According to George Couros, – author of “The Innovator’s Mindset” – blogging into today’s classroom is essential because

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1) it creates open communication with others

2) it allows students to use multiple modes of literacy (not just pen and paper)

3) it contributes to building student voice

4) it creates an open archive of learning like a portfolio

5) develops a positive digital footprint (meaning the things you put into cyberspace is appropriate and meaningful!)

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Blogging allows us as writers to not only communicate and practice different forms of writing, but it also allows us collaborate, respond, and interact with a larger audience.  Within this space, you will be challenged to complete a series of blog posts that correlate with your learning experiences this year in 8th grade Language Arts.  

 

While there may be guidelines to follow for writing process purpose, you will also have the freedom to express your thoughts using multiple modes of communication (images, links, video, etc.) in efforts to construct your ideas.

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Don’t believe me? See what other people have to say about blogging…

• The Global Digital Citizens Foundation

• Edudemic

• Edutopia – Blogging in the 21st Century Classroom

 

We currently live in the 21st century, so it’s clear that our classroom should reflect that as well! We will be referencing our blog quite a bit throughout the year. This will ultimately turn into a writing portfolio so that you may see growth in your writing journey before heading to high school!

 

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Source: Couros, George. The innovators mindset empower learning, unleash talent, and lead a culture of creativity. San Diego, CA: Dave Burgess Consulting, 2015. Print.