This guide is not meant to be the one and only way to develop a lesson plan. It is a general overview that highlights the key points of creating a lesson plan. Below is a list of the steps involved in developing a lesson plan as well as a description of what each component should be. You may also find this new Lesson Plan Template to be useful for creating your lesson plans!
1. The first thing to consider, obviously, is what you want to teach. This should be developed based upon your state (or school) standards. You also need to be aware of what grade level you are developing the lesson plan for (and keep that in mind of course), and also record a time estimate for your lesson plan to help in time budgeting. Once you have your topic, you can begin determining how you want to teach the topic. If you didn't use the state standards to help in developing your topic, refer to them now to see what specific standards your lesson plan can fulfill. Having your lesson plan correctly aligned with state standards helps to prove its worthiness and necessity. It also helps in assuring that your students are being taught what your state requires. . . . . If you are able to correlate your lesson plan with standards, record links to those standards in your lesson plan. If writing this lesson plan for a website (The Lesson Plans Page) be sure to include a title that properly reflects your topic.
2. To make sure your lesson plan will teach exactly what you want it to; you need to develop clear and specific objectives. Please note that objectives should not be activities that will be used in the lesson plan. They should instead be the learning outcomes of those activities. As an example, if you wanted to teach your class how to add 2 + 3, your objective may be that "the students will know how to add 2 + 3" or more specifically "the students will demonstrate how to add 2 + 3."
Objectives should also be directly measurable (we'll get to this in assessment / evaluation). In other words, make sure you will be able to tell whether these objectives were met or not. You can certainly have more than one objective for a lesson plan.
To make objectives more meaningful, you may want to include both broad and narrow objectives. The broad objectives would be more like goals and include the overall goal of the lesson plan, i.e. to gain familiarity with adding two numbers together. The specific objectives would be more like the one listed above, i.e. "the students will demonstrate how to add the numbers 2 and 3 together."
3. You would probably find out exactly what materials you are going to use later, but they should be shown early in your lesson plan. This way if someone else were going to use your lesson plan, they would know in advance what materials are required. Be specific here to make sure the teacher will have everything they need. For the addition lesson, you should make sure you have 10 or so unifix cubes per student, paper, and pencils.
4. You may also want to write an Anticipatory Set, which would be a way to lead into the lesson plan and develop the students' interest in learning what is about to be taught. A good example deals with a lesson on fractions. The teacher could start by asking the students how they would divide up a pizza to make sure each of their 5 friends got an equal amount of pizza, and tell them that they can do this if they know how to work with fractions.
5. Now you need to write the step-by-step procedures that will be performed to reach the objectives. These don't have to involve every little thing the teacher will say and do, but they should list the relevant actions the teacher needs to perform. For the adding 2 + 3 lesson, you may have procedures such as these:
A. The teacher will give each child 2 unifix cubes.
B. The teacher will ask the students to write down how many unifix cubes they have on paper (2).
C. The students should then write a + sign below the number 2, like this:
2
+
D. The teacher will then pass out 3 more unifix cubes to each student.
E. The students will be asked to write down how many unifix cubes they were just given. They should write this number below the number 2 that they just wrote, so that it looks like this:
2
+3
F. Students should now draw a line under their 3.
G. Now the students should count how many unifix cubes they have together and write this number just below the 3, like this:
2
+3
----
5
H. Ask students how many unifix cubes they had to start, how many they were given to add to that, and how many they had total after the teacher gave them the 3 unifix cubes.
6. After the procedures have been completed, you may want to provide time for independent practice. For the example of above, students could be given time to add different numbers of unifix cubes together that a partner would provide them with.
7. Just before moving on to the assessment phase you should have some sort of closure for the lesson plan. A good idea for this is to return to your anticipatory set, i.e. ask students how they would divide up that pizza now that they know how to work with fractions (refer to the example in step 4).
8. Now you want to write your assessment / evaluation. Many lesson plans don't necessarily need an assessment, but most should have some sort of evaluation of whether or not the objectives were reached. The key in developing your assessment is to make sure that the assessment specifically measures whether the objectives were reached or not. Thus, there should be a direct correlation between the objectives and the assessments. Assuming the objective were to be able to add two single digit numbers together, an example would be to have students approach the teacher and add two single digit numbers (that the teacher provides via unifix cubes) on paper using unifix cubes as a guide.
9. Adaptations should also be made for students with learning disabilities and extensions for others. Examples would be adding 1 unifix cube to 1 unifix cube for students with learning disabilities and adding 9 unifix cubes to 13 unifix cubes for gifted students. This is best done with specific adaptations for specific students, to take into account their individual differences.
10. It's also a good idea to include a "Connections" section, which shows how the lesson plan could be integrated with other subjects. An example would be to have students paint 2 apples, then 3 more apples below them, etc. to integrate Art into the lesson plan. A better integration would involve creating 2 or 3 different types of textures on those apples, assuming texture was being studied in art class. Putting a lot of work into this can develop complete thematic units that would integrate related topics into many different subjects. This repetition of topics in different subjects can be extremely helpful in ensuring retention of the material.
That's it! If you followed all the instructions above, you've successfully written a very thorough lesson plan that will be useful for any other teachers wanting to teach such a topic. One of the most helpful tips in writing your first lesson plans would be to look at lesson plans that are already fully developed to get a better idea of what needs to be in the lesson plan. You can do this by looking at the lesson plans on this site! Be sure to email comments on this guide to the !
Also, consider developing an advanced teaching skill-set at an accredited online university.
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Sabtu, 28 Maret 2009
10 Steps To Developing A Quality Lesson Plan
Rabu, 25 Maret 2009
General Eating Habits Of Snakes
Some of the snakes like the tentacles snake eat aquatic plants apart from eating fish. Do not think that a snake might catch any prey that passes it. They would evaluate the prey they are planning to catch. If the prey is too small for it to be the meal then it might not even consider hunting. Some of the prey might be bigger for them to swallow. So they might even pass it without attacking it. Rodents serve as the important prey for most of the snakes. Note that it is a mammal. Snakes use their venom and constriction to kill the mammals and this method is well suited to kill the mammals before they eat. That could be one of the reasons for them to eat mammals mostly. The other food that they prefer to have is other snakes. It is easy to swallow other snakes since they easily fit their long body. For example the King Snake will eat snakes like rattlesnake by constricting them before eating. They also have other prey other than snakes. It is a wonder that some of the snakes that eat other snakes are harmless. One of the other snakes that also prey on snakes is the King Cobra.
There are snakes that are considered snail specialists. They eat snails tactically without eating the shell. Snakes like the Brown snake, the thirst snake, and the Southeast Asian Snail eating snakes use different methods to extract the snail from the shell so that they can eat more snails without eating the shells.
On searching the web for some more content on what do snakes eat you might wonder when you come across other weird things that snakes eat. Centipedes, Ants, termites, Crabs, Toads, crayfish, spiders, carrion, grasshoppers, and skinks are some of the weird items that the snakes eat. Some of the snakes are good in eating the eggs of fish, reptiles, and frogs. Snakes also drink water from the pools, ponds, and the dewdrops using their split tongue.
