[senco-forum] AlphaSmarts

Pupils ahve used them for SATs just given them one without predictive text.  They have then downloaded onto a main frame and brought text to suitable size.  There is a form you ahve to complete and attach to the script on which we write that this is normal classroom practice.

Haven't used any for GCSEs but some pupils ahve used ordinary laptop with spelling switched off.  We had to apply in advance for this though.

Barbara

-----Original Message-----
From: senco-forum-bounces at lists.becta.org.uk on behalf of Paul and Philippa Bodien
Sent: Tue 5/15/2007 6:47 PM
To: senco forum
Subject: [senco-forum] AlphaSmarts

We purchased 2 AlphaSmarts last January to trial with the word prediction
software Co:Writer - and three Y5 boys have been using them.  All three have
responded brilliantly.  Class teachers, TAs and parents report a significant
boost in confidence, productivity, quality of and enjoyment in their written
work.  It is quite inspiring!

It was the correspondence on the forum that led me to think of trying these
machines, so a big thank you to the contributors who advised their use.

We have some questions... have students been allowed to use their
AlphaSmarts in test situations?  SATs?  GCSEs? etc..  If so, what text
formatting restrictions applied?  Are there any other guidelines?  All
replies gratefully received.  Jamie, are you out there?

Philippa

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