Did you know they once used marshmallows as a medicinal syrup? That’s right! Winter isn’t just about snowball fights and cozy nights by the fireplace. It’s a season filled with fascinating facts, age-old traditions, and mysteries waiting to be unraveled. I vividly remember the wonder of my first snowfall and the myriad questions it sparked. Today, I invite your classroom to join me on a journey through a winter wonderland of trivia.

So, educators, grab your cocoa, encourage your students to put on their thinking caps (make sure they’re warm ones!), and let’s dive into some cool winter wisdom bound to surprise and educate them.

Winter’s Mysteries Unveiled:
A 20-Question Adventure

Ignite your students’ curiosity and test knowledge with these 20 questions spanning history, science, and culture. Ready for the challenge? Let’s begin!

1. What was the original purpose of marshmallows before they became a popular candy?

• a) a sweetener in desserts
• b) medicinal syrup and ointment
• c) building material for igloos
• d) an ingredient in soups and stews

The correct answer is b) medicinal syrup and ointment. Originally, marshmallows were made from the root sap of the marsh mallow plant (Althaea officinalis), combined with sugar and egg white. This concoction served as a medicinal syrup and ointment, known for its soothing properties to treat ailments like sore throats, coughs, and skin irritations. Over the years, the use of marshmallows transitioned from medicinal to culinary, evolving into the sweet treat we know today.

3. How many times does the winter solstice happen each year?

• a) 2
• b) 3
• c) 12
• d) 1

The correct answer is a) 2. The winter solstice occurs twice annually: once in the Northern Hemisphere around December 21 or 22, when the Sun's path is farthest south, and once in the Southern Hemisphere around June 20 or 21, when the Sun's path is farthest north. This event marks the shortest day and the longest night of the year in each respective hemisphere. The winter solstice also signifies the beginning of the winter season.

Score: 0

5. What is the name of the northern lights, a natural light display in Earth's sky, predominantly seen in the polar regions?

• a) Stellar Lights
• b) Cosmic Glow
• c) Aurora Borealis
• d) Celestial Sparkles

The correct answer is c) Aurora Borealis. Also known as the northern lights, the Aurora Borealis illuminates Earth's upper atmosphere in the Northern Hemisphere's high latitudes. This display results from solar wind particles interacting with atmospheric atoms, producing radiant curtains, arcs, and bands in colors like greenish-blue and red. The phenomenon stems from charged particles colliding with oxygen and nitrogen atoms, emitting distinctive radiation.

8. Which winter holiday is celebrated sometime between January 21 and February 20?

• a) Christmas
• b) Hanukkah
• c) Kwanzaa
• d) Lunar New Year

The correct answer is d) Lunar New Year. Celebrated in many Asian countries, this holiday marks the beginning of the lunar calendar year. Its date varies but falls between January 21 and February 20. Predominantly known as the Spring Festival in China (see Chinese New Year), traditions include house cleaning, family reunions, special foods, and giving red envelopes. The celebrations culminate with the Lantern Festival. The holiday has ancient origins, with legends like the beast "Nian" warded off with red decorations and loud noises.

11. Which game is similar to ice hockey and is played almost exclusively in the Scandinavian countries, the Baltic states, and Mongolia?

• a) curling
• b) bandy
• c) jai alai
• d) lacrosse

The correct answer is b) bandy. Bandy resembles ice hockey and is popular in Scandinavian countries, the Baltic states, and Mongolia. Teams have 8 to 11 players on skates who use curved sticks to hit a ball on a large rink. The game started in 18th-century England, and many consider it the forerunner of modern ice hockey.

14. Who dominated dog sled racing in the 1980s and early 1990s, winning the Iditarod four times?

• a) Libby Riddles
• b) Susan Butcher
• c) DeeDee Jonrowe
• d) Martin Buser

The correct answer is b) Susan Butcher. A trailblazer in sled-dog racing, Susan Butcher's dedication to the sport was evident from a young age, training dogs by the age of 16. Her prowess led her to win the grueling Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in Alaska four times during the 1980s and early 1990s, marking her as one of the sport's legends.

16. During the Harbin Ice Festival in China, people visit immense ice structures that are lit up with:

• a) fireworks
• b) neon lights
• c) candles
• d) glow-in-the-dark paint

The correct answer is b) neon lights. During the Harbin Ice Festival in China, visitors can explore massive ice structures and sculptures beautifully illuminated with colorful neon lights, creating a stunning and magical winter wonderland.

17. Which animals are considered true hibernators, undergoing significantly reduced metabolic activity during winter?

• a) bears and raccoons
• b) hedgehogs and bats
• c) amphibians and reptiles
• d) desert animals escaping the summer heat

The correct answer is b) hedgehogs and bats. True hibernators, such as hedgehogs, bats, and certain rodents, enter a state during winter where their body temperature drops close to 0° C (32° F), respiration slows down to a few breaths per minute, and the heartbeat becomes barely perceptible. This state allows them to conserve energy and survive the harsh winter conditions.

19. What is the name of the sledding sport that requires riders to travel headfirst with their faces just inches above the icy course?

• a) skeleton sledding
• b) lugeing
• c) bobsledding
• d) dogsled racing

The correct answer is a) skeleton sledding. In the winter sport of skeleton sledding, athletes sled headfirst and prone, often on tracks shared with bobsled events. This exhilarating and risky sport sees competitors racing with their faces mere inches from the ice, reaching speeds of over 129 km (80 miles) per hour.

Final Score: 0

We sourced all winter trivia questions and answers from Britannica School and Britannica Library. Not a subscriber? Contact us to learn more about our comprehensive resources.

How did your classroom fare in our winter trivia challenge? We're eager to find out! Share your scores, intriguing winter facts, or snapshots of your students diving into the quiz on social media. Remember to tag us @britannica_edu and use the hashtag #WinterTriviaChallenge. If there's a winter topic sparking your curiosity or one you'd like us to delve into in upcoming posts, don't hesitate to reach out!

