Author Archives: chris.bugaj

Converting Text to an MP3 File with Audio Maker in Read&Write for Google Chrome

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Learners can listen to learn by using turning text into an audio file. The Audio Maker tool in Read&Write for Google Chrome creates a speech to text MP3 file using text in a Google Doc or on a website. That file can then be played just like music or an audiobook. Click and drag to highlight the text to be turned into the MP3 file. Click the Audio Maker icon to create the file. A box will appear with a progress bar to show when the file is finished. To access the file, select the recent downloads button in the upper right hand corner of the browser window. The MP3 file can then be shared via Google Drive and listened to on any device where Google Drive is available. At the time of this blog post’s publication, Read&Write for Google Chrome is available to every student and teacher in Loudoun County Public Schools. 

Screenshot of Creating Audio box that appears when the Audio Maker tool is selected

The Audio Maker tool of Read&Write for Google Chrome Creating Audio

Translate Single Words Using the Translate Tool in Read&Write for Google Chrome

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The Translator tool of Read&Write for Google Chrome uses Google Translate to provide the translation for a single word at a time in the language of your choice in a pop-up box. The icon on the Read&Write for Google Chrome toolbar will turn purple and have a dot under it when the tool is on. The translation can be read aloud by speech to text by selecting the triangle next to the translated word in the box. To choose the language, select the three vertical dots on the far right of the toolbar, and select “settings,” from the drop-down menu that appears. A menu will pop up. Select “speech,” on the left hand side of that menu and scroll down a little to see the, “Translation,” heading. Use the drop-down menu to select from the available languages. At the time of this blog post’s publication, Read&Write for Google Chrome is available to every student and teacher in Loudoun County Public Schools. The translation tool will give learners quick, single word translations without having to leave Google Docs.

Screenshot of Translator tool showing the word Puzzle translated into Spanish

Translator Tool

Screenshot of Speech Settings of Read&Write for Google Chrome with Translation tool circled

Select a Translation Language in Read&Write for Google Chrome

Hovering Over Suggestions to Have Them Read Aloud Using the Check It Feature of Read&Write for Google Chrome

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The Check It feature of Read&Write for Google Chrome extension checks writing for grammar, punctuation, capitalization, spelling, and common word confusion errors. When activated, it will create a purple underline under potential errors. This works in addition to built-in spell checking or grammar checking software in the word processing software, appearing above or below any underlines that software may generate. It will also generate a list of suggested corrections. These corrections can be read out loud by Read&Write for Google Chrome if the user turns on the “Read Check It suggestions on hover” option in settings.

On the far right of the Read&Write for Google Chrome toolbar, select the 3 horizontal dots and then select, “Settings.” On the left side of the menu that opens, select “Check It.” Then check the box next to, “Read Check It suggestions on hover.” At the time of this blog post’s publication, Read&Write for Google Chrome is available to every student and teacher in Loudoun County Public Schools. This feature could be added to an editing process to improve writing.

Read&Write for Google Chrome settings screenshot displaying the Read Check It suggestions on hover checkbox in the Check It tab

Read Check It suggestions on hover

Outlining Narrative Elements with a Mindmap Using Lucid

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One strategy to organize elements of a traditional outline is mind mapping. Starting with a central idea, such as a core theme or main character, a mind map demonstrates connections by branching out in different directions. Each branch can represent a character arc, a plot point, setting details, or any aspect of a related detail to create a visualization demonstrating relationships among narrative elements. 

Whether outlining a novel, screenplay, or even a short story, this approach lets you see the big picture while zooming in on intricate narrative threads. By the end, the mind map not only serves as a roadmap for the writing journey but also as a visual storyboard that captures the essence of the narrative vision. Lucid is one tool available in Loudoun County Public Schools that can be used to create mind maps. Lucid provides templates to get you started, like this one titled Sample Mind Map.

A screenshot of a digital mind map. A central node labeled "Main Idea" has three branches extending from it, each with sub-branches and icons. The branches appear to represent different aspects or categories related to the main idea. Text within the nodes is partially visible, suggesting brainstorming or idea development.

Mind map

Empowering Communication: A First-Grade Teacher’s Journey Through Coaching

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Danielle Sullivan, a first-grade general education teacher at Countryside Elementary School, was one of several educators to complete a six-session Communication Partner Coaching experience, focused on increasing her abilities to teach language using augmentative/alternative communication (AAC). Through this coaching cycle, Ms. Sullivan practiced improving her skills at implementing a specific strategy used to model language using AAC to provide learners with more opportunities to experience specific vocabulary in meaningful ways. In addition, she incorporated AAC into whole group lessons, embraced AAC during literacy instruction, and advocated for a whole school professional development session for ALL Countryside staff to learn more about AAC. This experience highlights the power of intentional coaching in building inclusive learning environments where all students can communicate and thrive. Any staff member in LCPS can participate in this six-session coaching experience. To learn more about how to get started, contact the Specialized Instructional Facilitator – Assistive Technology or the Assistive Technology Specialist. 

