POWER POINT PRESENTATION- MY COMMENTARY

POWER POINT PRESENTATION

I have chosen to introduce computer hardware to a young audience. I have named my power point "Mr. Computer - Basic Parts of a Computer". It is a simple presentation that is appropriate for kindergarten through second/third grade.
I seems logical that children should be taught the parts of a computer before going on to operating a computer . Each function should be explained and demonstrated. This lesson in a power point will enable the children to see the parts in action.
They can draw or print images of each computer part and develop classroom activities with them to enhance the power point lesson. They can create posters that label and define each part and be given handouts to match each part with its name as homework. This will reach out to all different types of learners. Teachers should go on to explain the monetary value of the computer and the need to handle technology gently and respectfully. This is a good lesson to learn before they actually operate the computer. The kids will be very excited to get their chance to sit at a computer, especially after their teacher took the time to explain everything in a step-by a step way.
I found this assignment to be the hardest. I really had no idea where or how to start. I read through all the links that were presented and scanned the internet for ideas. I think I got in all the components that are required.
I loaded the power point with tons of photos. I created several different backgrounds too. I changed fonts and font colors on almost every page. Getting hyperlinks and action buttons was a nightmare ( I put in many). I read and reread and reread the instruction and I could not get it. It took me at least 3 hours to figure out the page forward action button. I had a massive headache and I felt like a dunce. BUT I DID IT!!!!!!!!!! I had fun with a the applause sound and it is appropriate to the power point. My slides all move automatically with 5 second intervals except for the slides that require the student to think of the answer and then click the button forward. This is on mouse click.

I can't believe I actually got this from SlideShare to my blog. The instructions sound like jibberish!! LOL

Rosanna

Attemptingto copy pp from Slide share

Computer powerpoint

View more presentations from Rosanna Mangone.

My exciting thoughts on technolgy and the curriculum!

I must say that I am impressed with this class.  It has been an interesting journey and one that was needed and also very useful.  The most important thing I have learned in this class is not to be afraid of technology.  Technology is forever changing and no matter the profession we must continue to learn and embrace it.

I was terrified when I started this course.  I also felt ignorant.  I passed off all our photos and anything tech related off to my husband.  I thought I would soon be doing the same and passing technology tasks off to my children.  They seem to know a heck of  a lot more than I do.  I am now a bit more confident about the workings of the computer.  Just last week I went on and downloaded 2 newly taken photos and printed them for each of my sons for a school activity (I think they are making mother's day cards).  Just a few months ago I did not know how  do that.  What's worse is I did not want to learn (fear).  I am really excited and want to continue to learn.  There are so many fun things to do.

I love the blogs and the many interesting comments we all made.  I am always reading parenting magazines and it seems that all these mothers are blogging all over the place.  Just knowing and understanding the process makes me happy.  Now I can participate and start blogs myself if I choose.  My children can now witness their mom in a new hip light. 

I am also relieved to be more informed about the dangers of today's social media.  I am hoping to get the Englewood Cliffs Educational Foundation to offer help for parents.  I know I need a hand in keeping my children safe when it comes to the Internet and everything else for that matter.   Hopefully I am not as naive as I was a few months ago.  Kids know way more than we think they do.  I feel more prepared for the upcoming challenges.

I can now create a website.  How impressive is that!  I am sure that skill will come in very handy in more than one.  I would love to create websites for my own business someday.  Maybe I can help my children with a website or help my sister launch her business endeavors.  The point is that now I can actually help. 

I love the many websites that were shared.  I am sure as my children continue their schooling I will be referring to these sites to help them learn in a fun way.  I am not sure when or if I will ever be a teacher to other children but I can honestly say this course will help  be a better teacher to my children.  Once my current phone plan expires I am off to get an iPhone and then the sky is the limit.  I will be downloading apps galore.  I will explore all the ways my mobile device can help make my life easier.  A more organized and productive mother makes a much better one.  Needless to say how to use technology will most definitely help me in any job I hold.

I will go on to say this course has been tough for me.  It really is a lot of work.  There is something always due and I am constantly worried about the deadlines.  I have started my web quest and that is very challenging and very time consuming (but useful).  I personally don't have teaching skills or contacts to help me.  This power point presentation stresses me out because I have never used power point in anyway or used a lesson plan or a unit plan!!  This is a bit of a disadvantage because everything I do is starting from scratch.  The course is more difficult than I thought it would be (of course in a good but tiring way.)  But a heartfelt thanks to you Professor,

Rosanna

Rosanna's Website

https://sites.google.com/site/msmangonessecondgradeclass/

I will preface that I would get permission from administration and parents when included photos or video to the website.  I would have administration sign off on the use of this website.

A few notes about my website:

1.  My website is for a second grade class.  The children are only 7 or 8 and I feel it is appropriate for its focus to be on communication with the parents.  Our school North Cliffs in Englewood Cliffs has a very good website but it is not personal.  I would love to have a teacher website for my children's classes.  I almost always have questions pertaining to homework or about class management.  It would be great to have a website to keep in touch with what is happening in the class, especially for a full time working mom that does not get to spend time at the school.

