digital video

Incorporating video in the class is a very helpful and effective tool. It gives the students a chance to use technology in the classroom and learn how to edit and make a movie using moviemaker. They will get to see the world in a different perspective and have their couple minutes of "fame", so to speak. This is a fun and engaging way for students to learn and teach.

Content area: Could be used for any generel subject area, but mostly technology/computers
Age level: grades 4 or 5

Project: Students will break up to groups of 3 or 4 and do a "How to" project. They will pick a topic on what we are currently learning in class. They will have to get the topic approved by the teacher and once it is approved they can start planning out how to do the project and who will do what. They will also have to bring in their own materials. This "How to" project should be something that can be done in school. They will use video cameras to film other people in the group actually making and explainging the "How to", such as, how to make and origami animal or how to make the solar system out of styrofoam balls. After they are done filming they will upload it onto the computer and edit it as needed. When all the groups have completed they will present them to the class and provide a writed up of the procedure for each student so they can try it at home.

Preparations: I will teach them how use a video camera and how to use moviemaker.

Challenges: Some challenges might be having the students bring in their own materials, some might need to be provided. Students might have trouble choosing a topic that their who group agrees on.

Timeline:
Day 1: Split students up into groups of 3 or 4. Have them talk about a topic they wish to do.
Day 2: Have students finalize their topic and get it approved by the teacher. Start planning.
Day 3: Finish planning and have them gather their materials and assign roles.
Day 4: Bring materials to class and have them practice thier "How to's", to see if they work.
Day 5: Start filming
Day 6: Finish filming
Day 7: Explain moviemaker and how it is used.
Day 8: Have them write up the procedures to copy for the class. Begin uploading the video.
Day 9: Finish uploading and start editing.
Day 10: Finish editing.
Day 11: Present Projects
Day 12: Present projects

software skills

I really enjoyed doing this project. I learned a lot of things I did not know about Inspiration, Microsoft Word and Microsoft Publisher. I did not know how to use a lot of these programs before. I used inspiration to make a concept map for science and found it very difficult to do at the time. I had never used it before and did not know all the little things like rapidfire and adding pictures that make it that much easier. Once I redid it, it was a lot simpler. I also redid a quiz I made for Science on the water cycle by adding a word box and directions. I never used Microsoft publisher before. I will use this a lot in my classroom to make newletters, flyers, brochures and much more. These programs will be very useful in the classroom and communicating with parents. I will probably make a once a month newsletter to let the parents know what is going on in the classroom and upcoming events in the school. I will make flyers to promote an after school activity or other events. I can also use Inspiration to make concept maps and diagrams in all subjects. Inspiration, Microsoft word and Microsoft Publisher are all great tools for the classroom. I'm glad I know how to use them and can learn more as the class goes on.