Phyllis' Favorites

Ed Pubs
http://edpubs.ed.gov
Order free U.S. Department of Education Publications
Search by education level or subject.

--------Forwarded Message--------
From: U.S. Department of Education--ED Pubs
EdPublications@EDPubs.org
Subject: Free U.S. Department of Education Publications

In an effort to serve you better, the U.S. Department of Education's ED Pubs (Education Publications) web site has undergone an extensive redesign.

New features include:
1. News—this section highlights one or two "newsworthy" items, such as information about new pub releases, announcements by Secretary Spellings, etc. The items will have relevancy to publications and the ability to quickly find all publications related to a "news" item. Check back often because the information will be updated regularly.
2. Featured Items—this section highlights 3-6 publications that are orderable directly from the home page. Each item displays a thumbnail image and title. By clicking the title you can view the publication’s detailed information page. Featured items will be updated every 1-2 weeks.
3. Hot Topics—this section lists items in response to current events, key ED initiatives, and other timely information. By clicking on a hot topic the system will run a search and find all publications that relate to the topic.
4. Find Publications By—the links to audience, education level, language, publication type, and subject allow you to quickly find publications related to the groupings. For example, a principal could click on audience and then select "principals" to find all publications that are intended for him/her; a teacher searching for posters could click on publication type and then select "posters" from the list of terms.
5. Students/Parents/Teachers/Administrators—these menu items listed near the top of the page allow you to quickly find publications that are intended for you. In order to make the search results more manageable you can further refine your group by education level (e.g., elementary, middle, high, college/university, etc.) and subject (e.g., English, math, science, and social studies).
6. Español—this section links to publications that are written in Spanish and a Spanish version of the FAQs.
7. Breadcrumbs—this tool aids you in navigating the site. It is listed below the header and before the main content. You can click on any item in the breadcrumb trail and return to that page.
8. Zoom—this allows you to quickly view a larger publication cover image.
9. Quantity—the ability to add the desired number of copies from any page. The system will validate the quantity entered and let you know if the number is above the maximum that is allowed.
Over the next several months, we will continue to fine tune the site and we encourage you to check back frequently to see our progress, check out the latest news items, and browse the new arrivals.
Of course, if you have any problems or questions please feel free to call us at 1-877-4ED-PUBS (433-7827). Our professional, knowledgeable Customer Service Representatives are available to assist you Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 6:00pm EST. If you aren’t able to call during this time, please feel free to leave us a voicemail or simply send an email to edpubs@edpubs.ed.gov. You can expect a response within 1 business day.

Have a great day!

U.S. Department of Education

Gateway to the Summer Games
http://www.edgate.com/summergames/
From the site:
“Educators! Keep the spirit of the Games alive in your classroom with cross-curricular Olympic-themed lesson plans.”
[NOTE: Previously posted. - Phyllis ]

Site found in:

TeachersFirst Resources for the Olympics
http://www.teachersfirst.com/olympics.cfm
From the site:
“Winter or summer, the Olympics provide teaching opportunities across the curriculum for students of all ages. Browse these options for curriculum connections to light the Olympic flame in your classroom.”

Alzheimer's Disease
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/alzheimersdisease.html
From the site:
“Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia among older people. Dementia is a brain disorder that seriously affects a person's ability to carry out daily activities.”

Sites found in:
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PBS Teachers Newsletter: August 3-16, 2008
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The Forgetting: A Portrait Of Alzheimer's
On-Air & Online
Gr. 6-8 / 9-12
Sunday, August 3, 2008
9 - 11:00 pm
This Emmy Award-winning documentary, originally broadcast in
2004, returns to PBS in an encore presentation. Since 2004,
there have been significant advances in Alzheimer's research,
but more than two million more Americans have been diagnosed
with the disease. Actor David Hyde Pierce returns to host "The
Future of Alzheimer's," a new half-hour panel discussion that
follows. (CC, Stereo)
http://www.pbs.org/theforgetting/

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Nature
Horse and Rider
On-Air & Online
Gr.6-8 / 9-12
Sunday, August 3, 2008
8 - 9:00 pm
Every relationship between horse and rider rests on a few
fundamental principles -- understanding the animal, building
trust, communication and working in unison. (CC, Stereo, HD, 1
year)
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/episodes/horse-and-rider/introduction/834/
Shortened URL: http://tinyurl.com/5wkudm

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NOVA ScienceNOW
On-Air & Online
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
9 - 10:00 pm
Renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson hosts this science
newsmagazine, which includes segments about a pill that could
extend the human lifespan; space elevators; satellite imaging
of Maya ruins; and a profile of "The Bacteria Whisperer." (CC,
Stereo, 1 year)
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/sciencenow/

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Nature
The Dolphin Defender
On-Air & Online
6-8 / 9-12
Sunday, August 10, 2008
8 - 9:00 pm
More than 25 years ago, filmmaker Hardy Jones set out to learn
everything he could about dolphins. At the time, no one had
conducted studies in the wild of these enigmatic creatures, and
many thought it couldn't be done. Since then, Jones has spent
more time with dolphins than other humans, developing unique
insights into what goes on in their sophisticated societies.
(CC, stereo, 1 year)
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/episodes/the-dolphin-defender/introduction/805/
Shortened URL: http://tinyurl.com/6b2dm4

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NOVA ScienceNOW
On-Air & Online
6-8 / 9-12
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
9 - 10:00 pm
This installment explores investigators trying to resurrect a
90-year-old virus to unlocking the secrets of ancient papyrus
scrolls -- and also profiles an innovative young roboticist,
Cynthia Breazeal. Neil deGrasse Tyson also meets up with
scientists trying to solve a 250-million-year-old murder
mystery.
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/sciencenow/

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Copyright 2008 PBS Online

WordReference Dictionaries
http://www.wordreference.com/
From the site:
“The WordReference Dictionaries are free online translation dictionaries. The most popular dictionaries are the Spanish Dictionary, French Dictionary and the Italian Dictionary. Search with the form below or the box above.”
Also: German and Russian.
[NOTE: Previously posted. - Phyllis ]

Sites found in:
The March 20, 2008 issue of Classroom Tools & Tips:
http://www.1105newsletters.com/t.do?id=994650:298987
http://www.eduhound.com/cttarchives/032008ctt.cfm

Topic :: PERSUASIVE WRITING

In persuasive writing, a writer takes a position FOR or AGAINST an issue and writes to convince the reader to believe or do something.

