When Sam and Ally meet a young troubled girl, a family secret draws them into a mystery that reaches back generations. There’s untold history wrapped up in the origins of their town of Oceanside, and a conflict that was never solved.
With summer break fast approaching the girls embark on a quest that will lead them through the woods near their homes and into the past. But will they find the answers on Old Gully Trail? Or will the haunted memories it protects be too much for them to overcome?
I have been reading most of the books in this mystery series, over the past few weeks, they are an exciting read for middle grade readers, and young adults. A series that keeps you guessing to the very last page
Read the whole Samantha Wolf Mysteries series, now an Amazon bestseller!
Discover the #1 bestselling middle-grade comic that inspired a major motion picture: Children’s Choice Award winner James Patterson has never been more hilarious and heartwarming.
Rafe Khatchadorian has enough problems at home without throwing his first year of middle school into the mix. Luckily, he is got an ace plan for the best year ever: to break every rule in his school’s oppressive Code of Conduct. Chewing gum in class: 5,000 points! Running in the hallway: 10,000 points! Pulling the fire alarm: 50,000 points! But when Rafe’s game starts to catch up with him, he’ll have to decide if winning is all that matters, or if he’s finally ready to face the rules, bullies, and truths he’s been avoiding.
James Patterson’s debut middle-grade novel addresses some of middle schoolers’ biggest issues: bullies, first crushes, and finding out what makes each of us special, all with a hilarious main character and fantastic in-text illustrations that are sure to have young readers begging for more!
Great read for the reluctant reader it was a good funny book, I could not put it down until I had finished it, I will certainly be reading more of this series in the near future. Keep checking Professor Owl’s Book Corner for some more reviews soon.
This week we have picked another two adventure eBook mysteries to read on your eReader, you can also download them to your computer to a desktop program. Although they were written about several years ago, and do have some religious notations, they are a nail-biting series that really does keep you guessing right up to the last page.
They were written between 1996 – 2002, and all together there are six books in the Parker Twins Series available on Amazon some for $0.00 – Again, I read them out of sequence, but they do stand on their own and nothing spoilt the stories or the enjoyment of a great read.
Parker Twins:
1. Cave of the Inca Re (1998)
2. Jungle Hideout (1999)
3. Captured in Colombia (1999)
4. Mystery At Death Canyon (1996)
5. Secret of the Dragon Mark (1996)
6. Race for the Secret Code (2002)
Our books are picked for middle grades or young adults
Captured in Colombia
Parker Twins Series Book 3) Kindle Edition
by Jeanette Windle (Author)
When Uncle Pete is kidnapped by Colombian guerrillas, Justin and Jenny Parker must find him before a nearby volcano erupts. But that means deciding whether to trust a new friend—and whether betrayal deserves forgiveness.
SECRET OF THE DRAGON MARK
(Parker Twins Series Book 5) Kindle Edition
by Jeanette Windle (Author)
When twins Justin and Jenny Parker witness mysterious men in black terrorizing business owners in a local Vietnamese neighborhood, they want to see justice done. They join forces with a friend who lives in the neighborhood to expose the gang. But as they become targets of those with the dragon mark, they discover that standing up for faith and friendship can mean stepping over the line of their own personal safety.
About the Author
Jeanette Windle
Jeanette Windle grew up daughter of American missionaries in South America, where she canoed in jungle rivers, hiked the steep Andes trails, and swung from vines off cliffs into mountain pools. She has since lived in six countries and traveled in more than thirty. Her experiences have birthed eight YA novels, including the Parker Twins Series, and seven adult international intrigue novels, including bestselling Veiled Freedom, Freedom’s Stand, and Congo Daw.
The #WATWB was created as a mission to negate the overwhelming negativity that has been present in our social media streams. For every negative news story in the world, there are plenty of positive, uplifting stories that show hope, compassion and the resiliency of everyday people who face insurmountable challenges. Our hope is to share heartwarming stories that lift the human spirit.
The last Friday of every month bloggers will share their stories led by six co-hosts, this month’s co-hosts are:
As promised last week, I was able to get copies of Books one and two of the Samantha Wolf Series, they are both a quick read, and were books that kept me guessing right to the very last page. If you want to read a good mystery this series is for you.
Although I did read book three first, the new books were not spoilt for me as each book can stand on its own.
I really enjoyed these two as much as last week’s story and gave both books five stars.
At the bottom of the page are more books in this series, and Amazon does still have a couple of them on for $0.00 and they are all available for eReaders.
Twelve-year-old Samantha Wolf, and her best friend Ally, are excited to spend part of their summer break in the mountains of Montana. But unbeknownst to them, Hollow Inn is bathed in mystery and legend. After arriving, they soon discover that things are not going well for Sam’s Aunt and Uncle, who own the Inn. There’s vandalism, ghostly sightings, and rumors of lost treasures. Determined to help, Sam and Ally embark on a challenging journey to find the truth.
