Of course, it is important to understand the capabilities that computer hardware and software offer for language instruction. However, the key to using the microcomputer wisely is to consider it in relation to teachers' and students' goals and needs. Elementary language arts instruction is usually devoted to helping children understand language critically and express themselves in speech and writing. But individual students' needs differ from the first years of school. Some children are able to write long pieces fluently, while others struggle with the mechanics of handwriting.
Spelling is more difficult for some students than others.
Some children like to write, and they write a great deal. Others don't like to write but are quite talented orally. Such programs free teachers from having to repeat the same information many times. All students should be given a chance to use the computer as a communication machine. Computer word processing programs can be used to enhance the communication functions of writing because they provide easy revising capacities.