Word Processing
Many people use Word Processing everyday. It is important that students learn at a young age how to use this tool. Instead of writing on a piece of paper, Word Processing allows you too type information. There are many neat formatting tools so students can cut/paste, different alignment tools, change font (size, colour, etc.), add clip art, etc.
Here is a Cinquain Poem that I wrote using Microsoft Word Processing.
In class my group came up with a neat idea to use in our classrooms with students. The activity was to give them a story that they are familiar with and mix it all up. I would have students in groups of two, they would have to use the cut and paste tools so that they can rearrange the story in the right order. I would use this activity in a Grade 5 English Language Arts Classroom.
Spreadsheet
Spreadsheets are used to organize information in columns and rows. This program can be used for many different things for example to find a class average, finances, numbers, etc.
Here is an example of my Spreadsheet activity, Million Dollar Question, I completed in class.
Before I would have students complete an activity using Spreadsheets, I would introduce what spreadsheets are and how to use it. This Productivity tool could be a bit confusing compared to the other programs that we have been introduced to. I would use Spreadsheets in a Grade 4 Math class. The students would be asked individually to find different number patterns using this program.
Drawing/Painting
Microsoft Word has a very neat feature called Drawing/Painting. This feature allows for users to Draw or Paint. I never knew that Microsoft Word had this option.
Here is an example of what I made in class using the Drawing and Painting tools. Six Strands of English Language Arts
I definitely would use this tool in my classroom. I think this tool would be great to use in a Grade 3 classroom. Individually I would have my students create different shapes, using primary colors and using the font options.
Database
Database is another way to organize information that is stored inside a computer for easier access.
I would use Database in my classroom for students to keep track of library books they read. I would have them record the date, title, author, illustrator, and if they enjoyed the book or not. This activity could be used in any grade and it would be on going throughout the year. At report card time we could print off the lists and show their parents what they have accomplished.
