Website: Global Oneness Project

The GLOBAL ONENESS PROJECT uses stories as a tool sharing world culture.

This standards-based, interdisciplinary project includes stories and lessons that address universal themes such as diversity, hope, empathy, and responsibility. These themes are connected to authentic global issues such as climate change, water scarcity, and sustainability. The website contains a free library of multimedia stories, films, photo essays, and article along with curriculum and discussion guides.

Librarians can use this website as part of a school-wide project. Share the stories and lessons with teachers, then build a plan for creating a “Global Oneness” display in the library sharing student work based on the universal themes.

To visit the website, go to https://www.globalonenessproject.org/.

Book Review: Illegal

ILLEGAL by Eoin Colfer and Andrew Donkin is a graphic novel examining a child refugee’s struggle to survive.

Alternating between past and present, this full-color graphic novel follows the quest of a Ghanaian refugee trying to reconnect with his siblings in Europe. As the fast-paced story unfolds, young readers are exposed to the horrific realities of crossing hostile borders and trying to survive in unbearable conditions.

Don’t miss the backmatter that effectively connects the fictional story to the real lives of refugees.

Librarians will find this middle grade book to be an excellent addition to the library’s growing collection of books about refugees. Feature it in a display exploring immigration issues. Work with English and social studies teachers to build an interdisciplinary unit weaving in this timely title.

Published by Sourcebooks Jabberwocky on August 7, 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website: Picular

PICULAR is a search tool for colors.

This fascinating search engine connects users with the world of color. Users enter a search term to see colors related to the word such as oceans or frog. Users can click on the color number to copy the number. Or, they can click the image icon for an image connecting the word and image.

Librarians will find this to be a useful website for talking with youth about search tools. Also, connect this tool to the art and computer science curriculum.

Students involved with design or coding activities will find the numbered colors useful in programming, while art students enjoy exploring the connection between words and colors.

To visit the website, go to https://picular.co/.

Website: Tinkercad

TINKERCAD from Autodesk is a free online collection of 3D design and engineering tools created for students.

This easy-to-use app helps students apply 3D design, electronics, and coding skills. Users can begin using the tool immediately. Or, they can explore the gallery for ideas. Learning tools are built into the software. Lessons are available to teach 3D design, electronics, and coding skills.

Librarians will find these tools provide a fun way to introduce design and engineering concepts. The tools provide an easy introduction to 3D design.

To visit the website, go to https://www.tinkercad.com.

Website: Global Math Project

The GLOBAL MATH PROJECT is a community of mathematics teachers sharing their joy of math.

In addition to celebrating Global Math Week each year, the website contains six learning experiences including teaching guides and handouts. Links are also provided to dozens of “exploring dots” learning resources.

Librarians will find this website to be a great place to connect math teachers with learning resources. It’s also an opportunity to participate in the Global Math Week activities.

To visit the website, go to https://www.globalmathproject.org.

Book Review: Food Fight!

FOOD FIGHT! by Tanya Steel tells the story of who ate what and why through the ages.

This highly illustrated work of nonfiction begins with an introduction and food safety tips. The book traces the history of food from prehistoric times to an imagined future on Mars. A food timeline, recipes index, and subject index conclude the book.

This engaging book includes short narratives, photographs and other images, infographics, mini-timelines, sidebars, lists, embedded quizzes, and recipes for each time period.

Librarians will find this attractive book popular with youth who enjoy browsing highly illustrated works of nonfiction. Seek readers among students writing food history reports or those who enjoy learning about food and recipes. Of particular note are the 30 recipes. Teachers will find lots of ideas for bringing history alive for their classes.

Published by National Geographic Kids on September 11, 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website: Kapwing

KAPWING is an easy-to-use, online image and video production tool.

Users have access to dozens of online tools and editors to create simple graphics and videos. For instance, the meme maker allows users to create a simple online image with text overlay. Editors include a video montage maker, video collage, video filters, and video converter. Tools allows users to resize, loop, trim, and rotate videos. Users can apply templates or build projects from scratch. A blog provides useful news and information. Resources are provided for educators. Tutorials are also available.

Librarians will find this tool useful for working with students of all ages. Keep in mind that a Google or Facebook account is needed for the free account. A small watermark is placed on materials created with the free account.

To visit the website, go to https://www.kapwing.com/.

Digital Spotlight: Web Cultures Web Archive

The WEB CULTURES WEB ARCHIVE from the Library of Congress documents online culture.

Contents: Part of the American Folklife Center, this web archive documents the way cultures have developed and changed online. The digital resources include dozens of archived websites. In most cases, the items are stored in the webarchive format. A search tool and tips are provided along with featured items.

