Perrymont utilizes 2 computer labs. All labs are networked to our Local Area Network as well as to the Wide Area Network. Each classroom is equipped with an HP computer complete with printer and speakers. Every classroom is also equipped with a Smartboard to enhance interactive learning. Teachers have the availability to use various software programs in the labs and in their classrooms. Software programs include Accelerated Reader, Star, Compass, First in Math, Fastt Math, Harcourt Math, IStation, IXL, and Study Island. Each classroom has a video projection unit, a DVD/VCR player, and a digital presenter. Teachers also have the opportunity of using one of the four Classroom Performance Systems. New to our classrooms are IPOD Touches. Teachers were given the opportunity to write a proposal for IPOD Touches in their classroom. As a result of proposals being accepted, we have IPod Touches in Title I, K, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades. Educational apps are loaded on the IPods to motivate students and enhance learning. These new technologies are integrated into classroom instruction in all subject areas.
Technology Enhanced Instruction
Accelerated Reader
In order to promote independent reading, our students participate in the Accelerated Reader Program. Each semester, teachers develop reading goals for all students in grades K-5. Students, who are able to read independently, are encouraged to read books at the appropriate level of difficulty and take a short quiz on the book using the accelerated reader computer software. As students read AR books and pass AR tests, they earn points towards their reading goals. At the end of each semester, students who meet or exceed their reading goals are invited to attend a special AR celebration. To determine if a book your child is reading is an AR book, click on the following link: http://www.arbookfind.com/default.aspx?client=HomeConnect
ISTATION
ISTATION Reading is a data-driven reading intervention program for students in grades K-5. It promotes reading acceleration and progress through a high-interest online interactive curriculum. ISIP, Istation’s indicators of progress, is an internet-delivered computer adaptive testing system for monthly or more frequent benchmark or progress monitoring assessments. ISIP assesses all critical areas of early reading development for Pre-Kindergarten through 3rd grade students and intervention students in 4th and 5th grades. These critical areas include phonemic awareness, letter knowledge, alphabetic decoding, vocabulary, comprehension, spelling, and text fluency. ISIP accomplishes this through the administration of student-friendly, short tests that measure a student’s overall reading ability. The ISIP assessment results automatically place students in the appropriate reading intervention level. The curriculum systematically teaches students as they learn developmentally appropriate skills in the essential reading areas of phonological and phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension.
IXL for Mathematics
IXL’s math program provides comprehensive preparation for the Virginia SOL Math tests. IXL automatically tracks student progress and displays proficiency scores in the state standards. With IXL, teachers can identify a student’s strengths and pinpoint trouble spots; view improvement over time, and measure progress based on length of practice time. Teachers can view the actual problems a student answered incorrectly and the answers the student chose for those problems. Individual student reports and class reports allows us to closely monitor our effort to use IXL effectively to meet individual student needs.
FASTT Math
The FASTT Math intervention program uses the research-validated FASTT system (Fluency and Automaticity through Systematic Teaching with Technology) to help all students develop fluency with basic math facts. FASTT Math assesses all students to uncover fluency gaps and to establish a baseline of fluency for each student. Then, FASTT Math automatically differentiates instruction in customized, 10-minute daily lessons. The Student Fact Fluency Status Report is used to monitor student progress in three specific areas: fast facts, focus facts, and study facts. Fast facts are those that the student responds to quickly and accurately. Focus facts are those that the student needs to continue to practice in order to develop fluency. Study facts are those that the student continues to answer incorrectly or slowly during the Placement Assessment. This report supports our efforts to closely monitor student fluency with basic math facts.
First In Math
The backbone of the First In Math Online Program is the 24 GAME. Online games range from Addition to multi-step Algebra, and are organized into SKILL SETS. Each Skill Set is comprised of three sequential 24 Games, labeled 1, 2 and 3. Each game builds upon the skills acquired in previous games.
- A Pre-test/Post-test module called JUST THE FACTS records each student’s proficiency with basic facts. Includes assessment of each student’s skill improvement.
- Three KNOW & SHOW modules provide a unique way for students to experience the type of problems found in standardized tests. Students solve problems from nine categories that tie to national standards.
- WORKOUT GYMS build automaticity with addition, subtraction, multiplication and division facts, and progress to include fractions, decimals and integers.
- After completing certain Skill Set requirements, students can play BONUS GAMES. Serving as incentives that encourage students to continue to achieve, these games offer various types of skill-building activities, such as sequencing and working with tens. Bonus Games are targeted to skills students need to master at each grade level, based on national standards.
- MEASUREMENT WORLD showcases games and activities that focus on Money, Time, Length, Distance, Area, Volume and Weights.
The First In Math Online Program features eight distinct Skill Set groups, each of which focuses students on select objectives:
- Skill Sets One and Two are designed to help students learn to add and subtract with accuracy, speed and confidence.
- Skill Sets Three and Four are designed to help student learn to multiply and divide with accuracy, speed and confidence; as well as to develop pattern-sensing and pre-algebra problem solving skills.
- Skill Sets Five and Six are designed to promote algebra readiness, as well as proficiency with fractions and decimals.
- Skill Sets Seven and Eight are designed to continue preparation for and practice with Algebra by focusing on integers, exponents and algebra skills such as evaluating, factoring and simplifying algebraic expressions.
Individual student reports and class reports allow us to closely monitor student progress.
