The purpose of this award is to recognize an outstanding creative and collaborative instructional lesson that integrates subject content with school library learning standards and technology. Creativity is demonstrated in the instructional strategy or the task assigned to students. Collaboration between the library media specialist (LMS) and one or more teachers is measured by the extent of co-planning, co-teaching, and co-assessing by the LMS and one or more classroom teachers. Collaboration means that the LMS has to have a larger role than supporting the project with resources.
The lesson supports the Learning4Life program of the American Association of School Libraries (AASL).
The Learning4Life program seeks to implement "Standards for the 21st-Century Learner."
The Learning4Life program helps advance school library programs in meeting the needs of "Empowering Learners: Guidelines for School Library Media Programs."
A winning lesson will demonstrate a connection between the national learning standards and content area curriculum standards. L4L refers to both formal school-based learning and learning throughout a lifetime. School library media specialists teach 21st century skills and literacies to prepare students for a lifetime of learning.
The number 4 refers to the four standards. Students will use resources and tools to:
- Inquire, think critically, and gain knowledge;
- Draw conclusions, make informed decision, apply knowledge to new situations, and create new knowledge;
- Share knowledge and participate ethically and productively as members of our democratic society; and
- Pursue personal and aesthetic growth.
The number 4 also refers to the four strands under each standard: the skills, dispositions in action, responsibilities, and self-assessment strategies.
The winner will receive the Follett Creativity Award in the amount of $500 and a CASL Award in the amount of $500 to implement this instructional lesson. The recipient of this award will be expected to present a visual display that documents the project at the Annual CASL Conference.
Lesson Description
Applicant Information