Stay warm, stay curious, and embark on more adventures through the winter wonderland.

The post End-of-Year Winter Trivia: A Challenge for Students appeared first on Britannica.

Infusing NativeStock Images in Education

Easily integrate these images into your lessons to encourage meaningful connections, to help students learn more about Native American culture, and to better understand the impact of Native people in history to:

• Boost SEL skills, helping students empathize and connect.
• Elevate critical thinking, reading, and writing abilities.
• Foster media literacy with relevant digital materials.
• Engage in higher-level research practices.
• Stimulate deeper investigations with focused questions.

Sample Discussion Points

Traditional pow wow dancer dressed in a traditional Mandan feather headdress during Grand Entry. ©NativeStock/ImageQuest

Assiniboine Sioux tribal member from Fort Peck Montana dressed in a traditional eagle feather headdress. ©NativeStock/ImageQuest

Painting of a Chippewa (Ojibway) encampment showing daily village life with dwellings covered with sheets of bark. ©NativeStock/ImageQuest

Vincent Davis (Hopi-Choctaw) demonstrates the beautiful eagle dance of the Southwest pueblos. ©NativeStock/ImageQuest

Two Shoshone Braves, James Tone and Leo Teton, pose with coup sticks while on painted ponies. ©NativeStock/ImageQuest

To survive the long cold winter months along the Missouri River, Lewis & Clark would frequently trade with the Mandan for supplies such as furs and food. ©NativeStock/ImageQuest

Iroquois village of a bark longhouse, wigwams and a dug out canoe typical of the Tuscarora, Mohawk, Onondaga, Oneida and Seneca tribes. ©NativeStock/ImageQuest

1. Reflect on the images. How do they resonate? What stories unfold?
2. Can you relate to the visuals? In what ways?
3. Ponder on the image’s context. Why and when might it have been captured?
4. Has your perspective shifted after exploring the image?

Picture Perfect Classroom & Library Activities

Remember, while these activities are framed around Native American Heritage Month, the learning doesn’t have to stop there. The NativeStock collection is a year-round resource, ready to enrich your curriculum with the rich, often untold stories of Native American history and culture. So, are you ready to embark on this captivating journey?

1. A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

Kickstart your journey with a visual exploration. Encourage students to select an image from the NativeStock collection that resonates with them. Initiate a ‘Think-Pair-Share’ activity where students describe what they see, what they think about the image, and what it makes them wonder. This exercise isn’t just about observation; it’s about connection, sparking curiosity, and building empathy.

A Lemhi-Shoshone girl demonstrates being a butterfly through traditional dance steps. ©NativeStock/ImageQuest

A Pomo woman uses a seed beater and large gathering basket to collect seeds. ©NativeStock/ImageQuest

Traditionally carved totem poles from various Northwest Coast tribes. ©NativeStock/ImageQuest

A Cheyenne mother carries her baby in a shawl on her back. ©NativeStock/ImageQuest

2. DIY Time Capsule

History is best understood when engaged actively! Encourage your students to delve into the past by creating artifacts that echo Native American culture. But here’s the twist: Beyond crafting, students will embark on a research project. They must uncover the historical significance of their chosen artifact, identify the tribe it’s associated with, and understand its contemporary relevance.

To spark inspiration, students might consider recreating artifacts such as pottery adorned with tribe-specific symbols, tools that highlight the ingenious nature of native engineering, or jewelry that showcases the intricate beadwork or feather arrangements of specific tribes. This hands-on activity not only illuminates the past but also bridges it to the present, forming a tangible connection between students and Native American heritage.

3. Voices Through Literature

What better way to understand a culture than through its stories? Assign books or poems by Native American authors and follow up with reflective sessions. Students can express their perspectives through letters, art, or even their own short stories, fostering a deeper understanding of the themes and emotions that resonate within Native American literature.

4. The Big Questions

Critical thinking comes to the forefront with project-based learning. Pose complex, open-ended questions about historical events, cultural differences, or current issues facing Native American communities. Students can present their research through visual essays, documentaries, or presentations, integrating NativeStock images to add depth and context to their narratives.

Teaching Native American History Responsibly

While images offer a gateway to understanding, it’s essential to approach them with sensitivity and accuracy. Here are some guidelines to ensure respectful and informed teaching.

Precision in Language: Words are powerful; they can shape perceptions and narratives. Educate students on the appropriate terminology when referring to Native American tribes and cultures. Dispel myths and stereotypes by avoiding generalizations and instead, focusing on the diverse and rich cultural identities of each tribe. Resources like the Native Governance Center’s collection of terms can be instrumental in this educational journey.

Respectful Representation: Every image tells a story, and it’s our responsibility to ensure these stories are told truthfully and respectfully. Use the NativeStock images to educate, not just illustrate, and always in a manner that honors the depicted individuals’ dignity and the sacred aspects of their cultures.

Celebrating Diversity: Native American history is not a monolithic narrative. Encourage discussions that explore the unique cultures, languages, and experiences of different tribes. This approach not only enriches the learning experience but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Native American heritage.

Fostering Connections: Learning becomes more impactful when students can relate it to their own lives. Encourage them to draw parallels between the historical and cultural insights they gain and their own community experiences. This personal approach deepens understanding and solidifies learning.

Accuracy and Specificity: Generalizations can lead to misconceptions. Ensure students learn about specific tribes, their histories, and notable individuals. This specificity brings authenticity to their understanding and helps dispel common stereotypes.

Local Focus: Extend learning beyond the classroom by connecting with local Native American communities. Explore their histories, contributions, and current experiences. Collaborate with local organizations, museums, or tribal councils to provide students with a more immersive and authentic learning experience.

Not a subscriber? Contact us to discover the benefits of subscribing to ImageQuest and ImageQuest Jr. for an enriching educational experience

The post Illuminating Native American History Through Images appeared first on Britannica.

