Need ideas please

[Globetrotter]

This year, for the first time, I have to “teach” computer and integrate it into the curriculum. I found this nifty keyboarding method online called Nail It Now that uses “quirky association words” to memorize the keys. My students loved it and have learned the letters on the keyboard and correct finger use

Now, I am looking for ideas on how to integrate this new learning into the curriculum. The site suggests placing “glue dots” on the alpha keys of all computers in class and at home and using daily computer work to practice. This is working well with the older students who have regular access to computers

However, the younger students have limited access to computers. Typing speed is not important at this stage, but I don’t want them to forget what they have learned and I particularly want to avoid them typing with two fingers when they do use computers

The younger students learn the keyboard playing a game on a body-sized keyboard and I have used the game to spell their names and familiar things. I am now looking for other ideas like, perhaps, in a writing class where 1 or 2 computers are available, students could take it in turns to type the words the other students are writing. This may even enhance the writing process, eg, typing spaces would reinforce the need to leave a space between words

Any ideas you may have would be much appreciated

Thanks

[mopar]

You could try have students jump out their spelling words on the body-sized keyboard. Each student could be a finger on the keyboard and need to jump on the appropriate letters. Also, during writing workshop, the students could type labels for classroom objects, draw a picture and type a sentence to go along with the picture when they are ready to publish, students can type new vocabulary words they find while reading, or take turns typing a story. Each morning, begin a story on one computer. During the day, students can add sentences or words when they finish their work.

[anna.smithd]

I can suggest to go with power point presentations. It really works well when you want teach new thing to students. I hope you have not tried that.

[Globetrotter]

Thank you so much for taking the time to respond to my query. Mopar, I love your ideas for the younger students and will definitely try them (in the Nail It Now game, 8 students are chosen to be the Home key fingers and jump on their letter when I call out words, so spelling their words would be great)

Anna, I too love Powerpoint. In fact, I taught the older students the keyboard using a Powerpoint slide presentation.

Thanks again. I really appreciate your responses