Refereeing) for scholarly purposes is the process of presenting an author's scholarly work, research, or ideas to other experts in the same field before the author's work is published in a journal or a book.
  1. Explain and discuss
  • Most Library Databases have search options that allow users to limit their search results to only articles that have been peer-reviewed. However, it is also important to know the general differences between Scholarly and Non-Scholarly materials.
  1. Help students make the connection as to why all information is not as reliable as peer-reviewed publications.
  • This may help students to distinguish if an article published is in fact scholarly or not. Remind students that this applies to all forms of publications, like social media and other digital platforms.  Finding an article in Google Scholar, while a powerful search tool for searching for scholarly resources on the Internet, is no guarantee that the publication the article comes from is scholarly.
  1. Have students identify the differences between scholarly and non-scholarly publications on popular social media, magazines and other digital publications. It’s important that students refer back to:

6-8 MII.W8.SCHOLARLY VS. NON-SCHOLARLY student handout.pdf

Have students identify and document evidence as to how they identified each type of publication as scholarly or non-scholarly.

6-8 MII.W9.Scholarly and Non-Scholarly Venn Diagram graphic organizer.pdf

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Experiences

(virtual and live field trips)

Federal Hall (Home to the nation's first Congress, Supreme Court, and Executive Branch offices, Federal Hall is the birthplace of the American Government. Right on Wall Street, George Washington took the oath of office as our first President. Students visiting Federal Hall will be able to see the place where the American Government was born first hand!)

Democracy Now! (Democracy Now! is a national, daily news program. Students are invited to the studio each day to watch the broadcast. This is a great chance for students to see independent journalism in action, learn about current events in context, dive into media literacy, and hear stories about active citizenry.)

Liberty Hall Museum ( Built in 1772, Liberty Hall Museum & Arboretum is the perfect place to discover the living past. Students can role play as citizens in colonial New Jersey on the eve of the Revolutionary War, or learn what life was like across five periods of American history.)

NEW JERSEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, NJPAC (New Jersey Performing Arts Center offers curriculum-driven programs that are designed to give you and your students opportunities to create, collaborate, and connect.)

ACTORS SHAKESPEARE COMPANY (Actors Shakespeare Company is committed to providing unique opportunities for young people to experience Shakespeare  as a living experience. Students may attend a weekday 10am performance. Each performance is followed by a talkback with the actors and director.

AFRICAN ART MUSEUM OF THE SMA (The African Art Museum is dedicated to the arts of Africa, with permanent collections including painting, costumes and decorative arts, exhibited on a rotating basis.)

BERGEN COUNTY ZOOLOGICAL PARK (Bergen County Zoological Park, on an 18-acre site, is a great place to see wildlife from North, Central, and South America, buffalo and horses, as well as more exotic animals.)

LIBERTY SCIENCE CENTER (Liberty Science Center in Liberty State Park features interactive, hands-on science exhibits, and a planetarium that houses 12 museum exhibition halls, a live animal collection with 110 species, giant aquariums and more.)

LIBERTY STATE PARK (Liberty State Park features exhibits and programs focusing on the natural history and ecology of the Hudson River Estuary. Visit for spectacular views, interpretive programs, and miles of trails suited to recreational activities.)

MONTCLAIR ART MUSEUM (MAM) Montclair Museum through its large collection of American and Native American art, strives to understand artistic expression in historical and regional contexts. Its programs teach critical thinking in art and history through exploration of the visual elements and evolution of American art.

MONTCLAIR HISTORY CENTER (Montclair History Center offers four historic homes for public viewing, including the Nathaniel Crane House, Clark House and Library and the Charles Shultz House, all built in the 18th or 19th centuries.)

MORRIS MUSEUM (Field trips to the Morris Museum allow youth groups to experience hands-on learning using museum artifacts, reproductions, and interactive activities in the science, arts, and humanities exhibits and activities.)

NEWARK MUSEUM (The Newark Museum is the state’s largest museum with a fine collection of American art, decorative arts, contemporary art, and arts of Asia, Africa, the Americas, and the ancient world.)

THE JEWISH MUSEUM OF NEW JERSEY (The Jewish Museum of New Jersey is housed at Congregation Ahavas Sholom, one of the oldest continually active synagogues in Newark. It includes permanent and rotating exhibit space, a library and media center.)

THE SHAKESPEARE THEATRE OF NEW JERSEY (See Shakespeare’s plays come to life at The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey dedicated to Shakespeare’s canon and other classical masterworks)

THOMAS EDISON NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK (At Thomas Edison National Historic Park, step back in time and tour Thomas Edison’s home and laboratory, where one of America’s greatest minds changed the course of modern technology.)

TURTLE BACK ZOO (Turtle Back Zoo is committed to providing an enriching experience that fosters excellence in wildlife education and wildlife conservation.)

VISUAL ARTS CENTER OF NEW JERSEY (As the state’s largest contemporary art institution, the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey hosts work by local and national artists. Past exhibits have featured illustration, collage, mixed media, painting, installation art, and other media.

