Cool+Tools



=Title of Project: Use of Google Webforms for Online Quiz = = = =Date: March, 2010 = = =

=Technology Standards Addressed: = = = __ Standard I: Technology Information Access, Evaluation, Processing and Application __ Access, evaluate, and process information efficiently and effectively __ Standard II: Communication __ A. Use technology effectively and appropriately to interact electronically. B. Use technology to communicate information in a variety of formats. __ Standard IV: Assessment for Administration and Instruction __ Use technology to analyze problems and develop data-driven solutions for instructional and school improvement. __ Standard V: Integrating Technology into the Curriculum and Instruction __ Design, implement and assess learning experiences that incorporate use of technology in the curriculum-related instructional activity to support understanding, inquiry, problem-solving, communication or collaboration.

=Description of Project:= I created an online quiz for my students using Google Docs and the webform application. This was a great way to collect data efficiently and also help students advance their skills in online tools. Online assessments are becoming used more often in systems such as MSA, professional tests, and other areas. It is my goal to help my students be both proficient and confident with web-form assessments when they have finished my class.

=Reflection of Activity:= I started using webforms last year after the MICCA conference. It has been a great asset and I hope to continue using this means of communication and assessment. It will help me make good, data-driven decisions for my classroom, but also will build my skill to teach my peers.

=Link to electronic document: Link to Online Quiz=

=Title of Project: Wordle Use for Characterization of Characters= =in the Novel //Eggs// by Jerry Spinelli=

=Date: May 10, 2010=

=Technology Standards Addressed:= __ Standard I: Technology Information Access, Evaluation, Processing and Application __ Access, evaluate, and process information efficiently and effectively __ Standard II: Communication __ A. Use technology effectively and appropriately to interact electronically. B. Use technology to communicate information in a variety of formats. __ Standard V: Integrating Technology into the Curriculum and Instruction __ Design, implement and assess learning experiences that incorporate use of technology in the curriculum-related instructional activity to support understanding, inquiry, problem-solving, communication or collaboration.

=Description of Project:= Students compiled a list of character traits of a character from the book //Eggs// by Jerry Spinelli. Then, they entered the terms in the frequency of importance to them. I had demonstrated how to created a Wordle to the class and we discussed the sense of proportion. Thus, when evaluating characterization, I had characters reflect upon the most pressing descriptions that came to mind based on the text. Students were then guided initially by me, and later, by peers to create their Wordles. Several examples are cited below in the embedded slide show. Additionally, putting these Wordles in PowerPoint allowed me to practice my Google Docs skills by creating the slide show.

=Reflection of Activity:= My students have used this several times this year. My concern when integrating this assignment is equity. Computer use can be limited in our building. Additionally, PCs in our building may not have the needed Javascripts to run Wordle. Futhermore, students may have problems running this Web 2.0 tool on their home computers. Finally, access to color printers is an issue for students at home and school. This requires me as a teacher to be very judicious and create time in the labs and for after school assistance should this become a homework assignment. Providing equity to my students is very important.

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