ROOM+9


 * Welcome to Room 9 **

We are an awesome class. Together we aim to improve our ICT skills.

There are 24 enthusiastic pupils who are keen to integrate technology in their learning. **I wish to investigate:** The use of ICT to assist pupils in their learning to strengthen their knowledge within literacy.

**What does the literature say?** Computer during lessons motivated students to continue using learning outside school hours (Becker 2000; Hennessy 2000; Passey2000;Rockman 2000

**What will I do?** Whole class teaching and/or independent task. We will set up a Word bank. Pupils will choose a word, write their own definition,find dictionary meaning, synonyms, antonyms, use in good sentences and produce a picture representation. (Slide show,Kidpix,Word) Pupils may choose to work with a buddy to edit each others work. Their progress will be monitored in the form of a spelling/language test.

This is our Learning and Thinking Wall! Hooray!!

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Term 2 Most of the pupils needed help with the laptops, some even with the basics (turning on/off, locating keys etc.) Using the projector as a model was a great help. Fortunately a few of the more able pupils assisted the others. Pupils worked on their vocabulary using Kidpix, reinforcing their skills ( using colour, inserting pictures, animation,recording voice etc.) I noticed improvement in dictionary skills and use of good vocabulary. Pupils also enjoyed working on the fun classroom activities on Spelling City and Maths Week. This term I found that my classroom Time Table did not work well with the laptops. I think 6 pods is not enough for one class.

Term 3 My time spent with Steven was invaluable. I learned a lot that I could teach my children. Sometimes the kids taught me a thing or two which was great! This term our main focus was using the laptops for Inquiry Learning. Pupils were confident in using key words to locate information for research projects.They also learned to do Power Point presentations. I feel we covered a lot in term 2 using the laptops. Our unit of study was The Pacific Islands. In groups children found great enjoyment creating imovies, thanks to Nadine and a few of her students. They also did slide shows. Pupils worked well in pairs/groups sharing ICT knowledge. I know my pupils are motivated to learn using the laptops.

Term 4 This term I got groups of 4 pupils working to a pod, and that is working well. The team leader guides those that need help. Children have an option to either work on Kid Pix, Comic Life or Pages. Vocabulary: Most of the children are becoming aware of new words and are keen to find the meanings. This has increased their understanding of texts. I hope this will be evident in their test results! Because of all the learning going on lately, I haven't pursued testing (which is an oversight on my part!) I will be more vigilent this term!

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