2. I like the homework assignments spelled out for a few weeks in advance. I added a homework link with a sampling of second grade homework.  I think the children still need to have an assignment pad and must write down their homework and be responsible for bringing the work home.  Having this link will enable me to see if my children have forgotten to bring something home.  I personally would not use this to have them try to do the missing homework.  My kids forget things all the time and I work with them and teachers for strategies to help them remember.  I let them suffer the natural consequences for a forgotten assignment even though his twin brother may have the book or worksheet that I can easily copy. Sometimes the kids tell me one thing and the pad tells me something else.  It would be reassuring to compare the pad to the website if needed.

3.  It is neat to have an extra credit assignment.  The teacher can relay to the class what the assignment entails and include it on the website for the parents.  I feel the extra credit assignments should mostly expand on lessons form the class.  Once in awhile to broaden the children's horizons it would be nice to throw a completely different extra credit assignment in the mix and it would keep things interesting.

4. I really liked the meet your teacher section on the example template so I left it on my website.  You really get a feel for the teacher when a video is included.  I am not a teacher so I used a video I found on the internet and added it on.  Please excuse that it is not me on the video but I like the way this teacher covered her schedule and her classroom management.  It is important to understand how the teacher rewards and punishes the class so that parents and the teacher can be on the same page. I like seeing the routine and the feel of the classroom.  I miss my kids and it is nice to see where they are for 6 to 7 hours per day.

5.  As a full time working mom I like the class announcements sections.  I sometimes forget things and many times my kids misplace flyers and I don't know what is happening.  A classroom website would help me stay organized and connected.

6.  I added some books my kids really liked to the reading list link.  I am always looking to introduce different reading selections.  This is harder than you would think.  My boys really like the chapter books from Goosebumps and Weird School etc.  These collections have so many books they just keep reading those books and don't venture away to other genres.  If the teachers along with their classmates recommend different books regularly children may be enticed to try something different and possibly more challenging.

7.  Ok I am very excited about this part of my website.  I downloaded and added a permission slip to the forms and documents section of my website.  This is an accomplishment for me!!  This is great to have on the website.  It is so easy for forms to get lost or forgotten.  All forms that need to be addressed, signed and returned should be in the section. 

8.  OK.  I think I am really sort of getting the hang of things.  I have added my family's private field trip onto my website.  I placed it in the class photos section.  Of course this section should be used for the class photos. and video's.  It would be wonderful if teachers take pictures of the kids when special things are happening (birthday's, plays etc.).  I would love to have seen show and tell and when my children presented projects had competitions or celebrated their birthdays. 

9.  The useful links can be helpful. I always help my kids with math and homework etc.  Any links that can help me to help children would be appreciated. It is amazing how many great sites we can easily use.  With a little time and discipline most parents can tutor their own children using these sites.  It is certainly a lot cheaper than Sylvan learning.  I used the links I recommended in our last blog.   I added a link to the school supplies that children need to start out the year.  I always get supplies way before the first day of school usually before our August vacation. I also take advantage of sales through out the year. It makes Sept madness a little easier

I also added a link to the PTA.

10. I also added a link to the PTA as a separate link.  I thought it is good to access from a few locations.  I added it as a sidebar.

11.  I included a daily schedule to the website.  This is really neat.  I never remember what days my kids have what classes.  This would have been helpful the few times I brought my kids in late or pulled them out early for Dr. appointments.  I would rather they miss gym then math etc.

12.  Finally I added my picture to the front page of the website.  This was very tricky and I am not entirely sure I can do it again. LOL!!!!!

Rosanna 

HELPFULAND FUN WEBSITES

WOW!  Tons of fun to be had.  There are way too many fun and helpful websites.  It is really overwhelming.  Here are some really good websites that I think useful, fun and easy to use.

1.         http://www.coolmath4kids.com

This website has something helpful for every age group.  It is great for teachers as well as for parents.  It is fun for the kids because it is full of fun ways to help and practice math like brain teasers and puzzles.  It is colorful and interesting.  I am looking forward to showing this one to my boys. 

2.         http://www.ricksmath.com

This is another website that is not as jazzy as the last.  As a mom I really like the printable worksheets.  I create math test for my boys before a test and then we go over the areas that are a problem.  It is hard for me to do this sometimes.  Now I have a website that I can go to and print out problems instead of making them up ( a real time saver).  I wish that my children's teachers would send home these helpful links.  I am sure they have a ton of them.  This sight covers everything my kids have done.  I love the telling time sheets.  They are a pain to recreate, especially neatly.

3.         http://www.starfall.com

This is a perfect site for my clan.  It is phonics for pre-k-2nd grade.  I may just give my kids each an hour to explore this site.  They will learn and think they are playing.

4.         http://www.funology.com

The name speaks for itself.  This is a fun website for everything from recipes to magic trick and jokes.  It is fun and can be used as an incentive for good behavior.

