Spring 2009 Teacher Innovation Grants

                                                                       
Laurel Carver, Lake Zurich High School Math Teacher
PC Tablet for Math Database                                                                  $ 1,600.00
The PC Tablet will be used to compile an online database of classroom notes and problem solving solutions for Ms. Carver’s Algebra I, Algebra II and Geometry classes.  The PC Tablet will allow students to write directly onto a laptop monitor while work is displayed using an overhead projector.   Students work can be corrected on site and converted to text to produce the database.  This works especially well for students who are visual learners as they can see the problem on the projector in front of them and access the same work online from home as they work on their homework.  This will also prove extremely useful for absent students who will be able to access the missed classroom notes from home

Jerry Clemens, Middle School North Science Teacher
Zebra Fish Breeding System                                                                  $ 600.00
The Zebra Fish Breeding System will allow students to cross breed selected varieties of zebra fish to anticipate specific genetic characteristics in the offspring.  Students can also watch the genetic development of the offspring and observe dominate and recessive traits inherited from the parents.

Colleen Brouse, Isaac Fox 4th Grade Teacher
Document Cameras                                                                                  $ 1,800.00
The use of document cameras in the classroom makes internet, text, pictures, projects, science experiments and student work more accessible through large screen projection.  Anything can be placed under the document camera and projected, as well as downloaded to teachers’ websites.  The camera can also be used to record and broadcast student presentations on the large projection screen.  Broadcasts can be recorded as a movie using the document camera.                                                                                 

Robin Hansen, Isaac Fox 5th Grade Teacher
Differentiated Literature Circles                                                             $ 2,500.00
 Literature Circles, with novels spanning a range of Lexile levels, will engage students to expand their opportunities to read and grow as independent readers.  Student will have access to novels in their own Lexile level to read at their own pace.  Literature Circles engage student in higher level thinking and reflection by encouraging collaboration with other readers in their circle.  Student will also learn about their role in a group and how to facilitate their own discussions and projects.

David Herlocker, Seth Paine 4th Grade Teacher
Documentary Production                                                                                    $ 800.00
 Student will be engaged with a series of challenging tasks when creating multimedia presentations using laptops, Inter-write electronic slates and video cameras.  They will explore and discover concepts while applying technology skills to capture and create documentaries and interactive learning activities unique to fourth grade level curriculum.

Jacqueline Bevan, Middle School North Art Teacher
Fused Glass Fossils and Mosaic Sculpture                                       $ 2,105.00
The fused glass fossil project combines art and science as students duplicate the process of carbonization to create a work of art.   The fossils are produced by placing various plant materials between two pieces of glass and fusing them in a glass kiln.  The carbon leaves a silvery-white outline behind.  The mosaic sculpture will engage students to be involved in the design and construction of a three dimensional mosaic wolf sculpture.  The wolf is the mascot for Middle School North and the complete project will be displayed in the school lobby.