Wow, the first time students log onto a computer is a keep your fingers crossed kind of moment. I am unsure if the computer will work, will the student's log in work, and will it take most of the period to load.
The primary problem is that I have 35 students and there are 30 computers in the lab. So I have to ask some of my colleagues if a student can use a computer in their classroom. I try to make these arrangements ahead of time and assign students who I know can complete the task without assistance. Secretly, I hope a few people are absent. However, everyone is present.
Today we are typing and submitting the exploding moment narrative (W 9-10. 6 and W.9-10.3). It is the final stage of the writing process: publication in the appropriate format. For this essay, the narrative must be in MLA format and submitted to Edmodo, our class on line site, by the end of class (L 9-10. 3a).
Once everyone is logged on, I will go over MLA format. I walk the students step by step to set up their essay. And I remind them that they have a handout on MLA formatting if they need to visualize the instructions. I also show them the Purdue OWL so they have an online reference if they need it.
After I take them through the steps, they will be on their own to type/revise their essays (W 9-10. 5).
Once students have finished typing/revising, they raise their hand so I can check their essay before it is submitted to Edmodo. I am walking around the room keeping kids on task and answering questions. I also have two student aids who circulate to help the 10th graders with any computer, formatting, or submission problems.
I require my students to let me check the essay before it is submitted so I can double check the formatting. I give a five minute warning, so the students can prepare to submit their narratives.