What could be better than hiking, swimming, and horseback riding? Having a mystery to solve, of course!
When Sam and Ally go off to summer camp together, they discover the secrets of Camp Whispering Pines. Set in the beautiful, rugged mountains of the Pacific Northwest, the clues are slowly revealed and it’s up to the two girls to figure it out.
New friendships are formed, while at the same time enemies lurk nearby. The closer they get to uncovering the truth behind the camp, the further they are pushed into danger and deceit. Can Sam and Alley put all the pieces together before it’s too late? Follow them on another thrilling tale filled with excitement and adventure, along misty, high mountain trails, and deep ravines, where the answers wait to be found!
All the Books in this series:
Book 1 The Mystery of Hollow Inn
Book 2 The Secret of Camp Whispering Pines
Book 3 The Beach House Mystery
Book 4 The Heiress of Covington Ranch
Book 5 The Haunting of Eagle Creek Middle School
Book 6 A Mysterious Christmas on Orcas Island
Book 7 The Case of the Curious Canine
Book 8 The Legend of Shadow Mountain
Book 9 The Mystery of Old Gully Trail
Book 10 Return to Hollow Inn
Book 11 The Secret of Sanctuary
All books are available from Amazon and other fine book stores.
Do not forget to drop by next week for a new book, check our blog too during the week, as we do add new book suggestions several time as we get them.
What should be a quiet week at the beach turns into the most challenging mystery that Sam and Ally have uncovered yet. What is the truth behind the odd family renting the cabin next-door? Is the tale of a sea creature and haunted lighthouse just a myth? How does a missing girl, and suspicious boat tie into all of it? The girls cannot solve this puzzle on their own, so they turn to their brothers for help.
Travel with them to the scenic Washington Coast and into the Olympic Rain-forest, where the four must work together to untangle the clues and fit the mysterious pieces together.
For those young readers who love a good mystery or older readers who were fans of the Nancy Drew series and have longed for a great book to share with their children here a great read and series that is well written and has you excited as your turn each page. I have given this book five stars, because it really was a great story for both girls and boys.
This is book three, and I enjoyed it even without reading the first two books, which I might add I will be reading over the next couple of weeks.
For a limited time, this book can be downloaded from Amazon to your Kindle $0.00
About the Author
Tara Ellis
Author Tara Ellis lives in a small town in beautiful Washington State, in the Pacific Northwest. She enjoys the quiet lifestyle with her two teenage kids, and several dogs. Tara was a firefighter/EMT and worked in the medical field for many years. She now concentrates on family, photography, and writing middle grade and young adult novels. –This text refers to the paperback edit.
Welcome to the June 2020 Issue of Professor Owl’s Book Corner Newsletter where in addition to supporting those with special needs and learning challenges, we are also committed to being more focused on YA/New Adult reading and literacy. We will be featuring tips from a certified literacy tutor to help make your reading experience the best it can be.
We will also be encouraging young writers and artists with tips, writing exercises and will still be updating our Community News Boards with the latest news from Variety Village and The March of Dimes.
Please feel free to give us your feedback on our new issue, also send us any ideas you may have to help Professor Owl’s Book Corner be all that it can be. We look forward to hearing from you and to bring you a new, more interesting newsletter.
We are sorry to say that although a few countries are now gradually opening their stores there are still few countries where they are still closed. There are also quite a few countries where they still have to keep up with personal distancing, and washing their hands. Most schools have now closed down until the fall. In Ontario, Canada, there may be summer camps that open up in a few weeks, there will be no sleep overs, just day camps.
Some of you may now wondering what you are going to do for the summer, well perhaps in this months newsletter, we will try to share some ideas on how you can spend your time this summer. Libraries too are opening up for curbside collection and pickups.
We are living in a time when we have lots of technology at our fingertips. Is there something you have always wanted to do, learn to draw, play a musical instrument or build something, learn how to use a new software? There has never been a better time check out online courses many are free others a small fee.. youtube also has an abundance of videos on how to do so many different things. Keep yourself busy and the time will pass quickly even study a subject you had problems with at school last year or something you missed because your school year was cut short due to Covid19.
This will be our last newsletter for a couple of months as we have a few other projects lined up over the summer, but we will be back in August with a brand new format and look. However, keep checking the blog for book reviews, as we will be putting up a review every other week and if you check our facebook page we will share a few posts we think you might enjoy as they come available.
A new study from the non-profit Angus Reid Institute canvassed children aged 10 to 17 across the country about their thoughts, expectations, and concerns about these unprecedented times.
May 11, 2020 – Canada’s children have held a unique position in the COVID-19 outbreak. While kids are statistically the lowest risk population, they have also been especially vulnerable to the effects of the pandemic’s resulting shutdown.
Kept home from school, trying to learn online, and worried about the financial and health risks to their parents, children have been anything but buffered from the realities of the last two months.
Are the kids alright?
