Barbara Biddy’s grade 6 classes rehearsed for upcoming conferences with El Paso, Texas and Ireland.
The students refined questions and practiced speaking skills, which included enunciating words and projecting voices. They learned how to look into the camera when speaking and the importance of being attentive. They also brought up the word, ‘polite’ on their own, as an important ingredient in a successful videoconference. Very important: a minute or two to act silly for the camera; kids are always surprised and excited to see themselves on the big screen, so it’s fun to let them enjoy the moment before getting down to business!
We also divided up jobs which will be rotated in future conferences: cameras, microphone, note takers, welcome greetings and goodbyes. 