If you’re out of ideas or pinched for time leading up to your next reading lesson, we’ve got just what you need! Our collection of graphic organizers is designed to make teaching simpler and motivate your students with an interactive way to expand their reading comprehension skills using foundational, research-based elements to build vocabulary, incorporate background knowledge, and understand language and text structures.

Did You Know?

“In addition to being effective for vocabulary instruction, graphic organizers can also enhance reading comprehension by helping students to categorize information and to show the relationships among important concepts.”

— The Iris Center¹

The Game-Changing Power of Graphic Organizers

It’s no secret to educators that reading is the foundation of education. No matter the subject, reading is interwoven in every element of school, from math and science, social studies and language, and everything in between. As an educator, you go above and beyond to find effective ways to elevate reading comprehension that both engage students and give them a deeper understanding of topics. We’re here to help!

Graphic organizers are not just time-savers, they’re game-changers! They don’t just organize information; they help students visualize their learning journey. When Ms. C. introduced these tools to her 3rd-grade class, the transformation was instant. “Our ELA block is largely discussion-based. But with graphic organizers, students had a structured way to capture their thoughts. Their reading comprehension soared. Witnessing the profound connections they made was truly rewarding,” she shared.

Ramp up your lessons and equip students with the skills to:

Dive into Our Top Picks

Graphic organizers serve as a beneficial framework for organizing thoughts and facilitating a deeper conceptual understanding. Even more, these versatile tools can be easily adapted and combined with other reading tools and activities for stand-out lessons they’ll enjoy! Here’s a glimpse at our top picks:

Venn Diagram: Cultivate Critical Thinking Through Comparison

Compare and contrast two or more concepts and themes, and visualize the relationships between different sets to advance critical thinking skills.

How to use: 

1. Identify Concepts: Start by selecting the concepts, themes, or characters students will compare and contrast
   
2. Label the Circles: Each circle represents a concept. Label them accordingly.
   
3. Fill in Characteristics: In the separate areas of the circles, list characteristics unique to each concept. In the overlapping area, list the similarities.
   
4. Discuss and Analyze: Encourage students to discuss the differences and similarities they’ve listed, deepening their understanding of the relationships between the concepts.
   

Example Activity: Have students select two novels to read. Using the Venn Diagram, have them practice connecting ideas between texts by comparing and contrasting the books’ themes, characters, and settings, listing shared traits in the overlapping section, while placing unique attributes in the respective circles. Not only does this help students visualize connections and think critically about what they are reading, it also enables them to visually grasp the similarities and differences.

Idea Web: Spur Creativity and Conceptual Understanding

Visually organize and connect ideas or concepts around a central theme to encourage brainstorming, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

How to use: 

1. Central Idea: Begin with the main idea or theme in the center of the web.
2. Branch Out: Draw branches from the center for each related subtopic or idea.
3. Details: From each subtopic, extend further branches to list specific details or examples.

Example Activity: Have students look at an activity on rainforests. Using the idea web, instruct them to identify the main idea: “Rainforest.” Then, find the supporting details: “Biodiversity, Conservation, Indigenous Communities” in the second set of boxes. Foster a holistic understanding of rainforests by having students explore articles about their ecological importance, related conservation efforts, and the cultures of Indigenous people, filling in the remaining box tiers as they go.

Word Chart: Expand Vocabulary and Contextual Comprehension

Create a comprehensive understanding of words by exploring their meanings, associations, and contexts. Word charts expand vocabulary and help students learn how to use words in the proper context.

Example Activity: Ask students to use the Word Chart to look at a concept. For example, they can choose to explore “Mammals” as their main word. Then, encourage them to write out the definition and find images of animals that are classified as mammals.. Then, young learners can identify contexts where they might encounter these words to help create connections between them.

KWL Chart: Navigate Knowledge Acquisition and Assessment

Monitor and guide learning progress by identifying students’ prior knowledge and setting learning objectives. Students can use this chart to identify what they notice, wonder, and learn.

Example Activity: Have students use the KWL Chart to spell out what they know about a topic, in this case “Photosynthesis” in the Know column, such as “Plants make food.” In the Want to Know column, they can ask questions such as “How do plants make food using sunlight?” Finally, help them track their new knowledge, such as “Plants convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis,” in the Learned column. Ensure students track their learning journey, and encourage curiosity and reflection throughout.

Inference Chart: Enhance Deductive Reasoning and Problem-Solving Skills

This chart supports reading comprehension by enhancing students’ deductive reasoning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills as they make logical inferences from observed facts or information.

Example Activity: Use the Inference Chart to guide students in first listing a fact; in this case, “the ground is wet.” Then identify their inferences about that fact, such as “It must have rained recently.” Students can discuss how they make logical deductions based on observable facts, helping them understand the process of making informed inferences.

Text Treasure Hunt: Boost Reading Engagement and Retention

Example Activity: Let’s take a sample lesson on “The Water Cycle.” Have students look for keywords and main concepts, such as subheadings or linked words, to understand points as part of a whole. Identify a related concept such as “condensation,” then search for “clouds.” Students can note supporting details and examples on the worksheet, including where they found the information in the text. Finish by having them reflect on the importance of the water cycle in the environment.

Claim-Reason-Evidence: Structure Arguments and Rational Thinking

Students develop structured, logical thinking by organizing ideas around a central concept, allowing students to form well-thought arguments and understand the rationale behind these views. 

Example Activity: Have students fill out the Claim-Reason-Evidence claim using a lesson on Solar energy. Their claim might be“solar energy is eco-friendly.” Then, they should list the Reasons that substantiate this claim, such as “Reduces carbon emissions” and “Decreases reliance on fossil fuels.” Finally, encourage students to provide Evidence to back up their claim, helping them understand the logical structure of an argument. Something like: “Studies show the carbon footprint of solar panels is more than ten times less than fossil fuels.” 

