On September 20, 2011, at 10:30 a.m., aliens will land at ASU Preparatory Academy to introduce seventh and eighth graders to their new, integrated unit of study, “The Softwire.” Arriving in Phoenix after an exhaustive 256 light-year journey, Gayree and Blazore, both from the galactic trade center at Orbis 3, will introduce ASU Prep students to author PJ Haarsma, who will be appearing by Skype projection in the school auditorium to welcome them to his Softwire science fiction series and virtual literary experience, Rings of Orbis. Haarsma will introduce students to the topics of quantum physics, space travel, speciation, galactic geography, human relocation, and the characters and storyline of his Softwire series. He will also give them a primer on playing the Rings of Orbis computer simulation game and discuss incentives he may provide in the game for students who do well on the learning activities for his book, The Softwire: Virus on Orbis 1. Hardcover books and Kindle eBooks for every student are being provided to ASU Prep by Kids Need to Read (KNTR), a nonprofit organization providing books and literacy programs to high need schools. Tuesday’s event marks the opening of KNTR’s Reading Revolution, a comprehensive campaign intended to complement school efforts to increase literacy rates, formulate career ambitions, and reduce dropout rates. HD webcam and video conferencing was provided by Skype via KNTR. Curriculum has been developed in collaboration between ASU Prep faculty and the ASU Tempe English Education program. This integrated academic unit will combine English language arts, science, and social studies, and emphasize educational technology to address the National Common Core Curriculum and the International Society for Technology Education National Educational Technology Standards. According to ASU Professor in Residence Josephine Marsh, “Students will engage in rigorous literacy activities and advanced technological skills building designed to greatly impact their futures.” Kids Need to Read Executive Director, Denise Gary, and ASU Tempe Director of English Education, James Blasingame, will appear in the role of aliens, introducing ASU Prep students to the book, the author, and the unit.
Tis the Season
Once Upon a Time… It was a dark and stormy night… This is the tale that was told to me…: Throughout history, winter has been a season rich in the tradition of storytelling, serving as a captivating blend of entertainment and education for individuals of all ages. This enduring legacy is exemplified in Beowulf, one of the oldest recorded stories, where the narrative opens with a compelling command, “Listen! we have heard of the might of the kings,”. No matter the opening line, the timeless power and importance of story and literacy is in its ability to connect generations and communities through the ages.
