The purpose of the classroom resource section is to ensure that the new teacher is able to identify and use a variety of resources for all aspects of teaching.

As a GCCS teacher, you are expected to

Inventory
Your resource inventory should start with a list of everything that you own that could be considered a resource. If you do not have a list and you do not seem to have too many resources, you may wish to sit with the resources in front of you.

Categorize
The first way to look at your resources is in terms of the four themes. Look at what concepts and topics your grade level covers during each theme. Click here to go to the theme outline. Once you have your items separated into four groups, take a look at how they can be used. Some examples of resource use include:

• Reference Information (Non-fiction, primary resources)
  Teacher Use
  Lesson planning
  Visuals for lesson
  Content Knowledge
  Student Use
  Content Knowledge
  Project reference
• Reading Materials (Fiction or non, primary or secondary)
  Teacher Use
  Read Aloud
  Content Knowledge
  Student Use
  Individual reading
  Partner reads
  Content knowledge
  Project reference
  

Evaluate
Once you have decided that the resource fits into a category above, look at whether or not it is truly a valued resource.

For books - One question to ask at this point, especially for non-fiction resources, is when was it published? You do not want to deliver out-of-date information to your students. Another question may be is it appropriate for this age/grade level?

For physical resources (models, posters, etc.) - You should ask the same questions above, paying particular attention to the age appropriate level if there are visuals involved.

Remember that it may be hard, but if a valued resource is out of date or not in good condition, it is time to replace it.

Areas of Need
Your areas of need are any topic areas that are not covered. You may find that you will not know all of your areas of need until you begin lesson planning. Once you begin to plan your lessons and activities, it will become more clear what resources are necessary to accomplish the objectives.

Additional Resources
Before going any further, take a look at the GCCS Resource Scope and Sequence. See if the resources that are provided by the school fill in any of the blanks for your areas of need.

Your next step in locating additional resources should be your mentor and team members.

After that, it is recommended that you look to the AVA, library and Internet. Outside of these three resources, the possibilities are endless.