The most common word they use to describe how they have been feeling recently is “bored”, chosen by 71 per cent. Significant segments (41%) also say they feel “normal”. Older kids are twice as likely as younger ones to say they feel “angry” compared to those aged 10 to 15, and half as likely to say they feel “good”.
When it comes to online classes, most say they are keeping up (75%) but are largely unmotivated (60%) and disliking the arrangement (57%). It stands to reason then, that one of the biggest worries for Canada’s young people includes missing out on school. Three-in-ten (29%) children identify this as their most major concern, a number that rises among teenagers 16 and 17 years of age. Another major fear: that parents or other family members may get sick.
More Key Findings:
Older teenagers (ages 16-17) are more likely to be spending isolation staying in touch with their peers, with three-quarters both texting/calling friends (76%) and spending time on social media (75%).
Asked how they would feel if they had to return to the classroom in the next month, kids are more likely to say they’re looking forward to it (36%) than not (26%). That said, nearly four-in-ten (38%) feel just “okay” about the prospect.
About ARI
The Angus Reid Institute (ARI) was founded in October 2014 by pollster and sociologist, Dr. Angus Reid. ARI is a national, not-for-profit, non-partisan public opinion research foundation established to advance education by commissioning, conducting and disseminating to the public accessible and impartial statistical data, research and policy analysis on economics, political science, philanthropy, public administration, domestic and international affairs and other socio-economic issues of importance to Canada and its world. To read more details on this survey please visit the following link:
If you are worried or anxious and would like to speak with someone, about how you are feeling, there is help only a phone call away.
Our promise
Kids Help Phone is always there for you. No matter what you want to talk about, we’re here to listen. No judgment, totally private, 24/7. Find out more.
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Start a confidential conversation with a real person you can trust.
With the generous support of our leadership donors and major funding partner, Canada Health Infoway, we were able to pilot Crisis Text Line powered by Kids Help Phone. Canada Health Infoway strives to improve the health of Canadians by working with partners, like ourselves, to accelerate the development, adoption and effective use of digital health solutions across Canada.
Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the United States, anytime. Crisis Text Line is here for any crisis. A live, trained Crisis Counselor receives the text and responds, all from our secure online platform. The volunteer Crisis Counselor will help you move from a hot moment to a cool moment.
10 Great Free Websites for High School
There’s still nothing as reliable as the web when it comes to high school classrooms. Given all the free websites out there, there’s also nothing as overwhelming to sift through. Unfortunately, part of that vetting process is wading through the heaps of educational sites that aren’t mature enough in style and learning for high school students’ needs and sensibilities. To help point you in the right direction, we’ve done the hard work of curating a list of free web-based tools that’ll challenge and delight demanding high school students. The picks span all subject areas, including quite a few that cross disciplines.
The following video’s will help you improve your reading and essay skills, hope you enjoy them and improve your literacy skills.
Improve your reading Skills:
Speed Reading Skills
Essay Writing Skills:
Invisible Differences
by Julie Dachez
Professor Owl’s Book Corner,” often features books on special education and I enjoy reading those that bring differences to light. There are still false impressions about autism, and this book does an excellent job at showing a different view. I feel it would be proper to have as a resource for the teen students. It may even help general students understand their classmates with differences more.
This book has a lot of details about what Asperger’s really is or is not. I found it very educational and yet easy to understand also. The details and explanations never disrupt the story or the flow; they only improve it. They help to build the character and what she is experiencing.
This Graphic Novel is a fast, great read! Marguerite navigates life with Aspers, which I did not realize was not as well known or accepted in France as it is in the US and other countries. It is interesting story and keeps your attention. It is not lecturing at all but explains what it is like for a woman with Asperger’s in a fun story.
This book would be great for teens or those who would like to learn more about what life is like for someone with Asperger’s, especially woman who often go undiagnosed a lot more than for men.
I found a large amount of information that was detailed, and quite a lot of it, but it was shown in an extremely easy to read and to understand format.
From my point of view the story told within the novel really opened my eyes and I am now sure that many readers will be less likely to jump to conclusions. This was a very meaningful written story along with some beautiful “Art style illustrations.”
I have given this book five stars, it really is one of the best books that I have read this year.
I graduated from ESCP and hold a PhD in social psychology. After being diagnosed with Asperger’s autism at the age of 27, I decided to change my life. Far from being a burden, this diagnosis allowed me to learn to love myself and to express my personality as I had never dared to do before. Passionate about human and social sciences, my two favorite subjects are autism and feminism. I am a transmedia actress and I express myself as well on my blog as on Youtube , which combines with them two more than two million views. In collaboration with Mademoiselle Caroline I published an autobiographical comic, The invisible difference, published by Delcourt editions in September 2016. I am also the author of Dans ta bulle! published by Marabout in April 2018. In conference and training, I show another vision of autism, far from clichés and sensationalism. Considering autism not as a disability but as a difference, I seek to make a voice heard that is still a minority.
