Reflections on a Junior High Wiki Project

Linda Houle, Media CenterColleen Walsh, Language Arts

Erica Roberts, TechnologyWestmont Junior High School, Westmont, Illinois

Background

Additional Preparation

Rollout

Impact

Lessons Learned

Wiki Tour

Agenda

Project Background8th grade Language Arts

In previous years final work was displayed in book form

Project Objectives

Learn how to evaluate and use information found through research

Acquire a basic understanding of a single decade’s contribution to history

Learn how to work with a group

NETS Standards • Apply productivity/multimedia tools &

peripherals to support personal productivity, group collaboration, & learning throughout the curriculum. NETS 5

• Design, develop, publish, & present products using technology resources that demonstrate & communicate curriculum concepts to audiences inside & outside the classroom. NETS 6

• Research & evaluate the accuracy, relevance, appropriateness, comprehensiveness, & bias of electronic information sources concerning real-world problems. NETS 10

ISBE Language Arts Standards

• State Goal 1 - Read with understanding & fluency.

• State Goal 3 - Write to communicate for a variety of purposes.

• State Goal 4 - Listen & speak effectively in a variety of situations.

• State Goal 5 - Use the language arts to acquire, assess & communicate information.

Additional Preparation

Assignment packet-projected calendar

Team building activity

Two Days Added for Student Wiki Training

Group Work Time Extended

Groups needed more time to work together

Rollout

Student Account Setup

Templates

Acceptable Use Policy

Schedule Computer Lab Time

Project ImpactCreative deliverables

Endless knowledge of html format and software programs

Engaged and accountable students

Enjoy activities and are knowledgeable about technology

Project and requirements accessible by parents

Promoted better collaboration

Wiki history page

Messaging

Easier to grade (no papers)

Environmentally friendly

Lessons Learned

• Changes

• Terms-will be in list format for students to choose from

• Giving students more time-starting a month earlier than previous years

• Student made site map-will make grading easier

• Interdisciplinary-Social Studies & Technology

Wiki Tour

http://decadesproject.wikispaces.com

username: wjhsguest

password: decades

Questions??