Session #2: Blog Basics

A weblog or blog is an online journal which uses simple software to publish information on the internet. Common blogging tools include:
http://www.blogger.com
http://www.livejournal.com

There are many reasons to blog. They include:
PERSONAL - Keeping track of personal information and memories
Examples:
Laurie Halse Anderson
Pound
Split Rock Revelations

PROFESSIONAL - Keeping the public updated on your company's goings-ons and latest news.
Examples:
Harbor News
The Purl Bee
The Storque

INFORMATIONAL - Linking to and providing a discussion point for current news and events. These can be specialized or open-ended.
Examples:
Cooking with Amy
Slashdot
Offbeat Bride



For teachers, having a blog can be helpful to:
Provide an easy to use homepage for a class or club where kids can read important information, download files, and post comments.
Lauren's English AP Blog


Share and promote your students' accomplishments with parents, community members, and funders.
NYHS Internships by Sam
Community Clean Up by Melissa

Create a virtual discussion about class topics or issues.
Intro to NY Harbor Blog

Make a blog today using blogger.com!! It has a simple, easy-to-use and highly customizable interface.

Session #1: Smartboard Basics

How to get the Smartboard to work
Step 1: Hook up the projector to your laptop or desktop computer using a video cable.
Step 2: Hook up the Smartboard to your projector using the USB cable
Step 3: Turn on the computer and the projector at the same time.
Step 4: Open up the Smartboard software and select "Orient"
Step 5: Orient the Smartboard, and then DO NOT move the projector or the Smartboard.

Download the Smartboard software here.

An article about Smartboards and their effectiveness is available here.