Argument & Persuasive Writing @ Web English Teacher
Includes lesson plans and activities for teaching argument and persuasive writing -- helps develop Web research and persuasive writing skills as they create original works.
http://www.webenglishteacher.com/argument.html

Unit Plan Persuasive Writing: Grades 6-12
Students will interpret their thoughts about various pictures, symbols, and slogans; create a visual representation of various feelings and emotions to infer what the advertiser could be selling the consumer; and create an advertisement using the various learned techniques.
http://teacher.scholastic.com/lessonplans/unit_persuasivewriting_lesson1.htm
Shortened URL: http://tinyurl.com/5spgb5

ReadWriteThink Lesson Plan: Can You Convince Me?
Through a classroom game and handouts, students are introduced to the concepts of lobbying for something important to them (or that they want) and making persuasive arguments.
http://www.readwritethink.org/lessons/lesson_view.asp?id=56

McREL Standards Activity: Persuade Me
As a result of this activity, students in grades 6-8 will be able to recognize and use persuasive techniques.
http://www.mcrel.org/compendium/activityDetail.asp?activityID=87

The Basic Principles of Persuasive Writing
This page features an article that outlines the basic principles of persuasive writing, including appealing to the reader's sense of reason, emotion, and good character.
http://www.writingcentre.ubc.ca/workshop/tools/argument.htm

Writing Opinion Pieces About Meaningful Issues to Kids
In this lesson, students identify controversial topics on which they have strong opinions. After examining a controversial issue, students then model their own persuasive opinion pieces after the featured article.
http://www.nytimes.com/learning/teachers/lessons/20000414friday.html

[NOTE: Some of these sites were previously posted. - Phyllis ]

Repeat After Us
http://www.repeatafterus.com
From the site:
“Created by a high school student, RepeatAfterUs is an award-winning online library with the best collection of copyright-free English texts and scripted recordings. Our free audio clips provide an excellent resource for students and literature lovers of all ages…8895 texts · 2350 recordings · 954 authors · 194 readers”
[NOTE: Previously posted. - Phyllis ]

Vincent van Gogh

A Draftsman's Fist, slideshow narrated by Michael Kimmelman
http://www.nytimes.com/packages/html/arts/20051014_VANGOGH_AUDIOSS/blocker.html
Shortened URL: http://tinyurl.com/5c5sgo

The Evolution of a Master Who Dreamed on Paper
By Michael Kimmelman
Published: October 14, 2005, New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/10/14/arts/design/14kimm.html?_r=1&oref=slogin
Shortened URL: http://tinyurl.com/5n7jgk

May require free registration.

Sites found in:
March 8, 2008 "Earth Science Sites of the Week"

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WATER ON TAP, EPA, a consumer’s guide to the nation’s drinking water
which answers questions like: Where does your drinking water come from? How
do you know if your drinking water is safe? How can you protect it? What can
you do if there’s a problem with your drinking water?

http://www.epa.gov/safewater/wot/index.html

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Interactive Constellation Discovery, Quiet Bay Networks, (suggested
by Mary Rodgers, Watkins Glen High School), Try your hand at picking out key
constellations in a perfectly dark sky.

http://www.quietbay.net/Science/astronomy/nightsky/

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ASTRONOMY AND PHYSICS SIMULATIONS, Rob Scharein, (suggested by David
Dow), included are retrograde motion, Keplers Laws, and cratering

http://hypnagogic.net/sim/

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Mark Francek
Professor of Geography
Central Michigan University
http://webs.cmich.edu/resgi/

Forecast Earth
http://climate.weather.com/science/
News, science and debate advancing sustainable life on a changing planet.
Select Tab: Science
From the drop-down menu, select:
Global Warming
Greenhouse Gases
Urban Legends
Science News\
Climate Data
Global Warming FAQs
Climate Change Glossary

[NOTE: Other pages from http://www.weather.com/ previously posted. - Phyllis ]

--------Forwarded Message--------
Site of the Day for Wednesday, March 19, 2008

The Basics of Climate Prediction
http://www.begbroke.ox.ac.uk/climate/interface.html

Today's site, from Oxford University's Begbroke Science Park, offers a
presentation on understanding how scientists arrive at the theories they do
about climate and a look at climate scenarios for the twenty-first century.
Gentle Subscribers will find an informative resource addressing the hot
topic of climate prediction.

"The news is full of debate about what the climate might do in the 21st
century. But what is climate, and how is it predicted? What can we find out
about what might happen over the next 100 years? ... The Basics of Climate
Prediction is an interactive learning tool produced by the Begbroke Science
Park in collaboration with climateprediction.net, the world's largest
climate prediction experiment. It explores the challenge of understanding
how the Earth's climate is changing and sheds light on the science of
climate prediction - what we know and what we don't know about predicting
the weather, the climate and 'global warming'". - from the website

This flash exhibit begins with an easy quiz on some of the facts and myths
about climate and moves on to a discussion of what climate is and the
forces which affect it. By using rabbits as an analogy in stable and
chaotic modeling systems in an interactive display, the exhibit
demonstrates how climate prediction is scientifically challenging,
including the concept of the "Butterfly Effect". Additional sections cover
the probability of what is most likely and most unlikely to happen in the
future. Final sections reveal current predictions about climate in 2050 and
2100 for different regions of the earth and under two scenarios -- one with
a "fossil fuel driven future", based on higher emissions; and one of
sustainable development predicated on lower emissions, with some surprising
predictions for each. The presentation concludes with a tidy summary of the
data and a link to additional information.

