2. By: Krista Thomas

3.  Largest and fastest growing online communities of connected classrooms  More than half a million educators and millions of learners  Stretches across more than 200 countries and territories  Can exchange ideas and questions with other learners from around the world

4.  Access to the entire site in seven different languages  An instant translation tool to be able to connect with anyone around the world  Professionally moderated discussion forums and monitored email accounts  Collaborated projects and activities

5.  A Windows, Mac, or Linux operating system  One computer for every three students  Videoconferencing capability  Internet access  Digital camera and/or scanner

6.  Using the official ePals website is free of charge for classes with up to 35 students  Schoolblog.com costs approximately $330 for a teacher and up to 25 students

7.  Focus areas with a learning path of subtopics in each area  Tips, tools, and lessons for teachers  Blogs and forums for both teachers and students on the different lessons and/or projects  Projects that have the ability to connect with other classrooms to collaborate

8.  Having the ability to chat and work with other students or teachers from different countries  Instant translations so others can understand what you are saying

9.  Being able to create a personal profile for potential ePal partners to find you

10.  Easily search for classes that are working on the same material as your class

11.  With a lot of users logged in, the program may run slower than usual  Teachers must be knowledgeable about the technology  May not connect with what you are teaching in your curriculum  Power problems may interrupt the lesson

12.  It is easy to create an account and profile  Very easy to find your way around the site  All information is very organized, mostly in tables  Tips for teachers are located right next to the student activities  There is a “How To” section if you need help

13. http://www.epals.com/