DNA Testing - An Overview Of This Revolutionary Scientific Breakthrough
Deoxyribonucleic acid is the scientific terminology for DNA. DNA determines the cells behavior, function, and structure. What is great about DNA is that not only can it tell the identity of a person, but it can also give information about four thousand genetic conditions and diseases.
There are a variety of samples that DNA testing can be conducted on. For example, semen, tissue, cheek cells, and blood cells all contain DNA. Every person has DNA that is both distinct and unique to only him or her. There is one exception however, and that is with identical twins. DNA can be compared to our individual fingerprints, thanks to the specific nature of DNA testing, paternity can be established. The courts use this method because the results of the tests are generally ten to one hundred times the accuracy required by the courts.
There are advantages and disadvantages to undergoing DNA testing. For example, DNA testing is typically not covered by insurance. Even though we have laws in place that are designed to protect us from health insurance discrimination, many people believe that the results of genetic testing may affect their chances of obtaining insurance coverage.
Family dynamics is an area of major concern for many people. For most families, the genes within the family are considered to be an heirloom. Therefore, this revolutionary testing might have some negative impact on the family. Furthermore, the testing might reveal relationships that were previously unknown, perhaps paternity, or maybe even reveal family secrets.This testing can have different types of effects on people both before and after the tests have been conducted. Therefore, it is wise to obtain professional help to deal with these issues and feelings.
The government and courts rely on DNA testing in solving crimes and finding leads. The method of DNA collection have proven guilt in crimes, as well as proven innocence in some wrongly accused of serious crimes or felonies.
You might likely see some advertisements for home DNA testing kits. It is important to remember that they often make promises that they cannot keep. The internet plays host to some of these sales and you could look at paying between $100 and $1,000 to purchase the kits. The General Accountability Office (GAO) states that these tests essentially create predictions that have been unproven medically and fail to provide meaningful information.
The United States FBI is wanting to keep a database nationally of DNA. There is a large amount of controversy surrounding this; many feel that obtaining DNA from any person without first gaining permission is going too far. It is far too easy for them to obtain DNA from a coffee cup or toothbrush.
Summary:
There are advantages and disadvantages to undergoing DNA testing. The government and courts rely on DNA testing in solving crimes and finding leads. The method of DNA collection have proven guilt in crimes, as well as proven innocence in some wrongly accused of serious crimes or felonies.
The Debatable DNA Testing - Discovering The Role Your Genes Play
Deoxyribonucleic acid is the scientific terminology for DNA. DNA determines the cells behavior, function, and structure. What is great about DNA is that not only can it tell the identity of a person, but it can also give information about four thousand genetic conditions and diseases. Because DNA testing is becoming cheaper, this is the most popular form of testing.
There are many uses of DNA testing. For example, to establish paternity DNA is often used. Paternity can also be established in an unborn child. This is done with amniocentesis or CVS (Chorionic Villi Sampling). The latter test is generally done in the early stages of a pregnancy between ten to thirteen weeks along.
To conduct the tests, the obstetrician will insert a needle into the abdomen of the mother. Another method is to vaginally insert a catheter with the aid of ultrasound, to collect the cells. To conduct the amniocentesis test, the obstetrician must collect fluid via the uterus, with the aid of ultrasound to guide them. This test is typically performed at weeks fourteen through twenty-four. Because these procedures are invasive, they should be thoroughly discussed with the obstetrician.
Breakthroughs with DNA testing happen regularly. For example, now DNA tests can be useful when trying to determine your ancestry. You see, our DNA comes from both of our parents. In general, most areas of our DNA go through dramatic changes. However, there are some areas of the DNA do not change at all. Because of the changes and the things that do not change, the testing is able to link many generations together and reconstruct the history of families.
DNA testing has also become popular with those who have been adopted. This allows them to trace their ancestors and find biological parents. To perform this kind of testing, a doctor will typically rub a cotton swab on the inside of the patient's mouth. It is painless, easy, and quick, so this means even a baby can undergo this testing. The cheek contains DNA within the skin cells and after rubbed in the mouth, it will be on the cotton swab. Then the swab is sent to the laboratory to test the cells, analyze the DNA in the cells, and determine if there is a match within that family.
DNA is also used to solve crimes of a serious nature. DNA testing has been used to prove guilt or innocent in those that stand accused of felonies and serious crimes. DNA is also used, thanks to new technology, to determine an unborn child's sex. This test uses the DNA in the blood of the mother to define the sex of the child, because of the genetic fetal chromosomes found within the blood. This test can be before from week five and on in a pregnancy.
Lastly, DNA testing has been used to conduct an evaluation of health risks and health. The tests can even aid a person in weight loss by defining foods they crave.
Summary:
Deoxyribonucleic acid is the scientific terminology for DNA. DNA determines the cells behavior, function, and structure. What is great about DNA is that not only can it tell the identity of a person, but it can also give information about four thousand genetic conditions and diseases. Because DNA testing is becoming cheaper, this is the most popular form of testing.
Senin, 23 Maret 2009
Area Velocity Flow Meter: How It Works
Although the term 'area velocity flow meter' may sound rather complicated to some, the basics of how it works are actually not all that complicated. Basically, to begin with, an area velocity flow meter works by continuously measures both the level and velocity of something in order to be able to calculate flow volume in an open channel or pipe, for instance.....
There are several different factors that need to be understood in regards to how an area velocity flow meter works, for instance there is the matter of the ultrasonic sensor, which is installed at the very bottom of a pipe or channel, and in order to be able to measure the water level, this ultrasonic sensor works by transmitting ultrasonic pulses which travel through the water and then reflect off the liquid surface.
This ultrasonic sensor is able to precisely measure the exact time that it takes for echoes to be able to return to the sensor, and as well, based on the speed of sound in water, the actual level is then measured with an incredible accuracy. There is then a separate down-looking ultrasonic sensor which can be used for that of highly aerated or more turbulent flow applications, for that matter.
How this device works is that it measures the level by transmitting that of ultrasonic pulses through the air to the liquid surface, again with an incredible accuracy. Furthermore, along with the level sensor itself, a submerged Doppler velocity sensor is used in order to be able to measure the actual water velocity.
Where to Find an Area Velocity Flow Meter
If you are curious in regards to where you can find and consequently purchase an area velocity flow meter, then you can at least rest assured in knowing that there are many options available to you in this regards. One type in particular is that of the AVFM-II area velocity flow meter, which has the following qualities: able to be used for open channels and pipes, no flume or weir required, totalizer and two programmable control relays, and there is also an optional intrinsically safe sensor included.
This device uses that of a submerged ultrasonic sensor in order to be able to continuously measure both that of the velocity and the level in the particular channel. As well, the sensor itself is a completely sealed ultrasonic unit which has no orifices or ports.
