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TLLP
Teacher Learning and Leadership Program (TLLP) Projects Archive
- Title: "I” Learning - Technology Supporting Student Success"
Description:
This project provides teachers with the essential skills required to use new technology to support student success. The project creates resources that enable teachers to develop new media learning resources (i.e. video lectures, narrated slide presentations, and web-based content) that are packaged and delivered using formats that are relevant to today's student.
Project Theme(s):
Technology
School Board:
Near North District School Board
- Title: 188 Days Full Circle: A Learning Journey With The Monarch Butterfly
Description:
A short film conducted over the course of a school year that documents a Kindergarten's inquiry, observation and oral language skills as it relates to the metamorphosis of the Monarch Butterfly.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Technology, Arts
School Board:
Toronto District School Board
- Title: A Formative Assessment: Next Steps in the Investigation of the Relationship Between Teachers' Art Self-Concepts and their Students' Art Self-Concepts at the Intermediate Elementary Level
Description:
As a result of restructuring the curriculum in 1998, visual art instruction has become notably more rigorous than in prior curricula. It now includes a broader range of knowledge and proficiency, and introduces skills in earlier grades. Standardization and consistency are a focus of the new document. However, research indicates that classroom practice often ignores these stated expectations. Many teachers have limited experience, a lack of knowledge and understanding of the subject, and limited professional development opportunities (Tarailo, 2001). Today's art teachers have varied levels of familiarity with art from their own elementary schooling. Much of what teachers bring to today's Art classrooms are what they experienced and understood from their Art classes as children (Irwin & Grauer, 1997). This project uses the findings from the study done with teachers and their students from the Greater Essex Board (Galvan 2007) to set in place some of the recommendations and to use formative assessment to address the level of success those supports have made in the level of competence and confidence of generalist teachers.
Project Theme(s):
Arts
School Board:
Greater Essex County District School Board
- Title: A Lesson Study in Phonological Awareness
Description:
In 2006-2007, as part of our data collection, we found that the Grade One students who were really struggling with reading and writing had weak phonological awareness skills. After doing some preliminary research, we discovered that weak skills in phonological awareness has been identified as a primary cause for reading difficulties. Phonological awareness is definitely a powerful predictor of future reading and writing abilities. We used a lesson study approach to explore the continuum of phonological awareness development in our JK to Grade 2 classes, using a balanced literacy approach, to determine when and how these skills can be taught most effectively.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Bluewater District School Board
- Title: A Networked Community of Writers
Description:
All teachers from six schools, grades K-8 form a Networked Learning Community to collaborate, moderate and extend their understanding of four purposes of writing, as well as assessment of student writing. Together, we compile a "Best Practices Binder" of writing ideas encompassing the four genres of writing (i.e., narrative, expository, descriptive, persuasive). This binder includes an initial primary and final secondary learning task, graphic organizers, anchor charts and rubrics. In addition, teachers collaboratively assess student writing samples. From these samples, exemplars are to be chosen for each grade level, domain and achievement level to be placed in a "Best Practices Binder".
Project Theme(s):
Literacy
School Board:
Avon Maitland District School Board
- Title: A Professional Learning Community Journey: Cross Disciplinary Collaboration
Description:
This project focused on providing teachers with the knowledge and skills to co-construct tools for assessment to ensure that expectations are clear to students prior to beginning an assignment. The PLC members coached a paliner through the co-construction of success criteria process.
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities, Student Assessment, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Ottawa-Carleton Catholic School Board
- Title: ANILORI - reading learning toolkit: How do you teach inference?
Description:
This project consists of developing an activity toolkit that will provide teachers with useful teaching tools for inference reading strategies. Considering the Ontario Ministry of Education's expectations and EQAO results, it is important for teachers to have manipulatives that will allow students to improve their inference-making literacy skills. Another one of the project's objectives is to promote professional development by sharing resources, as well as knowledge gained from putting together the project, with other teachers of the Conseil scolaire catholique du Nouvel-Ontario.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy
School Board:
Conseil scolaire de district catholique du Nouvel-Ontario
- Title: ASL Exemplars
Description:
Using imac and camcorder technology, we videotaped Gr. 1 and 3 students’ ASL literary works. ASL graphic organizers were created for Gr. 3 students to develop their works as per ASL Curriculum expectations. Data was analyzed using Gr. 1-8 ASL Achievement Chart, which was used to develop ASL rubrics. That data was also sent to Dr. Supalla, our expert, to analyze further with his ASL word count formula, another assessment tool. We are in the process of being trained on that assessment tool. ASL task summaries were created. Actors were hired to resolve the issue of student confidentiality.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Assessment
School Board:
Provincial Schools Authority
- Title: Aboriginal Levelled Book Writing
Description:
To write levelled books with an Aboriginal focus, that will be used for guided reading.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy
School Board:
Bluewater District School Board
- Title: Accountable Talk and Acquiring the Tools for Writer's Workshop: A cross-divisional approach
Description:
To develop a Writer's Workshop throughout the school, to promote a love of independent writing, and provide opportunities for students to discuss and share their writing, before, during and after the writing process.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board
- Title: Achieving Success for All Learners - Balanced Literacy in Action
Description:
Emphasizing Reader's and Writer's Workshop, we are developing a "Balanced Literacy Block" in a Junior classroom that meets individual learners' readiness, interest and learning styles. The project is connect to the school improvement plan. All teachers at the school are involved by participating in classroom observation and a debriefing seminar.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy
School Board:
Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board
- Title: Action Research: Improving Boys’ Reading Through Best Practices at St. Thomas the Apostles C.E.S
Description:
The primary division at St. Thomas the Apostle School took part in an Action Research Study to determine which strategies work best, when trying to close the Gender Gap in Reading. The classes involved were from Junior Kindergarten to Grade Three including the teacher librarian. The teachers implemented different strategies and were able to monitor successes and failures.
Project Theme(s):
Gender-based Learning, Literacy
School Board:
Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board
- Title: Action Research: Math
Description:
Teachers gather data for each math strand by having students complete math exemplars. Their work is assessed through consensus moderation. Lesson plans are developed based on the work.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy
School Board:
Superior North Catholic District School Board
- Title: American Sign Language (ASL) Literature & ASL Texts In Media Literacy
Description:
To create and produce an increased collection of ASL stories and texts which will give teachers the opportunity to match appropriate deciphering material for many students, especially those students who are language postponed, language delayed and/or have a language disorder. Students identified by the American Sign Language Proficiency Assessment (ASL-PA) as having low or moderate language proficiency skills in ASL will have the opportunity to improve their language skills with adult ASL models. ASL resources being produced are able to deliver the ASL curriculum expectations. Moreover, they greatly enhance the student experience of appreciating literature and interpreting media literacy works.
Project Theme(s):
Media Literacy, Literacy
School Board:
Provincial Schools Authority
- Title: American Sign Language Proficiency Assessment Training and how it is related to Individual Educational Plans
Description:
This project provided a three-day American Sign Language Assessment (ASL-PA) Training for the Provincial Schools for the Deaf. This led to further training of teachers on the use of the ASL-PA through the use of iMacs. Individual Educational Plans related to ASL-PA results were developed and revised for student success. Data Walls with data from ASL-PA were developed in the Provincial Schools for the Deaf and Next Steps were created for continued student success.
Project Theme(s):
Student Assessment, Literacy, Technology
School Board:
Provincial Schools Authority
- Title: An Autistic World Without Borders using 'RIDE' (Reach, Include, Differentiate, Educate)
Description:
Implement the effectiveness of Assistive Technology and enhance the use of SMART BOARD as an instructional tool for Differentiating Instruction. RIDE teaching and learning strategies will help reach, engage and motivate all students specifically Special Education/Autistic students, hence promoting inclusion.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Students with Special Needs, Technology
School Board:
Toronto Catholic District School Board
- Title: Art And Science - Creativity And Student Achievement
Description:
Our team set out to investigate the effect of regular creative thinking exercises on student academic achievement in non-arts subjects. We had five classes participate in our project. Students began each class by completing a creative thinking exercise for a period of 6 weeks. Throughout the project the teachers made anecdotal notes based on student responses to the activities as well as on observation of student engagement in the lessons that followed. At the end of the program, students were asked to complete a short questionnaire about their experiences with the creative thinking exercises.
Project Theme(s):
Arts, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Renfrew County District School Board
- Title: Assessment Book Club and Discussion Group
Description:
A group of 15 teacher from two small rural school meet to read and discuss Damian Cooper's book "Talk About Assessment". The goal of the club is to prepare a resource of Literacy rubrics for Primary, Junior and Intermediate divisions.
Project Theme(s):
Student Assessment, Professional Learning Communities, Literacy
School Board:
Upper Canada District School Board
- Title: Assessment For Learning: Using Technology to Inform Classroom Instruction
Description:
In order to enhance student engagement, teachers will be given an opportunity to receive Smart Board training so that they may integrate more technology into daily pedagogy. In addition, they will work collaboratively to design assessments using the Smart Board and Senteos (Interactive Response System). The use of the Senteos as an additional assessment tool would not only provide immediate feedback to teachers but it would also help to drive instruction as teachers could immediately begin to design next steps and lessons based on this data.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated instruction, Student assessment
School Board:
Northeastern Catholic District School Board
- Title: Assessment In The Mathematics Classroom Through Open Questions, Parallel Tasks, And Rich Problems
Description:
In order to help all students become more successful in mathematics, we must develop effective teaching practices. Through this project, mathematics teachers from various schools within our board will have the opportunity to form a Professional Learning Community and collaborate on methods of assessment and evaluation. Using our prior knowledge of open questions, parallel tasks, and rich problems, we will work together to design assessment tools (diagnostic, formative, and summative) that provide multiple pathways for students to demonstrate their learning. As a group, we will reflect on student responses to the assessment tools and decide on appropriate methods of delivering feedback following formative assessments. We will use a design down approach to create an assessment plan for a mathematics course that can serve as an exemplar for use in any mathematics classroom.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Student Assessment, Mathematical Literacy
School Board:
Limestone District School Board
- Title: Assessment for Learning in Literacy and Beyond
Description:
Investigate ways to use literacy data to help inform instruction on a daily, monthly and yearly basis to improve student growth.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Assessment
School Board:
Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board
- Title: Assessment of early reading for students with severe speech and physical impairments as a follow up to the Section 68 CODE project (Basic Evaluation Tool)
Description:
In order to assess students who have been identified as having severe speech and physical impairments that prevent them participating in regular testing procedures, this project attempted to modify a current test and develop a test to determine the early literacy skills of students with complex needs and then incorporate this assessment into teaching strategies for reading.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Assessment, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
Campbell Children's School Authority
- Title: B.R.O. (Boys Reading Only) and G.R.O. (Girls Reading Only)
Description:
Our project selects identified (through teacher referral, EQAO, DRA) students in grade 5 for a gender specific reading club. By using a variety of reading strategies that are specific to gender based learning our aim is to increase reading enjoyment, fluency and comprehension.
Project Theme(s):
Gender-based Learning, Literacy
School Board:
Halton District School Board
- Title: Be interested to be interesting!
Description:
Nintendo, Playstation, Internet... young people are constantly interacting in a very visual and attention-grabbing environment. No cakewalk for teachers!!! The teachers at our school put together a project called "be interested to be interesting" for professional development on efficient use of the interactive whiteboard. In addition, teachers will develop educational resources specifically for the SMART Board, which they will share with their colleagues across the province. This is all aimed at keeping students motivated and improving their academic achievement.
Project Theme(s):
Student Success/Transition Years, Technology, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
Conseil scolaire de district catholique du Centre-Est de l'Ontario
- Title: Beginning A Collaborative Inquiry For Learning Mathematics
Description:
Our project provided release time to co-plan, co-teach and perform math lesson studies mainly focused on the Number Sense and Numeracy Strand of Mathematics. We also focused on implementing the mathematical instructional strategy "Bansho" in or classrooms. Our goals was to promote instructional practices so students would:- develop increased confidence and independence in communicating mathematically - have opportunities to demonstrate high levels of mathematical problem solving - see their mathematical thinking to be explicit when solving problems through the organization and annotation of their work - have classroom artefacts that publicly displayed their mathematical solutions and the landscape for learning
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Student Assessment
School Board:
Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board
- Title: Beyond 'Google' and 'Wikipedia' : Accessing On-Line Resources
Description:
This board-wide project rains Teacher-Librarians and teachers in how to effectively search for and use electronic resources through Subscription Databases. The training focuses on advanced search techniques and classroom application of the resources.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Media Literacy, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
York Catholic District School Board
- Title: Boys and Literacy in a Balanced Calendar School
Description:
This action research project explores the benefits of using alternative forms of reading materials, such as graphic novels and multi media, with primary, junior and intermediate boys in a Balanced Calendar schooling system where learning is continuous. This project identifies which of the latest reading strategies work best for the males in our heavily populated ELL school. Finally, the project highlights the benefits of continuous learning for boys and their reading skill development.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Gender-based learning
School Board:
Peel District School Board
- Title: Boys' Literacy
Description:
To focus on narrowing the gender gap in boys' literacy with the goal of improving boys' attitude and achievement in literacy. This continues the work undertaken in our Boys' Literacy Teacher Inquiry Project where we undertook to build a learning community through a focus on program and instructional strategies. We now also will examine the portrayal of males in media and how we can promote positive role models for boys, that will enhance their chances for success.
Project Theme(s):
Gender-based Learning, Literacy, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Durham Catholic District School Board
- Title: Building Capacity to Increase Student Achievement through Shared Instructional Leadership
Description:
Develop professional accountability for the delivery of research-based non-negotiable strategies for effective classroom practice in the areas of:{BR/}consistency in assessment tools
differentiated instruction and assessment practices that drive this instruction
Building capacity to improve student achievement at the secondary level needs a lot of time and attention
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Student Assessment
School Board:
Rainbow District School Board
- Title: Building Comprehension Together: English and French Teachers Working Side by Side
Description:
This project builds capacity between the French and English teaching partners, in order to increase student comprehension in both official languages as well as increase engagement in Kindergarten to Grade 5 students. French and English teaching partners collaborate together to ensure a seamless approach for their students. Additionally, professional reading, team lesson planning, modelling and observing the gradual release of responsibility model across the grades in both English and French classes occurs. Each teacher is able to draw on his or her own strengths and learning styles as they investigate and explore research based strategies.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Student Assessment
School Board:
Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario
- Title: Building Instructional Capacity for Subject Area Literacy Learning for Students At Risk
Description:
This project was designed to improve the academic achievement of grade 9 and/or 10 students who struggle in core academic subjects by supporting them in developing higher levels of subject-area literacy by using various Instructional Intelligence teaching tactics and strategies. We define subject-area literacy as the ability of the student to use the processes of thinking, reading, listening, writing, representing and oral communication to learn and understand key concepts and skills in our subject area. The instructional processes that we employed in our classes included concept maps, mind maps, concept attainment, concept formation and cooperative learning structures such as think/pair/share, place mats, graffiti and paired-learning investigations. We also worked with other teachers in our subject area who have not had prior training in instructional Intelligence. By acting as peer coaches and mentors we have been building instructional capacity and professional efficacy of additional teaching staff at the school.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Peel District School Board
- Title: Building Literacy Through the Use of Graphic Texts
Description:
Teachers across the curriculum are faced with the challenging task of improving student literacy. By harnessing the literacy power of the graphic novel, students - especially reluctant or at-risk readers - become engaged with an accessible and meaningful text. At Adult High School, students who experience successful literacy initiatives grow towards greater independence as readers and as learners. Graphic novels have been shown to increase motivation and reading success in struggling readers.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Media Literacy
School Board:
Ottawa-Carleton District School Board
- Title: Building Student Success through Asset development
Description:
In order to build a more comprehensive transition plan between elementary and high school the project develops a Developmental Asset approach to build positive relationships between grade nines, their peers and adult mentors in the school community.
