Two new Choices
Choices is a series of high-interest books and audio recordings for secondary students who have reading levels below their actual age. Each Choices book contains a variety of texts that can be read for enjoyment, used to increase students' literacy skills, or made available as sources of information. The sixteen-page teachers' notes booklets include examples of specific literacy strategies for encouraging students to interact with the texts and to think critically about them. The activities are designed to help to develop students' independence as readers and as learners.
Looking Cool
This collection focuses on the themes of fashion and beauty.
In 'Tattoo', Jolene Tempest, Wellington's only female tattooist, talks about her art and also offers some advice and health tips to anyone considering getting a tattoo.
'Wowing with Wearable Art' follows a group of Wainuiomata High School students as they prepare for and then compete in the Smokefree WOWquest.
In 'Ngati Babe', Te Kaihou Ngarotata explains how (although she can't sew and doesn't draw very well) she has managed to achieve considerable success in the fashion world – with help from her family and friends and a will to succeed.
'Drop Dead Gorgeous' is a light-hearted look at some of the more disgusting and dangerous things people have used throughout history to try to improve their looks. The article is accompanied by amusing illustrations.
Looking Cool, item 31322.
Notes for Teachers, item 31449.
The Way Ahead
This collection focuses on developments in transport and communication technology.
Digital technology has given us the ability to store more and more information in smaller and smaller spaces. 'Going Digital' looks at the huge impact of this technology and where it may lead in the future.
Nathan Te Ata didn't enjoy his teenage years much because he was always in pain or feeling unwell. In 'Just Swallow This Camera, Nathan', he explains what happened when doctors asked him to swallow a microscopic camera so that they could find out what was wrong.
'All around the House' looks at the variety of communication technology found in a typical home. The article is supported by stylised pictures and a graphic representation that summarises the information in the text.
In 'The Bike Race', a humorous story with a twist, two boys compete to buy their dream bike on the Net. The illustrations tell the story in cartoon form.
There are already flying cars and cars that turn into boats. 'Streets Ahead' is an entertaining, information-packed article that takes a look at some possible future developments for the car.
The Way Ahead, item 31323.
Notes for Teachers, item 31448.
Choices 2005 audio CD
The Choices CD can be used to introduce each text and for reading along with the articles and the stories. Each text is supported by interesting sound effects and musical backing.
Item 31273.
Distribution
Copies of the Choices books (with one set of Notes for Teachers per pack) were distributed on the basis of roll size in May to all schools with secondary classes. These schools also received one reference copy of the Choices CD.