Assignment #4

Using an instructional video for teaching an English concept, at first, seemed strange if not unnecessary. However, as I got to thinking about it I realized that showing a video that includes clips, pictures and sounds from the internet would probably be a welcome change to any student. Also no matter how animated I am in class as I explain something, some pictures and videos are more compelling. Specifically, I thought of this in terms of teaching active voice and active verbs. My idea is to have a series of either pictures or recordings of people "doing" things or in "action." Then I will contrast those shots with others where people are standing around "being." Before each shot I will have a frame that has the verb written out. The idea is that the action verb frames are more exciting to watch. These action verbs have the same effect in writing. I have already found a bunch of pictures, clips and sounds I want to use. I have not had any significant challenges so far. Some problems I foresee may be technological kinks when it comes to putting it all together. I have spent about an hour working on this project.

Link to Website

http://sites.google.com/site/misscookesenglishclass/

Assignment #3

http://www.facebook.com/help/?ref=drop#!/?ref=home









http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUHIJO6C4eE&feature=watch_response

Assignment #2: Using a Class Website

Unfortunately, everything I post here will probably be similar to what we discussed in class. Nevertheless, I will explain how I can use a website for my future classes. One of the most beneficial things about a website is that it can hold the courses' most important documents like the syllabus, power point slides or assignment sheets. This helps to combat the inevitable "I lost it" and "I was absent the day you past that out." A class website can also be very useful if it has the calendar. Ever since technology has started to infiltrate the classroom, I have found this to be one of the best things to have easy access to. It can also be helpful to include links that may help students research for assignments. Websites can have biographical or contact information about the teacher. They can be especially helpful when they include gradebooks. This is one of the redeeming qualities about Blackboard. I am a novice when it comes to using technology in the classroom but I am sure with time I will be more creative.