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Cuesta College Community Programs
(Bldg 4700, San Luis Obispo Cuesta College Campus on Hwy 1)
PO Box 8106, San Luis Obispo, CA 93403-8106
Phone: (805) 546-3132; Fax: (805) 546-3
107

Ed2Go Online Courses

Teaching & Education

Cuesta Community Programs has online classes that help you update skills, discover new talents or map out a new profession...all at your fingertips in the comfort and convenience of your own home, office or while traveling. Classes begin at $94 and offer a wide range of topics that begin every month, run for six weeks for approximately 24 hours of instruction. Our instructors are famous for their ability to create warm and supportive environments while facilitating their courses with interactive quizzes, assignments and tutorials. Students are able to read class information and ask their instructor questions at times most convenient to them...
24 hours a day/7 days a week. Our online classes are not-for-credit but do have "Letters of Completion" available upon request.

Basic Requirements:
Internet access, E-mail, Netscape or Internet Explorer Web browser.
See individual classes for additional requirements.

If you find a class without an online registration link,
call (805) 546-3132 to register over the phone.

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Algebra Intro
Develop a rich understanding of the rudiments of algebra in a relaxed and supportive learning environment. This course will help you understand some of the most important algebraic concepts, including orders of operation, units of measurement, scientific notation, algebraic equations, inequalities with one variable, and applications of rational numbers. An emphasis on practical applications for your newfound skills will help you learn to reason in a real-world context. As a result, you will acquire a wide variety of basic skills that will help you find solutions to almost any problem. This unique and thought-provoking course integrates algebra with many other areas of study, including history, biology, geography, business, government, and more. By the time you finish this course, you will understand how algebra is relevant to almost every aspect of your daily life.
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, and the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser.

Instructor: Ivy Bishop;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL101E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL201E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL301E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL401E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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Classroom Computer, The
If you're a teacher, this course will show you how to create an exciting and enriching experience for your students. You'll learn a wide variety of simple, field-tested, and easy to apply techniques that will make the most of the computer in your classroom. In this course, your instructor will work with you to assess your knowledge of computer use and to help you set goals for yourself so that you achieve the highest level of personal benefit from this course. Simple classroom management ideas will help you maximize your classroom time for learning. You'll also discover powerful ideas and interesting web sites that you can immediately use to enhance your language arts, math, science, and social studies curriculum. You will discover pointers on using email and the Internet effectively to increase your students' understanding and learning in all content areas.
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Stacy Colwell;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL102E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL202E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL302E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL402E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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Creating a Classroom Web Site
Learn how to create a classroom Web site in this fun, easy-to-understand course for teachers. In no time, you'll build a site with text, images, animations, tables, links, and more. Then you'll create a WebQuest and a blog to add to your site. You'll also learn how students can use site builders to create their own Web sites in minutes. As we move along, you'll be amazed by how simple creating a classroom Web site can be and all the ways in which having one can make you a more effective and dynamic teacher. By the end of this course, you'll have your own published classroom Web site, and you'll feel energized by your great new teaching tool! REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Robin Sellers;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL103E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL203E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL303E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL403E.310
Register Online

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Creating K-12 Learning Materials (was Big Ideas in Little Books)
Do you have an idea for an instructional aid? The instructor--a former K-12 teacher who is also the author and developer of over 50 products for the educational market, will help you develop instructional aids that align with standards important to your district. This exciting program will show you how how to create and self-publish work books, lab manuals, booklets, activity kits, visual aids, manipulatives, and other powerful instructional aids. You'll also learn how to profit from your ideas by offering the products you develop for sale through catalogs, stores, and trade shows. REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Michael McMillan;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL104E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL204E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL304E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL404E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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Creating the Inclusive Classroom: Strategies for Success
In this professional development course for teachers, you'll get the training you need to reach the diverse mix of students you face every day—learning proven strategies that turn diversity into opportunity. With a mix of students who have learning disabilities, neurobiological disorders, and physical challenges, the modern classroom requires an efficient and effective teacher who can prioritize under tight deadlines and be creative on demand. Over the next six weeks, you'll learn how to be the kind of super teacher who can guide every student toward academic success. And do you know what the best part is? You don't have to tear your hair out in order to adapt each lesson so that it makes sense for all your students! We'll start our journey by talking about how students with special needs became a part of the mainstream. Then we'll discuss the inclusive classroom as a home for these students, exploring how all our kids can benefit from an adaptive learning environment. We'll examine how each child learns and what you can do to help him or her develop new strengths. You'll gain a deeper understanding about building collaborative partnerships with the special educator and classroom aides. Over the course of 12 lessons, you'll discover creative, low-budget strategies for turning your inclusive classroom into a nurturing, supportive learning environment that helps every student. If you're looking for the right way to get all your students excited about coming to school, this is the course for you! REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, and the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser.

Instructor: Ellen Arnold;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL105E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL205E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL305E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL405E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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Creative Classroom, The
Creativity will abound in your classroom as you tap your students' hidden talents. Learn how to use creativity to teach reading, writing, visual arts, performing arts, social studies, science, mathematics, and physical and health education. Develop creative new approaches to field trips, learning labs, activities, exercises, assignments, and evaluation methods. Think beyond the textbook and challenge your students by making your classroom a creative classroom!
REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Robin Sellers;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL106E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL206E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL306E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL406E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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Differentiated Instruction in the Classroom
Differentiated instruction (DI) is becoming a mainstay in classrooms across the country as educators are starting to see the ways that the traditional classroom setting limits their ability to reach diverse learners. Join us on this journey through 10 practical DI integration strategies! Count on at least three sample integration lessons on each strategy, and just think of all the ways that you can apply them to improve learning outcomes for your students. Over the next six weeks, we'll talk about DI strategies ranging from multiple intelligences (MI) to flexible grouping, cubing, WebQuests, I-Searches, tiering, anchoring activities, and interest centers. Every lesson is packed with real-world examples that will help you put these strategies to use in your own classroom. We'll take a look at integration across different subjects, grade levels, and learning profiles as you gain helpful tips on bringing DI to your classroom. This course is a must for today's teachers who often have to differentiate quickly, and with a minimum of resources. DI is an excellent launch pad for ramping up your creative classroom, and with the tips in these lessons, you'll be reaching your diverse learners in no time flat.
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, and the Netscape Navigator or Microsoft Internet Explorer Web browser.

