Prairie Lands Writing Project

This class will explore the multiple learning opportunities provided by using three pieces of software: Inspiration, Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.  Inspiration promotes comprehension, organization, thinking, writing, and literacy.  It is a visual learning graphic organization software that can be used at all grade levels.  Participants will learn how to use the power of PowerPoint software as a teaching and learning tool.  This software also allows material to be presented in a format that makes reviewing material fun.  . Internet research will be a focus when participants design web quests to be used in their classrooms. When used effectively, technology can assist students in improving writing and learning through researching, organizing, analyzing, writing and presenting materials.

Participants will meet in a computer lab environment where they will have access to Inspiration, Microsoft Word, and PowerPoint. Digital cameras, scanners, and mobile data storage devices will be discussed.

Objectives

Participants will:

• Respond to writing prompts at the beginning of each class session and reflective writing at the end of each session.
• Design lessons to use graphic organizing software for prewriting and as a reading comprehension tool.
• Create PowerPoint presentations for classroom use.
• Design and publish a web-and-flow activity format web page
• Complete a technology skills assessment as well as a technology survey of available technology at their own schools.
• Explore use of electronic images to enhance projects.
• Become aware of copyright issues