Nicole has guided me to a very cool site that I went to this evening. It's called postsecret.com and it's pretty incredible. The images and words struck many cords with me. I'd like you to head there today and spend some time on the site, reading and viewing. Then, please post your thoughts and response to what you saw. What do you think every day, but never say to other people?
Did I mention already that next Monday is the last day to complete any missing work? Many of you have great starts on your beauty and soundtrack assignments. Be sure to wrap those up this week, please.
Tomorrow, we're going to try a blogging experiment and have you blog throughout a movie we watch. Nowadays, any major event means that bloggers are watching and commenting as things unfold. You will do the same. I will bring in the laptops and play a film and you will blog throughout, constantly reading one another's writing and spontaneously posting as something in the film moves you or triggers writing.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
50 Posts
This is my 50th post on this blog. Cool.
Went to a Twins game last night and had a swell time with my brother and son. In July, my brother moves to Des Moines to start med school. He's 29 years old and he's had such a journey in life. One of his co-workers (he works at Park Nicollet) is a mother to a teen boy who is a senior in high school. Her son is one credit shy of graduating and is sabotaging his diploma. The kid has even been accepted to 4 colleges. Matt, my brother, found it interesting that she would ask him for advice and offered instead our mother's perspective. See, Matt also blew his graduation off. He had been accepted to colleges and whatnot, but the final trimester of his senior year he stopped waking up to go to his morning classes and lost those credits. It took him nearly two years to get those credits back. He was working full-time roofing for his friend's Dad's company and he just kept procrastinating. Finally, tired of roofing in both extreme heat and cold, and worn out by now lame partying, he finished his high school diploma and went back to school. 3 years ago he graduated from the U with a degree in Chemical Engineering. For the past year and a half he's been working on a Masters in Public Health. Now, he's suspended that degree and is going to med school. All this, from a kid who was voted the biggest partier in his senior class. All this, from a kid who fell off a hotel balcony in Mexico because he was so drunk that he toppled off the railing when acting like an idiot. Heck, all this, from a kid who was sometimes so unhappy with his life that he slashed at his wrists with knives, wound up in the city detox more times than my mother or he will admit...
And now he is almost 30. Heading to be a doctor. A phenomenal uncle. A newly avid bicyclist who gave up smoking cigarettes (for, like, the 10th time). And yet, even with all the time between his 18 year old self and now, it's difficult for him to articulate for another person how he got to this point and how to help someone avoid some of the difficulty he has encountered. So, while I'm musing and reflecting, I hope that each of you knows that your journey can end well- will end well- but it doesn't mean it will be idyllic or come without a lot of work on your part. Not everyone is destined to graduate in 12 years of public education. Not everyone's foray into drugs and alcohol is a "phase" limited only to high school.
So, for today, I'd like you to write about someone that you know and care about in life (could even be you) whose life is still in process, but they perhaps have made PROGRESS.
Notes: Now that you've had a chance to look at your progress report, you have until Monday morning to complete any of the missing work- without penalty. After Monday at midnight, those assignments will be closed. Please take this opportunity to complete those assignments. Because of the flurry of things you are asked to do- both big and small- it was vital that I got your input about tasks I might have commented on, but not graded, or things not read because I got caught up in another rush of new posts. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Went to a Twins game last night and had a swell time with my brother and son. In July, my brother moves to Des Moines to start med school. He's 29 years old and he's had such a journey in life. One of his co-workers (he works at Park Nicollet) is a mother to a teen boy who is a senior in high school. Her son is one credit shy of graduating and is sabotaging his diploma. The kid has even been accepted to 4 colleges. Matt, my brother, found it interesting that she would ask him for advice and offered instead our mother's perspective. See, Matt also blew his graduation off. He had been accepted to colleges and whatnot, but the final trimester of his senior year he stopped waking up to go to his morning classes and lost those credits. It took him nearly two years to get those credits back. He was working full-time roofing for his friend's Dad's company and he just kept procrastinating. Finally, tired of roofing in both extreme heat and cold, and worn out by now lame partying, he finished his high school diploma and went back to school. 3 years ago he graduated from the U with a degree in Chemical Engineering. For the past year and a half he's been working on a Masters in Public Health. Now, he's suspended that degree and is going to med school. All this, from a kid who was voted the biggest partier in his senior class. All this, from a kid who fell off a hotel balcony in Mexico because he was so drunk that he toppled off the railing when acting like an idiot. Heck, all this, from a kid who was sometimes so unhappy with his life that he slashed at his wrists with knives, wound up in the city detox more times than my mother or he will admit...
And now he is almost 30. Heading to be a doctor. A phenomenal uncle. A newly avid bicyclist who gave up smoking cigarettes (for, like, the 10th time). And yet, even with all the time between his 18 year old self and now, it's difficult for him to articulate for another person how he got to this point and how to help someone avoid some of the difficulty he has encountered. So, while I'm musing and reflecting, I hope that each of you knows that your journey can end well- will end well- but it doesn't mean it will be idyllic or come without a lot of work on your part. Not everyone is destined to graduate in 12 years of public education. Not everyone's foray into drugs and alcohol is a "phase" limited only to high school.
So, for today, I'd like you to write about someone that you know and care about in life (could even be you) whose life is still in process, but they perhaps have made PROGRESS.
Notes: Now that you've had a chance to look at your progress report, you have until Monday morning to complete any of the missing work- without penalty. After Monday at midnight, those assignments will be closed. Please take this opportunity to complete those assignments. Because of the flurry of things you are asked to do- both big and small- it was vital that I got your input about tasks I might have commented on, but not graded, or things not read because I got caught up in another rush of new posts. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Stay
My senior year of high school, Elysha was my best friend and we were constantly on the move in her giant worn down Bonneville. She even purchased for me a seat cover- to protect my legs from the cut up vinyl- that was gloriously tacky. We listened to KDWB religiously and sang aloud to as many songs as possible. Without air conditioning, windows rolled down, we were deliciously happy.
Reality Bites was the 90's version of the Breakfast Club and appealed to the Gen Y or Gen X group of kids who were destined for greatness, but worried we might not meet our expectations of ourselves. With a terrific soundtrack and an adorable Ethan Hawke, the movie was a giant hit. One of the title tracks from the soundtrack was Stay by Lisa Loeb, which my brother managed to post to my blog for me. I knew and may still, every single word of this song and it came to symbolize the friendship I had with Elysha, the fun we had singing it together and all of our adventures.
