1. Storybird is a web 2.0 tool that allows for collaborative storytelling to connect kids and families. Two or more people create a Storybird in a round robin fashion by writing their own text and inserting pictures. They then have the option of sharing their Storybird privately or publicly on the network. The final product can be printed, watched on screen, played with like a toy, or shared through a worldwide library.

2. Storybird.com Storybird reverses the process of visual storytelling by starting with the image and "unlocking" the story inside. Choose an artist or a theme, get inspired, and start writing Browse the themes or art on Storybird

3. Next, you start writing your story based on pictures from the theme you choose. You can add more pictures, pages, and text as you go Text and pictures can be manipulated slightly but it is not easy to do

4. Other features: -Invite others to collaborate -Share with family, friends, students -Read others stories and create a reading list -Create an Avatar -CREATE A CLASS!!

5. Classes: -No password required -Accessible from any computer and to parents -Allows for collaborative Storybirds -Access to classroom assignments -Discussion Board Classroom Library

6. How to use it in the classroom: Buddy Writing Poetry Illustrate lyrics to a song Write a new/different ending to a story Write about a family tradition Create a library of stories to share with parents for the end of the year

7. Tips and tricks: Play with it before you share it with students Preview stories you want students to read Gather a classroom library or collection to have kids preview Reset student passwords beforehand Issues/Downfalls: Can’t manipulate font size, type, or color Have to use the provided pictures in one theme Can’t change between themes It could take students forever to pick their theme! The “assignment” option really isn’t conducive to collaboration. You have to invite people one at a time

8. Similar websites: Story Jumper Zoo Burst Tikatok The Art of Storytelling Webook Lightning Bug DigiTales