Resources

Pacing/ Time Frame:

9 Weeks

Module 3

Grade

6

Unit Plan Title:

Ethics of Information Resources

Overview/Rationale

Module 3 Overview: This module is designed to deepen students' understanding of the ethical considerations involved in the responsible use and production of information. Students will explore the economic, legal, and social dimensions associated with information resources, including issues of intellectual property, privacy, and the impact of information on society. They will also learn about ethical practices in the creation and dissemination of information, focusing on proper formatting, citation, and the integrity of content. By the end of the module, students will demonstrate proficiency in adhering to ethical standards and legal requirements, ensuring respectful and responsible use of information in all forms of communication.

New Jersey Student Learning Standards: ?

Currently in the design stage (2024) scheduled to be available 2025.

Career Readiness, Life Literacies, and Key Skills

2020 New Jersey Student Learning Standards – Career Readiness, Life Literacies, and Key Skills

9.4 Life Literacies and Key Skills by the End of Grade 8

  • 9.4.8.DC.1: Analyze the resource citations in online materials for proper use.
  • 9.4.8.DC.2: Provide appropriate citation and attribution elements when creating media products

(e.g., W.6.8)

  • 9.4.8.DC.3: Describe tradeoffs between allowing information to be public (e.g., within online
  • games) versus keeping information private and secure.
  • 9.4.8.DC.4: Explain how information shared digitally is public and can be searched, copied, and

potentially seen by public audiences.

  • 9.4.8.DC.6: Analyze online information to distinguish whether it is helpful or harmful to reputation.
  • 9.4.8.IML.1: Critically curate multiple resources to assess the credibility of sources when

searching for information.

  • 9.4.8.IML.2: Identify specific examples of distortion, exaggeration, or misrepresentation of

information.

  • 9.4.8.IML.6: Identify subtle and overt messages based on the method of communication.
  • 9.4.8.IML.7: Use information from a variety of sources, contexts, disciplines, and cultures for a

specific purpose (e.g., 1.2.8.C2a, 1.4.8.CR2a, 2.1.8.CHSS/IV.8.AI.1, W.5.8, 6.1.8.GeoSV.3.a,

6.1.8.CivicsDP.4.b, 7.1.NH. IPRET.8).

  • 9.4.8.IML.8: Apply deliberate and thoughtful search strategies to access high-quality information

on climate change (e.g., 1.1.8.C1b).

  • 9.4.8.IML.9: Distinguish between ethical and unethical uses of information and media (e.g.,

1.5.8.CR3b, 8.2.8.EC.2).

  • 9.4.8.IML.10: Examine the consequences of the uses of media (e.g., RI.8.7).
  • 9.4.8.IML.11: Predict the personal and community impact of online and social media activities.
  • 9.4.8.IML.12: Use relevant tools to produce, publish, and deliver information supported with

evidence for an authentic audience.

  • 9.4.8.IML.13: Identify the impact of the creator on the content, production, and delivery of

information (e.g., 8.2.8.ED.1).

  • 9.4.8.IML.14: Analyze the role of media in delivering cultural, political, and other societal

messages.

  • 9.4.8.IML.15: Explain ways that individuals may experience the same media message

differently.

  • 9.4.8.TL.2: Gather data and digitally represent information to communicate a real-world problem

(e.g., MS-ESS3-4, 6.1.8.EconET.1, 6.1.8.CivicsPR.4).

  • 9.4.8.TL.3: Select appropriate tools to organize and present information digitally
  • 9.4.8.TL.4: Synthesize and publish information about a local or global issue or event (e.g., MS LS4-5, 6.1.8.CivicsPI.3).
  • 9.4.8.TL.6: Collaborate to develop and publish work that provides perspectives on a real-world

problem

Technology/Computer Science and Design Thinking

New Jersey Student Learning Standards –

Computer Science and Design Thinking

8.2.8.ITH.1: Explain how the development and use of technology influences economic, political, social, and cultural issues.

8.2.8.ITH.2: Compare how technologies have influenced society over time.

8.2.8.ITH.4: Identify technologies that have been designed to reduce the negative consequences of other technologies and explain the change in impact.

8.2.8.ITH.5: Compare the impacts of a given technology on different societies, noting factors that may make a technology appropriate and sustainable in one society but not in another.

8.2.8.EC.1: Explain ethical issues that may arise from the use of new technologies

Interdisciplinary Standards)

New Jersey Student Learning Standards English Language Arts (NJSLS-ELA)

L.SS.8.1. Demonstrate command of the system and structure of the English language when writing or speaking.

L.KL.8.2. Use knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.

L.VL.8.3. Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words or phrases based on grade 8 reading and content, including technical meanings, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies.

L.VI.8.4. Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.

RL.CR.8.1. Cite a range of textual evidence and make clear and relevant connections to strongly support an analysis of multiple aspects of what a literary text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.

RI.CR.8.1. Cite a range of textual evidence and make clear and relevant connections (including informational text features such as charts, graphs, and diagrams) that strongly support an analysis of multiple aspects of what an informational text says explicitly, as well as inferences drawn from the text.

RL.CI.8.2. Determine a theme of a literary text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a summary of the text distinct from personal opinions or judgments.

RI.CI.8.2. Determine a central idea of an informational text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a summary of the text distinct from personal opinions or judgments.

RL.IT.8.3. Analyze how particular elements of a text interact (e.g., how setting shapes the characters or plot, how ideas influence individuals or events, or how characters influence ideas or events) across multiple text types, including across literary and informational texts.

RI.IT.8.3. Analyze how particular elements of a text interact (e.g., how contexts influence individuals or events, or how individuals influence ideas or events) across multiple text types, including across literary and informational texts.

