Date: Fri, 24 May 2002 21:40:28 +1200 From: "Virtual Teacher" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: Virtual Teacher -ALONG TIME AGO
Virtual Teacher Newsletter No. 50 May 24th 2002 - A ONG TIME AGO THE FREE ONLINE FORTNIGHTLY IT TEACHERS' NEWSLETTER ----------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe: http://mojo.epicentre.org.nz/cgi-bin/mojo/mojo.cgi?flavor=subscribe&list=Virtual _Teacher Or visit: http://www.virtualteacher.com.au Contact: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Website: http://www.virtualteacher.com.au Newsletter Archives can be found at:- http://www.virtualteacher.com.au/archives.html ============================================== CONTENTS 1. Welcome 2. Mind Candy 3. WWWinfo Currency converter 4. New Printables - Biographies and Autobiographies 5. Technical Stuff - Edsoft,, Mac and Seminars 6. Web Site Focus - Storm Chaser 7. Biographies and Autobiographies 8. Great Sites 9. Readers' Requests/Comments 10 Next Issue 11. Code of 'Netizens' 12. Tips ============================================== 1. WELCOME EVERYONE. A long time ago in a galaxy far far away - all the computers worked all of the time. In fact I am yet to see a Star Wars movie or an episode of Star Trek where a crashed computer causes a problem at all. SOOOO I expect that in the future computer problems will all be solved. BUT for the moment it seems that just as you are about to give the demonstration to BEAT all demonstrations, a computer problem, crash, outage, connection failure, printer/scanner malfunction or misplaced power supply brings you unstuck. BUT WAIT you all say - this is GREAT, this is FANTASTIC, because THEN you can teach everyone tooooo... TROUBLESHOOT - a most neglected area of computer education. JUST DO IT, the trouble shooting demonstration was the one you planned anyway - right. ============================================== 2. MIND CANDY From: Michael Wolf You know what seems odd to me? Numbers that aren't divisible by two." -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "It's so simple to be wise. Just think of something stupid to say and then don't say it." --Sam Levenson -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "It's not me who can't keep a secret it's the people I tell that can't." --Abraham Lincoln -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "I've had people ask me if I were shipwrecked on a deserted island, and could only have one book, what would it be? I always say 'How to Build a Boat.'" --Steven Wright -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I have found the best way to give advice to your children is to find out what they want and then advise them to do it. ---Harry Truman ============================================== 3. WWWinfo Universal Currency Converter http://www.zakon.org/robert/internet/timeline/ ===================================== 4. NEW PRINTABLES Biography of a Friend http://www/virtualteacher.com.au/biography.pdf Biography of a Famous Australian http://www/virtualteacher.com.au/autobiog.pdf Autobiography http://www/virtualteacher.com.au/biography.pdf ============================================== 5. TECHNICAL STUFF At last some cheaper software - thanks to the good folks at Edsoft. Now the next trick - when will we get the Maths Circus CDs on the 'cheaper' list. Keep working on it Linda. At least these cheaper prices can be downloaded from a home computer when I actually have time to look at them. for other states deals are already in place, check out the Edsoft site for details. THE GOOD NEWS At last Edsoft is able to supply the range of Macromedia products to NSW DET schools at discounted rates. Email Linda for a copy of the order form. Please pass this on to other interested colleagues. The Software Unit has listed Edsoft for Macromedia with their toll free Melbourne number 1800 338 873. If you have any questions please get back Linda. Linda Zugai NSW State Manager Edsoft Pty Ltd Email:- [EMAIL PROTECTED]http://www.edsoft.com.au -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- Google Zeitgeist - Search patterns, trends, and surprises according to Google http://www.google.com/press/zeitgeist.html -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- Apple previews next upgrade of OS X At its Worldwide Developers Conference last week, Apple previewed the next major version of Mac OS X. Code-named "Jaguar", it will offer new features such as: QuickTime 6, a complete solution for industry standard MPEG-4 video and AAC audio streaming; Rendezvous, Apple's proposed new industry standard for automatic discovery of computers, devices, and services on IP networks; Quartz Extreme, a hardware accelerated Quartz graphics and compositing engine; UNIX Tools, the latest UNIX advancements including FreeBSD 4.4 updates, the new GCC 3 compiler, IPv6 and IPSec; and Windows support, for increased compatibility with Windows networks with SMB browsing and sharing as well as built-in PPTP VPN security. The new version will be available to customers in late summer(our winter) 2002. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- What is SchoolKiT Enactz? SchoolKiT Enactz is a library of hundreds of classroom-ready learning modules that make meaningful use of technology to enhance learning. I ordered their free demo disc and there are a lot of interesting lessons on the disc. Take the tour and look at the free previews online. This is a great idea - although there seemed to be fewer resources for Primary schools - a great many more for high schools at this stage. It is a program worth looking at an evaluating, and would be particularly helpful for folk just starting out or those not too comfortable with integrating curriculum with computers. This company distributed this product worldwide, but it is based in our very own Victoria. Take a look. they may still have some free demo CDs. Sign up for the free 30 day trial - don't worry about doing this it's the best way to assess a new program. http://enactz.schoolkit.com/ P.O. Box 260 South Blackburn, Vic 3130 Phone: 03-8810-1317 Fax: 03-9923-6162 Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- NEW SEARCH ENGINE - SEARCHONLINE Here's a new search engine that is worth a look. "We have recently launched a new meta-search engine that has earned a lot of acclaim in the industry. Kevin Elliot of About.com recently wrote a glowing review of our service which can be found at: http://websearch.about.com/library/searchtips/bltotd020423.htm We search well over 100 search engines and special invisible "deep web" databases - including regional searches for the US, Canada, UK and France. To gain a full appreciation for the many unique features we offer you should take look at our online help section by clicking on the ? found in the upper right of the homepage. Our search engine supports UK, US, Canada, and French regional searches, multiple languages, mailing and saving of results directly from the result list, and many other features. We also have a very comprehensive news system, powered by moreover.com, which delivers news from over 1,000 sources grouped into over 300 categories. All features are free, just enter your search in the box at the top of the page. Only advanced functions like news subscriptions require registration. You can view the engine at: http://www.searchonline.info Cory J. Smith CEO, Anvil Development Group, LLC [EMAIL PROTECTED] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- Up and coming Seminars and Events from the Schooldaily http://www.theschooldaily.com 2nd International Lifelong Learning Conference 2002 http://www.edDiary.com/viewEvent.asp?eventPK=194 Date : Sunday, 16 June 2002 Venue : Rydges Capricorn International Resort Yeppoon on the Capricorn Coast, Australia 9th National Conference of the Australian Association for the Education of the Gifted and Talented http://www.edDiary.com/viewEvent.asp?eventPK=229 Date : Sunday, 20 October 2002 Venue : Powerhouse Museum, Sydney, Australia 15th Biennial World Conference for Gifted Education http://www.edDiary.com/viewEvent.asp?eventPK=216 Date : Friday, 01 August 2003 Venue : Convention Centre, Adelaide, Australia VETnetwork Australia National Conference 2002 - 'Enterprising People and Partnerships: vocational education and careers for a changing world' http://www.edDiary.com/viewEvent.asp?eventPK=243 Date : Wednesday, 23 October 2002 Venue : Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Brisbane, Australia Dyslexia: "Red Rose Recipe for Success" http://www.edDiary.com/viewEvent.asp?eventPK=281 Date : Tuesday, 13 August 2002 Venue : Hotel Grand Chancellor Christchurch, New Zealand ============================================== 6. WEBSITE FOCUS -Try Michael Thompson's Australian Storm Chase Diary: http://ozthunder.com/chase/chase.html These webquests have a number of links that may be useful: http://www.cap.nsw.edu.au/bb_site_intro/stage3_Modules/BushFire/bushfire.html http://www.cap.nsw.edu.au/bb_site_intro/stage3_Modules/disasters2/index.htm http://www.cap.nsw.edu.au/bb_site_intro/stage3_Modules/Nat_disasters/naturaldisa sters.html ============================================== 7. BIOGRAPHIES AND AUTOBIOGRAPHIES Check out the Printables above. Kathy Here's a site that I keep to myself ( and the many others who visit it!!). Great ideas for all KLAs. Highly recommend it http://www2.lhric.org/pocantico/sbarra/99/me.htm The class poems/recipes are great at this site - use it for inspiration for a Autobiographical poem writing session. You should try out this brilliant resource - BIOGRAPHY MAKER, print it out or use it live on the net. Its a great start to the new year - writing a biography about a class member or an autobiography about yourself. The site is simple easy to navigate and gives excellent scaffolding. http://www.bham.wednet.edu/bio/biomaker.htm ============================================== 8. GREAT SITES HOT SITE Energy Games Primary and Secondary from Channel 4 in the UK http://www.4learning.co.uk/sos/energy.html -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- Great G & T activity -Hoots mon! Make sure you join the other wee laddies and lassies currently playing the madcap online adventure MacDougall MacDougall in Time(tm). http://www.upweyhs.vic.edu.au/macdougall/ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- Head, Interactive Design, Publishing & Distribution Office of the Board of Studies NSW, Sydney, Australia Board of Studies NSW http://www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au K-6 educational resources http://www.bosnsw-k6.nsw.edu.au Gallipoli and the Anzacs http://www.anzacsite.gov.au Teaching Australian Heritage http://www.teachingheritage.nsw.edu.au Remaking Multicultural Australia for the 21st Century http://www.multiculturalaustralia.gov.au -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- Eggs http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/eggs/about.html -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- Boats Afloat: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/zoom/sci/boatsafloat.html -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- Explore The Sea: http://ms.mathscience.k12.va.us/lessons/ocean/explore.HTML -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- Fish Facts: http://www.wh.whoi.edu/faq/index.html Free Ocean Stuff: http://www.yoto98.noaa.gov/foryou.htm Ocean Links: http://www.yoto98.noaa.gov/kids.htm Save The Manatee: http://www.savethemanatee.org/ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- Endangered Australian Animals http://esl.com.au/savewildlife.htm Endangered Species - includes maps http://eelink.net/EndSpp.old.bak/Endangered.html Yamaha Paper Craft - endangered species - cut out and fold paper models of endangered animals. http://www.yamaha-motor.co.jp/eng/papercraft/index.html Bagheera - Website for endangered Species http://w1.adhost.com/ckmc/bagheera/ Save the Animals Webquest - Australian http://purple.nd.edu.au/coms/bj/waitsc/ourwork/group1/animals/index.htm ============================================== 9. READERS COMMENTS/REQUESTS Cathy, I am having trouble getting your fabulous Virtual teacher newsletters - has been visual garble all this year - yet I can retrieve the newsletters through the archives on your webpage easily. Is there something I need to be doing differently in my settings? Everything was OK last year, and I am not having any difficulty with any other mail . Have tried through different providers and through different browsers. Hope you can helP Nola -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- Has anyone else had this problem??? Can anyone suggest a solution? -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- G'day Cathy I'm looking at using a toy stationery steam engine probably with a number of other things as a learning tool for primary school grade 1 - grade 6. I was thinking of it as a technology/science subject and putting it under the umbrella of say energy and the differing forms and the work they do or alternative fuels with an environmental approach (cleaner air). I was after your thoughts on the matter, suggestions, websites in fact anything. Many Thanks Mick Duffy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- These sites may help you:- http://www.virtualteacher.com.au/energyans.pdf http://www.virtualteacher.com.au/coolfuel2.pdf -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dear Cathy I am a British trained Primary Teacher, with a first degree in English and History and a PGCE in Primary Education. I am hoping to emigrate to Perth before time runs out ! (I'm 43). I am looking at the Independent skills route, and I noticed that you can get points if you have a job offer from an employer. Can you tell me how to seek employment without a visa? I am presently teaching in a school in the North of England. Regards Ros Roper -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hi Ros, British trained teachers are still popular in private schools in Australia. Generally there is an over supply of teachers in the cities in Australia and an under supply in country areas. Each State department puts out a list of job vacancies and it would be a good idea to contact the Perth Department of Education about available jobs. This site included teacher recruitment info. http://www.eddept.wa.edu.au/ Site doesn't seem to be working too well - so you may need to contact them via email and ask about vacancies - it appears though that the other recruitment info is OK. Also the Various State newspapers have job listings for teachers each Saturday - The Sydney Morning Herald often lists jobs from other states as well - here is the generic site for Australian newspapers. http://www.nla.gov.au/oz/npapers.html#Southwestprinting&publishing