
This page provides links to an eclectic mix of thought-provoking and information-rich websites relevant to life-based learning.
Many of them are websites with teaching resources for immediate use in the classroom. Others were particularly helpful when putting together this website.
All of them demonstrate an interest in children being involved in life-based learning.
Please note that a link here is not an endorsement of the concept of life-based learning or of MAC.
Policy and guidance support for children learning how to communicate effectively
Communication involves interaction on a variety of levels
A history of communication (USA)
https://smallbusiness.chron.com/technology-communicate-27322.html
Non-verbal communication explained (USA)
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/nonverbal-communication.htm
Information about paralanguage
https://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-paralanguage.htm
Information about body language
https://www.businessballs.com/self-awareness/body-language/
Information about verbal communication skills
https://www.skillsyouneed.com/ips/verbal-communication.html
Oracy Cambridge campaigns for effective spoken communication
Article about a ‘million-word gap’ for children who are not read to at home
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/04/190404074947.htm
Two articles on the importance of writing skills
https://study.com/articles/Why_Writing_Skills_are_More_Important_Than_Ever.html
https://www.rlf.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/RLFwritingmatters.pdf
Article on interpersonal skills involving all aspects of communication
https://www.skillsyouneed.com/interpersonal-skills.html
An interesting take on support for the careers of women, including a section on developing communication skills (USA)
https://careerwise.asu.edu/?q=home
An example of body language use in life (UK)
http://www.stroke4carers.org/?p=280
The Kids’ Storytelling Club (USA)
Practical material to use in the classroom
Article about the effective use of paralanguage in teaching (UK)
https://oracycambridge.org/2018/09/19/teaching-tone-of-voice/
An article on teaching children body language (Canada)
https://www.theatrefolk.com/blog/nonverbal-communication-exercises/
An excellent page from BBC Teach about teaching speaking and listening with downloadable resources (UK)
https://www.bbc.co.uk/teach/skillswise/communication-skills/z669f4j
Advice for teachers on speaking and listening (USA)
https://www.cultofpedagogy.com/speaking-listening-techniques/
Advice from I CAN, a children’s communication charity (UK)
https://ican.org.uk/i-cans-talking-point/
Access to a huge database of resources (UK)
https://www.thecommunicationtrust.org.uk/about-the-trust/what-do-we-do/
Articles about why writing is important for children (USA)
https://www.inspiringlifedreams.com/why-writing-is-important-for-kids/
https://pambarnhill.com/writing-importance-young-children/
Teaching resources site including information on types of writing (USA)
https://www.teach-nology.com/themes/lang_arts/typesofwriting
Article about the need for technology in the classroom (USA)
https://www.securedgenetworks.com/blog/10-Reasons-Today-s-Students-NEED-Technology-in-the-Classroom