Inverted Pyramid of Impact: Prioritize Information for Clear Communication

Build on reading skills with these writing exercises that enable students to organize and prioritize information according to its significance. As students identify main ideas and supporting details, they go beyond readability and comprehension, they practice clear and concise communication and better retain key concepts. 

Example Activity: Help students recognize the various levels of impact and how they relate beyond basic cause and effect with this organizer. Have them think of a major world event and begin by writing out its global impact, then national, state, city, and community in that order. Finally, students will share how this event impacts them as an individual in the “ME” column.

Use any (or all!) of these graphic organizers for an interactive boost in reading comprehension. They’re an efficient and effective way to help students connect ideas, simplify complex information, and sharpen vocabulary and syntax skills. Don’t forget to customize them to suit your students’ unique needs and learning styles! Craving more? There’s a whole lot more where that came from! Amp up your classroom lessons with our extensive collection of graphic organizers.

Inspired by your success? We are, too! Share your classroom breakthroughs and success stories using our graphic organizers on social media with the hashtag #BEorganized.

References

1. Shanahan, C. (2021). What should content-area teachers know about comprehension instruction? The Iris Center. https://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/module/sec-rdng/cresource/q3/p11/

The post Enhance Reading Comprehension With Graphic Organizers appeared first on Britannica.

These startling figures not only highlight a gap in our educational system but also signal an urgent call to action. In a world inundated with digital media, the ability to discern, analyze, and question our content is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. As we navigate an era defined by smartphones, artificial intelligence, and non-stop digital connectivity, we need to be informed, critical media consumers and users. In honor of Media Literacy Week, we’re sharing valuable tips and resources specially tailored for educators like you to empower your students with crucial media literacy skills.

Media Literacy Week 2023, held Oct. 23-27 in the U.S., is led by esteemed media literacy organizations nationwide to “highlight the power of media literacy education and its essential role.”¹ For over a decade, organizations worldwide have come together to celebrate progress in media literacy and establish strategies to address new concerns during UNESCO’s Global Media and Information Literacy Week.

This year’s theme, Media and Information Literacy in Digital Spaces: A Collective Global Agenda, echoes the pressing need to empower the global public with vital digital literacy skills. As rapidly evolving technologies and media content are generated at an unprecedented rate, it is essential to equip the next generation with the tools and knowledge they need to make informed decisions.

Media Literacy in Education: Why It Matters

Media literacy, a concept that took root in the mid-20th Century, underscores the critical nature of democratic rights and civic responsibility in societies burgeoning with media.² Its significance has only intensified since then, and with good reason.

Today, we find ourselves engulfed by a multitude of digital channels—social media, blogs, search engines, online news—and a constant stream of information. This digital deluge not only molds our worldview but also compels us to discern truth from fiction. In this ever-evolving landscape, the role of educators transcends importance; they are the compass in this digital disruption, arming students with the skills to dissect the content that bombards them daily critically.

Stay ahead of the curve.

Get ‘A Fresh Take on Media Literacy in the Era of AI’ in our exclusive webinar, where experts delve into the intricacies of AI-generated content and the essential strategies for teaching discerning media consumption in this new age. Ready to navigate the AI landscape with confidence?

Watch Now

Yet, the challenge continues. With technology evolving rapidly, our understanding must keep pace. Take artificial intelligence (AI), for example. Its influence is everywhere, from the ads we see online to complex systems for detecting fraud or assisting in healthcare. However, the benefits of AI come with challenges, especially when it comes to telling what’s real from what’s not. The line between content created by humans and that generated by AI is getting harder to see, making our search for the truth even more challenging.

Educator Toolkit: Gear Up for Media Literacy Week & Beyond

In this digital era, it’s essential to equip students with the critical skills they need to become astute digital citizens. As we anticipate the launch of an extensive suite of media literacy resources in 2024, we’re here now, offering practical strategies to kickstart meaningful dialogues in your classrooms and schools.

#1: Sharpen Critical Thinking Skills

Encourage students to delve deeper into the information they encounter with activities that promote a critical mindset. Here’s how you can integrate Britannica Education’s graphic organizers into your lessons:

• Compare Sources: Challenge students to analyze two news articles on the same topic. Ask them to identify each source’s perspective, assess the reliability of the information, and discuss any biases they may detect. This exercise sharpens their analytical skills and fosters an understanding of how different perspectives can influence reporting.
  
  
• Venn Diagram: Compare 2 Sources: Use this organizer when students examine contrasting viewpoints, perhaps from two news outlets with differing stances. Students can map out the similarities and differences in coverage, helping them visually recognize bias and subjectivity in media.
  
  
• Evaluating Resources: When students embark on research projects, guide them in scrutinizing their sources with this organizer. They’ll learn to question the credibility of information, understand the importance of citation, and discern between fact and opinion, preparing them for informed and responsible media consumption.
  
  

#2 Initiate a Media Diary

Prompt students to record a week’s worth of media interactions, capturing all facets of their media consumption. Conclude with a session where students engage in reflective discussions, sharing insights and discoveries about their media habits and identifying potential areas for improvement or change.

#3: Dive Into ‘In the News!’ for Media Literacy

Energize your media literacy lessons with real-world news. Britannica School’s “In the News!” delivers biweekly news updates, adapted for various student reading levels, and enriched with vocabulary exercises from Merriam-Webster, intriguing “Did You Know?” segments, and links to comprehensive articles.

1. Spark Discussions: Initiate lively classroom debates with “In the News!” stories. Motivate students to voice their opinions and relate news to their daily lives.
   
   
2. Critically Analyze: Assign students a news story to dissect further, evaluating its content. Discuss its credibility, uncover potential biases, and consider various perspectives.
   
   
3. Craft and Showcase: Encourage students to create presentations on their chosen news stories, highlighting their investigative research and analytical thinking.

