Using Microsoft Word in the Classroom

      Microsoft word is a great asset to teachers in their classrooms. Word offers so many tools and resources for teachers as well as students. Using word, teachers can create tests, handouts, questionnaires, warm-ups, web quests, and so much more. After creating the document the teacher can then print it, send it to students via google docs or email, and the teacher can also use a projector to post it on a smart board. This allows for lessons to become more interactive.
       Some of the tools that I find to be the most useful on word include; adding hyperlinks, using the column tool, and using the comment tool. The hyperlink tool allows teachers to create web quests with embedded links in them as well as other interactive documents. This allows students to search on the web for information for projects and research. Students can also use the hyperlink tool when presenting a project and want to pull up a video easier or bring the class to another web page or site. The column tool allows teachers to create lists, create KWL charts, other types of graphic organizers, and even create seating charts. I believe that this tool is used often in the classroom and through my experience I know that it has come in handy. Lastly, the comment tool is useful when editing student work. This tool allows teachers to leave comments and suggestions that the students can either choose to use or ignore. The students have the comments appear on their screen without actually changing their work. This tool can also be used for students when they are peer editing. Students can make corrections to their peer's work and then send the corrections to the work. Having this tool actually allows for less paper to be used in the classroom.
      Overall, Microsoft word is a benefit in classrooms for teachers and students. Teachers can start the year by creating questionnaires and end the year by creating a scrapbook type page using word. Daily lessons, projects, and assignments can be created using Microsoft word. Lastly, Microsoft word has so many support pages and tutorials for teachers and students. This allows students and teachers to become more comfortable with word and to learn about all the tools that are out there and being created.