I can't believe the school year has almost come to an end. We still have over a month of school, but 8 months have flown by so quickly. I love how it feels like we are one big extended family! The end of the year will be quite tough for me because we had so many great times together. We had fun moments, sad moments, tough moments...but overall it was all worth it!
I want you (my students) to know that the NJASK4 only shows a very small picture of who you are as a student. There is more to showing your progress and growth as a learner than a number on a test. I will soon add a comment for each of you that will show the world who you really are and how you all have grown in one way or another. I would like the world to see you as more than a number. Give me a day or two, and I will post the great comments which show who you are as a "PERSON." I did a voice recording in which I mentioned memorable times and how I think you have shown growth. I will listen to these notes and add these notes to the end of this blog post.
Parents, each child in this classroom has brought joy and happiness to this classroom. They have all touched my life in a positive and rewarding way. It has been my pleasure and privilege to watch your child's personality unfold day by day. We learned and struggled, but best of all we laughed! Thank you for trusting me and allowing me to experiment with fun and interesting activities. One of the best parts of teaching this year is watching how much students learned about technology and the real world of writing. I have enjoyed the blogging experience, and soon we will speak to other students around the world by doing a video call (skype or google hangout). The students enjoyed people from around the world such as Australia, New Zealand, England, and Scotland reading their writing. I hope students will continue to blog about whatever interests them.
Students, I told you the most important part of learning is reflecting on your learning and experiences. I want you to help me reflect on my learning. I learned as much as I could about blogging, but I want to see what suggestions you can give me for next year about blogging.
Do you enjoy drafting your writing on the computer and then publishing the writing for the world to read? Maybe you can let me know how writing this way compares to writing the drafts in class (on paper) and then submitting the papers for grading. Most teachers publish the writing by posting the writing in the hallway for other people to read. What is your opinion about students having their own blog? I value your opinion, and will then take your comments and decide what I should do differently next year when it is time to start blogging. Post your comments below.
Love,
Mrs. Vilas