Hall of Fame: Podcasting

Well Done all of you who created Podcasts this semester!! There were so many good one's to choose from but here is a selection of my favorites. Enjoy!

Remember that Podcasting is a really useful way to show understanding of a topic and a way of sharing information. They can be about anything; give you the opportunities for writing, talking, listening, co-operative working and collective decision making.

Making an effective presentation

What was the greatest invention of the industrial revolution? Hans Rosling makes the case for the washing machine. With great graphics Rosling shows us the magic that pops up when economic growth and electricity turn a boring wash day into an intellectual day of reading.

Think about how he makes his presentation! How does he use Sign-posting and Visual Aids to keep his audience entertained??

Speaking to an audience

1) Body language – make sure that you have a proper posture. If their shoulders are sagging and their legs are crossed, you will not appear as being sincere and people just will not accept your message.

2) Pronunciation – students need to pronounce each word. You must avoid slang, except to make a point, and not slur the words. They must avoid saying, “you know" and "stuff.”

3) Articulation /Pitch – pitch refers to the highs and lows of the voice. Whatever you do, avoid a monotone!

4) Speed – the speed, or pace, is an important variable to control. Between 140-160 words per minute is the normal pace for a persuasive speech.

5) Pauses – the pause is a critical persuasive tool. When you want to emphasize a certain word, just pause for one second before; this highlights the word. If they really want to punch it, pause before and after the word!

6) Volume – volume is another good tool for a persuasive speech, but you should use it with caution. If you scream all the way through their speech, people will become accustomed to it and it will lose its effectiveness. On the other hand, a few well-timed shouts can liven up the speech! They must try to “project” or throw their voice out over the entire class – or speak to the last row.

7) Variance – variance of vocal elements is the most important of all! One of the most persuasive speakers in modern history was Winston Churchill. One of his most remarkable qualities was his ability to vary the elements of his voice. He would start with a slow, laconic voice and then switch gears to a more rapid pace. People were light-headed after listening to him!

Presenation and Collaboration Project Rubric

Presenation and Collaboration: Project Objectives

Converting Files

The most frequent question I am asked is to do with "how do I use YouTube videos in my work"?. I have been pointing people to Zamzar which does the neat trick of converting the YouTube URL to a downloadable WMV file OR if you just want the audio it will convert it to an MP3. This this is a very handy tool!

YouCovertIt is another useful online conversion tool. Try them out at home and see what you can produce! 

Grade 7: Assignment 3: Tribute Podcast

Create a tribute Podcast (no longer than 90 seconds ) to a hero of yours. 

This can be anybody who you look up to OR somebody who has inspired you. They can be living or deceased. 

1) You will create a script showing all dialogue

2) You will create a running order showing all of the timings and sound effects
 

3) Finally, you will produce the final recording, using editing software such as Audacity.