Session 1

Refining Image-Based Narratives with Research

Presenter:  Marisa HernandezGrades: 3-9

Discover how images can inspire writing and critical thinking. This presentation is an inquiry into how research affects the narrative process. How do images inspire writing and thinking? How does research with a purpose help influence narrative writing? Marisa teaches Language Arts and Literature (special/general education) at Jefferson Middle School.

Using Genres to Serve the Writer’s Purpose

Presenter: Heather HillGrades: 3-8

How does a writer decide to use a specific genre to serve their purpose? Why would one bend or change direction of the genre? Genre bending allows students to purposefully choose a written method of communication to express their ideas and develop a better understanding of themselves as writers. Heather Hill currently works with 5th and 6th grade students and teachers of Kindergarten through 6th grade in the Los Lunas.

Using Picture Books as Models for Writing

Presenter: Angela FarrisGrades: K-4

The participants will participate in using picture books as models for generating their own versions of the story and discuss and reflect on the benefits of this type of story writing. What are the benefits of using other books as models for writing? How can this model be adapted to your classrooms? Angela Farris is a Kindergarten teacher at Painted Sky Elementary School.

Writing Popular Culture

Presenter:  Carolyn McSherryGrades: 9-12

How do advertisements affect the way we view the world--our ideals, values, and visions for the future? How can we help students read these ads critically? This demonstration investigates the intersections of visual and verbal literacies. We explore strategies for critically analyzing popular culture texts including advertisements and radical art. Carolyn McSherry teaches English at UNM.

Session 2

Using Comic Books & Graphic Novels to Teach Reading and Writing

Presenter: Christy QuesadaGrades: K-12

Students get so bored with the same reading and writing activities that they no longer have an interest in reading and writing. Participants is this session will discover or be reminded of an exciting genre of literature and will learn a fun way for children to explore creative writing. Christine Quesada is a second grade teacher at Maggie M. Cordova Elementary School in Rio Rancho, N.M.

Using Children's Picture Books to Uncover Complex and Abstract Writing Concepts

Presenter: Allison BarnsGrades: 6-12

Never under-estimate a children’s book to offer profound, abstract and complex lessons! This seminar will present several children’s books and mini-lessons, aimed at strengthening our students’ critical thinking, abstract reasoning and thoughtful writing skills. Allison Barns teaches World Literature and ESL at Eldorado High School.

Multiple Perspectives: Facilitated Exploration of Voice

Presenter:  April KinneyGrades: 6-12

Students often feel they don't have a voice; they are told what to do, what to think, and they don't always understand that there is more than one possibility available to them. Through this activity, students will begin to understand that there are many ways to think about and approach any one topic. April Kinney is currently a teacher of Language Arts, Literature, and Speech and Debate at Jefferson Middle School. 

The Play IS the Thing: Engaging Students Through Dynamic Play and Creative Dramatics

Presenter: Rand BarkerGrades: K-12

This fast-paced workshop will show you ways to engage individuals or large groups in the act of writing, willingly and without a struggle. Using the energetic strategies of creative dramatics and the naturally fun, dynamic structure of play, the genres of poetry, playwriting, and creative writing are explored. Applications will be discussed for using strategies in an integrated curriculum with science, math, and social studies. Rand Barker teaches second grade in APS.

Keynote Speaker: David Wilson