RL.TS.8.4. Compare and contrast the structure of texts, analyzing how the differing structure of each text contributes to its meaning, tone and style.

RI.TS.8.4. Analyze and explain how an author organizes, develops and presents ideas, establishes a point of view or builds supporting arguments through text structure.

RL.PP.8.5. Analyze how an author conveys or develops their perspective or purpose in a text through the use of different perspectives of the characters and that of the audience or reader (e.g., created through the use of dramatic irony).

RI.PP.8.5. Analyze how an author conveys or develops their perspective or purpose in a text and by acknowledging and responding to conflicting evidence or viewpoints.

RL.MF.8.6. Evaluate the choices made (by the authors, directors or actors) when presenting an idea in different mediums, including the representation/s or various perspectives of a subject or a key scene in two different artistic mediums (e.g., a person’s life story in both print and multimedia), as well as what is emphasized or absent in each work.

RI.MF.8.6. Evaluate the choices made (by the authors, directors, or actors) when presenting an idea in different mediums and the advantages and disadvantages of using different mediums or formats (e.g., visually, quantitatively) to address a question or solve a problem.

RI.AA.8.7. Delineate and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, assessing whether the reasoning is sound and the evidence is relevant and sufficient; recognize when irrelevant evidence is introduced.

RL.CT.8.8. Analyze and reflect on how the author’s idea in fiction and literary nonfiction texts (e.g., practical knowledge, historical/cultural context, and background knowledge) is shaped by the author’s emphasis on different evidence, advancing different interpretations of facts, or fictional portrayal of a time, place, or character and a historical account of the same period.

RI.CT.8.8. Analyze and reflect on (e.g., practical knowledge, historical/cultural context, and background knowledge) two or more informational texts that provide conflicting information on the same topic and identify where the texts disagree on matters of fact or interpretation.

W.AW.8.1. Write arguments on discipline-specific content (e.g., social studies, science, technical subjects, English/Language Arts) to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.

W.IW.8.2. Write informative/explanatory texts (including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/ experiments, or technical processes) to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.

W.NW.8.3. Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, relevant descriptive details, and well-structured event sequences.

W.WP.8.4. With some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, sustaining effort to complete complex writing tasks; seeking out assistance, models, sources or feedback to improve understanding or refine final products; focusing on how well purpose and audience have been addressed.

W.WR.8.5. Conduct short research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question), drawing on several sources and generating additional related, focused questions that allow for multiple avenues of exploration.

W.SE.8.6. Gather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources, using search terms effectively; assess the credibility and accuracy of each source; and quote or paraphrase the data and conclusions of others while avoiding plagiarism and following a standard format for citation.

W.RW.8.7. Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, metacognition/self- correction, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.

SL.PE.8.1. Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 8 topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly.

SL.II.8.2. Analyze the purpose of information presented in diverse media and formats (e.g., visually, quantitatively, orally) and evaluate the motives (e.g., social, commercial, political) behind its presentation.

SL.ES.8.3. Delineate a speaker’s argument and specific claims, evaluating the soundness of the reasoning and relevance and sufficiency of the evidence and identifying when irrelevant evidence is introduced.

SL.PI.8.4. Present claims and findings, emphasizing salient points in a focused, coherent manner with relevant evidence, sound valid reasoning, and well-chosen details; use appropriate eye contact, adequate volume, and clear pronunciation.

SL.UM.8.5. Integrate multimedia and visual displays into presentations to clarify information, strengthen claims and evidence, and add interest.

SL.AS.8.6. Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.

Essential Question(s)

  • How can critical thinking and the research process affect the perspective of ethical issues involving the proper use of information? 
  • How can the lack of ethical decisions lead to distortion, exaggeration, or misrepresentation of information presented in various media sources?

Enduring Understandings

  • Students will have an understanding of different ethical issues involving various forms of information.
  • Students will be able to apply critical thinking skills and the research process to determine the proper ethical and intended outcome of information presented.  

Student Learning Targets/Objectives

By the end of this module:

  • I can use the Library Bill of Rights to protect my privacy, while identifying ethical and unethical uses of information.
  • I can determine between freedom of speech and censorship, while identifying proper use of etiquette while using various forms of communications.
  • I can apply the proper use of fair use versus copyright and while providing the proper reference to avoid plagiarism.  

Weekly Objectives:

  • Week 1
  • I can interpret the Library Bill of Rights and how it can protect privacy.
  • Week 2
  • I can discuss and test various forms of Censorship and the ethical and unethical applications of information use.
  • Week 3
  • I can identify and apply proper use of Freedom of Speech
  • I can elaborate and discuss the freedom of information act and various uses of gathering information.  

 

  • Week 4
  • I can determine and apply proper Internet Etiquette.
  • I can identify various forms of improper internet, social media and email etiquette.
  • Week 5
  • I can determine legal uses of information, while identifying piracy and the effects of both.
  • Week 6
  • I can identify various forms of Intellectual Property and identify ethical applications that are acceptable and unacceptable.
  • Week 7
  • I can analyze copyright and fair use while determining the proper and ethical use of information.
  • Week 8
  • I can avoid plagiarism by giving credit for information using the appropriate format with the use of summaries, quotations, or paraphrasing.
  • Week 9
  • I can determine between acceptable and unacceptable uses of information.
  • I can identify information that may conflict with morals in society.
  •  I can identify professional misconduct involving the proper use of information.

