Q: How does the fifth-grade teacher organize her students for the social studies activity that uses keyboarding?
Each student has access to their own computer so that there is equity in the use of the technology. In addition, the teacher goes through step by step, the directions, as well as she demonstrates them with the help of an LCD screen attached to her computer. She also periodically checks students work to make sure that they are on task.
Q: What word processing and technical skills do students need to use a computer to complete a writing assignment? How would you teach these skills?
First, the students need to be familiar with the program/system before they can even open a blank Word document. By the time they get to high school, they probably know how to do this, but in a beginning lesson, the teacher should review the process with the whole class. Also, I think it is important that the software amongst schools in the district are alike. This would save time in having to re-teach to a new program or OS.
Secondly, the students need to be able to type! I don't think they teach typing in our district. I know I had to take it in 9th grade and it has clearly become an invaluable skill. I liked that the teacher's district required students to take typing in 5th and 6th grade, so that by the time they reach middle school, they have adequate 10-finger typing skills. If we want educational equity, we have to keep teaching our students these skills.
This blog is intended to help inform students about the "goings on" in the HGHS Theatre Dept., as well as provide a forum for students and community members to comment or open dialogue concerning Theatre Co. rehearsals or productions.
