Often Occasional Teachers are called to teach a class which may not be in an area of curricular specialty. This is the section in which you will find those subject specific supports which will help you shine!
Resources by subject
Why Reading Aloud to Older Children is Valuable
Reading aloud to middle school students is valuable for their emotional and academic wellbeing. It is a way teachers can foster a love for reading and teach
various literary and rhetorical devices.
Government of Canada Science Education Resources
This Government of Canada page links dozens of activities, lesson plans, videos and more to help youth learn about science and technology.
Computational Thinking in Math Education
The integration of computational thinking (CT) in mathematics teaching and learning can support the Ministry of Education’s mathematics goal of helping “students build a solid conceptual foundation in math” through dynamic modelling, by making abstract concepts “tangible” code objects, and by offering opportunities for students to develop a robust understanding of mathematical concepts through hands-on investigations. Resources linking to partnering organizations within the Math Knowledge Network (MKT) provide inspiration for teachers who plan to incorporate coding into their math program.
The Council of Ontario Drama and Dance Educators
CODE began as an informal organization to support Drama and Dance education. The website has a wealth of free K-8 resources as well as information on workshops and events.
The Invading Species Awareness Program
Developing from a partnership between Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources and the Federation of Anglers and Hunters, the aim of this program is public education. Resources available can be to teach about specific environmental concerns within Ontario, making this relevant to our students’ lives. Most resources are physical, which means you’ll have to order them. Units on biodiversity are available, aligning with the Ontario Grade 4 and Grade 6 Science curriculum. A Kids Corner section includes a fishing game to help kids learn about invasive species.
Youcubed
Youcubed’s mission is “to inspire, educate and empower teachers of mathematics, transforming the latest research on math into accessible and practical forms”. Although some resources are paid, there is a wealth of free resources and ideas. The ideology and strategies are well-researched and proven, and can support teachers both in the classroom and in development of their teaching practice.
The Art of Ed
The Art of Education (AOE) is an innovative higher learning institution committed to delivering amazing professional development to art educators everywhere. The Art of Education’s distance education courses, conferences, workshops, and other valuable resources provide unique and practical learning opportunities for every art teacher at every stage of their career. The website has free lesson plans for teaching art as well as paid content.
Epic
Promoted as the world’s largest digital library of fiction and non-fiction for kids 12 and under, Epic boasts the ability to create individual student profiles and reading logs. Epic is available on iPads, iPhone, Android devices and on any computer or desktop, including Chromebooks, and is 100% FREE for educators.
Mystery Science
This science inquiry-based website offers a limited number of free memberships as well as a trial membership period. The search option uses keywords to locate lessons and units that will engage students when you have to plan at a moment’s notice!