A Framework For Using iPads To Build Early Literacy Skills By Laura Northrop and Erin Killeen

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A Framework For Using iPads To Build Early
Literacy Skills By Laura Northrop and Erin
Killeen

• General Considerations
• Gradual Release of Responsibility
• Sample Lesson Using abc PocketPhonics app
• Benefits of This Technology

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General Considerations

• iPad apps must be carefully chosen to support
  curriculum goals
• Apps chosen need to be targeted to fit students
  instructional or independent work level
• Teachers should introduce and have students
  practice the skill prior to having students use
  the app
• Teachers should monitor student use and adjust
  for individual needs

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Using the Gradual Release of Responsibility
Framework with iPads
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Overview of Reasons to Use the abc PocketPhonics
app

• Reinforce letter formation
• Reinforce letter sounds
• Reinforce blending of
• letter sounds to words

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Video Demo of abc PocketPhonics

• http//www.youtube.com/watch?vHm_-DaESwQc

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Limitations of the app

• Does not teach letter names
• Uses a limited number of words for blending
• Moves quickly through a range of phonics concepts

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Prerequisite Skills

• Knowledge of most letter names
• Knowledge and practice with initial and final
  consonants and medial short vowels
• A demonstrated readiness for blending sounds into
  words

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Steps Explaining, Modeling, Guided Practice

• Preteach skills used in the app
• Assess students to determine readiness
• Explain and model the use of the app
• Link to the targeted literacy concept
• Set app on Manual mode

• Guide students through practice using the iPad
  app
• Use think aloud to describe each step
• Ask questions about the content and procedures
• Observe differentiate
• instruction as needed

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Tips for Independent Practice

• Observe to be sure students understand both
  concept and app use
• Use as a center activity during independent work
  time to reinforce skills taught
• Combine with pencil and paper extension
  activities

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Benefits of This Technology

• Students are motivated and actively engaged by
  this technology
• Allows for repetition
• Allows for isolated practice on a targeted area
  of need
• Can also be used on smartphone

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References

• Northrhop, L. Killeen, E., (2-13). A framework
  for using iPads to build early literacy skills.
  The Reading Teacher, volume 66, (issue 3),
  531-537. DOI10.1002/TRTR.1155 2013