"You say that I was naive, and I thought that I was wrong...But now I know that I did something wrong, 'cause I missed you."
It was like a calling card for our faux relationships and inner teen angst and indecision:) This is the first track of my life's soundtrack. Eager to hear more!?
Reality Bites was the 90's version of the Breakfast Club and appealed to the Gen Y or Gen X group of kids who were destined for greatness, but worried we might not meet our expectations of ourselves. With a terrific soundtrack and an adorable Ethan Hawke, the movie was a giant hit. One of the title tracks from the soundtrack was Stay by Lisa Loeb, which my brother managed to post to my blog for me. I knew and may still, every single word of this song and it came to symbolize the friendship I had with Elysha, the fun we had singing it together and all of our adventures.
"You say that I was naive, and I thought that I was wrong...But now I know that I did something wrong, 'cause I missed you."
It was like a calling card for our faux relationships and inner teen angst and indecision:) This is the first track of my life's soundtrack. Eager to hear more!?
Monday, April 27, 2009
The Soundtrack to Your Life
One of the essential goals of this class is not only to have you writing descriptively and critically on a regular basis, but also to increase your flexibility with and use of technology available to you online. Yesterday, I asked you to post a series of beauty images and writing and reflect on your own definition and how the items you chose speak to that. Today, I want you to tap into music online. Today I want you to create a soundtrack for your life. You will need to select at least 8 songs that speak to who you are, what is important to you or relationships and experiences that have shaped you. Post all of the songs on your blog and include comments on why they are present and what they mean to you. I've included the Blogger directions for adding music below.
OK, so I have tried to do this myself and so far I don't have it figured out... the directions from Blogger are below, so if you can figure it out, you're smarter than I... I will succeed. Stay posted.
Embedding music/audio from third-party sites
If you'd like to embed a playlist or functionality from a third-party music service such as Last.fm or Imeem, Blogger's layouts feature makes it easy.
Visit your Template | Page Elements tab.
Create a new widget by clicking "Add a Page Element."
Choose the "HTML/Javascript" widget.
Enter the HTML code provided by your third-party music service into the content window and click "Save Changes."
If you can't find the necessary code, you may have to contact your third-party music service. Feel free to position the page element wherever you'd like.
There are plenty of services to share and embed music available on the web. Here's a list of a few to get you started. Please keep in mind that these services aren't affiliated with Blogger, but we've heard good things about them.
Last.fm
Seeqpod
Imeem
IODA Promonet
Hypster
Streampad
Splashcast
Project Playlist
FineTune
MyFlashFetish
OK, so I have tried to do this myself and so far I don't have it figured out... the directions from Blogger are below, so if you can figure it out, you're smarter than I... I will succeed. Stay posted.
Embedding music/audio from third-party sites
If you'd like to embed a playlist or functionality from a third-party music service such as Last.fm or Imeem, Blogger's layouts feature makes it easy.
Visit your Template | Page Elements tab.
Create a new widget by clicking "Add a Page Element."
Choose the "HTML/Javascript" widget.
Enter the HTML code provided by your third-party music service into the content window and click "Save Changes."
If you can't find the necessary code, you may have to contact your third-party music service. Feel free to position the page element wherever you'd like.
There are plenty of services to share and embed music available on the web. Here's a list of a few to get you started. Please keep in mind that these services aren't affiliated with Blogger, but we've heard good things about them.
Last.fm
Seeqpod
Imeem
IODA Promonet
Hypster
Streampad
Splashcast
Project Playlist
FineTune
MyFlashFetish
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Beauty
The saying, "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder" fascinates me. So does, "inner beauty is more important than outer beauty". I'm reading a book right now called Uglies, lent to me from Morgan. It deals with a dystopia (supposed ideal world) where all people become surgically beautiful at the age of 16. Until then, they are known as Uglies. The surgery they endure makes botox seem like nothing more than lip gloss. Bones are ground done, rebuilt and more. Skin is sandpapered off and re-grown to look perfect. The concept of the book is creepy and I don't know yet if I think it's well-written. However, it does have an interesting premise. For example, this world only came about because people were so cruel to one another when everyone was allowed to look like themselves. In their world, looking perfect equates equity and harmony. Weird.
This week I wanted us to do some work with Flickr and their annotations/notes button, but to start it off, we'll do something visual to get in the swing of things. First, describe to me your concept of beauty. What is beautiful to you? Who is beautiful to you? What does beautiful sound, smell and taste like? Do you believe in inner beauty? Do you believe a person becomes more beautiful with time and why?
Then, I want you to post 7 pictures you find on the internet that represent beauty to you. Each of them needs to represent some category or idea of beauty that you subscribe to. Then, you need to post 3 written representations of beauty, whether they be poems, stories, songs or more. For each posting, please describe what element of beauty you are representing. I should be able to surmise a 3-dimensional idea of beauty from your postings and writings. I'm very excited to see what you present. Remember, again, that you are supposed to be reading and commenting on one another's blogs. Thanks!
There are still several people who have not posted their teen writing to the Wiki. In order for me to assemble and post a draft for us all to peruse and edit, I need everyone's voice included. Please complete ASAP.
This week I wanted us to do some work with Flickr and their annotations/notes button, but to start it off, we'll do something visual to get in the swing of things. First, describe to me your concept of beauty. What is beautiful to you? Who is beautiful to you? What does beautiful sound, smell and taste like? Do you believe in inner beauty? Do you believe a person becomes more beautiful with time and why?
Then, I want you to post 7 pictures you find on the internet that represent beauty to you. Each of them needs to represent some category or idea of beauty that you subscribe to. Then, you need to post 3 written representations of beauty, whether they be poems, stories, songs or more. For each posting, please describe what element of beauty you are representing. I should be able to surmise a 3-dimensional idea of beauty from your postings and writings. I'm very excited to see what you present. Remember, again, that you are supposed to be reading and commenting on one another's blogs. Thanks!
There are still several people who have not posted their teen writing to the Wiki. In order for me to assemble and post a draft for us all to peruse and edit, I need everyone's voice included. Please complete ASAP.
Friday, April 24, 2009
3 Weeks Done
Good morning fair bloggers,
Today completes our third week of the quarter! My, how time flies! Amazing:) So, if I was to guesstimate how many blogs you should have posted by now, I would say between 12-15 is a good size blog. Considering that you have at minimum two assignments to post each week (not counting the daily questions) and I have also asked you to post on your own- for fun- 203 times per week, that should add up to around a dozen, if not more. I am thoroughly enjoying the misc. posts and hearing your voices and opinions on a range of issues. I hope that you are enjoying reading one another's writing as well.
I am intrigued by the opening writing on the Teen Issue Wiki. My hope is that we can compile a small book/manual that is all about Teen Wisdom. As you compose, consider these questions:
What myths about teens are true and what are false
How do you think teens are most misunderstood?
What are the best ways to communicate or relate to teens?
What are your best memories from this time of your life?
It might help to imagine you are writing a series of chapters. Chapter 1: Teens and Experimentation; Chapter 2: Teens and Kissing; Chapter 3: Teens and School, etc.
Today's question: Did you attend last night's art show and will you be involved with this weekend's art crawl? To your way of thinking, how important is the publication and selling of one's artwork? How validating is it to be in a show or have a piece purchased? To be a working artist, what sort of compromises must you make, if any, when it comes to your arts integrity and uniqueness?
Have a superb weekend everyone! Work hard on the Wiki, review all that needs to be done and I will post your grades in an online gradebook for you next week!
Today completes our third week of the quarter! My, how time flies! Amazing:) So, if I was to guesstimate how many blogs you should have posted by now, I would say between 12-15 is a good size blog. Considering that you have at minimum two assignments to post each week (not counting the daily questions) and I have also asked you to post on your own- for fun- 203 times per week, that should add up to around a dozen, if not more. I am thoroughly enjoying the misc. posts and hearing your voices and opinions on a range of issues. I hope that you are enjoying reading one another's writing as well.
I am intrigued by the opening writing on the Teen Issue Wiki. My hope is that we can compile a small book/manual that is all about Teen Wisdom. As you compose, consider these questions:
What myths about teens are true and what are false
How do you think teens are most misunderstood?
What are the best ways to communicate or relate to teens?
What are your best memories from this time of your life?
It might help to imagine you are writing a series of chapters. Chapter 1: Teens and Experimentation; Chapter 2: Teens and Kissing; Chapter 3: Teens and School, etc.
Today's question: Did you attend last night's art show and will you be involved with this weekend's art crawl? To your way of thinking, how important is the publication and selling of one's artwork? How validating is it to be in a show or have a piece purchased? To be a working artist, what sort of compromises must you make, if any, when it comes to your arts integrity and uniqueness?
Have a superb weekend everyone! Work hard on the Wiki, review all that needs to be done and I will post your grades in an online gradebook for you next week!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Best of...
So here I am perusing Twiggy's Citypages copy of the Best of the Twin Cities. It says the best local blog is www.culturebully.com. Let's all go check it out and report back!
I'm also going to create a Wiki page that we can all add to where we can create our own Best of list. COol.
I'm also going to create a Wiki page that we can all add to where we can create our own Best of list. COol.
Movies In Literature Million Dollar Baby Assessment
Using the 12 rules you established for a terrific movie review, please compose a movie review of Million Dollar Baby. Then, answer thoughtfully the following questions. A writing reminder: great writing is thoughtful, detailed, descriptive and intelligent.
Movie Questions:
How effectively do you think this film was cast? Did the director do a quality job assigning parts to appropriate actors? Why or why not? (3)
Describe how well you think this film was adapted from the story? What parts of the story were missing? What was maintained? (3)
What additional plot lines and characters were added to the movie that added positively to the film? Explain how these characters and stories enhanced our sympathies toward Maggie and Frankie, and also improved the movie overall? (5)
What do you believe about assisted suicide? Do you believe that Frankie made the right choice? (2)
Both the story and the movie end after Frankie's painful choice. What do you think happens next in his life? Will he return to training? Boxing? (2)
Movie Questions:
How effectively do you think this film was cast? Did the director do a quality job assigning parts to appropriate actors? Why or why not? (3)
Describe how well you think this film was adapted from the story? What parts of the story were missing? What was maintained? (3)
What additional plot lines and characters were added to the movie that added positively to the film? Explain how these characters and stories enhanced our sympathies toward Maggie and Frankie, and also improved the movie overall? (5)
What do you believe about assisted suicide? Do you believe that Frankie made the right choice? (2)
Both the story and the movie end after Frankie's painful choice. What do you think happens next in his life? Will he return to training? Boxing? (2)
Rose-Johnny Assessment- First Hour Assignment
If you are a Service Learning student, please complete this assessment. Thoughtfully compose a response and post it on your blog. Thank you for your critical thinking and excellent writing!
Describe a significant lie or deception you maintained. In what ways was that experience similar to or different from the one Georgeann has? Is it an important life skill for us to learn to lie?
How did Rose-Johnny become Rose-Johnny? Who do you hold responsible for the burdens Rose-Johnny bears? What do you think becomes of her? What is her sickness?
What about this time period impacts how Georgeann thinks and learns, and also how others treat her? Provide specific examples from the book.
There is a line in the story that says that all important things happen for a reason. How does this apply to the story as a whole? Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
What did you like about this story and its message?
How might this story inspire a kind of community service?
Describe a significant lie or deception you maintained. In what ways was that experience similar to or different from the one Georgeann has? Is it an important life skill for us to learn to lie?
How did Rose-Johnny become Rose-Johnny? Who do you hold responsible for the burdens Rose-Johnny bears? What do you think becomes of her? What is her sickness?
What about this time period impacts how Georgeann thinks and learns, and also how others treat her? Provide specific examples from the book.
There is a line in the story that says that all important things happen for a reason. How does this apply to the story as a whole? Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
What did you like about this story and its message?
How might this story inspire a kind of community service?
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
EXTRA CREDIT
On my sidebar is a link to NPR Education topics. One of the articles listed related to the school strip search issue. Read the article and respond for additional points.
Lend a Helping Hand
Do something nice for an elderly neighbor or someone who needs outside spring help!
Checking In
With two days left in the week, here's the run-down of what you should have accomplished this week:
1. Complete the Wiki work from last week.
2. Begin the Wiki work for this week.
3. Respond to the daily questions, either through comments on my blog or your own.
4. Complete 43 things with additional reflection and writing.
5. Embellish your blog with links to web sites, include a blog roll, add a poll, include a favorite list and add pictures.
