Ch. 9 Technology in English and Language Arts Instruction

     Reading, writing, and critically analyzing written texts are considered fundamental skills for a literate person. However, teachers of English and language arts encounter many issues when teaching these skills and integrating technology into the curriculum. Teachers need to understand the importance of expanding the definition of literacy, exploring new instructional practices, making decisions on keyboarding instruction, creating social learning environments, and working with diverse learners.

     The more students read, the better developed their language and writing skills become. However, we as teachers find it an ongoing challenge to motivate students to read either for study or pleasure. Teachers are turning to the interactive and visual qualities of software and websites to increase motivation for reading and writing. Also, computer-based tracking systems such as Accelerated Reader are designed especially to increase the amount of reading student do for enjoyment. Teachers also find it an ongoing challenge to motivate students to express them in writing. Students especially resist the labor involved in revising research papers and compositions. In addition to word processing, which has been in use for many years, a variety of technology tools and strategies have emerged to spur students desire to write and improve the quality of their written products.

     Ten powerful strategies for using technology to enhance the teaching of reading, writing, and language skills:

1.      Electronic publishing projects to encourage student writing

2.      Electronic pen pal activities to encourage student writing

3.      Internet resources to engage student in literature

4.      Online book clubs

5.      Concept mapping software to help students plan their writing

6.      Talking book to engage students in reading

7.      Alternate formats for writing stories

8.      Threaded discussions to motivate student writing

9.      Blogs and fan fiction websites to motivate student writing

10.  Tracking systems to motivate student writing