New Tools to Learn About Insects, MLK and Poetry

Classrooms are changing. Pencils and blackboards have been replaced by iPads and Smart Boards. Throughout Regional School District 13, teachers and students have embraced the change. This week, Patch asks teachers in Durham and Middlefield to share their stories about the impact technology has had in the classroom.

Teacher: Elizabeth Burns

School:  Brewster Elementary (First Grade)

Technology: The technology I use in my classroom varies depending on the project or academic area I am focusing on.  For example, we use iPads to reinforce math skills such as addition, subtraction, and numeracy skills.  The children play various games to enhance their mathematical skills. Also, the students use the iPads to complete projects that relate to the science units we are learning about. This fall we completed a unit on insects. During this unit the children used the PebbleGo database in the computer lab and books to research individual insects, take notes, participate in group discussions and then complete a movie regarding what they learned using Puppet Pals on the iPads.  In this project students were to identify the characteristics of insects, and compare these characteristics between insects. During this project, I wanted students to demonstrate their understanding of insects including their similarities and differences. Examples of this project are posted on my webpage. After this project was complete, students had the opportunity to understand how studying insects is relevant to their own lives and their future by Skypeing with beekeepers. During this Skype, students learned more about the characteristics of honeybee, their ecological significance, and what it means to be a beekeeper.  

Students have used iPads and the lab to produce class movies about Martin Luther King and Holiday Wishes. The MLK movie is on the school webpage and the holiday wishes is posted on my class webpage. With the help of the technology integration specialist, the Martin Luther King, Jr project was completed by all first graders, one kindergarten class and one second grade class. Students researched MLK on BrainPOP and PebbleGo and were then asked 3 questions: What did you learn about MLK, Jr, How did he help all Americans, and How can we live MLK, Jr.’s dream at Brewster School. Students recorded their answers as well as drew illustrations using the Scribble Press app found on our student iPads.

I also use the computer lab to have students publish poems they have written as well as to study other units of study.  The children can access Pebble Go and Brain Pop on the school web page to complete their research.   I use the smart board to introduce new topics in all academic areas.  Again I use the above resources provided on the web page as a springboard to a new unit.  For example, place value, parts of speech, and many others.   I have also collaborated with other teachers in the building to Skype with other schools or individuals.  The purpose is to share information with each other.  For example, we collaborated with Michelle Gohagon to Skype with beekeepers, which correlated to our insect unit.  

How have students benefited from the technology?  The students have benefited on many levels using technology.  They have learned and developed research skills, learned how to take notes, enhanced their academic skills in all areas, and built confidence in using the technology in general and expressing their learning.  Overall, the use of technology has allowed students to demonstrate what they have learned in a creative fun manner.  Technology is very motivating and engaging to young learners.  When the students know there is a technology component involved they are focused and eager to learn. Students have the opportunity to creatively demonstrate their learning, and express their understanding.   Finally, in the near future these students will be expected to use computers and other forms of technology to complete assignments and assessments independently.  The experience the students are getting now is valuable and necessary.    

Memorable moment: The most memorable moments so far have been when the students completed their insect projects. The happiness and the confidence that was displayed on their faces were amazing. The students were so proud to share their projects with their families.    

Other Technology in the Classroom articles:

From Textbooks to Tablets, History in the Making at Coginchaug Classroom Conversations Take on New Twist with Twitter, SkypeOnline Bulletin Board Helps Latin Students
Skype, iMovie and Blabberize Keep Students Connected