‘ICT expands horizons by shrinking worlds’
The
above statement from the National curriculum reflects the potential for learning
through the use of ICT that the children at our school are encouraged to embrace.
As a whole school we cover all aspects of the National curriculum, with all
children benefiting greatly from the complete overhaul of our ICT suite in
September 2006.We now have 13 brand new computers, as well as additional computers
in each classroom. These have been well used by the whole school, from Nursery
through to Class F. Working closely with their peers, children are able to
work cooperatively as a team in a totally inclusive and supported environment.
In the Foundation stage and Key stage 1, children have been learning how to type their names, draw pictures using Microsoft Word and ‘Dazzle’ software, and had the opportunity to use our recently purchased programmable toys (Bee Bots) to learn about control technology, programming, directional language and instructions. In Key stage 2, children have used the Suite for developing their graphical modelling skills; producing amazing Powerpoint presentations, combining text and graphics, exploring real life simulations linking to both science and D&T and as an editing tool for literacy work. The children also use the internet and CD-Roms for research, and in so doing, broaden their understanding of other subjects within the curriculum.
However,
as a school we have also expanded our horizons by reaching far beyond national
curriculum expectations, and children have been able to develop skills that
are not only specifically ICT based, but more generic skills that help to
promote their creativity, independence and personal expression, whilst strengthening
their sense of involvement and contribution to the school as a whole. An example
of this is the new learning platform that is being developed by Mr Merrell,
the teachers and the children themselves. Children in Class F have been able
to express themselves through their own web pages, create links to other sites
that are of personal interest to them and produce a subject based list of
recommended websites for others in the school; while children in the reception
class are equally able to utilize this resource at both school and home to
develop their independence and computer skills.
The children’s enthusiasm is infectious, and as the world of ICT is constantly expanding, so are the boundaries that the children are setting for both themselves and their teachers!
Useful Sites
http://www.kented.org.uk/ngfl/software/simulations/index.htm
a huge selections of online simulations for use in KS2 with links to science,
maths and Design and technology
http://www.kented.org.uk/ngfl/games/index.htm
a variety of activities for the foundation stage and KS1 to help practice
mouse control, with activities for Numeracy and literacy.
http://www.ictgames.com/resources.html
interactive resources for KS1 and 2 literacy and Numeracy.
http://www.buzzin.net/ict/ictgeneral.htm
a site for upper KS2 with help on curriculum based units of work.
http://www.icteachers.co.uk/children/children_home.htm
a useful site with practice SATS questions, homework help, cyberhunts and
quizzes.
ICT Activities
ICT used to ‘play’ with words in order to change a descriptive piece of writing into a poem:
MY CHRISTMAS POEM….
I would like to taste the romance
Of the hot air meeting the coldness.
And the silk of the snowflakes,
As they fall faintly from the sky.
I would like to see the whiff of the roast,
As it smells so beautiful and flavoursome.
I would love to see the children’s faces,
When they open their presents.
When they get that sparkle in their eyes,
I feel that I am going to cry.
I would like to taste the breeze
And the hotness of the fire
As it blows its hot breath,
Warming the Christmassy room,
While we stand at the door
Listening to the Christmas carols
As they are sung so beautifully.
By Bethany