After reading Grabe, Chapter 4, I've become more interested in exploring different software and multimedia tools to use in my classroom.  I'm used to using PowerPoint, Word, Unitedstreaming, and Inspiration.  I'd forgotten about all the other great tools out there like simulations.  I'm curious to see if I can find any simulations that will coincide with my 4th grade science curriculum.  It might be neat to find a simulation of planetary orbit, like was mentioned in the book.  Or simulations of simple machinary.  Or life cycles of certain animals.  I'll be on the look out.

A multimedia tool that I took a look at today was http://www.pokemonlearningleague.com/.  It is a free site (for now) that offers animated interactive lessons that uses the pokemon characters to help students practice skills and problem solve. I only had a chance to view a few of the lessons, but the seemed very good.  You view an animated video, then you can try a skill, and then apply the skill.  It is very visual.  I could see it being a motivational tool for some of students.  I'll let you know how it works out.