Computer Tasks and Pre-Tests

Works4Me presents weekly practical classroom tips from real experts -- your colleagues!

1. Daily Computer Tasks

From Gwendolyn Best:

"It has been my practice to select a few technical activities that last throughout the school year. I train the students at the beginning of the year and that training pays off because the students have a set of activities from which to choose throughout the school year. The tasks posted below encourage demonstration of reading comprehension and were designed for students in grades 4 and higher. In the past I gave my students choices like these to complete outside of class as an alternative to book reports. Now they complete the tasks in class. Each slide in the presentation can be printed and placed in a clear page protector. For smaller task cards, print them in Word."

• 10 Technology Task Cards ( PPT, 254K)
• 10 Technology Task Cards ( MS Word, 222K)

2. Value of the Pre-Test

From Marge:

"The value of a pre-test can't be emphasized enough. Students view a pre-test as a fair way to determine if there are students who will need extra work or an extension of our topic. These achievements will enrich us all when they share with the class upon completion. Occasionally there will be a parent that thinks his/her child should be a part of a small group working together. Being able to show them the pre-test score is most helpful! This process helps the students see themselves as learners. I always attach the pre-test under the post test and comment on their improvement! This practice is well worth my time and effort!"
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3. Question of the Week: Building Confidence in Students with Emotional Problems

From the Works4Me Worker Bees:

"Teachers and caregivers should be sensitive to the warning signs of developing emotional problems. How can a teacher help youngsters with emotional problems learn? How do you help these students develop positive peer relationships? What support activities do you do in your classroom that help students feel competent, strengthen social relationships, and bolster self-efficacy?"
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4. Conference Attendance

Heard Last Week in the Works4Me Lounge from Amy Martin:

"We are in need of suggestions to get parents to attend Parent/Teacher conferences in both the fall and the spring, but especially the spring when attendance is way down. Thanks for your ideas."
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