Using Student Computers Systematically to Differentiate Instruction/Practice
Questions for your consideration: Are computers used during center time? Do students always get their choice of activity when they visit the computer? Why? Are the activities they do meeting specific needs? When are some other times during the day that students could be assigned computer time with specific tasks without missing instruction from you? What holds you back from fully utilizing the computers? How can that be overcome?
See next page for example programs.
Name of Program
Main Purpose
Features
Program specific lessons and view results. Many lessons can be programmed in advance.
Phonics Grades K-1
Easy to navigate
Print the Starfall main screen. Students cross off as they finish each task.
Allows for readers to have additional time with text whether they can read it independently or not. Allows for readers to have additional time with text whether they can read it independently or not. A variety of links from Starfall and Harcourt to support skills associated with the story. To meet a variety of needs
Reads real literature aloud as students follow along. Engaging
Make a list the selections you would like students to read/listen to. They can mark off as they do it.
Make a list the selections you would like students to read/listen to. They can mark off as they do it.
Reads real literature aloud as students follow along. Engaging
Integrated
Specific to a need
Can be linked directly to the Donaldson Home Page.
Spelling City
To practice spelling
Easy to understand how to do
Have them check name off of list.
Math Magician
Practice specific math facts
Can check off when certain facts are mastered.
Can choose the math fact to practice Print a certificate
Repeated practice Introduction
Splash Into Phonics
Phonics Grades K-3
Starfall
National Geographic Listen and Read Book Flix
Classrooms -> Grade ____ -> Click on the story title. Other Websites
Math Connects
Lesson related games, songs, and videos
Management Options:
Students complete lessons in order programmed for them. View progress occasionally via teacher login.
Classroom Management: Use graphics and name cards. It’s ok if students get unequal time on the computer. If their objectives can be met a better way, then so be it. 1. Take screen shots (pictures) using the Paste into a Word doc. and print.
key.
2. Hang the screen shots by the computer area.
3. Clip or stick student names by the program that they should use during computer time. (See example on next page.)
Sample Wall Space:
Henry
Delaney
Annie
Connor
Brayden
Connor Katie
Students can be listed on multiple task pictures. You can specify to the student the order in which things should be done.
Individual Accountability and Tracking: Folders Now that you have a classroom management system in place, you may need folders for student accountability.
1. Create a double pocket folder for each student. 2. Use the screen shot pics with your specific directions and/or progress monitor papers.
Start with + ZEROES. Once you get 100%, print the certificate and shade in the +0 on the chart. Once you earn 100% on one fact today, you may go on to another assigned computer activity.
Place a checkmark on the activity when you have completed it.
3. When you would like all or most students to complete something, you can create a list with the title of the activity and post it on the wall. They can cross of their name as they finish rather than put a paper in all of the folders.
Closing Thoughts: Once you have a few programs systematically up and running, you probably won’t have to modify it for several weeks.
I will have the capability to customize student desktops, so I can create a folder with your name right on the desktop which contains exactly those sites/programs you may use. This will cut down on navigating and increase contact time with the program. The management ideas are a few quick ideas I came up with. The goal is to make management easy, quick, and functional for you and the students. If you have alternatives, please share!
Thank you and let me know how I can help you differentiate using computers!