6. Some of you have already completed this, but if not, please add some fun details to your profile.
Cool.
1. Complete the Wiki work from last week.
2. Begin the Wiki work for this week.
3. Respond to the daily questions, either through comments on my blog or your own.
4. Complete 43 things with additional reflection and writing.
5. Embellish your blog with links to web sites, include a blog roll, add a poll, include a favorite list and add pictures.
6. Some of you have already completed this, but if not, please add some fun details to your profile.
Cool.
Chlorine
I smell like chlorine. Tonight Quinn and I had swimming lessons at Bridgeview Elementary. It's a heated pool and smaller than the high school pools. Quinn loves swimming, or rather, he loves jumping in the shallow end. Anywho, the scent of chlorine is SO strong and always reminds me of a few different things:
1. Middle School swimming. We were required to swim and even though I was a good swimmer, I didn't want to swim in front of everyone. Plus, it meant that in the middle of the day you had to shower, dry your hair and try to look middle school ready for the next period. Traumatizing and impossible. So, I would lie to my gym teacher and tell her that I had my period. Of course, I would tell this lie more often than is biologically appropriate. I always had to make up the swimming early in the morning before school. This at least meant that I had the locker room to myself instead of being crowded with bunches of people. So, even though we all showered after swimming, the whole day was spent with the waft of chlorine on us. Ick.
2. Swimming lessons at a neighbors pool. Very fun.
3. Sinus infections. At a certain point, swimming in chlorinated pools seemed to always trigger a sinus infection. Bleh.
You might ask yourself where this all is going...
What are the scents in your life that are powerful? Why?
Another scent in my life is of Listerine. Anytime I smell it I think of my grandfather who passed away 7 years ago.
What are the scents in your life?
1. Middle School swimming. We were required to swim and even though I was a good swimmer, I didn't want to swim in front of everyone. Plus, it meant that in the middle of the day you had to shower, dry your hair and try to look middle school ready for the next period. Traumatizing and impossible. So, I would lie to my gym teacher and tell her that I had my period. Of course, I would tell this lie more often than is biologically appropriate. I always had to make up the swimming early in the morning before school. This at least meant that I had the locker room to myself instead of being crowded with bunches of people. So, even though we all showered after swimming, the whole day was spent with the waft of chlorine on us. Ick.
2. Swimming lessons at a neighbors pool. Very fun.
3. Sinus infections. At a certain point, swimming in chlorinated pools seemed to always trigger a sinus infection. Bleh.
You might ask yourself where this all is going...
What are the scents in your life that are powerful? Why?
Another scent in my life is of Listerine. Anytime I smell it I think of my grandfather who passed away 7 years ago.
What are the scents in your life?
Wiki Wonder
I've created a new venture for us on the Wiki. Instead of posting and remarking, you are going to CREATE some written material we can all share and possibly, publish for the community:) So, head to beckysbloggers.pbwiki,com, read the front page and find the Teen Folder on the right side. Then, inside that folder, open up the page with your name on it. In that, WRITE. Decide what message you want to send readers about learning about teens and how you can achieve that. What stories will you tell? What advice can you give? This is something that should have revisions and additions as the week goes on. The Wiki saves all versions of what you write, but you have to press SAVE in order to do so. Remember, at the top of the Wiki page is a VIEW button and an EDIT button. You must be in EDIT in order to change things.
Below, is the note I wrote on the Wiki.
Good morning,
Today we are going to try something new. Not only are Wiki's a great place for collaborating about work, like I wanted you to do with your artwork, but they are a super place to write something together. So, we are going to write a book/manual about teens today. What should educators and adults understand about you? How can you make that information compelling and reader-friendly? I've created a folder for each of you to write in. Over the next week, please write each day. You will create your own chapter! Exciting!
Below, is the note I wrote on the Wiki.
Good morning,
Today we are going to try something new. Not only are Wiki's a great place for collaborating about work, like I wanted you to do with your artwork, but they are a super place to write something together. So, we are going to write a book/manual about teens today. What should educators and adults understand about you? How can you make that information compelling and reader-friendly? I've created a folder for each of you to write in. Over the next week, please write each day. You will create your own chapter! Exciting!
Earth Day 2009
So, let's hear it, in what ways are you an eco-friendly person? How is your life a little bit green? How important to you are issues related to global warming, pollution, recycling and the like?
If you'd like, create a little tune about the Earth that goes to a familiar kids tune.
If you'd like, create a little tune about the Earth that goes to a familiar kids tune.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Loving Learning
I really like learning about each of you through these daily questions. Whether it's the quirky details of your life that you reveal or the emotional revelations that you share, I honor everything that you offer up in your writing. Perhaps, I should have started telling you tales from my own life and asking questions the first week!
OK, so here's something to address. My dashboard is overflowing with new messages and my habit it so start with the first one and read until I run out of time. For this reason, I've been so absorbed with reading what has been written, I haven't noted immediately that some people aren't writing! Now, the reasons people aren't writing has little to do with the ability to write beautifully and with skill. I know the students in this class and I know you can write. So, if you have questions you need to ask. Write a comment back to me or ask me in person. I have my blog set up so that whenever you write a comment, it shows up in my email. Within 24 hours, I will know you need help. If you're looking for a more direct and speedy response, I'm in class for you:) My blog contains everything I've written and assigned you in the last 3 weeks. You have all the tools you need- hypothetically:) So, if I haven't provided, in writing, the guidance or support you need, please allow me to do so in person:) Still not sure you want to "bother" me. Check out your peers blogs and see what they're doing. Each week I award points for misc. blogs and I also assess the assigned work.
Quinn calls!
OK, so here's something to address. My dashboard is overflowing with new messages and my habit it so start with the first one and read until I run out of time. For this reason, I've been so absorbed with reading what has been written, I haven't noted immediately that some people aren't writing! Now, the reasons people aren't writing has little to do with the ability to write beautifully and with skill. I know the students in this class and I know you can write. So, if you have questions you need to ask. Write a comment back to me or ask me in person. I have my blog set up so that whenever you write a comment, it shows up in my email. Within 24 hours, I will know you need help. If you're looking for a more direct and speedy response, I'm in class for you:) My blog contains everything I've written and assigned you in the last 3 weeks. You have all the tools you need- hypothetically:) So, if I haven't provided, in writing, the guidance or support you need, please allow me to do so in person:) Still not sure you want to "bother" me. Check out your peers blogs and see what they're doing. Each week I award points for misc. blogs and I also assess the assigned work.
Quinn calls!
A New Day
This morning my son crawled into a large tupperware storage box with his "baby" and his cookie blanket and pretended to go to sleep. He's an excellent fake snorer and will shut his eyes, open his mouth and breathe loudly. Hilarious kid. At least once a week I wonder if he is creating his first memory. If the moment I hug him, the moment I discipline him or the moment his hand gets caught in the screen door will be his original recollection. I do so want his life to be speckled with kind thoughts of his childhood.
So, what was your first childhood memory? Separating your current feelings about your parents from that time of your life, what do you recall about your parents from that time of life?
Now, to the work for this week. When I say that I want you to link your blog to beloved web sites and create a blog roll of excellent reading, I mean that you need to go out and explore and FIND things that are well-written and created by people just like you! You MUST search!
There was more activity on the Wiki yesterday, which is wonderful. Be sure to not only post your work, but respond to others as well. Starting tomorrow, we will begin to create an online textbook/manual for understanding teen behavior on our Wiki. Pretty cool, huh?
So, what was your first childhood memory? Separating your current feelings about your parents from that time of your life, what do you recall about your parents from that time of life?
Now, to the work for this week. When I say that I want you to link your blog to beloved web sites and create a blog roll of excellent reading, I mean that you need to go out and explore and FIND things that are well-written and created by people just like you! You MUST search!
There was more activity on the Wiki yesterday, which is wonderful. Be sure to not only post your work, but respond to others as well. Starting tomorrow, we will begin to create an online textbook/manual for understanding teen behavior on our Wiki. Pretty cool, huh?
Monday, April 20, 2009
4.20
Columbine changed how schools run, how teachers think, how students are perceived and treated. How do you think your life has been impacted by school violence?
I know that 4/20 is not only know for Columbine. What other significance does it hold for you and why?
Read on through the next several posts of mine. I've got a bunch.
For extra credit, one of my website links has an article about Columbine (NPR). Go there, listen it to/read and comment. There's also an interesting one about our president. Remark.
Happy Monday.
I know that 4/20 is not only know for Columbine. What other significance does it hold for you and why?
Read on through the next several posts of mine. I've got a bunch.
For extra credit, one of my website links has an article about Columbine (NPR). Go there, listen it to/read and comment. There's also an interesting one about our president. Remark.
Happy Monday.
Dreadfully sad
How alarming to go to the class Wiki this morning and find that only 3 people have been to the Wiki and attempted to post work! Only one person has succeeded and yet only one has come to with tech struggles. Aside from that, no one came to me with their work to upload and asked for specific help! The stories and poems I asked you to post especially are something you could have typed in yourself if all other means of technology failed you. Please understand that this course will ask you to happily and merrily deviate from your blog. At the center of our work is our connection to blogging and composition, but in order to create and teach a digital literacy, you must be open and willing to try new things. The Wiki is such an endeavor. Each of you were asked to post one piece of art, one story and one poem. If you didn't have that work then you needed to produce it. If you didn't know how to do it (go to the Wiki, look on the sidebar for the folder, enter the folder, create a new page within it and once that was done, upload/attach something) then you should ask... if not me, then Natalya because she mastered it and then offered to help anyone. Just as you need to be in the habit of reading my blog on a regular basis, please also make that your practice for the Wiki. Thank you. You have 48 hours to complete the Wiki task, including leaving compliments and feedback for the work posted. It is NOT ok that this work has been almost wholly left undone.
beckysbloggers.pbwiki.com.
beckysbloggers.pbwiki.com.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Musing and Inquiry
This weekend was an especially fun one for Luke and I. On both Friday afternoon and Saturday evening, we went out for drinks and food as a couple. It is rare that we have this time to ourselves without feeling the demands of parenthood or work. Saturday night we had gift certificates to a very nice restaurant and were able to soak up delicious food and lovely decor, all while Quinn was at a baseball game with his grandparents. Attending to our relationship has been a challenge since we became happy parents. But, since this weekend was so sweet and fun, it reminded me of our early dating days. 'Course, seeing all the prom attendees in their dresses and tuxes in the Uptown area also conjured memories of coupling and singlehood back in the day.
I'd like to begin each day with a question or thought from now on that all of you can comment on or blog about. Today, I want you to think about crushes and romance. To get the topic started, I thought I'd tell you my best "asking out" story. It was in college and he was probably two years older than me. He must have been the editor of something I was on the staff of... I can't recall. Anywho, I wrote up a short script that had a girl (me) asking out a boy (him) and he said yes and they agreed on a fun date- in the story. Then, at the bottom of the script I wrote that if he was interested in auditioning for the role of the boy in the script, that that would be great. Pretty funny, huh?
So, with many people blogging about their loved ones, dates and the like, I'd like to hear from each of you what your ideal date would be. What would be the coolest way to be pursued or asked out? What puts you off and what intrigues you?
Remember, your JOB is to read one another's blogs on a regular basis. Otherwise, why "follow" their work, right?
I'd like to begin each day with a question or thought from now on that all of you can comment on or blog about. Today, I want you to think about crushes and romance. To get the topic started, I thought I'd tell you my best "asking out" story. It was in college and he was probably two years older than me. He must have been the editor of something I was on the staff of... I can't recall. Anywho, I wrote up a short script that had a girl (me) asking out a boy (him) and he said yes and they agreed on a fun date- in the story. Then, at the bottom of the script I wrote that if he was interested in auditioning for the role of the boy in the script, that that would be great. Pretty funny, huh?
So, with many people blogging about their loved ones, dates and the like, I'd like to hear from each of you what your ideal date would be. What would be the coolest way to be pursued or asked out? What puts you off and what intrigues you?
Remember, your JOB is to read one another's blogs on a regular basis. Otherwise, why "follow" their work, right?
This week April 20- Blogging assignment
Stuff to do.
