We started Chapter 7. Moving right along! We discussed XHTML and XML—how XHTML is the future. Benefits of using XHTML are given on pages 270–271 of HFHTML. On page 282, the authors note, "The choice is yours." I'll add, "No, it's not." At least in this course! You are required to use standards-conforming XHTML for your Web pages for the rest of the semester. The good news: You are almost there! at least in terms of what you have learned so far. Pages 274–275 of HFHTML explain how to get there.

To help you understand XML, check out this CD catalog. I admit that it's not very pretty, but check out the URI and the source (View Source in your browser.) Notice anything? There's no HTML, just XML. The cool thing about XML is that elements can be designed to get across all kinds of information, not just information about the components of a document that HTML does. And XML is expandable—that is, more kinds of elements can be added. XHTML is an XML version of HTML. HFHTML mentions (page 271) that people have already added some elements for math equations.

I also like the recipe example in the Wikipedia entry for XML.

Lab today: Download xml.html and revise it so that it validates as XHTML 1.0 Strict. Work with a partner. When you are done, send the file to me via e-mail. Please make the subject be XHTML Lab. Please copy (CC) your partner.

Homework

Read Chapter 7.

Revise the index.html file you submitted for the assignment due today to be XHTML. Send the validated file to me as an attachment to an e-mail message addressed to me. Please make the subject of the e-mail be Validated XHTML page. You may work with a partner from the class. If you do, make sure the e-mail message indicates so.