Instructor: Tracey Birch;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL107E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL207E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL307E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL407E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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Easy Classroom Podcasting
Have you ever felt like you just can't reach your students? They speak the language of technology while you speak the language of, well, teachers. But what if there was a bridge between the two? In this professional training course for teachers, you'll learn how to make a podcast that creates a memorable learning experience for your students. You'll find their interest reignited when you start using their favorite formats: audio, images, and video. You won't even need an iPod or a big budget to harness the power of podcasting in your classroom. Over the next six weeks, we'll create three podcasts: one audio, one enhanced, and one video. As we make our masterpieces, we'll talk about the four steps of podcast planning, the best free software to use, common pitfalls and problems, and smart ways to integrate this exciting medium into your everyday curriculum. You can expect students to be more engaged and retain knowledge longer if you teach them in this exciting digital format! As an added bonus, there's nothing quite like helping students discover the pleasures of putting their favorite gadgets--like headphones and computers--to work for school projects! REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Lori Elliott;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL108E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL208E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL308E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL408E.310
Register Online

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Empowering Students with Disabilities
Teaching students with disabilities is a rewarding challenge, and this course gives you the tools you’ll need to succeed.  No matter what grade you teach—from preschool through high school—you’ll learn powerful strategies you can put to work immediately in your classroom. In addition, you’ll gain the knowledge you need to understand and cope with the most common disabilities you’ll encounter. You’ll start by putting yourself in the shoes of students with special needs as you explore a wide variety of disabilities ranging from autism to cerebral palsy. Simulations and real-life stories will give you a firsthand look at what it’s like to be a learner with special needs, and you’ll see how common disabilities affect classroom behavior and learning. Then comes the best part: solutions! In each lesson, you’ll find dozens of tips for fostering the reading, writing, and math skills of students with special needs. In addition, you’ll master techniques for helping these learners behave appropriately and make friends in your classroom. You’ll also get the inside story on Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and transition plans, and you’ll learn the most effective ways to collaborate with parents and professionals. By the end of this course, you’ll feel confident in your ability to help any student who comes through your door. You’ll also discover that while the challenges can be big when you’re teaching students with disabilities, the victories are big as well.
REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Sara Hardin;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL153E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL253E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL353E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL453E.310
Register Online

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Enhancing Language Development in Childhood
Follow your child's lead and have fun while enhancing language development! In this fun and user-friendly course for parents, teachers, and caregivers, you will discover how children learn to process language and how they become proficient speakers and thinkers. This course will help you enrich your child's life by stimulating his or her continued speech, brain, and language development in an enjoyable, age-appropriate, and natural way.
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: KT Paxton;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL109E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL209E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL309E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL409E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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GED Prep for the Language Arts, Writing Test
Worried about the GED Language Arts, Writing test? Don't be! This course will help you prepare to take both parts of this two-part exam. You’ll learn the basics of usage and mechanics of the English language and then find out how to apply that knowledge in order to edit passages for the multiple choice portion of the test. After covering the basics, you will then focus on the three kinds of questions that will be encountered on the multiple choice test: correction, revision and construction shift. You'll then learn a step-by-step approach to writing that will give you the confidence you need to craft a winning GED essay! You'll understand all the elements of the GED essay, including how the essay is scored, and what types of topics you're likely to encounter. Lastly, you will apply your new editing skills and knowledge of usage and mechanics of the English language to proofread and evaluate your own essay. REQUIREMENTS: Ability to read and understand the English language at the high school level. An elementary understanding of English grammar and mechanics will be useful. Internet access, e-mail, and the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser.

Important: Some GED Testing Centers require proof that you have passed a GED preparation course or the official GED Practice Tests (OPT's) before you can take the official GED tests. Before enrolling in this course, please check with the official GED Testing Center where you intend to take your tests to make sure that this course will meet their requirements.

Instructor: Barbara Rolston;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL111E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL211E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL311E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL411E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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GED Prep for the Math Test
Master the skills required to successfully pass Test 5 in the GED test series. You'll start off with a review of math basics and begin building the foundation you'll need to solve the types of math problems commonly found on the test. In the process, you'll develop hands-on experience with fractions, decimals, percents, proportions, statistics, algebra, and geometry. Then, you'll get a chance to apply your knowledge by practicing with the same kind of questions you may encounter on the GED test. By the time you finish this course, you'll be much more comfortable with your math skills, and you'll know how, when, and why to use each math concept you learn.
REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, and the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser. You should have the ability to read and write the English language at a high school level. You should also be able to add, subtract, multiply, and divide whole numbers. If you are testing in the United States, you should have an understanding of the English measurement system. If you're testing in Canada, you should be familiar with the metric system.

Important: Some GED Testing Centers require proof that you have passed a GED preparation course or the official GED Practice Tests (OPT's) before you can take the official GED tests. Before enrolling in this course, please check with the official GED Testing Center where you intend to take your tests to make sure that this course will meet their requirements.

Instructor: Barbara Rolston;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL112E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL212E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL312E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL412E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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GED Test Preparation
Technological advances in the workplace have made a high school diploma essential for almost all workers. If you want to obtain employment or advance in your career, you will need to demonstrate to you employer that you have at least a high school education. If you never finished high school, the GED exam will serve as proof that you have acquired the equivalent of a high school education on your own. If you are comfortable reading newspapers and you can add, subtract, multiply, and divide without a calculator, you're halfway there! This course will help you develop the additional reading and thinking skills you'll need to succeed in all five GED test areas: Writing Skills, Social Studies, Science, Literature, and Math. After completion of this course, you should be well-equipped to take--and pass--the GED! REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, and the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser. Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Important: Some GED Testing Centers require proof that you have passed a GED preparation course or the official GED Practice Tests (OPT's) before you can take the official GED tests. Before enrolling in this course, please check with the official GED Testing Center where you intend to take your tests to make sure that this course will meet their requirements.

Instructor: Barbara Rolston;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL113E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL213E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL313E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL413E.310
Register Online

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GMAT Test Preparation
Applying to graduate business and management schools usually means taking the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test). Our GMAT Preparation Course is a must. Taking this course will provide you with test-taking techniques and methods for improving your score and saving time on all GMAT question types. You'll review the more familiar questions and learn how to approach question types that may be new to you, like critical reasoning and data sufficiency. In the verbal lessons, we will discuss how to do your best on reading comprehension questions, sentence correction questions, critical reasoning questions, and the analytical writing assessment. In the quantitative lessons, we provide a comprehensive math review and techniques for tackling both problem solving and data sufficiency questions. You will practice on actual GMAT tests from previous years, which is the best way to prepare for any standardized test.
REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Highly recommended, but not required: The Official Guide for GMAT Review, 11th Edition, or The Official Guide for GMAT Verbal Review and The Official Guide for GMAT Quantitative Review.

Instructor: Scott Hatch & Lisa Hatch;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL114E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL214E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL314E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL414E.310
Register Online

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Grammar Refresher
Whatever your goals, a grasp of English grammar is important if you want to improve your speaking and writing skills. This course will help you gain confidence in your ability to produce clean, grammatically correct work. You'll explore the basics of English grammar—like sentence structure and punctuation—as well as more sophisticated concepts—like logic and clarity. A patient instructor, memorable lessons, vivid examples, and interactive exercises will give you ample opportunity to put what you learn into practice. Reacquaint yourself with old, forgotten rules, meet some new ones, and discover your own grammatical strengths.
REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, and the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser. Note: This course teaches American English grammar. Also, this course is not designed for ESL students. If you are an ESL student, please consider enrolling in Grammar for ESL Students with Sabri Bebawi.

