Using Digital Tools and E-pals to Improve Descriptive Language

How it works:

This unit will use digital imaging, collaboration and e-pals to teach and develop written language skills.  Classroom e-pals will be the media used to introduce, develop and/or master simple paragraph and personal letter writing. 

Standards

Language Arts:

v    Writing

Ø     Writing Genres

¨     Write narratives that includes well chosen detail to develop the character, setting and/or plot

¨     Write descriptions that use concrete  sensory details to present and support unified impressions of people, places, things or experiences.

¨     Write personal and formal letters

v    Reading

Ø     Reading Comprehension

¨     Ask Questions and support answers by connecting  prior knowledge with literal and inferential information found in text.

¨     Demonstrate comprehension by identifying answers in text

¨     Recall major points in the text and make and revise predictions about forthcoming information.

Estimated Class Periods to Complete

This project is ongoing throughout the year.

Software and Materials Used:

v    Internet Access

v    E-mail filtering system such as gaggle.net (free service) or Mail Gear

v    Digital Camera

v    Web Cam

v    Microsoft NetMeeting Software (free with Microsoft Internet Explorer)

Keywords

Email, Epals, Electronic Mail, Letter Exchange

The Students:

The students in this project must have the ability to write a complete sentence, therefore, it is appropriate for second grade or higher.  It would be an excellent reinforcement unit for older ELD students or students with special needs.

Students will need to be taught how to email with attachments, so file management will be important.  The writing that they develop should be kept in a folder or on a disc (electronic portfolio).

Overall Value:

The use of technology is an excellent motivator!  Integrating E-Pals, digital cameras and web cams  with Language Arts to help reinforce basic writing skills will make the lessons exciting and new.  Students will be aware of their audience and the anticipation of actually holding a teleconference at the end of the unit only increases their motivation.

Tips for the teacher:

Use the "Train the Trainers" strategy when students are beginning to learn how to use the "Save As" function for file management.  This way you are not the only "expert" in the classroom.  Use that approach with any new technology skill that is introduced to students, teachers and parents!

Tracy Sturgell  is currently a Teacher On Special Assignment for Technology in the Santa Maria-Bonita School District in Santa Maria, California, as well as a Santa Barbara County CTAP Technology Mentor.   She has worked in her district for 19 years as an educator in grades 1-6.  Tracy has served as a tech leader in her district since 1984.