From the Part Six of the textbook, I chose one of the tools for Avatars, Voki. The Matrix helped me to pick the tool in that it can help to personalize a web content. Also the description about the tool sounded like it would be suitable to present a short speech, which can be effectively used in a language class. The tool offers many animated characters that you can pick from. Also you can put personal voice using either phone recording or microphone, or you can use Text to Voice feature. I liked that the feature had language options including Japanese. For an experiment in my class, I created a couple of Avatars to present the phrase, “ I will become/became a/an (animal).” Then I invited a couple of students to record their voice, made them say self-introducing words, and pick an animal they wanted to become. I will use this activity once in a while. 

I think the tool will help us to meet the standards:

In TASK

Knoledge 7K—The teacher knows a range of evidence-based instructional strategies, resources, and technological tools and how to use them effectively to plan instruction that meets diverse learning needs.

OETS

2.  Communication and Collaboration

Students use digital media and environments to communicate and work collaboratively, across the global community, to support individual learning and contribute to the learning of others.  Students:

1. Interact and collaborate with peers, experts, or others employing a variety of digital environments and media.
2. Effectively communicate and publish to multiple audiences using a variety of media and formats.
3. Engage with learners from other cultures to develop cultural understanding and global awareness.