5.         http://www.flickr.com

My kids love create stories with photos.  We have not done this via the computer.  I am looking forward to showing this site to them.  They can have a ton of fun with this site.  I would think that teachers can use this site to also reinforce material from lessons taught in the class. Great way to mix technology. art and academics,

My very personal debate for inclusion and how I understand it. through my nephew's needs.

Sorry this post is a little late.  I had a few days off for Spring Break with my kids and we went away.  Life sometimes just moves too quickly.  I have been working on this and my lesson plan in my head. Better late then never,

Inclusion is a term which expresses commitment to educate each child, to the maximum extent appropriate, in the school and classroom he or she would otherwise attend. It involves bringing the support services to the child (rather than moving the child to the services) and requires only that the child will benefit from being in the class (rather than having to keep up with the other students). 

            The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), as amended in 2004, does not require inclusion. Instead, the law requires that children with disabilities be educated in the "least restrictive environment appropriate” to meet their “unique needs.” And the IDEA contemplates that the "least restrictive environment" analysis will begin with placement in the regular education classroom.  The law intends that the degree of “inclusion” be driven by the student’s needs as determined by the IEP team, not by the district’s convenience or the parents’ wishes. 

I am a firm believer of inclusion.  My nephew Michael is 10 years old.  Michael is sweet, smart and an absolute delight.  Michael is also autistic.  Michael started his education in early intervention at the age of two.  Through the years we were told repeatedly all the things that Michael would never be able to do. We were told Michael would be better off in a special education program.  My sister knew better and is Michael’s biggest advocate.  She refused to listen. We sweat blood, tears and money to ensure that Michael is kept in a regular classroom.  Michael talks, socializes, imagines and with modifications is academically at grade level.  His progress has been amazing and an inspiration to all the students and teachers he has worked with.  I am so proud of Michael.  This 10 year old boy has to work so hard. He does all his work with no complaints.  How can anyone tell Michael what he is able to accomplish in life.  With the proper love and support my nephew will be the best he can possibly be.

It is an uphill battle with the Board of Education in New York City. Getting the services that Michael needs and having them documented on his IEP is just part of the problem.  The hardest part is getting the services provided in a proper and timely matter. It is a battle we know is worth the fight.

Inclusion in education has generated a great deal of discussion, confusion, and apprehension. It is an issue that has outspoken advocates on all sides, whether for, against, or somewhere in between. Certainly, for a school or district to change and accommodate a more inclusive approach to providing services to students with disabilities as well as a host of other at-risk students, and do it in a way that ensures the success of all, will require significant restructuring. Inclusion is more than reconfiguring special education services. It involves an overhaul of the entire educational system. Special education and regular education faculty/staff roles and relationships will change, as will the traditional rules under which things happen within the classroom, campus, and district.  For inclusion to be successful the entire school community must be involved.  Parents and teachers must be a team for these special children. If everyone involved does not cooperate parents and teachers will be polarized and this will create environments that are hostile to any change.  We need to help teachers learn how to modify and teach.

 My experience has been that most teachers are willing and capable to learn and change.  They want to learn and change for the good of the children.  One of this years challenges for my nephew Michael has been the relationship with the teacher.  The teacher has been unwilling to incorporate Michael into the daily operations of the classroom.  She places Michael alone or with other special education children exclusively.  This is not benefiting anyone and it is not what inclusion is all about.  Michael is happy, quiet and cooperative.  She does not have the knowledge to deal with his special needs.  She also feels it is not her responsibility.  The teacher is also reluctant to work with my family, the special education teacher or any other faculty that has been assigned to help.  This extends to all the special needs children not just Michael.   This adversarial relationship is hurting Michael as well as the rest of the class. This situation can be resolved with the proper training and communication.  Successful inclusion practices depend on restructured schools that allow for flexible learning environments, with flexible curricula and instruction. Under ideal conditions, all students work toward the same overall educational outcomes. What differs is the level at which these outcomes are achieved, the additional support that is needed by some students and the degree of emphasis placed on various outcomes. A restructured system that merges special and regular education must also employ practices that focus on high expectations for all.

There are many reason inclusion is best for everyone.  I believe all children have a right to learn together.  Children should not be devalued or discriminated against by being excluded or sent away because of their disability or learning difficulty.  There should be no teaching or care in a segregated school which cannot take place in an ordinary school.  Given commitment and support, inclusive education is a more efficient use of educational resources. The reality is inclusion is cheaper and best a lot of the time(but not all the time).  Segregation teaches children to be fearful, ignorant and breeds prejudice.  All children need an education that will help them develop relationships and prepare them for life in the mainstream.  Inclusion has the potential to reduce fear and build friendships, respect, understanding and tolerance.  These attributes are just what the world needs. The teaches today need the support and the back up as well as the education to help them to help these special needs children.  It is unfair to not arm the educators with the tools they need to succeed.  Without the support it continues to be a vixous cycle with bad outcomes.  It is pretty sad.