Will I be graded on this?
Many teachers notice a tendency in students to focus so much on getting through the material that they don't bother with understanding. Marcia Essman, a science teacher with much and varied experience, said that too many students go by the motto "Just get the graded stuff done."
The reference section (a.k.a. glossary and credits section) in our Switched-On curriculum is a largely under-used tool. Some students give it little more than a passing glance. Although no grade is awarded for this section, students who overlook it are missing out on an opportunity to enhance their understanding. What is the reference section, and how can it be used most effectively?
What's in it for me?
Many of the reference sections have an overview of the unit, games, web links, and additional learning activities. Roger Bouwman, Bible and history teacher, referred to the memory verses listed there. He also advised, "I am aware that some of our history units have a reference which includes video clips specific to sections in the unit. There are quiz and test questions on items appearing or taught specifically in reference."
As a math teacher, Jill Pulkrabek directs students to the reference section. "In geometry, the reference section contains a list of the theorems, postulates, properties, and definitions that students need to use to write proofs. It's also a helpful section for other math courses because it lists vocabulary words and definitions."
How do I use this?
In many classes, going to the reference section to find a specific link or video can be quicker than searching all the lessons. If you want to play a game, it is probably there. If you forgot how to pronounce a word you learned in the unit, just click on the speaker icon next to it. All the vocabulary words from the unit will be there.
That is precisely why many teachers recommend the reference section. Kathleen Brauning from our English department said, "I recommend it for the vocab. list. The terms often appear in quizzes and tests, and that way kids don't have to sort through each lesson to review." Essman added, "I usually remind them that they should review the reference section first as it has all of the vocabulary for the unit. I strongly believe that if they don't know what the words mean, they aren't likely to understand the concepts." The ease of finding a vocabulary word is a big advantage of the reference section.
When it is time to prepare for a test, make a trip through the reference section the last step. Because everything is in one place, it can be a relaxing way to conclude your preparation. There will be no searching, no moving in and out, and no doubt about what vocabulary from the unit might be on the test.
Making the Grade
Although the reference sections are not graded, you should take the time to peruse these helpful slices of the curriculum. You might be surprised at what's in there. Better yet, you might be surprised at how much it enhances student learning and success, and enhancing those areas may just help you make the grade!