Writing-Inspiration+&+Kidspiration

**[|Inspiration]**
Is a web-based and desktop software program for students and educators to model concept mapping and prewriting strategies. Inspiration can allow teachers to improve student organization with presenting a visual of an idea or concept. According to the website, "Visual thinking and learning strategies have been shown to increase academic performance for students of all learning abilities. Inspiration® Software's visual learning software is recommended for students with ADHD, autism, Asperger's, dyslexia, aphasia, and visual or auditory processing disorders. By providing multiple mediums for representation, expression and engagement, Inspiration Software tools help students visually organize and outline ideas to structure writing and improve communication and expression. All this while learning skills that enhance and make learning fun and engaging. With Inspiration Software's tools, students brainstorm using symbols and images to represent and sort their ideas, and create visual diagrams and graphic organizers to break work down into manageable sections. Visual learning engages students of all abilities as they work together and contribute at their individual levels."

Please view the video below for an overview of Inspiration: media type="youtube" key="yPTZh13OTLU" height="349" width="425"

Teachers: Please view this link for examples of[| lesson plans]

For a free trial of Inspiration, click here: [|30 Day Free Trial]

**[|Kidspiration] **
Students K-5 can use this software program to strengthen their skills in the area of writing and mathematics. The program offers endless opportunities you can create visual representations to think through math problems to developing a prewriting concept map. According to the website, "Created for K-5 learners, Kidspiration® develops thinking, literacy and numeracy skills using proven visual learning principles. In reading and writing, Kidspiration strengthens word recognition, vocabulary, comprehension and written expression. With new visual math tools, students build reasoning and problem solving skills."

Please view the video below for an overview of Kidspiration: media type="youtube" key="EowEflx3pOI" height="349" width="425"

Students: Please view this link for [|examples]

For a free trial of Kidspiration, click here: [|30 Day Free Trial]

In my classroom we will be using both programs to help with prewriting and drafting daily writing assignments on the computer. My Students currently have access to Kidspiration at school only. Additionally, students will be learning how to use concept mapping through teacher modeling and teacher led lessons.