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Productivity Tools
Word
Processing
There are many
advantages associated with using a word processor. Many word processors
have a spell check and grammar check tool. This tool can become a very
beneficial time saver for many people. Word processors are excellent for
editing when compared to old type writers. Now it is possible to copy and
paste information, as well as easily delete and rephrase portions without having
to begin an assignment again. Word processors also allow for the insertion
of clip art into files. Adding an image to a piece of writing is made easy
with one of these programs. Word processors also allow you to create
charts and diagrams easily. Students can be taught to use these programs
and bring ease to their assignments.
Spreadsheets
Spreadsheets may
also be incorporated into the classroom. Students can use spreadsheets to
simulate working with a budget. This program allows students to become
familiar with numbers and organization. Spreadsheets do not have to use
numbers. Students would also use a spreadsheet to create an address book.
This idea can be incorporated into any letter writing lesson. Before or
after a letter writing lesson, students could create a spreadsheet of possible
addresses they would like to mail a letter to.
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This is a
screen shot of a spreadsheet made. This spread sheet is an example
of how a teacher can use a spreadsheet to create a grade book. |
Database
Databases can be
very helpful in a classroom environment. Teacher can use databases when
sending home letters to parents. Databases can also be used by student in
a project. If ever student is given a different thing to research, this
research can then be compiled in a database. Below is an example of a
database that was created to organize address information for different
elementary schools in the area...
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We began by
creating a database in Microsoft Word. This database was a
collection of elementary school's address' and principals' names.
This is a screen shot of the database opened within Microsoft Access. |
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After the
database was completed we moved on to writing a cover letter. This
cover letter is a sample of one we may use when applying for a job
within an elementary school. When writing a letter within the
database we were able to replace the recipient's address and greeting
with a symbol. After the completion of the letter these symbols
are replaced with each individual schools' information. This is a
screen shot of the cover letter before the symbols were replaced. |
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