Sarah's+Safety+Lesson+&+Letter


 * __LESSON __

Objective:** Students will safely use online applications to participate in activities and complete assignments.


 * Technology tool:** Google Applications (primarily Google Docs)


 * How it will be used:** Students will use this tool throughout the year to compose and publish their writing pieces, create online multimedia presentations, and collaborate with group members on projects.


 * Expected behavior:** Students are expected to behave responsibly and respectfully using this online tool. They should follow the given guidelines on each assignment.


 * Materials:**
 * Anticipation guide
 * Google Docs in Plain English: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRqUE6IHTEA
 * Google Apps Training slideshow: http://services.google.com/apps/resources/overviews_breeze/DocsSpreadsheets/index.html
 * Computers (1 per student)


 * Process:**
 * Explain to students that throughout the upcoming school year, they will be using Google Applications (primarily Google Docs) to complete various tasks, and it is important that they know how to use it properly.
 * Distribute anticipation guide. Students will rank each statement as True or False based on their knowledge of Internet applications and safety.
 * Show Google Docs in Plain English video and Google Apps Training slideshow to students to give them an overview of this tool.
 * Have each student sign out a computer and take them through the step-by-step process of setting up an account. Sign in to teacher account and demonstrate how to use the documents tool.
 * Assignment: Each student should write one paragraph about a hobby they enjoy. When finished, have students save their files. Put students in small groups (3-4) and share their documents digitally. Explain the benefits of online collaboration and how Google Docs tracks changes and comments. Remind students that they will be using this tool for some personal assignments, but also for group tasks, and it's important to be responsible and respectful of others' ideas.
 * Return to anticipation guide. Review statements and what students marked earlier. Discuss what’s accurate and inaccurate and how this applies to their using Google Docs in class this year. Elaborate as needed on statements about how to behave appropriately using this tool and how to handle tricky situations.
 * For homework, students are to make constructive, positive comments to each of their group members' paragraphs.


 * Inappropriate Conduct:**
 * If students behave inappropriately using this technology, they will have a consequence based on their action. This may include a "time out" from computer usage, modified assignments, writing a letter about why it's important to be safe and respectful on the web, or other alternative.
 * If a student finds inappropriate content, I expect them to respond by notifying me immediately so that I can handle the situation.


 * Citations:**
 * "Google Docs in Plain English." YouTube. 10 Sept. 2007. 15 July 2009 .
 * "Google Apps Training: Product Overview - Docs & Spreadsheets." Google. 2008. 15 July 2009 .


 * Note:** Other aspects of Google Apps, such as the presentation tool, will be taught in future lessons.


 * __LETTER __**

Dear Parent/Guardian,

Throughout this school year, your child will be using Google Documents & Spreadsheets to complete individual and group assignments. These will include, but are not limited to, writing assignments, group projects, and digital presentations.

Google Docs & Spreadsheets is an excellent 21st century learning tool, and I’m sure your child will find it very useful. Students can compose and modify content anywhere Internet access is available. This is especially helpful because students don’t have to be “tied down” to working only on the school’s network server or only at home. If you don’t have Internet access at home, students may use the public library, work during homeroom, flex, or study hall, or stay after school for Homework Center (Mondays-Thursdays 2:30-3:30).

Each student has a designated username and password to access his/her account. Students are expected to exhibit safe, responsible behavior when using this tool. They should not share personal information such as their address, phone number, photographs of themselves, etc. Additionally, they should be respectful when working with groups, the same as they would be in class. As the teacher, I will have access to each student’s account so that I can monitor work and provide feedback as needed.

Assignments using this tool will be scored using a rubric. Rubrics will be assignment-specific, so it’s important that students follow the guidelines carefully.

For more information about Google Docs & Spreadsheets, take a look at these resources.
 * Google Docs in Plain English Video: []
 * Google Apps Training slideshow: []

Please let me know if you have any questions, comments, or concerns about this. I know that your child’s learning will be enhanced by using this great educational tool!

I have read and understood the above information.

Student signature: Date:

Parent/Guardian signature: Date: