The Web site has text, photos, and audio support for news stories from around the world. The "As It Is" section has news stories with the script and MP3 file that can be downloaded. The news is presented in English that is spoken clearly and slowly.

Have students introduce themselves to the class by making a personalized avatar with text to speech or with their own voices.

Students learn about the legislative branch of government in this activity. They learn the number of the House and Senate district where they live, the names of the senator and representative who represent their district, the votes of a senator or representative on current issues in the state legislature, and become familiar with the Vote Smart Web Site and how it can be used to obtain information.

Source: Watch Know Learn Homepage (License: Protected by Copyright (c) [i.e. screenshot])

 

This is a wiki Web site full of educational videos to use in class or send students to for supplementary learning or use in a distance learning setting. Over 50,000 videos have been found, submitted, and categorized by other teachers. They cover many of the basic academic areas, including basic math, algebra, geometry, science, history, social studies, language, physical education, health, computers and technology, life skills (check writing, budgeting), career paths, exercise, crafts, etc. There is not enough room here to list all of the categories, so you will need to take a look for yourself. We are sure you will find something useful, regardless of your program.

WatchKnowLearn also allows members to add videos they find, so this could be a great organizing tool for you. Many of the videos come from YouTube, but somehow they are viewable at schools that normally block YouTube videos.

WebMD has a vast database useful in presenting/accessing accurate information on health issues. It is important to get students used to finding the site, navigating the site, and using the information. This can be done through assigning students/groups to investigate health issues. Assign students with lower reading levels to work in mixed groups so they can participate. By working together collaboration and presentation skills can be practiced.