Year 8 IT blog

June 28, 29, July 1, 2

2010-06-27T23:21:00.002+01:00

Year 8, it's time that we say good-bye for the summer.

But before we go, let's vote for Miss Callie's foundation;-)
http://publicservicechallenge.com/vote.php?vid=e9ufxWcobKo

Have a wonderful summer full of fun and friends!

June 21, 22, 24, 25

2010-06-20T19:06:00.004+01:00

1. Vote for Miss Callie's foundation:

http://publicservicechallenge.com/vote.php?vid=e9ufxWcobKo

2. Then let's continue the trend and help others;-)

Free Rice: http://www.freerice.com/
Free Poverty: http://www.freepoverty.com/
Free Kibble (Dog): http://www.freekibble.com/
Free Kibble (Cat): http://www.freekibblekat.com/
Free Flour: http://www.freeflour.com/
Charitii: http://www.charitii.com/charities.php
Aid to Children: http://www.charitii.com/charities.php
Help Thirst: http://www.helpthirst.com/

June 15, 17, 18

2010-06-14T21:02:00.001+01:00

Year 11, Miss Callie has started a foundation (SAES - Students in Action: Education Soweto).

There is a "public service challenge" being offered by Capella University in which the winner will receive $10,000 to support their charity. This prize would go a long way in helping fund this project.

Part of the selection process will be based on how many hits this video has. (Chris Larsen put together this video - Thank you Christopher;-)

Let's show our support by voting for Miss Callie's video: http://publicservicechallenge.com/vote.php?vid=e9ufxWcobKo

VOTE NOW AND VOTE OFTEN

You can vote once in each 24 hour period.

June 14, 15, 17, 18

2010-06-13T21:53:00.001+01:00

Time is up Year 8. All work is due Monday or Tuesday.

June 7, 8, 9, 11

2010-06-06T22:08:00.011+01:00

Year 8 - the PLAN - Criterion C

Under test conditions, FOLLOW this plan and hand in the final product when you finish for grading. Remember you only have this double to finish.

June 6 was World Environment Day. To show our support we will use our Publisher 2007 skills to create "door hangers" with an environmental message that we can display around the school.

Your design specification is as follows: Your door hanger must be colourful, must be eye-catching, must have an appropriate environmental message/slogan, and must include 2 images/clipart, must include correct spelling.

Let's start:

1. Find an environment message or slogan on the internet,
2. Find images to enhance your door hanger,
3. Open Publisher 2007,
4. Click on Blank Page Sizes,
5. Click on Create Custom Page - 10.0 x 29.0 (this is in centimeters),
6. Add some creativity,
7. Proofread,
8. Check against design specification,
9. Cut out your door hanger and cut a circle so it can be hung, 10. Write your name on the back and submit it for grading.

That's it Year 8. You are done!

Learning Objective: with limited guidance follow a plan to further develop desktop publishing skills and techniques to create a useful object.

May 31, June 1, June 4

2010-05-31T11:00:00.002+01:00

Then it's on to the EVALUATE Criterion E Maximum 6

Below please find the questionnaire that we will use to test your product. I will provide you with a paper version;-)

Show your product to 5 classmates and have them answer the questionnaire.

To test my product I will create a questionnaire. On a scale of 1-5, 1=awful and 5=awesome, please answer the following questions.

Did you find the color I used appealing?
Was it easy to recognize the purpose of my building from the design?
Do you feel that my choice of building would positively contribute to a "perfect" city?
Was my 3-D drawing complete?
Was it easy to identify the purpose of the inside rooms from their structure and location in the building?
Were my rooms decorated appropriately?

Then
1. Evaluate your product against the design specification and analyze your findings. Based on the feedback of your classmates how could you improve your product?

2. Evaluate your performance at each stage of the design cycle: INVESTIGATE, DESIGN, CREATE. Remember to suggest ways that you can improve your performance in the future in each stage of the design cycle.

3. Look at the unit question - were you successful? Were we able to answer the unit question? Are you now aware of what kinds of buildings/businesses we need in a community? Was your building a positive contribution to the "perfect city"? What would the impact of your building/business be in a city?

May 24, 25, 28

2010-05-23T20:20:00.003+01:00

The CREATE is almost finished.

1. Open your Google SketchUp 7 final product and I will come around and grade your actual product.

2. Write a reflection on the process of creating your product using Google SketchUp 7. Include any difficulties you had, obstacles that you overcame, successes, and any modifications/changes that you made. Remember you need to make a statement, then support your statement by giving more detail (example, reason, etc).

3. Please print your reflection and submit at the end of the first period.

Then it's on to the EVALUATE Criterion E Maximum 6

Below please find the questionnaire that we will use to test your product. I will provide you with a paper version;-)

Show your product to 5 classmates and have them answer the questionnaire.

To test my product I will create a questionnaire. On a scale of 1-5, 1=awful and 5=awesome, please answer the following questions.

Did you find the color I used appealing?
Was it easy to recognize the purpose of my building from the design?
Do you feel that my choice of building would positively contribute to a "perfect" city?
Was my 3-D drawing complete?
Was it easy to identify the purpose of the inside rooms from their structure and location in the building?
Were my rooms decorated appropriately?

Then
1. Evaluate your product against the design specification and analyze your findings. Based on the feedback of your classmates how could you improve your product?

2. Evaluate your performance at each stage of the design cycle: INVESTIGATE, DESIGN, CREATE. Remember to suggest ways that you can improve your performance in the future in each stage of the design cycle.

3. Look at the unit question - were you successful? Were we able to answer the unit question? Are you now aware of what kinds of buildings/businesses we need in a community? Was your building a positive contribution to the "perfect city"? What would the impact of your building/business be in a city?

May 17, 18 20, 21

2010-05-17T11:44:00.003+01:00

Year 8, continue with your CREATE. It needs to be finished today. At the beginning of next lesson I will grade your work in class.

Learning Objectives: The student will be able to work to produce a product/solution of quality appropriate to MYP Year 2.

May 10, 11, 13, 14

2010-05-10T11:09:00.006+01:00

Year 8, now we will fast forward to CREATE: Criterion D Maximum 6 points

We will do the PLAN - Criterion C as a homework assignment;-)

Look at the descriptors for Criterion D Assessment:

1-2 The creates at least part of a product/solution.

3-4 The student uses a limited range of appropriate techniques and equipment resulting in a product/solution of a reasonable quality.

5-6 The student uses appropriate techniques and equipment. The student mentions any modifications made resulting in a product/solution of appropriate quality using the resources available.

So, today you will begin to create your product. The design specification is as follows:

The final product must include:

1. Color - you must incorporate color
2. Recognizable - the building must be easily recognizable
3. Positive contribution to the perfect city
4. 3-D
5. Rooms must have a specific purpose (example: in a Restaurante there are several "rooms": dining room, kitchen, storage area, WC, staff room, etc.
6. 2 inside rooms are "decorated" (can use items from the 3-D Warehouse)

Learning Objectives: The student will be able to work to produce a product/solution of quality appropriate to MYP Year 2.

