It is often difficult to motivate students to read and write. When teachers include digital literacies and opportunities to engage with Internet-based texts and mentors, students are excited about learning and improve literacy skills. By carefully crafting lessons that integrate digital technologies, students will develop their critical thinking skills as they use the Internet to read, write and communicate. In this session, Dr. Laurie Henry and Nina Zolt will share ideas on how to develop real-life reading and writing experiences that have been shown to engage reluctant readers and students of all types. Nina Zolt will provide insight into how the reading and writing experiences of In2Books, ePals’ curriculum-based eMentoring program, engages students in grades 3-5 in authentic learning and builds 21st century skills. Come to this session to learn how to modify your own lessons into innovative learning experiences that will help your students develop digital literacy skills, promote critical thinking, and help them to be better prepared as global citizens. Session content will include ideas for cross-curricular learning opportunities including math, social studies, science, and technology for elementary, middle, and secondary level educators.
Dr. Laurie A. Henry, Assistant Professor of Early Adolescent Literacy, University of Kentucky
Nina Zolt, Co-founder and Co-chair, ePals, Inc.
