The Three Part Blogging Lesson

When teaching a new concept on blogs, I typically create a three-part lesson.

First, we explore a new concept by looking at websites that already exist and picking out a particular area of focus (links, tags, adding images, commenting, etc.). The exploration can be done as a class on a media cart or a Smart Board or by having students working in pairs and searching collaboratively on the Internet for the designated concept.

Secondly, I model how to set this up. Alternately, and preferably, I have a student model this. I typically use a media cart with Internet access for this portion, and use an account I have set up on blogger.

Finally, students work independently, in pairs, or in small groups to apply the new concept to their own blogs. There are usually several students designated as "Tech Experts" who get their work done quickly and then circulate as needed. Students who need help can ask one of them by sending a message or comment to him or her or calling over a "Tech Expert" who is walking around the lab. As the teacher, I am also available to help students at the own work stations or at the media cart. Often, a group will need a second demonstration or an opportunity to walk through the process step-by-step, and I will do that with them and project it onto the screen as we work (in order to help others as well).

Once students have posted their work, I am easily able to go through and check for understanding. Depending on the concept or task, I create a rubric or checklist to assess their work.