Parents, welcome to 7 Speaks!
Let’s start with the basics…
What is a blog?
If you are unfamiliar with blogs, they are like online journals. Blogs are essentially websites in which blog administrators (in this case Tr. Lacey) can add posts which are displayed in reverse chronological order.
In 7th grade ELA, we use our blog to initiate discussions about our core reading, contribute to discussions and debate, and practice a variety of genres of writing, and learn how to navigate the internet safely and conscientiously.
Why blog?
This is the second year that the 7th grade students have contributed to a blog in ELA, and we are continuing to do so this year because we have seen so many benefits! For starters...
- Blogs give students a real, authentic audience to share their thoughts and opinions (not just the teacher). Writing for a real audience, helps students to improve their literacy skills.
- Blogs help build a strong sense of classroom community through written conversation across classes.
- Classroom blogs are a great way for students to learn how to use emerging online technologies, improve their typing skills, and use appropriate online behaviors.
- Blogs can connect classroom communities all over the world – in fact, this year 7th grade students will be using the blog to learn about Nicaragua by connecting with students in the communities our Take Flight ambassadors will be visiting over spring break!
- Blogs connect classrooms and families. The blog is a great way to find out a little about what your child is doing in ELA.
What about safety?
As always at ICS, safety is our number one priority. Our class blog gives students the opportunity to learn about appropriate online behaviors in an authentic and supervised setting. In addition, we have agreed to operate by the following guidelines to keep our blog safe and fun:
- Students will only be identified by their first names.
- Posts written by students must be submitted to Tr. Lacey before posting.
- Posts will not include personal details about students such as addresses and family information.
- All parents must give permission to have their child’s photo or video posted to the blog
- All students must abide by the blogging guidelines we have established as a class.
