Chapter 9: Identifying Similarities and Differences

As a teacher, I often rely on Microsoft Word to create many documents...along with Excel. I think that using these two programs as a means of creating graphic organizers and comparison tables/charts is very useful. Graphic organizers are a great way to get students to remember content, especially new content which they were not introduced to in the previous year. Graphic organizers can be used to compare and contrast objects, such as biotic and abiotic organisms in science. Excel can be used to compare animals, planets, plants, heights, etc. Once students are familiar with entering data into the program, they can even use it to enhance their charts by figuring in calculations as well.

I am very excited to try Inspiration this year. I love the idea that I can create graphic organizers for my students, or allow them to do so themselves, and even add graphics to them. This will be an effective learning tool for the students, as well as myself. Teaching new science concepts can be a difficult task, especially if students struggle with the terminology. Being able to add pictures to the graphic organizers will help tremendously. The only drawback I see to having the students use Inspiration themselves is that they cannot do it from home. Many of my students do not have computer access outside of school, so I could never have them create a graphic organizer from home. Also, being able to have access to enough computers while at school is sometimes an issue.