| You are now ready to focus on creating the
actual website content. The first step should be to plan out your
pages in rough on paper so that there is some structure and logic to
the whole site. Spend some time browsing the internet to get a feel
for what an appealing website looks like. It's also a good idea to
check other educational websites to get ideas about interesting
pages, creative layouts and informative content.
Once you have a rough idea of what you want, then the actual pages
need to be created. The website pages are written in a computer language
called HTML, but don't worry, you don't actually have to know it to have a website.
You can create web pages in just
about any modern word processor or publishing program such as
Microsoft Word, Microsoft Publisher, Corel WordPerfect, etc. If you
feel a little more ambitious and would like specialized web design
software then have a look at
products from Microsoft, Adobe, or Netobjects.
If the thought of learning a new
program doesn't appeal to you, then check with the company you chose
to host your website. Sometimes they have free programs which guide
you through the website creation process so it is almost as easy
as typing a letter. Of course, it all depends on how sophisticated you
want your website to be, but most school and classroom websites are
relatively simple.
Don't worry if you still don't think
you can create your own website. There are many computer savvy
youngsters out there that are into website design and will gladly
design
your website for just a few dollars. Just ask around. If you have a rough idea of what you want
then they can probably create your website for you in just a few evenings.
If you want to go with a professional then be prepared to spend a few
hundred dollars on your website design.
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