Using the Computer for Math

The computer provides a great way to teach basic math and functional money skills. There are many great CD-ROM's and programs you can get for your classroom that everyone can make use of. Using the computer to help your students learn about money and coins is a great way for them to better understand the concept. They can learn to count coins and make change. Its also important for a student to be able to tell time and the difference between digital and analog clocks. There are programs you can buy that focus on these skills as well as today, yesterday, calendar/time, and units of time.

Using the Computer for Writing

In some of these programs students are able to see and hear as they write with special software programs. Computers can also provide assistance with visual organization, outlining, and step-by-step direction following, all which support the writing process. Two examples of how computers change the writing pocess are : Handwriting problems disappear and proof reading is easier because text is more legible.

Using the Computer for Reading

Computers can be used in reading by providing alternate strategies. Using text-to-text speech can help by highlighting text and read it aloud while the student follows along. Making the graphics and text on the screen larger is helpful with students who have learning disabilities or visual impairments. There are also Scan to Speak Programs which can translate into digital format to have the computer read the text aloud to them! Co: Writer
This is a very useful tool to have avalible in your classroom. You can use one of the two options which are predict ahead or predict in line. You may also choose to add talk mode if you like. You start by typing the first letter of the word and Co: Writer will bring up a list of words starting with that letter for you to choose from. You can eitehr choose one of those words or keep typing to come up with more options. You are able to change font, font size and colors so that you can personalize it to what you like!

Advanced organizers are a great way to keep your students updated with what will be going on for the day. Although these are great for ADHD and autistic students, its also a good idea to give all your students a copy so everyone can benifit!