Writing prompts are a wonderful way to kick-start your creativity and generate ideas. There isn’t a right or wrong way to respond, just be honest, be creative and use your imagination!
Write, be creative and most of all HAVE FUN!
This spring so much has changed in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re all social distancing at home, away from our friends, and routines. During these difficult our hearts go out to all of you, especially if you have been personally affected by this horrible illness. Often when I face uncertainty, I find a way to use it to inspire creativity. This month’s writing prompt hopefully will do the same for you. Your mission should you accept it…
“Great things happen to those who don’t stop believing, trying, learning, and being grateful.” ~ Roy T. Bennett
We all have creative goals we want to accomplish but for one reason or another we often let our own thoughts and fears stop us from even trying. What is something you have always wanted to accomplish but have been too scared to try? What would be the worst that could happen? How sill you feel if you don’t even try? What steps can you take today to be one step closer to your goal?
Writing Prompt~A picture is worth a thousand words…
During COVID many of us are home a lot more than usual. Let’s have fun with it…
Write about a real or fictional secret place in your home? Think of stories such as Narnia with its magic wardrobe, The Secret Garden with Colin’s room or the secret garden and how about spooky attics or Basements? Write about a real or fictional place in your home and get creative.
Get creative, write and most of all, have fun! 🙂
My Favourite Writing Books!
I was asked last week what some of my favorite writing books were which considering how many I have read it was hard to whittle down. Here are five books I really enjoyed:
Stephen King on Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King
Perhaps one of the most down to earth and direct writing books I’ve read which I really enjoyed. Whether you are a fan of Stephen King or not one thing you have to say is he is definitely prolific having written hundreds of books, short stories and articles in his long career spanning decades. This book part memoir, part instructional On Writing gives us inspiration and priceless wisdom that makes us realize that we are not alone on our writing journey, our thoughts, fears, hardships and triumphs are often universal among writers.
Write Mind: 299 Things Writers Should Never Say to Themselves by Eric Maisel
We all make excuses to friends and family about why we aren’t writing but in truth many of us tell ourselves even bigger excuses. Psychiatrist, Writer and Creativity Expert Eric Maisel gives us affirmations to replace the “Wrong Mind” reasons we tell ourselves about writing. i.e. “My mother doesn’t believe in me with the “Write Mind” I am endeavoring to believe in myself. Many times, our own worst enemy that stops us from writing is ourselves, this book will help change your self-talk to give you the Write Mind.
Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within by Natalie Goldberg
This isn’t so much a book about the technical aspects of writing but more about inspiration and just writing for the sake of writing, no editing, no second guessing but just letting the words flow onto the paper. Writing Down the Bones are a collection of Natalie’s short musings and exercises to encourage writers to write daily and just write… “Don’t cross out, don’t worry about spelling, punctuation and grammar, lose control, don’t think, don’t get logical, go for the jugular”. Goldberg offers practical tips on motivating yourself and keeping a daily writing practice. She also encourages the reader to change things up if things aren’t working to keep yourself motivated.
Bird By Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott
Heartfelt, humourous and gritty Lamott tells us truthfully about the ups and downs of living a writers life and encourages the writer to tell THEIR story. This book is again not a book about the technicalities of writing, those can be found in a hundred other books but this gives you tips and advice about getting through the difficulties that occur when you sit down to write.
The Right to Write – An Invitation and Initiation into the Writing Life by Julia Cameron
The Right to Write gives you the tools to make the most of your creative drive. This book is composed of over 40 brief personal essays and exercises also known as “invitations” that are an endless source of inspiration. Cameron teaches you valuable tools to tackle problems such as procrastination, insecurity, lack of writing space and a lack of time. Cameron’s advice is valuable to anyone who has felt overwhelmed by the act of writing and helps you to break it down into pieces that are more manageable.
From conversations with other writers many of these happen to be their favourites too. These are the ones I revisit anytime I am in need of a dose of inspiration.
“In life, there are criers, triers and liars. To me, it’s all about trying. Achievement in life is all about trying. Strive for that and you might be surprised what you can achieve.” ~William E Lewis Jr
See you soon! Due to Covid 19 Variety Village will be closed until further notice ~ Check back for updates.
IN THE MEANTIME CHECK OUT VARIETY VILLAGE’S MEMBERSHIP DRIVE AND THEIR NEW SPRING-SUMMER PROGRAM
Variety Village is a family-friendly fitness, sports and life skills facility in Toronto.
There are programs for all ages and skill levels, join today!
Variety Village is pleased to host exciting special events throughout the year. Our goal is to connect with our community and raise funds to support Variety Village by creating mutually beneficial events that support healthy, active lifestyles in an inclusive environment.
Discover ability-enhancing products and services, play adaptive sports and attend informative workshops. Register for free today! This inaugural year will showcase programs and services promoting: accessibility, inclusion, healthcare, sport, fitness, and healthy living at a premier accessible facility – Variety Village in Scarborough, Ontario.
