Student Video: Computer Tutor

Poet Charles Ghigna’s six witty mini-poems explore the quirks of our screen-obsessed world. Hats off to video creator Brandi Bryner, who brought these verses to life with humor and charm as part of our 2025 STEAM Poetry Video Contest.

CATEGORY:

technology

GRADE LEVEL:

Middle Grade


DOWNLOADS:

ACTIVITIES:

 Exploring Computers: Hardware and Software

Students can create their own paper laptop or paper computer that includes interactive flaps to expose the core internal hardware of a laptop such as the CPU, GPU, RAM and hard disk, and more! DYIPaperComputer

 Read, Reflect, Respond—Using a Computer

Kindle books are easily accessible by using the free Kindle app for PC/Mac or the Kindle Cloud Reader. Assign an eBook—such as Dear Poet: Notes to a Young Writer by Charles Ghigna—and have students use built-in tools to highlight lines or take notes. Invite them to meet in small groups (in person or on a digital platform like Padlet ) to share and discuss their selections. This activity boosts comprehension and blends technology and literacy.

 Create Interactive Author Profiles

After reading an author’s book, students can research the author and design a digital “about the author” page using Canva or Adobe Express . They can embed favorite quotes, summarize themes, and include virtual “interview” questions. This blends literary analysis with creativity and presentation skills.

 WHISPERshout Poetry Magazine – Submit Online!

Students can use a computer to learn how to write, edit, and submit their original poems to WHISPERshoutMagazine , a vibrant, youth-centered publication that celebrates the voices of young poets. Each issue is crafted like a poetry workshop, offering models and inspiration—perfect for teachers and students to explore together. Submissions are welcome from anywhere and are accepted online.

 Explore Rhyme and Vocabulary

Students can use their computers or iPads to explore online rhyming dictionaries, such as Kenn Nesbitt’s Rhyming Dictionary for Kids at Poetry4KidsRhymes . They can also use their devices to look up unfamiliar words while reading. Encourage them to log new vocabulary in a shared Google Doc. This activity supports reading comprehension and builds vocabulary confidence.

Use Tech Skills to Bring Poetry to Life!

After viewing Charles Ghigna’s “Computer Tutor,” and other student-created videos, invite students to enter the STEAM Powered Poetry Video Contest. They can transform STEAM-themed poems into creative, award-winning videos while building tech skills with programs like Canva, iMovie, or Adobe Express. It’s a fun classroom project that strengthens communication and media literacy.

CRAFT:

Doodle Lou's "Computer Robot Coloring Page"

This fun coloring page features a friendly robot ready to help! Younger children can draw pictures of the chores they’d like their robot to do. Perfect for sparking imagination and practicing fine motor skills. Click the CRAFT tab to download free!