Monday, June 11, 2012

Tool # 9

Tying the objective to technology is key because it provides the student with focus and a means of directing their use of this learning resource. Holding students accountable for what they do at a learning station sends the message that there is a purpose to the activity. Their accountability will increase learning and motivation.
One cool station for the iPad would be to use it for Futaba, a free tool found under the 21st century learning tools. Futaba was originally designed to provide a simple and fun way for ESL students to practice learning words in a classroom environment. Futaba is a great way to help students learn a second language. The idea is simple. Each player takes a seat around the iPad and taps in to start. The game begins as images zoom into the playing area. The first player to match the word to the image scores a point. Win 3 rounds and you'll be awarded a giant (but very friendly) seedling...? Futaba (Japanese for 'seedling") 
Another way for the students to use the iPad as a learning center would be with PlayTime Theater. With it, they can create, record and playback puppet-shows on their own or collaboratively straight from the iPad with this puppet-show theater play set. It comes with everything they need to put on and record their own shows; a stage with moving parts. A customizable cast with costumes. There are lots of action props, a large sound effects library and even original cinematic music. Other apps I found for the iPad include Fotobabble, which would allow students to choose a photo and then to tell a great story about the photo. Students could use Puppet Pals to create mini-plays. They select a background, a character, and then record the voice of the character saying whatever they wish it to say. For example, I selected a witch and put her in front of a cave. Then I recorded my own voice speaking like an evil witch. Fotobabble will give the ESOL students an opportunity to work on enunciation and intonation. Being able to play it right back will give them immediate feedback. Another way to use the iPad as a station would be to use it as an e-book reader. It helps the ESOL students to hear the reading passages.

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