Classroom Connections: Librarians will find this website to be an interesting way for students to explore the impact of online culture. Involve youth in evaluating and debating the inclusion of various websites in the collection.

Featured Digital Objects:
Internet Meme Database: https://www.loc.gov/item/lcwaN0009692
Urban Dictionary: https://www.loc.gov/item/lcwaN0004130
Emojipedia: https://www.loc.gov/item/lcwaN0010500

To visit the collection, go to https://www.loc.gov/…/web-cultures-w…/about-this-collection/.

Book Review: The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge

THE ASSASSINATION OF BRANGWAIN SPURGE by M. T. Anderson and Eugene Yelchin explores the endless battle between elf and goblin kingdoms.

Told through a combination of illustrated sequences, letters, and short narratives, this unusual fantasy novel follows an elfin historian on his quest to survive in goblin territory. Packed with non-stop action, bizarre situations, and cultural misunderstandings, this novel is a unique combination of political satire and fantasy adventure.

Librarians will find readers among young adult readers who enjoy dark fantasy and social commentary. The quirky characters and witty humor will strike a cord with teens who may not understand all the underlying themes, but who will enjoy the outlandish situations. Recommend it for youth who enjoy a balance of witty, thought-provoking themes and goofy fantasy.

Published by Candlewick Press on September 25, 2018. ACR courtesy of the publisher.

Website: OASIS

OASIS is the Openly Available Sources Integrated Search (OASIS) tool that provides easy access to open content teaching and learning materials.

OASIS provides an easy-to-use interface for accessing open content from 72 different sources. Resources can be accessed by subject or using the advanced search tool. Educational materials include learning modules, courses, books, learning objects, audiobooks, videos, and more. In addition, the license for use is clearly marked.

Librarians will find this search tool to be a quick way to access high-quality, open access educational materials. Of particular note are the many resources focusing on information literacy.

To visit the website, go to https://oasis.geneseo.edu.

Website: Timegraphics

TIMEGRAPHICS is a timeline maker for all ages.

Users can easily create public timelines that incorporate text, images, and media. The tool can be integrated into Google Services and exported into other programs and services. Timelines can be downloaded and include a watermark with the free version.

Librarians will find this online tool to be useful across the curriculum. Weave it into storytelling and history projects.

To visit the website, go to https://time.graphics/.

Website: Pencil Code

PENCIL CODE is a free, online programming language editor for kids.

Users can jump right in by clicking the “Let’s Play” button. Or, explore activities in the areas of art, music, or adventure. Users can also explore shared student projects.

Teaching and learning resources are available including manual and a code book. An online guide is also available.

Librarians will find this tool to be a fun way to explore coding skills with students. Weave the editor and online resources into computer, math, art, music, and writing activities.

To visit the website, go to https://pencilcode.net/.

Book Review: Fly with Me

FLY WITH ME by Jane Yolen along with Heidi, Adam, and Jason Stemple is a celebration of birds through pictures, poems, and stories.

Filled with the colorful photographs and illustrations you would expect from National Geographic Kids, this large, attractive book examines all aspects of the world of birds. Sections include the topics of birds, bird history, state birds, bird song, bird viewing, bird migration, endangered birds, bird records, birds in art, birds in story, and citizen science.

Libraries will find bird lovers fascinated by the breadth and depth of this beautifully illustrated work of nonfiction. The book is equally effective when browsed or read cover to cover. Of particular note are the unusually perspectives such as birds in art, music, and stories.

Published by National Geographic Kids in October 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website: World's Largest Lesson

The WORLD’s LARGEST LESSON introduces students to sustainable development goals.

The website contains resources for introducing the seventeen global goals including lessons, videos, comics, and reproducibles. In addition, resources are available that address specific goals such as an activity focusing on making wise food choices. Users can also locate materials by type such as animated films and comics. Finally, social media resources provide lots of ideas showing what other schools are doing.

Librarians will find this website to be an effective way to explore global goals. Feature the seventeen goals in a display along with books connected with each theme. Be sure to put your school on the map and share your stories.

To visit the website, go to http://worldslargestlesson.globalgoals.org/.

Website: Total Darkness

TOTAL DARKNESS from the Science Museum Group is an online science mystery.

This engaging online interactive challenges players to apply critical and creative thinking skills to a science problem. After the electricity goes out, players explore their dark town and apply science skills to help people who are dealing with the power outage. Along the way, players discover theories about what caused the outage and apply creativity, communication, and curiosity skills to solve the mystery.

Librarians will find this interactive to be a fun way to introduce science concepts. Use it as part of a learning center along with books and science experiments.

To visit the website, go to https://totaldarkness.sciencemuseum.org.uk/.

