EDUC 1070-1

Rachel Schaefer

Software Resource Assignment The software that I selected for my kindergarten verb unit is called Shepherd Software. This software is an instructional game in which the student is given a variety of word choices and is asked to pick which one is the verb and click on it. Each word is paired up with an animated robot character and when the correct word is clicked on, a hammer smashes the robot. When the incorrect word is chosen, a red x appears over the robot but it is not smashed. The student has unlimited tries to find the correct answer, and when it is found, and the robot is smashed, a new set of word choices comes onto the screen. I thought that this was a great way for students to learn the differences between nouns and verbs in a non-stressful and low-pressure environment. This is an activity that can be a great way to fill small amounts of time between activities if some students finish early and need something to do. The biggest benefit of this software is the immediate feedback. Students immediately know if they got the correct answer or not, and can correct themselves accordingly. This drilland-practice type aspect is a good individual-based teaching technique, and the game aspect makes it engaging and enjoyable for all ages. A negative of this software is that the vocabulary can be too advanced at some times for younger grades, especially Kindergarteners who are just learning how to read. Another negative is that there is no progression or really any order to the words that are given. For example, the words do not get more difficult the more the questions are answered right. This can lead to boredom with the game.

http://www.sheppardsoftware.com/grammar/verbs.htm