Language arts teachers will find SMARTBoards very effective tools for their lessons. Teachers commonly utilize worksheets and handouts that can become quite boring after repeated use. On a SMARTBoard, teachers can load graphic organizers and concept maps. Students can come to the board and use the digital pen to add or edit ideas in various colors. The students can brainstorm as a group. Teachers can load pictures and use them as prompts for students to write about. Visual learners will benefit by animated graphics. Using a SMARTBoard can catch the attention of the students who otherwise would be bored with traditional pencil and paper.
Mathematics often uses graphs, charts and other visual representations of data. Students in geometry perform tranformations, reflections and slides. There are numerous math websites that provide interactive math programs that allow students to investigate specific math properties. Students can change data inputs and immediately witness results. Students can investigate polyhedrons by physically manipulating them within their virtual environment. Most students will appreciate the capability to physically work the math problem with the digital pen. SMARTBoards also have side programs such as calculators and notepads that can be used simultaneously while working the main problem.
Teachers often find students are not very attentive on review days. One strategy for a SMARTBoard is to use it as a game board. There are many PowerPoint templates available which are copies of popular TV gameshows. Some popular templates are for "Jeopardy!" and "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" Before the class, the teacher needs to write the questions into the template, which can be found on the Internet. During the class, the teacher can load the PowerPoint to the SMARTBoard and use the digital pen to navigate the game board. There are often audio files attached to the game that add to the reality of the experience.
SMARTBoards also have the capability to be used for testing and assessments. Input devices can be ordered for the SMARTBoard that allow the class to answer questions from their seats. The data is stored into the program and statistics can be generated in real time. Students can also vote on topics and see the results instantly.
Using the SMARTBoard, classrooms can link up with other classes or individuals in real time to interact and communicate. Students have connected to astronauts in space or classrooms in different countries. This gives the students cross-cultural experience and an appreciation of geography.
Students who are hearing-impaired can benefit from the bold text and various colors used on the SMARTBoard. Students with Attention Deficit Disorder are often more patient while using this technology. The use of the SMARTBoard can be seen as a reward for good class behavior. Using this technology can often make a student learn without them knowing they are learning.