Website: SAAM

The SMITHSONIAN AMERICAN ART MUSEUM (SAAM) website contains educational resources connecting students with American art.

SAAM’s Teacher Guides and Resources website includes teacher guides with corresponding standards and grade levels in the PDF format. Materials are available in the areas of Social Studies, Language Arts, Art and the African American Experience, Arte Latino, and Science and Art. In addition, resources are available through current and past exhibitions. Video content is also available such as artist interviews.

Librarians will find these educational resources useful across the curriculum. Sign up for an e-mail list to keep up-to-date with current resources.

To visit the website, go to https://americanart.si.edu/education/k-12/resources

Website: Native Knowledge 360

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE 360 is an award-winning history and culture project from the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian.

This website provides educators and students new ways of thinking about Native American history and culture. Begin by reading about the ten essential understandings that serve as a framework for the project. Use the search tool to locate resources or explore the educational materials by subject, language, nature, region, grade, or format. Resources include digital lessons, teacher guides, teaching posters, websites, and videos. Don’t miss the “did you know?” section that addresses common myths.

Librarians will find this website to be a valuable tool in connecting youth with new perspectives on Native American history, cultures, and contemporary lives. Work with teachers to weave the resources across the curriculum.

To visit the website, go to https://americanindian.si.edu/nk360.

Website: Crowd

CROWD is a crowdsourcing project from the Library of Congress.

This web-based project encourages volunteers to help make historical documents more searchable by the public. Participants can transcribe, review, and tag documents.

Users begin by choosing a campaign such as transcribing letters or diaries. Each project provides an overview, timeline, blog, and and statistics about progress and contributions.

The website also contains project news, a discussion area, and help for participants. Resources for educators wishing to involve their students include guiding questions, primary source analysis materials, and lessons.

Librarians will find this crowdsourcing project to be a effective way to actively involve youth in critical thinking and information literacy activities. Work with the history teacher to build lessons that incorporate primary sources and crowdsourcing.

To visit the website, go to https://crowd.loc.gov/.

Website: The Art Institute of Chicago

The ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO contains online collections and exhibits along with educational materials.

The website links to exhibition information and their online collections.

The digital collection includes many well-known works of art such as Grant Wood’s American Gothic and A Sunday on La Grande Latte by Georges Seurat. Each work of art includes lots of background information and many pieces contain links to multimedia and educational resources.

The website’s blog spotlights collections and also contains interesting essays and “behind the scenes” stories.

The Educators Resources section contains dozens of artwork resource packets for teachers. Each resource includes background information, discussion questions, activity ideas, a glossary, and links to the digital collection.

Librarians will find the digital collection to be easy to use. Use the educational resources with art and history teachers. Of particular note is the Art + Science resource that can be incorporated into the school’s STEAM program.

To visit the website, go to https://www.artic.edu.

Book Review: The Button War

THE BUTTON WAR by Avi is a work of historical fiction of middle grade students focusing on peer pressure and obsession during war.

Avi’s latest work of historical fiction is set in a small Polish town during World War I. While the war rages around them, a group of boys play their own deadly game involving obtaining a military button.

Librarians will find readers intrigued by the parallels between the war and the boy’s contest. Some youth will be drawn to the action packed plot. However, others will be dismayed by the focus on the dark themes.

Published by Candlewick Press on June 12, 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website: National Forest Map

The NATIONAL FOREST MAP from the US Forest Service is an interactive map.

This easy-to-use visual resource provides a variety of tools to explore forest service lands and recreational opportunities. Users can browse the map by topics such as hiking, picnicking, and fishing. Or, use the search tool to locate a particular place name or forest. Users can select a base map with streets, imagery, or topography. A legend explains colors and symbols. Up-to-date information is provided about weather warnings and fire activity.

Librarians will find this website to be a useful tool for connecting youth with nature. Involve students in exploring area hiking, biking, and nature viewing opportunities while teaching mapping skills.

To visit the website, go to https://www.fs.fed.us/ivm/index.html.

Website: Achieving the Dream

ACHIEVING THE DREAM is a project that shares open access college course materials.

Nearly a dozen colleges are sharing their course materials in disciplines such as business, music, philosophy, and sociology. Most of the resources are organized as e-textbooks with online modules. Many of these educational materials include embedded discussion questions and other instructional materials in addition to the content.

Librarians will find a wealth of instructional materials useful across the curriculum. Many of the materials could be incorporated into AP classes.

To visit the website, go tohttps://courses.lumenlearning.com/catalog/achievingthedream.

Website: The Great American Read

THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is a reading and video project from PBS.

This eight-part video series explores reading through America’s 100 best-loved novels. In addition to the videos, the website includes information about each book, details about the episodes, additional resources, blog postings, and stories submitted by readers.