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Electromagnetic Flow Meter: A Critical Instrument For Accuracy
Up to date, there are about 20 or more manufacturers who make this electromagnetic meter, which are sold commercially to big companies, as well as any individuals who are in need of this flow meter in their house. Commonly also known as magmeter, this electromagnetic meter is a good investment to companies generally. This is because this meter provides the accurate measurement of water flow in the plant, both instantaneous and cumulative, as said before. As such, owners can always be aware of their water system, and need not worry about wastage or leakage thus.
Picking The Right One
There are many characteristics of an electromagnetic flow meter which needs to be distinguished to buy the correct and most suitable one for your water treatment system. You basically need to understand the qualities and features available among the different flow meters sold.
Basically when you are buying an electromagnetic flow meter, the most important feature is the exterior, besides the internal mechanism itself. You need to look out for the most durable housing of the electromagnetic meter, so that they last against harsh environments, aging, dust and moisture. Also, in any treatment plants, this electromagnetic flow meter is usually installed buried inside the water, and in such cases, you need to get a flow meter with the entrance to it highly protected, to counter sensor failure during operation due to water ingression.
Besides, you also need to check on the accuracy of the meter before buying as regards to low flow situations. A not-so-good electromagnetic meter may fail to give accurate reading when the water velocity is low. A better option is to buy an electromagnetic flow meter with digital signal processing power, which comes with an in-built amplifier, which would have no problem giving you the accurate flow rate even at very low velocity.
Also, modern electromagnetic flow meters come built in with empty pipe detection technology as well these days. This is a very good thing, because previously such meters needed the pipe to be full with liquid, then only accurate reading can be given, or else the meter performance would be terrible. With this new technology, this is a historical problem indeed.
Global Temperatures Expected To Rebound
Until recently, global temperatures were more than a degree Fahrenheit warmer when compared to the overall 20th Century mean. From August of 2007 through February of 2008, the Earth’s mean reading dropped to near the 200-year average temperature of 57 degrees.
We, Cliff Harris and Randy Mann, believe that the warming and even the cooling of global temperatures are.... the result of long-term climatic cycles, solar activity, sea-surface temperature patterns and more. However, Mankind’s activities of the burning of fossil fuels, massive deforestations, the replacing of grassy surfaces with asphalt and concrete, the ‘Urban Heat Island Effect,’ are making conditions ‘worse’ and this will ultimately enhance the Earth’s warming process down the meteorological roadway in the next several decades.
From the late 1940s through the early 1970s, a climate research organization called the Weather Science Foundation of Crystal Lake, Illinois, determined that the planet’s warm, cold, wet and dry periods were the result of alternating short-term and long-term climatic cycles. These researchers and scientists also concluded that the Earth’s ever-changing climate likewise has influenced global and regional economies, human and animal migrations, science, religion and the arts as well as shifting forms of government and strength of leadership.
Much of this data was based upon thousands of hours of research done by Dr. Raymond H. Wheeler and his associates during the 1930s and 1940s at Kansas State University. Dr. Wheeler was well-known for his discovery of various climate cycles, including his highly-regarded ‘510-Year Drought Clock’ that he detailed at the end of the ‘Dust Bowl’ era in the late 1930s.
During the early 1970s, our planet was in the midst of a colder and drier weather cycle. Inflationary recessions and oil shortages led to rationing and long gas lines at service stations worldwide. The situation at that time was far worse than it is now, at least for the time being.
The Weather Science Foundation also predicted, based on these various climate cycles, that our planet would turn much warmer and wetter by the early 2000s, resulting in general global prosperity. They also said that we would be seeing at this time widespread weather ‘extremes.’ There’s little doubt that most of their early predictions came true.
Our recent decline in the Earth’s temperature may be a combination of both long-term and short-term climate cycles, decreased solar activity and the development of a strong long-lasting La Nina, the current cooler than normal sea-surface temperature event in the south-central Pacific Ocean. Sunspot activity in the past 18 months has decreased the lowest levels since ‘The Little Ice Age’ ended in the mid-to late 1800s. This "cool spell," though, may only be a brief interruption to the Earth’s overall warming trend. Only time will tell.
Based on these predictions, it appears that much warmer readings may be expected for Planet Earth, especially by the 2030s, that will eventually top 1998's global highest reading of 58.3 degrees. It’s quite possible we could see an average temperature in the low 60s. Until then, this ‘cooling period’ may last from just a few months to as long as several years, especially if sunspot activity remains very low.
We at Harris-Mann Climatology, www.LongRangeWeather.com, believe that our prolonged cycle of wide weather ‘extremes,’ the worst in at least 1,000 years, will continue and perhaps become even more severe, especially by the mid 2010s. We should see more powerful storms, including major hurricanes and increasing deadly tornadoes. There will likewise be widespread flooding, crop-destroying droughts and freezes and violent weather of all types including ice storms, large-sized hail and torrential downpours.
We are already seeing on virtually every continent an almost Biblical weather scenario of increasing droughts and floods. In both the southwestern and southeastern corners of the U.S, there are severe water shortage problems associated with chronic long-term dryness. In some cases, the water deficits are the worst in at least 400 years.
Dr. Wheeler also discovered that approximately every 102 years, a much warmer and drier climatic cycle affects our planet. The last such ‘warm and dry’ peak occurred in 1936, at the end of the infamous ‘Dust Bowl’ period. During that time, extreme heat and dryness, combined with a multitude of problems during the ‘Great Depression,’ made living conditions practically intolerable.
The next ‘warm and dry’ climatic phase is scheduled to arrive in the early 2030s, probably peaking around 2038. It is expected to produce even hotter and drier weather patterns than we saw during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
But, we should remember, that the Earth’s coldest periods have usually followed excessive warmth. Such was the case when our planet moved from the Medieval Warm Period between 900 and 1300 A.D. to the sudden ‘Little Ice Age,’ which peaked in the 17th Century.
By the end of this 21st Century, a big cool down may occur that could ultimately lead to expanding glaciers worldwide, even in the mid-latitudes. We could possibly see even a new Great Ice Age. Based on long-term climatic data, these major ice ages have recurred about every 11,500 years. Well, you guessed it. The last extensive ice age was approximately 11,500 years ago, so we may be due. Again, only time will tell.
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An Overview of Halo Chemicals
Halochemicals are compounds that contain halogens, one of the group of elements that includes fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, astatine, and the as-yet undiscovered ununseptium (the existence of the latter element has been shown, but it has not yet been synthesized).
Chemical and Physical Properties of Halogens and Halochemicals
All of the elements in the halogen group are,.... characterized by their extremely high state of reactivity. All halogen atoms have an outer shell that contains seven electrons, and therefore is one electron short of being a full shell. This means that halogen atoms can gain the electron by reacting with other elements, which in turn makes halogens extremely reactive.
This high reactivity means that it is extremely rare to find halogens in their pure elemental form outside the laboratory. In nature, halogens are typically found as halide salts, and all "pure" halogens commonly exist as diatomic molecules, meaning that two atoms of a given halogen are bonded together.
