Tuesday, February 13, 2007

Literacy Websites

I've been thinking about the many ways to incorporate technology into my second grade classroom and wondered if anyone had any particular software programs or websites they use with their elementary students to reinforce or enhance literacy?? I'd love to hear about them! Thanks.

3 comments:

Sarah S. said...

Hi Jill! I've been exploring some ways to use technology in my first grade classroom. I have one PC and a laptop. Students visit the website starfall.com to practice phonetic reading skills. It may be useful for some of your struggling readers. I've also begun to use readwritethink.org. On this website, you can search your lesson or learning outcome and find some interactive sights that students can use independently. I just had my students write acrostic poems in partners on this website. They've also used it for an interactive lesson on alphabetical order. Another great website is unitedstreaming.com. Our town had subscribed to it. It provides videos in content areas. It's a way to provide either background knowledge, enhance comprehension, promote discussion, or summarize a topic. I use an LCD projector to show the content. Last, check out storylineonline.net. Here the screen actors guild has famous actors read some great children's literature. I hope this helps. I am still exploring myself.

Leslie B said...

Hi Jill. We use some interesting technology in my classroom. Like you, I am searching for new sites and technology for my class. Personally, I like to work with centers at least three times a week in language arts and in math as, like most classes, I have a wide range of learners. Incorporating technology as a center gives me an opportunity to meet with guided reading groups and target math instruction for individuals while giving the students meaningful tasks. In language arts I use Gamequarium, Brainpop Jr. and a BBC.co.uk/schools site, (all worth a visit- check them out!) Next year we have a new anthology that integrates technological supports, including Phonics Express. I also use Earobics and Read Out Loud, based on student need. In math, my district purchased a license for a math program called Successmaker. In this program, the students answer 300 questions and are leveled by the program. After the leveling, they work at their own pace, on tailor-made problems that target their weak areas. Detailed progress reports may be printed at any time. This, of course, doesn’t take the place of math instruction, but rather enhances and supports student learning. Each student uses the program 20 minutes at least three times a week as part of center-rotations, (the centers being working in a small group with me, problem solving with peers and Successmaker.)

Anonymous said...

Hi Jill, I must say that I'm somewhat disappointed in your level of participation in the blog. Perhaps you can share with me some of your thoughts on its effectiveness for you.
Regina