Librarians will find the project to be a fun way to explore popular books with teens. Collaborate with the English department to build a unit revolving around the books, videos, and resources. Or, create your own library-based program to celebrate the books.

To visit the website, go to https://www.pbs.org/the-great-american-read/home/.

Website: Fuel Up to Play 60

FUEL UP TO PLAY 60 is a nutrition and physical activity program.

A collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture along with the National Dairy Council and the National Football League, the website contains resources for students, educators, parents, and the community.

The program includes a wide range of contests and activities that involve the entire school. The Playbook section of the website contains step-by-step instructions for healthy eating and physical activity ideas. The Tools section includes background information for educators.

Librarians will find that the library serves as a great place to coordinate a school-wide health and active living program. Be sure to check out the school funding opportunities and examples from past programs.

To visit the website, go to https://www.fueluptoplay60.com.

Book Review: 1968

1968: TODAY’S AUTHORS EXPLORE A YEAR OF REBELLION, REVOLUTION, & CHANGE edited by Marc Aronson and Susan Campbell Bartoletti explores different perspectives on this turbulent and pivotal year.

From Mark Kurlansky to Jim Murphy and Loree Griffin Burns, the book is filled with engaging short works by fourteen award-winning nonfiction authors. Whether exploring personal experiences through memoir or examining a specific theme in a focused essay, each author puts a different spin on the year. While the book covers well-known topics, it also explores many themes not covered by other books on this time period.

The book begins with an introduction to the year 1968. The editors then divided the year into four sections. Author notes, source notes, a selected bibliography, and index are included.

Librarians will find this book to be a solid addition to the nonfiction collection. While the book would benefit from additional illustrators and primary source documents, the short work format will appeal to many readers. Ask youth to use one of the nonfiction works to jumpstart an inquiry project.

Published by Candlewick Press in September 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website: State Facts

STATE FACTS from United States Census Bureau is an easy-to-use source for information about US states.

This interactive website provides information for each US state and territory. Users can click on the place on the map or select a location from the pull-down menu.

In addition to the state facts, the website also provides activity ideas for teachers.

Librarians will find this to be a fun way for elementary students to review information about US states. Youth will enjoy clicking on each state for information. Connect the information with a math activity on building graphs. Or, weave the resource into your data literacy curriculum.

To visit the website, go to https://www.census.gov/schools/facts/.

Digital Spotlight: Photo Archive

The PHOTO ARCHIVE at the American Center of Oriental Research contains thousands of photos from Jordan and the broader Middle East.

Contents: This photo archive includes images that represent Jordan’s past and present along with other photos from the Middle East. The project includes major archaeological and cultural heritage images.

Classroom Connections: The easy-to-use search tools provide easy access to the images. Users can search by theme, place, keywords, country, or collection. Use this collection for both social studies and humanities activities focusing on the Middle East region.

Featured Digital Objects:
Petroglyphs (search Rock Drawings)
Jane Taylor Collection (search Collection name)
Linda K. Jacobs Collection (search Collection Name)

To visit the collection, go to https://acor.digitalrelab.com/.

Digital Spotlight: Western History and Genealogy

The WESTERN HISTORY AND GENEALOGY digital collections from the Denver Public Library contains thousands of objects chronicling the development of Western America.

Contents: This online collection contains photographs, maps, broadsides, architectural drawings and other documents exploring the people, places, and events that shaped the American West. Topics include Native Americans, pioneers, railroads, mining, western towns, and Buffalo Bill. Users can search or browse by format or subject.

Classroom Connections: This collection is useful for students exploring the history of the American West along with social studies topics connected with famous people, cultural topics, and genealogy.

Featured Digital Objects:
Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show https://bit.ly/2Nh373b
Colorado Railroad Photos http://digital.denverlibrary.org/cdm/railroad/
Native Americans https://bit.ly/2QrDCOv

To visit the collection, go to http://digital.denverlibrary.org/.

Book Review: Otis and Will

OTIS AND WILL DISCOVER THE DEEP by Barb Rosenstock is a picture book exploring the record-setting dive of the bathysphere in 1930.

During his childhood, Otis Barton tried to invent a way to breath underwater. After becoming an engineer, he connected with an explorer named Will Beebe. Together they created a Bathysphere that could be used to explore the deep ocean. The picture book concludes with notes that provide additional text and photographs about this true story.

Librarians will find that the easy-to-read text and full page illustrations attract young readers to this fascinating story. Suggest this book to children who enjoy history and science. Work with teachers to integrate this fascinating story into science history. Feature this picture book with other recent publications in a display exploring underwater adventures.

Published on June 5, 2018 by LBYR, an imprint of Hachette Book Group. ARC courtesy of the publisher.