May 3, 4, 6, 7

2010-05-02T22:07:00.003+01:00

Continue with your designs. Don't forget to evaluate each against the design specification, then choose 1 and fully evaluate it against the design specification.

Pittsburgh International Airport

2010-04-27T20:51:00.001+01:00

April 26, 27, 29, 30

2010-04-26T11:09:00.004+01:00

Today we will be creative as we Design the product/solution!

Design: Criterion B Maximum 6 points

Students are expected to generate several feasible designs that meet the design specification and to evaluate these against the design specification.

Students are then expected to select one design, justify their choice and evaluate this in detail against the design specification.

To get a 5/6: the student generates more than 2 feasible designs, and attempts to evaluate them against the design specification. The student attempts to justify the chosen design and evaluate it against the design specification.

Today, using pencil and paper you will create 3 possible designs, choose one evaluate it in detail against the design specification items #1, 2, 3.

DESIGN SPECIFICATION

2010-04-26T10:09:00.003+01:00

Please use the following Design Specification:

The final product must include:

1. Color - you must incorporate color
2. Recognizable - the building must be easily recognizable
3. Positive contribution to the perfect city
4. 3-D
5. Rooms must have a specific purpose (example: in a Restaurante there are several "rooms": dining room, kitchen, storage area, WC, staff room, etc.
6. 2 inside rooms are "decorated" (can use items from the 3-D Warehouse)

To test my product I will create a questionnaire. On a scale of 1-5, 1=awful and 5=awesome, please answer the following questions.

1. Did you find the color I used appealing?
2. Was it easy to recognize the purpose of my building from the design?
3. Do you feel that my choice of building would positively contribute to a "perfect" city?
4. Was my 3-D drawing complete?
5. Was it easy to identify the purpose of the inside rooms from their structure and location in the building?
6. Were my rooms decorated appropriately?

April 19, 20, 22, 23

2010-04-18T22:08:00.003+01:00

Develop a Design Brief: Answer the following questions. Write in complete sentences. Use in-text referencing.

1.What is Google Sketchup7?
2.What does CAD stand for?
3.What can a CAD program do? Explain and include details.
4.Which professions use CAD programs? (Name at least 3)
5.Decide which building you will contribute, and then research this type of building. Include images of at least 3 different buildings and evaluate each to gather ideas and information.
6. What is Google Sketchup’s 3-D Warehouse? Explain in your own words and include details.
7. How can you use the 3-D Warehouse to help you? Explain in your own words and include details.

Learning objective: The student will develop research strategies, record sources and document learning.

April 12, 13, 15, 16

2010-04-11T21:06:00.005+01:00

Year 8 - Term 3 has already started so let's get down to business;-)

Today we will look at the Unit of Work and the Assessment Rubric and then begin our Investigation.

Remember that there are 3 separate tasks in the Investigate stage of the Design Cycle: Identify the problem, Develop a design brief, Formulate a design specification.

Today during class we will complete 1: Identify the problem

Write a paragraph that will Identify the Problem (minimum of 5 or 6 sentences )

To ensure success follow this template. . .

1 sentence - State the problem that you are going to solve. *

1 sentence - Restate (say again in your own words) the problem (from Unit of Work)

2-3 sentences - Say why you think this project is relevant (why are we building the perfect city using Google SketchUp?)

1-2 Sentences – Say how you will solve the problem

1-2 sentences – Say how Human Ingenuity connects to your project

*Example: The problem I am going to solve in IT class this term is, “How can Google SketchUp help me contribute to my community?"

This is due today. Please submit at the end of class today.

March 22, 23, 25, 26, April 8, 9

2010-03-21T20:55:00.005Z

Year 8 - In Term 3 we will develop new skills using Google Sketchup. Google SketchUp 7 is an easy to use 3D modeling program.

Google Sketchup is a freeware that can be downloaded to your computer at home easily.
You can download the free version HERE.

Let's get started by working through the video tutorials: http://sketchup.google.com/training/videos/new_to_gsu.html

Work through Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, and Part 4 today;-) You are responsible for this information;-)

Learning Objective: with limited guidance develop CAD skills and techniques appropritate to Year 8 students.

March 15, 16, 18, 19

2010-03-15T20:55:00.002Z

March 15 Activity Day

March 16, 18, 19

Year 8 - Wow! You worked extremely hard this term and as a little reward you have today to explore the internet at your leisure!!! Have fun!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

March 8, 9, 11, 12

2010-03-08T00:05:00.003Z

Time's up!

Year 8, I need your Create and Evaluate. If you haven't handed them in, do so today;-)

2010-03-05T12:58:00.001Z

mar4

2010-03-04T11:26:00.001Z

insert movie

2010-03-01T13:03:00.001Z

March 1, 2, 4, 5

2010-02-28T20:57:00.004Z

2 Tasks to finish your project

1. CREATE - Criterion D Use your plan to create your digital story and write a paragraph saying whether your plan worked or not.

2. EVALUATE - Criterion E Fill out and hand in the worksheet to evaluate your product and your your performance.

Learning objectives: follow plan to create a product of appropriate quality; carry out tests to compare final product against design specification, suggest improvements, reflect on their performance and identify parts they found difficult and suggest ways in which their performance could be improved.

February 22, 23, 25, 26

2010-02-21T20:24:00.006Z

Welcome back Year 8. We have 3 things on our agenda today.

1 - Please print your storyboard - they are due today;

2. We have 20 minutes to complete the Plan - Criterion C - maximum 6 points;

3. Use your Plan to Create (Criterion D - maximum 6 points) your digital story.

Learning Objective: select suitable resources, follow instructions, consider the process

Plan due today at the end of class

February 3, 9, 11,12

2010-02-07T22:56:00.004Z

Year 8 - Today we will FINISH the storyboard.
1. Insert a 2-column table into a word document
2. Begin with the Narration
3. Include Motion; Music; Title
4. Color Code your information
5. Insert 2 possible images, choose 1 and justify your choice

We have until the end of class today to finish.

DESIGN due February 22, 23, 25, 26 - beginning of class

February 5 - Activity Day!

2010-02-04T21:50:00.004Z

Year 8 - I get to see you twice in one week!!!!

Today we will meet for 2 periods and then you will continue on your rotation.

Period 1 - We will take a walk and snap pictures to use in our movies.

Period 2 - We will create Flickr accounts and explore this image hosing site. http://www.flickr.com/

Flicker Toys are located here: http://bighugelabs.com/ and http://www.pedagonet.com/other/flickr.htm

January 28, 29, February 1, 2

2010-01-27T20:01:00.003Z

Year 8 - Continue writing your script. Finish it in class today;-)

January 27

2010-01-27T12:03:00.002Z

Year 8 - As was advertised in the Daily Notices.

There will be a repeat of the PhotoStory 3 tutorial (which was our classwork right before we went to Christmas break) today at lunchtime (1:40).

It should take about 20 minutes to complete.

It's way fun! Don't miss this opportunity.

January 21, 22, 25, 26

2010-01-20T21:55:00.005Z

Print Questions 5-8 and please hand them in.

