For my Quickshare activity, I presented a variety of Web Quests (one completed one, and a template and rubric guide). Please see several other links under Technology ideas to the left of this blog, specifically www.webquest.org , the "Crime and Punishment" one, and the "Fabulous" one. These Web Quests and templates even provide rubrics for clear and easy evaluation.
Using computers, students practice their reading and research skills and work collaboratively as part of a team. In addition, most Web Quests can be differentiated by level--it may be built into the Web Quest you use, or you can modify the tasks or links the students use.
I recommend providing at least some of the necessary links to the desired content, otherwise the goal of finding and narrowing down the information on the internet is overwhelming. Even with designated links, students have a lot of leeway in how creative they can be.
I have used the "Fabulous" Web Quest in a class of high-level adult students (ages 18-65), and the outcome was wonderful. Each team created a presentation (practicing writing and speaking skills) where every member participated, and then the other groups in the class had to listen and ask questions on specific details from the presentation (listening focus). The students amazed me with their creative and hilarious plot twists! We worked on it in the computer lab maybe 15 minutes a day for four days, followed by 45 minutes or so in-class to prepare their presentations, and they gave their presentations and answered the follow-up questions in about 30 minutes for three groups. To give credit where it's due, this is called "On the Road Again," and it's designed by Paula Emmert. This is the experience that made me and my students a fan of Web Quests! Please give me feedback if you use it, or let me know if you have a favorite Web Quest. I cannot wait to get back into the classroom!!
Using computers, students practice their reading and research skills and work collaboratively as part of a team. In addition, most Web Quests can be differentiated by level--it may be built into the Web Quest you use, or you can modify the tasks or links the students use.
I recommend providing at least some of the necessary links to the desired content, otherwise the goal of finding and narrowing down the information on the internet is overwhelming. Even with designated links, students have a lot of leeway in how creative they can be.
I have used the "Fabulous" Web Quest in a class of high-level adult students (ages 18-65), and the outcome was wonderful. Each team created a presentation (practicing writing and speaking skills) where every member participated, and then the other groups in the class had to listen and ask questions on specific details from the presentation (listening focus). The students amazed me with their creative and hilarious plot twists! We worked on it in the computer lab maybe 15 minutes a day for four days, followed by 45 minutes or so in-class to prepare their presentations, and they gave their presentations and answered the follow-up questions in about 30 minutes for three groups. To give credit where it's due, this is called "On the Road Again," and it's designed by Paula Emmert. This is the experience that made me and my students a fan of Web Quests! Please give me feedback if you use it, or let me know if you have a favorite Web Quest. I cannot wait to get back into the classroom!!
1 comment:
Hey Jolene!
I love your post and just wanted to thank you for it. We create so many materials during our years of instruction and never know which are effective or enjoyed. I also experience frequent fluctuations on my feelings for WQs since many are so content heavy in our predominately text-based ESOL environment.
Anyhow- it was great to read this and many other posts on your blog and if you are going to the TESOL conference in NY (08) come find me! I'll be running tons of fairs in the Electronic Village and I'd love to say hello!
Warmest regards,
Paula Emmert
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