#3 Hands-on

The new tool I would introduce to ELA teachers and their students would be Prezi.com.  Prezi is a "cloud based" presentation software.  It can be used like a power point to make presentations.  The twist is a zoomable feature which allows the user to present in a non-linear fashion. (I have to admit the first time I saw it used I felt a little dizzy, I think it just takes getting used to it.)

• The grade level: Grade 8.  

• The topic: Banning Books- A useful or destructive practice

• Standards Addressed: Presentation of Ideas: SL.8.4. Present claims and findings, emphasizing salient points in a focused, coherent manner with relevant evidence, sound valid reasoning, and well-chosen details; use appropriate eye contact, adequate volume, and clear pronunciation.SL.8.5. Integrate multimedia and visual displays into presentations to clarify information, strengthen claims and evidence, and add interest.SL.8.6. Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.

•  Learning outcomes: Given a teacher assigned topic Banning Books- A useful or destructive practice,  students will be able to write a two-page paper and present, using a digital technology, a cohesive argument defending their position on said topic.  Presentation will include at least 10 slides and will integrate a minimum of 80% of the Presentation of Ideas standards as delineated in the Common Core State Standards Initiative. 

• Technologies needed: LCD Projector and  screen, internet connection, and access to prezi.com.

• Timeline for implementation: Students would be given one week's time (out of class,as  homework) to research, plan and write out their position for the presentation.  Students would be given class time, not to exceed one period, to be introduced to Prezi.  This could be accomplished through the use of a Prezi presentation in a computer lab setting.  Allowing students a hands-on experience to set up an account and experiment with the different features while under the guidance of a seasoned user, the teacher.  That way questions and concerns can be addressed immediately.  Students would then be given two additional days to finish creating their Prezi's before presenting them to the class. 
• Assessment: 50 %of the final grade will be based on the written paper (rubric needed) and 50% of grade will be based on integration of technology(rubric needed).