We have 2 periods together,

PERIOD 1

3. Formulate a Design Specification

I will provide you with the Design Specification

Design Specification - List what your product is going to be, be like, be used for, be able to do and be made with

The presentation will include:
•a minimum of 15 photos/images,
•at least 2 photos should include text/title,
•at least 2 photos should have an “transition/motion”,
•background music,
•narration (voice overlay) appropriate to topic,
•time length - approximately 2 minutes,
•each student presentation should creatively display relative information.

Test Plan - Describe a test that will check each point in your design specification
(Make sure that you describe who the test is for and how it will be used )

Let's create a test/questionnaire to evaluate the product.

Learning Objective: The student will design, with limited guidance a test to evaluate the product/solution against the design specification.

PERIOD 2

DESIGN
How can one arrange the material in such a way as to maximize its appeal and be functional at the same time?

•Write a script for your story

Finish the script for homework

Jan 14, 15, 18, 19

2010-01-13T21:40:00.006Z

2. Develop a Design Brief - This is where we conduct research which will help us solve our problem.

Remember to research the problem and cite your sources (Use in-text referencing, Use more than 5 sources).
Give complete information; use print screens, URL's and include details to support your answers. Your goal is to conduct a thorough investigation and become a master researcher;-)

5. What is a tutorial? Explain in your own words.
6. What is image hosting? (Explain in your own words). Why would someone use an image hosting service?
7. Research these the following video hosting services: www.photobucket.com , www.tinypic.com and http://video.google.com How are they similar? How are they different? (Compare and Contrast)
8. What is a storyboard? Explain in your own words.

Learning objectives: The student will identify websites as possible sources of information, learn how to reference sources.

January 7, 8, 11, 12

2010-01-06T23:38:00.011Z

Welcome back Year 8 - I hope that you had a wonderful holiday break and are ready to start our project.

First, let's take a look at the requirements necessary to participate in this international project: http://liferoundhere.pbworks.com/

Next, let's do a quick check in the sidebar to locate our primary documents (Unit of Work, Assessment Rubric).

Now, let's get down to work and begin the Investigation. We will begin by Developing the Design Brief:

Design Brief - This is where we conduct research which will help us solve our problem.

Remember to research the problem and cite your sources (Use in-text referencing, Use more than 5 sources).

Give complete information; use print screens, URL's and include details to support your answers. Your goal is to conduct a thorough investigation and become a master researcher;-)

Answer these questions and write in complete sentences:
1.What is digital story-telling? Explain in your own words.
2. Which programs can we use for digital storytelling? Name 2 programs that can be used: include print screens, URL's and other important information.
3. Are either of these tools freeware ( Freeware: Legally obtainable software that you may use at no cost, monetary or otherwise, for as long as you wish . ) ? If, yes, name that program. If no, continue searching until you find one that is freeware .
4. Find 2 educational dig ital stories online. Supply each URL and give a small summary of each of the stories. (http://digitalstorytelling.coe.uh.edu/ )

Finish this work for homework and be prepared to hand it in at the beginning of the next class.

Learning objectives: The student will identify websites as possible sources of information, learn how to reference sources.

2010-01-03T19:48:00.001Z

Made with My Cool Signs.Net

December 11, 14, 15, 17

2009-12-10T23:32:00.005Z

Year 8 - Before we break for the holiday we have some fun work to do:-)

In Term 2 we will be creating a digital story. One program that we could use is Microsoft PhotoStory 3: (http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/digitalphotography/photostory/default.mspx )

Today we will do a tutorial for PhotoStory 3 and then you will create your first digital story. Let's go. http://millie.furman.edu/mll/tutorials/photostory3/index.htm

Learning objectives: Follow directions, produce a digital story

December 7, 10

2009-12-07T00:08:00.006Z

Year 8 - Term 1 work is all in and we can breathe a sigh of relief for a job/term well done!

Let's take this opportunity to participate in the Library's bookmark contest.

Follow this link to get started in Word 2007- Let's go!
http://www.technokids.com/documents/teacher/introduction-to-word-bookmarks.pdf?MailingsID=2&MailerSubscriberID=6937&utm_source=WebServer&utm_medium=eMail&utm_campaign=Newsletter&utm_content=Version1

Follow this link to create a bookmark from scratch in Publisher;-)

http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/publisher/HA012336481033.aspx

November 30, Dec 1, Dec 3, Dec 4

2009-11-29T21:24:00.002Z

Year 8

Evaluations are due today;-)

Any back work is due today;-)

November 23

2009-11-22T22:55:00.009Z

EVALUATE - Criterion E Maximum 6 Let's look at the Assessment Rubric

To get a 5/6 the student: uses the test to evaluate the product/solution against the design specification and considers the views of the customer. The student evaluates his/her own performance in achieing a good product/solution and suggests ways in which these could be improved. The student considers the impact of the product/solution on life, society, and/or the environment.

1. Upload image to your blog,

2. Show it to at least 5 colleagues and let them complete your questionnaire,

3. Write a PARAGRAPH evaluating this feedback and suggestioning improvements,

4. Evaluate your own performance at EACH stage of the design cycle and suggest ways to improve,

5. Write a PARAGRAPH considering how your final product impacts life, society, and/or the (virtual) environment.

These need to be finished today or for HOMEWORK.

Term 1 is ending. We will begin our new project VERY soon!!!!!

Learning objectives: carry out tests to compare final product against design specification, suggest improvements, reflect on their performance and identify parts they found difficult and suggest ways in which their performance could be improved.

November 16, 19, 20,

2009-11-15T20:15:00.005Z

Plan and Create

PLAN - Criterion C Maximum 6

Let's look at the assessment rubric: http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AZHvRJKjycg1ZGdnNHBieDhfMzZncGoydm5jbg&hl=en

Let's look at an example of how to start;-)

3 Tasks

1 - Make a list of the resources we will use.
2 - Make a table with the steps needed to create our recipe flyer - Include the time it will take for each step.
3 - Write a paragraph evaluating the plan (saying why it will work;-).

Here's an example to get you started;-)

CREATE - Criterion D Manimum 6

Let's look at the assessment rubric:
http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AZHvRJKjycg1ZGdnNHBieDhfMzZncGoydm5jbg&hl=en

Now, use your plan to create your image.

2 Tasks

1. Create image

2. Write a paragraph to say if your plan worked and write about any changes you made to your design.

November 9, 10 12, 13

2009-11-08T23:10:00.005Z

Year 8, Let's complete Criterion B - Design today. Please hand in your work at the end of the class.

1. Finish creating your designs - label them Design 1, Design 2, and Design 3. Make sure they have appropriate detailing and add explanations if necessary. Remember I need to know/understand what you intend to create;-).

2. Evaluate each design against your design specification
For example: Design 1 meets the design specification because . . .

3. Choose 1 design and justify your choice and evaluate it against the design specification.

Finish all classwork as homework

Learning objectives: create designs and communicate them using different forms and conventions

November 2, 3, 5, 6

2009-11-02T10:25:00.003Z

Welcome back Year 8! Hope you had a great break and are now ready to continue along the Design Cycle.

Today we will be creative as we Design the product/solution!

Design: Criterion B Maximum 6 points

Students are expected to generate several feasible designs that meet the design specification and to evaluate these against the design specification.

Students are then expected to select one design, justify their choice and evaluate this in detail against the design specification.

To get a 5/6: the student generates more than 2 feasible designs, and attempts to evaluate them against the design specification. The student attempts to justify the chosen design and evaluate it against the design specification.

October 20, 22, 23

2009-10-20T11:12:00.005+01:00

Year 8 - Let's enter a contest!!!

The EcoForum 2009 SIGG Water Bottle Design Competition.

The winning design will be stamped on Official DSIGG water bottles and distributed to all delegates participating at the Eco Forum 2009!!!

Design Template - Your design must be 11.46 cm x 21.4 cm

Check out some examples here: http://mysigg.com/

Guidelines:

Only use computer graphics programs (Jasc Paint Shop Pro, Photoshop, CorelDraw, Freehand, Illustrator but PowerPoint will also be accepted.)

Save your design in the format of the program you are using and JPEG.

You can only use 6 different colors (including black and white)

Details: lines mut be at least 0.4mm thick

Minimum TEXT size is 9 point.

Remember to save your design in the format of the program and as a JPEG!

Proposals must be sent in the form of an attachment/s (original format and JPEG) to Ecoforum2009@gmail.com

Type an email and send to: ecoforum2009@gmail.com

Include: Your Name, tutor group, and school, and the attachments

Then, type a small email - for example:

Please enter this design in the SIGG Water bottle Competition.
Thank you,
Student name

October 20

2009-10-19T15:08:00.004+01:00

Year 8 -

Review your Investigations.

Formulate a Design Specification:

- List 5 requirements that your product must meet,

- Justify list (say why each item on your list is a necessary requirement)

- Create a Questionnaire/Survey to evaluate your product (include at least 1 question for each design specification item you have listed)

Finish and hand in today before you leave class;-)

October 13, 15, 16, 19

2009-10-12T20:42:00.005+01:00

Year 8 - Today is the day we have all been waiting for. Today is the day that we explore Paint Shop Pro.

Here are some options to help you get started:

Tutorial handout
Online book -
http://www.docstoc.com/docs/5884504/Paint-Shop-Pro-9

Let's have some fun!

Learning Objective: Introduction to photo editing software (Paint Shop Pro)

Investigations due today

October 6, 8, 9, 12

2009-10-06T09:53:00.004+01:00

Year 8

1. Finish Task 2 - Develop a Design Brief (finish researching the questions on the blog)

2. Then on to Task 3 - Formulate a Design Specification. This is the part of the project where we make design specifications. Remember in Year 7 our first project was to create a create a poster and we had 3 design specifications: 1) must include all 5 steps, 2) must be colourful, and 3) must be kid-friendly.

You must include 3 design specifications and then create a test (questionnaire) to evaluate your product/solution (image).

3. Before you leave, vote on the National Geographic photo poll. The winning photo will be next week's featured wallpaper;-)

4. If you still have time: practice cropping!!!!! I've saved the best for last!!!!!

September 28, 29, October 1, 2

2009-09-27T22:41:00.011+01:00

Year 8 we are learning about images. We are on Task 2 of the Investigate: Develop a Design Brief. Remember this is the research part of the project where we ask and answer questions that will help us solve our problem.

1. Let's take 5 minutes to check out the fabulous photos here on Yahoo photos

2. Now, answer the following questions.

a. What is a jpeg?

b. What is a gif?

c. What is resolution and why is it important? Click here

d. What is Creative Commons? Click here (look at the photos here too!)

Then look at Composition. e. What is the Rule of Thirds? Click here and Click here

3. Sometimes you can create interesting portraits by cropping the photo. Let's learn how to do that technique now.

4. Before you leave, vote on the National Geographic photo poll. The winning photo will be next week's featured wallpaper;-)

Learning Objectives - The student will be able: to understand the basics of digital images and how they are stored, learn the importance of composition and be able to use these concepts when taking pictures, use Microsoft Picture Manager to crop images.

September 21, 22, 24, 25

2009-09-20T22:27:00.004+01:00

Year 8 - It's time to start!

The Investigate has 3 Tasks: Identify the problem, Develop a design brief, Formulate a design specification.

A template to follow is here: http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AZHvRJKjycg1ZGdnNHBieDhfMTA2ZzZ2bWtwY2g&hl=en

1. Write a paragraph that will Identify the Problem (minimum of 5 or 6 sentences )

1 sentence - State the problem that you are going to solve. *

1 sentence - Restate (say again in your own words) the problem (from Unit of Work)

1-2 sentences - Say what the problem means in your own words

1-2 Sentences – Say how you will solve the problem

1-2 sentences – Say how Approaches to Learning connects to your project

*Example: The problem I am going to solve in IT class this term is, “What role do images play in cyberspace?”

2. Create and research questions that will "drive your investigation" (that means that will give you enough information that will help you create your product;-)

Remember:

Use bullet points

Collect text and images to support your point of view (save images in a folder)

Use in-text referencing

Save your url’s (website addresses)

Learning objectives: Students will state and restate unit problem and say how this problem will be solved. Students will relate this to an area of interaction. Student will research create questions that will guide investigation. Student will research conduct appropriate research for a for a program which will allow them achieve their goal.

Sept 14, 15, 17, 18

2009-09-13T21:51:00.006+01:00

Year 8 - It's true what they say - One picture is worth a thousand words.

Our first unit will allow each of you to be creative as you develop and manipulate graphics.

Let's look at the Graphics Unit of Work and begin our investigation.

Remember there are 3 tasks in the Investigate: Identify the problem, Develop a design brief, Formulate a design specification

Check out these 2 pages:
http://bonbonsmots.blogspot.com/ and http://www.creampuffsinvenice.ca/
Looks closely at the images. Are the images on one blog more appealing? Why?

Your homework is to create a detailed blog post in which you reflect on what you learned in class today. Look at the class blog which lists you assignment.

Learning objective: begin following the Design Cycle - investigation by identifying the problem, comparing and contrasting images.

http://www.corel.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=Corel3/Section/Display&sid=1047024315119&gid=1047024331836&cid=1047024353448

Sept 7, 8, 10,11 - Welcome back

2009-09-06T20:22:00.006+01:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Welcome back Year 8! I hope each of you has had the best summer ever and that you are rested and ready to go!

1.First, let's look at the little video and talk a little about what we will be tackling this year.

2.Next, let's organize our folders. It's really important to be able to find things when we need them.

3.Let's open our blogs (or create a blog) and make our first post for the year! Remember to recap what we did in class;-)

4.Finally, let's stay in touch with friends and relatives by learning how to send e-cards. The site we will use is: http://www.hallmark.com (Smilebox is a Hallmark product and you can easily download this at home for FREE!!! - Give it a try;-)

Learning Objective - Settle in and gain an understanding of expectations for the term

June 8

2009-06-07T22:22:00.002+01:00

Year 8 - let's finish up the narration on your digital stories.

Then on to the final stage in our project - Evaluate.

EVALUATE - Criterion E Maximum 6

Students are expected to evaluate the product/solution against the design specification in an objective manner based on testing, and to evaluate its impact on life, society and/or the environment. They are expected to explain how the product/solution could be improved as a result of these evaluations.

Students are expected to evaluate their own performance at teach stage of the design cycle and to suggest ways in which their performance could be improved.

To get a 6 the student: evaluates the success opf the product/solution considering the results of testing, and the views of the user. The student evaluates their own performance at some stages of the design cycle and considers improvements. The student considers the impact of the product/solution on life, society and/or the environment.

June 4, 5

2009-06-04T14:24:00.002+01:00

Please continue with the CREATE.

Remember: you must have a process journal and follow your plan. Then write a paragraph saying if your plan worked or not and record any modification (changes) you have made.

May 28, 29

2009-05-28T14:31:00.003+01:00

CREATE - Finally, what we've all be waiting for . . .

CREATE - Criterion D Maximum 6

Students are expected to document, with a series of photographs or a video and a dated record, the process of making their product/solution, including when and how they use tools, materials and techniques. Students are expected to follow their plan, to evaluate the plan and to justify any changes they make to the plan while they are creating the product/solution.

To get a 6 the student: uses appropriate techniques and equipment. The student follows the majority of the plan and mentions any modifications made, resulting in a product/solution of appropriate quality using the resources available.

CREATE - DEADLINE JUNE 5 (end of class)

May 21, 22

2009-05-21T14:42:00.001+01:00

Plan - It all starts with a plan

PLAN - Criterion C Maximum 6
Students are expected to construct a plan to create their chosen product/solution that has a series of logical steps, and that makes effective use of resources and time.

Students are expected to evaluate the plan and justify any modifications to the design.

To get a 6 the student: produces a plan that contains a number of logical steps that include resources and time. The student evaluates the plan and attempts to justify any modifications.

May 14, 15

2009-05-14T08:29:00.000+01:00

Year 8 - Continue with your storyboard. It is due May 15 at the end of class.

Design - Criterion B - Due May 15

Deadlines for Term 3

2009-05-08T15:27:00.003+01:00

Investigation - May 7 - Beginning of Class
Design - May 15 (End of Class)
Plan - May 22 (End of Class)
Create - June 5 (End of Class)
Evaluate - June 18 (End of Class)

Remember - June 10, 11, 12 are HOLIDAYS!!!!!

May 7, 8

2009-05-07T18:51:00.004+01:00

FABLE
Year 8 according to American Heritage® Dictionary a fable is:
(NOUN)
1. A usually short narrative making an edifying or cautionary point and often employing as characters animals that speak and act like humans.
2. A story about legendary persons and exploits.
3. A falsehood; a lie.

May 7 - Today we will take the time to write the script.

May 8 - Let's look at storyboarding and learn how to create a storyboard using Microsoft Word
http://digitalstorytelling.coe.uh.edu/pdfs/inword.pdf

April 30, May 1 (Holiday!!!)

2009-04-30T11:59:00.003+01:00

Year 8 - I hope you enjoyed the Assembly (Period 7 and part of Period 8) on Terry Fox. He lives on as an inspiration to all of us.

We don't have much time together this week. Today we will finish our Investigations and hand them in.

Next week we will learn how to create a storyboard using word and begin our Designs (Criterion B).

April 23, 24 (April 24 - Sports Day!)

2009-04-22T11:02:00.004+01:00

Year 8, I hope you had a great break and are now back in the swing of things.

Today, we will look "properly" at the Unit of Work and finish our Investigations.

Let's first look at the Unit: Digital Story-telling

Remember, the Investigation has 3 parts: Identify the Problem, Develop a Design Brief, Formulate a Design Specification.

We have already Developed a Design Brief (this is the research part), and we have also Formulated a Design Specification (actually I gave you the design specification and you created a test to evaluate your product). Now, we only have to Identify the Problem.

As this is the FIRST part of the Investigate, we have to place this section BEFORE the other two (Develop a Design Brief, Formulate a Design Specification).

Identify the Problem (Write 1-2 paragraphs)

1-State the problem. Then restate (say again in your own words) the problem (from Unit of Work)

2-Explain and give details about the problem. Say who your "customer" is.

3-Say how you will solve the problem (Explain and give details)

4-Say how Approaches to Learning connects to your project (Explain and give details, examples)

5-Say how Human Ingenuity connects to your project (Explain and give details, examples)

Finally, before leaving this afternoon, please give me a digital version of your Investigation;-)

Have a great day tomorrow at St. Julian's

March 26, 27

2009-03-25T20:55:00.003Z

Year 8 - Today I would like you to make sure that you have finished your Questionnaire.

Then I would like you to do a tutorial on creating a digital story with PhotoStory 3:

http://millie.furman.edu/mll/tutorials/photostory3/index.htm

Pay close attention and READ the entire tutorial.

Then, explore the program and create a digital story which will be put on your blog!

Let's go!

March 20

2009-03-19T19:08:00.005Z

Year 8 - Spring has arrived!

Remember there are 3 parts to the Investigate: 1) Identify the problem (we will do that next week), 2) Develop a Design Brief (Research questions 1-8) and 3) Formulate a Design Specification.

Today we will work on part 3.

I will give you the Design Specification because there are certain elements that your digital story MUST have.

Design Specification - List what your product is going to be, be like, be used for, be able to do and be made with.

The presentation will include:
-a minimum of 15 photos/images,
-at least 2 photos should include text/title,
-at least 2 photos should have an “transition/motion”,
-background music,
-narration (voice overlay) appropriate to topic,
-time length - approximately 2 minutes,
-each student presentation should creatively display relevant information.

March 19

2009-03-18T20:35:00.002Z

Year 8 -

Let's finish the last four questions today.

5. What is a tutorial? Explain in your own words.
6. What is image hosting?
7. Research these the following web hosting services: www.photobucket.com , www.tinypic.com and http://video.google.com How are they similar? How are they different?
8. What is a storyboard? Explain in your own words.

Friday, March 13

2009-03-12T22:09:00.002Z

Year 8 - Don't be afraid. We are going to have fun today.

Before we get started . . .

Let's recap. Yesterday we learned that everything that we create is automatically copyrighted. That means that noone can use our creations without our permission. That means that noone has the right to take our creations and use them or gain financially from them. Fair Use allows limited use of copyrighted work by students, teachers and researchers as long as the work is referenced.

Now please do a quick research on Creative Commons - What is it? To learn more visit this site: http://creativecommons.org/.

We are going to start our investigation.

Please open a word document. You can choose one of the cover pages if you want and personalize it. Then we will begin the design brief.

