Braille
Celebrate the birthday of Louis Braille (January 4, 1809) by learning about this tactile system of writing and reading. Each of these activities meets a variety of state and national standards for technology and core subject areas.
Grades K-2
Explain to students how braille enables blind people to read and write through touch, using raised bumps to represent letters, numbers, and symbols. Show the class the braille alphabet, and have them use Graphics software to write their names using the dots of the braille system. Then have students use an online braille translator to write a secret message and translate it into braille. Have students print their messages, exchange them with a classmate, and decode using a chart of the braille alphabet.
EasyTech units: Beginning Graphics, Computer Basics
Grades 3-5
Have students use the Web to research Louis Braille and the history of braille. The system Louis developed as a teenager became widely accepted and used only after his death. Have students use Word Processing software to write a letter from the future to teenage Louis, encouraging his work and letting him know how valuable his system would be. The letter should include information about Louis, his life, and the history of braille. When the letter is finished, have students use an online braille translator to translate it into braille.
EasyTech units: Web Browsing Basics, Word Processing
Grades 6-8
Have students use the Web to research new and emerging technologies related to braille, such as devices to allow blind computer users to “read” Web sites and computer displays. Have students choose one of these technologies and create a multimedia presentation to market this item. Students should include headlines, images, and information about the product that would make people see the value of it and want to buy it.
EasyTech units: Web Browsing, Presentation Software
