iPods with the software SpeakEasy were used to create an interview format focussing of the reading comprehension skill "Evaluate." Fifth grade students each used an iPod to record their questions and answers for the the comprehension questions at the end of the selection, Black Cowboy Wild Horses. Before the recordings, we reviewed how to ask questions using intonation and possible answers the students would have. They worked with partners, one asking the question and recording it on their iPod then the other student answering using their iPod to record. The students had an opportunity to re-record if they didn't like the way it sounded. This is great practice for all students, especially our ELL students.
We had tried using one iPod between two students, but it was distracting passing the iPod back and forth. After the students were finished, the recordings were download into iTunes then edited together in Garage Band and exported.
