Check out this youtube link on neuroplasticity

Christine Decker of Parkland shares a great link they use in their new student orientation:
 
During new student orientation, we share new research shows that the brain is actually more like a muscle; it changes and gets stronger when you use it. When you practice and learn new things, connections in the brain get stronger and multiply. In the scientific world this is called NEUROPLASTICITY

Then we show this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELpfYCZa87g

Using a self-monitoring chart to teach responsibility and build self-esteem

Submitted by Janet Young of Spoon River College, Adult Education Advisor

Janet is part of the central SLN Institute

I am trying to teach students responsibility.  Part of that responsibility is coming to class.  The teacher and I both give lots of positive verbal feed back to those that are sitting in their seats, notebooks out and ready to start class right on time.  We also try to build their self-esteem by showing them where they were at at the beginning of class, to where they are now by using the progress they have made on their writing, post-testing, vocabulary and math.  Everyday we have them fill out a self-monitoring chart on the progress they have made just for that day.  We started at the beginning of class by having them write down the reason they wanted to come to GED class.  Then at the end of each class period, they have to write down what they accomplished that day towards their goal, one thing they learned that day and what they could do to improve something they are struggling with.  We do this in the last 15 min. of the class and then ask anyone if they want to share.  We have found when they are proud of themselves for something they learn, they love to stand up and brag about it.  The rest of the class usually claps and is excited for them.  The students that maybe struggling will sometimes talk about something that is going on with them that is making it hard for them to reach their goals, but the rest of the class is supportive and encourages them to keep trying.  I have found that they are willing to help each other and work better in groups by doing this self-monitoring chart this year. Plus it also helps us know our students better and how we can help them.  It is a good monitoring tool for us, because if the student keeps writing down the same thing that they are struggling with, day after day, it helps us to see that we need to teach in a different way, or go back and spend more time on that subject.

Special Learning Needs Southern Group Meets at Olney Central College

The day was gloomy last Friday but the southern group was upbeat and worked hard at the initial meeting of the SLN Institute.

This Friday, October 17th will be the first group online meeting. See you in the virtual classroom!

Northern SLN Group Meets at Waubonsee

Our northern group met for the first time last Friday, October 3 at Waubonsee. Thanks to everyone for their efforts!

Central SLN Group Begins Training

Thanks to all of the great educators who worked collaboratively last Friday to begin the Special Learning Needs Institute at Parkland.

Sign up now for SLN Institue beginning this fall

Be sure to check out the application for the the Institute to Credential Special Learning Needs Resource Specialists beginning this fall all around Illinois. Click the link on the right side of the blog to learn about training at Waubonsee, Parkland, and Olney Central. Choose the one closest to you!

Academic Writing Strategy

The strategy instruction idea I use is from the content area of writing.  It is very important students learn how to write academically.  Learning to create content that flows is critical.  I like to teach using the analogy of a car without a driver.  A car without a driver is going no where.  Students have to learn to approach writing considering the reader.  Where are you going?  What is your opinion?  How can you support your opinion?  Opinion plus three topics = your thesis statement.  The thesis statement tells your readers what you are going to write about.  

Thanks for this post from Venise Haynes, South Suburban College, from the Institute to Credential Special Learning Needs Resource Specialists Training fy14