This week I'd like you to jazz up your blog. As many of you have begun to surmise, blogs are websites, but without some of the bells and whistles you see on some sites. At the same time, those bells and whistles are not out of reach. One of your primary goals this week is to accessorize your blog with additional text, a poll, a blog list, a link list and a list. On the same page that you post, there is a Layout tab. Under that, you may add gadgets. Within the gadget window that opens are several options, many of which I have asked you to complete. Most of the tasks are self-explanatory, but let me add a note or two. When it comes to adding blogs that you are following, you must first determine what sound and interesting writers are out there. I started my search by looking at websites that were of interest to me and then seeing if any of their writers were blogging on a regular basis. Then, once I found a blogger or two I liked, I looked at their blogrolls and floated around finding blog after blog and cool site after cool site. For example, I like to read the NY times. I went there, found some bloggers, added them to my blogroll and then followed their trails. The same can be said for how I found websites that I wanted regular updates from. I have sites along my sidebar that you can check out for inspiration or fun.
This week I'd like you to jazz up your blog. As many of you have begun to surmise, blogs are websites, but without some of the bells and whistles you see on some sites. At the same time, those bells and whistles are not out of reach. One of your primary goals this week is to accessorize your blog with additional text, a poll, a blog list, a link list and a list. On the same page that you post, there is a Layout tab. Under that, you may add gadgets. Within the gadget window that opens are several options, many of which I have asked you to complete. Most of the tasks are self-explanatory, but let me add a note or two. When it comes to adding blogs that you are following, you must first determine what sound and interesting writers are out there. I started my search by looking at websites that were of interest to me and then seeing if any of their writers were blogging on a regular basis. Then, once I found a blogger or two I liked, I looked at their blogrolls and floated around finding blog after blog and cool site after cool site. For example, I like to read the NY times. I went there, found some bloggers, added them to my blogroll and then followed their trails. The same can be said for how I found websites that I wanted regular updates from. I have sites along my sidebar that you can check out for inspiration or fun.
Uggh
I just spent 15 minutes enjoying my dashboard and reading everyone's new posts and I was just about to start writing and get this week's blogging tasks arranged when my sweet son from the top of our stairs called down to me and said, "Upstairs Mommy. Mommy, upstairs, please". And the things is, I can't say no to a please. Ever. So, I'll be back, with more to say.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Bloggers
It has come to my attention that our class community functions on two speeds: accelerated and sporadic. I believe that those students who have elected to remain in the class enjoy this forum for learning and engaging. Blogging, for some, is contagious! For that reason, the work I assigned for this week is already complete! For others, the personal blogging is very natural, but less so is the inclination to follow my blog and complete the assignments I set before you. Please, please read this blog regularly and take advantage of the fact that every assignment is posted and always here!
Today, I have an article for people to read. It's a section from my tech education textbook. Before you read it, I'd like you to respond to the following questions:
How are you and your teachers alike? How are you and your teachers different? What skills and talents do you have in common? What talents and knowledge does your generation have that your parents and teachers might lack?
Then, read the article. Next, I'd like you to identify yourself as either a digital immigrant or native and why. Are all teens digital natives? Why? If they are not, why? Are all adults digital immigrants? What role do you think technology and the web should play in your education? Do you believe programs like APEX are an example of technology at work? How do you think growing up with technology has influenced your thinking and life? How has NOT growing up with technology impacted the thinking of the older generations? Could you live without technology? How would its absence impact your day?
Today, I have an article for people to read. It's a section from my tech education textbook. Before you read it, I'd like you to respond to the following questions:
How are you and your teachers alike? How are you and your teachers different? What skills and talents do you have in common? What talents and knowledge does your generation have that your parents and teachers might lack?
Then, read the article. Next, I'd like you to identify yourself as either a digital immigrant or native and why. Are all teens digital natives? Why? If they are not, why? Are all adults digital immigrants? What role do you think technology and the web should play in your education? Do you believe programs like APEX are an example of technology at work? How do you think growing up with technology has influenced your thinking and life? How has NOT growing up with technology impacted the thinking of the older generations? Could you live without technology? How would its absence impact your day?
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Good afternoon
Well, after an exhausting two mornings of testing, we are mixing up your world yet again by holding your morning classes in the afternoon. How varied and playful we are! I am glad to see that people have started to engage with the 43 things site. I am anxious to see you post some entries to your goals. If you would prefer to post those entries on your blog, as opposed to the 43 things site that is fine. If, however, you are intrigued by the notion of working towards goals in a community, the 43 things site might be a fun resource to try out.
Remember that you are responsible for blogging on your own time, on any topic, 2-3 times per week, as well as responsible for visiting your classmates blogs and leaving comments when applicable. Don't forget the WIki work for this week as well.
To the movies in literature crowd, the week is half done and by Friday you need to have a book in hand to begin reading. Once you start your novel, please post no fewer than 5 blogs about your book in preparation for your paper and presentation. Today I will have a sign up sheet for the presentations. There are still several missing papers (the assignment due Monday) and so 10% will be deducted from your grade if you turn it in today. Please submit this work ASAP.
For the service in learning crew, you also begin a weighty task this week, which is to volunteer for 2 1/2 hours per week from now until the end of the term and to blog about those experiences weekly. If you have yet to begin your search for a volunteer site you will want to do so ASAP!
Looking forward to tomorrow and a regular school day:)
Remember that you are responsible for blogging on your own time, on any topic, 2-3 times per week, as well as responsible for visiting your classmates blogs and leaving comments when applicable. Don't forget the WIki work for this week as well.
To the movies in literature crowd, the week is half done and by Friday you need to have a book in hand to begin reading. Once you start your novel, please post no fewer than 5 blogs about your book in preparation for your paper and presentation. Today I will have a sign up sheet for the presentations. There are still several missing papers (the assignment due Monday) and so 10% will be deducted from your grade if you turn it in today. Please submit this work ASAP.
For the service in learning crew, you also begin a weighty task this week, which is to volunteer for 2 1/2 hours per week from now until the end of the term and to blog about those experiences weekly. If you have yet to begin your search for a volunteer site you will want to do so ASAP!
Looking forward to tomorrow and a regular school day:)
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Note
Please be sure that in your settings you have allowed comments. I'm struggling with some people's blogs because I can't comment and that is vexing:) Please adjust. The pop up window is a nice feature for comments.
