Literacy for Education

Preparations

My Spelling Test:

This app allows educators to prepare spelling tests with audio recordings of the spelling list so that students can move from the paper and pencil method to a more technological way of testing.  I can see this app being beneficial, especially for students who are absent for the spelling test.  This allows them to work independently without taking time away from an instructor to read the words on the list aloud since this function is already included in the app.  Another feature this app provides is the connectivity to a smart board.  This allows students to work independently on practicing their spelling words through dragging letters to create words on the board.  In a technologically advanced world, students would look forward to spelling on this program due to the game-like nature of this app.  

Merriam-Webster Dictionary:

This app provides an interesting spin on the traditional dictionary since it has voice to text recognition.  In the classroom setting, students could use this feature in order to look up the spelling and word meaning in a more efficient manner.  Another feature I like about this app is the "Did you know?" section which appears on each word after searching.  This provides background knowledge which goes beyond the straightforward dictionary meaning of the word. 

Presentations

ShowMe Interactive Whiteboard:

This app allows individuals to create their very own presentation while drawing on and speaking to the iPad while it records the material.  This app allows the user to add pictures and voice audio to supplement the ideas drawn on the interactive whiteboard.  This app allows the creator to share their presentation with select individuals or to the public through the ShowMe website.  This app would be great for students and teachers alike in order to create a new way to present material.  

Strip Designer:  

This app provides students means to create a unique presentation through following the step-by-step guide in the comic strip maker.  Through selecting a template to follow, students can add images from either a photo album, personal drawings, dropbox, maps, or social media. Special effects and stickers can be added to the images in order to create a comic feel to the digital story.  Within the education setting, students can create comic strips to supplement class projects carried about across the curriculum.  Because of the simple set up of this app, it can be easily implemented in the younger elementary grades for digital storytelling.