Britannica School is more than a news source. It’s a gateway to secure, dependable, and all-encompassing education. Experience the benefits of Britannica School today!

#4: Expand the Research Horizon

Foster a well-rounded perspective in students by guiding them to explore various sources. Show them how to compare information from multiple outlets, confirm facts using trusted databases, and critically assess their discoveries. Direct them to resources like Google Books for a broad range of literature, FactCheck.org or Snopes for debunking falsehoods, and Britannica Original Sources, which offers a vast collection of over 400,000 digitized, verified classic works and reference materials spanning numerous subjects.

#5: Deepen Your Expertise with Media Literacy Workshops

Don’t just teach media literacy; immerse yourself in it. Our expert-led workshops are designed to transform your approach to teaching, offering deep exploration and refinement of literacy skills. 

Transform your pedagogical approach by delving into media literacy. Our workshops, steered by experts, are more than learning experiences; they’re your investment in professional advancement and your students’ prosperous futures.

• Supporting ELL Through Rich Text and Media: Customized for ELL educators, this session merges potent multimedia content with proven pedagogical strategies.
  
  
• Processing Complex Informational Text: Master Britannica’s Informational Texts with this workshop, featuring practical methods that facilitate deep connections with historical contexts and critical thinking.
  
  
• Ready for Research: Boosting Engagement with Information Literacy: Essential for media literacy, this workshop teaches efficient research skills backed by an all-encompassing research guide.
  
  

Stay at the forefront of the ever-changing digital realm. Our workshops equip you with the strategies and knowledge indispensable for excelling in media literacy education. Enroll in Our Workshops Today!

We’re educators, front and center in the digital age, with a critical mission: navigate the media maze. Our strategies? More than lessons, they’re student power-ups for critical thinking and intelligent decision-making in class and beyond. Media Literacy Week is our wake-up call, spotlighting the need for sharp media consumption. But our gig isn’t a one-week show; it’s a full-time role. Media smarts need a permanent spot in our curriculums and school cultures.

Stay tuned! We’re queuing up practical tools: a comprehensive Media Literacy guidebook that dives deep into AI’s rise and misinformation’s challenges, blog posts that dissect media literacy, and hands-on interactive learning tools. We’re not just teaching but arming students for a media-driven world. Are you in?

References

1. Media Literacy Now. (May 31, 2023). National Survey Finds Most U.S. Adults Have Not Had Media Literacy Education in High School. https://medialiteracynow.org/nationalsurvey2022/
   
2. Ali, S. (March 18, 2022). Media literacy is desperately needed in classrooms around the country, advocates say. The Hill. https://thehill.com/changing-america/enrichment/education/598795-media-literacy-is-desperately-needed-in-classrooms/
   
3. National Association for Media Literacy Education. (n.d.). What is Media Literacy Week? United States Media Literacy Week. Accessed on https://medialiteracyweek.us/about/
   
4. Hobbs, R. and Jensen, A. (2009). The Past, Present, and Future of Media Literacy Education. Journal of Media Literacy Education, 1-11. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1095145.pdf

The post Empower Educators: A Spotlight on Media Literacy Week  appeared first on Britannica.

Are you looking for a way invigorate your Science and Social Studies lessons? Expedition: Learn’s tailored, ready-to-implement lessons feature engaging articles and multimedia your students will love! And did we mention they’re grounded in the Science of Reading to help elevate understanding and comprehension?

Lesson Highlights

We’re sharing few of our favorite lessons and extensions curated especially for grades 3-5 and 6-8. From eclipses to ancient history, our standards aligned lessons are perfect for learning stations, reading intervention, project based learning, and learning extension.

Each Expedition: Learn lesson follows a four-step learning process:

Spark Interest Build Understanding Connect Learning Learn More

Spark student interest and curiosity by introducing enriching lesson topics, activities, and key terms grounded in the Science of Reading framework.

Build understanding with topic deep dives and enhance reading comprehension with trusted articles and accommodate different reading abilities with four Lexile reading levels.

Connect learning and critical thinking with adaptable content that guides students to draw inferences and conclusions and appeals to their unique interests, experiences, and knowledge.

Learn more with additional Britannica resources that explore interconnected science and social studies content to accelerate inquiry-based learning, reinforce important concepts, and intrigue students to dive deeper.

Expedition: Learn’s vast resource collection:

• Engages students with short videos, interactive activities, multiple articles, and learning extensions
  
• Addresses a variety of English-Language Arts (ELA) skills, including Compare and Contrast, Identify Main Cause and Effect, Identify Main Ideas and Details, Make Inferences, Use Media, and Use Vocabulary.
  
• Checks for understanding using interactive reading passages, vocabulary building activities, and ready-made assessments, which include fill-in-the-blank and multiple-choice questions and answers.

Social Studies Lessons

Go Back in Time to Ancient Civilizations

Social Studies Lesson Collection for Grades 6-8

While a lot of men are apparently obsessed with the Roman Empire, most students probably aren’t – yet. Help your students delve into many of the most notable ancient empires and their enduring impacts on later civilizations, including our own.

• Did you know? Early civilizations have lasting legacies in governance and law, engineering and technology, art and architecture, literature and history, and more!

Explore the unique characteristics of early civilizations like those in India, Egypt, China, and Mesopotamia through articles and multimedia detailing their diverse governments, economic systems, social structures, religions, technologies, and agricultural practices and products.

Whether you instruct your whole group at once or allow students to engage in exploratory learning, Expedition: Learn has a wealth of resources to help your students examine the wonders of ancient life.

What’s in this lesson?