Project Theme(s):
Student Success/Transition Years
School Board:
Toronto Catholic District School Board
- Title: Building Teacher Capacity for Working with Students with Behavioural Difficulties
Description:
If by training the Integrated Behaviour Program teachers and the classroom teachers on how to effectively meet the needs of their students with behavioural difficulties (differentiated instruction and effective behaviour modification) there is a DECREASE in the number of: a) behaviour-related incidents that the teachers deal with, b) the number of out of school suspensions, c) the number of incident reports, and d) a decrease in the number of running behaviours and bullying, AND there is an INCREASE with on-task behaviours and improved student success and development, then the project will have had a huge positive impact with not only the students with behavioural difficulties in regards to their success and learning, but with the success and learning of the entire class. Teachers will have more time to instruct, and will spend less time dealing with behaviours, and the overall health of the classroom, school and community will be improved for years to come. Our resource will be introduced to our Board on the November Professional Development day. Statistics will be collected throughout the 2010-2011 school year and compared to that which we already have, to indeed see if our resource is making a substantial impact for teachers and student with challenging behaviours.
Project Theme(s):
Students with Special Needs, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
District School Board Ontario North East
- Title: Building knowledge and support through the ABCs of "TeachADHD"
Description:
To increase educators' understanding of ADHD, focussing on how ADHD affects cognitive processes in order to better support the students with ADHD.
Project Theme(s):
Students with Special Needs
School Board:
District School Board Ontario North East
- Title: Building teacher instructional capacity in the use of technology to improve student achievement
Description:
The project aims to improve student achievement and learning in the junior/intermediate divisions by building teacher instructional capacity with the use of technology to improve student learning through book study, job embedded professional learning, etc.
Project Theme(s):
Technology
School Board:
Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic District School Board
- Title: CAD - Consistency Across the Division
Description:
Over the course of one school year, teachers in the Primary Division at Madoc Public School discussed, shared, and explored, new and current instructional strategies in teaching Literacy. As we continued to reach for the same goal of improving literacy, the idea was to bring together the instructional strategies including vocabulary from the teachers of ten primary classrooms and make them consistent throughout the division. The outcome was the development of a handbook specific to our school. The handbook is meant to guide teachers in aligning best instructional practices by providing templates, plans, and strategies in literacy for primary grades K-3. It is hoped that this handbook will encourage and guide the constant sharing of and reflection of strategies used to increase reading levels across the division.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Hastings & Prince Edward District School Board
- Title: Capacity Building for the Future: Creating a Comprehensive Network of Support for Teachers
Description:
The project was designed to ascertain and then provide a comprehensive web based resource that will support the growth of new teachers throughout the New Teacher Induction Program. By providing our NTIP staff (New Teachers, Mentors, and Administrators) with the most current research based resources and pedagogy in a centralized location we can help ensure students receive pedagogy that helps foster their success. Additionally, by providing resources for all staff involved in the NTIP process the support network will become even stronger when a common resource is used.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Durham District School Board
- Title: Career Crusing And The Use Of The Educational Portfolio
Description:
To supplement the Electronic Annual Education Plan that we have within our school board my project concentrated on having Grade 7 and 8 students use Career Cruising to complete a number of prescribed activities. The activities had the students complete the following: 1) self assessment tests which gave them an idea of their strengths, learning styles and a list of possible careers that might be suitable for them, 2) research into a number of different careers and possible pathways and 3) create and add to an electronic educational/career portfolio that they will hopefully continue to use right through secondary school.
Project Theme(s):
Student Success/Transition Years, Technology
School Board:
Niagara Catholic District School Board
- Title: Catholic Leadership Interdisciplinary Program (CLIP) - Staff and Program Development
Description:
The CLIP program is a multi-teacher, multi-level program, which integrates 5 courses in one semester, and was first offered in 2007. The program is located at one school, but is open to students throughout our board. To reach its full potential, and respond to requests from other schools and boards, it is necessary for the program staff to have time to further develop the model, enhance their knowledge and skill base, and create documentation for themselves and others using various media. The development of this program is a dynamic process in which staff see a need to develop new strategies that are applicable to a differentiated learning environment, where students of all levels or with particular challenges are able to excel.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Student Assessment, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board
- Title: Character Education "The Character Lens"
Description:
A programme focussing on different aspects of character was developed and implemented during our grade ten PLC time. The programme runs for 5 sessions spaced two weeks apart that focus on the following aspects of character: Perseverance, Self Worth, Compassion, Respect. The final session ties these aspects together under the umbrella of perspective. In order to change character one must change the lens through with they view situations. The programme is a combination of video clips, discussions and interactive play based activities designed to stimulate reflection and ultimately action.
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities, Differentiated Instruction, Student Success/Transition Years
School Board:
Upper Grand District School Board
- Title: Classroom and School Podcasting
Description:
This project trains teachers on how to create and use podcasts to provide students with real world applications for their research, writing and presentations.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated Instruction, Media Literacy
School Board:
Ottawa-Carleton District School Board
- Title: Closing the Gender Gap in Literacy and Numeracy
Description:
Our action research focuses on the effectiveness of various teaching methods to increase learning specifically focused on male’s learning styles for literacy and female’s learning style for numeracy. The teaching methods we are researching are formative assessment for learning, assistive technology, Differentiated Instruction, 6+1 Writing Traits, and Cooperative Learning. The combination of these teaching methods is used in gender specific classes so we can determine if these methods affect the specific test groups. We are also collecting data by using these methods in regular classes.
Project Theme(s):
Gender-based Learning, Technology, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Renfrew County District School Board
- Title: Cohesive Primary And Junior Problem Solving Based Teaching Program
Description:
We began with an idea to create problem solving strategy resources that could be used in primary and junior classrooms thus hoping to create cohesiveness between primary and junior divisions. We co-planned lessons in order to co-teach with one another. We used a Collaborate Inquiry model to observe each other in our respective classes gaining an appreciation of each others uniqueness as well as the struggles each have. We found that focussing on Big Ideas and how we facilitate conversations with our students in each of the 3 parts of our lessons was a way to align primary and junior problem solving mathematics programs.
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities, Mathematical Literacy
School Board:
Trillium Lakelands District School Board
- Title: Collaborative Inquiry To Learning Mathematics Through Process Teaching
Description:
In order to help our Grade 6 students, who historically have not met Provincial Standards, this project has helped us become aware and implement better strategies for student improvement. This has been accomplished by: a betterment of our understanding of the Big Ideas, 3-Part Lesson Plan and Differentiation by using Open and Parallel Tasks as well as the development of an a cross subject organizer that focuses on the Communication Process. Our new knowledge has been shared within all divisions of our school and will be presented at the Board level.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Upper Grand District School Board
- Title: Community Through the Arts
Description:
Last year I (and three colleagues) attended a performance by a drama in the community class. It was held both at a different school and school board. It was very motivating and inspiring to see both the process and progress gained by the special need students in their skills, attitudes and views. As a team, we decided that we would like to research, develop and implement a similar course to run in the 2010-2011 school year. We will be using the grant money to meet several times over the project period to establish goals, a list of needed resources, attend community performances (other final performances, Abilities Art Festival, Community Living etc.) The hope is to deliver this course throughout the school board in the future. The team will present findings to other interest groups and at conferences. To ensure success, appropriate resources will be purchased so that the course can be a demonstration course for other departments and schools.
Project Theme(s):
Students with Special Needs, Student Success/Transition Years, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Durham Catholic District School Board
- Title: Comprehension in Action: Supporting Student Achievement in Both Official Languages
Description:
This project builds capacity between the French and English teaching partners, in order to increase student comprehension in both official languages as well as increase engagement in Kindergarten to Grade 3 students. Reading comprehension is a complex, multifaceted activity that calls on the reader's thinking and problem solving abilities. Students need multiple opportunituies to develp these skills through their school day. This is particularly important in our new Immersion setting. French and English teaching partners collaborate together to ensure a seamless approach for their primary students. Additionally, there will be professional reading, team lesson planning, modelling and observing the gradual release of responsibility model across the primary grades in both English and French classes. Each teacher is able to draw on their own strengths and learning styles as they investigate and explore research based strategies.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities, Core and Immersion French
School Board:
Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario
- Title: Connecting Multiple Intelligence to Literacy Through the Arts: Reading, Writing and Rembrandt
Description:
This project seeks to address the need for an approach to literacy that speaks to multiple intelligences and allows students to learn and/or demonstrate learning in a variety of modes; to offer all students the opportunity to engage fully in their learning experiences; and to investigate strategies that support a multimodal paradigm.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Niagara Catholic District School Board
- Title: Connecting Students Mathematical Learning Through Early Algebra
Description:
Lesson study is widely credited with substantial improvements in Japanese student performance in mathematics and science and encompasses the key elements of effective mathematics professional development identified in the research: focus on mathematical content, active teacher learning, ongoing, collective participation and a focus on student learning (Fullan, Hill, & Crevola, 2006; Hill, 2004). Teachers determined areas of student weaknesses in patterning and algebraic concepts. Teachers researched effective teaching of these concepts and collaboratively designed lessons including rich tasks to improve student understandings. The teachers tested the lesson in other classes before one teacher teach the lesson while other members closely observe student work to determine the effectiveness of the instructional strategy for student learning. The teachers then discuss their observations of student learning, refining the lesson as necessary.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Gender-based learning, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board
- Title: Cours bi-modaux des technologies de communication
Description:
This project offers teachers activities that deliver training and upgrading through distance education, face-to-face learning, and classroom learning. This approach provides for the integration of training activities and the implementation of an administrative structure for managing the delivery of bimodal courses, a method that is motivating for both students and teachers.
Project Theme(s):
Technology
School Board:
Conseil des écoles publiques de l'Est de l'Ontario
- Title: Creating Common Formative Assessments to Assess Reading For Meaning in the Primary Grades
Description:
A group of schools were committed to deepening their understanding of Reading for Meaning by developing common formative assessments in K to Grade 3. By working together, teachers supported each other and built a tremendous amount of capacity in terms of being able to assess Reading for meaning, and having a broader tool box of teaching strategies in order to help students achieve greater success in Reading for Meaning.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Student Assessment
School Board:
District School Board of Niagara
- Title: Critical Literacy Development Through ICT Grades 7-10
Description:
We (5 teacher-librarians from 5 different schools in Simcoe County) created a wiki that displays the resources we collected for teachers called:http://icthinking.pbworks.com This wiki provides a list of various tools that can be used with students and it helps teachers to set up activities and provides student examples of how this tool might be used to promote critical thinking skills. We presented to teachers in our schools, from our school board and from the province, through our many presentations about "icthinking." Over 440 teachers were given the opportunity to see our wiki and we explained how they might use it in their teaching.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Media Literacy, Technology
School Board:
Simcoe County District School Board
- Title: Critical Thinking Through Integration Of The Art
Description:
This project involved 80 teacher learners and 10 teacher leaders from elementary schools in the District School Board of Niagara who met for 6 half-day sessions throughout the 2010-11 school year. Teachers collaborated with teachers to plan learning experiences for their students that specifically promote critical thinking through integration of one or more of the arts into another area of the curriculum. Teacher learners explored and deepened their own understanding of a particular art of their choice; drama, dance, visual art or music. They were supported by experts in the field of critical thinking as well as experienced arts teachers who acted as facilitators, or "teacher leaders" in this process. These teacher leaders served as a core working group for this project, planning sessions for teacher, reflecting on the needs of the groups and refining their peer coaching skills.
Project Theme(s):
Arts, Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
District School Board of Niagara
- Title: Data Analysis/Book Room for Improved Student Learning
Description:
The project has been designed to look at all data available to target specific needs within the school. The staff have been working in a PLC to establish common needs within the grades and planning units to target those needs. The staff has also developed tracking sheets to record student achievement so that the data can then be reviewed to indicate whether the unit was successful or not.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities, Student Assessment
School Board:
Niagara Catholic District School Board
- Title: Decreasing Anxiety … Increasing Engagement
Description:
We believe that anxiety negatively impacts student learning in a variety of ways. These issues range from mild to severe and lead to both social isolation and disruptive behaviours in school. We also believe that a focus on social and emotional learning creates empathetic school citizens, which benefits everyone in the school. Our team has created toolkits that provide resources to raise awareness, provide programs (e.g. Collaborative Problem Solving, Social Stories etc.) And activities (e.g. Read alouds) teachers can bring into their classes to create classroom environments that better meet each child’s social and emotional needs and which will lead to increased engagement and success.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Students with Special Needs, Student Assessment
School Board:
Lakehead District School Board
- Title: Designing and Creating Visual Instruction Plans
Description:
Based on the Fred Jones' book "Tools for Teaching" this project represents an effective and convenient plan to generate dynamic and template-based VIP's (Visual Instruction Plans) that strengthen instructional strategies for helping all students to learn. Team members work to develop a wide range of VIP's for topics within science and mathematics, particularly in the Grade 7 to 10 range. Developed VIP's will be shared as part of Tools for Teaching PD sessions for teachers and featured at the LDCSB Intermediate Math Conference as an instructional strategy that is "good for all, necessary for some".
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
London District Catholic School Board
- Title: Developing A Co-Op Teacher Manual And A Co-Op Leadership Model
Description:
Co-op teachers have unique learning needs as classroom teachers, guidance counsellors and program managers. The TLLP team collaborated to develop a practical Co-op Teacher Manual that would assist Co-op teachers with delivering safe and meaningful learning opportunities for students, but still allow for flexibility. The manual (also in digital format) covers the key components of a Co-op program and practical strategies for delivering the program. Sample forms, case studies and other resources are included. A model for a Co-op Coordinating Committee was also created to support BWDSB Co-op teachers by providing leadership and coordinating communication, collaboration and professional development.
Project Theme(s):
Student Success/Transition Years, Professional Learning Communities, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Bluewater District School Board
- Title: Developing Assessment-for-Learning in the Classroom: Using Samples of Students' Work to Improve Learning.
Description:
Current research suggests that a focus on assessment-for-learning, or formative assessment, is a critical link between classroom activities and improvements in students' achievement (Black & Wiliam, 1998; Stiggins, 2005). While there is broad consensus that assessment-for-learning is an important part of effective teaching and learning, there have been few examples of what these strategies look like in practice (Shepard, 2001). The goal of this project is for a group of teachers at our school to consider and develop these strategies through a focus on samples of students' work. More specifically, our focus is on using samples of students’ work to improve learning.
Project Theme(s):
Student Assessment, Mathematical Literacy, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Ottawa-Carleton District School Board
- Title: Developing Information Literacy Skills Through Guided Inquiry
Description:
Our team collaborated in the planning, assessing and teaching of students as they were led through an integrated unit of Guided Inquiry. Our instructional team included a teacher-librarian and two grade 5 teachers. For this unit, our students were involved in a Guided Inquiry that posed the question “Who is the Greatest Canadian?” Linking to learning expectations in the Grade 5 Curriculum. The students shared their final product in our school’s Heritage Fair which included a community partnership with Durham Heritage Fairs.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Durham District School Board
- Title: Developing Mathematical Models in Realistic Contexts utilizing Effective Oral Language Strategies: How they impact student understanding and communication in new problem solving situations
Description:
Provide the professional resources and supports required for classroom teachers to effectively and collaboratively engage in: examining their understanding of the teaching, learning and discussion of mathematics in the elementary classrooms
exploring the impact of various oral language strategies have on students' discussion and communication of mathematical ideas
researching the impact mathematical models, developed in realistic contexts, have on student learning.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy
School Board:
Lakehead District School Board
- Title: Developing Student Leadership And Student Voice At The Secondary Level
Description:
Guided by four staff advisors, teachers from a variety of leadership roles collaborated and established a concise leadership pathway based on past and current programs. We developed a variety of resources which will be available to everyone and will serve to encourage involvement in leadership. Furthermore, we analysed and critiqued these established programs and the effect on our school community.
Project Theme(s):
Student Success/Transition Years
School Board:
Halton Catholic District School Board
- Title: Developing Teaching Skills For Using Technology For Classroom Writing
Description:
As teachers we would like to increase our ability to teach writing skills and strategies in our classroom by using technology, such as active boards and computer programs, to increase the achievement of boys' writing abilities. 'The purpose of this project is to increase the engagement and abilities of boys In writing formats and traits, through our own professional development. We want to become knowledgeable in using technology to teach these skills such as: using active boards. Computers, neo word 'processors, podcasting, and specific teaching strategies that include the use of technology in daily lessons. 'The team members tech in a low/socio- economic areas where the children have limited experience with using technology For writing activities.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board
- Title: Developing Understanding In Science Through The Use Of Literacy Strategies Within A Universal Design For Learning Framework.
