How to Select Textbooks for the Classroom
Whether you are selecting textbooks as a classroom teacher or as a home-schooling parent, there are a variety of issues to take into consideration. In addition to selecting a textbook that presents the correct level of information in a clear and appealing manner, it is also essential that a textbook be chosen only after carefully examining state standards for the subject area and grade level.
Instructions
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How to Select Textbooks for the Classroom
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Go online to your state department of education (for example "Missouri State Department of Education") and search for "standards." In this section you will be able to determine exactly what subject-area skills are expected at what level. For example, you will need to know what skills a fourth-grade math student is expected to master.
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Ask to have appropriate sample texts sent to you from at least three to five textbook companies; these will be sent with no charge and do not have to be returned. Begin your search for the perfect textbook by eliminating any texts that do not appear to coordinate with the state standards.
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3
Work through the first chapter of each book, actually completing the problems and exercises yourself, to determine if instruction is clear and complete. Then skim the table of contents to determine if the book is well organized.
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Look at the book from the perspective of the children who will be using it. Ask yourself if the book is graphically appealing, if the illustrations are attractive and appropriate, and if the design and graphics have been designed for today's child in mind. You might even consider giving a few children an opportunity to provide input on the books' appearance.
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Find out what kinds of supplementary materials, such as computer programs, workbooks and teaching aids will be furnished along with the textbook.
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Ask for advice and input from other educators who may have used either the book you are considering or a similar book from the same publisher.
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7
Query the book publisher of the books you have deemed suitable as to what kind of price you will be offered, based on the number of copies you will be purchasing.
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Tips & Warnings
Try to stay objective in the face of persuasive salespeople.
