Group items tagged

Fourth graders had trouble using some of the basic functions on a computer-based writing assessment, including drop-down menus, editing icons, the highlighter tool, and text-to-speech, according to a recent study by the National Center for Education Statistics. The results, which could be seen as a foreshadowing of the types of problems students might have with computer-based common-core tests in the spring, are part of a larger federal pilot study I wrote about last week. That study found that 4th graders can use computers to type, organize, and compose well enough to be assessed on their writing.

Part of descriptive writing activity.

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.W.6 Use technology, including the Internet, to produce and publish writing and to interact and collaborate with others.

"Practice using similes and metaphors in their creative writing" Thanks to Pam Shoemaker who found this leson.

Example of writing and technology

The Web site Figment-founded by Lewis and New Yorker staff writer Dana Goodyear in 2010-gives young writers a forum to freely publish their work. The site now boasts more than 220,000 registered users and has stocked a library of more than 350,000 individual pieces, ranging from reflective poetry to multi-chapter 

We see ourselves as trying to raise the level of English from the pre-mobile days," said Ginger CEO Maoz Schact in an interview with VentureBeat. "We're able to make you look good on your mobile with minimal effort. Might be a good app for students using tablets in the classroom.