Home | Variety Ontario
How we help. Variety programming empowers children with disabilities to be seen, participate, and feel included. We bring accessible facilities to life with sports, fitness, activities, summer camps, skills training, and coaching for competitive and Paralympic athletes.
We are closely monitoring developments related to COVID-19 (coronavirus) and are taking action to ensure health and safety throughout our operations. Our response plan is informed by the latest information from the Public Health Agency of Canada. Whether you receive services from MODC, or are a partner or supporter, os dernières mises à jour au sujet du COVID-
For updates on The March of Dimes Events ~ Please visit the link below.
For more information contact: Berat Barzanjee
Fund Development Assistant
March of Dimes Canada
10 Overlea Blvd.
Toronto, ON M4H 1A4
Phone:(416) 425-3463 ext. 7305 bbarzanjee@marchofdimes.ca
The #WATWB was created as a mission to negate the overwhelming negativity that has been present in our social media streams. For every negative news story in the world, there are plenty of positive, uplifting stories that show hope, compassion and the resiliency of everyday people who face insurmountable challenges. Our hope is to share heartwarming stories that lift the human spirit.
The last Friday of every month bloggers will share their stories led by six co-hosts, this month’s co-host will be:
Social distancing and self-isolating to help slow down the spread of coronavirus isn’t easy, but for astronauts like Chris Hadfield it’s completely normal.
While far away from family and friends working in close quarters with limited supplies this is what astronauts must get used to while he is working for months at a time in space.
Recently Chris Hadfield posted a video called Astronaut’s Guide to Self Isolation to help those struggling with working from home or just feeling stir-crazy during the pandemic.
Please watch the video below ~ and keep your rocket ship safe.
Welcome to the May 2020 Issue of Professor Owl’s Book Corner Newsletter where in addition to supporting those with special needs and learning challenges, we are also committed to being more focused on YA/New Adult reading and literacy. We will be featuring tips from a certified literacy tutor to help make your reading experience the best it can be.
We will also be encouraging young writers and artists with tips, writing exercises and will still be updating our Community News Boards with the latest news from Variety Village and The March of Dimes.
Please feel free to give us your feedback on our new issue, also send us any ideas you may have to help Professor Owl’s Book Corner be all that it can be. We look forward to hearing from you and to bring you a new, more interesting newsletter.
I believe most countries are now gradually coming close to getting rid of the terrible Covid19 virus and schools may start opening up in the next few weeks, but until then keep following the distancing rules and things will get back to usual ~ sooner than later!
Thanks to everyone who helped and stayed home and many many special thanks to all the people that worked so hard by looking after us all ~ The first responders’, the nurses and doctors, the home-care worker, store keepers and truck drivers who made deliveries of all the things we needed. A special thank to the nursery schools who looked after the children for all of the above and wish all of them a get well soon message, as many of them ended catching the virus themselves and hopefully “Get Better Soon!”
Professor Owl’s Book Corner is aware of the fact also that some of you may still be confined to your own homes and still unable to visit and play with your friends. no hockey no basketball, in fact, most of you, are bored and just do not know what to do, we will give give you a few more ideas to keep you busy until then.
A Few Fun Sites ~ until we get back to our usual routine.
Sunday May 10th is Mother’s Day
Low on funds make a nice card, or gift, get some ideas from the links below, or write her a letter thanking her for everything she does for you. Make her feel special!
Write and let us know if you enjoyed the past few newsletters’ and whether or not you would like us to keep on sharing some of the ideas into the future issues. Just drop us a line at professorowl@outlook.com
The Pros and Cons in E-earning
By Sylvia W. McGrath
The People for Education report on technology in schools comes shortly after the Provincial Government of Ontario announced that all high school students will have to take four e-learning credits – out of the 30 credits needed for a diploma – starting in 2020-21.
What is E-learning?
Experts on e-learning say it is a form of education where a teacher presents a course online, instead of in a traditional classroom. It is done through modules and quizzes that need to be completed in-order to pass.
Once or twice a week, that teacher is available for live communication, but it is up to the students to attend.
When taking their lessons through modules a student is told when these communication classes are to discuss their progress and have any questions they have answered.
It is the students’ responsibility to show up and complete the modules.
If the student does not show, the lack of in-person contact means, teachers cannot accurately assess if a student is struggling.
Apr 8, 2019 – “(Principals) also report that students are keen to sign up for e–learning courses, but at times struggle with the self-discipline these courses require …
(Principals) also report in a later report that, students are keen to sign up for e-learning courses, but at times struggle with the self-discipline these courses require,” the report said.
“While it is useful to expose all students to online learning, research has shown that the lowest achieving students consistently perform worse in online courses than in face-to-face classes.”
In TORONTO – Just 5% of students on average per high school in Ontario are currently enrolled in online courses, and some have trouble learning so independently, says a recent report released.
