I use a computer to create, edit, and print documents on a daily basis. The great advantage of word processing over using a typewriter is that you can make changes without retyping the entire document and I rely on software, as a first step, to check the spelling and grammar within the body of my document. I use word processing to write letters and email, do homework assignments and papers for school, create cards, flyers and worksheets, and create a running record of student progress for portfolios. A weekly newsletter about events in the classroom is a required task for all teachers. The ability to use word processing to create a template makes this task much easier. Email has become a primary form of communication for me and the word processing component within email programs make the appearance and readability of that communication significantly better. I did have an electric typewriter (with an erase feature within the ink cartridge) and can’t believe I ever thought it was the only thing needed to present written work.
Students at Woodmont Academy use Word Processors in the classroom, the computer lab on a weekly basis and infrequently at home. Lower elementary students use this technology to assist in the communication of their ideas on paper. This is done using Microsoft Word and Power Point. I especially use this feature to have them create flash cards. Words are copied from a list, using word processing and then pictures from clip art or student folders are inserted to create deeper meaning. Upper Elementary students include the publishing, printing and saving of documents along with formatting text and layout options to creatively express ideas. Research papers are only one way of assessing what the student has learned. They create brochures and newsletters too. These students also use word processors to email and blog within the classroom and school environment.
I would like for use formatting more extensively to create summary sheets with the space for students to fill in the blanks and take notes. I definitely see the advantages of using processing programs like Write-Out-Loud, Paint, Write & Play, Storybook Weaver, and Inspiration for lower elementary students. The additional graphics would make the instruction much easier on my part! Using word processing to continue to make comments in our on-line grade books would assist in keeping track of student progress. I will attempt to use the Power Grade feature more effectively.
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Gail, I use write out loud and co writer with many of my students. It is a great tool for struggling students to assist them in the tediousness of the writing process. When I taught elementary I use Kidspiration/Inspiration a ton. It is a great tool for kids to put their ideas in pictures on a mind map.
ReplyDeleteI am researching Kidspiration/Inspiration now. I can't believe we are a school who doesn't use it! Teaching K/1 to insert pictures from clip art onto Power Point slides was a daunting task!! Thanks for your input!
ReplyDeleteWow... teaching a kindergartener to insert clip art! I have had to explain that to some college educated adults and had a hard time. I'm not too familiar with some of the programs that you mentioned. Are these more focused on elementary levels or ids this another case of the math teacher not being up on the writing software?
ReplyDeleteThe software is focused on elementary levels. I was lucky enough to have a group of kindergartners who listened and followed directions well. I have to give them the word to type into the clip art search but from there they were able to choose their own pictures to go along with spelling words. It was definitely one of those teaching moments I will remember forever. I underestimated them, they were like little sponges taking it all in. We practiced for several more sessions and they still are able to understand and use the technology. The problem now is the new students who have transferred into the class. They have no clue!
ReplyDeleteNice blog entry. I use word processing for many of the same personal tasks. Thinking back to a time of typewriters makes me wonder where we would be without our current word processing options. It is nice to see high expectations for all students. I will never cease to be amazed how quickly young learners take to computer related tasks.
ReplyDeleteIn addition, I find your high expectations for yourself to be inspiring.