Computer- Based Lesson Plans: Using Current Events to Write a GED Essay by Rick Lockenbach

Title:  Using Current Events to Write a GED Essay

Learner Level: Adult secondary

Pre-Instruction: 

The student has received instruction on word processing, Internet search techniques, and downloading an online video.  They have also received instruction on writing the GED essay.

Duration: Two class periods

Materials:           

The student must have access to Internet, Real Media Player (or be able to download this software to play an online video) and a word processing program.

Objectives: The student will use computer skills to practice writing a GED essay.

Procedure:          

The student will go to the CBS News website at http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/home/main100.shtml and chose a news video on a subject they want to write a GED practice essay about.  They will next conduct an Internet search to find at least one other source on Internet which covers the same subject.  In the first class period, they will conduct their research.  In the second class period, they will write a timed essay on the subject they have just researched and should include information from the video and other research.

Evaluation:         

The essay will be evaluated based on the GED rubric.