This is a jpg image of a simple Kidspiration activity. English Language Learners used Kidspiration as a part of a lesson to learn and practice using the computer, specifically the mouse.

Kidspiration speaks the associated captions and text, even when the captions are turned off during the lesson. The students used the “speak” tool in Kidspiration to listen to the caption and practice reciting the words.

This is a jpg image of a second grade pre-assessment for a research project on Ohio animals and habitats.

On both Kidspiration activities the image library was created before the lesson and the activity was saved using the “Save As Activity” option in the teacher menu.

Students drag the pictures from the image library into the correct “Super Grouper” box, enter their name using the “Student Name” tool, save and print. The Ohio Habitats activity will be slightly modified and used as a post assessment upon completing the research project.

It was interesting to listen to the second grade students describe why they placed animals in the different habitats, for example, “I think the turkey lives in the grassland because its color is like grass.”

Used as a pre-assessment tool, I can now see where the students need more attention during our research project. In this example, we can see that the student placed some habitat features in the incorrect group (trees, pine cones, and grassy hills).

The students were motivated and engaged in the activity that addressed Ohio Academic Content Standards in technology, science, and library guidelines. The activity utilized the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles: multiple media and formats, supports for limited background knowledge/establish a context for learning, and practice with supports.

Other tips & lesssons:

• Teachers in Canton City Schools, Ohio have posted many activities and lessons using Kidspiration and Inspiration.
• Here’s a tip on how to utilize the speech tool in the Kidspiration software.