Cummins, Mirza and Stille (2012) are “convinced that to teach the whole child in our increasingly diverse school systems, we need to connect with students’ lives outside of school and value the academic knowledge and cultural experiences they bring to school” (p. 35).

            As well, Roessingh (2016) cautions that “increasing numbers of ELLs, estimated as high as 45% in the admissions data at one Canadian University, underscore the urgency to address concerns related to their preparedness for engaging in post-secondary studies (p. 68).

           Our school administration recently requested that an explicit focus is implemented on the teaching of tier 2 academic vocabulary (context-dependent words such as analyze, compare etc.). It is my intention to increase academic vocabulary awareness, encourage students to investigate and share their cultural identity while developing their own digital technology skills. 

           Students will use tier 2 academic words in the parent questionnaire. This project provides students with an opportunity to complete digital literacy training and lessons, construct a survey form, and design, edit, and collaborate on a digital presentation. Using digital tools for this project not only serves to increase engagement and motivation but also enables easy access both at school and at home. As well, parents can help with the presentation by adding images and input relevanty to their own culture and identity.