The education advocacy group’s survey found that at least some students are enrolled in e-learning in 87% of schools, though in those schools, only about 5% of students are taking those courses. This is however new to some area’s in Canada.
With the increased use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in most sectors of society and recent developments in adaptive hardware and software have allowed individuals with disabilities to do things that were difficult or impossible for them to do in the past.
E-learning has allowed people who are blind to read using text-to-speech technology.
People who are deaf to communicate using chat programs, People with difficulties using their hands or arms to write and communicate using dictation software (Fichten, Asuncion, Barile, Fossey, & De Simone, 2000).
In the postsecondary arena, e-learning (i.e., ICTs used in teaching) are extensively used by professors plus virtually all colleges and universities, not only in the United States, but also in Canada (Abrami et al., 2006)
In the United Kingdom (Weller, Pegler, & Mason, 2005). Whether it is PowerPoint presentations in class, the use of web.
Based discussions to further in-class conversation, or courses delivered completely over the Internet, it is therefore clear that such technologies used by professors are here to stay.
How successfully do these ICTs interact with adaptive hardware and software that some students with disabilities require?
How accessible is the growing array of available e-learning on campus (Konur, 2007; Waddell, 2007)?
These are important questions because the numbers of students with disabilities in postsecondary education have been rising both in Canada (Fichten, Jorgensen, Havel, & Barile, 2006; Tremblay & Le May, 2005) and the US (National Council on Disability, 2003),
A recent large-scale study showed that in 2003–2004, 11% of undergraduates had a disability (Snyder & Dillow, 2007).
From a personal experience as a Literacy Tutor to both young and old adults with learning challenges, my students picked things up much quicker using a computer than sitting reading books etc.
In addition, during the past few years, skill in using ICTs has become mandatory in post-secondary education and the workplace (e.g., Ezziane, 2007).
But how well do the ICTs used by professors in teaching postsecondary courses (i.e., e-learning) meet the needs of students with different disabilities?
How successfully do these ICTs interact with adaptive hardware and software that some students with disabilities require? How accessible is the growing array of available e-learning on campus (Konur, 2007; Waddell, 2007)?
These are important questions because the numbers of students with disabilities in postsecondary education have been rising both in Canada (Fichten, Jorgensen, Havel, & Barile, 2006; Tremblay & Le May, 2005) and the US (National Council on Disability, 2003), where a recent large scale study showed that in 2003–2004, 11% of undergraduates had a disability (Snyder & Dillow, 2007).
In addition, during the past few years, skill in using ICTs has become mandatory in postsecondary education and the workplace (e.g., Ezziane, 2007; Stodden, Conway, & Chang, 2003).
For example, a recent investigation shows that computer use on the job is associated with higher salaries for employees both with and without disabilities (Canadian Council on Social Development, 2004), and that for people with disabilities this is especially important (e.g., Kruse, Krueger, & Drastal, 1996).
Abrami et al. (2006), who recently showed how important e-learning initiatives are in Canadian postsecondary education, also noted that not very much is known about the e-learning needs and concerns of students with disabilities.
Conclusion: The Value and the Promise of Self-study what they learn, new knowledge emerges. The work in a special issue of Teacher Educational Quarterly (Russell and Pinnegar, 1995) provides one example of that, while McNiffs Teaching as Learning (1993) is another …
Through 52 fun, customizable crafts activities, Craft Lab for Kids promotes creativity and hands-on making for kids age 8 and up.
#Craftlabforkids#NetGalley:
Description:
With Craft Lab for Kids, help your kids tap into the fun and empowerment of creating their own custom designs to wear, decorate with, and give. Spruce Up Your Stuff. Learn fun ways to personalize with a variety of embellishment techniquesExpress Yourself! Add your personality to all kinds of homemade projectsTake Care of YOU. Self-care DIY projects to benefit their well-beingKids Just Wanna Have Fun. Just-for-fun projects to make everyone smileClassicCrafts with a Twist. Tried-and-true crafts updated for today’s kids15-Minute Makes. Quickie crafts to make in a flashKindness Crafts. Crafty creations to brighten someone’s dayEnjoy the pleasure and satisfaction of making things together with Craft Lab for Kids!
A wonderful book for inspiring children to try their hands at a variation of craft projects. The illustrations and photographs are beautiful and will encourage anyone to have a go. Some projects do require specialist materials that you probably would not have on hand immediately, but many could be adapted and used as a springboard to create something else. There are projects suitable for all ages and abilities and some more basic than others. A great book to have on hand when all the kids are at home looking for something to do. Also an inspiration for older people to make quick gifts, there is something for every age.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for a review
About Author
Stephanie Corfee
Stephanie Corfee is an artist, designer, and author who works from her home studio in Malvern, Pennsylvania. Her artwork is charmingly whimsical with a feminine, youthful spirit. She has written several art books and licenses her surface designs for gifts, apparel, and home accessories.
