First Week for Kindergarten & First Grade

Kindergarten - A rainy day did not damper the excitement felt by the kindergarten students on their first visit to the computer lab. After listening to the classic story Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson, students were introduced to the drawing program Early Learning Toolkit. Using one single color just like Harold, students used their imaginations to create a picture. Important vocabulary reviewed included computer, mouse, keyboard, keyboard tray, and monitor. I also discussed with the students how to properly use the mouse. As the students develop their fine motor skills, it is essential that they use the mouse with proper arm position. Their arm and/or shoulder should be relaxed and not elevated.

First Grade - Kidspiration is the core computer program used by first grade. It allows students to visually organize information and make connections between concepts by linking pictures, symbols, and words. This week students were asked to make an alphabet web using their first or last name. This required students to practice searching through the picture library, dragging pictures to their workspace, and creating their own links.