We have started off the new year in Social Studies trying to integrate technology within the classroom whenever the opportunity allows.  First, most textbook lessons are being enhanced with powerpoint visual presentations.  Geography terms, concepts, cultural diversities and people from all over the world can be brought into the classroom using rich visual pictures, animation and sound.  Students in my class have just finished studying about land use conflict in the Amazon rainforest.  We researched 6 different groups that use the rainforest resources and the issues surrounding deforestation, sustainable development and traditional ways of living.  During this unit, I was able to bring teachertube into my classroom to show my students videos created by other students on deforestation and ways to save the rainforests.  This jumped started much enthusiasm for a project based on “saving the rainforest”.  Students could present their ideas about saving the rainforest, traditionally using poster board or mural designs, or step outside the box and “wow” me with technology. Many of the students did powerpoint presentations, some created videos and 1 group designed an interactive website.  I was astonished at how much the students know about technology.  While the technology based presentations were being done, students were engaged and learning. The projects were varied in subject matter and were very interesting due to the current information students could activate from the computer.  It was a huge success! A second way we are using technology in Social Studies is that most quizzes are administered using Qwizdom.  Students have become very familiar with using Qwizdom as an assessment tool.  They have a paper copy of the test to read and answers are electronically recorded.  Students have practiced reviewing their answers and can change an answer if necessary.  Once complete they can get their final score immediately.  It is truly a wonderful way for teachers to see in real time who understands the concepts that were taught and what needs to be reviewed.  It’s immediate feedback for both the teacher and the students.  Plus, we are saving the rainforest by conserving paper by recycling the test for other classes to read and having no answer sheet!  Lastly, I am encouraging all my students to use technology whenever possible and to share their wealth of knowledge with their classmates!  Looking forward to our future lessons surrounded by lots of technology!!!

Students, Stephanie, Hantha and Kamila research Brazilian nuts from the Amazon rainforest.  They found that certain brands of ice cream are made from these nuts.  Their motto,”Save the Amazon…Eat Brazilian Ice Cream.  As an added treat the students shared samples of the ice cream with their classmates.