Advance excellent teaching with Annenberg Media.

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*** In the Spotlight for June ***
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 -  Remembering Eugen Weber -- Scholar, Teacher, Friend
 -  Share Your Private Universe Experiences
 -  Linking to Math and Physics
 -  This Month on the Channel
 -  School's Out!
 -  Connect Learning with Special Days
     o Nature Photography Day
     o World Refugee Day
     o Summer Solstice
     o National HIV Testing Day
     o Effective Communications Month

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*** REMEMBERING EUGEN WEBER -- SCHOLAR, TEACHER, FRIEND ***

Annenberg Media notes with sadness the passing of Eugen J. Weber, distinguished historian and host of the instructional video series "The Western Tradition" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/west1.html>. He died May 17th from pancreatic cancer at the age of 82.

Author of numerous volumes on European history and French nationalism and widely respected for his scholarship, Eugen Weber was Professor Emeritus at UCLA and a former dean of UCLA's College of Letters and Science.

After its release in 1989, "The Western Tradition" quickly became a cornerstone of library history collections and a distance education course at colleges across the country. Professor Weber was well loved and admired by teachers and students of history for his engaging lectures, punctuated equally with insight and dry wit, which have cultivated in countless viewers a love of history and learning.

He will be greatly missed.


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*** SHARE YOUR PRIVATE UNIVERSE EXPERIENCES ***

Few documentaries on education and learning have had the reach or impact of "A Private Universe" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/apu2.html>, which has opened the eyes of many educators and has caused them to shake their heads in disbelief. This bellwether of educational media was the first to ask why students -- even from schools like Harvard -- don't internalize essential science concepts. Following up on that question were more extensive productions including "The Private Universe Project Workshop," "Minds of Our Own," "Private Universe Project in Mathematics" and "Surprises in Mind."

"A Private Universe" turns 20 this year. So Annenberg Media and its producers, Dr. Matthew H. Schneps and Dr. Philip Sadler of the Science Media Group at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, are inviting educators to share their thoughts on the documentary. If you have used "A Private Universe" in teaching or in a talk, please email us at <mailto:pup@learner.org>.

We'd like to hear:

  1. How did you first learn about the documentary "A Private Universe"? (through a colleague, at a conference, other -- specify)

  2. How have you used "A Private Universe" and what response did you observe?

  3. What long-term impact do you think "A Private Universe" has had on your teaching?

If you have not viewed "A Private Universe," or would like to watch it again, you can do so now by going to <http://learner.org/redirect/june/apu3.html> and clicking on the VoD symbol next to the program description (general instructions and technical requirements are available at <http://learner.org/redirect/june/view4.html>). We will be posting survey responses online and using them at the 20th anniversary event at the NSTA conference in Boston in March 2008.

We thank you for sharing your thoughts and stories!


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*** LINKING TO MATH AND PHYSICS ***

All But Foiled by Factoring

An international team of mathematicians and computer clusters in France, Germany, and Japan have completed an 11-month quest to identify the prime factors of a 307-digit number. Although it is not difficult to find large prime numbers, it is very difficult to identify the prime factors of large numbers. This difficulty forms the basis for data encryption, so the solution of this problem has important implications for information security standards.

> Find a much simpler factoring exercise, along with related discussion and reasoning questions, on the Web site for "Teaching Math: Grades 3-5" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/tm35_5.html>.

> Look to "Learning Math: Number and Operations" for an overview of factoring, divisibility, and prime numbers. In particular, see Units 5, "Divisibility Tests and Factors" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/lmno6.html>, and 6, "Number Theory" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/lmno7.html>, which offer demonstrations and interactive exercises.

> For a basic understanding of factoring and its importance in algebra, watch "Algebra: In Simplest Terms" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/alge8.html> Program 4, "Factoring Polynomials."

> In "Insights Into Algebra 1: Teaching for Learning" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/alge1_9.html> Workshop 5, "Properties," high school teacher Tom Reardon discusses factoring with his algebra students. Find a definition of factoring, a lesson plan, and more on the series Web site <http://learner.org/redirect/june/alge1_10.html>.


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Strange Rings: What's the Matter?

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have found what they believe to be proof of the existence of "dark matter," a mysterious, invisible type of matter that makes up most of the universe. Evidence suggests that an unusual ring-like structure discovered in a galaxy cluster five billion light-years away is composed of dark matter, which was shaped by gravitational forces that acted on it 1-2 billion years ago when two galaxies collided.

> Elementary teachers can enhance their understanding of conventional and dark matter with "Essential Science for Teachers: Physical Science" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/ephys11.html>. Look for dark matter in Session 8 of the series Web site, which considers types of matter that do not conform to the particle model.

> "Science in Focus: Force and Motion" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/force12.html> shows real students learning effectively about gravity and other forces.

> "The World of Chemistry" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/wchem13.html> Program 4, "Modeling the Unseen," demonstrates how models are devised to describe objects and phenomena that cannot be observed directly.

> Before delving into dark matter, gain a basic understanding of physics with "The Mechanical Universe...and Beyond" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/mech14.html>.

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"There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio,
 Than are dreamt of in your philosophy..." --Shakespeare's "Hamlet"


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*** THIS MONTH ON THE CHANNEL ***

The following series begin this month on the Annenberg Channel. Be sure to scroll down on the pages linked below for specific broadcast dates and times. Consult the full broadcast schedule <http://learner.org/redirect/june/sched15.html> for many more programs and partial series airing in June.

ARTS
> "The Arts in Every Classroom: A Video Library, K-5" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/aecl16.html>
> "The Arts in Every Classroom: A Workshop for Elementary School Teachers" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/aecw17.html>

EDUCATION THEORY & ISSUES
> "Looking at Learning...Again, Part 1" (K-12) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/lala18.html>

FOREIGN LANGUAGE & ESL
> "Connect With English" (college/high school) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/cwe19.html>
> "Destinos: An Introduction to Spanish" (college/high school) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/dest20.html>
> "Fokus Deutsch" (college/high school) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/fokus21.html>
> "French in Action" (college/high school) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/fia22.html>
> "Teaching Foreign Languages K-12 Workshop" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/tflw23.html>

LITERATURE & LANGUAGE ARTS
> "American Passages: A Literary Survey" (college level) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/apass24.html>
> "Making Meaning in Literature: A Video Library, Grades 6-8" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/mmll25.html>
> "News Writing" (college/high school) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/news26.html>
> "Teaching Reading K-2 Workshop" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/trk2w27.html>
> "Write in the Middle: A Workshop for Middle School Teachers" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/write28.html>

MATHEMATICS
> "Learning Math: Geometry" (K-8) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/lmgeo29.html>
> "Learning Math: Patterns, Functions, and Algebra" (K-8) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/lmpat30.html>

SCIENCE
> "Essential Science for Teachers: Earth and Space Science" (K-6) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/space31.html>
> "Essential Science for Teachers: Life Science" (K-6) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/life32.html>
> "Planet Earth" (college/high school) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/plane33.html>
> "The World of Chemistry" (college/high school) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/wchem34.html>

SOCIAL STUDIES & HISTORY
> "Death: A Personal Understanding" (college/high school) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/death35.html>
> "Out of the Past" (college/high school) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/past36.html>
> "Primary Sources: Workshops in American History" (high school) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/prim37.html>
> "Teaching Geography" (grades 7-12) <http://learner.org/redirect/june/tgeog38.html>

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Find general information about the Annenberg Channel -- including free licensing -- at <http://learner.org/redirect/june/chnl39.html>.

Be sure to download the Channel Program Guide <http://learner.org/redirect/june/guide40.html>, available in PDF format. The Guide contains satellite and signal information, plus daily and month-at-a-glance program schedules.