Bloggers ALERT- Monday note
Well, not really, ALERT, but it seemed a way to get your attention. This week will be a little wonky with the testing on Tuesday and Wednesday, so this week I'm assigning two ventures online. One venture you already started- the Wiki work- and another one I will introduce today. I would like you to go to 43things.com and complete a life list of goals. Please also do at least 6 reflective entries that establish meaning and value or a plan for your goal. Please also play in the site, encourage others and network. If you would like to share, please place a link in your blog to your 43things.com list.
To reiterate your WIki work, you will need to post three samples of work in the various Wiki folders: one sample of visual artowkr, one story and one poem. You will also need to comment and provide feedback to all of your peers work. I believe Wikis are a wonderful place to have an informal "gallery" show and provide artists with the guidance and support they may need before a work is published or hung. I will monitor your comments. Remember too that you need to blog 2-3 times per week about whatever comes to your intelligent minds!
Note: some students last week failed to complete the required assignments and some confused the Understanding and Supporting Blogging assignment. By confused I mean that you thought that was the only "read and respond" article, when in fact there was the 43 folders site to review and respond to as well. Roll back through my posts for any additional clarification. Use the following tool in your dashboard to expedite the process.
To reiterate your WIki work, you will need to post three samples of work in the various Wiki folders: one sample of visual artowkr, one story and one poem. You will also need to comment and provide feedback to all of your peers work. I believe Wikis are a wonderful place to have an informal "gallery" show and provide artists with the guidance and support they may need before a work is published or hung. I will monitor your comments. Remember too that you need to blog 2-3 times per week about whatever comes to your intelligent minds!
Note: some students last week failed to complete the required assignments and some confused the Understanding and Supporting Blogging assignment. By confused I mean that you thought that was the only "read and respond" article, when in fact there was the 43 folders site to review and respond to as well. Roll back through my posts for any additional clarification. Use the following tool in your dashboard to expedite the process.
Teacherly Reflections 4/11/09
Well, I've done it. I have completed all of the work for my Blog and Wiki class at Hamline University. I have to say, young readers, that it was one of the best courses I have taken in grad school AND since I started grad school back in 2001, I've taken a bunch:) I believe in life long learning, but I also more specifically, believe in learning that occurs in classrooms AND life. For the past few years, as a new mother, I've been learning loads outside of a traditional classroom setting. I know more about diaper rash, toddler sleeping patterns and what it feels like to be loved and accepted unconditionally. Being a mother has made me a more patient and loving educator, but in taking this class and another (Urban Education), I have strengthened my professional resolve to strive for equity in the classroom and to use any and all means to achieve this. In the case of this technology course, I have a much stronger sense of how to connect- in meaningful ways- my life and the internet, which means I have a better idea of how to do the same for students. Whatsmore, while I continue to age and get further away from my teen years and the direct understanding of young people's lives, understanding how to access the rich resources on the web is a way for me to stay "current" if you will. I need to practice more, inquire more fully and not be afraid to fail in this endeavor, just as I suppose I want all of the learners in my classroom to do with all things. Stay tuned for more of Becky 2.0, the tech whiz....
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Teacherly Reflections 4/8/09
Have you ever had a teacher who hovers? I sometimes wonder whether hovering translates into kids knowing I want them to do something more or different or if I always need to be really explicit and say, "I am standing here because I don't 'see' you doing anything". What do people think? I sometimes hover to see if my presence will change a behavior prior to making a statement that singles out a student. Hmm...
Movies in Lit. was a great time today and I think the group work was quite successful. Kids engaged in movie trivia in teams and then composed a funny tale using movie titles. In theater, I was pleased to see some fantastic monologues performed and everybody brought something unique to the written work. I'll be really fascinated to see how the personalities in that class- and in our subsequent performance- mesh. Working with Freyja is wonderful though and I think she'll be a great asset to our show. We are also going to be joined by a Hamline student who needs classroom experience/exposure so that should be awesome. The day ended with such fun-- the tech kids made two stages with legos, designing stages that were proscenium and theater in the round and had to demonstrate their interpretation of the play, "Anything for You" that we read yesterday. How hilarious to watch the high schoolers reveling in lego fun!
Movies in Lit. was a great time today and I think the group work was quite successful. Kids engaged in movie trivia in teams and then composed a funny tale using movie titles. In theater, I was pleased to see some fantastic monologues performed and everybody brought something unique to the written work. I'll be really fascinated to see how the personalities in that class- and in our subsequent performance- mesh. Working with Freyja is wonderful though and I think she'll be a great asset to our show. We are also going to be joined by a Hamline student who needs classroom experience/exposure so that should be awesome. The day ended with such fun-- the tech kids made two stages with legos, designing stages that were proscenium and theater in the round and had to demonstrate their interpretation of the play, "Anything for You" that we read yesterday. How hilarious to watch the high schoolers reveling in lego fun!
Assignment Review for Week 1 of Blogging 2.0
Good morning dear bloggers,
I LOVE that people that people are taking to this like a fish to water. If you are a tentative "swimmer", please let me know how I can ease your immersion into the technological waters. I love so many aspects of blogging that is comes naturally to me. I've been a journaler all of my life and so writing in this forum is great fun for me, and less physical work. Plus, I can come back to it and not have to decipher my cryptic tired cursive:)
SO, let's review. This week you had to: start a blog, subscribe or follow the blogs of your peers, comment on your peers' introductory statements, read the Understanding and Starting Blogging article and provide a summary and reaction, read the What Makes a Good Blog article on 43 folders and write a response and FINALLY, create your Animoto video and embed it into your blog. Please make sure that on Monday, all of this work is posted and we will move ahead with new activities. Please consistently read each other's blogs. I will give points each week for comments made.
This blog will be something you maintain all term, though I will not always tell you what to blog about or when. Please maintain this blog in your homework or free time and plan to blog outside of class 3 times a week. As you may have ascertained by now from your reading, having a focus or central theme to your blog can improve its' quality. Is there something you want to accomplish with your blog- a novel, poetry, personal journaling, short stories, the search for college or summer jobs?? What bent or angle will your blog take? How will you make it your very own so that you are compelled to maintain it beyond our class?
Tomorrow you have no school. Today you will receive (Thursday) an invitation to join our class Wiki. Make sure you head there and do those assignments!!!
Having tons of fun already with you all!