Instructor: Ellen Feld;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL115E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL215E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL315E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL415E.310
Register Online

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GRE Prep - Part 1 (Verbal and Analytical)
This course covers all question types on the verbal and analytical sections of the GRE. We will discuss how to do your best on reading comprehension, analogies, sentence completions, antonyms, and logical and analytical reasoning questions. We will cover time saving techniques for both the paper based and computer administrations of the test.
REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader) and the following required text, which should be purchased prior to the beginning of class:
Practicing to Take the GRE General Test, (tenth edition).

Instructor: Scott Hatch & Lisa Hatch;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL116E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL216E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL316E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL416E.310
Register Online

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GRE Prep - Part 2 (Quantitative)
This course features a math review and techniques for tackling the quantitative comparison, discrete quantitative, and data interpretation questions that make up the math section of the GRE. We will also cover time saving techniques for both the paper-based and computer administrations of the test.
REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader) and the following required text, which should be purchased prior to the beginning of class:
Practicing to Take the GRE General Test, (tenth edition).

Instructor: Scott Hatch & Lisa Hatch;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL117E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL217E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL317E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL417E.310
Register Online

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Guided Reading: Strategies for the Differentiated Classroom
Now more than ever, today's teachers are grappling with the question of how to reach struggling readers. While there are no quick fixes, thousands of teachers are combining the principles of differentiated instruction and guided reading with unparalleled success. Mixed in the right proportion, these popular strategies will help you build a balanced literary framework that gets results with even the most challenged learners. Differentiated instruction tactics will help you understand how your students learn so you can teach in a way that makes sense to them. When you apply those tactics within the guided reading framework, which helps you lead students through new ways of approaching text, great things start to happen. The result is a classroom full of students who are able to negotiate increasingly challenging texts with unprecedented fluency. This course is critical for today's educators, who often have to teach on the run with limited resources and unlimited demands on their time. Get ready to reach your readers with ease in no time flat!
REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, and the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser. Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Marsha Spears;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL118E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL218E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL318E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL418E.310
Register Online

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Guided Reading & Writing: Strategies for Maximum Student Achievement
Around 30% of students in sixth grade already have trouble with basic reading and writing. These literacy problems affect performance across subject areas, and they often leave teachers wondering how to help. Get the professional development training you need to improve student literacy as an accomplished teacher shares the secrets of turning guided reading strategies into opportunities for teaching writing. The road to literacy is also the road to ingenuity, invention, and imagination, and you'll soon learn how to take your students from groans to grins with creative lesson plans that really work! We'll start our journey by talking about the reasons reading and writing are so difficult for students. Then we'll meet the total literacy framework and see how it mitigates literacy problems once and for all. Since this framework is based on guided reading lessons that flow naturally into writing challenges, you'll learn the recipe for a successful guided reading into writing lesson. Once the framework is in place, we'll investigate a number of ways to modify this basic recipe for a variety of K-12 circumstances, wrapping up with a look at good writing habits and the traits of a productive writing conference. If you're looking for the right way to get students excited about the power of literacy, this is the course for you!
REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Marsha Spears;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL119E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL219E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL319E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL419E.310
Register Online

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Guiding Kids on the Internet
Work the Web with your kids! This essential course for teachers, leaders, and parents will give you the confidence you need for helping children get the best from Internet access. Step-by-step instructions will lead you in discovering various kid-friendly Internet features. These include web page creation with easy-to-use templates and examples, kid-safe searches, fun resources for kids; and the many communication possibilities for schools, clubs, teacher networks, and even extended families. This course includes lessons for you, the adult, but also features printable instruction sheets that can be used directly with the young people you work with. The activities are informative, interactive, and fun; and, most importantly, will help you and your kids use the Internet to its fullest potential.
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Katherine Emmons & Christine Gee;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL120E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL220E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL320E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL420E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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Homeschool with Success
Homeschooling can be a bit of a mystery if you're new to the topic. In this course, we'll start at the beginning, delving into the history of homeschooling and examining its status today in all 50 states. You'll see how to find the laws and regulations that govern your community--and you might be surprised to learn that homeschooling is legal and growing all around you. As you discover what you need to know to homeschool your children, you'll also become familiar with the terminology the homeschool community uses. To ensure you're well prepared to meet your children's needs, we'll discuss learning styles and how they affect homeschooling. You'll learn how to take your children out of school and make their transition to homeschooling both fun and effective. We'll talk about children that need extra attention, both special needs and gifted, and a variety of types of homeschooling so you can choose the one that best fits your family's lifestyle. You'll see how homeschooling gives you the opportunity to socialize your children as well as build long-lasting and productive relationships with peers and adults. We'll also explore homeschool support groups, which provide resources for teaching your children and can be a source of friends, emotional support, and lots of fun activities with like-minded families. You'll also find out how homeschooling gives you unique opportunities to teach valuable life skills. From manners to money management, you can be sure your children master subjects that don't make it into most textbooks. We'll also talk about full-time homeschooling for travelers and how it can fit into their adventurous lives. When you finish this course, you'll have lots of information and guidance to plot your homeschooling course for years to come!
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Beverly Schulz;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL121E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL221E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL321E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL421E.310
Register Online

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Integrating Technology in the Classroom
In this professional development course for teachers, you'll learn the secrets of technology integration in the classroom, gaining the skills educators need to use tools such as wikis, podcasts, and blogs effectively. You'll discover simple ways to integrate technology to enhance your subject material and meet your course goals. We'll explore quick-and-easy, standards-based solutions for more interactive lesson plans, exciting WebQuests, and challenging assignments. We’ll also unleash the power of Web resources, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. You'll learn how to design your presentation station, identify kid-friendly Internet search tools, teach keyboarding and word processing, and develop standards-based, integrated lesson plans in reading, writing, science, math, social studies, music, and art. We'll delve into ways to reach special needs, GATE, and bilingual learners. Finally, we'll look at computer ethics and the future of technology in the classroom. Whether you’re new to the integration process or already use emerging technologies in your classroom, this course is a must for all of today's teachers who often have to produce more and more in less and less time. By the end of our time together, you'll have a treasure of ideas for integrating all types of technology into your lesson plans across the curriculum! REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, and the Netscape Navigator, Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser.

