Teaching Vocabulary

         

Teaching Vocabulary is something that we start to learn since the beginning of learning a new language. Since we were kids our teachers would have us copy the list of new words and make a copy of 3 lines with the new words. Also, for home work we would have written sentences with the new words.

Copying definitions from the dictionary we would probably all agree is not an effective way to learn vocabulary. Passive learning hardly ever is. The students need multiple research  and various exposures to a word before they fully understand that word and can apply it.

            They need also to learn words in context and by doing this they have t read a lot! What can we do to help students learn new words and help students to pick their own words?

·         We can ask each child to create a chart where he/she writes down words of choice, and rates each one as "know it," "sort of know it," or "don't know it at all."

·         Then, on the same paper, have them write a definition or "my guess on meaning" for the words they know and kind of know. They are not allowed to use dictionaries.

Another way, is Word Pairs, so we can give students words in pairs and have them evaluate if the words are the same, opposite, go together, or are unrelated. This strategy is terrific for building critical thinking skills along with the vocabulary.

 

Coming to the end, dictionary is also the right choice. Books are always a great way of learning new thing, the same for new words.

 

 

Technology tools in teaching.

 

      

          Online classes has risen a lot since the pandemic situation. I-pads, laptops, computers, the usage of all those gadgets have become more common on our lives. 

We are using a lot of apps for our homeworks, for our online classes, for our projects. The aim for students of project-based learning is to interact the theory into practice by gaining new skills.

The education industry also is undergoing a major shift in recent times; the transition from print to digital.

Digital tools are important and the advantages of the usage of it are:

     They make the processes more consistent , more secure, efficient and more effective.
 It provides to educators to design the courses, curriculum based on individual ability of each student. The teachers in digital format can customize the curriculum based on each individual learning speed and capability.
Thanks to the internet , students cannot give any excuses that they cannot learn anymore. They can find thousands of information online also books. It’s so much more easier to update the content online.

        By using Google Docs based learning tools working on a group project when we are not in a class, not together has become easier. This will lead to a better learning as well as collaboration skills.

Some project- based learning tools are:

    The first one is Mindmeister. This app is the best online mind mapping software. The users of Iphone and Android devices can download it for free.

Another app is Pixton. We need funny, comic apps to cheer us up. Pixton is one the most popular comic maker and storyboard creator for teachers and student. You can download it for free on your smartphones or tablets.

Animoto, is a fun tool. It can create slideshows of learning concepts. If we want to make a project by illustrating it with a video, with a photo and with a text, the Animoto is the right app.

Popplet is a tool for planning illustrated by draws, photos and videos. But the app is so expensive so if your pocket allows it and you really need this app, give it a try.

    

        To sum up, my whole idea for technology tools, is that technology is inevitable and we all need it! We do not even remember the life before the Digital Area. It helps students to have more access and to learn more easily. It also, help teachers to give a better feedback about the work of their students, also they have more time to supervise and understand the skills and shortcomings for each student.

 

Thank you!

Don’t be so shy, leave a comment below.

 

Something about Multiple Intelligences...

       The theory of multiple intelligences was proposed by Howard Gardner in 1983 in his book "Frames of Mind" . It is a theory which proposes that people might have all the eight types of intelligences which consists of: Linguistic, Logical/Mathematical, Spatial, Bodily-Kinesthetic, Musical, Interpersonal, Intrapersonal and the last but not the least, Naturalist. We all might say that this theory challenged the traditional way that there is one single type of intelligence known as 'g' which stands for general intelligence and this one focuses on cognitive abilities. 

      Howard says that our profile of these intelligence may differ on each of us. It may differ based on genetics or personal experience. What Gardner defines intelligence is as a "biopsychological potential to process information which can be activated to solve problems or to create products that are of value in a culture".  Below I will mention all of these types of intelligences and write something for each of them. 

     First, I will start with Linguistic Intelligence. This type deals with the sensitive part of spoken and written language. It is about the ability to learn and to use the language. I will mention Oprah Winfrey. She has an ability to analyze information and create products involving oral and written language such as speeches, books.  

