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Oct 13 2009, 5:10 AM EDT (current) Grace_Kat 13 words added, 2 widgets added, 2 widgets deleted
Sep 4 2008, 7:03 PM EDT Grace_Kat 21 words added

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Here's an introductory video about the general purpose and use of blogs.



(You will not be able to view Blogs in Plain English at school but you may be able to access it at home. )

What is a blog?
A blog is a web log. It is an online journal where users post thoughts, opinions, comments or news. Entries, called posts, are displayed in reverse chronological order. "Blog" can also be used as a verb, meaning to add content to a blog. A typical blog includes text, images, and links to other blogs, web pages, and other media related to its topic. The ability for readers to leave comments in an interactive format is an important part of many blogs. It is where a lot of the learning and conversation takes place. An edublog is a blog written by someone who works in education. Examples might include blogs written by teachers, students or other educators.

Why should students blog?
  • to keep engaged. Students who otherwise shy away from writing tasks often enjoy "writing" a post or a comment on a post they have enjoyed reading.
  • to write for an authentic audience. Anyone around the world is able to view the blog and comment.
  • to learn how people from other parts of the world interact and live by visiting student blogs from other countries. This helps people respect each other and live in harmony with one another.
  • to collaborate on a project with another class from the same school, country or overseas.
  • to help them evaluate their learning. Educators' comments on student blogs often provide food for thought for the students who are encouraged to evaluate the content on a post or activity shared.
  • to increase confidence by being published.
Please feel free to add any other reasons students might blog.

Justifying Blogging is a blog post by David Warlick, who asks his readers to comment on the reasons for student blogging.



RSS Aggregators

RSS aggregators notify you that a blog you're following has been updated. The information comes to you after you join that site.

Google Reader is one such application. Joining Google Accounts initially, allows you to join many google applications eg gmail email, google reader, google docs, google maps etc.




Internet Safety

It is important that students know how to keep safe while online. here are some links to posts about student internet safety.
(More will be added at a later time)
Keeping studentscybersafe


Blog posts about blogging

Classroom Management, Moderation and Protection by Al Upton. This post also includes some internet safety procedures e.g. comment moderation.

I haven't written about how I began 3GK's blog but seeing as I came upon this great post by Anne Mirtschin, I had to leave the link here for those interested.

Another blog post by Anne Mirtschin on the Features of a good quality studentblog….

Using Blogs and Wikis in Education shared by Bookjewel

Commenting on blogs
Tips For Writing Commenting Guides & Guidelines by Sue Waters