I’ve shared some of the reasons why I think News-O-Matic is a great choice for integrating informational text into your everyday instruction. Not only is nonfiction reading an important skill, but students can learn how to become informed citizens by interacting with news stories on a daily basis. News-O-Matic has developed a list of different ways to use this tool in the classroom; check out their top seven:
1. At Morning Meetings: Start the day by discussing a news story.
2. Independent Reading: Differentiate reading by assigning different levels to students.
3. Geography Enrichment: Discuss where each daily story takes place.
4. Small Group / Shared Reading: Assign roles as students explore each news story in partners or small groups.
5. Vocabulary Development: Have students identify new words in context as they read.
6. Week in Review: Ask students to evaluate which articles from the week are most relevant.
7. News Selection Process: Give students the chance to make a case for why certain news stories should be included in each day’s issue.
Learn more about News-O-Matic by visiting their website!
cross posted at classtechtips.com
Monica Burns is a fifth grade teacher in a 1:1 iPad classroom. Visit her website at classtechtips.com for creative education technology tips and technology lesson plans aligned to the Common Core Standards.