Sara Hughey

Tool Mastery: Set 3

EDMD 3000
Dr. S. Wolf
10/14/15
Tool Mastery #7 Storybird
Viewable Sample of Tool:

*I accidently left out the word, we so it doesnt make much sense! ^

Summary of Usage: Storybird is a creative online way to engage students in writing. As the
teacher, I can create an assignment specifying what I want the students to write (short story or
poem) and the subject matter to revolve it around. I chose to make an assignment around Edgar
Allan Poe and his famous dark style of writing. The students are given the option to pick a
graphic to revolve their poem around and Storybird gives them word options to click and drag
onto the graphic to create a poem. The challenge and fun is in creating something out the words
given. You are also given the option to refresh your word selection if you desire. With this tool, I
would have the students attempt imitation of a writers style in their own way. In the picture
above, I stated instructions for the students to create a poem with the same dark word choice that
is common in Edgar Allan Poes poems. By doing so, I would be testing their comprehension of
his word choice as a writer and how that contributes to his work as a whole.
Selection Criteria:
No cost to the teacher or students
Unique way to engage the students in writing.
Easy to center lesson on a specific topic, writing style, or writer.
ALCOS Connection:
English Language Arts Grade 10: 4.) Determine the meaning of words and phrases as
they are used in the text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the
cumulative impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone (e.g., how the language
evokes a sense of time and place; how it sets a formal or informal tone). [RL.9-10.4]
I envisioned this lesson focusing around a certain writer and his or her writing style and
having the student try to imitate that in their own work. I think using this approach would
force them to further analyze the text and get more practice with how specific word
choice contributes to meaning and tone.
Blooms Taxonomy: Applyingthe particular approach of imitating an authors style for
analytical purposes would show an overall understanding from the student and test their
ability to apply that knowledge.
ISTE Tech Standards:
2.Creativity and Innovation
a. Apply existing knowledge to generate new ideas, products, or processes.
Curriculum Connection:
I would utilize this tool in my English class to ensure student comprehension of a
writers style and word choice and how that correlates with the tone and meaning
of the piece. I think this would be a fun and different way to test their knowledge.