Instructor: Robin Sellers;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL122E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL222E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL322E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL422E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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Math Refresher (was Everyday Math)
Math isn't about plugging numbers into formulas. It's about knowing enough to make the numbers and formulas work for you. Math can be incredibly useful - but only if you understand how and when to apply it in your everyday life. This course will show you how to use math to your advantage. You won't find any theory or memorization here. The lessons that make up this course are filled with practical exercises and information that you can put to immediate use. You'll find out some very interesting things about how calculators work, and then you'll discover how best to get a handle on your income and expenses. You'll be able to check your paystub, invoices, and bank statements for errors and overcharges, and you'll become more skilled at handling money and comparing investment opportunities. You'll learn how to calculate percentages, including the proper amount to pay in tips, commissions, taxes, and discounts. You'll find out how to calculate interest rates and you'll develop a better understanding of mortgages, credit cards, and other types of loans. You'll discover a handy method for converting one type of measurement to another, and you'll be able to calculate areas correctly so you don't overspend on your next home improvement project. You'll become adept at interpreting graphs, calculating the probability that something will (or won't) happen, and understanding the statistics embedded in test results, polls, and even news stories. REQUIREMENTS: A basic calculator with the ability to add, subtract, multiply, divide, and calculate square roots; Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Ivy Bishop;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL110E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL210E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL310E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL410E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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MS Excel 2003 in the Classroom
Taught by a 10-year veteran of both the classroom and the school computer lab, Microsoft Excel 2003 in the Classroom is a unique online workshop packed full of tips, shortcuts, and lesson plan ideas just for teachers who want to bring the power of Excel into their classrooms, both as an organizational tool and as a teaching aid. You'll learn all the important Excel basics: Using the toolbars, formatting cells and worksheets, inserting formulas for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, and creating colorful charts and graphs. Then you'll move on to some more advanced Excel features: Sorting and analyzing student test data, writing powerful mathematical formulas, and using the Function Wizard to automatically calculate student averages and other statistics. You'll finish up the course by creating a fully customizable grade book that you use in your own classroom. Throughout the course, you'll explore standards-based lesson plans and activities that will allow you to pass your Excel knowledge on to your students, no matter what grade level you teach. By the end of this course, you'll have a solid understanding of the basic functions of Excel, and a wealth of ideas for integrating this powerful technology into your lesson plans across your curriculum.
REQUIREMENTS: Microsoft Windows XP or 2000, Microsoft Excel 2003 or Microsoft Office 2003 (Student and Teacher Edition, Standard Edition, Small Business Edition, or Professional Edition are all acceptable - please be sure to install the software on your computer before the course begins), Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader). This course is not suitable for Macintosh users, nor for users of any of the 2007 versions of Microsoft Excel.

Instructor: Robin Sellers;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL123E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL223E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL323E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL423E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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MS Excel 2007 in the Classroom
Learn the basics of Microsoft Excel 2007 in this professional development course for teachers, and get the training every teacher needs for using and teaching this powerful program effectively in the classroom. This unique online workshop is packed full of tips, shortcuts, and lesson plan ideas. First, we'll cover all the important Excel fundamentals: Using tabs, formatting cells and worksheets, inserting formulas for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, and creating colorful charts and graphs. Then we'll move on to more advanced Excel features such as sorting and analyzing student test data for differentiated instruction, writing powerful mathematical formulas, and using Excel to automatically calculate student averages and other statistics. You'll finish the course by creating a customizable grade book that you can use in your own classroom. Throughout the course, we'll explore standards-based lesson plans and activities that allow you to pass your Excel knowledge on to your students, no matter what grade level you teach. By the end, you'll have a solid understanding of Excel, and a wealth of ideas for integrating this technology into your lesson plans across your curriculum.
REQUIREMENTS: Microsoft Windows Vista or XP, Microsoft Excel 2007 or Microsoft Excel Home and Student 2007 or Microsoft Office 2007 (the Home and Student Edition, of Microsoft Office 2007 are also acceptable). A free trial version may also be available at Microsoft's Web site. Please be sure to install the software on your computer before the course begins; Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader) Note: This course is not suitable for Macintosh users.

Instructor: Robin Sellers;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL124E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL224E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL324E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL424E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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MS PowerPoint 2003 in the Classroom
Need help motivating students and boosting interest in your lessons? This course will help you create captivating and attention-grabbing classroom presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint. You'll learn basic PowerPoint skills such as creating slides, using templates, inserting text, changing background colors, creating WordArt titles, and adding slide transitions. You'll also develop advanced skills such as inserting graphics, sound, and video, custom animations, timed transitions, and hyperlinks. You'll be able to publish your presentation on a school Web site or even take your PowerPoint shows on the road. You'll also be able to create presentations filled with scanned drawings created by your students or digital photograph slide shows. This class will assist you in learning these skills. Your instructor will walk you step-by-step through several different types of classroom presentations. You'll be able to create lectures, interactive presentations that viewers can use independently, and impressive presentations complete with narration for your students' independent use on computer stations or enrichment activities. Each lesson also includes a wealth of ideas and suggestions you can apply in the classroom--as well as ideas you can use to help your students develop their PowerPoint and presentation skills. Using PowerPoint in the classroom addresses different learning styles, heightens student interest, and engages learners. PowerPoint is a fun and motivational tool for teachers as well as students. This class will give you the knowledge you need to add appeal to any classroom subject!
REQUIREMENTS:
Microsoft Windows XP or 2000, Microsoft PowerPoint 2003 or Microsoft Office 2003 (Student and Teacher Edition, Standard Edition, Small Business Edition, or Professional Edition are all acceptable - please be sure to install this software on your computer before the course begins), Internet access, e-mail, and the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser.
Note
: This course is not suitable for Microsoft PowerPoint 2007 or Macintosh users.

Instructor: Tracy Loffer;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL125E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL225E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL325E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL425E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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MS PowerPoint 2007 in the Classroom
What teacher couldn't use some help motivating students and keeping their interest? This course will show you how to create captivating lessons and attention-grabbing classroom presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint 2007. You'll see how using PowerPoint helps you address different learning styles, making it much easier to engage a variety of learners. First, we'll cover the basics of this MS Office program including creating slides, using templates, inserting text, changing background colors, creating WordArt titles, and adding slide transitions. Then you'll develop advanced skills such as inserting graphics, sound, video, custom animations, timed transitions, and hyperlinks. We'll walk step-by-step through several different types of classroom presentations, including lectures and interactive narrations for your students' independent use on computer stations. By the end of the course, you'll be able to publish your presentation on a school Web site or even take your PowerPoint shows on the road. Along the way, we'll talk about how you can help your students develop their own PowerPoint and presentation skills. So get ready to discover why PowerPoint can be such a fun and motivational tool that adds appeal to any classroom subject!
REQUIREMENTS: Microsoft Windows Vista or XP, Microsoft PowerPoint 2007 or Microsoft PowerPoint Home and Student 2007 or Microsoft Office 2007 (the Home and Student Edition or the Standard Edition or the Professional Edition or the
Small Business Edition are all acceptable). Please be sure to install the software on your computer before the course begins; Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).
NOTE: This course is not suitable for Macintosh users, nor for users of older versions of Microsoft PowerPoint.

Instructor: Tracy Loffer;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL126E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL226E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL326E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL426E.310
Register Online

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MS Word 2003 in the Classroom
Mastering Microsoft Word can make you a more productive and creative teacher. Throughout this course, you’ll learn to create, open, edit, and save documents, as well as create tabs and margins, set left, center, right, and justified spacing, add clip art and tables, and complete a host of other exciting tasks. As you get more familiar with this program, you'll find that it enhances your teaching in ways you didn't think possible. As we walk through our virtual tour of Microsoft Word, you'll encounter a lot of program features you may not have known about—features that enable you to control document presentation, stay organized, and keep your students inspired and excited. This course is vital for today's teachers who have to produce and achieve so much in so little time. Join us and find out how to turn this dynamic program into a launching pad for creative lesson plans and engaging classroom activities. REQUIREMENTS: Microsoft Word 2003, Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader). Note: please be sure to install the required software on your computer before the course begins. This course is not suitable for Macintosh users, nor for users of any of the 2007 versions of Microsoft Word.