Develop a Design Brief
1.What is digital story-telling? Explain in your own words.
2. Which programs can we use f or digital storytelling? Name 2 programs that can be used.
3. Are either of these tools freeware ( Freeware: Legally obtainable software that you may use at no cost, monetary or otherwise, for as long as you wish . ) ? If, yes, name that program. If no, continue searching until you find one that is freeware .
4. Find 2 educational dig ital stories online. Supply each URL and give a small summary of each of the stories. (http://digitalstorytelling.coe.uh.edu/)
5. What is a tutorial? Explain in your own words.
6. What is image hosting?
7. Research these the following web hosting services: www.photobucket.com , www.tinypic.com and http://video.google.com How are they similar? How are they different?
8. What is a storyboard? Explain in your own words.

Use in-text referencing. Let's finish 1-4 today.

March 12

2009-03-11T20:56:00.007Z

Welcome Year 8

We have a great project lined up for Term 3. We will be exploring PhotoStory 3. This program is designed to create digital stories. But what is a digital story? Let's take a look at the YouTube video which offers an explanation.

Before we begin - let's do a small investigation about copyrights. What is "copyright protection"?

Here is a great site to check out: http://www.copyrightkids.org/

Answer these 2 questions. 1) What is "copyright protection"? 2) What is "fair use"?

March 5, 6

2009-03-04T19:47:00.006Z

Year 8 - Time's up!

We are at the end of our project and the end of our time together. It was really nice "making movies" with you but, alas, it's time for you to continue on the carousel.

But before you go . . .

EVALUATE (Criterion E) maximum 6
Students are expected to evaluate the product/solution against the design specification in an objective manner based on testing, and to evaluate its impact on life, society and/or the environment. They are expected to explain how the product/solution could be improved as a result of these evaluations.

Students are expected to evaluate their own performance at each stage of the design cycle and to suggest ways in which their performance could be improved.

To get full marks: The student evaluates the success of the product/solution considering the results of testing, and the views of a user. The student evaluates his/her own performance at some stages of the design cycle and considers improvements. The student considers the impact of the product/solution on life, society and/or the environment.

February 19, 20

2009-02-19T09:18:00.002Z

Year 8 - Continue with the Create.

We only have 4 microphones to work with (3 of them are mine personally - so please be careful!)

It is imperative that the room is quiet for people to record. Remember that we will submit at least 6 of the final products to the Life 'Round Here project. If there is a lot of noise in the background we will look BAD!!!!!

February 12, February 13 - Activity Day

2009-02-12T14:08:00.005Z

Year 8, it's time to CREATE!

Students are expected to document, with a series of photographs or a video and a dated record, the process of making their product/solution, including when and how they use tools, materials and techniques. Students are expected to follow their plan, to evaluate the plan and to justify any changes they make to the plan while they are creating the product/solution.

Sutdents will sometimes embark upon a very ambitious project, or they may encounter unforeseen circumstances. In some circumstances a product/solution that is incomplete or does not function fully can still achieve one of the levels awarded for this criterion.

To get full marks: The student uses appropriate techniques and equipment. The student follows the majority of the plan and mentions any modifications made, resulting in a product/solution of appropraiate quality using the resources available.

Tasks:

-produce a beginning slide and ending slide with publisher,

-begin creating our project

Feb 13 - Activity Day

February 5, 6

2009-02-05T14:32:00.008Z

Year 8 - Designs are due today;-) February 5

After handing in your design the next step of the Design Cycle is PLAN (Criterion C).

Students are expected to construct a plan to create their chosen product/solution that has a series of logical steps, and that makes effective use of resources and time.

Students are expected to evaluate the plan and justify any modifications to the design.

The student produces a plan that contains a number of logical steps that include resources and time. The student evaluates the plan and attempts to justify any modifictions.

Plan - Due February 6

January 30 - Extension

2009-01-30T15:03:00.002Z

Year 8 - As we discussed in class today, the deadline for the Design has been extended.

The new deadline is Thursday, February 5 at the end of class. As agreed, if you haven't finished by then, you will attend the deadline detention on Friday to finish.

January 29, 30

2009-01-23T21:44:00.008Z

Year 8 - It all begins with a story

This week we need to finish our storyboard.

Check out this great tutorial showing you how to create a storyboard using Microsoft Word.

http://digitalstorytelling.coe.uh.edu/pdfs/inword.pdf

As I mentioned you need 3 possible images for every frame. It seems like a lot, but it really isn't. When you are searching for your image online you will come across pages and pages of possibilities. You are naturally scanning for the "right" image and are mentally accepting and rejecting images.

However, you need to JUSTIFY your choice.

My suggestion is to make 3 columns for images (Column A, B, C). Keep all of the images that you will actually use in the same column so it will be easier for you and someone looking at your storyboard to actually visualize your story. Look at the example below.

Deadlines

2009-01-22T15:01:00.002Z

Deadlines for Term 2

Investigate - January 16
Design - January 30
Plan - February 5
Create - February 19
Evaluate - March 5

*Remember - February 13 - Activity Day - no classes
- February 23-27 - Half Term Break - no classes

We have 9 (doubles) to complete our project

Jan 22, 23

2009-01-21T21:07:00.005Z

Year 8 - Have you completed: the tutorial? the practice photostory? opening an account with an video host? uploaded your video to the host? embedded the video in your blog? Wow! That's a lot of IT!

Now on to the DESIGN

Let's begin writing our scripts. You are going to create a digital story based on this theme: my life in Portugal. The first thing to do is to write a script.

January 16

2009-01-15T19:31:00.003Z

Year 8 - Time's Up - Investigations are due today at the end of class.

For those who have finished - complete the PhotoStory Tutorial, then create a practice digital story. After you have finished, decide which video hosting service you will use: PhotoBucket, Tiny Pic, or Google Video and upload your video to that server. Next, obtain the html code and embed (insert) your video into your blog.

Way to go Year 8 - You did it!!!!

Investigation Due Today Jan 15

January 15

2009-01-14T20:57:00.003Z

Year 8 - Let's take a deep breath and see where we are at.

We want to do 2 things today - organize and finish the Investigatigation.

The Investigation has 3 parts:

1) identify the problem,

2) develop a design brief,

3) formulate a design specification and create a test.

January 15, 16

2009-01-10T18:28:00.004Z

Year 8 here are this week's tasks:

1) Make sure you have your 10 questions answered.

2) Complete tutorial

3) Create a photostory with a maximum of 15 images

4) Choose a video-host (Google Videos, TinyPic, PhotoBucket) and open an account.

5) Upload your photostory to the video-host

6) Embed your video into your blog

Wow! That's a lot of Computer Technology for 2 days. Great job Year 8!

Homework - Begin to write the script for your story

Jan 8

2009-01-08T14:34:00.001Z

By Popular Vote Guiding Question: How does tourism affect Portugal's culture?

January 8, 9

2009-01-08T09:11:00.005Z

Year 8 - Welcome Back!

1 - Continue with the Investigation

2 - Complete a tutorial: http://digitalstorytelling.coe.uh.edu/photostory.html

December 18

2008-12-18T13:02:00.002Z

Year 8 - When we return we have 7 weeks to complete our entire project. That's not a lot of time.

Today, let's continue with our Investigation until 3pm then you can explore the internet at your leisure.

Happy Holidays Year 8!

