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About ABC Life Literacy Canada
ABC Life Literacy Canada is a non-profit organization working to inspire Canadians to increase their literacy skills. The organization mobilizes business, government and communities to support lifelong learning and achieve its goals through leadership in programs, communications and partnerships. For information on adult literacy, visit www.abclifeliteracy.ca; follow on Twitter (@Life_Literacy) or on Facebook.
PM’s teaching excellence nominations now open
Nominations for the 2010 Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence and Excellence in Early Childhood Education are now open. Guidelines and nomination forms are available on the PMA website (www.pma.gc.ca). The deadline for nomination is November 30. New this year, a special Space Award will be offered to a teacher (or teaching team) that demonstrates innovative and creative teaching in space sciences, technology, engineering and/or mathematics. The website also features exemplary practices of the 2009 national winners. The PM’s Award is the highest honour for elementary and secondary school teachers and early childhood educators in Canada.
Challenge your students to make a difference
Here’s a great way for teachers to challenge their students to make a difference in their community and meet core curriculum requirements. From October 4–November 12, students in Grades 4–6 can enter the Meaning of Home writing contest in support of Habitat for Humanity. The winner will be part of the ultimate gift—a $60,000 contribution toward building a Habitat home in or near the winner’s community. This year’s contest theme is “What do you love most about your home?” An education module (featuring a lesson plan, activity ideas, writing tips and a Habitat for Humanity fact sheet) and contest details are available at www.meaningofhome.ca.
Arts and education awards available
The Ukrainian Resource and Development Centre at Grant MacEwan University, in Edmonton, is calling for applications for five awards in the categories of writing, music, visual and Ukrainian folk art, broadcast and media arts, and film and new media. Application deadline is November 30, 2010. Application forms and information are available by writing to the Ukrainian Resource and Development Centre, Grant MacEwan University, PO Box 1796 Edmonton, Alberta, T5J 2P2.
Volunteer overseas with Canadian Crossroads International
Do you want to change the world? Put your skills to use for social change and gain valuable work experience by volunteering with Canadian Crossroads International. Crossroads is recruiting volunteers (under the age of 30) with experience in database design, systems management, information and communications technologies and more. If you want to help bridge the digital divide and expand your horizons abroad, join Crossroads in fighting for a more just and equitable world. Details about current openings are posted on the Crossroad’s website at www.cciorg.ca or by contacting the organization by e-mail at vol@cciorg.ca.
Media literary course offered online
The Communications Studies Program at Athabasca University is offering a course entitled Understanding Media Literacy: Inside Plato’s Cave. Registration for individualized online study is now open and ongoing—sign up by the 10th of any month and start the following month. Participants have six months to complete the course (extensions are available). More information is available at www.athabascau.ca/platoscave.
Stories and photos wanted
The ATA News is always on the lookout for interesting articles, photos and cartoons. Articles should not exceed 500 words and should be accompanied by a short byline, stating where you work and what you teach. Photos of teachers or students participating in interesting activities are welcome, as are cartoons. Don't forget to include photo captions. Please note: Receipt of material does not guarantee its publication. Send your submissions to Managing Editor, the ATA News, 11010 - 142 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 2R1 or submit electronically to raymond.gariepy@ata.ab.ca