     The Second one, is Logical-Mathematical Intelligence which refers to the capacity to analyze problems logically to carry out mathematical operations. Here I will mention Albert Einstein. He had an ability to develop equations and proofs to make calculations and solve abstract problems.

     Another one is the Spatial Intelligence . This type of intelligence has the potential to recognize and manipulate the patterns of wide space for instance by navigators and pilots as well as the patterns of more confined areas such as those of importance to sculptors , surgeons or architects. 

        The Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence is the potential of using one's whole body or parts of the body to solve problems or to fashion products. Michael Jordan for instance has the ability to use one's own body to create products, to perform skills and to solve problems through mind and body. 

     To continue, The Musical Intelligence,  which refers to the skill in performing, composing and appreciating the musical patterns. 

     Furthermore, the Interpersonal Intelligence refers to the capacity to understand the intentions, motivations and desires of the others and to work effectively with others. Mother Teresa is the best example of this type of intelligence. She had the ability to recognize and understand the others , what they wanted, their desires,  intentions. 

      Moreover, we have the Intrapersonal Intelligence. This type refers to the capacity to understand ourselves. What we desire, what we want, what we fear?! By knowing ourselves we will use such information effectively in making our life better! Aristotle had an ability to recognize and understand his own moods, desires , what motived him and his intentions. This type of intelligence might helps us to set our goals and achieve them. 

       The last but not the least, we have the Naturalist Intelligence. This kind of intelligence involves expertise in the recognition and classification of species , flora and fauna. Darwing, had an ability to identify different types of plants, animals and weather which are found in the natural world. 

 Coming to an end technology has made possible for more                  

and more each day by giving access to a 
variety of teaching depending on everybody's needs.
Also, we should not mistake the theory
of multiple intelligences with learning styles because
learning styles refer to the way an individual is most
comfortable approaching a range of tasks and materials. 

To look at technology with a different eye.

       

       Technology... The most heard word lately! In today's world, life revolves around technology. Since the pandemic situation last year we have discovered so much more of what the technology offers. We have used technology every day for our online classes , for our work but also, to entertain ourselves a little bit. I guess we deserve it! Social Media such as Facebook, Instagram, SnapChat, Tik-Tok, Pinterest were and are a life saver when it comes to take some time off. We all scroll through those apps when we want to loose our minds for a little bit!

        The point I will discuss here is not about social media but about using technology in teaching and learning. What I thought in the beginning of online classes. The advantages or the disadvantages of technology.  

        In the beginning it was difficult for me to be sincere. It was difficult to use or to get used with the online platforms we had to use for our online classes. It's still difficult because of Teams platform that we use this year. But as the time passes we are getting used to it. I have thought in the beginning it would be a real mess but I was wrong. 

     

       Firstly, I will write about the advantages of using technology. The first one I'll write down is the way that technology has improved our communication. If we want access to something it can be found easily , you just have to google it. "Google it" is a phrase we all have used once in life.
Years ago when we had a project we had to go to a library to find information but today we just have to type what we want on our smartphones or on our laptops. Technology creates new ways to learn for today's student. It allows kids to embrace their curiosity , they can try new things.
Also, new teaching methods are being developed. Teachers are using different teaching methods such as social media, blogs and podcasts.  We have to mention here also that out there thee are students with special needs but with the help of technology it is easier. There are tools such as a text-to-speech converter , voice recognition, volume control and translator have made teaching not boring but on the contrary so fun. 

      

        Secondly, I will discuss about the disadvantages of using technology. Technology is a real blessing but there are some allegations about using technology. The main allegation against technology is that digital devices are making student lazy. They do not want to study the hard way. Some students prefer to not go to classes because they think that everything they will need can be found on internet. I'm sorry you guys to disappoint but it is not true. Some students neglect basic education such as using spell checkers they are not able to learn how to spell words correctly. 
Some of us might misunderstand the real purpose of using technology, some of us see it as a tool of entertainment not of education. Also, another problem which might appear during the usage of technology for education purpose is the instructional challenges. If  we as future teachers are not trained properly we might fail to instruct our students. 

       To sum up, all what I have said is that if we manage to keep the drawbacks to a minimum by finding the right way to use technology in education then the improvement of it will increase.