Key Concepts

• Introduces prominent and influential civilizations that have existed for thousands of years, including their economics, cultures, technologies, and governments
• Explains the similarities and differences among ancient ancient civilizations

C3 National Standards: D2.Geo.2.6-8, D2.Geo.5.6-8, D2.Geo.6.6-8, D2.Geo.8.6-8, D2.His.1.6-8, D2.His.2.6-8, D2.His.3.6-8, D2.His.4.6-8, D2.His.14.6-8, D2.His.15.6-8

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Science Lessons

Adventure with Animal Travelers

Science Extension for Grades 3-5

Nature’s travelers are on the move! As the weather changes and winter looms, birds soar across continents, wildebeests travel across plains in search of water, and whales swim thousands of miles to warmer temperatures. Help your students discover the season’s mesmerizing migrations, driven by innate instincts and the will to survive.

• Bonus Resource! Study animal behavior at its finest with related Britannica School article and media about migration, tailored specifically for middle schoolers.

Begin by introducing unique animal group behavior with this Expedition: Learn lesson. Then, dive deeper into the intriguing articles and videos about animal migrations with the lesson’s “Learn More” feature.

What’s in this lesson?

Key Concepts

• Teaches students why animals engage in unique behaviors, such as migration, to get food, stay safe, or survive change.
• Introduces the idea that animals form groups to help defend themselves and cope with changes.

NGSS National Standards: 3-LS2-1

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As golden autumn hues paint the landscapes, this time of year is not only a transition between seasons, but also a month bursting with celebrations worldwide. Around the globe, October and November are bursting with festivities, each rooted in unique histories and cultural practices. Create a vibrant tapestry of global fall festivities with your students using Britannica Education’s engaging resources, and provide a unique lens to explore diverse cultures, traditions, and stories.

By incorporating these celebrations into our educational environments, we can open doors to understanding, empathy, and respect for different cultures. Through interactive activities and engaging lesson plans, perfect for classrooms and libraries, embrace these fall festivities as an interactive, memorable way to promote cultural diversity, foster interdisciplinary learning, and create globally aware students.

Five Featured Fall Festivities

Diwali: The Festival of Lights

This five-day festival marks the beginning of the new year in the Hindu calendar. Diwali has special meaning for Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, celebrating the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. During the celebration, families light up their homes with oil lamps, burst fireworks, host delicious feasts, and exchange gifts.

Oktoberfest: Bavaria’s Grand Celebration

Originally a royal wedding celebration in 1810 Munich, Oktoberfest has since become the world’s largest beer festival. People gather in beer tents to enjoy Bavarian music, food, and, of course, beer.

Halloween

Halloween is a fusion of ancient Celtic traditions and Christian holidays, originating in autumn festivals, customs, and superstitions throughout the ages. Today’s modern festivities are commonly known for costumes, trick-or-treating, jack-o’-lanterns, and spooky-themed parties. Halloween is followed by All Saints (All Hallows’) Day and All Souls’ Day in Western Christian churches.

Guy Fawkes Day

Originating in the early 17th Century, Guy Fawkes Day commemorates the Gunpowder Plot, where zealous Roman Catholics, including Guy Fawkes, plotted to blow up the Houses of Parliament due to persecution under King James I. Authorities foiled the plan, and the perpetrators, including Guy Fawkes, faced execution for treason. In response, Parliament established a national day of thanksgiving. Today, people celebrate the holiday on November 5 with bonfires, fireworks, and, in some instances, burning effigies of “Guy” to symbolize the explosives that never detonated.

Día de los Muertos

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, provides an opportunity for people to accept and deal with death. Families gather to remember loved ones who have passed away. The festival began hundreds of years ago among native peoples, who believed spirits of their dead relatives visit each year. While modern-day observances vary by region, many families build altars called ofrendas and adorn grave sites with marigolds, candles, and favorite foods of their deceased loved ones.

Expand Further!

More Global Celebrations

Hogbetsotso Festival, Ghana

Celebrated annually on the first Saturday of November in Anloga, the heart of the Anlo state, this festival marks the exodus of the Anlo people from the oppressive rule in Notsie, present-day Togo. The name translates to “the festival of exodus,” commemorating their escape by walking backward to mislead pursuers. The festival is characterized by peace-making ceremonies, purification of ceremonial stools, and a grand durbar where chiefs, dressed in vibrant regalia, receive homage. Traditional dances, especially the Agbadza, are performed with enthusiasm, symbolizing joy, unity, and gratitude to their ancestors.

Thanksgiving, Canada

Celebrated on the second Monday of October, Canadian Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and family gatherings. Unlike its American counterpart, it occurs a month and a half earlier, aligning with the beauty of early October and the harvest season. The holiday’s origins trace back to both harvest festivals and early explorers like Martin Frobisher giving thanks for safe voyages. Today, it’s a more laid-back affair, with families coming together for a turkey dinner, possibly on the weekend, and enjoying the mild weather with outdoor activities.

Shichi-go-san (Japanese: “Seven-Five-Three”), Japan

Celebrated annually on November 15, this significant festival sees parents taking their three and seven-year-old girls, and five-year-old boys to Shintō shrines. They offer thanks for reaching these milestones and seek future blessings. Traditionally, festivities included samurai class boys donning a hakama, seven-year-old girls wearing the formal obi, and three-year-old girls showcasing a unique hair arrangement, all for the first time.

Double Ninth Festival (Chongyang Festival), China

Celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, this festival honors ancestors and the elderly. Traditionally, families climb mountains, admire chrysanthemums, and indulge in Chongyang cake. The chrysanthemum symbolizes the festival, with many partaking in chrysanthemum tea and wine rituals. The event intertwines nature, respect for elders, and rich cultural traditions.

Loy Krathong, Thailand

In the fall, Thailand comes alive with the vibrant festivities of Loy Krathong. Celebrated during the full moon in November, this ancient festival honors the water spirits. The highlight of the celebration is the launching of small floats crafted from banana leaves, beautifully decorated with flowers, candles, incense, and coins.

Spark Creativity With These Activities:

• Interactive Map or Timeline Highlight: Introduce an interactive map or timeline feature showcasing the various fall festivities around the world. Encourage students to explore the map and learn more about each celebration’s unique customs and traditions.
  