Fluorine, for example, is so highly reactive that it can form compounds with several of the heavier noble gases, which are well-known for being largely inert. The only elements that fluorine cannot react with are the highly inert light noble gases helium, neon, and argon. Fluorine can also attack other types of inert material, such as glass.
All halogens can form compounds with hydrogen, each forming a strong acid called a hydrogen halide. Halogens can also react with each other, forming compounds called interhalogens.
Halogens are also used to create halocarbons. These are substances with one or more carbon atoms that are linked with one or more halogen atoms. The chemical reaction between carbon and halogen atoms produces strong chemical bonds called covalent bonds, which are not easily broken once formed.
Past and Present Uses of Halochemicals
Halochemicals have an extremely wide range of uses, and fluorochemicals alone are used in a variety of different ways.
Halocarbons have been used as solvents, adhesives, sealants, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and refrigerants, and have been used to create plastics and plasticizers (meaning they are added to substances to increase certain desirable physical properties).
Some halochemicals that were once widely utilized are no longer in use, due to concerns over toxicity, or environmental issues. Examples include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) such as Freon, many types of fluorocarbons (which were once commonly used industrial solvents, but now have a much more limited range of uses), and solvents such as carbon tetrachloride and trichloroethane, which were once available for public use but are now tightly regulated.
Two particularly well-used halogens are chlorine and fluorine, both of which are added to drinking water in many countries-chlorine as an antibacterial and antifungal agent, and fluorine (in the form of fluoride) to strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent tooth decay.
Many substances-including pharmaceuticals, and agricultural substances such as pesticides and herbicides-also benefit in terms of factors such as stability and potency from the addition of one or more halogen atoms. The addition of a halogen is carried out in a process called halogenation (this process can actually be done in several different ways, each involving a series of specific chemical steps). In many cases, the halogen added is fluorine.
In fact, fluorine is a component of a surprisingly large percentage of modern pharmaceuticals. The addition of fluorine atoms increases the stability and potency of many drugs, and fluorine is currently added to a wide variety of pharmaceuticals, including anesthetics, antacids, antifungal and antibiotic medicines, antidepressants, steroids, cholesterol lowering agents, and anticancer chemotherapeutic drugs.
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An Overview of Specialty Fluorochemicals
Fluorine has a number of chemical properties that make it particularly desirable for a wide variety of different industrial, commercial, and even medical applications. In particular, it is the most electronegative and the most highly reactive of all the elements, and readily forms compounds with all elements except for the three lightest noble gases. One particularly useful property of fluorine is that it forms strong and stable covalent bonds with carbon.
Due to these important and highly useful chemical properties, specialty fluorochemicals have..... numerous applications in a range of industries. The addition of fluorine or fluorine substituents improves the desirable qualities of an amazingly wide variety of compounds including pharmaceuticals, plastics, elastomers, and surfactants.
One of the most well-known uses of fluorine is the addition of fluoride to drinking water and toothpastes, to strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent tooth decay. There are many more highly specific uses of fluorine and specialty fluorochemicals, most of which are concentrated in the industrial, agricultural, and pharmaceutical industries.
Types and Uses of Specialty Fluorochemicals
Agricultural Uses: The addition of fluorine to many agricultural herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides improves the potency and therefore reduces the required application rate of these substances.
Photoresists: These polymers are used in semiconductor lithography. The addition of fluorine or fluorinated substituents to photoresists improves desirable chemical and physical properties.
Surfactants: Fluorine is a key component of surfactants and related compounds such as stain repellants.
Dyes: Adding fluorine or fluorinated substituents to many dyes improves their chemical and light resistance, and also their fixation yield.
Liquid Crystals: Adding fluorine to liquid crystal for use in display devices improves desirable chemical and physical properties such as the viscosity and miscibility of the liquid.
Plastics and Elastomers: With the addition of fluorine, these substances become more chemically and thermally stable. Due to these desirable properties fluoroplastics and fluoroeslastomers are used in a variety of ways, including in wiring insulation, gaskets and seals, hoses, and laboratory equipment.
Ion-Exchange Membranes: The use of fluorinated polymers allows ion-exchange membranes to be used in harsh environments, as the addition of fluorine improves the chemical and thermal stability of the membranes.
Custom-made Fluorochemicals: One particularly advantageous aspect of fluorine is that it can be added to a wide variety of chemical substances to increase stability, potency, and other desirable qualities. This means it is often possible to create custom-made specialty fluorochemicals.
A Closer Look at Fluorocarbons
Fluorocarbons are a particular type of fluorochemicals in which fluorine atoms are covalently bonded to carbon atoms in varying numbers and configurations. These covalent bonds are strong and stable, and this has been a major reason for the widespread of use fluorocarbons for a variety of applications. Fluorocarbons have been used as lubricants, propellants, refrigerants, solvents, and in water and stain-repellent products.
Concern over the slow environmental degradation of fluorocarbons has led to reduced usage of many of these substances. Some, such as carbon tetrachloride, were once available for public use, but are now much more tightly regulated. Most fluorocarbon solvents now have a much more limited range of industrial uses.
Some fluorocarbons (such as Freon) have a particularly bad reputation, however, due to their use as refrigerants and propellants. These have commonly contained chlorine in addition to fluorine. While the strong fluorine-carbon bonds make these substances highly resistant to environmental degradation, the addition of chlorine makes them highly reactive and destructive to the earth’s ozone layer. For this reason, the use of chlorofluorocarbons has been largely discontinued.
Despite environmental concerns, some fluorocarbons (such as fluoroplastics and fluoroeslastomers) are still in common use. One example is Teflon, which is a very common component of non-stick cookware.
The Use of Fluorine in Pharmaceuticals
One increasingly widespread application of specialty fluorochemicals is in the pharmaceutical industry, in which the ability of fluorine to improve the existing properties of other chemicals makes it enormously useful.
Simply by adding fluorine, the pharmacological properties of a drug can be improved in potency quite significantly, allowing for the use of lower doses to achieve the same effect as was previously gained.
Aside from this highly desirable property, another important advantage of adding fluorine to pharmaceuticals is that the shape of the resulting fluorochemical is largely unchanged. This is particularly important because the bioactivity of many drugs is highly dependent on the shape of the chemical compound.
One drawback, however, is the fact that the addition of fluorine improves the stability of pharmaceuticals. While this is an enormous advantage for most other specialty fluorochemical applications, in the pharmaceutical industry this is not always the case, because in some cases, improving the stability of a drug can reduce its metabolic degradation.
Currently, up to 50% of all modern pharmaceuticals contain fluorine. These include anesthetics, antidepressants, antifungals and antibiotics, antacids, cholesterol lowering agents, steroids and other anti-inflammatory agents, and certain types of anticancer chemotherapeutic drugs.
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Sabtu, 21 Maret 2009
Five Strategies to Better Learning
There has never been so much information to absorb and so much to learn in the history of humanity! The more technology we create, the greater the need for learning, so anything that can aid us in learning better is very welcome. Here are five simple strategies that can increase learning and retention of information.