Assessments

Assessments will be formative and ongoing throughout the module. Formative assessments will include, but will not be limited to the following;  (Examples)

  • Observations during in-class activities; of students non-verbal feedback during lecture
  • Homework exercises as review for exams and class discussions)
  • Reflections journals that are reviewed periodically during the semester
  • Question and answer sessions, both formal—planned and informal—spontaneous
  • Conferences between the instructor and student at various points in the semester
  • In-class activities where students informally present their results
  • Student feedback collected by periodically answering specific question about the instruction and their self-evaluation of performance and progress

Summative assessments may be utilized to meet district requirements or to validate the transfer of learning objectives. (Examples)

  • Presentations
  • Performance Tasks
  • Student evaluation of the course
  • Instructor self-evaluation

Teaching and Learning Actions

Instructional Strategies

Academic Vocabulary -  Create and keep current, a Language Arts Word Wall, for children to use and interact with. Important for all learners, academic vocabulary and language must be taught explicitly, particularly to second language learners.

Accountable talk - Talking with others about ideas is fundamental to classroom learning. Classroom talk that promotes and sustains learning should be accountable to other learners, use accurate and

appropriate knowledge, and adhere to rigor in thinking. Accountable talk responds to and further develops what others have said through relevant observations, ideas, opinions, or more information.

Adapting to learning styles/multiple intelligences – Allow movement, choice, linguistics, visual, and other methods of teaching/learning to foster different interests, providing variety and differentiation in instruction, and developing the whole child.

Cognates-Using Cognates for words in Multilingual learner (MLL) native language

Conferencing - A one-to-one teacher conference with a student about his or her work in progress is prevalent in teaching writing and speaking, but it is also useful in other areas. The purpose of the conference-- engaging in meaningful conversation about the student’s work in progress--will not be realized automatically. Preparation (on the part of both the teacher and the student) before the conference, careful listening during the conference, recordkeeping, and follow-up are essential components for a successful outcome. In student-to-student conferencing, participants require guidance, a focused protocol, and accountability.  Video resource: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pad1eAcsHho

Content Stations – Areas where students work on different tasks simultaneously.  Can and should be leveled for review, challenge, and remediation at appropriate level.  Teacher rotates and facilitates instruction and assistance.  Activities reach various learning styles.  Houghton Mifflin Harcourt leveled readers to assist in background knowledge, skills application, etc.

Cues, questions, activating prior knowledge- Frequently assess your students for prior content knowledge to assist in planning your lessons.  Use effective questioning to prompt students to recall and apply what they have already learned.

Effective questioning - Teacher questioning and student response are common classroom learning activities. Research finds that teacher questions (and cues) are effective when they focus on what is important, require students to respond at higher levels, provide adequate wait time after a question is asked and establish an engaging introduction for the lesson. Effective questioning can also play a role in focusing students on unit learning goals or overarching themes throughout a longer period of study.

Flexible Groupings-   Teacher meets with groups to meet curricular goals, engage students, and respond to individual needs.

Integration of content areas - There is a strong case to be made for integrating curriculum. It strengthens skills that students encounter in one content area, but also practice in another, such as reading and writing, and it

can lead to the mastery of those skills. It provides meaningful instruction for students in multiple areas of standards in a single class or learning experience. It is also a more authentic way of

learning because it reflects what we experience, both professionally and personally, in the world. It can be a way to engage students when introducing them to a challenging subject. STEM education is a current example of effective content integration. Research supports the integration of content areas.

Intentional Use of Technology – whiteboard presentations and activities available and encouraged for use through HMH.

Leveled Instruction – Teacher gives introductory lesson to the entire class, then provides varying access points for students to practice skills.  Teacher provides several assignments with different levels of difficulty- the student OR teacher chooses an assignment.

Modeling - Modeling is an instructional strategy wherein the teacher or another student demonstrates a new concept or skill and students learn by observing and emulating. Modeling is an effective instructional strategy when it allows students to observe thought processes and imitate particular behaviors or steps in a process. Types and purposes of modeling can include approaches such as task and performance modeling (demonstrating a task), metacognitive modeling (thinking aloud), and disposition modeling (conveying one’s own enthusiasm, interest, or commitment). Modeling can be used across disciplines and in all grades and ability levels.

Nonlinguistic representations- drawings, blocks, physical models, kinesthetic activities, graphic organizers, realia

Phoneme Grapheme Correspondence

Read-aloud - Read-aloud is an instructional format, included formally in elementary reading programs and as an instructional activity in all areas and levels of the curriculum. A primary purpose of a read-aloud is to create a community of readers in the classroom and establish a known text as a basis for related literacy activities. Reading aloud allows teachers to model important components of literacy, such as fluency, expression, and interacting with texts while exposing students to vocabulary that is just beyond their instructional level and demonstrating how reading is a source of information and enjoyment.

Semantic Mapping -The association of meanings and context for a given word that may include: origin, images, multiple meanings, word structure, synonyms, antonyms, descriptors, common contexts, examples, historical or cultural connotations and personal associations. When using a semantic map, it will assist students by building a meaningful network of associations around the words that must be learned which will be stored more deeply in memory and retrieved more easily.  

