Here are some ideas to differentiate projects that display evidence of learning.
Do you need some support in the area of teaching literacy? Here are some resources to help you. And hey... do the kids a favor. Stop teaching the bejesus out of books. Front load for comprehension, set a purpose for reading, consider impact and perspectives...but don't analyze every page, OK? The kids are sick of that. Last time I checked, novels at the book store aren't sold with accompanying worksheets. Let kids read, OK? I promise that I will do that, too.
Readicide: How Schools Are Killing Reading and What You Can Do About It
By Kelly Gallagher
ISBN: 978-1-57110-780-0
If you're trying to develop readers... true voracious and lifelong readers, then pick up this book. The first chapter is a little dry (talks about state assessments and the woes associated with them), but it gets better. I felt that his research validated by philosophies that evolved from being in the classroom with reluctant readers.
The Book Whisperer
by Donalyn Miller
ISBN: 978-0-470-37227-2
Same school-of-thought as the aforementioned book, but with alternative ideas to demonstrate proof of comprehension. Read and find out why...and how... she gets her sixth-graders to read 40 books in her classroom AND how 85% score in the 90th percentile for reading.
Children's Literature Websites...
Enjoy perusing options to help you find that book!
Here are some ideas for Web 2.0 opportunities that can help you and others create and share projects.