Blogging

Using Technology to Write for an Authentic Audience

Students in Mrs. Valzania's grade 6 homeroom are getting ready to blog!  Last week, we spent time discussing blogging and writing for an audience outside of school.  Then each student setup a blog using Blogger.  Students learned to set permissions, comments, layout, theme, format, and sharing and then published their blogs on the internet.
Next steps will include posting their writing, adding images and links and responding to comments.
According to George Couros, author of The Innovator's Mindset, there are at least five great reasons students should blog (article). Blogging: allows for "open reflection". helps to "develop literacy through different mediums".
"gives students a space for their voice to be heard".
creates "an open archive of learning".
"develops a positive digital footprint".
Stay tuned for more about this exciting opportunity and be sure to watch out for our students' blogs as they flourish over the next few weeks.

Technology Essential Questions:

How does this digital tool help improve collaboration and/or communication?

How can we use this digital tool to create original, innovative works and demonstrate a student's unique voice?

How can we use this digital tool to address the different needs, learning styles, interests and abilities of students?

2016 Massachusetts Digital Literacy and Computer Science (DLCS) Curriculum Framework

6-8.CAS.a; 6-8.CAS.b; 6-8.DTC.a.3; 6-8.DTC.a.4; 6-8.DTC.b