Share the Pen- Interactive writing strategy where teacher and students “share the pen” to create a written product such as a sentence, story, or list.

SIoP Strategies - Sheltered Instructional Observation Protocol consists of eight components; lesson preparation, building background, comprehensible input, strategies, interaction, practice, lesson delivery, and review and assessment.  Using these eight components teachers can design instruction that will help Multilingual learner (MLL) to reach English language acquisition.

Student goal setting - Teachers who set, define, and communicate learning objectives effectively with students employ research-based findings that say goal setting with students should: (1) be flexible and general because when a goal is too narrowly focused, it may limit learning (e.g., If the goal is to learn how a piston works, students may not learn its relationship to other parts of an engine), although too general goals may be unattainable; (2) encourage student ownership (e.g., creating own goals, personalizing teacher goals, committing to contracts, and providing feedback on their progress in journals, videos, etc.); (3) focus on understanding over accomplishing tasks; and (4) allow students enough time to adapt goals to their own interests, learning styles, and prior knowledge. Setting goals benefits from explicit instruction.

Targeted feedback - Research and effective practice points to the following keys to using targeted feedback to improve student achievement and avoid negative effects: (1) link feedback to objectives; (2) use a formative evaluation approach over a summative approach; (3) make guidance specific (e.g.,proofing remarks or codes may not communicate well); (4) provide feedback in a timely manner (not long after assignment is forgotten); and (5) identify how students should use feedback to make improvements.                                                                                                 Thumbs Up/Down, “Stop Light”, “Smiley Face”- for quick, formative assessment                                                                                                    Think-Pair-Share– Turn & Talk with a neighbor to discuss/review various concepts/vocabulary/etc.  Each child that is called on to share reports out their partner’s ideas/response; then switch.

Word wall - A word wall is an organized collection of words prominently displayed in a classroom and

frequently used as an interactive literacy tool for teaching vocabulary and spelling to children. There are many different types of word walls, such as high frequency words, word families, and story- or unit-related names.

Activities: Including G/T, SE, and ELL Differentiation

Differentiation examples:

Students with a 504:
All modifications and health concerns listed in his/her 504 plan MUST be adhered to.

  •  Provide scaffolded support when they respond to questions (ie. Rephrase questions, have them Turn & Talk to peers, provide sentences frames for response, etc)
  • Sentence frames discussions/sharing.
  • Encourage participation using words, phrases, gestures, illustrations, and dictation, as needed.
  •  Refer to visuals throughout lesson/activity
  • Divide instruction into smaller chunks of time
  • Post pictures with new vocabulary words when possible and have children repeat each word.
  • Students demonstrate understanding verbally or drawing.
  •  Allow role-play responses.
  • Provide sentence frames for forming opinions:  I agree with ____ because ___. Or I do not agree with ____ because _____.
  • Encourage use of content vocabulary.
  • Use words, gestures, and repetition  to assist in developing vocabulary meaning retention.
  • Retell stories, have children point to an image that matches their retelling.
  •  Have children highlight vocabulary/key words in their student workbooks..
  • Model using class anchor charts to assist in their writing, speaking, and reading..
  • Provide word/phrase cards to assist in accomplishing tasks.
  •  Model sentence structure when responding to questions.
  • Ask “yes” and “no” questions from time to time.
  • Allow frequent movement in the classroom, going up to the SMARTBoard, or big book to point out things relevant to the lesson.
  • Thumbs Up/Down for quick assessments.
  • Take dictation.
  • Have student make a line for each word of their response, then work with them to write the sentence decoding and reading the room to help with their writing. (ie. “I like the part when Keisha could build a tower using blocks.” _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.)
  •  Encourage asking questions for clarity. Provide displayed anchor chart of question words with question phrases on it.
  • Assign partner work.
  • Snap & Read Google extension (reads to student in selected language).
  • Small group instruction
  • Inclusion of videos, images, and Google Expeditions
  • Choice in task products (song, dance, writing, role play, drawing)
  • Use of Google Chromebook Accessibility Features, including:  screen magnifier, font increase, black/white contrast, larger cursor, Chromevox, on-screen

Module 1

Week 1

Focus: Economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information.

Activity: Privacy and Security

Credit: Privacy and Security - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)

  • The right to privacy (the right to read, consider, and develop ideas and beliefs free from observation or unwanted surveillance by the government or others), is the foundation for intellectual freedom.
  • It is essential to the exercise of free speech, free thought, and free association.
  • Discussion of “Library Bill of Rights” Library Bill of Rights | ALA

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 2

Focus: Economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information

Activity: Censorship

Credit: Censorship and Freedom of Speech - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)

  • Censorship is when something (text, image, film, book, etc.) is removed from public view because a person or group finds it disagreeable or questionable.
  • Examples:
  • A Religious group finds the witchcraft described in a book objectionable; they issue a challenge and the library is forced to remove it from the collection.
  • The timber and logging industry disagree with the message of a film about environmental conservation, so they pressure the local movie theater into canceling all scheduled viewings of the film.
  • Library Censorship Basics

A challenge is an attempt to remove or restrict materials, based upon the objections of a person or group. A banning is the removal of those materials. Challenges do not simply involve a person expressing a point of view; rather, they are an attempt to remove material from the curriculum or library, thereby restricting the access of others.

