Google Docs

Go to Google Docs and test it out! The good news is that since you set up a google account already for this blog, you automatically have an account for google docs. Sign in with the same user name and password that you used to sign into the blog (if you're still signed in to the blog, you won't even have to sign in again).

Go to "Create New" and select "Document" from the drop down box. (Notice the other projects you can do- power points, spreadsheets, etc.) The first thing I always have my kids do before they start writing is to name their document. (Go to "File," then to "Rename.") Tell them exactly how you want to title their work or you'll have a chaotic mess in your inbox. I always make sure to include their name, hour, assignment, and any other indicators I think are necessary. **I would like you to name your file by first putting your name and then "Digiplaces." For example, mine would be "Jill Emerson Digiplaces."

Next is what Google Docs is all about- sharing your file. On the right side, click on the box that says, "Share." Then select "Sharing Settings" from the drop down. In the box that says, "Add people," type in steinmetzjill@yahoo.com and the email address of someone sitting next to you. (When you exchange email addresses, make sure you give out the one you use for your google account or this won't work.) You can select if you want them to be able to edit your work or simply view it. Let's pretend we're peer editing and allow them to edit. When doing this in a classroom, tell the kids to UNcheck the email notification box or you will get 80 emails saying a google doc has been shared with you. Keep refreshing your inbox until you get their shared document. If you don't get it, they typed in your email address wrong.

Finally... start typing! You may copy down what you wrote about outside or write about how you (or other teachers) could use or already do use google docs in the classroom. (I don't care what you write about. The point is to get used to the technology.) Just type a paragraph or two, and then check out your partner's progress. Edit your partner's paper (don't be mean) or just write a comment.