Her licensed artwork can be found on products that can be purchased through retailers like Target, Urban Outfitters, Bed Bath & Beyond and Home Goods. She has worked with publishers Quarto Books, Walter Foster Publishing, Capstone Publishing and Hachette Book Group.
Stephanie Corfee’ s popular Lab for Kids series features a growing list of books that share hands-on activities and projects on a wide host of topics, including art, astronomy, clay, geology, math, and even how to create your own circus—all authored by established experts in their fields. Each lab contains a complete materials list, clear step-by-step photographs of the process, as well as finished samples. The labs can be used as singular projects or as part of a yearlong curriculum of experiential learning. The activities are open-ended, designed to be explored over and over, often with different results. Geared toward being taught or guided by adults, they are enriching for a range of ages and skill levels. Gain firsthand knowledge on your favorite topic with Lab for Kids.
Creative pursuits have always been a part of her life. She feels very lucky that she can make a career of it so that she can be home to care for her 3 boys, Coop, Grey, and Lang. Having a certain amount of flexibility in her work hours gives her family a break from the strict 9-5 routine. The best days for Stephanie are when her husband gets home early, the sun is shining, and she can play hooky for the afternoon. Living this way keeps her sane and provides her with constant inspiration for new art.
Learn more at http://www.stephaniecorfee.com.
Professor Owl’s Favourite Book:
T I L T
First in The Flying Ponies series
By L.M. Ransom
For sixteen-year-old Charlotte Flynn, moving into the heart of the Michigan woods with her family is the biggest adventure she’s ever had. A self-proclaimed geek girl with a penchant for Sherlock Holmes, she wonders if she’ll ever have an exciting quest of her own.
But when she discovers an antique carousel tucked into the woods near her new home, her life soon spins out of control. For the ponies are so much more than their faded paint portrays. Filled with primal magic, the ponies are alive, and they have been waiting for her for a long time.
With the help of a young carousel caretaker named Black, Charlotte soon discovers that the Flying Ponies are in danger from others who want to possess them and their magic. Drawn into a battle for the carousel and ultimately the entire world while navigating her first true romance, Charlotte may have more adventure than she ever bargained for . . .
“This is a great read for young adult readers’. It’s a charming read told through the eyes of the modern geek-girl teen. There are references to all the favorites — Star Wars, Doctor Who, and Harry Potter — but Ransom does a fine job of relating to each of these without trying to be any of them.
I found the book an exciting read, full of adventure, magic, love and fantasy! If you like C.S. Lewis, you’ll love this book. This is the first installment of The Flying Ponies Trilogy and I can’t wait for book 2!
M. Ransom lives in West Michigan with her husband, son, and daughter. She also shares her home with two crazy Dachshunds, and her heart with two naughty ponies. L.M. is a librarian by trade, and an author by passion. She draws from her lifelong love and obsession with all things equine to spin tales about nefarious carousel horses.
A self-professed geek girl, L.M.’s fandoms span the galaxy from Tatooine to Gallifrey, and back down to the seedy streets of Gotham City. As a Christian, she feels a calling to tell clean, intriguing stories for readers to escape into. You can find L. M. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and lmransom.com.
Writing prompts are a wonderful way to kick-start your creativity and generate ideas. There isn’t a right or wrong way to respond, just be honest, be creative and use your imagination!
Write, be creative and most of all HAVE FUN!
This spring so much has changed in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re all social distancing at home, away from our friends, and routines. During these difficult our hearts go out to all of you, especially if you have been personally affected by this horrible illness. Often when I face uncertainty, I find a way to use it to inspire creativity. This month’s writing prompt hopefully will do the same for you. Your mission should you accept it…
As many of us are aware when things begin to open up again the world will most likely be a little different for each one of us. Write about what you hope the world will be like when we emerge again? What will our new normal look like? Will the earth be cleaner, will people be kinder, will we spend more time with our family?
Writing Prompt~A picture is worth a thousand words…
‘Reading gives us someplace to go when we must stay where we are.’ ~Mason Cooley
What was the last book you read? Since we are stuck in one place write about what happens when you step through a portal and end up in a setting from this book. Are you transported to a different city, country or planet? Have you travelled into the past or into the future?
Get creative, write and most of all, have fun! 🙂
Flexing Those Creative Muscles!
Although I normally talk about writing there are so many more creative activities you can do while at home and for most of you I think it is a perfect time to give something new a try. If you don’t think you are creative enough, I think it’s time we had a little talk….
Unfortunately, you may believe that only a few people are capable of being creative, that it is some sort of an exclusive club that you don’t think you can be a member of. This is one of life’s biggest myths and the truth is, creativity is a lot like your muscles; everyone has creativity but they need to use it regularly in order for it to work properly and not get out of shape. You don’t need to be a Picasso, Ansel Adams or Hendricks to be creative, you just have to dedicate yourself to doing what you enjoy and uncovering your creative potential.
How does one begin to develop one’s creative muscle?
Focus on a creative activity every day!