December 11, 12

2008-12-11T13:26:00.003Z

Year 8 - The electricity problem seems to be solved so we are back on track.

Let's begin the Investigation.

Let's begin.
It always begins with an investigation - sooooo, let's investigate.
You need to document your research. Remember to keep all the url's of the sites you visit. Open a Word Document and type - INVESTIGATE at the top of the page.
1. What is a "Creative Commons license"?
2. What is "copyright protection"?

Here are some sites to check out:http://www.copyrightkids.org/, http://www.richmond.k12.va.us/schools/jones/Copyright-Kids/,

3.What is digital story-telling? Explain in your own words.
4. Which programs can we use f or digital storytelling? Name 2 programs that can be used.
5. Are either of these tools freeware ( Freeware: Legally obtainable software that you may use at no cost, monetary or otherwise, for as long as you wish . ) ? If, yes, name that program. If no, continue searching until you find one that is freeware .
6. Find 2 educational dig ital stories online. Supply each URL and give a small summary of each of the stories. (http://digitalstorytelling.coe.uh.edu/)
7. What is a tutorial? Explain in your own words.
8. What is image hosting?
9. Research these the following web hosting services: www.photobucket.com , www.tinypic.com and http://video.google.com How are they similar? How are they different?
10. What is a storyboard? Explain in your own words.

December 5

2008-12-05T15:10:00.003Z

Let's begin.

It always begins with an investigation - sooooo, let's investigate. You need to document your research. Remember to keep all the url's of the sites you visit.

Open a Word Document and type - INVESTIGATE at the top of the page.

1. What is a "Creative Commons license"?

2. What is "copyright protection"?

Here are some sites to check out:
http://www.copyrightkids.org/, http://www.richmond.k12.va.us/schools/jones/Copyright-Kids/,

December 4, 5

2008-12-04T13:19:00.002Z

Year 8 Welcome to CT

The skill that you will learn this term is Digital Storytelling.

The tool that we will use is: Microsoft PhotoStory 3

We will be part of a bigger global project called Life Round Here: http://liferoundhere.pbwiki.com/

November 28 - Last Class

2008-11-28T10:12:00.003Z

Year 8 - this is it! It's time to part but don't despair because we will meet again next year.

To finish up you must EVALUATE

The evaluation has 3 parts -
-1)asking others to rate your movie then analyzing the feedback
-2)describe how well you worked at each stage of the design cycle (Investigate, Design, Plan, Create) and how you can improve
-3)describe and explain how your photostory will impact life, society or the environment.

Print your work and put it on my desk please. All work is due TODAY!

November 20, 21

2008-11-19T23:20:00.002Z

Merits for being responsible and meeting commitments:
Bianca -1, António - 1, Rudy - 3, Kiko - 3, Luís - 3 Thank you for caring about your work! Good luck!

Year 8 - You should all be finished with your storyboards (Criterion B - Design) and you should be creating your PhotoStory today.

Remember that you must document the creation process. Take screen shots (print screen) and paste it into Paint. Then, save as a JPEG. It will then be easy to insert.

I will Not be here tomorrow (Friday, Nov 21) - I will be at a conference in Lisbon. Therefore I would like you to continue.

You must upload your video to either Google Video, Tiny Pic, or Photobucket and then embed it into your blog. You must then ask at least 5 others to evaluate your movie and fill in your questionnaire.

November 13, 14

2008-11-12T21:57:00.003Z

Year 8, this is the moment we have been waiting for! CREATE (Criterion D)

Let the fun begin!

November 6, 7

2008-11-12T21:40:00.004Z

Year 8, Continue with your Storyboards.

Design (Criterion B) due November 7 (end of class)

October 30, 31

2008-10-30T14:15:00.000Z

Year 8 - Mid-Term Break

Have a great week!

October 23, 24

2008-10-23T11:04:00.000+01:00

Year 8 - Let's storyboard!!!

What is a storyboard? According to Computer Desktop Encyclopedia (http://www.answers.com/topic/storyboard): A storyboard is
a sequence of images and annotations for a cartoon, animation or video. Storyboards are previews of the final version and typically contain mockups rather than final art and images. Before computers, storyboards were drawn with pen and ink on lightweight cardboard.

The earliest storyboards date from the cartoon and animation industry of the 1920s, including the talented artists at Walt Disney's original California studio. Above you see a photo of Walt Disney (with 2 children) and a storyboard.

October 16, 17

2008-10-15T21:32:00.005+01:00

Year 8

First, Let's open the Plan (Criterion C) and look at how far you got. Let's finish them and hand them in by the end of class today.

Next, let's build a script for your PhotoStory

Early Dismissal Oct 17 - No Classes

October 8

2008-10-09T23:26:00.003+01:00

Year 8 - as you know well done projects all start with a plan!

Today I would like you to work on your Criterion C - Plan

Students are expected to construct a plan to create their chosen product/solution that has a series of logical steps, and that makes effective use of resources and time.

Students are expected to evaluate the plan and justify any modifications to the design.

Your task is to think about all the steps that you need to do to create your photostory (including writing the script, collecting images, etc). Think about how much time it will take to accomplish each step. Think about all the resources that you will need to create your photostory.

Next, I would like you to create an outline or timeline that you will follow when you actually create your photostory. Include the steps, time, and resources;-)

You may use any tool that you like to record your plan: Microsoft Word 2007, Microsoft Visio,
Timeline maker: http://teachers.teach-nology.com/web_tools/materials/timelines/,
another timeline maker: http://www.readwritethink.org/materials/timeline/index.html

Please be respectful of your substitute teacher.

Please finish your Plan today.

Don't forget to make your reflection in your blog.

If you stay on task and work hard, you may have 15 minutes at the end of class to "explore" the internet at your leisure. In other words, if you work hard you can earn 15 minutes at the end of the day where you can play games.

Have a great weekend Year 8!

October 2, 3

2008-09-30T12:41:00.002+01:00

Year 8

Tutorials can be a learner's best friend! They provide a step-by-step explanation on how to do something.

We are going to do a tutorial instructing us how to create digital story using PhotoStory 3 for Windows.

Here are a couple of links to get you started;-)

First - Watch the photostory on creating a photostory (hahahaha).

Then follow this tutorial: http://millie.furman.edu/mll/tutorials/photostory3/index.htm

You choose the topic as this is just practice.

September 25, 26

2008-09-24T15:38:00.000+01:00

September 25 Activity Day -- No Classes - Have a great day!

September 26 Period 7 -- Assembly

Period 8 - Finish you Investigations.

When you finish, start the PhotoStory 3 tutorial.

