My students need hands-on technology so they can take Accelerated Reading tests quickly after finishing a book and have access to other learning programs on the web.
I hear the pitter patter of tiny feet coming and going all day long. Students ranging in age from 6 to 10 years old in small groups . All facing the anxiety of reading a book and remembering what was said. Focusing on each word so hard, they forgot what just happened or what the story is all about .
My students are struggling readers, 1st - 3rd grade.
These kids have difficulty with or have no fluency. They read like robots. They focus on one word at a time instead of smoothly reading from the beginning to punctuation marks of each sentence. Through lower level books with simple concepts we begin to build. Build their confidence, ability, and self esteem. I want all children to earn and feel SUCCESS! I provide literature books for these students to check out, read independently, with someone, or be read to. Unfortunately, these kids most often have no support at home. When they return, we discuss their book for comprehension or we read the book together for a second or third time when needed. Then they take an Accelerated Reading Test on the computer which monitors comprehension. Students receive rewards based upon their quarterly performance on computerized tests. These students feel like they are gold medalists when they find success. Frankly, I feel like I won the gold as well!
My Project
iPad's would allow kids to read their selected book and immediately take an AR test. This provides less time for them to forget specific details that the book contains and may be asked about on the test. We would no longer have to search for a computer that works, has sound, or has head phones. The convenience of an iPad would provide more instruction time for the students since the hunt for a computer would be eliminated, thanks to your generous donation. I focus on what I can do for my kids to be successful. I try to stay ahead of the game for them. This would make my goals much easier and provide more time for me to work one on one with them. Apps could be downloaded for these specific students that would enhance their reading levels as well. The door is wide open with the touch of a finger and technology. The sky is the limit! If it becomes possible, I want my students to find that sky.
Imagine being the student that didn't get your name called out at the assembly or you didn't get that certificate of achievement.
All of your friends are standing with smiles on their faces and beaming. I want these kids to be turned around from I CAN'T to I CAN. Anything is possible if you set your mind to it. I'm training and retraining their minds on a daily basis. To see their smile and self confidence grow with each passing day makes my job a great one. HELP TO CREATE THAT SMILE!
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