This week, I created a website using Google Site. I will use this website for all of my classes. It was a lot of work, but I think it is actually something that I will be able to use -- or better yet, that my students (and their parents) will be able to use.
Before using this website, I used a blog to post homework and OneNote (or email) to distribute handouts or worksheets. Editing is not too difficult, once you get started.
I created separate pages for each of my classes. On each of those pages, I intend to post worksheets and bellwork for my classes. So far, there are just a couple relevant items posted on each page.
I created a homework calendar. On it, I compiled the assignments and announcements for all of my classes. I had initially tried to create three separate calendars to post on three separate pages on the site, but that seemed to be cumbersome and required significant organizational effort to maintain and edit. My homework blog (which my students have been using for weeks now) is set up with all three classes combined, so I am hoping the coding system I used (which is similar to the blog's) is easily understood and followed.
There is a place for website links, where I compiled a small list of school related sites. As time continues, I plan to include more links to relevant support sites that offer chemistry practice problems and/or concept information for my students to use as resources as they prepare for an assessment.
The links posted can lead to anything. A document in Google Drive. A YouTube video. Another website. Creating links (instead of embedding) keeps the pages looking less cluttered. I embedded a couple videos to demonstrate that I knew how to do that, but I think I prefer links.
Overall, it was a lot of work to create something I am not sure I am going to like using. However, I put a lot of effort into this - so I will (at least) try to use for the remainder of this first semester. Check back in January for an updated opinion on the usefulness of Google Sites.
For now, here are some links to videos that will help you get started, if you want to create your own Google Site:
Getting started with a blank site
Getting started using a site template
Embedding a calendar onto your site
Attaching a document to your site
And, here is a video created by a teacher. Her site is full of information in a very well organized fashion. It has a lot of pieces to it, so I would not recommend creating one this intricate if you are creating your first website. It may be overwhelming. However, if you are a Google Sites veteran, this video might give you inspiration to tweak your existing site just a bit!
Good luck creating a site of your own. Remember to leave me a link in the comment section because I would love to see what you have created!
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