Class Research & Librarian Lessons

From Ms. McGuire: As a former English teacher, I miss the classroom, and one of my favorite things to do as a librarian is teach classes! Below are some of the lessons I've taught here at Portola. I love co-planning and designing lessons tailored to specific subjects and students, so if you're interested in a lesson not listed below, please stop by! I'd love to collaborate :)

Digital Literacy & Database Access

Learn how to use and navigate LAUSD's digital library and research databases, as well as Sora and LAPL resources.

Research Skills & Evaluating Sources

Learn how to formulate a research question, find key search terms, evaluate sources (both print & online), and assemble research in a coherent and succinct style.

Critical Media Literacy

Learn how to critically assess media sources - from social media to the news - and analyze, and evaluate purpose, bias, and effects.

How to Use Google Suite
(Search, Docs, Drive)

Think you know how to use Google? Think again! From advanced search to shortcuts, learn how to use all the features of Docs, Slides, Sheets, Forms, Drive, and even the classic search engine itself :)

How to Use the Library
(Physical & Digital)

Want to find what you're looking for? Learn how we organize information and how to find it for yourself both in the library and online! From Destiny Discover to the Dewey Decimal System, we've got you covered.

Genres & Reader Advisory
(Finding The Books You Like)

Portola's library is genrefying! Learn how to find your favorite genres, what each one means, how to judge a book by it's cover (and spine!), and feel confident navigating the library to find your favorites.

Why Should We Read?

What can reading for 10 minutes everyday do for your brain, your grades, and your future? Find out the science behind why reading is important for everyone, no matter what their future holds.

Building Reading Habits & Skills

Want to become a better reader? Assess your current reading skills and habits and set SMART goals for yourself to achieve. Watch your grades go up and your brain get bigger!

APA & MLA, Essay Writing & Editing

From a former high school English teacher; how to write, format, edit, and find your personal voice and writing style. Citation guides and resources included.

From Ms. McGuire: I also LOVE to do readalouds with classes - think circling up on the carpet in elementary school! - and have done several at Portola both with and without visual aids (in case teachers want students to read along). Check out the most popular requests below, and feel free to suggest new ones to add!