Word Processing Skills in the Classroom

It is important to incorporate word processing skills in the classroom.

A balanced technology program combines a range of computer skills such as word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, Internet, database, graphics, and desktop publishing. Of all these, word processing is probably the most extensive and essential for students to master.

Word processing is the composition, editing, and formatting of text. Word processing programs, such as Microsoft Word, in addition to working with text also provide tools to  insert pictures, edit photos, draw objects, and produce graphic organizers. The range of options available within word processing programs make them versatile to the user.

It is very likely that your students will be required to use word processing software to complete school assignments. In addition, many of them will need word processing skills later in life when they enter the workplace. For these reasons, it is important to include word processing skills when planning classroom activities.

The great news is that using Microsoft Word can be fun! There are so many products your students can create using word processing software.

story journal poem poster title page

report news article script essay outline

magazine web page calendar questionnaire resume

letter newspaper mailing labels catalog flow chart

When selecting a product you want students to create using a word processing program, it is essential to determine the technology skills that are required. In addition, consider the students’ grade level and previous computer experience prior to selecting a task. Word processing skills can be grouped into basic and advanced levels of difficulty.

Basic Word Processing Skills: add text enter text format text: font, style, size, and color adjust line spacing insert and format WordArt insert and format clip art or picture file modify the text wrap of an object draw and format shapes scale, move, and rotate objects insert a simple page border spell check a document print preview print a document cut, copy, and paste a selection copy formatting from a selection

Advanced Word Processing Skills create graphic organizer insert headers and footers insert date and page numbers adjust character and paragraph spacing format text into columns insert and format tables bookmark a location in a document create hyperlink to bookmarked location group and align objects adjust page setup: margins, section breaks use, modify, and create styles use mail merge to create a form or letter generate mailing labels create a table of contents import chart data into Microsoft Word

Incorporating word processing skills in the classroom can create meaningful learning experiences for your students.