Kindergarten and First Grade
Kindergarten and first graders had an introduction to the computer using Kid Pix. In addition to giving them a chance to "draw", we also like to make sure they can use the mouse and/or trackpad for the MAP test the following week. Kid Pix is a drawing program that allows students to "draw" on the screen using writing tools such as a pencil, crayon, marker or chalk. They can pick a link thickness, as well a color from a color palette. There are also stamps and spray paint which the students also like. We use this program throughout the year for various projects related to the curriculum.
Kid Pix is available for purchase on either the Mac or Windows platforms for about $50. Tux Paint is a free program for the Mac that is similar. Students continue to check out books to their classrooms through the end of the year. In January they will begin taking them home.
Second and Third Grade
Students took the STAR reading test this week which will assign them a reading range, as well as provide additional data that will help us monitor their reading progress. The reading range is a helpful tool for them to use when selecting "just right" books, in addition to other strategies they learn in the classroom. Students in some classes will also start to take Accelerated Reader(AR) tests on individual books they read. AR tests help teachers know if students are understanding the books they read. Families can use the website AR Bookfinder to get the reading level of books from home or the public library. These tools are used more extensively in City Schools of Decatur in the 4th through 8th grades.
Kindergarten and first graders had an introduction to the computer using Kid Pix. In addition to giving them a chance to "draw", we also like to make sure they can use the mouse and/or trackpad for the MAP test the following week. Kid Pix is a drawing program that allows students to "draw" on the screen using writing tools such as a pencil, crayon, marker or chalk. They can pick a link thickness, as well a color from a color palette. There are also stamps and spray paint which the students also like. We use this program throughout the year for various projects related to the curriculum.
Kid Pix is available for purchase on either the Mac or Windows platforms for about $50. Tux Paint is a free program for the Mac that is similar. Students continue to check out books to their classrooms through the end of the year. In January they will begin taking them home.
Students took the STAR reading test this week which will assign them a reading range, as well as provide additional data that will help us monitor their reading progress. The reading range is a helpful tool for them to use when selecting "just right" books, in addition to other strategies they learn in the classroom. Students in some classes will also start to take Accelerated Reader(AR) tests on individual books they read. AR tests help teachers know if students are understanding the books they read. Families can use the website AR Bookfinder to get the reading level of books from home or the public library. These tools are used more extensively in City Schools of Decatur in the 4th through 8th grades.
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