Valerie Taylor's Page

Hey Valerie,

Our Brainyflix video contest just ended, and I wanted to thank you for helping us get the word out. We got 800 submissions from across the country!

That said, MIT was really happy with the results and will let us run another contest, so we're going for it! But this time, we're gonna have kids create Brainypics flashcards - which are images and sentences paired up with a one of our SAT/ACT words. The contest ends May 22nd, and there'll be iTunes and a cash prize like last time. To boot, we'll double the payout if the kids can hit a certain goal. More details at brainyflix.com/main/contest_rules.

Do you mind passing my message along to students and your HS colleagues again?

Thanks,
Jack

Thanks for the response. I took a look and understand your concern now. Unfortunately, we can't control the additional videos that show up there because it is all controlled by YouTube. If the kids follow the instructions in tagging the videos correctly, then there is a better chance the 'junk' videos won't appear, but I can't say that is a guarantee. Still, I hope you guys consider participating. Anyone who uses the internet is a) used to having to deal with 'junk' and b) screens instinctively. Please let me know your decision. We'd be thrilled to have your kids involved

Hi Valerie. I was wondering if you and your students would be interested in participating in a nationwide SAT Vocab Video Contest @ MIT university. If not, perhaps you have some educator contacts you could direct me to. You can view contest details at BrainyFlix.com Please let me know. Thanks!

Valerie,

I saw your comments about reading. I do think we need some accessible novels for kids. Reading something powerful even if it is shorter, is better than only reading Spark Notes for something that overwhelms them.

I think depth is important as well as breadth of experience.

Even a nonfiction title about learning, like Whole New Mind, or How to Think LIke Leonardo da Vinci, might be a good diversion.

When I think of kid's favorite books that they always request among reluctant readers, it's things like Vonnegut, Catcher in the Rye, Hatchet, and Where the Red Fern Grows, and Stephanie Meyer's books, interestingly! And sometimes MIchael Crichton.

Seems like more of the vocal reluctant readers are guys....so I think that has to enter into the conversation too.

No friends?? I don't believe that. Hi Valerie. I never see you. Hope you're having a good year.
Marcia