Wheel over to the site for a noteworthy exhibit on climate at:

http://www.begbroke.ox.ac.uk/climate/interface.html

A.M. Holm
view the List archives on the web at:
http://www.freelists.org/archives/sotd

Sites found in:
=======
The Scout Report
March 14, 2008
Volume 14, Number 10

The Scout Report on the Web:
Current issue: http://scout.wisc.edu/Reports/ScoutReport/Current/
This issue: http://scout.wisc.edu/Reports/ScoutReport/2008/scout-080314.php

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Educational Materials in Atmospheric Chemistry [ppt, pdf]
http://www-as.harvard.edu/chemistry/trop/education/index.html

Professor Daniel J. Jacob of Harvard University has compiled this very fine set of educational materials that deal with various aspects of atmospheric chemistry. He draws these resources from his own teaching experience, along with offering slides, presentations, and information from his own introductory textbook on the subject. Visitors can click through sections that contain resources such as Power Point presentations on halogen chemistry, aerosols, and global biogeochemical cycles. Professor Jacob has also been kind enough to include several versions of his 1999 textbook titled "Introduction to Atmosphere Chemistry" for general consideration and use. Finally, the site also contains resources on chemical transport models intended for graduate students. [KMG]

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Interactives: The Rock Cycle [Macromedia Flash Player]
http://www.learner.org/interactives/rockcycle/index.html

How much do you know about rocks? Well, if you are a bit unsure about distinguishing an igneous rock from a sedimentary rock you'll certainly be on solid ground after taking a tour through this feature created by Annenberg Media. Visitors can make their way through graphically-enhanced sections that include "Types of Rocks", "How Rocks Change", and "The Rock Cycle Diagram". In the "Types of Rocks" area visitors will learn about the basic types of rocks and they can even check out a handy chart that will give them some of the finer points of rock identification. The "How Rocks Change" area provides a basic overview of the processes involved with rock creation and transformation through a heady blend of Flash animations and straight-forward prose. Finally, the "Rock Cycle Diagram" provides an illustration of rock transformation over time. This site will be quite useful to educators and anyone who has peered at a rock and wondered: "How did you come to be?" [KMG]
[NOTE: Home page (http://www.learner.org/interactives/ ) previously posted. - Phyllis ]

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Science of Music: Exploratorium's Accidental Scientist [Macromedia Flash Player]
http://www.exploratorium.edu/music/index.html

How do opera singers sustain those high C's in "La Fille Du Régiment"? Is a birdsong music? These are but a few of the many questions explored, and answered, on this delightful site. Visitors can consider these and other queries through interactive exhibits, a "questions" section, and movies offered up by the Accidental Scientist Music site, created by staff members at the Exploratorium in San Francisco. To start, visitors should browse through the "Online Exhibits" area. Here they can join an online drum circle, explore the world of step dancing, and even create their own remixes. The "Questions" area provides multimedia answers to queries that include "Why does some music give me goose bumps?" and "Why does sad music sound sad?" Finally, the "Movies" area contains a selection of short films that cover everything from the tuning of musical instruments to the blues. [KMG] [NOTE: Previously posted. - Phyllis ]

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Antique Spectacles & Other Vision Aids
http://www.antiquespectacles.com/

There are some sites that cover the world of eyeglasses and related ocular devices, and then there is the site maintained by retired ophthalmologist Dr. David Fleishman. On his site, Fleishman brings together spectacle-related material about art, history and collecting all in one place. First-time visitors should stop by the "Introduction & News" area to learn about the overall scope of the site and to find out about the site's layout and organization. The "History & References" section is quite splendid, as visitors can read a developmental history of spectacles here, take in a recommended reading list, and translations of key historical documents related to spectacles, including the Sforza Letter of 1462. Visitors should not miss the "Interesting Topics" section, which includes features on famous religious leaders and their spectacles, representative examples of vision aids, and persons associated with the creation of new ocular devices, such as Benjamin Franklin and Dr. J. William Rosenthal. [KMG]

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>From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout 1994-2008.
http://scout.wisc.edu/

Lucy’s Legacy: The Hidden Treasures of Ethiopia
http://www.lucyexhibition.com/

From the site:
“Ethiopia's rich cultural heritage, is one of the best-kept secrets in the world. “Lucy’s Legacy” introduces you to the incredible five million-year history of this fascinating country, known as the Cradle of Mankind.”

--------Forwarded Message--------

Hi! It's Friday, March 7, 2008 and time for a Virtual Field Trip at
ClickSchooling!

Recommended Website:
Destination: Machu Picchu
http://www.peru-machu-picchu.com/index.php

Age Range: 9 and up (non-readers and some younger children may enjoy aspects
of the tour with a little help from mom or dad)

ClickSchooling subscriber Shelby and her 13-year-old son recommended this
website that provides 360-degree panoramic views of the ruins of Machu
Picchu in Peru.

When you get to the website you'll see a picture in the center of your
screen and a welcome message below it. Scroll further down the landing page
to read an overview of this virtual tour. Then, use the menu on the left
side of the screen to see the panoramic view of each area of the tour that
includes:

-Funerary Rock
-Royal Tomb
-Inside the Tomb
-Sacred Plaza
-Sacred Rock
-Central Plaza
-Intiwatana
-Condor Temple
-Animals
-Inca Trail

Click on any one and a new page opens. Wait a second or two for the video to
load and then watch the breathtaking panoramic photo-view. Below the screen,
you can read interesting text that explains what you are seeing.

This is an engaging way to explore a foreign destination without leaving
home.

Diane Flynn Keith
for ClickSchooling
Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved
http://www.Homefires.com/
http://www.Carschooling.com/
http://www.UniversalPreschool.com/

DID YOU MISPLACE A ClickSchooling Review? Do you need to find an educational website - fast! Visit the ClickSchooling archives at:
http://www.homefires.com/clickschool/archive.asp

Note: We make every effort to recommend websites that have content that is appropriate for general audiences. Parents should ALWAYS preview the sites for suitable content.

