In my classroom, I would consider
using the videos about authors as part of an engagement when we start a new
novel and the grammar section to reinforce appropriate grammatical use to the
class when student work reveal common grammatical errors. In addition to whole-group instruction, this
website would be appropriate for students to explore or play games on if
classwork is completed and could be provided to the students at the beginning
of the year as a source for help with homework.
Diary Project is an interesting website that is designed to
provide teens with a place to write about their day to day lives. A daily topic or question is given, but
writers can write about whatever they choose.
The diary entries are anonymous, and organized into 24 categories based
on content. Teens can post responses to
one another’s diary entries providing feedback, advice, or just simple
understanding. The site encourages students
from all backgrounds, ethnicities, and walks of life to share and interact in
appropriate ways.
This site is not a site that I would require students to use,
but I could direct students to check it out if they wish. Some students may not find value in a
personal diary that no one else reads and will appreciate the commenting on the
site, other students will like the daily questions to provide inspiration, other
students may just read entries for comfort and to relate to others, and other
students will just like to have a place to express their deepest thoughts and
secrets. No matter why a student turns
to the site, I can be pleased to know that students are reading and writing
outside of the classroom.
Brainpop is a great resource for every teacher. I have seen it used very effectively in science and social studies classrooms. The students really get into the quizzes at the end of the videos. I was unaware that it had videos on grammar as well. What's a more fun way to liven up grammar then with a robot? Definitely a great site.
ReplyDeleteI really like your diary site. It seems like many student avoid writing for an audience out of fear of ridicule. This site seems like a great way for students to take an active interest in writing. This could possible be implemented in a lesson. There is another site like this called Helium.com which is another site which allows people to post their thoughts and musings.
ReplyDeleteMuch like Matt, I really like the diary site. Not only does it do the things that Matt documented but it also allows students to see how their peers think. This may help them see that they are not much different than others. At the same time, it may open their minds by allowing them to consider another opinion on a topic. The key to learning is exploring and seeing that there is usually more than one option. A site like the diary site is helpful in fostering learning.
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