The Power of Blogging in the Classroom

     This year has been a special year for our classroom.  My students were introduced to the world of blogging.
     I've been asked by a lot of people what the benefits of blogging are in the classroom.  There are so many!  I would have to say the top two are 1.parent communication and 2. purpose and audience for our students writing.
     Parents were given a window in which to look in and observe our learning, read our writing, and just stay informed.  Our students have been given an audience for their words and an authentic purpose for writing.  They are excited by comments left and encouraged to pick up their notebooks and write more- without me asking them to do it ; o ) They have learned the value of commenting and how to leave a "thoughtful" comment.  They understand the power of their words and how using them in a positive way can encourage someone else to write.
    Another benefit has been more global.  Our students are learning about children in other countries and their similarities as well as differences.  They are seeing a larger world view- something that many students don't experience until they are much older.  We are meeting technology TEKS that only blogging can bring.
    I am amazed every day at the level of engagement and authenticity blogging brings to our classroom.  To me, this is what REAL learning looks like.   Thank you to all of you who come by and comment here each day!