Instructor: Robin Sellers;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL127E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL227E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL327E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL427E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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MS Word 2007 in the Classroom
Mastering Microsoft Word can make you a more productive and creative teacher. You'll learn how to create, open, edit, and save documents, as well as how to create tabs, margins, and spacing. Then you'll make your classroom documents come to life. You'll add borders, clip art, and WordArt. You'll even insert shapes, pictures, tables, and complete a host of other exciting tasks that you can teach your students. As you get more familiar with this program, you'll find that it enhances your teaching in ways you didn't think possible, and you'll have a host of ideas for curriculum-related classroom projects. As we walk through our virtual tour of Microsoft Word, you'll encounter a lot of program features you may not have known about--features that enable you to control document presentation, stay organized, and keep your students inspired and excited. You'll even produce templates that you can use for classroom tests, create a classroom poster, and use Word's table tools to create a class grade roster. This course is vital for today's teachers who have to produce and achieve so much in so little time. Join us and find out how to turn this dynamic program into a launching pad for creative lesson plans and engaging classroom activities.
REQUIREMENTS:
Microsoft Windows Vista or XP, Microsoft Word 2007 or Microsoft Word Home and Student Edition 2007 or Microsoft Office 2007 or Microsoft Office Home and Student Edition 2007. A free trial version may also be available at Microsoft's Web site. Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins; Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader). Note: This course is not suitable for Macintosh users.

Instructor: Robin Sellers;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL128E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL228E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL328E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL428E.310
Register Online

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Practical Ideas for the Adult ESL/EFL Classroom
Learn ESL teaching strategies that will set your adult ESL/EFL students up for success! Over the next six weeks, you'll discover ways to teach ESL that create a meaningful and positive learning environment for your students. You'll get to know what motivates them and how you can tailor your ESL teaching methods to their needs. We'll look at the key role that planning plays, because when your students know what to expect, they'll respond positively—and you'll teach with more confidence. You'll gather a wealth of principles for how to choose truly effective activities for such skills as listening, speaking, reading, writing, grammar, and pronunciation. Along the way, you'll pick up practical ways to incorporate both traditional and alternative forms of assessment into your classroom teaching. And finally, we'll spend some time talking about how you can become a more reflective teacher and continue to grow both professionally and personally. By the end of this course, you'll be teaching ESL in a way that helps your students move skillfully from the classroom to the real world! Note: Students who successfully complete this course will receive a TESOL Certificate of Completion.
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Rob Jenkins;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL129E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL229E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL329E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL429E.310
Register Online

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Praxis I Prep
Are you a prospective teacher who needs to pass the Praxis I Exam? Have you already attempted the Praxis I and not been successful? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then this course is for you! You'll develop all the skills you need for the test as we review and prepare for everything it includes. You'll get familiar with the different types of questions that appear on the Reading and Writing tests. You'll master the many areas of math that you'll be tested on: number operations, negative numbers, exponents, square roots, order of operations, decimals, fractions, percentages, algebra, geometry, data analysis, graphs, probability, and measurements. To prepare for the essay, we'll discuss what constitutes a high scoring one. We'll also go through the process of writing an essay in the amount of time allotted. You'll learn useful test-taking strategies and get plenty of practice questions that are similar to what you'll find on the exam. You'll also have the opportunity to take a full-length practice test in each subject area. Using clear explanations, numerous examples, and graphics and animation, this course will not only prepare you for the Praxis I, but do so in a way that's fun and interesting. After completing this course, you'll be totally ready to pass the Praxis I Exam! REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, and the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser. Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Nicole Taylor-Buckner;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL148E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL248E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL348E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL448E.310
Register Online

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Ready, Set, Read!
Take this opportunity to find out how children really learn to read and write. Explore current research that cuts through the media messages about reading wars and the right way to teach children. Learn by reading stories about children, doing interactive assignments, and exploring the latest in parent and childcare information. You will see everyday children’s play with a new eye as you understand how play can connect to literacy. You'll learn how a child becomes literate from the moment of birth. First, you’ll investigate the many things a child’s growing mind must do to make sense of the written word and create writing. From there, you’ll explore the development of reading and writing from infancy to the early school years. You’ll know what problems to look for and how to assist a struggling reader. You will see how you can boost literacy growth during daily routines and child’s play. Gain confidence in your ability to guide a child’s literacy development, and take pleasure in seeing how even the littlest events can lead to really big steps in reading and writing success. REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: KT Paxton;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL130E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL230E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL330E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL430E.310
Register Online

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Response to Intervention: Reading Strategies That Work
Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could be proactive in helping our struggling readers? Well, we can! In this six-week course, you'll learn response to intervention (RTI) strategies that ensure the struggling readers in your classroom get the help and education they need. RTI is research based and gives us a strategic plan to bring tiered interventions to our students, at their reading level and with their unique challenges in mind. Helping them with phonics, fluency, vocabulary mastery, comprehension, and writing, these intervention strategies tackle the toughest literacy problems with flexibility and creativity. During our time together, you'll discover tools like Elkonin Boxes, alphabetic arcs, Bloom's Taxonomy, and new and exciting graphic organizers. Whether you're working with struggling readers in kindergarten or 12th grade, you'll find that these strategies work with a full 80% of students, without the need for special pull-outs or extra IEP intervention. Why? Because RTI gets to the root of the problem—quickly! If you're eager to learn the right ways to help your struggling readers make steady progress throughout the year, you'll find that this course gives you the power to teach flexibly and creatively, without the need for extra training in literacy or fluency. As an added bonus, there's nothing quite like helping students discover the pleasures of reading! REQUIREMENTS: Internet access; e-mail; and the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser. Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Wendell Christensen;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL131E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL231E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL331E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL431E.310
Register Online

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SAT/ACT Preparation - Part 1
Making the decision to attend college is probably one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make, and your performance on college entrance exams is instrumental in determining your college choice. Universities and colleges throughout the U.S. require applicants to take the SAT or ACT as part of their evaluation package. This course will prepare you for both tests. Both the ACT and the SAT contain verbal and math question types. SAT/ACT Preparation Part 2 will give you all the information you need to do well on the math questions of the ACT and the SAT. The ACT math tests your knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and basic statistics. This course provides you with a complete math review of all these subjects. We‘ll also show you how to use your time wisely so that you finish as many math questions as possible in the 60 minutes the ACT gives you for the math test. Beginning with the March 2005 exam, the SAT math questions have changed a bit. They eliminated the quantitative comparison questions and added questions on functions and graphing functions. The lessons in this course are designed to prepare you for those changes. In addition to reviewing arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and basic statistics, we'll cover functions and other algebra II subjects now tested on the SAT. In addition to preparing you for specific question types on both exams, this course will give you pointers on time management, anxiety relief, scoring, and general standardized test-taking. Weekly assignments encourage you to work with your fellow classmates and your instructor to maximize your performance on all aspects of the math questions of the ACT and SAT. Taken with Part 1, this course will prepare you to excel in all sections of the undergraduate college entrance exams and provide you with the means to achieve your best potential score!  
REQUIREMENTS: The Official SAT Study Guide: For the New SAT (College Board, 2004), The Real ACT Prep Guide (Peterson's, 2004), Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Scott Hatch & Lisa Zimmer Hatch;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL132E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL232E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL332E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL432E.310
Register Online

