The Sixth Week

This past week, we discussed Microsoft PowerPoint in class. Sure, it is a commonly-used application; however, PowerPoint is also a very useful tool in various situations. Its importance in many fields is why it should be discussed regularly. Walking through this application, though I have used it for nearly seven years, helped me to realize small details about the creation of presentations that truly are vital to the success or failure of communication with your audience. For instance, I never had considered how much more interesting slide animations (when used judiciously) can make a presentation. We also emphasized the importance of "keeping it clean"--we pointed out the need to cut down on excessive clip art, crazy colors, capitalized wording, etcetera.

PowerPoint is certainly a useful tool for teachers everywhere. I feel that, as a Spanish teacher, I might not have as many opportunities to use it in lectures as, say a History or English teacher; however, I can still implement it in my classroom for the benefit of my students. For instance, I can create a Jeopardy board to practice vocabulary or history/culture facts. Or I could even use it as a medium to practice grammar: an infinitive (unconjugated verb) and a sample subject could be on the first slide, then the next slide would display the correct conjugation. PowerPoint would also be an excellent tool for my future students to use in creating presentations for projects about Spanish-speaking countries or famous Hispanics.