The first learning strategy is a simple one, and one that might not appeal to young people in particular. This strategy is simple: Turn off the TV, turn off your radio and find a quiet place to work with no distractions. If you must have music, opt for classical music, and not rock music or hip-hop. It is amazing how many students like to have background music playing when they are learning, unaware of how counter-productive it can be. If you need to have background music, then choose Baroque, and then preferably strings, rather than brass. Baroque music played on strings has actually been shown to be beneficial to learners.
The second strategy...... follows on from the first. Don't slob out on the bed, especially on your front, when you are trying to study. Sit at a desk, if possible, with a comfortable, but straight-backed chair and make sure your materials are within easy reach. You don't want to have to break your leaning state over and over again, by having to retrieve items you need from elsewhere.
Strategy three: Breathe deeply and relax. Close your eyes breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth a few times, slowly and evenly. This helps prepare you for your study session and the next strategy.
Strategy four: You will be amazed how many students, adults and children, approach a study or learning task without first asking themselves why they are learning and what they want to achieve. After you have implemented strategy three, and relaxed somewhat, ask yourself what you want to achieve in this study session you are about to undertake. Having a concrete reason to do anything makes your brain focus more on the task. With studying this step is vital, because studying is essentially a brain-oriented task.
Strategy five: Study for short periods or 20 to 30 minutes each, and take breaks of about 10 minutes in between. Experts have found that our peaks of learning information tend to come at the beginning and the end of a session. In other words, we remember material more easily that we learned in the first few minutes of a session, and the last few minutes. Therefore, creating many beginnings and endings in one learning session should increase the amount we are able to take in and, more importantly, recall.
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The Perfect College Scholarship: Five Tips in Getting Your Way
1. Find a mentor. Individuals who will help you develop career-wise and guide you through your educational career are mentors. A community or professional authority or an educator can write positive recommendations and emphasize your achievements for the university admission and scholarship board if he or she sees genuine potential in you.
2. Watch out for scams. The Internet can keep you posted on scholarship options and deadlines. However, there is also no shortage of fraudulent college and university scholarships online as well. These are scam warnings: Application fees, Loan fees, "Guaranteed winnings", "Everybody is qualified", "Unclaimed aid", and "We'll apply on your behalf."...(3)...
3. Apply for everything. There's no limit to the number of university scholarships that you can submit applications to. When applying for scholarships, the application is your one and only stamp, so you should prepare it right. For starters, all forms should be typewritten with no corrections or mistakes. Quality paper has to be used. Seal your contents in a plastic folder and mail it with a return receipt (this lets the scholarship committee know that you're committed, and it lets you know if your package arrived). A mistake-free and professionally proofread essay is needed. A well-written CV that highlights your achievements is a must. Positions of leadership, honor and awards received, community services, and extracurricular activities have to be included as important points.
4. Do what leaders do. An excellent way to zero-in on a good university scholarship program is to look for a successful student and ask him how he did it. High school and college students must look at the leaders in their communities and schools. If someone got a college or university scholarship, find out what she did, if she volunteered with the Red Cross or the Girl Scouts, you must do that as well.
5. Persistence has rewards. Don't forget that you want to go to university, so if you don't get a scholarship, remember that there are other options, such as financial aid and student loans. Re-think your priorities as student loans are more important than a car loan, even if they're costly.
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3 Dissertation Advices To Get Your Dissertation Published
"I have submitted my dissertation and now I want it to be published. Can you please advice me on how do I get it published?
" "Can you provide me a list of publishers specializing in dissertations and academic topics?"
Day in and day out I receive these type of questions from huge number of students perusing PhD in USA and Masters Degree in UK. To be very honest, I became pretty bored after repeating same answers in response to every other e-mail I receive. So, I decided to write an article on how to get your dissertation published and from now on I will be referring students to this article whoever asks me about dissertation publishing.
If you want to get your dissertation published then you have three options to choose from. To get in-depth knowledge of all the three options, just keep reading...
1. Get It Published In a Journal: There are publishers who focus on publishing dissertations, while various academic publishers could be interested. It all depends on the topic, quality of research, etc. If you are willing to get your dissertation or some parts of your dissertation published in a journal then the advice for you would be to first find a suitable journal.
a) Go through the details and find out its requirements. Most journal websites will have information of their publishing requirements like what kind of content they are looking for, the length of the paper, and other submission guidelines.
b) Inquire if you can publish your whole dissertation or only some parts of it? Find out their submission guidelines as well. For example, if they accept content related to your field of study, or if they only accept authors with previous publishing experience, etc.
c) After going through the details submit your work and wait for their reply. It will be reviewed by them and then you will be informed.
d) If it is not accepted then go for another journal. If your dissertation is denied by one journal, don't lose hope. Find another one and keep trying
2. Get It Published As a Book: You can also get your dissertation published in a book form.
a) Find an academic press interested in your field of study and specializing in publishing dissertations. It is also advisable to consult with some academic publishers as they might show interest in publishing your work, depending on the field, quality of research, the topic you have chosen, etc.
b) You will have to submit a book proposal to a publisher which should explain the material you wish to publish. Do not submit the complete manuscript unless they are interested.
c) If you find an academic press interested in publishing your dissertation, they will most likely have a few revisions for you to make. They usually have a peer review process, so you will surely receive responses from two or three senior scholars of your field.
3. Self-Publishing: Dissertation advice for self-publishing is simple. If you prefer to just have some bound copies of your dissertation to share it with your friends, family, etc, then you may use a service like Lulu.com. Although self publishing is an option but not recommended as it will cost too much. If you wish to have few bound copies to keep them in your bookshelf, then you can check your university's library. Every university library has a bound copy of all dissertations or theses on the shelves or in the archives somewhere. You can pay them to bind a couple more copies for you.
There are few more routes you can take than explained above to get your dissertation published such as "Conference Proceedings". This happens to be the easiest of all the routes. You just have to present a paper at a conference and then either publish an abstract or full dissertation later on.
The most important dissertation advice when it comes to getting your dissertation published would be, not to lose hope. Without previous experience of publication, it is not easy to get your dissertation published. You will have to discuss this matter with your advisor, the academic society for your field and your university's reference librarians. They all can help you in knowing more avenues open to you.
In order to own the copyright, it is advisable to first bind your dissertation. Then fill out the copyright form. If you are in the UK, submit the form and the required number of bound copies to The British Library. If you are in the USA, submit the form and the required number of bound copies to The Library of Congress.
P:S. Try the ' Writers Year Book 2007'. It has a list of every British publisher with their specialties / generalities. It's priceless and easier to sort through than online.
For UK students who are pursuing Masters Degrees, it is fairly difficult to get it published as a mere MSc student.
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Kamis, 19 Maret 2009
BENEFITS OF OPTICAL FILTER FOR CAMERA
Current age of digitization has immensely rejuvenated the entire image of the simple camera to its digital makeover which calls for a greater understanding on our part as active photographers who need to understand its governing technology. The great performance of the digital camera is also attributed to the diverse benefits of optical filters used in these cameras.