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SAT/ACT Preparation - Part 2
Making the decision to attend college is probably one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make, and your performance on college entrance exams is instrumental in determining your college choice. Universities and colleges throughout the U.S. require applicants to take the SAT or ACT as part of their evaluation package. This course will prepare you for both tests. Both the ACT and the SAT contain verbal and math question types. SAT/ACT Preparation Part 2 will give you all the information you need to do well on the math questions of the ACT and the SAT. The ACT math tests your knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and basic statistics. This course provides you with a complete math review of all these subjects. We‘ll also show you how to use your time wisely so that you finish as many math questions as possible in the 60 minutes the ACT gives you for the math test. Beginning with the March 2005 exam, the SAT math questions have changed a bit. They eliminated the quantitative comparison questions and added questions on functions and graphing functions. The lessons in this course are designed to prepare you for those changes. In addition to reviewing arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and basic statistics, we'll cover functions and other algebra II subjects now tested on the SAT. In addition to preparing you for specific question types on both exams, this course will give you pointers on time management, anxiety relief, scoring, and general standardized test-taking. Weekly assignments encourage you to work with your fellow classmates and your instructor to maximize your performance on all aspects of the math questions of the ACT and SAT. Taken with Part 1, this course will prepare you to excel in all sections of the undergraduate college entrance exams and provide you with the means to achieve your best potential score! REQUIREMENTS: Completion of SAT/ACT Prep - Part 1 (or equivalent experience), The Official SAT Study Guide: For the New SAT (College Board, 2004), The Real ACT Prep Guide (Peterson's, 2004), Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Scott Hatch & Lisa Zimmer Hatch;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL133E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL233E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL333E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL433E.310
Register Online

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Singapore Math: Number Sense & Computational Strategies
Do your students cringe when it's time to pull out their math books? For many students, basic math is a struggle. But for students and teachers in Singapore, math is much more intuitive. And Singaporean students have been top mathematics performers for over a decade! Using a layered curriculum founded on solid number sense and concrete, pictorial, and abstract computational strategies, Singaporean teachers make math purposeful, interesting, and relevant. Soon you'll learn their secrets and be able to have the same kind of meaningful math lessons in your classroom. In this teacher training course, you'll learn over two dozen strategies to make math click for your students. We'll begin by exploring what Singapore Math is and how it has become such a powerful and highly regarded math curriculum. Then we'll talk about how number sense and place value instruction are the basis for all Singapore Math. From there, we'll learn a variety of computational strategies to make addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division a cinch. You won't need a passport to discover the curriculum of the world's math leader!
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Anni Stipek;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL134E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL234E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL334E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL434E.310
Register Online

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Singapore Math Strategies: Model Drawing for Grades 1-6
In this professional development course for teachers, you'll get the training you need to start teaching model drawing, the powerful Singapore Math strategy that gives word problems a visual context. As a teacher, you know that many students groan when it's time to solve word problems. Why is that? Are the problems too difficult? Do students get lost trying to decipher the wording or figure out the computation? Do they simply not know which strategy to use? Actually, it's a combination of all these issues. Luckily, model drawing, a Singapore Math strategy for working word problems, will help your students start to enjoy math in a way they may never have before. The secret behind model drawing is that it gives students a concrete, reliable set of seven steps that they can use to solve 80% of the word problems out there. They won't have to memorize 20 different techniques and know when to use which anymore. Instead, they'll learn how to read the problem, determine its variables, draw a unit bar (the visual model), adjust that bar, place the question mark to indicate what they're solving for, do the computation, and write a complete sentence at the end. Does it sound too good to be true? This six-week course will prove to you just how effective model drawing can be in your classroom!
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, and the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser.

Instructor: Anni Stipek;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL135E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL235E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL335E.310
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Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL435E.310
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Solving Classroom Discipline Problems
Why do some teachers enjoy peaceful, orderly classrooms while others face daily discipline battles? The answer is that some teachers know the secrets to solving discipline problems. This course reveals a step-by-step approach to effective, positive classroom discipline. REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, and a Mozilla Firefox, Netscape Navigator or Microsoft Internet Explorer Web browser.

Instructor: Dr. James Thompson;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL136E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL236E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL336E.310
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Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL436E.310
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Solving Classroom Discipline Problems II
In this professional development course, you'll get the teacher training you need to deal effectively with serious discipline problems and help even the most challenging students you're teaching make more responsible choices. You'll discover how to use a new research-based six-step approach to solve severe and chronic discipline problems, including bullying, fighting, using abusive language, stealing, and refusing to work. You'll learn how to deal with the special problem of attention deficit disorder, find out how to use time-outs effectively, and see how class meetings can help solve class-wide discipline problems. We'll cover numerous preventative strategies, including 12 actions you and your colleagues can take to prevent problems from occurring in the common areas of your school, and six practical strategies that can prevent student violence. You'll gain a new understanding of what motivates severe and chronic misbehavior and, more important, what actions will help you effectively find solutions. We'll look at numerous real-life examples set in elementary, middle, and high school classrooms so you can see how to put the ideas into action in your own teaching situation. REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Dr. James Thompson;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL137E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL237E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL337E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL437E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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Spanish for the Classroom
If you're struggling to communicate with your Spanish-speaking students and their families, and you don't know your cabeza from your codo (that's your head from your elbow), don't worry—help is here! Whether you took a Spanish class 20 years ago and just want to brush up a bit, or you have never taken a Spanish class, you'll learn the essential Spanish for teachers and bridge the communication gap with your Spanish-speaking students and parents. Rest assured that this won't be anything like your typical high school Spanish course. We'll skip the frills and focus on "survival Spanish" you can put to work immediately. We've tossed out long vocabulary lists and complex grammar rules and replaced them with games and stories to make learning easy, painless, and even fun. You'll learn new words in easy-to-digest bites, and each lesson will include Supplementary Material to help you keep expanding your vocabulary. We'll start with the basics of Spanish pronunciation, and then we'll move right into simple words for everyday things, such as colors, numbers, and question words. Then you'll learn more of the basics of conversational phrases, family names, and directions. Next, we'll get into what it's like on the first day of school as we go over words related to enrolling new students, conversing in the classroom, talking about rules and behavior, and basic vocabulary for various academic subjects. We'll also cover Spanish words and phrases to use in the cafeteria, on the playground, and even in the nurses office! Finally, we'll delve into some survival phrases for the parent-teacher conference as you learn to describe how a child is doing, talk about academic or behavior problems, and discuss grades and homework. By the end of this course, you'll be well on the path to being a Spanish speaker and communicating more effectively with the Spanish-speakers all around you. ¡Vamos! (Let's go!)
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Tara Bradley Williams;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL138E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL238E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL338E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL438E.310
Register Online

