Clicker 5

I recently found out about various assistive technologies available and Clicker 5 is one of my favorites. Not only is Clicker Writer a word processor, but it also lets you create your own talking books quickly and easily. Clickers can be used with Mac or Windows. Clicker 5 can translate works in English, Spanish, or French. The Clicker 5: develops English Language Learners literacy skills, supports self-correction, builds writing confidence, promotes reading independence, and encourages writing confidence and independence. More information can be found at www.cricksoft.com/us/ideas/using_clicker/index.htm.

Books on Tape

I love books on tape! I have 4 reading classes a day. As you can imagine, reading the chapters of a novel 4 times in a row can become tiresome for me as a teacher and also damaging to my voice. Now, do not get me wrong, I value students reading orally and silent reading, but I believe that it is imperative that students hear fluid, expressive reading in order to develop their own reading skills. Books on tape make it easier to record the place in the book for each class. If students are absent they can listen to the part they missed on their own schedule. Also, by listening to the books on tape, as opposed the varying speeds of individual reading, I can adequately pace my lessons along with other teachers. I closely monitor students to make sure they are reading along with the electronic reader.

Study Island

No matter what time of the year it is, TAKS is always right around the corner. I hate the routine of boring TAKS prep as much as the next teacher but I acknowledge that it is necessary for most, if not all, of my 6th grade students. I was elated to find out about Study Island, and I was even more excited to find out that my school had purchased a year’s subscription. Study Island is directly aligned with TEKS and is accessed through the internet. The students do not have to be on a certain computer or at a specific location to access the program. Yes, they can access it at home or at the library. Each student has her or his own login password. The program collects data on each student’s progress and generates reports on their achievement. There are lots of customizable options for you to choose from (creating classes, adding notes, allowing game mode, etc). Study Island is available in reading, math, and science in grades 6-8th. For more information, check out http://www.studyisland.com/.