Optical filters are small pieces beholding the composition of glass or acetate which is generally used to manipulate and adjust the picture before it gets sensed by the camera's digital sensor.
To accomplish the optical filters are placed in front of the camera's lines while taking a picture. Hence to put it specifically optical filters perform the task of image manipulation in a very simple manner eliminating the hassles of tedious course of end number of physical adjustments. All thanks to advancements in science and technology made in this regard. The benefit of optical filters is that they allow added control for the photographer of the images being shot. In terms of a wide range of benefits of optical filters for camera are distinctly classified.
Fluorescent Light Filters are used in terms of colour correction so as to impart natural renditions with daylight film, eliminating the blue green cast which ordinarily results from shooting colour films under average fluorescent lightning without a flash. Also it helps in obtaining the desired picture quality for cityscapes at night. Further infusion of technology and digitization in the camera technology has resulted in a whole range of shields such as EMC Shield, RFI Shield and filters like Laminated Filter, Infrared Filter to meet various demands in terms situation, geographic location, multiple shoot angles and the whole configuration of miscellaneous camera activities. More precisely it is a superb example of how we are gaining expertise and precision in terms of technology.The benefits of the optical filters in their discreet functional forms relates to picture quality enhancement, real impact, elimination of unwanted light cast through substantial adjustments and perfect picture configuration. The selection of the proper filter is actually far more important than any choice of lens or camera because the final effect of the image is largely generated by the functional effectiveness of the optical efficiency of the filters used. Hence it is important to understand that a good camera furnished with a uniquely designed optical filter can almost transform anything virtual to seem almost real and full of life. That is the real magic of optical filters while using a camera
Media Players = Mp3 + Mp4 Player
(1). Ion 4GB 2.8Inch (7.1cms) Touch-Screen Portable Media Player with Camera
Features: • 1.3 Mega Pixel Camera, 2.8inch (7.1cms) Touch-Screen • Plays Digital Video, Plays Music, FM Radio, Photos, Voice Recorder • Internal Memory: 4GB, SD/MMC Card Slot: Expandable up to 8GB • Multiple Language Support, USB Connectivity, Games Technical Specification: • Battery: 3.6V Lithium Battery, LCD Screen: OLED True Battery • Size: 80 x 30 x 1.6 mm, Signal Noise Ratio: 85dB, Earphone Export: 32Ohm 5MY • Export Frequency Range: 20Hz ~ 22KHz, Music Format: MP3/WMA • Record Format/Time: Sp Record/Snour (128mh)Lprerecord/SOhour(128mb) • Video Format: Windows Media Files MPEG Files Quick Time AVI Files • Chinese/English Display: Simple Chinese/Traditional Chinese English • Support Compress: 32kbps - 512kbps Contents of the Pack: • 1 Touch Screen PMP, 1 Earphone, 1 USB Cable, 1 Installation CD, 1 Power Adapter
(2). Mitashi Mini MP3 with Speakers Features: • Mitashi Mini MP3 with Speakers • 1GB Built-in Flash Memory, Built-in Stereo Speakers • Digital FM Tuner - Listen to your Fav FM station on the Move and record your fav FM tracks also • Digital Voice Recording - Enjoy the built in Voice Recorder to record any conversations • LCD Displays song title and artist information: 2 Colour LCD display • Synchronized lyrics display, Data Storage Function: Carry your data files, pictures along with you • Rechargeable lithium polymer battery, Plug and play support • Digital preset EQ's (normal, classic, rock, jazz & pop)
Minggu, 15 Maret 2009
How to Improve Study Skills in High School
Help Teens Develop Better Study Habits with Student Questionnaire
Teachi
ng study skills to high school students can pose a significant challenge.
High schoolers often feel that they have heard everything before,
Students have also grown up hearing that study techniques vary from person to person, so they should select techniques that work best for them. Certainly, this is true to an extent. However, students often select study methods that aren’t necessarily meeting their needs. Plus, these needs change over time. Here's a lesson idea that will help students take stock and learn to improve their current homework habits.
Designing a lesson around improving study habits is well worth the instructional time. The objective is not to introduce students to new study habits but to have them analyze their current habits. Then they can decide what is working and what needs to be improved. Naturally, students can learn from the suggestions and “best practices” of other students, so this will be a collaborative activity.
For this activity, arrange your students into four collaborative groups. Be sure to construct mixed ability, mixed gender groups in advance and assign students to groups at the very beginning of class. Before you begin, you may want to establish some ground rules for discussion. Then, give each group one section of this questionnaire. These sections are as follows:
- Location
- Time
- Company
- Priority
Then, instruct each group to write down everyone’s responses and discuss among themselves which methods they feel are most effective and why. Inform them that half way through class groups will be reporting back to the class to discuss the results of the questionnaire.
Location: Where Do You Study?
- on your bed
- at a desk in your bedroom
- on the living room couch
- in the family dining room
- at the library
- at a friend’s house
- in the car
- at a tutoring center
- at school in between classes or during study hall
Time: When Do You Study?
At what time do you study or complete homework?
- immediately after school
- right before dinner
- right after dinner
- just before bedtime
- only on the weekends
Company: With Whom Do You Study?
- alone
- your best friend
- a motivated student who is just an acquaintance
- your sibling
- your parent
- a supportive teacher during extra-help sessions
- a private tutor
Priority: How Do you Prioritize Your Assignments?
- big projects first
- difficult assignments first
- easy assignments first
- a specific piece of a large assignment first
Priority: Which Assignments Do You Postpone?
- studying for a test
- short less important assignments
- major assignments like an essay or research paper
- projects with creative elements
- projects with extensive research
- collaborative projects with other student
Once you return to whole group discussion half way through the class, you may want to draw a graphic organizer or chart on the board to represent the four categories. Ask one student to write the best practices of each group on the board as each group reports their findings.
Naturally, you will want to point out that different methods work for different students. You can also suggest ways to improve time mangagement. However, students should continue to explore and experiment if they find one method is not as effective as they would like. Encourage them to select at least two new methods recommended by their classmates and try them out for a week or two. They may be surprised at the positive results.
How to Write a Strong Introduction Paragraph
Tips to Teach High School Students to Compose an Essay Introduction
Since the introductory paragraph is the first readers will digest,
writers must make a strong statement to attract attention.
Here are some tips to help you do just that.
Novice writers anguish over composing an introductory paragraph for their essays. They have been instructed at some point to include a “hook” to capture readers’ attention, but they’ve also been warned to avoid sounding gimmicky. Starting an introductory paragraph with a rhetorical question may at first seem like an effective technique, but it can easily develop a formulaic or immature tone for the essay. If you are struggling to guide students with overarching suggestions that can apply to most high school essays, you will find these tips helpful.
When to Write the Introduction
While students often feel they must write their introduction first, this can hinder their progress. You may want to suggest that students compose a loose thesis statement to guide their writing, but postpone completing their introduction until after they have written the body of their essay. This may at first seem counter-intuitive to students, who are lulled into comfort once their introduction is complete. However, students may digress from their introduction when writing their paper. Encourage students to try a new approach, and they will quickly reap the reward of an expedited, more structured essay.
