Yesterday in class we worked on how we were going to teach the 4th graders. We used both "natural" and "formal" language to explain how to draw objects and shapes. This was a practice to show the 4th graders how to use Scratch and programming which in the end would help us for the trip to Barbados. One person would face the board that had a picture on it and describe what to draw to their partner who was not looking at the board. It was difficult, but we all did really well.
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In our most recent class we got to work with the new XO computers and also learned about open source software’s. Open source software is software that can be freely used and most importantly changed by anyone, for example a site like Wikipedia is open source because it can be changed by anyone. Open source is used on the one laptop computer’s because when downloading new versions it is free unlike Microsoft and the many programs that come with that. After opening the new computer and working out the problems that we had with some of them we were able to play around with the different activities on the computer and learn new things. We were able to connect with each other’s computers and start a chat with the class. We also played around with the other activities like the camera, the music, and the app that allows you to measure the distance the computer is form another computer.
Although we haven’t spent much time in class, while we are in the classroom I like having the opportunity to help my classmates with stuff they haven’t yet figured out. Doing this in class is getting me excited for the trip we are going to be taking and teaching and helping kids with the computers! This past class we began the disassembly and reassembly of the laptops that we will be bringing with us on our trip to Barbados. We went onto a helpful website called wiki.laptop.org, which gave step by step instructions for the disassembly of the computers. We worked in partners making the process slightly easier because, at first, taking apart the laptops was difficult, yet also fun. I personally have never done anything like this before and the process honestly felt strange because I was pulling apart an expensive machine. However, my partner, Oliva, and I found it to actually be very fun. After the disassembly process, we got to take everything we had just unscrewed and put it all back together again. The re-assembly was much easier than the disassembly because I remembered where each screw went, whereas when disassembling it was at sometimes difficult to know which screws to unscrew when to be sure the process went smoothly.
So far, the disassembly and reassembly of these laptops has been one of my favorite things. Although I did enjoy Scratch, the hands-on aspect with taking apart the laptops and getting to see inside of them and how everything works was really interesting to me. Also, I think this was a great project to do to learn more about helping others and working together. My partner, Olivia, and I worked together to take apart and put back together the laptop. For example, while Olivia screwed the screws back together I would be removing the next screw she would be using from the magnet to make the process much easier for her. So far I am loving the projects and activities this class has to offer! |
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Students will be blogging weekly throughout the school year as they prepare for the trip. Please check back occasionally for updates. Archives
May 2016
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