4. How much class time were students given to prepare the oral presentation?
We usually take one or two hours out where they are expected to work specifically on their own presentations, in addition to the time that they are preparing how to give one and choosing their topic. They usually use that time to start exploring the Internet and seeing what Internet resources are available. Previous to all of this activity, we have also done some library activities so that they know how to access resources in the library as well. But actual in-class time to prepare what it is they are going to say is pretty much limited to an hour or so. One of the prompts in the journal, obviously at that time, is, "Tell me about your presentation," so that they can get some prewriting in. It's largely a homework-based activity.
