Learning Connections:Differentiating by Interest in Elementary classrooms-By Grace E. Smith and Stephanie Throne

In this article, Smith and Throne point out that many times teachers will put in more of an effort if they are interested in the topic they are teaching. They are able to connect to prior knowledge, and relate to how others are able to learn the subject matter. They both discuss how by adding technology into learning, teachers can kick up differentiating by interest. "Draw/paint software, presentation/publishing software, brainstorming tools, and Web resource tools help personalize learning, vary the process by which learning is achieved, and produce products (artifacts) based on what students have discovered and learned". Smith and Throne also inform us of a good tool that can be useful in this discovery. RAFT, Role, Audience, Format, Topic, is one that is supported by technology. In the article there contains an actual lesson plan that relats to RAFT, and shows how to use this within the classroom. 

(Q1): Would you be interested in testing out this lesson plan?

(A1): I believe this looks like an interesting way to bring technology within the curriculum, but would like to look more into the program before implementing it within the classroom.

(Q2): Would this learning connection actually benefit elementary students?

(A2): I believe that because our society is growing in technology, students are learning how to use technology at a younger age and are excited in using it. This would be a good opportunity to maintain your students attention within the classroom.