Website Review: Jared Owen Animations

JARED OWEN ANIMATIONS is a YouTube Channel sharing fascinating 3D animations.

From science to architecture and history, Jared Owen has produced fascinating 3D animations that illustrate concepts, address questions, look inside equipment, and visit locations around the world. Users can see a series of animations related to Apollo Spacecraft, look inside a lightsaber, and visit Buckingham Palace.

Librarians will find the animations useful in computer science classes teaching 3D animation. In addition, collaborate with social studies and science teachers to weave the animations into the curriculum.

To visit the YouTube channel, go tohttps://www.youtube.com/user/captainranic

Website Review: National World War II Museum

THE NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MUSEUM website features learning resources telling the story of the war that changed the world.

Located in New Orleans, the museum website contains information about the physical location along with a growing number of online resources.

The War section of the website provides articles, items from the digital collection, WWII polls, and other types of information including text, graphics, and video content.

The Students and Teachers section provides distance learning programs, educator resources, and student resources that explore history topics related to WWII. Of particular note is their electronic field trip connected with the 75th anniversary of D-Day.

Librarians will find these high-quality learning materials appeal to students and teachers alike. Be sure to check out the YouTube channel for lots of video content. Also, examine the classroom website focusing specifically on using the collections in schools.

To visit the website, go to https://www.nationalww2museum.org.
To visit the YouTube channel, go to https://www.youtube.com/user/NationalWW2Museum.
To visit the classroom website, go to https://www.ww2classroom.org/.

Book Review: Over on a Desert

OVER ON A DESERT: SOMEWHERE IN THE WORLD by Marianne Berkes is a picture book exploration of the driest places on Earth and the animals who live there.

A short description, map, and illustration are provided for each of the ten featured deserts. Each scene shows creatures in their native habitats and are depicted using high-quality collage techniques. In addition to introducing the deserts, the book can also be used as a counting and number book with younger children. The very short narratives will appeal to young readers. The book concludes with additional background information, activity ideas, and even a song.

Librarians will find this book to be a useful read-aloud book for a desert themed unit. Young children and primary-aged youth alike will enjoy both the short narratives and the predictable counting theme. Use this book to kickstart a unit on desert habitats.

Published by Dawn Publications on September 1, 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website: Series of the Week

SERIES OF THE WEEK is a website featuring the best of web video series.

The Education section focuses specifically on web-based videos of interest to educators and students. Videos are grouped into subcategories including science, history, nature, and literature.

Librarians will find this website to be a good place to begin an exploration of web-based videos for use across the curriculum.

To visit the website, go to https://www.seriesoftheweek.com/education-webseries.

Website: Simple History

SIMPLE HISTORY is a YouTube Channel providing animated history videos.

Each short video visualizes a different aspect of history including culture, technology, and key events. Playlists are available on world history and wonders of the world. Users will find multiple videos on topics such as World War I and World War II.

Librarians will find dozens of engaging history segments to jumpstart an interest in a wide range of history topics. Work with the history teacher to weave the videos into the curriculum.

To visit the website, go tohttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC510QYlOlKNyhy_zdQxnGYw

Website: BBC

The BBC YouTube channels contain endless informational and educational video programming.

BBC supports dozens of YouTube channels. Best known is the BBC News channel, however there are many other channels useful for educational activities.

BBC Ideas is a channel contains short videos to “feed your curiosity.” CBBC is popular with youth. Check out their videos dealing with the issue of bullying. Students will find their “Horrible Histories” hilarious. CBeebie is a channel designed for young children. Finally Children in Need is focused on changing the lives of disadvantaged youth.

Librarians will want to mine the many BBC channels for short videos that can be woven into the curriculum. Use the news channel to provide a more global perspective on social issues.

To visit the channels, go to https://www.youtube.com/user/BBC/channels.

Book Review: Fakers

FAKERS by H. P. Wood is an insider’s guide to cons, hoaxes, and scams.

This work of nonfiction begins with the history of scams and deception. Each chapter then explores a different fake such as con artists, psychics, and mass-media hoaxes. Readers will be attracted to the many sidebars, historical documents, and colorful illustrations.

Librarians will find youth enjoy discussing the many hoaxes found in the book. Feature this title in a display along with books about aliens, fake news, and scams. Also, connect the book with lessons associated with technology scams and information literacy.

Published by Charlesbridge Publishing on October 2, 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Digital Spotlight: Science History Institute

The SCIENCE HISTORY INSTITUTE digital collection focuses on chemistry, engineering, and life sciences.

Contents: This digital collection contains nearly 6000 digital objects including artifacts, photographs, advertisements, letters, rare books, and more. Users can search by key word and limit the search by date.

Classroom Connections: Librarians will find this collection useful for students projects. Students can search for public domain images that can be used in science or other types of projects.

Featured Digital Objects:
Wilson College Chemistry Club https://digital.sciencehistory.org/works/w6634363x
Princess and Fairy, or, the Wonders of Nature https://digital.sciencehistory.org/works/c821gk49n
Science on Stamps https://digital.sciencehistory.org/focus/science-on-stamps

To visit the collection, go to https://digital.sciencehistory.org/.

Website: AP Images

AP IMAGES is a collection of images from the Associated Press.

Students can use the basic or advanced search engine to locate images or browse the website resources.

The Editorial Photography area contains images related to breaking news and top stories as well as images by topic. The historical section contains award winning photographs from the past 90 years. The GraphicsBank includes a wide range of graphics including logos and maps.

Librarians will find this website to be an effective way to locate key photos for a wide range of projects from current events to historical projects. Involve youth in starting a social issues project with a photograph from the collection. Be sure that students cite any images they use for class projects.

Before sharing the photographs outside the library or classroom, be sure to check the use guidelines for the particular image.

To visit the website, go to http://www.apimages.com/.

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.