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 3

Focus: Economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information

Activity: Freedom of Speech

Credit:  Censorship and Freedom of Speech - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)

  • The right to freedom of speech allows individuals to express themselves without government interference or regulation. The Supreme Court requires the government to provide substantial justification for the interference with the right of free speech where it attempts to regulate the content of the speech. Generally, a person cannot be held liable, either criminally or civilly for anything written or spoken about a person or topic, so long as it is truthful or based on an honest opinion, and such statements.

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a law that gives you the right to access information from the federal government. It is often described as the law that keeps citizens in the know about their government.

Not all records are required to be released under the FOIA. Congress established nine exemptions from disclosure for certain categories of information to protect against certain harms, such as an invasion of personal privacy, or harm to law enforcement investigations. The FOIA authorizes agencies to withhold information when they reasonably foresee that disclosure would harm an interest protected by one of these nine exemptions. The nine exemptions are described below.

Exemption 1: Information that is classified to protect national security.

Exemption 2: Information related solely to the internal personnel rules and practices of an agency.

Exemption 3: Information that is prohibited from disclosure by another federal law.

Exemption 4: Trade secrets or commercial or financial information that is confidential or privileged.

Exemption 5: Privileged communications within or between agencies, including those protected by the:

  1. Deliberative Process Privilege (provided the records were created less than 25 years before the date on which they were requested)
  2. Attorney-Work Product Privilege
  3. Attorney-Client Privilege

Exemption 6: Information that, if disclosed, would invade another individual's personal privacy.

Exemption 7: Information compiled for law enforcement purposes that:

Exemption 8: Information that concerns the supervision of financial institutions.

Exemption 9: Geological information on wells.

  • 7(A). Could reasonably be expected to interfere with enforcement proceedings
  • 7(B). Would deprive a person of a right to a fair trial or an impartial adjudication
  • 7(C). Could reasonably be expected to constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy
  • 7(D). Could reasonably be expected to disclose the identity of a confidential source
  • 7(E). Would disclose techniques and procedures for law enforcement investigations or prosecutions
  • 7(F). Could reasonably be expected to endanger the life or physical safety of any individual

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 4

Focus: Economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information

Activity: Netiquette

Credit: Netiquette - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)

  • Appropriate way to communicate on the Internet. Can include Social Media and Email Netiquette.
  • Known as “Internet Etiquette” (polite behavior)
  • General guidelines - always be polite
  • Avoid the use of bad language
  • Be respectful
  • Be aware of cultural differences
  • Avoid humor and sarcasm outside of communication with close family and friends.
  • Avoid the use of all capital letters because it appears as though you are shouting.
  • Social Media Netiquette
  • Don’t be reactive - if a post makes you angry or upset give yourself time to cool down before posting, or don’t reply at all.
  • Avoid oversharing and be mindful of your privacy.
  • Remember the future - things live forever online.
  • Email Netiquette
  • Always include a subject line
  • Be brief and informative
  • Sign your emails with your name and email address.
  • Only use the “reply all” feature when necessary.
  • Do not send or reply to emails when you are angry or upset.
  • When responding, make sure you address all of the sender’s questions or concerns.

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 5

Focus: Economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information

Activity: Legal Use and Piracy

ld.php (sjrstate.edu)

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 6

Focus: Ethical production of information

Activity: Intellectual Property

Credit Intellectual Property and Copyright - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)

  • Intellectual Property Law is concerned with encouraging human innovation and creativity without unduly restricting dissemination of its fruits. Intellectual property is broad in scope covering a wide spectrum of creative mediums: literature, visual arts, music, drama, movies, biotechnology, computer software, etc.
  • Intellectual Property can be grouped into four different categories: Trademarks, Trade Secrets, Copyrights, and Patents. These four categories illustrate only one way to organize the various subsets of Intellectual Property Law. Another growing area of Intellectual Property Law is International Intellectual Property Law because of the varying degrees of rights one has in creative innovation.
  • Copyright is a form of intellectual property.
  • Industrial property is a form of intellectual property that includes inventions, patents, trademarks, industrial designs, and geographical indications of source (i.e., products that are closely identified with their geographical places of origin).

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 7 

Focus: Ethical production of information

Activity: Copyright and Fair Use

Credit: Intellectual Property and Copyright - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)

  • As defined by the U.S. Copyright Office, "Copyright is a type of intellectual property that protects original works of authorship as soon as an author fixes the work in a tangible form of expression." Content creators, termed "authors" in this definition, are often referred to as copyright "owners" or "holders" as well. The terms are used interchangeably in this guide.  
  • Copyright is a form of intellectual property law that grants the creator of an original work exclusive rights to its use and distribution. Simply put, when you create an original work—be it a poem, a photograph, a song, or a piece of software—you have the exclusive right to use, copy, and distribute that work, generally for a limited period of time.

The primary rationale behind copyright law is twofold:

  1. Economic Incentive: By providing exclusive rights, copyright law aims to incentivize creators to produce works that contribute to societal advancement. The idea is that creators will be more likely to invest time and resources into creating new works if they can control and profit from them.
  2. Promotion of Learning and Cultural Enrichment: While providing protections to creators, copyright law also aims to enrich society by promoting the dissemination of works for public consumption, hence exceptions like "fair use" exist.

