LEARN NC

K–12 teaching and learning · from the UNC School of Education

Using symbol and function keys

Students retype sentences in the data file that require the use of shift and Caps Lock (function keys) as well as some symbol keys ($, ?, !, &, ", /). Students must put capital letters at the beginning of some sentences and correct punctuation marks at the end of others.

A lesson plan for grade 2 Computer/Technology Skills and English Language Arts

By Carolyn Uprichard

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Learning outcomes

Students will:

  • locate and learn how to use the symbol keys
  • locate and learn how to use special function keys (e.g., shift, Caps Lock)
  • apply knowledge of correct capitalization and punctuation in sentences

Teacher planning

Time required for lesson

45 minutes

Materials/resources

keyboard wall chart or transparency of keyboard with overhead

Technology resources

  • Computer
  • Data file (template)
  • Printer (optional)

Pre-activities

This could be done in the classroom or the computer lab.

  • Using a keyboard wall chart, data projector, or overhead transparency, locate the shift and Caps Lock keys. Discuss the difference and when to use each one. Have students practice (pretend or on real keyboard) holding the shift key with one hand and pressing the first letter of their name.
  • Locate the different symbol keys ($, ? !, &), model how to type them, and have students practice them.

Activities

Guided Practice

Students open the data file and type their name and date at the top of the page. The teacher guides students doing the first two sentences in Activity 1. Remember to click to position the cursor and use the arrow keys to move to the next sentence.

Independent Practice

Students complete Activity 2 and Activity 3 on their own while the teacher monitors, encourages and helps students as needed.

Closure

Students save and/or print their work. Students quit the program. Teacher calls on students to answer review questions such as: What keys do you use to type the and symbol?

Assessment

  • Completed sentences (either as a saved data file or printed copy).
  • Verbal answers to closure questions.

Supplemental information

Attachments:

Comments

I have found that this activity really helps the young students to understand and practice putting just one space between words.

North Carolina curriculum alignment

Computer Technology Skills (2005)

Grade 2

  • Goal 2: The learner will demonstrate knowledge and skills in the use of computer and other technologies.
    • Objective 2.05: Recognize, discuss, and use word processing as a tool to enter/edit, print, and save assignments. Strand - Keyboard Utilization/Word Processing/Desk Top Publishing

  • Common Core State Standards

    • English Language Arts (2010)

      • Language

        • Grade 2
          • 2.L.2 Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing. 2.L.2.1 Capitalize holidays, product names, and geographic names. 2.L.2.2 Use commas in greetings and closings of letters. 2.L.2.3 Use...