Click Schooling (Clickschooling) is a Federally Registered Trademark.

Two World History programs in Flash:

Early Man: History of Earth
http://wt2.cherokee.k12.ga.us/bill.burton/
Select: World History Classwork

Age of Exploration
http://wt2.cherokee.k12.ga.us/bill.burton/FlashFiles/EuropeanExplorers8.swf
Shortened URL: http://tinyurl.com/5tdszd

Bill Burton
World History teacher
Cherokee H.S.
Canton, GA
http://wt2.cherokee.k12.ga.us/bill.burton/

Sites found in:
=======
The Scout Report
March 21, 2008
Volume 14, Number 11

The Scout Report on the Web:
Current issue: http://scout.wisc.edu/Reports/ScoutReport/Current/
This issue: http://scout.wisc.edu/Reports/ScoutReport/2008/scout-080321.php

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Ethics Updates
http://ethics.sandiego.edu/

Created in 1994 by Professor Lawrence M. Hinman of the University of San Diego, the Ethics Updates site is designed primarily to be used to ethics instructors and their students. However, the site is rather interesting, so members of the general public may find themselves making a few return visits. Visitors can use the drop-down tabs on the top of the homepage to make their way through sections that cover some of the basic theories of ethics and also learn more about applied ethics in relation to such issues as animal rights, torture, and world hunger. Moving on, the "Resources" area includes case studies for discussion, a glossary of terms, classic texts in ethics, and ethics surveys. The site is rounded out by a search engine and a selection of videos that deal with various topics in ethics. [KMG]
[NOTE: Previously posted. - Phyllis ]

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The Body Explained [Windows Media Player]
http://www.bioedonline.org/body-explained/

BioEdOnline from the Baylor College of Medicine has been producing high-quality educational resources for a number of years, so it's nice to learn about their rather fun and informative "The Body Explained" resource. Narrated and hosted by Cassius Bordelon, PhD, this video production answers a number of common questions about how the body works. The segments are quite brief, and they may just spark a new interest in a curious student. Currently, there are around a dozen or so segments offered on the site, and they cover topics such as why our ears pop, why we sneeze, and what causes hiccups. Interested parties can also download the short segments for use in their classroom. [KMG]
[NOTE: Other pages from http://www.bioedonline.org/ previously posted. - Phyllis ]

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National Annenberg Survey of Youth [pdf]
http://www.annenbergpublicpolicycenter.org/ProjectDetails.aspx?myId=10
Shortened URL: http://tinyurl.com/4oaj9u

First conducted in 2002, the National Annenberg Survey of Youth (NASY) looked into youth attitudes towards gambling, the stigma of mental illness, and uses of media for both entertainment and information. Under the direction of Dr. Dan Romer, the NASY has continued to produce a number of thoughtful reports over the past several years. Visitors can view said reports on this site, and also look at some of their datasets and press releases. At the bottom of the homepage, visitors will find a chronological list of all these materials. Additionally, they can also click on over to the "Recent News" area to find out the latest information from NASY. Finally, visitors can also sign up to receive their RSS feed. [KMG]

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National Geographic: Prehistoric Time Line [Macromedia Flash Player]
http://science.nationalgeographic.com/science/prehistoric-world/prehistoric-time-line.html
Shortened URL: http://tinyurl.com/5f5epa

Humans haven't roamed the earth for long, and our presence on this planet only dates back around 190,000 years. There are approximately 4.3 billion more years of Earth's history to explore, and this interactive and edifying timeline created by National Geographic helps interested persons explore it. First-time visitors can click around within the timeline to read short descriptions of important events and developments in the Earth's history, complete with visual materials. The events covered here include the initial formation of the Earth all the way up to the recent Ice Ages and the birth of modern humans. Along with this timeline, visitors can also view a photo gallery of the Permian Age and learn more about mass extinctions. [KMG]

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Mostly Medieval: Exploring the Middle Ages
http://www.mostly-medieval.com/explore/

Mostly Medieval accurately describes this webpage, and it's a rather fine potpourri of information related to the Middle Ages. The site was created by Susan Wallace as the result of a research for a novel set in 13th century Scotland. Visitors can make their way through sections such as "Ballads," "Beasties," "Book of Days," "God and War," and "Heradlry." The "Ballads" area is a nice place to start; users can read (and perhaps sing) through such ballads as "Robin Hood and Guy of Gisborne," "Gude Wallace," and "The Battle of Harlaw." After that bit of warm-up, visitors should take a look inside the "Book of Days" section to learn more about holy days and celebrations throughout the months. Finally, visitors can also use the A-Z index to look up specific topics of interest. [KMG]

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ArtsEdge: Articles & Reports [pdf]
http://artsedge.kennedy-center.org/connect/rpt.cfm

Located at the Kennedy Center, the National Arts and Education Network (known as ArtsEdge) "supports the placement of the arts at the center of the curriculum and advocates creative use of technology." Along with creating online teaching resources, activities, and exhibits, they also have a substantial research initiative. On this site, visitors can browse over 35 different reports and articles that have been created by ArtsEdge or one of its partners. Visitors can scroll through the list of available documents or also perform a quick keyword search. The titles offered cover everything from arts education to educational technology, and they include "Arts, Artists, and Teaching," "Media Paints Arts Education in Fading Light," and "What Are They Teaching Art Students These Days?" [KMG]
[NOTE: Other pages from http://www.artsedge.kennedy-center.org/ previously
posted. - Phyllis ]

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The Infinite Mind [Real Player]
http://lcmedia.com/mindprgm.htm

Broadcast on National Public Radio, The Infinite Mind program takes a close investigative look into the inner workings of the human mind through interviews with various medical professionals, artists, and those coping with mental illness. Guests of the program have included everyone from comedienne Margaret Cho to left-handed boxers, or "southpaws," as they are known in the business. Recent programs have included shows on the nature of altruism, shoplifting, Tourette's syndrome, and internal body clocks. Visitors can listen to the various shows online here, read about the radio stations that broadcast the program, and learn more about the company that produces it, Lichtenstein Creative Media. [KMG]

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Color Chart: Reinventing Color from 1950 to Today [Macromedia Flash Player] http://www.moma.org/exhibitions/2008/colorchart/flashsite/

This fun exhibit from MOMA uses the commercial color chart as its organizing function, which allows visitors to look at art several ways. Browse artists alphabetically from Bas Jan Ader's "Primary Time" video, featuring red, blue and yellow carnations to Christopher Williams' photographs of bright red, yellow and green plates in dishwashers. Select "by Medium" to see work sorted into categories: a few media, 16 photographs, a handful of sculptures and other installations, 8 drawings and prints, and almost four dozen paintings. You can also view the art work on a timeline by year – beginning with Marcel Duchamp's "Tu m'" as the only 1918 entry and moving to Robert Rauschenberg's "Rebus" from 1955 makes 1962 seem a watershed year for color, with several stripe paintings by Frank Stella, a couple of paint-by-number Andy Warhols, as well as five of his Marilyn Monroes in different color schemes. It's also possible to view online videos of four artworks as they are being installed at the Museum. [DS]

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After an absence of seven decades, the Second Amendment appears again in the Supreme Court

U.S. Supreme Court wades into gun-rights debates
http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/19/america/scotus.php

Nation awaits D.C. handgun ruling
http://www.washingtontimes.com/article/20080317/METRO/510890365/1004
Shortened URL: http://tinyurl.com/6rqacp

Statement of Paul Helmke President of the Brady Center on Supreme Court Oral Arguments
http://bradycampaign.org/media/release.php?release=970

Fighting for Our Right to Bear Arms
http://www.cato.org/pub_display.php?pub_id=9285

Guns Out of Control
http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200803u/gun-control

FindLaw: U.S. Constitution: Second Amendment
http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/data/constitution/amendment02/

Massachusetts Militia Roots: A Bibliographic Study
http://www.history.army.mil/Reference/mamil/Mamil.htm

This week, the Supreme Court began to address the complex question of the Second Amendment. The Amendment states that a "well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed." The last time the Supreme Court directly addressed the meaning and intent of this amendment was in 1939, when it upheld a law that restricted sawed-off shotguns on the grounds that this type of weapon had no "ordinary military use." The meaning (and wording) of this amendment has been debated at all levels of society and jurisdiction since it came into existence, and if this week's deliberations are any indication, it may take several months before the Supreme Court issues a ruling in this matter. The case came to the Court because a Washington, DC security guard wanted to take his gun home at night, but is currently unable to do so because the city has a handgun ban. The Court's initial discussion on the matter was far-ranging, as justices touched on everything from debates during the writing of the Bill of Rights to an 18th century ordinance in Boston which required individuals to keep gunpowder on the top floors of their homes for safety reasons. Certainly, it's a development that is worth keeping tabs on, as it could have far-reaching ramifications across the country. [KMG]

The first link will take users to an article from this Wednesday's International Herald Tribune which discusses the Supreme Court's recent discussion and debate on the Second Amendment. The second link leads to a news story from this Monday's Washington Times which talks about the potential ramifications for the District of Columbia, which has had a ban on handguns for over thirty years. Moving on, the third link leads to a statement from the president of the Brady Center, Paul Helmke, on the recent arguments heard before the Supreme Court. In the statement, Helmke stated, "Think how much safer we would all be if we made it harder for dangerous people to get dangerous weapons nationwide, not just in a few areas." The fourth link will take users to an editorial on the right to bear arms which appeared in the Boston Globe on Tuesday. The author, Robert A. Levy, comments on how Washington's ban on firearms might coexist with an interpretation of the Second Amendment that secures the right of individuals to own such weapons. The fifth link leads to a "Flashbacks" feature from The Atlantic magazine that contains links to previously published pieces that debate the true intentions behind the Second Amendment. The sixth link contains an annotated version of the Second Amendment, provided courtesy of FindLaw. Finally, the last link leads to an intriguing document authored by Captain Robert K. Wright, Jr. which traces the roots of the Massachusetts Militia all the way back to the late 1620s. [KMG]

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>From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout 1994-2008.
http://scout.wisc.edu/

Math is Fun
http://www.mathsisfun.com/
From the site:
“The main content of the site is aimed at basic math skills. However you will find some more complex stuff, and some easier bits. Hopefully there should be something for everybody.”

The 2008 CIA World Factbook
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/
From the site:
“The World Factbook provides national-level information on countries, territories, and dependencies…The World Factbook is in the public domain and may be used freely by anyone at anytime without seeking permission”
[NOTE: Previously posted. - "Country information has been updated as of 24 July 2008.” - Phyllis ]

Stock Market Challengehttp://www.stocks-game.com/
From the site:
“Welcome to Max's Investment World Stock Market Challenge. Our free simulation game will help you learn about investing in the real stock market with no risk while having fun.

Create or join a private competition, which only you and those you invite can play. You can create or join a private competition after you register.

Professors and Teachers:
The private competitions are ideal for teaching your class about stock market investing.”

Sites found in:
Librarians' Internet Index
Websites you can trust!
NEW THIS WEEK, March 20, 2008
Read This Online : http://lii.org/cs/lii/print/news/141

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10 Days to War
This 10-part BBC drama series beginning on March 10, 2008, "marks the fifth anniversary of the invasion [of Iraq]. ... Part thriller, part political drama, each film will take the viewer to worlds the news cameras couldn't reach -- the UN, the Military, the Foreign Office and, of course, Iraq." View these short episodes online and find an episode guide, list of key events, and related news coverage. From the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).
URL: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/programmes/newsnight/10_days_to_war/
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25680

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The Women's Museum: An Institute for the Future
Website for this Smithsonian affiliate in Dallas that "makes visible the unique, textured, and diverse stories of American women." Features a description of permanent exhibits, and virtual exhibits such a "Finance Lessons," that "chronicles women and their relationship with money throughout American history," and "Wall of Words," that presents the twelve inspirational quotes by American women that are on a wall in the museum.
URL: http://www.thewomensmuseum.org/
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25624

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CNNMoney.com: Fed Focus
News and analysis about the Federal Reserve. Topics include the credit crunch, interest rate adjustments, the Bear Stearns bailout in March 2008, recession fears, inflation, and the housing crisis. Includes a graph of Federal Reserve interest rates back to 2004, links to material about economic indicators, and related material. From Cable News Network (CNN).
URL: http://money.cnn.com/news/specials/fed/
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25707

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The Federal Reserve Board: Frequently Asked Questions: Monetary Policy
Brief questions and answers about "monetary policy [which] refers to the actions undertaken by a central bank, such as the Federal Reserve, to influence the availability and cost of money and credit as a means of helping to promote national economic goals." Includes answers to question about the federal funds rate, the discount rate, and how the Federal Reserve maintains the stability of the U.S. financial system. From the Federal Reserve Board (FRB).
URL: http://www.federalreserve.gov/generalinfo/faq/faqmpo.htm
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25708
[NOTE: Other pages from http://www.federalreserve.gov/ previously posted. - Phyllis ]

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About the New $5 Bill
Details about the new U.S. $5 bills, "which entered circulation on March 13, 2008." Discusses security features of the bills (watermark and embedded security thread), design features (color, symbols of freedom, and changes to President Abraham Lincoln's portrait on the bill), and other features such as easy-to-read numbers for low vision and microprinted words. Includes printable images of the bill. From the U.S. Department of Treasury, Bureau of Printing and Engraving.
URL: http://www.moneyfactory.gov/newmoney/main.cfm/currency/new5
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25694

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Women's Sports Foundation: The Billies
Background about the Billie Awards (named in honor of tennis legend Billie Jean King), which "honor media excellence in the portrayal of girls and women in sports and physical activity." Features details about award categories (such as industry leader and outstanding journalist), announcement of the current year's finalists, photos and videos from previous events, and other background and updates. From the Women's Sports Foundation.
URL: http://www.womenssportsfoundation.org/News-And-Events/Events/The-Billies.aspx
Shortened URL: http://tinyurl.com/65shhy
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25590
[NOTE: Home page ( http://www.womenssportsfoundation.org/ ) previously posted. - Phyllis ]

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Powering the Electrical Revolution: Women and Technology
"Meet the exceptional women who overcame social barriers to make achievements in the fields of math and science and the ordinary women who made contributions to the telegraph, telephone, industrial manufacturing, and computing industries." Features essays on topics such as women and the communications industry, electricity and the housewife, women and computers, and women as engineers. Includes images and video clips. From the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Virtual Museum.
URL: http://www.ieee-virtual-museum.org/exhibit/exhibit.php?id=159251&lid=1
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25571
[NOTE: Other pages from (http://www.ieee-virtual-museum.org/ ) previously posted. - Phyllis ]

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Three Mile Island: The Inside Story
Presentation about "America's worst accident at a civilian nuclear power plant [which] occurred on March 28, 1979" on Three Mile Island, near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Diagrams, photos, and essays recount the details of the incident and its aftermath. Companion to a physical exhibit created for the 25th anniversary (in 2004) of the accident, from the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
URL: http://americanhistory.si.edu/tmi/index.htm
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25669
[NOTE: Other pages from http://americanhistory.si.edu/ previously posted. - Phyllis ]

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Why Has the Date Changed for Start of Spring?
This article describes that while the first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere traditionally has been celebrated as March 21, the vernal equinox has "landed on March 21, only 36 out of 100 years [during the 20th century]. And from 1981 to 2102, Americans will celebrate the first day of spring no later than March 20." Explains reasons why seasonal dates can vary from year to year. From Space.com.
URL: http://www.space.com/spacewatch/050318_equinox.html
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25683
[NOTE: Other pages from http://www.space.com/ previously posted. - Phyllis ]

----------------------------------------------------------------
Librarians' Internet Index
Websites You Can Trust!
http://lii.org/
Copyright 2008 by Librarians' Internet Index.

--------Forwarded Message--------
Hi! It's Saturday, March 1, 2008 and time for Art at ClickSchooling!

Recommended Website:
Art Junction
http://www.artjunction.org/

This website is meant to provide a place where teachers and students
collaborate to pursue artistic and educational goals through the free
activities, projects, and resources offered.

One of the goals of Art Junction is to foster artistic expression in young
people and broaden their perspectives by encouraging shared learning
experiences through online cultural exchanges and joint creative work.

Whether or not you decide to participate in the community aspects of the
site, there are some terrific articles and activities that are sure to spark
imagination and creativity at home. When you get to the site you'll see
some featured items. For immediate fun click on the menu items under "For
Kids" that includes:

*Make an Artrageous Hat - What fun! Every kid (and kid at heart) will want
to try their hand at making and wearing their own art masterpiece.

*Visual Push-Ups - Flex your creativity with these fun exercises.

*What if... - Play this game in which you ask questions that stretch your
imagination. What if oceans were made of chocolate pudding? What if people
were magnetic?

*That's Artrageous - Learn to think like an artist with this exercise that
makes the familiar strange, and the ordinary extraordinary.

*Seeing Shadows - Play with shadows and learn how to notice things that
artists see but other people often miss.

While the kids are busy with their artistic endeavors, parents will enjoy
reading the articles in the "For Teachers" section with all kinds of ideas
and recommendations for teaching children art.

Diane Flynn Keith
for ClickSchooling
Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved
http://www.Homefires.com/
http://www.Carschooling.com/
http://www.UniversalPreschool.com/

Note: We make every effort to recommend websites that have content that is appropriate for general audiences. Parents should ALWAYS preview the sites for suitable content.

Click Schooling (Clickschooling) is a Federally Registered Trademark.

Smithsonian Images
https://smithsonianimages.si.edu/siphoto/siphoto.portal?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=home
Shortened URL: http://tinyurl.com/5s2528

From the site:

Browse or search through selected images from the Collections of the Office of Imaging and Photographic Services. Included are images from current exhibits, Smithsonian events and historic collections.

Categories
https://smithsonianimages.si.edu/siphoto/siphoto.portal?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=more_categories
Shortened URL: http://tinyurl.com/6bhjn6

Select and download screen resolution images for personal and educational use.

Create your own portfolio of favorite Smithsonian image

Send e-cards of your favorite images to family and friends.

Sites found in:
ResourceShelf
http://www.resourceshelf.com
Mar. 14-20, 2008

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Resource of the Week: Quick Guide to Military Information
http://www.resourceshelf.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/mil_guide.html
Shortened URL: http://tinyurl.com/36t8q7
By Shirl Kennedy, Senior Editor

I’ve just completed a major update of a resource I’ve been maintaining for several years. Though it is not a glitzy resource by any stretch of the imagination, I thought it would also be helpful to share this Quick Guide to Military Information as a Resource of the Week. Unless you work with military information on a regular basis, it is can often be frustrating to find what you need.

What’s here? Links to resources that provide the type of information I often need. Everything here — at least right now — is freely accessible on the open Web; all of these links were functional from my network at home. <<<>>>

See full review:
http://www.resourceshelf.com/2008/03/17/resource-of-the-week-quick-guide-to-military-information/
Shortened URL: http://tinyurl.com/5sraaq

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Fast Facts: Mini-Digest of Education Statistics 2007
March 17th, 2008
Mini-Digest of Education Statistics 2007
http://nces.ed.gov/pubsearch/pubsinfo.asp?pubid=2008023
This publication is a pocket-sized compilation of statistical information covering the broad field of American education from kindergarten through graduate school. The statistical highlights are excerpts from the Digest of Education of Statistics, 2007.

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

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Thomas Jefferson: A Resource Guide
http://www.loc.gov/rr/program/bib/presidents/jefferson/
The digital collections of the Library of Congress contain a wide variety of material associated with Thomas Jefferson, including the complete Thomas Jefferson Papers from the Manuscript Division.
[INCLUDES: Links to:
American Memory Resources
http://www.loc.gov/rr/program/bib/presidents/jefferson/memory.html
Related Resources
http://www.loc.gov/rr/program/bib/presidents/jefferson/related.html
External Web Sites
http://www.loc.gov/rr/program/bib/presidents/jefferson/external.html
- Phyllis ]

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Marquis Who’s Who Launches Artists’ Gallery Web Site
http://www.whoswhogallery.com
First appearing in the 2008 print edition of Who’s Who in American Art, the Artists’ Gallery - found online at http://www.whoswhogallery.com - is searchable by artist name and media, and showcases the works of many noteworthy men and women in the visual arts community…Featured earlier this year at the American Library Association conference in Philadelphia, the Artists’ Gallery has already evoked an enthusiastic response. It will continue to be presented at library and research conferences throughout the year. The Artists’ Gallery is available to the public free of charge and plans are underway by Marquis Who’s Who to expand the site by adding many more
artists in 2008.

Source: Marquis

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Library of Congress Experience
http://www.loc.gov/experience/
Preview the new exhibitions and technologies designed to inspire and engage, that will be launched in April in the Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building in Washington.

Source: LC

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Congressional Research Tutorials
http://sunsite3.berkeley.edu/wikis/congresearch/

These tutorials show you how to find Congressional materials in the Library and on the Internet.

Find a Bill, Find a Hearing, Find Congressional Debate, How Congress Works. By Jesse Silva, Federal Documents and Political Science Librarian and Karen Munro, E-Learning Librarian

Source: University of California-Berkeley

-----------
Gary Price
Editor, ResourceShelf
gary@resourceshelf.com
The ResourceShelf & DocuTicker Team
--------------------------------------------------------------------
"Post via ResourceShelf"
for even more resources visit
http://www.resourceshelf.com
http://www.docuticker.com

Sites found in:

******************************************
PBS Teachers Newsletter: July 27-August 2, 2008
******************************************

Masterpiece Theater
Leo Tolstoy Timeline
Interactive/Online Activity
Gr. 9-12

Examine Leo Tolstoy's life and major works in the context of
major world events. Understand how Tolstoy's work reflects his
world and serves as social commentary, and discover information
about historical events referenced in his novel "Anna Karenina."

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/anna/timeline.html

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NOVA ScienceNOW
On-Air & Online Wednesday , July 30, 2008, 9 - 10:00 pm

NOVA scienceNOW follows the upcoming NASA mission to send a lander to Mars, a mammoth mystery and the recent passing of famed "cancer warrior" Judah Folkman. (CC, Stereo, 1 year)
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/sciencenow/
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/sciencenow/watch/080730.html

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Remembered Earth: New Mexico's High Desert
On-Air & Online Sunday , July 27, 2008, 10:30 - 11:00 pm
Grade Range: 6-8, 9-12

Filmmaker John Grabowska and Indian author N. Scott Momaday present a vision of hope for humankind's relationship to the natural world by interpreting the myth, beauty and power of a scarred but sacred landscape of the American West. (CC, stereo, 1 year)
http://www.pbs.org/rememberedearth/

[NOTE: Premiered February 13, 2006 - Phyllis ]
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Copyright 2008 PBS Online

The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History
For Teachers and Students:
Modules on Major Topics in American History
http://www.gilderlehrman.org/teachers/modules.html

The modules cover more than twenty topics that correspond to the
major periods in American history and take into consideration the
history standards, both required and advanced, to which high school
students are held. Each module includes:

o a succinct historical overview
o learning tools including lesson plans, quizzes, and activities
o recommended documents, films, and historic images

Modules:
o The Revolutionary War
o The Constitution
o The New Nation
o The Jeffersonian Era
o The Jacksonian Era
o Pre-Civil War Reform
o Slavery
o Westward Expansion
o The Coming of the Civil War
o The Civil War
o Reconstruction
o The Gilded Age
o The United States Becomes a World Power
o Progressivism
o Immigration
o World War I
o The 1920s
o The Great Depression
o World War II
o Postwar America
o The Tumultuous 1960s
o The Vietnam War
o America at the End of the 20th Century
o September 11th

[NOTE: Previously posted. - Phyllis ]

Site found in:
ResourceShelf
http://www.resourceshelf.com
Mar. 7-13, 2008

------

New Collection of Selected Web Resources from Library of Congress: The New Deal
http://www.loc.gov/rr/program/bib/newdeal/
New Deal Programs: Selected Library of Congress Resources was created to serve as a starting point for research using Library of Congress collections of New Deal program materials. While this guide is by no means comprehensive, it provides an overview of special collections held by the Library of Congress and links to digitized materials and selected resources relating to New Deal programs in Library of Congress divisions. The guide also links to major collections of New Deal program materials held at other institutions.

-----------
Gary Price
Editor, ResourceShelf
gary@resourceshelf.com
The ResourceShelf & DocuTicker Team
--------------------------------------------------------------------
"Post via ResourceShelf"
for even more resources visit
http://www.resourceshelf.com
http://www.docuticker.com

Interactive Vietnam Veterans Memorial
http://go.footnote.com/

For complete article:
Vietnam Wall goes interactive
http://kstp.com/article/stories/S411133.shtml?cat=10000

“There are 58,000 names on the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. and behind each of those names are dozens of stories.

Decades after the conflict, those personal stories are finally being told using technology that couldn't have even been imagined in the 1970s.

The site http://go.footnote.com/ has taken on the stunning challenge of making the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial interactive. They started by taking more than 6,000 images of the monument and then digitally stitching them togther. This allows users to easily scroll back and forth and zoom in and out to see the different names.

But that's only the start. Each of the 58,000 names on the wall has individually indexed so friends and family of the deceased can add information about that person to the interactive tribute. Information from the National Archives is also being added to each name.” <<<>>>

Sites found in:
Librarians' Internet Index
Websites you can trust!
NEW THIS WEEK, March 13, 2008
Read This Online : http://lii.org/cs/lii/print/news/140

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She Made It: Women Creating Television and Radio
This site "celebrates the achievements and preserves the legacy of great women [television and radio] writers, directors, producers, journalists, sportscasters, and executives." Features a list and brief background about honorees from the 1920s through 2007. Honorees include Fanny Brice, Lucille Ball, Julia Child, Christiane Amanpour, Tina Fey, Gwen Ifill, and Rosie O'Donnell. Also includes video interviews with selected honorees. From the Paley Center for Media.
URL: http://www.shemadeit.org/
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25604

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Elizabeth Bishop, A Growing Legacy
Companion to an exhibit about American poet Elizabeth Bishop (1911-1979), who "during her lifetime ... won nearly every major literary prize in the United States, including a Pulitzer." Features highlights from the physical exhibition, essays, and a link to the Elizabeth Bishop Papers collection (includes a biographical sketch). From Vassar College Libraries, Archives and Special Collections.
URL: http://specialcollections.vassar.edu/exhibits/bishop/
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25622

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Women in History: Historical Figures
Profiles of famous American women, such as Louisa May Alcott, Clara Barton, Rachel Carson, Isadora Duncan, Sally Hemings, Dolley Madison, Annie Oakley, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Harriet Tubman, and Laura Ingalls Wilder. Profiles vary in amount of information provided about the individual. A good starting point for ideas for school paper topics, as this listing includes women from a variety of time periods, professions, and fields of accomplishment. From Lakewood Public Library, Ohio.
URL: http://www.lkwdpl.org/wihohio/figures.htm
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25627
[NOTE: Previously posted. - Phyllis ]

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Women Medal Recipients: Military and Civilian
This website provides an unofficial list of U.S. women military medal recipients. Medals include the Medal of Honor (only awarded to one woman during the Civil War), Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, Silver Star, Air Medal, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Soldiers Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross ("The first woman to receive the DFC was Amelia Earhart which sparked controversy and later it was changed to exclude civilians."), and Distinguished Service Medal. From an enthusiast.
URL: http://userpages.aug.com/captbarb/medals.html
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25656
[NOTE: Other pages from http://userpages.aug.com/captbarb/ previously posted. - Phyllis ]

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The World Awheel: Early Cycling Books at the Lilly Library
This collection of images of cycling-themed books features cycling in fiction and titles about early bicycles, bicycle touring, women and cycling, and cycling music. Accompanied by brief historical essays. From the Lilly Library, Indiana University Bloomington Libraries.
URL: http://www.indiana.edu/~liblilly/awheel/awheel.html
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25319

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Top 10 Amazing Chemistry Videos
Collection of videos from March 2008 of "fiery explosions, beautiful reactions, and hilarious music ...[which] are great reasons to be excited about chemistry." Includes videos of a gummy bear reacting with potassium chlorate, how to make your own glow sticks, and more. Note: these experiments are meant only for trained professionals in labs. From Wired magazine.
URL: http://blog.wired.com/wiredscience/2008/03/top-10-amazing.html
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25594

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Camping With the Sioux: Fieldwork Diary of Alice Cunningham Fletcher
Text of fieldwork journals "kept by Alice Fletcher during a six-week venture into Plains Indian territory in 1881." Fletcher's trip "was unprecedented. ... no one but Frank Hamilton Cushing had lived with Native Americans for a scientific purpose." Features illustrated diary entries, a photo gallery, Sioux folk tales recorded by Fletcher, and related readings and links. From the National Anthropological Archives, Smithsonian Institution.
URL: http://www.nmnh.si.edu/naa/fletcher/
LII Item: http://lii.org/cs/lii/view/item/25617

----------------------------------------------------------------

Librarians' Internet Index
Websites You Can Trust!
http://lii.org/
Copyright 2008 by Librarians' Internet Index.