Whether it’s journaling, doodling, painting, making music, writing or crafts, do anything that inspires you and makes you come alive. By performing small creative tasks, you are exercising your creative “muscle” helping it to grow strong.
Think outside the box!
Sometimes, challenges and limitations can be a good thing, especially when they force you to work within your means and find different approaches. Challenges often motivate you to be more imaginative in solving a problem or creating an item. Creativity is essentially breaking through barriers and doing something different. Some of the most creative people in the world have used challenges to motivate them, they have had no choice but to work around constraints and find solutions. Learning to think outside the box in your creative life can also give you the boost you need when you face problems in your day to day life.
Immerse yourself in creative culture and learn all you can!
Want to write? Write everyday and read everything you can, both the good and bad. Want to be musician? Listen to many different types of music, practice daily and take in online streaming music performances to learn from others. Never get discouraged if you think someone is more gifted than you…remember, they once started where you are now.
Keep an open mind!
By training yourself to look at life with a creative eye, you open yourself to the never-ending potential of what you encounter every day. Once you have opened your creative eyes you will find that you’ll notice more and more things which will serve to inspire you. The more you know, the more you will desire to know, and the more active your sense of wonder will become.
Try something new on a daily basis!
By learning a new skill and doing something in a slightly different way you can produce different results. By taking a different route on your daily walk, you can change what you see, changing your experiences can expand your point of view. While stuck at home check out online resources, research new websites or online groups. Search out #hashtags of interests and follow/friend people interested in the same things i.e. if you are interested in writing try the #writingcommunity hashtag on Instagram and twitter, Facebook has so many groups dedicated to different creative pursuits. Finding one that shares your intrest will help you to expand and enrich your online social circle. The more you push yourself out of your comfort zone every day, the more your sense of adventure grows and so does your passion for creating.
By unleashing your creativity, you will bring about a new passion for life. The more you develop those creative muscles, the stronger they’ll grow, the more able they are to produce, inspiring you to take yourself to the next level.
“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.”
~ Maya Angelou
See you soon! Due to Covid 19 Variety Village will be closed until further notice ~ Check back for updates.
IN THE MEANTIME CHECK OUT VARIETY VILLAGE’S MEMBERSHIP DRIVE AND THEIR NEW SPRING-SUMMER PROGRAM
Variety Village is a family-friendly fitness, sports and life skills facility in Toronto.
There are programs for all ages and skill levels, join today!
Variety Village is pleased to host exciting special events throughout the year. Our goal is to connect with our community and raise funds to support Variety Village by creating mutually beneficial events that support healthy, active lifestyles in an inclusive environment.
Discover ability-enhancing products and services, play adaptive sports and attend informative workshops. Register for free today! This inaugural year will showcase programs and services promoting: accessibility, inclusion, healthcare, sport, fitness, and healthy living at a premier accessible facility – Variety Village in Scarborough, Ontario.
Home | Variety Ontario
How we help. Variety programming empowers children with disabilities to be seen, participate, and feel included. We bring accessible facilities to life with sports, fitness, activities, summer camps, skills training, and coaching for competitive and Paralympic athletes.
We are closely monitoring developments related to COVID-19 (coronavirus) and are taking action to ensure health and safety throughout our operations. Our response plan is informed by the latest information from the Public Health Agency of Canada. Whether you receive services from MODC, or are a partner or supporter, os dernières mises à jour au sujet du COVID-
For updates on The March of Dimes Events ~ Please visit the link below.
For more information contact: Berat Barzanjee
Fund Development Assistant
March of Dimes Canada
10 Overlea Blvd.
Toronto, ON M4H 1A4
Phone:(416) 425-3463 ext. 7305 bbarzanjee@marchofdimes.ca
The #WATWB was created as a mission to negate the overwhelming negativity that has been present in our social media streams. For every negative news story in the world, there are plenty of positive, uplifting stories that show hope, compassion and the resiliency of everyday people who face insurmountable challenges. Our hope is to share heartwarming stories that lift the human spirit.
The last Friday of every month bloggers will share their stories led by six co-hosts, this month’s co-host will be:
By now, you are probably sick of all the bad news COVID–19 has brought world wide. Cases are rising daily, new countries going into lockdown, travel plans just not happening. So far this year is not looking very bright, is it?However, there is no need for us to feel like the end of the world is here. Over decades our parents and grandparents have survived as we will too.
There has been a lot of harm to many people in so many ways as the result of COVID-19. It’s a sad and serious situation.
It has, however, also brought people together. Political parties, city officials have all worked together to help ease the financial burdens for the families in need, changing laws to help being housebound or a fear of losing one’s job a little more bearable.
We must not forget the wonderful nurses and doctors who have worked so hard in the hospitals and of course the first responders, and it is not over yet. I would like to extend “A special thank you to all!”
Today I am just showing the way random acts of kindness, have given people hope that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and life could be a lot better for us all.
To view the videos ~ Please click on the link below:
