1. A Guide to Using Blogs Tracey Coles, ITRT Huguenot High School

2. Part I: Overview

3. What is a Blog? A term that comes from web logs. Web logs are simply websites that can be easily updated. The use of blogs allows for instantaneous publishing to the internet and access to a world wide audience. An online journal that is frequently updated and intended for general public consumption.

4. How can I use it in my classroom? Class Portal Online Filing Cabinet E-Portfolio Collaborative Space Knowledge Management and Articulation

5. How much does it cost? If you’re a teacher it’s absolutely FREE!

6. Part II: Signing Up

7. 1. In your web browser type in www.edublogs.org www.edublogs.org 2. Click “Get your free blog now” 3. Complete registration information 4. Click “Start blogging”

8. Part III: Blogging

9. Creating a blog post At the top left hand corner click “+ New” Select a title for the post and begin blogging You can also upload files or insert links to make it easier to find particular content later. Click “Publish”

10. Adding Features The left hand menu also allows you to add posts, media, links, pages, comments and wikis.

11. Editing The appearance tab allows you to change the appearance of your blog. Here you can upload widgets, add your own menus, and change your background, header and preferences. The background color can also be changed using this menu as well.

12. Part IV: Other Neat Things

13. Sites Click the “My Sites” button to add more blog sites.

14. Views Click on the name of your blog to switch between your dashboard and your actual blog site.

15. Comments Click the “Comment Icon” tab at the top of the page to view all comments

16. Part V: Other Resources

17. For additional ideas about how to use Blogs click the “edublogs” tab. http://help.edublogs.org/user- guide/ https://www.21classes.com/ http://oedb.org/library/features /top-100-education-blogs