Todays Jigsaw is
VERY DIFFICULT!!
Things Can Get Complicated Jigsaw Puzzle

I have set out to make this process simple.

To support the book Virtual and Traditional Jigsaws in the Class Room, I have set up a holistic, collaborative project so that teachers can see what it is like to valance a cooperative atmosphere.   All students are included in a spirit of inquiry.      (An eCLISP)

I am sure that other teachers are travelling down this track too.  If you would like  to do a guest Blog about your project here, just drop a note in the comments box and I will be happy to swap insights and activities.

To set the ball rolling a workbook will soon be released from Teachers Pay Teachers.  There will be no cost for this little book because it is customary for teachers to provide at least one resource before they begin selling their wares.  This way you get to taste what it is that a writer has to offer before parting with your own precious money.  (In the book, not the workbook, I will look at ways of turning this venture into an entrepreneurial venture and a way to teach kids about money and sustainability.)

Background Multi-Media Resources

I have posted the nuts and bolts How To resources on another Blog called Multi-Media 4 Kids.

The resource I will feature here is a list of How To Cut, Crop, Clean and Resize Images.

They are in a list in the resources section at the bottom of the page.  Basically the biggest decision a teacher and the class will be making is about the software to use.  It is essential to choose easy straight forward work pathways as you plan  this project.  Process, process – process!

Materials List     You will need these things at least.

Scanner or iPad to capture the image.  (A camera will work too.)  There must be some way to get the real image on to the computer so that you can cut, clean and resize the image to suite the interface of JigZone.  I choose to use Jigzone.  You might prefer another interface for your jigsaws but I choose to go to Jigzone because I can control the cut.

By controlling the cut and  the level of blank areas within the picture frame I can control the level of difficulty of the jigsaw.  This is essential when working with younger children.   If you find another jigsaw provider that is even better please let me know.

I choose to use Morguefile because the images are not only copyright free but they also are of the correct ratio in size that I can simply hit 400 * 300pixels in Photoshop and the image is reziszed exactly.  jigzone can be very touchy, if you do not cut the image to the right size and if you do not scale down the weight down to 20ks.

Resources: 

• Instructions for Cleaning Images   This is the same post but unique to each software package.

1.     Cut Crop and Resize an Image in Gimp
2.     Cut Crop and Resize an Image in Paint.net.
3.     Cut Crop and Resize an Image in Picasa
4.     Cut Crop Clean and resize and Image in Photoshop Elements 

• JigZone.com   I have linked to the Frequently asked Questions page. When you register you are given space for a gallery.  I suggest each student has a gallery of their own.  I suggest that they are taught to file as this is good practice.   This excellent practice can then be transferred to the upkeep of the classroom Blog.
• MorgueFile   The about page explains copyright.  The new workbook explains how to upload and use the images in Jigsaws.  If you find anything unclear please email and I will not only explain here but also update the work book.
• Teachers Pay Teachers