Word processing is the most commonly used software tool in the elementary classroom. It can be used to create text documents that can be easily shard with others. You can insert text, graphics, charts, hyperlinks, and much more. Some ways to use word processing software with students is by having them create brochures, newsletters, or stories. Hey can easily collaborate together and edit their group work in this program. The teacher can use word processing software as a management tool in numerous ways also. I personally use word daily for parent communication notes, tables with student information, quick checklists, substitute plans, and much more.
There are numerous benefits to using a word processing program in the classroom. By having the students use one; it supports the learning of the writing process. It makes it easier to get started in writing, edit and revise writing, and increases student motivation to write. A word processor also uses a dynamic collaborative learning approach. Students can easily share and change works together. Lastly, a word processor in the classroom will allow meaningful, hands-on practice in many content areas. The ability to manipulate fonts and graphics encourages students to use this software in many subjects.
From the teacher’s stand point, make sure that you are fully prepared to teach the use of a word processor before assigning students to use it independently. Be sure to be fully prepared before you begin teaching. Have student examples or any other files readily accessible. Then, demonstrate, demonstrate, demonstrate! Modeling is very important for students to see the functions in the program and the common mistakes that users make on it. Last, assign small tasks at a time. For example, when I teach my students about using Microsoft Word we will only focus on one function at a time. I will have them create a document and focus on the ability to change and resize the font. Then in the next assignment we work on changes in font and add another function, like inserting an image. Building on the skills using baby steps has been a very efficient method for my class.
There are numerous benefits to using a word processing program in the classroom. By having the students use one; it supports the learning of the writing process. It makes it easier to get started in writing, edit and revise writing, and increases student motivation to write. A word processor also uses a dynamic collaborative learning approach. Students can easily share and change works together. Lastly, a word processor in the classroom will allow meaningful, hands-on practice in many content areas. The ability to manipulate fonts and graphics encourages students to use this software in many subjects.
From the teacher’s stand point, make sure that you are fully prepared to teach the use of a word processor before assigning students to use it independently. Be sure to be fully prepared before you begin teaching. Have student examples or any other files readily accessible. Then, demonstrate, demonstrate, demonstrate! Modeling is very important for students to see the functions in the program and the common mistakes that users make on it. Last, assign small tasks at a time. For example, when I teach my students about using Microsoft Word we will only focus on one function at a time. I will have them create a document and focus on the ability to change and resize the font. Then in the next assignment we work on changes in font and add another function, like inserting an image. Building on the skills using baby steps has been a very efficient method for my class.
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