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Educational goals
Standards
Developer's CornerResearch in writing development shows much about young writers as they begin putting together an understanding of written language. Early writing by young children combines drawing, invented spelling, copying, and repetition of familiar patterns. Writing tools are the building blocks of literacy. When given opportunities, young children actively construct meaning using written symbols. Computers are now an integral part of many classrooms. Word processors are additional writing tools students can use to compose stories and write messages. Word processors free young children from concern over letter formation and enable them to focus on expression of their written thoughts. The Draw Editor was included in Write Along since young, emergent writers do not typically make marked differentiation between what they draw and what they write to communicate their messages. Both are intended to convey intended meanings. Text-to-speech feedback, one of the features of Write Along, seems especially beneficial for young writers. Children tend to become very excited when they hear the computer read back what they have written. The design of Write Along was based on research in writing development, with and without computers, and a review of functions that tend to offer children the most support. The specific features built into Write Along reflect an understanding of the developmental needs of young writers. Write Along can be implemented in a classroom and supports Teaching and Learning with Computers (TLC) . Write Along naturally lends itself to support writing activities across the curriculum. The Graphics Library includes clip-art from key IBM educational software programs for grades K-2, including Writing to Read 2000, Stories and More, Stories and More II, TLC Mathematics, and Nature of Science "Visit" Series.
Professional DevelopmentWrite Along training is a component piece of any beginning writing and reading program. Participants should understand the concepts and practices of Write Along and the role it plays with early writing.Participants will:
The Write Along training can be completed in a half-day training or can be combined with another product to address integration ideas.
System Requirements * Audio required. Use Headsets or Speakers.
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