Senior Current Issues – For this Google Docs Debate go here.
Deadline for Post – Monday, February 17 – 11:59 PM
The goal for any Google Docs Debate is for you as an individual, and for we as a class, to take an issue and have an intelligent conversation about that topic. This is not a rant session – its a thoughtful and collective online discussion. You have particular requirements that you must fulfill in the process. More significant however, is that you listen and learn from your fellow compadres. I will join you. So, let’s talk.
Go below for you requirements on all Google Docs Debate…
You are required to make two long posts… 25 points each
Label your long post – LP. This means that you must bring an unique idea of your own to the article and post it; in the process highlight a portion of the actual article that you are talking about. Try to keep your highlighting to no more than a paragraph…that is fine if it merely starts the place that you refer to in your post. Your comments need not take any assigned direction, other than they must make sense and state a position as to how you feel in regards to the particular part of the essay. You don’t have to answer the author or contest him; you may use the quote as a platform to raise like minded issues. Your post must have some connection to the article. These two long posts should shoot for between 100 to 150 words. So think before you post – write it up in Word. Check the grammar and spelling; you will be held accountable for each. Then handle any comments, questions, or challenges that thread off of your post. There is no word limit for your threaded answers; be thoughtful and thorough. In order for you to fulfill this part of the requirement you must carry any thread off of your post to a conclusion. That means you must stay in touch with the thread.
You are required to make two short posts… 10 points each
Label your short post – SP. This means that you must make two short posts off of another’s long post – this can be a question or a comment. You can agree or disagree with the said post. However, as with the long post you must take this conversation to a conclusion. If the thread opens up and people begin to comment – continue with it until the assignment deadline or the thread has concluded on its own. That means you may need to go back and check it after you think that the post was complete. No word limit on the short posts. Please check your grammar and spelling. One more thing here…your two separate short posts need to come on a different thread. Don’t make the mistake of counting your answer in a thread discussion as qualifying for a second short post in one that you already counted.
Two short. Two long.
Questions? In the midst of a thread it can get confusing. How does somebody know I’m talking to them? Identify them at the beginning of your thread post. So start your post with the name of the individual who you are addressing. You need not type your name on the post as it comes through on the google docs posting that is shared by us all.
Questions? Can I answer somebody’s long post with a long post of my own? In a way you can. Begin a separate post and identify who you are talking to and what you are talking about. Too difficult for me to ascertain a long from a short if its embedded in a threat. I would suggest that you type it up in Word…check the spelling. Check the argument before you post. Often when we are in the midst of an online discussion we confuse any comment with an adequate comment. And then you look back at your post a half hour later and wonder, “what on earth was I thinking.” Make sure any long post is well thought out. Short is conversation…keep it moving. However, always think your position through before you start yapping.
Question? How will my grade be figured? 70 points possible Your grade will consist of how well you fulfill the requirements of two short and two long posts. Are your thoughts founded? Do you fulfill the long post word limit? Does your line of reasoning make sense? Do you carry each of the four posts to a legitimate conclusion?
Question? What if Mr. Wood disagrees with my position? Who cares? Mr. Wood will be posting as well. In fact he might post and ask you to clarify yourself. However, your position will have no baring on your post grade. The depth and clarity of your position, and the fact that you fulfilled stated requirements, will define your grade.
Question? When will I know my grade on the Google Docs post? Mr. Wood will post grades on – the Google Docs post within 48 hours of the close of the Google Docs discussion.
Questions? Is this something that I can expect to see in the future? Absolutely. College classes are doing more and more online discussions. Your depth of knowledge of the issue – stemming from that active reading of the article – should provide you a solid platform for some thoughtful discussion.
Questions? What if my wireless at home has a reach of five feet? Then you better contact Mr. Wood via email – phone or otherwise prior to the deadline. It’s one thing if you breakdown and home and communicate that with me at bobwoodmsu@gmail.com in the process of the assignment. It’s another thing altogether to come to school on Monday and say, “Hey, I couldn’t get online – can I have an extra day?” Make sure if nothing else to text Mr. Wood your two long posts – he will place them on the google docs debate for you…try to get back on and monitor it.
Get organized. Bring some sensibility and depth to the web. And lets have an intelligent discussion.
Good luck. Make sure to ask any questions and meet your deadlines.
