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Choosing Textbooks For the New HSC and VCE Courses
Discussion points from a professional development conference for the new HSC

by Mike Horsley

 

1. Some questions for consideration

 

2. Textbook Selection process

 

3. TREAT Website
(Research on Textbooks)

 

  1. Is it compatible with the Syllabus?
  2. Does it support the principles underlying the Syllabus?
  3. Does it present major concepts in multiple ways?
  4. Does it recognise prior knowledge and provide advance organisers?
  5. How does it define concepts and by key vocabulary?
  6. What are the literacy assumptions implicit in the text - does it incorporate a strategy?
  7. Does it match student level?
  8. Does it sequence and structure the content logically?
  9. Can the activities
    a) be completed using the text?
    b) extend the student's thinking?
  10. Does the text integrate tech ology and the Internet?
  11. Is the text useful for independent learning or supporting classroom?
  12. Do the diagrams and graphics support the text or provide a parallel narrative that has been taught as well?
  13. Does the text contains biased, stereotype or culturally insensitive material?
  14. What are the assessment implications of the text?
  15. Does the text recommend alternative resources for projects and material for selections of varied activities?
  16. Is a teachers' guide or support material available?
  17. Does the text integrate individual, group and whole-class activity (key competencies)?
  18. Is the text engaging for students?

 

Cloze test pages of different texts with the same classes: compare results.

Undertake SMOG and concept load analyses.

Hold staff meetings, discuss evidence and then choose texts.

 

Criteria used for Australian awards for Excellence in Education Publishing:

1. Clarity of writing

2. Integration of graphics.

3. Layout and design

4. Implied pedagogy

5. Innovation and Plan

6. Representation of discipline

7. Research of content

 

Check out Research and Textbook on the Website. http//:alex.edfac.usyd.edu.au/
LocalResource/TREAT/
TREAT.htm