Word Cloud

After experimenting with all five tools, I decided to use WordCloud Generator. I felt the streamlined look would translate well in a classroom setting. It was focused and distraction free. The words were front and center, not the cloud. However, I wasn’t excited about the end result. I reassessed and turned my attention to ABCya Word Cloud. Its fluid shape approximation and color palates seemed tailor made for lower elementary students. But I still wasn’t excited about the finished product. I continued to tinker with the tools and I found myself drawn to WordArt. Specifically, the word cloud shaped like the silhouette of a woman. I felt it evoked the personal reflection this assignment required.

WordArt offered seemingly unlimited and unique options for customization. Others offered some customization but not to the extent of WordArt. I chose the slope of text, eliminated word repetition, and set word density. With the edit feature I rearranged the words to create the look I wanted. As I built the word list, I selected the font size for each entry choosing a larger font size to emphasize key words. WordArt recognized phrases and kept them together rather than depicting them as individual words. In other tools “wildlife photography” was became “wildlife” and “photography” and sorted them into completely different areas of the cloud. Font variation, while visually appealing, was difficult to read. With the animation setting, words jumped off the screen in a selected color when the curser touched them. Unfortunately, I was not able to successfully bring this feature into my final product. Despite my best efforts, everything I tried failed. Instead, you will see a static image.

Word clouds are a creative way for students to engage with material and make new connections. They can be utilized across all grade levels from pre-kindergarten to secondary school. They can be used in both brick and mortar and virtual classrooms. Applications include exercises to spark inspiration in journal writing or brainstorming sessions for collaborative projects. They are a unique way to both build and deconstruct elements of story and characters. On a personal note, as the mother of a child with special education needs, they are an effective tool for students who require strong visual planners to assist with their writing and organization.