Identify the Topic
Following these simple steps will help students quickly write an introduction paragraph after the body has been written. In the first sentence, students should identify, or generally define, the topic. The topic is a broad overview of what will be discussed in the essay. For example, if students are writing about whether Kurt Vonnegut supports or criticizes the government in “Harrison Bergeron,” the topic may address government or the idea of too much governmental control. Encourage students to visualize an inverted pyramid structure, where the paragraph begins very generally and gets more specific as it progresses.
State Your Opinion about the Topic
The second sentence of the introduction paragraph will be slightly more specific. Here is where students can pick an angle from which to approach the topic. Are they for or against it? Are they intending to persuade or describe? For example, students can express their opinions about excessive governmental control and how they feel it affects society. These questions can be answered when students articulate their thoughts on the broad topic.
Build a Bridge
The third sentence is where the transition occurs from general to specific. That is, students must build a bridge from their general topic to their specific thesis statement. For instance, students can state their interpretation of Vonnegut’s view of government. Building a bridge is a simple but necessary component to the introduction paragraph, and it may take consist of two sentences.
State the Thesis
The thesis works well as a final sentence in the introduction paragraph. By definition, a thesis is specific. It outlines the body of the essay. Writing a loose thesis before the essay is written serves as a helpful guide to students, but be sure to remind them that it needs to be adapted once the essay is complete to ensure the content in the thesis is aligned with the content in the actual essay.
These tips define the purpose of each sentence in the introduction paragraph. When students realize that an introductory paragraph needs to be only four or five sentences in length and that it serves a very specific purpose, they feel a sense of relief. They are more than willing to impose structure on these mysterious entities and turn their attention to the heart of their essay, the body.
How to Write an Effective Conclusion Paragraph
Tips to Teach High School Students to Compose an Essay Conclusion
digest, 
writers must make a strong summary statement to leave a memorable impression
Composing a conclusion paragraph for a high school essay can seem like an unnecessary chore to students. They have been instructed at some point to restate their thesis statement, but that hardly constitutes a full paragraph. If you are struggling to guide students with overarching suggestions that can enliven most high school essays, you will find these tips helpful.
When to Write the Conclusion
Students should always align their introduction and conclusion paragraphs to create a unified, purposeful essay. With this goal in mind, you can suggest that students compose their introduction and conclusion paragraphs together after they have written the body of their essay. Encourage students to try this new approach of writing the body of the essay first, the introduction paragraph second, and the conclusion paragraph last, and they will quickly reap the reward of a more structured essay.
Point to the Future
The first sentence of the conclusion paragraph should point to the future in a way that relates to the topic. For example, if students are writing an essay about whether Kurt Vonnegut supports or criticizes governmental control in the short story, "Harrison Bergeron," students may write a sentence that summarizes the future of a society with such a government. How do they envision the world if it is run by Diana Moon Glampers, the Handicapper General described in the story? Describing a future scenario that relates to the essay's topic can be an intriguing way to introduce the final paragraph.
Suggest a Future Action
The second sentence of the conclusion paragraph can suggest a future action that needs to be taken by the writer, the reader, or the character mentioned if they are writing a literary analysis essay. For example, a student who criticizes governmental control may suggest that Harrison Bergeron's father, George, defy the government and remove his handicaps in order to be free. This call to action is an especially effective technique if students are writing a persuasive essay because students want to rally their readers to promote change. For expository essays, students can suggest a next step in relation to the topic for the reader or for themselves as the writer.
Relate to the Thesis
The third and fourth sentences can relate to the thesis statement. When students rotely restate their thesis in the conclusion, no new insight is offered and the ending appears bland and uninspired. You can guide students toward using a restatement of the thesis to serve a specific purpose. They can make a deeper observation about life, human nature, community or society. For example, a student who believes that "Harrison Bergeron" depicts a dangerous society of governmental control can use their thesis to warn against mob mentality and advocate human liberty protected by the U.S. constitution. Urge students to delve into the deeper meaning of their thesis and offer insight to readers rather than mere repetition of ideas.
Express Opinions about the Topic
Although it may be inappropriate to express personal opinions in the body of certain types of essays, the last sentence or two of the conclusion can be an effective location for student commentary on the topic. Inform students that they may want to make a more general observation about how the topic applies to society or the world. Ending an essay with a unique thought can leave a lasting impression in the reader's mind.
These tips define the goal of each sentence in the conclusion paragraph. When students realize that a conclusion paragraph needs to be only four or five sentences in length and that it serves a very specific purpose, they feel motivated to follow these simple guidelines. Although the conclusion paragraph is often viewed as an unnecessary rehash of ideas, it is actually a vital essay component with its own purpose. Remind students that in the conclusion paragraph they need to point to the future, suggest a future action, relate to their thesis and express their opinions to empower their essay.
Kamis, 12 Maret 2009
Improve Study Habits Student Questionnaire
Improve Study Habits Student Questionnaire
Enhance the Way You Study Through Reflection and Self-Analysis
High school students have grown up hearing that study techniques vary from person to person, so they should select techniques that work best for them. Certainly, this is true to an extent. However, students often select study methods that are not currently meeting their needs.
Designing a lesson around improving study habits is well worth the instructional time. The objective is not to introduce students to new study habits but to have them analyze their current habits. They can then decide what is working and what needs to be improved. Naturally, students can learn from the suggestions and “best practices” of other students, so this will be a collaborative activity.
Teacher Preparation for Student Questionnaire Lesson
For this activity, arrange your students into four collaborative groups. Be sure to construct mixed ability, mixed gender groups in advance and assign students to groups at the very beginning of class. Give each group one section of this questionnaire:
- Location
- Time
- Company
- Priority
Lesson Guidelines
Instruct each group to write down everyone’s responses and then discuss among themselves which methods they feel are most effective and why. Inform them that half way through class groups will be reporting back to the class to discuss the results of the following questionnaire.
Location: Where Do You Study?
- on your bed
- at a desk in your bedroom
- on the living room couch
- in the family dining room
- at the library
- at a friend’s house
- in the car
- at a tutoring center
- at school in between classes or during study hall
Time: When Do You Study?
At what time do you study or complete homework?
- immediately after school
- right before dinner
- right after dinner
- just before bedtime
- only on the weekends
Company: With Whom Do You Study?
- alone
- your best friend
- a motivated student who is just an acquaintance
- your sibling
- your parent
- a supportive teacher during extra-help sessions
- a private tutor
Priority: How do you prioritize your assignments?
- big projects first
- difficult assignments first
- easy assignments first
- a specific piece of a large assignment first
Which assignments do you postpone?
- studying for a test
- short less important assignments
- major assignments like an essay or research paper
- projects with creative elements
- projects with extensive research
- collaborative projects with other students
Once you return to whole group discussion half way through the class, you may want to draw a graphic organizer or chart on the board to represent the four categories. Ask one student to write the best practices of each group on the board as each group reports their findings.