Copyright law applies to a broad spectrum of creative works, including:

  • Literary Works
  • Musical Works
  • Dramatic Works
  • Pictorial, Graphic, and Sculptural Works
  • Audiovisual Works
  • Sound Recordings
  • Software: Computer programs and applications

It's crucial to note that copyright does not protect ideas, facts, or methods, but rather the unique expression of those ideas. For example, you can't copyright the idea for a time-travel novel, but the specific text you write—your unique expression of that idea—is copyrightable.

As the U.S. Copyright Office explains, "Copyright is originality and fixation:"

Original Works

Works are original when they are independently created by a human author and have a minimal degree of creativity. Independent creation simply means that you create it yourself, without copying. The Supreme Court has said that, to be creative, a work must have a “spark” and “modicum” of creativity. There are some things, however, that are not creative, like: titles, names, short phrases, and slogans; familiar symbols or designs; mere variations of typographic ornamentation, lettering, or coloring; and mere listings of ingredients or contents. And always keep in mind that copyright protects expression, and never ideas, procedures, methods, systems, processes, concepts, principles, or discoveries.

Fixed Works

A work is fixed when it is captured (either by or under the authority of an author) in a sufficiently permanent medium such that the work can be perceived, reproduced, or communicated for more than a short time. For example, a work is fixed when you write it down or record it.

What type of protection does copyright grant the owner? The U.S. Copyright Office states, "U.S. copyright law provides copyright owners with the following exclusive rights:

  • Reproduce the work in copies or phonorecords.
  • Prepare derivative works based upon the work.
  • Distribute copies or phonorecords of the work to the public by sale or other transfer of ownership or by rental, lease, or lending.
  • Perform the work publicly if it is a literary, musical, dramatic, or choreographic work; a pantomime; or a motion picture or other audiovisual work.
  • Display the work publicly if it is a literary, musical, dramatic, or choreographic work; a pantomime; or a pictorial, graphic, or sculptural work. This right also applies to the individual images of a motion picture or other audiovisual work.
  • Perform the work publicly by means of a digital audio transmission if the work is a sound recording.

Under the “fair use” rule of copyright law, an author may make limited use of another author’s work without asking permission. However, “fair use” is open to interpretation. Fair use is intended to support teaching, research, and scholarship, but educational purpose alone does not make every use of a work fair. It is always important to analyze how you are going to use a particular work against the following four factors of fair use.

  1. What is your purpose in using the material? Are you going to use the material for monetary gain or for education or research purposes?
  2. What is the characteristic nature of work – is it fact or fiction; has it been published or not?
  3. How much of the work are you going to use? Small amount or large? Is it the significant or central part of the work?
  4. How will your use of the work affect the author’s or the publisher’s ability to sell the material? If your purpose is for research or education, your effect on the market value may be difficult to prove. However, if your purpose is commercial gain, then you are not following fair use.

The distinction between what is fair use and what is infringement in a particular case will not always be clear or easily defined. There is no specific number of words, lines, or notes that may safely be taken without permission. Acknowledging the source of the copyrighted material does not substitute for obtaining permission.

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 8

Focus: Ethical production of information

Activity: Plagiarism

Credit: Plagiarism - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)

  • Plagiarism is presenting ideas and words as your own when they do not actually belong to you.
  • Give credit for the information you use through summaries, quotations, and paraphrasing.
  • Most popular citation formats include MLA and APA format

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Week 9

Focus: Ethical production of information

Activity: Ethical Research

Credit: Ethical Research - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)

What are ethics?

  • Rules that distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable behavior.
  •  Morals.
  •  A code of professional conduct.

Ethical research is the ethics of planning, conducting, and reporting research and should include protections of human and animal subjects

Differentiation: Provide support for student(s) as identified via 504, individual learning plans, Multilingual Learners (MLs) supports, or apply differentiation support examples.

Experiences

(virtual and live field trips)

Academic Vocabulary -  Create and keep current, a Language Arts Word Wall, for children to use and interact with. Important for all learners, academic vocabulary and language must be taught explicitly, particularly to second language learners.

Accountable talk - Talking with others about ideas is fundamental to classroom learning. Classroom talk that promotes and sustains learning should be accountable to other learners, use accurate and

appropriate knowledge, and adhere to rigor in thinking. Accountable talk responds to and further develops what others have said through relevant observations, ideas, opinions, or more information.

Adapting to learning styles/multiple intelligences – Allow movement, choice, linguistics, visual, and other methods of teaching/learning to foster different interests, providing variety and differentiation in instruction, and developing the whole child.

Cognates-Using Cognates for words in ML’s native language

Conferencing - A one-to-one teacher conference with a student about his or her work in progress is prevalent in teaching writing and speaking, but it is also useful in other areas. The purpose of the conference-- engaging in meaningful conversation about the student’s work in progress--will not be realized automatically. Preparation (on the part of both the teacher and the student) before the conference, careful listening during the conference, recordkeeping, and follow-up are essential components for a successful outcome. In student-to-student conferencing, participants require guidance, a focused protocol, and accountability.  Video resource: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pad1eAcsHho

Content Stations – Areas where students work on different tasks simultaneously.  Can and should be leveled for review, challenge, and remediation at appropriate level.  Teacher rotates and facilitates instruction and assistance.  Activities reach various learning styles.  Houghton Mifflin Harcourt leveled readers to assist in background knowledge, skills application, etc.