In addition I would approach individual private schools with a resume and email. These schools are generally very interested in folk who have a good Tech background as well as their specific teaching subjects. Here's a list of Schools in WA http://www.edunet.ie/links/aus.html#wa Generic Jobs site - http://www.mycareer.com.au/ Best suggestion - get here and then offer to do casual teacher for any schools you are interested in teaching at - even offer to assist free of charge for a couple of days so that folk can get to know you. A lot of teaching positions in Australia go to folk who have worked as casuals within a school - and are known to FIT. ciao cathy ------------------------------------------ Hi Cathy I'd like to thank Nancy Sklavos-Gillett for the interactive websites. Now that e-learning is in every syllabus, we need lots of ideas to incorporate technology in all the subjects. Would be grateful for any good e-learning ideas or site for Technology in English. Thanks for all your continuing hard work. I look forward to your newsletters. Daphne. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Can anyone else help out???? -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dear Ibi, Here are some music sites that may help http://datadragon.com/education/reading/count.shtml This is a quick and easy lesson for music teachers to use when teaching the basics of beat counting. http://www.teachers.net/lessons/posts/673.html This lesson suggests to teachers ways to use alphabet letters to help children appreciate music. A variety of aspects of music (e.g. individual composers, individual instruments, particular music types) are included. With the aim to reinforce what is being learned and/or to make the experience extra interesting, the lesson planner suggests how children make booklets of what they are discovering. http://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/irp/music810/9chc.htm Educators can help students learn to listen to, perform, and create music, with the aim of helping them demonstrate an understanding of historical and cultural contexts with reference to music Thanks to those who replied to my query. This is a great site. Gillian Thanks gillian ============================================== 10. NEXT ISSUE Next issue I will be looking at PowerPoint and its uses, send in any great ideas you have. ciao cathy - - - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11. Code of the 'Netizens' This Newsletter is not free, despite the misleading advertising above. The Fee is now due. Each week you must help one colleague on the Internet who has less knowledge than you. Help that person even if you have to visit their classroom or do a little research and get back to them. Trust me, this will help a lot of people get their computer classrooms running better. OK I'm trusting you!!! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12. TIPS 1. Double click on highlighted URLS to open in browser. 2. Send in your Questions, Questions will be published with Answers, send in your Answers, if you have expertise to share. 3. Nominate a brilliant site for review and inclusion in this newsletter. 4. Nominate a fantastic school site for review and inclusion in this newsletter. 5. Make contact with other schools using fantastic programs. 6. Prepare and innovative article for this newsletter. 7. Tell 2 colleagues about this newsletter. ============================================== The opinions expressed here are purely those of the editor, Cathy Brown. All other small print clauses apply. Such as: Use at your own risk. Nothing in life is guaranteed. If it doesn't work for you send me an email. Editor: cathy brown mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Delivered FREE to your e-mail box every fortnight. Online Lesson Plans, Great Sites, Free Stuff, Tips, Time savers, and templates. Computer Solutions for Teachers. Subscribe today! It's totally Free! Just type subscribe in the subject and send it to me. [EMAIL PROTECTED] ============================================== Reach a growing audience of teachers, by advertising in the Virtual Teacher Newsletter or on the Virtual Teacher site. For more information contact, [EMAIL PROTECTED] For information about inservice and training contact me at [EMAIL PROTECTED] ============================================== ******************************************* For digest instead of individual postings, send the message: set k12newsletters digest to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe, click and send (no body or subject: required) mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] K12 Newsletters mailing list is a service of Classroom Connect - http://www.classroom.com Archives for K12 Newsletters can be found at: http://www.classroom.com/community/email/archives.jhtml?A0=K12NEWSLETTERS **********************************************************