Naturally, you will want to point out that different methods work for different students. However, students should continue to explore and experiment if they find one method is not as effective as they would like. Encourage them to select at least two new methods recommended by their classmates and try them out for a week or two. They may be surprised at the positive results.
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Resources: 25 Useful Lesson Plan Links
For new teachers, designing curriculum for classes can be a challenge, as they don’t have the experience of veteran teachers to go on when creating new lessons. New teachers don’t have to go it alone, however. There are plenty of resources on the Internet that are designed to cater to the needs of teachers just entering their first years of teaching, as well as those with years of experience. Here are 25 great resources to check out to help you create interesting and effective lesson plans.
- Columbia Education Center Lesson Plans: This site is full of lesson plans created by teachers for their own classrooms that you can repurpose and use as part of your plans as well.
- The Teacher‘s Corner: Here you‘ll find lesson plans on topics that range from social studies to arts and crafts as well as printable worksheets, bulletin boards, recommended books and more.
- Teacher Vision: Whether you teach high school, middle school or elementary classes, you‘ll find helpful lesson plans on this site as well as advice on classroom management and fun activities.
- Thirteen Ed: This New York based site has numerous resources for all kinds of lessons including science, math, technology, art and more.
- Reach Every Child: Horace Mann and teacher Alan Haskvitz have compiled this collection of resources for teachers. Get a little assistance in approaching math, science and language arts from another way.
- Scholastic for Teachers: This leading educational publisher provides teachers with a number of resources, including some sample lesson plans that can help get them on the right track to better teaching students.
- Educational Resources and Lesson Plans: Professor Edmond Sass has created a list of thousands of lesson plan resources that can fit the needs of any teacher, from those working with special education students to those working to boost self-esteem.
- Busy Teachers’ Website:Get a long list of educational resources and lesson plans on this site. You’ll not only find links to lesson plans on just about every subject, but tips on relevant museum exhibits and projects as well.
- The Educator’s Reference Desk:This site contains a huge archive of lesson plans that you can search by subject, keywords or grade level.
- Teachers.net: Here, teachers can find over 4000 different lesson plans that have been created and submitted by other teachers for a variety of grade levels and subjects.
- Kathy Schrock’s Guide for Educators: Discovery Channel has an educationally focused site and among many other resources, teachers will find sample lesson plans and ideas to make technology-focused learning more fun and easier for students.
- Access Excellence: Biology and life sciences teachers can get some ideas for great lessons on this site on topics like DNA, radioactivity, the circulatory system and more.
- Microsoft Lesson Plans: Tech giant Microsoft gives back to the community through educational programs like this one that helps teachers. Here you‘ll get ideas for lessons on geography, history, technology and much more.
- Sites for Teachers:Whether you’re looking for an entire lesson plan, educational resources, or just some worksheets to print out, you‘ll find what you need on this comprehensive listing site.
- Pro Teacher Directory: Get some examples of lesson plans and class schedules as well as advice on writing effective lesson plans. You’ll also find common mistakes to avoid as well as guidance in creating lessons.
- Adprima: Here you‘ll find not only access to sample lesson plans but a little advice and guidance on how you can best go about writing your own lesson plans.
- Lesson Plans Page: Sponsored by Hot Chalk, this site contains over 3,500 different lesson plans. Teachers will also find help and advice from fellow teachers through articles and forums on the site.
- Read Write Think: English teachers can get some helpful lesson advice from this site, geared towards improving reading and language arts education.
- Lesson Plan Search: Search through a huge archive of lesson plans for help on a particular subject or grade level.
- Teachnology: Teachers can take advantage of over 28,000 lesson plans on this site as well as printable worksheets, teaching tips and more.
- Lesson Tutor: Get reproducible lesson plans, worksheets and some helpful advice from this instructional site for home schooling parents and teachers.
- Curriculum Archive: Find advice from other teachers, lesson plans, and classroom ideas on this searchable site.
- Technology Lesson Plans: With technology becoming an ever growing part of education, why not give your lessons a head start with some help from this site?
- Thinkfinity: Teachers can take advantage of the lesson plans as well as loads of other educational resources and tools found on this site.
- Xpeditions: National Geographic gives teachers some ideas of lessons on this site, which focuses on the earth sciences and biology.
Child Development for Students: Lesson Plans for Daily Routine Building
Establishing routines and patterns of behavior are important aids for children. Much of family conflict revolves around getting from one place to another or from one activity to another. Parents come for counseling because their children resist getting up in the morning, feel anxious over homework, dispute parent’s instructions, or delay in getting ready when the family needs to get somewhere. These difficulties can last into the teenage years and can leave the emerging young adult incapable of coping with independence and responsibility.Some household adjustments can help remedy the challenges in the present and prevent future problems.
As parents, it is our job to train our children to become successful adults. Successful routines are at the core of independence and responsibility. Babies learn feeding patterns, nap patterns, and play patterns. Toddlers learn waking patterns, snack patterns, and clean up patterns. Preschoolers learn activity patterns, sitting and listening, and bedtime patterns. Elementary school children learn chore patterns, homework patterns, and social patterns. These patterns are not innate; they are learned. Parents are the teachers. Thus parents must teach these routines with the patience and encouragement of a professional. Although so much of what we ask may seem simple, a child may find them complicated.There are four major routines children must establish during elementary school:
- Morning Routine: This pattern includes getting up on time, making their beds, getting dressed, eating breakfast, brushing teeth, washing up, packing lunches and getting their backpacks ready.
- School Routine: The teacher and the school establish this pattern but it can be a very complicated set of behaviors and thought patterns.
- After School Routine: Transitioning from school to home or an activity is a pattern in and of itself. This pattern might include snacks, breaks, sports and homework.
- Nighttime Routine: This pattern might include mealtime, homework, snack/dessert, free-time, brushing teeth, washing up, settling into their own beds and going to sleep.
Your children have a need to feel comfortable and safe in their patterns. And your children need your help in the training process. Here are some helpful hints to aid in their success:
- Establish your own pattern. Most people are forced to have routines due to their line of work (from lawyer to home manager). But if you live chaotically, understand that your children will live chaotically. Establishing a routine for yourself will greatly help in establishing a routine for your children and help model for your children the act of routine-building.
- Establish expectations and home routines. Sit down with your child and discuss what works best for the morning routine, after school routine and night routine. Use your child’s input and make a list. Post the lists in appropriate places. Again, you are training your child to be a responsible adult.
- Encourage your child to adopt the plan by emphasizing that life is easier with routines. Remember that repetition is critical. Gentle reminders and keeping the focus on established lists aids a child in the training process. If a routine is not working, re-work it! Consistency yields results. Help your child daily until the behavior patterns solidify. You will likely be rewarded by a calmer atmosphere at home.
- Review school routines. Most kids feel overwhelmed and anxious by new school routines. No matter how helpful and forgiving the teacher may be, kids feel a need to impress and fit in. Go over the expectations of the school and talk to your child about the best way he can manage within that system.
