Google Calendar

1. Anticipatory Set
- Focus/Transfer: It used to be that the only calendars we had available were in the kitchen or in the office. Now with technology, we can set up an event on an electronic calendar with our smartphone, and be able to view the same calendar on the computer.
- Objective: Students will learn how to use Google Calendar®.

2. Instruction
Google Calendar
- Go to calendar.google.com and log on. Click on “Calendar.”
- Google Calendar is a great way to stay organized! For school: You can mark your homework due dates, school projects, and school events (like dances and games). For personal stuff: football practice, swimming lessons, dates, errands to run, etc.

- You can also mark your friends’ birth dates and have Google remind you so you can wish them Happy Birthday. Did you know you can load all the US Holidays, even your favorite’s team season schedule? Just click on “Settings” and “Browse interesting calendars.”

Calendar Synchronizing
- You can synchronize your Google Calendar with your Smartphone. You just need to download the application, or “app,” sign in with your Google Docs account, and view or manage your events. The beauty of Google Calendars is that no matter what device you use to update your events, all other devices will be updated as well. Did I mention you can also access your Google Docs from your smartphone?
- Check for understanding: Students are asked questions as they explore Google Calendar.

3. Guided Practice
- Teacher reviews the steps to log on to Google Calendar.
- Activity: Have students set up an event on Google Calendar. Click on an event and click on “Edit Event.” Have students change the date and click on “Repeat.” Explore the different patterns for Event Repetition, i.e.: Swimming practice on Tuesdays, etc.

4. Closure
- Students take quiz on Google Calendar.
- Optional: If students have a smartphone, have them synchronize their Calendar.

5. Independent Practice
- Homework: Interview an adult about how they stay organized - wall calendar, or online calendar?


Source: My COMPUTeachER, The Computer Book for Everyone. Get your copy at www.PaulRallion.com