How to Use a Smart Board in a First-Grade Classroom
A SMART Board is an interactive teaching tool that allows students to view the lesson created on a computer program. The board itself is a dry-erase white board that is connected to a projector. The projector is attached to a laptop or desktop computer where the visual programs are created, downloaded or stored. There are many ways a first-grade teacher can use a SMART Board to help students learn.
Things You'll Need
- Computer
- USB cord
- SMART Board
- Internet Connection
- Lesson plan/ program templates
- Dry erase markers
- Towel
Instructions
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Set up the SMART Board correctly. Connect the USB cable from the computer to the input slot on the SMART Board. Plug the SMART Board and computer into an electrical source and turn them on. The white board component should be positioned where the class can clearly see it. The projector and computer should be positioned back near the first row of students where you can control the program on the computer and not interfere with the visual.
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Review your lesson plans and find age-appropriate computer templates or programs for your students. There are many educational resource sites for first grade lessons in language, science and math skills. Check with your school district or go to other district sites such as Sioux Falls or Longwood Central School Districts for templates used in those districts.
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Review the program and confirm that your class can benefit from the lesson. Ideal lessons should be challenging but not impossible to succeed with.
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Save the template to a place on the computer you can access it easily. If you are using pictures or movies to supplement the lesson, you should save these in an easily accessible file as well.
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Give the lesson to students, allowing them to interact with the program or on the board. Allow students to use the dry erase markers on the board to answer questions.
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Save the lesson so absent children can review the lesson when they return to school.
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Talk to other teachers about programs you are using with the SMART Board and what they are doing. Sharing ideas about what is working and what isn't is a valuable resource in providing first-graders the best possible education they can get.
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Tips & Warnings
Use SMART Boards for story telling, math skills, foreign language enrichment or science exploration.
Keep cables from the projector to the white board taped down to prevent students (or yourself) from tripping on the cords and injuring themselves or damaging the board.
