Have you been hesitating to introduce technology into your classroom because you think your tech-savvy students know so much more than you do? Today’s the day to conquer that fear with some easy lessons that even a newbie can teach -- and learn from! Included: Five lessons for teaching -- and learning -- about using technology in the classroom.
Often, teachers who didn’t grow up with computers express reluctance to teach technology to their students. "They already know more than I do!"is a frequently heard lament. But is it true? Sure, many kids today know more about how to play online games and download the latest music than their teachers do, but do they really know all they need to know about the basics of computer use? Can they select the correct text styles for a business letter, change fonts to style different pages in a written report, conduct a directed Internet search, correctly evaluate Web site reliability, or use even a fraction of the computer tools at their disposal? Many cannot. And if you don’t teach them, who will?
It’s time to take your students back to the basics of computer use. And, however new you are to technology, this week’s lessons will help you do just that.
This week, Education World provides five lessons about technology. Click each of the headlines below for a complete teaching resource. (Appropriate grade levels for each lesson appear in parentheses.)
While preparing this article, Education World’s editors found many fine lessons that employ and teach basic technology skills. Click here to view 20 additional lesson plans!
For more easy technology-based activities, don't forget to check out Education World's archives of Techtorials, Scavenger Hunts, and WebQuests.
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What’s Inside My Computer?
Students draw a picture of what they think a computer looks like inside. Then they explore more. (Grades 3-5, 6-8, 9-12, advanced)
Mousing Around
Practice using a mouse and complete a mouserobics scavenger hunt. (Grades PreK, K-2, 3-5)
Word Processing Can Be Lots of Font!
A fun poem activity helps reinforce basic word processing skills. (Grades 3-5, 6-8)
Finding Your Way in the World Wide Web
A fun grouping activity teaches about databases. Then students test kid-friendly search engines to find the best one. (Grades 3-5, 6-8)
There’s a Monster in My E-Mail!
In this simple collaborative e-mail project, students make new friends as they practice their drawing, writing, and computer skills. (Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12)
Article by Linda Starr
Education World®
Copyright © 2002 Education World
10/25/2002
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