Have you ever known what you wanted to say, but weren't quite sure how to say it? What is it about writing that challenges so many students? The key to developing great writers may be in providing the ability to link main ideas and the details that support them.
My students have wonderful ideas!
Our classroom community includes gifted learners, military dependents, and children with special needs. Each one has something special to say, but getting those thoughts on paper can be a challenge.
Children are often more comfortable writing using technology than pencil and paper. The computers in our classroom are outdated and don't always work properly. Honestly, I'm not sure how much longer they will last. We wait a long time for them to start. When they do start, we often have to reboot because the sound won't work or the screen freezes. It can be frustrating to children who are already feeling overwhelmed at the idea of putting their thoughts into writing. A new, dependable laptop may be just what the doctor ordered!
My Project
I am requesting 1 touch screen laptop and 1 Highlight the Clues CD-ROM to become better readers and writers. My students will use the HP Touch Screen laptop to develop critical literacy skills. In addition to doing research for writing informational texts, they will be able to write in a variety of locations. Not only will it work in their writing center, it can be taken to a part of the room where a child is more comfortable or less distracted. The ability to rearrange text will make editing more kid-friendly. Publishing will be a pleasure, rather than a chore. Making the writing process an enjoyable and liberating experience may reduce anxiety related to writing.
Highlight the Clues is a program that can be used with this laptop to improve reading and writing skills. This interactive program allows students to highlight evidence in the text as they find the answers to questions, then have the opportunity to answer follow-up questions in discussions or as writing prompts. It also provides students with examples of using main idea and details in their own writing.
Writing is more important than ever for our children.
Communicating ideas clearly is crucial. State assessments, college experiences, and career opportunities will require today's children to be better writers. The time to develop skills and confidence is now. Please consider helping my students by supporting this project.
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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. Norris and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.