I LOVE that people that people are taking to this like a fish to water. If you are a tentative "swimmer", please let me know how I can ease your immersion into the technological waters. I love so many aspects of blogging that is comes naturally to me. I've been a journaler all of my life and so writing in this forum is great fun for me, and less physical work. Plus, I can come back to it and not have to decipher my cryptic tired cursive:)
SO, let's review. This week you had to: start a blog, subscribe or follow the blogs of your peers, comment on your peers' introductory statements, read the Understanding and Starting Blogging article and provide a summary and reaction, read the What Makes a Good Blog article on 43 folders and write a response and FINALLY, create your Animoto video and embed it into your blog. Please make sure that on Monday, all of this work is posted and we will move ahead with new activities. Please consistently read each other's blogs. I will give points each week for comments made.
This blog will be something you maintain all term, though I will not always tell you what to blog about or when. Please maintain this blog in your homework or free time and plan to blog outside of class 3 times a week. As you may have ascertained by now from your reading, having a focus or central theme to your blog can improve its' quality. Is there something you want to accomplish with your blog- a novel, poetry, personal journaling, short stories, the search for college or summer jobs?? What bent or angle will your blog take? How will you make it your very own so that you are compelled to maintain it beyond our class?
Tomorrow you have no school. Today you will receive (Thursday) an invitation to join our class Wiki. Make sure you head there and do those assignments!!!
Having tons of fun already with you all!
Hello again
Hello Happy Bloggers,
If you haven't already, please take time to flesh out your profile, including your interests, likes/dislikes etc. Also, add a picture to your profile. Cool. Thanks. I added a cute one of Quinn and I. Awesome.
If you haven't already, please take time to flesh out your profile, including your interests, likes/dislikes etc. Also, add a picture to your profile. Cool. Thanks. I added a cute one of Quinn and I. Awesome.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Tips for Readers
The nature of blogs is that the most recent blog/post appears at the top of the page. Please make it your habit to read all of the blogs I have posted that are NEW to you. In some days, I may post multiple blogs that all relate to you and our class. Other days, there may be only one. Either way, please make it a practice to read past the first blog you see to make sure you have all the pertinent news I want to share.
Below, you will find an article I would like you to read and respond to. This is Thursday's assignment. It's not a direct link so you'll have to copy and paste it into the web browser. Cool. Thanks!
http://www.43folders.com/2008/08/19/good-blogs
Below, you will find an article I would like you to read and respond to. This is Thursday's assignment. It's not a direct link so you'll have to copy and paste it into the web browser. Cool. Thanks!
http://www.43folders.com/2008/08/19/good-blogs
Teacherly Reflections
There's something magical and exhausting about the first day of class. More than any other day of the term, it seems students look to you for advice and input. Maybe the troubling part is that once day 1 is over, it takes me longer to focus people's attention or perhaps our students simply relax once they know that I'm the same person. Some great moments from today were in Theater Tech class when students were asked to make a prop using only paper. Morgan made a really cool tea cup and saucer; Bowen made a wooden spoon with a handle and Mike made a white powder wig. Other exciting creations included Jordan's take on rock, paper and scissors and Amanda's rainbow wand which had the power to wipe out intolerance and also magically make someone gay:)
Theater class was also great fun as they class responded to Freyja's energy and our opening improv games. I gave them their first homework assignment for tomorrow and I'm hopeful that everyone comes through.
Blogging is off to a good start and I'll be intrigued to see what this forum brings out in people's writing. They have their first task too- to make a short introductory video of themselves.
Service learning was terrific and the kids seem eager to take on all that I have put before them! Movies in Lit. was a bit of a quiet group, but perhaps those who like to watch movies have it in them to be less social:) We'll see. Tomorrow I'm going to have them read an intriguing article and we'll see what the discussion bodes.
Theater class was also great fun as they class responded to Freyja's energy and our opening improv games. I gave them their first homework assignment for tomorrow and I'm hopeful that everyone comes through.
Blogging is off to a good start and I'll be intrigued to see what this forum brings out in people's writing. They have their first task too- to make a short introductory video of themselves.
Service learning was terrific and the kids seem eager to take on all that I have put before them! Movies in Lit. was a bit of a quiet group, but perhaps those who like to watch movies have it in them to be less social:) We'll see. Tomorrow I'm going to have them read an intriguing article and we'll see what the discussion bodes.
Blogging Class Assignment 4/8/09
On the right hand bar of my blog is a link to a site called Understanding Blogging and Getting Started. Please navigate your way to that site and read the whole of that page. Then, in no less than 100 words, please summarize what you have read and respond to it. How will blogging make sense in your life? Why has it become such an important medium for publication? Why are there so many bloggers? How can we use blogging in this class to the very best of our shared abilities? How can you make your blog meaningful to you personally?
Once you have completed this work you may work on your Animoto video. Please be sure you have posted your first introductory blog, read all others and commented. Blogs will be graded based on their substance, voice, creativity, response to the assignment and writing quality. Please publish things that are as polished as possible.
Once you have completed this work you may work on your Animoto video. Please be sure you have posted your first introductory blog, read all others and commented. Blogs will be graded based on their substance, voice, creativity, response to the assignment and writing quality. Please publish things that are as polished as possible.
Blogging 2.0
Welcome readers!
Welcome to the second incarnation of Blogging with Becky. After first teaching this class in the winter, I knew this could be more. Now, after taking a Blogging and Wiki class (Technology in Education) I am raring to go with new ideas and plans for fun with technology. We will be writing actively, but also pursuing all that the internet has to offer by way of rich learning.
Your first assignment is to go to Animoto.com and create a 30 second video that introduces you to the class. You may access your own photos through flickr or photobucket. Once you've finished your video, please post it to your blog and then write about the process of using that site.
Video is due at the beginning of class Monday.
Welcome to the second incarnation of Blogging with Becky. After first teaching this class in the winter, I knew this could be more. Now, after taking a Blogging and Wiki class (Technology in Education) I am raring to go with new ideas and plans for fun with technology. We will be writing actively, but also pursuing all that the internet has to offer by way of rich learning.
Your first assignment is to go to Animoto.com and create a 30 second video that introduces you to the class. You may access your own photos through flickr or photobucket. Once you've finished your video, please post it to your blog and then write about the process of using that site.
Video is due at the beginning of class Monday.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
