Maximizing Student Laptop Usage: Using Technology as a Tool to Enhance Literacy

Todd Wright, Fernley Elementary School, Fernley, Nevada

Abstract of Todd's Session

As teachers, we all want our students to comprehend what they read. And who doesn’t want motivated learners? But, how do we get them beyond basic comprehension and all the while keeping them engaged? At Fernley Elementary School, we have initiated a 1 laptop for each student, or 1 to 1, pilot program in one fourth and one fifth grade class. This “tool” has energized our students, who now gain a richer understanding of literacy skills such as, cause & effect, problem & solution, judgments & decisions, and summarizing. Graphic organizers, instant messaging, and the Internet are but a few of the ways we enhance our students’ literacy.

A Fourth Grader's First Day at Fernley Elementary School

The bell rings and teachers are soon busy passing out pencils, folders, and textbooks to their students, but every fourth and fifth grade student is also issued a laptop. And their journey in a 1 to 1 classroom begins. Let’s join this journey. Let’s follow a fourth grader at Fernley Elementary School to see how this “new tool” complements literacy.

Our Fourth Grader's Schedule

Web Resources

The Wright Class

Fernley Elementary School

1 to 1 at FES

Flashcard Exchange

Gaggle

KidBiz

writingfix.com

twright@lyon.k12.nv.us

Todd Wright been an elementary school teacher for 13 years. He has spent the last two years teaching 4th grade in a 1 to 1 environment. His main goal is to prepare his students for their futures, therefore they need technology purposefully integrated into their education.

Todd's Note Taker

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