Penny's Activity Gone Wrong

So just last week I tried demonstrating a new software program to my advanced class of juniors and seniors. Nobody had used the program before but I had tortured them the previous weeks with hand drawing so they were ready to use the computers. As soon as I started my lesson my projector bulb blew out. With none available in my lab or the media center I was out of luck. So, the vultures in the class began the "what are we going to do now" chants....

After a brief period of "oh no" I decided to change my plan. I divided the class into small groups according to where they were seated (computer stations) and assigned a "quick sketch" assignment while I demonstrated an easy skill on the computer to one of the groups. I cycled around to each group and it worked. I moved as quick as possible to prevent any whining. :)

So - my materials planned did not work (and the overall lesson plan) but my solution did.