The Basic Suite in the Grade Two Classroom

In terms of computers, the basic suite refers to word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software that are often sold as packages (Roblyer, 2016, p. 109).  Originally these programs were probably designed to be used by working professionals, but since then they have become a staple in many different classrooms.

In Grade 2 the use of the basic suite focuses mainly on presentation software.  For example, in our current unit the students are learning about different body systems.  The students have been tasked to create a presentation that demonstrates their understanding of their systems based on the information they have gathered.  While this type of project can easily be done on poster paper, there are several advantages to doing it electronically:

1. The students begin to develop an understanding of how to use technology.
2. The students start understanding that technology can be used to help them learn and present their information.
3. The presentation format allows the students to focus on key ideas on each slide, prompting them with what to say.
4. Labelling and adding text looks cleaner and more professional.
5. When the students present, it is easier for them.

When it comes to dedicated word processing and spreadsheet programs, there are reasons why we don't really use them in Grade 2.  With regards to spreadsheets, the skills required to take full advantage of the software is not age appropriate.  However, we still have students create graphs when they need to using Create-A-Graph, which allows students to easily create graphs from data they have collected.  This allows the students to begin to develop the skills necessary to understand how to work within a spreadsheet program which is introduced later in elementary.  Word processing faces similar problems as well and we tend to rely on Storybird for our students in grade 2.

Another aspect that needs to be taken into consideration is that in the last ten years there has been a tremendous explosion of programs that make the process of creating documents, spreadsheets, and presentations easier for students.  While these programs do some things well, they tend not to offer the fully robust set of features that a traditional basic suite offers.  So while, I may state that my students do not use traditional basic suite programs, this does not mean that they are using apps or other resources that allow them to create these documents utilizing a tool that is more age appropriate.

Resources

Roblyer, M. D.  (2016).  Integrating Educational Technology into Teaching (7th ed.).  United States: Pearson Education, Inc.