September 18, 19

2008-09-15T21:25:00.005+01:00

Year 8 - try this new typing game - it's really fun: http://resources.kaboose.com/games/super-hyper-spider-typer.html

Guiding Question: Can ICT be used to record 21st Century routines? (HI) (ATL)

Investigation
· Design Brief - State Why/What/Where/Who and How for your problem
- Describe what the problem is and how it relates to HumanHuman Ingenuity or Approaches to Learning
· Research the problem citing your sources in a full, organized bibliography
- Use more than 5 different sources
· State which information you found to be useful/and not useful and why?
· Include these questions:
1. What is digital story-telling? Explain in your own words.
2. Which programs can we use f or digital storytelling? Name 2 programs that can be used.
3. Are either of these tools freeware ( Freeware: Legally obtainable software that you may use at no cost, monetary or otherwise, for as long as you wish . ) ? If, yes, name that program. If no, continue searching until you find one that is freeware .
4. Find 2 educational dig ital stories online. Supply each URL and give a small summary of each of the stories.
5. What is a tutorial? Explain in your own words.
6. What is image hosting?
7. Research these the following web hosting services: www.photobucket.com , www.tinypic.com and http://video.google.com How are they similar? How are they different?
8. What is a storyboard? Explain in your own words.

· Design Specification - List what your product is going to be, be like, be used for, be able to do and be made with (bullet point this list).
The presentation will include: a title page and end page - created with PowerPoint, at least 10 photos, at least 1 photo should include text , 1 photo should have an “transition/motion”, background music, narration (voice overlay) appropriate to topic., and less than 2 minutes. Each student presentation should creatively display relative information.
· Test Plan - Describe a test that will check each point in your design specification
-Make sure that you describe who the test is for and how it will be used

September 11, 12

2008-09-11T14:10:00.001+01:00

September 5

2008-09-05T10:25:00.003+01:00

Year 8, remember to look for patterns this term in all that you do! Make note of the patterns in your blog.

Now it's time to begin the INVESTIGATION

Open Word 2007.

Click on the Insert tab.

In the extremel left-hand column, click on Cover Page.

Take a few minute to explore this aspect of Word 2008.

After choosing a Cover Page title it "Year 8 Unit of Work".

You can also include your name and the date.

Next, go to the next page and type INVESTIGATE at the top.Now let's start researching;-)Investigate *Remember to record the URL and name of the sites you visit AND the images you collect.

The MYP Investigate (Criterion A) has several focuses:

1. Students identify the problem to be solved,

2. Students develop the design brief,

3. Students formulate a design specification.

Remember our problem is: How could you use ICT to record early 21st century routines?

1. What is digital story-telling? Explain in your own words.

2. Which programs can we use for digital storytelling? Name 2 programs that can be used.

3. Are either of these tools freeware (Freeware: Legally obtainable software that you may use at no cost, monetary or otherwise, for as long as you wish.)? If, yes, name that program. If no, continue searching until you find one that is freeware .

4. Find 2 educational digital stories online. Supply each URL and give a small summary of each of the stories.

5. What is a tutorial? Explain in your own words.

6. What is image hosting?

7. Research these the following web hosting services: http://www.photobucket.com/ , http://www.tinypic.com/ and http://video.google.com/ How are they similar? How are they different?

8. What is a storyboard? Explain in your own words.

September 4

2008-09-03T22:59:00.002+01:00

Year 8 - Welcome to ICT!

Blogs are primarily a communication tool. People are more motivated when their blogs are visited and comments are made. I love visiting your blogs. However, I have more than 115 blogs to visit and, unfortunately, am unable to make it to all of your blogs on a timely basis.

Therefore, we will organize groups whereby students within that group will visit and comment on each other's blogs and actively participate in each other's learning. Also, invite your friends and family to visit your process journal/blog.Create a link list in the side bar to add links to the other members of your group.

Way to go Year 8. This is going to be a great term!

June 23/26

2008-06-22T19:33:00.001+01:00

Year 8 - we are crossing the finish line.

Today you should have your final photostory uploaded to your blog.

Today you should work on (and hopefully finish) your Evaluation.

June 16/19

2008-06-16T11:33:00.003+01:00

Year 8 - The sun is shining and you are rested from last week's holidays. Let's stay focused and try to finish our project by Thursday! That would allow you to have time to explore the www your way!

2008-06-12T09:29:00.000+01:00

A. Comment on your finished photostory. In the text error free? Are you happy with the outcome?
• Is the movie error free?
• Evaluate the product against the Design Specification. Does the newsletter meet the design specification? Explain.
• Are you happy with the outcome? Explain
• Look critically at your final project. If you had the opportunity to change something what aspect would you change and why?
• Did you encounter (have) any problems? Refer to your “process journal/blog” for details.
• Comment on your own performance throughout each stage of the project (investigate, design, plan, create, evaluate).
• If you had the opportunity, would you change anything? If yes, what aspect would you change and why? Refer to your “process journal/blog” for details)
• How could you use PhotoStory 3 in the future?

B. Product Analysis - Student will solicit feedback from others.
• Student will produce a list of 5 questions and post them to the student blog to solicit the evaluation of 5 others (classmates, parents, friends, teachers). Answers should be included on the blog post as comments.
• Analyze the feedback

June 12

2008-06-12T08:51:00.003+01:00

Quiet on the Set, Year 8 - You should be recording by now. This is the fun part.

June 9

2008-06-09T00:21:00.002+01:00

Year 8 - We are lucky and meet both times this week (Monday and Thursday). This will give us plenty of time to work on your project. You should be at the CREATE stage by now.

June 5

2008-06-04T19:07:00.003+01:00

Happy "Environment Day - 2008" Year 8

According to Wikipedia, "World Environment Day (WED) was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972. WED is hosted every year by a different city and commemorated with an international exposition through the week of June 5."

Here is a link to the UNEP (United Nations Environmental Programme) which offers a wealth of info: http://www.unep.org/wed/2008/english/

Then continue with your Create!

June 2

2008-06-01T21:22:00.003+01:00

Year 10 - Looking into the future is always fun.

Check out this link to hear what "those in the know" have predicted for the year 2058: http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/books/365088_future30.html?source=rss
Take 10 minutes and make a prediction in your blog about the future.

Then continue with the StoryBoard or start the Create portion of your project.

Now, let's look into YOUR future for June.
June 6 - Create
June 9 - Create
June 12 - Create
June 16 - Evaluate
June 19 - Evaluate

May 29

2008-05-28T23:34:00.003+01:00

Year 8

I'm sorry that I'm not with you today but I am a bit "under the weather".

Please continue with your StoryBoard. You must select 3 possible images for each frame. Then you must JUSTIFY your choice. That means that you must say "why" you chose to use a particular image in your final project.

If you finish that, HOORAY. Now start to plan your: Music, Motion, Titles. These must also be included on the storyboard.

May 26

2008-05-25T11:27:00.004+01:00

Year 8, Wow! Today you should finish the narration part of your story-board. Next, you must gather 3 (three) images for each frame of narration. You will then select the image that you will use and JUSTIFY why you chose that one.

Remember that we are following the Design Cycle set forth by the MYP (Middle Years Program of the IB Organization) and we must produce an array of feasible designs. That's what we are doing by gathering photos and music;-)

PS: The above photo is The Thinker (French: Le Penseur), a bronze and marble sculpture by Auguste Rodin held in the Musée Rodin in Paris. According to Wikipedia, it depicts a man in sober meditation battling with a powerful internal struggle. It is often used to represent philosophy.