As a parent I would purchase Brightstorm, a Web 2.0 tool, for SAT & ACT test preparation and core subject studies. It includes lessons via video for Advanced Placement classes and regular subjects such as Writing, Algebra II, Literature, Pre Calculus, and more. Their site was professional, trustworthy, streamlined, aesthetically pleasing, and user friendly. They even have a weekly free download. I identify with their mission statement describing their challenge: “Brightstorm gives great classroom teachers a new channel that enables them to reach and inspire millions of teens with their unique personalities, expertise and lesson plans. The net result is a powerful network where teens learn more, expert teachers are able to reach more students, and parents can play a more active role in building their kids' confidence in school.” I liked the short biographies of the teachers next to their pictures; I felt very welcomed, and I can only imagine teenagers would, too.
I am particularly interested in the grammar portions as the presenter in the video demonstrated the lesson in a relaxed, non-threatening, logical manner, using visuals, music, humor-and without a textbook. I can see my high school students engaged by this just as they are when I show a short clip of Grammar Rock. Financial cut backs being what they are, my school cannot afford this Brightstorm Web 2.0 package at $49.95 a pop, but I still think as a tutoring aid the website would have intrinsic value. I suppose my students could make a video for each grammar module, mimicking this entertaining style. I feel a lesson plan brewing…for my AR/CBL perhaps I could have one or two “grammarian” students who feel comfortable enough coaching other students create a video module for each grammar unit, while I film them. This could enable my regular and tutorial classes to become more active and visual learners. I think the Brightstorm site is an exciting asset, just too expensive for me.
http://www.brightstorm.com/
Photo from http://www.brightstorm.ca/images/BrightStormLogo_small_bkpin.jpg
No comments:
Post a Comment