Description:
In order to support the transition of students from the Intermediate to the Secondary program with optimal student success, we will build teacher capacity through collaborative inquiry into common literacy strategies and their successful implementation into cross-curricular programming with a focus on science in the grade 7,8, and 9 classrooms. This project will also focus on developing links between the Intermediate and Secondary panels by providing all students with common literacy strategies and with a working knowledge of assistive technology
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Success/Transition Years, Technology
School Board:
Upper Canada District School Board
- Title: Developing a Reform Math Teaching Community through Co-teaching, lesson study and mentoring
Description:
Our focus is to mentor teachers in Reform Mathematics. Participating teachers deepen their mathematical knowledge and understanding of how students develop number sense. This is accomplished through lesson study and co-teaching. We are developing a bank of student anchor papers that exemplify Fosnot and Dolk's (2007) Landscape of Learning (Big Ideas, Strategies and Models).
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Peel District School Board
- Title: Different Strokes for Different Folks
Description:
This project determined if the use of differentiated instruction strategies in the classroom would engage and motivate students in order to increase their academic success in Science.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities, Student Assessment
School Board:
Lakehead District School Board
- Title: Differentiated Instruction in Action
Description:
Using the book, "Math Special Deliveries", by Bob Krech as the basis of the workshop, the workshop aims to stimulate conversation and ideas among colleagues and inspire them to deliver a more hands on interactive approach to learning in their classrooms.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario
- Title: Differentiated Instruction through Technology in College Level English
Description:
Since the aim of our project was to try to increase the level of student engagement in the Grade 11College English course, we focussed on creating differentiated tools to help with this process. We also incorporated the use of technology as we know that students are further engaged when they are given opportunities to tap in to technology for assistance with a final product. The differentiated tools that we created as a group were a Choice Board and a Layering Activity that were transferable and could be used with any novel study or short story in any English course. Students could choose an assignment based on their M.1. and capitalize on their strengths as a learner.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Technology
School Board:
Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board
- Title: Differentiated Math Programs: Ways To Help Students Build Confidence And Deepen Understanding
Description:
To encourage and increase teachers' comfort levels using best practices to help provide differentiation in our mathematics lessons, so as to support increased student confidence and deepen understanding in mathematics, in French and in English, and in all three divisions of our school (Primary, Junior and Intermediate). The sharing of our learning evolved to include leading PD sessions at our school for our School Improvement Planning goals in numeracy, and this is continuing during the 2011-2012 academic year. We have focused on the use of open questions and parallel tasks incorporating a three-part lesson model, as well as including literature in our mathematics learning activities.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Mathematical Literacy
School Board:
Ottawa-Carleton District School Board
- Title: Differentiating Classroom Instruction To Address Boys' Learning Needs
Description:
This project involved conducting research into effective ways of reaching and teaching boys. Data was gathered through a review of current literature on boys' learning and a series of staff and student surveys. The project's key finding was that boys are relational learners: they experience their teachers before they experience the lessons that they teach. As a result, the sharing component of the project involved building teacher capacity in the relational dimension by equipping them with a range of teaching strategies and resources.
Project Theme(s):
Gender-based learning, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Toronto Catholic District School Board
- Title: Differentiating Instruction Using Available Computer Technology in the Intermediate Classroom
Description:
Exploring teaching and learning strategies to increase integration of computer technology into content areas
Use of computers to allow students to demonstrate learning in a variety of ways including audio, video, and multimedia presentations
Creating opportunities for students to demonstrate learning through their individual learning styles
Increasing student engagement and motivation by providing the tool/medium of computer technology
Differentiating instruction using student laptop computers and related software.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Superior North Catholic District School Board
- Title: Digital Literacy Integration
Description:
The purpose of our project is to help teachers learn new technologies – specifically Moodle – and help them incorporate digital literacy in the classroom. As more and newer technologies become available, teachers find it challenging to keep pace. We want to honour our focus which is teachers teaching teachers. This project aims to close the technology gap between the student and the teacher, by focusing on technology workshops for teachers, implementation of learned technology in the classrooms, measurements of student engagement and improved literacy skills, finally in sharing of technology and results with other staff members and beyond. We are working to offer professional learning opportunities for teachers within our school, our board and throughout the province. Our aim is to respect the different learning styles of teachers and help them work with document cameras, Airliners and iPads, in addition to Moodle.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Technology, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
York Region District School Board
- Title: Digital Recordings to Promote Books Using Fluency
Description:
The Digital Recordings to Promote Books project engages primary students and teachers in fostering reading fluency at the students' independent reading levels and experience using digital recording software (Audacity). Through pre- and post-surveys as well as the digital recordings, students are able to see and hear their successes in reading as well as identify next steps. Through the creation of a WIKI, students' voice recordings are shared within the school community, board community and internet. All resources for this project are on line at http://www.st-c1air.net/ict/DRtoRBUF.html.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Literacy, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
St. Clair Catholic District School Board
- Title: E-MC2 Engagement = Metacognition Continuum
Description:
In an effort to sustain the engagement of our teachers, in a collaborative professional learning community, our project involved researching strategies of how teachers learn best (professional development strategies), and conducting workshops to foster the development of a PLC in support of high yield instructional strategies and web 2.0 tools. To support the PI.C, the team developed strategy templates and a wiki for collaboration, to serve as an online repository of our learning journey, and to support our teacher learning continuum.
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities, Technology
School Board:
York Catholic District School Board
- Title: E.V.S. - Embedded Video Support to assist Deaf students in after-hours studies
Description:
This project addresses a visual support system that will improve homework assignment results that were weak due to weak English vocabulary skills in Deaf students. Promoting embedded video support for use by other teachers in other subject areas to improve student performance. Identifying other places for using this technique such as distance learning or e-learning.
Project Theme(s):
Students with special needs
School Board:
Provincial Schools Authority
- Title: Educational Research Applied in the Secondary Classroom
Description:
Utilizing focused book studies this project investigates and summarizes recent educational research. Utilizing action based research we apply our understanding of Differentiated Instruction to secondary courses and classrooms.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Upper Grand District School Board
- Title: Enabling Educators To Teach In The Outdoors
Description:
The EETO initiative will use teacher expertise within the Near North Board to inventory board outdoor programming and teacher outdoor certifications. Grant applicants will gather current board program information that is successfully being used and develop a strategy to: - share current programming practices and future curricular and cross-curricular programming options.- create a plan for what needs to occur to support the implementation of cooperative outdoor programming in the board that increases learning outcomes and complies with OPHEA and board high-risk guidelines.
School Board:
Near North District School Board
- Title: Engage Me! Kids And Technology
Description:
Having been witness to the power of technology integration to equalize the learning field for all students, we set out to achieve this very goal in very purposeful ways: Purposeful Professional Development: teacher participants were asked to focus on particular students who were deemed to be "at risk", and received training that would address the needs of those specific students. Purposeful scope: training of teachers was limited to software readily available on the standard board image of applications, thus reducing the potential obstacles to implementation. Any additional hardware resources added were chosen to be well within a school's ability to purchase. Purposeful format: teacher PD was delivered in the way most convenient for teachers: during the instructional day, with release time, individualized and one-on-one for maximum hands-on learning with minimal intimidation or pressure.
School Board:
York Region District School Board
- Title: Engaging Grade 10 Students in Literacy and Technology
Description:
An individual approach for each teacher, based on their student's needs would ensure maximum transfer of integrated literacy and technology skills across all curriculum areas. In-services on technology skills will further teachers' development. Team lesson planning, modeling and observation of integrating literacy strategies and technology use into lessons across subject areas would occur.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Literacy, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario
- Title: Engaging Students And Improving Learning Through Technology - Engagestudents.Ca
Description:
This project improved learning and engagement for at-risk secondary students in both English and Math courses by supporting teachers to successfully integrate technology into their curriculum. The tools that students worked on during this project included Google Apps, Google Docs, Audacity (podcasts), Photostory (Video), Bit Strips For Schools (on-line comics) and Google Maps. Students did a wide variety of tasks including creating videos & podcasts, creating web pages and cloud computing. We taught students using a variety of pedagogical strategies including on-line tutorial videos, which we created. The project was designed to be shared with a wide audience through our web page (engagestudents.ca), presentations and workshops. We presented over 20 times including :ECCO conference , OLA Super Conference, OAME conference, Ministry Forum, OTF PD Summer Institute) and at Faculties of Education at Queens University, Trent University and OISE (University of Toronto).
School Board:
Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board
- Title: Engaging Students In Mathematical Problem-Solving Activities
Description:
For the duration of the semester, the grade 9 applied class that I teach will be exposed to a variety of instructional and assessment student friendly TARGETS and open-ended questions and parallel tasks. We will measure achievement compared to earlier classes in terms of achievement throughout the semester.
School Board:
Durham District School Board
- Title: Engaging The Digital Native
Description:
We have learned through analysis of student achievement data, that our applied Grade 9 and 10 students are the largest group who struggle to achieve success. Throughout this project, the English, Science, Mathematics, Canadian and World Studies, Languages and Technology departments all used innovative technological tools such as Moodle, smartboards and Web 2.0 tools, to create engaging materials that support these learners. We also created a website to document our journey: http://web.me.com/bssteacher/TLLP/Welcome.html We have discovered that the strategies developed have supported students in other pathways and other grades and have enhanced the teaching practices of the school as a whole.
Project Theme(s):
Technology
School Board:
Hastings & Prince Edward District School Board
- Title: Engaging The Struggling Learner: Involve Me And I'll Understand
Description:
This project was aimed at finding strategies to engage and motivate struggling learners to be successful. An ancient proverb on learning says: "Tell me and I’ll forget. Show me, I may remember. Involve me and I’ll understand." We analyzed the effect of using a combination of experiential learning opportunities, combined with strategies recommended in boys' literacy studies, to engage struggling students. We increased the use of technology in the classroom, and provided many hands-on learning experiences in the local community, to promote greater understanding and improve academic achievement.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Gender-based learning, Technology
School Board:
Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board
- Title: Engaging Today's Digital Learners Through The Use Of Differentiated Instruction
Description:
This project includes a series of lessons, classroom activities, and teacher resources designed to engage and cater to the learning styles of all students. This would be accomplished through the use of differentiated instruction and Smart Boards. The project would focus on Smart Board tools and activities and other differentiated techniques that could be used in any classroom. Although some additional examples have been provided, the majority of the lesson activities focus on the Canadian and World Studies Curriculum Documents. Both Smart Board components and complimentary classroom activities have been created, along with teacher manuals and resources.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated Instruction, Student Success/Transition Years
School Board:
District School Board Ontario North East
- Title: Engaging all Partners - the Cohesive TEAM (Teachers Engaging All Members)
Description:
This project focuses on designing an effective, timely process by which to engage all partners (Teachers, Core French Teachers, Primary Planners, EA's and volunteers) working together within a classroom in delivering consistent, appropriate literacy activities and messages as a team, regardless of the diversity of roles.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Lakehead District School Board
- Title: Engaging and Assessing Grade nine mathematics' student learning through the use of e-clickers and manipulatives
Description:
Teachers design lessons that utilize several different types of manipulatives and computer technology appropriate for the grade 9 mathematics curriculum. The e-clickers system would be used to engage student participation in the lesson by collecting their responses at key points during the lesson. The clicker system would also be used to assess student learning. The results of the student assessment would then be used to determine if any remedial work would be required before moving on to the next lesson.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Technology, Student Assessment
School Board:
Lambton Kent District School Board
- Title: Every Student Can!
Description:
This project was designed to better understand students who have not been meeting provincial standards in Literacy in the junior and intermediate grades. This project intended to develop ways to support these students so that they may reach provincial standards. These ways included: finding and tailoring tools and strategies, developing profiles and educational plans as well as developing instructional practices that support student learning. As a group we focussed on differentiated instruction and cooperative learning models, as well as ongoing assessment for learning.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
Superior North Catholic District School Board
- Title: F.L.I.Q. Financial Literacy IQ: A Primary Financial Literacy Program
Description:
Attitudes towards money begin early in life and, as such, it is important to instil responsible values in children regarding various financial concepts. Our project, entitled F.L.I.Q (Financial Literacy I.Q), aims at educating students at the primary level about topics such as earning, spending and saving money. Through the creation of a classroom economy, students are exposed to engaging, interactive and real-life activities that help develop the necessary skills required to be responsible, financially literate members of society.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Literacy, Media Literacy
School Board:
Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic District School Board
- Title: Facilitating The Integration Of Technology In Classrooms
Description:
This project is part of a broader, multi-year initiative aimed at increasing the use of technology to support student learning. It aims to identify the various barriers of technology integration, and offer various levels of interventions through the implementation of different professional development opportunities which support teachers in overcoming these personal and persistent obstacles. The project also includes the development of support resources for teachers. Finally, the project aims to promote increased understanding of the change process, and the role of self-awareness in this process.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated Instruction, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
Greater Essex County District School Board
- Title: Facilitating Transition Connections - Expanding Into The School Community
Description:
The project 'Fun with Friends' was designed to address transition barriers that exist between special education students at JMCC and regular school students by providing additional opportunities for JMCC students to experience community school environments and increase exposure to students who attend schools in the community. Students in three classes from the JMCC (20 -22 students) were paired with a grade 5 class from Holy Cross Catholic School (23 students) for a total of 4 visits, twice at JMCC and twice at Holy Cross School. The students took part in sensitivity building activities, worked together adapting and modifying equipment and activities and collaborated on team projects that promoted socialization and sense of inclusion and acceptance. The outcome of this project has better prepare students from JMCC for the transition process into community school and has provided the students from Holy Cross School with a better understanding of students with multiple exceptionalities and an awareness of the importance of including students with disabilities into school activities once they are transitioned.
Project Theme(s):
Students with Special Needs, Student Success/Transition Years, Arts
School Board:
John McGivney Children's Centre School Authority
- Title: French Immersion Learning Continuum
Description:
The project was inspired by the need for a continuum in teaching French, between the grades as well as the need of standardized methods of assessing language proficiencies. The acquisition of a second language is particular in the fact that it occurs over a relatively long period of time and that it generally builds on previously acquired knowledge. To miss one of the building blocks may hinder the regular progression of the learner further down the grades. Therefore, the development of benchmarks based on curricular expectations not only benefit the students in their progression but also assist the teacher in ensuring that the new material is being build on solid understanding of previous concepts. Furthermore, this approach supports the idea of differentiated instruction within the class setting. The creation and implementation of “in house” evaluation of the student’s language proficiency allows for a dedicated moment in time, to evaluate his/her abilities in the French language before proceeding to the next level.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Core and Immersion French
School Board:
Kenora Catholic District School Board
- Title: French Immersion Writing Assessments
Description:
Craft three terms of Common French Immersion Writing Assessments for every grade in the board. Create rubrics and a Teacher's Administration Guide. This process will lead to the alignment of writing assessments, common dialogue between FI teacher, teacher moderation, co-planning and connection between assessment and purposeful planning.
Project Theme(s):
Core and Immersion French, Literacy, Student Assessment
School Board:
Bluewater District School Board
- Title: From Rigour to Relevance
Description:
We intend to further develop strategies to incorporate a variety of activity choices through which students can access curriculum while relating student learning to relevant and meaningful real world situations and experiences. Using a differentiated instruction model known as "Layered Curriculum" as a framework, we intend to introduce methods, templates, and resources which will help staff implement differentiated learning to engage our heterogeneous classroom populations. The objective is to develop a culture that, through differentiation, provides meaningful and relevant learning to students regardless of pathway/destination.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Student Success/Transition Years, Student Assessment
School Board:
Bluewater District School Board
- Title: Gesture Integrated Approach for Learning French
Description:
FSL Primary Teachers use the gesture method to motivate students to orally communicate in French. Team leader lead sessions to teach the basics of the methodology and encourage sharing of ideas among the group.
Project Theme(s):
Core and Immersion French
School Board:
Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board
- Title: Global Citizenship at the elementary level
Description:
Engaging all learner through a systematic application of a critical thinking framework to raise the level and quality of thinking for all students, especially boys, in the area of global education.
School Board:
Peel District School Board
- Title: Grade 7, 8, 9 Algebra Continuum
Description:
The team is made of three teachers from each panel, elementary and secondary. We met to plan and deliver several lessons involving algebra. Our emphasis was on differentiated instruction and assessment using open questions and open ended tasks. Also, we examined the use of manipulatives in the different areas and experimented with them and techniques such as bansho.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Professional Learning Communities, Student Success/Transition Years
School Board:
Simcoe County District School Board
- Title: Gérer les différences en littératie au cycle moyen
Description:
Each student is different. Students learn at different speeds, use different study techniques, and are motivated to reach different goals. With the inclusion of special education students into regular classes, it is even more important to manage difference. Hence, the importance of selecting effective teaching and learning strategies for literacy in order to boost the achievement of all students. The goal of this project for students in Grades 1 to 6 and in special education classes is to manage difference in order to improve achievement and success for all students by integrating technology, such as the interactive white board, into different learning situations.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Technology, Differentiated Instruction, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
Conseil scolaire de district catholique de l'Est ontarien
- Title: HIP: High Interest Programs
Description:
Work to develop multi-disciplinary, multi-credit High Interest Programs to engage students in authentic learning experiences. The programs aim to help students develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that lead to success in secondary school and beyond. The goal is to create project based program that will allow students to see 'real world' value/connection to their own learning.
Project Theme(s):
Student Success/Transition Years
School Board:
Upper Canada District School Board
- Title: Healthy School Nutrition Initiative
Description:
A process driven project to affect change within the secondary school environments to make healthy eating easier for students and staff.
School Board:
Near North District School Board
- Title: Higher Order Questioning
Description:
This inter-school project builds teacher knowledge and understanding of how to weave higher order questioning and hypothesis formation throughout curriculum content in order to help all students become critical thinkers and questioners. Teachers collaboratively plan higher order questioning tasks to authentically address and assess the expectations.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Waterloo Region District School Board
- Title: Higher Order Questioning
Description:
Through the Teaching-Learning Critical Pathway model, teachers collaboratively design higher order questions and tasks to develop students’ higher order thinking skills in reading and writing. Teachers collaboratively plan higher order thinking tasks around a ‘focusing question/big idea’ to authentically address and assess curriculum expectations.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy
School Board:
Waterloo Region District School Board
- Title: History Is "Not" Bunk: Teaching History And New Media In The Junior And Intermediate Grades
Description:
Through classroom observations, I have noticed that Junior students struggle with retention of historical content knowledge within the Social Studies curriculum. I believe that this is due to their lack of motivation with conventional teaching practices of historical content. In order to increase student motivation and comprehension of the History component of the Social Studies curriculum, I plan to bring History into the "4th dimension", by using multimedia instruction and hands-on experience to improve motivation and historical thinking skills in the Junior grades. The project met with such success that I expanded the scope to include Intermediate students as well.
Project Theme(s):
Technology
School Board:
York Catholic District School Board
- Title: Holy Name Of Mary School French And English Teaching- Learning Critical Pathways Project
Description:
Use the T-LCP process to improve our systematic and explicit instruction in relation to our students' areas of greatest needs based on current evidence of student achievement (e.g. EQAO, PM benchmark CASI, OWA scores). Provide a framework for meaningful, cohesive inclusion between French, English and Special Education teachers to implement the T-LCP effectively (e.g. Pre and post-assessment, planning, culminating activity)
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Student Assessment
School Board:
Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario
- Title: How Can A Cooperative Problem-Based Instructional Approach And Regular Use Of Manipulatives Assist In Facilitating Student Engagement And Bridge The Achievement Gap In Numeracy At The Junior/Intermediate Level?
Description:
In order to support student success and bridge the numeracy gap between the junior/intermediate levels, this project explores and implements a cooperative problem-based instructional approach (think-pair-share) within four (4) specific classrooms at the junior/intermediate level. To compliment this approach, regular use of math manipulatives is used to build student knowledge and understanding. An instructional toolkit outlining specific math manipulatives and detailed instructions on implementation strategies has been created to build capacity among teachers for instructional and application purposes. Standardized assessment tools such as PRIME (Professional Resources and Instruction for Mathematics Educators) Math, jumpmath and ONAP (Ontario Numeracy and Assessment Package) guided assessment practices throughout the project.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Student Assessment, Students With Special Needs
School Board:
Upper Canada District School Board
- Title: How Do We Best Support Boys' Literacy Development In Writing?
Description:
Read professional literature on boys' writing Conduct attitude survey Utilize new knowledge of high yield strategies for boys in two units of writing Conduct a pre and post-assessment for each of the two units Compare results from pre and post-assessments Compare results between the two units Conduct attitude survey again Share results with staff – May 2011
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Gender-based learning, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Waterloo Region District School Board
- Title: I ADVANCE - Using self-paced technology to help students succeed on the Grade 10 literacy test
Description:
This project builds a support system using the creation of computer learning modules that improve the success rate of at-risk students on the grade 10 literacy test.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Technology
School Board:
Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board
- Title: I-MAN: Increasing Motivation and Achievement in Numeracy
Description:
Assist students who have been identified as being at-risk in the area of numeracy using interactive whiteboards. This project attempts to increase motivation in these students, and to raise their level of achievement in numeracy.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Technology
School Board:
Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board
- Title: Ici on écrit
Description:
Engage French Immersion teachers at each division in the teacher moderation process and create writing samples. This promotes teacher growth and understanding of levelling writing pieces, promoting consistency and fairness across the board/school/divisions.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Assessment, Core and Immersion French, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board
- Title: Implementing Balanced Mathematics Instruction in the Primary Classroom
Description:
Provide mathematics instruction in small groups of students with similar needs through a problem solving model.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy
School Board:
Northeastern Catholic District School Board
- Title: Implementing Differentiated Instruction And Assessment In The Classroom
Description:
Differentiated instruction and assessment (DIA) is becoming a valuable technique in classrooms. Our project includes setting up a DIA task force for the school. The task force developed a reading and discussion club focussing on DIA. The reading and discussion club then developed one lesson plan for each department in the school. The lesson plans are for required courses that students must complete (i.e. Grade 9 math). The lesson plans then were combined into one resource and provided to each department in the school. In order to support the DIA Lesson Plan Resource Book “Many Different way to Learn“, the staff in the DIA task force attended professional development opportunities, observed a DIA lesson and read a number of different resources available on DIA. The DIA task force also set up a DIA library of different books available to the staff at our school. The task force also completed a learning styles “VAK, visual, auditory, kinaesthetic” survey of all grade nine students at our school to assist with the use of DIA in the classroom.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Thames Valley District School Board
- Title: Improving Aboriginal Students' Literacy Skills Through Concrete, Kinaesthetic, And Community Literacy Activities
Description:
Our goal was to help Aboriginal students who are struggling with literacy skills, many of whom are English Language Learners, improve their literacy skills. We developed and shared concrete, kinaesthetic, and community literacy activities that focus on the learners' needs by providing the opportunities to make more holistic connections to literacy and learning. We had the opportunity to work with other experienced teachers to create and share literacy lesson plans and activities that specifically meet the needs of these students, for example hands-on classroom literacy activities and participating in community events.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Student Success/Transition Years
School Board:
Lakehead District School Board
- Title: Improving Boys Literacy in the Science Classroom
Description:
In this project we hope to create useful daily assessment activities that might appeal to the unique learning styles of boys in the intermediate grades and to introduce them to the use of the Proscope and other educational technologies. After examining different learning strategies and the profile of the intermediate student, we want to determine if male students do indeed achieve better results with this pedagogical strategy.
Project Theme(s):
Gender-Based Learning, Literacy, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
London District Catholic School Board
- Title: Improving Participation Rates Of Female Students In Technological Education For The Intermediate Level (Grade 7 Through Grade 10)
Description:
Female enrolment numbers for most Technological Education courses is significantly lower than male enrolment numbers. It is a belief that many girls feel a disconnect with the traditional Technological Education Programs and cannot visualize themselves working with tools, machines, etc. There is a pre-conceived notion of a gender-bias that originates from societal values. Female students may not see how Technological Education courses would relate to anything they might do in the future. This study will seek to identify pedagogical methodologies (assessment practices, DI, etc.) Which address this inequity? Broadening the project repertoire will provide young women with opportunities to expand their experiences and build confidence in their use of technology. This increases the likelihood of their continued use of technology in their personal lives and/or career pathways. As a result, we can address the need to develop a greater understanding of effective pedagogy and knowledge content, and to develop a greater consistency among teachers in terms of project repertoire and best practices. Through this collaboration and professional learning community, teachers can reflect upon their own teaching effectiveness and plan future steps to meet the diverse needs of this group and ensure success for all students.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Gender-based learning, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
London District Catholic School Board
- Title: Improving Student Achievement Through Cooperative Learning
Description:
Four teachers, specifically in the subjects of Mathematics, Religion and English, all within the Open, Applied, Locally Developed and College streams, will learn and work together to improve student achievement through the use of Cooperative Learning. 'Our project will focus on student-driven learning by implementing specific Cooperative Learning structures and Differentiated Instruction. We will research, plan lessons, observe each other, and debrief together to change our classroom practice and improve student achievement.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board
- Title: Improving Student Achievement Through Effective Use of e-Learning Resources
Description:
Teachers were able to explore e-learning and develop lessons to incorporate into their classrooms. Teachers began to feel confident in the use of the Ontario Educational Resource Bank. Teachers in this project were also able to assess the value of a SMART board to compliment their instruction and student learning. The team assisted classroom instruction and observed students using the e-learning resource bank. Student achievement increased as students were able to achieve expectations in a course and achieve the credit to move forward in their high school career. The project helped provide teachers and students with an alternate mode of learning. It became apparent that the Resource Bank was a valuable tool for credit recovery, especially in the areas of junior compulsory courses.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Student Success/Transition Years, Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Wellington Catholic District School Board
- Title: Improving Student Success Through Problem Solving in Mathematics and Science
Description:
Current research suggests that a focus on assessment-for-learning, or formative assessment, is a critical link between classroom activities and improvements in students' achievement (Black & Wiliam, 1998; Stiggins, 2005). While there is broad consensus that assessment-for-learning is an important part of effective teaching and learning, there have been few examples of what these strategies look like in practice (Shepard, 2001). The goal of this project is for a group of teachers at our school to consider and develop these strategies through a focus on samples of students' work. More specifically, our focus is on using samples of students’ work to improve learning.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Limestone District School Board
- Title: In Touch With Math
Description:
During the course of this past school year the team members in this project have implemented selected math resources and strategies in their individual classes or with select groups of students. Amongst the four members of the team almost all elementary grade levels were represented. The objective of the project was to build and strengthen foundational math skills, computational mastery and math confidence for students who have been identified as "at risk" or "special needs" in math learning.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
Algoma District School Board
- Title: Inclusion
Description:
The project provides supports for students and classroom teachers in the transition from a Life Skills, Self-Contained classroom model to a model of full inclusion for all students in the regular school community program.
Project Theme(s):
Students with Special Needs, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Huron Perth Catholic District School Board
- Title: Inclusive Technology in the Classroom
Description:
Teachers from the South Grenville Family of Schools, including five feeder schools and one secondary school, will receive training, planning and consolidation time in the use of inclusive technology. The training will be focused on the suite of inclusive technology programs common to all student computers in the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB). This suite consists of Kidspiration, Inspiration, Word Q / Speak Q, and Kurzweil 3000. The aim of the project, therefore, is to create a knowledgeable group of teachers in the South Grenville Family of Schools who are both comfortable with the use of the UCDSB suite of programs, and who are able to effectively incorporate inclusive technology into their daily instructional practice. In addition, each of these teachers can then serve as a role model and bring professional expertise to staff development through Professional Learning Community activities within their schools.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Students with Special Needs, Literacy
School Board:
Upper Canada District School Board
- Title: Incorporating the Ojibwe language and culture into the regular classroom curriculum to which a non aboriginal teacher has been assigned. Instilling a sense of belonging and fluency with their language for aboriginal kids.
Description:
Incorporating the Ojibwe language and culture into the regular classroom curriculum to which a non aboriginal teacher has been assigned. Instilling a sense of belonging and fluency with their language for aboriginal kids.
School Board:
Mine Centre District School Area Board
- Title: Incorporating the Use of Assistive Technology in the classroom for All Students
Description:
This project allows teachers to spend a day to use the programs and to design lesson plans for all students to experience the assistive technology.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Technology, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
Grand Erie District School Board
- Title: Increasing Motivation and Participation Through Technology Integration
Description:
Increase motivation and participation of students with special needs through the use of an interactive white board.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
John McGivney Children's Centre
- Title: Informative Assessment: Using Formative Assessment to Shape Instructional Practice
Description:
In 2008, the staff at St. Joseph Secondary School launched a P.L.C. to develop Differentiated Instruction practices within our high school curriculum. The group discovered that the natural extension of this initiative would be to continue the P.L.C. with a focus on assessment. This new project will address the need for the teacher to focus on learning through experimenting, analysis, reflective practice and critical examination of best practices around formative assessment strategies. At the end of the project, each department in the school will receive a Tool Kit containing hands-on strategies and ideas for teachers to use in the classroom.
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities, Student Assessment
School Board:
Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board
- Title: Inquiry-Based Learning
Description:
Developing critical thinking skills and inquiry based science seems to be a focal point of the new curriculum. It is our intent to develop a platform that all teachers in our science department can utilize in the various courses to teach science through an inquiry driven process. We felt that if a standardized format was introduced to grade 9 + 10 students, they would better develop the ability to critically analyze the design of an experiment as well as gain more depth of understanding as they evaluate and interpret their experimental results. Ultimately it is hoped that this scaffolding will lead to a stronger senior science program founded on good habits of mind and a student initiated desire to learn.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Technology
School Board:
St. Clair Catholic District School Board
- Title: Integrating Information Communication Technology (Computers) in the Elementary Classroom
Description:
The Project encompassed four key areas: ICT guidelines for K-8 at Greenbrier School, lessons in Science, Math, Language, Social Studies, and other curriculum areas that include the use of technology (searchable by Grade or Subject), software/application how-to lessons for teachers to deliver and/or learn a variety of software and applications, effective computer lessons and links to websites that are helpful in teacher planning. The project can be viewed at http://ict-greenbrier/wikispaces.com/.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Literacy
School Board:
Grand Erie District School Board
- Title: Integrating SMART board technology into our education
Description:
We have provided our teaching staff with training that is tailored to their needs
Each teacher put together 3 lessons or learning units using Notebook, a software program
Each teacher tested them and made adjustments in the classroom
We checked and corrected the 36 lessons that were put together
We also met with the IT manager to share the lessons through the school board's portal
We have prepared a CD for advertising.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Technology, Arts
School Board:
Conseil scolaire de district catholique de l'Est ontarien
- Title: Integrating Technology Tools and Strategies for Struggling Writers
Description:
We are a multi-school network of various educators and we wish to enhance our knowledge of the writing process using current technology tools and effective strategies that support struggling writers. Through teacher moderation, the collaboration of analysing student work samples collect we can implement the appropriate strategies that will increase and improve student learning. The samples that will be produced by the students will serve as teaching tools for other teachers in our Board and beyond.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Technology, Student Assessment
School Board:
Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board
- Title: Introducing 'Boys Books and Basketball' to the Upper Grand District School Board
Description:
To develop a long term boys reading program that meets weekly using basketball as a 'hook' into reading.
Project Theme(s):
Gender-based Learning, Literacy
School Board:
Upper Grand District School Board
- Title: Intégration des TIC en salle de classe pour accroître l'engagement des élèves
Description:
In order to meet the needs of small isolated school boards in northern Ontario where access to training is sporadic and often does not meet the needs of teachers seeking to transfer their knowledge to the classroom, this project is designed to train one teacher on the use of a SMART Board and gamepads and how to integrate them into the classroom to increase the students’ commitment to their learning. In turn, this teacher will be able to train his or her colleagues and provide them with support on the integration of technology into various instructional programs. This will help the board to reach its targets for its students.
School Board:
Conseil scolaire de district catholique du Nouvel-Ontario
- Title: Investing in Literacy 'One Child at a Time'
Description:
Through this project, I was able to meet with a Reading Recovery Teacher Leader, and teachers in training throughout the school year. As well, I attended a week of training in the Observation Survey developed by Marie Clay. I worked with individual students for 15-20 weeks using the Reading Recovery (RR) model of intervention. My intention was not to become a RR teacher but to understand, in depth, how students acquire reading and writing skills. In my work as a Literacy Success Leader in the primary division, I was able to share my learning with teachers, and to my work with students.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Assessment, Differentiated instruction
School Board:
Algoma District School Board
- Title: Job-Embedded Professional Learning in Numeracy
Description:
Our project involves a collaborative effort to improve teacher content knowledge of best practices in numeracy through co-teaching, differentiated instruction and teaching through problem solving. Our goal is to improve student achievement, attitude and confidence in numeracy through improved teacher practices
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities, Mathematical Literacy
School Board:
Rainy River District School Board
- Title: Junior Kindergarten Readiness
Description:
The project will study how to improve readiness for Junior Kindergarten (J.K.) students. J.K. teachers will develop a readiness template to highlight the required skills for students entering school. The project will provide workshops for parents to assist with preparing their child for school. The project will reach out to parents by using the newspaper, television, workshops and Kindergarten Skills bags.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Success/Transition Years
School Board:
Kenora Catholic District School Board
- Title: Kindergarten - Let's Get Ready To Write
Description:
Our project involved enhancing our knowledge of the developmental stages of early writing using play, exploration and observation strategies that support early writers. Through the power of lateral capacity building and the teacher moderation process, we were able to produce a developmental sequence and observation reference guide, complete with writing samples for all kindergarten teachers to use in planning developmentally appropriate and meaningful writing activities based on their students' needs. We also produced a resource to help foster play-based writing experiences for kindergarten students.
School Board:
Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board
- Title: Kindergarten Coaching Initiative
Description:
Assist interested Kindergarten teachers with their literacy programs by providing a guiding framework for teachers to administer and interpret assessment for learning data. Teachers also learn how to utilize the data to create effective classroom programs, based on a balanced literacy approach.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Student Assessment
School Board:
York Region District School Board
- Title: La diminution de la violence au niveau préscolaire et primaire: Implantation du Programme « Vers le Pacifique »
Description:
This project enabled the participant to make use of and build on her previous training on Vers le pacifique (a Quebec program that teaches children self-knowledge and conflict management). It enabled her to share this knowledge with her colleagues.
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Conseil scolaire de district catholique des Grandes Rivières
- Title: Laptop Enhancement Project
Description:
Our project focused on SEA computer equipment, mainly laptops. We surveyed students within our board who have been assigned SEA computer equipment to determine the percentage of students who were regularly using their computer equipment. We created four electronic surveys and (a personal interview questionaire) to help us identify users from non users and the reasons why students were choosing to use or not use their equipment. The four surveys included: A teacher survey, a SERT survey, a non - user survey, and a user survey. We used the information we accumulated to develop a list of best practice stratgies, to encourage regular use of the equipment in the classroom. Lastly, we created a quick reference folder for SEA computer students entitled " Tools for Using your AT".
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
Keewatin-Patricia District School Board
- Title: Le SMART BOARD, un moyen novateur de varier nos stratégies d'enseignement en salle de classe
Description:
The purpose of this project is to support French and mathematics instruction by experimenting with a SMART Board and its technical components. This involves learning how to design activities that teach different elements of the curriculum and that address different learning styles in order to create a database of activites that can then be shared with other teachers.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Conseil scolaire de district catholique de l'Est ontarien
- Title: Le plaisir de lire
Description:
This project helps students to improve their reading skills and to become more interested in reading while equipping the teachers with common strategies, instructional tools, and technologies that link practices that are already part of the school plan.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Professional Learning Communities, Student Assessment
School Board:
Conseil scolaire de district catholique de l'Est ontarien
- Title: Leader ERRÉ (enseignant(e) responsible de la réussite des élèves) au niveau intermédiaire
Description:
This project enables Grade 7 and 8 at-risk students (at risk of dropping out, lack of motivation, high absenteeism rate, lack of organizational skills, lack of social skills) to experience a smoother transition from elementary school to high school, improve their academic achievement, and experience new and relevant opportunities to learn based on their strengths and interests (differentiated instruction), thereby decreasing the likelihood that they will drop out of school.
Project Theme(s):
Student Success/Transition Years, Students with Special Needs, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Conseil des écoles publiques de l'Est de l'Ontario
- Title: Leading Learning Together
Description:
Learning together to build our instructional intelligence (Bennett, 2001), co-teach (Villa, Thousand and Nevin, 2004) and engage in lesson study (Takahashi and Yoshida, 2004) across divisions, grades and subjects. We learn to teach more effectively (Sanders, 2000), work collaboratively across divisions, grades and subjects to establish best practices, embed our learning in our workplace
learn by doing
and be committed to continuous improvement (Fullan citing Dufour and Elmore, 2008)
in order to improve student learning and help students transition to high school. We incorporate provincial, district and school improvement plans.
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Rainbow District School Board
- Title: Learn, get to know each other and receive guidance at the École secondaire publique De La Salle: a guidance-oriented school
Description:
The goal of this project is to integrate guidance approach components into the school's mission/vision and into the instructional practices of teachers and guidance counsellors, in order to develop tools and instructional activities that support the development and career paths of students. To increase the guidance-oriented school project's chances of success, we have to concentrate our efforts on training Grade 9 teachers, as well as members of the board of management, so that they can develop expertise they can pass on to other members of the school's faculty.
Project Theme(s):
Student Success/Transition Years, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Conseil des écoles publiques de l'Est de l'Ontario
- Title: Learning By DESIGN - Developing Essential Skills In Grade Nine
Description:
Our professional collaboration involved the development of an after-school program to improve the numeracy skills of our at-risk grade 9 mathematics students. Students who struggled with integers, decimal numbers, fractions and order of operations on our diagnostic test were encouraged to attend after school sessions twice weekly in a computer lab. Students learned mathematics through existing web-based activities such as Gizmos and self-tested with examview multiple-choice questions. Students wrote mastery tests when, in consultation with the supervising teacher, they felt ready.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Student Success/Transition Years, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Ottawa-Carleton District School Board
- Title: Learning Outcomes For English Language Learners At Cathedral High School
Description:
To improve outcomes for English Language Learners at the school level by placing together a team of teachers who implement best practices and use "engaging" resources in their ESL courses in order to deliver ESL content. This team will form a learning community that will share their resources and findings with the entire school, support the main stream teacher and participate in this board's ELD project. This learning community will expand to include other schools.
School Board:
Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board
- Title: Learning To Ease Transition: Bridging The Gap Between Elementary And Secondary Math
Description:
This project developed common diagnostic math assessments for use in Gr. 9 and Gr. 8 classrooms. The purpose was to examine whether the results of these assessments could help teachers identify specific areas of student need, as well as the thought process of a student who chooses an incorrect response. Teachers worked together to collaboratively develop questions for each strand of a particular unit. After each assessment, teachers would analyze data and make conclusions as to whether the assessment was able to easily identify areas of student need. Additionally, the assessment format would be reworked based on the results, and student / teacher feedback.
School Board:
Greater Essex County District School Board
- Title: Learning and Leading in the Junior Grades
Description:
Through teacher collaboration, the demonstration and promotion of best practices, and the understanding of the junior learner, our project strives to help teachers address the goals of the junior literacy program so that our students have the tools to become proficient readers, writers, and oral communicators. This project would build teacher capacity, in order to increase student comprehension and to increase engagement in junior students. In addition, team lesson planning, modelling and observation of the gradual release of responsibility model across the junior grades would occur.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Professional Learning Communities, Student Assessment
School Board:
Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario
- Title: Learning to 18 - An Interdisciplinary/Cross Curricular Program Approach to Student Success
Description:
Consists of nine, 4 credit interdisciplinary packages of programs which primarily target students studying at the college and workplace levels. The packages involve the conscious effort to apply knowledge, principles and/or values to more than one academic discipline simultaneously.
Project Theme(s):
Student Success/Transition Years
School Board:
Peel District School Board
- Title: Lecture sans murs
Description:
This project groups all of the students in the junior division, according to their strengths and challenges in the area of reading, for a period of guided reading. It places the other students in a literacy centre. During PLC meetings, participants pinpoint one strategy for each group and the teacher responsible for this group tries it out or adapts it, in consultation with the other members of the PLC. Innovative situations are introduced to prevent a situation in which a student feels that he or she is reading at a level below his or her grade.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Conseil scolaire de district catholique Franco-Nord
- Title: Lesson Study - Literacy Blitz
Description:
Provide in-service for secondary teachers on further developing reading and writing instructional strategies and skills while utilizing assistive technology. Provide secondary teachers with strategies to trouble shoot issues surrounding reading and writing.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Technology
School Board:
Huron Perth Catholic District School Board
- Title: Lesson Study as a Strategy for Reflection: Junior Demonstration Literacy Resource Teachers
Description:
A group of four literacy Junior Demonstration Teachers are participating in lesson study. The group plans a lesson together, plan assessment strategies and tools and specify the role of each teacher during the lesson observation. One Demonstration Teacher delivers the lesson while the others observe. After the lesson, teachers debrief what went well (how did we know that students were learning?) and discuss what they would change to improve student learning.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Assessment
School Board:
Rainbow District School Board
- Title: Lesson Study: Differentiated Instruction
Description:
Develop meaningful interactive lessons that allow grade 10 and grade 11 math students to learn and show their learning using a variety of media including technology following the differentiated instruction model.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Renfrew County Catholic District School Board
- Title: Levelling Up Library
Description:
We are focusing on the Fountas and Pinnell levelling system and establishing both an annual assessment and an area of the library. Our ultimate goal is to have one consistent measure for student progress so that we can better communicate information and minimize time lost to re-teaching and assessing each year.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Assessment, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
Provincial Schools Authority
- Title: Lights! Camera! Action!: Using Video Effectively in All Classrooms
Description:
Develop resources for students and teachers to better plan, shoot, edit and distribute video projects in any subject area. It could also benefit extracurricular initiatives. Resources such as PowerPoint presentations, video segments and worksheets would be available through the web.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Media Literacy, Student Assessment
School Board:
Waterloo Region District School Board
- Title: Linking Boys' Literacy Achievement And Interactive White Board Technology
Description:
This project was the result of research and our own classroom experience, which shows that, typically, girls perform better than boys on reading and writing assessments. To help prevent boys from growing into non-readers and to promote the growth of reading and writing skills in boys, our team investigated the impact of using interactive white board technology (specifically SMART Boards) on boys' literacy skill achievement. The team was to develop competency in the use of SMART Boards and knowledge of how to integrate technology into the literacy program.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Media Literacy
School Board:
Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board
- Title: Linking Oral Language Strategies in Second Language Acquisition with AIM
Description:
Based on the success of “high yield” strategies used in current literacy instruction, the use of several of these strategies also has significant implications for second language learning, particularly in oral language. Our project explores the extent to which the use of research based oral language strategies, used in conjunction with Core French AIM gestures program (Accelerated Integrated Method) will accelerate and solidify second language students’ abilities to speak in French during Core French classes. By providing Core French teachers with opportunities to collaborate in PLC, the project seeks to assure effective and consistent instruction.
Project Theme(s):
Core and Immersion French
School Board:
Lakehead District School Board
- Title: Literacy Action Plan for Struggling Readers
Description:
Develop a literacy action plan which identifies students with difficulty in instructional language by the end of SK and offer intensive ability-based literacy instruction upon entering grade one.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Technology, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
York Catholic District School Board
- Title: Literacy Development at a Secondary Level
Description:
We investigated basic literacy development through the use of a technology based program that is age appropriate for the secondary level. Using a reading and listening comprehension assessment, (GRADE and DRA) we identified students' skill levels and then determined their reading comprehension levels. This allowed us to identify their strengths and assets.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Technology, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Wellington Catholic District School Board
- Title: Literacy success with young students with multiple needs at Campbell Children's School Authority
Description:
Developed a balanced literacy approach that has enabled even the youngest students to learn successfully
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
Campbell Children's School Authority
- Title: Live Learning With Livescribe
Description:
The livescribe project focused on a team of teachers in a variety of roles and divisions (primary, junior, intermediate, senior). The goal was for each educator to focus on a specific teaching/learning strategy using the Livescribe Smartpen and then to document their learning and reflection using an open blog platform. The project was documented and monitored through a collaborative blog called “Live Learning with Livescribe”. As part of the project, group participants were provided opportunities for mentorship, staff development, leadership and collaboration using a variety of social media tools, including Twitter, Classroom 2.0,and ~ online blogs. Today, the "livewithlivescribe” blog has received close to 6000 hits and school districts across Ontario (and beyond) are guest blogging as part of the initiative to build capacity for teachers. This blog is also cross-posted on many international websites and was featured at the International Standards Technology Education conference.
School Board:
Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board
- Title: Making Connections in Intermediate Mathematics
Description:
Creation of a secondary-elementary study group where teachers can share their expertise of content and students and collaboratively build a knowledge of how fraction knowledge develops through the grades.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board
- Title: Making Education Accessible: Implementing the Concept of Universal Design Through the Use of Technology
Description:
The impact of challenges faced by students with and without exceptionalities on education is considered in light of Universal Design for Learning. Access to education needs to include access to tools that increase students' participation and engagement in classroom activities, as well as demonstrate that learning has occurred. The use of technology in conjunction with differentiated planning and instruction, speaks directly to the concept of UDL. Increased accessibility to curriculum, through the use of WEB Quests, assistive technologies, and SMART Boards, impact the work and motivation of all students, and the perception they have of one another.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Technology, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board
- Title: Making Meaningful Media
Description:
Assess whether producing media texts that are designed to position members of a particular audience to take on specific viewpoints, beliefs and habits facilitates students' abilities as text analysts.
Project Theme(s):
Media Literacy
School Board:
Toronto District School Board
- Title: Math Fair For All!
Description:
To promote the use of Math Fairs to as many schools/classes that want to give math powers to their students. I wanted to instil an excitement and enthusiasm toward solving problems through school wide Math Fairs. This involved visiting schools to introduce the Math Fair concept; visiting individual classes to model the Math Fair concept; to demonstrate how to present math fair puzzles to the students and providing step-by-step guidelines, along with a Math Fair puzzles package according to the grade level and diversity of each school/class so they could co-ordinate a successful Math Fair.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board
- Title: Math Mirrors: Reflective Practice to Foster Student Success
Description:
Co-leaders work with planning grade partners at each of the two schools to implement job embedded professional learning techniques in Math and to improve student achievement.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Professional Learning Communities, Differentiated Instruction, Student Success/Transition Years
School Board:
Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board
- Title: Math Through Technology Enhanced Teacher Instruction
Description:
The basis of our project was first to improve our own teaching practices through the better use of technology in the classroom. 1) Provide teachers with the training necessary to effectively utilize visual learning opportunities. 2) Increase student engagement to address a variety of learning types 3) Create the opportunity to reach curricular expectations through alternative teaching practices. 4) Expand educational opportunities for meet diverse student needs. 5) Provide teachers with tools to implement cross-curricular learning opportunities.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Technology
School Board:
Wellington Catholic District School Board
- Title: Mathematics in the Transition Year
Description:
This project involves bringing together math teachers with the purpose of collaboration, exploring technology, revisiting TIPS, investigating the mathematical processes and the grade 9 EQAO assessment. We are bringing together grade 7, 8 and 9 teachers for three days of Professional development to explore and share ideas about mathematics teaching. Mathematics teachers in the transition years need the opportunity to discuss curriculum, share effective teaching methods and develop plans for creating a more effective dialogue. Teachers of grade 7, 8, and 9 feel a disconnect because they are often isolated from each other. Grade 9 EQAO testing is foreign to most grade 7 and 8 teachers. In elementary schools all other grades are exposed to EQAO : K-3 are working towards the grade 3 testing and 4-6 are working towards the grade 6 testing. All grade 7-9 teachers must feel part of the process in preparing students to be successful in the grade 9 mathematics testing as well .Grade 9 teachers of mathematics can learn a lot about teaching mathematics from grade 7 and 8 teachers. Giving the opportunity for all involved to talk about best practices as well as areas that need to be improved will benefit both the participants and the students they teach.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Professional Learning Communities, Student Success/Transition Years
School Board:
Renfrew County Catholic District School Board
- Title: Mathematize: The Impact on Minilessons and Games of the Understanding of Addition, Subtraction and Attitudes Towards Math in Primary Learners
Description:
Goal is to improve students' overall attitude towards math by engaging them with better resources that clearly target specific concepts, ensurign understanding, confidence and success.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
Toronto District School Board
- Title: Microcontrollers-Designing for the Future - Autonomous Line Following Robots - Here's How
Description:
This project teaches Computer Engineering Teachers all the software and hardware skills required to create robots. Classroom ready tutorials which ensure that all students learn the basics will be designed to facilitate success for all, while the competition will challenge students to refine their learning and enable them to observe how their peers from other schools have solved the same challenge.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board
- Title: Mise en oeuvre des quatres situations en lecture et en écriture dans le but d'obtenir un PEI applicable et mesuralbe
Description:
The purpose of this project is to reduce the literacy gap for boys through differentiated instruction, using the four reading and writing situations and the steps in the Guide to Effective Literacy Instruction, Grades 4 to 6. This will make it possible to pinpoint relevant strategies to be implemented to support students in becoming strong and confident readers.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy
School Board:
Conseil scolaire de district catholique du Centre-Est de l'Ontario
- Title: Mon prof adore lire
Description:
Recognizing a need for high quality literature Read Alouds in a French Immersion classroom, this project chooses books that can function as touchstone texts for primary classrooms
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Core and Immersion French
School Board:
Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board
- Title: Moodle: Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment
Description:
Moodle is a course management system designed to help educators who want to create quality online courses. The software is used all over the world by universities, schools, companies and independent teachers. It is open-source and completely free to use. As a group we wish to explore all aspects of the deployment of Moodle as an online learning environment for students as well as organizing our school community in an electronic format. The project is in alignment with our Board's Information Technology Strategic Plan. By developing this initiative at the school level, we can support our Board and our colleagues.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Hastings & Prince Edward District School Board
- Title: Multi School Network
Description:
The project will establish a learning network which will focus on student achievement through the use of differentiated instructional strategies and common assessments.
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities, Differentiated Instruction, Student Assessment
School Board:
District School Board of Niagara
- Title: Music Literacy And Understanding
Description:
Met with the 4 French teachers who had the added assignment of teaching the arts and decided on visits of 5 Friday sessions for each teacher"units" were developed for their classes lessons were modelled with the students and as the teacher began to feel comfortable, they took on more of a leadership role, and less as an observer lesson goals were based on the expectations of the music curriculum student performance under the direction of the teacher was the eventual goal teachers were given hand out on music literacy, understanding, and "at a glance" charts of the elements and expectations of the curriculum
Project Theme(s):
Arts, Professional Learning Communities, Student Assessment
School Board:
Renfrew County District School Board
- Title: Music Literacy, and Orff Schulwerk
Description:
Our PLC (Two Primary Teachers, one Intermediate Teacher, and Music Resource Teacher) explored the connections between literacy and music using the Orff Schulwerk approach to music and movement education. We determined our SMART goals, and researched how literacy is supported and even enhanced by music and movement strategies.
Project Theme(s):
Arts, Literacy
School Board:
Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board
- Title: Music for Junior Classroom Teachers
Description:
Many classroom teachers find it difficult to meet the Ontario Curriculum expectations for Music due to a lack of training, lack of suitable simple instruments and time constraints. As a qualified music specialist, I would like to develop a series of lesson plans integrating music into language arts, science and social studies for teachers of Grades 4, 5 and 6. Workshops would provide modelling of the lesson plans as well as training for teachers to use simple pitched and non-pitched percussion instruments. All junior teachers, regardless of musical background would be able to teach effective music lessons meeting or exceeding Ontario music curriculum expectations.
Project Theme(s):
Arts
School Board:
Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board
- Title: Music for Primary Classroom Teachers
Description:
Many classroom teachers find it difficult to meet the Ontario curriculum expectations due to a lack of training, lack of suitable simple instruments and time constraints. As a qualified music specialist, I aim to develop a series of lesson plans integrating music into subject areas for Kindergarten to Grade 3. Workshops would provide modelling of the lesson plans as well as training for teachers to use simple pitched and non-pitched percussion instruments. All primary teachers, regardless of musical background would be able to teach effective music lessons meeting or exceeding Ontario music curriculum expectations.
Project Theme(s):
Arts
School Board:
Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board
- Title: N.E.S.T (Nurturing Experiential Skills for Tomorrow)
Description:
This project focusses mainly on Grade 9 and 10 at risk students working in credit recovery programs. More specifically, it concentrates on providing teachers with the knowledge and the skills to help students who are not achieving required credits as a result of high absenteeism or disengagement which leads to lack of success in the regular classroom setting. The goal is to develop and provide experiential learning opportunities that will result in students becoming more cognitively situated and therefore more engaged in their learning while gaining the relevant real world experience of running a business (tuck shop). The teachers involved have been given the opportunity to become more knowledgeable in the development and implementation of experiential learning programs as well as differentiated instruction and assessment practices linked to experiential learning.
Project Theme(s):
Student Success/Transition Years, Differentiated Instruction, Student Assessment
School Board:
Ottawa-Carleton Catholic School Board
- Title: Narrative Teaching Strategies: Determining Existing Use and Needs in Technology Classrooms
Description:
Narrative skills and strategies in technology classrooms tap in the greatest resources that technology teachers have - lived trade experiences. It is necessary for technology teachers to be effective storytellers if they are to relay this experience to students in the classroom effectively. It is the goal of this project to assemble and organize those narrative strategies that would be particularly effective for technology teachers, and to share this knowledge in an interactive website that would also allow technology teachers to share their trade stories with other teachers in the same subject area. This would benefit teachers by building both their teaching skills and experiences/resources in the classroom. Skills that will ultimately benefit student literacy and character development as it relates directly to a particular trade.
Project Theme(s):
Technology
School Board:
Greater Essex County District School Board
- Title: Notre Équipe Professionelle
Description:
Core French teachers have been "left out to hold down the fort", while classroom teachers are receiving in-service or attending PLC's. In using "effective literacy practices in FSL: making connections resource", we establish a Core French Professional Learning Team. A considerable amount of research suggests that learning a second language can increase students' overall linguistic awareness and literacy knowledge in their first language. Therefore reading, writing and aural skills that students develop in the French class can enhance their literacy development across the curriculum. A variety of factors have contributed to the lack of connection between Core French teaching and literacy. FSL is usually taught by a specialist teacher while literacy is taught by the classroom teacher in context of Language Arts. Also, FLS teachers have frequently not been included in discussions of literacy policies and practices among school staff because of the perceptions that these curriculum areas have very little to do with each other. In our Core French PLTs' we aim to build up awareness of how the target language works by implementing best practices. This team promotes teachers' growth and understanding of cross-lingual reference to English.
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities, Core and Immersion French
School Board:
Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board
- Title: Opening Dialogues For Teachers Of ELLS
Description:
A diverse minority of our student population demands intensive programming modification that their classroom teachers may find overwhelming or beyond their training. 'The intensive ELL's instruction from the itinerant specialist is limited, and collegial exchanges are needed by those delivering curriculum. Whether for professional development or sharing strategies/lesson plans. A forum where teachers could connect would link and support isolated staff and increase capacity for academic progress of their ELLS.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
Limestone District School Board
- Title: Oral Communication Teaching and Assessment Strategies in Grade 9 Academic Core French
Description:
Authentic oral communication teaching and assessment strategies combine both speaking and listening competencies to allow students to clearly demonstrate facility in using French (or any second language). This project aims to identify and put into practice such strategies from both a teaching and assessment point of view.
School Board:
Limestone District School Board
- Title: Oral Language Assessment: Closing the Gap
Description:
This project would encompass the development of an Oral language common assessment (based on the continuum of oral language development articulated in the Pearson resource "Oral language". The assessment that will be written will align with the language and oral curriculum expectations in the language document. This project will build on the developmental continuum as well as utilize the previous research completed by Carmel Crevola in the area of oral language being critical to learners. Collection of data will help to further inform our practice. The oral language assessment created by teachers will incorporate the concepts of assessment for learning and will become part of the Bluewater District School Board's Assessment Framework for the following year.
Project Theme(s):
Student Assessment
School Board:
Bluewater District School Board
- Title: Our Girls. Our Future: Healthy Living. Healthy Girls
Description:
To promote healthy lifestyles in grade 5 and 6 girls. The group will meet 3 times per week for 6 weeks. Each session will focus on a relevant topic followed by 20 minutes of exercise. Topics include: body image
self esteem
hygiene
healthy eating
peer pressure and positive social interactions.
Project Theme(s):
Gender-based Learning
School Board:
Limestone District School Board
- Title: Ouvrir la tête pour une meilleure connaissance de la langue française
Description:
The project was inspired by the need to help Intermediate Core French teachers with the newly implemented AIM – Jeunesse en Action program. With this new resource, we want to have a consistency within our Board for all Grade 7 and 8 Core French students. With an already increased proficiency in the oral language, we want to develop the reading and writing capabilities of all students. This development will ease the students’ transition from Senior Elementary to High School. Ideally, our project would also like to create a benchmark evaluation to ensure that all students have basic capabilities when graduating from Grade 7 and Grade 8.
Project Theme(s):
Core and Immersion French, Professional Learning Communities, Student Success/Transition Years
School Board:
Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board
- Title: Parents as Partners-Volunteer Literacy Program
Description:
Family support is a critical part of the educational success of children and of our schools. Volunteers Supporting Literacy Learning program will train, support, and mentor parent volunteers who will work with students in need to extra literacy support. The program will increase parental capacity and in turn, increase student capacity as well. Parents will be encouraged to act as liaisons with our school community to spread key messages about literacy learning to other families and community members.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Success/Transition Years, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Near North District School Board
- Title: Partners in Achievement and Learning (PAL)
Description:
Bi weekly Job Embedded Teacher Moderation opportunities to develop professional knowledge (including how children learn, assessment strategies, professional reading), research based best teaching practices, thus directly impacting programming and student learning.
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Niagara Catholic District School Board
- Title: Pathway to Independence
Description:
"Structured Teaching", an approach based on the the T.E.A.C.C.H. (Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication-handicapped CHildren) Model is an evidence-based service, training and research program for individuals of all ages and skill levels with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Our plan is to set up this model in a Secondary Developmental Learning classroom as well as in one of the partner Elementary Developmental Learning classrooms. A teacher and educational assistant from both staffs, as well as a parent from each classroom would research and study this model, make visitations to classrooms using the Structured Teaching Model outside the district, and invite expertise into our classrooms to help educate staff and implement this model. Our plan is to use the ABA methods that the Developmental Learning teachers within the school board were trained in October-November 2008. We will also use these two classrooms as a professional learning resource for other staff within our board to promote, visit and begin to learn how to employ Structured Learning.
Project Theme(s):
Students with Special Needs, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Bluewater District School Board
- Title: Perfectionnement et mise en oeuvre de stratégies reliées à l'Activboard
Description:
This project involved monthly meetings of a group of teachers with a teacher consultant with the goal of perfecting the use of the Activboard in the classroom.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Mathematical Literacy, Technology, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Conseil scolaire de district catholique des Grandes Rivières
- Title: Piloting A Secondary Professional Learning Community
Description:
The focus of our project was to have Catholic Central School embark on the journey towards becoming a Professional Learning Community, thus improving student learning and fostering gains in student achievement. The initial focus involved four teachers who taught common courses. The focus of the TLLP was on the development of common formative assessments, analyzing those results and modifying practice based on the data collection. As part of our project we visited a school that was practicing as a PLC and had our eyes opened. We were not dreaming big enough! Our initial focus was too narrow, once we saw how well collaboration was working at Orangeville District Secondary School, we decided we had to expand the project. We ended up releasing groups of teachers in collaborative groups so that they could improve the learning of students by completing Critical Pathways and through the de-privatization of practice. Our PLC has grown from 12 members to 33 members and we are collaborating more than ever.
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities, Differentiated Instruction, Student Assessment
School Board:
Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board
- Title: Primary Students Can Self-Assess Their Writing!
Description:
A controlled experiment using two groups/classes of Grade 3 students. One class is asked to utilize a teacher-created self-assessment tool for their writing and students are then invited to reflect on the instruction they received. The other class is asked to use a self-assessment rubric for their writing that was developed collaboratively with students and the teacher-researcher. These students are then also invited to reflect on the instruction they received. Questions such as, "Do the rubrics improve the quality and depth of students’ writing?" and "How can Grade 3 writers’ reflections be used to guide teachers in their instructional decision-making?" will be answered.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Assessment, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Niagara Catholic District School Board
- Title: Primary Writing Continuum Resource
Description:
The project developes a primary writing continuum for use in the primary division which could be shared in the board.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Assessment
School Board:
Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board
- Title: Problem Solving At St. Brigid Catholic Elementary School
Description:
This project at St. Brigid C.E.S. in Hamilton’s inner city was to encourage students to deepen their conceptual understanding of math concepts, explore a variety of problem solving strategies, and create a risk-free classroom environment that promotes confidence and enjoyment in numeracy. This project focused on improving oral and written communication and mathematical reasoning in the Grade 3 and Grade 6 classrooms.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Professional Learning Communities, Student Assessment
School Board:
Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board
- Title: Problem Solving in the Junior Division
Description:
We will select one or more effective problem solving strategies and share them with the division, to ensure we are all using common language, common strategies and common assessment techniques for standard evaluation in all junior grades, regardless of teacher or grade level.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Student Assessment
School Board:
Simcoe County District School Board
- Title: Problem-Solving: Math, Literacy and Logic
Description:
To develop problem-solving strategies in Grade 5 and 6 students, using an intensive small-group work format.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Sudbury Catholic District School Board
- Title: Professional Development Classrooms: A Model for Professional Learning
Description:
As we worked to establish 2 professional development classrooms, one in the primary division and one in the junior division, we explored and deepened our understanding of classroom community and the impact oral language and teacher language had on the community. A book study of Choice Words: How Our Language Affects Children's Learning by Peter H. Johnston was included. As we worked together to refine a model of co teaching and reflective practice, we also expanded our understanding of community and how students learn mathematics.
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities, Mathematical Literacy
School Board:
Rainy River District School Board
- Title: Project Name: H.A.P. (Homework Assistance Program)
Description:
The H.A.P. (Homework Assistance Program) is an after-school homework assistance program implemented and evaluated at 4 elementary and 4 feeder high schools Toronto Catholic schools. The purpose of the project was to expand our understanding of the influence of the after-school homework assistance on elementary children with a broad range of abilities. The project was designed to provide elementary students an opportunity to learn from the high school students who mentor them in study skills, homework assignment completion and test-taking tips. High school students earned community service hours while assisting elementary children with their homework. The project manager and head of student services interviewed and trained the high school students who were enrolled in the HAP program. The program philosophy is to: (a) provide specific homework assistance through assistive technology (smart board) and other software programs; (b) require that students commit to attend two days of the week for a 3 year period to build a strong academic foundation; and (c) address student homework needs without parental involvement, so as to decrease parental stress and assure that all students had the help they needed. The H.A.P. program continues to be implemented in 4 elementary schools and 4 high school feeder schools within the Toronto Catholic District School Board. The program served a cross-section of students at all levels of academic functioning. Students who entered the homework program in 4th grade at St. Jane Frances Catholic Elementary School (where the project originated) were expected to continue their participation in grade 6 or grade 8 (St. Jane location). Sessions were held on a regular basis 2 times a week with 4 high school students and one supervising teacher.
School Board:
Toronto Catholic District School Board
- Title: Promoting Independence in Students: Assessment as Learning
Description:
22 teachers from 7 secondary schools explore the relationship between student and teacher motivation applied to assessment as learning. This group forms a learning community to develop and pilot strategies that will help improve our students' metacognitive skills.
Project Theme(s):
Student Assessment, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Limestone District School Board
- Title: Raising Writers: Teachers as Learners and Coaches
Description:
In order to increase our professional knowledge regarding the teaching and assessment of junior student's writing, this project provides teachers and educational assistants with a job embedded, moderated study of writing.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Core and Immersion French
School Board:
Northwest Catholic District School Board
- Title: Reaching At Risk Readers - What's A Teacher To Do?
Description:
This project provided quality resources, time and collaborate together in further developing their skills in using data to differentiate their instruction and further develop their skills in using research based intervention strategies within their primary classrooms.
School Board:
Northwest Catholic District School Board
- Title: Read Aloud Drama using the SMART BOARD
Description:
Explore how incorporating drama strategies into read alouds with the use of the Smart Board, engages learners and deepens their level of understanding of the text.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Arts
School Board:
Lambton Kent District School Board
- Title: Reading and Technology Buddies Project
Description:
The initial stage of the project involved activities where the Grade Four and Kindergarten students got to learn about each other through oral discussion and computer activities. They explored a variety of online interactive books and graphic novels, working together on activities aimed at strengthening reading comprehension. The collection of books chosen inspired our students to create their own comic strips and biographies. For the second stage of the project, grade 4 and grade 8 buddies were familiarized with a Book Discussion Outline for their book talks. They received instruction on how to prepare "rich, higher-level" questions for their discussions. Partners formed a modified "Book Club", and each group chose graphic novels to read. Students were responsible for observing, recording, and discussing their own ideas and thoughts as they read their novels over four reading blocks. They presented book reports then moved on to creating their own graphic novels for publishing.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Technology
School Board:
Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board
- Title: Recess Rocks
Description:
During recess many students are struggling to play with their peers in a positive manner. At present, recess takes up approximately 70 minutes of each school day. This is a huge opportunity to increase physical activity. "Childhood is a window of opportunity to establish lifestyle behaviours and exercise habits" (Active, Healthy Kids Canada. 2009). This project will give staff and students strategies to promote active, non-competitive, unstructured play during recess time. Students will learn to interact and play with their peers in order to have a positive recess experience. Teachers will also be provided with strategies to help promote consistency among staff when dealing with recess issues, in a way that enables students to restore relationships in a positive way. Leadership, respect, and conflict resolution strategies will be addressed. Educational Assistants are involved in this project as the majority of recess duty is done by this group of individuals.
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board
- Title: Revel in Reading: Increasing Motivation to Read by Providing Books for Elementary Intermediate Students and Literacy Skills Professional Development for Intermediate Teachers
Description:
The project seeks to offer to intermediate teachers specific targeted literacy-related professional development, including engagement in a professional reading group.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Professional Learning Communities, Student Assessment
School Board:
Rainbow District School Board
- Title: SEE Our Roots, HEAR Our Voices
Description:
In order to assist in the transition of English language learners into our elementary classrooms, our team aims to create a service delivery model which combines professional resources and strategies, a formal assessment tool, and community partnerships to support the English language learner, as well as elementary school staff, within the Limestone District School Board.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Assessment, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Limestone District School Board
- Title: SEWATAHON' SATAT PROJECT (Sewatahon'satat = "Listen" In Mohawk/Haudenosaunee Language)
Description:
This project utilized existing and emerging Information and Communication Technology tools (ICT tools) as vehicles for servicing the unique sociocultural and learning needs of non-reserve, Aboriginal elementary and secondary students within Grand Erie DSB schools. Through the use of virtual and collaborative technology, opportunities will be created wherein non-reserve Aboriginal youth can connect live with Tribal Elders, First Nations' counsellors, artists, and other Aboriginal youth across our board and throughout Ontario to discuss and interact around the ideas of cultural meaning making and traditional social values.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Success/Transition Years, Technology
School Board:
Grand Erie District School Board
- Title: SMARTER Choices for the Instruction of Mathematics
Description:
Our aim is to train all teachers in the effective implementation of using Smart Board technology in their classrooms. The focus is on improving student engagement in math achievement through technology, while reducing the achievement gap. Our guiding question is: Does the implementation of interactive manipulatives lead to a more universal form of participation, while enhancing student engagement and reducing the achievement gap in a multi-aged, multi-grade setting?
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Technology
School Board:
Nakina District School Area Board
- Title: SPIRIT: Students Progression in Regular Interactive Teaching
Description:
Integrate technology in classrooms from Grades 3-8 to unlock learning potential and capture interest of boys across literacy & numeracy
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated Instruction, Literacy, Mathematical Literacy
School Board:
Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board
- Title: Same Mission: Differentiated Approach
Description:
Using a co-operative development mode, deliver a professional development series for teachers within the school to implement differentiated instructional strategies.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board
- Title: Sharing Oral Language Strategies - Reaching out to Aboringinal/Metis Families and Organizations
Description:
In order to help address and perhaps reduce the gap between Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal students, the group project aims to share best oral language practices with the Aboriginal community and family members.
School Board:
Keewatin-Patricia District School Board
- Title: Small School Success Initiative
Description:
The main goal of this Learning Project is to demonstrate how a successful Professional Learning Community is able to function in a small rural school setting. We would like to review and assess our teaching and assessment practices on a regular basis in order to optimize student achievement and learning in multi-grade classrooms. Also, we would like to develop a Small Schools Resource Bank that will allow the small school teachers in our board the opportunity to share/borrow teaching/learning resources such as the Nelson Literacy Kits for each grade level without having the cost come out of small school budgets.
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities, Mathematical Literacy, Student Success/Transition Years, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
Renfrew County Catholic District School Board
- Title: Smart Board Technology: Developing & Expanding Teacher's Knowledge To Engage Learners
Description:
The teachers had the opportunity for professional training, site visits and lesson plan development. Jim Carleton, IT consultant shared some activities teachers could use to engage learners. Teachers were encouraged to access websites or recommended books pertaining to boys and how they learn.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated Instruction, Literacy
School Board:
Simcoe County District School Board
- Title: Smart Board technology and the Implication for Student Success in Mathematics
Description:
Using Smart Boards to help grade 2 and 3 students underperforming in key areas of the Math curriculum gain confidence and skills in these areas through increased use of available technologies including virtual manipulative and online resources.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Technology, Student Assessment
School Board:
Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board
- Title: Soaring (equity of outcome project)
Description:
In this equity of outcome project, grade 6 to 8 girls participate in a 12 week program offered by our team. The focus of the "Soaring" program is to integrate several gender equity themes into one integrated program. We seek to deepen our student's understanding of their lives and power in relation to dating violence/violence prevention, relational bullying, sexual health, leadership development, media literacy, eating disorder prevention, positive body image and self concept incorporating dance, drama and role play. A technology component (webcams and video conferencing) links girls from our community with similar groups within our local community as well as throughout the global community.
School Board:
Grand Erie District School Board
- Title: Spark! : Creating Enduring Understandings in Science and Technology Education
Description:
Use the principles and framework of Understanding by Design in conjunction with the revised Ontario Science and Technology Curriculum to design and implement an integrated science and technology curriculum unit with a focus on creating enduring understandings with children in Kindergarten. The goal is to create a clear, easy to use unit design field tested in other classrooms.
Project Theme(s):
Technology
School Board:
Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic District School Board
- Title: Speak French With Xpresslab
Description:
Two elementary and two secondary Core French teachers created a bank of thirty oral practice and assessment activities for xpresslab (an internet based application for voice recording), based on the listening descriptors of the Common European Framework of Reference. Ten elementary and secondary teachers were then trained to use the activities. They field-tested the activities with their students and administered an on-line survey. In a follow-up session the teachers discussed technical challenges, reviewed the student data, provided feedback for revisions, began to establish assessment criteria, and were introduced to the xpresslab creation process. Revisions were made to the activities and all were posted in the Global library of xpresslab where they may be accessed by all Ontario teachers with an xpresslab account.
Project Theme(s):
Core and Immersion French, Technology
School Board:
Bluewater District School Board
- Title: Student Success Using An Integrated Visual Arts, Math And Literacy Curriculum
Description:
In order to help address the levelling off effect in student achievement, we implemented a teaching approach integrating Visual Arts, Mathematical concepts presented in Geometry, Spatial Sense and Patterning and Algebra and the Language curriculum. The purpose of this was to help facilitate connections between Math and Visual Arts representations by developing students' abilities to write explanations, descriptions, journalling and procedures and to create representations using mathematical principles. By doing this, it was hoped that a deeper understanding of the mathematical concepts would have been developed with an increase in writing proficiency and an increase in the Visual Arts. In addition, the integrated approach facilitated a unique differentiation of learning for our students. Students that are mathematical thinkers, visual learners or linguistic and social learners engaged in the same topics in their individual style of learning thus increasing success. Our focus groups were Primary students, Special Needs students and Junior students.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Arts, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board
- Title: Success for every student, every day: literacy and numeracy differentiation through a teaching-learning equation
Description:
The project is intended for Grade 1 classes. By using the teaching-learning equation and PLC meetings, staff can assist all Grade 1 students by reorganizing students into more homogenous groups, 3 times a week, based on the needs of students rather than their class's needs. Teachers subdivide their classes into sub-groups to work on specific literacy and numeracy needs. The goal of the project is to reduce the gaps among Grade 1 students. We must step in to help all students in Grade 1, to prevent the gap from widening each year.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Conseil scolaire de district catholique des Grandes Rivières
- Title: Supporting Boys' Literacy: Boys As Authors
Description:
We hope to implement teaching strategies that will engage our boys in the writing process including matching younger boys with older boys as mentors. By tapping into boys interests we hope they will embrace writing as a viable means of expressing themselves. When boys are engaged in activities they enjoy, when they have positive male role models and when they appreciate the value of writing, we anticipate that their skills will also improve. Finally, writing scores on provincial tests and report card marks should also improve.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Gender-based Learning, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Upper Canada District School Board
- Title: Taking the Smart Board To The Next Level
Description:
The use of modern technology to assist all staff in reaching the young students of today. Enhance the staff's and my knowledge by using the Smart board as an interactive tool that makes learning exciting, efficient, and substantive.
Project Theme(s):
Technology
School Board:
Hornepayne Roman Catholic Separate School Board
- Title: Teacher Moderation
Description:
Performance tasks and rubrics are written for grade 12 courses in Business Studies. Teachers then have students complete these tasks near the end of a unit of study or semester. Teachers evaluate the performance tasks and are given the opportunity to work as a group and take part in teacher moderation.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities, Student Assessment
School Board:
London District Catholic School Board
- Title: Teacher Moderation: Grade 12 Religion
Description:
A Culminating Performance Task, along with an accompanying rubric and evaluation scheme written for the Grade 12 religion course (HRE4M). Teachers then have students complete these tasks near the end of a semester. Teachers individually evaluate student achievement by using the related rubric and they are then given the opportunity to work as a group and take part in teacher moderation.
Project Theme(s):
Student Assessment, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
London District Catholic School Board
- Title: Teacher Mysites: Engaging The Net Generation
Description:
This project is aimed at creating resources to help teachers use Mysite. Mysite is a Microsoft SharePoint that allows for the creation of class websites. It allows for various features to be used that would be a benefit to students. They can host document libraries, links to videos and websites, post class calendars, etc... This was new software to our board that was not widely used because few people knew how to use it. Our project aimed at teaching teachers its use through video and written tutorials.
Project Theme(s):
Technology
School Board:
Near North District School Board
- Title: Teachers Learning and Teaching with Smart Boards to Enhance Student Learning (Integrating Smart Boards Across the Curriculum)
Description:
Our project included 6 secondary teachers and 3 elementary teachers from the secondary feeder schools. In the early stages, we obtained professional development on the simple features of the smart board and the features that can be used to help develop and create our own lessons. We pushed ourselves to use previously created resources from the web to better learn the features and become comfortable using the smart board on a daily basis. In the latter portion of our project we focused on creating our own dynamic and engaging lessons. We decided to focus on one of our subject areas and create engaging lessons to share not only within our own group but with teachers within our board and across the province. We are also sharing our lessons on our board website for teacher resources. As well as sharing them with our TLLP community. At the start of our project our participants all evaluated themselves using a smart board rubric and did so as mostly novice users by the end they evaluated themselves as mostly intermediate level users with the confidence to continue using their smart board on a daily basis and engaging their students which in turn improves student learning. One of the biggest challenges that teachers felt they faced was finding the time to develop and create good lessons. As a result some of our time was strictly used as release time giving the teacher's time to do so and to do so alongside others to receive feedback and help create even better lessons.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board
- Title: Teachers using the PRIME resource to improve student achievement in numeracy
Description:
In order to assist teachers in helping students improve in numeracy achievement, teacher require effective, research-based resources, supports, and time to learn about teaching mathematics. This project gives teachers these tools.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy
School Board:
Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board
- Title: Teachers with Technology - Engaging Young Readers with E-books
Description:
3 main goals:<br>create a unique professional learning community between two diverse schools<br>support primary teacher with integrating technology in shared and independent writing and shared reading programs<br>interest girls in technology with literacy and engage boys in literacy with technology
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Gender-based learning, Technology
School Board:
Limestone District School Board
- Title: Teaching Teachers Technology
Description:
This project focussed mostly on teaching teachers how to use smartboards and Smart Response technology. The greater goal of the project is to increase the use of differentiated instruction and technology in the classroom, and as such, increase student interaction, student interest, and ultimately, student success.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated Instruction, Student Assessment
School Board:
Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic District School Board
- Title: Teaching in the Inclusive Classroom
Description:
A study of Dr. Anne Jordan's book "Introduction to Inclusive Education". This learning will align with the school goals of responsive teaching in inclusive classrooms. A lesson study to support the e-book study will direct deeper learning.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Durham Catholic District School Board
- Title: The 6 Steps to Success in Teaching with Technology
Description:
Create a professional guide and develop a seminar that will help teacher better use technology in their classrooms. To improve and expand existing Teaching with Technology website and monthly Newsletter for Educators.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Literacy, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Penetanguishene Protestant Separate School Board
- Title: The Effective Literacy Instruction using Interactive Technology Project
Description:
Assist teachers in the delivery of literacy lessons through the gradual release of responsibility and the scaffolding process. The use of interactive media technology would improve student engagement and learning.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Technology, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Hastings & Prince Edward District School Board
- Title: The Essential Ontario Curriculum Companion (Grade 3-Grade 4)
Description:
Using a Community of Practice (COP) model, the team was to study, organize and transfer the Ontario curriculum to grade 3 and grade 4 integrated unit plan(s). Then the team was to collaboratively create grade 3/grade 4 integrated unit plans which identified essential student outcomes (a.k.a. Big ideas, enduring understandings, deep understandings, fundamental theories, overall expectations, learning goals) with sample related, engaging, real world authentic student performance assessment tasks, the essential conceptual, procedural, empathetic, and factual understandings (big ideas/learning goals) necessary to succeed on the unit performance assessment task, recommended resources, based on student pre-assessment, and the Ontario curriculum "power" expectations (big ideas) which would propel students to achieve the learning outcomes. In addition, two complete sample backward design, Problem-Based Learning or Project-Based Learning (PBL) unit plans will be created.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Student Assessment, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board
- Title: The History and Traditions of Aboriginal Drumming, Chanting and Storytelling
Description:
In order to help students who have self-identified themselves as Aboriginals, this multi-school project would attempt to build knowledge and understanding of the History and Traditions of Aboriginal Music. It will encompass the building of supportive relationships for Aboriginal students and elicit parent and community involvement in order to assist students in embracing their cultural background.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Technology, Arts
School Board:
Sudbury Catholic District School Board
- Title: The Ontario Positive Space Teachers' Association (Www.Opsta.Com)
Description:
OPSTA is an independent network established through an Ontario Ministry of Education Teacher Leadership and Learning Program grant (TLLP), and is endorsed by OSSTF District 21. It operates as an online, partly user-generated association that connects Ontario educators who have made formal and informal commitments to support LGBTQ students. It provides teachers with direct links to subject and age-specific anti-homophobia and anti-oppression instruction in the Ontario curriculum. OPSTA also offers educators a bank of practical resources and strategies to help build Positive Space core capacity with senior management, administrators, teachers and educational staff, parents, students, and community members.
Project Theme(s):
Gender-based learning, Technology, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board
- Title: The Reading Heroes
Description:
Our team wanted to work on improving student skills so that the gender gap as shown in the EQAO data for reading is reduced. We researched for specific resources and strategies which could be used to help boys improve their reading skills. Also the results of the survey conducted amongst staff and students indicated interest in, and benefits of using graphic texts. We spent a lot of time looking for appropriate graphic materials for our primary students and purchased guided reading sets. Weekly small group uninterrupted guided reading sessions with boys were conducted over a period of four months. Following this we compared our before and after reading scores.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Gender-based learning, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Peel District School Board
- Title: The identification of critical expectations in MFM1P and MFM2P and the use of online quizzes and tutorials to improve student success
Description:
As a group we will clearly identify specific and measurable critical expectations for the MFM1P and MFM2P courses. Question banks for the individual critical expectations will be created and converted to an online format. Additionally, online tutorials will be developed as a resource for students who need support (either with the classroom teacher, student success teacher, or on their own) to successfully reach these expectations. We will be implementing a program that involves repetitive assessment of critical expectations and immediate remediation in a differentiated environment involving online tutorials and other web-based learning tools.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Mathematical Literacy, Student Assessment
School Board:
Renfrew County District School Board
- Title: Ticket to Read
Description:
Develop a common understanding of assessment, teaching and intervention, in the area of 'Phonological Awareness' in SK and grade 1.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Assessment
School Board:
Algoma District School Board
- Title: Timélo time: fun time
Description:
The Timélo project can be divided into two parts. The first consists of stories for 4- to 6-year-olds on various topics that are often overlooked in children's literature, such as April Fools or Earth Day. These stories, which meet several curriculum expectations, allow pupils to discover these themes in class. The second part of the project is directed at students aged 8 to 12. It allows them to draw on the computer, using a technological tool (Wacom cintiq), and to participate in the story. The project is meant to spark interest among all elementary school students (ages 4-12).
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Technology
School Board:
Conseil scolaire de district du Centre-Sud-Ouest
- Title: Train the Trainer
Description:
Supports the request to become an Area Trainer for the Language! Program, a literacy intervention tool for students whose reading and writing skills are below grade level. This proposal is to expand this successful program to other secondary schools in the Board.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Students with Special Needs, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Algoma District School Board
- Title: Training in computer-aided drawing (CAD)
Description:
Training under this project is designed to strengthen teachers' knowledge of computer-aided drawing. After completing the training, teachers can develop tailored learning strategies so that their students can create a variety of sketches and plans. We will acquire not only technical proficiency, but also transferable skills for planning and task creation. Training will cover the tools and functions available in Graphite/Cobalt and AutoCAD LT (drawing software). We will then be better equipped for 2-D and 3-D drawing. Using a CD prepared in advance, we will have access to a collection of educational resources for planning and creating drawing tasks. In so doing, we will be able to apply the knowledge we acquired in the following technology courses: TIJ, TCJ, THJ, TMJ, TDJ, TTJ and TWJ.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Student Success/Transition Years, Student Assessment
School Board:
Conseil scolaire de district catholique de l'Est ontarien
- Title: Transformational Teaching to Improve Student Learning: One Teacher at a Time
Description:
The development of a district wide Professional Learning Community (PLC), focusing on transformational teaching strategies, as an effective method of professional development to enhance teacher leadership capacities and improve student learning. In generating this type of PLC, teachers as members have an opportunity to continue to develop into leaders within their own schools and network with other teacher leaders in generating knowledge to improve student opportunity, achievement, and success. As the 21st century evolves, teachers will have the challenge to prepare students to meet the needs and reality of the global society and knowledge economy. Teachers as leaders can make the difference in preparing for the challenges in education (Ann Lieberman, 2009).
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Halton Catholic District School Board
- Title: Transition to High School
Description:
Teacher networking is an important factor for successful transition of students from elementary to secondary school. This networking opportunity facilitated the starting place for the primary information used to create a tool in the form of a questionnaire that was successfully administered to more than 200 grade 8 and 124 grade 9 students in order to better understand the challenges adolescents encounter when transitioning from elementary to secondary school. Teachers were able to make multiple visits to a secondary school and study first hand the school’s expectations and subsequently use this insight to form an accurate questionnaire to affect measurable change in planning in grade 8.
Project Theme(s):
Student Success/Transition Years, Student Assessment
School Board:
Waterloo Region District School Board
- Title: Triad School Professional Learning Community
Description:
The project involves three secondary schools. Reciprocal visits and exchanges by teachers among the three schools facilitated the incorporation of DI in the classroom with a focus on students at risk in grades 9 and 10.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board
- Title: Use of the interactive whiteboard for literacy and numeracy in kindergarten
Description:
Under this project, the interactive whiteboard is introduced at the preschool level. Using this tool provides a new approach that will get through to several pupils thanks to its multi-sensory, auditory and kinesthetic approach. It will provide a new strategy for teaching phonological awareness, reading, writing and math. New technologies are rarely used in preschool and sometimes not introduced until much later, even though these tools are hard to ignore in our high-tech era. Our society inevitably requires our educational strategy to change with the times, which may be one of the most challenging things for teachers to change. This project will therefore allow me to adopt this new approach, which is very beneficial for pupils. In addition, it will allow me to improve my students' achievement. This new approach will also be in line with my school's improvement plan.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Core and Immersion French
School Board:
Conseil des écoles publiques de l'Est de l'Ontario
- Title: Using Animation In The Secondary Classroom
Description:
Media and all of its forms are what engage students. I would like to develop animation techniques to increase student learning. Animation is a legitimate form of media expression which allows students to express themselves in a creative manner. I have seen in my own classrooms that under engaged learners are suddenly motivated when it comes time to do animation. I would like to share that experience with other learners and educators. I believe that this will increase student literacy skills, build confidence in those skills and therefore increase student success, overall.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated Instruction, Media Literacy
School Board:
Avon Maitland District School Board
- Title: Using Anti-Racist Education to Engage Students
Description:
Grade 10 English and History classes incorporate each others lessons into their class. All literature studied is anti-racist to give students various perspectives on Canadian history.
Project Theme(s):
Student Success/Transition Years
School Board:
Lambton Kent District School Board
- Title: Using Assessment Data to Improve Instruction for Grade 4 Students
Description:
Using assessment data collected in September, the applicant assigned a time frame to various reading strategies (fluency, prediction, summary, interpretation, etc.). She also used the data to target at-risk students to meet the needs of individual learners. This project would help other junior teachers understand the value of assessment data and its use as a model for effective instruction. Two booklets were prepared and distributed to each school in the Rainbow Board as a result of the two board-wide workshops offered to grade four teachers and interested consultants and principals.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Student Assessment, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Rainbow District School Board
- Title: Using Character Education to Expand Teacher Professionalism and Enhance Student Leadership
Description:
Teachers develop Character Education lessons with colleagues that are in grades which are unlike their current placement in order to develop a greater understanding of the similarities and differences of the teaching of best practices in other grades and divisions. The purpose of this project is to enable teachers to develop new partnerships within the school to become more "school focused". The topic of exploration and application are ten identified Character Traits identified by school staff.
School Board:
Durham District School Board
- Title: Using Communications Technology to Enhance English Literacy Skills for High-Risk Students
Description:
Technology was used to develop the students' oral and written skills and strengths as visual learners, thus building a foundation for improved literacy.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Gender-based Learning, Technology, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Ottawa-Carleton District School Board
- Title: Using Professional Growth to Develop Student Literacy in Grades 1 to 8
Description:
We recognized the need to establish consistency in/continuity of effective instructional practices across grades (1-8) and languages (French and English), particularly in our dual-tracked school (Core English and 50/50 French Immersion), where transience, low socio-economics, generational illiteracy and lack of parental involvement in student learning is prevalent. In order to provide systematic and intentional professional learning, a cohesive, unified approach to improving instructional practices was necessary and we aimed to do so by working our way through 3 cycles, which ultimately became critical pathways: Oral Language, Writing and Reading. Within these cycles, we implemented research-based best practices and balanced-literacy look-fors.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Core and Immersion French, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario
- Title: Using Teacher’s Partner (software) to Connect Design Down Planning, Assessment, Planning and Reporting
Description:
In September 2009, 7 mini laptops (Dell 10v) were purchased and issued to 7 participating teachers. These teachers began training and using the Teacher’s Partner software. Teachers were taught how to create units and subtasks. They were also trained on how to record and analyze data using the software. Teachers also learned how to plan and assess in the four assessment categories, as well as how to use the program to analyze both diagnostic and formative assessments. Each teacher was asked to use the software to record and analyze assessment for at least one subject area. Several teachers also used the mini laptops and software to record anecdotal observations when conferencing with their students.
Project Theme(s):
Student Assessment, Technology
School Board:
Keewatin-Patricia District School Board
- Title: Using Technological Approaches to Improve Literacy
Description:
Our TLLP project is an action research aimed at coordinating our existing technologies with our core learning goals to improve our students' English language skills in reading comprehension, writing, and communication. The teacher- librarian will work collaboratively with the classroom teacher to enhance the curriculum within a technological framework. The resource specialist will advise the team on how to adapt, modify or extend our school's existing technologies for our students with special needs. The intent is to incorporate at least four of our functional technological devices: Computers/software, SmartBoard, Classroom Performance System, aka clickers, and Playaways to support our educational goals.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Literacy
School Board:
Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board
- Title: Using Technology To Develop Students' Visual And Critical Literacy Skills
Description:
As a network of junior and intermediate educators, we are seeking solutions to the challenges of engaging struggling learners. This project will allow students to use visual means to express themselves in a non-traditional manner. We have purposefully involved teachers from various grades and regions to allow for richer conversations and to measure the effectiveness of this approach in different socio-economic settings.
School Board:
Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board
- Title: Using Web 2.0 Tools To Differentiate Instruction And Assessment In The English And Drama Curriculum
Description:
Using web 2.0 tools (wikis, blogs, & podcasts) to enhance student learning and teaching ability.
School Board:
Huron Perth Catholic District School Board
- Title: Using assistive technology to differentiate instruction
Description:
Create a professional learning community with teachers in my school who were interested in learning how to use assistive technology in their classrooms to support their students who have difficulties with reading and writing. Access training in the use of the various programs we have and provide ongoing support to the teachers while they learn how to incorporate the use of assistive technology into their classroom.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated Instruction, Students with Special Needs
School Board:
Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board
- Title: Using particle pictures to enhance understanding in the physical sciences
Description:
This project is a combination of action-research and lesson study, where we further field-test and verify a "partical picture" technique. This project rolls it out to a larger audience and context.
Project Theme(s):
Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities, Student Assessment
School Board:
London District Catholic School Board
- Title: Video Conferencing In The Classroom: Engaging Every Student
Description:
We explored the use of video conferencing (VC) as an instructional technology for engaging students and as a tool for professional development.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Differentiated Instruction, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Hastings & Prince Edward District School Board
- Title: Virtual Grande Communication Literacy Project at Grand Erie District School Board
Description:
Virtual Grande (VGE) is a cross-curricular, cross-grade, cross-panel, inter-school literacy project for both elementary and secondary student-learners, created by classroom lead-learners and rooted within Grand Erie District School Board. Through the use of existing and emergent ICT tools, student-learners and lead learners from all academic groupings create authentic forums for the exchange of ideas, the exploration of perceptions, and the creation of novel educational opportunities within a framework of Communication Literacy (Pugh, 2005). VGE provides multiple opportunities for all learners to make the following technology-enabled connections: with the curriculum; with each other; with inter-disciplinary experts in the fields of academia and research; and, with the greater, global learning communities at provincial. national, and international events.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Media Literacy, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
Grand Erie District School Board
- Title: Web Based Resource for Integrated Learning Through the Arts
Description:
Web based arts activities are made available to integrate Literacy and Numeracy Skills, Social Studies, Science, and Health through rich performance tasks that include Visual Arts, Media Arts, Drama, Music and Dance. Included are examples, visual instruction plans, and expectations and assessments based on Ontario Ministry of Education criteria. Focus is on the elementary grades. Arts activities are accessed through the London District Catholic School Board Learning Resources online site.
Project Theme(s):
Arts, Technology
School Board:
London District Catholic School Board
- Title: Who Is My Neighbour?
Description:
In conjunction with the grades nine and ten religious education curriculum, teachers of the arts, English, religious education and the school chaplain will collaborate and create community outreach strategies and social justice awareness lessons in the classroom. A stronger link between students and the disenfranchised of our local community will be formed through interactive projects and field trips to meet and encounter our "neighbour". Seeing with eyes of concern and compassion, students and teachers will bridge the gap to meet and encounter our "neighbour". Seeing with eyes of concern and compassion, students and teachers will bridge the gap between what we know and the actions we take to make our community more inclusive. The project will end with a concert/art event which will include marginalized members of the community with whom the students and teachers have made a connection. A simple mean will be served.
School Board:
Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board
- Title: Whole Faculty Study Groups (WFSG's)
Description:
This job-embedded professional development model allows each teacher to meet bi-weekly in small study groups that engage in action-research.
Project Theme(s):
Professional Learning Communities, Literacy, Student Assessment
School Board:
Thames Valley District School Board
- Title: Words Their Way
Description:
"Words Their Way" is a developmental spelling program that was created by Donald Bear. In traditional spelling programs the teacher picks words, the students are assigned tasks and then there is a weekly spelling test. The Words Their Way program starts with a diagnostic spelling test. Using the results from the test, the teacher can see what concepts the students have mastered and what concepts they need to work on. Students are then grouped with similar ability children and sort words with similar patterns, speed sort, and hunt for new words that fit the pattern they have been studying that week.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Differentiated instruction
School Board:
Halton Catholic District School Board
- Title: Working Together to Improve Boys Literacy
Description:
Using assessment data, identify students who require literacy assistance in both French and English. Allow junior level teachers to work together to purchase resources and to research and discuss innovative strategies to improve the overall literacy scores of male students.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Gender-based learning, Differentiated Instruction
School Board:
District School Board Ontario North East
- Title: Writer's Workshop Study Group: A Though Collective
Description:
A group of teachers voluntarily meet bi-monthly to learn, collaborate, plan, support each other and share student work. It also provides opportunities for teachers to visit colleague's classrooms, purchase writing resources and participate in a week long writing institute.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Trillium Lakelands District School Board
- Title: Writing To Improve Understanding In Mathematics
Description:
The focus of this project was to investigate and implement strategies that would increase the opportunities for students to engage in writing activities in applied level math classes. Strategies that were explored include, but are not limited to, advance organizers or anticipatory guides, graphic organizers, exit cards, journaling, and peer-editing.
Project Theme(s):
Mathematical Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, Student Assessment
School Board:
Waterloo Region District School Board
- Title: Writing in a Richly Infused Technology Environment (WRITE)
Description:
Junior division teachers in five schools work with Apple staff to implement a high yield strategy writing program using MacBooks in a richly infused technology environment.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Literacy
School Board:
Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board
- Title: You Teach - Itouch - We Learn
Description:
The purpose of this project was to develop the knowledge and the understanding to effectively incorporate ipod touch technology into the classroom. A focus was placed on the use of podcasts to enhance oral language skills in both French Immersion and English language programs.
Project Theme(s):
Technology, Literacy, Core and Immersion French
School Board:
Northeastern Catholic District School Board
- Title: iLove Reading Program (Junior/Intermediate)
Description:
This program includes the use of audible books on iPod as part of a self-selected reading program , four Macbook computers to teach media literacy and literacy skills and the use of graphic novels to engage and enhance literacy instruction. By continuing to gather effective resources that support this program, further success can be achieved in many areas of the curriculum.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Media Literacy, Technology
School Board:
District School Board of Niagara
- Title: weBLOG2
Description:
Project introduces blogging technology to both students and teachers with the hope of improving intermediate students’ writing skills.
Project Theme(s):
Literacy, Technology, Professional Learning Communities
School Board:
Near North District School Board
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