With a broadband Internet connection, watch the Channel simulcast <http://learner.org/redirect/june/video41.html> -- also closed captioned <http://learner.org/redirect/june/cc42.html>.


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*** SCHOOL'S OUT! ***

As the school year draws to a close, new opportunities present themselves for learning, working, service, and recreation. Here are a few resources that can help you segue into summer with lessons that emphasize the productive use of leisure time:

> Many students may be traveling abroad during their summer vacation. Draw on the lessons of High School teacher Pablo Muirhead, who takes students into the local community to sample food and music and meet local Spanish speakers as means of exploring cultural aspects of a society in "Teaching Foreign Languages K-12: A Library of Classroom Practices" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/tfll43.html> Program 26, "Routes to Culture." Then watch Fran Pettigrew's 11th grade Spanish class focusing on vacations in Program 28, "Creating Travel Advice." Click on "Enter the Series Web Site" for coordinated materials.

> Summer is a good time for teachers and students alike to brush up on foreign language skills. Our instructional series "Destinos: An Introduction to Spanish" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/dest44.html>, "French in Action" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/fia45.html>, and "Fokus Deutsch" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/fokus46.html> all begin this month on the Channel.

> In "Making Civics Real: A Workshop for Teachers" Program 6, "Civic Engagement" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/civic47.html>, 11th and 12th grade human geography teacher Bill Mittlefehldt shows how students can be encouraged to fulfill needs in the community.

> For the benefit of older students who may be taking advantage of job or business opportunities -- or facing real life after graduation -- you might plan a lesson based on "The Economics Classroom" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/econc48.html> Workshop 4, "Learning, Earning, and Saving" (featuring a high school "millionaire" game) or Workshop 8, "Growth and Entrepreneurship" (particularly the second segment, in which students present the realistic business plans they've developed).

> Vacation can also be spent in service. Emphasize this point using lesson ideas from "Social Studies in Action: A Teaching Practices Library, K-12" Program 7, "Caring for the Community" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/ssl49.html>. To view the program, follow the link to "Watching the Video."

> How can we encourage young children's creativity this summer? "The Whole Child: A Caregiver's Guide to the First Five Years" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/whole50.html> Program 11, "Creativity and Play," offers practical suggestions and sound techniques for fostering self-expression.


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*** CONNECT LEARNING WITH SPECIAL DAYS ***

Nature Photography Day (June 15)

> Enjoy photos of nature and diverse wildlife from around North America -- including migratory birds, caterpillars, butterflies, gray whales, blue crabs, manatees, and more -- at the Journey North Web site <http://learner.org/redirect/june/jno51.html>. Watch the coordinated videos <http://learner.org/redirect/june/jno52.html>, too, which show how teachers and students can participate in this Internet-based exploration of wildlife seasonal change.

> "Essential Science for Teachers: Life Science" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/life53.html> provides photographic representations of many life forms to highlight basic life science principles.

> "Science in Focus: Shedding Light on Science" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/light54.html> includes three sessions relating to light, color, and visual perception, as well as online activities that focus on the science, art, and design of a camera.


World Refugee Day (June 20)

World Refugee Day was established by the UN General Assembly in 2000 to promote awareness of the vast numbers of refugees worldwide. This year's theme in the U.S. is "A New Home, a New Life," emphasizing the country's tradition of welcoming refugees, as well as the many contributions refugees have made to American life.

> Our unique set of resources, "Teaching 'The Children of Willesden Lane'" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/cwl55.html>, takes a close look at the tragedy of child refugees through the true story of Lisa Jura, who escaped from Nazi persecution on the eve of World War II.

> "Teaching Geography" Workshop 4 <http://learner.org/redirect/june/tgeog56.html> looks at competing claims to Jerusalem and what it means to live as a refugee in occupied territory. After a brief video overview of the history, observe Ungennette Brantley Harris's 9th grade lesson about the consequences of the conflict and possible solutions to the refugee problem.

