Were you an artistic student who struggled with reading? My artistic students will be able to use their creativity to explore vocabulary and learn story elements through the use of technology.
My creative 2nd Grade students are eager to learn and love to be involved with their learning.
At this young age, students are still free with expressing themselves through art and love to create, design, and exhibit their work. They are especially motivated by technology and all that it has to offer. The students at our school represent 32 different languages and often are approaching reading with English being their second language. This can present challenges for vocabulary development and reading comprehension. I would like to connect my students' love of art and creativity to their vocabulary and comprehension development.
My Project
Using colored pencils and paper, students will illustrate vocabulary words and story elements, such as setting, characters, and plot. Working in small groups, they will use the iPod touches and the SonicsPics app to take pictures of their art and record the definition of words, or describe the story elements. Then students will present their projects to the rest of the class by hooking up the iPod touches to our computer's projector. Students will be able to see their artwork and hear their descriptions on the big screen! This will build their confidence through their art and will increase their vocabulary and grasp of story elements and comprehension. In addition to this project, the colored pencils and iPods will be used for a variety of other activities that allow students to explore art, math, social studies, science, reading, and grammar in a new and exciting way.
Many of my students are English Learners and find it difficult to speak in front of the class.
This project will allow them to express themselves through their art--a universal language. At the same time, students will be exposed to a rich variety of vocabulary and will be engaged in learning the story elements in a whole new way. This project will be on going, as we explore new stories and elements each week.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Browning and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.