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Survival Kit for New Teachers
Feel a little trepidation before entering your classroom? You're not alone! Whether you’re already teaching, a newly credentialed graduate, or a substitute looking to transition to full-time, this course will provide you with proven tools, tips, and tricks to make your early years in the classroom a breeze. Teaching is a balancing act, and it requires a blend of subject expertise and classroom skills to reach all of your diverse learners. In this informational and interactive six-week course, you'll learn the particulars of running a motivational classroom that will feel like home to your students. You'll find out how to write winning lesson plans, reach diverse learners through differentiated instruction, communicate clearly, plan memorable events, and most important, keep stress at bay so you can feel good about going to work every morning. Much like a virtual mentoring program, Survival Kit for New Teachers will provide you with benefits gained through many years of firsthand classroom experience. REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Tracey Birch;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL139E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL239E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL339E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL439E.310
Register Online

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Teaching ESL/EFL Grammar
In this course, you'll come to see English grammar as a three-dimensional process that's useful in bringing coherence, cohesion, and texture to writing and speech. We'll begin by considering seven definitions of grammar that we'll draw on throughout the course. We'll also discuss the differences between patterns and rules, and why second-language learners benefit from our instruction on both. You'll learn why students need to understand the three dimensions of grammar—form, meaning, and use—and how seeing grammar as a dynamic and changing system helps students overcome many of their grammar challenges. You'll also see why teaching grammar in a way that makes it personally meaningful to your students brings the best results. And since teaching isn't just about presenting lessons, we'll also go over the importance of "reading" your students—observing them to try to figure out what learning process they're using. We'll contrast rote or mechanical practice with meaningful practice, and we'll go over guidelines for creating activities and adapting your textbook exercises to get students working on the unique learning challenge presented by each different grammatical structure. Toward the end of the course, we'll talk about what specific errors students make can indicate, and how they can help us pinpoint the unique challenges our students face so we can develop meaningful practice activities to help them meet those challenges. And we'll finish up the course by discussing ways that you can give valuable feedback to your students. Get ready to discover how to teach grammar in a way that's both effective and enjoyable for your students!
REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Diane Larsen-Freeman;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL149E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL249E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL349E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL449E.310
Register Online

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Teaching ESL/EFL Reading
Did you realize that reading is one of the most important skills you can teach? The skill of reading not only gives your students what they need to be successful learners, but it also makes them more self-confident and eager to learn their whole life long. It's truly at the core of the other language skills—listening, speaking, writing, and grammar. In this course, you'll learn how to show your students the value of reading to motivate them to become strong readers. Together, we'll explore the core skills of intensive reading. Then we'll examine extensive reading and how to integrate it into your curriculum. Next, we'll cover ways to bring vocabulary teaching into your reading classroom. You'll find out the difference between teaching comprehension and merely testing on it. They're not the same! We'll also look at ways to help your students develop a fluent reading rate and use strategies for reading successfully. And we'll round out our time together by discussing how to plan effective lessons, design a strong reading curriculum, select appropriate reading materials, and assess students to encourage their growth. If you would like to pass a passion for reading on to your students, then this is the course for you!
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader). Note: Students who successfully complete this course will receive a TESOL Certificate of Completion.

Instructor: Neil Anderson;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL140E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL240E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL340E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL440E.310
Register Online

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Teaching ESL/EFL Vocabulary
Do you sometimes wonder if the vocabulary your textbook is teaching is really what your ESL students need to learn? Well, you're not alone. Many teachers long to have a more precise and effective ways of helping their students learn English vocabulary, and in this course, I'll show you how. Over the next six weeks, you'll discover what the different types of vocabulary are, as well as how to accurately assess what your students already know and what they need to learn. You'll also explore the most powerful way of teaching vocabulary as you teach ESL: across the four strands. These four strands include meaning-focused input (listening and reading), meaning-focused output (speaking and writing), language-focused (deliberate) learning, and fluency development. You may be surprised to learn that you don't need to devote class time to all the types of vocabulary. Instead, you're better off teaching your students learning strategies with certain categories, and you'll get to fully delve into what these are too. In addition, you'll find ways to evaluate how successful your vocabulary activities are, see how to teach vocabulary with content-based instruction, and explore how to monitor your students' learning. By the end of this course, you'll understand what makes a well-balanced vocabulary course and how to design one of your own!
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Paul Nation;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL151E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL251E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL351E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL451E.310
Register Online

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Teaching Math: Grades 4-6
Reinvent math instruction for grades 4-6 by bringing hands-on learning, inexpensive manipulatives, and real-world connections into your classroom. Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned pro, this course will help you get your students excited about math! Over the next six weeks, you'll learn the best ways to walk students through the complexities of elementary school math. From teaching them the best way to learn complicated vocabulary to turning them into problem-solving detectives, you'll discover lots of fun and practical ways to extend your students’ learning into their homes, the community, and the world. Whether you end up using clever geometry manipulatives or handmade fraction bars, math journals or Family Math nights, you'll soak up dozens of strategies that require little or no money if you supply a lot of imagination. If you’ve been waiting to jumpstart your math instruction, now’s the time to double your teaching power without adding a lot of work.
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, and the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser. Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Michele Thrailkill;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL141E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL241E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL341E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL441E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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Teaching Preschool: A Year of Inspiring Lessons
If you've been teaching preschoolers or are in the process of becoming a preschool teacher, you know what short attention spans preschoolers have. You've probably wondered how to structure your days to make the most of the way they learn. Up to now, crafting original and inspiring lesson plans may have been a daunting task, but not for much longer! In this course, you'll get equipped with a solid lesson plan template and lots of interchangeable activities to choose from—plenty of inspiration to take you and your students from September to May. You'll learn over 100 circle-discussion, art, literacy, fine and large motor skill, science, and music activities that you can take into your classroom right away. Then you can adopt the ideas just as they are or tweak them slightly to fit a variety of themes. Either way, you'll have ample material for crafting memorable, balanced, and engaging lesson plans. Whether you're already teaching or you're just investigating a career as an early childhood educator, you're sure to find the right mix of inspiration, motivation, and practical tips in this six-week course.
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Usha Fortna;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL152E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL252E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL352E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL452E.310
Register Online

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Teaching Science: Grades 4-6
Want to increase your effectiveness as a science teacher for the middle grades? Join us and learn about the nature and history of science as well as how to help students in these age groups grasp the scientific method. You'll receive lots of worksheets and specific examples of some great experiments you can use in your own classroom. We'll cover principles of direct instruction and many different learning and organizational tools that will benefit your students. You'll even learn how you can use science class to improve the emotional climate in your classroom! All through the course, we'll provide worksheets and check lists you and your students can put to immediate use. You'll see how helpful they are in the lessons on the scientific method, writing a research paper, and producing a science fair. We'll also cover foundational content in both physical science and life science. You'll learn how to use a study of the earth's atmosphere to teach students how to make and interpret a variety of graphs—an important skill for standardized testing.
By the end of the course, you'll have gained knowledge about both science and teaching methods. Your confidence will soar and you'll have many new skills that will benefit both you and the children you teach. You'll also learn about some of the best Web sites available to science teachers—they'll be great resources for you! And we'll all benefit from the Discussion Area where you can share your experiences and profit from the experiences of your fellow teachers.

REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Holly Trimble;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL142E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL242E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL342E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL442E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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Teaching Students with Autism: Strategies for Success
Just 20 years ago, we didn't see students with autism in our classrooms. But today, we teach children with high-functioning autism and Asperger's Syndrome right alongside their neurotypical peers. Reaching and teaching these students requires a delicate balancing act: understanding how their brains are wired, helping them turn challenges into opportunities, and learning to enjoy the rich perspective they bring to the classroom. If you've ever had a student who blurted out in class, screamed when someone patted his or her shoulder, or rocked back and forth in the chair, you'll appreciate the lessons ahead. We'll discover the neurobiology behind these disorders and the way it affects students' behavior, learning, and thinking. Most important, you'll learn creative, easy, low-budget strategies to help these kids succeed in the classroom and beyond. Develop the skills to counter these students' social awkwardness, sensory sensitivities, meltdowns, problems with homework completion, language reciprocity issues, and violent fixations. Even if you don't have a student with high-functioning autism or Asperger's Syndrome in your class this year, these strategies will equip you to deal with any student who exhibits these characteristics on a regular basis.
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Ellen Arnold;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL143E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL243E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL343E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL443E.310
Register Online

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Teaching Students with Learning Disabilities
(was Working Successfully with Learning Disabled Students)

Learn how to successfully meet the diverse needs of the disabled students in your classroom from an experienced special educator. We'll dissect the whole special education process, from working with individualized education programs (IEPs) to helping students struggling with reading comprehension, math skills, and writing. We'll also talk about fun games you can incorporate, tips for modifying your classroom, and lots of tested methods for bringing out the best behavior in your students. Every teacher can have success teaching learning disabled kids. In this course, you'll discover easy, practical, and creative strategies that will help your struggling students find their light bulb moments!
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Sara Hardin;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL147E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL247E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL347E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL447E.310
Register Online

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Teaching Writing: Grades 4-6
In this teacher-training course, you'll learn from an experienced educator how to motivate and assist developing writers. We'll begin with an overview of the writing basics, focusing on the importance of the task, audience, and purpose. Then we'll delve into how to organize your materials to create an inviting writing environment. We'll discuss each step of teaching writing and the strategies you can use with your students. You'll also work on strengthening your students' writing using technology. Along the way, you'll develop engaging lessons for literary response, narrative writing, expository writing, and persuasive writing. We'll look at the characteristics of each type of writing, and you'll get practical suggestions for teaching them to your class. Two writing approaches we'll cover, 6+1 Trait Writing and Writer's Workshop, will enable you to put everything you learn in this course into a workable format. You'll also discover the secrets of effective writing assessment as you learn about evaluation tools like portfolios and rubrics.
REQUIREMENTS:
Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).

Instructor: Melanie Park;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL144E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL244E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL344E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL444E.310
Register Online

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Understanding Adolescents
Yesterday, she was a sweet young girl. Today, you swear aliens have abducted her and put an evil twin in her place. To know your kids is to love them. In this course, an experienced social worker will help you gain a deep understanding and appreciation of your adolescent's development and behavior. You'll uncover the secrets of the adolescent mind and gain valuable information on how they think, how they feel, and how their identities develop. Parents, family members, child and youth workers, counselors and the like will all benefit from the information shared in this course. You'll learn about the many physical, emotional, and cognitive changes that affect the teens in your life, and you'll understand the significance of these changes both for you and the adolescent. You'll look into relationships both in and outside of the home and the development of a teen's identity. You'll explore personality, moral development and the role of faith. Finally, you'll gain an understanding as to how teens are affected by stress, including common defense mechanisms, coping techniques, and common mental health issues. By the time you finish this course, you should be very well-prepared to understand, appreciate, and meet the needs of the teens in your life. REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, and the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser.

Instructor: Sonya Jodoin;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL145E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL245E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL345E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL445E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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Using the Internet in the Classroom
Harness the power of the Internet to make your textbooks and lessons come alive! Teach your students how to locate and evaluate Internet resources. Improve the caliber and amount of discussion through the use of e-mail and discussion boards. Learn how to safeguard your students and their personal information while they are using the Internet. The Internet can make teaching easier--this course will show you how. REQUIREMENTS: Internet access, e-mail, and the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser.

Instructor: Robin Sellers;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL146E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL246E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL346E.310Call 546-3132 to Register
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL446E.310Call 546-3132 to Register

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Web 2.0: Blogs, Wikis & Podcasts
In this course, you'll learn how to create, manage, and promote your own blog, wiki, and audio and video podcast. Each of these amazing Web 2.0 tools gives us a chance to interact, share ideas, and collaborate with others from home, at work, or in a classroom. You'll begin by developing a plan for the content, setup, and long-term maintenance of a blog, and then you'll use free blogging software to put that plan into action. Next, you'll discover how you can use wikis to facilitate group collaboration. You'll practice editing a wiki, and then you'll create your own. After that, you'll learn how to record a professional-sounding audio podcast with a very simple recording tool you already have. You'll edit the file with another free software program, add music to it, and then post it online for others to enjoy. Finally, you'll find out how to record a video podcast. You'll use pre-recorded video to learn the editing process, and then you'll apply what you've learned to your own video file. You'll edit it, add special effects, drop in a podcasting-safe music file, and then publish it online. Through hands-on exercises, you'll discover the benefits of using free Web 2.0 tools like Blogger, Wikispaces, Audacity, and YouTube. Guided by an expert instructor, you'll find that creating Web 2.0 tools is much easier than you ever imagined. And by the end of this course, you'll be amazed how much you've accomplished. Whether you want to use Web 2.0 tools for personal, business, or educational projects, this is the course for you! REQUIREMENTS: Students should expect to download free online programs including an audio editing program during the class in order to create a blog, wiki, and podcast. Microsoft Windows XP or Vista; Internet access, e-mail, the Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox Web browser, and the Adobe Flash and PDF plug-ins (two free and simple downloads you obtain at http://www.adobe.com/downloads by clicking Get Adobe Flash Player and Get Adobe Reader).
Note
: This is a PC supported course; however, Mac users may still enroll. Mac users should expect to make adjustments based on their operating system differences especially during the podcast portion of the course. In addition, Mac users will download different versions of audio editing software and video editing software that will differ from the directions presented in the course.

Instructor: Robin Sellers;

2010; Fee: $94 each

Sep 15 - Oct 22; Course# OL150E.310Register Online
Oct 20 - Nov 26; Course# OL250E.310
Register Online
Nov 10 - Dec 17; Course# OL350E.310
Register Online
Dec 8 - Jan 14;  Course# OL450E.310
Register Online

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Contact Karen Linn with your questions/comments/suggestions
 

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