> In "Migration From Latin America" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/ssl57.html>, Program 24 of "Social Studies in Action: A Teaching Practices Library, K-12," Mavis Weir's 10th-grade class creates artistic group projects representing the various obstacles faced by emigrants coming to the U.S., including those fleeing their own countries as refugees. The series Web site offers lesson information, Video on Demand, standards, and background on migration trends in several Latin American countries.


Summer Solstice (June 21)

> How did the summer solstice help Greek mathematician Eratosthenes calculate Earth's circumference more than 2000 years ago? Find out here <http://learner.org/redirect/june/meas58.html> on our Web site for "Learning Math: Measurement."

> Learn about what causes the seasons -- and why the northern hemisphere receives the most hours of daylight on the summer solstice -- by watching "Sun and Seasons," Workshop 7 of "Science in Focus: Shedding Light on Science" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/light59.html>. You might even adapt the lesson demonstrated at about 38 minutes into the program to have students make specific observations about the summer solstice, by observing changes in shadow length and position over a period of days.

> In "A Private Universe" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/apu60.html>, see why even Harvard graduates and faculty hold common misconceptions about what makes the seasons.

> Learn about photoperiods (hours of sunlight and darkness) in the "Journey North"
<http://learner.org/redirect/june/jno61.html> segment "Sunlight and Seasons," in which students investigate a mystery location using this data.


National HIV Testing Day (June 27)

> "The Merrow Report" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/merr62.html> Program 27, "Living With AIDS--and Teaching" provides powerful incentive to get tested. The program features Dawn Marcal, who contracted AIDS and unknowingly transmitted it to her daughter -- and then began speaking to young people about her experiences and how to avoid the risk of HIV infection.

> Turn testing day into learning day with "Rediscovering Biology: Molecular to Global Perspectives" Session 6, "HIV and AIDS" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/rbio63.html>. A case study on the same site, "The Genetics of Resistance to HIV Infection" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/rbio64.html>, explains how a few people are naturally resistant to HIV -- and how this might help scientists looking for a cure.

> Physician Greg Robinson discusses his range of emotions after learning he is HIV positive in "Death: A Personal Understanding" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/death65.html> Program 3, "Facing Mortality." Program 8, "Grief and Bereavement," looks at the issue of facing HIV/AIDS from a family member's perspective.

> "Health, Mind, and Behavior," Program 23 of "Discovering Psychology: Updated Edition" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/psych66.html>, examines psychosocial factors in both transmission of the HIV virus and its progression to AIDS within individuals.


Effective Communications Month

> What does it take to craft an effective message? Find out with the programs of "News Writing" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/news67.html>, which cover public relations writing, feature writing styles, and column and editorial writing among other topics. In the related News Writing Interviews <http://learner.org/redirect/june/newsi68.html>, celebrated columnists Joel Achenbach and Dave Barry give their views on writing, news, humor, and more.

> Review writing basics with "English Composition: Writing for an Audience" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/engc69.html>. The series provides examples that illustrate effective techniques of description, persuasion, definition, comparison and contrast, and argumentation, and well as organizing devices.

> Communicating effectively in a foreign language presents special challenges. "Teaching Foreign Languages K-12 Workshop" Workshop 3, "Delivering the Message" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/tflw70.html> looks at elements of an effective oral or written presentation, including understanding the audience and use of feedback.

> "The Art of Teaching the Arts" Workshop 6, "Fostering Genuine Communication," <http://learner.org/redirect/june/hsart71.html> illustrates the crucial role that creativity plays in communicating a message. Teachers facilitate students' genuine self-expression and communication skills in dance and several visual media.

> In "Social Justice and Action" <http://learner.org/redirect/june/tml72.html>, Workshop 7 of "Teaching Multicultural Literature: A Workshop for the Middle Grades," see 5th-grade teacher Laura Alvarez guiding her students through techniques of debate and persuasion, modeling the research and organizational strategies necessary to making a compelling case.


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