What's up in the Lab!

Hello,

We continue to be very busy here in the lab with typing and introducing new projects at the various grade levels. Here's what's happening:

Kindergartners are eagerly learning the hand and figure control with the mouse. They have learned what it takes to open up an icon. I introduced Kid Pix which is a wonderful art software that lets you create beautiful images. They are learning many tools which include, the paint, crayon, stamps, importing backgrounds, and creating their own stamps.

First Graders are using Kid Pix to create a self portrait. They are getting familiar with the more advanced tools. I'm constantly amazed by how much they remember from their Kindergarten year. They were totally ready for the more challenging options. They have all logged on to the TTL4 program and continue to practice in the lab.

Second Graders are using Kid Pix on another level by creating their own slide show. They are creating up to 10 pictures that explain who they are and will then create a slide show to present with their peers using our lab smart board! They can't wait for that!

Third Graders were introduced to our new book publishing software. They are currently becoming authors and illustrators using this creative software. They are exploring with the various art tools as well as editing/revising tools that the software allows. We really do have some budding authors in the making. They are also continuing with typing practice using TTL4.

Fourth Graders had a valuable lesson on file management and creating folders on the student server. They know the importance of being organized on the computer just as they are in their classroom binders! They were also introduced to Sketchup which is a 3D architectural program that allows them to create beautiful 3D structures. Ask them about the various tools of the program. They are also practicing with the TTL4 program.

Fifth Graders are using the more advanced features of Sketchup to create their virtual 3D Dream Homes. These students can get very creative in what they want in their homes! These students were also introduced to our timeline software. They are going to create timelines from their Language Arts project. Fifth Graders continue to practice typing using TTL4.

NOTE: All 3 - 5 Graders were introduced to the typing homework that will be due each week. They are required to type 10 minutes for 4 days with a total of 40 minutes a week. This can be done in any way they find time. With busy schedules during the week, they can do their practice over the weekend. Their typing logs will need to be signed by a parent and turned in each week when they visit the lab. Thanks so much for your support on this.

The school typing program can be downloaded free of charge and I highly recommend that you do, so that typing progress can be tracked from home and school. The instructions for download can be found on your child's teacher's website.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Thanks,
Rasha Sachdeva