using tablets in specific classroom activities

[melisa]

Hi all, I'm eager for clear, specific tales of tablet use after attending an inspirational conference that didn't give enough "do this, then do that" directions. I'm teaching English, writing, and geography....

[Tami Brass]

Here's a list I brainstormed with fellow teachers prepping for 1-1 tablet implementation:
* Make **templates** in Windows Journal for repeated use
* Annotating PowerPoint and Powerpoint worksheets
* Inking in Word
* **Inking in languages** other than English
* Create index cards using Windows Journal
* Shrinking for clarity – Use Journal to write timelines and other detailed work because you can zoom in and squeeze in a ton (don’t need yards of wall space) and can add space to the digital document by making the page bigger. Can do comparative timelines of different civilizations, using color, snipping tool, etc. and have the flexibility to add in another line/layer.
* Color-coded Annotations and Notes – create your own color coding (questions, action/follow-up, interesting ideas, blather) – allows you to scan for action items quickly afterwards. Use a different color for different types of feedback (spelling/punctuation, clarity, develop, good writing…) – this allows us and the writer to see, at a glance, the types of things they do well/need to work on in their writing.
* Extended Workspace – digital documents don’t have to fit on paper – add inches or lines when you need them in Journal.
* Save Server Space – Annotations in Word take more room. When assessing writing using the tablet, have kids print to journal before they turn in papers – this saves space.
* Tracing - Great for maps and diagrams – Use Windows Journal; trace a map with stylus (just place it on the screen and trace the paper). You can then try to label the map with colors, etc. You can also use rulers and compasses (with suction cups, not points) with electronic illustrations.
* Visual planning – take photos and manipulate them in MS Paint – draw images on photo for planning. Could use to plan garden, set design, etc.
* Photos: Easy to use Powerpoint for photos/slides. Students/teacher can write on the slides/comment on powerpoints. Give the kids pictures of themselves and have them draw what they’ll look like in 20 years….