• Student Projects and Presentations: Assign each student a fall festival to research and present to the class. Encourage creativity by incorporating visuals, videos, and personal anecdotes from people who celebrate these festivals.
  
• Cultural Exchange Program: Connect with schools or organizations in different countries to establish a cultural exchange program where students can communicate with their peers abroad, share information about their traditions, and learn about others’ festivities.

Join us on this cultural exploration journey and celebrate the interconnectedness of our world with Britannica School’s robust resource database, filled with valuable resources to help you seamlessly integrate these festive celebrations into your classrooms.

Information sourced from Britannica School. Not a subscriber? Contact us.

The post Fall Festivities: Global Celebrations to Add to Your Classroom Calendar appeared first on Britannica.

An archaeologist. An astronaut. A doctor. An author. A teacher. Every child spends countless hours daydreaming about what they want to be when they grow up. But many need to realize what they learn in school can make all the difference in making their dreams a reality. 

You hear them ask why they need to learn algebra, geometry, or even history. Or why they have to study and work hard, even if they don’t love school at that exact moment. We are thrilled to introduce an ongoing project that bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications. This all-new Careers series consists of special features and videos designed to not only help you enlighten your students, but also inspire them to see education as a stepping stone to a world full of possibilities.

Get to Know The Experts

The idea for this exciting project stemmed from asking ourselves the same simple question students always ask: “Why do we learn what we learn in school?” To answer this, we set out to investigate why. Naturally, we went straight to the experts — people who use math, science, history, and other subjects in their day-to-day career lives.

Meet a Volcanologist

Meet a Glaciologist

Meet a Museum Director

Meet an Architect

We had the privilege of talking to some incredibly talented individuals, and we’re excited to share their insights with you. Even better, we’re still going! This is only the beginning of our new careers series, and we’ll continue sharing these incredible and unique careers in the weeks ahead.

Meet a Volcanologist: Understanding Earth’s Fiery Wonders

Ever thought studying rocks was all there was to geology? Well, think again! Our chat with a volcanologist opened our eyes to a whole new world.

What a volcanologist does: These specialized scientists do more than just observe; they actively study volcanoes, lava, and magma to understand Earth’s inner workings. 

A volcanologist’s impact: Volcanologists’ research and applications are crucial for both science and safety. They not only deepen our understanding of how Earth functions, but they also help us prepare for and mitigate the impact of volcanic eruptions. Put simply, their research keeps communities safe and helps protect the environment.

Meet a Glaciologist: Ice, Climate, and Our Role in the Environment

Climate change is a hot topic, and who better to discuss it than a glaciologist? Learn how the study of glaciers helps us understand climate patterns and what you can do to make a difference with this fun career feature.

What a glaciologist does: As cool as it sounds, glaciology isn’t exactly a chill job. This exciting career is centered around studying all things snow and ice on landmasses, in particular, glaciers (formation and movement), ice flow, and the interaction between ice and climate. Glaciologists travel to some of the farthest corners of the Earth and explore regions most people never see.²

A glaciologist’s impact: Glaciologists investigate the relationship between glaciers and our world — and even other worlds! Their in-demand work provides much-needed information on climate change, rising sea levels, and conservation.

Meet an Architect: Making Masterpieces

An impressive blend of art and science, not to mention millennia of awe-inspiring work worldwide, makes our next career feature truly stand out. From ancient greats like Egypt’s pyramids, the Greek Parthenon, and the Great Wall of China to modern-day marvels like Dubai’s Burj Khalifa and the Sydney Opera House, architects flaunt their impressive skills all across the globe.

What an architect does: Architecture extends far beyond the piling of stones to construct a building. It is the intelligent creation of forms and spaces that , in themselves, express an idea. Architects are qualified professionals who design concepts for an array of structures, including houses, buildings, and other facilities. They collaborate with many other experts in the field throughout the building process, including civil engineers, construction teams, and interior designers.⁴

An architect’s impact: Even if their building is not the next addition to the New York City skyline or a must-see world wonder, an architect’s job is critical at any level. Not only do architects ensure a structure’s functionality and safety, but they also add social value by creating aesthetically pleasing, innovative, and sustainable works. 

Meet a Museum Director: From Curation to Inspiration

Even with adventurous movie depictions, it’s easy to think running a museum is just about displaying old stuff. If you’ve noticed a theme here, then you already know there’s so much more to it! Our conversation with a museum director revealed a multi-faceted role that goes far beyond simple collection and curation. 

What a museum director does: A day in the life of a museum director involves a range of responsibilities, including their own collection oversight, exchanges with other museums, acquiring exciting new artifacts, and traveling with exhibits.⁵ They are not just caretakers; they are the strategic minds that shape museums into vibrant centers for education, inspiration, and community engagement. 

A museum director’s impact: The work of a museum director is essential for both cultural enrichment and societal growth. They not only deepen our understanding of various subjects, such as art, history, or science, but they also create platforms for dialogue, learning, and community building. These valuable professionals turn museums into dynamic spaces that enrich our lives and broaden our perspectives.

Upcoming Interviews

We’ve got much more to come! Our next round of interviews currently in the works will share the captivating worlds of:

• Engineers
• People who work with animals
• Oceanographers
• And many more! 

Stay tuned for these exciting conversations coming soon!

The majority of the information in this blog was sourced from Britannica School: Middle and High School levels. Not a subscriber? Contact us to learn more.

Additional References

1. https://www.environmentalscience.org/career/volcanologist#:~:text=Volcanologists%20require%20a%20bachelor’s%20degree,level%20position%20in%20the%20field
2. https://www.profguide.io/en/professions/glaciologist.html
3. https://mynasadata.larc.nasa.gov/stem-career-connections/science-glaciologist#:~:text=A%20moving%20glacier%20will%20erode,change%2C%20and%20sea%20level%20rise
4. https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/contractor/what-is-an-architect/
5. https://museum.jobs/museum-director/#

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In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, delve into the rich tapestry of Hispanic and Latinx culture with interactive activities, curated Britannica lessons, graphic organizers, and more. This engaging lesson plan is designed to help students expand their horizons as they research different traditions, customs, and cultures, then present their findings and share a fun cultural artifact with the class. 

