Canvastic Logo   Finally: A Tool, Not a Toy


Write a Book(let):

Author: Steve Gandy

Grade Level(s): 1-8

Lesson Description:

Write a Book(let) is a generic plan for publishing material in a booklet form. Publishing in this form can make any curriculum integration motivating and useful. Any content that has more than one part can be adapted to be published into a booklet. See the example.

This activity makes use of some template files that are available with Canvastic v.1.1 or later. The booklet can be as many pages long as desired but the templates come in 2, 4, and 8 page formats. Of course full size pages can be printed and assembled to create a book.

These booklets do not require printing on both sides of the paper!

 

Implementation Steps:

Open the template file that is desired. Have the students add the text and graphics to each page. Depending upon the size of page selected you may want to have the students use the Brush tool set to a small size.

Save and print all pages. The students are not limited to the number of pages in the template. If they need more pages, have them open the blank template again and create them. The pages can all be assembled into the same booklet. See the next set of steps.

 

Assembling the booklet:

After printing, cut along the solid lines of the booklet pages. Fold along the dotted lines. Page 1 is always folded to the right.

  • When using the 2 or 4 page booklet, page 2 and 3 have to be fastened back to back. The booklet can be bound with tape or staples along the spine.
  • When using the 8 page booklet, page 4 and 5 have to be fastened back to back.

To create a cover, use a fresh copy of the template. Remove the page numbers. Produce the graphics and text on pages 1 and 2. Page 2 will the the front cover. Page 1 will be the back cover. Cut out, fold and place the cover around the booklet. Then attach to the spine.

These photos show a booklet made with the 4 page booklet template but illustrate the process of assembly for all types:

 

Preparation Notes:

Place the appropriate booklet templates where the students can open them.

 

Student Prerequisites:

Students need to be able to use the Brush tool and the Text tool.

 

Assessment:

Use your usual writing rubric for the descriptions. Drawings should be detailed enough to add value to the project.

 

Resources:

The booklet templates are available with the Canvastic v.1.1 download and later or can be obtained here:

 

Standards Addressed:

ISTE NETS Technology Standards: Grades Pre-K-2 Performance indicator(s):

1. Use input devices (e.g., mouse, keyboard, remote control) and output devices (e.g., monitor, printer) to successfully operate computers, VCR's, audiotapes, and other technologies. (1)

8. Create developmentally appropriate multimedia products with support from teachers, family members, or student partners.

 

ISTE NETS Technology Standards: Grades 3-5 Performance indicator(s):

1. Use keyboards and other common input and output devices (including adaptive devices when necessary) efficiently and effectively.

5. Use technology tools (e.g., multimedia authoring, presentation, Web tools, digital cameras, scanners) for individual and collaborative writing, communication, and publishing activities to create knowledge products for audiences inside and outside the classroom.

 

ISTE NETS Technology Standards: Grades 6-8 Performance indicator(s):

5. Apply productivity/multimedia tools and peripherals to support personal productivity, group collaboration, and learning throughout the curriculum.

6. Design, develop, publish, and present products (e.g., Web pages, videotapes) using technology resources that demonstrate and communicate curriculum concepts to audiences inside and outside the classroom.

 

Content Standard(s): Varies with the topic of this activity.