Award Winning Web Sites

I stumbled upon this list at pbs.org while looking for something else and wanted to share. The sites on this list "invite visitors to interact through non-linear storytelling and social issue games. Accompanying lesson plans explore the arts, culture and society."

First on the list is BEYOND THE FIRE: Teen Experiences of War recommended for grades 7-12. This site allows students to experience the life of teenage refugees through the eyes of teens who have actually experienced it. The provided lessons deal with issues of child soldiers and comparing the experiences of teen refugees. Students can sign up for a passport, collecting stamps as they visit each teen. Once the student collects all 15 stamps they can publish comments on the site.

Next is Circle of Stories which introduces students to the oral tradition of Native American storytelling. Recommended for grades 6-12, the lessons allow students to explore the Native American cultures, the issues they face today, and the importance of recording their family history.

Third is Off the Map which is all about visionary art and ten people around the world who have created their own "visionary paradise". The site gives students the opportunity to build their own "backyard paradise" online. There are five learning activities for different grade levels.

Fourth on the list is Face to Face which deals with what life has been like for Americans of Japanese, Middle Eastern, and South Asian descent after the events of Pearl Harbor and September 11th. Real people tell their stories of "fear, anger, hatred, loyalty, and trust." Lesson plans are designed to give students the experience of being treated as "the enemy". Recommended for grades 6-12, this is an incredibly powerful site.

Last on the list is World Without Oil, which was originally "a realistic simulation of the first 32 weeks of a global oil shortage chronicled in 1,500 personal blog posts, videos, images and voicemails." This simulation has been used to create lesson plans for use with high school students, asking the questions “What if there was an oil shortage? Starting today? How would your life change?” There are also lessons for students to do an independent study.

Five great sites. My favorite is Face to Face. Which one is yours?