Cues, questions, activating prior knowledge- Frequently assess your students for prior content knowledge to assist in planning your lessons.  Use effective questioning to prompt students to recall and apply what they have already learned.

Effective questioning - Teacher questioning and student response are common classroom learning activities. Research finds that teacher questions (and cues) are effective when they focus on what is important, require students to respond at higher levels, provide adequate wait time after a question is asked and establish an engaging introduction for the lesson. Effective questioning can also play a role in focusing students on unit learning goals or overarching themes throughout a longer period of study.

Flexible Groupings-   Teacher meets with groups to meet curricular goals, engage students, and respond to individual needs.

Integration of content areas - There is a strong case to be made for integrating curriculum. It strengthens skills that students encounter in one content area, but also practice in another, such as reading and writing, and it

can lead to the mastery of those skills. It provides meaningful instruction for students in multiple areas of standards in a single class or learning experience. It is also a more authentic way of

learning because it reflects what we experience, both professionally and personally, in the world. It can be a way to engage students when introducing them to a challenging subject. STEM education is a current example of effective content integration. Research supports the integration of content areas.

Intentional Use of Technology – whiteboard presentations and activities available and encouraged for use through HMH.

Leveled Instruction – Teacher gives introductory lesson to the entire class, then provides varying access points for students to practice skills.  Teacher provides several assignments with different levels of difficulty- the student OR teacher chooses an assignment.

Modeling - Modeling is an instructional strategy wherein the teacher or another student demonstrates a new concept or skill and students learn by observing and emulating. Modeling is an effective instructional strategy when it allows students to observe thought processes and imitate particular behaviors or steps in a process. Types and purposes of modeling can include approaches such as task and performance modeling (demonstrating a task), metacognitive modeling (thinking aloud), and disposition modeling (conveying one’s own enthusiasm, interest, or commitment). Modeling can be used across disciplines and in all grades and ability levels.

Nonlinguistic representations- drawings, blocks, physical models, kinesthetic activities, graphic organizers, realia

Phoneme Grapheme Correspondence

Read-aloud - Read-aloud is an instructional format, included formally in elementary reading programs and as an instructional activity in all areas and levels of the curriculum. A primary purpose of a read-aloud is to create a community of readers in the classroom and establish a known text as a basis for related literacy activities. Reading aloud allows teachers to model important components of literacy, such as fluency, expression, and interacting with texts while exposing students to vocabulary that is just beyond their instructional level and demonstrating how reading is a source of information and enjoyment.

Semantic Mapping -The association of meanings and context for a given word that may include: origin, images, multiple meanings, word structure, synonyms, antonyms, descriptors, common contexts, examples, historical or cultural connotations and personal associations. When using a semantic map, it will assist students by building a meaningful network of associations around the words that must be learned which will be stored more deeply in memory and retrieved more easily.  

Share the Pen- Interactive writing strategy where teacher and students “share the pen” to create a written product such as a sentence, story, or list.

SIoP Strategies - Sheltered Instructional Observation Protocol consists of eight components; lesson preparation, building background, comprehensible input, strategies, interaction, practice, lesson delivery, and review and assessment.  Using these eight components teachers can design instruction that will help ML’s to reach English language acquisition.

Student goal setting - Teachers who set, define, and communicate learning objectives effectively with students employ research-based findings that say goal setting with students should: (1) be flexible and general because when a goal is too narrowly focused, it may limit learning (e.g., If the goal is to learn how a piston works, students may not learn its relationship to other parts of an engine), although too general goals may be unattainable; (2) encourage student ownership (e.g., creating own goals, personalizing teacher goals, committing to contracts, and providing feedback on their progress in journals, videos, etc.); (3) focus on understanding over accomplishing tasks; and (4) allow students enough time to adapt goals to their own interests, learning styles, and prior knowledge. Setting goals benefits from explicit instruction.

Targeted feedback - Research and effective practice points to the following keys to using targeted feedback to improve student achievement and avoid negative effects: (1) link feedback to objectives; (2) use a formative evaluation approach over a summative approach; (3) make guidance specific (e.g.,proofing remarks or codes may not communicate well); (4) provide feedback in a timely manner (not long after assignment is forgotten); and (5) identify how students should use feedback to make improvements.                                                                                                 Thumbs Up/Down, “Stop Light”, “Smiley Face”- for quick, formative assessment                                                                                                    Think-Pair-Share– Turn & Talk with a neighbor to discuss/review various concepts/vocabulary/etc.  Each child that is called on to share reports out their partner’s ideas/response; then switch.

Word wall - A word wall is an organized collection of words prominently displayed in a classroom and

frequently used as an interactive literacy tool for teaching vocabulary and spelling to children. There are many different types of word walls, such as high frequency words, word families, and story- or unit-related names.

Resources

Week 1 Privacy and Security - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)  Library Bill of Rights | ALA

Week 2 Censorship and Freedom of Speech - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)

Week 3 Censorship and Freedom of Speech - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)

Week 4 Netiquette - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)

Week 5 ld.php (sjrstate.edu)

Week 6 Intellectual Property and Copyright - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)

Week 7 Intellectual Property and Copyright - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)

Week 8 Plagiarism - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)

Week 9 Ethical Research - Information Literacy Modules - Learning Resources at St. Johns River State College (sjrstate.edu)

Pacing/ Time Frame:

9 weeks