What is ALEX?

What is ALEX?

ALEX is the Alabama Learning Exchange, a database containing lesson plans and other useful information created and posted by teachers as well as the Alabama Department of Education. The lessons are in line with the ALCOS content standards for each subject and grade level. Links are provided to guide the user through the website to search for ideas to be used in the classroom. A teacher is able to register at the site and create his or her own personal workspace where different lesson plans can be downloaded and stored as well as post her own lesson plans for other teachers to use.

The site also provides opportunities to search other websites for leadership development, professional development and support (though this section is still under construction at this time), as well as tricks and tips from experienced teachers. There is also a tremendous amount of information available for the special education specialist. This is a good tool for the new teacher just starting out as well as the veteran teachers looking for new ideas.

Anyone wishing to know more about ALEX can visit the website at www.alex.state.al.us

My Thoughts on ALEX

I was surprised with all the useful information that is available on ALEX. The lesson plans are organized so that it is easy to navigate around the website. By just clicking on subject and grade, you can obtain a thoroughly constructed and detailed lesson plan for any subject from English and Art to Driver's Education. The lesson plans are geared towards ALCOS (Alabama Course of Study) which all teachers in Alabama must follow. This site will be an invaluable resource in developing lesson plans not only when I start teaching but also as an education student who is learning to create lesson plans. ALEX will be a great tool to tap into the minds of other teachers to maybe come up with fresh ideas or a new insight on a subject or lesson, maybe something thatI hadn't thought of.

I will also use the many links to other websites on ALEX to find out how other teachers are keeping their students motivated and excited about learning which I feel will be one of my biggest challenges as a teacher.