Spotlight on Latin America

Weave a Cultural Tapestry

1. Become New Explorers

Investigate cultural elements of Hispanic American communities, highlighting some of the countries mentioned above. Students will begin their Latin American journey in Britannica School, where they can explore nonfiction articles on a variety of cultural topics, from ancient civilizations to pop music. As your students browse, ask them to save the articles they find most interesting.

Students can bolster their findings using the extensive library of images and videos on ImageQuest. Have students curate albums of their favorite photos to stay organized as they research.

2. Thought Treasure Hunt

Once students have finished their preliminary research, it’s time for them to build the foundations for their reports. Have students review their favorite Britannica School articles and albums in ImageQuest to choose a country to highlight in their presentation.

We’ve included a few of our favorite downloadable organizers to help students create connections and develop a robust research base, no matter what the subject matter.

3. Cultural Showcase

In this step, students become cultural ambassadors. Have students create a poster, slide show, or another type of presentation using the articles, photos, and videos that they compiled during their research. This presentation should not only relay facts but also illuminate their personal choices and reasons behind them.

After each presentation, have students discuss and ask each other questions to foster understanding and spark curiosity. To encourage discussion, have students make note of interesting facts during presentations to share later.

4. Share and Show

Finally, invite your students to bring or create something that represents an aspect of the culture they researched to share with the class.

Suggested ideas:

• A popular food or drink
  
• A type of dance or sport
  
• A famous person in this community (past or present)
  
• Notable music, movies, art, or literature
  
• Traditional clothing, accessory, or décor
  

Finally, have students arrange each unique item to “weave” a tapestry of Hispanic Heritage that showcases both diversity and unity.

This activity uses resources from Britannica School and Britannica ImageQuest. Not a subscriber? Contact us to learn more.

The post Hispanic Heritage Month: Cultural Tapestry Activity appeared first on Britannica.

Ready or not, here it comes. Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept; it’s here, stirring up both excitement about new opportunities—and plenty of concerns. Questions about reliance, ethics, and the impact of AI on education have arisen almost as quickly as the new tech itself. As AI permeates into our daily lives, including classrooms, it is crucial to understand its implication and potential benefits for educators and students. 

Welcome to our AI in Education series, where we’ll demystify AI, address your questions, and provide strategies for navigating this technology. We understand the challenges of introducing new tech into classrooms, especially when there’s a need for more professional development around AI. This series aims to bridge that gap, offering insights into the fascinating world of AI. After all, fulfilling the overwhelming need for reliable, trusted, and fact-checked information is what we do best.

Like many of your peers in education, you might be grappling with how to introduce new tech in your classrooms — or even whether to do it at all. And while these looming questions impact almost all educators, few feel equipped to properly navigate the new landscape.

In this initial installment, we’ll clarify key AI-related terms, explore its history, and examine its transformative role in education. While acknowledging concerns such as ethical considerations and privacy issues, we’ll also highlight AI’s potential to enhance instruction, cater to diverse student needs, and drive educational innovation.

The History of AI

From calculators to cell phones, the introduction of and its potential impact on education and learning is often hotly debated, spurring conversations around both potential and risks. No where you stand, understanding the basics and adapting to ever-evolving tech is critical for both you and your students.

While the AI debate may seem new to many of us, AI has actually been around for decades. The first AI program was written in 1951, with a focus on teaching a computer to checkers. By the following year, the computer was able to play a game of checkers at a reasonable speed.

As AI began to evolve, so, too, did the need to understand and evaluate it. British logician and computer pioneer Alan Turing began exploring machine intelligence in the 1930s. In the 1950s, he questioned whether a machine has the ability to think and and introduced central concepts of AI.

Today, Turing is considered the father of artificial intelligence and modern cognitive science, and the Turing test remains the criterion for evaluating computer intelligence.

In subsequent decades, technology continued to advance globally, making its way into the classroom. With each new tool came unparalleled possibilities – if the tech was implemented right. More recently, the internet and smartphones have permanently altered the educational environment. AI is on track to do the same.

How AI is Changing Education

AI raises a range of questions, even proven disadvantages. Although we will champion some of its exciting potential in this article and throughout our series, it is important to acknowledge and validate the understandable apprehension many people experience when it comes to AI. 

Among the primary concerns are ethical considerations, biases, cheating, information, transparency, privacy, and accountability. Conversely, new AI tech unleashes capabilities to engage students, cater to diverse students’ needs and abilities, enhance instruction and productivity, and innovate education like we’ve never seen before.

Is AI Search Worth a Try?

Companies are releasing search engines powered by artificial intelligence. But how well do these search engines work…

Learn More

Invite elementary and middle school students to connect academics to the world beyond the classroom with our current events tool, “In the News!” covering trending topics from TikTok to AI. Not a subscriber? Contact us to learn more.

Of course, the answer to how to navigate the new AI world isn’t simply black and white. It is a complex landscape filled with questions and immense opportunities. In future installments, we’ll dive deeper into the pros and cons of this emerging technology, overview some of the hot topics in the AI world, and look at ways educators are implementing AI into their classes and schools.  

Further, we’ll reaffirm the importance of media literacy with practical tips to ensure you and your students are well-equipped for the future ahead. Finally, this series will help you bring everything you know about AI together to better understand how you can comfortably and confidently move forward. Stay tuned for much more to come!

References

1. CSU Global. (Aug. 9, 2021). How Does AI Actually Work? https://csuglobal.edu/blog/how-does-ai-actually-work
2. CODE. How AI Works. Accessed on July 21, 2023. https://code.org/ai#ai-videos

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