Journal 9 Animation Brings Lessons to Life (NETS I and V)

Ponton, R. (2009/2010). Animation brings lessons to life. Learning and Leading With Technology, 37(4), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=December_January_No_4_4&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4450&ContentID=24837&DirectListComboInd=D

A school in Virginia is allowing their students to use computers and technologies to help supplement real class activities. Some fifth graders watched computer screens as their science lesson came to life with dancing graphics on the screen. These teachers quickly realized that their kids were more engaged and retained more when they added a technological component to their classes. The kids were so excited about computer animations which got them excited about doing their assignments. Teachers and parents were very impressed with the students work which incorporated those technological components. They are even starting kids in the younger grades with these tools and activities as well to help get them adjusted to using computers to help add understanding to those assignments. This was seen in the fourth graders using it to help them better grasp the concepts of the US Constitution. This school district is also using these tools for language classes which help the students understand the verbs better when they have pictures and animations to go along with them. It is just with language classes though, teachers are also seeing concepts and ideas driven home in the students brains with the help of these animations. These supplements are also helping the students become deeper thinkers which makes the information more meaningful to them.


Could these ideas be used for English as a Second Language learners as well?
I think it would be awesome for them! Just like the high school students in their language classes to learn their second language, English learners could use programs like this to help them better understand and see the connections for their language to English.


How would this work with a low income school?
I think even low income schools have at least one computer lab and each class could sign up and come in once a week and get to use those computers to benefit and supplement their learning