Tech Use in the Primary Grades in Non-Core Subjects

“If you hold a cat by the tail you learn things you cannot learn any other way.” Mark Twain

This quote, while humorous, holds very true to education today. Our children are raised in very tactile environments, with many choices, perhaps too many, of entertainment at all times. Because of this, methods of reaching them in the classroom are beginning to shift. The day when students sit in rows and listen to lectures is long gone. Today's classrooms are bright and colorful, with learning stations spread about and even resource centers in the middle of grouped table teams. These learning environments often look similar to non-core (re:art, music) classrooms. But what many don't realize is that music, art, PE and other non-core areas have been stimulating, hands-on environments for years.While many schools are phasing out non-core classes due to budget restraints, those that do still have them are realizing their importance in bolstering test scores through core integration. The use of technology to help integrate the various curricular areas becomes even more important, as it bridges the gaps between music & math, or language arts & art. By having students manipulate their environments, teachers are facilitating deeper understanding of all content ares.

6th graders record & edit sound clips to be used in a video editing/sound effects project.

Kindergartners do an assessment (see other images) with clickers in music class.

What appears to be a kindergarten music assessment is actually a math assessment.

When core standards are integrated into the non-core areas, all learning styles are addressed.