Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Learning Objective

Web 2.0 Tools -ABCYA.COM

Word Clouds for Kids

Similar to Wordle and Tagxedo, I found a child-friendly website that allows children to create their very own word clouds. Hence, the title word clouds for kids! The word cloud on the right is one I created myself for my Literacy unit, which focused on building community within the classroom. Instead of pasting text into the text box they provide, I typed the words I wanted. The process of creating a world cloud is great because you can explore with different styles based on which direction and colours you want.

Word Clouds, if used properly can be very dynamic as they can be applied to every subject within the Ontario curriculum. For example, a primary grade during a literacy unit can create a word cloud about the main events or characteristics of the main characters revolving around the teachers read aloud, self selected or guided reading picture books and novels. Students can creatively produce a product which, could be placed on the teachers blog to share with parents. As well, students will have the opportunity to present either in groups or to the whole class sharing their word clouds and explaining their text choices. Their peers are then encouraged to ask a series of questions based on their word cloud such as, "Why did you choose those specific characteristics?"
Grade 3 -> Language Oral Communication
Overall Expectations
1. listen in order to understand and respond appropriately in a variety of situations for a variety of purposes
2. use speaking skills and strategies appropriately to communicate with different audiences for a variety of purposes

I provide the link below for you to check it out and use with your students in the future. 
Link ->>> ABCYA

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