Learn more about what Ms. Sullivan had to say by experiencing the video titled A First-Grade Teacher’s Testimonial on Participating in Coaching.

Checking for Errors Using the Check It Tool

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The Check It feature of Read&Write for Google Chrome extension checks writing for grammar, punctuation, capitalization, spelling, and common word confusion errors. When activated, it will create a purple underline under potential errors. This works in addition to built-in spell checking or grammar checking software in the word processing software, appearing above or below any underlines that software may generate.

The Check It tool will be a black check mark inside of a black circle on the Read&Write for Google Chrome toolbar. Select this icon to turn the tool on. The check mark and circle will turn purple, and a dot will appear under it. The document will automatically be checked for errors. Select the icon again to turn off the tool. At the time of this blog post’s publication, Read&Write for Google Chrome is available to every student and teacher in Loudoun County Public Schools. Learners could use this tool as an additional support during the editing process. The video titled Read&Write for Google Chrome – Check It Overview describes how to use this feature of the toolbar.

 

Comparing Attributes with a Two-set Venn Diagram Using Canva

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Creating a visual representation to compare attributes can significantly enhance the clarity and understanding of complex information. Canva is one tool available in Loudoun County Public Schools which invites users to design a two-set Venn diagram that effectively illustrates similarities and differences between two categories. With Canva, customize colors, add text labels, and adjust sizes to ensure your diagram matches your specific needs. Whether you’re a learner preparing a research project or a professional delivering a presentation, leveraging Canva’s tools for Venn diagrams can elevate your ability to communicate complex comparisons effectively. To learn more, visit Canva’s webpage on creating Venn Diagrams.

Venn Diagram Template in Canva

Exploring Vocabulary With the Frayer Model Using Lucid

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Originally designed as a tool to enhance understanding of vocabulary, the Frayer Model encourages learners to delve deeply into words by defining them, providing examples and non-examples, and connecting them to their own experiences in a consistently organized way. Lucid is one example of a tool available in Loudoun County Public Schools that can be used to create a document where learners can interact with the Frayer Model. These documents can be used individually or collaboratively to explore vocabulary and define concepts.

Frayer Model Template Made Using Lucid

The video titled How To Use the Frayer Model by TeachLikeThis provides a description of the Frayer Model.

The Specialized Instructional Facilitators – Assistive Technology & Assistive Technology Specialist Are At Your Service

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The Specialized Instructional Facilitators – Assistive Technology & Assistive Technology Specialist for Loudoun County Public Schools created this brief video demonstrating examples of how they can support educators, learners, and the community. You can contact them by going to the LCPS AT Service Directory. They’re at your service!

An Adapted Library at Algonkian Elementary

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Megan Keller

Megan Keller, Speech Language Pathologist at Algonkian Elementary School

This blog post was written by Megan Keller, Speech Language Pathologist at Algonkian Elementary School.

This year, I have been working hard on my dream of creating an adapted library here at Algonkian Elementary! My goal is to promote inclusion by providing non-speaking students or those with emerging verbal skills with the same books that their neurotypical peers have access to. I feel that often the adapted books that are available to print from online sources lack visual stimulation, plots, and fun, well-known characters. I have adapted popular books to allow them to access the language needed to share in the same literary experience as their peers. I want teachers, assistants, and families to be able to easily use the library to foster a love of books while promoting communication and literacy skills. 

These books also align with the curriculum that the self-contained special education teachers are using. For example, during the month of May the students in K-2 Autism class are learning about transportation and so I have chosen to target the core word “go”. I used fun, colorful, books such as “Go Dog, Go” and nonfiction texts about vehicles to further target the word “go” and expand upon its meaning. Students can check these books out and families can read the book together! Students can also read to their teachers, assistants, friends, and family. Individuals who use Augmentative/Alternative Communication can use the corresponding icons on their device. or by pointing to the icons on each page. Those working with the students can, of course, expand on the words to model longer utterances. Each book also includes a folder containing comprehension activities, such as sequencing activities, visual comprehension questions, and picture sorts to further build language skills and interaction. I also suggest toys and activities to use to reinforce mastery of these core words through play. 

We plan on hosting some family coffee talks next year to discuss promoting literacy and communication at home using this library as a foundation. It’s a work in progress, but I’m excited to watch it grow!

Orange folder with a sheet of paper describing ways to help teach the word want.

Ideas for how to incorporate the Word of the Week

Buckets with core words on it and books sticking out of them

Core Word Buckets

A picture book with text, pictures, and a picture symbol for the target word

Word being practiced is placed on the page

Pop the Pig game, the eat bucket, plastic fruit, and the Hungry, Hungry Caterpillar

Games, toys, and books are all used to teach the meaning of the core vocabulary word and beyond!